Date: Sun, 24 Dec 2006 19:15:41 -0500
From: Dwedno Smith <dwednomail@hotmail.com>
Subject: Tunnel Chapter 69

Okay now before everyone gets all cranky on me and starts to complain about
reading the same thing over again. This is chapter 69 and it is a lot of
the same in the beginning but i promise it will get better as soon as you
read into it. So hold off on the "what is he doing to us" comments until
the end of the chapter. ALSO... this will probably be the last time that
this much of the story is repeated on both sides of Tunnel/BT so that
should tell everyone that yes the boys will be going home soon and that is
all I am going to say so I don't spoil it.


I hope everyone has a very very good holiday season and this is my present
to all of you for Christmas. Another chapter just in time for Christmas day
(if the planning to post it works out fine that is...) I can write them but
nifty still has to send them up and my proof reader has to check my
mistakes. Which brings me to a thank you. I want to thank my proof reader
Colin who has graciously offered to check the story for errors now so I can
offer a better read to all of you. So THANKS Colin for your time and
reading over (and might I add spoiling his chance to enjoy the story
because he has to look for mistakes rather then just enjoy the story) even
though he does get first crack at the new chapters.


SO I guess its a bonus of sorts... but anyway thanks Colin and Happy
Holidays to all my readers and many, many thanks to all of you who took the
time to write to me all year with your comments. They mostly have inspired
me to keep going and keep Tunnel and BT alive and (SLOWLY) putting along as
i find time for a new chapter every so often... In closing... this is my
vacation week so I am going to do my best to get at least one more chapter
out before the end of 2006. AS I SAY... DO MY BEST... but i do hope to have
at least Chapter 5 of BT out before this year ends. By the way to anyone
who is interested... Chapter 69 marks another milestone for this
story.... it takes me over the 6 megabyte size for total mass of the story
file and makes me wonder if and HOW I really have typed over 6 meg of
storyline for all of you... No wonder my hands hurt... LOL


 Take care all and see ya in a few days or so....



Chapter 69.  Brothers reunite, tensions ease and new neighbors?



"BRYAN!!"  Ben yelled out.

They embraced and hugged. They held on tightly for a good minute before
they broke apart. Everyone including Kate, Travis and all the boys stood
and watched without an immediate clue. Bryan looked over at Kate.

"Kate its Ben! MY brother Ben!"

She took off running for the elevator and Bryan looked at Ben.

"Benny that is Kate she is the girl that gave me my son and your nephew! Do
you remember her?"

"Yes I do."

Ben was beaming as he turned to us and walked Bryan back over.

"Bry this is Tommy and the guys. I have been living with them and of course
you know Luke."

He looked at Luke.

"My God Luke you have grown and you are alive!"

Luke gave Bryan a big hug and was smiling widely. Not everyone was happy as
Travis had a look of total disgust on his face. Mike lowered his gun as
Bryan turned and told the other three boys to take off leaving Just Travis,
Bryan and now Kate who was approaching from the elevator. Ben looked at
Kate and they embraced and hugged. She pulled away and they smiled as the
family reunion continued. Ben turned to Tommy.

"Tommy this is Kate, she and my brother were very close a while back."

Tommy approached them with a lot less fear but the boys stuck close to him
as confusion still reigned strong among the group.

"Nice to meet you Kate." Tommy said.

"Nice to meet you too Tommy and my do you have a large group of boys. It's
great to see so many others have survived. How did you find us?"

"Totally by accident Kate. We wanted to check out this mall for stuff and
do some shopping so we decided to take a long ride here as a group not
knowing what to expect."

"Wow that's kind of risky isn't it Tom?"

"Yes but four of us were carrying guns we thought we would be okay."

"Apparently you didn't know you would have ten guns on you when you came in
did you Thomas?" Travis replied from a few feet away with some attitude in
his tone.

Tommy looked at him but didn't reply as he looked back at Kate.

"What's his problem?"

"I am not sure Tom, as she turned and looked at him, but he might need an
attitude adjustment soon."

Travis just rolled his eyes at what she said.

"Yeah, added Tommy, that might be needed... and some... after he grabbed
Shawn from us. I might have to give it him too!"

"Well there is no need to worry now boys, she said as she looked at the
others and spoke to them. No one will harm you here; you are all welcomed
and are our friends now."

Again Travis rolled his eyes as Kate made the announcement aloud. Something
was wrong with him but Tommy really didn't care at the moment even though
he was making a bit of a scene. At the same time Bryan was handing back the
guns to them.

"Thanks." Kyle said to him as he took them and gave them back to the
others.

"No problem...he said, sorry... your name?" Bryan asked him.

"Kyle, my name is Kyle I am Tommy's brother."

"Oh well nice to meet you Kyle, and you are welcomed."

Bryan went back over by his brother and put his arm around him.

"Good to see you Benny. I got the note and all but I never in a million
years thought it would end up like this!"

"Yeah I saw that and read what you wrote on it and I never thought I would
see you or any family again Bry even with what you wrote down. After that
comet hit I just figured everyone was gone!"

They both smiled at one another. It was a great feeling for both boys.

"So boys why don't all of you follow us back and you can meet all the
others." Kate said.

"How many of you are here?" Asked Tommy.

"Including my son there are eighteen of us." She replied.

"Wow that is a lot of people!" someone said.

Tommy turned and looked to see who yelled that out.

"Who said that?" he asked.

"I did Tommy, why?" asked Luke.

"No reason just that everyone has been quiet so far and I was surprised to
hear any of you guys talk. He looked at all of them. Its okay guys, Tommy
said we are fine, relax, and enjoy this now no one is going to hurt you
they are our friends!"

He said that like they needed to hear it but for the moment it didn't seem
like Tommy's words meant much. The boys were still being cautious. The
whole group now started to walk and follow Kate, Bryan and the others to
their home area. Travis walked with them but didn't say anything. He
carried his gun at his side and if looks could kill he wanted Bryan dead
but most of all he focused on Shawn! His mind was going a million miles a
second while he tried to come up with an idea how to get the very cute
young boy away from the others. Shawn got really close to Tommy.

"Tommy that kid keeps looking at me."

"Who Shawn the one that took you before?"

"Yeah. he keeps watching me."

"You will be fine don't worry about him if he touches you I'll break him in
two."

Shawn smiled back at him.

"Thanks."

Tommy put his arm around him and gave him a hug.  In the meantime they had
walked a ways and arrived at Bryans home area. As Tommy and the boys looked
on Kate asked Mike to go get everyone. Bryan took the radio and called the
boys from the other location and told them to come over for a special
meeting. They made some small talk on the radio for a bit that Tommy
couldn't hear because he was too far from Bryan. Finally Bryan came back
and went over to his brother.

"Why don't you introduce me to everyone Ben?"

"Sure."

Ben then walked his brother around and introduced him to all the boys that
he lived with while they waited. This calmed some of them as Bryan shook
hands with every boy in our group. Finally all the other boys from Bryans
group arrived and after a brief meeting that Bryan hosted everyone was
filled in on what was going on and all boys were introduced to one
another. Then Kate yelled out for everyone's attention.

