Disclaimer: While this is story is a continuation of my last one under this name parts some of the background ideas I’m using have been influenced by other authors and their stories.

Gary Q. “From Hell to Aunt Marge’s”

Dan Kirk “Do Over” series. This series can be found at www.gayauthors.org

This story takes place Thirty years after the events in “Memoirs of a Diaper Boy”

Memoirs of a Diaper Boy II

Chapter 1

Deliverance from Hell

“Police! We Have A Warrant!!” a voice yelled just before the front door was busted in. A lot of yelling went on right after this. I was only partly aware of what was going on around me due to being bound and gagged at this time.

“Sarge!! You better get in here!” An officer yelled as he pulled off the hood that had been covering my face.

“Jesus. Don‘t worry son we‘ll have you free in a moment.” an older cop mumbled when he entered the room and saw me hanging there. I soon found myself being freed of the chains I was being restrained in.

“thanks.” I croaked as I was placed on a nearby bed. I heard the younger cop call for a medic and him being told there wasn’t enough room to get up to us and if possible they would need to bring me down to them.

“Easy there.” I was told as stumbled a bit as I was escorted from the room.

POP,POP,POP,POP!!! I heard over the din of mad laughter as I watched my mom’s and her current boyfriend’s heads explode in a fine red mist. As I felt myself being pushed roughly to the floor I looked down in surprise to see myself holding a smoking gun.

I awoke with a start a few seconds later from the nightmare to realize two things. First was that I was still in the jail cell that had been my home for I can’t remember how long and second was the fact that I had wet the bed once again. With a sigh I got up and stripped off the soaked jumpsuit I had on and went over to rinse them out in the small sink I had in the corner. Once I was done rinsing it out, I laid the damp suit out across the lip of the sink so it could dry.

I guess I should introduce myself at this time. My name is Bradley Eoin Miller. I’m not really sure how old I am since I don’t even know how long I’ve been in this damn place. I remember being tossed in this hole shortly after I arrived here because of a slight altercation I had with a couple of the older boys. I was told that it was for my own protection because of my small size but I feel that maybe it was really to protect the other boys from me. All I really remember about the date was that it was a few days before my Ninth birthday. I know this because a couple of the more sadistic guards were joking about it to me. Sometimes I wonder just who I pissed off so badly upstairs that I found myself where I currently am.

“Step back from the door.” the intercom announced as a tray slot opened up. Once the tray had been pushed through the opening and the slot was closed behind it. I knew it was safe to approach the door to get the slop they tried to pass off as food. With disgust, I looked down at the lukewarm carton of milk, the one-half section of a half rotten banana, stale Danish, and small bowl of lumpy oatmeal. I felt my stomach lurch at the sight of this but I forced myself to eat the shit or my other meals would be withheld until I did.

After eating the slop they tried to pass off as food, I started in on an exercise routine I had started shortly after getting placed in the isolation ward. I had worked up a pretty good sweat when my intercom buzzed.

“Miller, Stand to!” an angry voice called through the box. Without hesitation I stood in the middle of my room with my arms and legs spread wide. A few seconds later my door opened and one of the guards came in to frisk me. I got a sour look when he saw my jumpsuit laid across the sink.

“Let’s go. You get a shower today.” I was told roughly as I got locked into the hated shackles. I soon found myself being led down the hall to where the showers were located.

I would have loved to spend more time under the running water, but after about fifteen minutes, the water stopped and I was to told get out, get dried off, and dressed. As I was being led back to my cell, saw the Asst. Warden leading another man down the hall. As we passed I couldn’t help but notice the look of recognition the other man had on his face. This quickly left my mind as my guards and I made it back to my cell and after having the shackles removed I was roughly pushed through the open door and had it slam behind me before I could fully regain my balance. Once I was back in my cell I couldn’t help but wonder why the man I had passed in the hall seemed so familiar to me or why he had looked at me like he did. I had spent countless hours trying to figure out why he seemed familiar to me but I just couldn’t manage to figure out where I had seen him before. Before I really realized what was going on I heard the intercom announce that lights out would be in five minutes.

“Miller! Stand to!” A voice called from my door way. Without even thinking about it, I was standing in the middle of my cell with my arms and legs out to my side.

“Shower, You have a visitor coming.” This caught me by surprise since I hadn’t had a visitor since I was sent to this hell hole. Even my court appointed lawyer never came to see me, except for one time shortly after I had arrived. He would normally just send a letter of some kind if he even bothered to do this. They really must have wanted me to look presentable because I was able to spend more than fifteen minutes under a continuous spray of warm water. I was even more shocked when I saw the freshly laundered and pressed jumpsuit. I soon found myself being escorted to the Admin building.

The man sitting on the other side of the glass must have recognized my confused look because he motioned for me to pick up the phone that was on my side.

“Hello again, Bradley. I’m glad that I’ve been able to find you.” I was told in a seemingly calm voice. I will admit that the longer I looked at the man across from me the more familiar he looked to me, especially now that I was hearing his voice.

“I’m not sure if you remember me or not, but I’m your Uncle Ian. Your dad was my brother.” This unlocked a flood of memories for me, including seeing my mom kill my dad when she found out that he was really an undercover FBI agent.

“I’ve been searching for you ever since my brother was killed. I thank God that I’ve finally been able to find you alive and doing well.”

“Thank you, sir.” I mumbled unable to look my uncle in the eye with him seeing me like this.

“You’ll find some papers next to you. I need you to sign them. The top one places me on your Visitor list so I can come and see you. The second authorizes me to take five dollars out of your account, this allows you to hire me as your lawyer.”

“But I haven’t got any money in here.” I interrupted.

“I took the liberty of putting a hundred dollars into your account. This is all they would let me. If you need more let me know and I’ll have it wired over. You’ll find a receipt for it in the pile next to you. You’ll also find a form that hires me as your lawyer. I need you to sign all those right now and hand them to the guard to give back to me. You’ll also find several letters from your cousins. They‘re all wanting to see you again.” I was told with a smile. I kind of shook at the thought of what everyone else must think about having a convict for a cousin. After placing the signed papers back into his briefcase, my uncle spent the next thirty minutes telling me what had been going on with the family since I had last seen them.

“Times up Miller.” I heard the guard say all to soon. With a sigh, I was helped back to my feet since the shackles had never been removed and soon found myself being shoved back into my cell. Since I had missed lunch I knew I was going to have a couple of hours to kill while waiting for dinner, I sat down and started reading the letters that I had been given to me. The one thing I found odd was the fact that the dates on all the letters had been blacked out. It was then that I realized that I hadn’t even bothered to see what the date was on all the forms I had signed. All to soon they were calling for lights out. Over the next several days I must have read each of the letters I had been given at least twenty times each. And every time I did I started crying a bit.

The next few days seemed to drag by, but I soon found myself being escorted back to the Admin building. It was a bit surprising when I was taken past the area I was in last time. I was soon standing in a large room facing my uncle without anything separating us.

“Remove the restraints, and then leave us.” The guard that was escorting me was told.

“I’m sorry sir but all residents of the Disciplinary wing are required to be in full restraints and have a guard present at all times when they are outside of their rooms.”

“Remove the restraints and leave us.” my uncle said again in a voice that seemed to lower the room’s temperature by a good twenty degrees.

“Yes, sir.” we were told and the shackles were quickly removed.

My uncle and I quickly made our way to a nearby table.

“Before we get started , do you prefer to be called Brad or Bradley?”

“Brad, is fine.” I replied.

“OK. Now I know this is going to be hard for you , but in order to help you I need to know everything that caused you to be in here. I’ve read the court file on you and ,frankly, I’ve never seen anything so full of holes in my life. What can you tell me about your trial?”

“Nothing. I wasn’t there. I was in the hospital for about three months after my arrest recovering from what my mom and her boyfriends had done to me over the years. I didn’t even know that one had taken place till my lawyer came to see the day before I got out of the hospital and told me that I had been found guilty of First degree murder and was sentenced to life in prison. I didn’t really understand what he was talking about ‘til I landed in here.”

“Are you telling me that they held a trial and you weren’t even present for it?” I was asked.

“yes, sir.” I said softly, flinching at the tone being used.

“It’s okay. I’m sorry for losing my temper. Why don’t you tell me why you’re in the disciplinary wing? And please don’t leave anything out.” I was asked after my uncle had calmed down some.

“I got into a fight with a couple of the older boys.” I said softly before my voice trailed off.

“Brad, I need to know what happened if I’m going to help you.” I was told as I felt a hand come down softly on my shoulder.

“They were trying to have sex with me. I had gotten tired of the older boys doing this so I fought back.” I said almost inaudibly.

“And what happened to the other two boys. I’m not sure. I got taken to the infirmary before I could find out. When they let me go a few days later I was sent to “D” wing. The guards said it was easier to lock me up then everyone else.”

“So, you had notified the guards what had been going on?”

“Yes, sir. I even told my lawyer about it and he said he would look into it. But I never heard anything back.” I said almost in tears by this point.

“Easy. I’m going to do everything I can to help you. How long have you been there?”

“I don’t know. What’s the date?

“October 26^th” I was told with a frown.

“No, I mean what year is it?” I asked clarifying what I meant.

“2040.”

“About Three and a half years.” I answered softly. I soon realized that in less than six months I would be a teenager and didn’t even know it.

“GUARD!!!” I almost wet myself when my uncle screamed for the guard. I was even more frightened when I saw how he had driven the pen he had been holding into the table we were sitting at.

“I want to see the warden right now.” my uncle stated plainly when the guard came rushing into the room.

“I’m sorry but the principal only sees people by appointment only. If you see his secretary on your way out , I’m sure something can be arranged.”

“Tell him I want to see him in five minutes, or less, and give him this.” my uncle said with a smile as he handed a business card over.

“Uh.. Yes, sir. I’ll let the Principal know that you’d like to see him right away.” The guard stammered as he almost tripped over a chair as he was trying to back out of the room. It was all I could do to keep from laughing at this.

“I was elected to the state senate a few years ago.” I was informed with a smile. I snapped to attention a few moments later when the warden and chief guard came into the room.

“What seems to be the problem here counselor?” my uncle was asked snidely.

“That’s Senator, and I can’t even begin to list all the problems here. How long has this boy been in solitary?”

“I’m not really sure. I would have to look it up. Not more than a couple of months, I’m sure. Perhaps this is a conversation better suited for my office?”

“Yes, I believe it is.”

“Mr. Romero would you please escort Mr. Miller back to his room.” One of the guards was told as the Warden motioned for my uncle to follow him.

“That won’t be necessary. My client will be working on a document for me while you and I talk. He’ll be fine right where he is and he is not to be disturbed. Though, I’m sure he won’t mind if you were to get him a Coke from the machine outside.” my uncle told the group before him. After getting a nod from the warden, the guard went to get the Coke and before anyone moved it was sitting in front of me.

“It’s been a while my friend.” I told the sweating can of pop. I was soon engrossed in the letter I was writing in response to the ones my uncle had given me a few days before. Little did I know about the trouble that was about to explode.

“I’m going to make this very simple. I have an order for my clients immediate transfer to Raven Creek. If he’s not there by 1pm then by this time tomorrow I’ll be back here with so many investigators you won’t even be able to turn around without bumping into one. And we’ll be setting up shop in your office. Now I think you better get things rolling.” the warden was told as my uncle dropped a sheaf of papers on his desk.

“It’ll take about a week to effect the transfer once we decide to start the process. I’ll let you know when that is.”

“Warden, which part of “immediately” did you not understand?”

“You don’t understand Senator, it takes time to out process a resident.” The Warden said nervously.

“Set a speed record.”

“Sir..”

“Warden, we can do this one of two ways.” my uncle interrupted firmly.

“First you can do exactly what I say right now no questions asked , Or two, I have the gentlemen waiting outside your office door come in here and serve you with the arrest warrant they have on you for Obstruction. Now which will it be?”

The warden’s mouth opened and closed for several seconds before he found his voice.

“Mr. Ramirez here will assist you with the transfer.” my uncle was told glumly as the warden retook his seat.

I was more than a little shocked when the door opened suddenly and the asst. warden, my uncle, and several state troopers walked in.

“Bradley, I’m having you transferred to a different facility. It’ll be easier for me and the family to visit you this way.” my uncle said as a trooper walked up to me with a set of shackles in his hands.

“Are those necessary?” my uncle asked the asst. warden.

“Yes sir, I’m afraid they are. It’s standard procedure when transporting inmates.” My uncle just nodded at this when the troopers in the room stated that this was indeed the case. This said, I soon found myself being led from the room.

“Sir I have some personal effects in my room could I be allowed to go get them?” I asked after a few steps down the hall.

“I’ll take care of that Brad. You just go with these officers and I’ll see you in a few hours.” I was told as my uncle gave my shoulder a light squeeze.

Less than thirty minutes later I was being led out to a patrol car. I was nearly blinded by the sunlight when I first entered the courtyard. My first reflex was to put my hand up but I soon remembered this was impossible when the restraints I was wearing stopped my hand after just a few inches. All I could really do was lower my head and close my eyes. This offered only minimal relief. I was soon helped into the back seat of the car and we drove off. In the back of my mind I was hoping that the new place was better than the one I was leaving.

“We’re here Miller.” One of the officer that had escorted me said as he opened the car door and started to help me out of it. This broke me out of the trance I had found myself in during the two hour car ride.

“Bradley! Over here!” An excited voice called out. I was shocked to see several people standing at a nearby fence waving to me. I recognized my cousins David and Brian, and Uncle Steven right away but the three younger kids with them, I didn’t know at all. I just lowered my head in shame that they had to see me dressed like I was.

It was a surprise when I was escorted into the warden’s office and saw Uncle Ian sitting there. I soon found myself being helped into a chair in front of the warden. I wasn’t sitting there for more than a second when the warden spoke to a guard that was standing the corner.

“Mr. Connor would you be kind enough to escort Mr. Miller to “D” Barracks.”

“That won’t be necessary. I’ve got an order from your director granting him a weekend furlough.” My uncle announced as he handed over a folded piece of paper.

“I see.” we were told sourly once the warden was done reading the paper.

“Mr. Connor, please take Mr. Miller down the hall to out processing then.”

“Senator if you’ll follow them please the terms of the furlough will be explained to you and your client.”

My uncle and I were soon in a different room and I was having the hated restraints removed.

“You can leave us for a few minutes now while my client gets changed.”

“I’m sorry sir, but..” The guard started to say before he was cut off.

“Leave. Now.” the guard was told in a tone that made both of us flinch.

“Yes, sir.”

“These might be a little big on you but they should do till we can get you some properly fitting clothes.” I was told in a kind voice as I was handed a bag.

“Thank you sir.” I mumbled as I took the bag and started to remove the orange jumpsuit I was wearing.

“I can’t tell you how excited everyone is that you’ll be staying with us. Especially David. I think you’ll enjoy yourself a great deal.” My uncle told me after a few moments of silence. Before I could respond to this, I had let the jumpsuit drop to the floor and my uncle had gotten a look at my back. From what I could see of his reflection, I thought he was going to stroke out with how the veins on his head and neck were popping out.

“These happened at home. Not the center.” I told him meekly when I saw him heading for the door. This brought him up short. When he turned around to face me, I couldn’t really make out the look on his face.

“I’ll let you finish changing in private.” I was told when he opened the door. Once the door had closed behind him I finished getting dressed. A moment after I had yelled that I was done, my uncle and two guards entered the room. I about jumped out of my skin when I saw that the second guard to enter the room was one that had given me the most grief at Spring Hill before I had ended up in “D” Wing.

“Over here Miller.” I was told firmly.

“He’ll be staying right where he is.” my uncle stated as he took the seat next to mine. With a look for disgust the second guard came over and roughly grabbed my leg and attached a funny looking box to my ankle.

“You’ll need to keep this pager on you at all times when you’re not at home. If the subject gets more than fifty feet from it a signal will be sent to us and your client will be in a world of trouble. When at home make sure the pager is locked in its charger at all times. Do you have any questions?” When my uncle and I indicated that we didn’t the guard dropped the pager, charger, and charger key into my uncle’s hand and walked out of the room.

“Let’s go home.” I was told as I felt a hand on my shoulder.

