The Kid
I want to thank my beta for all of her help in writing this story. Follows 'The Schoolmaster'.
Main Characters: The Kid, Walter and Rachel Skinner, Sr. Walter Skinner, Jr. and Fox Mulder Skinner
Part 1
It was a cold, blustery November day at the Skinner homestead in Danville when the kid showed up. The kid was small in stature, fooling people into believing he was younger than he actually was. He looked to be either 7 or 8 years old when in reality he was 11.
The kid had dark hair and, under the grime, he had a thin and handsome face. He was running away...again. This time he vowed not to return no matter what. The kid wasn't poor but he was newly orphaned. His parents had died in a car accident just a few months before, but aside from out-of-country relatives, there was no one here for him. His dad had made arrangements for his death but didn't even consider that his wife would die, too, leaving their son all alone.
His father had a trusty advisor, his lawyer, who handled his affairs and would have found the perfect place for his son except he was on extended leave and had left his son to take care of his affairs. The son, also a lawyer, only cared for money and hadn't liked the kid from the beginning. As soon as the dual funeral was over, he had shipped the boy off to a boarding school up north. He had picked the cheapest one available and hadn't cared that the boy was unhappy or even grieving for his family and home. The kid had run away several times before but had been captured each time and severely punished. The last time had only been a few days ago and the results of the canning he had endured, were still enflamed on his bottom.
The kid was trudging through the dark and wet night, looking for somewhere dry to sleep when he discovered the barn. He hurried through the doors and rummaged around in the barn until he found an old, dry blanket. He was wet to the bone and shivering as well. He stripped out of his wet clothes, wrapped up in the blanket and burrowed in the hay in the nearest stall. The dry hay felt wonderful to his cold and wet body. He fell into a feverish sleep.
The kid slept so soundly that he didn't wake when Fox followed his dog into the barn. Yoda had been barking so Fox had followed him out into the night to see what was the problem. Yoda had led him straight to the sleeping boy in the hay. Fox knelt down for a moment and touching the boy discovered he was shivering. He picked the kid up and rushed him to his grandmother.
Fox hurried into the house, interrupting his father and grandparents, "Dad, Gran, Gram...I found him in the barn and he's shivering." Fox handed the boy to his Dad.
"Slow down son...tell me again what you are talking about?"
"Yoda was barking at something outside and I went out to see what it was. He led me to the barn and I found this kid lying in the hay and he's shivering so I brought him here." The kid was beginning to wake up with all of the attention he was receiving.
"You went out in this cold and wet weather like that?" admonished his Dad. Fox had run out in only his shirt, jeans and sneakers and was soaked. Fox nodded, suddenly realizing he could be in trouble.
"Fox, strip out of those clothes and get into a warm bath right away before you catch a cold," strongly suggested Rachel.
"Aw, Gram, I'm all right. I am 26 years old, I can make up my own mind about this, you know," stated Fox confidently.
"Fox, don't make me tell you again or I'll..." Rachel left the threat unsaid but Fox got the message.
"Ok, ok, I'm going," and he went up the stairs grumbling as he went,
"They still treat me like a little kid...I'll show them. I'll dry off real good and change into some warm clothes. They will never know that I didn't take a warm bath", and proceeded to do just that.
"Walt put he boy down here," requested his Mom, pointing to the couch in the room. "I want to take a closer look at him. Unwrap that dirty old blanket from him," and when he did they saw a fifthly thin body covered in bruises from past beatings. "We need to clean him up fast. Dear, see if Fox is out of the tub and refill it with warm water, this little boy is going to have a bath."
As soon as he heard bath the kid sat up and cried, "Nooo...I'm okay. Just let me get my clothes and I'll be gone," and struggled to get up.
"You stay where you are, my boy. You aren't going anywhere except first to the bathtub and then to bed. What is your name by the way?" asked Rachel. The kid only looked at her and shook his head.
Rachel looked at him with her kind and gentle eyes and asked again, "Son, we have to call you something. Won't you please tell me your name?"
"You'll send me back if you know," was all the kid would say.
"Did you run away because of the beatings?"
The kid nodded. "Well, my son and grandson both work for the FBI and they will get to the bottom of things. You will not be going back if that is the way you are treated. Now please tell me your name."
The kid took a moment to ponder what had been told him and looking into her eyes he saw that she truly believed everything she said so he told her his first name. "My name is Paul."
Rachel hugged him and said, "Walt help Paul to the bathroom for his bath."
"Nooooooooo," struggled the kid. He, like all other kids, he didn't enjoy baths but Walt just picked him up and seeing the tub filled with warm clean water gently placed him in. Rachel arrived a moment later to bathe him. She was gentle but it still embarrassed him to be bathed like he was a baby. She hurried and soon he was warm and clean. Two things he had not been for days. Walt dried him and wrapped him in a clean towel and took him into Andy's old room. His mom was waiting for him with some old pajamas of Jeremy's and soon Paul was ready for bed.
While she had been bathing him Rachel found some welts that had become infected and was about to treat them when Paul's stomach growled. "Mercy me," cried Rachel and turning to Paul said, "Are you hungry?"
Paul nodded shyly. "Well, let me treat these few places on your bottom and then I will fix you something. When was the last time you ate?"
Paul thought for a moment and said, "The last time I sat down for a meal was 2 days ago, but I've eaten bits and pieces since then."
"Do you like stew?" Again the kid nodded. "Good, Walt will you fix him a bowl and bring it up with a glass of milk. I should be finished by the time you arrive. Oh, and bring him some slices of the bread too."
With the meal taken care of Rachel focused on the cuts on the kid's bottom. "Paul, I know this is embarrassing to you but I need you to turn over so I can get to your bottom."
The kid was about to protest when Fox spoke up. "Look you might as well do it on your own, 'cause she is going to treat the cuts with or without your help, I know from experience. She does the same to me and look how old I am," and made a sour face, which caused the kid, to laugh out loud and willingly turned over. When he started to tense up as his pajama bottoms were being lowered, Fox took his hand, which eased the tension. Yoda even made an appearance on the other side of the bed, which comforted the boy to no end.
By the time Walt entered carrying a tray with the food on it the cuts had been treated and Paul was patiently waiting for his supper. Fox had put several pillows behind his back and the kid was sitting up in bed. Walt set the tray down in his lap and put a cup of milk on the nightstand beside the bed. Rachel watched as the kid bowed his head for a moment before picking up his fork to eat.
The stew was delicious and the kid ate every bite and drank every drop of milk before turning to Rachel and saying, "Thank you for the food. It was delicious. It reminded me of my Mom's stew." The kid thought for a moment and asked, "Ma'am? What do I call you and your husband?"
Rachel smiled at the kid and said; "We did ask you your name without telling you ours. I'm sorry about that Paul. My name is Rachel Skinner and my husband is Walter. The man that carried you to bed is my oldest son, Walter, Jr. and this is Fox, my grandson."
Paul then said, "Thank you Mrs. Skinner for the food and to the rest of you for your help tonight."
"You are more than welcome, Paul. Now I think you should try and get some sleep. Goodnight, dear," and leaned down to kiss him on the cheek before taking the tray away and pulling the covers up. Paul obediently snuggled down under the covers and closed his eyes. They left the room turning out the light as they went.
