One Boy's Journey Chapter 23

Written by Brianna Demonet

Hank and May seemed to take a shine to you.

Their great Mom. May and Hank treat me like a granddaughter. May has been a big help to me in researching Korean culture. I wanted to make a good impression on John and his family.

You are really in love with him, aren't you?

I think I am in love with him Mom. He is so sweet, caring, and protective. He isn't flashy or macho or egotistical. When he was named MVP of the football team, he called up his fullback and gave him credit for the great season he had; then he gave the rest of the team credit for every opportunity.

When John is at school, he's a wallflower despite his popularity. When we first started seeing each other he would take me to places away from the school crowd. We did not hide the fact we were seeing each other, but we didn't flash it in front of people either.

When we ran into people he knew he would introduce me to them. He never looks at other girls when we are together.

Do you look at other boys Ree?

No, no way, Mom! John and I have similar plans and goals. John is training to compete in the Korean/USA karate tournament this summer. If his team wins this year his family will be the first family to have champions on both sides of the tournament ever. I don't want to derail him from that opportunity.

John wants to see me succeed with Cheerleading and ballet. John also wants me to go to law school. John has also been coaching me in Hap-ki-do. His goal for me is to get my blue belt by the time I graduate high school. By the way, I have my yellow belt test at the end of January.

Young lady. You are taking an awful lot on, said Dan.

I heard the concern in his voice.

Maybe I am. But I swore to myself to make the best of the opportunity Aunt V gave me.

You need to pace yourself, sweetheart. Mom said with concern.

I am pacing myself, Mom. I see my therapist every Saturday morning. I sleep at least 7 hours a night minimum. Normally I sleep 8 1/2 hours or more.

I had not touched a video game since I left Ohio except when John took me to the Arcade at Circus, Circus Casio, for the under-21 crowds. He won a stuffed penguin for me.

Is that where that penguin came from? I was going to ask about that.

Mom, Dan you don't have to worry about me.

Aunt V and I have no secrets. I know she tells you everything Mom.

I know, sweetie, but I worry, and I feel guilty not being here for you!

Don't, Mom, please don't. I know you are just trying to do right by your girls at the salon. They were always nice to me too.

Well, Rianna, I have to say you have turned the corner from the boy I used to know in school last year.

Thanks, Dan.

Have we shown you pictures of the trailer yet? Dan asked.

No, you haven't.

Here! Dan hands me his phone with the before and after pictures.

Wow, it looks brand new.

I have a friend who has a small construction company. Your mom and I stored some things in my garage. The rest we took to either Goodwill or took to the trash.

What about my stuff? I saved your nickknacks, a couple of posters, your Xbox and games, and your stereo, TV, music, and movies. My old clothes? Good Will or trash honey.

The trailer looks almost empty.

That's because I listed it with a realtor honey.

So you and Dan...

Yes Rianna, I asked your Mom to move in with me.

That's great! I am very happy for you two.

You don't mind?

No, Mom, I am happy you're happy. I'm glad you're not alone anymore.

Dan saved my life. Now he's making you happy, what more could I ask for?

We went back inside. Becky was breastfeeding James again. I thought it was so beautiful and special.

Mom said that brings back beautiful memories.

You breastfed me?

Of course sweetie. You were one hungry baby, too, just like James.

Ian came out. I'm going to tuck the girls in for the night.

How will you get them back? I asked.

Caleb can help, Where is he?

I can ride the other quad! I said.

You can ride?

She sure can, says Hank.

Okay, Ree, you're up. You take Cat; Violet will ride with me.

It was dark out but I remembered the way. I followed Ian. Caitlin was holding me tightly. She was giggling almost all the way there. Faster, faster, she would say. It made me laugh.

We got to the cabin. It was a small 2 bedroom 1 bathroom. It had a Kitchen, eating area, and living room fireplace all open. The kid's room had a full-size bed. The master bedroom had a pack-and-play for James.

We tucked in the girls, and I hugged and kissed their foreheads. Good night with Ian. Thanks for helping out Ree.

My pleasure, they are adorable.

They are the apples of my eyes. Ian said.

James looks just like you.

