Date: Mon, 6 Jul 2015 17:00:39 -0600
From: Michael King <thewriter1@live.ca>
Subject: LiL Bros

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LiL Bros
Chapter 22:

	Derrick and Cory went into the kitchen where they sat at the dining
table and started doing their school work. Maria came in as they were both
doing their math. Seeing the two boys working hard she went and poured them
both a glass of milk and then got them a small plate of fresh baked
cookies. "Thank you Ms. Maria. These are good." Derrick said with a small
smile. Cory who had his mouth full just nodded.

"You muchachos are welcome, now finish your schooling. Cory, where is
Michael?" Maria asked.

"I think he is in the den, he said he had to make some calls and wanted to
read some paper." Cory answered.

"Thank you, now back to work."

	Leaving the two to finish, Maria went and found Michael talking on
the phone. Sitting on the couch she waited for him to finish. Hanging up
Michael just smiled. "Maria, I have your paycheck here." Michael said as he
gave Maria an envelope.

"Senor Caine, I have dinner planned for tonight, as you said I should
expect seven, and I would like to stay and help you with it, but I don't
want to leave my little Nino at home."

"Well go get him, I am sure that my boys will keep him busy."

"Gracias, I will do that now before your guests start to show up."

"Take your time Maria, your children come first always, you know that."

"Si senor I do, you are too easy on me. This job is mostly sitting around."

"Well if you want, I can offer you a position in the new office I am
opening up downtown. In fact I would like it if you were the manager."

"That would mean giving up this job, and if I did that who would look after
this house, and cook your meals?"

"I am sure that the three of us can handle keeping this place clean, and as
for cooking, well I think I can do that if I have to. I am not firing you,
I just thought that you would like a job that is a bit more work and pays
better. I know that you have a business degree, and you're wasting it doing
house work."

"Michael Caine, you are the most generous person I know, no one has ever
offered to help me out like you are. When I took this job, I did it because
I was tired of trying to live off of food stamps and food banks."

"Then as of now you are the manager for Aphex consulting here in
Naples. Now go get your boy and let's have a great time."

"Thank you Michael, I will be back as soon as I can."

"Take your time."

	After Maria had left Michael picked up the paper that his brother
Adam had written so long ago. The title page caught Michael's eye and made
him smile. Turning the page Michael started to read.

"My hero doesn't wear tights or a mask, he doesn't have fancy weapons or
capes to help him. My hero isn't superman or spider man, but he is always
there when I need him the most.

My hero takes the time to listen to me, to help me when I am down. My hero
picks me up when I fall, he brushes the tears away when I cry.

My hero wakes me with a smile and tucks me in at night with a kiss on the
head. MY hero never seems to be angry, always seems to have laugh for me
when I have had a bad day?"

	As Michael read the words of his brother the tears filled his eyes
as he realized that Adam's hero was him. Putting the paper aside he dried
his eyes and left the den to check on his boys. Walking into the kitchen he
saw that the boys had finished their work and were cleaning up the plates
and glasses. When the two turned Michael held his arms open and they both
rushed over and gave him hug. "Daddy are you okay?" Cory asked as he looked
at Michael's red eyes.

"I am great Cory, I was reading Adam's paper and it brought back some good
memories."

"Oh, is that why you were crying?" Derrick asked.

"In a way, maybe later you both can read his words and you might
understand."

"Can we play a video game until dinner?" Cory asked.

"You can play until 3:30 then I want you both outside for a while."

"Okay, after we play can we swim then?" Derrick asked.

"That will be okay, but you call me when you go, I will come out and be
with you." Michael was going to say a bit more when Scott and Jerry came
walking in.

"Hi guys." Jerry called out.

"Hey Jerry, what brings you here?" Michael asked.

"Oh I just thought that I would drop by and see how you all are doing, plus
well Michael I know I wasn't supposed to do this, but well I have something
for Cory."

"Oh what is it?" Michael asked.

"You got me something?" Cory hollered.

"Yes squirt I did, come on outside and have a look."

	Running out of the kitchen, Cory raced out the front door and
stopped on the driveway. Michael and the rest were close behind. Michael
watched as Cory slowly walked over and was staring at the bicycle sitting
in the driveway. The black Norco Turbo gleamed in the afternoon
sunlight. Running his hands over the handlebars and seat Cory couldn't help
but smile and cry at the same time. Strapped to the crossbar was a bright
red and yellow Laser sport P'Nut helmet. Running back over to where
everyone was standing, Cory threw himself at Jerry. "That is for me?" he
sobbed.

"Yes squirt, that is for you, but you have to promise to always wear the
helmet."

"I do, I promise, but, umm? I don't know how to ride?"

"That is okay I am sure Michael and Derrick will help you. If they don't
have the time then I will come over and teach you." Scott said with a
smile.

"Jerry, why?" Michael asked.

"Michael, Cory is like another brother to all of us around here, and before
you say anything, all the guys chipped in to buy these for Cory, so don't
get pissed at us. Plus now you have Derrick and so with both having bikes
they can have more fun."

"I agree and I thank you, and you can tell everyone that also. Cory, I want
you to know I am glad you have the bike, but you, like Derrick are not to
ride anywhere without myself or some adult with you. I also want you to
know that until you have learned everything I want you to stay in the
yard."

"I promise daddy. Derrick will you help me learn?"

"Yeah, man this is so cool. Uncle Scott will you help me?" Derrick
whispered.

	Michael was pushing the bike into the garage when Maria got
back. She had just parked and was getting out when Sam and the others
showed up. Going back inside Michael grabbed a soda and went back to his
den. Picking up Adam's paper again he continued to read from where he left
off.

