One Boy's Journey Chapter 38

Written by Brianna Demonet

I woke up early Sunday morning. Double-check my luggage, put on one of Brianna's old string bikinis, walk out to the pool, and start doing some laps in the pool. Bree came out and swam with me.

We must have done 30 laps together.

Ian called us in for breakfast. He made blueberry crepes for us. They were so good!

I went upstairs and dressed in my skinny jeans and sneakers. I wore my pink T-shirt and a short black leather jacket. Brianna helped me with my bags. Ian said that Caleb and Cathy were taking me to the airport.

Becky came down with the kids.

Caitlin and Violet were hugging me asking when I was coming for another visit. I told them I was going to be very busy this summer but I will try to see them soon.

I held James for a while. He's such a good boy. James was playing with my hair. I thought it was adorable.

The doorbell rang.

I'll get it said, Caitlin. Running for the door.

Hi Uncle Giant! Caitlin said as Caleb picked her up.

HI, Kitty! Said Caleb as he hiked her over his head.

Auntie Cathy! Said Violet as she ran to the door.

Hi girls!

Ree Ree, are you ready to go? Asked Cathy.

Yes ma'am!

Caleb loaded my bags in the SUV. I thanked everyone for being here and for the experience.

I hugged and kissed everyone.

Becky said, remember to call me when you get a break this summer and we'll have you out again.

I hugged Becky again and thanked her for everything.

Caleb drove us to the airport. He helped me check my bags. I hugged and kissed them both one final time and headed to my gate. I sat in business class, I slept most of the way home.

I was expecting Aunt V to pick me up, it was John waiting for me at the gate.

I was so happy to see him. I ran right at him! He lifted me above his head and spun me around. I hugged him tightly and kissed his cheek.

I missed you so much, Ree!

I missed you too John!

I asked Vanessa if I could pick you up. I really missed you, Ree!

I missed you too!

Let's grab your bags and get going. John carried my bags for me and we got in his car and headed home. We held hands all the way home.

Did you have a good trip?

Yes, I learned a lot in just a couple of days. I said.

What was it like, being in court? John asked.

Exciting! I watched my Aunt Becky defend a guy against a lying police officer. It was really interesting watching the lawyers argue before the judge.

How was your break?

What break? John laughed. Master Moon's training is ten times harder than any football practice. My Dad gave me time off from work to train. In less than 8 weeks I'll be in Seoul for the tournament. Are you coming?

I won't miss it! Becky and Brianna want you to come out to San Francisco this summer for a weekend. Cathy's parents want to meet you too.

Do you mean visit the Vineyard? Yes, that is exactly what I mean. I think you would like it, they have quads you can ride and a creek running through the property. It's in the mountains, I know a great spot for a picnic!

May is a great cook, just like your mom! They dress formally on Korean dinner nights. I wake up early every morning for the sunrise then watch the sunset every night. The grapes are the sweetest I have ever tasted.

Sounds like a beautiful place. Said John.

It's magical; in the morning, we cuddle in blankets and sip coffee.

Will you go with me?

After my tournament, absolutely! Said John.

The next four weeks were really busy. John was busy training, and I was busy getting ready for my ballet recital. We saw each other at school and Saturday night.

I never saw John in the Hap-ki-do class. Mrs Park was substituted for John while he trained. Mom and Dad visit the last three weekends in a row. But I didn't get to visit with them much. Mom and Dad were working on the house.

I spent the majority of my spare time with Shelly at the ballet studio rehearsing for Sawn Lake. The stress of everything was getting to me from time to time. Aunt V could see it and scheduled me for twice a week with my therapist.

While I didn't like missing Hap-ki-do class, again, I knew Aunt V was right; she always is. Emma and Lexi could see it was taking its toll on me and were there to help me. I stayed overnight at Emma's house on a Saturday night with Lexi before Sunday brunch. We had a great time.

The week before prom was busy. I skipped both Hap-ki-do classes and either got extra sleep or just did my homework. I had my gown ready and was looking forward to seeing John for an extended period of time on Saturday.

Mom and Dad flew out Thursday night before prom, and the Park family invited Emma, Lexi, and me over to their house for Prom pictures. Everyone was there. Aunt V, Taylor, Lisa, and our dates and their parents.

My parents bought an Audi Q7 two weeks ago and were parking it in Aunt V's garage.

Taylor's girls did a great job getting Lexi, Emma, and me ready. The boys looked very handsome in their tuxedos.

We arrived at the Park's house at 4 pm. Mrs Park had a buffet of hor'derves and drinks.

Mr. Park had the backyard detailed and landscaped to perfection. Mrs Park was a true shutterbug! She had extra lighting and the tripod all setup.

Mrs Park directed everyone just like a professional photographer would. Mrs Park took pictures of everyone in every combination. Even John's sisters got in on the action dressed in their church-style dresses; they were so adorable!

