One Boy's Journey Chapter 44

Written by Brianna Demonet

We sat down for dinner. Ian made a Bacon-wrapped pork roast. We had baked potatoes, spinach, and stewed tomatoes.

Hank poured everyone a glass of chilled Merlot. Ian carved the roast and served us.

We ate just like a regular family, Ian and Bree cut up the meat in small pieces for the girls. John and I smiled through dinner.

I was washing dishes with Bree getting ready for the sunset. I saw John talking with Hank and May. Hank and May had straight faces when they were talking. Bree and I had just finished when May came into the kitchen.

Bree! John wants to take you to Cathy's spot for sunset. So you better get some jeans and boots. Maybe a sweater!

Yes, grandma! I kissed her cheek and went upstairs to get ready. I came back downstairs and John was ready and packed the quad with a small cooler and blankets.

I saw Hank Whisperer in John's ear.

Yes sir! Said John in the same tone he uses with his father.

Ree honey, hold on tightly; those trails can be rough, especially at night.

Yes, Grandpa! I kissed his cheek!

Have fun, kids. Don't be gone too long! Said May.

Okay, Grandma! I said I kissed her cheek.

I guided John to Cathy's spot. I laid out the blanket and John grabbed the cooler.

We had a small battery-powered lantern two bottles of water, and some brie cheese.

We were snuggling and watching the sunset together. It felt like a fairytale. I have my strong handsome prince embracing me in his arms. The sun's rays danced through the mist as the sun slowly sat behind the mountains.

John laid me down and kissed me. I was captivated by the whole thing. The beautiful sunset, my loving boyfriend. We have never been this alone together before.

Our kissing was as passionate as ever. He played with my naval jewelry. I ran my nails across his muscular chest and tight abs.

We locked eyes! All I could see was the love he felt for me. I wanted him so badly! We curbed our affection for each other. It wasn't easy, but I made promises to the people we both loved to wait.

I knew if we waited, John and I would be able to have the freedom to go where we wanted to go together. Neither of us wanted any other form of trouble.

Ree, I'm so in love with you! Don't ever leave me!

I'm not going anywhere, Johnny! I'm always going to be right beside you! I love you so much! We kissed deeply. I could feel my body tense up.

You are everything to me, Johnny! We kissed deeply. It was magical. I decided right then if I was going to lose my virginity, it would be right here at sunset after my 17th birthday.

I started doing the math in my head. How many days do I have to wait to finally make love to my Johnny?

We packed up everything and headed back to the house. May was on the porch, and Hank was watching the news. The Stapleton clan had already left for the evening.

John, I need a minute with Rianna. Said May softly.

Yes ma'am! John said respectfully.

Ree! How was your sunset?

Magical as always! I said.

You really like this boy, don't you?

I think I'm in love with him!

I worry about you; that just means I love you like my granddaughter, Hank, too!

I think you have a fine young man there. Hank and I really like him. Just promise me you're going to behave yourself.

I promise! I am. To be honest, sometimes it's hard because I feel so in love with him.

No one knows more about that than I do! Hank was only the second man I have ever been in love with. I love him far more now than ever! I made Hank wait, and Cathy made Caleb wait, too.

You're a good girl! Stay a good girl. I guarantee you it will be worth it whether it's John or another boy. You won't regret it.

I will, Grandma!

You know May, the first time I came here, you asked me to consider you and Hank my grandparents. Now look around you. I'd say you have five grandchildren now!

May laughed, I think you're right!

Good night grandma, I love you!

I love you too Ree!

I went upstairs to get ready for bed. John was in the bathroom. Caleb and Cathy were trying to put Ryan down for the night.

I locked the door to my room and started my nightly therapy. I had just finished and put on my nightgown and panties when I heard the bathroom door open.

I grabbed my robe and mules and went into the hallway. John was waiting for me!

He had pajama pants and a tight tank top on.

Do you need something? I smiled

A goodnight kiss would be great!