As soon as he was sure he was alone Paul reopened his eyes and thought, 'They are nice but I can't stay. They will find out where I'm from and I'll be sent back. I'll wait until I'm stronger and leave'. With this decided he went to sleep only to wake up a few hours later coughing. Rachel, ever the light sleeper, heard not only Paul coughing but Fox in the room next to his. She knew that getting wet on that cold night had to be one of the causes.
Rachel went first to the kid and then to Fox to check on them and found them to not only be coughing but to be warm also. She turned back to find both her husband and son waiting. Hearing kids coughing brought concerned parents out to check. Rachel turned to her son and said, "Fox is sick. If he had done as I suggested and taken a warm bath this probably wouldn't have happened, I was half expecting it with Paul. He was out in the wet and cold weather longer. I need to take their temperatures but they are coughing too hard for a regular thermometer. I'll have to use a rectal thermometer on both of them."
Walt nodded; he had the same thought as his Mom about why Fox was sick. He had done what he had many a time and had gotten sick each time. When he had learned to obey his Mom in matters like this his sickness never appeared. He would have a long and hard discussion with his son once he recovered.
Both boys, and that is how Rachel thought of them, were warm to the touch and coughing. She knew it was due to exposure to the cold and wet November weather. She held her grandson, Fox more responsible for his condition than that of the boy, Paul since he was older and she had told him how to prevent it. She would have to discuss his ignoring her at a later date.
She knew that Fox would fight her in her effort to take his temperature rectally but the harshness of his cough left her no choice. The same went for taking Paul's temperature. She just hoped he would be easier to deal with.
She went first to Paul, since he sounded the worse, and found her husband already there. She motioned for him to turn the child on his side and to lower his pajama pants. When Walter saw the thermometer in his wife's hand he figured the rest out and had him ready. Paul was feeling so bad that he didn't even notice the thermometer and where it was placed. It was only a matter of minutes before it was removed and Rachel was able to read the temperature. It had risen to 102 by this time. She retrieved the children's Tylenol and gave the boy the recommended dose and left her husband to care for him while she rushed to Fox.
His father was there trying to comfort him. As soon as Fox saw the thermometer in his grandmother's hand he guessed the worse and struggled to avoid it. His Dad had already lowered his pajama pants and was trying to turn him on his side, in preparation for the insertion of the thermometer.
"Noooo, Gram ( cough ) don'ttttttttttt."
"Fox, baby...I have no choice but to use this thermometer. You are coughing too hard for me to use an oral thermometer. Now hold still this will only take a minute or two more." His Dad held Fox in place while his Gram tried to soothe him. Fortunately the two minutes was up soon afterwards and the thermometer was removed to find that he too had a fever. Not as hot of one as Paul but one never the least. His temperature was 101.7 and he in turn was dosed with adult aspirin.
Rachel left her husband and son to take care of their individual charges while she went to the kitchen to brew some cough remedies, remedies she had used on her family for many years. It was time once again to prepare them.
She would start with a dill tea. She took one teaspoon of dill, per cup of boiling water, per patient. She let it stand for seven minutes before straining it. She knew they wouldn't take it without honey and added it to the mixture. She then poured up two cups of the dill tea and took them up to her boys.
She went first to Paul and handed the cup to her husband who knew from experience what to do. Then she took the other cup to her son to give to Fox. As she handed it over she remarked, "Walter, he needs to drink the whole cup. It will help to ease his cough and should get rid of it completely. Get him to drink as much as you can until it is all gone."
Rachel watched as her son tenderly cradled his son against him as he put the cup to his lips and watched as Fox drank nearly the whole cup without any prompting. The honey made it drinkable. She knew that if Fox would drink it, that her husband would have no trouble with Paul.
Walter laid Fox back in bed and watched as he went into a more peaceful sleep. He sat back in the rocker and prepared to stay for the rest of the night just in case his son needed him again. Rachel understood; she was planning on doing the same with Paul.
Rachel went out and got out a blanket from the hall closet and put it over her son. He thanked her with a smile and closed his eyes. She then returned to Paul to find her husband already situated in a nearby chair with a blanket pulled over him.
"Walter, I was going to do this," complained Rachel.
"I know honey, but I was thinking that you need to get a good night's rest since you will be taking care of two. Walter and I can cap nap through out the day and be available if we are needed. Now go to bed."
Rachel went...and truly enjoyed the remainder of the night while the men folk slept off and on still checking on their patients. The combination of analgesic and dill tea helped immensely. Both Fox and Paul slept for the remainder of the night.
Rachel slept an hour longer than usual, then got up to check on her boys and make breakfast. The boys were still sleeping and her men looked so uncomfortable as they slept that she went in turn and woke them and sent them back to their beds. They were too sleepy to argue. With Yoda in the room with Fox she knew he would inform her of any change in his condition and hopefully Paul's.
The aroma of the coffee brought down both men after only a few hours of sleep. They hungrily ate the breakfast she fixed. She had eggs, sausage, biscuits, orange juice and coffee. For her boys she fixed a totally different breakfast. They were getting oatmeal and this one was going to be used medicinally. Oatmeal seemed to have qualities that were very helpful in curing a cough. She had to make it thicker than usual and not dilute it with milk. She added honey to the mixture and as soon as her men were finished eating she accompanied them back up with oatmeal cure. They brought up a cup of lemon balm tea just in case the fever hadn't gone down enough.
Rachel pulled out the hated thermometer and before Fox was awake enough to protest, he found himself bottomless and on his side with the thermometer inserted. After only a couple of minutes it was withdrawn and she saw that his temperature had indeed gone down and was now at 101. Fox was still coughing so she nodded to her son to start feeding him the oatmeal and dosing him with the tea.
With Fox taken care of, Rachel moved on to Paul, who was crying softly for his mother. "Mama...mama."
It nearly broke Rachel's heart and she hurried to take his hand and speak to him in a soft voice. "It's okay baby...I'm here. Your mama is here," it seemed to work and he stopped crying and looked up into her face. Rachel saw that he was awake now and took on the job of checking his temperature. When she discovered it had gone down a couple of degrees during the night cuddled him to her and fed him his oatmeal and tea. It was a more peaceful boy that she returned to bed a few minutes later. He was asleep in no time and she tiptoed from the room motioning for Walter to follow.
As soon as they were in the hall Rachel turned to Walter and said, "I want to know about this boy, and, if his family no longer wants him...I do. It will be good to have a young one underfoot once again."
With a combination of Rachel's healing teas and aspirin the fever in both boys broke soon after lunch. After changing their pajamas and feeding them a light soup they were allowed to go back a sleep. They slept for most of the day. They were dosed with more of Rachel's Dill tea with honey until the cough finally went a way. It was only a matter of allowing them to recover their strength and with that in mind Rachel moved Paul in with Fox. They could be treated easier together in one room than apart.
It was during this time that Fox and Paul became friends. Paul opened up a bit more to Fox then he would the adults. He didn't really consider Fox as an adult since he seldom acted that way. "Fox, Yoda is a beautiful dog; he makes me homesick for my dog, Rebel."
"What type of dog is Rebel," asked Fox curiously?
"The same as Yoda, a golden retriever. I wish I had him with me now. He was the last present my folks gave to me. He's only 6 months old and I..." Paul was so emotional that he broke down and began to cry for his loss. Fox got out of his bed and climbed in next to Paul, pulled him into an embrace and held him until he could get his crying under control. Rachel just happened to walk by at the moment and saw Fox comforting the boy and her heart went out to them. She decided to let Fox handle this situation and left without speaking.