Aunt V loaned John her Escalade for the 6 of us that night. We left the Park's house at about 5:30 pm and took us to a very romantic French restaurant. The waiter brought us girls lobster bibs for our dresses.

When we got to the country club for the dance the place was in full swing. We were worried about getting a table together.

John took the lead and led us to a table, and Julius and Shelly were sitting together, waiting for us.

It's about time! Shelly said smiling.

We hugged. Shelly, you look amazing! I said.

You girls look beautiful too! Sit down.

I started looking around at every table around us and it was filled with cheerleaders and their dates. Most of the girls I knew.

Like the previous school dances, the cheerleaders took over the dance floor when they played "Hit Me Baby One More Time" and "Only Girl." Just like before the girls point at me during the chorus. I laughed as hard as they did.

We went to the black bear diner after the dance was over. We had a great time. We ran into Blake and Peggy their prom night was the same night as ours.

Peggy was in a beautiful pink sequence mermaid gown that hugged her every curve. Blake was in a dark Red tuxedo. They looked really good together.

We sat together laughing and having fun. Julius showed up with Shelly.

Hey Blake! Said Julius offering a handshake. Blake shook his hand.

Shelly! I never got the chance to apologize to you. I'm very sorry about what happened. I hope you can forgive me.

I will, on one condition!

Name it!

Introduce me to your date!

Oh, shoot! Sorry.

Shelly, this is my girlfriend Peggy.

Nice to meet you! Said Peggy.

You too. Would you like to slide up a table, Shelly said inviting them.

No sooner than the tables were put together Adam Stewart walked in with his date.

The diner was loud but behaved. I called Aunt V and told her where I was. She said just get home safe and stay with John.

I got home at 1:30 am. Very late for me. But everything was fine.

John, I called your mother and made up the room across the hall. You can sleep here tonight. Your father wants you home before 10 am.

Thank you, Vanessa. Said John.

We all went upstairs and got ready for bed.

I got up early and started swimming. After I finished my laps, I took a quick shower and put on my Mustang sweater and sweatpants.

John and Aunt V were still sleeping. I started the coffee and made breakfast tacos. The aroma from the kitchen brought everyone downstairs.

I poured coffee for them.

Morning! I said in a musical tone, smiling.

I started making their plates at the island counter.

We sat together and ate.

Ree! This is really good! Said John

Thank you. I responded. It was just then I realized this was the first time I ever cooked for him. We finished breakfast, and John helped me with the dishes.

Aunt V went into her office and started working on her notes.

Let's go for a walk! There is something I want to show you! Said John.

Aunt V, we're going for a walk. We'll be back soon.

Okay, sweetheart!

John and I walked to the house. I haven't seen it in weeks, I've been way too busy.

He opened the door and let me walk in first. My jaw dropped open!

OMG! I said as I started taking it all in. Everything was finished except the living room and dining room floors.

My uncle Jun will start on the downstairs flooring this week. Your dad has an inspection scheduled for Friday for the occupancy permit.

Ohh John!!!! I turned to him and kissed him deeply.

Check this out! John led me to the pool. It looked brand new!

Julius has a friend that is a plumber, he and Julius cleaned the drain and cleaned the pool.

Julius, Adam, Blake, and I repainted the whole pool and hot tub. My uncle Jun will start filling it next week.

I jumped in his arms kissing him again.

It's perfect! Thank you! How'd you find the time?

Master Moon worked me pretty hard a couple of weeks ago and decided to let me recover. Julius and his dad decided to have it checked. One thing led to another and things just came together.

We bumped into Blake at the Home Depot and told him what we were doing and he offered to help. Blake was a big help.

I, I can't believe it! Wait there's more! Said John.

We walked upstairs, and the bedrooms and bathrooms were done. Except for a few subtle changes, everything was exactly as Mom and I picked out. My room was the perfect purple combination my bathroom was exactly what I wanted.

I had a new bed and canopy, no sheets, but the canopy was exactly what I asked for. Blinds and curtains were all installed. Ceiling fans were up and operational.

I started crying I was so happy. I could feel my emotions shifting all over the place.

Ohh!!! John thank you!!!!

I love you, Ree!!!

I love you too Johnny!!!!

We kissed deeply. John lifted me by my ass I wrapped my arms and legs around him tightly! I didn't want to let go. I continued kissing him.

After a couple of minutes, he set me down.

Ree, I hate to say it, but I have to get going. I will see you tomorrow at school.

We walked back to the house and I kissed him goodbye.

I walked into the house, and Aunt V was on the phone. She put the phone on speaker.

Did he show you? I heard Mom's voice over the speaker.

Yes!!! It's so beautiful!!! I squealed!! I could hear Mom giggling at my squealing noise. Aunt V was giggling too!

Did John show you the pool? Dad asked

Yes, he did. It looks brand new!