James is my son. Caitlin and Violet are Bree's.

That may be, but you are their Dad.

Thanks Ree.

Becky and Bree told me all about you. I must say you are one brave girl. Cathy is very taken with you, Becky, and Bree too. Now I see why.

What do you mean?

You're focused, you are smart, and you have a lot of heart, kiddo. When I was your age I didn't have a clue. I played almost every sport; I did pretty well in school. All I wanted to do was play pro football.

Ian, did you ever bully anyone?

Hell no! Believe it or not, I used to get bullied too! Even being good at sports didn't prevent it. But I was bigger than you and I could fight off 3 at once.

One day I was cornered in the bathroom by four guys. I was doing pretty good in the beginning. But things shifted and I was about to be beaten.

Then a guy I played football with walked in. Keith, he started throwing guys off me. We fought them off together. After that day, Keith and I were more than friends. We were brothers. Every day after that, no one was bullied again while we were around.

We had a transgender person in our grade. She was an easy target, especially for the bullies. Keith told them if anything happened to her, no matter what it was, he'd assured them the entire football team would seek them out. She graduated with an academic scholarship.

I know of your plight Ree. Everyone here has your back. Keep up with your goals. Go to Law school, If you're half as smart as everyone thinks, you'll do well. The way I hear it Becky and Cathy want to hire you the second you graduate!

Really?

Really, Ree! Becky is very selective about who she hires.

Cathy said I might be able to work there for a bit in the summer. But I will have summer school at UNLV this summer. Don't worry, Ree, it will happen. Just keep up the good work.

You better get back kiddo. We open presents at 8 am. I kissed Ian's cheek and hugged him.

Oh, you do have a super hug!

I smiled and said goodnight.

I rode the quad back slowly. I saw a couple of deer on my way back to the house. Becky and Bree were waiting. I kissed them and baby James good night.

May was waiting for me. Hank was watching the news on TV, everyone else was upstairs.

So tell me about this boy my granddaughter is seeing. I told her the whole story minus the passionate kisses. She liked the fact he is Korean. She knew the Park family name from the martial arts competitions.

I told her about the dinner with John and his family.

She said so my advice worked?

Like a charm!

She wanted to meet them. She grilled me about John and our age difference. I told her John never tried to touch me in an inappropriate manner ever.

She believed me. It was true. Except the time lifted me by my ass and kissed me. But even then he never fondled me.

I kissed her goodnight and went to my and Aunt V's room. Aunt V handed me a wrapped box. Go ahead and open it! I tore open the gift it was a red satin babydoll nightie with white fur trim.

It had matching panties and sheer white stay-up stockings. It also had red mules, a matching pajama dress to go over it, and a robe.

I love it! What is it for?

For you to wear tomorrow morning!

Me? I, I, I can't!

Why not? Aunt V asked.

Because it's too sexy.

You missed the best part in the box. There was a Santa cap.

My stunned look asked the question, "Why?"

Because silly girl, you are the gift girl this year; you hand everyone their gifts.

There was hardly a gift under the tree.

That was done on purpose for the little ones.

Who's idea was this? I asked.

Cathy, May, and Hank! They asked me and asked your Mom. We all agree you should be the Christmas gift girl this year.

Now put on the nightie, sweetie, and get ready for bed. The kids will be here at seven, and presents will be opened after Coffee at 8 am. I got ready for bed. I slept like a baby with Aunt V. I woke up first, or so I thought.

I came out of the bathroom in my new nightie and came face to face with Dan!

Ohh!! My Ree you are the image of your mother.

I was blushing red as my nightie. You are blossoming into a beautiful young woman.

Thanks, Dad; I mean Dan.

Dad, I love the sound of that! Merry Christmas sweetheart, he kissed my forehead.

Aunt V was up and getting ready. Get your dress and robe on, sweetie; we need coffee. It's going to be a big day today. I put on my satin Christmas dress attire and donned my mules. Aunt V tied my hair in a high ponytail and fluffed it out.

I put on my foundation, a little red and silver eyeshadow, eyeliner, my false eyelashes, and bright red lipstick.

Aunt V said perfect!

