One Boy's Journey Chapter 54

Written by Brianna Demonet

I woke up early and started my routines like I still lived at Aunt V's. Everything I needed was right there. I went down to the pool and started swimming. I was halfway through my lap when I saw Aunt V watching me and sipping coffee.

I finished my laps and wrapped myself in a towel.

Just make yourself at home! She smiled.

I forgot for a few hours why I was home and not at my house.

Old habits! I said. Sorry!

Don't be! I miss having you around. It's almost 8 o'clock; visiting hours start at 9, she said.

I better get ready then! Excuse me!

I put on my white pencil skirt suit and a pink silk blouse. I wore modest 4-inch white heels and nude stockings. I kept my makeup conservative and light. I wanted to look my professional best.

I haven't seen the Park family in over five years! Plus if I knew Soo-Min, she would show up with an army to take the kids to Korea. I wouldn't put anything past Soo-Min! I started reviewing custody laws for the state of Nevada on my law tablet.

I knew the children were born in the US. As long as John was lucid he could legally choose who would be guardian of his children.

He had a boy and twin girls. I didn't know their names.

The Park family was the first to arrive at the hospital. We were right behind them.

I saw Yon and Jii.

Ree!!!! Yon cried and hugged me tightly. I am so happy to see you! You look great!

Thanks, so do you.

Ree, he needs you!

I'm not sure what I can do for him, but I'm happy to help!

Ree, I mean he needs you! These last few years have been hell on my boy. He's lost his zest for life. We need you, Ree.

Thank goodness you're here! Said Jii! We all have missed you!

Ree!!!; his sisters hugged me with Jii!

We need to talk, soon! But not here said Yon.

Okay, let me know! I said

Ree!!! John called for me.

Ohh!! Ree!! You came back!

Of course!

Ree don't leave me! Stay, please.

John, what's wrong?

He whispered to me.

Okay, John!

We talked for a few minutes, I started recording our conversation on video with my phone.

Moments later, Soo-Min entered John's room Mi-Lee and asked John if he was okay speaking in Korean.

John spoke English saying he should be out of the hospital in a few days.

Soo-Min said I needed to leave.

John said No! Whatever you have to say, you say it in front of Rianna! And speak English or you can leave.

Your mother-in-law wants to speak with you privately!

No! I had enough blackmail and intimidation from both of you! There is no honor in intimidation.

I know what you want! You can ask but the answer is no!

Mi-Lee (John's mother-in-law) spoke up in Korean.

English or leave! John demanded.

Can't you both see you're upsetting him? Come back tomorrow when you can act like reasonable adults! I said in a demanding tone...

You have no say here! Said Soo-Min.

On the contrary, as of this morning, I'm John's emergency contact and Legal counsel. I said.

Little Bird, you better be careful, I can make your life hell! Said Soo-Min.

I'm not a little bird! I'm a Megalodon Shark! He's my responsibility now!

Act respectfully or leave! I said.

Ree! Is there a problem?

I turned to see Blake with his badge on his lapel. Peggy was there with Julius and Shelly.

I got this for now! I'll let you know! Thanks, Detective Sergeant!

We'll be down the hall if you need me!

Thanks, Blake said, John

Anytime Pal! Blake said.

You were saying? I said firmly.

John, we want to take the children to Korea. Lin-Soo would have wanted this for her children! Mi-Lee said.

Not a chance! Said John. My life and family are here, not in Korea. They were born in the US, and they were raised in the US by myself and my parents. Despite what you two think Lin-Soo didn't want to return to Korea. Neither one of us wanted to get married. We liked each other, but neither one of us was happy.

I'm sorry about what happened! I never wished Lin-Soo dead. She was the mother of my children! She was a nice person you two manipulated into marriage! She was never happy!

We supported each other because we both shared a terrible amount of disdain for both of you.

You listen here! Young man! They're coming with us! I will not see them raised by an irresponsible single father! My daughter would be alive if not for your carelessness! Mi-Lee said.

If you never trusted me to be a good parent, then why did you force us to marry? I would never hurt Lin-Soo. I love my children, and so did Lin! We were close friends because of the love we shared for our children and the situation you two put us in! John said. Her last wish was to make sure our children were raised in the US!, Away from both of you!

I texted Blake to come in. I was recording the conversation at John's request.

Is there a problem? Blake said.

Yes, Detective Sergeant. These women here insist that they are taking John's children to Korea with them.

Oh! Really? Ma'am, what's your name? Asked Blake

Mi-Lee!

Well Mi-Lee, if you take those children, that's kidnapping! If you cross a state border, it's federal. If they step one foot outside the US it's human trafficking!

