One Boy's Journey Chapter 39

Written by Brianna Demonet

We took our places. Mistress Walker gave us one last inspection.

Okay girls, remember to relax and have fun. You've all worked hard getting here. Now is the time to show everyone what you've all learned. Let's show them!

The music started, the curtains went up, and the stage lights came on, and on cue, we started the show!

We danced our hearts out. Everyone was spot on.

Julius's little sister, Suzy had a small solo. She nailed it. I could see how much she loved dancing. It made me smile.

Shelly nailed her solos. I kept thinking she could be a professional dancer if she wanted it. Our recital went off without a hitch.

When we came out to bow, the audience went wild with applause and cheers.

I could swear I heard Julius and John above everyone. I saw my family cheering and smiling. It felt like we won a football game!

We ran off stage and began changing. Mom, Taylor, and Lexi came backstage with a few other mothers and volunteers and helped us.

I changed into my pink skater dress, white blouse, and pink Mary Jane heels. Mom re-did my makeup. She left my hair in the ballerina bun.

John handed me a dozen pink roses. I took a whiff of the flowers and kissed him in front of my whole family.

Martina and her husband Jose came. I was delighted to see them. I hugged her, kissed her cheek, and thanked them for coming. Mom invited them to dinner. They accepted.

Dinner at the steakhouse was very festive! I felt a little sad Cathy and Caleb weren't there but everyone else was. Mom bought copies of our recital on DVD for everyone.

We had 3 waitresses waiting for us. Two of the waitresses were from our previous visit. They must have remembered us and told the third waitress. Because our service was excellent.

Mom was as proud of me as I've ever seen. Aunt V was full of pride as was everyone. This only made me feel like I was on the right track.

May and Hank were proud of me.

Ree you were terrific! Said May. All you girls were! I loved dancing when I was a young girl. I can see why you love it.

Yon said now I know why you missed class. That was an impressive performance!

Jii just smiled and bowed his head to me, and I bowed back. Jii just smiled with a look of approval.

I've seen that look a few times, I knew it was a compliment.

I was hungry I ate a 12 oz. Ribeye.

John's sisters said I want to take ballet!

Yon just smiled!

We said our goodbyes and parted ways.

When we got back to the house I started the Jacuzzi again. My feet were sore and I was exhausted.

As I lay in the tub relaxing, Mom came in.

You know I'm very proud of you, right?

Yes, Mommy, I know!

You were great on stage. You made me even more proud today.

Thanks, Mom! For everything!

I'm sorry I haven't been here for you!

Mom, please don't do this again. If you hadn't allowed me to come out here, none of this would have happened.

Because you and Aunt V did what you did I am thriving!

Okay, sweetheart!

How are your feet feeling?

Sore!

Let me rub them!

Mom took a foot and started rubbing it.

My mom used to rub mine after dance class like this.

She rubbed my feet and I felt the tension dissipate slowly. It felt great.

Do you know when you will be moving yet? I asked.

Soon, I still have to close the sale of the salon, but that will all happen in the next few weeks.

Have you met Dad's daughters yet?

Yes, just once. We went out to dinner. They were happy for us. They said it's about time Dad found someone to share his life with.

You'll like them. They are very nice!

Do they know all about me?

Yes, Dan and I told them the whole story. We figured since we are all family now they deserved the truth. They can't wait to meet their little sister!

Wow! I have sisters.

Mom?

Yes, Ree?

Can you help me out of the tub?

Sure, honey.

Mom handed me a towel as I stood up.

Rianna you are developing into a beautiful young woman!

I have good genes!

We giggled together. It felt good.

I went to bed earlier than usual it was barely 8 pm.

I was up at 6 am.

I was just about to start swimming and out came Bree, and Ian came out.

The three of us swam together. I swam at least 30 laps. Bree and Ian got out with me.

I dried off and went upstairs for a quick shower. When I got downstairs Bree and Ian were cooking

What are you making? I asked. Breakfast tacos! Said Ian.

Don't forget to set out the pico de giao! Martina makes it, it's great.

Breakfast was almost as festive as dinner last night. I was so happy everyone got to meet John and his family.

As breakfast broke up everyone started getting ready for their flights to return home. Taylor and Linda came over and helped shuttle everyone to the airport. We said goodbye to everyone at the curb.

When things finally settled at home I went to my room and cried. I was so happy everyone came for my recital and was sad everyone had to leave so quickly.