I thought my makeup might be too heavy.
It's lovely! Aunt V said with her approving smile.

Are you sure?

Look, honey! She pointed at the full-length mirror on the back of the bedroom door.

I looked like a young, slightly sexy, yet very pretty Mrs Claus!

I wish John was here! I know he'd love this!

Where is your phone?

I handed it to her. I put the robe on, and Aunt V took some headshots and one full-length. They were tasteful and slightly sexy but not slutty.

Aunt V had a dark green full-length nightgown and matching robe and mules. I was the only one with stockings. Aunt V pinned the Santa stocking cap on me. We marched downstairs together.

I could smell the espresso brewing and cinnamon rolls baking. May and Cathy were in the kitchen speaking Korean; surprisingly, I understood a joke they made.

I laughed and Cathy looked shocked! I giggled again.

Hank and Caleb came in from outside. Each one with a girl in their arms. Kitten was hugging Caleb tightly, it was a cute sight.

Merry Christmas Ree said Hank! He set down Violet and opened his arms.

Merry Christmas Grandpa!

I hugged him tightly and kissed his cheek.

Caleb did the same thing. I hugged and kissed his cheek, too.

Cathy caught me. Ree that's my man!

And my big brother!

We all laughed.

May set the rolls on the table with paper plates beside them. Cinnamon Rolls are ready! Yay!!! Said the little girls! Just then, I heard two more quads pull up. It was Ian, Becky, and Bree.

Everyone settled in with coffee and rolls. After the kids finished their rolls and milk. We moved to the living room.

Hank says we unwrap youngest to oldest! One gift at a time girls!

I started handing out presents. Violet went first; she got a Frozen Elsa Build-a-Bear with a dress, shoes, and a crown. Caitlin was next with an Elsa dress, Crown, wig, and shoes. I was next. Mom handed me mine. It was a brand new hot pink Speedo one-piece swimsuit and matching cap.

Cathy was next. Caleb got her a beautiful maternity nightgown. I must have made at least four or 5 rounds. I got a new cellphone and a tablet. Cathy and Caleb got me two Rosetta Stone books one for Latin and the other for Korean.

Mom gave Dan a new watch. It was a stainless steel Tag Huer, it was beautiful. I got Aunt V a new wallet that matched a purse she didn't have a wallet for. I got Hank a turtleneck long-sleeve shirt with my school logo on the neck. For May, I got her these fancy cooking gloves that fit like regular gloves but have a grip for loosening tight lids and protecting your hands like oven mitts.

I got Dan a new cordless power drill with an attachment kit. Mom told me he burned up his previous drill helping her. I gave My mom diamond stud earrings. She didn't have any and I knew she would not buy anything like that for herself. I got Caleb new earbuds. We all were laughing, smiling, and enjoying the morning.

Mom started looking disappointed when she realized Dan had not given her a gift. Mom never said a word, Dan had done so much for her already. On cue at Dan's signal, I said is that everyone?

Oh, my goodness, I knew I forgot! Dan exclaimed. He stood up and knelt in front of my mom. He reached into his pocket, pulled out a small box, and opened it.

Merry Christmas Brenda!

My Mom was speechless!

Brenda Stevens, will you marry me?

My Mom squeaked yes! Yes!!! She kissed Dan very hard and deeply.

Brenda, I have one request.

Yes, my Mom hesitated for a moment.

I would like to adopt Rianna as my daughter! My Mom began to cry!

I knew this was coming, I started crying.

I hugged my Mom. Well, Mom? What do you say?

What do you want sweetie?

I smiled and hugged Dan, kissed his cheek, and said Merry Christmas, Daddy!

Mom looked at me and said I guess that's a yes too!

I kissed Mom again. I was crying tears of joy.

Hank said congrats, sweetheart!

Thanks, Grandpa.

May, Cathy, Becky, Bree, and Mom all cry. I hugged May first then Cathy. Becky and Bree's gang hugged me. Caleb lifted me over his head and hugged the stuffing out of me.

I planted a big kiss on his cheek. Ian hugged me, similar to Caleb; I am so happy for you both, Ian said.

I knew it was coming, but I still was surprised, it didn't feel real until it happened. To this very day, it was the best Christmas ever!

