Shelter Kid
By: Jon Stewart
(© 2021 by the author)

The author retains all rights. No reproductions are allowed without the author's consent. Comments are appreciated at...

Chapter 7

The next morning being Sunday he rousts Josh & Billy at 8:30, giving them just  enough time to get out to 10:00 mass. At mass he is pleased that the boys listened attentively and seem to be getting in touch with their spiritual  side, deep in prayer. They take part in the hymns, with their fine young  voices. At the kiss of peace, where the older males normally exchange a hand shake and maybe a man hug; they kiss Pops on the check and hug him tight. He kisses them on their forehead. The boys kissed each other full on the mouth. As Jon turned to wish others sign of peace, one older gal had a frown on her face. As Jon takes her hand, he whispers "they are very  affectionate."

On the ride home Josh is exceptionally quiet. Pops asked, “Is anything wrong, Josh, why so quiet?"

"Just thinking."

"About what."

"Well, people around here have so much when you compare to the shelter folks. I don't know if they struggle or not, but they sure seem to have a lot. I just wish, I could help the people in the shelter more."

Billy said "You sure helped me with my Christmas present. The jacket keeps me plenty warm on the coldest days."

Josh lit up like a Christmas tree. "That's it, Billy, you are a genius."

"What is it, Josh?" Pops asked.

"Well, we have to get all the shelter people warm coats. That's what we have to do."

"How you gonna do that? There are hundreds of people in the shelter and coats are expensive." Billy asked.

"I don't know yet, but that's the plan. We gotta do it. Pops, will you help?  How would you do it?"

"Hmm, let me think about it."

Josh was all smiles and started jumping up and down on his seat. He couldn't contain himself.

"Ok, out with it, Josh ... what's up?"

"Pops, you said you'd think about it and every time you think about something it turns out good; like when you thought about me staying with you, all the time; or like when you thought about helping Billy with his crabs. Pops, every time you think about it, good shit happens. Way to go Pops, think about it and tell us how we can help make it happen."

Jon was surprised that Josh could read him like a book. "Well, do they have to be new coats or just good coat?"

"Oh, good ones will be fine as long as they are warm. Don't you think, Billy?"

"Yeah, warm is more important than new."

"Well, sometimes folks have more than one coat, you know. They get a new coat and put the old one away, in the closet. Where can we go where there are a lot of people and ask them if they would give their old coats to the homeless?"

"I got it. Father Rick at St Francis. He has a lot of people at church on Sunday, maybe he could ask."

"Well, yeah he could, but it's your idea I think you should ask."

"Really Pops, I never spoke in front of a whole bunch of people like that. I think Father Rick should ask."

"So, you are going to have someone else do your work for you."

"Ok, Pops, if Father Rick lets me, I'll do it."

"This afternoon you can call him and ask him. Wait, ‘til all the Sunday masses are over and he has a chance for some lunch."

"Ok, Pops, I will."

Pops stopped at the bakery on the way home. "What kind of donuts do you guys like, jelly, cream or glazed?"  They decided on jelly.

When they got home Pops started brunch, eggs and bacon and donuts. Because it was Sunday, he put on some tater-tot potatoes. Josh got busy figuring out, what to say to the people of St. Francis.

Billy texted his mom. He told her about his new clothes and earning money from snow shoveling, and even confessed about having the crabs and Pops helping him get rid of them. He said he was "sorry about not telling her about them. It's just not the kind of thing that you want to show your mom. Can you understand mom? Pops had to shave my hair down there to get rid of them."

Annie texted back ..."that she understood completely. Her little boy was growing into a man and she was so glad he found Pops to help with the problem. There are just some things that a mother can't help her son with as much as she would want to. There are things that he needs a man's help."

Annie said she was working the late shift on New Year's eve and wouldn't be done until 1:00. The manager offered her double time to do it. So, she felt she had to take it, especially with Billy at Pops house. That made Billy real sad. He knew she wouldn't have anywhere to sleep. The shelter would be locked up tight. He texted that it was not fair; here he was all warm and being fed really well and she would be out in the cold. She told him not to worry, she would ride the subway all night. She would be ok; enjoy your New Year’s with Pops and Josh.

Pops called the boys to brunch. Billy came to the table with tears in his eyes. Then, he just picked at his food, while Josh was gobbling his up. Pops asked what was wrong. Billy started crying.

"It's just not fair. My Mom will be locked out of the shelter on New Year's eve. She's working the late shift to get extra money, double time. She won't be done until 1:00 AM. She's gonna ride the subway all night. It's not fair; that I am here, in your warm house and she is out in the cold."

