ATF Little Britches Future AU
DISCLAIMER: Don’t own them or make money from them.
COMMENTS: I am a big fan of the Little Britches AU. You are pretty much guaranteed a good story by the marvelous authors who write there. I have always wanted to try my hand, but I have never been able to write for children. Then Tidia writes "Pride" and I suddenly had a way to join in and Tidia was kind enough to let me play in her advanced timeline. I can’t thank her enough. So I finally sat down and wrote a Little Britches story. I hope that it is enjoyable (or at least bearable). As always, comments, complaints and thoughts are always welcome.
"Larabee," Chris growled as he answered the phone."Hey Dad."
‘Vin! Where are you? I thought we’d hear from you a couple of days ago," Chris responded as nonchalantly as possible. He knew Buck would be laughing his ass off at the attempt. Larabee had been worried the last several days. Buck had assured him that his 22-year old son was probably recovering from a hangover after celebrating his departure from the Army with his buddies. Chris wanted to believe him. He tried to convince himself that his son was so used to doing things without letting anyone know that it hadn’t occurred to him to call Chris and tell him that he had changed his plans. But he never could convince himself. Vin was always overly responsible and didn’t do things that would cause undue worry. Vin had told him he would call after his discharge. Something had to happen to prevent that.
"Sorry Dad, something came up," Vin replied, easily hearing his father’s concern.
"Everything okay?"
The pause that preceded the answer caused Chris to run a hand through his hair and clench his jaw. He knew he should have trusted his instinct.
"I wondered if you could help me make arrangements gettin’ home."
Chris cringed at the uncertainty in the question. He knew from prior conversations that Vin felt uncertain about things he had done while in the military. Old insecurities that Chris thought were forever banished still lingering in the depths. But Vin still considered here home and Chris was content to have his son back close to him so they could heal the wounds.
"You know better than to ask. Tell me where you’re at and I’ll make arrangements."
There was that pause again and Chris waited. "I’m at Walter Reed," Vin finally said with a sigh.
Chris jerked straight. "Are you okay?"
"Reckon if I was okay, I wouldn’t be here," Vin replied with a chuckle and that dry wit assured Chris as nothing else could that his son would be okay whatever the reason he was there.
"You going to make me work for this or are you going to let an old man off easy?"
"Last mission had some problems and I ended up here for a while."
"How long have you been there?" Chris asked suspiciously.
Vin groaned knowing his father missed little. "Been here ‘bout a week."
Chris held his comment remembering when Vin came to him that he always hid things in an effort not to be a bother. It seemed the insecurities had surfaced from deeper than he thought or perhaps had never been buried as deep as Chris hoped. "Okay," Chris finally said, assuring himself and his son while he figured what to say next.
"They’re releasin’ me tomorrow or the day after."
"I’m sure Ezra can find a private plane for me to use. I’ll come there today. . ."
"Dad, you don’t have to do that," Vin interrupted.
"Vin, where else do you think I would want to be?" Chris responded with sincerity. He listened to the silence on the other end before Vin’s voice broke through.
"Reckon there’s no other place I’d rather you be."
Chris smiled and relaxed for the first time since the conversation began. "Then I’ll see you later today cowboy."
"Okay Dad," Vin replied and Chris thought he sounded better too.
Part Two
As Chris waited anxiously for the plane to land, he wondered on the changes Vin must have gone through in the last few years. His son had come home sporadically but it was evident that the visits were difficult for him. Vin could never articulate why but it was clear that until his hitch was up, it was easier for Vin to stay away. He sent regular postcards and called at least once a month, more often when missions allowed. But it had been fourteen months since Chris had seen his son and he couldn’t wait to be near him again.He wondered how Vin would adjust to the changes the others had gone through as well. Chris had assumed Orrin’s position as director three years ago. One of his first decisions as acting director was to add a new position in the budget that allowed him to have a deputy director solely charged with monitoring the various teams. He thought it was critical for the teams to have a direct liaison to him. He also wanted someone focused solely on the teams so when he was drowning in the political and administrative functions they wouldn’t suffer. Josiah had been ready to step out of active duty and welcomed the role.
Buck had his own team and was thriving in his leadership role. They hadn’t dared place a woman on his team yet, but Chris felt certain that Buck would rise to the occasion, hopefully not in more ways than one. Nathan left the ATF and was in his last year of medical school while Rain paid the bills. Unable to trust working with other people, Ezra also left the ATF and was proving extremely successful as the new owner of a restaurant and bar. His wife, Li Pong, managed the entertainment and it was one of the hottest spots in Denver. Chris knew Ezra held his own entertainment downstairs which held an impressive gambling hall. Ezra was an excellent source of information and law enforcement looked the other way.