Caleb took pictures of us together as a family. Nothing could ruin my happiness! My Mom spent half her time staring at her engagement ring. It was a brand-new ring from Zales Jewelry. The stone was emerald cut and big. At least a full karat.

We had a great morning. Dinner is at 2 pm. Ian and Hank made a standing beef rib roast, mashed potatoes, stewed tomatoes, carrots, and spinach. While dinner was being made, I took the girls outside to run around in the crisp mountain air. There was lots of room to run around. We played Hide and Seek.

I was always the seeker. Mom and Dan, aka (Dad), sat on the porch swing, watching us play. Becky and Bree came out swinging on the other porch swing. Everyone was cuddling under blankets. I looked at Mom and Dan. I could see even at the distance, how happy they were.

May and Hank walked out wrapped in a blanket. Ian cuddled up with Becky and Bree. Cathy and Caleb were standing cuddling. Everyone watching us play in the cold Christmas air. It felt strange just watching everyone Happy and enjoying the holiday. Mom and I were always together just her and I. Never anyone else. Now we have a family, a real family.

I'd be lying if I said it wasn't hard to process, but it was a warm feeling, even in the cold mountain air. I kept flashing back to all those Christmas commercials and movies and TV shows that show the happy family enjoying Christmas. I used to be jealous or even a little depressed when I saw it. Now I feel good and warm.

Dinner!!!! Ian bellows.

We ran to the house. Violet was falling behind. I ran back to her. I scooped her up and put her on my shoulders and I jogged back to the house.

She said my daddy carries me like this too! We were laughing back to the house. Caitlin beat us back. I win I win, she cheered.

You sure did! I said, beaming a bright smile at her.

Ian was all smiles when he saw Violet on my shoulders. Becky and Bree smiling as well. I dropped off Violet and went to look for Aunt V. I went upstairs and entered the bedroom, and Aunt V was sitting quietly; she was crying softly.

Aunt V, what's wrong?

Ohh, sweetheart!!!! She threw her arms around me and hugged me. Oh honey, I am so happy for you!

Then why are you crying?

Because I am going to lose you!

Lose me? You'll never lose me!

After everything you've done for me! I will never forget it! You have my undying gratitude forever. I love you, Auntie V! You are as responsible for all the good things that have happened to me. You gave me and my Mom a fresh start.

Because of you, I have a new life, new friends, family, and a great start to an incredible future I never dreamed of. You are my guardian angel Aunt V! You will never lose me!

Ohhh!!! Ree!!!

She cried while we embraced one another. I looked her in the eyes.

I will always be your niece and goddaughter. The only thing that will be different is you will have to share me now!

I can do that! She said smiling.

Look around, Aunt V. All this is because of you! You gave me a new life and a much brighter future. You gave my mother happiness and a future husband and I got a new Dad! You are a godsend Aunt V!. No one person could ever do what you did, EVER!

Just then, Mom walked in.

You ladies coming? Dinner is getting cold.

Are you okay, sister? Asked my Mom.

I'm coming around. Ree, go get some dinner. We'll be down soon.

Yes, Mom.

I went downstairs. Hank padded the chair on his left. Dan sat on my other side. Ian was carving the roast. He handed me a good-sized slice.

You need your protein sweetie!

Thanks, Ian.

Every plate was served except Mom and Aunt V. We were in the middle of passing the food around when Mom and Aunt V walked in.

Sit ladies! Said Ian. As he carved slices for each of them. Aunt V sat across from me. I smiled and winked at her. She winked back, smiling.

To be clear with anyone who reads this, Aunt V and I remained super tight over the years afterward. She is still one of the few people I trust with my deepest secrets and thoughts.

Mom let me have wine with dinner. I think it was a Cabernet. It was a bit dry but a very good wine nonetheless. Hank filled my wine glass a second time and winked at me Dan just smiled. We all chatted at dinner.

I tried steering the conversation a little away from Mom and Dan's engagement when I could. I knew Aunt V was happy for Mom, but I could still sense a bit of heartache.

I started a conversation with Becky about practicing law. She told me the same things Cathy did. I started speaking Spanish with her.