"Thank you. She said as she stood on top of one of the seats and was now
looking down at close to thirty something boys surrounding her. Everyone I
would like to welcome the boys who arrived at our mall today and to all my
boys please greet these people and make them feel welcomed while they are
here. I don't want any problems. She looked directly at Travis as she said
that part and I want their stay to be a good one without any issues."

With that Jon who was standing next to Tommy leaned in and whispered in his
ear.

"Ya know some of these boys are kinda cute. What do you think it would take
to get a few of them to come back with us?"

"Probably a lot you fool, I would guess most of them are straight."

"Oh, he replied I didn't think about that part."

"Yeah I know Jon you have been around us too long and probably forgot that
most of the world was straight when they were alive."

"Yeah..."

They went back to listening to Kate just as she was finishing up. She went
on to chat a little about the mall and where some of the things were before
she finished. As soon as she was done she walked over to Tommy.

"Do you have any idea how long you will be staying?"

"Not yet Kate we planned on a day or two just to shop and then we were
going to head back home. It was going to be a group decision but since we
met all of you I really don't know. I am going to have to talk to the boys
and see what they want to do. It's their decision as much as mine but I do
have final word."

"Oh well that is very diplomatic of you."

"Thanks but that's how I usually run things unless they get out of control
and then I have to I kick ass!"

He laughed after he said that and a few of the boys that heard him laughed
too as did Kate and Bryan who walked over to her side during their
chat. Slowly and cautiously the boys started to meet one another, chat, and
mingle. It was obvious that some were not going to get along and some would
hit it off immediately. Caleb started talking to Shawn right
away. Something attracted Caleb to Shawn. Caleb asked him to walk away from
the others and then they started to chat.

"Hi. Your name is Shawn right? Caleb asked him.

 "Yeah what's your name?" Shawn asked.

"Caleb."

"Neat name."

"Thanks. So how did you guys find us?"

"Tommy who is our protector decided he wanted to take a ride to this place
and do some shopping because he heard it had a lot of stuff in it."

"Yeah well it sure does. I have been here for weeks and I still haven't
seen most of the stores. Wanna go see some?"

"Yeah but let me tell Tommy so he doesn't worry about me."

"You have to tell him?"

"Yes I do it's a rule and besides he loves me and would be really upset if
he tried to find me and didn't know where I was."

"Oh... really he loves you? That sounds gay." Caleb said.

Wow Shawn thought to himself that isn't what I expected him to say. I bet
he is straight. Darn it!

"Let me go ask okay?"

"Sure."

Caleb waited while Shawn walked over and got Tommy's attention.

"Yeah Shawn you need me?"

"Yes I want to go look for a game store with Caleb is that okay?"

"Sure love just be careful and yell out if anything happens and you need
help Try to stay close if possible."

"I can do that and I have my cell too."

"Even better. Have fun."

Shawn headed back to Caleb smiling.

"We can go he just said to stay close."

"Sure we can. We will just go up a few floors and look around with them
below us okay?"

"Yeah."

Caleb took off and Shawn followed as they headed for the elevator. He
pushed the button and it dinged. The doors opened a few seconds later and
Travis was standing there.

"Where are you two munchkins going?" he asked curiously.

"For a walk." Caleb replied callously.

He looked at Shawn.

"Hey cute boy just be careful around stinky he might give you something
like a disease if you get too close."

He walked away and they got in the elevator.

"He scares me." Shawn said as the doors closed.

"Yeah he does that to me all the time. He says I stink and all but I just
don't like to shower it bothers me that someone might look or..."

Suddenly he stopped taking without reason.

"Why did you stop telling me about that Caleb, its okay... I am not gonna
laugh at you."

"Really? You don't care what I say to you?"

"Hell no I talk about private things a lot with most of the guys. It's how
we live. We are pretty open and get along great together back home."

"You mean all of you live together?"

"Yeah in a house about seven or so hours from here."

"Wow that's awesome, I wish I had a house like you do with people that
cared and didn't scare me all the time."

"It might be too early but if you want I can ask Tommy and he might let you
come back with us if you want."

"Ya think I could, I mean there is nothing here for me except Travis and
Mike scaring and always threatening me. I'm afraid they might hurt me some
day."

"I can ask, I can't promise because it's not up to me."

"Awesome!" Caleb said.

That makes me feel a little better about him. Shawn thought to
himself. They walked on and Shawn's eyes suddenly lit up.

 "I gotta go in there man, that is why we came!"

"Huh?" Caleb said.

"The games... ya know Playstation, X-box and so on..."

"Oh yeah...I remember... a few of the guy took some and brought them to
their areas and they play in their free time."

"They didn't take all the games did they?"

"Heck no that store is huge and has a lot of every game and besides Shawn
there are three more game stores in this place... remember its huge!
Everything is here... ya just have to look for it."

"AWESOME!!" Shawn said.

Shawn ran towards the door and looked in. Row after row of games, music and
electronics... anything you would ever want was in front of him.

"This is too intense! He said. I have to tell the others."

He went over to the railing and he looked over some.  Way to his left were
most of the guys.

"HEY! He yelled down. This got most of their attention and they looked
up. You guys gotta see this it's amazing! The game store up here has tons
of stuff!"

With that most of the guys ran over to Tommy and he told them to be careful
and one of them interrupted Bryan who was talking to Tommy and asked how to
get up there.

"Go right over there. He pointed see the elevator or you can go down there
some and take the escalator up."

Immediately six boys took off as Shawn and Caleb watched and laughed from
above. They went back in the store.

"Do me a favor Caleb don't tell them about the other stores for now just
incase there is something I want and I can't get it."

"Sure, he laughed but you really don't have to worry Shawn like I said I
have been in here lots and there is plenty of almost every game you
need. The other stores probably have some different titles and games but
this is the biggest."

"Shawn where are you?" Someone yelled from outside.

He ran to the entrance and waved.

"Over here!" he waved to them.

They came running after him and met him at the doorway with Caleb.

"Who's your friend Shawn?" asked Kyle.

"This is Caleb. Caleb this is Kyle my best friend... Shawn said then he
turned to Caleb to introduce the guys... That is Joey, he pointed to
them... that's Billy and Danny and Luke and Jordan."

"Nice to meet all of you."

"Same here." Said Kyle.

"Well go look guys its massive!" Caleb said.

With that they looked past him in at the store. A ton of ohhhh's and
ahhhh's went up and then they headed inside and started to run around like
kids in a candy store.  Caleb and Shawn went inside with them and Shawn
also started looking around and grabbing anything that looked good for his
system. The frenzy continued as the boys started grabbing more then they
could carry.

"This place is totally awesome Shawn!" Kyle yelled to him.

"I know we should have one by us this big!" he replied.