Each conviction is a life sentence without parole! This means you and any accomplice are subject to the same charges and sentence!

Basically, that means if you touch my friend's children, I will see to it you are charged and sent to the worst prison I can find. You be there until you die! Never returning to Korea.

Now if you are done upsetting my friends, I suggest you leave before I call hospital security.

Soo-Min and Mi-Lee left.

Jii walked in. Thank you, Blake!

It's my pleasure, sir! Just take good care of my nieces and nephew!

You know we will. Said Jii.

Ree?

Yes, John!

Did you get it? Every word! I got it on video!

Let me see it, Ree. Said Blake.

He watched it.

Send me a copy. I'll run it past the DA office; maybe Cheryl can help. In the meantime, I'm going to assign two units to your home and escort you when the kids are with you outside the home. Said Blake.

Thank you Blake said Jii.

Ree let him rest a bit. Said Jii.

Dad, I'd like to be alone with Ree for a few minutes, then I'll rest.

Okay, son! But just a few minutes.

Thanks, Dad.

Ree, thank you! I never meant for any of this. You've been through so much, you didn't deserve to be put in the middle of it. I still love you! I always have!

John, I love you too! But I don't know what to say or what you want from me.

For now, I need someone I can trust besides my parents. Blake, Julius, and Peggy are great. But I need you! I need your friendship more than ever. I don't have the right to ask you, but I'm asking.

Sure, John! I'll do whatever I can! I said.

Come! Sit! We need to talk. He patted the bed and scooched over.

I lay next to him. I kissed his cheek.

He whispered his plan to me. It was actually pretty clever!

Okay, I'll take care of everything! I said. I may have to include Blake and Peggy on this.

Whatever you do, don't mention a word to my parents. They need to be in the dark.

I understand! I'll be back at dinner time! Get some rest!

I just got off the bed when the nurse came in.

Everyone was in the waiting room John's sisters were playing with his kids.

Who are you! I asked as I smiled

I'm Caleb! Said John's son

How old are you?

5!

Who are you? Caleb asked.

My name is Rianna, I'm an old friend of your dad's.

And who are you two young ladies?

Yon stepped in.

This is Ria Maria and Alexia Lee!

And how old are you two?

2 1/2 years old! Said Yon.

They're very charming! I said. You must be proud.

Why don't we all get some coffee across the street? My treat I said.

We all sat down together. It was the first time in over 7 years since we were all together.

I felt bad for the Park family and Soo-Min and Mi-Lee. Lin-Soo's death was tragic! I know John, and I know he feels guilty about it. Now he's fighting to keep his kids.

We sat and chatted about all the things we had been doing since we graduated college. I found out Peggy just finished field training and was now a full deputy sheriff on top of a lab supervisor.

The Parks bought out the strip mall down the street and opened a full-service restaurant and bar. They expanded the do-gu studio. They had a waiting list for students, thanks to John and his tournament success!

Blake said John's nickname at the sheriff's department was Jet! John was a Detective in first grade and Blake's partner.

Peggy had the best record in the lab for processing evidence. Julius was a junior agent for the ATF.

Shelly just finished her residency and is now studying to be an orthopedic surgeon.

Dad, Blake, and Julius were talking about the house and all the work he was doing. My Mom bought my Dad new toolboxes and some diamond plate wall cabinets he was looking at.

Aunt V expanded her practice and bought a small building. She added two psychologists and a life coach. Aunt V was also writing a book about transgender transition and therapy for all ages.

She also documented several cases in generality (Lexi and I in part, she asked us for permission first) about the struggles of pre-teen and teenage children and the effects of denial by parents and loved ones.

Taylor's Salon won several awards for customer service and permanent makeup.

Lexi and Emma were the only ones missing.

The Parks talked openly about their worries about Soo-Min and Mi-Lee. They explained how Soo-Min used her family's influence to leverage John and me to break up and eventually the arranged marriage between John and Lin-Soo

I sat and listened, and so did the rest of us. I knew a little more than most of the pressure Soo-Min used to force the Park family to her will. My lack of ability to have children was mentioned, but nothing else. Everyone at the table knew I was trans, but never said a word.

I was grateful for the respect Mr and Mrs Park showed me!

We went with Jii and Yon went back to the hospital. Jii and Yon went to see John first. The rest of us waited outside. I waited until everyone else was gone except for myself, Aunt V, and John's parents and children.

I stayed with John until the last minute. We talked for over an hour together. He held my hand the entire time; he wouldn't let go! When I went to kiss him goodnight on his cheek he turned his head and kissed my lips.