Vin was aware of the changes but he hadn’t lived around them since they occurred. Chris hoped that it wouldn’t cause Vin any unease. The men were as close as they had been when they were still a team. They got together as a group at least once a week and inevitably found excuses to talk to one another more often than that. It had taken some adjustment, but after spending more than a decade together, none of the men were willing to lose the family unit they had created.
JD had adjusted flawlessly. He was starting his own adventure with college and thought the changes were awesome. He said now there would be two doctors who would make house calls, a guaranteed table at the hottest spot in Denver, and three people who could still get him out of jail free. The men had found comfort in the boy’s unfailing confidence and forged ahead with their changing lives.
Hopefully the changes wouldn’t hinder Vin easing back into their family unit. Chris had been working overtime for the last two months to ensure that the next two weeks belonged to Vin. He had planned on some fishing and camping. However, with a week in Walter Reed, he suspected the next two weeks would be resting and recovery. But at least Vin would be home. They had survived the last four years.
Part Three
Chris stood just inside the room, his emotions jumbling as he took in Vin’s form. The left side of his face was bruised and there were visible stitches. His left arm appeared secured to his torso which was wrapped. He looked pale and vulnerable but Chris thought he never looked better. He was alive and he was coming home.He might have made some noise or perhaps Vin just sensed him there, but bright blue eyes opened and a smile immediately appeared on his face as Vin focused on his father. Chris didn’t bother to hold back and made his way to Vin’s side and enveloped him as carefully as he could, relieved to feel the warmth of his son and heartened to feel the fierce squeeze back.
Chris couldn’t say how long they stayed like that. Vin seemed to need the contact as much as he did. Chris was content to hold him and feel memories wash over him of other times he held his son. Memories of rocking in the chair at night when Vin was still small enough to curl in his lap. Memories of his arm slung over his son’s shoulders when they were still bony and boyish. Memories of holding his son when he mourned the uncertainties of life and celebrated the victories of it. Each time Chris thought the moment couldn’t be sweeter, and only now realized, they each adorned places on his heart as clearly as his refrigerator was decorated with the history of this child. As long as Chris could hold him then he imagined they both would be alright.
It was Vin who finally drew back. Chris felt a stupid grin on his face and looked down at his son who was grinning just as inanely. "We made it," Vin finally uttered and Chris could only manage to nod in agreement. They had made it through childhood and teenage years and now four years of separation. They would make it through whatever came as well.
"You look like shit," Chris finally managed.
"Yeah, well falling down a cliff has a way of doing that to you."
"That how you ended up here?"
"Yep, some guy didn’t seem to like my sharp shooting skills and directed a rocket launcher to where I was at. One minute I had ground underneath me and the next there’s just an explosion of rocks and nothing else. Unit got me out and I woke up in a hospital."
"Still got all your parts?" Chris asked lightly.
"Reckon they’re not working too well at the moment but they’re all there."
They settled into silence, Chris easing himself into a bedside chair. If asked neither of them could explain times like this to others. It was as if the silence had texture and form. It molded itself around them, comforting them and drawing them closer. They relaxed in it; it had been too long.
Vin had drifted to sleep again and Chris was content to watch him. He knew he would need to call the guys soon but he wasn’t ready. He just wanted to note the changes the last fourteen months had brought to his son. He was more muscular. If possible, the eyes even bluer with a new sharpness and maturity to them. There were some new scars on his arm, a small one beside his right eye. Chris wondered at them knowing he could catalogue every other scar Vin had, knew the history of each.
Vin had a scar on his left leg from where he wrecked his bike in a motor cross race. But the wreck was after he crossed the finish line and won the state championship by the narrowest of margins in history. He knew Vin traced that scar and smiled. Chris could still see the two bikers tangling as they each topped the last hill neither wanting to give way. The bikes had hit one another when they were twenty feet in the air. Chris still saw them both fight their wobbling bikes as they touched the ground only to be slung from their seats. Chris and the other boy’s parents had run to them only to see them both laughing at the spectacular finish, oblivious to the blood on them. The next year Scott won the championship and Vin was as gracious in defeat as he had been in victory.
Chris realized his days of knowing where each scar came from were over. The boy, who had needed the wounds eased or the teenager who presented them as nonchalantly as possible, was grown. Now Chris was left to see them when they were fading pink or aged white. He wondered if Vin would share the stories of his new scars. He hoped that they would continue the unique relationship they had. The continued ease of their silence affirmed that the bond was still in tact.
Chris’ thoughts were interrupted as a doctor entered the room. Vin immediately woke and watched warily at his approach.
"Ah, Sergeant Tanner. I see you still insist on scowling at me when I enter," Dr. Pinner quipped.
"Ain’t a sergeant anymore, Vin will do me fine," Vin replied.