"? My hero never worries about himself. My hero isn't my dad or mom, though
I love them a lot. No my hero takes time to be with me. Never worries about
my friends. My hero includes them in things we do. My hero stays up with me
when I am sick, he tells me stories or reads to me.

My hero shares all the time he can with me. My hero is the best. My hero is
like none other, because my hero is none other than my big brother and I
love him lots."

	Scott found Michael in the den crying. Walking over he just held
him. Scott saw the paper and started reading it, he had just finished the
first page, but he understood now what had his love so upset. Scott could
feel the tears in his own eyes as he too remembered little Adam, and how he
was such a fire ball of energy. "Michael, I am sorry, I can never know how
much you miss your family, but you have to know that we are all here for
you." Scott whispered.

"I know Scott, I just didn't know how much he looked up to me. I never told
him how much I loved him, sometimes I thought he was a pain, but no matter
what I was always there for him."

"I know that, and you were there for Tommy and now for Cory and
Derrick. You are so special to a lot of people."

"I am nothing special, all I want is a family that I can love. Damn it
Scott I want my family back." Michael cried.

"I know you do, and I wish I could make that happen, but I can't. I know
they are with you always, as long as you keep them in your heart and
memory. Now dry your eyes, we can't let the boys see you like this."

"You're right. Are you and Jerry staying for dinner?"

"I was hoping to stay the night, I already told mom that I would be
here. She said it would be okay."

"You know you don't have to ask, you are always welcome here, besides you
haven't been around since we got back to school."

"Yeah well homework does that to you, sure we have the games, but I want to
be with you for more than two hours."

"I want that also. Have you heard what the Team captain has planned for
tomorrow's game?"

"No, have you?"

"No that is why I asked, I know he doesn't like it when you and I are on
the floor together."

"Well screw him, we make a good team, I just wish he would look at how we
work together and maybe he would see that."

"You have a point, I have a feeling that he is use to the spotlight and now
he isn't getting it."

"Maybe, but as I said screw him."

	The two boys left the den and found Jerry and the little guys
outside in the backyard. Cory was sitting on his bike as Jerry held the
seat. The two were moving around the grass. Michael could hear Jerry
encouraging Cory. Soon Jerry let go and watched as Cory went around the
yard by himself. "Cory that is great, you're doing an awesome job." Michael
called out as he watched Cory rode right into the pool.

	Laughing Scott and Michael walked over and with the help of Jerry
got the bike out of the water as Cory walked up the steps smiling. "That
was fun Daddy." Cory giggled.

"It looked like it was, but you're not supposed to ride into the pool."
Scott laughed.

"I know, but I wasn't watching until it was too late."

"It is okay turkey, I don't think you will do that again." Michael
grinned. "Now stay here while I get you a towel and some dry clothes."

"Thanks daddy."

	After the incident with the pool and Cory had changed everyone sat
in the front room. The adults and older boys were talking, while Cory and
Derrick watched a movie. They were still talking when Maria came in the
front room, her son hiding behind her. "Michael, this is my son Jorge."
Maria said as she pulled her son around in front of her.

"Hello Jorge, and welcome, come on in and join the two boys playing, they
are Derrick and Cory."

"Hello Mr. Michael." Jorge whispered.

"Just Michael, okay turkey?"

"Uh-huh"

"Hi Jorge, I am Cory, want to come play with us?" Cory said from in front
of the TV."

"Can I?"

"Sure, are you staying for supper too?"

"Yup. Mama said we is staying.

"That is cool, that means that the three of us won't have to listen to
these mean old folks." Derrick said with a laugh.

Scott hearing what Derrick had said knelt down and started to tickle the
little guy. "Old am I."

"Uh-huh." Derrick laughed out.

	Cory seeing Scott tickling Derrick, jumped on Scott's back and soon
the three were rough housing around. Jorge was laughing at the three, and
soon found himself being tickled by Cory and Derrick. "Hey no fair." Jorge
laughed, then saw Scott pick Cory up and toss him over his shoulder.

"Hey, Derrick, Jorge help me, this meanie has got me." Cory squeaked.

"Nope you is on your own now." Derrick giggled.

	When the boys had settled down, Michael sat on the couch and watch
how Jorge was accepted quickly by his two little ones. He was about to move
into the kitchen and see if Maria needed any help when Sam walked into the
living room. Remembering what was going on with the boys Michael waved Sam
into the den. "Sam, I need your help."

"What's new?" Sam laughed.

"No I mean I need someone who can look into threats against Cory and
Derrick, from what they told me, it seems as if some boys, are picking on
the smaller kids, taking their money. Today the boys told me that they took
theirs, but also said some nasty things to them. Neither Cory or Derrick
told me what the boys had said, but it was enough to scare them."

"Did you talk to the school, see what they could do?"

"Yes and the principal didn't seem to care, she sort of brushed it off as
nothing serious."

"No Michael this is serious, I will call and see if Captain Harris has any
other reports on things like this. If not then I would suggest that the
boys file a complaint."

"That could lead to more trouble for them, I don't want another Tommy. Sam,
those boys are scared to go to school. I am sure that if I ask, Carl and
Alex they would be happy to watch them during the day, but then these
people could move on and do the same thing to others."

"You're right, we have to stop it now, are the boys willing to give me
these older boy's names to me?"

"You would have to ask them, but I think they will if they know them."

"Okay then after dinner I will talk to them."

	After dinner true to his word Sam took Cory and Derrick into the
spare bedroom and talked with them. Scott had gone into the front room, and
was busy looking through an old photo album that showed both Adam and
Michael together. Jerry had headed out as he told everyone that he had a
date and didn't want to be late for it. He told Michael and Scott that with
a grin on his face. As for Michael he went back into the den and was
sitting at his desk reading Adam's work again. He was half way through it
when Scott came in and turned on the computer and soon had YouTube
opened. Michael couldn't see what he was doing, but soon he could hear a
faint song being sung. "Turn it up Scott." Michael called out.

