One Boy's Journey Chapter 28

Written by Brianna Demonet

We stopped at Jersey Mike's and picked up lunch. Dad was craving a sub sandwich. I haven't hardly eaten any fast food since I moved out west. I got a small steak Portabella mushrooms sub. It was so good! Mom and Aunt V got salads.

Aunt V drove us up and down the strip. It was the holiday season and traffic was a bit slow. It was Mom and Dad's first time here in Vegas. Mom and I wanted to see a chorus line dance show.

Aunt V stopped at the Wynn Hotel and Casino. We used Valet parking. We walked in. Aunt V went right to the front desk. The three of us walked around the lobby and the entrance of the casino.

The lights, bells, and noise sounded like an arcade. Everyone is so busy stuffing money in slot machines, dealers calling for bets. The action was interesting.

I spent a few minutes there, watching the people and their behavior. When you have been through what I have been through and months of therapy, studying behavior is second nature.

Dad gently put his hands on my shoulders.

It looks like fun, doesn't it? He asked.

I guess so. I was watching the people more than the gambling.

Really! said Mom with a slight sound of disbelief.

Yes, look at all the different behaviors of everyone. I said.

Gambling can be fun, but it can be addicting too, said Dad.

I have no interest in losing my money, I said.

Smart girl! Said Dad!

She is very smart said Aunt V. I turned and smiled.

I got them! 9 pm show. Aunt V said.

We took Mom and Dad to the mall at Caesars Palace. They loved the singing statues at the fountain. We went into the Versace store. Mom bought a black evening gown. We stopped at Christian Dior for shoes and underwear garments for her.

Normally a man like Dad would be appalled at this kind of shopping. But Dan was genuinely in love with my Mom. You could see it on his face every time she came out of the dressing room. That look made me very happy.

We went into the Ulta store, and Mom, being Mom, went straight for the drug store brand makeup.

Uhh, No Mom! You need MAC makeup! I said.

Listen to your daughter Brenda. Said Aunt V.

Aunt V and I fist-bumped.

Karla at the MAC counter was very helpful. She took into account the dress and my mother's complexion and eye color. She set my Mom up with an evening look with a blue/green eye shadow. Karla used a two-tone foundation very similar to what I used.

Karla finished up my Mom with a really attractive shade of pink lipstick with matching blush and nail polish.

We walked by Dolce; Mom said you need a suit, Dan! Said Mom.

Brenda, I need a Fancy suit like I need a hole in the head!

Dan, you need at least one decent suit. Besides, I am buying it. No arguments, please!

Fine but only one. Said Dad

Mom and I picked out a couple of black suits. Dan is over 6 feet tall. For a man in his late 40's, he is still in fairly good shape. Dan picked out a single-breasted, 3-button button-tuxedo black suit, a light blue dress shirt, a white dress shirt, a white tuxedo shirt, and a cumber bun and bow tie.

Dan was astounded at the cost; Mom smiled and said You're worth every penny. She softly kissed his lips in the store, I watched as Dad melted a bit to my mother's charm. It was very sweet.

Aunt V called ahead and got us a table at Emeril Legaasi's restaurant. We had a 6:30 pm reservation.

It was just after 4 pm when we got home. Aunt V, Mom, and I had to get ready. I wore my Blue evening gown with my matching 5" heels. I wore nude stockings and my invisible bra.

I did a blue and silver smokey eye and a bright pink lipstick. I added false eyelashes. I looked like I was in my 20's. Dad shaved, showered, and looked like Sean Connery with a better head of hair.

Aunt V wore her dark purple evening gown. It had spaghetti straps and it was very low cut. My mom looked like a runaway model she touched up her hair and makeup. I can hardly ever remember my mom in a dress. Now, I have seen her in a dress three times in the same week.

I love my mother. I never thought about my Mom as pretty. But now that I am a girl I see her beauty. I can see Dan's physical attraction to her. I have also noticed his emotional attraction to my mother. And her's to him. It was the same thing as watching Hank and May or Aunt V and Taylor.

As I loaded up my purse I thought about my feelings towards John. Do I feel that way? I think I do, I just hope John feels that way too. I guess we will both see tomorrow.

We were the best-dressed people in the restaurant. Dad opened the doors for us. My Mom, Aunt V, and I are locked arm in arm. Dad held my mom's hand when he was seating us or holding a door.

Mom went to her purse to pay. Dad gently put his hand on my mom's. Darling, I got this. Dad paid for dinner and the rest of the evening. There was a minimum drink requirement at the show. Dad took care of everything. He reminded me of Caleb or John.

