Julio by Miguel Sanchez

Julio
by: Miguel Sanchez

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

Jay went to the kitchen to check on dinner while I became lost in thought. The effects of his glue sniffing has taken a toll. His growth is stunted. He looks more like a 9 year old rather than a boy of twelve. Small genitals and a little pubic hair. Thank God those are the only medical problems. His lungs are showing no ill effects of huffing, I have chest X-Rays to prove that. He has a good memory. Wait a minute. His short term memory is effected. He said he forgot to bring clean underwear to the bathroom when he and Ronnie went to take a shower. I thought he was forgetting on purpose. Even Ronnie said that. The one thing the boys never did was tell me a bold face lie. They knew the punishment for that. Both the boy's long term memory seems intact, they have proven that to me. They can use the computer, they remember things about here and things about history. Ronnie can cook and Jay can sing. There is one thing I don't know, did Steven huff glue and if he did, for how long? I may want to talk to Paul about having their short term memory tested. Maybe Bill could shed some light on this. What am I saying, maybe it's going to be good to have an outside person see the boys? Well, maybe I might like having someone independent of us here to see if there is anything else wrong with them.

Suddenly, I was brought back to reality. The doorbell. Bill was here as our weekend guest.

Chapter 14

Steven opened the door and in stepped Bill. This time I didn't fall all over my tongue or tent my pants. That was until he shook my hand. The electricity that flowed into me was unbelievable. My heart raced and my lungs forgot how to work. If Bill hadn't had a hold of my hand, I would have fallen flat on my face.

Bill said. "Come on, lad. Breathe."

I stood there and said. "Huh?" I suddenly felt a hand slap me on my back and I was breathing again.

Jay was standing beside me saying. "Dad, are you OK? What happened?"

Bill led me into the family room and sat me on the love seat. He got me a glass of water and Jay had a worried look on his face. "I'm OK, son. I don't know what happened."

Bill handed me the water and asked. "When was your last check-up Doctor?"

I looked at both of them. I felt like my parents were giving me the third degree. "What? I'm fine. I should know, I am a doctor."

Jay had that look on his face that I would use on him and said. "Well, Dad. Don't evade the question."

I couldn't fight the both of them. I was about to try one last time when Ronnie and Steven came into the room. Four against one. I'm sunk. The only thing I could do was concede. "Alright, you all win. Bill, will you do the honors after dinner? Are you all happy now?"

Just then Luiz came in and rescued me for the time being. Dinner was served. Ronnie had worked most of the afternoon in the kitchen after having received a major sunburn in the morning. Luiz made fresh bread while Ronnie did the rest. A crown pork roast, baked sweet potatoes, fresh corn, gravy and beverages. Luiz was pleased for Ronnie. The boy had worked hard and we did reward him by eating almost everything. The boys cleared the dishes and Ronnie brought in dessert. Fresh homemade cherry pie. Bill was impressed. "Where did the lad learn to cook?"

Ronnie answered. "Uncle Luiz, sir. He taught me."

Bill looked at Ronnie and said. "Son, one can't learn this in just a short time. You have a natural ability to prepare fine food. You will be able to work anywhere you please when you get older. There is a good culinary arts school in town that you may want to consider attending when you get older. Johnson and Wales is a fine school."

Ronnie blushed when Bill praised him. "Thank you, sir. Uncle Luiz did teach me a lot. I just seem to know how I like things done and the rest of my family enjoys what I cook. My mother did teach me how to bake."

Steven chimed in and said. "Yeah, Dr. Bill. He made me and Jay's birthday cake and it was great."

Bill corrected Steven's grammar. "That's Jay and my birthday cake."

Steven said. "Oh, yes sir. Sorry."

I was having my coffee and Bill looked at me and said "Come along, the Doctor is in." We went into my office for this. I closed the door and Bill told me to undress and I did except for my boxers. He listened to my heart and lungs. As soon as his hand touched my back, I almost forgot how to breath.

I looked at him and said. "Well, what is it doctor?"

Bill said. "Truthfully, I think you are in love. That's all I can see and hear anyway."

I looked at him and shook my head. "This can't be happening. I've got three boys to raise."