I kissed him goodnight and finished cleaning up.

The next morning I woke up early. It wasn't even 6 am. I heard May in the kitchen. I put on the pink silk pajama pants My mom bought for me and my robe. I slipped on mules and walked downstairs.

May didn't notice me at first. I walked in and kissed her cheek. Good morning Grandma! I said cheerfully.

Morning sweetheart! Sleep well?

Like a rock! I said. We sat at the table sipping Espresso. Oh! I forgot! I'll be right back.

I went upstairs and grabbed the Korean coffee I bought for them.

Here! I got you a little taste of Korea while I was there.

You didn't have to do that! But I love it!

Soo-Min said this is the best brand.

She's right Ree! It is. It's impossible to find in the States!

Let's make some! Said May excitedly.

We started the coffee maker and the strong coffee aroma filled the house. Ten minutes later Hank came out.

Is that what I think it is? That smells like real Korean coffee!

It is honey! Your granddaughter brought it back from Korea.

If you were going to bring back only one thing, that's the thing to bring! Said Hank.

Within 30 minutes of starting the coffee maker, everyone was coming down.

Cathy Caitlyn, and Caleb came down with Ryan.

Oh!! I have to have a cup said Cathy.

Okay, honey, but only half a cup! Said Caleb.

Party pooper! Cathy smiled.

Why can't you have a full cup? I asked.

Because I'm breastfeeding. I have to limit my coffee and caffeine intake. I also can't drink things with a high citrus acid content. If do either one too much, Ryan won't sleep, and the citric acid will give him a nasty diaper rash.

I wasn't aware of that! I said

Neither was I. Said Cathy. I miss my coffee!

Caleb, can you get me a blanket? I want to swing with Ryan.

Sure Babe! I'll be right there!

Ree, will you sit with me? Asked Cathy

Sure! I said. I topped off my cup and Caleb bundled us together.

Don't get too comfortable Ree! I'll be stealing your spot in a few minutes. Said Caleb.

I just smiled.

Cathy gave me the same talk May did the night before. While I didn't want to hear it again I just listened. It was good to know Cathy cares.

You know Ree, Becky, and I have big plans for you! I know you're young and I don't mean to pressure you. But I feel like your big sister so here it goes!

We want you to make your law career at our firm. Becky and I want to mentor you! Our goal is to make you a partner! We aren't going to give it to you. You will have to earn it!

If you let us, we can guide you to practice the kind of law we practice every day! You can make a very nice and comfortable life working for us and keep your ethics and beliefs intact!

That's what I want! To be the kind of attorneys you both are! I said.

Just remember it's not all fun and games. I worked my ass off to get where I am. You will have to do the same. But if you put in the effort while you are young, you'll get there much faster!

I will Cathy! I will!

I know you will! I have great faith in you, little sis! She kissed my forehead.

Cathy changed breasts and Ryan kept feeding.

He's a hungry little thing, isn't he?

Girl! You have no idea! The pediatrician said there's a good chance he will be taller than Caleb.

Are you going to try for a second child? I asked. Maybe in a year or so! I want a girl this time!

I wish I could have a baby! I said kind of sadly.

Sweetheart! Do cry! Not all women can have children. Besides you never know what is around the corner!

If you do end up raising a child I know you'll be a great mother! Aunt Cathy will be right beside you!

So will Great Grandma May!

I hugged Cathy. Thanks, big Sis! Thanks, Grandma! I hugged her too. It felt very natural for me to call Hank and May Grandpa and Grandma.

Ryan fell asleep while he was feeding. Breastfeeding is such a beautiful thing. I hope one day I can breastfeed my child, I thought to myself.

Ian showed up with Caitlyn. Caitlyn is such a sweet, happy girl!

She ran into Hank's arms and hugged him. Morning Papa Hank! She came outside and Hugged May, Cathy, and me with equal enthusiasm.

I'm helping my Dad with breakfast today! Said Caitlyn. I thought it was great she thought of Ian as her father. He may not be her blood but he loved those girls as much as James.