“You’re really here!” An excited voice yelled as I walked though the gate and my first taste of freedom in almost four years. Before I could say anything, or even register what was going on, I felt a body slam into mine and wrap me up in a fierce hug. It was only the fact that my uncle was standing behind me that kept me from falling on my butt.

“Easy there, David. Let him get adjusted a bit first.” David’s dad laughed as he led the rest of the group over to where the three of us were standing. I was soon introduced to the youngest members, Andrew, Ryan, and Devon. I think everyone was shocked when one of them turned in his dad’s arm and acted like he wanted me to hold him. I know I was certainly shocked by this.

“Well, this is a first.” Uncle Ian said with a chuckle after I decided to take the squirming toddler.

“What’s that?” I asked as I felt the small body snuggle into mine for a minute then seemed to promptly fall asleep.

“Devon is the shyest one of the trips. It almost takes a nuke to get him away from one of us when someone else is around.” Brian laughed before catching the look on his dad’s face.

“Sorry.” he whimpered.

“It’s Okay Brian, I know you didn’t mean it.” Ian told him softly as we walked towards a nearby car. I didn’t really understand the semi-haunted look that my uncle had in his eyes, but having had the same look in my own more times than I could count there was no mistaking it.

I stopped dead in my tracks when I saw the large car we were headed for and realized that I really was going to be leaving a place that I felt comfortable in.

“It’s Okay Brad. Everything is going to be fine.” David told me while giving me a slight hug. I just nodded at this but still approached the car with some trepidation. I soon felt Devon being lifted out of my arms. While I was a bit glad for this since even with my workouts he was getting heavy. I did find it strange though that I immediately started missing the feel of his body next to mine.

I must have fallen asleep at some point during the trip to my uncle’s place since I found myself jerking awake from one of my normal nightmares. What was even worse was that I looked down to find that I had wet my pants at some point. I was certain that my furlough was going to be short lived. That the second my uncle’s had seen what I had done in their car I was going to be beaten and then shipped back to the center.

“What’s that matter Brad?” Steven asked when he saw that I was till sitting in the car once everyone had already climbed out.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean too. Please don’t beat me.” I stuttered so badly I wasn’t even sure if Steven could understand what I had just said. My uncle’s face changed from concern to understanding when he looked down and saw the condition of my shorts.

“Brad, there is nothing to be upset about. You’ve been through a rough time. Things like this are bound to happen.” I was told softly as Steven reached in to unbuckle my seatbelt. Though the moment his hand came near me I flinched so badly that I ended up wetting my shorts for a second time. I broke down completely at this point.

“It’s alright Brad. Just let it out.” Steven told me kindly as he unbuckled my seatbelt and pulled me into a tight hug. If I had any presence of mind at this point I might have tried fighting back, but I was just to worn out at this point.

When Uncle Steven led me through the door And I found myself facing a big assed dog. I jumped a bit when it started snarling at me. I don’t know what prompted me to do it, but once the dog got in range of me I slapped it firmly across the snout. The dog yipped a bit as it jumped back and laid down on the floor. Uncle Ian came running into the room just as I hit the dog and I knew my life was over. Strangely enough he had a small smile on his face and a look I couldn’t understand. I was so intent on waiting for my uncle’s reaction that I hadn’t even noticed that the dog had crawled back over to me till I found myself on the receiving end of a very wet kiss.

“I think he likes you.” Steven said from behind me. I was still on such an emotional overload at this point that all I could do was stare at the dog till it turned around and started to walk out of the room. I don’t know if I was going crazy or not, but I could have sworn that when the dog looked at my uncle Ian they seemed to sharing thoughts with each other.

It was about this time that an older lady walked into the room and looked at me in a way that I could only call absolute disgust. It was after she said something that I didn’t understand that seemed to really set my uncles off.

(“So you brought the little jailbird home did you. He better not do anything that hurts the other boys.”) While I couldn’t understand what she said, I could tell that neither my cousins or uncles were very pleased with what it was.

“Boys why don’t you take Bradley upstairs and show him where he’ll be sleeping and help him get cleaned up.” Steven told Brian and David softly. While Uncle Steven’s voice was calm, going by how the veins in his neck and face were standing out I could tell he was anything but calm at the moment. I guess Brian and David were picking up on the same thing I was since I was quickly being moved to the stairs.

“I’m sorry for causing so much trouble. I’ll have your dad take me back to the center in a little bit.” I whimpered as I was led upstairs and heard the fight behind me.

“Like Hell you Are! You’re home now. And here you’ll stay.” David told me firmly. I jumped a bit at the tone of voice he was using. I couldn’t understand why anyone would want anything to do with a kid like me. I mean here I was not even out of jail and I was standing in a type of house I had only seen on T.V.. And to make matters worse, I had wet my pants on the way here.

“Yeah, I don’t give a damn what Grandmother says. You’re family now.” Brian announced while coming up to give me a hug. I jumped a bit at the touch but this just caused Brian to hold me even tighter. David joined in on the hug a few seconds later. I soon found myself crying again at all this.

“Now that we’ve gotten that out of our system lets get you cleaned up.” David told me with a smile.

“Brian, why don’t you go get Brad a change of clothes. I think yours will be a closer fit for him than mine would.” Brian just smiled at this as he walked out the door. Before I really knew what was going on I felt the T-shirt I had on being pulled off. This was followed closely by the rest of my clothes. This caused me to tense up since I knew what would be coming next.

“Nothing is going to happen. Just relax.” David whispered into my ear as he led me into what turned out to be the bathroom.

“Take as long as you’d like and call me when you’re done.” I was told as David showed me how to operate the shower. After a quick kiss on the cheek David left the room. As I washed up for the second time today, I tried to wrap my mind around what was going on. I knew that at any moment I would end up screwing something up and this dream would be over.

“You still alive in there?” Steven joked as he stuck his head into the bathroom. This broke me of the zoning I must have been doing. What stunned me about this is that the shower I was taking had turned ice cold and I didn’t even realize it.

“Yeah. I’ll be out in a moment.” I replied as I turned off the water. There must have been something in my voice since Steven came all the way into the room.

“Jeez, Brad! How long have you been in here?!” my uncle exclaimed as he grabbed a nearby towel and wrapped it tightly around me. It wasn’t until my teeth started chattering a bit that I had been under the cold water a good deal longer than I thought.

“Ian, I need some help in here please!” Steve called as he led me over to the bed. I soon felt him rubbing my legs between his hands.

“What’s the problem Steve?” I heard my other uncle ask as he walked in the room. I guess one look at me was all the answer he needed as he started barking out orders to David and Brian, whom it seemed had followed their dad into the room. I soon found myself being wrapped in several thick blankets and given hot liquids to drink. I must have fallen asleep at some point because the next thing I knew it was morning.

“Feeling better?” David asked me with a smile as he curled up even closer to me. For reasons I couldn’t explain, I allowed myself to be pulled even closer than I already had been. I stiffened up considerably when I reached back and found that David was completely naked under the covers. Before I could say anything about this David’s dad walked into the room.

“Okay boys, drop your cocks and grab your socks. Knees in the breeze in ten minutes.” Uncle Ian announced with a smile. I did notice he seemed to pause a bit when he saw that David was stark naked. Thinking that we were going to get punished for this I tried to take the blame for what his dad was seeing.

“Don’t do anything to David sir. It was all my fault. I forced him.”

“Yeah, right. As I recall, you were dead to the world about two seconds after we gave you that sedative when you started fighting us as your temp started coming up a bit.” I was told with a smile.

“You guys now have eight minutes.” We were told. David yelped a bit at this and jumped over me and raced towards the door. Uncle Ian smirked a bit as he popped his son’s exposed rear area as he ran by.

After a few moments I stared to climb out of bed myself.

“What the hell?” I mumbled to myself as I felt something strange as I started to move. Looking down, I saw that where my boxers normally would have been I saw a strange looking dark blue garment. It was only a second later that I realized that I was wearing a diaper and what was worse was the fact that is seemed to be soaked.

“You feeling better this morning Brad?” Ian asked from behind me. I looked around franticly for something to cover up with but could find anything.

“Easy there. It’s all right.” I was told softly as my uncle laid me back down on the bed and started to undo the tapes holding the diaper on.

“You aren’t the only older boy we have in diapers at night around this place. Besides with what happened on the way home yesterday, we felt this would be better for you than sleeping in a cold wet bed. Whether you keep wearing them is up to you, but I would ask that you try them for a couple of days first before you make your mind up. Okay?” I was asked as the wet diaper was pulled out from under me.

“Now go get a quick shower to clean off, and not like the one you had yesterday.” With a nod, I hopped off the bed and headed into the shower.

“I guess we’ll be doing some shopping today.” Uncle Ian chuckled as I walked into the dinning room and he saw the slightly too small clothes I had on. I turned red at this remark wondering why they would want to spend good money on me like this. Before I could say anything I felt something come up behind me and as soon as I turned around I saw Brian and three large dogs behind me. One was the dog I had hit the previous day and two others that I hadn’t yet seen.

“Brad, I’d like you to meet Clancy, Sam, and Otto. Of course you’ve already met Otto.” Brian told me with a small chuckle. I was surprised when all three held one of their paws out when Brian said their names. Feeling a bit foolish I shook the offered paws and scratched each one on the head as I did so.

“Bradley, go wash your hands now please.” I was told firmly by the older lady that was sitting by the trips. Both of my uncles nodded for me to follow this request.

“I’ll show you where you can wash up Brad.” Brian said as motioned for the dogs to go lay down in a nearby corner.

Breakfast had already been served up once Brian and I had returned from washing our hands. I looked at the fruit bowl that was off to one side with a slight frown thinking back to all the times I had been forced to choke down half rotten pieces of fruit back at Spring Hill. I had to wait for David to pick up one of the utensils before I knew which one to use. I vaguely remembered getting yelled at my cousin’s grandmother for using the wrong fork the last time I had come over.

“Brian, if you don’t have any plans would you mind watching the trips while I take David and Brad out shopping.” Steven asked his son as we were finishing up breakfast.

“AW man, why do I have to?” Brian complained.

“Well you could always come with us.” Came the reply with a raised eyebrow.

“Uh.. On second thought, that’s okay.” Brian said quickly before leaving the room.

“Brian hates going shopping with his dad.” David explained with a smile when he saw my lost expression.

“You boys go watch some TV or something while I get ready.” David and I were told as Steven headed for the stairs.

“Okay Steve.” David answered with a smile as he grabbed my hand and led me towards a set of a stairs that led down to what I figured was the basement. I was kind of surprised to see that David and I were being followed by the trips and all three dogs.

I came up short when I saw that the basement seemed almost as big as the upstairs was. As David set up something with the TV I started looking around. Otto got in front of me and started growling a bit when I tried to get near one door. The sound caused David to look up.

“Heel, Otto.” I heard David say sternly. Otto stopped growling but still refused to move from in front of the door I had tried opening.

“Brad you’ll find that there are few rooms that you’re not allowed into. But that one is one of them.” David told me as he led me back over to the couch.

“What’s in there?”

“I’m not allowed to say. Dad or Uncle Steve will need to explain that one to you. The other room you can’t enter without permission is Dad’s and Uncle Steve’s office upstairs. Now enough of that let’s see how good you are on this.” I was told as David handed me some kind of controller.

“Uh. David what am I supposed to do with this?” I asked as David did something with his own controller and a game started on the TV across the room from us.

“Oh, yeah, I guess you haven’t played to many video games before. Sorry about that. I guess we can put a movie for a short while.” David said turning a bit red in the face. Soon afterwards a movie had started on the TV instead. Judging from the looks on the trips faces it was one they liked. Like the afternoon before, I soon found Devon curled up in my arms as his brothers did the same with David.

“Time to go boys.” I heard Steven call a short time later. Devon started fussing a bit as I picked him up and set him on the couch between his brothers. I knew it was going to take me a while tell Andrew and Ryan apart from each other but Devon was easy due to the small heart shaped mark that’s on his right cheek. He quickly calmed down when his brothers cuddled up on either side of him.

“He’ll be all right. Don’t worry about it.” David said as he led me back upstairs.

“The Trips are down watching a movie.” Brian was informed as Steven, David and I walked towards what I soon learned was the garage.

“David, I want you to help Brad pick out his clothes. You know more about what’s in style right now. Just keep in mind of what Ian and I find acceptable.” I heard Steven say as we neared a shopping mall. Seeing all the people around made my anxiety level almost red line. For some reason I knew they would be able to take one look at me and know that I was a convict.

“Don’t worry about anything Brad. It’ll be okay.” David told me while giving me a small hug as we walked from the car to the entrance to an upscale store. I just nodded at this and tried to relax but felt that it was a losing battle.

“David I’m going to take Brad over to get fitted for a suit first. Why don’t you go over and start getting stuff scoped out for everything else.” my cousin was told as we walked through the doors. With a grin David took off in another direction. Steven just shook his head in amusement at this as he took me over to another department.

“May I help you sir?” We were asked almost as soon as we entered the department.

“Yes, I need to get the young man here fitted for a couple of suits. He’ll need one three piece, a two piece both in dark colors and interchangeable. He’ll also need a tuxedo.” Steven explained to the salesman.

“That will certainly be do able. If you’d like to step over here so I could get the young gentleman’s measurements.” We were told as we were led towards the back of the store to a raised platform.

I about jumped out of my skin when the salesman’s hand brushed against my groin. Thankfully it was only there for about a second while he got the numbers needed for that area. It spiked again a moment later when he raised my pant leg and uncovered the monitoring device that was strapped to that leg. As before, I was grateful when nothing was said as the measurement was taken. Even better was the fact that the salesman acted like he ran across these everyday and didn’t give it a second thought.

“Now that we have the measurements if you’d like to look around a bit and see what styles you like we can get them properly fitted.”

“Thank you. We’ll let you know when we’re ready.” Steven replied as he moved me towards some racks. I soon found different articles of clothes being pressed against me while both Uncle Steve and the salesman looked one and commented about how they thought each item would look on me.

“I need to see if they can do a rush job on one of the suits. Don’t go to far.” I was told as Steve followed the salesman towards the back. With a nod that I had heard him, I started looking around some more. My heart about stopped when I decided to take a look at some of the price tags.

“Uncle Steve, I think there’s been a mistake.” I told him softly as we left the area to find David.

“What makes you say that?”

“I can’t have this kind of money spent on me. I‘m not worth it and I have no way to pay you guys back.” I mumbled unable to meet my uncle’s eyes.

“Brad, I don’t want to hear anything more like that. You are most definitely worth the money we are spending on you. I don’t want to hear anything more about it.” I was told firmly. I just nodded at this and kept my mouth shut the rest of the way to meet David.

I couldn’t believe all the clothes David already had laid out for me to try on.

“You know Brad, I think we’ll need change you back over to briefs. Those boxers just don’t seem to do a thing for you.” David told me after he had me try on at least a dozen different pairs of shorts, pants and jeans.

“I mean, boxers are okay every once in a while, but they went out of style some time back. Besides all my friends wear briefs and we wouldn’t want you to feel out of place during sleepovers.” I was told as David reached around and pulled the back of my boxers down to see what size they were. I don’t know which made my heart jump more, the thought of going on a sleepover, or David’s hand resting on my waist.

Uncle Steve was talking to a saleslady when David and I came out of the fitting room.

“You getting him taken care of there David?” my cousin was asked with a smile.

“Yeah. I just need to pick him up some new underwear and we’ll be all set.” I turned a bright red when David said this in front of the saleslady. I turned even redder with what happened next.

“What kind were you thinking of?” she asked him as she led him over to a large display of different types of underwear. I was too far away to understand what they were saying, since uncle Steve had stopped me from following them by leading me over to the shoe department. By the time Steve had finished picking me up several new pairs of footwear David was already finished picking out my new underwear.

“Brad when was the last time you had a hair cut?” Steven asked me suddenly as we were walking by a hair salon after having put the numerous bags and boxes into the back of the car.

“Uh..” I started saying since I couldn’t really remember when my last haircut was.

“That’s what I thought.” Steve said with a shake of head as he muttered something under his breath that I didn’t understand. Going from the startled look on David’s face he not only heard what his uncle had just said, he understood what was said as well. Before I knew what was going on I found myself being led into the shop and placed into one of the chairs.