Dr. Pinner turned to Chris, "I’m Dr. Pinner."
Chris took the hand offered. "Chris Larabee, Vin’s father. How’s he doing?"
"Vin am I allowed to say?" Dr. Pinner asked. There were very explicit instructions in Vin’s medical file that no one was to be contacted or informed of any medical emergencies. The instruction had resulted in at least two hospital stays in which Vin’s only company was the medical staff.
"Might as well. He knows I’m here and he’ll just steal the file if you don’t." Vin responded. He had no objection to his father knowing anything. He just hadn’t wanted to worry anyone.
"Yes, well. Mr. Larabee your son has a severe concussion. He only became lucid for an extended period of time yesterday."
Vin snorted, "My dad might not believe I was ever lucid." Chris smiled in response but kept his attention on the doctor.
"Vin will have some lingering issues with dizziness, memory lapse and possible blacking out. He needs to take it easy for at least four weeks. His doctor should have another CT completed in two weeks to determine the status of the bruising. I have every reason to believe that it will continue to heal at the rate it has but it’s difficult to predict head injuries. If Vin has prolonged dizziness or becomes disoriented, he’ll need to get to a doctor immediately. Vin also has some bruised ribs and a dislocated shoulder. I’ll have a therapist show you some exercises he’ll need to do. If he behaves himself, Vin should be as good as new in about six to eight weeks."
"Then we’re doomed because I don’t think Vin’s ever followed doctor’s orders," Chris replied.
"Hopefully this time he will. I can’t stress enough to you Vin that you sustained a serious contusion to your brain. If you follow my instructions, hopefully you won’t have any long term effects. If you don’t, there can be serious consequences."
"I hear you doc and I appreciate it. Nothing I want more right now then to just go home and relax, so you don’t need to worry."
"When will he be discharged?" Chris inquired.
"Let’s wait and see. I want to have some tests run and see what progress they show. If everything looks good, I’ll release Vin tomorrow."
"Thank you doctor," Chris replied.
"I’ll send a nurse in to take blood and set up the new tests. I’ll see you later."
"Thanks doc," Vin said.
The door had not completely closed when Chris turned to Vin. "Severe brain contusion, just lucid yesterday. God Vin, why didn’t they call me?"
"Didn’t want you to worry."
"Son, it’s my job to worry."
"I’ll try to remember that," Vin replied with a yawn and closed his eyes to avoid further discussion.
Part Four
Vin had just returned from having his tests and was trying to ride through the pain that the movement had caused when the door opened again and a man in uniform entered.Vin naturally tried to straightened when he saw the man. "Lieutenant Collins, how are you sir?"
"Better question would be how are you?"
"I’m fine. I’d like for you to meet my father Chris Larabee. Dad, this is Lieutenant Collins, he ordered me around for the last nine months."
"Pss," Collins responded. "Now you acknowledge that they were orders."
He turned to Chris and extended his hand, "It’s a pleasure to meet you sir. You have a fine son. It’s too bad they didn’t send him to me sooner. Maybe we could have convinced him to stay."
"Nice to meet you as well. I imagine you’ve had your hands full," Chris responded.
"No complaints," the lieutenant turned back to Vin. "Tanner you’re reckless and you don’t follow orders, but there’s no one else I’d rather have covering me."
Vin ducked his head, "I appreciate that Lieutenant. The last nine months have been the best stint I’ve had since I’ve been in. ‘Preciate the way you treated me."
"So you enjoyed being yelled at?" Collins asked with a chuckle. "Seriously son, you’ll be missed. The guys wanted to throw you a big party but you decided you liked the hospital cocktail better. So we got you something to remember us by."
He pulled out a rock mounted on a flat plaque with the unit’s name across the plaque and "Sharpshooter Extraordinaire" beneath that. Vin began laughing as soon as he saw the rock, recognizing it immediately.
"If you look on the bottom, all our names are on it so you can remember who to call if you ever need anything."
The laughter faded at the comment and Vin’s head dropped to hide the flash of emotion. "Thanks," he finally forced through his tightened throat.
"Hell son don’t blow it for me now. I’d hate to think that my tough as nails sniper can get all emotional. We always thought you had two speeds, laid back and spitting mad. Don’t make me wonder what we’ve been missing," the lieutenant teased and was relieved to receive the response he wanted which was the quiet chuckle of the man before him.
Chris decided to help along the levity and asked about the significance of the rock. "It came from the place I was blown out of. Reckon you could match it to the bruise in my head," Vin replied.
"This exact rock is the one that put you in here?" Chris asked in disbelief.
"That one or about a hundred others. I think Tanner managed to give each one his individual attention on his way down," Collins laughed now that they knew Vin would be okay. He didn’t want to remember seeing the kid lying bloody and unmoving at the base of the cliff. Tanner hadn’t even moaned when he pulled him over his shoulder as they evacuated the area. Collins shook his head dispelling the image.