She went immediately to her husband and asked, "Walter have you found out anything about Paul?"
Walter looked up at her and remarked, "I was just on the phone with Sam ( Sheriff Cole of Hopewell, PA ) asking if anyone had reported a small boy missing. I guessed his age at being around 7 or 8 years old. I gave a description of the boy to him. Now we just wait and see what comes back."
"Oh, honey...I was just upstairs and happened to see our Fox comforting him for something. Paul was crying and his plight just breaks my heart. I want to be able to take him to my bosom and say, He's Mine and don't hurt him ever again. Only I can't until I find out more about his folks and why anyone would abuse him like that."
Walter went to his wife and held her and kissed her on the cheek. "You meant to say 'He's ours', didn't you dear? I can't wait to play 'daddy' once again."
It was only two days later that Sheriff Cole called back and the news was not good. Rachel came down after checking on her boys to find her husband looking grim. "What's wrong dear?"
"That was Sam and he found out something. There is something that just came over the wire that might be about Paul. It seems that a young boy has been reported as a runaway from a boarding school in Canada. His name is Paul M. Atkins and he is 11 years old. The description fits Paul to the tee. It seems that he is an orphan, a rich orphan. He has no one in this country so the lawyer in charge placed him into this boarding school in Canada until he is 18 years old. This school believes in corporal punishment and the lawyer has given them permission to do, as they like with him.
"Nooo, we can't let that happen to him. We have got to stop this from happening. I won't let him go back where he isn't loved," declared Rachel.
"Rachel, Sam has already called the school. They are on their way to get him. They will be here by tomorrow," Walter told her sadly.
What the two elder Skinners didn't know was that their grandson overheard part of their conversation and even now was rushing back to Paul to prepare him for the bad news.
Part 2
"Paul, they know!" cried Fox as he rushed in.
"Know what," asked Paul curiously.
"Your school knows where you are. They are coming to get you tomorrow."
"Nooooooooooooo. I'm not going back. I had rather die than go back there," he rushed to get dressed.
Fox stopped him and said, "Wait a minute and I'll take you away from here; only we have to leave tonight. Don't let on that we know anything; it will fool them. We need to think of somewhere to hide until they stop looking for you."
Fox climbed back in the bed with Paul and together they made their plans for escape. Fox thinking was not too clear due to his illness or he would have realized his father and grandparents would protect Paul. His only thought was to get Paul away from the danger. He didn't think his grandparents would be able to protect him from the threat. Fox would have to borrow his Dad's jeep and he was squirming, anticipating the paddling he was bound to get for it. He already considered Paul a little brother and he wasn't ready to give him up without a battle.
Rachel put on a happy face for her boys as she returned to their room later in the morning. "Can I get you something, Dears?" Fox shook his head but Paul spoke up hesitantly. "Can I have a cup of tea, please and would you mind sweetening it with a spoon of strawberry jam and honey." Rachel looked at him in surprise but nodded and left to fix him his tea.
As she returned to the kitchen she had a puzzled look on her face, which her husband picked up right away. "What's wrong, honey?"
"It's just a strange request Paul made," and at Walter's curious look, she continued, "He asked for a cup of tea sweetened with strawberry jam and honey. I can remember my grandmother liking that combination and she always said that it was the way it was always served in Russia."
"Maybe his heritage is Russian, too."
"Whose heritage is Russian, " came the voice of Walter, Jr.
Rachel turned to her oldest and said, "You're back...good. How's Joe?"
"He's fine...now what are you talking about with those grim looks on your face?"
"It's the boy, Sheriff Cole has found where he belongs and it isn't good news. And now your Mom thinks he might have a Russian heritage because of the way he likes his tea," explained Walter, Sr.
"Honey, sit down and we'll tell you the whole sad truth as we know it. Walter you start," she said to her husband, "while I take the boy his tea and then I'll be right back."
While Rachel went upstairs Walter informed his son about everything they knew. When Rachel returned she asked, "Now what can we do to keep the boy?"
Walter looked from one parent to the other and said, "Keep the boy? What are you two planning?"
"We want to keep him and it he will allow it, adopt him. After having Fox as a child all over again, we like the idea of having another young one underfoot. This boy needs us as much as we want him. It is obvious that he is unhappy at the school and he needs the love and discipline we can offer him...now what are YOU going to do to help us?"
While Walter and his folks were trying to come up with a plan to prevent Paul from going back, Fox and Paul were working just as hard to get him out of harm's way. Their plan was to run and hide until the search was forgotten. Fox was the first to admit that this wasn't one of his better plans but at the moment he just wanted to be sure that Paul would never fall back into the hands of those that had hurt him so.
Fox used his laptop to locate the perfect place to hide, at least for the time being. It was at a Virginia State Park called Fairy Stone State Park near Monterey. He would drive as if he was going home to DC and then go past DC and take the turn off for Virginia. From there he would take Interstate 66 and follow it until he came to Interstate 81. He would follow that until he hit the turn off for Staunton on Highway 250 and drive until he saw a turn off for the Fairy Stone State Park.
He had made reservations for one of their one-room log cabins for at least a week and charged it to his bank debit card. He knew they would look for any charges to his credit card but hoped they might not think about a bank debit card. He had the money. It was left to him by his "other" dad and he thought this would be the ideal way to use it. With that taken care of, the next item to be taken care of would be clothes for Paul. Fox got up and wandered downstairs and happened upon his Dad and grandparents discussing something private, they stopped talking as soon as they saw him.
"What's up, dear?" asked his Gram.
"Gram, Paul is feeling so much better that he was wondering if he could get up and move around a bit, and he'd like to get dressed. Do you have anything he can borrow?" Fox tried his hardest to sound sincere. It must have worked because his Gram got up and went upstairs with him to locate some of Jeremy's old stuff that should fit Paul. With Fox's help they pulled out several outfits that Paul could choose from and took them to him.
Paul immediately put one outfit on and hid the others in Fox's overnight bag. Rachel thought to bring underclothes and socks and sneakers. They all fit him to a tee. It was afterwards that Paul made an appearance downstairs while Fox used the time to find the sleeping bags and other stuff they would need. He carefully went down the back stairs and hid them near his Dad's Jeep, for the quick getaway that night. They would have to buy foodstuff along the way. He figured that they could be through DC by early morning and could find a place to rest before continuing their journey. He wanted to be at the cabin he rented no later than noon the next day. With the majority of the plan taken care of Fox also made his way downstairs. He used the opportunity to let Yoda out. He hated to leave, especially knowing how they would take it. He knew that in the end it would be his bottom that would take the majority of the punishment that would be coming their way, but as he saw it there just wasn't any choice.
They followed their plan to the letter and went back upstairs to sleep soon after supper. Fox told his folks that they were still tired and would they mind if they went on up to bed...early. It was 7:30 when they went to bed and only a few minutes later that Rachel came in to tuck them in. "Goodnight, my dears," Rachel said as she kissed them in turn and left.
Before going to sleep Paul got up for a few minutes, located a pen and paper and wrote a note. He didn't want the nice people to worry when they discovered he and Fox gone. "Dear Mrs. Skinner, I had to leave you a note and tell you not to worry, even though I know you will. I'm sorry but I'm not going back to that school ever again. That damn lawyer has fixed it so I must stay there until I'm 18. I really like staying with you, you remind me of my mom and I wish I could stay with you instead. Fox is with me and is going to take care of me until I can get away for good. Please don't be too angry with him, he's doing this for me. Love, Paul." He left the note in the desk drawer in the room and then made his way back to the bed and climbed back in.