“My god what have you been doing to his hair.” I heard a voice say behind me as I felt some of my hair being fondled. I was about to go completely overboard when the hand suddenly left my hair. I was almost calmed down when I caught the glimpse of some scissors coming towards me out of the corner of my eye. I don’t really know what happened next, but I soon had the hand holding the scissors in a death grip.

“It’s Okay Brad. No one is going to hurt you. Just let go.” Steven whispered softly in my ear as he rubbed my shoulders. It took a few more minutes of this before he was able to get me to release my grip. By the time he did the stylist’s hand had turned a deep purple from the blood restriction I was placing on it.

“I’m sorry about that. My nephew has had a rough time lately and is a bit on edge at times.” Steven tried to explain.

“I don’t care what the little brat has been through. A person like that should be locked up and have the key thrown away.” the Stylist said loudly enough to be heard over the whole shop.

“In fact, I have half a mind to call security and have the little shit arrested and charges pressed.” he went on just as loudly.

“Sir, I understand that you’re upset but I won’t stand for this kind of abuse. I’d like to speak with your manager immediately, please.” my uncle replied while holding David back with a hand on his chest.

“That won’t do you any good. I’m the owner of this shop.” We were told smugly.

“In that case, your services will not be required. And I’ll letting my friends know how this shop tends to treat their clients. Let’s go boys.” David and I followed our uncle out of the shop once I had been helped out of the chair.

“Let’s sit down for a few minutes.” Steve suggested when he saw some benches a short way down the walk way.

“I’m sorry for being so much trouble.” I stammered once we had sat down.

“You have nothing to be sorry about. You were clearly reacting on instinct. You don’t have to explain, but am I right when I say that something with scissors happened to you at the center?” I was asked gently. Thinking back to the incident that had prompted my initial response caused me to breakdown completely. It took me a good ten to fifteen minutes to get over this.

“You know I think this calls for a couple of Brownie Sundaes.” I was told with a smile. I couldn’t help but smile as well to this since it had been I don’t know how long since I had anything like that.

“Brad, with all that you’ve been through, Ian and I have decided to have you start seeing someone to help you get past what’s been done to you.” I was told once we had been served. This made me almost drop the fully loaded spoon I was holding. Thinking back to the doctor I had seen while I was in the hospital and how he had made out everything my mom and her boyfriends had done to me as my fault.

“Don’t worry Brad. You’ll like Dr. Genault. I’ve been seeing him for a while myself and he’s really cool.” David said as he placed a comforting hand on my shoulder. I just nodded at this but ended up finishing my sundae in silence. Once we finished eating , Steve suggested we walk around the mall a bit to let things settle and he said that there was one thing that he needed to pick up. I turned a bright red when we walked into a place called Jordan’s Inc. and saw that almost all they carried were diapers and such. I was more than a little relieved when we walked out empty handed about twenty minutes later.

I was a little surprised that when we walked by the hair salon again about Ninety minutes after my little incident that the store was closed and a ‘help wanted’ sign was in the window. When I looked over to my uncle and cousin to comment on this I saw that they were both smiling.

“Brad, once you’ve finished helping David carry your things up to your room, I’d like you to lay down for a bit. You seem like you’re starting to get a bit tired.” Uncle Ian told me a short while after Steve, David, and I had gotten home from the mall. I wasn’t about to argue with him on this since I felt like I was going to fall asleep at any moment. I couldn’t really understand why I was so tired since I spent a couple of hours exercising each day. I saw Steve say something to David as I took the last of the bags up to my room and by this point I felt like I was going to drop from exertion.

It didn’t really click what David might have been told until he walked into my room carrying a folded dark blue item in his hand.

“Dad asked me to help you get ready for your nap.” David told me sheepishly. I wanted to object that I didn’t need to wear a diaper to bed. But David and I both knew this would have been a lie. With as tired as I felt, I knew the odds of my having an accident was greater than normal. I just shrugged as I started to get undressed. With how quickly I found the diaper going on, I could tell that David must have done his fair share of doing this on his baby brothers.

“Let’s have you use my room. That way you won’t be bothered by Anna when she starts to put you clothes away. I wanted to protest about having other people do all this work for me but I just didn’t have the energy for it. I soon found myself getting tucked into bed. I don’t know why but I felt a great sense of comfort at this. I was dead to the world before my cousin was even out of the room.

I awoke with a start several hours later. I should have expected the nightmare I ended up having but it still caught me by surprise. What shocked me even more was the fact that I found that I was holding a teddy bear when I was aware enough of my surroundings to tell what was going on. After a few more moments of laying in bed, I swung my feet over the side and started to stand when I promptly fell flat on my face.

“Sorry Otto.” I told the dog that I had just tried to stand up on. This got me a tongue lashing that at me laughing inside of a few seconds.

“Okay enough already.” I said while scratching the dog on his chest. Once Otto had left the room I went about climbing out of the damp diaper I was sporting. While I didn’t really care for wearing it, I had to admit that it was a lot better to wake up in a wet diaper that it was in a wet bed. I also noticed that for the couple of times that I’ve worn them so far I was getting more sleep that I had at the center and wasn’t feeling quite so tired. Since I didn’t feel like taking a full shower to clean off, I headed down the hall to the trips room to clean up. I didn’t think anyone would mind me using some of their supplies for this.

As soon as I had that little task done, I headed over to my room to get dressed. I could tell the moment I entered my room that Anna had already been in to put all the clothes away since none of the bags were scattered over the bed like they had been a few hours before.

“You’ve got to be kidding me.” I mumbled to myself when I opened the drawer I assumed my underwear and socks were going to be in and saw that not only had David gotten me regular colored briefs he had decided to get me several pairs of cartoon print briefs. The last time I could even remember wearing something like them was at least six or seven years before. With a shake of my head, I grabbed a pair of Red and Black stripped briefs and some socks. Once I was done getting dressed and looking in the mirror for a while. I decided to see if I could find every one else.

“Anna, do you know where everyone is at?” I asked as I came into the kitchen and found her preparing what I assumed was going to be dinner.

“Yes, they’re out in the pool.” I was told with a smile. I couldn’t understand what the smile was for, but I soon found out.

“Thanks. And thanks for putting the clothes away that was very nice of you.” I guess what I told her caught her a bit off guard since I soon found myself being pulled into a hug.

“Would it be all right if I got something to drink?” I asked as soon as I was released form the hug.

“Sure. There is some pop in the fridge.” I was told. I nodded my head in thanks again and went over to the refrigerator and instead of pulling out the pop I pulled out a bottle of water instead.

“Did you have a nice nap?” David asked when he saw me walk through the back door. I shrugged at this. Not really wanting to give out any details.

“Well, hop on in, the water feels great.” Brian added a second later as he tossed one of the trips in the air.

“Uh, I don’t have any swim trunks on.

“So, neither do we.” Brian said with a grin.

“It’s ok for you to swim in your skivvies. So drop your shorts and join us.” David added.

“If you want Brad, I’ve got some trunks that might fit you.” Brian said seeing my hesitation.

“That’s OK, I’ll just watch for now.” I answered as I sat down in one of the nearby chairs. Seeing the fun everyone else was having, I got over my nervousness about swimming in my underwear I stripped down to join my cousins. I no sooner hit the water then one of the trips jumped from the pool’s edge into my arms. I was barely quick enough to catch them before they went under. Since I didn’t see a mark on their cheek, I knew I was holding either Ryan or Andrew but I still couldn’t tell which one. David swam up to me a second later to take the giggling toddler off my hands. I soon found out what Brian was grinning about when he said that he and David weren’t wearing swim trunks either. In fact, David and his brother weren’t wearing anything at all. I was about to comment on this fact when several boys came bounding into the yard.

“Cool. Pool party.” a kid about David’s height and build with flaming red hair said with a laugh as he started taking off his own clothes. The other two boys with him didn’t say anything they just took their clothes off like it was the most natural thing in the world to do. I was so stunned at the fact that they didn’t stop at their underwear, I didn’t see Brian come up behind me.

“What the hell was that for?!” I called out once I was done coughing up all the water I had swallowed. I guess their was something in my eyes when I said this because Brian quickly backed away from me.

“Easy, Brad. It was just a joke.” David said placing himself between me and his brother.

“Let me introduce you to some friends of ours.” David announced quickly as he led me over to where the newcomers were playing with the trips.

“Brad, I’d like to meet some friends of mine and Brian. From left to right you have Hutch, Les, and Hutch’s younger brother Anakin.” David said in introduction as I took each hand as it was offered to me.

“Guys, this is my cousin Brad.”

“Pleased to meet you.” Les told me while taking my hand in his. Before I could respond to this Hutch and Anakin greeting me as well. After returning their greeting, I returned to the shallower part of the pool. I kind of laughed a bit as I saw how Sam and Clancy where pulling the trips through the water. To give myself something to do, I did the same. All of our fun came to a halt when Brian’s and David’s grandmother came storming out onto the deck yelling at the top of her lungs in what I soon recognized as Spanish. I didn’t know what was really going on till she came over to me and practically ripped Devon from my arms. I just looked at her in shock as Devon started to cry. This just caused her to say something to him while giving him a sharp slap to his thigh. Before I could do anything David and Brian were both in her face. David took Devon from her and handed him over to Brian who seemed to do a quick check to see if he was ok. Once he had done this he had Andrew and Ryan follow him into the house.

“Let’s go inside guys. It’s starting to stink out here.” David said with a pointed look towards his grandmother. I got a withering look as I passed the older lady and wondered why she seemed to hate me so much. I was bending over to gather my clothes up when my worst fear came to pass.

“Hey, I know what that is!” I heard Les yell from where he was gathering his own clothes.

“Les, shut the hell up.” Hutch said while planting his hand over the slightly shorter boy’s mouth.

“But, that’s a ..” Les started again before David got in his face.

“That’s correct. Now shut your damn mouth, before I shut it for you.”

“But..”

“I think you better leave Now.” David said firmly while escorting the shorter boy towards the gate he had come through earlier. David was nice enough though to let Les get dressed before he all but threw him out the gate.

“I’m sorry about all that. I’ll let you be alone with your friends” I mumbled as I walked past them and into my room. There I quickly dried off and climbed into a dry pair of underwear before redressing. Not knowing what else to do. I laid back on the bed and tried to figure out why my life had to keep going to hell just as things were looking up. I was so lost in my thoughts I didn’t even know what was going on till Steven came up to tell me dinner was ready.

“The boys tell me that there was a bit of problem while you were swimming earlier. Would you like to tell me about it?” I was asked as I sent into get my hands washed to eat.

“I’m not really sure what to say. I was playing with everyone in the pool. I had gotten tired so I was sitting on the pool steps with Devon when your mom came out and started yelling something and grabbed Devon out of my hands. When Devon started crying your mom smacked him on the thigh. Then David came up and pulled Devon out of her arms and handed him to Brian.” I told him thinking this is what he wanted hear about.

“Actually, I was more concerned about what the boys told me about one of their friends mentioning your monitor. They said that once you came into the house you came up to your room and have been here ever since.”

“Oh. That. I didn’t think that they would want anything to with a jailbird.” replied while looking at the floor.

“I just don’t understand why your mom hates me so much. I mean what have I ever done to her?” I asked acidly before Steve had a chance to respond to my previous statement.

“I don’t know Bradley. I do intend to get to the bottom of it though.” I was told with a smile as I was led from the room and down to dinner.

I turned a bright red as everyone seemed to turn and look at me. I couldn’t help but notice the look of pure hatred I was getting from Steven’s mom and wished I knew what I had done to piss her off so badly.

“I’m sorry for acting like such a jerk earlier.” I told David as I sat down next to him.

“That’s alright. I’m sorry that Les acted like he did today. I didn‘t think that anyone would recognize your device.” David said. I just nodded at this and realized that I was going to have to start working towards not letting things like this get to me.

“Dad after dinner would it be okay to take Brad to the arcade.” David asked as we finished the meal. I almost choked on the drink I was taking when I heard my cousin ask this.

“Could I go too?” Brian asked with a smile before David’s dad could respond to his request.

“Do you both have all your homework done?”

“Yes, sir.” David said quickly. Brian though kind of hesitated at this question.

“Brian?” his dad asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Not all of it sir.” Brian mumbled to his plate.

“Then you won’t be able to join them Brian. You know the rules.” Uncle Ian replied. I started to let the breath I had been holding out on hearing this thinking that all of us had been shot down.

“David, you and Brad may go though. But I want you home by eight-thirty.”

“That’s fine.” David said excited and got up from his chair. I did as well but at a much slower pace.

“Ian, don’t you think you’re forgetting something?” Steven asked his partner with a smile.

“Oh yeah. Come here for a moment Brad. You’ll need this if you want to play any of the games.” I was told as my uncle placed a couple of bills into my shirt pocket.

“Have a good time guys. And David, don’t forget the pager.” Steve called out as David was rushing towards the garage. Before I could get a word out I felt David placing a bike helmet on my head. And told me to hang on once I was balanced on the back pegs of his bike.

“David, I don’t think I can do this.” I said nervously as we entered the mall parking lot and I saw how crowded it looked.

“Sure you can. There’s nothing to it.” I was told cheerfully.

“Please can we just turn around and go back to your uncle’s.” I replied on the verge of panic. There must have been something in my voice that made David slow down and look back at me. We were soon speeding away from the mall. I was kind of surprised when we took a path into the surrounding hills.

“I like to come up here when I want some time alone.” David explained once we reached a secluded spot. I just had to stop and look around at the panoramic view that was laid out before me. I instantly knew why David must have liked coming here. Just looking down upon the scenery before me made me relax considerably.

“Come on over this way.” I was told while David gave my shoulder a nudge.

“Take off your shoes and put your feet in the water you’ll like it.” I was told with a smile as my cousin led me up to small stream. I did as he suggested and was surprised at how much more this helped me relax.

“I can’t do this.” I mumbled after a few minutes of silence.

“Can’t do what?” I was asked as David sat down next to me and put a hand on my shoulder as I started to sob.

“Everything.” I sobbed harder as everything I had been through in the last couple of days finally overwhelmed me and I broke down. David didn’t say a word as he pulled me into a hug and let me cry on his shoulder.

“We better get started back before we’re late. Besides it looks like it’s going to start raining at any minute.” True to David’s prediction, a soft rain started by the time we made it back to the main road. It had become a torrential downpour by the time when made it back to the front gate of his house.

“Both of you stop right where you are!” A commanding voice said behind us before David and I could take more than a couple of steps into the house. I stopped dead in my tracks and felt something warm start to run down my leg when I felt a hand come down on my shoulder.

“Dang it Uncle Josh, don’t do that!” David exclaimed. On turning around, I saw David start to hug a guy that looked like he was in his early to mid fifties. I saw he was about to say something when I turned around.

“Brad.” he whispered in shock. Before things could go an further David’s dad walked into the room

“Hey Thumper. Steve told me you were here.” Ian laughed as he came up and gave his uncle a hug.

“Who you calling Thumper, Shark bait.” Came the smiled reply

“Boys strip out of those clothes right now. If you track mud and water through the house Anna will try and skin the both of you.” We were informed with a laugh. David started chuckling at this as well, but I just stood there with a look of fear on my face.

“He’s kidding Brad.” David whispered to me as he gave my shoulder looking over at my cousin I saw that he had already pulled his shirt off and was starting on his pants. I started pulling my pants off as well once I had my shoes and socks off.

“The shirt too Brad.” I was told gently by my uncle. Turning a bit red at this, I pulled the shirt up and over my head. Like David, I was now just standing in my underwear. Josh’s eyes widened a bit when he saw the marks on my chest and back.

“You guys go on up and get a shower and then get ready for bed. We’ll be down in the Rec room when you’re done.” we were told as a light hand landed on our backsides to send us on our way.

“C’mon Brad, it’ll save time if we shower together.” David told me with a smile. Before I knew what was going on, I had been led in to the bathroom that was between David’s room and the one I was using.

“Well don’t just stand there. Get in here before all the hot water is gone.” Before I could respond to what my cousin was telling me, I felt my underwear being pulled off and I was led into the shower. Even though my cousin was gentle with what he was doing I tensed up considerably at this because of the several times I had been assaulted in the shower at Spring Hill before being placed in solitary.