Kyle was the first to get a hand held basket and filled it quickly. The
others saw this and Jordan yelled out `great idea Kyle' as they all wound
up with a basket shortly after that. Their shopping ended after a good
fifteen or so minutes passed and every one of them seemed content with
their choices. They all left the store happily smiling and headed back
downstairs. As they got off the elevator they approached the group and Kyle
walked up to Tommy.

"Bro we need to put this stuff away can we take a walk out to the bus?"

Tommy looked at Bryan.

"I guess I need to walk them out to the bus."

"Sure no problem, he said I can come if you want."

"That would be great."

Bryan escorted them to the exit doors and as they got there they looked
out. Everything had a small covering of snow on it now and it was still
coming down.

"Wow it snowed more then I thought it was going to." Tommy said.

"Yeah I didn't even know it was snowing out Tom. This is the first snow we
have had since I got here a few weeks ago and from what the others tell me
by now there is usually a lot more on the ground."

"Well that might mean we leave a lot sooner or get stuck here." Tommy said
to Bryan.

"Its up to you, it doesn't look like its going to pile up too deep but we
have plenty of space and from what I know the mall has tons of food and a
great back up generator system so I am sure all of you will be fine if you
stay."

"Thanks Bryan but we weren't planning on a long stay and I will take the
guys aside after if you don't mind and we will have a private chat."

"That's fine with me. Bryan said. Hey I don't have a coat so I will wait
here if it's okay. You guys are still wearing your coats."

"Sure, thanks. I am gonna walk these guys down to the bus and then we'll
walk back as fast as we can."

"Why don't you just pull the bus up to this door Tommy it's a lot easier
then hiking back here."

"You talk like you know where I parked."

"I do. We caught you on camera when you came in. One of the boys told us a
big bus was coming and we ran over and watched you till you got to the
front door."

"Well that explains a lot."

"Huh?" Bryan said.

"We thought we had everything under control but when ten guns were suddenly
pointed at us out of no where it was quite a shock."

"Oh, well sorry about that but we had to be careful till we knew who it
was."

"Yeah I know that now but it really threw me and the guys."

"I bet it did."

"Well anyway we'll be back shortly I will bring the bus here."

With that Tommy walked out with the six boys and Bryan watched. Things were
calm now and the remaining boys stayed behind with Ben, Kate and whoever
else they met back at their home area probably chatting up a storm. Bryan
waited about ten minutes and finally Tommy pulled up with the bus and
opened the door. Bryan went out and hopped on the bus to see what it looked
like inside.

"Wow this thing is really huge and great. Its got a lot of things from what
I see." He said as he gave it a quick look.

"Yeah we like it a lot. Said Tommy. It was easy to get everyone here this
way."

"I bet. How long did it take?"

 "Well we slept over last night at a motel but the drive was close to eight
hours total."

"Yeah that sounds like right for something this big. It took a few more
hours for you to get here then it took me to get here."

"Oh yeah... you were by us a while back that's right."

"Yup it took me about six hours to get here but I was driving faster till I
hit a little snow and boy do I have a story to tell you later. Remind me
and I will tell you and Ben about the run in I had at a motel. I forgot
about it till you mentioned hotel. I never even told the others this
story."

"That doesn't sound too good."

"It wasn't good at all; it scared the shit out of me!"

"Damn... I can't wait to hear that story now." Tommy said.

"After when we settle in for the night if there is time I'll get to it. I
mean all of you will be here at least one night right?"

"Yeah without a doubt maybe two or more depending on the weather. We have
to talk it over but one night for sure."

"Okay let's get back inside if you want."

Bryan took a quick look around the bus and then they all headed back inside
the mall. They walked back to the others and Ben came over.

"Where did you guys go?" he asked them.

"To the bus, Kyle said. We got a ton of games and wanted to put them away
so we went outside and there is more snow now so Tommy drove the bus back
here and we parked it right outside."

"That's great at least when we get back we can play something different."

"Yeah! Said Luke. You gotta see what we have now that we didn't before
Ben. Then sarcastically he added... It was getting boring back at the house
with only fifty or so other games!"

They all started to laugh at that and then they walked back to the
others. They were now a group of approximately thirty with all of them
together and some of Tommy's boys were starting to complain about being
hungry.

"I gotta feed these kids Bryan any suggestions?"

"Sure, not all the food is good but most places had a load of frozen stuff
that is still good. What are you looking to eat?"

That brought about ten different ideas from the group. Bryan looked at
Tommy.

"Bad idea huh?"

"Yeah you can't ask them what they want its murder."

They laughed.

"Well you can go over to the food court and let them go crazy but there is
nothing cooked obviously so I am sure you have been through this before. I
think we are gonna join you and make it special tonight rather then just
what we usually do."

"What is that?" Tommy asked.

"Let them choose what they want and get it themselves." Kate yelled out.

Tommy turned around to his group.

"See you guys are so spoiled they make their own get whatever they want and
I usually cook for most of you."

Kate looked at Bryan when Tommy said that.

"He really does take care of them hon, if he cooks and all I guess he is a
good guy after all."

Tommy focused on something while they talked privately for a bit then he
looked back over and heard bits of the end of their chat.

 "Well talk to Tommy and see what he says."

"I will later." Said Bryan.

She smiled at him and gave him a hug.

Tommy came over and interrupted their talk.

"Sorry to bother you two but I need to feed these monsters they are
bitching about eating and I better feed them before they eat me."

"Sure, Kate said. We don't want that now do we." She smiled at Tommy.

"No I don't, I like living."

They laughed.

"Okay anyone who wants to eat we are going to the food court! Bryan yelled
out to them upstairs in the rooms. Then he got on the radio and told the
others who went back to their side of the mall. Okay we can head over now
and whoever shows up will eat."

"Great, said Tommy. Before he could turn around six boys flew down from
upstairs to meet them at the bottom. Wow, he added that was fast!"

"Yeah I suppose they are hungry too."

"Are you gonna cook something for us?" Caleb and Todd asked.

"Yes guys we are going to make a few things for all of you to have a decent
meal for a change."

"AWESOME!" they shouted.

They headed over to the food court as a group and were almost immediately
met by a group from the other side.

"Who is this?" Tommy asked.

"The same guys from before but there isn't enough room for everyone on our
side so we decided to live half on one end and half on the other. That way
we can protect the mall too."

"Oh I guess that's a great idea."

"Yeah it's been working so far. So what are we up for?"

"I was thinking if there is a burger place that might be best and easiest
to make."

"Yeah sure there is a few of them and fries and lots of other things you
will see shortly."

"Great." Tommy replied.

"Is there anything other then burgers we can have? asked Danny. I'm really
tired of them."

"Sure, answered Bryan. What's your name?"

"Its Danny and I would love something besides a burger."

"Well Danny there is an Italian place there and if Tommy wants to cook
burgers I will make spaghetti."

The boys heard him say that and a huge roar went up.

"That's awesome!" one yelled out.

"I haven't had spaghetti in a long time!" Yelled another.

"Guess we are both gonna make something." Bryan said.

"Sounds good to me I could use some pasta myself."