"Do you want me to start it over again?" Scott asked.

"Sure, but why did you pick that song, you could have found something you
like listening too?"

"I'm sorry, I can change it, but I just typed in hero's' and this came up."

"That's okay, just kinda goes with Adam's work here."

	The rest of the night was spent cuddled up with the two boys as
they watched TV. Sam had joined the boys after making a few phone calls and
getting the Naples police to look into any complaints that may have been
filed on kids that have had their money stolen by older teens in the
area. Carl and Alex had stayed for dinner, and then left. Alex promising
that he would be back in the morning to take the boys to school.

	The next morning as Michael got dress he realized that first class
was at nine, so making sure that the place was clean, and that Maria would
be there later he left. Just before driving away, Michael called
Mr. Bullinger his contractor. During the night Michael had decided on
adding to the name of his building. A deep baritone voice shook Michael
from his thoughts. "Bullinger Contracting."

"Mr. Bullinger, it is Michael Caine calling, I was wondering if we could
make a few changed in the name of my place?"

"What do you have in mind?" Bullinger asked.

"Nothing to hard I hope, I just want to add an A to the name."

"I don't understand Michael, fill me in a bit."

"Well instead of having it as TCC I was wondering if we could make
ACTC. All we would be doing it changing the lettering around a bit."

"Well I can't see that as a problem, but let me call the company and see
what they say, how about I call you later this afternoon with an answer?"

"That will be good, I have class until 3 pm though, and then I practice for
the game tonight."

"Okay I will call about 4:15 then, and I know about your game, I plan on
being there to watch."

"That would be great sir and I will see you at the game then."

	It was during basketball practice after that the coach pulled Scott
and Michael aside. "Gentlemen, your team captain has asked that you be
split up. He wants Michael to sit on the bench for the semi-finals here."
The coach stated.

"And what do you think sir?" Scott asked.

"I don't know what to think, in fact I never thought we would get this
far."

"Then sir, if you want to reach the finals and win, I would suggest that
you don't listen to the captain and let Scott and I play like we have
throughout the year." Michael retorted.

"Sir it is no secret that the captain, hates us, and both Michael and I
spoke on this last night. We both feel that he wants the spotlight,
something he had during his high school."

"You could be right, now we have five games to play the first is tonight,
what I was thinking and could prove you both right, is that I allow the
captain's wish. However if I feel that we are going to be trounced then I
will put you two back together. I have watched you two and you work well as
a team."

"That is something I don't believe the captain understands." Michael
stated.

"Could be you are right, but let's see what happens during the first
period."

"Yes sir." Scott and Michael said together.

	After practice Michael drove Scott home and then head back to his
place. He had just gotten in the door when he was slammed back by twin
whirlwinds. "You is late daddy." Cory mumbled.

"No I am not, you knew I had practice after class, and then I had to drop
your Uncle Scott off."

"Uh-huh, but still I don't like not being with you."

"Well you get to be with me tonight and all weekend, though I do have two
games tomorrow and two on Sunday."

"Yup and you gonna win for us, right?" Derrick asked.

"I will do my best, but whether we win or lose, I will be playing for you
both. In fact why don't I dedicate one game to each of you?"

"You'd do that?" Cory asked.

"Sure I would, I love my little turkeys.

	Game time. The locker room was loud as the team changed. Michael
and Scott could hear the jokes and on occasion would laugh. Michael was
just tieing his shoes when the team captain walked over. "Caine you're on
the bench tonight." The captain hollered.

"That is fine Walker, just remember that when we lose tonight." Michael
stated firmly.

"We won't lose, we are the best." Walker snarled.

"Have it your way." Michael snapped back as he stood and walked away.

"Walker, I don't know what is up your butt with those two, but you just
took our best out of the game." Another team member stated.

"To hell with that, I am the captain and I make the decisions."

"Yeah well you made a wrong one. Live with it."

	Walker looked around the locker room and saw the others were
agreeing with their teammate. Shrugging it off, he left and went onto the
court and started his warm up.

	Right at 7 pm the game kicked off and within two minutes the
opposing team had scored their first points. Michael who was sitting on the
bench watched as the team tried to recover, but couldn't no matter what
Walker said the others couldn't work it. By the end of the first period the
team was behind by twenty points, and it looked like a lost game. Looking
over at Scott, Michael saw him shrug his shoulders and shake his head. When
the game resumed the look of defeat was on every team member's face. It was
half way through the second period when the coach called for a time
out. "Walker, I don't care what you think, or how you feel, but I am
putting Caine and Parker in. We might be able to salvage something out of
this game instead of a total defeat."

"No sir, I don't want them playing tonight at all, we can still win it."

"No you can't, you're thirty points behind now, and even with the two in it
will be hard to get back. Now I have made the choice, they play."

"Fine." Walking over to where Michael was sitting, Walker snarled. "You're
playing, you and you little friend."

"Listen walker, if we are going to win this we have to sink every damn
basket we can, that means we all have to work together. If you can't
understand that then I will just sit here and watch us lose." Michael
whispered.

"We won't lose, and you're not that good."

"I never said I was good, all I know is that with Scott and me playing we
have a chance. Now the time is up and we have to play."

"Whatever, just be warned this isn't the end of it."

	Michael's team lost by ten points, but they still had four games to
go. The next game would be the important one, for if they lost they were
out of the finals. In the locker room the voices were subdued, no one
really wanting to talk about the game or how bad they had played. Michael
had just finished getting changed and was packing up his bag, when Walker
walked over. Pushing Michael against his locker, Walker pinned him
there. "I don't know what you're doing out there, but it ends here and now,
your glory days are over kid and I will make sure of it."