Fox woke him about 6 hours later at 2 a.m. to make their escape. He had set his alarm to ring at 2 in the morning and set it on low so it would wake only him and not his folks. Paul and Fox got up and dressed and left the note on the bed where it had to be seen. Yoda accompanied them out the back door. They took care to miss the squeaky step and soon were taking their stuff to the Jeep. Fox had a set of keys to his Dad's vehicle so he didn't have to risk taking them from him and being discovered. Fox took Yoda to the barn and left him tied to one of the stalls. "I'm sorry boy, but you have to stay here this time. I'll be back soon," and after a hug left the dog barking in the barn. Thank Goodness the barking was muffled once the barn door was closed. He hurried to the Jeep and carefully eased the brake off and pushed the Jeep down the driveway until he felt he could start the Jeep without waking his folks.
An hour later they were on their way down the road to DC. By the time the Skinner household came awake Fox had just pulled into the driveway of his house. He figured that if he could only catch a couple of hours sleep he could make the rest of the journey to the cabin in relative safety.
Rachel was the first to notice the note on Fox's bed. She picked it up and idly began to read. It took only a moment before she cried out, "Walter, come quick...the boys are gone." It was only a matter of seconds before both her son and husband made an appearance. She handed the note over. Her son took it and after glancing at it gave it to his father. A sudden thought crossed his mind and he hurried to the window and noticed that his Jeep was gone.
"They took the Jeep," he stated matter-of-factly to his parents. "Well, at least Yoda is with them. They should be easy to trace with the dog with them." He knew he had to find them and soon. The officials from the school would be arriving today and it wouldn't look good to have the boy missing. He turned to call his son on his cell phone. He let it ring and was told by the operator that the phone was either out of range or turned off.
Walter turned to his parents and remarked, "When I get my hands on that boy..." and left the rest unsaid. He then called Andy and explained in a few choice words what had happened and would he please go and check to see whether Fox was at home. "Andy since you have a key just walk in. If he is there, impress on him what the consequences will be if he doesn't stay put. Then call Joe and me. I'll drive down to pick both boys."
Walter listened for a moment before answering, "Andy, just tell him that if he doesn't listen he will be doing good to sit comfortably by Christmas because when I get my hands on him I WILL WEAR HIM OUT. Andy, tell him that those are my exact words." He listened a few minutes later before closing, "Thanks Andy."
Walter turned to his folks and said; "Andy is on his way over to my house to see if the boys are there and to sit on Fox if they are there. He'll call and tell me if they are there. If they are, Joe and I will go and get them.
Fox had only been sleeping for an hour when Andy showed up. He quietly let himself into the house and surprised Paul, who shouted in surprise when Andy arrived. "Fox!! Come quickly, there's someone here."
Fox woke with a start and staggered out into the living room. He paled when he saw who it was. "Hi Uncle Andy," he cried, "What are you doing here?"
"Your Dad called and told me to come over and sit on you until he and your Uncle Joe can come down and retrieve you. He told me to tell you something...stay put unless you don't want to be sitting comfortably by Christmas."
Fox paled further at the statement but stubbornly said, "It doesn't matter, we are leaving now. Come on Paul," and he moved to go around Andy. Andy grabbed him by the hand and without thinking Fox pushed and knocked him down. Fox looked horrified for a moment before yelling at Paul to come along. They ran out the door. They had packed the sleeping bags that were there along with some food items, pots and pans, etc. as soon as they had arrived. By the time Andy regained his feet Fox was screeching out the drive.
Andy locked the door quickly behind him and jumped in his car to pursue his nephew but Fox lost him in a daring move that nearly got him hit by an oncoming car. Andy could only see him heading for the Interstate but was unable to see exactly where he was heading. He pulled over to the side of the road before reaching for his cell phone to tell his big brother the new developments.
"Walter? Yeah, I caught him and the boy but they got away. How? Fox pushed me down and by the time I could get back up he was speeding away. I gave chase and he nearly had an accident in trying to shake me. It worked though. The last thing I could see was that he was heading for the Interstate junction. I was unable to see what Interstate he took."
As soon as Fox could see that Andy was no longer following him he slowed down and continued on their plans for reaching the cabin. Paul looked at Fox wide eyed during the get away and finally asked him a question. "Fox, what did your uncle mean by sitting comfortably by Christmas if you had stayed?"
Fox looked embarrassed for a moment before answering, "My Dad and his family believe in corporal punishment for disobedient behavior no matter your age."
Paul thought that statement over for a few minutes before remarking incredulously, "You mean he uses corporal punishment on you at your age?"
Fox nodded, "Yep, not only my Dad but my Grandfather and Uncles, too. They feel that if you misbehave you will be punished. The only difference is the method used."
"You mean they care enough for your behavior that no matter your age if you do something they disapprove of you can expect to be punished for it?"
Again Fox nodded. He was totally unprepared for Paul's next comment. "They love you enough to punish when you need it. They care...that's so cool. Uh, Fox, just how much trouble are you in now in your attempt to help me get away?"
When Fox didn't answer right away, Paul answered his own question, "You're in a lot of trouble and your Dad is going to tan your hide when he catches up with you, isn't he?"
Fox nodded, but said, "Paul that's not important compared keeping you out of that boarding school," and in an attempt to change the subject asked, "Paul tell me more about the lawyer that put you in that boarding school after your folks death?"
"Let me tell you the whole story," and proceeded to tell how his Dad's trusty advisor, Mr. Sam Walters, Sr., had decided last year to take extended leave now that is son, Sam, Jr. could take over more of his duties. His son was a topnotch lawyer but he never liked him because he was so cold around folks. He always talked down to them. "You know I bet that if he had to, he would turn his own Mom out in the cold if it meant winning a case," Paul interjected in the conversation.
"He and I never got along. He always considered me a spoiled brat because my Dad was rich. He had suggested more than once that I could benefit from a good boarding or military school. My Dad always turned his suggestions down saying he wanted me with him and my Mom as long as possible." Paul told Fox about the tragic accident and the funeral and how he had asked when his Dad's trustee was coming back. Sam, Jr. just gave him an evil smile and said, "I'm not interrupting my father's sabbatical over something like this. I'm in charge now and I'm putting you in a boarding school. I found the perfect one in Canada. The fashion themselves after the English Public School, Rugby in several ways, but most importantly in it's discipline. Once you've had a taste of a real canning you'll be much easier to deal with, and since you don't have any relatives in this country you will be there until you are 18 years old."
Paul started to tear up after this and cried. Fox reached over and pulled the boy to him and Paul cried leaning into his shoulder. After he calmed down a bit Fox asked him, "Paul, do you know any way to reach Sam Walters, Sr.? Do you have any idea where he was going?"
Paul thought for a while and finally said, "My Dad probably did but maybe Mr. Sam's housekeeper knows where and how to reach him?"
"Do you think he will tell you?"
"Maybe, I know he doesn't like Sam, Jr. I've heard him muttered more than once that all that boy really needs in a good old-fashioned spanking and maybe one day he would give it to him."
