Julio – The Growing Years

 by: Miguel Sanchez

© 2006-2009 by the author

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

Chapter 82

Judge Romero looked at his Bailiff. “Bailiff, please escort Ms. Barnes to a holding cell then call the US Consulate’s Office. After that, please put a call into Sheriff Vasquez. There is a little boy who needs a Daddy. Ms. Barnes, I’ve met Chad. All I can say is you’re missing out on a fine little boy who anyone would be proud to have as a grandson. This case is adjourned.”

The Bailiff led Grace back to the holding area then put her into a cell. He then came out and made the phone calls asked of him by Judge Romero. We were about to leave when Andrew went over to the Bailiff. “Do you think I could have a word with the Judge?”

The Bailiff knocked on the door, stuck his head in then opened it. “The Judge will see you.”

Judge Romero looked up. “How my I help you counselor?”

“Well Your Honor, does Ms. Barnes have to stay in jail? I know what she did was wrong.”

Judge Romero looked up. “She tried to steal from a child. That in my book is not acceptable.”

“I understand and that’s why I am going to handle this at no cost.”

The jurist didn’t seem moved. He was about to speak when there was a knock on the door. “Your Honor, Mr. Jefferson is here. He’s from the American Consulate.”

“Show him in.”

The bailiff held the door open and in walked a young black man. “Your Honor, I’m Dale Jefferson. I’m from the American Consulate. I understand an American citizen tried to perpetrate a fraud in your court?”

“Yes she did and what’s made it worse is it involved a child who lost his parents.”

Mr. Jefferson covered his mouth. “Is the child alright?”

Javier nodded his head. “He’s fine. He’s in foster care right now staying with the Sheriff who also wishes to adopt him.”

“I see,” Mr. Jefferson replied. “I take it the boy is an American citizen?”

“Yes he is but he was adopted here in Brazil. His only relative was his grandmother. It was she who tried to have to adoption overturned then tried denying her son.”

“Do you know when this woman was planning on leaving the country?”

Javier looked at Andrew. “When were you 2 planning on leaving?”

Mr. Jefferson looked at the lawyer. “Are you involved in this to?”

Judge Romero shook his head. “He was not a willing participant.”

Andrew relaxed. “Our flight home was tomorrow afternoon. That’s what I wanted to talk with you about Your Honor.”

Javier nodded. “I’m listening.”

“After I get the paperwork from Mr. Cortez, I’d be willing to take custody of Ms. Barnes and make sure she’s on the flight back to the states.”

Judge Romero thought for a moment, “On one condition.”

Andrew wasn’t sure what he meant. “Name it.”

“Who can I send a copy of the court records to?”

Andrew reached into his briefcase and wrote down the address to the Dare County Prosecutor’s Office. “Here you go Your Honor. I’m sure they’ll be filing charges against her.”

Andrew followed Paulo and me over to the home. “Mr. Sanchez, why is there a steel gate around the home? Are you trying to keep the children in?”

Paulo raised his hand. “On the contrary, it’s to keep certain people out. You’ll find this is not your usual children’s home. All the children get an ample supply of love.”

Andrew smiled as he followed us inside. As soon as we entered, I was surrounded by Mikey and Shane. “Papa Miguel, where’s Chad?”

“He’s with his Daddy today.”

“Oh,” Mikey said softly. “When will we see him again?”

I smiled then knelt down. “I think you all will be seeing him tomorrow. I have to talk with this man then I’ll fill everyone in.”

I got hugged by both boys then they scurried down the hall. We went into my office and I took my seat resting my arm. “What happened to your arm, if I might ask?”

I blushed a little, “A long story.”

Paulo shook his head. “Miguel sometimes gets involved and this time he was in the right place but at the wrong time.”

“I’ll be fine Mr. Stein.” I said trying to change the subject.

Paulo handed Andrew copies of the death certificates just as there was a knock on the door. I looked up and there was Jay. “Dad, do you have a minute? Phil and Paul skinned up their legs riding their skateboards.”

“If you’ll excuse me,” I said heading for the door.

Andrew looked at Paulo. “What does he do for a living?”

“He’s a pediatrician. He has a practice in the US.”

