One Boy's Journey Chapter 36

Written by Brianna Demonet

Becky turned into a driveway with a large security gate. She punched in a code and scanned a card and the gate opened.

The house was pink and white stone. It was a huge house, or of a mansion rather than a house. My first thought was it was bigger than the Newhouse's home. My next thought was I picked the right career path and people to surround myself with.

Carol helped me with my bags.

When we opened the door to walk in from the garage I immediately smelled dinner. Ian and Bree were in the kitchen preparing dinner the table was already set.

Ian was wearing jeans and a tight T-shirt. Bree looked like a 1950s Pin-up girl. She was wearing a pretty white house dress with a flower print pattern and white 5" heels. James was napping next to the kitchen in a pack-and-play.

Cat and Violet were watching TV in the den.

Ree!!!! Exclaimed Bree. Welcome to our home. Bree came over and gave me a big hug. Cat and Violet heard the commotion and rushed in.

Ree!!! Exclaimed the girls. Cat and Violet rushed me as I knelt down. I let them tackle me.

Hey girls! I said.

We heard you were coming! Said Caitlin with a big smile!

Just for a couple nights then I have to go home for school.

Will you swim with us?

Absolutely! When I am not working, I said.

Where's my greeting? said Becky

Cat and Violet exclaimed mommy! They rushed to Becky, and she hugged them tightly.

Let me show you to your room, said Bree.

We walked upstairs.

How are you doing? Asked Bree.

Great actually. My Mom and Dad got married at City Hall on Tuesday and Dan officially adopted me less than an hour later. We settled our lawsuit. It's been pretty good.

Things are finally going your way sister! You deserve it.

How are you? I asked.

Three kids keep Ian and me hustling. Caitlin starts kindergarten next year. She's reading at the 4th-grade level already. Violet is reading now, and James is cruising around, trying to walk everywhere. Life is good.

Are you still working at the firm at all? I asked.

Very little. I fill in for Terri or Sharon. Sometimes I go in to help Terri with the network. I'm pretty much a full-time mom nowadays. I love it. Said Bree

That sounds wonderful I said.

Is there anything new with you and your boyfriend, John?

He and I had the Tea ceremony when I got back from the vineyard. That same night we ran into Blake, the guy that threatened us at the diner. I thought it was going to be a bad night. As it turned out, he apologized for his behavior and introduced us to his girlfriend, Peggy. She's extremely nice.

On New Year's Eve, we went to a big teen party at the local roller rink. Blake was there with Peggy. All of our friends were there. We had a great time. I even danced with Blake once.

Sounds like things are looking up for you. That's great Ree Ree.

This is my old room. The bathroom is right there. You hang your clothes in the closet. If you need anything just ask Ian or myself. Dinner is in about 20 minutes. Said Bree

Thanks, Bree; I hugged her.

Should I change before dinner? I asked

If you want to, dinner is casual most of the time. Said Bree.

I'll let you get settled. Said Bree.

Thank you I said.

I started unpacking and organizing my things. I put on my skinny jeans and a Meadows Mustangs football sweatshirt I have. I wore my black mules. I noticed Bree was in mules.

I checked out the bathroom. Bree had a very nice bathroom. It was similar to mine. Her shower was a little bigger. I saw an enema kit and a medical stand. I knew I needed one after almost a week without one.

I went downstairs for dinner. Ian made baked Cod with wild rice and Caesar salad. Ian is a great chef! We chatted about everything catching up with one another. Another family dinner. I smiled through it.

Ian and Bree gave me a brief tour of the outside of the house and they took me into the detached garage. Ian and Bree showed me their cars. Bree's Camaro was beautiful. Ian showed me Chevelle it was equally as nice. I had to make it a point to go for a ride in each before I left.

It was almost 9 pm when I hit the wall, so to speak. I was very tired and decided to turn in for the night. Becky told me we leave at 7:30 am. I did my routine and was in bed by 10 pm.

I woke up at 5:30 am and went for a swim. I did 20 laps, went upstairs, and started getting ready. I wore my skirt suit I wore in court for work. I did my makeup daytime conservatively with a little extra eyeliner and my false eyelashes. I wanted to look older.