Caleb brought out the coffee pot and a cup of hot tea for Cathy.

This coffee is great! We have to get some! Said Caleb.

Well, you better google it! Because the only place I know you can buy is in Seoul! I said.

I've only ever seen it sold in the commissary at Travis Air Force base, and that was over 30 years ago said May.

Caitlyn was helping Ian in the kitchen. As Caleb kicked me out of my spot next to Cathy, John came out with a blanket in hand. I cuddled up into his arms.

May, Cathy, and Hank smiled with approval. Caleb gave us a manly nod of approval.

We heard the other prowler approaching. Violet rushed to May and Hank. Becky and Brianna sat on the bench cuddling together.

John never asked about the three of them. I guess he figured if everyone is happy, why judge them? Besides John already knew how highly I thought of them.

I was sitting there when my phone rang! I started checking my phone.

Ree we don't play with phones on the porch said May.

I know May my apologies! But it's the email from UNLV I've been waiting for.

I started reading the email, and I read it twice. I couldn't believe it!

Well? Come on Ree! Don't keep us in suspense! Said Cathy.

I don't believe it! This can't be right! There's no way! I read it again!

Ree! sweetie! Just say it! We'll support you no matter what it says.

I got an A! Final exam grade: 99.5% overall A for the course! I was number 3 out of 103 students!

That's wonderful dear! Said May.

I told you you could do it! Said Cathy

Great work Kiddo said Hank.

I never doubted you Ree! Said Caleb.

That's very impressive. However, I'm not surprised. I know how much you wanted this! Said Becky.

Way to go little sister said Bree! You remind me of Carol! When Carol was in school, she was all about the grades; everything else was second to her!

John looked at me. I knew you'd crush it! He kissed me on the lips in front of everyone.

Are going to call your mother?

Buzz!!!

I don't have to! She's calling me!

Hi mom!!

Ree, I got this email. Does this mean what I think it means?

Yes, Mom, I got an A in my first college class!

We're proud of you Ree! Shouted Dad from the background.

When are you moving out here? I asked.

The end of the week. Your mother and I are packing as we speak!

My truck is loaded up and I still have to load the Corvette in the trailer and pack away my tools and a few things. The movers come on Friday. We will leave on Saturday. We should be there by Tuesday with any luck.

We miss you, sweetheart! We'll see you very soon!

I love you guys, travel safe!

We love you too! We will!

Breakfast! Shouted Ian.

We all gathered for breakfast. Nothing fancy this morning. Scrambled eggs, patty sausage, and toast. I got up and grabbed the salsa from the fridge and put salsa on my eggs. John did the same thing.

Soon everyone except Cathy put salsa on their eggs.

Are the eggs bad? Asked Caitlyn.

No, sweetheart, not at all! They're great! I just always eat my eggs like this at home!

Do you want to try it, pumpkin? Asked Hank.

No thanks you, Said Caitlyn.

John, give me a hand, will you? Asked Caleb. John and Caleb did the dishes.

Come on sister! We have to get ready for town. Said Cathy.

Bree and Becky took the prowler back to the cabin to change.

Ian drove us girls and John into town. We first stopped at the upscale grocery store. I started spice shopping. I pulled out the shopping list from my purse.

You remind me of my mother! John said. She never shops without a list.

Martina gave me a list of spices and herbs she wanted. I started grabbing 3 of everything on the list.

I know Girls are sugar, spice, and everything nice! But aren't you going a little overboard, Ree? Bree teased me!

We all laughed.

Maybe, but some of these are very hard to find, even in Vegas. Besides they won't take up much room.

We giggled; John smiled again and said whatever you say, Mom! We laughed again.

We hit a couple of clothing stores. I bought a nice two-piece skirt and a tank top. I did a twirl in front of John and the girls. John blushed!

From there we went to the cafe for the Kobi burgers!