Pops said, "Let me think on that a little, I'm not leaving your Mom to start the New Year out in the cold. You hear me, Billy. That's not going to happen. Now eat your brunch, before eating machine Josh gets to it. And have one of those great jelly donuts. It'll sweeten you and get you out of the dumps. Are you my foster grandson?"

"Yes."

"Well, what kind of a grandfather would let his grandson's mother be out in the cold for New Year’s. I'll fix this; I just have to think about how. Eat up now."

Billy smiled, as did Josh; their trust in the old man was such that they knew it would be all right. Billy said, "Yes sir, and dived into his food and jelly donut." Crazy thing as soon as he bit the donut all his worries seemed to disappear just like Pops said. "Wow" he thought.

Pops called Luke. As much as he wanted to open the shelter for Annie, it was city run and he couldn't get it done. He said he would check private shelters, run by churches but he didn't hold out much hope. By 1:00 AM, he was sure they would all be closed and full to capacity. He said another snow storm was expected as well, which would fill up the shelters faster.

Pops mulled over the situation and made up his mind, he would just have to go get Annie. If weather was bad, he would load up the van with blankets and food in case he got stuck in the snow.

He told Billy of his plan. If weather was real bad, they might shut down the subways as well as close the McDonald's earlier. Billy relayed the plan to his mom. She, of course, didn't want to inconvenience Pops with bad weather and everything. Pops told Billy, to ask why she didn't want to spend New Year’s with him. At which point Annie relented and thanked Pops immensely.

The boys spent the rest of the day by playing Xbox and the crabs shower kept them busy for a while. Supper time rolled around and Pops took them to the old-fashioned burger place. You couldn't help but love their burgers and the old-time atmosphere was kool, too. A movie, another crabs shower, and it was bed time. Pops took his meds, turned down the heat and lights and locked the doors. The boys had no doubt played sex games with each shower and were very relaxed as they went to bed.

The next day New Year’s eve, brought calls from the snow shoveling customers. They all wanted Josh and Billy to do their driveways on New Year’s day, in the event of snow on New Year’s eve. They said they would pay extra because it was a holiday. Josh answered the calls and explained they had to go into the city on New Year’s eve otherwise Billy's Mom would be left out in the cold and might freeze to death. But as long as they made it back okay, they would do the snow. If they got stuck. he would call them as early as practical. All three said they understood completely and wished him luck and that they would say a prayer for a safe trip.

The boys, as well as Pops, were on edge. There were warnings during the day not to go into the city. Billy checked with his Mom and she said she hadn't been told anything. About 6:00 the snow started and still no word from Billy's mom. Pops was cursing out the manager. The boys were shaken by Pops that he could get so upset.

"Who the F does he think he is; the F'en king of the world or something? Stupid A hole for a couple of lousy dollars, he jeopardizes the well-being of his people. What a F'en jerk." They never had heard such language from Pops. Not that they hadn't heard it, just not from Pops.

They made a little note to get out of Pops way when he was mad. He apologized to them for the outburst, but they could tell he was still pissed. Dinner was a little on edge. Finally, at 10:30 Annie called. He is closing at 11:00. It was still way too late to get to the shelter. Pops told Billy to say they were on their way.

He had the van loaded with snow shovels, blankets and some green tea and cold cuts and snack food. The trek from Hopewell to the city was normally a ride of 45 minutes. He hoped he could make it in an hour and a half. The main roads in Jersey were slow but passable. There was almost no other traffic on the road. They slipped a little here and there but the van being a heavier car, road pretty well in the snow. Pops went through the Lincoln Tunnel, he figured the bridge would have icy patches what with being open below. The radio predicted 12" to 24" around the area. Temperatures tonight would be 0 to 5 above. The subways were closed, as was all public transportation. Pops told Billy to tell his Mom if she could get a cab, he would pay for it to meet him by the tunnel. There were no cabs. Annie was freezing, someone had stolen her flimsy coat. The manager had to lock up and left her, out in the cold. He was a selfish, heartless bastard. Pops told Billy to text her, to walk to the west side down by 34th St. Annie was able to get to 34th and 9th. Pops came up 34th St. and got her. Her feet were frozen; she only had sneakers on.

“Billy, take your moms shoes off and each one of you rub her feet. Put a blanket around her.”

Shivering Annie said "Thank you, so much for getting me. I don't know what I was thinking, saying I would work tonight. Thank you, Thank you."

Billy was crying seeing his mother so cold. He hugged her so tight and put his jacket on her. Pops said " Billy keep hugging your mom. Your body heat can warm her up. And Josh, keep rubbing her feet and toes. Annie, tell me when the feeling gets back in your feet especially, your toes, very important. ... Ok ... Let's get back to Jersey."