"That’s Vin always giving 110%," Chris laughed.
"Well I need to be heading. You need your rest. I just wanted to stop by and see how you were doing. Jim packed your stuff. If you let me know where you want it delivered, we’ll see that it gets there."
"Thanks. I think my dad has a private plane lined up, maybe you could have someone drop it off at the airport or bring it by the hospital tomorrow."
"Already getting out of here?" Collins asked with some relief.
"Hopefully."
"Good, I’m glad to hear it. You take care Vin. It’s been a pleasure," Collins said as he reached out to shake Vin’s hand.
"Mr. Larabee, it was a pleasure meeting you."
"You as well. I’ll walk you out," Chris said. "Be back in a minute," he told Vin as he followed Collins out.
As soon as they were in the hall, Chris turned to Collins, "I want to thank you for taking care of Vin. He hasn’t always seemed comfortable with his time in the military but he seemed content the last several months."
"The military pysch test doesn’t know everything. Vin got pegged as a loner, self-sufficient, organized, controlled. No doubt Vin has those traits but I found he flourished being part of a team. Never seen anyone do a better job watching everyone else’s back and keeping his own out of the fire most of the time. I wished it hadn’t taken them so long to realize that keeping him apart from a squad was a mistake. Vin did great work as a sniper and scout but it didn’t help him develop as a person. People get lost in who they are sometimes when all they’re called on to do is hard work. I know that you were a Seal so you understand. Your son has done things that most men couldn’t do and he did them well. But what was best for the army, wasn’t best for Vin. I’m just sorry I didn’t get him sooner."
"I appreciate it. And I can’t thank you enough for bringing home this last time," Chris replied as he clasped Collins’ hand.
Collins smiled lightly, "Never leave a man behind."
Chris nodded and each turned to go his separate way. Chris was thankful that Vin had been assigned to Collins. He thought it was crucial that Vin had some good experiences in the military before he got out.
"Finished checkin’ up on me," Vin drawled as Chris walked back in.
"Never stopped," Chris replied with a smile.
Part Five
Vin’s discharge was delayed another day due to the excessive dizziness he experienced when he was finally encouraged to begin walking around. Chris stayed close to his son’s side bearing his weight while Vin struggled to clear the fuzziness. Repeated efforts and patience left Vin exhausted but finally able to remain vertical. Finally the doctor was satisfied enough with the scans and Vin’s improvements that he signed the discharge papers.Chris looked over at Vin who was sleeping with the assistance of pain killers. The prolonged movement of leaving the hospital and arriving at the plane had extinguished Vin’s stamina. Without complaint he took the pills offered by his father and relaxed on the ride that was finally taking him home.
It seemed to Vin he had just drifted off to sleep when his father was shaking him awake, telling him they would be landing in fifteen minutes. Chris knew Vin would want to compose himself and be alert before he was greeted by his extended family. They had all agreed that Vin would need quiet at the ranch when he arrived so they planned on greeting him briefly at the airport. None of them were willing to wait to welcome him home once he was back in Denver.
And it would be a homecoming in the truest sense. JD had announced a few months before that he was transferring to the University of Colorado so that he would also be back in Denver. JD had been attending a private school on a full academic scholarship. It had given him a chance to spend some time being on his own. He returned at least once a month, but the separation had been hard on Buck. Buck threw himself into the job and began renting an apartment in town to save on the long drive. He still came out on the weekends to help Chris at the ranch, but they had all been living separately, struggling to find an identity apart from the close family unit they had nurtured over more than a decade.
Any anxiety Chris felt over the approaching reunions was quickly dispelled when he looked at his son. He and Buck had found it difficult with the boys gone and couldn’t wait for the opportunity to have them back. Even if ultimately it wasn’t under the same roof, it would at least be the same city. They found comfort in the close proximity that they were about to attain again.
Vin was ready to be home again. Sometimes the only thing that seemed to sustain him was the knowledge that his time in the military was limited, a mere stepping stone to where he wanted to be. He was surprised at his own impatience to land and see the men who had come to mean so much to him.
Chris stayed close to Vin’s side as they exited the plane. Vin was beaming as he took in his family. JD stepped forward with his normal exuberance and the two brothers embraced. Vin finally lifted his head and looked down into JD’s ecstatic face, unable to stop his own smile.
"Good to have you home Vin."
"Great to be home," Vin replied with a sigh.
Buck couldn’t wait any longer and enveloped his second son. Buck felt something ease in his gut that had been there for four years. He couldn’t bring himself to let go and reached out to pull JD in, wanting to feel the presence of both boys. He was so lost in thanking god he had this moment, he didn’t immediately realize when other arms wrapped around. The other men could no longer stand idly by and added their presence, reveling in the strength of the seven of them together again.