I got to the kitchen and Ian was already making breakfast. I just started sipping my coffee when Becky and Carol came downstairs. Ian handed me two cups and asked me to pour their coffee.

I made a mental note of how they liked their coffee. The three of us sat at the counter and had breakfast. Ian made blueberry crepes and ham slices. I had a little of everything and yogurt.

Ian handed me an extra yogurt and a salad to take with me. Just in case you miss lunch said Ian. We left at 7:20 am.

Becky explained that Carol was going to be on conference calls all day and she had a hearing at 1 pm. She said depending on how busy Cathy was I could go with her. I was excited to see her in action.

We arrived at the firm. Sharon and Terri were already there working. They were dressed immaculately. I noticed Sharon had eyeliner similar to Bree's and so did Terri. Sharon had long elegant fingernails. Terri's were pretty too, but much shorter.

I said good morning and went straight to my desk. Cathy was already in her office. I didn't see a cup of tea. So I went to the kitchen and made her a cup. I came back, knocked softly on her door, and showed her the cup. She waved me in, mouthed thank you, and went back to her phone call.

I booted up the computer, unlocked my desk, and started working on yesterday's work. I just finished with it when Cathy buzzed for me. I walked into her office. Yes, Ms. Elgin? I asked.

Here are my notes to type up, print out, and file these emails. Here are the billing times that need to be logged in. I'm having lunch with a client at 12:30 pm today. So you will be able to go to court with Becky. Becky usually has lunch near the courthouse beforehand, so be ready and outside her office before noon.

Yes ma'am! Anything else? I asked.

No, thank you. By the way, you look very nice this morning.

Thank you, Ms Elgin!

Ree if it's just you and me in the office you can call me Cathy.

Yes, Cathy, and thank you.

You're welcome, sweetheart.

I worked straight through the rest of the morning. I locked my computer at 11:40 am. Cathy had already left for her meeting. I went to the bathroom and freshened up. I was waiting for Becky outside quietly.

Becky came out and smiled. Are you ready?

Yes ma'am!

Let's go! Becky smiled.

Becky took me to lunch at this little Italian restaurant around the corner from the courthouse. It was packed!

The hostess says to us, Ms Stapleton, your table is ready, right this way, please. We sat down while others were still waiting.

Wow! That's some service I said.

They know me here. Becky said in passing.

No offense, Ms Stapleton, but there is a bit more than that, am I right?

Yes, there is. Said Becky.

Well, I can't get into details; let's just say the owner needed help. I was able to help him. He didn't have much money for an Attorney. He asked for my help.

So I took my fees in free meals and a reservation whenever I wanted one.

I'd love to hear more! I said.

Get your degree, pass the bar, and do your tour in the DA office, and when I hire you, I'll tell you.

I'm going to hold you to this! I said.

I have a feeling you will, Becky smiled.

Ree, I take a lot of big clients. They help me afford to help the little clients.

Just because they can't pay my fee doesn't mean they don't deserve solid representation. Everyone deserves to be heard. Especially the little clients.

Rebecca! How are you? Asked a tall handsome older gentleman. He was very clean-shaved, with short hair. He looked familiar but I couldn't put my finger on what seemed so familiar.

Chief Mills, nice to you.

Who's this young lady? A new intern?

Chief Mills, this is my soon-to-be new protege, Rianna Stevens.

My son has mentioned you! You're the young lady who spent Christmas with him and Terri.

I stood up. Yes, sir, I am. Pleased to meet you, I curtsey and shook his huge hand.

Polite, Professional, and excellent manners. You know my Daughter-in-law talks about you quite a bit. Now I can see why.

Would you like to sit asked Becky?

No, thank you. I'm due in court this afternoon.

Well, I hope to see you soon, Chief.

You too, Becky. Rianna; It was a pleasure meeting you.

You too Chief. I said.

He spun around and left.

I noticed you didn't use his first name. I said.

I never do, not in public. Public servants with rank earn respect every day serving the public.

They enjoy the respect when people use their rank. It solidifies the respect I have for them. Besides, the Mills family has a long history of service in this city and the state. Plus he and his department went to the mat for my firm when I needed them the most.