Pops wasn't saying anything but he was concerned there might be frost-bite. Just on the Jersey side of the tunnel Annie said "I'm beginning to feel them Mr. Pops they are tingling."

.

"Good, Annie, good, keep rubbing them boys; what about your hands Annie, were they protected?"

"I was able to get them in my pockets. I feel them, fine." Without alerting the boys, Annie figured out Pops was checking for frost-bite." I'm feeling a lot better now, thank you."

"Ok, we'll go straight home and get you in a nice hot bath. How's that sound?"

"Oh fantastic, I haven't had a bath is ages probably five years, maybe more."

"Well, it's gonna take a while in all the snow but we should make it okay. Slow and steady, just like the tortoise, should get us there fine."

Pops brought the van to a stop at the top of his driveway. The boys jumped out and quickly shoveled the drive way. The snow was light and fresh. Jon then pulled the old van in. It was past 2:00am. He stretched his back and breathed a big sigh of relief. He always got severe pain in his back when he was stressed, or did anything physical for more than 30 minutes. His hands were shaking a bit. He was relieved. They had made it, all home safe and sound. He said a silent prayer of thanks to God for getting them home.

Billy came over and hugged him with tears of gratitude in his eyes. "Thanks so much for getting my mom. I'll never forget your kindness."

"Oh Billy, it was just a little ride in the snow, no big deal."

"It is a big deal; she would have died without you. You may not be a hero on TV, but you are a hero to me."

"Ok that's nice of you to say, but let’s get inside. Can you help Josh bring the food and the blankets in?" 

"Sure, Pops."

Pops got Annie situated in the bath room, with clean towels and such.

"You don't have a change of clothes, Annie?"

"Just the shirt on my back, Mr. Pops"

"Well, you are just about Billy's size. Do you mind wearing his clothes while I wash these wet things.”?

"Mr. Pops, I'll be happy to wear anything warm."

He called Billy upstairs, "Billy, your Mom doesn't have a change of clothes so get her your old sweat pants, a tee shirt and your new underwear and no jokes about it. I'll get her one of my sweat shirts. It'll be way big but she can push the sleeves up."

"Pops, I would never joke about it. In the shelter sometimes you have to share anything and everything."

"Well, that's good of you; some teenage boys might joke about it."

"They probably weren't in the shelter."

"You are probably right. Go on now, get the clothes and say good night to your mom. You are committed to snow shoveling with Josh tomorrow."

"Yes, sir, and thanks again, Pops. You're the best."

Billy got the clothes and went to say good night. Annie wasn't in the bath yet. He knocked and went in Annie was sitting on the toilet just shaking a little with tears running down her cheeks.

"Mom, wants wrong? " Billy said as he hugged her. "You are safe now. You'll feel better after your bath."

"I almost died tonight, Billy, and for what, a couple miserable dollars. I almost made you an orphan. I'm so sorry. If it wasn't for you and your wonderful friends, I would have. I'm so sorry Billy please, forgive me."

"Mom, there is nothing to forgive. You were trying to do your best by us working extra hard and extra-long. You are safe now. Pops is the best foster grandfather a kid could ever have and he told me he would get you and he did. I love you mom. You stay with Luke's computer course and you'll get a job that will get us a place of our own. I know you can. I believe in you, Mom. Now get in the bath before Pops yells at me. Me and Josh have snow shoveling customers to take care of the morning and we'll make some good money."

"Oh Billy, I'm so proud of you. Go on, go to bed. It's so late, you'll be worn out tomorrow before you start. I love you, honey."

"I love you too, Mom." Billy gave Annie a kiss on the cheek. "Good Night."

Pops called, "Billy, let your Mom get her bath now and to bed with you"

"Yes, sir."

Pops slipped the sweat shirt in through the door. "Annie, it'll be big but it'll keep you warm. I would soak for at least 20 minutes and make the water as hot as you can bear it, Annie."

"Yes Pops, thank you so much."

Josh put the food and blankets away and was turning out the lights for Pops when he came down.

"Pops, you ok ."

"Why yes Josh; were you worried?"

"Pops, it was super late. You had to be tired, the roads were as dangerous as they could get and, sorry to say this; you are not as young as you once were. Hey, if it was Luke driving; I would have been concerned. I saw that sigh of relief when you got out of the van. Yes, Pops, I was worried for you and me and Billy and Annie. But you took care of all of us and I just want to say you're the best grandpa ever and I love you." 

"Well, you and Billy are great grandsons too and I love you too, Josh."

Pops went to kiss Josh on his head but he saw tears in his eyes. "What?"