"Do you know the number?" Paul nodded, and Fox gave him the phone and showed him how to use it. Paul eagerly took it and after a few minutes was talking to Mr. Joe, the housekeeper. It didn't take long for Mr. Joe to give him the information they needed. The turning point came when Paul told what had been done to him. Mr. Joe had exploded, "He what? Mr. Sam, Sr. loved your folks and Sam, Jr. didn't think that their deaths and your well being enough to contact him...we will just see about that. I'll call him right away and get back in touch with you...what is your number?" Paul gave it to him and put the receiver down.
"Paul why didn't you do this before?" Asked Fox.
"Sam told me that it wouldn't make any difference in the matter and then made sure that I never came in contact with the phone. The first canning I got at THAT school was for trying to use the phone without permission. Afterwards they told me that I wasn't allowed to use the phone, no matter what; so to save my bottom I stopped. It was a month later that I tried my first escape. That was because I couldn't take all of the canning coming my way for any infraction. Even if this goes our way, I don't have anyone. There is no family here in the states and only a cousin or so in the old country," Paul said forlornly.
Fox pulled him in a hug and spoke without thinking, "You have a family here with me and my Dad. I know my Grandparents would like another grandson. Don't worry about it, YOU have a family, one that cares and loves you."
They drove on with Paul feeling the love that knowing your family cares and after a while he dosed off. He didn't awake until after Fox had pulled into the cabin he had rented. He had picked up the keys without the establishment noticing Paul sleeping in the front seat and thought that the cabin was being rented for only one person. After arriving at the cabin Fox woke Paul and together they made short work of emptying the Jeep and moving right in. It was about an hour later that Mr. Joe called.
Fox answered and gave the phone back to Paul who talked to the housekeeper for a minute before handing the phone back to Fox. Fox was on for a long time and in the end smiled and hung up.
"Your Dad's advisor is making a emergency trip home to handle the arrangements and set things right with you. He won't be home for a couple of days and it may take him a bit longer to put everything to rights. So, we'll stay here for a week until it's safe to return," explained Fox.
"Are you going to call your Dad and tell him the news and that we are safe?" asked Paul.
Fox made a face and finally said, "I guess I had better, but he isn't going to take us staying away for a week very well."
"Fox, he probably isn't taking this whole day very well either. You have to call so they won't worry more," entreated Paul.
Fox finally picked the phone up and called his Dad's cell phone. "Hello, Dad? It's me, Fox. Before you say anything, Paul and I are fine and we have some good news." He proceeded to tell him about Sam Walters, Sr. and everything else. He concluded with, "This is probably going to take a week to put right. So I've decided to stay here until it is safe to bring Paul back." He listened to his Dad's pointed suggestion and said, "Dad...No...oh, by the way Yoda is in the barn would you let him out...'bye," and hung up quickly and immediately turned the phone off. He turned to Paul and said, "You were right, he didn't take what we did today very well."
"What did he say?"
"He said that I was in for such a paddling that I might as well forget sitting comfortably for a long, long time and suggested that we come back before the punishment got worse."
"Maybe we should, I mean with Mr. Sam, Sr. in charge again everything will be fine and we can return to your grandparents to wait it out. I'll explain that it was my fault and maybe you won't be punished so severely for it."
"I don't think it matters much anymore. If I'm going to be punished for my actions I'd rather wait until the very last to actually 'get' it, if you know what I mean. Now, let's put that behind us and see what we need to do to get ready to sleep here tonight. We are going to have to share the bed; I hope you don't mind. I figure that we can make it up and use both sleeping bags, opened as blankets and we should be warm enough."
While Fox and Paul were preparing to spend the night Walter was discussing the news with his family. "From what Fox says, Sam Walters, Sr. will be getting in touch with us about Paul so someone needs to be near the phone at all times."
"Are the boys okay, dear?" asked Rachel worriedly, "They haven't completely recovered from their illness."
" He says that they are fine, but I promise you he won't be for long when I get my hands on him. I plan on having his Credit Card traced to see if it will tell us where he is, and if it does, Joe and I are going to go and get them." Walter left to do just that and soon returned with the news. "He isn't using it. He must be using cash or check to pay for everything." Walter pondered a bit more and then an idea occurred to him and he rushed off to call Andy.
"Andy? No, we haven't found him, but I was wondering if you could check his email to see if he made contact with any body or place that he could hide out at. I'll give you his account and password. You are the computer expert...see what you can find out. Yeah, you can reach me on my cell phone, we are trying to keep Mom and Dad's phone open for another call...Paul managed to get in touch with his father's trusty advisor and he is flying back to take care of the whole mess his son put the boy in...yeah, I'll tell you everything once we can get our hands on Fox and Paul."
While Walter was talking with his brother the boarding school officials showed up to take possession of Paul. They were let in and were talking with Walter, Sr. and from the sound of it, the officials were threatening police action against the Skinners. That was the wrong thing to say because that got Rachel's dander up. She launched herself verbally at the man. "You go right ahead. We are not giving that boy up. He needs love and caring and all you want to do is beat him. How about we bring child abuse charges against you and that school of yours," she retorted angrily.
This attack took them by surprise and they left. "That's it, the next time we will be bringing the boy's guardian and the sheriff."
Rachel was so angry as she turned back to her husband and son; they just looked at her in awe. "Gee Mom, I didn't think you had it in you to fight like that."
Rachel just smiled and said it was the mother in her. She was going to fight for her youngest, because in her heart she had adopted the boy. It was soon afterwards that they got a call from Sam Walters, Sr., who asked to talk to Mr. Walter Skinner and Walter, Sr. took the phone. He explained who he was and the details of the case as he understood them. He explained that Paul had once again run away, but that he was in the company of his 26-year-old grandson and they were in the process of hunting them down. "Trust me, we will have them back soon, but we aren't giving the boy up to your son or the school officials." He listened a bit longer and finally smiled and hung up.
"Mr. Walters has a plan. He wants to confront his son in the midst of his misuse of power. He wants us to keep resisting until he makes an appearance. Walter," turning to his oldest, "he really wants to talk with Paul. We need to find those boys and bring them back home. After this whole mess is over, Fox has a lot of explaining to do. I want an opportunity to 'explain' to him why he shouldn't have run. When I'm finished he's all yours."
With the question of who was to get Fox first taken care of, Walter set back to await Andy's call. It took a while but eventually Andy returned his call with the requested information, "Walter, I found out that he emailed several off season campgrounds asking for cabin prices, etc. I'll give them to you in a minute but they all call for a credit card or debit card to make the reservations over the computer. I know you checked his credit card but what about a bank debit card? Do you have a pen and paper ready? Ready? Okay, here are the places he contacted: Douthat State Park, Westmoreland State Park, First Landing State Park, Twin Lakes State Park, and Fairy Stone State Park." Andy went on to include the phone numbers and hung up.
Part 3
Walter got back on the phone to call these locations and after a couple of hours had past he had only Fairy Stone State Park left to call. He figured that Fox had to be there.
With that thought in mind he called and found out that a young man meeting Fox's description had signed in today. He was driving a Jeep and Walter was given his tag number. It took his FBI verification to get the information but as soon as he heard his tag number being given back to him he knew he had found his son. He told them not to inform the young man in question about this call; he was only a concerned parent. He would be by early tomorrow to surprise his son. He called Joe at once, "Joe, how would you like to go with me and pick Paul and Fox up? I just located him at a state park in Virginia and it will take a few hours to get there. I figure that if we leave now we can spend the night in DC and then make an early trip to surprise them. Oh, one other thing Joe, I need to borrow your car. We can leave within the hour. Thanks, I'll be waiting," and hung up.