As if some silent signal was given, they each backed off grins permanently affixed on their faces. Vin approached each one holding tightly and exchanging soft words. Finally Buck began laughing and before long they were all chuckling at nothing more than the enjoyment of the moment.
Chris felt Vin leaning more heavily against him and began winding up the reunion. "Nathan you think you could come out and look through Vin’s file and check him over for me?"
"Of course," Nathan replied waiting for Vin’s growl of irritation. Vin merely smiled not finding it in him to be bothered by his family wanting to care for him.
"Well boys, we’ll see you out at the ranch this weekend," Buck called as he and JD followed Chris and Vin who were slowly making their way to the Ram. The men indicated their agreement and began to disperse. It was a wonderful day, a truly wonderful day.
Part Six
Vin woke to sounds long familiar to him. Buck and JD were boisterously doing whatever currently caught their attention. Chris interjected an occasional word, sometimes cautioning and sometimes joining. Vin felt himself ease into the familiarity of it, thankful that he was here again and welcomed. He had been so scared that the others would see how he changed and would reject him. But they had opened their arms and held on to him as if they were as relieved as him that he was home.When Chris quietly opened the door he was greeted by a grin on Vin’s face and Chris quickly found a corresponding one on his own. "Hey cowboy, ready to eat?"
"Yep," Vin replied pushing up. Chris quickly covered the distance and grabbed his arm. Nathan had been explicit about problems Vin was likely to experience and was emphatic that when Vin changed positions that someone was on hand to prevent him from falling. The last thing Vin needed was another knot on his hard head.
Chris felt Vin teeter and grabbed his other arm as well. Vin’s eyes glassed over and Chris thought he was passing out. But Vin clinched his jaw and focused on staying conscious. He couldn’t tell how much time passed before the room came into focus and he became aware of his father’s soft words of assurance. Finally, back in control, Vin lifted his good arm to pat his father’s arm.
"Ready to try and stand?" Chris asked.
Vin wanted to nod but knew the stupidity of that action and so he merely began rising confident that Chris had him. Standing proved to be much easier than sitting up and within a short time Chris stepped away.
"Well that was easy," Vin commented. Chris snorted in reply and followed his son’s slow progress to join the rest of their family.
Vin settled into the warmth of the kitchen. Chris had already set the table and the food was steaming in the covered dishes. Vin could smell all his favorites – roast beef with Chris’ special gravy, mashed potatoes with garlic and cheese, corn on the cob buried in butter and light kidney beans flavored with bacon. Vin appreciated the effort that was evident in the meal.
Vin enjoyed his dinner while JD chattered about his latest interest and Buck interjected with stories that you never knew whether to believe. Chris and Vin were content to listen and laugh and call bullshit occasionally. In this moment, it was if they had stepped back in time to countless dinners when the boys were still in school. It provided comfort that these times were not gone forever and only to be found in memories.
"Did Chris tell you I got a Kawasaki ZX-6R?" JD asked excitedly.
Any illusions Vin had that they were still in high school were quickly banished with the fact that JD owned one of the fastest, hottest street bikes. "You own what? Did Buck buy you that?" Vin exclaimed in amazement.
"You can bet your last nickel I didn’t have anything to do with him owning that crotch rocket," Buck grumbled and it was clear that this was a sore point between them.
"Come on dad, you’ve got to admit I am extremely careful," JD replied.
"What color? How did you get it?" Vin demanded. He rarely was so vocal but he and JD had been ogling street bikes all their lives. While Chris had allowed Vin to race dirt bikes, he had been adamant that a street bike was too dangerous, particularly the ones that Vin and JD coveted.
JD beamed at Vin’s interest. "It’s silver. I call it the silver bullet. Feel up to seeing it?"
Chris, who had been silent, quickly felt compelled to interject, "No riding." But it was an unnecessary warning. Nathan had been clear, and they all understood, Vin wasn’t to do anything that would risk further head trauma.
Buck and Chris watched the boys exit. Vin draped a brotherly arm across JD’s shoulders allowing JD to bear a little of his weight and keep his balance. Despite their fear and dislike of the silver bullet, they couldn’t help but smile at the picture of their two boys close as ever.
"Does your heart good don’t it pard?" Buck asked.
Chris looked a moment more before whispering "yep" and began to clear the table.
By the time the boys had finished their admiration of the new addition to the family, Buck and Chris had cleaned the kitchen. "Looks like we had real good timing," Vin joked.
"Enjoy it while you can Junior," Buck replied, ruffling Vin’s hair.
"’Preciate the dinner Dad. I forgot how much I love your roast and potatoes."