"I don't know what I would do, if anything happened to you. How could I tell Luke? You gotta take care of yourself and no more middle of the night snow rides. Please Pops, promise you gotta find another way. Ok"

"Ok, I promise no more middle of the night rides in a blizzard with one exception; unless I have to go get you or Billy, and then only if no one else will go. OK. Come here son. Give your old Pops a hug."

Josh did as he was told, but he darn near squeezed the breath out of Pops. Pops kissed his forehead. Josh kissed Pops' cheek. "The lights are all out except this one, the food and blankets are away, just the heat if you want to turn it down and don't forget your meds."

Jon smiled, he loved the boys concern, he was right. He said, “We would be a good team. Yes mother, I'll leave the heat up and take my meds. Now you have a big day of snow shoveling tomorrow, get to sleep now."

Josh smiled and went upstairs. "Good Night, Pops, Our Hero."

Pops waited for Annie to come out of the bath, showed her to the 3rd bedroom where he had made up the bed with extra blankets. Checked that she could feel all her toes and fingers and asked if there was anything else she needed. Annie gave him a kiss on the cheek and thanked him again, saying he was too kind and she was very tired. It was now 3:00am in the morning, all was quiet except for a little whimpering sound coming from the boy's room. He peaked in. Josh was having one of his dreams. He actually picked him up, the way you would a 5-year- old, Josh's head on his shoulder. He laid him in his bed so gently, Josh never woke. He surprised himself that he had the strength and silently thanked Jesus for giving it to him. He got undressed, got in bed and put his arm around Josh. Josh grabbed tight and slept peacefully. Pops, not so much. Sleeping with Josh clinging to him wasn't all that comfortable. But he was happy, they all were safe in his little house.

Pops was up at 8:00am, promised himself he would take a nap later. Got his shower and went down stairs so breakfast would be ready when they came down. He put out the little cups for the Keurig coffee maker. Josh liked hazelnut, Billy was french vanilla, made sure there was enough water; turned it on so there would be no waiting for the water to warm. Annie came down about 8:45.

"I smelled the coffee, Mr. Pops."

"What kind do you like Annie, hazelnut, french vanilla, or strong morning blend. And Annie please stop with the mister. For you it can be Jon or if you want like the boys, Pops."

"I meant only respect Pops; that’s why I put the mister. You have been so good to my Billy, I don't think I can ever repay you."

"If you just call me Pops, that will be respect enough. I'm not upset, it's just with all the misters, I thought I should be saluting or something."

"OK, Pops it will be. I think the strong morning blend would be good today, thank you. Pops, you are so good with those boys; I think they would run though a brick wall for you."

"Let's hope they don't do that. How are you fixed for medical insurance?"

"Not too good Pops, ok no brick walls"

Pops got Annie her coffee. "What do you think for breakfast? I was thinking oatmeal with blueberries would be good. It's still snowing out, so better to let them sleep."

"Oatmeal would be a real treat for Billy. He says you feed them like there is no tomorrow."

"Well, I think of teenage boys as eating machines; to keep them healthy you gotta give them enough to eat. Thankfully, I think we can do that."

Billy came barefooting in, clad in just his undies.

"Billy Nunez, what are you doing prancing around in just your underwear."

"Sorry Mom, I forgot, we do this all the time here. It's just us guys, like a marine barracks. I'll put some clothes on."

"I should say you should."

Pops said. "I should have told them there is a lady present. I let them come down that way. Kind of like a man thing."

"I guess, it's ok in front of the boys, but I'm not one of the boys."

"Right you are Annie."

"Billy, tell Josh to come down with some clothes on."

"Pops, where is Josh. I thought he was down here already."

"He had a bad dream last night and we didn't want to disturb your sleep so he's probably still asleep in my room. Pops added, speaking to Annie, losing his parents and grandma has left some real scars on him. He remembered his dad holding him when he was much younger and it calms him if I do it when he has these dreams. It's kind of uncomfortable for me. He squeezes my arm so tight. I have a hard time sleeping. The first night the circulation was cut off and the arm was numb when I woke up. Couldn't move it. I was afraid, I had a stroke during the night. But eventually the blood got in it and everything was alright."

"Wow he is lucky to have a man like you, to help him."

" While, Billy's been here he hasn't had the dreams. I know Josh was stressed by the ride and snow last night. I think we all were and we're so happy to have you safe and healthy here with us. They can get dressed for breakfast this morning. It's good for them to learn rules for when ladies are around and different rules when only guys are around. They'll have to get out as soon as the snow stops any way. Don't you agree?" 

"How can I disagree with the man who saved my life, and yes you are 100% right, Pops."

Billy woke Josh and told him to wear clothes. "Wonder what Mom would think if she knew of some of the other stuff we did."

