A Family For Christmas
Chapter 08
Harry Miner: Christmas Eve Blues
Micah's Precious Christmas Gift Pt.2
WARNING: this story contains sexual content, and contact between young boys. If the subject matter offends you, is not to your tastes, or if you are under legal age for your area, then find something else to read. In the following story all names and events are completely fictional. Although I may mention specific locations, places, or persons any resemblance to said people, locations, or places is completely unintentional.
Feel free to email me at ([email protected]). I respond to all of my readers.
This work is copyrighted © by Hunter Woods. No part of this story may be transmitted or reproduced in whole or in part in any form including mechanical, electronic, photocopying, and recording or by any information storage and retrieval system without the express written consent of the author. For those of you who just blow this off and decide to steal anyway keep these thoughts below in mind:
“Intentionally using the quotes of others without author attribution is plagiarism and contributes to illiteracy.”
- Rain Bojangles
“Most plagiarists, like the drone, have neither taste to select, industry to acquire, nor skill to improve, but impudently pilfer the honey ready prepared, from the hive.”
- Walter Colton
“Borrowed thoughts, like borrowed money, only show the poverty of the borrower.”
- Lady Marguerite Blessington, Countess of Blessington
************************************************************
EXCERPT FROM MICAH: BROTHERS, ONE & ALL
At Chase’s suggestion we all decided to have mom help us make Apple Butter Pumpkin Pie for Allen’s foster parents since they had worked so hard on our Halloween costumes, which had been a total success. Finishing up at the sink I stepped back and watched my brothers, which in my mind included Allen, messing about with one another. It was fascinating to watch how the twelve year old boy carried on with my other brothers since he was completely naked and seemingly no longer so concerned or shy about it. Both Tim and Allen had ganged up on my older brother and it was funny watching how their little bits and danglies flapped around as they wrestled around with Chase. If I could stop time I would do it right now completely happy with how things have turned out so far in my life. It was such a wonderful feeling to have as I stepped forward still deciding whose side I would take in this friendly wrestling match. After all they were my brothers, one and all.
**************************************************************
HARRY MINER: CHRISTMAS EVE BLUES
Harry leaned back in his chair and ran his hand through his hair with a stern look on his face. He had just gotten off the phone with Maddie a few minutes ago who he’s known for years and then made another quick call before sitting back and shaking his head as he pondered the first phone call. Maddie used to be one of his neighbors when they lived in the city and her son even baby-sat for them watching over Chase and Tim when he went out with his wife every once in a while. Then when the situation came up with Micah, she had been instrumental in getting all of that sorted out along with Judge Bennett who fortune had it was good friends with Maddie. Between the two of them they made things happen with Micah and things were really going well.
Christmas was fast approaching now and he was spending a lot of time over at the store where he used to work in Altoona before becoming regional manager. He always worked the holiday season for his good friend who had taken over the manager’s position he used to occupy before he was promoted to corporate. It worked out well because it allowed his friend to have a vacation with his family leading up to Christmas while he got to take time off starting on Christmas day and through New Year’s. A win-win situation that’s been working for the last several years.
This facility and the people working here were like family to me and many of the employees have been at the big department store for years. We had an excellent benefits package and those who worked for us made a good living including the ones who weren’t full time earning a secondary income for their families. This was a hectic season for me and I had taken a little time first thing this morning to give Maddie a call because some things have come up which were very worrisome.
My wife and I were truly blessed and it looked like things were moving along with the adoption process for Micah. He was such a blessing and a perfect addition to our family. My wife and I always wanted a big family, but it just wasn’t to be. After her pregnancy with Tim there had been some complications and now it was too dangerous for her to conceive. We were a little crushed, but also very happy with the children who had come into this life making us a family. At times we had talked about adopting and had even come close one time having filled out the paperwork and everything, but the timing simply hadn’t been right for whatever reason. In the end though it worked out because all the paperwork and having our family and finances scrutinized paved the way for when Micah came into our lives that fateful day last year at Christmas time.
With him as a part of our family now we felt whole. Everyone including the boys seemed to sense it, and we were happier for it. Of course even before Micah joined our lives we were a very happy family and it had felt right as well, but something just seemed to click into place when the smaller boy had wormed his way into our hearts. It’s amazing how sometimes our lives can be chugging along perfectly fine until one day we are shown that indeed it had been a perfectly fine life, but now it is even better. This is what happened with Micah and we were all the better for it.
Talking with Maddie on the phone just now had been a mix of emotions. It looked as if we were right on schedule with the adoption proceedings. It had been a little more involved because of his mother. She was here illegally having come from one of the Eastern European Countries. From what Maddie had found out she had been brought over as part of a sex ring. Most of these women don’t have anyone else in their lives that would miss them and this was true of Micah’s mom. Somehow though, she had managed to escape once she arrived and made a life for herself. How much she had been involved in regards to the whole sex slave trade was unclear. It wasn’t known if she had been hustled out or if she had escaped before then, but at some point she had gotten pregnant. It was also unknown if it was due to being perhaps forced or if it had been after she had escaped. At any rate no one knew who the father was because there was no mention of one in the medical records.
In order to allow for the adoption process to precede, all avenues had to be pursued in finding any living relatives. In the conversation I just had with Maddie all indications pointed that there weren’t any that could be found. The mother had no one over here in the U.S., and they couldn’t find anything over from where she had come from with Maddie seeming to think she may have come from one of those awful orphanages they have in Eastern Europe. Some of the Eastern European countries were extremely poor and record keeping was not a strong suit over in some of those places.
In some ways it was sad, but in other ways it paved the way for adoption without any major legal issues. If things continued to work out this would indeed be a happy Christmas for our family. There was only one thing that could bring it all crumbling down around our ears. All three of my boys have fallen under the spell of Allen’s sweet nature. The boy had managed to worm his way into our lives just like Micah, and we were very pleased to see how well they got along together. Now though, it looked as if there were some rough waters ahead because the other day the Jeffersons had come over to chat for a bit while the boys were out on whatever adventure had captured their latest attention. It made me happy to see how our boys spent more time outside than moping around in their rooms closeting themselves off from the world and others.
The visit with the Jeffersons had been anything but comforting. They wanted to become Allen’s permanent foster parents, but for some reason the Judge was making life difficult for them and they simply didn’t know what to make of it. Even the social worker at Family Services who was handling Allen’s case was baffled indicating it shouldn’t be an issue. They hadn’t sat down and talked with the sandy haired pre-teen yet and they were at their wits end. They had just received paperwork from the courts that their foster parent licensing might be revoked and that for the time being Allen was going to be relocated come Christmas day. It had totally shocked them because who in their right mind would do something so horrific on of all days, Christmas.
The news had even shocked me and my wife as we realized it would completely devastate Allen. There were also our boys to consider because it would hit them hard too and they wouldn’t understand. Hell, for that matter even I and my wife couldn’t understand the situation. As it was the Jeffersons were totally crushed and didn’t know what to do. Christmas was less than a week away and they were torn between letting Allen know now and waiting for a day or two to see if they could get things sorted out. After all there was no indication as to the reason why their licensing might be revoked and they haven’t done anything illegal. The lady from family services also indicated that to her knowledge they have done nothing wrong and have met all the state’s requirements in making a home for the younger boy. She definitely was in their corner and had even given the couple a glowing review, but when it came to the courts and judges they were the ones that had the ultimate power. All she could do was to go to her supervisor to see if she could do anything for them.
When the Jeffersons told us this we immediately knew who the supervisor was and asked if they would be alright with us contacting Maddie directly. The relief on their faces told us all we needed to know. With tears streaming down Mrs. Jeffersons face she had pleaded with us to find help, any help for them so they could protect Allen. She was beside herself saying the boy was precious and this would destroy him forever. I thought she was being a bit dramatic because indeed this would be horrible and hurt the sandy haired boy to the core, but it’s been my experience kids could be very resilient. The look on her face though was all I needed to know there was more to this whole matter.
It was obvious they wanted to tell us more hinting how there were special circumstances involving Allen, but it would be inappropriate to divulge anything private. It seemed to confirm my nagging suspicion I’ve been having for a while now that there was something more going on with the other boy. I didn’t get the sense it was something bad per se, just that there was something the boy was keeping secret. It really hadn’t bothered me any because considering the circumstance it wasn’t a stretch the boy would keep some things private. It didn’t bother me or my wife since Allen was such a sweet boy and obviously adored our boys and vice versa. They all got along just fine and I’m sure amongst themselves they all knew things about one another us adults didn’t. After all that is how it was among friends.
After getting off the phone with Maddie I began to realize there were other issues involved as well. Some that not even Allen was aware of as I sat at my desk for several long moments now mulling over the conversation I had with Maddie. It left me in a bit of a bind because there were several concerns at play I had to consider now as well. My head was beginning to spin because there were so many things going on at the moment, too much which began to weigh heavily on me if I tried to look at them all at once. Closing my eyes I took a deep breath knowing I had to sort it out and take things one at a time or else the task would be too daunting.
The first issue was our upcoming vacation. We had promised the boys we were going to go somewhere and make it special right after Christmas. The whole vacation idea tied in with several other things. First of all was the issue of Chase and his girlfriend. The last couple of months the two of them had become official like and very close. I wasn’t an idiot and knew they were having sex together so had discussed it in detail with my eldest son. The girl’s parents weren’t stupid either and they weren’t too keen on the idea of their daughter dating our son. Not because they had anything against him in general, but let’s face it at fifteen years old these teenagers were still young to be intimately involved.
It seemed prudent to reach out to Suzie’s parents and get to know them better. It would be a mistake to try separating the two of them so we hoped by reaching out it would help. If we let her parents know we felt similarly about the intimate situation it might set things at ease a bit and as parents we could try to co-ordinate our efforts. As we pointed out, and they ended up agreeing with us, there was no way as parents we could prevent keeping our teenaged kids apart from one another since there were too many variables involved. After all they went to the same school and barring our families packing up and moving it simply wasn’t feasible. Besides, it was obvious they cared about one another. All we could do was assure Suzie’s parents that Chase was decent, kind, and a very responsible boy. We also wanted them to know that we indeed had talked to him concerning the situation about his relationship with their daughter.
The chat went a lot better than I expected and I found out they were really fond of Chase as they noted how well he treated their daughter and the rest of the family. It made me proud to know that our son displayed such behavior and it seemed to set all of us at ease. After talking with them for a while I told them about our plans for a vacation trip explaining how I had rented a two unit property up at Blue Knob Ski Resort starting after Christmas and up through New Year’s. Each unit was completely furnished with a kitchen, living room, and three bedrooms. Sort of like a small house or apartment, but completely furnished with a stove, refrigerator, washer and dryer, everything just like a regular house. At first I was just going to rent the one unit because it was a three bedroom and plenty big enough for us and the boys, but then we decided to invite Allen, the boys’ best friend, and his parents along.
It would still have been plenty big with just the one unit, but the people who owned the two unit rental property had offered us a fantastic deal if we rented both. They told us we could rent the second unit at half price and since they both worked at the resort they’d also be able to throw in a package deal consisting of a week long ski pass for everyone, ski lessons, ski rental equipment, snowmobiling, snow shoeing, cross country, and some other activities while we were at the resort. We would also have complete access to the pool and spa for our entire group. Once I began doing the calculations it had made total sense to go ahead and rent out the entire rental property because when all was said and done, by the time we tacked on all the other expenses it would cost us more.
In the end it worked out great financially not to mention we wouldn’t have to be concerned about who stayed in the other unit. The last thing we wanted was a group of young college kids boozing it up and partying the entire week around our kids. For the rental property owners it worked out for them as well because they knew it was being rented out to a family and not a group who would end up trashing the place.
Now that we had both units, I wondered if Suzie’s parents would like to join us. There would be plenty of room for them and their daughter. At first they were a bit leery about actually joining because of the situation between their daughter and our son, but then they realized they would be in a totally different unit so it wouldn’t be like their daughter and our son would be sleeping in the same house. There would be enough separation where at the end of the day we all had our own separate places. They did point out they had another daughter and of course we told them it wouldn’t be any issues. Both units had three bedrooms so more than enough space for everyone.
We talked about it some more and they agreed to go saying it’s actually been a long time since they’ve gone on a real vacation with their kids. Suzie’s parents had plenty of vacation time racked up so it wouldn’t be an issue getting the time off from work. They did insist on paying their fair share, but I explained to them about Allen’s folks not having a lot of money and how I had told them it would be a shame to waste the empty spaces in the house letting them know not to pay anything. It would make for an awkward moment now if I got paid by one and not the other. In the end Suzie’s parents relented, but said if that were the case then they would bring all the groceries and for us not to worry about anything in that regard. It would save everyone a ton of money if we did our own meals for the most part instead of spending money going out to eat every day. I agreed and it was settled.
Now after talking with Maddie regarding Allen’s situation I was in a bit of a bind. If we couldn’t work this situation out with the sandy haired boy and he was actually taken away from the Jefferson’s on Christmas day of all days, it would be a scene from the worst nightmare. I wasn’t sure if heading off for vacation would be such a good idea because the boys would be devastated. I needed to make a decision if I should cancel. I’d lose my deposit, but that wasn’t too much of a concern for me. Coming to a decision I decided it didn’t much matter and I would simply keep the reservation. It wouldn’t be a fun trip if Allen was taken away, but getting away might help the kids cope. My wife and I would deal with that situation when we came to it.
Since that decision was settled I pondered over another situation. Things about Allen had been nagging me and at first I thought it had to do with something he was keeping private, but after talking with Maddie there had been another revelation which now made total sense. There was a good reason for the constant niggling sensation just at the edges of my mind when I thought about Allen at times and I simply hadn’t put two and two together until after my chat with Maddie.
There were other things going on as well, but he was a good kid and it didn’t worry me if the boy kept some things private. We all did in one way or another, and whatever it was didn’t bother me because deep down it wasn’t something that would hurt my kids. That much I was certain of, and as I thought on it I was fairly certain Allen and my boys didn’t have much of any secrets between them anymore. It was amazing to see just how close those boys had become to one another.
A soft knock on the door reminded me of my second phone call, the one to the automotive department after I got done talking with Maddie. It was too early to be dealing with so many issues and the day was probably just about to get longer. In a way though this had to do with some of the concerns at hand so I braced myself not knowing how this next conversation was going to go.
“Yes, come in.” I raised my voice gently putting on a calm face watching one of the store’s long time employees from the automotive department stepping inside the office.
My door opened and a gentleman in his mid-sixties stepped inside. “Mr. Miner you wanted to see me?” The man asked smiling as I nodded my head since we’ve known one another for a long time.
“Yes-yes, please take a seat and it’s just Harry for pete’s sake. I mean, how long have we known each other now. After all you showed me the ropes in the automotive department when I was a pimply faced teenager for all practical purposes.” I chuckled motioning for him to take a seat reminding us all that I had worked my way up in the company by putting myself through school at the same time. “Besides, this isn’t about the store or work.” I added taking a seat as well seeing him furl his eyes.
“Oh, so what’s on your mind then?” He asked while I sighed and sat back in my chair. “You look a bit out of sorts.” He pointed out as I nodded my head.
“Yes, it’s a stressful time right now, and I don’t mean work.” I replied seeing him studying me intently.
“Things alright at home…with Maria and the boys? It’s been a while since I’ve seen them. I bet the kids have gotten big.”
“Yes, everyone is doing just fine; especially, the boys. You of course know all about Micah from last Christmas.” I saw him nodding his head with most of the employees having heard about it since the boy was found right outside the store. “He’s been such a blessing. It’s nice to have all those kids running around the house. We’ve always wanted lots of kids and it’s a joy to watch them grow and how Maria enjoys having them. We’ve got three boys now and they’ve made good friends with another boy across the street so for all practical purposes there’s four running around at any one time. Believe me it keeps Maria on her toes, but she loves it.” I chuckled seeing the man smiling back nodding his head.
“Yes, kids can be such a blessing.” He sighed smiling sadly at me while I nodded.
“You and your wife must miss your daughter.” I added seeing him flinch and start to put up some defensive walls as he gave me a sharp critical stare.
Holding up my hands in a gesture of apology I shook my head. “Sorry, I know you don’t talk much about that, but I’m in a bit of a pickle about something.” I admitted seeing him furling his eyes as things got a little quiet for a few seconds.
I studied the man for a few moments knowing this was a sensitive topic, but I had to go there if I was going to get to the bottom of some things. “Listen Al, we’ve known each other for years and I consider you and your wife more like friends or even like our aunt and uncle. When we were younger you invited us over to your home a few times and we enjoyed those times.” I pointed out watching while he looked down and nodded his head. “I know this is a sticky topic for you, but I’ve got my reason for asking. I hope being friends for as long as we’ve been, you will trust me.” I added while he looked up at me a little confused.
Leaning forward I tried to keep my voice and demeanor neutral and on the softer side. “I’ve gotta ask Al, and this isn’t about work, but what exactly happened between you and your daughter? I know it was a long time ago and it had been a rough patch for you and your wife. I never asked before because I saw how much it had hurt you and your wife and it was also something personal.” I held my breath because this was in many ways inappropriate for me to do here at work, or for that matter even outside of it since our relationship had more to do with the store than anything else despite being friends.
His demeanor got really defensive and he sat up straighter as he stared at me for several long moments not saying anything. It was awkward, and I began to realize this probably was a bit of a mistake. I was getting ready to speak up and tell him to forget the whole thing, but to my surprise he suddenly appeared willing to talk about it some.
“Yes, you’re right it was especially hard on my wife Josephine.” He responded quietly shaking his head. “It’s hard to talk about Harry and you have children of your own so know what I mean. Somewhere along the line my wife and I must have done something horribly wrong. Our daughter got mixed up with the wrong crowd and it got very ugly at home. She started using drugs and stealing from us. Then we found out she was also dealing and it broke our hearts. It finally got too ugly one day when her boyfriend had broken in ransacking our house so we had to finally kick her out.” He told me sadly. “It was the last time we heard from our daughter.”
“I’m sorry.” I told him softly pretty sure there was a lot more to the story, but sometimes life becomes ugly and things happen that can’t be undone.
“Why are you bringing all of this up now, after all these years?” He asked while I bit my lower lip deciding maybe a direct approach was best.
"It’s just I understand recently family services contacted you concerning her son.” I finally managed to bring out to him seeing the man sit up straight in his chair.
“How…how’d you know that?” He got defensive.