It felt like our first kiss all over again! The anguish of our separation from all the years apart disappeared.

Don't leave me, Ree! I've always loved you! He said in his weakened state

I'm not leaving you! I'm just returning home! I'll be back in the morning! I love you too! I always have!

I called my office and arranged to get an extra week off of work. The nice thing about the DA office is that there are plenty of people to pick up the slack.

The next morning, I was about to leave for the hospital, and Cheryl called.

Can you come to my office? Cheryl asked.

When?

Now, if you can. I have court all afternoon. Cheryl said.

I borrowed Aunt V's Escalade and drove to her office.

Ree!! You look great!

So do you! I said.

Coffee? Cheryl asked.

No, thank you.

Cheryl and I discussed the video from the hospital room. She agreed with me that there seemed to be a threat.

We can only do surveillance on children. We can't run surveillance on women. Unless they make a verifiable threat or act we can't file for a restraining order. Blake and I pulled a lot of strings on this. If John wasn't a cop it wouldn't have happened at all! Cheryl explained.

I appreciate it, Cheryl! I won't forget it! I said.

Anytime, Ree!

By the way, was the truck driver charged?

It's an ongoing investigation at the moment, but it appears to be a mechanical failure. We're still investigating. Said Cheryl.

Thank you again!

I hope John is up and around soon. Thanks, Cheryl. I'll be sure to tell him.

You better! Said Cheryl with a smile.

I headed to the hospital next.

Blake was there talking with John getting a statement from him. John seemed stronger today.

Ree! You have to get me out of here! I need to talk to my children!

Easy tough guy! Said Blake. Your vehicle was crushed! You are lucky to be alive and not seriously injured.

My kids, Soo-Min and Mi-Lee, are going to try and take them! If she gets to Korea, I'll never see my kids again!

We are handling it, John! I said.

Blake has two units watching the kids 24/7 and I just came from Cheryl's office. She's well aware of the situation. Plus your parents are with them.

I want a restraining order for them. Said John

Until they do anything that is classified as a threat we can't do anything. Said Blake.

The whole sheriff's department has your back! I've had deputies volunteering time to watch over your kids! We protect our own, John!

John! I think I can speak for Cheryl, myself, Peggy, and Blake. We'll do everything we can to protect your family!

Guys! Can you give Ree and me a minute, please? John asked.

Sure we'll be right outside. Said Peggy.

Ree, close the door.

What going on John? He looked terrified. I've never seen John scared ever! I've never seen him angry, not once. This was an entirely new side of him. Dependent, scared, and helpless.

Rianna, please you have to get me back to my kids! You don't know what Soo-Min and Mi-Lee are capable of. She is going to try and take them, I know it!

What exactly do you want me to do? I asked.

First, find a way to get me out of the hospital. Second, we have to find a place where my kids can be safe.

The third thing I need is ...

What John?

Don't leave me alone! I've been dying since the day we separated. I need you! Not just because I'm helpless right now. But because I know you still love me as much as I love you.

Please come back to me. He said.

Those words meant everything to me. I started to see my life with him. However, I was finally starting my career. Everything I ever worked for was in front of me. Now another curve ball.

I had to buy time. I didn't want to make an irrational decision.

Let's get you out of here first. Then we'll look into everything else! I said.

Thanks Ree! I love you!

I love you too! I said.

If I'm going to do this, I've got work to do. I'll be back later.

Okay? I asked him wouldn't let go of my hand.

Okay! John said.

John, I'll be back as soon as I can. I kissed his lips and spun on my heels, I had a lot of work to do.

I called Cheryl. and asked if she could ask her Dad if I could use a computer and a cubicle at his law firm. Cheryl said she'd call me back. I went to John's house and let myself in. John gave me his keys and the alarm code.

I picked up some clothes for him and the kids. I walked through the master bedroom. I looked at the bed and I started to tear up a bit. I kept thinking it should have been me!

I gathered myself and packed up the clothes and a couple of stuffed animals for the girls. I was just locking up the house when Soo-Min and Mi-Lee showed up.

What are you doing here! Soo-Min exclaimed.

Running an errand for my client. What are you doing here?

We're staying here! Said Mi-Lee. This is my daughter's home!

According to my client, neither one of you is welcome here anymore. When my client is released from the hospital, you may collect your things, or they can be sent to you.

You're only here to steal John away from his real family. You should be ashamed of yourself! My daughter's body isn't even cold yet!

I'm here because I was asked to come! Because my friend needed my help!

If your actions define family, I'm glad I'm not a part of it!

Little Bird! You're really pushing it! I actually like you, Ree. You are a strong-willed woman. I respect that! Said Soo-Min.