"Walker, back off." Scott yelled as he stepped forward, his fists
clenched. "You don't know squat as to what is going on, and that goes for
the rest of you. Now we have a game tomorrow at 10, I want you all here at
8:30, because we are going to talk and get this crap straight. And I mean
everyone." Scott yelled.

Michael was going to say something when he heard a squeaky little voice
echo through the room. "Daddy you finished, we are hungry." Cory yelled.

"I will be right there turkey." Michael called back. "Scott you coming?"

"Yeah, let's go feed the birds." Scott laughed. "Remember guys 8:30" Scott
said at the door.

	Then night was a quiet one for the boys. After having a bite at
McDonalds, Michael drove home and had Cory and Derrick get ready for
bed. Scott sat on the couch beside Michael and when the boys had gone to
change, he quickly gave Michael a kiss. "I love you, you know that don't
you?" Scott whispered.

"No I didn't." Michael snickered. Then kissed Scott back. "Are you staying
the night?"

"I was hoping to."

"You know you're always welcome here."

	The boys came back and curled up on the couch with Michael and
Scott, both sitting quietly. That was until Michael suggested some ice
cream then the two started bouncing around and screaming. Snacks, and teeth
done Michael and Scott tucked the boys into bed and kissed them
goodnight. "You staying Uncle Scott?" Cory asked.

"Yes munchkin I am, now go to sleep and I will see you in the morning."

"Okay, love you Uncle Scott."

"I love you too, and you also Derrick."

"Night Uncle Scott." Derrick said with a smile.

	Scott and Michael both took turns in the bathroom before climbing
into bed. After a tough day at school and a rough game of basketball both
boys dropped off to sleep rather quickly. Scott's soft snoring could be
heard if one was to listen, but since everyone was asleep it went
unnoticed. For Michael he sleep was anything but restful. His dreams were
filled with thoughts of Adam. He missed his brother, something he had never
shared with anyone. Michael always hid his feelings that caused him pain
and thinking of Adam and Tommy were the two things he hid from even
Scott. Sure Scott knew how much pain Tommy's death had cause, but what
Scott didn't know was the emptiness Michael felt.

	The morning came with the pouncing of two little boys bouncing on
the bed. "Wake up daddy, I am hungry." Cory called out.

"Nah, I think I will just stay here and cuddle with my turkeys. I figured
they had enough birdseed last night." Michael laughed.

"Nah, you being mean, come on daddy, I want some pancakes,
Pleeeeaaaasssseee."

"Okay, you two go get dressed and let Uncle Scott and I do the same."

"Okay, but hurry."

	Hugging the boys, Michael pushed them gently off the bed. "Go on,
get dressed." Michael said as he shook Scott. "Come on bro time to get up."

"Damn it is hard to sleep around here." Scott said with a grin, before
rolling over and kissing Michael. "Look I got to go, I will meet you at the
game about 9, I can get mom's car so don't worry okay."

"Sure, we'll meet you there." Michael said with a yawn.

"Did you get any sleep?" Scott asked showing concern in his voice.

"Yeah I got some, maybe a few hours."

"It looks like it, maybe I should get Richie to drive for you."

"Nah I'll be fine after I wake up a bit more."

"Okay, but I would still like to have Richie with you?"

"Scott, I will be fine, stop worrying." Michael snapped,

	Leaving Michael to feed the boys, Scott walked home, his thoughts
on Michael's reaction. Walking into his house Scott saw that Peter and
Richie were up and eating breakfast. Mrs. P was standing at the counter a
cup of coffee in her hand when she looked up and saw her youngest son
standing there. "What is it, Scott, you look worried?" Mrs. P asked.

"I don't know mom, something about Michael is bugging me."

"Now what has he done?"

"That's just it, nothing really."

"Then what is it, come on Scott, I know you better."

"Well, he said he had a few hours' sleep last night, but mom he looks a
mess, I don't think he slept at all last night. Then this morning he
snapped at me when I suggested that Richie ride with him to the game."

"Well honey, you have to remember that Michael is still under a lot of
stress. Think about it for a minute, he is 16 and the father of two nine
year olds, then he has his classes and there is still this trial coming
up. I expect Michael to be very short tempered over the next few weeks. The
only thing you can do is be there and support him through it all."

"I know, and you can be sure that I won't let him go through this
alone. Now I got to get to school, I am going to have some words with the
team before Michael gets there and the game starts. Can I use the car?"

"Well if you take the car how are we going to get to the game, you know
that we never miss one of your games."

"You could call the Archers, I know they are coming to watch. What do you
think Peter would your mom pick up these brats?" Scott asked with a grin.

"I don't know, you think the trunk will hold them both." Peter asked and
laughing.

"Peter Archer, I will get even with you for that." Mrs. P said with a
smile.

"Yeah, so will I." Richie grinned. "Ride in the trunk huh."

"Scott the keys are on the coffee table by the door. And honey stop
worrying for a while."

"Thanks mom, and I will try."

	Tossing his gear into the back of his mom's car, Scott drove off to
the campus. His mind on what he was going to say to the team. He parked the
car and after grabbing his stuff walked into the gym. Scott was surprised
to see that the whole team was there, even Walker. Though Scott could see a
sneer on Walker's face he didn't let it bother him.

	Walking over to where the team was sitting Scott dropped his bag
and looked at the guys. "Okay, I don't know how many of you dislike Michael
or me, but I don't care, what I care about is how you are all treating us,
and how you are all acting like we aren't a team. Well if we want to win
this championship then we better get it together." Scott stated.

"Why should we listen to you?" Walker asked.

"Because you know nothing about what the hell is going on. You think
Michael is trying to steal the glory from you, well you're wrong, and
Michael doesn't play for himself, he plays for his brothers, not just Cory
and Derrick, but for Adam and Tommy."

