Date: Mon, 6 Jun 2016 11:19:49 -0400
From: Jim <zarek@roadrunner.com>
Subject: Another Chance: Chapter 75

Disclaimer: This story is fictional.  Some of the things that happened or
will happen with Jim are inspired by bits and pieces of my life.  Parts of
the character are fictional as well. All other characters were made up and
any similarities are just coincidental.  This is gay romance between
teenage boys, there may be sex, but for the most part, it's about their
true love of each other so if that offends you, please discontinue reading.
Also, if it is illegal for you to read such material, you have been warned.
Continual reading could cause a knock at your door.

I hope you're enjoying it so far and that the story draws you in wanting
more.  This story was "inspired" by another story, a great story, here on
Nifty, "Riding Lessons" by Andrew Todd.  Some people have compared my
writing style to that of Mr. Todd's and for that, I am flattered.  While
Another Chance does pay tribute to "Riding Lessons", it is a story of its
own and has its own plot and agenda.  If you have any suggestions or
concerns, don't hesitate to email me at zarek@roadrunner.com
<mailto:zarek@roadrunner.com> .  Thoughts and suggestion are always
welcomed and may or may not be implemented.  Concerns will be considered
and addressed as much as possible.

AND, if you enjoy the stories on Nifty.org, please give a donation to help
cover their expenses.  While the site is currently free, only donations
from loyal fans can help keep it that way.  Any amount will help.





Another Chance

Chapter 75

That night, Joe and Buster looked after Jake and had him get ready for his
sleeping bag while Jim and Zac took Patrick out for a walk.  They shared
with him what to expect as his body prepares him for adulthood, and
explained how hormones and excessive oil will make his hair look and feel
greasy as well as the possible outbreak of acne.  Patrick had questions, he
was embarrassed to ask, but remembered what Zac told him.

In the morning, Joe asked Buster if he wanted to stay at the lake while Joe
worked and then he would come back out, or if he wanted to come keep him
company.  "That depends, if the boys want to stay out here while Jim and
Zac work, I can stay here to watch them, otherwise, I'll keep you company,"
Buster replied.

Zac looked at Patrick, "This is the last weekend before school starts, do
you want to stay out here and have fun, or go sit in the office and play
with toys?"

Patrick looked at Jim, "Dad said that I could help him with the horses,
today."

"I did say that," Jim admitted, "but if you want to stay here by the lake,
I understand.  Either way, when we are done, Papa, Jake, you and I can go
to your house to pick up some things."

"I want to help with the horses," Patrick declared.  Jim was a little
surprised, but also happy.

Zac didn't give Jake an option since Patrick wasn't staying out, so Buster
went to keep Joe company.  As they rode into the corral, Jackson was there
to greet them.  He called out, "Buster, can I see you in the office for a
minute?"  Buster thought he was in trouble for something, or maybe he got
Joe in trouble, but he headed for the office.

"If you three can handle the horses, Jake and I'll drive around to collect
the gear," Zac said.

Joe was quick to respond, "Leave Buster's and mine.  It's our last night
before a school night, so we want to stay at the lake."

"Will do," Zac answered.

Jim, Patrick and Joe started grooming the horses before putting them in
their stalls.  Zac snatched up Jake and took him to his truck.  Jackson sat
in his seat, watching Buster fidget for a few seconds.  Then he asked, "Are
you currently working anywhere?"

"Not since I quit my job when we were supposed to move," Buster answered.

Jackson sat for a few more seconds, watching Buster get nervous.  "Are you
looking for work?"

Buster wasn't sure where Jackson was going with his questions, "To be
honest, I don't know what I want to do right now.  I mean, once I graduate,
I plan to get my teaching degree, but I don't know of any jobs that I can
do towards it.  I really don't want to go back to my old job, and I had an
offer to work at McDonald's since the manager is a friend of the family,
but I don't really want to work fast food."

"You ever consider ranch work?" Jackson asked.

"Not really," Buster stated, "I barely know how to ride a horse."

Jackson watched Buster for a few more seconds as this time the boy looked
like he was thinking more than being nervous.  "Well, you looked pretty
good in the saddle to me.  Yes, you still need to get some practice, but
Joe did a good job teaching you."

"Once I get an income, I'd like to resume my lessons," Buster declared.

"What about earning an income but getting free riding lessons, you ever
consider that?" Jackson inquired.

"That would be aweso... Wait, are you offering me a job?" it just hit
Buster.

"You're here most weekends watching Joe, so why not let you get paid to
help?  For now, it'll only be the weekends, but I can ask Joe to teach you
what you need to know and you can finish your riding lessons for free,"
Jackson offered, "And kissing Joe is optional."  Buster blushed at the last
part.

"When can I start?" Buster asked.

