One Boy's Journey Chapter 34

I tied my hair in a high ponytail and tucked it under the cap.

Very nice Ree! I would have a hard time recognizing you!

Thanks, Dad! I thought it would be best to keep a low profile, for now.

We walked in the trailer and it looked brand new! The pictures I was sent didn't show half the work they did to it. No wonder Mrs Chandler wanted to buy it back. It even smelled new inside. My room was painted light gray with a medium gray carpet. Mom's room was painted in a taupe with dark burgundy carpet

The bathrooms were both painted in a blueish gray with dark gray marbled ceramic tile floors. The kitchen was painted off-white with new cabinets, a fridge, a sink, a microwave, and a dishwasher. Mom even bought a new washer and dryer.

Dan explained that he had friends in construction and a big chain store like Home Depot. They owed him a few favors, so he cashed in on them.

I knew your mother was going to sell this place and move out west. I didn't want her to leave without expressing how I felt about her. So I did everything I could to help her. You and your mother deserve a break!

By helping her and dating her I got a lucky break too! I now have you both in my life.

Thank Dad! I really mean it Thank you for everything!

It's my pleasure,e Ree!

Dad called mom and we met her at Red Lobster for lunch.

Mom had to work until 3 pm for a wedding party.

Cathy called and we went to the Airport and met her.

Dad and I helped her with her bags. Cathy rented a car and went to the hotel to check-in. Cathy arranged for us to have dinner together to catch up and discuss the week of business.

Dad and I went home.

We were going to a local steakhouse. I wore a black sweater dress with a pink waist belt. I wore black leggings and my favorite black boots. I wore my hair around my face and added my false eyelashes, extra eyeliner,, and subtle eyeshadow. I did my lips in a matte pink lipstick.

I did everything I could to not be recognized. The steakhouse was near the airport, and most of the customers were travelers from out of town.

My biggest fear was running into Gina and Candy. I wasn't physically afraid of those girls. I knew I could defend myself. It was them running their mouths that I was in town.

Mr and Mrs Newhouse didn't expect me to show up at the mediation. Between my deposition at the DA's office and all the medical evidence documents, there was no need for me to testify.

Cathy told me I didn't need to either, but because I had to make a statement at the sentencing hearing for Bond and Jeffries, I might just as well.

Cathy got us a private dining room, and we went over the mediation for Monday. Cathy was ready, she had a PowerPoint set up and a mountain of evidence. Cathy even had the financial records from the office with security tapes showing Isabella Newhouse paying the majority of my hospital bills.

Cathy even had the credit card receipt from our coffee shop visit with her. The biggest surprise was Cathy had a video of the four boys chatting together and pointing my way just two minutes before I was attacked.

When I saw the security video I was stunned. The four of them planned it! I was filled with rage. I looked at Dad and asked why. Because they're bad boys. They thought it would be fun to ruin your summer.

That's their whole reason to beat me to ruin my summer? I go out of my way to avoid them, and their idea of fun is to ruin the summer of someone who is almost invisible to everyone.

Why? What for? I was feeling my anger and rage building. I was starting to shake. I was looking for an outlet for my anger. I wanted to scream! I started tearing up again. I couldn't bottle it up. It was just too much to process!

Rianna I understand your anger, said Mom. I am too. None of this makes any sense at all!

Dad put his hand on my shoulder and I brushed it off.

Please both of you, just stop! Please!

Cathy saw my frustration! Rianna, what do you need?

When Cathy called me "Rianna" I knew she was focused on me at that very moment.

I need to swim! I have to get my head clear! I need to swim and think this through!

Rianna did you bring your swimsuit? Yes, but it's at the house.

Dad looked at Mom and Cathy, I'll meet you at the hotel.

Good idea Dan said Cathy.

I packed my swimsuit just in case I could swim at Cathy's hotel. I never thought I would need it for this reason.

I changed into my swimsuit and started doing laps. I must have swam for almost an hour before I started getting tired. My anger fueled my swimming. I was starting to calm down when the hotel manager said he had to close the pool for the night.

I changed into my clothes in Cathy's room. I hugged her and said good night. She said she would stop by the house in the morning after breakfast.