"Glad you liked it. I was afraid I made too much but you boys still eat like you have tape worms."
"Can’t believe JD made enough money off some computer software to buy his motorcycle," Vin commented.
"Wait until you see the game he designed. I think you’ll recognize several of the characters."
"Really? He hadn’t mentioned that," Vin replied. "He hasn’t had the bike very long," he continued and Chris knew that they were getting to the real reason that Vin had lingered in the kitchen.
"He’s not a kid anymore."
"Yeah, but it’s a lot of machine," Vin said, remembering so many times that JD managed to push things a little too far in his effort to seem older and bigger. Sometimes Vin had been on hand to stop the disasters and sometimes he could only do damage control.
"Buck’s talked him to death about it. JD understands. He even took a safety class." Chris walked over to his son and wrapped his hand around the back of his neck. "Sometimes we don’t have any choice but to let go and hope for the best. " Chris said and Vin knew he was referring to his time in the army.
"Yeah, I guess so. But I think I’ll talk to him too."
"I wouldn’t expect any less. What are you going to do for wheels?"
"I don’t know. I’ll go looking later on and maybe find a used jeep."
"If you need help, let me know."
"Dad, I’ve got money saved. Enough to buy what I want and get me through until I start at the academy," Vin replied. He started with the Denver PD in August. It gave him three months to wait and heal. He hadn’t needed much money during his time in the army and had managed to save quite a bit. He would be fine.
Chris nodded and let the subject drop.
"JD’s going to put in a movie. You want to come watch it with us?" Vin asked.
"Sure. Tell him to get it started, I’ll be right there."
The Larabee/Wilmington household settled on the couch and recliners. The movie was mediocre but the company was priceless.
Part Seven
Vin continued to struggle with dizziness when he rose from a lying down position but otherwise he seemed to be managing well and staying up for longer periods. By Sunday, Chris figured he would be able to attend at least a few hours of his welcome home party.It was amazing how large their group had become. Nathan and Rain had their eight-year old son and six-year old daughter. Li Pong, Ezra’s wife, was expecting their first child in another six months. Nettie and Cassie came. Nettie was still tough as nails and didn’t look a year older. Cassie came into town for the party. She and JD spoke quietly by themselves, working through the awkwardness of seeing one another again. They had agreed two years ago to go to separate colleges and date other people. The feelings they shared were still strong but confused with their decision to live separately for now. Nettie had confidence that they would work through it.
Josiah brought Carolyn, a widow he had been dating for the last five years. Carolyn was only five feet two but a firecracker. She seemed to keep a smile on Josiah’s face. They were both content to make each other happy with no promises of tomorrow.
Mary came with her husband Gerard and their son Michael who was three. Billy was in school in Europe. Chris often wondered if that was one of the reasons he and Mary never worked out, he never felt she had done her best as a mother. Chris knew from watching Sarah with Adam that he had his own failings as a father, too often caught up in his career or his desires to focus on his family. He understood the price of that selfishness and it made him a better father to Vin and JD. Unfortunately, when he saw Mary, he saw his own failings. Billy was either staying with his grandparents or at private school. He knew Mary thought she was doing the best she could as a single mother who had a career, but Chris couldn’t see past the failing. He was happy that she had found Gerard but couldn’t help but wonder how Billy will feel if they didn’t send Michael away like he had been.
Chris pulled his attention back to the present as he saw Vin embracing his childhood physician. Chris felt so many blessings at the people gathered here. He hoped Vin would be comfortable in their attention and understand that they were all glad to have him home. While there was no doubt that Vin was glad to be home, Chris had seen his hesitancy. He understood that Vin was still uncertain, Chris just didn’t know about what yet.
The party continued into the early evening. At the urging of multiple doctors who were present, Vin had retired earlier. Chris doubted that he was sleeping but at least he was lying down and relaxing.
Chris was right. Vin couldn’t sleep but he was content to listen to the voices of his family and friends drifting up to his room. He absently fingered the cut on his head where Nathan had removed the stitches that morning. He found his thoughts drifting, considering the strangeness of being here again. It was a place he had longed for and feared to return to in the past four years. He couldn’t help the anxiety he felt, couldn’t help but wonder how he would fit in. There was no doubt in his mind that he had changed. At times, it was if he felt parts of himself dying. The way he viewed the world was altered in a way that he no longer saw the simple beauty of it but was seeking the hidden dangers. He was no stranger to the brutalities of life, but he had been a stranger to being one of them. Finally he allowed the medicine to pull him down and away and slipped into a dreamless sleep.