"Kissing Joe? I don't know," Jackson teased, then he assured Buster, "As
long as you can get one of your parents to sign the hire packet this week,
you can start today."

"I know either one will," Buster was ecstatic.

Jackson walked to the door and yelled for Joe.  When Joe got to the office,
he was curious what Jackson talked with Buster about and hoped that neither
of them were in trouble.  "Joe, I would like for you to take our newest
employee and show him what you do on the weekends."

"Sure," Joe replied, "Where is he?"

Jackson walked towards Buster, "Joe, this is Cornelius Jones, but he
prefers to go by Buster.  Buster, this is the person I said would train
you.  You have to ask him about the optional kissing I told you about."

Joe's face lit up, "I get to train you?  First order of business is, yes to
the optional kissing, whenever the mood strikes you."

"Then I won't get anything done except kissing because I'm always in the
mood to kiss you," Buster chuckled.

Jackson laughed, "Maybe I should have Cindy train you."

Joe looked at Jackson with a funny look, "I don't recall anyone named
Cindy."

"She's working at the rodeo right now," Jackson explained, "She's a riding
trainer, dealing mainly with pre-teens.  Since the Rodeo will be doing
their end of summer event next weekend, she'll work here during the week as
a trainer for families around Patrick's age."

"That would be why I don't know her," Joe responded.  He took Buster with
him out to the barns.  "You've seen what I do, so you should have an idea
of what is needed.  But I will gladly explain anything to you.  As for what
each horse's dietary needs are, there is a clipboard at each stall.  First
thing you will want to do is make sure someone didn't accidentally mix the
clipboards up. The horse's name is at the top of the paper."  Joe picked up
the clipboard hanging on the post beside the stall gate.  He showed Buster
where it said "Bootsie" and the horse's name on the other side of the gate.
"Once you've worked here long enough, you'll know the horses without having
to check their names, but always check this chart because their diets may
change for whatever reason.  Like Aurixi is having a special diet while she
is with foal."

"I thought she had her foals in June," Buster stated.

Joe giggled, "She did, but then she was bred again with Gold's sire."

"Already, is that safe?" Buster was surprised to say the least.

Joe nodded his head, "Jim checked with the vet and asked when he could."

Joe continued showing and explaining what was needed while he and Buster
worked together completing their tasks before the hay truck arrived.

Patrick worked hard helping Jim, of course Jim did most of the work, but
Patrick didn't slack off for one second or complain that it was too hard.
He helped Jim muck the stalls, spread fresh hay and prepare each horse's
feed.

When the hay truck came, Jim warned Patrick, "These bales of hay will weigh
about twice the weight of the saddles.  Once you're old enough to actually
be on the payroll, you should have the muscles to lift them, but today, can
you do me a favor and help by keeping Jake occupied and out of the way?"

"I sure can, Dad," Patrick answered.

As they were unloading the hay, Jim chuckled when Buster commented about
the weight.  "I was the same way when I started. You'll sleep well when you
get back to the lake."

"I can imagine, but I don't want to go to sleep until Joe is ready," Buster
stated.

"You'll fall asleep involuntarily, we all did," Joe explained, "but when
you do, I'll snuggle beside you and take a nap, too."

"You would, wouldn't you," Buster sneaked a quick kiss causing Jim to
smile.

After the hay was put away, Zac asked if everyone was ready to head home.
"I thought we were going to Patrick's house," Jim questioned.

Zac responded, "We will be, but you two need showers.  You worked Patrick
hard, I can tell."

Jim shook his head, "I didn't work Patrick hard, he worked hard on his own.
I'm very proud of the work he did."  Patrick smiled.

They showered and Zac drove to the house.  Patrick unlocked the house and
led them to his room.  Jim was surprised with all the different Lego sets
Patrick had.  "I always liked building them and then just put them on my
display shelf.  I have all of the directions in that drawer," Patrick
explained as he pointed to the top drawer of his desk.  "Most of the
clothes here, I just recently outgrew.  Most are still in good condition,
and Jake will grow into them eventually."

Jim stated, "That would save us having to buy some clothes later."

Jake looked happy, "I'm going to get to wear Patrick's clothes?"

"Yeah, Buddy, eventually," Jim answered.

"Yay!!!" Jake cheered.  Patrick laughed.  It surprised Jim, he was
expecting Patrick to be sad, but he guessed that seeing Jake so happy
outweighed the sadness.

"I have two bikes in the garage, one is too small for me, but it was my
first bike so Mom didn't want to get rid of it.  I was six and we still
have the training wheels.  Can I give it to Jake?" Patrick questioned.

Jim gave Patrick a light squeeze on the shoulder, "That's up to you, Bud,
but he can only ride in the back yard if you do, or at the ranch."