I was sleeping in the backseat of the truck all the way home. I slept pretty well all things considered. The next morning my hair was a disaster! I tried conditioner and washing and conditioner again but nothing helped.

Mom to the rescue as always. She used mayonnaise on my hair and combed it out. We waited for Cathy.

Mom and Dad took us to the salon. Mom went to town on my hair. She colored it a dark auburn red. And gave me spiral ringlets.

She gave Cathy a permanent one also. She used 3/8" rollers on Cathy's hair and gave her bangs. Mom gave Cathy dark auburn highlights. Dad got bored but didn't complain a bit. He took a nap on the new couch in the waiting room.

The whole time we were there we went over everything with the lawsuit.

Cathy was more determined than ever to make them pay.

Oh, Rianna, I almost forgot. Bree made me promise to give you this.

It was a brand-new Samsung Galaxy S-24 Smartphone.

It's all paid for for the next 12 months. It's a secure phone. It will only receive calls from your phone's personal phone book. Any burner phones that try to call you get dropped instantly. All calls are scrambled so no one can capture your calls.

I looked at it and started going through it as she was talking. It's set up similarly to a government-issued phone. It's a step down from a federal agency phone.

It's legal! But barely. said Cathy, it's similar to my phone, said Cathy

How? This is an expensive setup I asked.

Bree has a friend! She explained the problem and he set this up for you special! It has a Silver City New Mexico area code. Just make sure you don't dial anyone you don't know.

The biggest disadvantage is no social media and games can be installed on the phone and you will have to program your contacts manually. Said Cathy.

I can do that easily! I said.

Sure the phone was somewhat limited, but I thought it was super cool! I wasn't using social media or playing games with it anyway. For a few minutes, I was really excited about the phone. I thought to myself, "A spy phone".

We were just getting ready to leave when I saw something under Dad's coat.

Dad, are you carrying a gun?

Yes, Ree, I am. It's my Glock 40. I told you, consider me your personal bodyguard.

I was stunned, but I didn't object. It was nice to know he was being serious about what he said. I just hope he doesn't have to use it. My safety level just went up a couple notches.

Dad took us to a local cop bar for lunch. It wasn't fancy but the burgers were great. We were very safe here. Dan introduced us to a few of his friends. Everyone there was very nice. We said hello to Detective Smith.

How are you Rianna? Asked Detective Smith.

I'm doing okay detective. Thank you for asking. I said.

You look great, Rianna; it was nice seeing everyone again. Said Detective Smith.

Cathy and I rode together. We followed Mom and Dad home.

How are you doing, Ree? Being here I mean.

I'd be lying if I said I was okay with it! My anxiety is at an all-time high. Having Dad with me helps a lot. Having you here helps even more.

Thanks for letting me swim last night. It was very helpful. I said.

You're welcome, little sister! You better carry it with you. You may need it on Monday and Wednesday night.

Did you bring the clothes I asked you to bring? Asked Cathy.

Yes, I did.

Tomorrow I want you to wear the Pink DKNY sheath dress with the bolero jacket and the pink heels. Your makeup should be light and conservative.

I will do all the talking; just stay quiet and only respond when I tell you to. Keep everything you say short and direct. Remember this isn't your fault. We can prove premeditation leading to your attack now.

Just stay quiet, and If asked about therapy or recovery, just tell the simple truth: you still have PTSD episodes and weekly therapy visits. Don't elaborate on anything. Just remember, the less you say, the better.

I'll follow your lead, Cathy! I said with confidence.

Good. Now I have some work to do so I'll see you at my hotel at 9:30 am and we'll all go to Mr Fisk's office together.

Get a good night's sleep, Ree Ree! You're going to need it!

Cathy dropped me off and we settled in for the night. I was still uncomfortable being in this god-forsaken town. Truth is, I'd fly home tomorrow if I thought I could get away with it. But I have to face the music again.

I slept almost 10 full hours. I was up at 7 am. I went through my routines and started getting ready. I dressed exactly as Cathy instructed. Mom helped me with my makeup. I didn't need her help but I could tell she wanted to, so I let her.

Being with Mom again was great; I really miss her. Having girl time with her is really great. I miss Aunt V, too. But being with Mom, just her and I, was great.