Bill smiled and said. "And? Look Miguel, I was married before. I even have a girl. She's amazing. A cross of all three of your lads." She has Ronnie's looks, Jay's smarts and Steven's innocence."

I laughed at that. "Steven innocent?"

Bill laughed when I said that. Jay and Ronnie are a little delayed aren't they?"

I replied. "Jay is. It may be the aftermath from huffing glue before I rescued him. I want us to speak to Jay first." I called Jay into the room and closed the door. "Son, I need to ask you some questions and I really need for you to tell me the truth, OK? Bill is a doctor and is here to help me figure out if there is anything wrong you and your brothers." Jay nodded and I continued. "The time you and Ronnie forgot to bring your underwear with you to the bathroom, did you really forget or were you just saying that to keep from getting punished?"

Jay answered quickly. "I just forgot, really! Dad, you know I would never lie straight to your face. You can tell when I do."

I looked at him and saw tears begin to fill his eyes. I know he was telling me the truth when I said. "Ok, son. I believe you. You and Ronnie both huffed glue didn't you?"

Jay answered. "I did for a short time before you rescued me. I don't know about Steven and I don't think Ronnie ever did. I mean we were together alot and I never saw him do that."

I went to the door and called. "Ronnie, come here."

Ronnie came in and Jay asked him. "Ronnie, did you ever see Steven huff glue?"

Steven appeared at the door and said. "Well why don't you just ask me? The answer is no. I took a sniff of that stuff once and I couldn't stand the smell. That's why I never did it, Dad. Why is this so important?"

I started to explain. "First, all three of you strip. As they were getting undressed I started telling them about the things I had noticed about their behavior and memory since they had been here. Jays physical development was somewhat delayed. He had started puberty as far his ability to ejaculate was concerned, but he had just started growing pubic hair. He had a few strands His penis was still the size of Steven's, only an inch and a half in length flaccid. Puberty had hit Ronnie. He had not started growing hair but was able to ejaculate and he was two and a half inches in length. Steven had seen his brothers naked before but felt bad for Jay because he was almost as big as his older brother.

Bill was amazed at how little modesty the boys had but Jay slipped his hands down to his crotch to cover himself. He said. "Don't worry, lad. You'll grow in a few months." He was trying to get Jay to relax because he saw how embarrassed he was. He lifted Jay's chin up and his magic touch worked again. Jay lit up like a candle and smiled. He let Bill examine him and didn't think twice about. He quickly checked out Ronnie then Steven. When he was done, he sent to boys over to me.

I saw that Jay and Steven were both about the same height and weight despite the three year difference in age. I had Jay step on the scale first. He weighs 75 pounds, stands 50 inches tall and just turned 12 years old. Steven was next. He weighs 77 pounds, stands 49 inches tall and just turned 9. Ronnie was right on par for the height and weight of an 11 year old. He was 55 inches tall and 86 pounds. My two lobsters were still very red around their butt and groin. They weren't peeling and I couldn't see any sign of blisters. I had to watch this closely. After we were through, the boys dressed and got ready for their showers.

Bill said. "I think their all telling the truth. Ronnie and Steven are on par from what I can see. Jay could be the only one with a problem."

"Yeah, I think they are. They all said Steven never huffed and from what I can tell, they are not lying to me." I replied. "I agree with you about Jay also." We chatted as we went into the family. I fixed myself my usual after dinner Irish Cream and Bill joined me. I asked Bill about Jay. "Do you think he will need growth hormones?"

Bill took his drink and sat down. "I don't know. He has started puberty and he could just be slow in growing. You know that no two kids are alike. We could check his hormone level but I don't think that will tell anything we don't already know."

I sipped my drink and said. "Yeah, I suppose your right. If he wasn't showing signs of puberty at all, I'd say we should. Let's just see what happens over the rest of the summer."

The boys were in the shower cleaning the days sweat off and getting ready to watch television. Bill asked if there was a shower he could use and I said there was one off his room. He went and got himself cleaned up while fixed myself another drink. I was sitting somewhat lost in thought when, out of what seemed like nowhere, came two boys who jumped into my lap. "Oooph! Ungh!" I had just been castrated by a twelve and nine year old. "Why can't you just sit gently like normal kids do?"

Ronnie had brought up the rear and said. "Who said they were normal?"