As they were carrying stuff Patrick wanted to either keep or give to Jake,
Jim noticed that he kept looking at the neighbor's house.  "You want to go
visit her, don't you?  Tell you what, we'll just take everything except the
furniture from your room, and we'll grab the bikes from the garage.  You
can go spend some time visiting while we do.  And maybe, we can arrange for
you to visit on Sundays after we're done at the ranch."

"Seriously?" Patrick almost shouted, "OH MY GOSH! I bet she would love that
and she makes the best chocolate chip cookies and chocolate milk.  Can I
introduce Jake to her? That way, you and Papa won't have to worry about
where he's at and I know she would love him."

Zac smiled, "I think that's an awesome idea."

"C'mon Jake, let me introduce you to the nicest lady that's not family,"
Patrick sounded so happy.

Patrick knocked on Miss Columbus' door and she was surprised when she saw
him, "Patrick, what are you doing here and who's the cutie with you?"

Patrick explained what they were doing, introduced her to Jake and told her
that Jim said they could make arrangements for him to visit on Sundays.
She invited the boys in and apologized, "I wasn't expecting you so I have
no cookies today, but I can make you both some chocolate milk and you can
tell me about your new family.  Or would you like some hot tea?  I noticed
your voice is cracking."

"Dad and Papa said that it's a sign that I'm growing up," Patrick boasted.

Miss Columbus commented, "As good-looking of a boy you are, I bet you'll be
a handsome young man."

"I haven't seen Milo or Jay yet, where are they?" Patrick asked.

"Heavens, I forgot that I shut them in my room before I knew it was you at
the door.  Let me go let them out, I bet they miss you, too," Miss Columbus
apologized.  She went to open her door and no sooner was it opened, the
cats ran to Patrick.

"Kitty cats," Jake squealed.

Miss Columbus returned carrying two glasses of chocolate milk.  "So how
long will you be visiting, today?"

"Not too long today, but next Sunday, maybe I can read your newspaper for
you," Patrick replied.

Miss Columbus gave Patrick a smile, "That would be nice, but I'll need to
restart my subscription.  When you moved, I cancelled it since I didn't
have anyone else to read it for me."

Patrick felt bad for her being alone with no one else visiting.  He had a
tear run down his cheek, which didn't go unnoticed.  The boys visited until
there was a knock on the door.  Miss Columbus went to see who it was.

"Hi, I'm Zac Bolt, one of Patrick's foster dads.  You must be Miss
Columbus."  Zac wanted to just say papa, but didn't know what Miss Columbus
would think if he did.

Miss Columbus offered, "Would you like to come in, where's the other one?"

Zac answered, "He's looking for the training wheels Patrick said he had for
the bicycle the boy gave to Jake." He walked in the house and waited to
follow Miss Columbus.

"Patrick said that he may be able to visit every Sunday, he's such a sweet
boy," Miss Columbus declared.

Zac smiled, "That he is, and he thinks the world of you.  He told Jake that
you are the nicest lady that's not family.  As for coming every Sunday, Jim
suggested it and Patrick seemed very eager to accept."

"Papa," Patrick greeted Zac as he walked into the kitchen, "is it time to
go already?"

Zac gave Patrick a weak smile, "No, you can finish your chocolate milk, you
did say that she makes the best.  Do you know where the training wheels
are? Dad and I can't find them.  If not, we can just get new ones."

Patrick smiled.  "She uses Nesquik powder AND Hersh1ey's syrup to make it.
Sometimes, she lets me stir it, but I think she stirs it better.  As for
the training wheels," Patrick looked deep in thought, "I think Mom put them
in a box on the top shelf beside the window, but I'm not sure."

"OK," Zac stated, "Finish your chocolate milk and spend a few more minutes
visiting.  We'll wait on you."  Patrick gave Zac a hug before he went to
look where Patrick suggested.

"You call him Papa?" Miss Columbus asked.  "I'm sure your parents would be
happy that you found a family that you love and they seem to love you.  I
wish that I could have taken you in myself, but I only have one bedroom."

Patrick got excited, "I would have loved staying with you, but I am glad
that I have my new family.  Dad and Papa really care about me and Mom and
Daddy visited me in my dreams to let me know that they approve."

"I'm happy for you," Miss Columbus stated.  "So what are you doing with the
house?  Will you move in when you're old enough?"

Patrick looked down, "No, it hurts being there, but I'm trying to be a man
about it.  Once I get what I want to keep, the lawyer will try to sell it
for me."

"I know a family looking for a home, I'm sure they would buy it.  They have
a boy your age, I believe.  Their name is Kennedy and you'll probably meet
the boy at school. His name is Gabriel." Miss Columbus informed Patrick.

Patrick smiled, thinking Miss Columbus could have a new family next door,
who she seems to like.  "My dad can give you the lawyer's name and number.
If you like them, they are to whom I want to sell."