Walter went to inform his parents and to tell his Dad that he wouldn't have first crack at Fox but not to worry he would leave him fully intact for his administrations. He just wanted to give him a spanking he wouldn't forget for running away. His father reluctantly agreed and Walter went to get ready. He was waiting when Joe appeared 30 minutes later.
The trip to DC was relatively silent; Walter's thoughts were mainly with his son and the little boy. He really did understand Fox's feelings towards the boy and his wanting to protect him. It was just his method that he had a complaint with. That, and the fact that he put his life and that of the boy's in danger when he nearly had an accident in his attempt to lose Andy. That would have to be addressed severely but he would leave that to his Father to handle.
They made good time and arrived around 7 that night. They had a quick supper and went to bed early. They wanted to be on the road as early as possible so they wouldn't have any problems in locating Fox and Paul the next morning.
Fox and Paul had no idea that danger would knock on their door the following morning and had a good night playing a board game Fox thought to bring along. They talked while playing and Fox got closer to the boy than before. They bonded that night. Fox became the older brother Paul needed and Paul became the kid brother that Fox had always wanted. They played late into the night until Paul almost fell asleep on the board. Fox took him to bed, undressed him, put his pajamas on and then he got himself ready for bed. Soon the two were fast asleep, the cabin was nice and warm. They slept late the next morning and were awaken by knocking at the door. Paul automatically got up to answer the door. He was surprised to see who was there.
Walter looked at the boy and said, "Where is he?" Paul pointed to the
double bed in the corner. Walter nodded, walked over, eased the covers off and with a mighty SMACK swatted his son's backside.
Fox jumped up wide-eyed rubbing his backside and yelled, "Yeooowwwwcchh, that hurts." He would have said more but he recognized who it was that had hit him and he tried to dodge his Dad's hand. Walter grabbed him in short time and escorted him into the middle of the room. "Fox, I'm going to give you such a spanking that you'll be remembering this for a long, long time. Your Gran is going to impress on you the foolishness of endangering both your life and that of Paul when you return. He will have to wait until you recover from this spanking first." He sat in the nearest chair, pulling Fox to him as he sat. Paul used the time to try and get in between Fox and his angry Dad. "Please Mr. Skinner, don't spank him. It was my fault, I asked him to take me away. I overheard your parents talking about handing me back over to the school officials and mentioned it to Fox. I told him that I was going to run away and he offered to help me."
This confession stopped Walter's hand as he considered what Paul had said. He let Fox go and asked him, "Fox, is that the truth?"
Fox was torn. He knew he could answer yes and save his butt but then Paul would be in trouble. He was in trouble as it was for lying to his Dad. "Dad, he doesn't know any better, he's only trying to save me...I was the one who overheard and put things together, and I obviously reached the wrong conclusion."
"No, Mr. Skinner, it's my fault don't listen to him."
Walter had to smile; he had two boys here trying to protect each other. He now knew that they had truly bonded and he would have to punish the both of them because they were equally in the wrong. Fox would still bear the brunt of it because he was the oldest but the boy had just earned himself a spanking for lying as well.
As soon as he saw his Dad smile, Fox tried to get his mind off of spanking them by asking, "Dad, Paul needs a father. Please adopt him so I can have a little brother?"
It would have worked except for Uncle Joe, who remarked, "Walter!! Don't go there, keep your mind on what has to be done NOW!"
It was a grim Walter who exclaimed, "Paul! Fox! Get dressed. We are leaving. While you dress, your Uncle and I will fix you some breakfast. Now hurry."
Paul and Fox jumped to it and it was only a matter of seconds before both were dressed and sitting down to a breakfast of scrambled eggs and sausage. They had orange juice and a tall glass of milk each. Fox wisely didn't argue for his coffee and meekly drank and ate everything in front of him. They thought that their punishment had been put off until they returned home and they didn't want to rock the boat.
While the boys were eating Walter and Joe loaded the Jeep back up. Walter went with Fox, as soon as he finished eating, to check out and get any refund owed him. By the time they had returned to the cabin everything was ready. In Walter's mind there was only one thing more to do and he sat down and demanded, "Fox lower your jeans and boxers and get over my knees. It is time for the first of your many corrections to begin."
Fox looked up startled and said, "Nooooooo," and began to back up. He backed up into the chest of his Uncle Joe who pulled him back to his Dad. He was held in place while his Dad lowered his jeans and boxers and Joe pushed him so he fell over his brother's knees. Then the ritual began, "Fox William why are you getting this spanking?"
Fox sighed and said, "For running off, taking Paul with me instead of discussing what I overheard with you." He was trying to get it all out at once in hopes of making the number of licks applied to his backside smaller. It didn't work. His Dad began to spank his son's bottom with fast and hard licks, reddening it up quite swiftly. He used a time-honored method of visiting the same spot over and over again before moving on. As the heat and sting built up in his rump
Fox began to cry out in pain with each lick. Owww, ouch, stop, owwwww, please, ouch, owww, stop, please.... and on it went until he finally began to sob as he lay limply over his Dad's knees. Walter didn't stop until he had painted his son's bottom a fiery red. He had focused the last half of the licks to his sit spot so he would remember every time he sat on why he must not do this again. He would also learn in the upcoming week why he should never disobey an uncle or push him down and why endangering his life and that of some one else is wrong. His grandfather would teach that last punishment with the Persuader.
He pulled his son up into a hug before pushing him into a corner with the instructions to stay and then turned to Paul. "Paul, it's your turn now. Come here and lower your jeans and briefs and place yourself over my knees." Walter tried to be gentle with the boy, not wanting to scare him but was firm with his request. Paul responded by following his instructions to the letter.
Before Walter could begin he had an important question for Paul. "Paul, before I can start I need to know your middle name?"
Paul responded immediately, "It is Mikhail...that's Russian for Michael. Mom used to call me Misha, as a pet name."
That got a strange look from both Joe and Walter and even Fox turned around to stare. "Your middle name is Russian...well, it's official, you belong with us," cried Joe with a smile.
Now it was Paul's time to ask curiously, "I don't understand; how does my middle name being Russian make me yours?"
Walter answered," My middle name is Sergei and Joe's is Dmitri. All of our siblings have Russian middle names. Even though we were born in the United States, our parents were born in Russia and out of deference to that country gave us Russian middle names."
Paul turned to look back up at Walter and asked, "What about Fox? His middle name is English not Russian."
"Fox is my adopted son, I've had him since he was a baby, and he already had the name he has now when I got him. My parents call him Foksik, though."
Walter turned back to the chore at hand and addressed Paul, "Paul Mikhail, why are you getting this spanking?" Paul tried to copy Fox's answer by listing all of his offenses at once, "for running away and lying to save Fox?"
Satisfied with his answer Walter began to heat the bottom over his lap. He had only issued a few licks before Paul began to cry and yell. Owwww, ouch, stop, ouch, please, owwwww, and as with Fox the licking continued until Paul's bottom had been painted red and he was sobbing as well. He was pulled up into a hug and deposited in a corner as well.
After about 15 minutes both Paul and Fox were released and they hastily pulled up their pants and underwear and left. Paul left with Joe while Fox left with his Dad. Joe and Walter had thought it would be better to separate them for the return journey, allowing them each a back seat to lie down on. During the journey home they both had to endure a lecture until they fell asleep. They slept until they were awakened as the brothers pulled into the driveway of the elder Skinners. They all entered the household with Fox and Paul walking ahead of the brothers.