The Chorus line was amazing. The dancer's timing was spot on. It was a great show. I was thinking we should incorporate some of the moves in next year's dance routine. After all, this is Vegas. For a few minutes, I thought about a summer job dancing as a showgirl.

I remembered what Cathy said about every decision mapping out your life. I figured a job at a law firm would be more useful to my future career than being a showgirl. But it doesn't mean I can't admire or not respect them. Their dance routine is pure teamwork.

It was over an hour's show. Aunt V drove us home. I went straight upstairs and got ready for bed. I was under the covers when Mom walked in.

Can I have a minute? Mom asked.

Sure, Mom, I sat up while still in bed.

You seem pretty well-adjusted living here.

I like to think so. But I still miss you!

You know Ree, I have to admit it. You are far better adjusted than I hoped for. Mom started to cry a bit.

Mom, what's wrong?

I'm sorry I couldn't protect you! She started crying a bit heavier.

Mom! You can't always protect me. But you did save me!

I didn't save you, I helped you become another person.

That's not entirely true, Mom!

Mom, I have been over this a thousand times with my therapist, my friends, and Aunt V.

Your guilt is from us surviving! Nothing more. What you have been doing since the incident and everything up till today is for us both. Nothing has changed that.

Even us being apart you're still putting myself and everyone else first.

The only difference I see is you are now giving yourself a piece of what you give to everyone. Yes, you deserve it; you earned it. Dan is wonderful, I love him as a Dad.

I love the way you look at each other. I love how happy he makes you. I never saw him smile that much at school.

I miss my little man. I do too, once in a while, but less lately.

I got off to a rocky start at first. Now, I am semi-popular with friends and family.

Back in Ohio, I was white trash to everyone. Here I am, Rianna, a good student, cheerleader, dancer, and girlfriend to a great guy.

Ryan never had an ounce of this.

To tell the truth, my therapist and I think I may have been gender dysphoric before the incident.

We both think that's why I am adjusting so well. My friend Lexi is transgender too. She and I are super tight, like sisters. I never had a friend like that back home.

Don't be sad or depressed, Mom. I already went down that road. I am not going back, please just be happy for your daughter. Ryan is gone but your daughter isn't going anywhere!

Oh, baby!!!!

Mom hugged me tightly. We started crying together. It was a happy and forgiving cry.

It felt great to cry with my Mom.

You're so sweet, Ree Ree! This is everything I always wanted all of this for you. Mom said.

I always wanted you to have a partner to love. I said.

Well Rianna, it looks like we both got what we wished for!

We sure did, Mom! We sure did!

She tucked me in and kissed my forehead.

I woke up just before 7am. John is picking me up at 10. I changed into my pink Speedo swimsuit, capped my hair, and started my laps. I love swimming especially in the morning, even when the air is cold. Between the plastic balls in the pool keeping the water warm and the kiss of the cold air on my face, it was invigorating.

I finished 25 laps and toweled off. I was starting coffee when Dad walked into the kitchen.

Morning kiddo!

Morning Dad. I just handed him a cup of coffee.

So you between you and me. Which house did you like the best? Be honest.

Truth? I liked the fixer-upper the best!

Why? Because I like the idea of fixing it up and giving it a second chance. Plus I love this floor plan. That house has the same floor plan as this house.

That's impressive for a 14-year-old girl to think like that!

You have to remember one thing, Dad: I know what it feels like to be a fixer-upper and get a second chance.

Touche! Said Dad. You know it could take 6 months to a year to finish it!

Maybe, I said!

But, I loved that house the moment I saw it. I also know a couple of things about that house.

Really? What is that?

First off, in the garage and basement, there are supplies tucked away to help finish it.

And the second?

No one has looked at that house in over two months. And that offer you made for us! It's the best offer they have had in six months!

How could you know that?

Maria's daughter, she is my friend. I told her I liked that house and she told me everything about it. Anita wants me to get it.

If her mom can sell it. It will pave the way for her Mom to get a regional manager position for the real estate company.

I know fixing is a lot to ask Dad! But it will be worth it. You saw the look in Mom's eyes. She wants to make an actual home for us and herself.

I know, sweetie, I want your Mom to have a place she can make that's hers!

You mean ours! Mom said as she walked in smiling.

You know, Dad, I may be a girl now. But I still know how to work! I'm sure I can learn a lot by helping you.

I bet I could get some friends to help from time to time.

There are a couple of things we'll have to hire to do! Like what? Asked mom.

Flooring and molding, for one.