"I'm glad you feel that way," Miss Columbus commented, she pinched his
cheek and added, "I like you too, Patrick."  Patrick started rubbing his
cheek.

Jim knocked on the door and Miss Columbus went to answer it.  Patrick and
Jake followed her, suspecting it was time to go.  "Dad, can you give Miss
Columbus the name of the lawyer? She knows a family looking to buy a house
and I'd like for them to buy this one since Miss Columbus already knows
them."  Jim pulled Harvey's card out of his wallet and handed it to Miss
Columbus.

"Do you need the card back?" Miss Columbus asked.  "I can write everything
down."

Jim shook his head, "You can keep it.  My mom is a paralegal at the law
firm, so I know the number."

Everyone got in the truck to head home and Patrick asked, "Did you find the
training wheels?"

Zac answered, "Right where you told me to look.  They looked a little rusty
so I want to get new ones, though.  Thanks for trying."

"I was just looking out for my brother," Patrick stated and gave Jake a
smile.

Jim had a serious look on his face, he looked at Patrick and asked, "What
are your plans for your mom and dad's clothes?  If you want, you can save
your dad's until you grew into them."

"I was thinking maybe one of the shelters could use them," Patrick
suggested.  "I would like to keep maybe his gray t-shirts and the pair of
Levi's that he wore whenever we played catch or worked on the car."

"Car? You mean the Tahoe?" Zac questioned.

Patrick answered, "No, the car behind the garage.  Daddy said that it would
be mine when I turned sixteen.  It was his first car."

Zac was glad that he hadn't started the truck yet.  He got out and walked
behind the garage to find the car Patrick was talking about.  It was a 1965
Ford Mustang.  Her interior wasn't quite in mint condition, but definitely
well taken care of.  There were no dents but she did need a new paint job.
The majority of the car was primer gray with some red splotches. The right
front fender was green.  Zac asked, "Does she run?"

Patrick climbed in the car and started it.  She ran but she was rough.
"Daddy said that once we got her purring, she would be a chick magnet,
whatever that means," Patrick commented.

"It's not one of the first Mustangs," Zac explained, "but when we get this
car purring and painted, you'll have girls and guys wanting to go for rides
in it.  I'm sure Grandpa Vince would love the opportunity to help us work
on it for you."

"That would be cool," Patrick stated.

Jim asked, "Do you know where the title is?  We should ask Mr. Cox what we
need to put it in your name, or one of our names until you are able to put
it in your name."

Patrick took Jim back into the house to find the title while Zac called
Vince.  Vince said that he would be happy to help and asked if it was
drivable.  Zac responded, "She starts up, but she is rough, very rough.
The tags are current, so maybe."

Vince suggested, "If she's that rough, don't take any chances.  I'll grab
my tow-bar and come get her.  Might I suggest that I bring her to the ranch
and park her by my race car?  That way we can teach Patrick to drive
without needing to use streets, and my tools are there."

"I think Patrick would like that idea," Zac agreed.

"OK, give me the address and I will get the car today.  I love you, Son,"
Vince said and paused before hanging up.

"I love you too, Dad," Zac said as they ended the call together.  Jim and
Patrick came back with the title and they headed home.  Zac told Patrick
what Vince said as he drove and Patrick was elated.

Monday morning, Joshua was there as scheduled and the boys climbed into the
limo.  Jake went on and on about going to milk a cow on Labor Day and
Joshua chuckled, "I may have to come out to the ranch to see that."

Patrick told Joshua about the Mustang and Jim commented about it being in
Paul Roberts' name but they were wanting to put it in Patrick's.  "Him
being a minor, that may be difficult, especially since he doesn't have a
license.  And unless you adopt him, they may not allow you to put it in
either yours or Zac's name."

"Zac and I want to adopt him, but Children's Protective Services wants us
to prove we can provide for him before they allow it," Jim explained.

Joshua kidded, "It's a shame that you don't know any judges who can
expedite that."  Then the judge told his driver to take them to the
courthouse.  He told Jim to call Zac and ask him to go there immediately.
Jim had tears and a smile as he called Zac.

At the courthouse, they ran into Ryan, "Judge Sprayberry, I believe you
know this family," Joshua stated more than asked.

Ryan smiled, "I do, Your Honor."

"Would you like to do the honors or should I?" Joshua asked.  "They wish to
adopt Patrick but CPS wants them to prove they can provide for him.  There
is no doubt in my mind that they can, and I'm sure you agree."

Ryan nodded his head, "I'm sure Jackson would make sure of that.  I would
love the honor of completing the adoption; that is, if Patrick wants me to
do so."

"Yes please," Patrick said, a tear running down his face.  "I doubt anyone
on this planet loves me as much as Dad and Papa."  Jim and Zac had tears
running their faces when Patrick said that.