"Mom? Dad? We're home," called Walter as they entered the front door.
Rachel came running and after taking one look at the runaways she issued her orders, "You two...upstairs and into bed. You haven't completely recovered from your illnesses. I won't have any relapses if I can help it. I'll be up in a few minutes with something that should help to strengthen you against any chance of a relapse. Now move"...punctuating that last statement with a swat to their backsides.
With a combined "Yeowwch" they ran to their room and by the time she returned they had changed into their pajamas and were in bed. By mutual agreement they were in the same bed and Rachel didn't insist that they move. She held a bottle in one hand with two spoons in the other. She poured a dose in the larger of the spoons and commanded that Fox take it or suffer another spanking. With that choice he hesitantly opened his mouth and Rachel dumped the whole tablespoon in. She tickled his throat until he swallowed and while he was sputtering she did the same with Paul. His dose wasn't as much but tasted just as bad.
"Gram that was awful...what was it," sputtered Fox as he tried to get the taste out of his mouth. "That my dear was a hefty dose of cod-liver oil. My mom swore by it and I've dosed your father and uncles with it when they needed it and it has yet to fail me. It will help to strengthen your body and keep you from getting sick. I don't like using the new fangled remedies when the old ones are just s good and I've had great success with them. You really deserve a spanking for not taking that hot bath when you first discovered Paul. Now just consider this large dose as partial punishment for that as well. Now you two stay in bed and rest. If you behave, I may let you out in two days; make trouble for yourselves and you will be there for a week, taking a dose of this stuff," pointing to the cod-liver oil, "every day. The choice is yours."
Given that choice, Paul immediately snuggled down under the covers and closed his eyes. Fox followed suit soon afterwards. As Rachel left the room Yoda came bounding in to take his place at the foot of the bed. Rachel left with the knowledge that not only were her boys back where they belonged but they were under the watchful eyes of Yoda. It left her with a warm and secure feeling. She hurried downstairs to learn if there was any new news.
Rachel came up on the conversation between her sons and husband, "and you say Paul's family background is Russian, too," exclaimed Walter, Sr. "Yes, sir," responded Walter, "Joe felt that he would fit in just right with our family."
"By the way Mom, Paul's middle name is Mikhail, so he would fit in that regard, too. The only thing is, Fox wants me to adopt the boy so he will have a kid brother," explained Walter. "It's not that I don't want the boy, but I don't know if I can spend that type of time so close after Fox's second childhood."
"Dear, your father and I were wanting him as well. We were thinking of being made his legal guardians and bringing him up here. We can tell him to consider us his grandparents and if Fox wants to consider him his little brother he can. We have to clear this with his Father's advisor, Mr. Walters and of course, with Paul, but if they all agree I think we will have a new member to introduce to the family soon," Rachel said.
While plans for his future were being made downstairs, Fox and Paul woke up and were talking upstairs. "I sure hope Mr. Sam can get here soon. I'm scared of his son and what he might do," Paul expressed fearfully.
Fox tried to comfort him and said, "Don't worry about it, the Skinners have claimed you as one of theirs and they won't let that bastard get you, count on it."
"They've claimed me? What do you mean?"
"Haven't you noticed how Gram looks at you and talks to you?" Paul nodded, he did indeed know how he felt whenever he was with Fox's grandparents. He hoped that they felt the same and now Fox was confirming it. He felt warm all over.
It was later in the day that Gran decided to have his discussion with his grandson about endangering his life while attempting to run away with Paul earlier. He came upon Fox and Paul talking in bed. Paul had joined Fox in his bed with Yoda lying at the foot of the bed. Fox was telling Paul of some of the pranks he had gotten into during his second childhood and some he had read about. They were discussing how to treat bullies if he was approached by any at school after the holidays.
"Fox would you come with me, please?" requested Gran.
Fox looked up, noted the look on his Gran's face and asked with trepidation, "Why?"
"Boy, we have a date with the Persuader. Now come with me unless you want it to be worse."
Fox obediently got up and followed his grandfather from the room. Paul watched as Yoda was kept from following Fox out of the room. Paul was curious about what was happening to his friend and as soon as they had left the floor got up to follow. He slipped from the room and in his haste to leave allowed Yoda to get past him.
Fox's Dad was able to catch Yoda before he could get out of the house and went off in search of Paul. He knew his father had left the dog in Fox's room and his being out now meant that Paul must have left him out. He grabbed him as he was about to slip out the back door and carried him back to the room he was sharing with Fox. After depositing him back on the bed he sat down and asked; "Now where do you think you were going?"
Paul looked up with his innocent eyes and responded, "I was just wondering where Fox was going and why he looked so sad."
Walter looked into the curious eyes of this little boy and began to tell him a story about the Persuader and how his Dad started to use it on his children for misbehavior and how it became tradition to use it on grandchildren, cousins, etc. He ended the tale with, "and when Fox foolishly put his life and yours on the line by nearly being in an accident while avoiding his Uncle Andy, his grandfather decreed that he would use the Persuader on Fox. Do you understand why Fox was unhappy about going with his grandfather?"
Paul nodded and asked, "Then it makes no difference if the one getting punished is my age or yours?"
Walter nodded and said, "No difference what so ever. If you deserve it no matter the age you receive it. I think that Fox will be here soon. He's not going to want anyone around for a while, so you come with me until he's ready to have visitors." They vacated the room in the nick of time as Fox rushed up and threw himself on the bed and sobbed.
Walter carried Paul into the living room and left him with his parents as he made his way back upstairs to offer comfort to his son.
Fox stayed in his room for the remainder of the afternoon joining them finally for supper. He saw Fox gingerly sit in his seat and wincing as he sat, that Paul suddenly jumped from the his chair to run back upstairs for a few minutes. Rachel and Walter exchanged a look as he left the table but didn't say a word. About 5 minutes later Paul came back carrying the biggest and fluffiest pillow he could find. He handed it to Fox with a shy smile and said, "This should help." Fox accepted it with a smile and after placing it on his chair sat back down and bowed his head for the blessing. After supper both Paul and Fox returned to their room and soon afterwards went to bed.
The next morning as Fox was getting dressed Paul got a good look at his bottom and winced as he saw that it was still pink. From Fox's movements, it was still sore; he vowed not ever to be on the receiving end of that strap. He hurriedly got dressed and followed Fox down for breakfast.
By the time Paul and Fox arrived the table was set. Paul was seated in between Rachel and Fox. His plate, like Fox's, was already served with a tall glass of milk and medium size glass of orange juice in front of both plates. Paul set down but didn't pick up his fork right away as Fox did. He nudged Fox and whispered, "Wait until after everybody is seated and the blessing is said."
Fox looked up into the smiling faces of the rest of the family and quickly put his fork down. He followed suit as the others bowed their heads and Walter, Sr. gave a blessing for what they were to eat. After the final "A-men" was said Paul turned to Fox and said, "Now you can eat," and picked up his fork and began to eat his breakfast. He made no up cry at the glass of milk and orange juice at his place and swallowed every drop.
Fox on the other hand finished his breakfast except for drinking his milk. He immediately got up and went into the kitchen and soon returned drinking a cup of coffee. "Fox put down that cup and drink your milk first. After you finish your milk you can have a cup of coffee," admonished Rachel.
"Aw, Gram, do I have to? I really don't want the milk," argued Fox, sipping the coffee after talking.