“It’s…,” I began not having thought things through and really not sure how to proceed.
When I talked to Maddie the other day and told her the situation she told me to call back today and I had with her telling me everything she had found out. At first it had baffled me how I hadn’t figured it out earlier, but then again it was only the last name that seemed to have been nagging me all this time. I hadn’t put it together until she told me Allen had grandparents on his mom’s side and when she told me their names it had suddenly clicked into place what was bothering me this whole time. Allen’s last name was Beaumont, the same as his mom and since she had never married he still had the same last name as his mom’s parents.
Over the phone Maddie had mentioned there were things she couldn’t tell me, but she was willing to share some general things explaining how Allen’s mom and her parents had a big falling out and she ended up getting kicked out of the house. She was eighteen, young, and stupid, but it had been a dangerous situation for her parents and in some ways they had no choice. Shortly after getting kicked out Allen’s mom got pregnant with him. She must have understood what this meant and had fought tooth and nail to clean herself up and get out of the world she had been in, opting for a more normal life. She was a single mom, but she made a decent life for her and her son.
Of course all of that changed when she got sick and passed away leaving Allen all alone in the world. Family Services took custody of the boy and began the job of finding a suitable home for him. During their normal research process they found out Allen actually had grandparents so had approached them wondering if they’d be willing to raise him. For whatever reasons, which Maddie didn’t tell me, they refused.
In the meantime Allen was placed with the Jefferson’s and nothing’s been mentioned to him about his grandparents since it would only make matters worse. Now though, there were legal issues going on, which Maddie wouldn’t get into, but seemed a bit upset about. She hinted that it wasn’t looking good, but she was working on things, but if Allen’s grandparents didn’t want him it looked kind of bleak then for the boy.
It’s what had brought me here to this point as I tried on my end to figure out why such good people as Al and Josephine wouldn’t want such a sweet kid. Furling my eyebrows this was definitely a delicate situation. I could see the anger inside of Al already beginning to rise up because it sounded like private information was being circulated by Family Services. Holding up my hand I shook my head apologetically.
“Listen Al, I’m really sorry it’s just, remember how I was saying my boys have become really good friends with a kid from across the street, well it just happens to be your grandson. I was only concerned is all because he seems to be in a bit of trouble…,” I began when Al suddenly stood up his face completely red shaking his head.
“I knew it as soon as the social workers told me about the boy. I knew he’d be nothing but trouble just like his mother and when they told me he was gay there was no way I’d put my wife through a mess this would create. My daughter’s irresponsibility has a way of destroying people’s lives including ours and I wasn’t about to go through that again; especially, not with a kid who is gay.” He told me forcefully his body shaking as he paused to catch his breath.
“If you love your boys you will see to your own affairs and protect them. I don’t know how you got mixed up in all of this, but I surely am not going to stand around and listen to any more. So if you’ll excuse me.” He stated heatedly before turning and abruptly leaving, slamming the door behind him while I sat there in stunned disbelief.
Sitting there I felt sick to my stomach because I had screwed things up royally now and hadn’t handled it well at all. I hadn’t known Allen was gay, but thinking on it now I realized it didn’t surprise me in the least. It didn’t bother me if he was, but it did remind me of how close he had become to Tim as of late. I wasn’t sure if it was just simple friendship or something more as I frowned. I’ve always known Tim might be gay too, but it now sank in to the real possibility. To my surprise I wasn’t even bothered by it, or even the idea that maybe Allen and my son might be more than simple friends.
This was a lot to digest and glancing at my watch I winced because I needed to get to work here in a couple of minutes. I was feeling awful though at how things went with Al and needed to talk to my wife so picked up the phone and dialed her number. The store had a great staff and I knew they could handle themselves for a bit even with the crunch of Christmas looming over our heads.
The rest of the day I was a bit out of sorts, but managed to muddle my way through. I had told Maria what happened and like me she wasn’t concerned at all about Allen being gay. I asked her to call up Maddie to let her know how I had screwed up royally and during a five minute break I had called back with my wife informing me Maddie wasn’t upset saying sometimes things just do not go well in regards to these situations.
It was late by the time I got home, which wasn’t unusual for this time of year. I always missed the boys during the holidays and tonight I was feeling the weight on my shoulders. I needed them close to me so quietly as not to wake anyone I crept into Chase’s room first walking over to his bed and smiled. It was warm in the house since I had just lowered the temperature and as always his blanket was tossed off to the side.
As I gazed down at him I had to admire the handsome young teenager he had become. No wonder girls flirted with him all the time. Smiling, I covered up his half naked body chuckling to myself because he had his hand shoved down the front of his underwear with his fingers wrapped around his thick erection. It never ceased to amaze me just how thick he was down there as I let the blanket settle over him before kissing his cheek.
Walking through the bathroom I entered the two youngest boys’ room tucking them in as well. Sometimes I’d find them curled up together in the same bed and I thought it was kind of sweet. Now though I began to wonder if maybe other things were going on between the two boys, but then shrugged the thought away. I’m sure they’ve sort of messed around together, but sometimes boys did those types of things. I could see how much the two of them loved one another, but it was more like the way Tim and Chase cared about each other.
At the moment I was more concerned about the relationship my middle boy had with Allen. My worry wasn’t so much about the whole gay thing, but more in regards to how his relationship with the twelve year old boy from across the street was going to affect him if they were forced to be separated. It worried me how Allen leaving would affect all three of my boys, not to mention me and my wife. Anymore he was one of our own and it would break our hearts if he was forced to leave.
Kissing my boys on the cheek I left their room and slipped into my own bed. Maria sensed my presence and woke up snuggling closer. Even though it was late we ended up talking trying to sort out through some of our worries because we needed to start preparing for the inevitable.
The following day at work it didn’t surprise me any that Al had called in sick for the day. He rarely ever missed a day at work and even the people in his department felt somber about it and worried passing around a get well card. It was late morning and it had finally made it to my desk as I sat there reading it over wondering if I should sign it. It was busy in the store, but there was still paperwork and other office work needing some attention so during break times I tended to come up here sorting through it so nothing would be left for after the holidays. Sighing, I penned my name wishing Al well. Sliding it back in the envelope I set it aside getting ready to knuckle down again as I opened up some folders looking through some numbers when there was a light tapping on my door.
It kind of surprised me because I was alone up here in the office area with everyone having gone for their lunch break. “Yes…come in.” I stated finishing up reading the last of the numbers and adding them to the computations before looking up.
“Oh…oh sorry, please come in.” I repeated standing up and motioning Josephine Beaumont to the chair by my desk. “I…I wasn’t expecting you. Um…how is Al?” I asked reaching for the card and adding, “Uh…everyone signed a get well card for him.” I explained handing it over as she took it graciously from me.
“Oh…thank you so much for this.” She replied softly.
“So…um…what brings you down here?” I asked a bit nervously because this was kind of strange and thinking maybe her husband might have quit or something sending her over instead of coming himself.
She smiled sweetly at me and then sighed. “The boy, Al tells me he is in some sort of trouble. Tell me.” She stated matter-of-facty catching me off guard for a second while she looked at me sternly.
Taking a seat myself I wasn’t sure what she was thinking, but figured I might as well tell her about Allen’s situation. I told her how my boys and Allen became friends and about his foster parents explaining they were very nice people. I finally told her about the strange situation with the court order and how the Judge ordered him to be removed on Christmas day to one of those foster care facilities which houses several kids in a sort of dorm type of situation. Not once did she interrupt me, but I saw the pinched look on her features, not pleased with some of the information I provided her.
At one point the secretary had stuck her head inside, but she was a very astute woman and simply nodded her head indicating she would keep anyone from interrupting us. Several minutes later, I sat there quietly having conveyed everything I knew at the moment about her grandson’s situation while she watched me intently for a moment or two before speaking up.
“So, your boys, they are friends with Allen?” She asked while I nodded.
“Very much so, the closest. Allen sort of falls in-between age wise to all of them so it’s amazing how he’s fit in with them all. Chase is a couple of years older so like an older brother with Allen while Tim is the closest in age so they are like very tight friends, and Micah, well, Micah is Micah and with him he just loves everyone and they love him.” I chuckled seeing Mrs. Beaumont smiling slightly nodding her head since she knew my boys except for Micah.
“And the boy, you don’t mind he’s gay…or you didn’t know?” She asked while I looked at her furling my eyebrows trying to read her, but shaking my head.
“No, I didn’t know, not until your husband mentioned it. Allen never said anything and I didn’t have any reason to suspect.” I replied.
“And now…,” she paused leaning forward. “Now that you know it doesn’t bother you or your wife? Are you afraid for your boys?” She asked pointedly.
I was taken aback by her comment, but I pursed my lips and shook my head. “Why should it? He’s still the same Allen as before. No, my wife and I don’t care if he’s friends with our kids. That’d be like asking if it bothers me that a girl is a friend with my boys. Just because he’s gay doesn’t make him any different from before.” I told her a bit gruffly seeing her smirk and lean back.
“So, the boy, what’s he like?” She asked once more making my head spin.
It was as if she was manipulating me around like a marionette doll and she was a pro at it. I felt myself being tugged one way or another as I now took a moment to pause and leaned forward smirking at her. Shaking my head I began to chuckle seeing her loosening up as well. Now that I knew what she was doing I steered things back into a more normal conversation.
“So, tell me why are you really here?” I asked seeing her look down at the card she held in her hand before looking back up and smiling softly at me.
“The boy, what’s he like?” She asked again while I smiled and nodded my head letting things go wherever they led.
“He’s a really sweet kid who is willing to stand up for what is right even if it isn’t popular. He proved that the very first day at his new school. He didn’t know anyone and had made some new friends who turned out to be jerks. When they started to pick on Micah, he stood up for my son even though he was new and didn’t know anyone else. That took a lot of guts, but he knew it was the right thing to do and didn’t hesitate. I think your daughter did a bang up job in raising the boy and I think you and your husband did as well with her. I know there was a big problem between your daughter and the two of you, but when it counted the most she knew the right thing to do. That could only come from parents who had loved and taught her right from wrong. Sometimes kids lose their way, but when all is said and done, who they are inside because of their upbringing will always win out in the end.” I smiled tenderly seeing her eyes begin to well up.
“Thank you for that Harry.” She sighed reaching over and placing her hand on my arm as she continued. “What I really want is the boy, my grandson.” She added, once again catching me off guard because just like that things suddenly changed with possibilities opening up.
“But…,” I began my eyes opening wide in surprise. “Your husband…Allen being gay,” I managed to get out.
“Bah…what does that matter?” She waved her hand casually at me. “My older sister is gay and been living with her partner in New York these past fifty years now.” She chuckled, her eyes glinting playfully.
“Listen Harry, yes my husband is a bit conservative, but he’s a good man and will do the right thing. You have to understand we were raised out in the country and the times were different, but my husband isn’t stupid and knows about gays being out there and everything. It isn’t as if over the years we haven’t had friends who were gay, but it just was sort of tolerated or ignored. It doesn’t mean he never cared. This isn’t about Allen being gay, this is about taking the chance of being hurt. Just leave him to me.” She smiled warmly noticing me glancing at my watch.
“Oh my…I’m so sorry, I forgot just how busy you are at this time of year and here I am taking up all of your time.” She apologized.
“What…no that’s not…,” I paused and smiled getting a bit mischievous myself. “Would you like to meet him, your grandson?”
“What…now?” She asked a bit stunned. “But how?” She wondered.
“My wife, she’s bringing the boys over for some Christmas shopping and also because Micah is dying to see the train set-up again. Last year it kept him occupied and he loved it. He’s been talking it up, and now Allen is dying to see it too. They should be downstairs right about now and it will be a bit before they actually get to any shopping. Besides both Tim and Micah want to visit with Santa.” I chuckled seeing her light up and then get a little more cautious. “Don’t worry, I won’t say anything about who you are and I’ll text Maria giving her heads up so she won’t let it slip either.” I promised digging out my phone and sending off a quick text as we made our way downstairs.
The train scene was such a big success last year we decided to expand on it and make an entire theme incorporating the train landscape. We had to shuffle several things around like the shoe department and a few others to make room for everything, but it worked out nicely. We brought in large nutcrackers and toy soldiers along with a play area for the kids to enjoy where we had slides, fake snow forts to climb on and crawl through, and even a train ride for them. Santa’s booth was also nearby so everything was conveniently located in one area. The adults and kids alike could enjoy the intricate train landscape along with the kids being able to play a bit. It was all fun and games where both kids and adults could find something to enjoy for a bit.
Entering the main lobby area I could already see the boys making their way around the large automated train landscape as various scale sized trains chugged along through the mountains, villages, lakes, and woods. It was a very nice set-up with everything working like clockwork as some trains came to a stop while others passed switching over to a different track before letting the other one go on its way again. It was fun watching people’s faces light up as they watched it all unfold in front of them and from various different vantage points while they made their way around it.
As we approached Allen spotted me first and came running over giving me a big hug and accidentally bumping into Josephine, one of her bags dropping to the floor. The boy immediately pulled away and bent over picking it up for her.
“Um…sorry about that maam. I didn’t mean to be so rude and bump into you like that. Sorry.” He apologized handing the bag to her and once more giving me a big hug.
“Mr. M., this is like so wickedly cool. I love your store and it is way better than going to the mall I think.” He stated sincerely giving me the biggest bear hug while I chuckled and squeezed him back.
Hanging around my boys sure has affected him in a lot of ways. He was no longer shy about sharing his love towards others he cared about and was a lot more outgoing these days. The boy always had a great personality and in many ways still a little on the shy side with strangers, but a lot more outgoing than he used to be as he stepped back and I ruffled his hair affectionately.
“I really appreciate you guys taking the time to bring me shopping. Aunt Kate and Uncle Nate only have the one car so it was nice of Mrs. M. to take us with her. I know she’s really busy right now with all of the charity work and everything, but Christmas is coming up and I still need to get some gifts. I know Aunt Kate was fretting some too, but this is the perfect place to get everything done.” He laughed happily with Micah noticing us standing there and immediately running up and leaping into my arms.
The boy’s arms were spread apart as he sailed through the air no doubt whatsoever that I’d snatch him up. I reached out and grabbed him in mid-flight twirling him around with people watching us and smiling at the happy scene. Micah reached out to me indicating he wanted a hug and I obliged pulling him into my body while the boy promptly planted several kisses all over my face making me chuckle as I gave him a few of my own.
“Now if that isn’t the best gift ever.” I chuckled setting him back down and smiling as he automatically placed his hand inside of Allen’s while Josephine looked on her whole face all lit up and taking mental notes with her eyes fixated on Allen the entire time.
It didn’t take long for both Chase and Tim to wander over, immediately giving me a big squishy and kiss followed by my wife and Mrs. Jefferson working their way over as well. I introduced everyone to Josephine and I could tell Mrs. Jefferson knew who she was, but thankfully didn’t say anything. To my relief Mrs. Jefferson actually seemed pleased with her gazing at me appraisingly and indicating we’d talk about it later.
Josephine gave both Chase and Tim a big hug exclaiming at how much they’ve grown since they’ve last seen each other and then turned her attention to Micah and smiled broadly. “Oh my, isn’t he the sweetest little angel with that beautiful long blond hair.” She gasped reaching out and stroking it affectionately. “Well, I suppose you would be considering you are this store’s little angel. I have it on good authority Santa dropped you off last year as a present to a very deserving family.” She smiled softly with Micah giggling and nodding his head stepping up and without any hesitation gave her a big hug since his older brothers had done the same thing.
It was a nice gesture from the smaller boy and I could tell it touched her as he stepped back. “Yup, the bestest family ever.” He sniggered stepping back over towards Allen and wrapping his arm around the boy’s waist while the sandy haired boy draped his casually over the blond boy’s shoulders.
“So, are you enjoying school and making friends?” She asked casually seeing Micah nod vigorously.
“Yeah, it’s pretty cool. I’ve made a lot of friends, but there are a few who are kind of jerks picking on me, but my brothers and Allen gave them the what for so it isn’t a problem anymore.” He told her sincerely as she raised her eyebrows appraisingly turning her attention towards Allen her eyes immediately lighting up again.
“I see,” she commented casually. “So I hear you came to Micah’s rescue not all that long ago.” She added smiling fondly at the boy who blushed and shrugged his shoulders.
“Yeah, I guess. I mean older boys were picking on him and I didn’t think it was fair. No biggie really.” He admitted getting a little shy about it and squirming because he didn’t like to talk about it or brag.
Nodding her head, Josephine noticed and switched the topic as she reached out casually brushing her fingers through Allen’s hair which he didn’t seem to mind already used to us doing the same thing. “I see like Micah you prefer to wear your hair long.” She commented.
“Yeah, mom always liked it that way. She said it emphasized my face and eyes.” He shrugged casually his face shifting a little at the mention of his mother before suddenly perking up. “Hey, I just realized something. Do people call you Josie? That was my mom’s name and for some reason I seemed to recall her saying it was sort of short for Josephine.” He wondered out loud with Mrs. Beaumont smiling and shaking her head.
“No, not in many years, not since I was a little girl.” She chuckled rubbing his hair affectionately. “And you, how’s school going for you? I hear you are new to the neighborhood.” She asked curiously while Allen shrugged.
“It’s pretty cool actually. I’ve made some friends and it’s a nice neighborhood.” He added.
“Yes, it is a nice neighborhood and the schools are top notch.” Josephine added while Allen squirreled his eyes questioningly.
“Really, how do you know?” He wondered as Josephine laughed lightheartedly, the sound light and airy filled with vigor and strength.
“Oh my, well I have to admit it’s been a few years, but my daughter used to go to the same school and graduated from high school there. I substitute every once in a while at the High School.” She admitted with the boys nodding their heads at the explanation.
“Oh, cool.” Allen smiled, the two of them seeming to hit it off.
It was just the typical casual type of quick courtesy conversation and Josephine could tell the boys were getting a bit antsy. “Well, it was very nice to meet you two…,” she gave Micah and Allen a quick hug, the one with the twelve year old boy lingering a tad longer before turning towards Tim and Chase, “and I’m so glad to have seen you two again after so long.” She added with Tim smiling and then looking over towards me and my wife.
“Can we get a picture with Santa?” He begged while I chuckled because I would think he was getting too old for that kind of stuff.
Smiling I ruffled his hair. “Sure if you want.” I told him, Micah piping up now.