Ryan asked, "Would you like your last name to be Bolt, or do you wish to
retain the last name of Roberts?"

Patrick looked at Jim and Zac for an answer.  Jim spoke first, "It's your
call, Bud.  If you want to retain your last name to honor your dad, we
totally understand."

Patrick turned back to Ryan, "I want my name to be Bolt.  I think Daddy
would understand, too."  Zac turned to Jim and buried his head into his
husband's shoulder.  How could anyone not love this boy.

Jim and Zac thanked Joshua and Ryan for making this happen sooner than
expected.  Joshua looked at Patrick, "We need to go someplace and
celebrate, do you want to go to McDonald's or someplace else?"

Patrick got the "Mc" out when Jake yelled, "McDonald's."

Joshua smiled at Jake and said, "I was asking Patrick since he's the one
who was just adopted, but I think that is where he was about to say."

"Sorry," Jake apologized.

"You were just excited at the prospect of going there, I understand that,"
Joshua answered.

"Yes, I would like to go to McDonald's.  And if you get Jake a Happy Meal,
can you ask them to add bacon?" Patrick requested.

"I sure can," Joshua stated and he mussed Patrick's hair.

Zac was getting ready to head back to the ranch, but Joshua insisted that
he have lunch with them to celebrate the adoption.  Zac didn't argue, he
knew that Jackson would totally understand.

Jake pulled the sandwich from his happy meal and was surprised, he had more
bacon than burger.  Joshua told him that he asked for triple bacon added to
it and Patrick grinned.  Jake said that it was the best Happy Meal ever,
except the time when Patrick gave him some of his bacon.

After they ate, Zac went to the ranch and Joshua had his driver take them
to the park so they could play.  He watched as Patrick pushed Jake on the
swing, then he and Jim pushed both boys on swings, switching between whom
was pushing who.  Jake wanted for him and Patrick to push Joshua and Jim on
the swing, but Jim was afraid Jake would get hurt.  The boys got on the
merry-go-round and Jim started pushing it to make it spin as fast as he
could.  The boys had a blast.

As it approached one, Joshua said that he needed to take them to the house
so Jim could get to the ranch.  Patrick gave Joshua a hug, "Thank you
Grandpa Joshua, you made me very happy and I'm sorry I didn't trust you
enough to come without Dad.  I love you."

"Kiddo," Joshua stated, "you have nothing to be sorry about.  You were just
being smart.  I love you as well."

Patrick seemed the happiest he had been since Jim met him.  Jim teased,
"Should I just start calling you Smiley?"

Patrick replied, "I like when you call me Bud, but I am so happy, knowing
that I am officially Papa's and your son.  No one can ever change that."

"No, Bud," Jim said, returning Patrick's smile, "no one can ever change
that."  Jim gave Patrick a hug before they climbed into Jim's car.

"We're not taking the truck to the ranch?" Patrick asked.

Jim explained, "I keep my gear for the dojo in the trunk of my car.  Since
we'll be heading there from the ranch, it's easier."

As they were nearing the entrance to the ranch, Patrick saw Vince taping
paper to the windows of the Mustang.  He asked, "What's Grandpa Vince
doing?"

"I would guess, he's preparing to have the car painted," Jim responded.
"Hopefully, he knows what color you want it.  But then, he's just preparing
it now, he may ask you before he paints it."

Patrick commented, "I hope he paints it red; that would look so hot."

Jackson greeted Patrick as he got out of the car, "I hear it's official.
Your papa told me, then Ryan called.  I'm happy for you, Partner."

"Thank you, Jackson.  I'm happy for me, too," Patrick laughed.

"We have several people calling to see if we're open today.  You should
make lots of tips today.  Matt said that he and Gina will be here at two.
Dusty and Cheyenne will be here at four. And we have several other
families.  Joe and Buster are out somewhere with a family named Kennedy.
Their son seems shy, maybe autistic until he gets near the horses.  He
seems to love them and they all love him.  He even gave Gold a kiss."

"Was the son's first name Gabriel?  That's the family that Miss Columbus
suggested to buy my house," Patrick was curious.

"It could be.  If I see them again, I will try to find out," Jackson
offered.

Jim asked Patrick, "You want to get our horses and I'll grab the saddles?"

"Gold and Toranado? Or is there a different horse I should grab for me?"
Patrick inquired.

Jim replied, "No, Toranado is a good horse for you to practice on."

Ryan came home early, Jackson was surprised.  "Hon, what's up?"

"Washington called, I didn't get the position as the Federal Judge in
Wyoming," Ryan stated.

Jackson felt bad for him, "I'm sorry to hear that, so you decided to call
it a day and come home?"

"Not exactly, they want me to come to Washington for another interview,"
Ryan crowed.  "I don't know what this interview will be for, though."