You mean when Steve helped you? I asked if that was part of it. There's much more to it, all legal.

What will you ladies have today? Asked the cute Italian waiter.

2 seafood Alfredo specials please said Becky.

And to drink? Iced tea, please.

Right away Ms Stapleton!

Thank you, Gio! Becky smiled at him.

We ate and the bill never came. Becky left 40 dollars for a tip.

We got to court; I sat behind Becky. She was at the defendant's table.

All rise!

The clerk announced the case, we sat after the judge. It was assaulting an officer case. The defendant was a young college-age Latino boy. He was a clean-cut-looking young man. He couldn't have weighed over 160 lbs.

The prosecutor was ready to throw him in jail! His opening statement was long and very detailed. He took over 20 minutes.

Becky got up and made her opening statement stating the defendant had no prior criminal record and was a dedicated student on a scholarship. It took the prosecutor 45 minutes to present his evidence, and almost all were circumstantial.

Becky asked to review the body camera footage from the officer, the prosecutor said it was with forensics. Becky presented her atm video to contest the eyewitness testimony

The officer started talking softly to the prosecutor.

Your honor, apparently, there was a problem with the body camera footage that day.

Ms Stapleton present your evidence. The whole court watched as the video clearly showed the officer tripping on the sidewalk. The young man only offered a hand to help him up when the officer overreacted to the gesture.

The judge looked at the prosecutor; in light of this evidence, are you prepared to continue?

No your honor!

Ms Stapleton would your client like to file formal charges?

A moment your honor. Becky whispered to the young man.

Your honor my client would request a letter of apology from the officer for the incident so he can maintain his scholarship and get back to school.

Does the state have any objections?

No your honor.

The court, Hear-by, orders the prosecutor's office and the officer to draft letters of apology by the end of business today!

All charges are dropped and the case is closed.

With prejudice your honor? Asked Becky.

With prejudice! Said the judge.

Thank you, Ms Stapleton, the young man hugged Becky. You stay out of trouble, Caesar. Tell your parents I said hello.

I will Ms Stapleton. Thank you again.

If you have problems with school, call me.

Yes ma'am.

Caesar walked out of court and got on a bus.

You were really something! How did you know about the ATM video? I believed Caesar to start with. He's never been in a fight. Plus, I have a couple of great investigators. I got a subpoena for the video. I knew I could get it in evidence if the prosecutor offered eyewitness testimony.

Where are his parents? I asked.

His father is a landscaper and his mother works at the post office. Caesar is the first child in their family to go to college. His father's company has done my landscaping for years. Things are tight for them. A day off isn't an option for them.

When Caesar's father asked for my help, I just said yes. I've known Caesar since he was young, he's a good boy.

You did this one pro bono, didn't you?

Of course, they are good people. Ian taught Caesar how to swim in my pool.

Are you going to sue the police officer? I asked.

No! I'll let the prosecutor's office handle that one. My job was to represent Caesar and his interests. All Caesar wanted was his name cleared and his scholarship reinstated. He doesn't want to make trouble.

He's a smart young person, like you! All he wants is a chance to make a better life for himself. You know what that's like, right?

Yes, I do. But until Cathy came into my life, I never thought it would be possible!

Well, Ree Ree, my dear, it's very possible now. You work hard and get the grades, I'll see to it you get the opportunity. I need Attorneys with your moral fiber! People that know both sides of the coin.

Come on let's head back! Said Becky.

We drove a different way from the way we came into downtown. Becky pulled into a parking garage and parked. Come on we need to pick something up.

We rode up the garage elevator. We got off the elevator and there was a big sign

"Stanford University satellite campus"

What are we doing here? I asked

Giving you a small taste of your future! If you still want to be an Attorney, that is.

Absolutely! I said.

We walked to the reception desk.

Hello, how can I help you?

Yes, I was wondering if an admittance counselor was free for a couple of minutes.

Do you have an appointment?

No ma'am said Becky

May I ask who's asking?

Rebecca Stapleton Esquire. Said Becky.

One moment, please.

We waited while the receptionist was on the phone.

It will be a few minutes if you would like to take a seat. Said the receptionist.

Thank you said Rebecca.

An older woman walked out.

Ms Stapleton?