Josh said "Maybe Pops, could calm her by saying boys will be boys."

"I'm thinking, there are some things you can share with your grandpa but not share with your mom."

They both smiled at their banter.

They came down dressed for the snow. It was slowing, almost stopped. Pops served up the hot oatmeal with the blueberries and a little sugar and cream. Just like Oliver, they said "More, please." Then thanked Pops for breakfast. Putting on boots and jackets, scarves and gloves they were ready to get to work. Pops went out to start the snow blower. It was always harder when it was cold. Once warmed up it was a charm. He filled up the gas as well. "Hey boys, you are low on gas. Actually, except for what's in the machine that's it. As soon as you clear the driveway, I'll go get some. "

"Thanks, Pops."

They finished up and went to Mrs. O'Mara. She was so happy to see the two rosy-cheeked boys trudging up snow shovel and blower in toe. "Well, I'm glad to see you boys made it through the snow last night."

"Thank you, Mrs. O'Mara; but it was Pops who did all the hard driving. He didn't get stuck once." Josh said.

Billy added, "He sure is a hero to me and my mom. For sure he saved her life last night, she would have frozen to death without him."

"Well, just thank the Lord, boys"

"Oh, I did about a million times and I thanked Pops too."

"Good boy, Billy"

"Well, let me let you boys get to work I understand you got more than me to help."

"Yes ma'am, because of you we got the Ackers and they sent us to Mr. Martin. Billy has to go back to the city today so we got to keep moving."

"I'm just glad that everyone is safe; now, don't let me slow you down. Go on, get to work."

The boys got to working. Mrs. O'Mara went inside and called Mrs. Acker. "Yes, Alice, they just showed up. I'm so thankful they got home safe. It must have been terrible to be out in that weather last night. Billy, said his Mom would have frozen if they didn't go get her. They are such nice polite boys and so hard working; I'm going to call my son and tell him he can't be paying them coolie wages. It would cost $150 to $200.00 to get the snow removed and you'd wait most of the day."

The boys finished up and knocked on the door to tell Mrs. O'Mara. She gave them each $80.00 and thanked them for working on New Year’s. Both Josh and Billy said it was too much. "Nonsense," she said " I'd be snow-bound if you didn't come. Get along, now the Ackers are waiting on you." The boys beamed and said thank you five times. Mrs. O'Mara was happy, it was money well spent, and her son could afford it.

By the time the boys got to the Ackers the snow blower was sputtering and coughing. "Must be out of gas." Josh said. As he said that, Pops pulled up with a can of gas for them. "Sorry it took so long, boys, most stations are still closed. Found one out on the highway."

"Wow, what timing," Billy explained. "You sure, you weren't waiting around the corner for us to run out."

"Put it in and let’s make sure it starts okay." Pops said.

Sure enough, the blower roared to life.

"Mrs. O'Mara gave us $80.00 each, Pops." Josh exclaimed.

"Good for you, I think you deserve it. She has always been known as a generous woman. Okay, get back to work. I have to go to the supermarket; I think Shop Rite will be open."

The boys continued on to the Ackers. Knocked on the door and yelled we'll get started now. They knew exactly how Mr. Acker wanted it done from last time, and made sure they did it that way. Mr. Acker came out just as they were finishing up. "My gosh, boys another perfect job. Thank you for coming out on the holiday. Inside now and no complaints, Mrs. Ackers been baking cookies all morning and I'm not going to eat them all by myself." The cookies were great, still warm chocolate chip and a cup of warm green tea energized the boys, to do Mr. Martin. Mr. Acker dug into his wallet and came up with (2) $100.00 bills" All Josh and Billy could say was "Wow, Thank you, sir."

Mr. Martin was waiting it was now close to 2:00. He was a grumpy old cuss, but Josh and Billy had figured out from last time that his bark was way worse than his bite. "What took you guys so long."

"Sorry Mr. Martin, Mr. Acker said we had to go inside to get paid. Then made us eat cookies and drink hot tea. It was terrible, sir, we knew we had to get to your driveway." Josh explained.

"Terrible you say; were the cookies hot?"

"Yes sir, they made us take some for later. You wanna try one."

"Well, as long as you are giving me cookies, I can't be too mad at you."

Both Josh and Billy shared with Mr. Martin, as he took one from each.

"Mmm, yeah, the things you boys have to do to get paid. Go on now with you, don't just stand there and be gabbing with me. Get to work."