“Yeah, but Chase doesn’t want to.” He pointed out pouting a little while Chase rolled his eyes shaking his head.
It seemed as if Allen looked kind of bummed about it because he immediately stepped over to the older boy and to our shock gave him a big hug. “Please Chase, I want to take a picture with all of us together. I know you guys will get one together with Santa, but you guys are like family and I want a picture taken with you guys. It’s important you know. I don’t have hardly any pictures of mom and I understand why it is important to Micah because he doesn’t have any of his mother anymore. It’s important you know.” He pleaded as Chase suddenly grabbed on to Allen and reached out for Micah as well with Tim joining in.
“Oh gawd guys, I…I’m…sorry. Of course I’ll get in a picture with you guys.” He smiled as he steered them over towards the booth looking over his shoulder at us. “Um…well be over in line for Santa.” He chuckled as they all slowly made their way over to the booth pointing towards different things along the way.
With the boys occupied I motioned for the others to join me over at the coffee stand. “Come on let’s chat quickly while the boys are occupied and then I need to get back to work for real. I’ve heard my name being called over the intercom three times already.” I chuckled waving off their concerns assuring them that the staff was perfectly capable of covering for me a while longer if I was tied up.
Before we knew it Wednesday, the twenty third of December had arrived with the boys officially out of school for winter break until Monday, the fourth of January. Our trip up to Blue Knob Resort was scheduled for Saturday, the twenty sixth of December through Sunday, the third of January. The boys were all excited about Christmas and our upcoming trip, but my wife and I were a bit anxious because we haven’t heard anything in regards to the situation with Allen. Maria had let the boys play together outside with them taking time off from earning money by doing yard work and clearing off people’s driveways and walkways when it snowed. There wasn’t a lot of snow this year, but with the winds and the rain the boys had still managed to make good money this year by going around and offering to clean up the mess created by some of the storms.
It was interesting to watch how the younger boys had noticed Chase going out and doing some work only to return with cash in his pocket. Once they realized it was a good way to earn some money for Christmas they all pitched in and joined together splitting the profits. They were hard workers and word soon got out with people calling and asking for help, the boys making the time to earn some good pocket money. I was proud of the boys, but now with Allen back at home while we sat around the dinner table finishing off some spaghetti and garlic bread my wife and I sat quietly as the boys chatted away.
It had surprised the boys when I showed up for dinner because I never was home at this time of year, but I had asked some of the staff members at the store to fill in for a few hours because I had something important to do at home. I knew I’d have to make it up later on when I got back figuring I should at least get enough of the paperwork done once the store closed for the evening. It would be an extremely late night for me, but this had to be done and thankfully I had fantastic people at the store that could fill in. To my surprise, the store manager showed up from his time off saying he had no problems helping out for a few hours. It was really nice of him to come in during his vacation time, but he reminded me how I had done the same when he had to take time off when one of his kids got in an accident and needed surgery. We were family at the store and a few hours wouldn’t do any harm.
As usual the dinner table was cleared off with everyone pitching in and the boys starting to head upstairs when we gathered them around. We knew over at the Jefferson’s house the same thing was happening. We all had hoped for the best for as long as possible, but we simply couldn’t hold off this discussion any longer. This was made harder because we had mixed news for the boys. Sighing, I sat the boys down and gave them all a soft smile with them sensing we had something serious to discuss.
Turning to Micah I informed him that the adoption had finally been approved and that Judge Bennett was wondering if we could all come down tomorrow night at the police station in Altoona where it had all began. She as always would be visiting with the officers there and wanted to hold a quick court session to make it official. She had made the appropriate arrangements so that the proceedings would be official. Even though it was Christmas Eve there was always a Judge on call for emergencies and she had volunteered this year in part because of Micah.
The news was a happy occasion with the boys jumping around excitedly and we let them enjoy the moment for several minutes before calming them down and informing them we also had some sad news. This grabbed their attention with Tim at first thinking maybe our trip had been cancelled. I only wished that had been the case and by his crushed look after I told him the news about Allen I knew he had wished it as well.
No sooner had I finished than he bolted for the door wearing nothing but his pajamas. I ran after him as he opened up the door to run across the way to Allen’s house, but stopped short because standing there dripping wet was the twelve year old boy his body wracked with sobs. He looked like how he felt and my heart broke as the two boys immediately embraced collapsing in a heap right in the doorway. They were both crying with Micah and Chase immediately joining in.
It was an awful sight with the Jeffersons also making their way over having taken the time to put on jackets. Somehow we managed to separate the boys long enough to get them inside where it was warm. Well, that is to say we managed to get Micah and Chase to pull away, but Tim and Allen refused to let go as they kept balling while I scooped them both up in my arms carrying them upstairs. Making a quick decision, I carried them into Chase’s room and set them down on his larger bed.
The two boys looked a sight to be sure as they held on trying to comfort each other. I knew it was going to be a long night so I covered them up hoping Allen wouldn’t get sick since he was soaked to the bone just from the short jaunt from his house over to ours. When I went back downstairs it was a very somber sight with everyone huddled around close in the living room. Micah was sitting between the Jeffersons on the couch being cuddled by both of them as he sniffled while Chase was sitting with mom looking like death warmed over, a very pale shocked expression on his features. He may be the oldest, but he was still only fifteen years old so this was hitting him pretty hard.
As I started to make my way towards them my phone rang and I answered it. To my surprise it was Maddie and she asked if I knew where the Jeffersons were since she was trying to get a hold of them. I told her we had just told the kids about Allen having to leave on Christmas and she had sighed on the other end feeling really bad about the entire situation, but needed to talk to the Jeffersons. I handed the phone over to them and sat patiently with Chase and my wife while they chatted.
When Mr. Jefferson hung up the phone he sat there for a few seconds his face all furrowed in thought. We didn’t dare ask him what it was about until he was ready. Slowly he realized we were all waiting and he told us that Maddie wanted them to join us at the court hearing tomorrow night after Tim’s church choir. Evidently the Judge wanted to talk to them about their foster care status. The Jeffersons stated they had planned on coming anyway for Micah’s important moment since Allen had insisted.
“Did she say anything about Allen?” I asked wondering if maybe this could be good news as they shook their head.
“No, nothing at all about him or his status, only the issue over our legal status regarding fostering. Evidently, there has been some sort of complaint filed and Maddie had asked Judge Bennett for a favor in trying to get it cleared up so we wouldn’t have to rely on the Judge that was handling Allen’s case. She sounded really nervous about letting the other Judge handling Allen’s case make a ruling on us and I’m a bit frightened about it now.” He admitted with his wife patting his hand and shrugging her shoulders.
“Well, I’m not. What’s the worse that can happen now, them take away our licensing. After all, without Allen who cares? The damage is done.”
We chatted for another couple of minutes with me asking Chase if it would be alright for Tim and Allen to stay in his room for the night. I didn’t think they would be up for long and if I had to guess they were probably already asleep. My eldest only smiled and shrugged his shoulders saying he’d crash on Tim’s bed. The Jefferson’s also didn’t object knowing I was probably right about the two boys being already asleep. Tomorrow was going to be a long day for my wife and kids. I had to work so would miss the Christmas Eve Concert like I always do, but would meet them, along with the Jeffersons and Allen, at the police station after I got done with work.
The following day was hectic as usual for me and I was completely bushed by the time we finally closed down the store. I had only gotten a few hours of sleep staying up long after the store closed the previous night since I had taken a few hours off. I wanted to get as much done as possible so the manager wouldn’t have to worry about it when he came back to work after Christmas. He had done me a solid by coming in from his vacation to fill in for a few hours, so I wanted to show him my appreciation. I knew he wouldn’t have wanted me to do that, but he was a nice guy so I didn’t mind.
Locking up the store I was one tired man by the time I made it to the police station. There were a lot of sad faces there in a time which should have been a happy one, but under the circumstances I understood. Even Sergeant Bill noticed wondering what the deal was with all the long faces. Micah had given him a big hug and one to the young officer who had tried to help last time trying to put on a good face, but it was obvious there was something up. While we waited for Maddie and Judge Bennett I quickly filled him in on the situation and he literally cursed saying he knew the Judge in question. The guy was an old curmudgeon that should have retired years ago, but simply didn’t want to go away. He was a real piece of work at times once he got a burr up his ass.
Just then the door to the back room opened up and I could hear the laughter and carrying on from the Christmas party Judge Bennett always threw for the Officers on duty on Christmas Eve. She looked elegant as always and Maddie was with her looking all gussied up as well, her husband in tow. Tagging along was another younger lady maybe in her mid-twenties that I didn’t recognize. They made their way over in a happy mood, but I was afraid they were heading over towards a group of people with the Christmas Blues. We should have been a happy bunch, but the seriousness of what was to become of Allen tomorrow weighed heavily on us. I could see the boy sitting off to the side wrapped up in Tim’s arms. All the boys had gotten dressed up in slacks and nice shirts for Church and Tim’s performance in addition for the adoption proceedings looking so very handsome, but all of them had very serious and somber faces.
As Judge Bennett approached our little blonde imp saw her and immediately ran up wrapping his arms around her in a big hug. To my surprise she bent down to one knee and returned the boy’s warm embrace affectionately.
“My…my, now isn’t this a different reception since the last time we met.” She chuckled cordially while Micah unwrapped himself from her and blushed slightly.
He was happy, but sad too and she seemed to notice. “Oh my, such long faces tonight when there should be so much happiness.” She sighed standing back up and straightening out her gown becoming all business like. “Come-come, let’s go get things done. I believe we’ve been set up in the briefing room, is that correct Sergeant Bill?” She asked getting a nod from the man as she quickly made her way over to another part of the building with everyone hustling along.
The briefing room was rather large and it sometimes doubled as a court room for such occasions as tonight. There were some chairs set up with some tables up front facing another large wooden desk on a podium. Judge Bennett made her way to the big desk grabbing up the black robe draped across the plush chair and put it on taking a seat. Off to the side there was a lady already seated at some little machine which I gathered took notes of the court proceedings. Without any ceremony Judge Bennett raised her gavel and called the court to order.
Grabbing one of the files sitting on her desk she started opened it and efficiently made her way through it asking some quick questions and pointing out some legal issues making sure everyone understood what was about to happen. Our family’s been waiting for this moment for a long time and knew exactly what we wanted and before we knew it everything was official with Judge Bennett congratulating Micah as the newest member of the Miner family. We all embraced and hugged one another with the Jeffersons and even Allen joining in smiling from ear to ear truly happy for the little blond guy and the rest of us. The Judge sat back and smiled happily allowing us to enjoy the moment for a few minutes before rapping her gavel and calling the court back to order.
“Now, it appears as if we have an emergency session here.” She sighed motioning for the Jeffersons to step forward with Allen. “This is highly unusual, but evidently there has been a new development regarding a boy, one known as Allen Beaumont, that’s come to the court’s attention. Is that you young man?” She questioned looking up from the paperwork on her desk and gazing at the twelve year old boy.
The sandy haired boy blushed and looked down, but nodded his head. “Speak up young man and never look down. No matter what, always show respect and character. From what I’ve been reading I can tell you are a fine upstanding young man and you should always be proud of who you are no matter what obstacles you are facing…yes.” She pointed out with Allen immediately sitting up prouder and looking directly at the Judge as he responded back.
“Yes Maam.” He replied with Judge Bennett smiling back softly letting him know she was here to try sorting things out not make them worse.
“That is much better, Mr. Beaumont, and in court when addressing a Judge it is protocol to refer to us as ‘Your Honor,’ but if you forget, manners such as what you displayed always goes a long way.” She continued to smile while Allen nodded his head and returned her smile starting to feel better but still nervous.
Just then the door in the back opened up with a frumpled looking elderly man hobbling into the court room interrupting the proceedings. “Judge Anderson is that you?” Judge Bennett inquired with the other man harrumphing.
“Yes…yes…and this is highly irregular. How dare you hijack my case. This is uncalled for.” He snapped at Judge Bennett who glared back at the man for being so rude, but remained calm as she looked down at her paperwork and casually waved at him to take a seat, which I saw was a backhanded type of slight in response to his outburst.
The elderly man seemed to notice as well so remained standing and started to say something when the same hand pointed indicating she wanted a minute and for him to remain silent. Another slight which did not go unnoticed as he harrumphed. Judge Bennett heard and with her head still bent forward lifted her eyes and glared at the elderly man. This now had become a war of wills and the old man may have the years of experience on him, but Judge Bennett was street wise with an iron spine that got her where she was today.
“I will remind you Mr. Anderson that this is ‘My’ courtroom and not yours. You will respect me or I ‘Will’ find you in contempt and you can spend Christmas in a cell.” She pointed out with another slight not going unnoticed when she referred to him by only his surname and not his title.
When the old man started to protest, she held up her finger in warning, the man immediately snapping his mouth shut for a second or two because he was about to yell at her for the insolence. The two of them stared at one another, the contempt obvious in the elderly man while Judge Bennett’s face remained neutral. Finally Judge Anderson seemed to give in a little as he changed tactics to plead his case.
“Yes, my apologies, but this is highly irregular and it is only common courtesy to at least notify the sitting Judge on the case. This flies in the face of all decent protocol and this is what happens when young inexperienced people do not respect their betters.” He added a dig glancing over to the young lady that had accompanied Maddie earlier while I noticed Judge Bennett raising an eyebrow at the comment.
“I see, but I will remind you Mr. Anderson that in ‘My’ courtroom I would prefer you not demean people in such a manner. After all just because we are judges does not make us omniscient or anyone’s ‘betters’ as you refer to yourself. We are all human and prone to mistakes and we do not live in a caste society that has so called ‘betters’ so you will be respectful if you want the same returned in kind.” She pointed out briskly immediately turning her attention towards Maddie effectively giving the other man the brush off.
This was starting to become intense and actually a bit frightening. We had a tenured Judge sitting in the court room now trying to assert his authority over the matter at hand and I had a bad feeling about him. The man left a foul taste in my mouth and for whatever reason definitely had an axe to grind, but Judge Bennett didn’t seem perplexed by him as if she was holding back critical information that she knew left her with the upper hand. I only hoped this wouldn’t get out of hand, but so far Judge Bennett was managing to keep the seasoned Judge in check.
“Maddie, explain please. What happened and why wasn’t Judge Anderson notified.” She asked once more giving the man his title which seemed to make him feel a bit more at ease that he was being recognized.
It was a fine balance Judge Bennett was playing at and sitting off to the side I could see it was a game of tactics for her. The older Judge didn’t even seem to recognize he had been ensnared by her and she was now playing with him like a marionette doll and pulling all the strings.
“Yes your honor and we do apologize for any inconvenience of the court’s time, but critical information came to light at the last moment last night before everything shut down for the holidays. It was vital information and important enough that I immediately took over the responsibility of young Mr. Allen Beaumont’s case. We just managed to get all the paperwork notarized before the offices closed down and we tried to contact Judge Anderson, but he had already left for the day. We tried numerous times to call him at home to no avail. I even called up to ten p.m. last night to no avail on my own personal time. I even called his aids and they informed me they had no way of contacting him because he was officially on vacation and had left explicit instructions not to call. I told them of the importance and insisted myself they get a hold of him. I even tried earlier today, but without Judge Anderson’s aids giving me any other numbers I wasn’t able to contact him. I even had the paperwork forwarded to his home.” Maddie explained getting an exasperated snort from Judge Anderson.
This got Judge Bennett’s attention and she finally snapped at the man. “Mr. Anderson this is your final warning.” She barked angrily causing the man to take a step back. “You snorting, grunting, and lashing out at people in my courtroom like some animal trying to insinuate its dominance will not be tolerated. It is obvious people have worked very hard to be respectful of your sensibilities, but it is you who have dropped the ball, not them. They were doing their jobs while you slithered away and were irresponsible enough not to trust your own aids with contacting you in case of an emergency. My court will proceed now and you will sit your ass down and not say another word or so help me I will have you behind bars so fast your head will spin in one direction and your ass in another one. Things have come to light and I will be the one dispensing decisions here tonight because as you point out protocol is important and I’m the one charged by the State of Pennsylvania to do just that on this evening.” She turned red glaring at the elderly man pointing to a chair and looking like she meant business.
If there had been any doubt before who was in charge all of it had now been dispelled as she motioned for the bailiff who immediately stepped towards Judge Anderson. The man had turned completely white and his whole body was shaking. It wasn’t out of anger, but rather fear at the moment, having been taken completely off guard. The movement from the bailiff got his attention and he automatically took a seat.
“For Pete’s sake people, this is supposed to be a happy night and by god so help me when this is over with I will have either everyone smiling or locked up and be done with it. Now let’s get down to business because I have a party to host and I’m starting to get a tad upset.” She snapped at everyone before taking a deep breathe and holding up her hands apologetically her gaze settling on Allen who immediately sat up straighter and with a firm gaze looked back at her.
The gesture made her smile. “My apologies young Mr. Beaumont, and thank you for your patience and respect in this matter. It is a reminder to all of us to be a bit more civil in such important matters.” She smiled warmly at the boy now focusing her attention on Maddie who stood up nodding to the Judge.
“So Maddie please fill us in with what has brought us all here tonight. I’ve read the brief, but would like to have your input in the matter, but try to keep it short. I’m afraid my patience is a bit frayed this evening.
“Yes your honor, in a nutshell so to speak, young Mr. Beaumont was placed in the care of the Jefferson’s, who were licensed foster care providers. Recently it’s come to our attention that this status was being revoked and Mr. Beaumont was to be removed on Christmas day to the boy’s facility in Altoona until he could be placed. We were ready to comply with the order when a relative came in saying they were willing to take in said Allen Beaumont. Well of course in light of the situation regarding Allen’s removal this changed things into a more emergency situation. It’s why we tried to contact Judge Anderson, even though it was at the last moment, to see if we could get him to revoke his order and adjust it so there wouldn’t be any hardships” She explained while Judge Bennett looked down at the paperwork on her desk.
“So first things first. I see it was Judge Anderson who signed the order for Allen’s removal. Do we know why the Jefferson’s license was being revoked?” She asked with Maddie sighing and glancing over towards Judge Anderson.
“Um, maybe you should direct that question to Judge Anderson since he’s the one who signed the order.” Judge Bennett looked up and nodded her head.
“Well?” She snapped directing her attention to Judge Anderson making the man jump as he stood up not used to being addressed in this manner.
“I…um…you see…,” he began to stutter.