“It’s all right Brad. Nothing is going to happen.” I heard whispered in my ear as David started running a wash cloth across my back. I started relaxing after several minutes of David scrubbing my back and front. While he seemed to take longer than needed to wash the rest of me, I was glad that it only took him a couple of moments to wash my privates. Once David was done with me, I returned the favor but for some reason or another I decided to take longer with his privates than he did with mine. After drying off, I found myself getting led back into my room and being laid down on my bed. Before I really knew what was going on David had my legs spread wide and was placing one of the thick night diapers under me. As he started to rub some lotion and powder into groin, I started to get feelings I couldn’t remember having in such a long time it took me a few moments to recognize what it was. Comfort. While I didn’t like the fact that I was needing to wear diapers to bed, I couldn’t help but feel comforted by the fact that even when my night accident occurred I wouldn’t have to worry about waking up to a wet bed. Not to mention, it was nice to know that for once in my life someone was taking a real interest in my well being.

“Is everything okay, Brad?” David asked as he saw me starting to cry a bit.

“Yeah, it’s nothing.” I replied with a smile to let him know I meant it. With a nod of his head David finished diapering me.

“I’ll let you finish up from here.” I was told as David tossed me a set of pjs. He started laughing as he left the room through our bathroom door when he saw that the Pjs had hit me right in the face.

As I unfolded the clothes David tossed at me, I stopped cold when I saw that he had tossed me a pair of one-piece pjs. I dropped them at once as a cold feeling went down my back and started looking for something else to wear. All I could manage to find after a few minutes of looking was an oversized t-shirt and a pair of lightweight sweatpants. I headed downstairs once I had these on. It took me a few tries though to get my normal stride going since I wasn’t used to extra padding I now sported between my legs.

“David, why didn’t you hand Brad some real Pjs?” his dad asked when I walked into the room and he saw what I was wearing.

“I did.” David said while giving me a bit of a dirty look.

“He did sir. It’s just that they looked so much like the jumpsuits…”

“It’s OK Brad. I understand.” my uncle interrupted while patting the seat next too him. Guys I just wanted to let you know that after services tomorrow we’ll be going over to James’s place for a family get together.” David’s dad announced as I was starting to get comfortable. I stiffened on hearing this.

“It’ll be OK Brad. Just relax. You’ll need to get used to being out and about with this family.” I was told when uncle Ian felt my reaction to being told about the barbecue planned for the next day. I was about to comment that I didn’t see the point since I wasn’t going to be here that long, when I caught a look from Steve that had me rethinking about voicing my thoughts.

“So I see the little diaper brats decided to come down and join us.” I heard a voice call from behind me. Even though I knew who it was, I turned my head to answer it. I was stunned when Brian’s head snapped around at this comment as well.

“Boys why don’t you go upstairs and play some games in David’s room. Ian and I need to have a long talk with my mother.” We were told by Brian’s dad before Brian or I could say anything about the comment that had been made a few seconds before. As my cousins and I left the room I took a closer look at Brian’s pants and saw that the back of them looked thicker than they should have. Adding this to the comment that uncle Ian had told me earlier I realized that Brian must be the other older person that wore diapers at night aside from the trips.

“Boy, Grandma is really going to get it now.” David commented as soon as we were out of ear shot of the adult. To prove this point we heard an explosion of angry voices behind us a moment after this comment was spoken. We heard the Trips crying when we made it to the top of the stairs.

“Figures.” David said sourly as we walked past his room and walked into the Trips room. As expected, all three of my youngest cousins were standing by the railing of a large crib crying. They quieted down a bit when we walked into the room.

Devon practically leapt into my arms the moment I got close enough to him for him to do this. Brian and David both chuckled at this. Especially when Devon stopped fussing at almost the instant my arms closed around him.

“You might as well see if he needs to be changed.” David said as he picked up one of his remaining brothers. I almost dropped Devon on hearing this since I had never changed a diaper in my life.

“Don’t worry. It’s easy.” Brian said as he led me over to a set of changing tables that along one wall. I paid close attention to what Brian and David were doing since I knew I was going to be next.

“Ok, Lay him down on the table, and strap him down. Don’t do it to tightly though. He doesn’t like that.” David instructed me.

“I know how you feel on that last point kid.” I murmured to Devon as I carried out David’s instructions.

“What was that Brad?” I was asked.

“Oh, nothing.”

“Alright, now that you have him to where he’s not going to roll off the table, undo the leg snaps on his sleepers and pull his legs out. Now that you have his diaper exposed open the tapes on either side and pull the front of the diaper.” I no sooner had completed this last task, when a stream of pee shot up at me.

“Whoa!” I almost yelled as I slapped the front of the diaper back up over Devon’s groin.

“Very funny .” I told Devon as I looked down at the giggling toddler.

“Oh yeah, I guess I should have warned you about that.” David told me with a chuckle. I just glared over my shoulder at my taller cousin.

“He should be done by now.” Brian said a few moments later. I cautiously pulled the front of the diaper back down to confirm this.

“Now pull the old diaper out from under him and use a couple of wipes to clean him off.” Once I had my cousin cleaned up I reached down and pulled a diaper out from under the table.

“You’ll want to use one of the other diapers Brad.” I was told.

“What?”

“You’ll want to use one of the diapers from Devon’s area.” Brian told me again taking the diaper I had in my hand from me and handed me another diaper. Looking under the table I found that each of the Trips had their own area.

“Devon uses a smaller size diaper than Andy and Ryan.” Nodding at this information I took the offered diaper and finished with the task at hand.

“Not to bad for a first time.” David told me after checking my work before I put Devon back into the lower portion of his sleepers. Once we got all the Trips changed, we sat down with them in the rocking chairs that were in the room after a few minutes of this they were all sound asleep again. Soon we were in David’s room and he was setting up one of his video games.

“I think you’ll like this one Brad. All you have to do is Drive fast, and try to run the each others cars off the road.” I was told with a smile.

“Don’t worry. We’ll be starting out in training mode so you can get used to the controls.” David told me as he tossed me one of the remotes. Brian crashed his car a few minutes later and came over to me and started giving me pointers on what button did what.

“Thanks.” I told him after a little bit and I started getting the hang of what I was doing. I had ended up getting so into the game that I didn’t even notice that that my uncles had come into the room.

“It’s good to see that you’re finally relaxing Brad.” my uncle’s words startled me so bad that I ended up crashing my car. What was so funny about this is that I managed to take David’s and Brian’s out as well just before they were going to cross the finish line.

“DAD! I was just about to win!” Brian whined to his dad.

“Sorry about that kiddo.” Steve said laughing at his son’s indignation.

“Anyway it’s time for all three of you to be in bed.” David’s dad added as he turned off our game.

“Do either of you need to be changed?” Brian and I were asked by his dad a second later as I stood up to go into my room. I turned a bright red when I reached down to feel the front of my diaper and found that at some point in the game I had flooded it and didn’t even notice I had done so. Going off the expression Brian had I assumed he had done the same. Though Brian’s expression was more mischievous than anything else.

“I should have known.” Steve laughed as he picked Brian up and tossed him over his shoulder.

“David would you mind taking care of Brad. And I expect you both to sleep in your own beds tonight.” David was told by his dad, though my uncle had a small smile on his face when he added the last part.

David had me changed and in bed in a matter of minutes after we entered my room. I was stunned when he opened the bottom drawer of my dresser and pulled out the supplies that would be needed to change me.

“Sleep tight and I’ll see you in the morning.” I was told as my cousin planted a soft kiss on lips. I was so taken aback by this I couldn’t respond right away. I laid in bed for a while with mixed emotions on what had happened. I mean it felt nice and comforting to me when my cousin kissed me but I kept hearing my mom’s voice telling me that things like this was wrong.

At some point during the night, the storm system we had earlier dropped an even bigger storm in our laps. I think this coupled with everything else is what triggered a memory I had buried long ago to surface.

“Brad wake up! You’re having a nightmare!” A voice called out. But I was so into the memory that had finally unlocked itself that wasn’t what I heard. I reacted on instinct when I felt the hand come down on my shoulder. I felt my fist connect with something hard as I was thrashing about.

“NOOO!!! DADDY!!!” I screeched loudly before bolting awake. As things came more into focus I found my cousins and uncles crowded into my room.

“Why did she have to do that? Why?!” I yelled before braking down in a sobbing heap.

“Do what Brad? Who had to do what?” I heard my Uncle Ian softly through my sobs.

“My mom. Wwwhy dddid she have to do that?” I stuttered.

“Do what Brad? What did you see your mom do?”

“She shot my dad.” I cried as I buried my head in my uncle’s chest and started crying even harder.

“You saw your mom shoot your dad?” I was asked in a quavering voice. Unable to trust my own voice, I just nodded at this.

“It’s alright Brad. Just let it out.” I was told. A moment later I felt some wetness on the back of my neck and on looking up I saw that my uncle was crying as well. I must have fallen back asleep at some point because the next thing I knew it was morning and Brian was telling me it was time to get up. Looking at the clock next to my bed I was that it was almost noon.

“I thought we were going to church this morning?” I asked as I stretched awake.

“Dad thought that after what happened last night it would be better to just stay home this morning. But we are expected over at Cousin James place in an hour so you need to get up and get ready.” I just nodded at this and started to climb out of bed. Before I did this, I decided to look over the edge of my bed to make sure I was just going to be putting my feet on the floor and not something else. I was glad I did because I no sooner put my head over the edge of the bed when I got three very wet tongues across the upper portion of my face.

“Okay guys, you’ve said good morning so lets let him get up and get dressed.” Brian said with a chuckle as he led the dogs out of my room.

After I got out of bed and walked into the bathroom I realized that I still had a sagging diaper on. I was about to call someone to help me with it when I saw a device like what I had seen in the Trips room the previous night. With a shrug, I unfastened my soaked diaper and let it fall to the floor. It was soon safely stored in the Diaper Genie. It hit me then that if I had one of those in my bathroom then I was probably going to be expected to wear diapers at night till my wetting episodes stopped.

I shook my head a bit when I came out of the bathroom a short time later and found my clothes laying out on my bed what really caught my eye was the cartoon print briefs that were on top of the pile. With a bit of a snort I walked over to the pile of clothes and started getting dressed. I have to admit that I started chuckling a bit when I got a glimpse of myself wearing the briefs in a nearby mirror. I just shook my head and continued getting dressed.

“Brad would you mind joining me in the office for a few minutes?” Steve asked me as I entered the kitchen a few minutes later.

“I guess.” I replied hesitantly when I saw the black eye he now sported that wasn’t there the night before. I almost wet my pants when he placed a hand on my shoulder to lead the way.

“This doesn’t include you.” Steve told David with a raised hand when my cousin started to follow us.

“But.”

“I mean it. Stay.” David was told in a very final way.

“yes sir.” Came the glum reply as David sat back down.

“Brad. I want you to know that you aren’t in any trouble. Ian and I just want to talk to you about what you said last night.” Steve told me as he escorted me to his and my Uncle Ian’s office.

“ok.” I said softly.

“Have a seat Brad.” I was told gently as my uncle patted the cushion next to him on the couch he was already sitting on. With Steve’s assistance I shuffled over to where my other uncle was seated.

“I’m sure Steve has already told you, but I want to stress to you that you aren’t in any trouble. OK?” I was asked as I took the seat next to my uncle and felt him put his arm around me. I just nodded at this and waited for the shoe to drop.

“What do you remember of what you told us last night?”

“Everything.” I mumbled.

“Brad, this is important. I need you to answer me clearly when I ask you a question. Alright?”

“Yes sir.” I answered clearly, but unable to meet my uncle’s glaze.

“OK. What do you remember about the night your dad was shot?”

“Everything, sir.” I answered as I started to cry again at the memory of that night.

“Would you be willing to tell us what you know?” I just nodded my response to this question since I didn’t think I could answer well enough verbally.

“Take your time and tell us at your own pace.” I was told gently as my uncle gave my shoulder a comforting squeeze. Taking a deep breath to steel myself, I spent the next thirty minutes telling my uncle about the night I saw his brother and my father murdered. I was an emotional wreck by the time I was done telling my story.

“Steve would you mind taking the other boys to the barbecue? I don’t think that Brad is really up to it right now and I don’t want to leave him alone.”

“Sure I can do that but you know that David and Brian will probably insist on staying home as well.”

“I know they’ll fight it just make sure that they know in no uncertain terms is this going to be permitted. Tell James that I’ll call him later with what’s going on. Also let Josh know that I’ll need to talk to him as well.”

“I’ll let them know to expect your call.” My uncle was told as his husband got up from the other side of me and headed towards the door. Once Steve had left the room, I was led to a bookcase and was surprised to set a set of stairs behind it. I soon found myself in what I assumed was my uncles’ bedroom.

“This way you won’t have to deal with your cousin’s argument.” I was told with a smile. As if to prove his point David and Brian both started yelling that if I wasn’t going then neither were they. This went on the entire time that I was helped back into bed after the necessary diapering. It stopped abruptly when I’m guessing Uncle Ian walked into the room. I couldn’t hear what he told them but it must have been effective since all five of my cousins came into my room to tell that they hoped I would get to feeling better soon and that they would see me when they got home later. I just nodded to this though I still had some tears in my eyes from having to relive something I had blocked out for almost eight years.

“Uncle Ian?” I called as I came into the kitchen a few hours later.

“Down here, Brad” I heard the answer come from the Rec room. Grabbing myself a bottle of water I headed downstairs to see what my uncle was doing. I stopped dead in my tracks and ran back upstairs when I saw that another person was in the room with my uncle when I walked in wearing just a small t-shirt and a wet diaper.

“Sorry about that.” I told my smiling uncle as I rejoined him and the younger gentleman once I had gotten properly dressed.

“That’s OK Brad.” I was told as my uncle struggled to keep from laughing.

“I’d like you to meet Dr. Genault.” I was told as my uncle had me sit on the couch next to him.

“hi.” I replied softly still embarrassed that the man had just seen me in a wet diaper.

“You’re uncle has been telling me all about you. I’m glad to meet you finally.” I was told with a smile. I stiffened on hearing this since I wasn’t sure exactly what he may have been told.

“Nothing bad. I assure you.” I was told with another smile.

“You know Ian, I wouldn’t be to surprised if the young man here is hungry. Why don’t we see about getting him fed?”

“You know that might be a very good idea. I know he didn’t have much to eat this morning.” my uncle said as he got up from his seat next to me and headed for the stairs.

“It’s okay. I’ll be right upstairs if you need me.” I was told when my uncle caught the nervous look I was giving him.

“So Brad, how do you like living here so far?” I was asked after a few moments of strained silence.

“It’s ok, I guess. I just don’t understand why everyone is being so nice to me? I mean I have to go back to the center tomorrow anyway. Besides who would want to keep a jail bird like me anyway.” I said while looking at the floor.

“From what your uncle has told me it seems like almost everyone in this house wants you to stay.”

“They’re probably just being nice because they have to.” I replied glumly.

“You think your cousins are being told to be nice to you. From what I’ve heard so far Brian and David both threw a major fit this morning so they could stay home because you were, and that David practically threw a person he’s been friends with for years out of the yard naked because that person was starting to make a comment about your monitor. Not to mention, Devon has to almost be pulled bodily from you arms when you two are together. That sounds to me like three people that care about you and not because they’re being told to. However if you feel that you like it more at the center than here then I’ll let your uncle know about your decision . You, however, will need to explain this to David. Which means that I’ll need to have David placed in protective custody so he doesn’t try to harm himself again like he did when his father had told him that he learned that you were dead.” This last part brought me up short. I knew David had mentioned seeing a doctor but he never said why.

“I’m going to go up and help your uncle with lunch. Why don’t you play this game I brought with me while I do that.” I was told before I had a chance to ask about the statement that was just made about David.

I was quickly shown how to play the game that Dr, Genault had set up on a nearby computer. I was asked to pause the game thirty minutes later for lunch. All during the meal the conversation was quickly changed every time I tried to bring up what the doctor and I had talked about earlier.