"Yeah me too."

They walked the rest of the way there and when they arrived Bryan stood on
a chair and when the boys quieted down, with a little bit of help from
Bryan yelling shut up. Finally he spoke.

"Okay guys look you have two choices. Either spaghetti or burgers. Show of
hands for burgers?"

Three of the boys raised their hands.

"Okay so everyone else wants pasta?"

They roared out yes to him.

"Okay then I will start to heat the water. He said aloud. I am telling all
of you now this is going to take a while to cook so much so all of you need
to be patient!"

He got off the chair and went inside the pasta place. Tommy went over to
the burger joint and looked for a way to fire up the grill. Jon and Kyle
joined him to help out. All in all about an hour total later... both were
close to being finished and the place started to smell of burgers on one
side and Sauce for the pasta on the other. There were a few small
complaints but everyone knew it would be ready soon. Sparing all the
details of cooking, about twenty minutes later Tommy had cooked up about a
dozen cheeseburgers and a dozen regular ones.

"If you don't make enough someone is gonna want a burger that didn't before
and they still bitch no matter what."

Bryan heard him and laughed and then they both went back to their
cooking. Bryan made about twenty pounds of pasta and was starting to fill
plates as the boys got online. Kate was assigned to sauce or butter as they
handed out the food. They all started to sit and eat either or both foods
offered by the guys. Eventually everyone was full and quite content as a
burping game started up after many of the boys drank way too much soda. It
was dark outside now and Tommy asked Bryan about ice cream privately. He
said good idea and stood up.

"Now guys I want everyone to clean up their tables and when the place is
clean and ONLY when it's clean we will all have ice cream!"

A loud cheer went up from the group as they began to quickly throw out
their garbage. After it was all clean three of the boys that were assigned
by Bryan earlier collected the bags of garbage and brought them out a side
door to a dumpster and got rid of the garbage so it wouldn't stink up the
mall. One of the few things that Bryan demanded was to keep the place
clean. They all headed over to one of the ice cream places right after that
and with a bit of patience and lots of scooping by both Bryan and Tommy
another half hour went by and now everyone that wanted ice cream had a full
bowl of it to enjoy. Their dinner ended with all of them having full
bellies for probably the first time in weeks for Bryan's boys and what
wound up being an almost normal night for Tommy's boys when it came to food
and eating. Next up was where to sleep and how things would be handled with
that. Obviously the boys that already live there had their places and
before they thought about settling in for the night a brief discussion was
had.

"I need to talk to my boys for a bit Bryan."

"Sure we are gonna head back and you can meet us there when you are done."

"Thanks."

He watched Bryan and the others walk away and yelled out to the other boys
as Bryan and the others were out of site that he wanted a meeting. Tommy
decided after talking with Bryan before that they would go off to one of
the bed stores and sleep on the mattresses that were already there.

"Okay guys here's what's up. They all gathered around and focused on
him. We are going to find a place in the mall to sleep tonight as a group
its safer and even though I feel good about how secure we are now I still
want us together."

"So does that mean that we all have to put up with one another and the
snoring and noise that some of us make all night long?"

"Yes Zack I am afraid you are going to have to deal with everyone and their
noise tonight especially since you make most of the noise you are bitching
about!"

That brought some laughs from the others and a `look' from Zack who
realized he probably should have just kept his mouth shut.

"I usually let all of you help decide when we have a big decision but this
time I have thought it over and tomorrow around noon we are out of
here. Its been an interesting visit but I want my room and house back and I
am sure you guys do too."

A stirring of opinions went up after that but the consensus was yes they
had a good time for the most part but tomorrow would be time to go.

"So with that said I think we can walk the mall as a group tonight before
we turn in and get some pillows, blankets and anything else you guys want
to take...within reason!!! Then bring it back and load up the bus before we
go to bed tonight."

That brought on some loud cheers as they liked Tommy's idea so they all
gathered together and as a group started to walk the mall with a few
shopping carts from one of the stores. They began to get what they came
for... Cloths, electrical stuff and all kinds of miscellaneous goodies
began to fill both carts. Several hours later with carts overflowing and
some boys carrying their stuff they were all back at the bus filling up the
storage spaces underneath it.

"Looks like everyone did good! Tommy said. We hardly have any spare room
left and we had 4 empty compartments."

"Yeah I know, Jon said. At least we can leave with new clothes and a bunch
of games and so on..."

"I agree it was worth the ride just for what we found here. I am beat how
about you Jon?"

"Yeah I think its bedtime."

"Okay guys! Tommy yelled out. Let's get back to the mattress store we found
and make ourselves comfortable for the night."

Slowly and with little complaining the boys headed for the walk halfway
down the strip and finally they arrived at their so called bedroom for the
night.

"Kyle... Jon..."

They both looked up from what they were doing and came over to Tommy.

"Yeah what's up?"

"I'm going back over to talk with Bryan for a bit before I go to bed. Keep
everyone here and I'll be back in a bit. The radio is over there on the
counter if you need help but I am sure everything will be okay tonight."

"Okay bro, Kyle said. No problem I don't know how we are gonna sleep
tonight but I have a feeling with the lights on and all its going to be a
long night for most of us."

"I agree but at least we can lay down and rest. See you two a little
later."

"Okay." They said.

Tommy headed off and back over to see Bryan. After a fifteen or so minute
walk he was back where they lived and climbing the steps to greet Bryan and
Kate who were at the top waiting for him.

"Hey you two can we talk someplace where there aren't too many ears?"

"Sure head back down and we'll be right behind you. Just want to make sure
Joel is being watched. As soon as I ask one of the boys to take care of him
we'll both be down."

"Okay thanks."

A few minutes later they both came down together and met Tommy at a
bench. The three of them sat down.

"Hey Bryan one of the boys asked how safe we would be in the mattress store
and I couldn't answer him so I need to know if you can tell me."

"No problem Tommy, you and your guys should be fine we have two boys
watching out the windows on both sides of the mall and all the other doors
locked all the time and we have extra monitors in the main room on our side
and the radio I gave you before will give you instant contact with us. The
boys know they have to stay away and there is two of them awake all night
just incase. They know their job is very important and only once have both
boys fallen asleep and thankfully nothing happened but as weird as it might
sound they are actually trained now and can stay awake most of the night
without a problem."

"Great that makes me feel better even if we are armed I still like the
radio as a back up."

"Yeah it's a good security blanket if you know what I mean Tommy."

"Yeah Kate I do, thanks."

"We are all set and ready to turn in now and as soon get back I am calling
it a night. Should be fun with all of us in one room."

"I bet that it will be interesting Tom."

"What will?" Tommy asked.

"All of you sleeping in one store."

"Yeah I am sure it will take some of us a while to fall asleep but at least
we will try. I can't wait for the bitching and crying to start when someone
is noisy."

The three of them laughed together at Tommy's comment.

"I'm gonna head back I am tired so I'll see you a bit later."