Dad drove us to Mr. Fisk's office. It was a good size office with lots of wood and brass. I didn't run into anybody I know so far, which is good.

The four of us checked in at 10:40 am. Cathy and Mom had a couple of good-sized bags they were carrying. Dan was watching everyone and everything with a focused look. It was almost scary. Thank gosh he's on our side.

At 11 am on the dot, a receptionist led us to the conference room. Mr Fisk was standing as we walked in. Mr and Mrs Newhouse stood up as we walked in.

Brenda (mom)

Mr and Mrs Newhouse stood up as we entered the conference room. Isabella greeted me like an old friend, which gave me the creeps. Mr Newhouse started looking at me trying to intimidate me.

Dan saw the look he gave me, stepped in front of me, and extended his hand for a handshake.

Dan Milford! He said in a deep but friendly voice. Mr Newhouse shook his hand with a firm squeeze. I think Dan overpowered his squeeze by the look on his face.

Mr and Mrs Newhouse were studying my daughter up and down. Rianna had a stone face look glaring at Mr Newhouse. It was probably because his boys looked just like him.

I kept it civil with Isabella. After all, she was the most reasonable one of the bunch.

The Mediation

Let's all have a seat said the judge. The judge, meditating, took the head off the table.

We sat down, and the judge stated we are here to mediate damages due to the assault on Ryan, now Rianna Stevens. Mr Fisk, do you have an offer in mind for settlement? Yes, your honor! We are prepared to pay out 4 million dollars right now, today, for the alleged damages.

Mrs Elgin, do you have a counteroffer in mind?

25 million dollars payable today!

Thank you, counselors; it seems we have a wide gap to cover. Said the judge.

I think 4 million is a fair offer all things considered. Said Mr Fisk trying to intimidate Cathy.

Would that be because that's the maximum amount payable from the bonding insurance policy you have on your sons? Asked Cathy.

That's correct counselor! But 4 million is a lot of money. Said Mr Fisk

Tell me, Mr Fisk, what is your balls and sexual identity worth to you or you, Mr Newhouse? My client spent 6 days in a coma. She had to be restated twice. And another 2 1/2 weeks in the hospital recovering from the injuries sustained in the attack and had to have a sex change just to develop into adulthood.

Mr Fisk, do you have a counter offer, asked the judge.

We are prepared to offer five million no more. Said Mr Fisk

20 million dollars said Cathy.

That's a lot of money for two boys who were goaded into this unfortunate incident. Said Mr Fisk.

Your honor, I can prove premeditation on the part of the defendants, may I? Asked Cathy.

Objection! Said Mr Fisk.

This is not court Mr Fisk. You can have a copy if this goes to court. Continue Mrs Elgin. Said the judge.

Cathy plays the security video from the school. I watched the video and then saw the faces of Mr Fisk and the Newhouse's. The judge watched it, too. Cathy played it from 10 minutes before my attack until the police and paramedics wheeled me out of the bathroom.

I saw my face and had a panic attack right in the conference room.

I came back to consciousness about ten minutes later. Mr Fisk called 911 and the paramedics were examining me.

The judge looked at me with concern. Are you ready for us to proceed, or would you like to finish another time?

Let's proceed, your honor, please; I would like to finish this if it's possible! I looked straight at Mr Newhouse! He turned away from me.

May I have a minute with my clients before we proceed said Mr Fisk.

You have five minutes Mr Fisk. Said the judge.

They walked outside, and I could see it was a heated discussion. Mr Fisk was looking directly at Mr Newhouse trying to reason with him. Mr Newhouse was clearly upset. I saw Mrs Newhouse take his hand and look in his eyes.

Until Cathy played the video, I honestly believe they had no idea how guilty their sons were.

Mr Newhouse nodded and relented. They walked back into the conference room.

Are we ready to proceed? Asked the judge. Yes, your honor said Mr Fisk.

Proceed, Mr. Fisk!

In light of the new evidence, my clients are prepared to offer Eight million dollars.

18 million said Cathy.

10 million, said Mr Fisk.