I was about to head down the hall when I was met by David and Ronnie carrying the twins followed by Jay. Ronnie stopped and I looked at Phil’s leg. “You skinned it up pretty good there son.”

“It burns Papa.” Phil said fighting back tears.

“We’ll get you both fixed up good as new.” I replied smiling.

I stood back and watched as Jay and David cleaned up the boys’ scrapes and soon the boys were all smiles and going back out to play.

Paulo and Andrew were standing out of the way but watching everything that went on. I came over to them as Andrew was shaking his head. “I don’t know how you do it Doctor.”

I smiled. “As you see, I don’t do it alone. I am just 1 person and without the staff here, nothing would work.”

Jay and Ronnie came up just then. “Dad, lunch is ready.”

“Thank you boys,” I said looking at Andrew. “Would you care to join us?”

He shook his head. “No thank you. I’m going back to the courthouse to get Grace out of jail. She’s to remain in my custody until we leave tomorrow. When I get a full accounting of the estate, what would you like me to do?”

I thought for a moment. “Sell the house and liquidate everything else. There is trust fund going to be set up here for Chad with monies confiscated from the person responsible for his parents’ deaths. The money from his parent’s estate will go in with that. Here is a card with my attorney’s name and number. Feel free to contact him anytime. He knows how to reach me if needed.”

“Thank you Dr. Sanchez.” Andrew said. “You have a great thing here. Unfortunately the way you do things here would have eyebrows raised in the US.”

I nodded my head. “I know and it’s a shame. Kids in homes like this need to know they’re loved and the adults not persecuted for showing it.”

I shook his hand just as I heard the phone ringing. Paulo escorted Andrew out to his car while answered the phone. “Miguel Sanchez here.”

“Hi Miguel, it’s Danny. Judge Romero wants to see Chad and me in court at 1:30.”

I had a pretty good idea why they were to be there. “Do you want Paulo and me there?”

“Would you?”

“Relax buddy, we’ll be there. How’s Chad doing?”

I could hear some apprehension in his voice. “He’s fine. He won’t sleep in his room yet.”

All in all, that didn’t surprise me. “Once he gets totally accustomed to your place buddy, I’m sure he will.”

“You’re probably right Miguel. I’ll see you and Paulo in court.”

“We’ll be there buddy.” I said reassuring him then I hung up the phone.

I got up and made my way down to the dining room and into the kitchen. As soon as I got close to the door I smelled cake being made. As soon as I stepped inside Hanna was there to greet me. “Don’t get any ideas about sampling the cakes Herr Sanchez.”

It was then I saw Ronnie removing two pans of chocolate cake which told me right away what tonight’s desert was going to be. “I wouldn’t dream of it Hanna. Besides, Ronnie wouldn’t let me any where near them.

She still had that stern look on her face. “Hanna, what are you planning for dinner tonight?”

She knew I never asked that. “Is there something you had in mind?”

I smiled as Ronnie came over to join us. “Well yes I do. Danny’s adoption of Chad will be official this afternoon and the desert is perfect. I know they were going to be German Chocolate cakes son but would you mind if they were for a very happy 5 year old instead?”

“No Dad, not at all. I can put something special on the one Chad and Danny will cut then everyone will be able to dig into the others. As for dinner, don’t worry about a thing Dad, I have that covered. I know just what to make and all the kids will love it. Lunch will be ready in a few minutes.”

I saw Paulo coming out of Guillermo's office as I was heading towards my room. “Miguel, you’ll need to sign off on some papers since Danny’s adoption of Chad is this afternoon.”

“Put them on my desk Guillermo and I’ll sign them when I get back.”

I went into my room and took a pain pill then joined the others for lunch. I was surrounded by Chico, Mikey and Shane and they were herding me towards a table with the other children. “When is Chad going to be back to visit us, Papa?”

I laughed. “Mikey, you don’t beat around the bush. Well, how does tonight sound?”

The whole table let out with cheers. “Can he spend the night?”

I looked at him then rubbed the back of his head. “I don’t think he’ll want to tonight son. This afternoon, Danny’s request for adopting Chad is going to be approved.

That brought another round of cheers but when I looked back at Mikey, he was crying. “What’s wrong son, I thought you’d be happy for him?”

He wiped his eyes and smiled. “I am happy Papa. Chad now has a Daddy of his own.”