That stuff is just too big for me to handle myself. I can finish the bathrooms, fixtures, and electrical without an issue. Painting is the biggest job.

The only other thing that needs to be finished is the basement and garage. That house is over 6000 square feet. That means over 30,000 square feet of drywall to paint and an additional 10,000 square feet in the garage.

There is one additional feature we should add to the house if we get it. Dad said

What would you like to add to it? A new car lift for the garage? Mom asked.

Great Idea, Brenda, but I was thinking a bit more practical: a generator. With all the rolling blackouts out west. We wouldn't want to lose the Air conditioning in the summertime.

That's a great idea, Dan! Aunt V walked in.

How much are they? Between 7 and 10 thousand for a good one. A good generator increases home value and will last a long time with very little maintenance.

With a 4 car garage, there will be room for my car!

That's true Ree said to Dan. I will teach you how to drive young lady.

The driving lessons are all yours, Dan, said Mom.

I smiled at Dad, he winked back.

I scrambled eggs for everyone. I have to get ready John is picking me up at 10 am.

It's New Year's Eve, honey. Be home by 1 am said Aunt V. You know the rule!

Yes ma'am! Call if I run late.

Impressive V!

She's a good girl! She will!

You stay close to John, said Mom. If you can't get home by 1am for any reason, go to the Parks, and one of us will pick you up.

Yes ma'am!

I went upstairs and showered and changed. I packed my gym bag with my White sweater dress. And my black leggings and 4" heeled knee hi boot and my black hip belt. I started with jeans and a dark blue cashmere sweater. I wore my black leather coat. It hung down to my knees.

It was a bit cold, but not Ohio cold. Since I became a girl I was always cold. I did my makeup in daytime Pink. As I started my hair, Mom came in. Would you like help with your hair again? Yes, please.

Mom ran the flat iron through my hair. She gave me a small beehive bun and brushed out a long ponytail. She gave me loose spiral curls with my curling iron. She sprayed hairspray all over the bun to lock it in place.

I came downstairs, Dad saw me and smiled. I am glad he's a nice young man or I'd be worried. Dad said.

John is a good young man. I trust him, said Aunt V.

If you trust him, that's good enough for me, said Mom. John drove to the front door.

Upstairs young lady! Said Aunt V.

Yes ma'am.

Really Vanessa? My Mom asked.

Yes really. It's kinda our ritual. Just watch Brenda trust me.

Dan, get the door, please.

Sure thing Vanessa.

Hi John! Welcome! Dan offers him a man-styled handshake.

That's what I call a good grip!

Thank you, sir.

Ree!!! Dan exclaimed. John is here!

I walked downstairs. John beams his killer smile! Are you ready?

I just smiled as loving a smile as I could to him.

John, 1 am!

Yes, Ms Stockton. If, for any reason, you can't make it. Call us. If there is any reason you can't make it here safely, take her to your home, and one of us will pick her up.

Yes, Ms Stockton.

Have fun, kids. Mom said.

As always John's car was clean inside out. It was an older Honda Civic. It was a nice car. It was a Si model and a stick shift. John was a good driver; he never sped or drove aggressively.

So, what's the plan for the day? I asked.

Well, first we are going to make a stop for some ice cream, then I have a special spot I want to share with you.

He took me to Jonny Rockets, a 1950s-style diner, for Ice cream. We split a Large Chocolate Malt with two straws. We talked about our holiday with our family. He showed me pictures of his sister's at Christmas. They are so adorable.

I showed him pictures of the vineyard and everyone there. I told him about having a little wine dinner. I was mostly proud of cooking Chicken bulgogi and learning to make Kimchi.

I told him that Hank and May wanted to have him up for a visit. I explained to him that he was the subject of more than one conversation. I also mentioned that Aunt V stuck up for him. She was bragging about you and Julius protecting us that night in the diner.

We finished our malt and headed out. He took me to the Zen Gardens and we held hands walking through the Garden. Occasionally we would steal a kiss here and there. It was so romantic.

Back to his car, we stopped for lunch at Vickie's diner, and he made sure I had a burger. I complained a little that it was too heavy a meal. He said it's okay you'll walk it off.

We drove east away from Vegas. We were on a two-lane road. He turned left into a gated driveway. He unlocked the gate, drove through, and locked it up.

We drove up this long road. There was almost nothing around for miles. As we reached the top of the hill, I noticed a structure. As we got closer I recognized the Oriental design of it. It looked like a private garden.

There were a few cars parked there. John and I walked to the small reception desk.