Caleb and a few others had gathered while they talked. Bryan shooed them
away for now. They waited over by the steps for them to finish. As Tommy
walked away Bryan and a few of the others watched him head off. Caleb was
walking towards Bryan as Tommy left. He wondered to himself what was going
on but he was really too tired to care at this point so he ignored it and
walked back. It didn't take long for Tommy to get back and when he arrived
some of the boys were laying down and others were still awake and chatting
quietly.

"So far no complaints." Kyle said to his brother as he walked in the store.

"That's good. I am gonna go and get ready for bed now."

"Okay bro, good night."

"Nite Ky."

Kyle went his way and Tommy went to see Jon for a second and make sure the
bed was all set then after Jon said everything was fine he went to use the
store bathroom. Tommy finished up and came back out and was about ready to
get in bed when Kyle came over to him for a second.

"Hey bro got a second?"

"Sure, what's up?"

"Nothing important I just wanted to ask you about how we were going to do
things in the morning before you went to bed."

They discussed it for a bit and then they heard a noise behind them and not
knowing what was going on both got up quickly with their guns in hand.

"I am here." Someone yelled out causing them to turn quickly.

The kid opened the store door and walked in. Tommy and Kyle both spun
towards him with guns drawn.

"Don't shoot! Please don't shoot its only me Caleb." He wined.

"That's not a smart thing to do kid!" Tommy yelled at him as they lowered
their guns.

"Sorry I was just trying to be friendly." Caleb replied.

"Friendly is fine but not sneaking up on us like that! That's just plain
stupid!" yelled out one of the other kids as Caleb disrupted the whole
room.

Tommy turned to see who yelled.

"Its okay Jeremy, you don't have to get upset he wasn't doing it on
purpose."

"I know Tommy but he scared us half to death. What does he want here
anyway?"

With that question Tommy turned back towards him. By now Shawn was up and
at his side and greeting his new friend at the front door.

"Caleb what do you want here and why did you come all the way over here?"

"I wanted to ask you if I could go back with you when you go home."

The whole room was once again quiet as they listened to him and some
attempted to go back to sleep. Everyone heard his question and stopped what
they were doing to look his way. A few laughed at his request but Tommy
remained straight faced.

"We really don't have a lot of room back at the house for anyone else Caleb
and I couldn't tell you without talking to everyone else first."

"Why not I will be good and why would you need everyone's permission? I
thought you were in charge."

"I am in charge to a point but you would be living with all of us and that
requires a group decision so if you want to know we will talk it over and
let you know in the morning. That's the best I can do."

"Okay I guess then I will have to wait."

"Yup. We'll let you know in the morning."

He turned to go and standing in the doorway looking just as surprised as
Caleb was Bryan. He had found them now and was curious what Caleb was doing
there. He walked in and looked at Caleb.

"What are you doing here bothering these guys?"

"Nothing." He said fearing a problem if word got out that he wanted to
leave here.

"Nothing huh? So you checked the mall to find them and came in to talk to
them for no reason?"

All this was once again going on in front of the entire group of boys and
without any problem everyone knew what was happening.

"Yup nothing." Caleb said. Then he headed to the door and walked past Bryan
and out into the mall.

 Bryan looked at Tommy.

"He wanted something, what was it?"

"To come back with us."

"I knew it! I had a feeling he was here for that. He said he didn't want to
stay here to me before and I thought he might ask but I didn't think he
would look for you guys."

"Yup he did and what brings you here?"

"I wanted to talk to my brother before he fell asleep."

"Oh, sure."

Ben heard him and dropped the pillow he was holding and walked over from
the bed he was standing at.

"What's up bro?"

"Can I talk to you privately?"

"Sure. He turned to Tommy. Be right back."

"No problem Ben take your time."

They both headed outside and walked a few feet away.

"So what's up Bry?"

"Do you think that we can come back with you?"

"Are you serious? Ben said with glee. You want to come live by me, I mean
us?"

Bryan smiled at him.

"Yeah we would love to get out of his mall and live some place safer and I
really would like to have a real roof over my head and be closer to
home. So would Katie."

"That would be awesome. I don't know but I can ask Tommy."

"That would be great Ben but do you think he will say yes?"

"Why wouldn't he besides if he didn't you could always move back to our
house."

"Yeah I suppose we could live there but I would really like to be with all
the gang just for safety."

"I understand."

"It would really be great Ben you could live with us and we could be a
family all four of us."

Ben's smile washed off his face.

"What's wrong Ben? Don't you want to live with me and Katie?"

"I... I really love that you want me with you Bryan but I am happy where I
am and I am sorry if this hurts you but I really think it would be better
that I stay where I am, I mean even if Tommy says okay I want you there and
I really want to get to know my nephew and Kate and all but do you really
mind if I stay where I am?"

"No, no it's fine Ben. You could hear the gloominess in his voice as he
answered his brother. You stay where you feel comfortable; after all I
don't want to make you do something that isn't okay with you."

"I'm sorry Bryan but I like it there and I really hope Tommy says yes and
you can be close by but really I do want to be with the guys."

"I understand and I hope he says yes too but I was hoping you could watch
Joel sometimes if Kate and I needed some space."

"I can and I will be happy to do that for you but just at our place. I
supposed if you were to go out or away or wherever I could stay there for a
night or two also but I hope you understand..."

"Yeah I do. How about we ask him now?"

"Sure. I'll go get him."

With that Ben turned and headed back inside while Bryan waited and watched
from a few feet away.

"Tommy? Ben yelled over to him. Can you come outside for a minute?"

Tommy looked over at Ben.

"Sure. He walked around the mattress in front of him and headed towards
Ben.

They walked outside together and over to Bryan.

"What's up guys? What can I do for you?"

"Ummm, well I have a question for you Tom."

"Sure Bryan ask me anything."

"Okay here goes. He paused and took a deep breath. Do you think you would
have some place for us to live out by you?"

"You mean in a separate house or with us?"

"No a separate place. We don't want to cause any problems just get the hell
out of here to a better and safer place."

Tommy paused and the silence was deafening...

"I really have to think about it and honestly I should ask the others since
we all talk about any major decisions. Can it wait till morning?"

"Sure I suppose so. You aren't going right away are you?"

"Right away? You mean first thing in the morning?"

"Yeah are you leaving bright and early?"

"No we are gonna leave around noon."

"Oh okay well if you can discuss it and let me know privately I would
appreciate it."

"Sure thing. As soon as we talk about it I will let you know."

"The morning is fine Tommy."

"Great then we will see you after I get up and I will let you know
privately."

"Thanks a bunch Tom. We really want to get out of here as soon as
possible."

"Well honestly I would like neighbors but its up to everyone."

Bryan and Ben both smiled at his comment.

"Okay I am gonna head back over to Kate and the boy see you in the
morning."

"Yup, nite."

"Nite Tommy, nite bro."

"Night Bryan, love ya."

"Love you too little brother."

With that Bryan turned and walked away heading back to his family for the
night.

"Tommy before you go back inside do you think the others will say yes?"