Becky smiled; nice accent, Ree, she said.

Very nice Ree! Said Cathy.

I looked at Cathy and said thanks to Cathy in Korean. That got the whole table's attention. Hank and May said very nice!

Where'd that come from, asked Becky.

It's Korean, said May. She said it was thanks to Cathy.

Don't forget to study Latin Becky said.

Already on it, I said, and thanks to the books Cathy and Caleb gave me, I will have a leg up this summer at UNLV for the Latin and Korean classes I want to take.

If you have a week or two off this summer, I'd love to have you at the firm for some real-world experience. Maybe we could take you to court if we can manage it. Becky offered.

That would be great. Mom, Dad can I?

I don't see why not said, Mom.

Dad, can I go?

I suppose so.

Cathy tells me you have your heart set on Stanford. Becky asked.

Yes ma'am.

You need over 1500 on your SATs and over 700 on the LSAT for law school. If you want to choose your law school you need a 750 on the LSATs!

Cathy told me, I said.

What are your grades like right now? Becky asked.

Straight A's across the board.

Extracurricular activities? Cheer, I am going out for the swim team next month. And I joined the debate club.

You're on the right path Ree. But I won't lie to you my first year of law school was the toughest of the 3. Be prepared for long nights of studying and very little sleep.

You know you might consider taking constitutional law instead of Korean this summer. This will familiarize you with the basics you'll need for your future classes.

May and Cathy Nodded agreeing with Becky. Bree sat quietly smiling and helping Ian with the kids at the table. I was hoping we could chat again doing the dishes. Dessert was homemade Ice Cream puffs with Sanders Chocolate sauce.

Aunt V and Mom were chatting about homes for sale nearby and Aunt V started to smile a bit more. I thought more about how Aunt V felt and why while sitting there.

She and I grew very close over these past months. The thought of me moving out was a bit crushing to her. The more I thought about it will be crushing to me as well

Don't get me wrong here, I love my Mom, and her marrying Dan is great; I am excited to have him as my Dad. The downside is leaving Aunt V alone.

I have a ton of freedom with my Aunt V. As long as I am honest with her about everything, she pretty much lets me do what I want. My friends practically live at her place most weekends. Country club brunches, a domesticated social life with her niece and partner, and her daughter, who is my best friend.

I wasn't sure how much my life was going to change shortly. I did know a couple of things. I'd be going to college in less than 3 years; John would most likely be going to college in less than 2 years. Mom wanted to go back to college and get her degree.

I knew I loved John and I wanted our relationship to last. But I am way too young to believe that would happen. I know I am in love with him, but to ask him to sacrifice his future for me is selfish. I am not selfish.

I had a passing thought about Tommy and Rick and how their Christmas was in juvenile hall. Serves them right being where they are. Bond and Jeffries are in a real prison. I hope they rot in there. The whole time I was in the hospital or the DA office or even court, not once did they ever say they were sorry.

I must have been reflecting pretty hard with a blank stare.

Mom shook my shoulder; Are you alright, Honey?

I'm fine, just thinking, is all.

About?

Well, I had a passing thought about how Christmas was for my attackers.

I can tell you that! Said Dan. Part of my job as a cop was being a turn-key at the county jail and a small tour at the state prison.

It's hell! What's worse is the juvenile hall for those Newhouse boys. Thanks to Mr. Summers and Cathy, those boys can't afford any trouble, or they go to Indiana. That place makes the state prison in Ohio look like a country club.

Don't worry, I have friends who work in the juvenile hall. They keep me informed on those two. You've nothing to worry about. No one knows where you are. No one knew where we went when we left either.

Thanks, Dad.

You're welcome, sweetheart.

Mom squeezed Dan's hand with an approving look. It started getting late and the girls were cranky and tired.

Ree, could you help me with the girls again? Asked Ian.

Sure! I said.

Becky said she was exhausted too.

We took 3 quads back to the cabin. I took Becky and James, Caleb took his Kitten, and Ian took Violet. We rode slowly down the road. I kissed the girls and James goodnight. James is such a good baby. I hugged and kissed Becky and Ian. As I left Becky told me Bree wanted to talk to me. I thanked her and left for the house.