Yes?

I'm Mrs Helm senior admittance counselor, please this way.

Have a seat, please; how can I help you? Asked Mrs Helm.

This is my niece Rianna. She is in town for a few days, and her goal is to go to Stanford when she graduates high school. So I thought it would be nice for her to know exactly what it takes to get accepted.

How old are you Rianna? Asked Mrs. Helm

14, ma'am.

What grade are you in currently?

10th-grade ma'am

What is your current GPA?

4.0 ma'am.

Do you have any extracurricular activities you participate in?

In school this year, I was on the swim team and debate club, and I was a cheerleader and captain of my squad.

Excellent! Any other activities?

I study ballet and martial arts and do gymnastics when I have time.

Do you speak a second language?

I'm fluent in Spanish, and I am currently studying Korean.

Mrs Helm started speaking Spanish. I responded immediately.

Impressive, young lady!

Thank you, ma'am, I smiled at her.

What do you want to study?

Law! I have my heart set on being an Attorney like my Aunt Becky.

Why do you want to be an Attorney?

To make a difference. To stick up for those who can't.

Very noble answer, money isn't a motivation for you? I see many students that give the same answers and money becomes their motive.

No offense, Mrs. Helm, I'm not you're a typical student.

How so?

I looked at Becky.

Tell her Rianna!

Less than a year ago I was almost killed in a beating at my high school. I was mutilated and left for dead. With the help of several people, I survived, and with the help of a very intelligent attorney, I was able to not only survive but was given a new chance to start over.

Your Aunt Becky? Asked Mrs Helm.

No Ma'am Cathy Elgin! If it wasn't for her, my mother and I would be in financial ruin, and I wouldn't have been able to get the surgery and the therapy we needed to not only survive but thrive now.

Judge Franks from the 81st District Court in Ohio told me to drop his name when applying.

You know Judge Franks?

Yes, ma'am, he was my judge for my case!

He also approved and endorsed my adoption.

Well, you certainly sound like you have some strong positive role models.

Yes ma'am!

Okay young lady, here's what I can do to help you. Keep in mind I can't guarantee you anything at this time and competition for admittance is rigours.

Mrs Helm gave me a list of everything requirement and the unwritten requirements as well. It was a long list. I had almost half of it accomplished already.

She told me she wanted me to send videos of my dancing, cheerleading, and any other activities school-related or not. The more the better.

She listed Latin as a good class to already have before college.

Mrs Helm handed me her card and told me to call her when I applied.

We thanked her for her time and headed back to the firm.

I arrived at my desk, and there was a huge pile of paperwork.

I started in right away. It was after 2:30 pm I wanted to make a dent in this before I left. Cathy was still out so I asked Terri if I could set Cathy's calls to voicemail so I could get to work. Terri said She would do it but to call when Cathy returned.

I started on her notes first. I could type about 40-50 words a minute. After the notes, I did the billing spreadsheet. It was just after 5 pm when I started scanning. I had to do each account individually to maintain properly accountable expenses.

I was almost finished when Cathy came back.

Hey Ree how was court?

Just fine Ms Elgin. I'm just finishing up the paperwork you left me.

Have you finished all of it? Cathy sounded surprised.

Yes, ma'am, I only have two scans to do for one client left, and it's done!

That was almost four hours of work! How did you do it so fast?

I called Terri and had your calls go straight to voicemail. I figured with you out so late, you wouldn't be returning to class until Monday. Terri said it would be fine.

Nice thinking Ree! Great work, I'm impressed!

So am I said Carol walking towards us. Cathy, you and Becky are right! This one is a keeper!

I smiled at them. It was nice to know they appreciated my hard work. Truth is I'd do anything for Cathy.

Rianna, the reason I'm here is to invite you to the Chophouse for dinner, you and Cathy. We had a couple of big victories this week, and they deserve a great meal to cap it off with.

I will have to wait for Caleb he's still out. Said Cathy. Freshen up and meet us at our office in 20 minutes! Said Carol

Yes ma'am I said.

As Carol walked down the hall my phone rang. Cathy Elgin's office, my name is Rianna how can I help you?

Hi Caleb, I will put you through! Cathy, it's Caleb.