I could also tell Mikey was sad knowing Chad had the family he didn’t. I held my arm out and he scooted up onto my lap. “You’re happy I can see but what else is it son?”

He shook his head then stopped. “I dunno Papa Miguel. I guess I’m hoping one day I’ll have a family too.”

“I hope that for every one of you Mikey. But you know too that you have brothers and sisters here and plenty of love to go around.”

Shane reached over and pulled Mikey onto his lap. “Mikey, I love you. I don’t want to lose you.”

Mikey smiled at those words. “I don’t want to lose you either.”

That seemed to cheer Mikey up. I finished my lunch then had to give loads of hugs before Paulo and I headed to court. As we walked down the hall, I got an idea. “Paulo, does Chad have to be at the adoption?”

He shook his head. “No he doesn’t since this is totally uncontested.”

I went into my office and called Danny. I just hopped he hadn’t left yet. The phone rang and rang and after 15 rings I hung up. I then called his office and spoke with the deputy on duty. “This is Miguel Sanchez; can you reach Sheriff Vasquez on the radio?”

“Sure Miguel,” The deputy replied. “What would you like me to tell him?”

“Ask him to come to the home before he goes to the courthouse. If he asks why, tell him I’ll explain as soon as he gets here.”

“Will do Miguel,” The deputy replied then I hung up and waited.

About 10 minutes later, Danny pulled into the parking lot. As soon as I walked up to the car he asked, “What’s up Miguel?”

“Come on inside and I’ll explain. Chad jumped out of the car and ran over to Mikey and Shane. Mikey immediately hugged him. “Oh man I’m glad you’re here. I’ve missed you.”

As I passed Shane, I leaned down and whispered into his ear. “Don’t tell Chad his adoption hearing is this afternoon.”

“How come Papa, he’s really looking forward to that.”

I was about to answer when Chad bolted inside. “I gotta pee.”

This gave me the chance to explain things to Shane and Mikey without Chad hearing it. “I know Chad’s looking forward to the adoption but tomorrow when his parents are buried and he says good bye to them, we’re going to let him know he has a new Daddy to take care of him.”

Mikey smiled then. “Wow that’ll be a great surprise.

“Do I have your word of honor you’ll not say anything to him about this?”

Both boys started nodding their head. “Yes Papa,” they replied in unison.

Just then something else hit me. I’ll be right back guys.

I hurried down to the kitchen so I could talk to Ronnie. I saw him sitting in the dining room having some tea. He looked over and saw me come in. “What’s up Dad?”

I just got a better idea son. “Tomorrow after Chad says good bye to his parents, Judge Romero will be there and tell Chad that Danny is his Dad.”

“Sort of like closing one chapter and starting another.”

“Exactly son. Now, I know this probably throws a wrench into your plans for tonight’s dinner.”

Ronnie shook his head. “Don’t worry Dad. I’ve had to change things on short notice before. We’ll handle it.”

I looked at my watch and we had to get moving. “OK son, I’ll leave it to you and Hanna. Chad and Danny will be eating here.”

I went to meet Danny outside and was met by 3 boys in their swimming trunks. Chad came and gave my leg a hug as I saw Shane give me a wink. “Tell daddy I’ll be good while you all do what you have to.”

I leaned down and gave each boy a kiss then hurried out the door. Thank god the traffic was light because I really didn’t want to Javier to have to wait on us considering everything he’s done for the home and the Foundation.

Paulo was right behind us in his car as we pulled into the parking lot. It was almost 1:30 so we had to hurry. “Miguel, I hope the judge isn’t going to be mad when he sees that Chad isn’t here.”

“I don’t think he will be when I explain what I have in mind.”

We hurried down to his courtroom and went inside. No sooner had the door closed when Javier came out of his chambers. He took his place as we were still walking towards the railing. “Where’s Chad, Sheriff Vasquez?”

Danny stopped in his tracks then looked at me. “Um Your Honor,” I started. “Chad’s back at the home. I had an idea since this is a pretty straight forward adoption.”

At that point Javier stood. “Let’s sit in my chambers where we can be more relaxed.

Javier opened the door and we followed then got comfortable on the sofa. “All right Miguel, what did you have in mind?”