Aunt V came into my room while I cried. Aunt V knew why I was crying, she didn't say a word. Aunt V just sat me up and reached out with her arms. We hugged tightly as I cried myself out.

As I finished crying she looked at me and said, you've grown up so much since you arrived here. You have no idea how proud I am of you, we all are.

I love you, Ree!

Ohh!! Auntie!!! I started crying again. This time, I was proud, proud of myself, and happy with everyone in my life now.

Why don't we go get coffee together, just get out of the house for a little while, just you and me?

I have so much to do!

I know, and so do I! We could use just a little break, just the two of us.

Okay! I said.

Wear this!

She handed me my favorite purple skater dress. I wore it with my white bra and blouse. I have not worn the dress all winter. When I put it on and looked in the mirror it was like seeing my true girly self in the mirror for the first time all over.

I admired myself looking at all the changes in myself. Not just my face or hair. I could see the real me!

My body looked like a teenage girl. The way I moved, my facial expressions, my personality. My attitude, my poise, everything. It hit me like a truck! I really am Rianna! Teenage girl, daughter, granddaughter, and a woman!

Aunt V saw my face. She just smiled.

Are you ready?

Yes ma'am!

Let's take the Porsche!

Hearing Porsche! Put a large smile on my face.

Aunt V took us to Mario's Cafe. It was an independent coffee shop specializing in Italian coffee.

We sat and talked about the past 11 months and what was coming up for the summer. I asked her about Taylor. She said things were going well. She told me Taylor's mother was not doing well.

I already knew that from Lexi. Lexi told me she was trying to get to know and understand Lexi and her desire to transition.

As we sat there drinking our coffee I started thinking more about how my life affected my Aunt V. I could see she was proud of me. Sometimes I could see the strain on her.

Aunt V?

Yes, Ree?

Have I been a burden on you?

No! Why would you ask such a question?

Sometimes I feel like I cut into your social life. You know you can leave me alone if you want to go out. Or if you and Taylor want to spend some time together I could stay at Taylor's with Lexi.

I know that sweetheart; no, you have not been a burden on me. You have brought happiness into our home.

I never realized how lonely I was until you moved out here. Your incident, as horrible as it was, in a way was a blessing for me. We got to know each other again. I've watched you develop and blossom beyond my wildest dreams.

Ree, you have to know how much I love you. You are like a daughter to me. I feel like I raised you all over again. I'm very proud of the young woman you are. I like to think I have something to do with that.

Burden? No way you're a source of pride and joy for me. Believe it or not, you being here has helped Taylor and I become closer than I ever thought we could.

I listened to Aunt V and started to tear up in the cafe. I felt closer to her than ever before. I realized we didn't have very many secrets from each other. My tears were of love and joy.

Two weeks later

It was the last day of school. We were having a great day. Emma, Lexi, and I were walking by the boy's bathroom at lunchtime, and I heard a scream.

Stop it! Put the knife away!

It was Sammy from my Hap-ki-do class. I looked at Lexi and Emma. Go get John!

You're not going in there?

Maybe, Just get John!

Emma and Lexi ran towards the cafeteria.

Stop it! Let me go!

I was more angry than scared. I looked for John I didn't see him.

UGG! I heard Sammy.

I went in. Let him go! Leave him alone.

You're in the wrong place little girl!

It was Chandler Rollings! He was huge! He was bigger than Julius.

Take your hands off him, Now! I was fueled with rage! There was no way I was going to see Sammy go through what happened to me.

Maybe she is looking for a real man! Said Bart Rogo!

I don't see any men in here! Now back off.

Maybe I should show you! Said Bart.

Bart turned towards me with a knife in his hand.

Come here bitch! Said, Bart!

I looked at Sammy, he was terrified. Bart started to lunge at me, knife hand first!

I kicked the knife out of his hand.

I'm going to hurt you now bitch! Said Bart.

Back off! Now!

It was John!

Adam, Julius, and half the wrestling team!

Screw you, golden boy! Said Chandler, it's time to teach you a lesson!

Back off seriously!

Chandler released Sammy and charged at John.

John stepped aside and tripped him. Bart went for the knife Julius tripped him and put his arm behind his back.

Chandler got up and took a swing at John. John easily dodged the punch and punched him in the stomach once. He knocked the wind out of Chandler.