You have absolutely no idea who you are dealing with. Said Soo-Min

Of course, I do! A couple sociopathic megalomaniacs, that play dirty and hire out people to your dirty work!

You both have zero clue about me! I'm an officer of the court for the state of California with a license to practice law in five different states including this one!

If you so much as threaten me, my client, or his family, I will see to it you'll never leave the US.

Oh! By the way, how did your friends enjoy their stay at Pelican Bay before they were deported? I asked looking at Soo-Min.

Mi-Lee started to say something.

Don't say a word! Mi-Lee. I said in a serious tone.

Maybe I should show you how we deal with your kind the Korean way! Soo-Min said.

Go ahead! After I am done with you I'll have you locked up for assault!

Not if you disappear! Said Soo-Min.

You can't beat both of us. Mi-Lee said.

There's only one way to find out! I said. I dropped my bags and purse and kicked off my shoes.

I'm ready if you are! I was a bit scared about two-on-one. But John trained me for combat and I was focused on them both. I refused to go down without a fight.

Soo-Min threw a roundhouse kick to my face and missed. I swat the kick away. Mi-Lee threw a punch that grazed my cheek and scratched my cheek with her wedding ring.

I spun on the ball of my foot, used a back fist, and knocked Mi-Lee into the ground. Soo-Min tried kicking me in the head. I did a leg sweep and knocked her down.

As they got up I heard tires squealing to a stop and a siren chirp.

On the ground! I heard a deep voice! Hands behind your head!

Alright, ladies, what's going on here?

Crazy women try to attack us! Said Soo-Min in a heavy Korean accent.

It true! Officer! Said Mi-Lee. Again in a heavy accent.

Is that true Miss?

I need to see some ID.

They produced passports.

I produced my credentials with my small prosecutor badge.

No deputy! I was defending myself. Soo-Min (I pointed at her) tried kicking me, and Mi-Lee (pointing at her) punched me, scratching my cheek with her ring.

Can you prove that! The deputy asked.

Yes, actually, I can deputy.

Check the house security cameras!

What started all this?

She won't let me in my house! Mi-Lee said.

Is that true?

Yes sir, but it isn't her house. It's John Park's house!

Detective Park?

Yes sir! I'm his attorney, I have the keys and the alarm code! I'm here at my client's request. He's in recovery at the hospital.

Ladies hands behind your back said the second deputy.

He cuffed Soo-Min and Mi-Lee.

Lead the way, counselor!

I unlocked the house and deactivated the alarm.

So how do you know Detective Park?

We dated in high school and college. I said.

Here it is!

The deputy and I watched the playback of the fight. The audio was pretty good.

You speak Korean? The deputy was surprised.

Yes, sir, and Spanish too.

Can I take this? The deputy asked.

Only for the purpose of the fight. I said

Agreed. Said the deputy.

Do you want to press charges?

Yes, But I'd like to talk to Detective Sergeant Collins and Assistant DA Fountain. Detective Park filed a complaint against them

Okay, Ms...

Stevens. I said.

All three of you are going to have to come back to the station with us.

I need to call my client.

No problem, follow us.

I got in Escalade and followed the deputies back to the station. I called Cheryl first then Blake. I called John. He was there with Jii.

They did what? John responded. Are you alright?

Just a scratch but I'm alright. Good thing you have a great security system.

He started getting upset.

John! Focus! Everything is fine! I'm fine. Just relax; I'm going to see if I can get you released tomorrow.

Can bring me some dinner? This hospital food is killing me!

I'll take care of that said Jii.

Ree, will you have dinner with me? John asked.

Sure, John! I'll see you at 7!

I can't wait! John said.

I can't explain it, but It felt like him asking me out for the first time all over. I was actually nervous. I grabbed my purse and tablet. I walked into the station behind the deputies.

We went to the booking desk.

What do you have, Charlie? Said the sergeant.

Book these two for Assault. Said Charlie. He started presenting their property and passports.

Location? Asked the desk, Sergeant.

The deputy told him.

That's Detective Park's address!

Yes, it is Sergeant!

Can you call Detective Sergeant Collins, please, Sergeant? Let him know we are here.

Yes ma'am! And who are you?

I'm the victim and attorney for Detective Park, Sergeant. Rianna Stevens.

Your Ree? He's mentioned you a few times. He smiled at me.

He stood up and shook my hand. He was a very large black man. He had a friendly smile and gave me a gentle handshake.

He picked up the phone and called Blake.

Have a seat he'll be down in a few minutes.

Thank you, Sergeant Thomas! I smiled. At him.

You're welcome, Ms Stevens.