John was a little more than stunned at the prices. He started looking for the cheapest thing to eat on the menu.

Ian saw John studying the menu. Relax bro! Just order whatever you want! I'm buying.

Ian's right John! Said Becky. Besides this is one of the few times you'll ever see Bree or I eat a burger. We want you to enjoy it as much as we do!

John and Ian ordered the one-pound burgers and split the onion rings!

When John saw Ian pay the bill he was stunned at the total of the bill.

Let me at least leave the tip, said John. Sorry bro! Not a chance! Champions eat free where I come from.

The busboy heard the comment.

Wait a second! Are you John Park?

Yes? John said in a questioning manner.

I saw your fight on YouTube! You went almost 3 full rounds with Ji-Ho Lee! You knocked him out at the end!

Ji-Ho is a good friend of mine.

You looked like Jet Lee was fighting! You're an awesome fighter!

Everyone was staring at John in the restaurant.

Can I have your autograph? The busboy asked.

How about a picture? I said.

The busboy fought to dig his phone out.

I took several pictures of them with the restaurant sign in the picture.

Thanks Champ! Said the busboy.

John was blushing when the busboy walked away!

That was awkward! Said John.

The price of fame! Get used to it! Becky said.

When I took down Sally Preston the press was all over me for weeks! It was a huge hassle! But it's been great for business! Because of it, I've been able to help a lot of people.

Herman Preston even started a foundation that supports our efforts to help those who can't afford legal representation. We've helped a lot of people.

Becky is right! Between Caleb, Judy, myself, and a few others, we have been able to provide aid to wrongfully accused people with property issues and evictions. We also helped those with insurance issues!

Imagine what you can do with your championship fame and a good education! The sky is the limit! Said, Becky!

I knew you helped the less fortunate, but I had no idea! John said.

Thanks to Herman Preston we have been able to do much more than ever.

Herman even works with the Mumford family up north. They foster at-risk youth working at the vineyard. They provide employment, education, and new opportunities for homeless and at-risk kids and a few families.

It's all non-profit and the money goes back into the foundation to help those that choose it.

Mr and Mrs Mumford pay a fair wage and provide housing too!

Next time you visit we'll take a trip up there! Said Cathy. It's not like any other foster system you have ever seen. All of the government money goes directly to the program itself. The Mumfords don't take a dime.

You have to see it to believe it! Said, Ian! All the kids go to school. When a foster child turns 18 they have the choice to stay on and work or move on. Most stay and go to college! They have 4 kids in college right now!

That sounds like a great program! Said John.

Herman has a lot of friends who donate to the foundation. We provide free legal services for the foundation and its participating children and families. Said Becky

We even built an office on-site to handle all their extra work. So far, there are a dozen families and over fifty children on site. Everyone is well taken care of. We're very proud of our program. Said Cathy.

Ian drove us to the nail salon.

What are we doing here? Asked John

It's mani-pedi time! No offense, John, you could use one, I said!

I'm getting one! Said Ian. Don't worry it won't lower your manhood points!

We laughed. After the mani-pedi, we stopped at Walmart and did some grocery shopping.

I found this cute set of Pink brand sweatshirts and pants and shorts combo. I bought it. It was black with silver letters and pink edges on the letters.

We headed back to the house after a full afternoon.

Thanks, girls. I really needed the break from Ryan. I love him so much, but it's nice to feel like a girl again! Said Cathy.

I know exactly what you mean said Becky.

So do I said, Bree.

I'm with you there said Ian.
.
We laughed.

Don't laugh too much! Said Becky

If it wasn't for Ian and Bree, Cathy and I wouldn't get anything done! Ian may not have an office to work in, but without both of them, we'd be lost!

Becky's right! Said Cathy. Never having to worry about who you leave your child with is a necessity! We are very lucky to have you guys!

It's great to be appreciated! Said Ian.

Thank you said Bree as she teared up a bit.

I know I don't need to say, but you all are always welcome to visit us for some R and R! Said May.