Stay down Chandler! Unless you want more!

The principal showed up!

What's going on here?

Chandler and Bart pulled a knife on Sammy! I said.

Is this true, Samuel?

Yes Ma'am! Sammy had a red cheek from where they hit him.

She kicked me, said Bart.

It was self-defense! He tried to stab me! I said

John punched me and said Chandler!

Is this all true?

Yes, ma'am, I hit him, but only after he lunged at me and threw a punch. Said John.

What did you see Adam? I saw John hit Chandler once after Chandler charged him and threw a punch.

Why are you holding Bart down, Julius?

Because he went for his knife on the floor.

Everyone to my office now!

Ma'am, you want the knife? Said, Julius!

The principal picked up the knife with toilet paper by the blade.

We were all in the principal's office for almost an hour. I was so humiliated that the school had to call Aunt V.

Yon and Aunt V saw me there. I was sitting next to Sammy.

Thanks Ree! You saved my life!

You would have done the same for me! I said.

I don't know! I was so scared!

I've been there Sammy! I know exactly how you feel my friend!

Where did John and his friends come from?

I heard you scream! I sent Lexi and Emma to get them.

Thanks, Ree. I mean it! I owe you!

No, you don't! I owed, you! The day I hit you in class, I saw red, just like today. But you forgave me. I always respected that. I was grateful to you.

You may not know this Ree, but I would have never passed my yellow belt test without you.

Sure you would, you are better than I am. John said you are one of the best students he has.

Really? He said that.

He sure did! Don't cut yourself short Sammy. You're a good martial artist.

We waited outside the Principal's office for at least an hour.

Chandler's parents are both in there arguing with Principal Lewis.

Bart and his parents just glared at Sammy and me.

I returned the look with a small smile.

I could see Mr Rollings leaning on the principal's desk. He was talking but I couldn't hear him. It looked like he was trying to intimidate Ms Lewis.

Sit down, sir! That was all I heard.

Aunt V came in and saw Sammy and I sit together.

John and Julius were separated from the rest of us.

Are you two alright? Asked Aunt V!

I'm fine but Sammy is going to have a black eye!

What happened? Asked Aunt V.

Chandler and Bart were bullying me. When they started pushing me I tried to get away. They grabbed me and pushed me against the wall. When I tried escaping Bart pulled out a pocket knife!

I yelled and Chandler punched me. Moments later Rianna came in. She told them to back off, and when Bart tried to stab her, she kicked the knife out of his hand.

Then John, Julius, and Adam showed up with half of the wrestling team.

Ree! You could have been killed! Said a very worried Aunt V.

I know Aunt V, and I'm sorry, but I couldn't let this happen again!

What do you mean again asked Sammy?

It's a long story, Sammy I'll tell you about it at another time. I said.

Sammy's dad showed up. He was actually built like Sammy only a little taller but still kinda skinny.

Mr Worth, Samuel, I need a word! Ms Lewis said.

I couldn't hear anything about what they were saying. Less than 5 minutes later they walked out.

Ms Stockton, Rianna, please? Ms Lewis started waving us to her office.

Doctor Stockton, please! Said Aunt V., Taking control of the situation. I had seen that look before when she talked to the nurse and doctor when I was in the hospital.

It was her, "Don't screw with me or you'll regret it" look! It was a powerful look that I never wanted to be on the receiving end.

Excuse me, Doctor Stockton, Ms Stevens, please! Principal Lewis waved us into her office.

Rianna, I have to say I'm a little disappointed in you!

For what! I didn't do anything except stick up for my friend!

That's not the story I'm hearing from Chandler or Bart. They said you pulled the knife on them!

That's not true! I don't own a knife much less carry one!

Then why don't you tell me what happened! young lady!

I heard Sammy screaming and I sent my friends Lexi and Emma to find John. When I heard him say put away the knife! I went in to help Sammy.

Do you deny kicking Bart?

No! He charged at me with the knife and then I kicked it out of his hand! I never touched it. Fingerprint the knife. You won't find my prints on it.

Check the hallway video. I hesitated before I went in!

Immediately after that John and his friends showed up and put a stop to it.

John punched Chandler, John could be in a lot of trouble.

He punched him in the stomach once! Only after Chandler charged at him and took a swing at him. If John and Julius and their friends had not shown up you would have had a stabbing in the school.

I'm not sure what to believe!