"Wait, what?" Jackson was confused.  "They passed you over for Federal
Judge in Wyoming, but are calling you back for an interview?"

"Like I said, they didn't really explain it, but they said that if I get
this other position, I would have more prestige and a bigger salary."

"I don't care what kind of salary you make, or even if you worked for free,
so long as you're happy," Jackson stated.  "You know, I have enough for us,
so just make sure you are happy."

Ryan avowed, "I promise; I would never consider accepting anything unless
we both are happy with it.  No amount of money matters unless your family
is happy first."

Zac offered to drive Ryan to the airport so Jackson could be around when
Joe's party returned.  Jackson and Ryan said that they appreciated the
offer.

Jim had the opportunity of taking Matt and Gina out.  He commented to
missing Gina on Saturday and was glad to see her.  Matt introduced Gina to
Patrick.  "Patrick is a noble name," Gina commented.  "It actually means
Noble."

"It does?" Patrick asked.

She explained, "Yes, and since it's your dad's middle name, I am thinking
of using it as part of my baby's name.  James is a derivative of Jacob, so
to honor him and Jake, I am thinking Jacob Patrick for the name.  I guess
that would include you, too."

Patrick started laughing, "I guess Dad was destined to get Jake and me,
then."

"Perhaps," Gina replied, "Or just darn lucky.  You both are such handsome
boys and seem so well behaved."

"We try to be," Patrick confessed, "But we aren't always.  You should have
seen what we did to the kitchen on Friday."

Jim spoke up, "Let's just say they were trying to help prepare the batter
to make pancakes.  You boys didn't misbehave, you just made a mess."  Jim
showed Gina the pic that he took.

"Oh my," she laughed, "I think a mess is an understatement.  How long did
it take to clean up?"

Jim lowered and shook his head, then he chuckled, "Hours, but we had fun
with the water."

Patrick added, "Dad made sure all of us were soaked."

After the ride, Matt walked over to Patrick, "Did your dad get you that
bank?"

Patrick smiled, "He sure did, he said that I was born year of the monkey so
he found a monkey bank.  It's eating a banana and Dad used a Sharpie marker
to carefully write my name on its belly.  You should stop by the house
sometime to see it."

Matt nodded his head, "I should.  You want me to give this to you or just
hand it to your dad?"

"You can give it to Dad," Patrick replied, "and thank you, Uncle Matt."

When Dusty and Cheyenne showed up, Jim teased Dusty, claiming that he only
came to make sure Jim was still going to class.  "It's not the only
reason," Dusty declared. "Today is the last day before school starts and
Chey wanted to meet Patrick."

"But you did come to see if I was still going," Jim chuckled.

Dusty responded, "Nah, you said you'd be there, so I know you will.
Besides, Patrick wants to start going and I know you'll do everything you
can to make it happen."

They rode over by where Vince has Patrick's Mustang.  Vince was done
papering the windows and had the hood up.  Patrick rode up to him, "What's
up with the car, Grandpa?"

Vince showed Patrick the carburetor, "I was going to run a diagnostic on
it, but as soon as I spotted the carburetor, I knew it needed a good
cleaning.  It was badly fouled, so I'm in the process of rebuilding it.  I
thought about replacing the spark plugs and wires, but want to get the
diagnostic done first.  And your dad must have recently bought the battery;
it looks brand new."

"I see you papered the windows, are you planning to paint soon?" Jim asked.

Vince explained, "Not until I know if I need to pull the engine or not.  I
do have fender protectors to keep from scratching the paintwork, but I
don't want to take any chances.  The paper also helps protect the interior
from the sun."

Jim inquired, "What color are you thinking?"

Vince looked at Patrick and teased, "I was thinking maybe pink."

"NO WAY!!!" Patrick looked embarrassed, "I don't want a pink car.  Pink is
for girls."

Vince chuckled, "No, Zac tells me that your favorite color is red, so I'm
thinking either cherry or ruby red would look good.  They are close enough
in color, I could do it as a two-tone and most people would have to look
closely to notice the difference."

"I like both colors, but if I had to choose one," Patrick stopped to think,
"I think I like ruby red maybe a little better."

They left Vince to work on the car and Jim took Dusty and Cheyenne to the
lake.  Dusty liked the dock and everything else.  "We need to talk to Coach
Jenkins and set something up early enough to enjoy this dock, unlike last
year, coming in November."

Jim was ecstatic, "I know, right?  That's what I told Zac on Friday, when
we saw it.  When I was told you were coming, I was happy because I wanted
you to see this."

Dusty suggested, "Tomorrow, we have Study Hall; but Wednesday, we can
suggest it. Not this weekend as it'll be Labor Day weekend, but maybe the
next weekend, or one after that."