I was trying to breath and reduce my level of pain at the same time as Ronnie lifted Steven off my lap. Jay hopped up on the arm as Ronnie asked. "How bad did they get you, Dad?"

I was still red in the face and probably somewhere else when I yelped in a high voice. "Direct hit." I looked at Ronnie when I said that and he closed his eyes in mock pain. I stood and realized that I was in extreme discomfort so I tried to walk it off. After a few minutes, I sat back down but without my guests in my lap.

Jay came over after a few minutes and kissed me and said. "Sorry, Dad. I always get your lap instead of your leg."

"That depends on which leg your aiming for? Next time announce yourself." I said with a grin on my face.

Suddenly I heard a familiar Brittish accent. "What happened, mate? Did one of your lads do it to you again?"

I tried to looked pissed at him but I failed. "You do have a way with the understatements, don't you?"

"Not really, but I've been bombed a few times myself." Bill replied. "Remember, I do have a little one, too?"

"I just smiled and said. "Would you like three more?"

"DAD!" All three said at once.

I was rolling then said. "Good. I finally got you three." We settled down to watch a good movie and I ended up with Steven on my lap and Ronnie and Jay with Bill.

At 11, the movie ended and I put Steven to bed. Jay woke up and he walked while Bill carried Ronnie. Jay asked if he would put him in with him I nodded as I went past. I tucked Steven in and kissed him as turned off his light. I said good night to Jay and Mark closed the door. We went back to the family room and Bill was ready to call it a night. He went to his room while I watched the news and thought about the days events. Was I really ready for this or did I want things as they were before I met Bill?

I turned off the tube and checked the house before retiring to bed. I slipped under the covers and soon drifted off to sleep.

I was suddenly awoke to the sound of the telephone ringing. I looked at the clock and it read 7 AM. Who the hell is calling me at 7 on a Saturday morning. "Hello? Yes, this is Dr. Sanchez. Dr. Davis, yes he is here. I'll have him call. Bye." I walked down to Bill's room and knocked on the door.

"Huh? Yeah, what is it?" Bill said half awake.

I called through the door. "Call your service."

Bill looked at his watch then I heard the door open. "Sorry, mate. I turned my bloody pager off. I gave them your number for emergencies but I guess I should have left the pager on."

I waved OK and went back to my bedroom. I went into the bathroom and took a well needed piss. As soon as my head hit the pillow, I was out until I felt a wiggle worm on the bed. I looked and saw Steven crawling in with me. He snuggled against my chest and I said. "Lay still and go to sleep or get out." The next thing I knew, Jay had a cup of coffee on the nightstand and the clock read 10:30. Steven was gone and I never felt him leave.

"Morning, Dad." Jay said.

I looked at him and said. "Where's Steven?" Then I felt him. He was on the other side of me still asleep. I pulled the elastic on his underwear and let it snap him in the back and said. "Hey, you gonna sleep all day?"

He jumped and said. "Ouch. Why'd you do that for?"

"I know that didn't hurt." I said looking at him.

He put his arms around my neck and hugged me tight. "Morning Daddy."

I sat up with my youngest in my arms and sipped my coffee. Soon, I had two more and all seemed right with the world. I realized that little Steven bubble butt was pushing into and onto my bladder. I set him on the floor and quickly went to relieve problem one. Now for problem two. I was hungry. I put on some clothes, as did the boys, and went into the kitchen. "Morning, Luiz."

"Brunch is being served in the dining car." Luiz joked considering we were all in the kitchen. He set a well dished plate in front of me as the boys took care of themselves.

I looked around and noticed we were one person light. "Where is Bill?"

Luiz handed me a piece of paper and said. "He left this for you."

I opened the note after I took a mouthful of food. The note read: Miguel, Sorry the phone woke you this morning. Have had an emergency and will call you later. Here is my pager number ***-**** and you have my cell number. Give me a ring around noon. Bill.

The note was weird. I'll call, you call. I knew who was on in the ER so I would call after I ate. Right now, nothing was interrupting this mission and complete it I did. I got up and called the ER and spoke to the charge nurse. Bill was in the cast room finishing up a ten year old who was in a bad automobile accident. She put me on hold.

"Miguel?" A Brittish voice said.

I answered. "What's up?"