"I really don't know Ben. It all depends on what they think of these guys
and how well they will accept newcomers. Its their neighborhood and
something this big needs to be put to a vote."

"Yeah I suppose so. But anyway worst case they can always live back where I
am from."

"True but something makes me think that your brother will be happiest close
to you.

Ben smiled.

"Yeah I know I will be happy too if he is close. Hey they could live in the
house next door couldn't they? I mean Luke is in there growing stuff and
it's been checked and all right?"

"Yes I suppose. But I don't really want anyone interrupting what Luke is
doing and if they move in there that might cause a problem with the growing
work Luke is doing. I don't see that working but..."

"But what?"

"Let me think before I answer okay?"

"Sure Tom so first thing tomorrow after everyone is awake you are gonna
talk to them about it?"

"Yes that's the plan."

"Great."

With that Ben headed back inside followed by Tommy. Tommy walked back over
by Jon to see if he finished setting up their bed.

"What was that all about?" Jon said in a low voice.

"Not in here. We can talk about it outside if you want."

"Oh okay. Here comes Kyle I bet he wants to know the same thing."

"Yeah I think you're right."

"Hey bro what was that about?"

"Not in here Ky, Jon just asked me too. Let's go outside."

So once again Tommy headed outside with his brother and Jon following. As
he exited he looked back inside and Ben and a few others were watching them
go out.

"So what happened bro? What did Bryan want?"

"He wants to know if he can move back in our neighborhood with Kate and his
son."

"Really?" Jon exclaimed.

Both Kyle and Tommy looked at Jon.

"Will you keep it down! Tommy barked out at him. We don't need the others
knowing just yet."

"Why its not a huge secret bro."

"I know I just don't want to deal with this tonight with half the boys
asleep and the other half about ready to go shortly."

"Oh, I thought you had plans."

"No KY, just thinking about what it would mean. So far Caleb wants to go
and now the other three want to go. How many more are going to ask if we
say yes?"

"Good point I don't mind some of them but where would they go and how many
would want to come with them?"

"Good questions Jon I don't have the answers just yet."

"You think maybe the house we found at the end of the tunnel?"

"Yes I was but we aren't done in there yet and I don't want them finding
that room or the porn stash."

"PORN?" they both yelled out causing heads to turn in the store.

"SHUSH! Yes porn I didn't tell either of you because I didn't want DJ to
know and I wasn't sure I wanted either of you knowing too."

"Gee thanks for you trust."

"Oh knock if off Jon you will see it soon enough."

"What did you find bro?"

"Videos and tons of them."

"Really good?"

"REALLY good KY good enough to cum to!"

"Damn!" Jon said aloud.

"Calm your hormones over there!" Kyle said to Jon.

I started to laugh at both of them.

"Okay so we need at least a day before we allow them to move in IF they
vote yes and IF we let them take that place."

"Yeah that's a lot of IF'S TJ."

"I know Jon but that's all I have now."

"Okay lets get back inside before they really get curious." Kyle said.

"Good idea." I added.

We headed back in and Shawn immediately came over to me.

"TJ are we gonna let Caleb come with us?" he said quietly

"I haven't decided yet and right now we have bigger things to think about."

"Like what?"

"I'll tell you in the morning love, right now I just want everyone to
settle down and relax."

"Okay I am gonna go lay back down then. Night TJ."

"Night cutie."

Shawn gave him a nice strong hug and then headed back to his bed.

"Man I am beat. I said as I turned to Jon. I could use a blow job too..." I
commented quietly.

"Yeah I bet, Jon said. But not here."

We both chuckled and I put my head down on the pillow. Jon sat up.

"What's with you?"

"Not that sleepy. I think I am gonna go take a walk if you don't mind."

"I really wish you wouldn't just incase but if you take your cell I guess
you can go."

"I won't be too long I just want to stretch my legs some. It should tire me
out too."

"Okay just be careful!"

"I will, I promise."

With that Jon headed to the door and a few boys watched as he opened it and
left.

"Where is he going?" asked Billy.

"He needs some air." I replied.

"Oh." Billy answered and that seemed to end that.



TJ put his head down on the pillow and closed his eyes. The room was all
but quiet now other then some whispering and low voices across the room. It
was getting late now at least 11:30 if not later as Jon started to walk the
mall. Not sure what he wanted or even why... he just strolled around for a
bit looking at the stores and enjoying some alone time. As he approached
what was labeled the midpoint of the mall on a sign he noticed above, he
also heard something ahead and he immediately hid and watched to see if
anyone was coming his way. No one was around as he waited safely out of
site but the voices remained steady and about the same distance away from
him. He cautiously walked on now following the voices. Suddenly ahead he
saw something but he wasn't sure if his eyes were playing tricks with him
because of the hour it was but he swore he saw a kid hiding in a bush
ahead. He got a little closer and the voices he heard were coming from
beyond where this kid was hiding. They were somewhat muffled but he heard
two different people. He continued to watch from a close but safe
distance. There was definitely a kid in the bushes about 25 yards in front
of him and he was doing something. Suddenly there was a loud yell from the
other side and the kid tore out of the bush and took off running down the
mall walkway. From the other side two kids half dressed came up running the
slanted walkway on their side. One had his pants off, looked familiar, and
was in a tee shirt, boxers, and socks. The other one Jon didn't quite
recognize was holding his pants up like he needed a belt... his sneakers on
but no shirt on. They ran to the top of the walk that was in front of
him. Neither of them could see Jon from where he hid but he could clearly
see them as they yelled at the boy who took off. They stood there looking
in the direction the kid took off apparently trying to decide what to do
now. He must have been spying on them Jon thought to himself. He heard the
one kid who looked familiar say he was dead meat when he gets his hands on
him this time and the other said something about just wanting to finish
what they started last time on him. The first one said that might be the
only way to keep him away from us and they seemed to agree that it was time
for some kind of punishment. The more Jon thought about it the kid that ran
away looked like the one who came to the store just before and asked about
going back with them. Caleb or something he thought his name was. I guess
that kid is in some serious trouble now he thought to himself. I bet they
were doing something sexual over there he thought to himself and that Caleb
kid was watching.

 I wonder if I can catch them but I don't want to get shot or something if
they find me. It would be interesting though I just don't want to get
caught like that kid did. He thought about it for a bit as he stood his
ground. Things got real quiet over there and he took a chance and walked
closer. Not totally sure if he wanted to know but curiosity had gotten to
him. He snuck up closer. Being taller he could see more then what that
other kid could see. He went to the same spot and looked over
cautiously. Down below he saw a couch and on it both boys were kissing and
each had a hand in one another's boxers feeling each other up but with
their underwear on. Nice! Jon went on to watch for a few minutes but felt
quite uncomfortable spying even though the whole thing also made him grow
too. He now had a small tent in his pants from his voyeuristic
play. Finally after seeing that this wasn't going much past petting he
backed off and headed back towards the store while still ahead of the game
and uncaught. Once a safe distance from the boys he took a deep breath and
gave his own cock a squeeze. Then he smiled realizing he had a story to
tell Tommy. He recognized one of the boys just didn't know his name and his
thought was to find out who they both were tomorrow before they left. He
arrived back and hurried over to his bed partner but Tommy had fallen
asleep and he decided it was best to just let him be for tonight. Of course
if him getting into bed next to him woke him then... well then he was fair
game to talk to but for now he was prepared to hold onto his secret till
morning. Jon carefully got into bee wanting to share his excitement with TJ
but also didn't want to hear it from him if he woke him up. Still excited
and now wide awake Jon slowly drifted off to sleep.