Part Eight
Chris stopped the rotation and slowly lowered Vin’s arm. He could feel the muscles trembling underneath his hands. He longed to take away the pain that encompassed his son both physically and emotionally.Vin breathed through the pain coursing through his arm. He could feel his father’s soothing touch on his shoulder. He relaxed some and allowed his father’s strength to ease some of the pain he carried inside as well. He hadn’t meant to lower the walls beyond allowing himself a little respite, but he desperately needed the strength that Chris could give. Chris had never judged him when he feared the ghosts of the past. Chris had shielded him from the world when he could no longer hide his vulnerabilities and uncertainties. And now they were alone in a house where he had felt only love. He had only meant to lower the walls fractionally, but they shattered under the strength of his father’s love.
Chris circled his arm around Vin pulling him close, promising the shelter he had always provided and would never fail to give. He felt Vin shudder as his emotions rose and flowed over. Chris didn’t need to know the cause of the pain. He was capable of defeating the unknown for this child.
Vin allowed the memories and emotions to wash through him. He remembered the first time he squeezed the trigger and saw a man jerk from the impact. He remembered the times he walked through a mountain pass and cursed the sun setting behind it, fearful that the blinding light would prevent him from seeing a trap. He remembered countless briefings in which he was given only enough information to complete his assignment, never understanding how his action advanced the cause. He remembered the first solider who died under his protection, too many to cover and unable to save them all. He remembered it all as his body trembled and mourned the passing of the last four years. He always feared that remembering it all would destroy him, but the strength of the arms holding him promised that he would remain whole.
By silent agreement, Vin and Chris rose together and walked to the back deck overlooking the horses and the mountains in the distance. They settled into the swing in which they had sat throughout Vin’s life. Chris placed his arm along the back of the swing needing to maintain touch with his son. Vin sighed softly and leaned into the embrace. He looked out at the mountains and saw the beauty of it. There was no place for fear here. It was the one place where he would always be protected and always be welcomed. He was well and truly home.
Part Nine
"Tell Ezra I said hello and for him to plan on staying for dinner when he brings you back Vin," Chris said as Vin and JD prepared to leave on the silver bullet."I will Dad. We’ll see you this afternoon."
"I may not be back. Depends on what Casey wants to do," JD added. After he dropped Vin off at Ezra’s, he was meeting Casey who was staying at her Aunt Nettie’s for a few weeks.
"Call me or Buck and let us know your plans and be careful."
The boys waved as they headed off. Chris leaned against the porch support and watched until they disappeared around the bend. Finally he turned and went back inside. He had plenty of work to do before this afternoon. After three weeks off from work, Chris was struggling to catch up. He was hampered because he refused to bury himself in it. Vin was better; he seemed in lighter spirits since he had allowed himself to grieve with Chris. But Chris refused to work to the point where he didn’t see his son. So he worked on weekends and he worked early in the mornings, and it was worth it when he was able to come home by 6:00 and spend the evenings with Vin.
7 -7 – 7- 7- 7- 7
Vin enjoyed the ground rushing by him as he and JD flew down the highway heading to Denver. He felt the motorcycle purring between his legs as the sound of the engine filled him. It was his first trip away from the ranch which hadn’t included doctor visits. He closed his eyes allowing himself to relax in the movement of the bike as JD expertly maneuvered his way down the road.
Vin sat up a little straighter as he and JD passed through the black iron gates and began up a winding driveway that led to a huge house at the top of the rise. JD had used an access card to gain entry and Vin wondered for a moment at this change. He quickly dispelled the worry as he took in the landscaped yard. He and JD finally stopped in front of the double mahogany doors and Vin looked back to the driveway behind him. The house had a clear view to the street below them and looking across the horizon was a breathtaking view of Denver.
"Awesome view isn’t it? Wait until you see the view from the back," JD said as he and Vin took off their helmets.
The door opened and Ezra met them with a beaming smile. "Gentlemen, welcome to my abode."
"Looks more like a hotel to me," Vin responded eyeing the huge mansion.
"I prefer to think of it as providing adequate room for my family," Ezra replied and he spoke of their family with a confidence and comfort that had taken years for him to settle into. Once Ezra accepted his place among their unusual family, he would never let it go. He clearly understood the treasure it was.
Vin gazed in amazement at the house as they walked through it. Marble floors, spiral staircases, chandeliers, everything spoke of wealth. The patio at the back of the home had an unhindered view of the grounds behind it until it reached the Reedy River. The mountains provided a breathtaking backdrop. The patio was made from stone and extended to surround a 25 meter pool.
"This is unbelievable," Vin said in awe.
"The club and house were a package deal."
"Never realized you were so rich Ez."
"I am not as wealthy as this may appear. The gentleman who formerly owned these items was anxious to relinquish claim to them without appearing obvious. I acquired the assets through a game of cards. While there can be little doubt of my skills, it was evident to me that he was expertly maneuvering his loss."