"Who are Adam and Tommy?" One player asked.

"They are the two brothers that Michael lost, one in a plane crash, the
other to a brutal murder. So no Michael isn't in it for glory. I hope you
guys can understand that."

"Why should you care, it isn't like he is your brother?" A second player
asked.

"No he isn't my brother, but he is my partner, I have known Michael since
grade school, he has helped me and many others with our homework, he has
spent time as a big brother to many of the boys that are in group homes. He
adopted Tommy hoping to give him a chance at a better life, but it was
taken from him. Michael withdrew, he shut everyone out he wanted everyone
to hurt like he was, but there is one thing you all don't get and that is a
true friend doesn't give up. I never gave up on Michael."

"So you're saying that every game Michael plays is for his brothers,
whether they are alive or not?"

"Yes that is exactly what I am saying, you all hate him because he almost
never misses a shot, you all should be thankful that he doesn't, but no
you're not, you just decide that he is a glory hound. Now I have had my
say, you all think about it and let's win these semi-finals and get into
the championship games." Leaving the group Scott went into the locker room
and changed. He was still there when Michael walked in and changed.

"Scott, I am sorry I snapped at you this morning. I shouldn't have, I know
you were just thinking about my safety."

"Hey, relax I forgive you, and I know that right now you have a lot on your
shoulders."

"Yeah I guess I do, by the way can you watch the boys next week?"

"Sure, but why?"

"Well I want to be at Heilman's trial, plus I have been subpoenaed."

"Oh, is that going to be hard for you to face?"

"Yes, but I will make it through, just like I have everything else."

"Uncle Scott, can you come here a minute?" Derrick asked.

"Sure, what's wrong little guy?" Scott asked as he walked over.

"Nothing, I just wanted to give you a hug and wish you luck." Derrick
whispered.

"Hey Parker, is that one of Michael's kids?" A team mate asked.

"Yes this is Derrick, and the little one hiding behind the door is Cory."
Scott answered as he hugged Derrick. "Thank you Derrick. I will try and
score one for you."

"Thanks, and you is kewl,"

"So are you, now go and join Richie and the others and take Cory with you
please?"

"Uh huh." Derrick said and ran off grabbing Cory as he left.

	Michael and his team won the semi-final and now were into the
championship games. Those games were the next weekend. Michael didn't know
how he was going to cope with court, class and practice, but he would do
it, he knew he had the strength.

	Monday morning Michael woke with a feeling of dread. Today was the
start of the Heilman trial and though he wanted it over and done with, he
knew that he would have to face the guy in the courtroom. Michael just
didn't know how he was going to react.

	Dressed in a suit with an open collar Michael walked into the court
house. Going through the security was a breeze as Michael had left
everything but his wallet and keys at home. Finding the courtroom that
Heilman was in took a few minutes at a computer kiosk and then a quick
elevator ride. Stepping off the elevator Michael had just taken a few steps
when he was confronted by a short pudgy man. "Mr. Caine, I am Mr. Blaskins,
the lawyer for Mr. Heilman, can I have a few words with you?"

"No, I have nothing to say to you, I thought my lawyer Mr. Talbert
explained that to you." Michael calmly answered.

"Mr. Caine, I want to know what you are going to say on the stand, I think
my client has that right."

"Think about what rights Tommy had. Now if you will excuse me I have to
speak with Mr. Master, I believe he is the DA for this case."

	Walking away, Michael felt a bit of anger towards Blaskins, but
came to realize that he was just doing his job. Taking a deep breath
Michael walked into the courtroom and up to the front where Mr. Masters was
seated. "Excuse me, but are you Dylan Masters?" Michael quietly asked.

"Yes I am, you must be Mr. Caine?"

"Yes, I just was wondering if you were going to call me today or am I going
to be sitting here all day waiting?"

"Honestly Mr. Caine I don't know how soon you will be called, it depends on
how fast we can get through our opening statements. I believe that the
defence is going to try and argue that his client is innocent, even though
we do have extenuating evidence."

"You do have a copy of his confession from San Antonio don't you?"

"Yes I do, but again the defence can argue that he was coerced into giving
that."

"I don't think that will work, since Heilman made the confession to me
without thinking about the room being recorded."

"We have that in our favor, now please try and relax and let me do my
job. Is it still your position that he not be given the death penalty?"

"Very much so, I don't think Heilman realizes just what pain and nightmares
he has caused the families of his victims."

"I can't even imagine the pain you are going through, I do hope that by the
end of this trial you will be able to put Tommy totally to rest."

"So do I sir, so do I, and thank you."

"You are more than welcome. I will do my best, but understand that if the
judge does find him not guilty, Heilman still has the rest of his life in
prison."

"That I know sir, and if the judge finds him not guilty, then I think that
a new judge should be found." Michael said with a grin. "Tell me why
Heilman didn't go trial by jury, wouldn't that have given him a better
chance?"

"It may have, but Michael, to find an impartial jury around here would have
been impossible. You have made a lot of friends with that park of yours,
that and the fact that you are a high school basketball champion, people
would find in favor of you even if our evidence was lacking."

"Oh, I never thought of that."

"Now go sit we are about to start."

	Leaving Masters standing at his table Michael went out and sat in
the foyer. Leaning back in his chair his mind roamed the old highways of
his memories. Michael was three when his mom brought Adam home from the
hospital. When Michael first saw his little brother he frowned thinking
that now he was no longer going to get all the attention he liked from his
parents. That thought lasted all of two minutes when he saw the little
smile on Adam's face.