“Tomorrow is the funeral for Chad’s parents. Now it’s not going to be a big religious thing but just a way for Chad to say goodbye. I was wondering if you could be there.”

Javier looked surprised, “How come Miguel?”

“After Chad has said goodbye to his parents, I thought it might be nice for you to read the adoption order that way he’d know now, once and for all, that Danny’s not going to leave him.”

Danny looked at me. “As if that would ever happen Miguel.”

“I know Danny. I’ve never seen anyone hit it off so fast with a child before as you did with Chad. Had you not been there, I don’t know how things would have turned out.”

“Miguel, does he know about how his parents died?”

Danny stepped in then. “Yes he does Your Honor. It wasn’t how I would have liked to have told him.”

I stepped in then. “I don’t know Danny, maybe it did turn out for the best. He was able to vent his anger at the person who killed his parents.”

Judge Romero raised his hand. “What will the long term effects be?”

I stepped back in then. “There might be some but Jackie and Guillermo talked with him after the incident. Several times he didn’t know weather or not he wanted to say goodbye to his parents but now he does. He’ll be at the home during the day while Danny is at work and he’ll also be attending school there.”

I saw Javier smile. “Chad has a real support system in place.”

I nodded my head. “He’s one of the lucky ones. I’ve lost count of the ones that never had the opportunity.”

Javier gave me a stern look. “Miguel, you did what you could but there were those who just didn’t want to take the help.”

“I know my friend I just hate…”

“Losing,” Javier said finishing my sentence. “You’re just like your father was in that respect. What time is the funeral?”

I had to think for a moment. “10AM, just the staff and kids from the home will be there.”

“I have an open docket in the morning. I’ll be there.”

That night after dinner Jackie, Guillermo and I got everyone into the community room where I explained about tomorrow. Danny took Chad home so he could have a bath and get a decent night’s sleep. “Alright everyone, can I have your attention. Tomorrow is the funeral for Chad’s parents. How many of you don’t think you can handle being there?

I waited but no one raised their hand. “That’s great kids; I know Chad will really appreciate your support by being there. The funeral is not going to be a religious thing but rather a way for Chad to say goodbye to his Mom and Dad one final time. There will also be a very big surprise during the funeral. Judge Romero has granted Danny’s request to adopt Chad and he’ll be there to read it. Nita, could you bring your portable stereo tape player? Chad has 2 tapes I know he’s going to want to play and the tape player I have doesn’t put out a whole lot of volume.”

“Sure Papa, anything for Chad. Will the caskets be open?”

I shook my head. “No Nita, that’s not possible.”

Jenny and Jean stood, “Why not Papa?”

“It’s because of how they died girls.”

“They were…” Mikey started but Shane quickly covered his mouth.

He spun his boyfriend around and whispered in his ear. “Don’t say it Mikey, you’ll give everyone nightmares.”

I then brought him over to me. “How did you find out about this?”

“Umm well, I ah sorta overheard it.”

I gave him a stern look. “Then you know why it’s not possible. Do you really think it was a good idea to tell that to everyone here?”

He looked at the floor. “No Papa. I’m sorry.”

Now that that had been handled I went on. “The funeral is at 10 so we’re going to have to leave here about 9:30. After breakfast, I’d like everyone to wash their faces and hands then change into some good clothes.”

Jeff looked at me strangely. “Do we have to wear suits?”

“No boys, you don’t have to wear suits but I do want you in something better than shorts, a tee shirt and a pair of sandals.”

We talked a little longer then it was time to get the younger ones into bed. I made my rounds then rejoined the adults and older teens back in the community room and by 10:30 I was ready for bed.

My bladder woke me the next morning and as soon as I tried to move I realized I was sandwiched in between 2 boys. I was also staring at the back of Mikey’s head. I saw that it was almost 7:30 so I decided to wake my sleeping guests. I gently shook Mikey. “Come on son, time to wake up.”

He moaned a little then rolled onto his back. I was able to move across him and get out of bed. “Mmmm, just a few more minutes Papa.”

My bladder was screaming so Mikey got his wish while I used the bathroom. Once done, I came back out and after several minutes of gentle shaking and prodding, Shane was up and had used the bathroom while Mikey was awake but still lying in bed. “Come on boys, you know we have Chad’s parents’ funeral today.”