Yes, John that includes you too! I would really love to have your parents visit us sometime! May said sincerely!

Thank you, May! I will extend your invitation.

When we got back Caleb was playing with the kids! Hank was starting the grill, the girls were running around outside, and the babies were asleep.

Ian and John took the groceries inside.

Soon after we arrived, the babies woke up, and Becky and Cathy started breastfeeding again. It was like they knew they were home waiting for their next feeding. I thought it was cute!

John, can you help Hank for a minute? I need to talk to Bree.

Sure babe! He said and kissed my cheek.

I saw Brianna sitting next to James as Becky was breastfeeding.

I went over and lightly grabbed her hand and motioned my head to the porch. She looked at Becky and I said excuse for a bit. Becky smiled and nodded.

Okay sister, talk to me! I said softly.

I'm sorry Ree! I can't help it. I miss breastfeeding so much! I know it shouldn't, but I still miss the bonding effects of it.

Bree, it's alright to feel like that! You're a human being! You're a good woman and mother. You have a right to be emotional! To be completely honest you handled things pretty well.

I saw the tear in the car and thought you might want a friendly shoulder to cry on!

I forgot how perceptive you are! Said Bree. You can really read me, can't you?

I would hope so! We are the same! We both want the one thing we can't have. We settled for less because we don't have a choice, but it doesn't mean we can't be there for the other one! I said.

Everyone here is great, but you are the only person that truly understands me, Bree.

I am, and I will always be here for you, Ree! No matter what happens! Said Bree. She hugged me tightly.

You know, Ree, if I didn't know better, I'd swear your breasts are getting bigger!

You noticed! I've been trying to keep it from being obvious!

Let's run back to town, the lingerie store is still open. Let's get you measured! If you are bigger, the first two bras are on me! Said Bree!

Cathy was putting James to sleep when we came in.

Where are you two going? Into town. I forgot something! Said Bree.

Let me drive you! Said Cathy.

Okay great, thanks! Said Bree

We got in Cathy's SUV and headed back to town.

Okay, girls, what's the deal? Said Cathy.

Ree and I were talking, and we hugged, and I noticed someone may have moved up a cup size!

Ohh! Really? Said Cathy.

Ree anything you want to add? Asked Cathy.

I thought I might be a little bigger but I didn't want to make a big deal about it. I love my current collection. I said defensively.

Ree the correct bra size is crucial to your body and health. Trust me I wore the wrong size for a long time! Said Cathy.

Besides John will love it! Said Cathy

We laughed.

Well, I'm buying you two bras at least! Said Cathy.

No, you've done more than enough! I said!

Come on Ree! It's not like she's buying your whole wardrobe of clothes! Said Bree.

She already did that! I said.

Cathy! You never told me that! Said Bree shocked!

It wasn't a secret! It just never came up. Besides, All I did was pay it forward just like you, Becky, did for Judy and me. Besides, when I met our little sister here for the first time, she was lonely, depressed, and confused. She had two outfits to wear and Brenda was working overtime at the salon.

They needed a hand up! So I saw an opportunity to help them like you and Becky helped me and Judy.

Now look at her! Said Cathy! I'd say it worked! Wouldn't you?

I'll say! I said. I didn't want to be a charity case. But Cathy said it wasn't charity. She told me a good friend who was transgender and helped her at times when she needed it, and this was her way of paying it back.

Okay! I want details! Said Bree, with a giggle in her voice.

My Aunt Vanessa called Becky and explained the situation I was in. Becky sent Cathy to Ohio to help us. Right after I got off the phone with Aunt V, Cathy knocked on the door! I was so scared!

Ree here made me identify myself and let me in. All they had for coffee was Maxwell House, yuck! Said Cathy.

Cathy told me she was half Italian and very picky about her coffee! She offered to help me get ready. I've been a girl for less than a week. I had almost no clothes or makeup.