Bill answered. "Sorry about this morning. Paul said you were still off and he is in OR with another child. I should be done here in a few hours if that's alright?"

"Not a problem. See you when you get back." I hung up the phone and finished my coffee. I had decided that I just wasn't ready for a relationship yet and pretending I was would cause more problems than it would solve. I decided to tell Bill tonight and hoped he would understand.

The next thing I knew, there were three boys staring at me. "What? You're looking at me like I'm lost in space."

Jay spoke first. "Well, you were. You were a million miles away from here. What's going on?"

I had to carefully phrase my sentences. "I know you guys want me to be happy. Right now, I'm the happiest man in the world. I have three great boys who bring sunshine into my life and tell me I'm the greatest father in the world. The last part of that sentence I wonder about at times. Boys, I just not ready to have someone else in my life right now. We are just getting our own lives in order and I don't know what will happen in the near future. Once I see how things are going, who knows? I might be ready then to add someone into my life but right now, my life is full and complete with you people here."

Jay started to speak but Luiz spoke first. "Miguel, Lord knows you deserve happiness and your father, God rest his soul, would agree. I have seen you tear yourself up between Bill and the boys. If this is your decision and your are sure it is what you want, then so do we."

The boys were around me with hugs and kisses. I smiled at Luiz. He knew me and knew me well. He was the only person I could never fool about anything and especially not now.

"Hey, Dad." Jay asked. "Lets go swimming. Ronnie, you and Steven wear your trunks."

Steven looked at Jay and said. "Who made you Daddy?"

"Ah, sorry. I just didn't want to see you guys get burnt again." Jay said very passively.

I took over. "OK, boys. Jay didn't mean anything. You need to remember, he is the big brother. He may not be tall but he is the oldest, so you cut him a little slack."

Steven ran over and hugged Jay. Jay picked him up as he said. "I didn't mean anything. Hey, put me down." He was being carried into his bedroom by Jay. "Put me down!" Steven hollered.

I was rolling. Ronnie and Luiz had to sit down because they were laughing so hard. I regained my composure and thought, nothing's changed and I don't ever want it to.

Luiz went into ice box and pulled out a pitcher of tea and started making a fresh batch as we went to get ready for an afternoon out by the pool. Ronnie turned on the stereo and we had our music by the pool and soon, three boys were having fun in the water.

Jay yelled saying. "Hey Dad, come on in."

I hadn't been in yet so I decided to give it a try. I jumped in and did a perfect cannonball. The boys loved that and then it was a free for all with every person being on their own. Just as I stood up, I looked and saw three bodies heading towards me and I knew I was in deep kimchee. Argh. Jay and Ronnie landed on me and Steven got me in the legs and down I went. I picked Steven up and tossed him then grabbed the other two.

What fun. The rest of the afternoon was a blast. I felt someone put their hand on my back. Pain. Shit. I was cooked. I got out of the pool and went inside to get the spray. I let Ronnie do the honors as payback for his butt. It hurt for a few seconds then finally it went away. How could I be so stupid. We were having a good time for two and a half hours that seemed like only a few minutes.

I was having some iced tea when the phone rang. I answered it and it was Bill. He was on his way back to pick up his things. He had to get to England quickly. Something happened and he didn't have time to go into details. I was making inquiries while he got his things together. There was a 7 PM flight to New York landing at 7:50 and then an 8:20 PM flight to London's Heathrow Airport.

Bill said looking at me. "That's not the problem. I don't have the funds."

I looked at him and said. "That's not a problem either. It's all set. Pick up your tickets at the airport and take care of things in England. You can pay me back when you can. Just take care what you have to and see your girl. Now go and don't miss your flight."

Bill looked sad and said. "I'll call you when I get in. I should be there around 10 in the morning your time."

I smiled and said. "I'll talk to you, now go and don't be late." Bill left and I had mixed feelings. I hope it was nothing serious. Luiz had fixed a light dinner. We had chicken breast salad with vegetables and fresh bread.

I was exhausted. The boys had worn me out in the pool but I did enjoy myself. This was the most fun I had since getting the boys. We felt like a complete family and even Luiz was smiling and having fun from the sidelines.

Luiz said. "You acted just like you did with your papa, Miguel. For a while there, I thought I was watching you and him from a long time ago."