“Speak up already, you had to have a good reason for revoking their status so out with it.” She snapped keeping a tight leash on the man now making sure to keep control of the situation.
“It’s all in the paperwork ‘your honor,’ but they are simply too infirm if you must know.” He dripped sarcastically, Judge Bennett raising her eyebrows as the old man sat down smugly.
“Yes, I see, but I just wanted to hear from you in case you wanted to amend your assessment or make clarifications.” She stated sardonically turning her attention now to the Jefferson’s.
“Mr. and Mrs. Jefferson I presume?” She asked with the couple standing up and nodding their head while Judge Bennett sized them up before turning her attention to Maddie.
“Your thoughts?” She asked simply, Maddie knowing exactly what Judge Bennett wanted to know.
“I don’t really know how to respond your honor. I mean, according to their health records both of the Jeffersons are perfectly fine. Mr. Jefferson still works full time and Mrs. Jefferson part time so she can be home to take care of Allen. They lead normal lives and they aren’t mentally incapacitated in any way. All indications point they are the opposite of infirm as Judge Anderson points out, begging the question of whose judgment is truly impaired.” Maddie added at the end while Judge Anderson bristled.
“How dare you…,” he began when Judge Bennett interjected.
“No Mr. Anderson, how dare you make such a judgment when even the records in your own file points to what Maddie has stated. It is obvious you didn’t base your judgment on facts, but rather something else; so if not from the facts as provided, then what was your decision based on. If you know something of importance and there is a proper reasoning for the decision you made perhaps you should let us know.” Judge Bennett gave the other Judge a chance to defend his position with the man simply ignoring her.
“I see,” Judge Bennett frowned and shook her head. “With the evidence in front of me I revoke Judge Anderson’s order and reinstate the Jefferson’s as licensed foster care parents. This in effect also revokes Judge Anderson’s order to remove Mr. Allen Beaumont from their care.” She pounded the gavel with Judge Anderson standing up furious about the decision.
“You have no right.” He shouted with Judge Bennett standing up and pointing her finger at him.
“Sit your ass down right now and I’ve got every authority in this matter. As a matter of fact I will be turning over these proceedings and all the paperwork to the ethics committee. So sit down and keep your trap shut, I’ve got more business to conduct and maybe if you sit and watch you might learn how justice is truly doled out properly and fairly.” She snapped her hawkish gaze brooking no more nonsense as she pounded her gavel loudly and snapped at the entire courtroom. “Now sit…everyone.” She barked forcefully with everyone who was standing immediately taking a seat.
“This is outrageous behavior for a bunch of grown adults in a courtroom setting. We can all take lessons from the kids sitting here showing proper respect while having to listen to a bunch of adults bickering like we were three years old. Bailiff where is my Tylenol? These idiots have given me a proper headache, on Christmas Eve no less.” She wondered with the man stepping forward and digging into his shirt pocket producing a couple of sealed packets with ‘Tylenol’ written over them as if he’s been asked this before.
Judge Bennett sighed and smiled at the man. “What would I do without you my good friend. You always have some handy when I need it.” She chuckled shaking her head and gazing at Allen who seemed to look a little confused by everything but obviously happy about the outcome with the Jefferson’s and not being hauled away.
Sighing the Judge smiled tenderly at the boy. “Once again my apologies young Mr. Beaumont, but as you’ve heard we still have some unresolved issues concerning you. Bailiff, now that you have saved me from a splitting headache yet again, would you mind bringing in our other guests please while Allen and I step into the other room for a bit of a chat.” She asked while the bailiff smiled and nodded his head. “Oh, and if I haven’t said it, thanks for coming in on a holiday. It is truly appreciated and I will make it up to you and your wife. Be sure to let her know I apologize for dragging you away like this.” She offered up with the man as always smiling and nodding his head appreciatively that she’d show him such respect.
“Thank you your honor and I will surely let her know.” He replied going to the back of the room and stepping out for a moment while Allen got up and followed Judge Bennett into another room with the door shutting behind them.
Micah was sitting next to me and leaned closer looking a little shook up. “This is like way scary.” He spoke softly, a concerned look on his face as I looked down and draped my arm over his shoulder noticing Tim and Chase nodding and concurring.
Sighing, I tried to smile and put on a good face for them because truth be told what had gone on in here truly was a bit frightening. “I know it looks a bit scary, but Judge Bennett is trying to resolve some issues within the boundaries of the law. I’m sure things will work out just fine.” I assured the boys noticing Micah giving Judge Anderson a sideways glance.
“He’s a real meanie and I’m glad he wasn’t my Judge.” He admitted a bit loudly, the other man grimacing kind of menacing towards the little blond guy forcing Micah to scoot closer towards me a little frightened by the other Judge.
“Yes, that he is.” I admitted just as loudly, the other man scowling now as my wife interjected.
“Harry, shush already and behave yourself.” She admonished slightly while I shrugged my shoulders.
“But Micah’s right.” I pointed out, noticing her shooting me a sharp gaze making me roll my eyes as she made a retort.
“Of course he’s right, but it doesn’t mean you have to shout it out for the world to hear.” She batted her eyelashes at me while the boys giggled because it was obvious she had done it intentionally as I began to chuckle as well all five of us huddled together conspiratorially.
The other man didn’t seem amused and simply harrumphed again, once more setting us off on a giggling spree with Chase piping up. “Judge Bennett’s right, he’s acting like a big buffoon trying to assert his dominance just like many animals do out in the wild.” He sniggered getting another fit of laughter from everyone.
This time the old man grumbled and mumbled. “Young generation these days, no respect at all,” as the door in the back opened up and to our surprise Al and Josephine stepped inside.
They walked up towards the front and hesitated while I motioned for the boys to make room. All three of them stood up and scooted out of the row taking the chairs directly behind us so Josephine and Al could take a seat next to us looking a bit nervous. It got quiet for a few moments while they settled into their seats.
My wife reached over and gave Josephine a quick hug setting things at ease while Al turned towards me and sighed. “Listen Harry I’m really sorry about the other day. I know you only had the best of intentions. This has just sort of hit us hard and it took a little bit to get my head back on straight.” He apologized while I shook my head.
“No need to apologize. I would like you to meet the Jefferson’s, Allen’s foster parents.” I introduced him to the others as we all chatted for a few minutes.
It took everything I had not to bust up laughing when Al commented they had been watching the proceedings on the television screen in the other room and it is a good thing because he could have throttle Judge Anderson. This got another glaring stare at us from the old crotchety fellow, but I was getting used to it figuring the man was just mad at the world in general anymore.
After a few minutes the back door opened and both Judge Bennett and Allen stepped back into the room. It looked as if the twelve year old boy had been crying as he made his way back towards us pausing next to the Jeffersons noticing Al and Josephine. He bit his lower lip and then walked over and stopped in front of them.
Hesitating for a moment he spoke up in a soft voice. “I…is it true…are you my grandparents?” He asked while Judge Bennett took her seat and noticing the confrontation motioned for everyone to stay put for now.
It was Josephine who spoke up. “Yes sweetie, we are your grandparents.” She admitted reaching out and brushing the boy’s long hair out of his eyes pleased he didn’t shy away from her.
“But why didn’t you come get me then?” He wondered tears running down his cheeks a little hurt by everything. “I mean the Jeffersons where really good to me…like family…but…but you are family for real. I didn’t even know mom had parents who were still alive. She never told me.” He sniffled wiping away the tears and blushing a little embarrassed now.
Just when Al was going to say something Judge Anderson snorted and stood up shaking his head and holding out his arms in exasperation. “You are gay and they are old.” He snapped at Allen who cringed and looked as if he was about to break down and cry for real now.
It alarmed me and I immediately stood up pulling him into me protectively noticing Al standing up at the same time his face completely red as he shook his finger at the old man. “You just shut that trap of yours moron. You don’t know the first thing from nothin and from what I’ve seen I’m surprised you are still sitting on the bench.” He snapped, Judge Anderson finally having enough as well and barking right back.
“Just who the hell do you think you are…you have no idea who you are talking to.”
“The hell I don’t. You’re the flippin idiot I’m about to knock on his ass to prove what’s what. Old my ass, I’ll clean your clock so fast your head will spin, but not fast enough to catch up to your sorry ass when I kick it from here to kingdom come. I’ll put up with a lot of crap, but that’s my grandson you are being flip about and…and...,” Al huffed catching me by surprise because he was one of the most mellow guys I’ve ever known as he simply rolled up his sleeve and began to step forward with the Judge’s eyes bulging out of his skull and backing up.
“I’m through talking…it’s on.” Al stated matter-of-factly with me starting forward while the bailiff did as well to diffuse the situation when we all suddenly froze in place because what we heard caught all of us by complete surprise.
It was Judge Bennett literally laughing her ass off and pounding her gavel. She tried several times to speak, but she just couldn’t because she was roaring and wiping away the tears from the corners of her eyes with the boys starting to chuckle as well because it was a hilarious sight. Judge Bennett finally managed to get her composure under control and waived everyone to take a seat shaking her head and looking towards Al.
“Mr. Beaumont as much as I’d love to see you take Mr. Anderson to task, and I might add I’d even pay good money to watch, I can’t allow it.” She chuckled seeing the mortified look on the other Judge’s face, but before he could say anything she interjected. “Oh shut up already. You’d have deserved it so just be glad I won’t allow it to happen. I think it is painfully clear just how out of bounds and out of touch you’ve been as of late Judge Anderson, and I think this will be something for the ethics committee to take up with you. It truly is a shame because you’ve had such a distinguished career over the years with your judgments always well thought out and balanced. It’s only been in the last year or so that many of us have noticed a change, but this is for another day. Right now we have other things to address.” She motioned for Allen to continue if he had more questions.
The twelve year old boy hesitated because this was something he would have preferred to do in private, but the old jerk of a Judge had put everything out in the open and he simply had to know so he asked the question. “Is that why you didn’t want me, because I’m gay?” He wondered sniffling and wiping away the tears as Tim stepped next to his friend and wrapped his arm around the boy to give him some moral support.
“What…no of course not,” Al stepped forward pausing for a moment and sighing. “I mean, not really.” He amended slightly. “Listen, maybe at first…I mean, it wasn’t you being gay, but rather me using it as an excuse.” He tried to clarify.
“But if me being gay was just an excuse then why didn’t you want me?” He asked, Josephine putting down her large purse on her seat before standing up and taking his hand in hers.
“Please Allen, we don’t want to speak ill of your mother.” She prompted, Allen staring back and shaking his head.
“She wasn’t a bad person. She was a good mom, honest. We didn’t have much, but I had everything I really needed and she worked hard so I could even have extras. She was a single mom but smart, happy, and well liked by her friends and the people she worked with. She was a good person.” He insisted, both Al and Josephine nodding their heads.
Al sighed softly. “Yes, we know that now Allen, but you have to understand when we had a falling out things weren’t like that between us. Things were bad. She had always been a wonderful daughter, but then something changed and it got really bad for all of us. When she left it broke our hearts, but we had no choice. We never heard from her again and we prayed for her all the time. I suppose like us, when she got pregnant with you she had no choice either and she ended up choosing the right path after all. She did the right thing and raised you in a proper manner. Both your grandmother and I are thankful for that blessing. It breaks our heart that our only daughter has passed away, but she left us one last parting gift…she blessed us with you and we will honor the good memories of her.” Al spoke softly reaching out and placing his hand on his grandson’s shoulder while his wife reached inside her bag and pulled out a package.
“My husband is being honest with you Allen and we want you to be a part of our family if you will have us.” She added handing the package over to him. “This is for you. When your grandfather heard about my visit in the mall with you he shuttered himself in the room for hours and hours putting this together just for you.” She smiled softly at the boy.
The sandy haired boy blinked away the tears and hesitated for a moment. “It…it’s not Christmas yet.” He pointed out, Josephine brushing the boy’s hair with her fingers.
“I don’t think Santa will mind.” She replied, Allen letting out a nervous chuckle and smiling back as he slowly tore off the wrapping.
Furling his eyebrows he looked up at Josephine questioningly who smiled tenderly at the boy. “I told my husband what you had said about not having any pictures of your mother. He put together this photo album with all the milestones in your mother’s life all the way through High School. It’s to let you know who she was before you were born and hopefully it will also remind you of whom she was after you were born.” She explained wrapping her arm around her husband and holding him tight while Allen began to flip through the pages.
Without warning the boy unexpectedly stepped forward wrapping his arms around his grandparents appreciatively before stepping back. “So, you really want me?” He asked as they nodded their heads. “B…but what about Aunt Kate and Uncle Nate?” He asked, the Jeffersons smiling fondly at the boy and speaking up.
“Oh sweetie we’ve always known having you was only temporary. We knew sooner or later your grandparents would do the right thing and want you. Until that time we wanted to make sure you had a happy life.” Mrs. Jefferson told the boy who furled his eyebrows.
“You knew and never said anything?” He asked, Uncle Nate nodding his head.
“Yes, we knew and it broke our hearts that we couldn’t say anything, but family services asked us not to and I think in the end they were right not to say anything.” He added, Allen thinking on it and then nodding.
“I…I…this is so hard. I don’t want to move…I don’t want to go to a new school. I’ve got friends. What about Chase, Tim, and Micah. I…I can’t leave them.” He sniffled reaching out for my boys who all wrapped him up in their arms.
It was then when Judge Bennett spoke up. “Who said anything about you having to leave your school or friends? Like you’ve pointed out you have wonderful foster parents, and call me stupid or whatever, but I’m sure a big part of them buying a house where they did was because of location. If I’m not mistaken your grandparents only live about four or five blocks away so you will still be close to your friends and attend the same school.” She smiled and winked at the Jeffersons who chuckled.
“Wow, this is…this is like really awesome, but its Christmas tomorrow and if you say I have to go with my grandparents what about the Jeffersons.” He asked, Al and Josephine looking at each other for a second and then shrugging.
“Well, since all of your stuff is still at the Jeffersons why don’t we just let you stay there for tonight and you can celebrate Christmas with them in the morning and then celebrate it with us in the afternoon. We can then come and pick up your stuff on the following day.” He added thinking this solved the problem, but then seeing the disappointed look on Allen’s face. “What’s wrong, did we miss something?” He inquired, Allen glancing towards us.
“Um…actually Al, the Jefferson’s and Allen were coming with us up to Blue Knob resort until after New Year’s.” I finally spoke up noticing Al chuckling and shaking his head at his wife.
“For real Josephine, we’ve been putting off bringing the boy into our home and now that we want him we have to wait.” He chuckled. “Listen, of course he can go with you. It’s only right.” He added not upset in the least while I shook my head now seeing Allen’s disappointed face because he thought I was going to refuse to let him go now.
“Can’t do that Al, not unless you and Josephine join us on the trip. I booked a two unit rental property and there’s plenty of room and I would hate to waste any space. Actually, it would be a perfect type of transition because the Jeffersons will be there to help along with Allen. You will get a chance to ease into being parents again since we will all be around to pitch in with a lending hand. Another family will be along as well and it’ll be fun for us adults too.” I added, both Josephine and Al arching their eyebrows.
“You’re kidding, a couple of old fogies on skis. I mean, yeah I’m still young and fit enough to clock a jerk’s block off, but skis?” He chuckled referring to the fight he almost had with Judge Anderson while I smiled and shook my head.
“There’s a lot going on up there besides just skiing and stuff. I’ve checked it all out with the indoor pool, entertainment room, and several nights of dancing and I don’t mean that loud funky stuff, but really nice formal dancing.” I added, both Al and Josephine perking right up.
“For real, dancing. Oh my, that is something the two of us enjoy isn’t it sweetheart?” Josephine’s cooed her face lighting up at the prospect.
“Oh yes…indeed. You may not think it Harry, but Josephine and I cut a mean rug. We used to compete all the time and it’s actually been a while since we’ve gone out like that, but I need to see if I can get the time off on such short notice. I’ve got a lot of vacation time accumulated, but corporate tends to want heads up and I can understand that.” He added while I suddenly busted up patting his shoulders and shaking my head.
“Don’t worry about it so much and get packed up. I just happen to have the closest relationship with the man who signs off on vacation requests.” I chuckled hearing Al laughing as well.
“Meaning you of course.” We both laughed while my wife reached over and hugged Josephine who looked all excited about going on vacation since it’s been so long.
It was Judge Bennett who finally broke things off as she banged her gavel calling for order. While one hand banged the gavel her other one supported her head, which was propped up on the desk by her elbow, as she gazed along lazily and yawned.
“Alright…alright, now that we have your entire lives all planned out; well at least for the next week or two, can we finish up here already?” She asked, all of us blushing and nodding our heads.
“Um…sorry your honor.” I mumbled, everyone else mumbling as well while the boys were all smiles because things were looking up.
The only one who didn’t look happy was Judge Anderson, but everyone was ignoring him anyway. “Alright, now down to business,” Judge Bennett sat back up. “Allen, this is important because I want your honest opinion before I make a ruling. I always take into account a child’s wish before I make a final decision. Well?” She asked simply all of us chuckling and smiling getting used to the Judges quirky way.
“Yes…absolutely….one hundred percent.” Allen answered just as cryptically getting an eye roll from the Judge who smirked.
“Are you mocking me young man?” She teased, Allen putting on a stern look trying to hide his own smirk.
“No…absolutely not…one hundred percent.” He stated just as seriously as the first time while I tried to stifle a giggle but couldn’t hold on because Micah suddenly busted a gut and that’s all it took with several of us losing it.
The Judge banged her gavel putting on a hurt look and rolling her eyes. “Well I never…,” she huffed waving her arm indignantly. “Well if that is how you all are then let’s just get it all over with. My ruling is effective immediately and thusly, Allen is to be placed in the custody of his grandparents, which in layman’s terms means they can do whatever they want regarding where he spends Christmas, goes on vacation, and so on. Now scoot all of you out of my courtroom. I’ve got a party of my own to attend to.” She instructed signing some paperwork and motioning for everyone to come forward and grab the appropriate documentation.
Despite her dismissing everyone we all gathered around and began an impromptu party amongst ourselves with lots of hugging and kissing taking place. Christmas Eve had started out with the blues, but it ended with a bang as Judge Bennett invited us all over to the party with the police officers. It was late, but tomorrow was Christmas and none of us had anything else to do for over a week since we were all officially on vacation.