"Yes, Sir"

The boys, dog tired, went to work. Mr. Martin's property was the hardest of the three. Long two car-wide driveway leading to the detached 2-car garage, about 200 feet of side walk and then the walks around the house, for getting to the garbage cans and the walk from the garage to the house. Billy mostly did the shoveling, and Josh did the snow blower. But with the shoveling being more strenuous, Josh switched off with Billy often. It took the better part of an hour. Josh was especially careful to not leave any slippery spots and asked Mr. Martin if he had ice melt for a couple spots. Mr. Martin was about to give them $100.00 each but then took out (2) $50.00`s.  He said “You boys did a fine job and I appreciate being one of your customers."  The boys summoned all of their left-over energy and got real enthusiastic with their thanks. Josh said, "maybe next time we'll go in reverse order, so you can be first Mr. Martin."

"Oh, don't bother about that Josh, I was just teasing. Besides I wouldn't be in line to get any of Mrs. Ackers cookies then, would I?"

“No sir, I wouldn’t be able to share what I didn't get." Reaching in his pocket, Josh went to offer old, grumpy, Mr. Martin another cookie.

"Oh no, Josh, you’re keep them, too much sugar is not good for me. Makes me grumpy."

Billy said, "you're not grumpy Mr. Martin" and came over and gave him a hug. "Old guys in the shelter get grumpy but who can blame them not having a home."

Mr. Martin was stunned. "Why thank you, Billy, do you know that's the only hug I got all holiday season."

Josh came over and said "Here's another one then, Mr. Martin." Both boys joined hands around Mr. Martin and gave him a super squeeze. As they said good bye, the old man had tears of joy in his eyes.

They did as they promised and made a lot of money, $230.00 each, but more than any of that they brought a little joy to some elderly people. Josh was amazed at Billy giving Mr. Martin a hug. They were more than exhausted but it was a good day. They were only a block away from Mr. Martin's, when Pops pulled up with the van. "Thought you boys might want a lift going home."

"Ohh, that would be great." Billy said. "But what are we to do with the snow blower?" Josh asked.

Pops got out of the van opened the hatch and pulled 2 planks out and put them on the lip of the bumper. "Think, you can drive it up those planks, Josh"

"Yes, Sir,"

Snow blower loaded it was a short ride home. "Mr. Martin called. Said you boys did a fine job, but looked like you had just run 5 marathons. He even complimented me, on what polite hard-working boys you were. Now, I really don't know him very well, but I've heard he's the hardest man in town to get a compliment from. I don't know what you did for him but I thought you would like to hear what he said."

"Well, we shared our cookies from Mrs. Acker, and Billy gave him a hug, and then we both did. Billy told him he wasn't grumpy."

"Well, you must have brought some joy into his heart. Good job, especially you, Billy. Annie’s been busy, too. She's making supper for us. Tacos, Burritos, of course, with Spanish rice. I'm hungry already."

Billy said "Really, I'm staved, it's been so long since she made food for us. Of course, no place to cook. If it's Burritos, I remember they are super delicious. But I really would like to just take a 10-minute nap first."

"Me too, I am staving but if I don't get just a little sleep, I'll fall asleep, in my food." Josh added.

"Ok boys, it's 3:00. I'll ask Annie to have dinner at 4:30, and after we'll take Billy and Annie back to the shelter. That'll give you a good hour plus to relax and nap if you wanna."

They went into the house. Billy gave his Mom a kiss and gave her his money. "Billy, there's $330.00 dollars here. Were you selling drugs or something?"

"No, of course not, Mom, snow shoveling is hard work and it's a holiday and the people are nice and appreciate us doing it. We weren't sure we could, so, I think they were a little extra generous. I'm bushed, Mom, can we talk about it later." The boys were so exhausted they just dropped their jackets, hats and gloves by the door. "Billy, come back and pick up your clothes." Annie demanded.

Pops said, "I got it. You, boys go inside and relax." As he picked up their things.

He whispered to Annie, "They are very good at picking up their things. Don't worry just this once, won't undo all your good work. Let them get a little sleep and you'll see they'll be a lot more responsible without any direction."

"Ok Pops, it's your house; they didn't get much sleep last night, you are right again. I should have been more understanding. I just didn't want you thinking, I wouldn’t allow my son to make a mess of your house."

"You raised your son fine. Both he and Josh are very willing to help in any way they can. They are just exhausted. Like Billy said, snow shoveling is very hard work. The three houses they went to are good middle-class folks who paid them what it would cost to have a professional come out to clean the snow. You saw how without a word they cleaned my driveway and walks."

"I'm sorry Pops, you have been so good to us, I just was a little defensive, I guess. I'll apologize to Billy when he gets up."

The boys were asleep on the couch, leaning on each other. Josh's head was on Billy's shoulder; Billy's head on Josh's. Their hands and legs of course were touching ; Billy's hand on Josh's thigh; Josh's hand on Billy's.