I helped Ree with her clothes and minimal makeup. We stopped and got some Starbucks. Cathy almost dragged me into Ulta Beauty. She paid for my hair, nails, makeup and brushes.

She even had my eyebrows waxed and my ears pierced 5 times, like hers. I loved her nose stud, and we stopped, and she signed their permission slip for my nose!

I took Ree to Kohl's department store and bought her a couple of skirt suits for court and some real girl clothes. The poor kid needed everything! I probably went a little overboard with Ree! But it felt great helping her find her inner girl!

When we stopped by the salon my Mom didn't recognize me at first! I said.

It turned out to be one of my best work days ever. I knew by the time we finished that day she was more than my client, she felt more like a little sister I had to protect!

By the end of the first day we met, I knew what I wanted to do with my life! I wanted to be a lawyer just like Cathy! Seeing her in action just reinforced my decision, I said.

We arrived at Betty's Boutique. It was a very high-end lingerie store.

Ms. Catherine!!! How are you? It's been a long time! You look terrific!

Hi Betty, these are my friends Brianna and Ree.

What can I do for you today?

We need to have a fitting for my girl Ree! We think she moved up a cup size.

My, you are a doll! You are so beautiful too!
Right this way young lady!

Betty took me to the fitting room.
Okay, sweetheart, take off your blouse and turn around.

I took off my blouse.

Ohh! Honey this looks uncomfortable from the back. Are you sure this isn't too tight?

It's a little tight but I'm used to it.

Ohh! Honey this is way too tight! With your permission, I want to unclasp your bra and measure you. Is that okay?

Yes, please! I answered.

Okay, I'm coming around you with the tape measure.

35 1/2 inch bust 31 1/2" under bust. You're a D cup sweetie! How old are you?

14 and a half! I said.

Well, little lady, you are a D-cup! I must say you are a blossoming young lady! Put your stuff on and let's pick out something pretty for you!

Well, Betty?

She's a 36 D-cup! She is extremely fit for someone so young. Are you an athlete my dear?

Cheerleading and swimming! I said.

It shows! I don't see many young women like you so well-developed and fit.

She's a special girl! Said Cathy. She is also a ballerina and a martial artist.

That explains why she's so trim and toned.

Ballet? What numbers have you done?

The Nutcracker and Swan Lake. Swan Lake is my favorite so far

I picked out a pink and white racerback bra.

Bree said my treat!

I started picking out a few more for myself to buy. Betty had a huge selection. I picked out four more in various colors and styles. Sorry honey my treat said Cathy.

I have money, Cathy!

And you're like a little sister to me! Big sisters do these things!

Thanks, big Sis!

I picked out 6 more. I probably shouldn't have bought so many they were expensive! But I had money and Betty had the best selection I'd ever seen. I ended with 3 new sports bras one of them was blue and silver, my school colors!

Do you have any bikinis? I asked

Ree, Betty outfits some of the most famous people in Hollywood and the most powerful women in the country! Cathy said.

Right this way darling!

I bought 3 bikinis, pink with white strings, purple with black strings and a blue and silver stripe bikini again in my school colors.

Going overboard a little? Asked Bree.

I couldn't help myself! She has the best selection I've ever seen! I know for a fact Victoria's Secret doesn't have this selection in a D-cup!

She's right, ladies! Said, Betty! I have the largest selection on West Coast!

Pick out your panties sweetheart. When you buy two or more bras the panties are free!

We walked out of there with twelve bras, 3 bikinis, and a dozen panties.

What are you going to do with your old bras? Asked Cathy.

That's what friends are for! I said we laughed.

We stopped at a Caribou Coffee house.

Don't tell Caleb!

Cathy got a small frozen mocha cappuccino. Bree and I got frozen caramel cappuccinos.
We giggled together all the way home.

I thought about asking Cheryl to join Lexi and Emma in my bra giveaway! I figured she deserved it! If she hadn't done what she did, I would have missed everything this summer!
My former bully saved my ass! How does that happen? But it did and I'm very grateful!