************************************************************
End of Pt2. Chapter Eight: Harry Miner – Christmas Eve Blues
Coming Soon Pt.2. Chapter Nine: Boys –Unwrapping Gifts
Comments are always welcome at ([email protected]). Please keep all comments clean. I enjoy friendly criticism and of course positive reviews or just plain simple correspondence, but will not tolerate any rudeness.
Feel free to email me at ([email protected]). I respond to all of my readers.
This work is copyrighted © by Hunter Woods. No part of this story may be transmitted or reproduced in whole or in part in any form including mechanical, electronic, photocopying, and recording or by any information storage and retrieval system without the express written consent of the author. For those of you who just blow this off and decide to steal anyway keep these thoughts below in mind:
“Intentionally using the quotes of others without author attribution is plagiarism and contributes to illiteracy.”
- Rain Bojangles
“Most plagiarists, like the drone, have neither taste to select, industry to acquire, nor skill to improve, but impudently pilfer the honey ready prepared, from the hive.”
- Walter Colton
“Borrowed thoughts, like borrowed money, only show the poverty of the borrower.”
- Lady Marguerite Blessington, Countess of Blessington
************************************************************
EXCERPT FROM MICAH: BROTHERS, ONE & ALL
At Chase’s suggestion we all decided to have mom help us make Apple Butter Pumpkin Pie for Allen’s foster parents since they had worked so hard on our Halloween costumes, which had been a total success. Finishing up at the sink I stepped back and watched my brothers, which in my mind included Allen, messing about with one another. It was fascinating to watch how the twelve year old boy carried on with my other brothers since he was completely naked and seemingly no longer so concerned or shy about it. Both Tim and Allen had ganged up on my older brother and it was funny watching how their little bits and danglies flapped around as they wrestled around with Chase. If I could stop time I would do it right now completely happy with how things have turned out so far in my life. It was such a wonderful feeling to have as I stepped forward still deciding whose side I would take in this friendly wrestling match. After all they were my brothers, one and all.
**************************************************************
HARRY MINER: CHRISTMAS EVE BLUES
Harry leaned back in his chair and ran his hand through his hair with a stern look on his face. He had just gotten off the phone with Maddie a few minutes ago who he’s known for years and then made another quick call before sitting back and shaking his head as he pondered the first phone call. Maddie used to be one of his neighbors when they lived in the city and her son even baby-sat for them watching over Chase and Tim when he went out with his wife every once in a while. Then when the situation came up with Micah, she had been instrumental in getting all of that sorted out along with Judge Bennett who fortune had it was good friends with Maddie. Between the two of them they made things happen with Micah and things were really going well.
Christmas was fast approaching now and he was spending a lot of time over at the store where he used to work in Altoona before becoming regional manager. He always worked the holiday season for his good friend who had taken over the manager’s position he used to occupy before he was promoted to corporate. It worked out well because it allowed his friend to have a vacation with his family leading up to Christmas while he got to take time off starting on Christmas day and through New Year’s. A win-win situation that’s been working for the last several years.
This facility and the people working here were like family to me and many of the employees have been at the big department store for years. We had an excellent benefits package and those who worked for us made a good living including the ones who weren’t full time earning a secondary income for their families. This was a hectic season for me and I had taken a little time first thing this morning to give Maddie a call because some things have come up which were very worrisome.
My wife and I were truly blessed and it looked like things were moving along with the adoption process for Micah. He was such a blessing and a perfect addition to our family. My wife and I always wanted a big family, but it just wasn’t to be. After her pregnancy with Tim there had been some complications and now it was too dangerous for her to conceive. We were a little crushed, but also very happy with the children who had come into this life making us a family. At times we had talked about adopting and had even come close one time having filled out the paperwork and everything, but the timing simply hadn’t been right for whatever reason. In the end though it worked out because all the paperwork and having our family and finances scrutinized paved the way for when Micah came into our lives that fateful day last year at Christmas time.
With him as a part of our family now we felt whole. Everyone including the boys seemed to sense it, and we were happier for it. Of course even before Micah joined our lives we were a very happy family and it had felt right as well, but something just seemed to click into place when the smaller boy had wormed his way into our hearts. It’s amazing how sometimes our lives can be chugging along perfectly fine until one day we are shown that indeed it had been a perfectly fine life, but now it is even better. This is what happened with Micah and we were all the better for it.
Talking with Maddie on the phone just now had been a mix of emotions. It looked as if we were right on schedule with the adoption proceedings. It had been a little more involved because of his mother. She was here illegally having come from one of the Eastern European Countries. From what Maddie had found out she had been brought over as part of a sex ring. Most of these women don’t have anyone else in their lives that would miss them and this was true of Micah’s mom. Somehow though, she had managed to escape once she arrived and made a life for herself. How much she had been involved in regards to the whole sex slave trade was unclear. It wasn’t known if she had been hustled out or if she had escaped before then, but at some point she had gotten pregnant. It was also unknown if it was due to being perhaps forced or if it had been after she had escaped. At any rate no one knew who the father was because there was no mention of one in the medical records.
In order to allow for the adoption process to precede, all avenues had to be pursued in finding any living relatives. In the conversation I just had with Maddie all indications pointed that there weren’t any that could be found. The mother had no one over here in the U.S., and they couldn’t find anything over from where she had come from with Maddie seeming to think she may have come from one of those awful orphanages they have in Eastern Europe. Some of the Eastern European countries were extremely poor and record keeping was not a strong suit over in some of those places.
In some ways it was sad, but in other ways it paved the way for adoption without any major legal issues. If things continued to work out this would indeed be a happy Christmas for our family. There was only one thing that could bring it all crumbling down around our ears. All three of my boys have fallen under the spell of Allen’s sweet nature. The boy had managed to worm his way into our lives just like Micah, and we were very pleased to see how well they got along together. Now though, it looked as if there were some rough waters ahead because the other day the Jeffersons had come over to chat for a bit while the boys were out on whatever adventure had captured their latest attention. It made me happy to see how our boys spent more time outside than moping around in their rooms closeting themselves off from the world and others.
The visit with the Jeffersons had been anything but comforting. They wanted to become Allen’s permanent foster parents, but for some reason the Judge was making life difficult for them and they simply didn’t know what to make of it. Even the social worker at Family Services who was handling Allen’s case was baffled indicating it shouldn’t be an issue. They hadn’t sat down and talked with the sandy haired pre-teen yet and they were at their wits end. They had just received paperwork from the courts that their foster parent licensing might be revoked and that for the time being Allen was going to be relocated come Christmas day. It had totally shocked them because who in their right mind would do something so horrific on of all days, Christmas.
The news had even shocked me and my wife as we realized it would completely devastate Allen. There were also our boys to consider because it would hit them hard too and they wouldn’t understand. Hell, for that matter even I and my wife couldn’t understand the situation. As it was the Jeffersons were totally crushed and didn’t know what to do. Christmas was less than a week away and they were torn between letting Allen know now and waiting for a day or two to see if they could get things sorted out. After all there was no indication as to the reason why their licensing might be revoked and they haven’t done anything illegal. The lady from family services also indicated that to her knowledge they have done nothing wrong and have met all the state’s requirements in making a home for the younger boy. She definitely was in their corner and had even given the couple a glowing review, but when it came to the courts and judges they were the ones that had the ultimate power. All she could do was to go to her supervisor to see if she could do anything for them.
When the Jeffersons told us this we immediately knew who the supervisor was and asked if they would be alright with us contacting Maddie directly. The relief on their faces told us all we needed to know. With tears streaming down Mrs. Jeffersons face she had pleaded with us to find help, any help for them so they could protect Allen. She was beside herself saying the boy was precious and this would destroy him forever. I thought she was being a bit dramatic because indeed this would be horrible and hurt the sandy haired boy to the core, but it’s been my experience kids could be very resilient. The look on her face though was all I needed to know there was more to this whole matter.
It was obvious they wanted to tell us more hinting how there were special circumstances involving Allen, but it would be inappropriate to divulge anything private. It seemed to confirm my nagging suspicion I’ve been having for a while now that there was something more going on with the other boy. I didn’t get the sense it was something bad per se, just that there was something the boy was keeping secret. It really hadn’t bothered me any because considering the circumstance it wasn’t a stretch the boy would keep some things private. It didn’t bother me or my wife since Allen was such a sweet boy and obviously adored our boys and vice versa. They all got along just fine and I’m sure amongst themselves they all knew things about one another us adults didn’t. After all that is how it was among friends.
After getting off the phone with Maddie I began to realize there were other issues involved as well. Some that not even Allen was aware of as I sat at my desk for several long moments now mulling over the conversation I had with Maddie. It left me in a bit of a bind because there were several concerns at play I had to consider now as well. My head was beginning to spin because there were so many things going on at the moment, too much which began to weigh heavily on me if I tried to look at them all at once. Closing my eyes I took a deep breath knowing I had to sort it out and take things one at a time or else the task would be too daunting.
The first issue was our upcoming vacation. We had promised the boys we were going to go somewhere and make it special right after Christmas. The whole vacation idea tied in with several other things. First of all was the issue of Chase and his girlfriend. The last couple of months the two of them had become official like and very close. I wasn’t an idiot and knew they were having sex together so had discussed it in detail with my eldest son. The girl’s parents weren’t stupid either and they weren’t too keen on the idea of their daughter dating our son. Not because they had anything against him in general, but let’s face it at fifteen years old these teenagers were still young to be intimately involved.
It seemed prudent to reach out to Suzie’s parents and get to know them better. It would be a mistake to try separating the two of them so we hoped by reaching out it would help. If we let her parents know we felt similarly about the intimate situation it might set things at ease a bit and as parents we could try to co-ordinate our efforts. As we pointed out, and they ended up agreeing with us, there was no way as parents we could prevent keeping our teenaged kids apart from one another since there were too many variables involved. After all they went to the same school and barring our families packing up and moving it simply wasn’t feasible. Besides, it was obvious they cared about one another. All we could do was assure Suzie’s parents that Chase was decent, kind, and a very responsible boy. We also wanted them to know that we indeed had talked to him concerning the situation about his relationship with their daughter.
The chat went a lot better than I expected and I found out they were really fond of Chase as they noted how well he treated their daughter and the rest of the family. It made me proud to know that our son displayed such behavior and it seemed to set all of us at ease. After talking with them for a while I told them about our plans for a vacation trip explaining how I had rented a two unit property up at Blue Knob Ski Resort starting after Christmas and up through New Year’s. Each unit was completely furnished with a kitchen, living room, and three bedrooms. Sort of like a small house or apartment, but completely furnished with a stove, refrigerator, washer and dryer, everything just like a regular house. At first I was just going to rent the one unit because it was a three bedroom and plenty big enough for us and the boys, but then we decided to invite Allen, the boys’ best friend, and his parents along.
It would still have been plenty big with just the one unit, but the people who owned the two unit rental property had offered us a fantastic deal if we rented both. They told us we could rent the second unit at half price and since they both worked at the resort they’d also be able to throw in a package deal consisting of a week long ski pass for everyone, ski lessons, ski rental equipment, snowmobiling, snow shoeing, cross country, and some other activities while we were at the resort. We would also have complete access to the pool and spa for our entire group. Once I began doing the calculations it had made total sense to go ahead and rent out the entire rental property because when all was said and done, by the time we tacked on all the other expenses it would cost us more.
In the end it worked out great financially not to mention we wouldn’t have to be concerned about who stayed in the other unit. The last thing we wanted was a group of young college kids boozing it up and partying the entire week around our kids. For the rental property owners it worked out for them as well because they knew it was being rented out to a family and not a group who would end up trashing the place.
Now that we had both units, I wondered if Suzie’s parents would like to join us. There would be plenty of room for them and their daughter. At first they were a bit leery about actually joining because of the situation between their daughter and our son, but then they realized they would be in a totally different unit so it wouldn’t be like their daughter and our son would be sleeping in the same house. There would be enough separation where at the end of the day we all had our own separate places. They did point out they had another daughter and of course we told them it wouldn’t be any issues. Both units had three bedrooms so more than enough space for everyone.
We talked about it some more and they agreed to go saying it’s actually been a long time since they’ve gone on a real vacation with their kids. Suzie’s parents had plenty of vacation time racked up so it wouldn’t be an issue getting the time off from work. They did insist on paying their fair share, but I explained to them about Allen’s folks not having a lot of money and how I had told them it would be a shame to waste the empty spaces in the house letting them know not to pay anything. It would make for an awkward moment now if I got paid by one and not the other. In the end Suzie’s parents relented, but said if that were the case then they would bring all the groceries and for us not to worry about anything in that regard. It would save everyone a ton of money if we did our own meals for the most part instead of spending money going out to eat every day. I agreed and it was settled.
Now after talking with Maddie regarding Allen’s situation I was in a bit of a bind. If we couldn’t work this situation out with the sandy haired boy and he was actually taken away from the Jefferson’s on Christmas day of all days, it would be a scene from the worst nightmare. I wasn’t sure if heading off for vacation would be such a good idea because the boys would be devastated. I needed to make a decision if I should cancel. I’d lose my deposit, but that wasn’t too much of a concern for me. Coming to a decision I decided it didn’t much matter and I would simply keep the reservation. It wouldn’t be a fun trip if Allen was taken away, but getting away might help the kids cope. My wife and I would deal with that situation when we came to it.
Since that decision was settled I pondered over another situation. Things about Allen had been nagging me and at first I thought it had to do with something he was keeping private, but after talking with Maddie there had been another revelation which now made total sense. There was a good reason for the constant niggling sensation just at the edges of my mind when I thought about Allen at times and I simply hadn’t put two and two together until after my chat with Maddie.
There were other things going on as well, but he was a good kid and it didn’t worry me if the boy kept some things private. We all did in one way or another, and whatever it was didn’t bother me because deep down it wasn’t something that would hurt my kids. That much I was certain of, and as I thought on it I was fairly certain Allen and my boys didn’t have much of any secrets between them anymore. It was amazing to see just how close those boys had become to one another.
A soft knock on the door reminded me of my second phone call, the one to the automotive department after I got done talking with Maddie. It was too early to be dealing with so many issues and the day was probably just about to get longer. In a way though this had to do with some of the concerns at hand so I braced myself not knowing how this next conversation was going to go.
“Yes, come in.” I raised my voice gently putting on a calm face watching one of the store’s long time employees from the automotive department stepping inside the office.
My door opened and a gentleman in his mid-sixties stepped inside. “Mr. Miner you wanted to see me?” The man asked smiling as I nodded my head since we’ve known one another for a long time.
“Yes-yes, please take a seat and it’s just Harry for pete’s sake. I mean, how long have we known each other now. After all you showed me the ropes in the automotive department when I was a pimply faced teenager for all practical purposes.” I chuckled motioning for him to take a seat reminding us all that I had worked my way up in the company by putting myself through school at the same time. “Besides, this isn’t about the store or work.” I added taking a seat as well seeing him furl his eyes.
“Oh, so what’s on your mind then?” He asked while I sighed and sat back in my chair. “You look a bit out of sorts.” He pointed out as I nodded my head.
“Yes, it’s a stressful time right now, and I don’t mean work.” I replied seeing him studying me intently.
“Things alright at home…with Maria and the boys? It’s been a while since I’ve seen them. I bet the kids have gotten big.”
“Yes, everyone is doing just fine; especially, the boys. You of course know all about Micah from last Christmas.” I saw him nodding his head with most of the employees having heard about it since the boy was found right outside the store. “He’s been such a blessing. It’s nice to have all those kids running around the house. We’ve always wanted lots of kids and it’s a joy to watch them grow and how Maria enjoys having them. We’ve got three boys now and they’ve made good friends with another boy across the street so for all practical purposes there’s four running around at any one time. Believe me it keeps Maria on her toes, but she loves it.” I chuckled seeing the man smiling back nodding his head.
“Yes, kids can be such a blessing.” He sighed smiling sadly at me while I nodded.
“You and your wife must miss your daughter.” I added seeing him flinch and start to put up some defensive walls as he gave me a sharp critical stare.
Holding up my hands in a gesture of apology I shook my head. “Sorry, I know you don’t talk much about that, but I’m in a bit of a pickle about something.” I admitted seeing him furling his eyes as things got a little quiet for a few seconds.
I studied the man for a few moments knowing this was a sensitive topic, but I had to go there if I was going to get to the bottom of some things. “Listen Al, we’ve known each other for years and I consider you and your wife more like friends or even like our aunt and uncle. When we were younger you invited us over to your home a few times and we enjoyed those times.” I pointed out watching while he looked down and nodded his head. “I know this is a sticky topic for you, but I’ve got my reason for asking. I hope being friends for as long as we’ve been, you will trust me.” I added while he looked up at me a little confused.
Leaning forward I tried to keep my voice and demeanor neutral and on the softer side. “I’ve gotta ask Al, and this isn’t about work, but what exactly happened between you and your daughter? I know it was a long time ago and it had been a rough patch for you and your wife. I never asked before because I saw how much it had hurt you and your wife and it was also something personal.” I held my breath because this was in many ways inappropriate for me to do here at work, or for that matter even outside of it since our relationship had more to do with the store than anything else despite being friends.
His demeanor got really defensive and he sat up straighter as he stared at me for several long moments not saying anything. It was awkward, and I began to realize this probably was a bit of a mistake. I was getting ready to speak up and tell him to forget the whole thing, but to my surprise he suddenly appeared willing to talk about it some.
“Yes, you’re right it was especially hard on my wife Josephine.” He responded quietly shaking his head. “It’s hard to talk about Harry and you have children of your own so know what I mean. Somewhere along the line my wife and I must have done something horribly wrong. Our daughter got mixed up with the wrong crowd and it got very ugly at home. She started using drugs and stealing from us. Then we found out she was also dealing and it broke our hearts. It finally got too ugly one day when her boyfriend had broken in ransacking our house so we had to finally kick her out.” He told me sadly. “It was the last time we heard from our daughter.”
“I’m sorry.” I told him softly pretty sure there was a lot more to the story, but sometimes life becomes ugly and things happen that can’t be undone.
“Why are you bringing all of this up now, after all these years?” He asked while I bit my lower lip deciding maybe a direct approach was best.
"It’s just I understand recently family services contacted you concerning her son.” I finally managed to bring out to him seeing the man sit up straight in his chair.
“How…how’d you know that?” He got defensive.
“It’s…,” I began not having thought things through and really not sure how to proceed.