John Park party of 2. He said.

The young man working bowed and said right this way, sir.

We were escorted to a private patio. Please make yourselves comfortable. There were a couple of blankets and a bench overlooking the mountains in the distance we were facing west and a small wood stove with a roaring fire. John and I cuddle under the blanket.

In the distance, I could hear some other people chatting in Korean. I looked around and I couldn't see anyone.

Soon, a woman dressed in a traditional Korean robe and house dress showed up. She was carrying a rather large tray.

My jaw dropped! May was right! It's a tea ceremony. I was so happy and excited, I started to tear up.

Ree are you alright?

Yes John I am great! I'm just so happy!

John made tea for us. It was the reverse of things because the girl usually serves the boy. John quietly prepared the tea for us. I watched him closely. He served me in a very formal and thoughtful manner. It was very romantic.

He took a flower from the bouquet off the tray, cut it, and put it behind my left ear. I kissed him deeply as my thanks. We sat there long enough to watch the sunset. I served him after the first cup. He complimented my attention to detail.

We cuddled and kissed under the blanket the whole time. John wrapped me in his strong arms. If I wasn't his girlfriend before, I am his girlfriend now! He felt up my stomach. He played with my belly button and piercings.

I love this, he said as he glided his fingers gently over my piercings. I was getting really hot for him. I promised myself I would control myself. I ran my hands over his washboard stomach and his arms.

I wanted more, much more. But John was a gentleman first. He never went higher or lower than my stomach.

Come on, sweetheart, we need to get ready for the party!

Party? Where?

You'll see! You brought a change of clothes Right?

Yes of course.

Good, we'll head back to my house, change, and head out. Sound good?

Sounds great. Good because my Mom is anxious to see you too.

We head over to John's house. We walk in together. Yon lights up smiling at me.

Ree!! Happy New Year!

Happy New Year Mrs Park! We hug.

Did you have a good Christmas?

Yes ma'am! Did you?

Yes, it was wonderful. John, you better go upstairs and get ready.

Ree, you can change and shower if you want in my room. I went to her bedroom, went to her bathroom, and started getting ready. I washed my face and redid my makeup. I added my false eyelashes and did black/silver smokey eye. I added a white line just above my crease.

I put on my White sweater dress and black leggings. I added a black hip belt and my favorite knee-high boots. I was just finishing my red ombre lips when Yon walked in.

Are you decent, Ree?

Please come in.

Oh, you look lovely.

Thank you.

So tell me, how was the tea ceremony?

It was very romantic.

You know Ree, you are John's first real girlfriend.

Yes, ma'am, I know.

He loves you.

I love him, Mrs Park.

It's just us girls; Ree calls me Yon.

I really love your son. He's a very special man.

Yes, he is.

So are you, Ree.

Does he know about me, Yon?

Yes, sweetheart, he does.

Did you tell him?

No honey, he figured it out on his own.

And he still wanted to date me?

Ree, he's known about you since almost the beginning. He may have heard Jii and I talking. All he sees is you for the young woman you are. Jii and I think the world of you Ree. Our girls adore you.

Come on dinner is almost ready. I made Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, spinach, and bread sticks.

I love Chicken Alfredo.

I know! A little birdie told me. We giggled together.

Jii was working at the restaurant until 11 pm.

John and I had dinner with his mom and sisters. That's a pretty sweater, is that a dress? Asked Nari.

Yes, Nari, it's called a sweater dress.

I like it, it looks warm Nari said.

It is, and very comfortable too.

I want one Nari said.

I just smiled at her. It was a Christmas present from my Mom.

Dinner was really good. As with everything Yon makes with a little bit of Korean flavor, I loved it. We finished dinner, I thanked Yon for dinner and hugged his mother and his sisters.

John took me to the roller rink again. We skated until 10 pm. At 10pm they started a sock hop dance. I didn't have any socks. John, again always prepared, was given a pair from Aunt V.

We had a great time. There were kids from different area schools. Julius and his girlfriend were there. Shelly and her boyfriend,. Lexi and James, Emma and Evan.

Blake Collins was there with his girlfriend Peggy. I liked her she's super nice, and we shook hands. Blake, John, and Julius shook hands. We pushed tables together and when we weren't dancing, we were drinking punch and chatting away. We mixed dance partners during fast dancing.

I even danced once with Blake. He was very nice. Dating Peggy had a positive effect on him. We shouted happy news, spraying sparkling grape juice in the break area. It was a lot of fun. John and I kissed in the New Year.