Both boys among some of the others slept pretty restlessly during the night
tossing and turning quite a bit with the bright lights on overhead and the
new surroundings causing lots of restlessness but eventually morning
came. As usual Luke was up early and went out into the mall to check out
the stores and see if anything interesting struck him. He wandered about
going in and out of stores close by and finding a thing or two he wanted in
clothing. Eventually he headed back and by the time he got there DJ, Danny,
and Christian were awake and quietly sitting on their beds. He waved and
they waved back and for now they kept things quiet. Eventually they got up
and headed for bathrooms to do their morning deeds and soon the others
began to awake, Tommy being one of them and within another thirty minutes
almost everyone was now up. Noise started to fill the area now as they all
began to have some form of conversation. Jon came back from the bathroom
and pulled TJ aside.

"When you get a chance I have to tell you what happened last night after I
left here."

"Oh? Is it good?"

He shook his head yes.

"Then now is as good a time as any."

Both boys headed outside into the hall.

"So spill it." TJ said.

"While I was walking I came across this kid ahead of me."

"Did he see you?" TJ asked.

"Hell no he was too busy with his hand on his cock and watching the other
two."

"Other two? Hand on cock? What the hell did you find?"

"There is a spot about a ten minute walk from here with a couch down below
a wall. Above that spot that kid was standing there looking over spying on
two others below."

"What kid?"

"The one that you and Kyle almost shot last night."

"You mean Caleb?"

"Yeah him. He was looking over the side of the wall in the bushes spying on
two kids below."

"Really and they were... fooling around?"

"Yeah how did you know?"

"Well why else would anyone spy? So what happened?"

"They caught him after a bit and he took off like his ass was on fire as
they ran up after him."

"Mmmmmm, that might explain why he doesn't want to stay here and he came
all the way down to see me and ask about coming back with us."

"Yeah well the way things were TJ if he survived the night he won't live
much longer."

"What are you talking about Jon?"

"I heard them say they were gonna get him and sorta finish what the didn't
do to him last time."

"Ohhhh, sounds like poor Caleb is gonna get his ass beat."

"Yeah or worse. They were super pissed at him."

"I bet. Did you know either of the kids?"

"One looked familiar and the other no but if I saw him again I would."

"And how did you happen to see all this without getting caught yourself?"

"There is an excellent hiding spot right across the mall from there and I
saw it all without them seeing me. They were hardly dressed TJ. one kid was
in boxers and the other was holding his pants up and had no shirt on."

"Nice! Bet if I know you, you got wood from that!"

Jon smiled.

"Not as much as I did when I spied on them after that."

"You suck! You know I don't know if I should yell at you for risking that
or just because I wasn't there too!"

They both laughed.

"Yeah but it didn't last too much longer. They didn't get serious and
nothing more came off after pants so I left a little after that."

"Why didn't you tell me last night fool?"

"You were asleep and I didn't want to pull you out of bed just to get your
cock hard like it is now!"

Jon reached out and gave it a squeeze as it tented out of his shorts.

"Hey stop that we are right in front of everyone's view."

"And that matters why?"

"Well I don't want them seeing that right now and I am sure someone is
watching us out here."

"So what?"

"Come on lets get back inside before I really get hard!"

With that Jon laughed and both of them headed back inside. As they walked
back in a few asked what the plans were now that everyone is awake.

"In a few minutes I am gonna get everyone's attention and tell all of you."

"Oh okay." Said Joey.

 "Besides we have a few things to discuss that are important."

"Oh really? Jon said like what?"

"You will find out with everyone else in a few minutes. As soon as my hard
on goes down!"

Jon laughed.

"Okay I'll wait."

Around the room the boys were gathering their belongings after taking care
of their morning business. It was about 8am now as Tommy finished what he
was doing and yelled out to get everyone's attention.

"Guys! Yo! Everyone..."

He stood and watched as one by one he got everyone's attention.

"Can everyone please come around and sit by me."

He waited as the boys took a seat and within a minute all were seated close
by.

"Okay guys first off we have a few things of major importance to discuss
before we leave."

"Are we leaving soon?"

"I am planning to go around noon Ben and after we are done here I am going
over by your brother and discuss what we talk about."

"Oh so we are going to talk about that now?"

"Yes as soon as you are done with your question I am going to start."

"Oh okay Tommy I am done sorry to interrupt."

"Its fine Ben, thanks."

"Anyone else have questions before I get into this?"

No one raised a hand or spoke out.

"Okay good. Then I will begin. First off as I said we are leaving around
noon and heading back home so that gives all of you one more chance to walk
the mall and get something you might still want and so on. While I am gone
you guys can go look around and I want all of you back by 11am the latest
so that's a good two or more hours of free time. While you are gone find
something to eat and make sure you are not hungry before we leave. Now for
the important thing..." Tommy had everyone's full attention right now as he
finished talking about their shopping and eating.

"Last night if most of you remember Caleb came in and scared most of us. As
he looked at Jeremy and smiled. Jeremy smiled back. What he wanted was to
know if he could come back and live with us at our home incase some of you
didn't hear that or know by now... murmurs and some talking started to fill
the room after Tommy said this to them... okay... okay guys listen up I am
not done... he got everyone's attention once again. There is more... after
he left Bryan came over to talk to me if you don't remember he is Ben's
brother. He asked me something very important and we need to talk about it
now. He asked me if it would be okay for him to move into our neighborhood
and live close by with Kate and his son."

Knowing this would raise a lot of issues Tommy went silent after saying
that and gave the boys a chance to voice their opinions. Immediately
Jeremy, Joey and Billy stood up and said no. this caused everyone to get
loud. Tommy yelled out to get them under control.

"GUYS! HEY QUIET DOWN!"

"Okay it seems like you three have something going on here. Now I am not
going to point fingers but why did all three of you say no so fast and come
to an agreement about this unless you have been talking already knowing
something was up."

None of them said anything as the room grew quiet again.

"DJ? You and the other two have been talking haven't you?"

"Kinda... after Caleb came last night Billy and Joey came over to me and
asked me what I thought about having more kids in the house. I think its
too crowded now but I am still new to your place so I didn't want to say
too much."

"Okay first off its not my place... its YOUR place. You and everyone in
this room! So that should say something right there. Every boy in this room
has a vote in this decision and its important to say something if you have
a problem or even if you like the idea... and to clear the air DJ they will
not be living with us. If they come they will live on their own in a
separate house."