When I talked to Maddie the other day and told her the situation she told me to call back today and I had with her telling me everything she had found out. At first it had baffled me how I hadn’t figured it out earlier, but then again it was only the last name that seemed to have been nagging me all this time. I hadn’t put it together until she told me Allen had grandparents on his mom’s side and when she told me their names it had suddenly clicked into place what was bothering me this whole time. Allen’s last name was Beaumont, the same as his mom and since she had never married he still had the same last name as his mom’s parents.
Over the phone Maddie had mentioned there were things she couldn’t tell me, but she was willing to share some general things explaining how Allen’s mom and her parents had a big falling out and she ended up getting kicked out of the house. She was eighteen, young, and stupid, but it had been a dangerous situation for her parents and in some ways they had no choice. Shortly after getting kicked out Allen’s mom got pregnant with him. She must have understood what this meant and had fought tooth and nail to clean herself up and get out of the world she had been in, opting for a more normal life. She was a single mom, but she made a decent life for her and her son.
Of course all of that changed when she got sick and passed away leaving Allen all alone in the world. Family Services took custody of the boy and began the job of finding a suitable home for him. During their normal research process they found out Allen actually had grandparents so had approached them wondering if they’d be willing to raise him. For whatever reasons, which Maddie didn’t tell me, they refused.
In the meantime Allen was placed with the Jefferson’s and nothing’s been mentioned to him about his grandparents since it would only make matters worse. Now though, there were legal issues going on, which Maddie wouldn’t get into, but seemed a bit upset about. She hinted that it wasn’t looking good, but she was working on things, but if Allen’s grandparents didn’t want him it looked kind of bleak then for the boy.
It’s what had brought me here to this point as I tried on my end to figure out why such good people as Al and Josephine wouldn’t want such a sweet kid. Furling my eyebrows this was definitely a delicate situation. I could see the anger inside of Al already beginning to rise up because it sounded like private information was being circulated by Family Services. Holding up my hand I shook my head apologetically.
“Listen Al, I’m really sorry it’s just, remember how I was saying my boys have become really good friends with a kid from across the street, well it just happens to be your grandson. I was only concerned is all because he seems to be in a bit of trouble…,” I began when Al suddenly stood up his face completely red shaking his head.
“I knew it as soon as the social workers told me about the boy. I knew he’d be nothing but trouble just like his mother and when they told me he was gay there was no way I’d put my wife through a mess this would create. My daughter’s irresponsibility has a way of destroying people’s lives including ours and I wasn’t about to go through that again; especially, not with a kid who is gay.” He told me forcefully his body shaking as he paused to catch his breath.
“If you love your boys you will see to your own affairs and protect them. I don’t know how you got mixed up in all of this, but I surely am not going to stand around and listen to any more. So if you’ll excuse me.” He stated heatedly before turning and abruptly leaving, slamming the door behind him while I sat there in stunned disbelief.
Sitting there I felt sick to my stomach because I had screwed things up royally now and hadn’t handled it well at all. I hadn’t known Allen was gay, but thinking on it now I realized it didn’t surprise me in the least. It didn’t bother me if he was, but it did remind me of how close he had become to Tim as of late. I wasn’t sure if it was just simple friendship or something more as I frowned. I’ve always known Tim might be gay too, but it now sank in to the real possibility. To my surprise I wasn’t even bothered by it, or even the idea that maybe Allen and my son might be more than simple friends.
This was a lot to digest and glancing at my watch I winced because I needed to get to work here in a couple of minutes. I was feeling awful though at how things went with Al and needed to talk to my wife so picked up the phone and dialed her number. The store had a great staff and I knew they could handle themselves for a bit even with the crunch of Christmas looming over our heads.
The rest of the day I was a bit out of sorts, but managed to muddle my way through. I had told Maria what happened and like me she wasn’t concerned at all about Allen being gay. I asked her to call up Maddie to let her know how I had screwed up royally and during a five minute break I had called back with my wife informing me Maddie wasn’t upset saying sometimes things just do not go well in regards to these situations.
It was late by the time I got home, which wasn’t unusual for this time of year. I always missed the boys during the holidays and tonight I was feeling the weight on my shoulders. I needed them close to me so quietly as not to wake anyone I crept into Chase’s room first walking over to his bed and smiled. It was warm in the house since I had just lowered the temperature and as always his blanket was tossed off to the side.
As I gazed down at him I had to admire the handsome young teenager he had become. No wonder girls flirted with him all the time. Smiling, I covered up his half naked body chuckling to myself because he had his hand shoved down the front of his underwear with his fingers wrapped around his thick erection. It never ceased to amaze me just how thick he was down there as I let the blanket settle over him before kissing his cheek.
Walking through the bathroom I entered the two youngest boys’ room tucking them in as well. Sometimes I’d find them curled up together in the same bed and I thought it was kind of sweet. Now though I began to wonder if maybe other things were going on between the two boys, but then shrugged the thought away. I’m sure they’ve sort of messed around together, but sometimes boys did those types of things. I could see how much the two of them loved one another, but it was more like the way Tim and Chase cared about each other.
At the moment I was more concerned about the relationship my middle boy had with Allen. My worry wasn’t so much about the whole gay thing, but more in regards to how his relationship with the twelve year old boy from across the street was going to affect him if they were forced to be separated. It worried me how Allen leaving would affect all three of my boys, not to mention me and my wife. Anymore he was one of our own and it would break our hearts if he was forced to leave.
Kissing my boys on the cheek I left their room and slipped into my own bed. Maria sensed my presence and woke up snuggling closer. Even though it was late we ended up talking trying to sort out through some of our worries because we needed to start preparing for the inevitable.
The following day at work it didn’t surprise me any that Al had called in sick for the day. He rarely ever missed a day at work and even the people in his department felt somber about it and worried passing around a get well card. It was late morning and it had finally made it to my desk as I sat there reading it over wondering if I should sign it. It was busy in the store, but there was still paperwork and other office work needing some attention so during break times I tended to come up here sorting through it so nothing would be left for after the holidays. Sighing, I penned my name wishing Al well. Sliding it back in the envelope I set it aside getting ready to knuckle down again as I opened up some folders looking through some numbers when there was a light tapping on my door.
It kind of surprised me because I was alone up here in the office area with everyone having gone for their lunch break. “Yes…come in.” I stated finishing up reading the last of the numbers and adding them to the computations before looking up.
“Oh…oh sorry, please come in.” I repeated standing up and motioning Josephine Beaumont to the chair by my desk. “I…I wasn’t expecting you. Um…how is Al?” I asked reaching for the card and adding, “Uh…everyone signed a get well card for him.” I explained handing it over as she took it graciously from me.
“Oh…thank you so much for this.” She replied softly.
“So…um…what brings you down here?” I asked a bit nervously because this was kind of strange and thinking maybe her husband might have quit or something sending her over instead of coming himself.
She smiled sweetly at me and then sighed. “The boy, Al tells me he is in some sort of trouble. Tell me.” She stated matter-of-facty catching me off guard for a second while she looked at me sternly.
Taking a seat myself I wasn’t sure what she was thinking, but figured I might as well tell her about Allen’s situation. I told her how my boys and Allen became friends and about his foster parents explaining they were very nice people. I finally told her about the strange situation with the court order and how the Judge ordered him to be removed on Christmas day to one of those foster care facilities which houses several kids in a sort of dorm type of situation. Not once did she interrupt me, but I saw the pinched look on her features, not pleased with some of the information I provided her.
At one point the secretary had stuck her head inside, but she was a very astute woman and simply nodded her head indicating she would keep anyone from interrupting us. Several minutes later, I sat there quietly having conveyed everything I knew at the moment about her grandson’s situation while she watched me intently for a moment or two before speaking up.
“So, your boys, they are friends with Allen?” She asked while I nodded.
“Very much so, the closest. Allen sort of falls in-between age wise to all of them so it’s amazing how he’s fit in with them all. Chase is a couple of years older so like an older brother with Allen while Tim is the closest in age so they are like very tight friends, and Micah, well, Micah is Micah and with him he just loves everyone and they love him.” I chuckled seeing Mrs. Beaumont smiling slightly nodding her head since she knew my boys except for Micah.
“And the boy, you don’t mind he’s gay…or you didn’t know?” She asked while I looked at her furling my eyebrows trying to read her, but shaking my head.
“No, I didn’t know, not until your husband mentioned it. Allen never said anything and I didn’t have any reason to suspect.” I replied.
“And now…,” she paused leaning forward. “Now that you know it doesn’t bother you or your wife? Are you afraid for your boys?” She asked pointedly.
I was taken aback by her comment, but I pursed my lips and shook my head. “Why should it? He’s still the same Allen as before. No, my wife and I don’t care if he’s friends with our kids. That’d be like asking if it bothers me that a girl is a friend with my boys. Just because he’s gay doesn’t make him any different from before.” I told her a bit gruffly seeing her smirk and lean back.
“So, the boy, what’s he like?” She asked once more making my head spin.
It was as if she was manipulating me around like a marionette doll and she was a pro at it. I felt myself being tugged one way or another as I now took a moment to pause and leaned forward smirking at her. Shaking my head I began to chuckle seeing her loosening up as well. Now that I knew what she was doing I steered things back into a more normal conversation.
“So, tell me why are you really here?” I asked seeing her look down at the card she held in her hand before looking back up and smiling softly at me.
“The boy, what’s he like?” She asked again while I smiled and nodded my head letting things go wherever they led.
“He’s a really sweet kid who is willing to stand up for what is right even if it isn’t popular. He proved that the very first day at his new school. He didn’t know anyone and had made some new friends who turned out to be jerks. When they started to pick on Micah, he stood up for my son even though he was new and didn’t know anyone else. That took a lot of guts, but he knew it was the right thing to do and didn’t hesitate. I think your daughter did a bang up job in raising the boy and I think you and your husband did as well with her. I know there was a big problem between your daughter and the two of you, but when it counted the most she knew the right thing to do. That could only come from parents who had loved and taught her right from wrong. Sometimes kids lose their way, but when all is said and done, who they are inside because of their upbringing will always win out in the end.” I smiled tenderly seeing her eyes begin to well up.
“Thank you for that Harry.” She sighed reaching over and placing her hand on my arm as she continued. “What I really want is the boy, my grandson.” She added, once again catching me off guard because just like that things suddenly changed with possibilities opening up.
“But…,” I began my eyes opening wide in surprise. “Your husband…Allen being gay,” I managed to get out.
“Bah…what does that matter?” She waved her hand casually at me. “My older sister is gay and been living with her partner in New York these past fifty years now.” She chuckled, her eyes glinting playfully.
“Listen Harry, yes my husband is a bit conservative, but he’s a good man and will do the right thing. You have to understand we were raised out in the country and the times were different, but my husband isn’t stupid and knows about gays being out there and everything. It isn’t as if over the years we haven’t had friends who were gay, but it just was sort of tolerated or ignored. It doesn’t mean he never cared. This isn’t about Allen being gay, this is about taking the chance of being hurt. Just leave him to me.” She smiled warmly noticing me glancing at my watch.
“Oh my…I’m so sorry, I forgot just how busy you are at this time of year and here I am taking up all of your time.” She apologized.
“What…no that’s not…,” I paused and smiled getting a bit mischievous myself. “Would you like to meet him, your grandson?”
“What…now?” She asked a bit stunned. “But how?” She wondered.
“My wife, she’s bringing the boys over for some Christmas shopping and also because Micah is dying to see the train set-up again. Last year it kept him occupied and he loved it. He’s been talking it up, and now Allen is dying to see it too. They should be downstairs right about now and it will be a bit before they actually get to any shopping. Besides both Tim and Micah want to visit with Santa.” I chuckled seeing her light up and then get a little more cautious. “Don’t worry, I won’t say anything about who you are and I’ll text Maria giving her heads up so she won’t let it slip either.” I promised digging out my phone and sending off a quick text as we made our way downstairs.
The train scene was such a big success last year we decided to expand on it and make an entire theme incorporating the train landscape. We had to shuffle several things around like the shoe department and a few others to make room for everything, but it worked out nicely. We brought in large nutcrackers and toy soldiers along with a play area for the kids to enjoy where we had slides, fake snow forts to climb on and crawl through, and even a train ride for them. Santa’s booth was also nearby so everything was conveniently located in one area. The adults and kids alike could enjoy the intricate train landscape along with the kids being able to play a bit. It was all fun and games where both kids and adults could find something to enjoy for a bit.
Entering the main lobby area I could already see the boys making their way around the large automated train landscape as various scale sized trains chugged along through the mountains, villages, lakes, and woods. It was a very nice set-up with everything working like clockwork as some trains came to a stop while others passed switching over to a different track before letting the other one go on its way again. It was fun watching people’s faces light up as they watched it all unfold in front of them and from various different vantage points while they made their way around it.
As we approached Allen spotted me first and came running over giving me a big hug and accidentally bumping into Josephine, one of her bags dropping to the floor. The boy immediately pulled away and bent over picking it up for her.
“Um…sorry about that maam. I didn’t mean to be so rude and bump into you like that. Sorry.” He apologized handing the bag to her and once more giving me a big hug.
“Mr. M., this is like so wickedly cool. I love your store and it is way better than going to the mall I think.” He stated sincerely giving me the biggest bear hug while I chuckled and squeezed him back.
Hanging around my boys sure has affected him in a lot of ways. He was no longer shy about sharing his love towards others he cared about and was a lot more outgoing these days. The boy always had a great personality and in many ways still a little on the shy side with strangers, but a lot more outgoing than he used to be as he stepped back and I ruffled his hair affectionately.
“I really appreciate you guys taking the time to bring me shopping. Aunt Kate and Uncle Nate only have the one car so it was nice of Mrs. M. to take us with her. I know she’s really busy right now with all of the charity work and everything, but Christmas is coming up and I still need to get some gifts. I know Aunt Kate was fretting some too, but this is the perfect place to get everything done.” He laughed happily with Micah noticing us standing there and immediately running up and leaping into my arms.
The boy’s arms were spread apart as he sailed through the air no doubt whatsoever that I’d snatch him up. I reached out and grabbed him in mid-flight twirling him around with people watching us and smiling at the happy scene. Micah reached out to me indicating he wanted a hug and I obliged pulling him into my body while the boy promptly planted several kisses all over my face making me chuckle as I gave him a few of my own.
“Now if that isn’t the best gift ever.” I chuckled setting him back down and smiling as he automatically placed his hand inside of Allen’s while Josephine looked on her whole face all lit up and taking mental notes with her eyes fixated on Allen the entire time.
It didn’t take long for both Chase and Tim to wander over, immediately giving me a big squishy and kiss followed by my wife and Mrs. Jefferson working their way over as well. I introduced everyone to Josephine and I could tell Mrs. Jefferson knew who she was, but thankfully didn’t say anything. To my relief Mrs. Jefferson actually seemed pleased with her gazing at me appraisingly and indicating we’d talk about it later.
Josephine gave both Chase and Tim a big hug exclaiming at how much they’ve grown since they’ve last seen each other and then turned her attention to Micah and smiled broadly. “Oh my, isn’t he the sweetest little angel with that beautiful long blond hair.” She gasped reaching out and stroking it affectionately. “Well, I suppose you would be considering you are this store’s little angel. I have it on good authority Santa dropped you off last year as a present to a very deserving family.” She smiled softly with Micah giggling and nodding his head stepping up and without any hesitation gave her a big hug since his older brothers had done the same thing.
It was a nice gesture from the smaller boy and I could tell it touched her as he stepped back. “Yup, the bestest family ever.” He sniggered stepping back over towards Allen and wrapping his arm around the boy’s waist while the sandy haired boy draped his casually over the blond boy’s shoulders.
“So, are you enjoying school and making friends?” She asked casually seeing Micah nod vigorously.
“Yeah, it’s pretty cool. I’ve made a lot of friends, but there are a few who are kind of jerks picking on me, but my brothers and Allen gave them the what for so it isn’t a problem anymore.” He told her sincerely as she raised her eyebrows appraisingly turning her attention towards Allen her eyes immediately lighting up again.
“I see,” she commented casually. “So I hear you came to Micah’s rescue not all that long ago.” She added smiling fondly at the boy who blushed and shrugged his shoulders.
“Yeah, I guess. I mean older boys were picking on him and I didn’t think it was fair. No biggie really.” He admitted getting a little shy about it and squirming because he didn’t like to talk about it or brag.
Nodding her head, Josephine noticed and switched the topic as she reached out casually brushing her fingers through Allen’s hair which he didn’t seem to mind already used to us doing the same thing. “I see like Micah you prefer to wear your hair long.” She commented.
“Yeah, mom always liked it that way. She said it emphasized my face and eyes.” He shrugged casually his face shifting a little at the mention of his mother before suddenly perking up. “Hey, I just realized something. Do people call you Josie? That was my mom’s name and for some reason I seemed to recall her saying it was sort of short for Josephine.” He wondered out loud with Mrs. Beaumont smiling and shaking her head.
“No, not in many years, not since I was a little girl.” She chuckled rubbing his hair affectionately. “And you, how’s school going for you? I hear you are new to the neighborhood.” She asked curiously while Allen shrugged.
“It’s pretty cool actually. I’ve made some friends and it’s a nice neighborhood.” He added.
“Yes, it is a nice neighborhood and the schools are top notch.” Josephine added while Allen squirreled his eyes questioningly.
“Really, how do you know?” He wondered as Josephine laughed lightheartedly, the sound light and airy filled with vigor and strength.
“Oh my, well I have to admit it’s been a few years, but my daughter used to go to the same school and graduated from high school there. I substitute every once in a while at the High School.” She admitted with the boys nodding their heads at the explanation.
“Oh, cool.” Allen smiled, the two of them seeming to hit it off.
It was just the typical casual type of quick courtesy conversation and Josephine could tell the boys were getting a bit antsy. “Well, it was very nice to meet you two…,” she gave Micah and Allen a quick hug, the one with the twelve year old boy lingering a tad longer before turning towards Tim and Chase, “and I’m so glad to have seen you two again after so long.” She added with Tim smiling and then looking over towards me and my wife.
“Can we get a picture with Santa?” He begged while I chuckled because I would think he was getting too old for that kind of stuff.
Smiling I ruffled his hair. “Sure if you want.” I told him, Micah piping up now.
“Yeah, but Chase doesn’t want to.” He pointed out pouting a little while Chase rolled his eyes shaking his head.