Jim suggested that they ride back so they could groom the horses and get to
the dojo.  Dusty didn't argue but wished he could have spent more time at
the lake.  He really liked the changes.

As they were riding back, Jim spotted Gerry on his horse, Midnight Rider.
"How long have you been riding, Gerry?  You look good in that saddle."

"Thanks," Gerry responded.  "I started riding about seventeen years
ago. Dad bought my first horse for my eighth birthday, June 22, 1998."

Jim was surprised, "Wow, I was little more than a month old when you got
your first horse.  Do you still have him?"

Gerry laughed, "SHE's still at my dad's farm.  She's also Midnight Rider's
Dame.  I ride her when I go to visit my dad, but Midnight is my boy." He
patted his horse on the side of the neck.

Jim felt embarrassed assuming Gerry's first horse was a stallion, "That's
cool, enjoy your ride and thank you for the fine craftsmanship at the
lake."

They made it to the dojo with just a few minutes to spare.  Sensei was
heading to his office as they came through the door.  He asked, "And who is
this fine looking gentleman?"

Jim introduced Patrick, "Sensei, this is my new son Patrick.  Patrick would
like to start taking classes."

"Since he's your son and you are taking classes, I can give a twenty-five
percent discount for him, but I'll be foregoing the usual first four weeks
free," Sensei informed Jim.

"After sixteen weeks, it'll be a savings above that anyway, so..." Jim
chuckled.

Sensei went into his office, "Here's a new gi for him.  We can worry about
the paperwork after class.  Hurry and get changed so we may begin."

Patrick took the gi and followed Jim into the locker room.  Jim and Jake
started stripping at Jim's locker and Patrick asked, "Do I just use your
locker or will I need my own?"

Jim answered, "If you want your own, you can use any without a lock on it
and I'll buy you a lock before next week.  If you just want to use mine,
you can.  Since you don't have a lock, I suggest you just use mine for
tonight."  After Jim was changed, he noticed Patrick was having trouble
figuring out the gi bottoms.  He showed Patrick that the longer straps go
in front as they wrap completely around him whereas the shorter straps only
come around and both sets tie in front.

Once Patrick was ready, they went to join the rest.  Sensei stood at the
front of the class.  "We have several new students today, so if those that
are here for the first time would like to stand over where Jake is, he's
the little boy with the oversized gi, Dusty will begin teaching you the
basics.  Jake, even though you are too young for the class, you have been
watching and learning.  If you would like to help Dusty, I would appreciate
it."

The entire room laughed when Jake yelled, "Yay!!!"

Sensei continued, "Jim, you have two sons over there counting Jake.  Would
you like to assist Dusty or would you prefer to get closer to your black
belt?"

"I trust Dusty a hundred percent and I can work with them at home.  I would
prefer to improve myself here," Jim replied.  Sensei was a bit surprised by
Jim's answer but also pleased.

After class, all Patrick could talk about was what Dusty had taught him and
how good Jake was.  Jim acknowledged that he knew Jake was learning very
quickly.  Dusty had worked Jake so hard that the boy was worn out and slept
on the way home.  He missed Patrick and Jim talking about him.

After they got home and had supper, Jim reminded Patrick and Jake that they
had school in the morning.  Patrick and Jake took a shower together and
went to bed.  Jake didn't feel like playing in the tub.  He just wanted to
get clean and get to sleep.

In the morning, Zac had breakfast ready early.  He woke Jim up before
heading downstairs so Jim could shower.  Jim walked into the kitchen
commenting, "Morning, I had the most amazing dream.  I was sleeping beside
the most handsome man in the world and then I woke up to discover him in my
kitchen fixing breakfast."

"I don't know about most handsome in the world, especially since the guy I
was sleeping beside makes me look like dog chow," Zac quipped.

"You, my love," Jim stated, "are definitely not dog chow.  And if you are,
arf, arf."

Patrick walked into the kitchen, "I can't go to school today, I just got
nauseated from watching two lovebirds in the kitchen."

"You know that you love seeing us so much in love," Zac responded.

Patrick gave them a smile and said, "I'm not sure who's worse, you or the
way my parents were.  Are you sure, they didn't take over your bodies?  And
yes, you do make me happy knowing that you love each other."  Jim mussed
Patrick's hair.  "Please, it took me an hour to get it perfect and you
messed it up in 2 seconds."

Jim mused, "Zac, remind me to get some lipstick so I can draw lips on this
boy's cheek and really embarrass him."

"I love you, Dad, but if you do, I'll tell everyone that you're straight,"
Patrick kidded.

Jim laughed, thinking "what a threat."  Then he informed Patrick, "Not that
that is much of a threat, but I wouldn't purposely embarrass you, anyway."