“Would it be ok if I played more of the game you brought with you?” I asked after lunch. When I was told the doctor and my uncle had some things they needed to talk about .

“Feel free. We’ll be in my office if you need anything.” my uncle said while giving me a small hug and kiss before sending me back down to play the game some more.

“So Paul what do you think so far?” Ian asked once he closed his office door behind him and his guest.

“I’m a little worried about his lack of self-worth. I mean, I already told you about what he told me downstairs before lunch. He feels that since he’s been incarcerated for so long that nobody would anything to do with him. I think this is partly because he’s been in solitary confinement for so long.”

“What about when anyone gets to close to him or tries to touch him?”

“That probably stems from all the physical abuse that he’s been put through before his confinement. I would just keep doing what you have been and keep showing him the unconditional love that you have been so far. Sooner or later he’ll start to trust again.”

“What about everything else?”

“I’ll know more once I see the results of the tests. I’m pretty sure I’ll be able to help him. I’ll try to get the results of the tests and a treatment plan worked out for you in time for his hearing in the morning.” Ian was told before the conversation moved on to other things. A short time later Ian heard the door from the garage burst open and heard the kids come storming in.

“How’s Brad doing?” Steve asked as he gave his partner a hug and a small kiss.

“He’s doing better. Paul had talked to him for a short while an started him in on one of his games.”

“Well, if anybody can help Brad Paul should be the one.” Ian was told with a smile. About this time two of the Andy and Ryan came up to their dad for a hug.

“Daddy, Up!” the boys said in perfect unison as they raised their arms. As he bent down to pick his sons up he caught the smell of a couple of dirty diapers.

“I think I know a couple of young men that need to be changed.” Ian said with a smile. Knowing what the results of this statement would be.

“No Change!” came the identical response as the boys turned around to run away. Playing a game that that been going on for years. They didn’t get more than a couple of feet before their dad managed to grab the giggling toddlers and toss them over his shoulder.

“No change, No change.” Ian heard in stereo as he and Steve headed upstairs to clean the slightly ripe boys up.

“Where’s Devon? I thought he would have been in on this little game?” Steve was asked as Ian tossed one of the boys to him.

“Where do you think? The moment we got in the house he asked where Brad was and the second he heard Brad yell from downstairs he took off like a flash to greet him.”

“You know, I think those two boys might end up being just what the other needs to help them come out of their shells.” Ian said after a few seconds thought before turning his attention to the squirming kid in front of him.

“You could very well be right.” Steve answered before doing the same thing.

“What do you think you boys are doing down here like that?!” Steve and Ian heard Steve’s mom yell as they were washing their hands.

“Oh Jeez. Doesn’t she ever let up.” Steve said disgustedly as he quickly finished washing his hands.

“Mom, put the boys down.” Steve said firmly and with an edge to his voice when he saw his mother practically dragging Andy and Ryan back up the stairs.

“I’m sorry, It’s just that they shouldn’t be running around like this.” Motioning to the boys that were sporting just their shoes, a diaper, and T-shirt.

“Mom, they’re dressed just fine. It’s a warm day out and we plan on having the boys out back for a while. So just ease up will you? And before you say anything remember you assured both Ian and I when we agreed to let you move in that you wouldn’t interfere with how we raised them.”

“Well yes I did, but that was before I knew how immoral you were going to be about it. Your father and I certainly didn’t raise you like that.” The older lady replied crisply.

“I’m aware of that. I loosened up. Why don’t you do the same.” her son replied before taking the boys hands and led them back down the stairs and out the back door.

“What are you looking at?” Ian was asked harshly when he came out of the bathroom a second after Steve was out the door. Not even bothering to give voice to what he was thinking, Ian stepped around the lady standing in front of him and walked down the stairs to join the rest of his family.

“Dad could we go to the Mall for a while before dinner?” David asked a short time later.

“I don’t see any problem with that. How are you guys set for funds?” the boys were asked with a smirk and a raised eyebrow.

This question brought me up short since I had completely forgotten about the money that my uncle had given me the night before. For that matter I didn’t even know where the money now was.

“That’s what I thought.” my uncle said with a laugh as several more bills were pressed into my hand. Before I could say anything, I felt myself getting dragged towards the garage.

“You can ride with me.” David announced as I felt a helmet being placed on my head. I only vaguely remember my cousins waving to Brian’s dad as we took off down the driveway.

“You’re not getting out of it this time Brad.” David told me when he felt me stiffen as we approached the mall entrance. With this Brian and David each took an arm and started guiding me towards the arcade door that was in front of us. I thought I was going to wet my shorts when the blast of sound hit me as we walked through the door. I was quickly led over to a coin machine and after David exchanged one of the bills I had for some tokens I was led over to a group of boys standing near a game in the corner.

As we walked towards my cousins’ friends I got the very uncomfortable feeling that most of the people we were walking past were staring at me. I soon found out why.

“David don’t get mad, please!” one of the smaller boys in the group whined as we joined them.

“What are you taking about Ackworth?” the boy was asked by Brian before his brother could say anything.

“Everyone Knows about Brad.” Hutch replied when the other boy seemed to shrink back from the stare my younger cousin was giving him.

“Somebody want to start making some sense here? What do you mean ‘Everyone knows about Brad.’ ?” David asked starting to get angry.

“I mean, somebody started spreading a story about Brad being in Raven Hill.” Hutch announced, ignoring the look he was getting from David and Brian both.

“Les.” David and Brian said in unison after a few seconds silence.

“It wasn’t me. It was my step brother over there!” A voice said from behind us. We saw Les coming up to us and pointing over his shoulder but giving me an extremely wary look. Looking in the direction that Les was pointing, I saw a figure coming towards us that made my blood run cold.

“You!” The older teen and I said the moment we saw each other.

“What’s going on here? Brad do you know this guy?” David said as he came up next to me.

“Yeah, I know him.” I spat.

“So I see you’re still a little pants wetter.” The guy smirked at me. Looking down I saw that a small wet spot had formed on the front of my shorts.

“Maybe, but at least I don’t try to gang rape little boys in the shower. By the way, where’s your boyfriend?” I shot back coldly. I was amazed at how quickly the guy’s color went from a deep red to a pale white. I saw Les stiffen up as well at this last bit. Before I knew what was going on , the guy lunged at me. Luckily Several people were able to stop him before he got too near me.

“What’s going on here?!” A voice called from behind us.

“This guy just tried to attack my cousin.” Brian said seeing a guy in his mid twenties coming up to us.

“Why?” the guy, who turned out to be the manager on duty, asked.

“I don’t really know.” Brian replied honestly.

“Let go of the other guy. I want to see what he has to say.” David and several of the other people moved out of the guy’s way. And no sooner had they done this that the guy took a couple of calm steps forward and landed a right cross to my head before anyone could stop him. Unfortunately for him, an off duty police officer saw this. After detaining the guy that hit me, she came over to take a look at me.

“How many fingers am I holding up?” I was asked as I was helped into a sitting position.

“Three.” I replied as I tried to get my eyes to come back into focus.

“I think we might need to have him checked out.” The officer said as she lowered the two fingers she had me looking at.

“Could we just take him home instead. My dad’s a nurse.” Brian said quickly as he picked up on the look that had flashed in my eyes.

“I guess that would be OK. I’ll have one of the officers give you a lift after we get this mess sorted out.

“That’s okay. We have our bikes right outside.” David said jumping in at this point.

“Sorry boys. This has to be done. We need to find out if your parents are going to want to press charges or not.” we were told firmly. Twenty minutes later we were pulling into the driveway. I was too out of it at this point that I didn’t notice the looks David and Brian were giving the Limo that we parked next to.

“Mr. Miller?” the officer asked as Brian’s dad opened the door.

“Kind of.” Steve said with a chuckle that died when he saw my now partly swollen shut eye,

“Ian, you better come here for a moment. I think we have a bit of a situation.” Steve called as he led all of us into the house.

“Boys why don’t you take Brad upstairs while. Steve and I talk to the officer here.” my uncle told us. I’m sure the officer escorting us saw how badly I flinched the second my uncle’s hand touched my shoulder. Brian and David hurriedly rushed to do as requested and I soon found myself getting ushered into David’s room and sat down in the couch he had in there.

“What was going on with that guy?” I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone change color that quickly. Over the next twenty minutes I explained what happened the last time I saw the guy. I did add that I didn’t know why he reacted the way he did when I made the “boyfriend” comment. Shortly after I finished this story both of my uncles came into the room.

“Okay, who would like to explain to me just what the hell took place?” We were asked sternly by David’s dad as Brian’s dad came over to take a closer look at my eye.

“I don’t know really what happened.” David told his dad sheepishly.

“Yeah, we had just gotten to the arcade and a bunch of our friends waved us over.” Brian cut in quickly.

“Yeah, anyway we were told that someone had blabbed about Brad’s monitor.” David told his dad nervously.

“And because of that you decided to start a fight?” We were asked heatedly.

Before it could go any further, Steve jumped into the conversation.

“Ian, why don’t you go back down to our guests and cool down. I’ll find out what happened and let you know what’s going on.” Brian’s dad told his husband while moving him towards the bedroom door.

“I’ll let you guys get your bearings for a few moments. When I get back I want the whole story and you better not leave out any details.” We were informed before Steve closed the door behind him and we found ourselves alone once more. Ten minutes later Steve walked back into the room and took a seat on the edge of the bed across from the couch we were sitting on.

“Alright let’s here it.” Steve said simply and waited for one of us to start speaking.

“We had just gotten to the arcade when we noticed a group of our friends waving us over to one of the games. When we got there Hutch told us that people knew about Brad having been to Raven Hill. Brian and I both assumed it was Les that did this but it turned out it was Les’s step-brother. Anyway, when the guy came over to us, He and Brad just stared at each other for a second. From the way they looked at each other I figured that they knew each other. Well, the guy that hit Brad made a comment about Brad still being a pants wetter because Brad had wet his pants a little when he saw the guy.” I turned red at this point since I wasn’t aware that anyone else had seen the condition of my pants.

“Keep going.” Steve prompted as David paused to take a breath.

“Well, Brad then made a comment about the guy gang raping little boys in showers and then asked the guy how his boyfriend was doing.” Because I had my head lowered and was crying, I didn’t see Steve’s reaction to this point of the story. David must have gotten a bit shaken at what he saw because Brian finished the story quickly.

“Okay, I’ll let Ian know what happened and that you had tried to stop the fight. In the mean time, I want all of you to go ahead and climb into bed after making sure you have everything set up for school tomorrow.” We were told as Steve got to his feet.

“But it’s…” Brian started to say before his dad turned around to look at him.

“I mean, yes sir.”

“Uncle Steve, I’ll wait outside for the police to come and pick me up. I’m sorry about all trouble I started for you.”

“Brad you aren’t going anywhere, except to bed.” Came the firm reply as Steve held up a hand to keep David and Brad quiet.

“I won’t deny that this is going to create some problems but it’s nothing we can’t overcome. Now, I want all three of you in bed and ready for lights out in twenty minutes. Ian and I will be up to tuck you in at that time.” Steve told us calmly as he walked out of the room.

“Brian would you mind getting things together for you and Brad while we get a shower. I’ll take care of both of you once you’re done with yours.” David announced as he ushered me towards our bathroom.

“David, I’m really sorry about all the trouble I’ve caused for you guys. I guess it would be better if I just went back to the center.” I sobbed as David started soaping my back after climbing into the shower with me.

“It’s the other guy that should be sorry. You didn’t do anything wrong. And my dad won’t let them take you back to the center without a fight. I can promise you that.” I was told as my cousin pulled me into a hug from behind. I stiffened a bit when I felt his semi-hard penis poke me in the back but I chose not to say anything about it. Ten minutes later we were both drying ourselves off and walked back into my room. I was kind of surprised to find that Brian had already gotten his own shower and was in the process of laying out the diapers he and I would be wearing to bed that night as well as some Pjs for the both of us.

“Yeah, I figured you’d go with those.” David told his brother with a smile when he saw that Brian had decided to use cloth diapers and plastic pants instead of the disposables I had been using the last couple of nights.

“You’ll probably find these more comfortable.” Brian told me as he hopped onto the bed and got into position to get diapered for the night. David just laughed at this. I guess this was some kind of insider thing that I didn’t know about. I was surprised with how quickly David had Brian ready. I was even more surprised when Brian climbed into my bed after getting his pajamas on. I was about to say something about this when I felt myself being pushed onto the bed as well and soon felt the thick cloth diapers being placed under me. I couldn’t really describe the feelings that shot through me as I felt them being pulled up between my legs once David had my butt and balls lotioned and powdered. I was so overwhelmed by these feelings I hadn’t noticed David had the diapers fastened and the plastic pants in place till he spoke up.

“Ok Brad, you’re all set. Get your jammies on and climb into bed.” I was told in a slightly babyish tone. I was about to say something about this when I saw the smile on my cousin’s face. With a shake of my head, I decided not to say anything. Once I had the footless sleepers in place, I climbed into bed. I was still trying to find a comfortable position due to the extra bulk that the cloth diapers had when David climbed into bed. He had just pulled the covers over himself when my uncles and a third man walked into the room.

“Uncle Isaac!!” Both Brian and David yelled at almost the same time when they saw the third man’s arms David tossed the covers off and practically leapt into the man’s arms followed closely by his brother. I was taken back by this happening given the fact that David like the first night I was here was completely nude.

“Good to see you guys too.” their uncle laughed as he returned the hugs he was being given by his nephews. I hid under the covers a bit when he turned his gaze my way.

“So you’re my newest nephew huh?” I was asked as he dropped David and Brian back onto the bed.

“I guess so.” I said nervously while looking at the heavily scarred portion of his face.

“Can I get a hug before I go?” This caused me to duck further under the covers since because of all the encounters I had at Spring Hill that started with just a ‘hug’.

“Sorry about that Isaac, he’s still a bit jittery around new people.” I heard my uncle Ian tell his brother.

“It’s Ok. I shouldn’t be too shocked by his reaction after what you told me.”

“I’m sorry about that sir.” I replied softly when my uncle came back into the room a short time later.

“It’s all right Brad. Isaac understands better than you think.” I was told as my uncle placed a soft kiss on my forehead.

“Now what’s going on with you two?” Ian asked my cousins. While he sounded angry, I could see the barest hint of a smile on his face.

“Well, after all Brad’s been through today we thought he might need some company tonight.” Brian said with an innocence I’m sure that neither of his ‘dad’s’ bought for a second.

“Right. I guess this is ok for tonight but tomorrow all three of you will be in your own beds. And speaking of tomorrow, Brad, I need to let you know that instead of going back to Raven Creek in the morning you have a hearing to go to.” I got scared at this point and it must have showed clearly on my face since my uncle explained what was going to be happening quickly. I just nodded when I was asked if I understood what I had just been told.

“I want all three of you to go right to bed . And no talking.” Steve told us firmly before he and Ian each gave us one last kiss on the forehead and left the room. Turning the lights of behind them.

“Don’t worry. I’m sure my dad has a plan.” I was told as David pulled me into a soft embrace. It must have been a good hour or so before David’s and Brian’s soft breathing lulled me to sleep.

Chapter 2

A new life

When I woke up the next morning I found that I was now alone in bed. Looking towards the clock the was off to left of my bed I saw that it was almost Eight in the morning. With a yawn , I started to climbed out of bed and headed into the bathroom to remove the sagging diaper I now had on. As I pulled off the plastic pants, I admitted to myself that David was right. The cloth diapers were more comfortable. The only problem I had was that I wasn’t sure where to put the wet diapers. I didn’t thick David would be to pleased if I were to place them in our dirty clothes hamper, so I didn’t bother with there. In the end, I decided to place them in one of the sinks till I could ask somebody where they were supposed to go if I was even still here by the end of the day.

Just after I started the shower I heard David enter the bathroom.

“Hey Brad in the future there’s a pail in the Trips room that you can place the cloth diapers in when you’re done with them.” I was told. While I couldn’t see my cousin’s face, I assumed he was smiling given the tone of his voice.

“Hey guys, dad says to get your asses in gear. Breakfast is waiting on the table. And Brad, Uncle Ian, say he wants you to wear the blue suit that he has hanging on your closet door.”