It seemed as if Allen looked kind of bummed about it because he immediately stepped over to the older boy and to our shock gave him a big hug. “Please Chase, I want to take a picture with all of us together. I know you guys will get one together with Santa, but you guys are like family and I want a picture taken with you guys. It’s important you know. I don’t have hardly any pictures of mom and I understand why it is important to Micah because he doesn’t have any of his mother anymore. It’s important you know.” He pleaded as Chase suddenly grabbed on to Allen and reached out for Micah as well with Tim joining in.
“Oh gawd guys, I…I’m…sorry. Of course I’ll get in a picture with you guys.” He smiled as he steered them over towards the booth looking over his shoulder at us. “Um…well be over in line for Santa.” He chuckled as they all slowly made their way over to the booth pointing towards different things along the way.
With the boys occupied I motioned for the others to join me over at the coffee stand. “Come on let’s chat quickly while the boys are occupied and then I need to get back to work for real. I’ve heard my name being called over the intercom three times already.” I chuckled waving off their concerns assuring them that the staff was perfectly capable of covering for me a while longer if I was tied up.
Before we knew it Wednesday, the twenty third of December had arrived with the boys officially out of school for winter break until Monday, the fourth of January. Our trip up to Blue Knob Resort was scheduled for Saturday, the twenty sixth of December through Sunday, the third of January. The boys were all excited about Christmas and our upcoming trip, but my wife and I were a bit anxious because we haven’t heard anything in regards to the situation with Allen. Maria had let the boys play together outside with them taking time off from earning money by doing yard work and clearing off people’s driveways and walkways when it snowed. There wasn’t a lot of snow this year, but with the winds and the rain the boys had still managed to make good money this year by going around and offering to clean up the mess created by some of the storms.
It was interesting to watch how the younger boys had noticed Chase going out and doing some work only to return with cash in his pocket. Once they realized it was a good way to earn some money for Christmas they all pitched in and joined together splitting the profits. They were hard workers and word soon got out with people calling and asking for help, the boys making the time to earn some good pocket money. I was proud of the boys, but now with Allen back at home while we sat around the dinner table finishing off some spaghetti and garlic bread my wife and I sat quietly as the boys chatted away.
It had surprised the boys when I showed up for dinner because I never was home at this time of year, but I had asked some of the staff members at the store to fill in for a few hours because I had something important to do at home. I knew I’d have to make it up later on when I got back figuring I should at least get enough of the paperwork done once the store closed for the evening. It would be an extremely late night for me, but this had to be done and thankfully I had fantastic people at the store that could fill in. To my surprise, the store manager showed up from his time off saying he had no problems helping out for a few hours. It was really nice of him to come in during his vacation time, but he reminded me how I had done the same when he had to take time off when one of his kids got in an accident and needed surgery. We were family at the store and a few hours wouldn’t do any harm.
As usual the dinner table was cleared off with everyone pitching in and the boys starting to head upstairs when we gathered them around. We knew over at the Jefferson’s house the same thing was happening. We all had hoped for the best for as long as possible, but we simply couldn’t hold off this discussion any longer. This was made harder because we had mixed news for the boys. Sighing, I sat the boys down and gave them all a soft smile with them sensing we had something serious to discuss.
Turning to Micah I informed him that the adoption had finally been approved and that Judge Bennett was wondering if we could all come down tomorrow night at the police station in Altoona where it had all began. She as always would be visiting with the officers there and wanted to hold a quick court session to make it official. She had made the appropriate arrangements so that the proceedings would be official. Even though it was Christmas Eve there was always a Judge on call for emergencies and she had volunteered this year in part because of Micah.
The news was a happy occasion with the boys jumping around excitedly and we let them enjoy the moment for several minutes before calming them down and informing them we also had some sad news. This grabbed their attention with Tim at first thinking maybe our trip had been cancelled. I only wished that had been the case and by his crushed look after I told him the news about Allen I knew he had wished it as well.
No sooner had I finished than he bolted for the door wearing nothing but his pajamas. I ran after him as he opened up the door to run across the way to Allen’s house, but stopped short because standing there dripping wet was the twelve year old boy his body wracked with sobs. He looked like how he felt and my heart broke as the two boys immediately embraced collapsing in a heap right in the doorway. They were both crying with Micah and Chase immediately joining in.
It was an awful sight with the Jeffersons also making their way over having taken the time to put on jackets. Somehow we managed to separate the boys long enough to get them inside where it was warm. Well, that is to say we managed to get Micah and Chase to pull away, but Tim and Allen refused to let go as they kept balling while I scooped them both up in my arms carrying them upstairs. Making a quick decision, I carried them into Chase’s room and set them down on his larger bed.
The two boys looked a sight to be sure as they held on trying to comfort each other. I knew it was going to be a long night so I covered them up hoping Allen wouldn’t get sick since he was soaked to the bone just from the short jaunt from his house over to ours. When I went back downstairs it was a very somber sight with everyone huddled around close in the living room. Micah was sitting between the Jeffersons on the couch being cuddled by both of them as he sniffled while Chase was sitting with mom looking like death warmed over, a very pale shocked expression on his features. He may be the oldest, but he was still only fifteen years old so this was hitting him pretty hard.
As I started to make my way towards them my phone rang and I answered it. To my surprise it was Maddie and she asked if I knew where the Jeffersons were since she was trying to get a hold of them. I told her we had just told the kids about Allen having to leave on Christmas and she had sighed on the other end feeling really bad about the entire situation, but needed to talk to the Jeffersons. I handed the phone over to them and sat patiently with Chase and my wife while they chatted.
When Mr. Jefferson hung up the phone he sat there for a few seconds his face all furrowed in thought. We didn’t dare ask him what it was about until he was ready. Slowly he realized we were all waiting and he told us that Maddie wanted them to join us at the court hearing tomorrow night after Tim’s church choir. Evidently the Judge wanted to talk to them about their foster care status. The Jeffersons stated they had planned on coming anyway for Micah’s important moment since Allen had insisted.
“Did she say anything about Allen?” I asked wondering if maybe this could be good news as they shook their head.
“No, nothing at all about him or his status, only the issue over our legal status regarding fostering. Evidently, there has been some sort of complaint filed and Maddie had asked Judge Bennett for a favor in trying to get it cleared up so we wouldn’t have to rely on the Judge that was handling Allen’s case. She sounded really nervous about letting the other Judge handling Allen’s case make a ruling on us and I’m a bit frightened about it now.” He admitted with his wife patting his hand and shrugging her shoulders.
“Well, I’m not. What’s the worse that can happen now, them take away our licensing. After all, without Allen who cares? The damage is done.”
We chatted for another couple of minutes with me asking Chase if it would be alright for Tim and Allen to stay in his room for the night. I didn’t think they would be up for long and if I had to guess they were probably already asleep. My eldest only smiled and shrugged his shoulders saying he’d crash on Tim’s bed. The Jefferson’s also didn’t object knowing I was probably right about the two boys being already asleep. Tomorrow was going to be a long day for my wife and kids. I had to work so would miss the Christmas Eve Concert like I always do, but would meet them, along with the Jeffersons and Allen, at the police station after I got done with work.
The following day was hectic as usual for me and I was completely bushed by the time we finally closed down the store. I had only gotten a few hours of sleep staying up long after the store closed the previous night since I had taken a few hours off. I wanted to get as much done as possible so the manager wouldn’t have to worry about it when he came back to work after Christmas. He had done me a solid by coming in from his vacation to fill in for a few hours, so I wanted to show him my appreciation. I knew he wouldn’t have wanted me to do that, but he was a nice guy so I didn’t mind.
Locking up the store I was one tired man by the time I made it to the police station. There were a lot of sad faces there in a time which should have been a happy one, but under the circumstances I understood. Even Sergeant Bill noticed wondering what the deal was with all the long faces. Micah had given him a big hug and one to the young officer who had tried to help last time trying to put on a good face, but it was obvious there was something up. While we waited for Maddie and Judge Bennett I quickly filled him in on the situation and he literally cursed saying he knew the Judge in question. The guy was an old curmudgeon that should have retired years ago, but simply didn’t want to go away. He was a real piece of work at times once he got a burr up his ass.
Just then the door to the back room opened up and I could hear the laughter and carrying on from the Christmas party Judge Bennett always threw for the Officers on duty on Christmas Eve. She looked elegant as always and Maddie was with her looking all gussied up as well, her husband in tow. Tagging along was another younger lady maybe in her mid-twenties that I didn’t recognize. They made their way over in a happy mood, but I was afraid they were heading over towards a group of people with the Christmas Blues. We should have been a happy bunch, but the seriousness of what was to become of Allen tomorrow weighed heavily on us. I could see the boy sitting off to the side wrapped up in Tim’s arms. All the boys had gotten dressed up in slacks and nice shirts for Church and Tim’s performance in addition for the adoption proceedings looking so very handsome, but all of them had very serious and somber faces.
As Judge Bennett approached our little blonde imp saw her and immediately ran up wrapping his arms around her in a big hug. To my surprise she bent down to one knee and returned the boy’s warm embrace affectionately.
“My…my, now isn’t this a different reception since the last time we met.” She chuckled cordially while Micah unwrapped himself from her and blushed slightly.
He was happy, but sad too and she seemed to notice. “Oh my, such long faces tonight when there should be so much happiness.” She sighed standing back up and straightening out her gown becoming all business like. “Come-come, let’s go get things done. I believe we’ve been set up in the briefing room, is that correct Sergeant Bill?” She asked getting a nod from the man as she quickly made her way over to another part of the building with everyone hustling along.
The briefing room was rather large and it sometimes doubled as a court room for such occasions as tonight. There were some chairs set up with some tables up front facing another large wooden desk on a podium. Judge Bennett made her way to the big desk grabbing up the black robe draped across the plush chair and put it on taking a seat. Off to the side there was a lady already seated at some little machine which I gathered took notes of the court proceedings. Without any ceremony Judge Bennett raised her gavel and called the court to order.
Grabbing one of the files sitting on her desk she started opened it and efficiently made her way through it asking some quick questions and pointing out some legal issues making sure everyone understood what was about to happen. Our family’s been waiting for this moment for a long time and knew exactly what we wanted and before we knew it everything was official with Judge Bennett congratulating Micah as the newest member of the Miner family. We all embraced and hugged one another with the Jeffersons and even Allen joining in smiling from ear to ear truly happy for the little blond guy and the rest of us. The Judge sat back and smiled happily allowing us to enjoy the moment for a few minutes before rapping her gavel and calling the court back to order.
“Now, it appears as if we have an emergency session here.” She sighed motioning for the Jeffersons to step forward with Allen. “This is highly unusual, but evidently there has been a new development regarding a boy, one known as Allen Beaumont, that’s come to the court’s attention. Is that you young man?” She questioned looking up from the paperwork on her desk and gazing at the twelve year old boy.
The sandy haired boy blushed and looked down, but nodded his head. “Speak up young man and never look down. No matter what, always show respect and character. From what I’ve been reading I can tell you are a fine upstanding young man and you should always be proud of who you are no matter what obstacles you are facing…yes.” She pointed out with Allen immediately sitting up prouder and looking directly at the Judge as he responded back.
“Yes Maam.” He replied with Judge Bennett smiling back softly letting him know she was here to try sorting things out not make them worse.
“That is much better, Mr. Beaumont, and in court when addressing a Judge it is protocol to refer to us as ‘Your Honor,’ but if you forget, manners such as what you displayed always goes a long way.” She continued to smile while Allen nodded his head and returned her smile starting to feel better but still nervous.
Just then the door in the back opened up with a frumpled looking elderly man hobbling into the court room interrupting the proceedings. “Judge Anderson is that you?” Judge Bennett inquired with the other man harrumphing.
“Yes…yes…and this is highly irregular. How dare you hijack my case. This is uncalled for.” He snapped at Judge Bennett who glared back at the man for being so rude, but remained calm as she looked down at her paperwork and casually waved at him to take a seat, which I saw was a backhanded type of slight in response to his outburst.
The elderly man seemed to notice as well so remained standing and started to say something when the same hand pointed indicating she wanted a minute and for him to remain silent. Another slight which did not go unnoticed as he harrumphed. Judge Bennett heard and with her head still bent forward lifted her eyes and glared at the elderly man. This now had become a war of wills and the old man may have the years of experience on him, but Judge Bennett was street wise with an iron spine that got her where she was today.
“I will remind you Mr. Anderson that this is ‘My’ courtroom and not yours. You will respect me or I ‘Will’ find you in contempt and you can spend Christmas in a cell.” She pointed out with another slight not going unnoticed when she referred to him by only his surname and not his title.
When the old man started to protest, she held up her finger in warning, the man immediately snapping his mouth shut for a second or two because he was about to yell at her for the insolence. The two of them stared at one another, the contempt obvious in the elderly man while Judge Bennett’s face remained neutral. Finally Judge Anderson seemed to give in a little as he changed tactics to plead his case.
“Yes, my apologies, but this is highly irregular and it is only common courtesy to at least notify the sitting Judge on the case. This flies in the face of all decent protocol and this is what happens when young inexperienced people do not respect their betters.” He added a dig glancing over to the young lady that had accompanied Maddie earlier while I noticed Judge Bennett raising an eyebrow at the comment.
“I see, but I will remind you Mr. Anderson that in ‘My’ courtroom I would prefer you not demean people in such a manner. After all just because we are judges does not make us omniscient or anyone’s ‘betters’ as you refer to yourself. We are all human and prone to mistakes and we do not live in a caste society that has so called ‘betters’ so you will be respectful if you want the same returned in kind.” She pointed out briskly immediately turning her attention towards Maddie effectively giving the other man the brush off.
This was starting to become intense and actually a bit frightening. We had a tenured Judge sitting in the court room now trying to assert his authority over the matter at hand and I had a bad feeling about him. The man left a foul taste in my mouth and for whatever reason definitely had an axe to grind, but Judge Bennett didn’t seem perplexed by him as if she was holding back critical information that she knew left her with the upper hand. I only hoped this wouldn’t get out of hand, but so far Judge Bennett was managing to keep the seasoned Judge in check.
“Maddie, explain please. What happened and why wasn’t Judge Anderson notified.” She asked once more giving the man his title which seemed to make him feel a bit more at ease that he was being recognized.
It was a fine balance Judge Bennett was playing at and sitting off to the side I could see it was a game of tactics for her. The older Judge didn’t even seem to recognize he had been ensnared by her and she was now playing with him like a marionette doll and pulling all the strings.
“Yes your honor and we do apologize for any inconvenience of the court’s time, but critical information came to light at the last moment last night before everything shut down for the holidays. It was vital information and important enough that I immediately took over the responsibility of young Mr. Allen Beaumont’s case. We just managed to get all the paperwork notarized before the offices closed down and we tried to contact Judge Anderson, but he had already left for the day. We tried numerous times to call him at home to no avail. I even called up to ten p.m. last night to no avail on my own personal time. I even called his aids and they informed me they had no way of contacting him because he was officially on vacation and had left explicit instructions not to call. I told them of the importance and insisted myself they get a hold of him. I even tried earlier today, but without Judge Anderson’s aids giving me any other numbers I wasn’t able to contact him. I even had the paperwork forwarded to his home.” Maddie explained getting an exasperated snort from Judge Anderson.
This got Judge Bennett’s attention and she finally snapped at the man. “Mr. Anderson this is your final warning.” She barked angrily causing the man to take a step back. “You snorting, grunting, and lashing out at people in my courtroom like some animal trying to insinuate its dominance will not be tolerated. It is obvious people have worked very hard to be respectful of your sensibilities, but it is you who have dropped the ball, not them. They were doing their jobs while you slithered away and were irresponsible enough not to trust your own aids with contacting you in case of an emergency. My court will proceed now and you will sit your ass down and not say another word or so help me I will have you behind bars so fast your head will spin in one direction and your ass in another one. Things have come to light and I will be the one dispensing decisions here tonight because as you point out protocol is important and I’m the one charged by the State of Pennsylvania to do just that on this evening.” She turned red glaring at the elderly man pointing to a chair and looking like she meant business.
If there had been any doubt before who was in charge all of it had now been dispelled as she motioned for the bailiff who immediately stepped towards Judge Anderson. The man had turned completely white and his whole body was shaking. It wasn’t out of anger, but rather fear at the moment, having been taken completely off guard. The movement from the bailiff got his attention and he automatically took a seat.
“For Pete’s sake people, this is supposed to be a happy night and by god so help me when this is over with I will have either everyone smiling or locked up and be done with it. Now let’s get down to business because I have a party to host and I’m starting to get a tad upset.” She snapped at everyone before taking a deep breathe and holding up her hands apologetically her gaze settling on Allen who immediately sat up straighter and with a firm gaze looked back at her.
The gesture made her smile. “My apologies young Mr. Beaumont, and thank you for your patience and respect in this matter. It is a reminder to all of us to be a bit more civil in such important matters.” She smiled warmly at the boy now focusing her attention on Maddie who stood up nodding to the Judge.
“So Maddie please fill us in with what has brought us all here tonight. I’ve read the brief, but would like to have your input in the matter, but try to keep it short. I’m afraid my patience is a bit frayed this evening.
“Yes your honor, in a nutshell so to speak, young Mr. Beaumont was placed in the care of the Jefferson’s, who were licensed foster care providers. Recently it’s come to our attention that this status was being revoked and Mr. Beaumont was to be removed on Christmas day to the boy’s facility in Altoona until he could be placed. We were ready to comply with the order when a relative came in saying they were willing to take in said Allen Beaumont. Well of course in light of the situation regarding Allen’s removal this changed things into a more emergency situation. It’s why we tried to contact Judge Anderson, even though it was at the last moment, to see if we could get him to revoke his order and adjust it so there wouldn’t be any hardships” She explained while Judge Bennett looked down at the paperwork on her desk.
“So first things first. I see it was Judge Anderson who signed the order for Allen’s removal. Do we know why the Jefferson’s license was being revoked?” She asked with Maddie sighing and glancing over towards Judge Anderson.
“Um, maybe you should direct that question to Judge Anderson since he’s the one who signed the order.” Judge Bennett looked up and nodded her head.
“Well?” She snapped directing her attention to Judge Anderson making the man jump as he stood up not used to being addressed in this manner.
“I…um…you see…,” he began to stutter.
“Speak up already, you had to have a good reason for revoking their status so out with it.” She snapped keeping a tight leash on the man now making sure to keep control of the situation.
“It’s all in the paperwork ‘your honor,’ but they are simply too infirm if you must know.” He dripped sarcastically, Judge Bennett raising her eyebrows as the old man sat down smugly.