Did you call the police? Asked Aunt V.

No this is school business. Said principal Lewis.

I'm afraid not! Said Aunt V. According to Nevada State law, assault with any weapon in school is required to be reported to the police.

Dr Stockton, I know the law! No one was seriously hurt.

So do I! Not reporting it is a more serious crime! Said Aunt V.

I also know you're not a trained investigator! Said Aunt V as stern as I ever saw her! Aunt V doesn't take crap from anyone!

Principal Lewis picked up the phone and called the sheriff's department.

30 minutes later Sergeant Collins came in with his partner and Blake in his explorer uniform. Blake looked pretty good in uniform.

The principal explained the situation.

Is that the knife? Asked Sergeant Collins.

Yes, Sergeant, said Principal Lewis.

Bag that Tom!

Yes Sergeant! Said the deputy.

Blake stood silent the whole time watching how his dad handled the situation.

Is everyone still here? Asked Sergeant Collins.

No, I sent Chandler Rollings home with his parents.

Tom, have Chandler Rollings picked up! We need to have a chat with him.

What time did this happen?

Around noon. It's almost 2 o'clock! Any reason you waited so long to call the police?

I wanted to handle it in-house!

You know that is a crime too! Right?

No one was seriously hurt! I didn't want to make a mountain out of a molehill.

Regardless, when a weapon is involved in an assault on anyone, by state law you are required to call the police.

We did!

Over an hour later, and released a suspect, too!

Sergeant, I don't want to damage the school's good name! Said Principal Lewis.

Neither do I! This was my high school. Said Sergeant Collins. If you called right away I might have been able to resolve the situation. Now I have to make everything official in my report. I'm afraid you have done more harm than good Ms Lewis.

Ms Lewis, we are going to need your office! Why don't you get a cup of coffee and do not leave?

The next hour was exhausting.

Julius and his dad showed up. Jii was with John.

Bart had his head bowed because he saw the evidence bag with his pocket knife.

When Bart's dad saw the bag with the knife he slapped him in the back of his head.

I almost laughed. Sammy and I just looked at each other.

Bart was the last one interviewed. His parents didn't look very happy when they cuffed Bart and read him his rights.

Ree! Are you alright?

I'm fine, thank you, Sergeant.

Do you need to interview Sammy or me again?

No, you are free to go, but I might need another statement later. So call me if you leave town.

Yes, Sergeant, I said, smiling.

I'm glad you're okay Ree! Penny would be very upset as well! Said Blake.

Thanks, Blake! By the way, you look great in uniform!

He smiled and walked out with his Dad.

As we were walking out I heard Ree!!

Sammy called me.

Ree, this is my Dad, Dad this is my friend Rianna.

From Hap-ki-do class, yes I recognize you now. Thank you for your help today.

You're welcome, Mr Worth. Your son is a nice guy. He was the only one that talked to me when I moved out here.

Dr Stockton, you have a fine niece!

Please call me Vee. All my friends call me V. It was nice to meet you, even under the circumstances.

Don, call me Don, and thank you, ladies!

We got in the car, and Aunt V drove us to her office. I said nothing. I figured she had to push appointments around. We were there until almost 8 p.m.

I went to work copying and filling out paperwork. When the last patient went into Aunt V's office, I started vacuuming. I cleaned up the bathroom and the office kitchen.

I had just finished when Aunt V said let's get something to eat and head home!

We went to Jersey Mike's and got some wraps and went home.

Driving home I said should we call Cathy?

You probably should but wait until morning. Besides she's close to delivering her baby.

You should call your mother.

But it's 11 pm there!

Believe me, if I was her I would not mind. Said Aunt V.

I called her from the car.

Mom! Baby, is everything okay? It's late!

Sorry to call so late. But I had a little trouble at school today.

Are you alright? Mom asked with a scared concern in her voice.

Yes, Mom, I'm fine. John and his friends kept it from escalating.

Well, that's good to hear! Said Mom, sounding relieved.

I knew he was a good young man!

I heard Dad say in the background.

Honey, can we talk tomorrow? I have an early appointment at the bank. I close on the salon sale in the morning.

I can fly out if you need one of us said Dad.

That's okay, guys. I have it under control, said Aunt V. We just thought you should know.

Thanks, Vee said Mom, we'll talk tomorrow afternoon.

Bye guys I love I said.

We love you too sweetheart.


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