	As Adam grew Michael became more protective of his little
brother. Michael had to smile when he remembered Adam's first day of school
and how scared the little guy was, but being the big brother he was Michael
walked with him right to his class and promised Adam that he would be right
at the door at lunch time. Over time this became a habit for Michael,
always meeting his brother for lunch. As for Adam he was always happy when
he was with his big brother.

	Michael was so lost in his memories that he jumped when he felt a
hand rest on his shoulder. Opening his eyes he saw that Peter and Richie
were standing there, both had huge smiles on their faces. "Man you must
have been really out of it dude." Richie said.

"Yeah you jumped like a foot off your seat." Peter laughed.

"Guys that isn't funny. Besides I was remembering things about Adam. Ever
since I read his last paper, all I have been doing is thinking about him."

"Hey dude, we're sorry, Scott told us a bit about the paper, we just didn't
think it would stir up bad memories." Richie said.

"That's just it, they aren't bad ones. I was just remembering how scared
Adam was on his first day of school and the promise I made him."

"Dude, we all know that you are the best brother out there, Adam and all
the others are lucky to have had you in their lives, even though some where
short lives, I can tell you that they all loved you." Peter whispered.

"Enough of this, what are you two doing here, I thought you had class?"

"We did, but we also thought that you needed us also, that is what friends
are all about, being there when they are needed."

"Dang Richie, I hope you never get to be a counsellor." Michael
laughed. "Now what do you say about some lunch?"

"Sounds like a plan, but Michael, Peter and I are buying today." Richie
stated.

"Okay, saves me money."

"Yeah like you need to." Peter laughed.

"Hey you guy's offered. Just let me tell Mr. Masters that I am going for
lunch then we can be off."

"Okay, but say why weren't you inside listening?" Richie asked.

"There were opening arguments and other witnesses, so I was told that I had
to sit out here."

"Oh well get going, I am hungry." Peter grinned.

	With Richie and Peter leading the way Michael left the court house
only to be joined by Scott, Derrick and Cory. Getting hugs from his two
little one and Scott they all walked over to Michael's place. Pushing two
tables together the boys sat and quietly talked until the waitress showed
up. "Good afternoon fellas what can I get you?" She asked.

	Michael, Scott and Richie all ordered steak sandwiches with potato
salad, while Peter and the two boys opted for one of Michael's
burgers. Michael was going to say something to Peter when he saw his two
boys stiffen and then look down at the table as if they didn't want to be
seen. "Cory, Derrick, is something wrong?" Michael asked.

"Daddy, them, they is the ones that are picking on us." Cory whispered as
he pointed out the boys that had just come in.

"They are, are they well maybe now is the time to settle this."

"No daddy they will hurt you."

"Son, I have to stop this, we can't run from them, so talking to them might
help, if not then I guess the police will deal with it.

	As the six boys were eating and watching the other three that had
been picking on Cory and Derrick. Sam Johnson sat in the Naples police
department talking with Capt. Harris. "I thought you would have retired by
now." Sam said with a laugh.

"Three more years Sam, then I hang it all up."

"Well you could always move out to San Antonio and work with me."

"No thanks. I think thirty five years as a cop is enough, now what brings
you here?"

"Well, I was out here to talk with a young man, and things got a bit mixed
up. He was telling me that his two boys are getting bullied and their money
stolen by some boys from the high school. I spoke with one of your officers
last night and she told me that she would look into it, now I have to fly
home tonight, but I promised Michael I would be back for his games next
weekend. I was hoping that your officer had found something." Sam
explained.

"Sam, this isn't the first time this department has heard something like
this, but so far no one has given us any names, if they did then we could
do something about it."

"Then I guess you better get off your butt, because the two little guys
gave me the names last night."

"Damn Sam, you have the touch don't you, but we are going to need more than
just these two boys saying something, if I could get you to talk to the
others, maybe they can confirm what the two boys have said."

"Is there any way that I could look at the files that you have, I can call
San Antonio and let them know that I won't be back for a while?" Sam asked.

"Sam if you could take the files over and solve this then I am all for it,
but you no longer work for this department."

"I know that, but Jerome to be honest with you I don't have to ask, I could
just take them over and you know that, but I respect this department and
the people who work here. That is why I asked to see the files."

"So it is true, you really do have a soft spot when it comes to Children's
cases?"

"Yes, but like I said I respect this office too much to demand things."

"Okay, you can have the files. Tell me did you and Liza finally tie the
knot?"

"Not yet sir,"

"What is holding you back?"

"Just work sir."

"Great and thank you, now I had better make some calls and look at those
files."



	After the boys had finished eating they all walk back to the
courthouse with Michael, Then Scott, Richie and Peter walked Cory and
Derrick back to class. "Cory, Derrick, both Peter and I will be here to
meet you after class, so please don't leave without us." Richie stated.

"Okay, but you better not be late, I wanna be home with daddy gets
there. He is gonna need lots of hugs." Cory said with a grin.

"Yes he will, and I promise we won't be late."

"Can we stop and get a soda on the way home?" Derrick asked.

"Not today, maybe we can do that tomorrow or Thursday, how does that
sound?" Peter said.

"Okay."

"Now off to class, we don't want you late."

"Nope, see you later. Love you all." Cory said with a laugh.

	Knowing that Cory and Derrick were okay Michael once more sat out
in the foyer waiting to be called into the courtroom. Leaning back Michael
once more thought of Adam. His mind drifting back to Adam's last birthday
party. Michael could still hear the shrill squeals of laughter coming for
all of Adam's friends as they splashed in the pool, or just ran around the
yard. He could hear his mother's words when she told the boys to watch out
and stay away from the barbecue as it was hot. Hot dogs and pop, cakes and
presents, all these little thoughts ran through Michael's head as he leaned
back with his eyes closed. Michael didn't realize that he was crying until
he heard someone beside him. "Here young man, I think you need a few
tissues." The kindly voice whispered.