“Yes, I see, but I just wanted to hear from you in case you wanted to amend your assessment or make clarifications.” She stated sardonically turning her attention now to the Jefferson’s.
“Mr. and Mrs. Jefferson I presume?” She asked with the couple standing up and nodding their head while Judge Bennett sized them up before turning her attention to Maddie.
“Your thoughts?” She asked simply, Maddie knowing exactly what Judge Bennett wanted to know.
“I don’t really know how to respond your honor. I mean, according to their health records both of the Jeffersons are perfectly fine. Mr. Jefferson still works full time and Mrs. Jefferson part time so she can be home to take care of Allen. They lead normal lives and they aren’t mentally incapacitated in any way. All indications point they are the opposite of infirm as Judge Anderson points out, begging the question of whose judgment is truly impaired.” Maddie added at the end while Judge Anderson bristled.
“How dare you…,” he began when Judge Bennett interjected.
“No Mr. Anderson, how dare you make such a judgment when even the records in your own file points to what Maddie has stated. It is obvious you didn’t base your judgment on facts, but rather something else; so if not from the facts as provided, then what was your decision based on. If you know something of importance and there is a proper reasoning for the decision you made perhaps you should let us know.” Judge Bennett gave the other Judge a chance to defend his position with the man simply ignoring her.
“I see,” Judge Bennett frowned and shook her head. “With the evidence in front of me I revoke Judge Anderson’s order and reinstate the Jefferson’s as licensed foster care parents. This in effect also revokes Judge Anderson’s order to remove Mr. Allen Beaumont from their care.” She pounded the gavel with Judge Anderson standing up furious about the decision.
“You have no right.” He shouted with Judge Bennett standing up and pointing her finger at him.
“Sit your ass down right now and I’ve got every authority in this matter. As a matter of fact I will be turning over these proceedings and all the paperwork to the ethics committee. So sit down and keep your trap shut, I’ve got more business to conduct and maybe if you sit and watch you might learn how justice is truly doled out properly and fairly.” She snapped her hawkish gaze brooking no more nonsense as she pounded her gavel loudly and snapped at the entire courtroom. “Now sit…everyone.” She barked forcefully with everyone who was standing immediately taking a seat.
“This is outrageous behavior for a bunch of grown adults in a courtroom setting. We can all take lessons from the kids sitting here showing proper respect while having to listen to a bunch of adults bickering like we were three years old. Bailiff where is my Tylenol? These idiots have given me a proper headache, on Christmas Eve no less.” She wondered with the man stepping forward and digging into his shirt pocket producing a couple of sealed packets with ‘Tylenol’ written over them as if he’s been asked this before.
Judge Bennett sighed and smiled at the man. “What would I do without you my good friend. You always have some handy when I need it.” She chuckled shaking her head and gazing at Allen who seemed to look a little confused by everything but obviously happy about the outcome with the Jefferson’s and not being hauled away.
Sighing the Judge smiled tenderly at the boy. “Once again my apologies young Mr. Beaumont, but as you’ve heard we still have some unresolved issues concerning you. Bailiff, now that you have saved me from a splitting headache yet again, would you mind bringing in our other guests please while Allen and I step into the other room for a bit of a chat.” She asked while the bailiff smiled and nodded his head. “Oh, and if I haven’t said it, thanks for coming in on a holiday. It is truly appreciated and I will make it up to you and your wife. Be sure to let her know I apologize for dragging you away like this.” She offered up with the man as always smiling and nodding his head appreciatively that she’d show him such respect.
“Thank you your honor and I will surely let her know.” He replied going to the back of the room and stepping out for a moment while Allen got up and followed Judge Bennett into another room with the door shutting behind them.
Micah was sitting next to me and leaned closer looking a little shook up. “This is like way scary.” He spoke softly, a concerned look on his face as I looked down and draped my arm over his shoulder noticing Tim and Chase nodding and concurring.
Sighing, I tried to smile and put on a good face for them because truth be told what had gone on in here truly was a bit frightening. “I know it looks a bit scary, but Judge Bennett is trying to resolve some issues within the boundaries of the law. I’m sure things will work out just fine.” I assured the boys noticing Micah giving Judge Anderson a sideways glance.
“He’s a real meanie and I’m glad he wasn’t my Judge.” He admitted a bit loudly, the other man grimacing kind of menacing towards the little blond guy forcing Micah to scoot closer towards me a little frightened by the other Judge.
“Yes, that he is.” I admitted just as loudly, the other man scowling now as my wife interjected.
“Harry, shush already and behave yourself.” She admonished slightly while I shrugged my shoulders.
“But Micah’s right.” I pointed out, noticing her shooting me a sharp gaze making me roll my eyes as she made a retort.
“Of course he’s right, but it doesn’t mean you have to shout it out for the world to hear.” She batted her eyelashes at me while the boys giggled because it was obvious she had done it intentionally as I began to chuckle as well all five of us huddled together conspiratorially.
The other man didn’t seem amused and simply harrumphed again, once more setting us off on a giggling spree with Chase piping up. “Judge Bennett’s right, he’s acting like a big buffoon trying to assert his dominance just like many animals do out in the wild.” He sniggered getting another fit of laughter from everyone.
This time the old man grumbled and mumbled. “Young generation these days, no respect at all,” as the door in the back opened up and to our surprise Al and Josephine stepped inside.
They walked up towards the front and hesitated while I motioned for the boys to make room. All three of them stood up and scooted out of the row taking the chairs directly behind us so Josephine and Al could take a seat next to us looking a bit nervous. It got quiet for a few moments while they settled into their seats.
My wife reached over and gave Josephine a quick hug setting things at ease while Al turned towards me and sighed. “Listen Harry I’m really sorry about the other day. I know you only had the best of intentions. This has just sort of hit us hard and it took a little bit to get my head back on straight.” He apologized while I shook my head.
“No need to apologize. I would like you to meet the Jefferson’s, Allen’s foster parents.” I introduced him to the others as we all chatted for a few minutes.
It took everything I had not to bust up laughing when Al commented they had been watching the proceedings on the television screen in the other room and it is a good thing because he could have throttle Judge Anderson. This got another glaring stare at us from the old crotchety fellow, but I was getting used to it figuring the man was just mad at the world in general anymore.
After a few minutes the back door opened and both Judge Bennett and Allen stepped back into the room. It looked as if the twelve year old boy had been crying as he made his way back towards us pausing next to the Jeffersons noticing Al and Josephine. He bit his lower lip and then walked over and stopped in front of them.
Hesitating for a moment he spoke up in a soft voice. “I…is it true…are you my grandparents?” He asked while Judge Bennett took her seat and noticing the confrontation motioned for everyone to stay put for now.
It was Josephine who spoke up. “Yes sweetie, we are your grandparents.” She admitted reaching out and brushing the boy’s long hair out of his eyes pleased he didn’t shy away from her.
“But why didn’t you come get me then?” He wondered tears running down his cheeks a little hurt by everything. “I mean the Jeffersons where really good to me…like family…but…but you are family for real. I didn’t even know mom had parents who were still alive. She never told me.” He sniffled wiping away the tears and blushing a little embarrassed now.
Just when Al was going to say something Judge Anderson snorted and stood up shaking his head and holding out his arms in exasperation. “You are gay and they are old.” He snapped at Allen who cringed and looked as if he was about to break down and cry for real now.
It alarmed me and I immediately stood up pulling him into me protectively noticing Al standing up at the same time his face completely red as he shook his finger at the old man. “You just shut that trap of yours moron. You don’t know the first thing from nothin and from what I’ve seen I’m surprised you are still sitting on the bench.” He snapped, Judge Anderson finally having enough as well and barking right back.
“Just who the hell do you think you are…you have no idea who you are talking to.”
“The hell I don’t. You’re the flippin idiot I’m about to knock on his ass to prove what’s what. Old my ass, I’ll clean your clock so fast your head will spin, but not fast enough to catch up to your sorry ass when I kick it from here to kingdom come. I’ll put up with a lot of crap, but that’s my grandson you are being flip about and…and...,” Al huffed catching me by surprise because he was one of the most mellow guys I’ve ever known as he simply rolled up his sleeve and began to step forward with the Judge’s eyes bulging out of his skull and backing up.
“I’m through talking…it’s on.” Al stated matter-of-factly with me starting forward while the bailiff did as well to diffuse the situation when we all suddenly froze in place because what we heard caught all of us by complete surprise.
It was Judge Bennett literally laughing her ass off and pounding her gavel. She tried several times to speak, but she just couldn’t because she was roaring and wiping away the tears from the corners of her eyes with the boys starting to chuckle as well because it was a hilarious sight. Judge Bennett finally managed to get her composure under control and waived everyone to take a seat shaking her head and looking towards Al.
“Mr. Beaumont as much as I’d love to see you take Mr. Anderson to task, and I might add I’d even pay good money to watch, I can’t allow it.” She chuckled seeing the mortified look on the other Judge’s face, but before he could say anything she interjected. “Oh shut up already. You’d have deserved it so just be glad I won’t allow it to happen. I think it is painfully clear just how out of bounds and out of touch you’ve been as of late Judge Anderson, and I think this will be something for the ethics committee to take up with you. It truly is a shame because you’ve had such a distinguished career over the years with your judgments always well thought out and balanced. It’s only been in the last year or so that many of us have noticed a change, but this is for another day. Right now we have other things to address.” She motioned for Allen to continue if he had more questions.
The twelve year old boy hesitated because this was something he would have preferred to do in private, but the old jerk of a Judge had put everything out in the open and he simply had to know so he asked the question. “Is that why you didn’t want me, because I’m gay?” He wondered sniffling and wiping away the tears as Tim stepped next to his friend and wrapped his arm around the boy to give him some moral support.
“What…no of course not,” Al stepped forward pausing for a moment and sighing. “I mean, not really.” He amended slightly. “Listen, maybe at first…I mean, it wasn’t you being gay, but rather me using it as an excuse.” He tried to clarify.
“But if me being gay was just an excuse then why didn’t you want me?” He asked, Josephine putting down her large purse on her seat before standing up and taking his hand in hers.
“Please Allen, we don’t want to speak ill of your mother.” She prompted, Allen staring back and shaking his head.
“She wasn’t a bad person. She was a good mom, honest. We didn’t have much, but I had everything I really needed and she worked hard so I could even have extras. She was a single mom but smart, happy, and well liked by her friends and the people she worked with. She was a good person.” He insisted, both Al and Josephine nodding their heads.
Al sighed softly. “Yes, we know that now Allen, but you have to understand when we had a falling out things weren’t like that between us. Things were bad. She had always been a wonderful daughter, but then something changed and it got really bad for all of us. When she left it broke our hearts, but we had no choice. We never heard from her again and we prayed for her all the time. I suppose like us, when she got pregnant with you she had no choice either and she ended up choosing the right path after all. She did the right thing and raised you in a proper manner. Both your grandmother and I are thankful for that blessing. It breaks our heart that our only daughter has passed away, but she left us one last parting gift…she blessed us with you and we will honor the good memories of her.” Al spoke softly reaching out and placing his hand on his grandson’s shoulder while his wife reached inside her bag and pulled out a package.
“My husband is being honest with you Allen and we want you to be a part of our family if you will have us.” She added handing the package over to him. “This is for you. When your grandfather heard about my visit in the mall with you he shuttered himself in the room for hours and hours putting this together just for you.” She smiled softly at the boy.
The sandy haired boy blinked away the tears and hesitated for a moment. “It…it’s not Christmas yet.” He pointed out, Josephine brushing the boy’s hair with her fingers.
“I don’t think Santa will mind.” She replied, Allen letting out a nervous chuckle and smiling back as he slowly tore off the wrapping.
Furling his eyebrows he looked up at Josephine questioningly who smiled tenderly at the boy. “I told my husband what you had said about not having any pictures of your mother. He put together this photo album with all the milestones in your mother’s life all the way through High School. It’s to let you know who she was before you were born and hopefully it will also remind you of whom she was after you were born.” She explained wrapping her arm around her husband and holding him tight while Allen began to flip through the pages.
Without warning the boy unexpectedly stepped forward wrapping his arms around his grandparents appreciatively before stepping back. “So, you really want me?” He asked as they nodded their heads. “B…but what about Aunt Kate and Uncle Nate?” He asked, the Jeffersons smiling fondly at the boy and speaking up.
“Oh sweetie we’ve always known having you was only temporary. We knew sooner or later your grandparents would do the right thing and want you. Until that time we wanted to make sure you had a happy life.” Mrs. Jefferson told the boy who furled his eyebrows.
“You knew and never said anything?” He asked, Uncle Nate nodding his head.
“Yes, we knew and it broke our hearts that we couldn’t say anything, but family services asked us not to and I think in the end they were right not to say anything.” He added, Allen thinking on it and then nodding.
“I…I…this is so hard. I don’t want to move…I don’t want to go to a new school. I’ve got friends. What about Chase, Tim, and Micah. I…I can’t leave them.” He sniffled reaching out for my boys who all wrapped him up in their arms.
It was then when Judge Bennett spoke up. “Who said anything about you having to leave your school or friends? Like you’ve pointed out you have wonderful foster parents, and call me stupid or whatever, but I’m sure a big part of them buying a house where they did was because of location. If I’m not mistaken your grandparents only live about four or five blocks away so you will still be close to your friends and attend the same school.” She smiled and winked at the Jeffersons who chuckled.
“Wow, this is…this is like really awesome, but its Christmas tomorrow and if you say I have to go with my grandparents what about the Jeffersons.” He asked, Al and Josephine looking at each other for a second and then shrugging.
“Well, since all of your stuff is still at the Jeffersons why don’t we just let you stay there for tonight and you can celebrate Christmas with them in the morning and then celebrate it with us in the afternoon. We can then come and pick up your stuff on the following day.” He added thinking this solved the problem, but then seeing the disappointed look on Allen’s face. “What’s wrong, did we miss something?” He inquired, Allen glancing towards us.
“Um…actually Al, the Jefferson’s and Allen were coming with us up to Blue Knob resort until after New Year’s.” I finally spoke up noticing Al chuckling and shaking his head at his wife.
“For real Josephine, we’ve been putting off bringing the boy into our home and now that we want him we have to wait.” He chuckled. “Listen, of course he can go with you. It’s only right.” He added not upset in the least while I shook my head now seeing Allen’s disappointed face because he thought I was going to refuse to let him go now.
“Can’t do that Al, not unless you and Josephine join us on the trip. I booked a two unit rental property and there’s plenty of room and I would hate to waste any space. Actually, it would be a perfect type of transition because the Jeffersons will be there to help along with Allen. You will get a chance to ease into being parents again since we will all be around to pitch in with a lending hand. Another family will be along as well and it’ll be fun for us adults too.” I added, both Josephine and Al arching their eyebrows.
“You’re kidding, a couple of old fogies on skis. I mean, yeah I’m still young and fit enough to clock a jerk’s block off, but skis?” He chuckled referring to the fight he almost had with Judge Anderson while I smiled and shook my head.
“There’s a lot going on up there besides just skiing and stuff. I’ve checked it all out with the indoor pool, entertainment room, and several nights of dancing and I don’t mean that loud funky stuff, but really nice formal dancing.” I added, both Al and Josephine perking right up.
“For real, dancing. Oh my, that is something the two of us enjoy isn’t it sweetheart?” Josephine’s cooed her face lighting up at the prospect.
“Oh yes…indeed. You may not think it Harry, but Josephine and I cut a mean rug. We used to compete all the time and it’s actually been a while since we’ve gone out like that, but I need to see if I can get the time off on such short notice. I’ve got a lot of vacation time accumulated, but corporate tends to want heads up and I can understand that.” He added while I suddenly busted up patting his shoulders and shaking my head.
“Don’t worry about it so much and get packed up. I just happen to have the closest relationship with the man who signs off on vacation requests.” I chuckled hearing Al laughing as well.
“Meaning you of course.” We both laughed while my wife reached over and hugged Josephine who looked all excited about going on vacation since it’s been so long.
It was Judge Bennett who finally broke things off as she banged her gavel calling for order. While one hand banged the gavel her other one supported her head, which was propped up on the desk by her elbow, as she gazed along lazily and yawned.
“Alright…alright, now that we have your entire lives all planned out; well at least for the next week or two, can we finish up here already?” She asked, all of us blushing and nodding our heads.
“Um…sorry your honor.” I mumbled, everyone else mumbling as well while the boys were all smiles because things were looking up.
The only one who didn’t look happy was Judge Anderson, but everyone was ignoring him anyway. “Alright, now down to business,” Judge Bennett sat back up. “Allen, this is important because I want your honest opinion before I make a ruling. I always take into account a child’s wish before I make a final decision. Well?” She asked simply all of us chuckling and smiling getting used to the Judges quirky way.
“Yes…absolutely….one hundred percent.” Allen answered just as cryptically getting an eye roll from the Judge who smirked.
“Are you mocking me young man?” She teased, Allen putting on a stern look trying to hide his own smirk.
“No…absolutely not…one hundred percent.” He stated just as seriously as the first time while I tried to stifle a giggle but couldn’t hold on because Micah suddenly busted a gut and that’s all it took with several of us losing it.
The Judge banged her gavel putting on a hurt look and rolling her eyes. “Well I never…,” she huffed waving her arm indignantly. “Well if that is how you all are then let’s just get it all over with. My ruling is effective immediately and thusly, Allen is to be placed in the custody of his grandparents, which in layman’s terms means they can do whatever they want regarding where he spends Christmas, goes on vacation, and so on. Now scoot all of you out of my courtroom. I’ve got a party of my own to attend to.” She instructed signing some paperwork and motioning for everyone to come forward and grab the appropriate documentation.
Despite her dismissing everyone we all gathered around and began an impromptu party amongst ourselves with lots of hugging and kissing taking place. Christmas Eve had started out with the blues, but it ended with a bang as Judge Bennett invited us all over to the party with the police officers. It was late, but tomorrow was Christmas and none of us had anything else to do for over a week since we were all officially on vacation.
************************************************************
End of Pt2. Chapter Eight: Harry Miner – Christmas Eve Blues
Coming Soon Pt.2. Chapter Nine: Boys –Unwrapping Gifts
Comments are always welcome at ([email protected]). Please keep all comments clean. I enjoy friendly criticism and of course positive reviews or just plain simple correspondence, but will not tolerate any rudeness.