"Ohhhh, DJ exclaimed. Then that is different. I thought they were going to
squeeze in our house and make it even harder to live there. I am okay with
that. I don't know about Billy or Joe but if they just want to move close
by I am fine with that."

"Good so that is settled. How about you Billy? Still against it?"

"No just like DJ I only had a problem if they were gonna be in the same
house. Sorry Tommy we didn't know they wanted to live separate."

"That's okay. Joey? How about you?"

"I really don't care now either. Like they said I just don't want anymore
kids in our place. Its too crazy in there now."

"Well you too have your answer now. As for the rest of you... as Tommy
looked directly at Zack. IF any of you feel that you want to find a place
less `GAY' this might be the perfect time. I am sure when we tell them they
are welcomed someone who is here will probably want to join them in
traveling back with us. Now the only question left to all of you is where
they live. Now I realize we don't have much to say about the house they
choose unless they are totally unsure of things. I suggest that they move
two houses down from us. That is one house past where Luke has everything
in the greenhouse if any of you aren't sure of the place I mean."

Kyle and Jon immediately looked at Tommy like he was nuts.

"Are you sure you want them to have THAT house bro?" Kyle said.

"Yes I have thought this out and I am going to ask them to give us a day or
two to get back and get it ready for them."

"Ohhhh, I got ya." Kyle said.

"You okay with that too Jon?"

"Yeah that sounds better."

"Anyone else have a problem with this?"

No one said anything.

"So do we need to vote or shall I just tell them its fine?"

"I think we should vote." Someone said.

"Who said that?"

"I did." Zack stood up and said back to Tommy.

"Okay I don't have a problem with that. All in favor of inviting Bryan and
whoever else he brings back raise your hand."

Ten arms went up. Two didn't vote.

"Okay now I can understand why Christian didn't vote but why didn't you
vote Shawn?"

"Because I really don't know what I want TJ. I mean I want Caleb to come
back but I don't know what I want if he can't live with us."

"I'm sorry Shawn but we don't have any extra room for him in our place."

"But what if he lives in my room?"

"Then where will you live?"

"In there too."

"But you only have one bed Shawn and you have one of the smaller bedrooms
its gonna be very tight and if you two have a fight or something then who
gets the room?"

Everyone was sitting and quietly listening to Tommy and Shawn discuss this.

"I don't know TJ I didn't think about that."

"Well I did. I thought about a lot of things last night after Bryan asked
me. I was in favor of having them come right away but I immediately thought
about food, cars and all the other things that they will need to survive
and what happens if the power goes out and so on."

"But you still want them to come Tommy right?"

"Yes Ben I do. I really want this so you can be with your brother and
nephew. I suppose you are going to live with them when they move in right?"

"Ummm... no I am not. My brother already asked me and I told him I want to
stay where I am because I am happy there."

"Really. ok well that's fine I wouldn't tell you where to live its totally
your choice."

Tommy looked at Shawn.

"I was going to give Caleb Ben's room if he was going to live with his
brother but since he is staying I am afraid he is going to have to figure
out what to do with Bryan on his own Shawn. I'm sorry kiddo."

"Its okay. I'm sure he will be fine if he stays here."

"I doubt that!" Jon said aloud.

Shawn immediately turned and looked at Jon.

"What do you mean you doubt that Jon?"

"Oh boy here we go! Tommy said in a low voice. Jon did you have to go
there?"

"Sorry it slipped out."

"Jon why did you say that?" Shawn asked.

"I'm sorry Shawn it slipped out but I can't talk about it."

Shawn looked at Tommy.

"TJ what is he talking about?"

"Okay look all of you. Some things are private and even if Jon has a big
mouth and said something he shouldn't have we still can't talk about it. He
looked at Shawn. So I am sorry Shawn but even though you want to know what
Jon means he cant tell you right now. It's a private matter."

"But Caleb is my friend and I wanna know what Jon knows."

Shawn was starting to whine since he wasn't getting his own way all of a
sudden.

"Okay Shawn this isn't open for discussion, especially in front of the
group. It is a private matter and we will not be discussing it now. End of
subject."

Shawn just pouted and sat back down with his arms crossed.

"Okay all of you that takes care of things, as I said you can all go out
and check out the mall for what you want for the next few hours. It is now
8:45 and I want everyone back by 11am the absolute latest. If you break
away from Jon and Kyle or cause any problems for us while any of you are
out there without me. You will have a serious problem when you get back so
please everyone stay in line and don't give Jon and Kyle any problems while
you look around. DJ you also have a gun so I would like it if you joined
Kyle and Jon and watched over the others."

"Sure Tommy. No problem."

"What about me Tom? I have a gun too."

"Ben I thought you might want to come back with me when I go see your
brother. But if you want to go look around its fine and totally your
decision whether you go with me or with the group."

"Oh okay. I'll let you know as soon as I think it over."

"Very good Ben. Anyone else have a question?"

No one said a thing.

"Okay great then this meeting is over and in a few minutes you can all go
with DJ, Kyle, and Jon to get more stuff."

With that they all got up and went to do something while they waited. Ben
came over to Tommy right after the group disbursed.

"Tommy... what do you think I should do?" Ben asked.

"It's up to you Ben. If there is something you want out there go with the
guys. I was only offering to you since you have the most to gain from all
this."

"Thanks Tom but I will be seeing my brother plenty from now on I suppose so
I think I am gonna go with the group and get a few more things."

"No problem. Talk to you later."

Tommy walked over to Kyle and Jon.

"You guys okay with this?"

"Sure bro. Is Ben going with you?"

"No he wants to go with you and the others he has a few things he wants."

"That's fine with me. So you are going to see Bryan by your self?"

"Yes when I meet up with you guys later I'll let you know what the plan
is."

"Okay TJ see ya in an hour or so."

"Yes and remember KY, if there is a problem no matter how big or small call
me on the cell."

"No problem."

He gave TJ a hug and then went over to Jon and the others and they started
to walk away as a group. As they left Tommy headed towards the other end to
meet with Bryan and the others. He was on his way and about five minutes
into his walk and he thought he heard something. He stopped and looked
around but it was quiet so he continued to walk. Once again he heard
something. This time it was muffled but there was little doubt someone was
around. He took out his gun and started to look around. So far nothing but
its gone quiet again too. He continued to look around for a few minutes and
still had seen nothing out of sorts. Finally he figures its nothing and he
turns and heads back on his way. No more then five steps and he hears a
cry. Someone yells out. Its close by so he draws his gun again and starts
to walk towards the noise. Cautiously he rounds a corner into a well lit
area. It's a small but well lit corridor with two store fronts. One on each
side and no more then twenty feet to the end of the corridor.

"Hey! Cut it out!" He screams out as he sees what the noise is.

Just then someone whacks him across the back with something and he falls to
the ground...


To be continued...


dwednomail@hotmail.com


Next up: Chapter 5 of BT...  Its time to leave this place but will there be
any permanent scars to anyone before they go? Also who is going with Bryan
and who is staying?