Zac averred, "Your classes start at seven thirty, Patrick's start at seven
thirty and Jake needs to be in his kindergarten class at seven forty-five.
I can run both boys to school on my way to the ranch.  Jackson knows I
won't be in until eight.  He has someone coming to inspect the house at
eight and may actually get in it a week earlier than expected."

Jim remarked, "That's cool.  Have you seen the inside of that house?  It
looks better than I imagined it would, and I imagined it awesome to begin
with."

"Yes," Zac replied, "If we don't get that house, when we are ready to build
our own, I want to use Gerry to build it.  He did an amazing job."

After eating, Jim placed his dishes in the dishwasher and headed for class.
Zac took Patrick to school and went into the office to let them know
Patrick's last name changed.  He showed them the adoption certificate as
proof.  The secretary made a copy and thanked Zac for keeping them updated.
Before Zac left, she asked, "How is Patrick doing?  I would hate to think
what I would be like if I were in his shoes."

"He's a typical eleven-year-old who lost his parents and in a week's time
found another set of parents who he knows loves him.  He has his good days
and bad days, but overall, I think he's handling it.  I know he's still
hurting, but he puts on a front.  I do appreciate your concern."

"I shouldn't be here if I didn't care about the students and their
families," the secretary declared.

Zac concurred, "I couldn't agree more; I wish more schools had secretaries
like you." And Zac headed out so he could get Jake to kindergarten.

They found Jake's classroom and Jake was nervous about going in.  Zac
advised him that he had nothing to worry about and either he or Daddy would
be here to pick him up when his class was over.  "You promise?  You're not
just leaving me here are you?"

"Buddy, you, Daddy and I talked about this.  When you started living with
us, you were looking forward to being in school just like Daddy, remember?"
Jake nodded his head.  "This is school and I promise, one of us will be
here, or maybe both of us, when school is over for you.  Look, over there
is a boy playing with Lego's. Maybe you can help him build something."

"OK," Jake sadly agreed.  It almost broke Zac's heart leaving the boy, but
he knew it had to happen.  He heard Jake introduce himself, "Hi, I'm Jake
Bolt, can I help you build something?"

"My name is Chase, Chase LeDoux Dubois.  We just moved here from Cheyenne a
few months ago.  What should we build?"

At Cody Middle School, Patrick's teacher called attendance, "Patrick, I
just received a memo and understand that your last name changed to Bolt.
Is that correct?"

"Yes, Ma'am," Patrick answered without giving any details.

The teacher spoke gently, "I'm sorry to hear about your parents, if you
ever need to excuse yourself, let me know."

"Thank you, Ma'am, but I know my parents would want me to just do the best
I can and..." Patrick couldn't finish his sentence.  He didn't cry, but he
was obviously still hurting.

"I understand," the teacher simply said.

One boy sitting at the back of the room said, "I heard his parents ran into
that drunk because they didn't want to be around him anymore."

Patrick snapped a pencil in half and ran out of the room.  As he went
through the door, he overheard the teacher, "Tobias Maelstrom, you know
that is not true and I will not have you bullying a student in this
classroom.  Grab your things and we will go to the principal's office
immediately."

"I prefer Toby and it is true, my dad told me so himself, and he's a deacon
at the church," the boy claimed.

"Tobias, I said to grab your things."  Patrick heard what sounded like
desks being pushed and then the teacher came out of the class room with a
hand on the boy's shoulder.  "I'm sorry, Patrick, his actions were uncalled
for and I'm sure you know your parents loved you very much.  Would you like
for me to call someone to come get you?"  Patrick just shook his head and
started back for the classroom.

Toby looked at Patrick and started to talk, "I'm sorry too.  I'm sorry that
your parents d... Owwwww, that hurt. Wait until my father hears about this
and you get fired."

The teacher looked at Toby, "I'll be sure to tell him just as soon as he
comes to pick you up.

Patrick thought Toby looked scared and that made him feel sorry for the
boy.  Toby looked at the teacher, "You're going to call my dad?  Please
don't, he'll kill me.  I only said what I did because my parents tell me
all the time that they wish they could get away from me."  Now Patrick
really felt bad for him.

"Dude, I was lucky, I had parents who wanted to be with me all the time.
My dad was teaching me how to repair the first car he ever owned and said
it would be mine on my sixteenth birthday," Patrick stated.  "Now, I have
new parents who have shown me in a week that they love me just as much."

"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said what I did.  Just this morning, my mom
said that she was glad school was starting so she didn't have to look at me
for a few hours," Toby started crying.

The teacher looked at Toby, "If Patrick can forgive you, I won't take you
to the principal's office, but I do want to call CPS to investigate these
allegations.  If what you say is true, they are abusing you in the worst
possible way."

"Is there any way that they can investigate without my parents finding out?
I'm scared what might happen," Toby was starting to shake.



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