"Why would someone want to lose all this?" JD inquired.
"I suspect that the gentlemen had embezzled from one of his cohorts and feared reprisals would be forthcoming. A public, hard lost match at cards was less likely to draw attention while he made good his escape. His needs and mine merely coincided."
"So you were willin’ to be used?" Vin asked with a chuckle.
"More crudely than I would have characterized it Vin. But yes, I was willing to be the conduit for his scheme."
"Looks like you did real well," Vin continued and could understand Ezra’s attraction for the place. The house provided an unlimited view of the area surrounding it which made it hard for someone to approach unnoticed. Ezra would also appreciate the beauty of the craftsmanship of the home and the architecture of it. It screamed of money, but also had an artistic appeal that Ezra would have responded to most. Despite it looking like a hotel from the outside, the richness of the colors and the size and layout of the rooms gave a feeling of a home.
"So does it meet with your approval?"
"Heck Ezra, wherever you’re at is enough for me."
Ezra smiled at the sincerity of the sentiment. "Then let me show you your room."
"My room?" Vin asked in surprise.
"While you finish the tour, I’m heading out to see Casey," JD responded and leaned over to give Ezra a quick hug. "See you later Uncle Ez."
Vin and JD slapped hands as JD passed. Vin couldn’t help reminding JD to be careful. It was difficult remembering that his little brother had managed fine the last four years without him.
Ezra and Vin climbed the stairs to the second floor. Ezra gave the tour and finally arrived at one of the rooms next to the master suite. "Your room."
Vin stepped in and found the blue visually appealing and soothing. He walked over to the pictures on the wall and smiled at the memories. There were pictures of picnics and water parks, horse back riding and lazy Sunday days. Vin had noticed pictures scattered throughout the house of their family. No one could walk through the house and miss the importance of the people in the pictures from Ezra’s life.
"Thanks, Ezra. Never thought about you settin’ a room aside for me."
"You know you’re always welcome Vin. I have a pass key for the gate and a key for the house. You never need an invitation."
"Heck I know that. I always knew that I had a room in your heart, I just hadn’t thought about you setting aside a physical place in your home. What does Li think?"
"Li wants me to be happy and knows that you and JD and the others make me happy. That is enough for her. I think as you get to know her, you will come to think of her as family."
"She already is family. That she’s part of your life makes her part of ours. Where’s the baby’s room going to be?" Vin asked.
"Yes, well . . ." Ezra stammered as he rarely did. "We haven’t decided yet."
And Vin understood immediately the problem. Vin’s room was on one side of the master suite and JD’s room was on the other. "Reckon this room would make a nice nursery."
"Vin I don’t want you to think . . ."
"I think you taught me that a heart is big enough to have room for everybody. I think that I can also find a room in your home as long as I have a room in your heart. I think that I can’t wait to meet my cousin and tell him what a great dad he has."
"And I cannot wait to show him or her what a wonderful nephew I have," Ezra replied and embraced the man in front of him. As a boy Vin had shared his fears and his love with Ezra and together they had helped each other find confidence in their family and themselves. It should be of no surprise that Vin continued to show him the depth of that love.
The rest of the afternoon was spent over a game of cards and quiet conversation. With some reluctance, Ezra drove Vin home. It was nice to spend time with just the two of them. They were kindred souls in some respects, both fearful of their worthiness and place within the family. When one began to stray too far, the other pulled him back on the path which was clearly marked by the others so they could always find their way home.
Part Ten
Eight Months Later
"Dad, you can quit glarin’ at my neighbors any time now," Vin said as he and Chris maneuvered a used couch up four flights of stairs.Vin was moving into a run down apartment in Purgatorio. The Denver PD had a program that encouraged its police officers to live in struggling sections of the city. It was hoped that the presence of a police officer would decrease crime in the area and help the officer living in the neighborhood to develop contacts. In exchange for living in the neighborhood, the rent was paid by the department.
Vin didn’t care about the department picking up the rent; it wasn’t much in the neighborhood any way. He had felt compelled when he heard about the program to participate. He was quickly gaining a reputation as being a Robin Hood. It made him feel good to give back. It was helping to heal the things he felt about himself.
Chris, on the other hand, was less than pleased. He understood his son’s desire to help out but couldn’t help but think he was painting himself as a target. Chris intended to let every person living here know that he would be around and there would be hell to pay if they messed with his kid.
Vin merely shook his head in exasperation. He wouldn’t change his father for a moment. He was easing back into his life. He’d come to realize they had all changed in the last four years. He figured changing was just part of life, but he was determined to control his changes here. He would make a difference and the other men found themselves swept along with him. Despite his father’s cussing as they scaled the last flight of stairs, Vin was pretty sure the changes were going to keep being pretty damn good.
END