“OK, Brian. Let them know we’ll be down in a few minutes.” David called. This caused me to spend up how quickly I was washing. By the time I was done and getting out of the shower to dry off, David had already left. He must have decide to help me along a bit since when I walked into my room the suit Brian had mentioned was already laying on my bed along with a t-shirt, dress socks, and a pair of the cartoon briefs I had noticed a couple of days before. With a shake of my head, I finished drying off and quickly started getting dressed. I had to smile a bit when I saw what I looked like in the briefs. The smile was gone quickly though when I thought to what was going to be happening today.

“You look pretty sharp there Brad.” Steven told me as I walked into the dinning room.

“Thank you sir.” I mumbled as I took my seat. Looking around I was surprised that Uncle Ian wasn’t there.

“Don’t worry Ian he’s finishing up a phone call then he has to get dressed himself.” I was told as Steve picked up on my nervousness. Hearing this eased my mind greatly. It was at this point that realized I had been staring at what Brian’s dad was wearing. Steve was in his Dress Blues. Before my life had dropped into hell, I had a fascination with the military. But I guess a lot of boys do this. I was able to recognize that he had been in the Navy and held the rank of Master Chief, but I wasn’t able to tell what all the ribbons he had were for or what he did.

“You better start eating before things get cold.” Steve said with a laugh breaking me out of the zone I was in.

“Oh sorry. I didn’t mean to stare.” I apologized quickly as I started eating the food that was on my plate.

“Shit!” I heard someone exclaim from the kitchen.

“Steve could you come in here for a moment?” Ian called from the kitchen. We all heard a muted conversation going on in the next room but couldn’t really make out what was being said. A few minutes later both Steve and my uncle came rushing into the room.

“Brad, I hate to do this to you, but I had something come up suddenly. I won’t be able to take you to your court appearance but, I will be there for it. I’ve arranged for Dr. Genault to pick you up and take you there. You be met by one of the people from my office. She’ll be covering things till I can get there. Don’t worry about anything. You’re going to be in good hands.” I was told while Steve flashed a quick smile at his husband. I just nodded dumbly at this because I was still staring at the two stars that my uncle sported on the shoulder boards of his uniform.

“I didn’t know you guys had a fieldtrip today?” David and Brian were asked when David’s dad turned to say something to them.

“We don’t.” David answered.

“Then why the class A’s ?” They were asked.

“Because we’re going with Brad to his court appearance.” Brian said.

“No, you’re not.” Steven told his son.

“Yes we are.” David announced firmly.

“No, you guys aren’t.” Uncle Ian said firmly.

“We have to go. Brad needs our support.” Brian and David said in unison.

“Guys, I appreciate the loyalty you want to show but it’ll be impossible for you to get in. I couldn’t even get you in even if I wanted to. Now, if you want to wear you’re A‘s to school then I don’t mind but you’re going to school. ” Ian explained.

“If you don’t let me go then I’ll..” David started to say before he was cut off forcefully by his father.

“You Better choose your next words carefully Mister or you’re going to be in a world of trouble. Now since you guys will be needing to take the bus this morning you better get in gear if you want to make it on time because if you miss it you’re really going to be in trouble. Understood?”

“Yes, Sir.” Both of my cousins answered venomously as they stood up and started to stomp off towards their rooms to change. They barely made it past their dads before each of them got a very firm hand planted on their posteriors. It was soon after my cousins finished leaving the room that what my uncle had told sunk in and I realized that he wasn’t going with me to court.

“Brad calm down.” I was told softly as I was pulled into a tight hug.

“I knew you guys didn’t really care about me.” I sobbed as I tried to fight my way out of the grip my uncle had me in.

“Brad we do care about you! I wasn’t expecting this meeting till later this afternoon. I’d do anything to be there with you but it’s just not possible at this point. I promise you that you’ll be in good hands and I’ll be there as soon as I can.” I was told as I was held in the hug that I was fighting against. My uncles managed to get me calmed down just as Dr. Genault showed up. After a few hushed words, both of my uncles rushed out the door. My cousins left soon after this. Though they both still looked rather pissed at their dads as they each gave me a hug and promised me that everything would work out.

The Trips came downstairs with their grandmother just as Dr. Genault and I were getting ready to leave for the courthouse. All three of them came charging up to me as soon as they saw me standing there. Of course their grandmother tried to stop them. Devon trying to jump into my arms knocked me off balance and Andy and Ryan crashing into my legs completed the task. Before I could stop it, I was laying flat on my back with three toddlers climbing all over me. Seeing their happy faces was enough to break me out of the blue funk that I had been in for the last hour.

“Brad we really need to get going.” I was told after a few minutes of playing around with the Trips.

“I’ll see you guys later today. You be good OK.” I told them as I gave each a final hug and kiss before following Dr. Genault out to his car.

Nothing was said as we drove towards the courthouse.

“Brad, I’m Darcie Levinston and I’ll be helping you out today.” I was told by a very attractive young woman as she held her hand out.

“Pleased to meet you.” I replied quietly taking the offered hand.

“We better get inside things should be starting pretty soon.” I nodded glumly at this. Wishing my uncle cared enough to be with me for this.

“All rise. Phoenix Juvenile court is now is session. The Honorable Colleen Riley presiding.” The bailiff called out as an older black lady walked into the room.

“oh crap.” I heard one of the people from the next table mutter to themselves and for a brief moment I felt that things might actually work out.

“Be seated.” we were instructed as the judge took her seat.

“I’m not at all pleased at the case before today. And I want to make it clear that I want it taken care of quickly. Is everyone ready to proceed?” Everyone was asked.

“We are your honor. But I find it highly distressing that Mr. Miller has chosen not to appear at this point in time.” One of the people from the table across from me said.

“Your honor. Senator Miller was unavoidably delayed by another meeting that had unexpectedly been moved up. I’ve been fully briefed on the matter before this court and am prepared to argue the case until such time as Senator Miller can join us.” Darcie replied confidently.

“I’m aware of the meeting. Both Senator Miller and the person I spoke with assured me that they wouldn’t be more than twenty minutes behind schedule. In the mean time, I’d like to take this chance to speak with Young Mr. Miller in my chambers.” We were told.

“Your, honor this is all very irregular. If Ms. Levinston really is prepared then I see no reason for us to delay till Mr. Miller decides to grace us with his presence.”

“Mr. Hadley are you trying to tell this court how to conduct its business?”

“Not at all your honor. I’m just expressing concern over any untimely delays.” We were told quickly.

“Mr. Hadley, in this courtroom, I’ll decide what constitutes an untimely delay is that clear?”

“Yes, your honor.” came the meek reply.

“Good. Mr. Miller would you join me please?” I was asked gently.

“Go on.” I was told quietly as I felt Darcie give me a gentle push.

“Would you like anything to drink?” I was asked as the judge closed the door behind us.

“No, thank you ma’am. I mean your honor.” I said, correcting myself quickly.

“ I noticed you have quite a shiner this morning. Would you mind telling me how you came by it?” I was asked as I was led over to a couch. It took me about twenty minutes to relay what had happened the evening before. What I didn’t know is that Judge Riley had seen the whole thing as she was in the arcade with her grandkids. I was asked about a variety of other things over the next twenty minutes before I was told that it was time to head back to the court room. The bailiff stopped us just outside the door to the courtroom and whispered something to the judge. I saw that her eyebrows went up in surprise a bit before she nodded and had him open the door for us. I saw that my uncle was now seated at our table with Darcie. Without hesitation I rushed over to give him a hug. To this day, I’m still not sure what caused me to do this.

“Now that we’re all here let us begin with the matter at hand.” The judge told us as she took her seat.

“Senator, I have to say that I’m highly disappointed in the case before me. I would have assumed that someone with your reputation would have known better than this. Given the fact that in several years the minors record would have been cleared and the file sealed. I’m almost inclined to dismiss the case.” I froze at this thinking that I was going to be sent right back to the detention center. It was only my uncle’s hand on my thigh that prevented me from jumping out of my seat.

“My apologies to the court, your honor. It’s just that when my client had informed me that he had been given a life sentence I was assuming that he had been tried as an adult and that normal procedures wouldn’t apply. I didn’t receive his file until after I had already submitted my motion for fast tracking a new hearing for him. Once I learned of my mistake it was to late to try and amend it.”

“I see but what was this you said about a life sentence?” We were asked as the judge started shuffling through the papers before her.

“That is correct your honor. My client first told me of this during our second meeting. I was only able to get the sentencing file a week ago. It seems that it had been sealed and then misfiled. Here is a copy of it.” my uncle said as he handed several sheets of paper to the bailiff who in turn handed them to the judge.

“Mr. Hadley is there any truth to this?” The man was asked coldly.

“Yes, there is your honor. Given the brutal nature of the crime committed it was felt that a life sentence was warranted.”

“I find that hard to believe but we’ll get to that later. I’d like to address the glaring mistakes made in this boys original trail. I’d like to speak to Mr. Hayes about this please call him in.” The bailiff was told.

“Is there a problem with this request Mr. Hadley?”

“Uh.. Mr. Hayes passed away almost four years ago your honor.” We were informed nervously.

“I see then I’d like to see Mr. Miller’s current counsel.”

“uh. Our office has yet to assign him a new counsel.” the prosecutor told us meekly.

“Are you Telling this court that this boy has been held in custody for almost four years without counsel?!” The judge roared. I came damned close to wetting my pants at this point and was very glad that I had declined the drink offered to me earlier.

“It was a simple oversight. Your honor.”

“How about I throw you into Mr. Miller’s cell for four years and see how you like it.” I knew right then that not only was I going back to Raven Creek, I was going to have to spend it in the same cell with the person that put me there in the first place.

“Would you care for a few minutes to get your client composed counselor?” My uncle was asked when the judge saw how worked up I was getting.

“That’s alright your Honor. He’ll be fine in a moment.” I quickly calmed down as my uncle whispered in my ear.

“And was it also an oversight that you held the trial without the defendant present, or that no witnesses were called on his behalf?” The judge asked rhetorically.

“Your Honor those mistakes were made by an over zealous your prosecutor. He has since moved from our office.”

“Sir, you were the prosecutors supervisor. Which means that you should have been providing oversight on the case. In all my years on the bench I’ve never seen such a gross miscarriage of justice. After looking over all these documents and from what I’ve just heard, I’m ready to make my ruling. At first I was going to grant Senator Miller’s request for a new trial and sentencing , I’m no longer going to do that. Instead, I’m granting the immediate release of Mr. Miller and that his record be expunged of this entire incident and his file sealed.”

“I object your honor. This boy is a clear and viable threat to the public. He’s already proven that he’s capable of murder. Not to mention that While in custody he broke one boy’s neck and seriously injured a second!” Mr. Hadley practically screamed.

“Mr. Hadley the incident you mentioned was a result of self-defense. According to affidavits provided to this court by Senator Miller the boys in question were attempting to rape his client. And surprisingly enough, your office choose not to do anything to the boys in question except for Mr. Miller. Who was placed in solitary for the three and a half years. The only threat to the general public I see before is you, Mr. Hadley.”

“Regardless, your honor the state strongly objects to releasing the defendant!”

“THE HELL WE DO!!” I voice called out from behind us. All heads turned at this and I noticed both of the prosecutors going visibly pale.

“My apologies to the court for my out burst your honor.” the man said.

“Apology accepted Mr. Governor. As I was saying, Seeing how Senator Miller has placed before this court a plan for both psychological and educational rehabilitation I’m ordering Mr. Miller’s immediate release.”

“Your honor, It’ll take several weeks for the center that Mr. Miller is currently enrolled in to do the pre-release screening.”

“I said immediately. Mr. Miller’s current doctor can handle all of the screening and his payment will come out of your budget Mr. Hadley. It is further ordered that no one from your office or department is to come near Mr. Miller for any reason. If this court finds out that they have then I’ll be holding you personally responsible. Is that clear counselor?” The judge announced with the voice of death.

“Court is adjourned.” Judge Riley announced as she raised her gavel.

“Uh.. Your honor Mr. Miller is currently in possession. The only equipment available to remove is at one of our offices.”

“Fine, I amend that CPS may come into contact with Mr. Miller only for the time needed to retrieve state property! Court Adjourned!” Judge Riley said. I thought she was going to break the gavel with how hard she slammed it down.

“I want you in my office first thing in the morning.” The prosecutor was told by the governor as he walked past us.

“We’ll be in your office to have the monitor removed in twenty minutes. Be ready for us.” The other man was told by my uncle when he came by us.

“It’ll take..”

“Twenty minutes.” my uncle said coldly. The younger man just nodded at this and left the room quickly.

“Thanks for your help in their James. For a while, I wasn’t sure which way this was going to go,” my uncle said with relief.

“No problem cuz. Besides this was just a formality. Judge Riley is already placing a copy of this in Brad‘s file.” We were told with a smile as James pulled an envelope from his coat pocket and handed it to my uncle.

“That sneaky Son of a bitch.” my uncle laughed as he read the paper that was in the envelope.

“I’ll be sure to tell him you said that.” James laughed.

“Who’s a sneaky son of a bitch?” I asked without thinking. I thought I was going to die when both my uncle and James looked down at me. It was only when they started laughing that I knew I was off the hook.

“I was referring to your Uncle Jason.” I was told as my uncle handed me the paper. I almost crapped my pants when I realized that I was holding a Presidential Pardon. Though I didn’t fully grasp what it meant for me.

“We’ll we better be going. I can drop you off at Stonehenge after we get one last thing with this young man taken care of.” James said. I stopped dead in my tracks when I saw the two men standing outside the courtroom door.

“It’s ok Brad they’re just here for my protection. Nothing is going to happen to you.” James told me after he told the guys in dark suits to go on ahead of us. I nodded at this but still looked at the guys in front of us warily.

“I thought you said I was going to be going home with you?!” I yelled in panic when I saw that we had pulled up to Raven Creek.

“You are going home with us Brad. We’re just here long enough for you to get that monitor removed. Unless you’d prefer to keep it on?” I was asked with a raised eyebrow. This calmed me down greatly as we got out of the car and walked towards the building.

“We’re here to see Mr. Langston.” My uncle told the receptionist as he, the governor, and myself walked into the office.

“I’m sorry but Mr. Langston is out for the day. May I tell him your name and he can get back to you?” We were asked. My uncle was about to reply when the other man from my hearing came rushing into the room.

“It’s ok Sally. I was expecting them.” Mr. Langston said slightly out of breath.

“Follow me please.” We were told coldly as Mr. Langston led us out of the room we had just entered and to another one. I stiffened a bit when I saw who was in there but my uncle’s hand settled me down some.

“Sit over here Miller.” I was told gruffly.

“He’ll be staying right where he is.” my uncle said as he sat us down in some chairs behind us. Muttering something under his breath, the guard came over and after pushing my pant leg up and roughly pulling my sock down he took a key and removed the monitor that I had on my ankle. With a final snort he let my pant leg fall down.

“Officer, please put the stocking back how you found it.” the guard was told firmly. He paled a bit when he realized who was giving the order. I soon felt my sock being pulled back into place and my pant leg being smoothed over it.

“Well let’s go get your cousins and celebrate.” My uncle said as we walked out of the building and headed towards James’s car. Twenty minutes later we were pulling up to my cousins’ school.

I was surprised to see that Brian was already waiting for us when my uncle and I walked into the office.

“I didn’t do it Uncle Ian. I swear.” Brian said when he saw his uncle walk in. Going off the look on my uncle’s face he seemed like he was waiting to see what my cousin might confess to, but this was short lived when he started chuckling and a smile spread over his face.

“Relax Brian, I called ahead and had them pull you out of class so you could join the rest of us for lunch and then I figured you’d like the rest of the day off.” Brian was told with a laugh has he got a hug.

“How did the hearing go?” Brian asked nervously. At this point he still hadn’t noticed that I was standing just inside the door to the office.

“I’m sorry Brian, I tried my best, but they let him go.” My uncle’s frown quickly turning back into a smile.

“You’re mean.” Brian said as he hit his dad before running over to where I was standing and gave me a hug. All this commotion brought an older lady out of one of the offices.

“What’s going on out here?” She asked in a slightly angry tone.

“Sorry Mrs. Dubov, I was just playing a small joke on my son here.” My uncle said as he took the hand the lady was offering to him.