That got Mikey moving. “Oh man, thanks Papa, I forgot.”

Mikey was out of bed and into the bathroom like a shot. After he flushed the toilet he was heading to the door. “Umm, you’re not really going out like that are you?” Shane asked as Mikey stopped quickly.

I could tell he was about to speak when he looked down and saw he was still in his undies. Shane was holding his shorts in his hand giggling. “You’d have laughed if I’d gone out like this?”

He nodded his head. “It would have been funny.”

Mikey took his shorts and put them on then took Shane by the hand. “Come on we have to get breakfast.”

The boys headed down to the dining room. As I came out, I was met by Jackie. “Miguel, I have some doubts about Patty, Jean and Jenny going with us going today.”

I hadn’t thought about them. They’d seemed to have taken everything in stride so I’d not even considered how much they really understood. “Have they talked to you Jackie?”

She shook her head. “Not in so many words Miguel but I see it in the way they’re acting. Normally they’re one of the first ones dressed and ready to eat but today Angel and I had to dress all three. How are Paul and Phil?”

I was about to answer when Chico came out of the twins’ room. “Papa the twins don’t wanna eat.”

I looked at Jackie. “I think we have our answer. Chico, I’ll go in and talk with the twins. I think I know why they don’t seem hungry.

I went inside and told Alex to on down to the dining room and that I’d be along in a few minutes with the twins. They were both in one bed and watched cautiously as I came over and sat beside them. “I hear you’re not hungry this morning?”

They started nodding their heads when Phil pulled the covers over his head. I looked over to him then at Paul. “Papa we like Chad, he’s a great little brother but… it’s just… well, we don’t want to let him down…”

I reached down and rubbed the back of my hand on Paul's cheek. “You’re not too sure about the funeral?”

Both heads started shaking no. Slowly Phil eased the covers down. “Do you think he’d be mad at us if we didn’t go?

I smiled at them and shook my head. “Chad wouldn’t be upset. The last thing he would want is for anyone here to feel bad about going.”

Phil got out of the bed then came around so he could sit on my lap. “Are you sure Papa Miguel?

I kissed his nose which caused him to smile and giggle a little. “I’m very sure.”

Paul then scooted around. “Is it true Papa?”

I cocked my head as I looked at him. “Is what true son?”

Phil interrupted. “You know Papa, is Chad getting dopted?”

Paul’s head started bobbing up and down. I had to giggle at them. “Yes, Chad’s getting adopted.

Paul started jumping up and down on the bed. “Yippee.”

Phil reached out and pinched his brother on his butt causing him to yelp. “Don’t bounce on the bed and you better get some clothes on if you’re going to breakfast.”

Paul stopped jumping and started rubbing his bottom. “OK but don’t pinch. Tell him Papa.”

I reached my arm out and brought Paul over. “Come on guys, let’s get dressed so everyone can eat.

Paul scurried into the bathroom then I looked at Phil. “Be easy on your brother.”

“But he knows not to jump on the bed Papa.”

I smiled then kissed his nose. “Yes he does but I remember a certain little one who used to do the same thing.”

 

Phil blushed. “I remember Papa.”

Paul came over and tossed his brother his underpants. Phil held his arms out and Paul accepted his hug. “I’m sorry, Paul.”

The boys hurried and got dressed then we left to go to the dining room. When I opened the door Jackie was waiting for me. Phil and Paul walked as fast as they could while Jackie and I talked. “I take it they didn’t really want to go?”

I shook my head. “No they didn’t. They would have had I asked them to but I couldn’t.”

“Who can we get to stay here with them?”

I thought for a moment. I can talk to Samuel. He could keep them occupied for a couple of hours until we get back to lunch. Now for the big question Jackie, how do you think Chad’s going to handle this when he sees his parent’s caskets?”

I could see her deep in thought. “Miguel, I can’t really answer it until we’re there. I do think maybe we should be there before Chad is just in case.”

“You think that’ll really be necessary? I mean, Danny will be there as will Rolando.”

I was about to speak when Casey and Angel came up. “Dad, the girls are asking if we can stay here with them.”

“That’s fine with me sweetheart. Are you both OK with this?”

“Dad, I think with the others there, Chad will be fine.”

“I hope you’re right.” I said as we walked into the dining room.