Thank you!

A minute later Cathy came out, are you finished?

Yes ma'am!

Good, let's freshen up! Said Cathy.

We met Carol and Becky outside Becky's office.

Is Caleb coming? I asked.

He'll meet us at the restaurant. Said Cathy.

We got in Becky's car and went to the restaurant.

So how was Court asked, Cathy?

It was great! I watched how Becky exposed a lying cop!

It's a rare thing, but it happens. Said Carol.

I met Steve's father today too!

What a coincidence! Said Cathy!

Becky smiled and didn't say a word.

What am I missing? I asked.

Carol says, Chief Mills is the chief of internal affairs for the state of California. His office is in Sacramento. Becky exposed his lie and he's in town. Sounds like there's more to that story!

It sure does, said Cathy!

And it's none of our business! Said Becky. Besides we can't represent the officer now, it's a conflict of interest!

Really? I asked.

We represented a defendant against the police officer. If he's brought up on departmental or criminal charges he will need someone else to represent him.

Our clients come first! It's called ethics and it's also the law! Said Carol. If a lawyer violates ethics they risk losing their license to practice law. The State Bar Association can suspend or revoke their license.

Plus it's a great way to stay away from a dirty cop. Said Cathy.

Alleged dirty cop! Said Becky

They giggled.

We walked into the Chop House. It was a busy place. The restaurant wasn't full yet and we were seated immediately.

The waiter took our drink order. The Ladies order Cosmopolitans. Cathy and I had Iced tea. When the waiter brought out the drinks, I saw that their drinks were pink in color. I thought it was cool.

We talked about work in general terms. Carol Becky was impressed with my general office skills.

Where did you learn how to utilize Microsoft Office and Adobe so well? Carol asked.

My Aunt Vanessa is a Psychiatrist. I work for her on the weekends and during the week part-time this past summer. The systems aren't much different, I said.

We are going to have you come back again. You did some nice work. Becky said.

For once we can read Cathy's notes! Carol said.

We all laughed.

I can't wait for another opportunity, thank you for this! I said.

Caleb came and joined us.

Becky told everyone about my trip to the administration office. Cathy was very proud of me. It made me feel really good. Caleb winked at me.

The more I sat and listened to everyone around me. I felt like becoming Rianna was a blessing. I have so much to look forward to now and a support system to help me make it happen.

A year ago I was looked down on by everyone around me. I was alone with no hope, no future, no friends. Now I have these wonderful people around me, a new father, friends, and my mother has a wonderful man in her life. I never want this to end.

We ate and celebrated the wins of the week. Cathy and Caleb were planning for the baby. Everyone wanted to know if it was a boy or a girl. Cathy and Caleb were tight-lipped about it.

I asked where Steve was.

Terri said he was working late in the lab. 5 homicides in 3 days. One was a double homicide and there was a rush on the evidence due to a missing child that was involved.

As a detective lieutenant, he had to oversee the evidence and help process the evidence and its chain of custody.

The party broke up and I hugged Cathy and Caleb. They said they would be coming out to the house around 11 am.

Becky drove Carol and me back home.

Carol sat in the back with me.

Carol asked So Rianna, tell me your story?

What do you mean? I asked

For starters, how is it a 14-year-old girl who is a Sophomore in high school and so deeply set on becoming a lawyer?

I skipped two grades in elementary school and another one in junior high school. I didn't have a lot of friends so I spent a lot of time studying in my Mom's office at the salon while she worked after school.

My Mom encouraged my studying. She said if I wanted a better life I should work hard in school and hopefully get an academic scholarship. I did study and kept my grades up. But I never had a real friend or went to any events at school.

Never one dance or date, nothing? Carol asked

In my old hometown, if you're living in a trailer park, you are considered to be trash and treated like such. Teachers don't care about you, students target you as a mark to be taken advantage of.

That's horrible! I'm glad you are out of that place.
Said Carol

Me too! It's all thanks to Cathy and your law firm. I said.

Carol smiled.

Well everyone involved with your case seems to be paying the price for it. Said Carol

They are, but I doubt it will change much. Most of the bullying will go underground now. I said.

I kinda got quiet after my answer.