Blake was very helpful with that project! He and his friends fixed some problems that could have been much worse! They did a fantastic job! Said Dad.

So I take it you approve, Kiddo? Asked Dad

Yes, Daddy, I approve. It's perfect! I love it! My room is just the way I wanted it!

We're happy to hear it!

When are you moving out here? Soon sweetheart! Dan has to finish out his time at the school to retire and I have to finish the paperwork and financials for the salon.

I sold the trailer to Mr and Mrs Chandler. They're going to rent it out.

My daughters are still deciding on what they want to do with the stuff in the house. We should hopefully have things settled by July.

Is it still okay to go to John's tournament?

Yes sweetheart, but I would like Dan to go with you!.

I would love that!

Great! Because I've been brushing up on my Korean! Said Dad.

Well, kiddo, we have to get going. We'll talk soon. I love you, Ree! Said Dad.

I love you Ree, said mom

I love you, Mom and Dad!

I hugged Aunt V tightly. I love you too!

I know sweetie! I love you too!

I went upstairs and started my homework.

I took a break and got a bottle of water and went back upstairs. I started updating my therapy notebook and diary. I found writing things down helped me cope with my feelings and thoughts.

My night terrors were fewer but they weren't as bad. I was imagining myself fighting back much harder than before. I imagined fighting them off once.

The next few weeks of school were loaded with homework and ballet practice. There were only two weeks left before the recital, and I was doing ballet every day except Sunday.

I got tickets for everyone, Mom and Dad; Cathy and Caleb couldn't make it due to Cathy being so close to her due date. Caleb did not want to risk driving to Vegas. Steve and Terri, The Stapleton clan was coming plus one.

Hank and May, the Park family. Lisa, Emma, Taylor and Lexi. We were going to have a full house! Mom already made dinner reservations at Ruth Chris Steakhouse after the recital.

I was excited that everyone was going to be there. But I also started getting nervous about everyone seeing me perform. Shelly always knew exactly what to say when I started getting nervous.

Years later I still hear her advice in my head when I get nervous.

Mom and Dad, got into Vegas the Thursday afternoon before the recital while I was at school. Mom picked me up at school. I was thrilled to see her. Mom took me home and helped me get ready for ballet practice.

Mom took me early. Shelly was already there. We started our warmup early and Shelly and I went through the Solo routines.

Ree, I forgot to tell you that I got a full academic scholarship to UNLV for pre-med!

That's great Shelly! Congratulations! We hugged.

There's just one problem!

What's that? I'm not going to be able to dedicate as much time to ballet as I would like. The studio is going to need a new lead dancer! I want you to succeed me! Said Shelly

Me? There are at least half a dozen other girls that are far more experienced than I am. I replied.

That's very true! None of them are as disciplined or as dedicated as you are. Whether you realize it or not, you are just as capable as any of them.

I will dance with all of you through the summer, but you are all going to be evaluated closely. I'm pulling for you sister! Mistress Walker has high hopes for you and so do I!

I don't know what to say, Shelly!

Don't say anything! If you want it, put in the work and I'll do everything I can to help.

I have a busy summer coming up, Shelly. I started classes at UNLV too. Don't worry about that, we can get together and practice in our spare time. Just think about it, Ree!

Thanks, Shelly!

Mom watched our entire practice. I loved having a mom with me. I finally had a parent at practice like most of the other kids.

Mom and I picked up pizza on the way home for dinner. I love having family dinners. I got ready for bed, did some homework, and was asleep before 10 pm.

Friday was the last test I had in every class before final exams. I was holding solid A's in every class.

Mom picked me up from school and took me straight to the dance studio. It was a long practice. We had final costume fittings and full rehearsal. I had to practice the lead twice following Shelly.

Mom watched intently. Parents aren't normally allowed to watch rehearsal. Mistress allowed my mom to watch as long as she remained quiet. My mom missed so much of my activities.

Mom sat quietly smiling the whole time. I saw Mistress chatting with Mom from time to time.

Mom and I went directly home. Mom said Dad was cooking dinner tonight.

Everyone was there! The Stapleton clan, Terri and Steve, May and Hank, and the Park family. Emma and Lexi were there with their mothers.

Only Cathy and Caleb were missing.

Dinner was more like a party. John's sisters played well with Caitlin and Violet. The Park's and Pambini's hit it off great. May and Yon became fast friends. My Dad charmed everyone.

Ian, Becky, Bree, and Terri were charmed by John. Hank and May liked him a lot too. Linda and Taylor worked their way through everyone. Aunt V was in her element as a hostess.

Bree, Terri, and Taylor talked quite a bit. Dinner was a great big melting pot. Hank and May interrogated John about us. John was himself and left a good impression on my adopted grandparents.

Lexi and Emma were great. Becky asked them about college and cheerleading.