We had our breakfast then we started getting those kids going to the funeral ready. I watched as everyone quickly headed into their rooms. I went down to my room to shave and change. No sooner was I done shaving when Jay and Marco came in. “Dad Ronnie said to tell you he’s got lunch and dinner planned.”

I knew dropping that change on him at the last minute wasn’t nice but I didn’t have much choice since I wanted Chad’s adoption to be a surprise. “Did he tell you what he was doing?”

Marco shook his head. “Not in so many words Pop but he knows Chad will be happy.”

“I’ll take his word for it son. I know when it comes to planning any kind of an affair; Ronnie is one of the best.”

“Don’t forget Dad, Ronnie and I have to head back to Durham tomorrow. He’s planning a New Year’s Eve Dinner at the restaurant.”

The boys helped me get dressed then I went down to the office and called my pilots letting them know the plane would be needed here tomorrow. As soon as I hung up the phone, Guillermo stuck his head in. “Everyone’s ready Miguel.”

I looked over at the clock and it was 9:30. “OK buddy, let’s get loaded up and head over to the cemetery.”

We needed both vans and the Blazer to hold everyone for the 20 minute drive. I led the way and as I turned into the cemetery there was a man in a dark suit directing us. We followed the road in then after a couple of turns, I saw a large awning with 2 caskets under it. There was another man waving at me so I eased up. “Park on the other side of the road, it’s laid out in a big circle so it will be easy for you to find your way back to the gate.”

There was a black car a little ways up so I pulled in behind it and parked. The vans were right behind me so once they were parked everyone got out. As I stepped out of the Blazer I saw Danny’s car pull up. I walked over to his car as Guillermo and Jackie got all the kids together. The first thing I did was look at Chad. He was staring at the caskets then he turned and looked at me, “Hi Papa.”

I was about to reply when he got out and went over to the other kids. “How’s he doing?” I asked as Danny and Rolando got out.

“He seems fine Miguel. We had a good evening at home and we watched TV until he fell asleep in my arms.”

I looked at my watch then saw Javier’s car pulling up behind Danny’s. I motioned for Danny to follow me. “Morning Javier.” I said as he went into his trunk and pulled out what appeared to be a wrapped picture frame.

“Morning guys,” Javier replied with a smile. “I hope this will make Chad happy.”

He put it back into the trunk then the three of us started walking towards the group. Chad came running over and jumped towards Danny. “Dad, are we going to start soon?”

Danny smiled. “You ready son?”

He nodded his head then he and Danny started walking towards the caskets as the other children and adults slowly gathered around. Chad put his hands on them and closed his eyes. I was about to tell him which casket was who’s because I saw the name plate on each one when he patted one. “That’s Mommy and there is Daddy.”

I didn’t know how he did it but he was correct. "How could you tell son?

He smiled at me then touched his Mother's casket again. "When I touched this one, it felt soft like Mommy's skin." He then reached over and touched his Dad's. "When I touched this one, it felt strong like Daddy's arms."

I knelt down and hugged him. "Nothing gets by you son."

He reached his arms up and Danny held him so he could see everyone. “Thanks for coming today. I don’t know how things would have happened if I had went some other place. I wish you had known them, they were really good parents. Daddy worked a lot but Saturday was our day. We always did something together like riding our bikes or swimming.

Chad had to stop for a moment. “Chad, what was your favorite time of the day?”

He thought for a minute then smiled. “Oh Papa, you know what that was.”

Mikey got in on it. “Come on Chad, tell us.”

Danny reached into his pocket and handed Chad his tape. Nita saw this and brought her tape player up. “It was the time my Mommy would give me a bath. She had this song she sang to me and after a while it wasn’t bath time unless we were singing it together.”

Danny handed me the tape, put it in then I pushed play. There was Chad and his mother singing Rubber Ducky.

Rubber Ducky, you're the one. 
You make bath time lots of fun 
Rubber Ducky, I'm awfully fond of you. 
Rubber Ducky, joys of joys 
When I squeak you, you make noise 
Rubber Ducky, you're my very best friend, it's true! 

Everyday when I make my way to the tubby 
I find a little fella who's cute, yellow, and chubby. 
(rub-a-dub-a-dubby) 

Rubber Ducky you're so fine 
And I'm lucky that you're mine 
Rubber Ducky, I'm awfully fond of you. 