“Ah, Senator Miller I should have known. Looks like you’ve put on a little weight since last time I saw you in uniform last year.”

“Just a little bit.” came the prideful answer. Brian gave another yell as he ran over to hug his dad when he noticed the third star that my uncle now sported on his shoulder.

“Why didn’t you tell us? I would have like to have seen you get that.” Brian pouted as he let go and stepped back a bit.

“I was wanting it to be a surprise. The surprise turned out to be on me. Now you know why Isaac was in town. Well, how about we go get your dad and brother and blow this joint.” Mrs. Dubov just started laughing when she heard this last part.

“Don’t bother coming back by on your way out. I’ll let the attendance office know.” We were told as Mrs. Dubov headed back into her office.

It took us just a few minutes to get to David’s classroom. I guess they where having some kind of presentation or something because the back of the room was lined with people of various rank from all of the services. I saw that Steve had seen us first and was about to say something when my uncle motioned for him to stay seated and quiet. This allowed us to hear the end of what the person speaking was saying. As he finished speaking, I could have sworn I heard David cough the word bullshit.

“You have a comment to make Mr. Miller?” His teacher asked.

“Not really ma’am. It’s just that I’ve heard this story before only this wasn’t how it was told to me.” David said and explained what he had been told.

“And what delusional idiot gave you that version?” the speaker asked snidely.

“That would have been me Commander.” My uncle said conversationally. At this time, Steve did come to his feet.

“Attention, Admiral on the deck!” He called. This brought all the uniformed people jumping to their feet.

“As you were people. Anyway you were saying?” My uncle asked turning his attention back to the person who was speaking.

“It was nothing sir.” The guy said nervously.

“Oh, not at all. Now why don’t you explain what really happened during the story you just told the class.”

“I don’t really think this is the time to discuss this sir.” Came an even more nervous reply.

“Commander, if you don’t tell them, I will.” The speaker was told with an iron voice.

“Sorry sir, I don’t know what you mean.”

“Fine, then please take a seat and I’ll fill in the gaps for the class.” My uncle said. Seeing an empty next to David I went over and sat down next to him.

“What’s going on?” I asked in a hushed voice as my uncle and his dad walked over to stand in front of the class.

“I’m sorry for the interruption to your class, and to the people that have yet to speak, but I feel that you should all hear the real story behind what the Commander was just telling you. Most of what he did tell you is true, except for the fact that it was myself and not he who gave the order to launch the only nuclear weapon of the last world war.” My uncle started. It was then that I saw the same haunted look in his eyes as I did just a few days ago when Brian made the joke about the nuke. I guess I was just about to learn the reason behind it.

“It was during the final weeks of the war. The ship I was assigned to had a few days before taken up a position to help cover the entrance to the gulf. All the Senior officers and department heads were in a conference when several notices came in that were eyes only. One was telling us that a submarine attack was probable in the next 24 to 48 hours. The second was even more ominous. The second one was authorizing the use of nuclear weapons if such an attack came. After I had authenticated the second message, I had the assistant weapons officer take one person he trusted to arm the nuclear depth charge we had on board at this time. I was planning on informing the captain of this when the meeting he was in broke up in twenty minutes. I never got that chance. No sooner had I been told the task I gave the officer had been completed, when the attack I had been informed wouldn’t be happening for 24 hours happened. The first missile hit us just as I called for general quarters. That missile unfortunately hit the area just to the left of where all the senior people on the ship were having their daily meeting. Since I had command at the time, I immediately ordered the ship to flank speed on a course away from the engagement area.”

“So the other guy was right, you were a coward.” a dark haired boy said loudly.

“Not at all. Look at the facts. I had just had two missiles slam into my ship. At the same time we had lost four of the five other screening ships. I didn’t know how bad the damage was to my own ship at the time or how many more enemy subs or ships might be in the area. I did the only logical thing I could do. Put as much space between me and the attacking force as I could. I’m sure that all the ladies and gentlemen who have commanded ships in either war or peace would tell you the same thing.” Looking towards the back of room with most of the rest of the class I saw several people nodding in agreement.

“Anyway by this time, I had learned that all the senior people had been killed by the first hit and I was last remaining senior line officers.”

“Wait a minute, the commander had told us that you had just been promoted to Lieutenant. That means he should have taken command.”

“Unfortunately that not how the chain of command works on board ships. While the Commander at the time did outrank me he was an Engineering Officer. So he wasn’t able to take command while a line officer was still able to. I would have been more than happy to do this but the Chief of the Boat, or CoB, had explained that the other guy couldn’t take command until all line officers were either dead or unable to take command. After running down all people that could possibly take command from me it was discovered that I was last surviving line officer. Anyway, It was that this point I had announced what the two messages I had just received less than an hour before were and that I was going to be following through with the second message as soon as I had two other officers agree that the message was authentic and back me up giving the launch order. Of course, I turned first to the Commander to back me up since he was the most senior officer in the room. He declined to back me up on this and I relived him of duty and sent him down to assist with damage control. And regardless of what he might say, I’ve never held this decision against him. He had to do what he felt was right and I wasn’t going to force him to go against those beliefs. Well, we launched the weapon and as history shows the war ended a few weeks later with the downfall of the Russian hardliners that had seized control of their country to begin with.”

“Damn.” David muttered to me as My uncle moved aside a bit to let the teacher say some thing.

“Does anyone have any questions for the Admiral?” She asked.

“Is that what you got the Medal for?” One boy asked.

“How many people did you end up killing with that bomb? Another girl asked loudly. My uncle put his hands up to stem the flurry of question he was getting hit with.

“Son, if you’re referring to the Medal of Honor I hold, I received that for an incident that took place a couple of weeks before. And young lady to answer your question, I have no idea how many sailors lost their lives when I had to launch the weapon. I will tell you this, it was to many. Had the Russians come to us at the time they had started having fuel problems I’m sure our government would have done everything reasonably possible to help them out if it would have prevented the war we found ourselves faced with.” This last comment got a good deal of agreement from the more senior officers and enlisted people sitting

behind us.

“Colonel, I’m afraid that we won’t have time to hear your presentation today. If possible we would be more than happy to have you back tomorrow.”

“I’m sorry ma’am but my duties prevent me from coming..” The Marine Colonel started to answer before getting cut off by David’s dad.

“He would be happy to come back tomorrow Mrs. Stenberg. And I’ll be here tomorrow as planned as well.”

“It would be a pleasure to have you back before our class again.” We heard the bell ring a few seconds later and everyone started packing up their books and heading to their next class.

“Not so fast David. You aren’t going anywhere.” His dad said as he grabbed his son’s backpack as he walked past. Before anything could be said between the two the Marine Colonel came up to us.

“Admiral, I really need to be back on base tomorrow. My leave ends today.”

“Don’t worry about it Eric. I’ll give your base commander a call later tonight and ok an extension for you. Besides, I wouldn’t want to deprive the kids of some of the interesting stories you could tell them.”

“What stories would those be sir?”

“Oh, I don’t know. How about the still you had operating on back on the Schwarzenegger.” David’s dad said with a smile.

“Oh shit, you knew about that?” The Colonel replied turning red in the process.

“Yeah, I knew about that. Along with that floating casino you and your brother tried to keep hidden. Don’t worry the higher ups never found out about either one of them. It was me that had the CoB quietly shut the things down before the guys upstairs did find out. And let me tell you it was a close one.”

“Then I guess I owe you one then.” my uncle was told.

“Don’t worry about consider it as payment for that round you took for me a couple of weeks earlier.” The Marine was told seriously.

“If you don’t have any plans, how would you like to join us for lunch?” Ian asked.

“That’s very kind sir, but I already have plans to meet up with Aaron and his wife for lunch.”

“How about dinner then? It’s be good to see Aaron again. I haven’t seen him since he was medivac’d off the ship.”

“I’ll need to see if they have any plans, but even if they don’t accept I’d like to.” we were told.

“OK, here’s my number. Let me know how many people will be coming and we can get things set up.”

“I’ll be sure to do that, sir.” We were told with a salute as the other man walked off towards his car.

“You know Ian, this could be a very interesting party if you three start telling stories.” Steve said with a laugh as he pocketed his phone. I guess he was giving Anna the heads up about possible dinner guests.

“You know you might be right.” Ian replied with a laugh. To my relief, most of the conversation on the way to the restaurant centered away from the hearing I had that morning.

“So Ian how did the hearing go?” Steve asked suddenly after we had placed our order.

“It was an absolute slaughter.”

“If it went that bad, I’m surprised that Brad is here with us.”

“No, I mean it was a slaughter for the prosecutor. For a while there I though that he was going to get tossed in jail for contempt of court. Not that that would have been a bad thing. I won’t be surprised if he gets brought before a Bar review.” My uncle said before taking a small sip of his drink.

“But what was the final Out come dad?” David asked nervously.

“I’ll let Brad handle that one.” David was told with a smile.

“Well?” I was asked impatiently.

“They let me go for now. I guess later on I have to go back in for another trial.” I said softly.

“That’s not completely true Brad. Why don’t you show David that piece of paper in your coat pocket.” Ian suggested to me. With a shrug, I pulled the paper out of my pocket and handed it to my cousin. The next thing I knew David was almost knocking me out of my chair from the force of the hug he was giving me.

“OK David settle down. Since Brad doesn’t seem to fully understand what’s going on I’m going to need to explain it to him more clearly.” David was told by his dad.

“sorry sir.” David mumbled as he got back into his seat.

“It’s OK. Brad what that piece of paper says and what the judge said is that you’re free. You won’t be going back to the center.”

“But what if I’m bad or something?” I mumbled.

“Well, if you break one of the house rules then Steve or I will handle your punishment in a fitting manner. But as far as the courts are concerned, what you did in the past never happened.” My uncle explained to me. Though at the time I didn’t fully understand what he was telling me. Our meals came out a short time later, and the conversation switched to what my cousins had done in school that day.

“Dad would it be ok to have a small party for Brad this weekend. To introduce him to some of my friends and such?” David asked as we pulled up to the house.

“How many people were you thinking of?”

“I don’t know. Probably no more than fifty or sixty.” David told his dad simply. I thought maybe David was trying to pull a joke on me. That thought died a quick death.

“Hey! What about some of my friends?” Brian interjected.

“Hey, no fighting guys or I’ll nix the plans right now!” My cousins were told sternly by their dads.

“ Stop the list at Seventy and twenty people invited has to be from Brian’s group of friends. Now go get with Anna and set up a menu then get the invitations ready to be handed out at school tomorrow. And Speaking of school, Brian don’t forget that you’re staying home tomorrow since you have your doctor’s appointments.” my cousins were told as we walked through the door. I wasn’t sure what Brian’s doctor’s visit was about but I could tell that he wasn’t happy about it.

“Brad, why don’t you go up and change into some other clothes. I don’t want you to mess your suit up.” Steve told me as I followed David and my uncles into the kitchen.

“OK.” I answered and headed back towards the stairs. I was almost there when Ian spoke up.

“Just put some swim trunks on. It looks like you could use some sun.”

“OK, I’d like that.” I replied as I bounded up the stairs.

“Oh, man. That’s right.” I muttered to myself after I had gotten the suit off and started looking for some swim trunks and realized that I didn’t have any.

“Wait Brian offered me some the other day, I don’t think he’ll mind if I borrow some.” I added mentally a moment later. With just my skivies on, I headed out of my room and down the hall.

I thought I heard Brian tell me to come in when I knocked on his door a moment later so I opened the door and started to enter.

“NO! Don’t Come IN!” Brian practically yelled. However it was to late. I saw him standing there with a pair of wet pull-ups half way down his legs. I just stood there speechless for a moment before coming to my senses.

“I’m Sorry.” I stammered as I quickly backed out of the room. Closing the door behind me.

“What’s all the yelling about?” Steve asked behind me causing me to jump.

“Easy there.” I was told with a bit of a smile.

“I was going to ask Brian if I could borrow a pair of swim trunks And I thought he said to come in after I knocked on his door. And he was getting undressed from school when I started to walk in to his room.” I explained nervously.

“That shouldn’t be enough reason for..” Steve started to sat before he stopped suddenly.

“You said he was getting undressed from school?” I was asked.

“Yes sir.” Knowing that I was going to get in trouble at any second.

“Ah. Tell you what, why don’t you see if David has an old pair of trunks you can use for now and when Ian or I go out later we’ll pick you up a couple of pairs of trunks.” I was told as Steve stepped around me to enter Brian’s room.

“Could you tell him that I’m sorry that I walked in on him and that I won’t tell anyone.” I said looking at the floor.

“Hey, you didn’t do anything wrong. It was an accident. But I’ll be sure to tell Brian what you said.” Steve told me after kneeling down so he could look me in the eyes. I just nodded at this. And headed off to David’s room to get some trunks from him.

“What was Brian yelling for?” David asked as he came out of the bathroom as I walked into his room.

“I accidentally walked in on him while he was changing out of his school clothes.” I said, turning red again at the though of what I had done.

“Ah. Well you were bound to find out about that sooner or later. I’ll admit that Brian was kind of nervous about how you’d react to that little bit of information. Now that you know about it don’t be surprised if dad and Steve have a talk to you about it. So what were you needing to get from him anyway?” I was asked as David changed tracks on me.

“Oh, I was wanting to borrow some swim trunks. Uncle Ian thought he’d have an extra pair we’d be able to loan me.” I replied once I was able to shift my thoughts enough to answer him.

“Yeah, I might still have a pair that would fit you.” David said as he walked over to his dresser and started searching through one of the bottom drawers.

“Speaking of swimming, if you and Brian get home soon enough tomorrow do you think you’d be able to make it to my swim practice?” I was asked excitedly as David finally tossed me a pair of trunks.

“Those should fit you well enough.” I was told with a smile.

I was still trying to wrap my mind around the request my cousin had just made when I finally took a look at the trunks he had tossed me.

“Uh, David, I was needing some swim trunks not underwear.”

“Those are swim trunks.” I was told with a laugh as David pulled out a pair for himself. I was still giving the skimpy garment a wary look when I noticed that David had stripped all his clothes off and was climbing into the trunks he had gotten out for himself.

“So are you just going to stand there staring at those all night or are you going to put them on?” This broke me out of the trance I seemed to have gone into.

“Sorry.” I said turning red when I realized that I had been staring.

“No problem.” my cousin chuckled. Moments later I was stepping into the trunks I was being loaned. Once I had them on, I looked at myself in the mirror that was hanging on the closet door and could have sworn that I was wearing a pair of two sizes two small underwear.

“I guess those are a bit on the small side but they’ll do till we can get you some proper ones.” David laughed as he took me by the shoulders and moved me towards the door.

“We definitely need to go out and get you some decent trunks” Steve laughed as David and I walked through the kitchen.

“Is Brad OK with what happened?” I asked sheepishly.

“Yeah, you just startled him a bit. You aren’t the first person to find out about his problem like that.” I was informed with a smile.

“Everyone else is already in the pool go get your butts out there and out of my hair.” Steve said as slapped David’s and mine butts playfully. I was almost tempted to asked what hair, since Steve is bald, but didn’t want to press my luck with jokes like that.

Like Steve said everyone else was in the pool when David and I came out the door Brian and Uncle Ian were tossing one of the Trips between themselves with the Trip in question giggling his head off. The other two were being pulled around the shallow end of the pool by the dogs and seemed like they were having the time of their life. Both of them let go of the dog they were holding on to and started swimming awkwardly toward David and I the moment we entered the water. As I returned the hug that I had gotten, I heard Steve’s mom mutter something under her breath. For some reason this finally set me off. After handing the Trip I was holding to David and getting out of the pool, I walked over to the older lady and lit into her.

“Ma’am, I don’t know what I’ve done to piss you off like this, but if you’d going to bad mouth me at least have the decency to do so in English.” I told her heatedly and loudly before switching to the little bit of rusty Spanish I had picked up at Spring Hill before getting thrown in solitary. I guess every one in the pool not only heard me but understood me as well since it went deathly quiet the second I finished say what I did. I was surprised when Steve’s hand suddenly appeared in front of me catching his mom’s hand before it could complete the slap that she was sending my way.