I smiled and said. "Yes, it was like that. It seemed he was here when I was playing with the boys. It's as if he has given me his blessing for adopting them. Maybe that's why I was able to really enjoy playing with them."

Luiz smiled and handed me my Bailey's. He's never needed to say anything, his facial expressions say it all. That was another thing that reminded me of my papa. It's not what he said or would say, it was what he conveyed with his smile.

I took my drink inside and went to take a shower. I just got settled when I felt two hands on my waist. I turned around and it was Jay smiling at me. "What's on your mind, sport?"

Jay reached up and I leaned down. He kissed me and said. "I never knew we could have so much fun, Dad. I mean, we didn't do anything special yet this whole day was special."

I looked at him and smiled. "We were a family today, my son. We did what other families do and that was spend time together enjoying the day. I had a blast, didn't you?"

Jay smiled and said. "That's what I came in here to tell you. Steven and Ronnie are in the other shower talking about how much fun they had."

I interrupted. "You felt left out, didn't you? You could have gotten in with them and all three talked about it. You sell yourself short."

Suddenly I heard a voice. "Dad, is Jay here?" The shower door opened and in came Ronnie followed by Steven. It's a good thing my shower is big enough for three adults. All of a sudden things got very close. But what the hell, it was just another part of a perfect day. Ronnie asked me something that took me completely be surprise. "Dad, where are we going to school?"

I thought about that while I was rinsing the soap off my body. "Good question, son. You have any ideas?"

They all looked at each other and they began to smile. Ronnie said. "How about a private school?"

I looked at them and replied. "If you are sure that is what you guys want, then that's fine. I want you to keep your private lives private so you don't get grief from you friends. I think you know what I mean. What kind of private school do you want?"

Jay looked up at me and asked. "How about catholic school? I hear they have some good ones here."

I just smiled and said. "That they do, my son. Are you sure?" You need to be careful with what you say and do around other children.

The boys looked at each other and just nodded in agreement. As I was starting to put on my robe, I was suddenly mobbed. All three of the boys started to try to thank me all at the same time. As I fell backward onto my ass, I had Jay on my chest and the other two on an arm each trying to kiss me at the same time.

Just as I started to stand up, Jay curled up like a baby. I looked down and he was quietly crying. "What's wrong son?"

Jay looked up at me and spoke. "I wonder if my momma's alright? I just miss her."

"I know you do and it's alright to miss her, sport." I replied as I stood up. I held him and went into my room. As I sat down, Jay was already asleep. I'm glad Jay isn't heavy, I thought. Ronnie was right behind me and he helped me get into my robe. After I was presentable, we all went into the family room and watched tv for the evening. Jay stayed on my lap and acted like he was six instead of twelve. Suddenly I felt something wet on my cheek. Jay leaned up and kissed me then smiled. "Are you OK?"

Jay smiled and said. "I'm fine now, Dad. I just want to lay here with you."

I looked some what surprised at the statement. "You didn't need to ask me that." As I looked down at him, I noticed he was out again and I was a bit concerned. I wondered if the other two would have flash backs of their experiences in Brazil? I would talk to each of them alone and find out so I would be prepared if something like this ever came up again.

At 11, Ronnie and Steven called it a night. I thought it would be best if Jay stayed with me so I put him in my bed and turned off the light. As I went back out to the family room, I saw Steven trying to sneek into Ronnie's room. "Ah hem." Steven looked at me and smiled as he went in to Ronnie's room. I knew what was going on but what the hell. They knew their limits and wouldn't cross that line. "Steven, tell your brother I would like to talk to him please."

When I was in the family room watching the news, Ronnie came in and curled up on my lap. "How long has Jay been acting like this?"

"I promised I wouldn't say anything, Dad." Ronnie said not looking at me. He continued by saying "since he brought it up to you I guess I'm not breaking my promise. He's been kinda moping for the last week. I almost said something to you though."

I looked at him and while rubbing his head I said "son, telling me that something is wrong with one of your brothers isn't always breaking a promise. Suppose he was sick, would you keep quiet about that?"

"Gosh no Dad" Ronnie said sitting up. "If he was sick I'd tell you right away so you could help him."