Carol put her hand on my knee. I didn't mean to upset you Rianna.

It's okay, Ms Elgin, and please call me Ree.

I'm sorry Ree!

Please don't be! Your firm and Cathy not only helped me, but you also helped my mother and gave us a second chance at life. Thanks to Cathy and your firm, I have a bright future; Mom has a new home and husband. I have a Dad now.

A year ago my Mom and I had almost nothing. Now we have a bright future ahead of us. I dare say with everything my mom and I have been through we are happier now than we were a year ago. I said

That's quite a positive attitude you have, all things considered, said Carol.

I wasn't very happy before this incident. I always dreamed of college and a career but there was never any hope for it. Not where I used to live.

I start college at UNLV this summer, and I'm going to try and take courses through my junior and senior years of high school.

That's great news! Said Carol.

How are you doing mentally speaking, if you don't mind me asking? Asked Carol.

I'm alright my night terrors aren't as frequent as they once were. I go to therapy once a week. I write a lot in my diaries. I lean on my friends and my martial arts teacher Mrs Park.

I live with my Aunt Vanessa and she's been great. We talk about everything. She has been my guardian angel for almost a year now. I don't know what I would do without her.

You seemed to turn your life around, said Carol.

Thanks, I said.

I didn't have a choice after my incident. But I figured if I was going to be dealt this hand in life I better figure out what to do with it.

As bad as my incident and the trauma I suffer from, it's kinda a blessing.

How so? Asked Carol.

As a boy, I never had a goal or a real idea of what my education or career goals would look like after high school. I always felt like the trailer trash people called me. I figured I'd wind up working in a factory or something meaninial.

Thanks to everyone around me, I realized I'm meant for much more, and my new dreams are all attainable. I'm very thankful for all of you.

Well, next time you come out, we'll have to arrange a longer stay. You're a natural with the office fundamentals. Said Carol.

Thank you, Carol. I'm looking forward to it, I said.

Just keep up with your studies like we talked about and we'll do all we can to help. Said Becky, smiling in the rearview mirror.

We got back to the house and Bree and Ian were having dinner. Veal parmesan, the house smelled like an Italian restaurant. I went straight upstairs and changed into my Mustang sweater and black leggings.

Becky was playing with her girls when I came downstairs. Bree was feeding James a bottle. Ian was in the kitchen.

Smells great! I said to Ian.

I was impressed with the notes from the court. Your office work is top-notch. Especially for a 14-year-old girl.

Thanks, Becky.

You know, if you don't get into Stanford, I have friends at Notre Dame. Becky and I could pull some strings. Carol offered.

Thank you, Carol.

You know Ree, Becky, Bree and I didn't grow up with much either. Our Parents owned a Christmas tree farm. Becky's parents were teachers. Bree hated college, and instead of wasting my parent's money, Bree joined the Air Force. Becky and I went to college on academic scholarships. Said Carol.

I liked Carol; she's intelligent, focused, and professional and still is very personable. She reminds me of my Mom.

We sat and they had dinner like a real family. I loved the warm feeling I got with family and friends gathering at the dinner table. Violet and Caitlin had spaghetti instead of Chicken Parmesan.

I helped Bree clean up after dinner. Becky was breastfeeding James and Carol and Ian were playing with the girls.

It was a lively and happy home. Kids laughing and running around. Much different than anything I ever experienced as a child. My Mom did her best for me. But this was different, better. Sometimes, I wonder if things would have been better if my real father had stuck around. But it's all in the past.

I got to my room I saw multiple missed texts and calls. Mostly from John, a few from Mom, and one from Aunt V.

I started with Aunt V first and texted her back, and then I called Mom and updated her. She told me she confirmed the flight for my recital.

I called John last. I wanted to spend time on the phone with him.

We talked for over half an hour. He was busy training with Master Moon all week. The competition was two months away. John said he was in the best shape of his life. Master Moon's training was rigorous. He had John running up and down the mountain trails north of Vegas.

He told me he missed me. I told about my experience in San Francisco. I didn't mention names or subjects. Just the different court experience. I told him I missed him terribly. We said our I love you and good night.

I went downstairs and said goodnight, did my routines and went to bed.

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