Mom and Dad walked everyone to the new house.

Everyone loved it! Emma and Lexi loved my room. Jii and John took pride in the work their family and friends did. Everyone loved the house. The party broke up around 11 pm. I kissed Mom goodnight and went to bed; I was exhausted.

I was up at 8 am the next morning I swam about twenty laps. I started coffee and was about to start breakfast when Ian came downstairs.

What are you doing? Asked Ian.

Making breakfast it's going to be a busy day, I said.

Exactly! That's why you don't need to serve everyone. Let me take care of breakfast. Ian said smiling.

Unless, of course, chef Rianna doesn't allow a guest chef in the kitchen! Ian stated.

Be my guest Ian! I said. I kissed his cheek.

Breakfast will be ready in an hour. Why don't you take a bath and relax your muscles? You're going to need all your strength today! Said Ian.

That sounds like a great idea! Thank you.

I ran upstairs and started my Jacuzzi tub. It's been weeks since I had an actual bath. I started the bubbles and it felt so good. It was at this moment I realized why women love to bathe.

All the stress of everything these past few months seems to melt away. My mind slowed down. Instead of thinking about everything all the time, I only thought about today.

It's been over 11 months since my surgery and the attack. Compared to my previous boy life things out west have been smooth by comparison. I've never been happier. I've worked hard to get where I am right now.

Everyone has been so supportive. I can't believe I'm sitting in this Jacuzzi thinking about my new family John, my friends. When I think about what my future holds, I can only smile.

I started focusing on the recital today. I started tapping my feet in the tub thinking about every position, every number. I can't believe Shelly wants me to be the lead dancer next year.

I'm going to miss her so much. Dancing with Shelly has been an inspiration to me and a crutch when I needed one. I sat there and soaked letting the bubbles reboot my brain.

My mom walked in, my eyes were half closed while I relaxed.

Someone looks relaxed! Said, Mom

I am, it's been weeks since I had a soak. I said.

Well, you picked the perfect time for it. Because it's going to be a busy day! Said Mom.

Breakfast is getting cold, put on your sweats and get something to eat. Afterward, you can wash your hair, and I'll help you get ready. Said mom.

Okay! I shut off the tub and started draining it. I brushed my hair and put on a headband. My hair was down to my waist now. I threw on my sweats and went downstairs. The aroma from the kitchen was just like visiting the vineyard.

Everyone was sitting at the dining room table eating when I came down.

Ian stood up and pulled out my chair. He fixed me a plate. Sausage, white gravy over biscuits. I haven't eaten this in years!

Ian looked at me. Now you ready to face the day, he said.

You were right Ian! I needed that.

When you live with four women, you learn a few things! Said, Ian

Everyone laughed. Becky, Bree, and May smiled with pride.

I like your friend, John, said May. He's a very well-mannered young man.

I approve! Said Hank.

He's very handsome too, said Terri.

Are you looking to replace me already? Asked Steve. He smiled at Terri.

Not a chance! Said Terri. But if the menu is open you can look at it.

Everyone laughed.

Well can see why you two are so attracted to each other. Said Bree.

He's a very goal-oriented young man. Said Bree

You should see his focus on the football field, I said.

I heard all about it! Said Ian. Caleb told me he plays football like Roger Craig! His friend Julius plays defense like Deon Sanders, and Dick Butkus rolled into one.

Julius made All-American this year. John and his friend Adam were up for consideration this year too, I said.

I'd like to talk about your trip to Korea Ree, said Dad.

I can still go, can't I?

Yes, sweetheart, but on one condition! Said mom.

What condition? I asked

That I go with you, said Dad.

I got up and smiled and hugged him. I wasn't going to argue with them. I was going for John. Having my Dad with me would make me feel a little safer. Plus there was no way I could stay in a hotel by myself.

Deal!!! I said. We finished breakfast and I started clearing the table.

Ree go get ready. I'll clean up said Ian.

Let me help said Hank.

Go on girls! Said Dad. We got this!

Steve watched the kids as the rest of us went upstairs.

Mom started laying out all my clothes for the day while I showered and washed my hair.

My mom was in her element helping me get ready.

My mom did my hair in a Natalie Portman ballet bun just like in the black swan movie. She applied my stage makeup and added a little extra eyeliner to compensate for the stage lights.

My Mom wouldn't let me do or touch anything. Mom painted my nails pale pink. My mom made me double and triple-checked my bag. She grabbed two outfits, 4 pairs of shoes, and everything needed to do my makeup and hair four times over.

Mom and Dad loaded me up, and we left for the recital two hours early. As we were walking out Taylor pulled in.

Are you leaving already? Taylor asked.

Yes, I wanted to get there early and help with the girls. Said, mom

Let me tell V and I'll follow you. Lexi and would love to help. Said Taylor.

Two minutes later we were all on our way to the auditorium at the community college.