Everyday when I make my way to the tubby 
I find a little fella who's cute, yellow, and chubby. 
(rub-a-dub-a-dubby) 

Rubber Ducky, you're so fine 
And I'm glad that you're mine 
Rubber Ducky I'm awfully fond of... 
Rubber Ducky I'd like a whole pond of . . . 
Rubber Ducky I'm awfully fond of you. 

While this was going on, Jay and Marco came up and put their arms around me. Jay had his head on my shoulder as he softly cried. I wrapped my arm around him then kissed him gently on the cheek. "This brings back some old memories, doesn't it son?"

He sniffed then wiped his eyes. "I thought I'd have got over this by now Dad."

"Son, you never had a chance to bury your Mother. The day you do that is when you really start to grieve and you never really had a chance to do that."

"I guess you're right Daddy. God, I feel like I'm 11 again."

"You'll always be my little boy."

By the time the song ended, we had gotten our emotions under control and everyone had moved around Chad and was singing along. When it ended, everyone clapped and Chad was smiling. I thought now was the best time to spring my surprise on him. I motioned Javier to come up. “Chad, there is someone here I’d like you to meet.”

Javier stepped up and smiled at him. “Hello Chad, I’m Judge Romero.”

Chad’s eyes got big as he stepped back against Danny for protection. “Hello.”

Danny put his hands on Chad’s shoulders. “Miguel told me that your parents died.

Chad softly nodded his head. “It seems then you need some new parents.”

Chad shook his head. “Un, un, I got a Daddy now.”

Javier played right along. “Oh, who might that be?”

Chad looked up and pointed at Danny. “He’s my Daddy and he’s the Sheriff. He said he was going to adopt me.”

“He did huh?”

Chad nodded his head. “Yes sir, he did.”

“Has that happened yet?”

Chad’s eyes dropped to the ground and shook his head. “No sir.”

Javier reached into his pocket and pulled out a piece of paper. “Chad, then the Sheriff isn’t your Daddy but we can fix that right now.

At that point Chad’s head turned around as his mouth dropped open. “You mean it?”

“Chad, do you still wish Sheriff Vasquez to be your Daddy?”

Chad looked at me, then to Danny then back to Javier nodding his head the whole time then broke into a huge smile. “Oh yes sir, I want Danny to be my Daddy.”

“Danny, do you still wish to adopt Chad?”

Danny smiled. “Yes Your Honor, I do.”

“Would you like his name changed to yours?”

Danny looked at Chad then they talked back and forth for a minute. “No Your Honor, Chad wishes to keep his parents name.”

Judge Romero nodded his head. “Very well then. It is the order of this court that Daniel Vasquez is the adoptive parent of Chad Allen Barnes.”

“Yippee,” yelled Chad as he hugged Danny tightly and kissed him on the cheek. Danny set him on his feet. “Mommy, Daddy I have a new Daddy now. When you left, I got scared and went outside. The door locked and I couldn’t get back into the room. I walked for a long time and saw a playground. I sat on one of the rides then I must have fallen asleep. The next thing I remember was Mikey and Shane waking me up. I got scared then Shane ran off and came back with Papa Miguel. After that I met Danny and well, you and Daddy know the rest. “Daddy, where is that other tape?

Danny reached into his pocket and changed tapes. “This is their song.” Chad said giggling. “They always get mushy when they played it.

Danny started the tape and the song Color My World by Chicago played. Chad stood there gently rubbing both caskets as the song played. When it stopped, he kissed each casket. “Bye Mommy, bye Daddy. I love you.

He raised his arms so Danny could pick him up. “Thanks everyone for being here.”

The children headed back to the vans. “Judge Romero, Ronnie has a nice lunch planned. Will you join us?”

He looked over at Chad. “Please sir? You let Daddy adopt me.”

Javier giggled. “Now how could I refuse an invitation like that? I’d be honored to have lunch with you.”

Danny and his family went back to their car and I loaded the Blazer and headed back to the home.

To be continued...

Rubber Ducky by Elmo from Sesame Street

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8IfCSnYPYo

 Color My World by Chicago

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMHemXOO-PU

Posted: 08/14/09