16 million or we can go to court and make it a public record! Said Cathy

Mr Fisk hesitated for a moment and looked at the Newhouse's. I saw Isabella grab her husband's arm. She looked into his eyes and nodded her head. Mr Newhouse nodded his head in defeat. Mr Newhouse nodded yes to Mr Fisk

Done 16 million dollars and no additional criminal charges and the settlement is sealed.

Agreed! Said Cathy. We will not seek additional charges where your sons are concerned.

You will have a check by close of business today said Mr. Fisk. Stop by at 4 pm. We'll have things ready for you, Mrs Elgin. Mr Fisk extended a hand for a handshake. Cathy shook it.

It's not like they couldn't afford it. The Newhouse's downplayed their true wealth. I knew from Google Mr Newhouse was the CEO of at least 8 different companies at the same time. And as chairman of another 2. The total worth for them was over 350 million.

16 million was just a chump change to them!

See you at 4 pm Mr Fisk, said Cathy.

Mrs Newhouse approached my Mom.

Brenda, I had no idea they set up your child. I can't express how sorry we are about all of this. Rianna, I cannot apologize enough for what you have gone through and suffered with. We wish you and your mother all the best. Said Mrs Newhouse.

I am truly sorry Rianna. Said Mr Newhouse, if you need anything, don't hesitate to ask.

Thank you, Isabella, my Mom said with sincerity. My Mom looked at Mr Newhouse. He just bowed his head. He couldn't think of anything else to say.

Thank you for that Mrs and Mrs Newhouse, I said.

Rianna, I am curious, do you plan to go to college? Asked Mrs Newhouse.
.
Yes ma'am!

What do you plan on studying?

To be an attorney like Cathy.

An attorney! That's a good career choice Rianna. I know people at Stanford and Princeton. If you need a recommendation, just ask.

Thank you, Mrs Newhouse that's very thoughtful.

Good luck, Rianna. May God be with you! Said Mrs Newhouse.

I nodded and curtsy to Mrs Newhouse. She smiled.

We walked outside together. I wasn't smiling as much as I thought I would be. It was a win, but to me, it was bittersweet. I knew Mrs Newhouse's pain, she was genuinely sorry. I couldn't say the same for Mr Newhouse.

I need coffee! Cathy exclaimed. I know, just the place said, Dad. We drove the rental car for 10 minutes to the next town. We stopped at a Biggby Coffee shop.

It was just after 1 pm and we had the whole place to ourselves.

One down and one to go! Said Cathy.

That was impressive work in there Cathy. Said Dad

How did you know Fisk would fall for that evidence trap?

I didn't, but I figured I would let his ego create an opening.

Do you still plan on using the evidence? Asked Dad

I sure do! On Wednesday in fact. Once the judge sees premeditation those boys will be lucky if they get out of prison before they can collect social security! Said Cathy.

Why wasn't this evidence presented earlier? Asked mom

No one bothered to check it. The older two copped a plea deal and the Newhouse's wanted a deal too. Investigations cost money, and when the defendants are willing to plead guilty. That pretty much closes the case. Cathy explained.

My investigator at my law firm told me where to dig. The school had to turn it over to me under subpoena.

You should have been a cop Cathy! Said Dad smiling!

Too much work! Said Cathy smiling back.

Touche! Said Dad

We went back to Mr Fisk's office, signed the paperwork,, and collected the checks. 4 million was made out to Cathy's law firm and 12 million to my mother and me.

Dad took us to Wells Fargo bank and deposited it in our joint account and my trust account. Mom deposited twenty thousand dollars in my personal account.

Mom, I don't need that much money. You have school this summer coming up. The prom is coming up. You'll need a dress!

I heard Rihanna is coming to Vegas for a concert. I'm sure you'll want to go to that! Said Cathy

But who's going to take me? I asked.

I bet if I asked Caleb to go and he asked John and Julius to take you and your friends you could all go! Said Cathy.

With your mother's approval of course. Said Cathy.

I would prefer an adult take them said, my mom.

Maybe you could fly out for the weekend, Mom. If we can get tickets that is.

If your mom doesn't want to attend the show, I would be happy to escort you and your friends said Dad.

Brenda, Dan, don't forget to be at city hall at 10 am sharp! Said Cathy.

We'll be there! Said, Mom.

What's at 10 Am I asked? You'll see Ree said, Cathy.

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