I finished my thought saying "Jay worrying about his mother to the point that he acts like a zombie is not like him also. In a sense, he is sick. Although it isn't something I can feel with my hands, he still need some help."

"I thought he would kinda snap out of it in his own, Dad. I guess I made a bad promise, huh?"

He caught me off guard with that. "Not really, sport. You did what you thought was right at the time. If he came around in a day or two them your promise would have been OK but he went on and on for over a week, that was too long. Do you see the difference? I expect you boys to honor requests for keeping things to yourselves, but when it affects someone's health, I think you need to let me know in the future, agreed?"

"Agreed. I'm sorry Dad. I really thought he would come around. Could you call one of your friends in Recife to see if his mother is alright?" Ronnie asked almost in tears.

I put my arms around him and said "I call one of my partners in the morning and see what they can find out. I want you to be prepared that it may take a few days before we know anything for certain. Fair enough?"

Ronnie looked up and me and smiled. "Fair enough, Dad."

Ronnie climbed down and went to bed while I finished watching the news. Once the program was over, I turned off the television and checked the house to be sure everything was secure for the night. As I walked down the hall, I stopped by Ronnie's door and listened but I didn't hear anything so I figured they just decided to go and sleep without any of their usual foreplay.

Suddenly I heard Ronnie scream from my room. "Dad, get in here quick. I can't wake Jay up."

I walked in and felt Jay. He was wet with sweat and he felt like he was on fire. I went to my office and got my bag. I took out a thermometer and stuck it in the only place I could. I heard the familiar beep, beep, beep of the digital thermometer. It read 103. I dialed 911 and explained what was happening. They sent an ambulance to the house right away. I looked and saw Ronnie and then Steven at the door in tears.

"Daddy, what's wrong with Jay?" Steven asked.

I kept trying to wake Jay. The ambulance arrived and I had them start an IV and while they were doing that I called Paul. As I was talking to him, I heard a familiar sound.

"Get the fuck off me!" Jay said.

"Lay still, Jay! If he fights you strap him on the stretcher." I went to where Jay could see me and he relaxed. I heard Jay moan as one of the medics touched his stomach. I reached beside him and pushed. Jay winced and closed his eyes. I told the paramedic to draw blood for a CBC (complete blood count).

"I'm sorry sir, I only take orders from doctors." The paramedic said.

Paul heard what the person said and was pissed. I handed the phone to the paramedic and said "Dr. Combs would like to have a word with you."

Paul must have ripped him good because the face of the paramedic went pale. "I'm sorry Dr. Sanchez, we've never met."

I replied very matter of factly "I suggest you ask before you assume anything in the future, do you read me?"

The paramedic hung his head and said "yes, sir."

"Get him ready for transport. Give him nothing for pain. I have an idea what the problem is and Dr. Combs will meet us at Children's." I was giving orders left and right.

I held the boys as Jay was being prepared to go out to the ambulance. "Hey, guys. Jay's in good hands. I won't let anything happen to him. Ronnie, you should be a pro at this. Remember when this happened to Steven? I'm gonna need you to take care of him, can you do this?"

Ronnie looked up at me as he put his arms around his younger brother. He nodded his head and then I saw Luiz standing behind the two.

As Jay was wheeled past the boys, each of them gave him a kiss and waved bye as he headed to the front door. I kissed my boys and told them I loved them. I also said I would let them know as soon as I knew anything. I wasn't really prepared to have another replay like I had with Steven but it looked like it was going to happen anyway.

Jay was loaded into the ambulance and I sat beside the paramedic for the trip to Children's Hospital. The paramedic was talking to the hospital on the radio and I heard him ask permission to give him something for pain. His request was denied but I was mad because he was told not to give him anything. "Do you have a hearing problem?"

"What do you mean Doctor?" he asked.

"You were told he was to have nothing for pain and you went against my orders and asked the hospital for orders."

"The child is in pain. He needs something to make him comfortable." The paramedic said.

"At the cost of masking symptoms? I'm a pediatric surgeon. I don't like seeing kids in pain either but sometimes it is necessary. The vile of blood you have will tell us what we need. If you are going to make this a career, you have to learn when and when not to give medication."

"Well then doctor, what do you think it is?" The paramedic asked.

To be continued...

Posted: 06/06/08