Annie went into the living room and saw them napping.

"OMG, Pops, Billy is gay."

"What are you saying, Annie. They are way too young to be anything but teenage boys.

If they sleep together in bed as comfortable as they are now when they are 18 or 20 ok then, I'll say you are right. Now, they are teenage boys who love each other very much like brothers would. Neither one has known a father really. If anything, they are more like brothers, and brothers are comfortable with each other. You know, they had to rely on each other in the shelter to survive. Please don't put labels on Billy or Josh, it's not right. If in the future you are right and Billy is gay, love him for being the wonderful son he is, just as much as you would if he got married and gave you grandkids. Since the beginning of time when boys awaken sexually, they often have their first sexual experience with another boy. Since the beginning of time boys have learned to masturbate and explore their sexuality. My guess is at 17, Billy will be very much interested in girls. He knows, he has baby makers, and also knows you can't make babies with boys."

"There is so much I need to know to raise a teenage boy. You hear in church about all the things not to do; then you do them anyway, because it's human nature, and then you have all kinds of guilt about it. I think you are right, and if Billy is gay or straight or whatever, I'll have to love him the same as I do now. Thanks for the talk, Pops. I'm so glad, he has you in his life. Have you talked to him about sexual things?"

"Yes, to both him and Josh together. This much I'll tell you. I said the most important thing about sex is the sharing of love and caring you have. You have to want to give pleasure as much as you receive it. Other than that, it’s just a physical thing and the more you do it as a physical thing, the less meaning it will have. If you do it as a physical thing when you're done, you'll pull up your pants and still feel empty inside."

"Pops you are the best. Thank you for caring about Billy."

"Hey, he's Josh's best friend and we have to care about everyone, even you Annie."

Annie gave Pops a hug and a kiss and whispered "Even you, Pops." Then went back to making dinner. For sure, she wanted it to be the best dinner she ever made, and she put all the love and care she could into it.

Pops shook the boys at 4:15. He suggested Billy take his last crabs shower.

"Should I help him, Pops" Josh asked.

"Maybe help him with the cream after the shower. Wait for him in your room. He has to get his clothes and stuff together, as well."

Billy showered while washing his pubic area gave him a big woodie. He patted dry and wrapped the towel around him and went in the bedroom. Josh was waiting for him. "Hey, want me to help you with this. " Josh said holding up the cream. "Yeah, one last time. I wish I didn't have to go." Billy laid down on the bed.

"Me too, I'm gonna miss you big time." Josh smeared the cream over Billy's pubic area. "But this has been kind of fun. Did you think getting rid of the crabs would be so sexy?" Josh was holding Billy's prick while applying the cream. He was gently massaging it. Pre-cum was glistening on the tip. "I sure would like to give your dick a lick. I bet you're safe. No more crabs."

`You won't get an argument out of me. "

"I know, I'll lick it sideways", and Josh did. "Mmm, tasty, I like salty things. Make some more, Billy."

"Maybe, if you lick it some more, more will come out."

Josh did. Then he reached under Billy to find his pucker. Billy really seemed to like that.

Annie called upstairs "dinner in 5 minutes boys"

Billy yelled back, "OK, mom."

Josh couldn't, his mouth was full of dick. Josh went to work on Billy in earnest. Sucking and jerking and stroking his hole, a minute later he was rewarded with a mouth full of cum. Billy kissed him and they both got to swallow some. I'm sorry, it's not fair; we don't have time for me to do you, Josh."

"That's ok, I'm just glad I got the chance to taste your dick. It was on my list of stuff to do this weekend. I hope you can come next weekend. You'll owe me one."

"Ok, I'll pay ya back next week, double."

Billy packed up his clothes in his new backpack and they went downstairs together.

Pops was sitting in his chair facing the stair and the TV. As the boys bounded down his eyes lit up like saucers. He put up his hand for them to stop and then rubbed his mouth and pointed to the boys. There was still a bit of cum on their mouths. They rubbed and wiped their hands on their jeans until Pops gave them the OK sign. They mouthed, “Thanks, Pops”.

They all went in to dinner. The burritos were delicious and the spanish rice and tacos were great too. The boys went back for thirds. Billy said, "I can't wait for us to get our place mom, so you can cook like this all the time."

"Maybe by spring if all goes right and I get a job right after finishing Luke's course. Say Pops, would you do me a big favor and hold Billy's money. It'll be a big help to have for a deposit on an apartment. What do you think, is that ok, Billy?"

"Yeah, that's a great idea, mom. I still have the $50.00 from Saturday's shoveling. I've never had so much money."

"Pops, can you arrange for it to snow every weekend?"