It was 12:15 when John and I left. We parked down the street for a little bit. Just kissing. Finally, at 12:55, we stopped at the front door. I walked in the door at 1:01 am

You're late said Mom. No, I am not. I was outside with John.

I know, sweetie, this doorbell camera is very handy, she was smiling.

Mom!!!!! Seriously you too?

What!?

First Aunt V, now you with the doorbell camera!

He looks like, quite the kisser! Mom!!

Who's quite a kisser? Dad/Dan was walking downstairs.

Not you too?

Sorry kiddo it's my protective nature!

Look guys! I love him! But I also understand how anything more than us kissing can ruin our futures! You can trust us!

We know we can, sweetie said, Mom. But it doesn't mean we won't stop reminding you!

I know that, but I also had a very intimate talk with Aunt V and Cathy about this. They explained how much every decision you make shapes your future.

She used my incident with Bond, Jeffries, and the Newhouse Boys as a prime example.

John and his family invited me to Korea for the weekend of his tournament!

Really! Said mom.

I remember Seoul was a fun city. Lots to see, Olympic Park, museums, and they have a first-class Zoo, said Dan.

This is the last year John can compete in the under-18 bracket. Next year he'll be competing with the adults. If John wins this year his family will be the first family to win on both sides of the tournament. He will also be the first American-born Park to win under 18.

I'll have to talk to Mrs Park said Mom.

I think she'll be alright, said Dad. She'll be with the Park family. Korean people know how to take care of their guests.

Thanks, Dan, but I still want to talk with Mrs Park.

If no one minds I need to get to bed, I said.

Go on honey, sweet dreams, said Mom.

I went upstairs, showered, and completed my routines. It was nice to see Dad supporting me to go to Korea. Mom wasn't so sure. Either way, I will probably start on my Rosetta Stone Korean very soon, just in case.

I woke up around 8:30 am. I went downstairs and started swimming. I did 26 laps and I was exhausted. No one was downstairs yet. I started the coffee maker and went upstairs to shower and change.

I thought I heard some noise coming from Mom and Dad's room. I didn't think anything about it and started my daily routine and getting ready for the day. I made breakfast tacos and had some tea. Still, no one came downstairs.

I checked the garage and saw the Porsche was gone. That made perfect sense Aunt V probably wanted some time with Taylor. Lexi was probably watching Taylor's mom, I thought. I was about to call my friends and see what was going on when I heard Mom and Dad coming downstairs.

Morning Kiddo! Dad said with a smile. I like the way he says kiddo to me.

Morning guys! Coffee?

Thank you, sweetheart!

You're welcome, Mom. So what are your plans for today Ree?

I don't have any yet! I wanted to see what you guys wanted to do.

I know one thing I want to do today, said Dad. But I will need both of you to help me.

What's that? I asked.

I want to take another very close look at the house.

You need us for that, said Mom.

Absolutely! Said Dan.

The more eyes we have the more we see. It's a big project, but the more we know, the more we can prepare for it, and the more money we won't waste.

I'm up for that I said!

I suppose so said Mom, not as excited as I am.

How are we going to get in? Asked mom.

Maria left me the lock box code for the keys.

I guess we are walking? Mom said.

No Vanessa left me the keys to the Escalade said Dan.

That smells great Ree! What is it? Asked Dad

Breakfast tacos.

Ohh! This is good said Mom. Where did you learn to cook?

Martina, Aunt V's housekeeper. She taught me lots of things!

Like what? Asked Mom. Cooking, baking, how to clean. She taught me laundry, ironing, and how to organize our closets.

Plus, Martina has been a huge help with my Spanish. Martina has been a very big help to me.

Did you ever really look at my closet, Mom?

Now that you mentioned it, no.

We finished breakfast and cleaned up. I showed Mom and Dad my room for the second time, which was kinda the first, considering how busy we were when they arrived.

Wow!!!! You have more clothes than I do!

Kiddo you have more clothes than your mom and I do together. Dad said.

You have a lot of expensive clothes honey. And look at the shoes. Aunt V has spoiled you!

Maybe, but I pull my weight around here too. I help with laundry and cleaning.

Martina never cleans my room or bathroom, I do. I also help her when I can. Since I moved in, I started helping Martina and I do what she asks.

Martina is great, Mom!

I could never get you to pick up after yourself at home.

And now I do. I smiled proudly.

You have changed so much, honey.

Is that a good thing?

Yes, sweetheart, it's very good. I saw Mom tear up. Dad hugged my mom.

You have a wonderful daughter babe!

Yes, we do! she said. She clutched Dan's arms.

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