"Thank you sir, I guess I wasn't thinking to clearly." Michael said as he
took the tissues.

"That is alright. Memories can be nasty things sometimes, at others they
are a blessing."

"I feel like they are a curse sir."

"They can be if we let them, the thing is trying to remember the good ones,
they somehow get pushed aside and forgotten.

"Oh no that's just it, all I have are the good memories, and well I guess
lately I have been thinking too hard on them."

"Or maybe you just don't want to let go of them. I know that I would never
let go of any good memories I have, but sometimes they can cause you grief
also like now."

"I don't understand that, but I do know that I miss my little brothers,
they are the ones I been thinking about."

"So you are the young man that this trial in here is about?"

"Well kinda, the prick on trial murder my adopted brother and his lawyer
wants to get him off. By the way who are you?" Michael asked.

"I know you might not remember me, but I was the man that tried to get you
to let the police do their job, when you found Tommy. My name is Jacque
Hasslings, and you are Michael Caine."

"Yes I am and nice to meet you, but why are you here?"

"I am here because I am the one that found your brother, so the courts want
to hear what I know."

"Oh, I thought it would be just me."

	Michael and Jacque were interrupted when Dylan Masters walked
up. "Mr. Caine, I am sorry but you are going to have to come back tomorrow
morning for a short time. The defence has made and application to have your
brother's body exhumed and a DNA test done."

"What if I said no to that?" Michael asked.

"The judge would consider your words and what this might cost you
emotionally before she made any decision." Dylan stated.

"I see, so why now is the defence asking for this, why didn't he as a long
time ago?"

"That I can't answer, but I have a feeling that this is just a delaying
tactic. I am sure that the judge will feel the same way as I do."

"Fine I will be here in the morning, but I can tell you right not that
there isn't a hope in this world that they are digging up my brother. He
should rest in peace. Hell I should have some peace from this, but no that
isn't going to happen is it?"

"Yes you will Michael, just when I can't answer."

	Leaving the courthouse Michael started to walk home. After walking
three blocks he stopped and call a taxi and had the driver take him over to
Lost Angels Park. Exiting the cab Michael walked over to the stage and
stood looking at Tommy's trumpet. "Tommy, I don't know how much longer this
is going to be, I am sorry, I wish it was all over for us, but it just
seems to drag on and on." Michael softly spoke as the hurt filled him. He
was still standing on the stage when he felt his phone vibrate. Ignoring it
he walked over to the large picture of Tommy and stared at his smiling
face. Again he felt his phone vibrate but this time he answered it. "Hello,
who is this?"

"Michael where are you?" Peter asked.

"I am at the park, why?"

"Well it is 6 pm and we figured you would be home by now, you have a two
little one very worried, not to mention a few of us also."

"Sorry, tell the boys I will be home soon, I just needed time alone."

"Something happened in court today didn't it?" Peter asked.

"Nothing to worry about dude, let me call a cab and I will head right
home."

"Sure, but I could come pick you up?"

"No stay with the kids, I shouldn't be more than 30 minutes."

"Fine, but no longer or else I'll kick your butt." Peter said with a laugh.

	True to his word, Michael walked in his front door 30 minutes
later. Cory and Derrick both rushed over and grabbed him in a tight hug, as
Scott, Richie and Peter came over. "Daddy where was you?" Cory asked almost
in tears.

"I had to do some thinking, and talk to Tommy so I went to the park. I know
I should have phoned you and let you know squirt, I am sorry you worried
about me."

"I thought you was hurt or sumthing." Cory cried.

"No I am okay." Michael said hugging both his boys.

"Michael, Maria left you some dinner in the warming tray, I'll get it set
up for you." Scott said as he walked towards the kitchen.

"Don't bother, I am not hungry." Michael called out.

"Not going to happen bro, you are going to eat something, even if Cory and
Derrick have to feed you." Peter laughed.

"Yup daddy, you gonna eat." Cory giggled.

"Come on Uncle Michael. We can talk to you while you eat." Derrick said
with a small smile.

"You are all ganging up on me, that's not fair."

"Yup it is." Derrick said as he pulled Michael towards the dining room.

	As Michael ate Cory and Derrick filled him in on how their
afternoon went. "Daddy, Mrs. Westdad was wondering when you was going to
bring Adam's paper back, she still wants to hang it in her class. Cory
said.

"Well munchkin, how about you take a photocopy back tomorrow with
you. Please explain that I wish to keep the original here at home."

"I can do that, I promise I won't wreck it."

"I know you won't, but if you do so what, we can make another copy. Right?"

"Uh-huh, can we have some ice cream please Uncle Michael?" Derrick
whispered.

	Ice cream and milk out of the way Michael sent the two boys to
shower, while Scott and the others sat in the front room talking. "Dude,
tell us what happened in court today, you didn't sound too happy on the
phone." Peter stated.

"I wasn't, but now isn't the time to talk about it either, not when we have
to little ones still awake."

"Good point, but?" Peter was going to say more when Sam walked in.

"Michael what the heck is going on? I got calls today, first from the
school where Cory and Derrick attend, it seems like the principal is saying
that your boys are making up stories. Then I get a call from the DA's
office saying that the Heilman case is about to get delayed again." Sam
said with a bit of frustration and anger in his voice.

"Sam, I don't know what the principal is thinking, but you saw the
pictures, and you know the boys, have they ever lied to you? I don't think
so. As for the DA, he was saying that the case might be delayed, but feels
that this is just another tactic from the defence. Something about DNA?"

"The DA has the DNA reports, which means that the defence has it also, so
if the judge is going to grant a delay I think it would be best to stand up
and ask for a mistrial. Though that could delay the case for a longer
period, which I don't think you want."

"No damn it I want this over, I want some peace." Michael snapped.