"I think that's beyond my capabilities. Is it decided then you are coming  back next weekend?"

"Can I mom, you get most of your McDonald's hours on Saturdays and Sundays and all I can do in the city is get into trouble."

"Well, if Pops really doesn't mind, but I think we have to give him something for all the food you eat."

"Ohh, that's nothing Annie. He's a growing boy and I love to see him eat his fill. It's the best thing to keep him healthy."

"Yeah, can we pick him up on Friday, Pops?" Josh asked.

"Yeah sure, but if he gets the bus from Port Authority to one of the malls it'll be a lot easier and we can pick up from the mall."

"Good idea Pops, I can pack my back pack the night before and go right after school; if that's alright, Mom."

"Yes, that'll work fine and I'll a lot feel better; you'll be saving Pops all that city driving and the cost of the toll. Good idea, Pops."

Josh said, "I'll figure out which bus for you to get on and text you."

They all cleaned up after dinner. It was time to take them back. It was a quiet ride, everyone was really tired from the night before and the boys especially from their snow shoveling; and, of course, Josh and Billy were down that tomorrow each would be on their own. Josh was starting a new school; Billy having to deal with the creeps and shelter life. When they were almost at the shelter Billy said, "Thanks, Pops, for having me out. It was the best time of my life. And thanks for curing the crabs; I'm so glad those little bugger didn't get on anyone else, especially Josh's nose. "

Josh and Billy burst out laughing and Pops chuckled a bit as well.

Annie was in the dark and questioned. "What on earth are you talking about, Billy Nunez?"

Pops saved the day by saying, "It's just a private joke, Annie. We were kidding about crabs getting in Josh's nose when we were going through the cleaning of them."

"How on earth could they get on his nose?"

The boys burst out again, rolling around in their seats.

"Pops scratched his head and said, ”That’s what’s so funny. Annie, can you think of anything more uncomfortable than having a family of those buggers in your nose?"

She chuckled as well and said, "I guess not."

They were at the shelter; they all got out of the van. Billy said thanks to Pops again, and gave him a kiss on his cheek and the biggest hug. "Can I tell I went to visit my grandpa."

"Of course, Billy and you're coming again next weekend."

Annie thanked him as well.

Then Billy turned to Josh, he went to hug him but instead kissed him full on the lips. It shocked both boys but Josh returned the kiss. Annie turned 3 shades of red but obviously Billy didn't care.

Pops tried to save the day again, "Now none of that silly stuff; get on with you, Billy." The boys started laughing up a storm.

"Ok Pops, see you next weekend."

"Will do" Josh said.

Pops said, "We'll be home by 8:30, son. Did you have a good time with Billy?"

"Oh yeah, Pops, the best. It was a little scary last night and tough shoveling the snow, but we did make a lot of money. When we get home, I want to give you that money for our account. Ok?"

"Sure Josh, after taking you to school, I'll open up an account that'll have both our names on it so you can get the money if you need it."

"Think I'll go right to bed as soon as I get home, maybe read or text Billy, OK?"

"I think you ought to add a shower to the list. Time might be tight in the morning and you got a workout from the shoveling."

"You saying I smell, Pops."

"I didn't say that but your deodorant gave up trying to hide it hours ago."

Josh unzipped his jacket and sniffed his pits." Ohh, ahh, well, some people say boys smell nice."

"I'm sure they are talking about them after they had a shower."

"Maybe so Pops, may be so. Pops, you think I can call Father Rick after school tomorrow."

"Sure Josh, that's a fine idea you have about the coats."

"You think Billy will be alright, Pops."

"I think so; he is a survivor, just like you."

"I think he will feel a lot better now that he has some decent clothes to wear to school."

"Me too, Josh."

"Bet you knew that, even before you decided to get them, didn't you?"

"It might have crossed my mind."

"Thanks for being so good to him, Pops."

"What, you getting all sentimental on me? The kid needed clothes."

"I think I know where Luke gets his do-gooder stuff from."

"Oh, that came from his mother. Yes sir, for sure, it was her."

Josh just smiled.

Pops got up for his middle of the night pee, then checked on Josh. He was having one of his dreams again. It was the strength of Jesus that allowed him to stand him up on the bed. After all, the boy was still 100 plus pounds. Then he had Josh lean on him, he put his right arm under his butt and carried him into his bed. "Jeeze, he thought, I must be lugging kids around for 50 years. Gently laid Josh down and went around the other side and got in as well. Sub- consciously Josh must have gotten used to this routine because as soon as Pops got in, he grabbed his arm and snuggled close to him. Minutes later Josh's sleep was peaceful, breathing nice and steady. Jon could now go to sleep as well.

To be continued...

Posted: 10/22/2021