“Don’t even think about it.” Steve told her coldly before turning to me.

“Brad I think maybe you should go up to your room and cool down for a while. I’ll have someone call you when it’s time for dinner.”

“Yes, sir.” I told him softly as I headed for the door but this wasn’t before I gave his mom a look that told her what I though of her.

After I got to my room and took a shower to wash what little chlorine I had on me off, I climbed into a fresh pair of briefs and shorts before going over and sat down on my bed. I started sobbing a bit when I realized that my dream of freedom and a family that really cared about me was going to be gone in less than twelve

hours after I had managed to finally get it. I barely even paid attention to the yelling I heard coming from patio area that was below the balcony off my bedroom.

“Man, I don’t think I’ve ever seen dad go off like that before.” Brian said in awe a few minutes later as he helped David usher their brothers up to their room to get them cleaned up from their time in the pool.

“Tell me about it. Your grandmother better be glad that the slap she was aiming at Brad didn’t connect.”

“I know. I don’t know what dad would have done then. I remember him telling me before she moved in with us that she tended to be a bit heavy handed when it came to discipline when he was growing up.”

“That to, but I was meaning Brad. You didn’t seem to catch the look he was giving her. I think he was almost wanting the excuse to go off on her.”

“Are you kidding, he did go off on her. I mean I don’t think anyone has ever had the balls to say something like he did to her face.” Brad told his brother with a laugh.

“Well, I’m not complaining. I’ve been wanting to say something like that to her for years. But I meant that Brad was wanting to off on her literally. And from what I’ve read and seen it wouldn’t have been pretty if he did.” David said as he helped Brian get their brothers into some clean diapers and clothes.

“What do you mean?” Brian asked as the last trip was sent out of the room.

“Come into my room after you’re done getting cleaned up and I’ll tell you.” With a curious look on his face Brian left to do as he was asked. Twenty minutes later both boys were sitting out on David’s balcony.

“You’ll need to be quiet about what I’m about to tell you. I’m not even supposed to know but I happened to read some of the information dad brought home about Brad. You know how dad and Steve told me to take things slow around Brad and any possible relationship between us.” David started softly so I wouldn’t be able to hear what they were saying. I was able to anyway.

“Yeah, they told us it seems that Brad had been abused by some of the inmates and for you not to push things along that line until they had a chance to have Dr. Genault talk to Brad about it.” Brian replied just as softly.

“Well, the other day I went into dad’s office to talk to him about how Brad started to freak out when I tried to take him to the arcade. Anyway, he wasn’t there so I decided to wait for him and saw Brad’s file on his desk. The section I happened to read dealt with the last time some of the older guys tried to have sex with him. Brad managed to break one of the guys neck and the other he busted the guys jaw, arm, and four ribs. And this was when he was Eight.”

“You mean the guy we ran into last night..?” Brian interrupted.

“Exactly. He was one of the two guys.”

“No wonder Brad wet himself a little when he saw the guy. But if he had his neck broken how could he be walking?”

“That was the guy that got his jaw broken. The guy whose neck Brad broke killed himself a few years later. I guess he couldn’t stand being in a wheelchair any longer.” All I heard of Brian’s response was a low whistle.

“That explains why the guy went ballistic when Brad asked him about his boyfriend.” Brian said a second later with a smile in his voice.

“Bri, that wasn’t the guy’s boyfriend, it was his brother.” David said simply.

“oh shit.”

“What’s more, I think those two are related to you.”

“What?!” Brian yelled

“Keep your voice down will you.” David said urgently.

“I’m not sure about that. It’s just that the file listed a person with your dad’s half-brother’s name. I remember a couple of years ago your dad and grandmother getting into a fight because Steve wouldn’t invite them for the holidays.”

“I think I remember that a little. Grandmother barely even spoke to dad at all that year.”

“Right and if it’s true then this would explain why she would take such a hatred towards Brad.” David said. Before the conversation could go any further I heard the intercom in David’s room go off and Uncle Ian saying that it was time for dinner. By the time I heard Brian knocking on my bathroom door, I was already back in bed trying to wrap my mind around what I had just heard and if it was true. At the time I didn’t have any reason to doubt it.

“Brad, I said dinner was ready.” Brian called again this time opening the door.

“Yeah, I heard. Could you let them know that I don’t really feel hungry right now.” I told him softly from the darkness. I figured that I probably wouldn’t have anything to eat till breakfast the next morning but I just needed the time to be alone right then.

“I’ll let them know.” I was told as I heard the door close.

“Where’s Brad?” Steve asked as his son came into the room.

“He said he wasn’t very hungry right now.”

“I’ll go up and have him come down. What happened is no reason to hide from everyone.” Steve said as he got up from his chair and giving his mother a pointed look as he did so.

“Steve, let’s leave the boy alone for now. It’s obvious he needs some time to think some things out. I’ll check on him later.” Ian said to his husband while placing a gentle hand on his arm. This just garnered a small nod as Steve took his seat again. Most of the conversation now being around the party that was planned for the coming weekend.

“Brad you feeling better now?” I was asked several hours later when my uncle came into check on me.

“I didn’t mean to kill him.” I sobbed as my uncle sat on the edge of the bed.

“Didn’t mean to kill who?” I was asked with some concern.

“The guy at Spring Hill. I didn’t mean to kill him.” I cried even harder.

“Brad, you didn’t kill him he killed himself. You were just trying to protect yourself.” I was told as I was pulled into a tight hug and my uncle figured out what I was referring to.

“How did you find out about that anyway?” I was asked gently once I had calmed down.

“I overheard David and Brian talking about it.”

“What else did you hear?” I was asked and soon found myself replaying the entire conversation.

“Don’t worry about any of that now. It’s in the past. Dwelling on it won’t help.” I was told softly.

“There’s some dinner for you on the desk. I want you to eat everything OK?” I just nodded as I felt my uncle get to his feet.

“You aren’t going to beat David and Brian are you?”

“No. Absolutely Not. But I am going to have a talk with them about this.” I was informed gently but firmly.

“Could you let Steve know that I’m sorry about what I did to his nephew and that I hope he doesn’t hate me for it.”

“Brad, Steve and I have talk about this at length when I found out you were still alive and wanted you to come live with us. He doesn’t blame you for what happened to his nephew. I will give him your message though.” My uncle said as he left the room. I soon caught the smell of the food that was brought up to me and my stomach made it’s displeasure known about my waiting so long to feed it. Once I was done eating, I still didn’t feel like eating so I grabbed the book I had started a few days before and got back into bed. Though I knew my reading skills were below what they should be, I was glad that I was still able to get some books from the center’s library while I was in solitary.

“Brad, lights out will be five minutes. I thought I’d come in and give you a hand getting ready for bed.” Steve called from the doorway jerking me out of the phase out I was in.

“Sorry about that. I didn’t mean to scare you.” I was told with a smile.

“Brain said you tried the cloth diapers last night . So I thought we’d go the same route tonight. Also, Ian told me what you told him earlier and I want you to know that I don’t hold anything against you for what happened. As you’ve discovered , my mom is another story. I’ve already made it clear to her that that subject is off limits and if she has a problem with it she can find another place to live. Just ignore what ever she might say to you. I know your cousins already do for the most part” Steve said with a grin as he pulled my shorts and underwear down. Normally I would have been close to red lining in panic but for some reason this didn’t happen. In fact, as the diapering went along I became more relaxed.

“Try to get some sleep you have a very busy day tomorrow.” I was told softly as Steve pulled some plastic pants up over the thick night diapers that he had just put me into.

“Thanks for understanding .” I said a moment later as I was helped under the covers and had them tucked in around me.

“It’s OK. Goodnight, Champ.” I was told as Steve kissed my forehead lightly. That night the nightmares weren’t nearly as bad as they normally were and at one point I could have sworn that I felt that my father was in the room smiling down at me.

“Get up Bad! Get up!” A small voice called out. Before I could do anything I felt one of my eyelids being pulled open and bright light came pouring into it.

“UH.. I’m UP I’m UP!!” I yelled as I flipped my arm over my face to shield it from the light. I was about to move the weight from my chest when I heard the door crash open and the weight on my chest was joined by even more.

“OK! OK! I’m UP Already!!” I called. On removing my arm from my face and opening my eyes I found that the weight on my chest was Devon and all three of the dogs.

“Now this is definitely a Kodak moment.” A voice laughed from the doorway to my room as a flash went off. Looking that way, I saw that both of my uncles were standing in the door and Steve was holding a camera. I soon had two other giggling toddlers joining their brother in his assault on me.

“Some help would be nice.” I laughed while trying to fend off not only the Trips but the dogs as well.

“I guess we can help him now that we’re sure he won’t fall back asleep.” Ian laughed as he grabbed to of the Trips and tossed them over his shoulder while Steve did the same to the third. As I started to get out of bed, I noticed that I must have wet my night diapers even more at some point during my wake up attack since they were now to the point of almost falling off.

“Hurry up and get a shower, get dressed, and join us downstairs. So you can get something to eat before Brian and David eat everything.” Steve said with a laugh right before he took a couple of more pictures with me standing there in just my pee soaked diapers.

“Steve!!!” I yelled as he ran out of the room with the giggling toddler still over his shoulder.

Twenty minutes later I was joining everyone at the table. Steve had this goofy smile on his face as I sat down.

“I want those photos. I told him seriously.

“Sure I can get you some copies of them.” I was told by the still grinning man. Feeling that at this point it was a losing battle I concentrated more on eating.

“David, I’ll be giving you a lift to school today since I have that presentation to make to your class today. And Steve if you could use my car to get the boys to their appointments. I have some errands to run afterwards.” Ian announced as the meal wound down.

“That’s fine. Brian, since Brad has more than just one appointment you need to bring a book or something along with you to keep you busy during the rest of them.” Steve replied and told his son. I was getting a bit nervous with all the appointments I had and I guess Steve was picking up on this some.

“Don’t worry Brad, they’re just a basic doctors appointment then one with the hearing and eye doctor. It‘s nothing major. The Doctor‘s appointment might be since we‘ll be having them run some tests to find out why you have the problem with sleep wetting and what we can do to help you past what we already are.” I was told honestly. I didn’t really like hearing the last part brought up but if they could find out what might be causing my nightly accidents and do something to get me out of diapers then I was all for it.

“Mr. Levinston, Dr. Banks will see you now.” I heard the nurse say. Brad and I both stood up with Steve and headed over to the nurse.

“I’m sorry sir, but the doctor just asked for you to join him. I’m sure the boys won’t mind waiting.” We were told as we got to where she was standing.

“What room?” my uncle asked simply.

“Room Twelve. But the boys really need to wait in the main room.” The nurse said to our retreating backs.

“Come in.” A voice answered after Steve knocked on the door.

“Uh, Mr. Levinston I really just wanted to talk to you for the moment.” We were told as we walked through the door.

“I know that’s what the nurse said out front.” the doctor was told as all three of us sat down.

“Then I think the boys should wait outside then.”

“Doc, does what you have to tell me concern the boys’ health in any way?”

“Well, yes, it does concern the results of the tests we ran.”

“Then I think it’s necessary for the boys to be here to hear what you have to say don’t you.”

“Possibly, but I think it would be better for me to explain the results to you first.” the doctor answered a bit flustered.

“That would be a waste of time because whatever you tell me you would just have to repeat to the boys. This way you don’t have to say the same thing twice. Now what did the test results show?” Finally getting the drift of what he was being told the doctor sat back down and opened a file.

“OK, We’ll start with Brian’s results since they’ll be the quickest. His tests came back almost the same as when we ran them six months ago. The nerves and muscles of his bladder are still showing marked weakness and slightly more degeneration that they did last time. This means, of course, that his day time will decrease even further and his night control will still be nonexistent. The good point to this is that while he has lost a little more of his day control the weakening has come to a complete standstill. This means that he’ll still have some control during the day. Unfortunately, since he’s allergic to the line of drugs we’d normally use to treat this problem we can’t go that route. The only other option would be surgery and implant an artificial bladder. Like Dr. Grant had explained last time, we’d prefer to wait till Brian is in his late teens to try this procedure to give his body the most time to grow and mature. Of course, the final choice on this is up to you and your partner.” We were told.

“Brian do you have any questions” Steve asked.

“What could happen if we were to do the surgery now?” Brian asked.

“If we were to try it now then there’s the chance that it would leave Brian completely incontinent. By waiting we see if the body could possibly repair this damage itself. The fact that the degeneration is almost fully stopped is a good sign. At the least, we might be able to give Brian exercises later on that could help him regain day control at least. From what I can tell right now, it’s doubtful we can do anything to help with the night control. This could change though and it’s why we would prefer to wait. Aside form his bladder problems he’s completely healthy.” The doctor said addressing Steve. I could tell that this was the wrong thing to do.

“And what about Brad’s results?” The doctor was asked tersely

“Brad’s results are a bit more complicated. His bedwetting ,it seems, is the result of a bladder infection that had been left to long before being treated and was not entirely cured. This weakened the muscles of his bladder. For now, I’m going to be starting him on some diuretics and a mild antibiotic to clear up the rest of the infection and flush his system. Once his bladder has had a chance to recover we’ll bring him back in to run the tests again to see how everything is doing and go from there with his treatment if anything more is required. The rest of the tests show that he’s slightly malnourished should be about four inches taller and about fifteen to twenty pounds heavier than he is. I would suggest changing his diet to something a bit healthier than it has been and start making sure he’s getting some more exercise instead of letting him sit around the house all day. Are there any questions?” We were asked that id saying yes would be a major problem for the doctor to answer. I thought Steve was going to go off on the guy sitting in front of us.

“No, that should take care of everything. If any questions arise, We’ll take them up with Dr. Branford when he returns from vacation next week.” Steve said as he stood up. I got the feeling that any questions Uncle Ian had wasn’t going to be the only thing that got taken up with their regular doctor on his return. Without another word, we left the office for my other appointments.

We got home just in time for lunch. Steve dropped up off and told us that he had some things to do and would be back in an hour or so.

“Anna would it be Ok for us to eat up on Brad’s balcony?” Brian asked on seeing his grandmother already sitting at the table.

“I don’t see a problem with that. I’ll get a tray set up for you boys. Would you mind feeding Dev, Ryan, and Andy as well?”

“Sure we can do that. I doubt they’ll mind very much.” I replied before Brian could say anything. The food was quickly set up on a tray and as I was carrying it up the stairs I saw Brian stop and grab a picnic blanket.

“I’ll send the Trips in while I take care of something.” I was told as we carried these items into my room.

“That’s fine.” I said with a knowing smile. I chuckled a bit when Brian sent the boys in wearing just their diapers. From the looks of them, I could tell they had just woken up from a nap. All three of them started smiling and rushed towards me when they came into the room. I can’t even say how good it made me feel any time this happened. It made me feel that people actually cared about my well being.

“Lunch?” I got in stereo when the boys saw the food laid out.

“Not till Brian gets back.” I laughed as I quickly gabbed all three boys before they got near the food or more importantly the balcony’s ledge.

“You guys didn’t need to wait for me.” Brian said as he walked back into my room. It was all I could do to keep from smiling when I saw Brian wearing just a T-shirt and some type of pull-up.

“I figured it would be more comfortable this way. Not to mention easier to clean up.” Brian only muttered the last part but I didn’t like to think what he meant by it.

“You guys go ahead and start eating. I need to use the bathroom really quick.” I stated as I headed that way at almost a run. Just as I was finishing washing my hands I heard Brian yell franticly. Racing out of the bathroom and onto the balcony, I saw that one of the Trips was turning a bit blue and grabbing at his throat.

“Go Get Anna!” I yelled at Brian as I raced over to choking boy. I still don’t know how I knew what to do but after checking to see if the object could be removed easily, I started giving the Heimlich maneuver. I didn’t notice Steve’s mom coming into the room till I felt Andy getting pulled out of my arms. This was just after I had managed to dislodge whatever it was he had been choking on. Before I could say anything, I felt myself getting pushed harshly backwards. Without having the time to brace myself, I felt myself flipping over the balcony’s railing. I felt weightless for a few moments before the patio came rushing up for me. I didn’t even have a chance to cry out before I hit the edge of the pool and darkness took me.

Chapter 2

A new life