I stopped by the creek and listened to the water running by. When I looked up the sky was peppered with more stars than I had ever seen before. It was a clear night and It was getting cold quickly.

I used to live in Ohio. I know about the cold winter, but the thin mountain air seemed different; even the soft breeze made the air feel sharp, almost like a stinging on your skin.

Bree and May were waiting for me. Hank was catching up on the TV news. Dan was watching it with him. Mom and Aunt V were probably upstairs talking.

Rianna, we were wondering if you could roll our hair.

Sure let's do this, I said.

May brought out the rollers. I washed their hair in the kitchen sink. The pull-down faucet made rinsing their hair very easy.

I started on May's hair first. I used 3/8" rollers for her hair. She was concerned that it would be too curly. I assured her with her super straight hair, the tighter the curl, the better it would hold. And she would lose at least half the curl when the rollers came out.

Bree was up next. I did her hair in 1/2" rollers, and I soaked their hair with the setting solution. May's hair soaked up the setting solution. They slept in the rollers all night and almost until noon the next day.

I finished cleaning up and getting ready for bed. I did my therapy in the bathroom. I was always afraid my flower would close up on me. I read a couple of articles on that happening to girls like me. I refuse to let that happen to me. Truth is I enjoyed it. I wanted something bigger but I was afraid to ask.

I walked into the bedroom, and Mom and Aunt V were talking.

Hi sweetie she kissed me. I'll let you two get some rest.

Mom? Aunt V? I have something I need to ask you both, but I don't know how.

Just ask honey., Mom said.

Can I get a bigger dilator or something bigger to dilate with?

Is everything okay? Mom asked.

It's fine but I am always scared it will close up on me.
I never thought about that. I showed Mom my dilator. I think Vanessa and I can figure out something tomorrow. We planned to go into town.

Do you want to come with us?

Yes, please!

I kissed Mom good night, and when I shut my eyes, I was out!

I woke up to the smell of breakfast fajitas. I slipped on my robe and mules brushed my hair a bit. Ian was in the kitchen cooking. Smells great, I said. Sit down I'll fix you a plate. Ian brought me 3 fajitas and a cup of coffee. The fajitas were great. Wow, these are fantastic! Wait until you try my blueberry crepes.

You're quite the cook, Ian.

I am not a cook. I am a fully trained and certified Chef.

Really?

I graduated from USC with a double bachelors in culinary arts and business management.

That's great! And played football?

Yep. Now I am a father too!

I am impressed, Ian. I cook too, not this good, but pretty good, I think.

She's a pretty good cook Ian. Ree does most of the cooking in our home on the weekends. Aunt V said as she hugged me from behind.

Now I'm impressed, said Ian. If you get up early tomorrow I'll show you how to make my crepes.

Deal!!! I exclaimed.

Just as I got up Bree showed up with James. Can someone get Becky and the girls for me, please?

Hank walked in. He looked at me and said let's go kiddo!

I changed into my jeans, boots, and a sweater. Hank and I jumped on the quads we rode a little faster than normal. Hank was slowing down and speeding up on the way, so I did the same. We were smiling the whole way there. You ride pretty well, said Hank.

Thanks, Grandpa! I winked at him.

We got to the cabin. We load everyone up. Becky was with Bree, Violet with Hank and I got Caitlin. We took off first. She wanted to go faster. So I rode a little faster but not much.

Cat and I got to the house first. I raced upstairs to change. I had a white turtleneck Sweater dress that I was dying to wear. I accessorized it with a wide black belt over my new hips. My black over-the-shoulder purse and my new black 4” heeled knee-high black leather boots.

I used soft pinks for makeup and added my false eyelashes to look a little older. I wore a white slip, a nude garter belt, and stockings.

Mom saw me before I put on the dress, a very pretty young lady.

Thanks, Mom.

Mom helped me with the dress. All of us women went into town. Hank, Dan, and Ian stayed with the kids. Caleb drove us. I wasn't sure if he was trying to be a gentleman or a chauvinist.

Caleb said I am not letting you girls out of my sight!

I thought it was very sweet.

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