"Mr. Sam, I have to agree with Michael, he needs to put this behind him, we
all do, but delaying the trial isn't going to work. So I hope that you can
do something before the morning." Richie said sheepishly.

"Richie, there isn't much I can do except be there with Michael in the
morning. I am sure that tonight the judge is going over what she learned
today, plus any reports that have been given to her, so her decision in the
morning will be a fair one, at least I hope it is." Sam said as he stared
at the boys.

"Mr. Sam when did you gets here?" Cory squealed as he jumped into Sam's
lap.

"Hey turkey, your hair is still wet, and I got here about ten minutes ago,
where is your brother?"

"He is getting his jammies on."

"Well don't you think you should have put on yours as well?"

"Maybe, but I wanted to be with daddy, he was late tonight, so we don't get
much time together."

"Late?" Sam asked.

"Uh-huh, he said he had to go talk wif Tommy."

"Well may be that was a good thing."

	The court house the next morning was a bedlam of noise and
confusion when Michael and Sam walked in. The sheriff's office and police
were all standing around three people, two were in cuffs while the third
lay on the floor. As they walked past them and over to the elevator Michael
and Sam didn't say a word, both were in their own thoughts. Just as the
elevator door opened one sheriff walked over and stopped them. "I am sorry
sir, but firearms are not allowed in the courthouse." The officer said.

"You are right they aren't with the exception of law enforcement officers,
which I happen to be one." Sam replied showing the officer his SCU badge.

"Sorry sir, I didn't know."

"That is okay, and I commend you for your job and keen eyesight."

"Thank you sir and have a good day."

"You too officer, at least a better one that what you have right now."

	Upstairs and in the courtroom Dylan Masters was busy making notes
on his yellow legal pad when Sam and Michael walked in. When Dylan saw Sam,
he just had to smile and move away from his table. "Sam, what brings you
out here, I thought San Antonio had you for good?" Dylan asked.

"Well I came to see a couple of basketball games, then got tied into a
bullying case, and I have been working with Mr. Caine here for a while on
this case. I wasn't sure who was handling the prosecution, and I got a call
from your office saying that there might be more delays. Now that I know it
is you, I can rest a bit, I know that you will fight any delay that the
defence tries for."

"That's just it, I will fight, but I don't think I can win it."

"Why?"

"All rise the right honorable judge Frost presiding." The bailiff hollered,
before moving back to his spot beside the bench.

"Be seated. Mr. Masters, Mr. Blaskins are we ready to continue?'

"We are." Both men replied together.

"Very well let's begin." Judge Frost ordered.

"Your Honor." Blaskins started. "We would like to continue our arguments
for the exhumation of Thomas Caine and have further DNA analyses done. We
do not feel that the evidentiary DNA that the DA's office supplied is
accurate."

"Mr. Masters?" Judge Frost asked.

"Your honor, the DNA report that both Mr. Blaskins and I have are the same
and come from the FBI lab at Quantico, I don't believe that exhuming the
boy's body will prove anything other than what is in the report. I however
do believe that should the court exhume Thomas Caine it will cause great
emotional harm to his brother Michael, and that harm could be irreparable."

"Mr. Blaskins, do you feel that the reports on the DNA from the FBI are
contaminated?"

"That is hard to say, your honor, I just feel that my client has the right
for a second opinion."

"I see. " The judge said as she looked at the clock. "Gentlemen it us now
10:45. We will recess until 11:00 when I will give you both my decision."

	Michael could feel the anger starting to build with in him, the
need to strike out at something or someone was almost too great. Walking
out into the foyer Michael grabbed a juice from the vending machine then
sat in corner and tried to calm down. Finishing his juice Michael crushed
the can before throwing it into the recycle bin and walking back into the
court room.









	No sooner had Michael sat, than the bailiff was calling the court
to order. Once everyone was seated and things were quiet again Michael just
stared at the Judge. "Gentlemen taking into account the reports from the
FBI and the possible damage that could be done, I find that the defence
should have a chance to obtain a DNA report from one of their own experts,
therefore I am ordering the Exhumation of Thomas?.

"NO?.." Michael screamed.



TO BE CONTINUED.

Email thewrirer1@live.ca



Chapter 23

	"Young man I do not tolerate outbursts in my court room now sit
down and be quiet." Judge Frost ordered.

"Your honor." Dylan said as he stood. "That young man is Michael Caine, the
brother of the deceased."

"I see, and why was he allowed in here during these arguments?"

"Your honor as you are aware, Mr. Caine actually has the right to be in
here during the full proceeding."

"Yes I am aware of that. Mr. Caine I am sorry that this has happened to
you, and I do not wish to cause further harm to you, but the defence does
have the right to gather its own DNA."

"Then they should have done that a long time ago, your honor if you try to
exhume my brothers body I shall file a stop order against it. I won't have
him disturbed, nor shall I want the pain of having to inter him again."

"Mr. Caine my order stands, however I am adjourning this case for three
weeks, Mr. Blaskins that should give you enough time to get the results you
need." Judge Frost spoke leaving no more room for arguments.

"Fine, Mr. Masters file an injunction please." Michael snapped, before
storming out of the room.

	Blaskins and Heilman were smiling when they heard the judge's
order, and even smiled more when they heard Michael scream at the
Judge. That smile lasted a very short time as they both heard Michael order
the injunction. "Now what?" Heilman asked.

"Now we file an application to have the case dismissed on ground that these
delays have infringed upon your right to a speedy trial." Blaskins laughed.

"You had no plans to exhume that kid's body did you?"

"Heck no, I just needed the delay to happen."

"Well when will you file for the dismissal?"

"Today, I have most of the paper work ready, I just needed this judge's
decision." Blaskins laughed out loud.