He was surprised when the cup was taken from him and his Gran addressed him, "Boy, I would recommend you drink your milk."
Fox picked his glass of milk up, grudgingly and drank it down in one long swallow. "Satisfied? Now can I have my coffee?" asked Fox arrogantly.
Gran took it into the kitchen and poured what was left of it down the drain, he then handed the empty coffee cup to his grandson and said, "Your earlier action dictated the lose of your coffee privileges for the day."
Fox looked at the empty cup and then back at his grandfather. Without a word he marched back into the kitchen with the full intention of pouring himself another cup of coffee when Paul called out, "Fox will you show me around...pleaseeeeeee."
The plea from this little boy stopped him in his tracks. He turned around and asked, "Will that be all right Gram?" After receiving her nod put the empty cup down and left with Paul.
Part 4
As soon as the boys left, Rachel turned to her son and husband and said, "That boy is just what Fox needs. I was afraid that he was going to push you into giving him a paddling on top of the strapping he got yesterday and the boy changed it all."
It was while Fox was showing Paul around that trouble came driving up the driveway in the form of Sam, Jr. He bounded out of the car and stalked angrily to Paul. He grabbed him around the arm and yanked him towards the car. Paul spun and kicked Sam in the shin. As soon as the boy's foot made contact with his ankle he backhanded Paul in the face knocking him to the ground.
"Foxxxxxxxxxxxx," yelled Paul as he fell and watched as Fox slugged the lawyer and prevented him from reaching for the boy. The commotion brought Walter running from the house with his parents following behind. Walter stood with his son and faced the lawyer as he picked himself from the ground. Walters shouted at Fox, "That's it, I'm pressing charges against you for attacking me."
Fox was just as incensed and yelled back, "What about your hitting the boy? That's child abuse and that's worse. What I was doing is self defense...I was protecting my brother," and started for the lawyer when his Dad grabbed him by the arm.
"Fox take Paul back to the house and to your grandmother, I'll handle things from now on." For once Fox did exactly as he was told and picked Paul up and carried the crying boy to his Gram. While he was leaving he could hear the verbal attack his Dad was aiming at the lawyer and although he couldn't hear the reply he knew they had a battle on their hands.
After delivering Paul into the loving hands of his grandparents he started back to help his Dad when Gran stayed his arm and quietly told him he was needed here. "Fox stay with Paul he needs his big brother with him, now. Leave your Dad to handle the problem outside."
Fox just nodded and followed them into the house where his Gran placed Paul on the couch and stepped away so Rachel could take a closer look at him. From the moment he had been hit Paul had kept his hand over the spot where he had been backhanded. Rachel gently moved his hand and gasped as they saw the extent of the hurt. "Fox go get me some ice, be sure to wrap it in a cloth first...hurry."
Sam, Jr. must have been wearing a ring on the hand that he had struck the boy with because there was a cut under his eye. The whole area was bruised, swollen and the eye was turning black. Fox hurried back with the ice and Rachel tenderly placed it over the whole area, eye included. "Fox hold this in place until I return," and she hurried off to locate the children's Tylenol, which she gave to Paul. "Swallow this Misha, and everything will soon feel better," Rachel cooed at Paul. He obediently took the medicine and as soon as he had swallowed it he began to cry once again. "Baby, what's wrong," asked Rachel.
"You called me Misha. That was my Mom's pet name for me," Paul said through his tears. At this Rachel pulled him up into her lap and just cuddled him, allowing him to cry his grief out along with his pain. Rachel didn't release him until he had cried himself to sleep when she gently placed him back on the couch. "Fox, you stay with him," and went to meet Walter as he came in from arguing with Sam, Jr.
"Son, what did he say?"
"He said that he was returning with the sheriff and the officials from the school and he would have Paul with him soon."
"Walter, I'm not turning that boy over to that terrible man, it would be like me turning over one of you to him," Rachel cried heatedly.
"I know Mom, we'll think of something," Walter was about to add more when a knock came to the door, he turned instead and opened the door. He was facing an older man with gray hair and a kind face. "Excuse me I'm looking for Walter Skinner...I'm Sam Walters, Sr. I'm here about Paul Atkins."
Walter invited him in and said to Rachel, "Mom, Paul's savior is here," and introduced them all to Mr. Walters.
"Where is the boy?" asked Sam, Sr.
"In here, with our grandson, Fox," volunteered Rachel as she led the way.
"Fox, this is Sam Walters, Sr., Paul's lawyer, and I'm guessing, his legal guardian. Mr. Walters, this is Fox, my son Walter's son."
After the introductions had been made Fox returned to Paul's side and nudged him. "Paul, Mr. Walters is here."
While Fox was trying to wake Paul, Sam, Sr. noticed the ice pack and asked what had happened. Before Rachel could answer, Fox blurted out, "Your son did that to him. He backhanded him and knocked him to the ground. He was trying to physically take him away and Paul was fighting him."
"Paul," Sam called quietly as Paul opened his eyes.
"Oh sir, thank you for coming...Mom and Dad were killed in a car accident and your son wouldn't let me get in touch with you about it. He said that this was the first real vacation you have had in years and it would take more than just a car accident to get you here. He said he would handle everything and took me away two days after the funeral and dumped me in that damn school in Canada," and for the second time the tears began to fall as he remembered their deaths and his being unable to grieve for them as he should.
Mr. Walters turned away from the sad scene and spoke quietly to the Skinners. "Can I speak to you three for a minute?" They nodded and left. Before following them Sam turned back to Paul and said, "Paul I promise you that you will not be made to go back there and I'll find you somewhere to live. I loved your parents and I'll make this up to you."
He left Paul crying into Fox's shoulder and followed the Skinners out into the kitchen.
Once they were seated around the kitchen table with cups of coffee in front of them they settled down to make their plans for confronting Sam, Jr., about Paul. Sam, Sr. told them, "When my son comes be sure to provoke him into showing you his proof of guardianship for Paul. After he states that I have given him the power to act as my agent while I'm on sabbatical I'll make my move. Until then we wait."
They didn't have to wait long; within the hour two cars pulled up. One was the sheriff's car and the other carried the school officials. Sam, Jr. got out of the sheriff's car and walked up the stairs to the front door with a smirk on his face. Sheriff Cole was the one who knocked. Walter, Sr. opened the door and invited them all in. Sam, Sr. was in hiding just waiting to make his move.
"Walter, I'm sorry but I must serve this order for the removal of Paul Atkins into the care of Sam Walters, Jr. You must give the boy up."
Walter turned to Sam, Jr. and demanded, "I want to see the credentials stating your guardianship over the boy."
Sam, Jr. looked smug as he whipped the papers out. As he handed the papers to Walter he stated, "Look and weep old man. As you can see my Dad, Sam Walters, Sr., left me in charge of his affairs and cases to take care of them as best I can. I have decided that the boy is to be placed in that boarding school for now...so turn him over."
"Not so fast," another voice spoke up. Sam, Jr. started to answer, "What now old man...Dad. What are you doing here?"
"I'm here to take my authorization away from you. I'm back and in charge," and turning to the Sheriff said, "Sheriff Cole, we won't be needing you now. My son is no longer in charge, I am and the boy stays here with the Skinners, at least for the time being. Here are my credentials," handing his ID and other papers over to Sheriff Cole.
Sheriff Cole looked over the papers and then turned to Sam, Jr. and said, "You have no authority here. Good day sir," and left.
Sam, Jr. turned to his father and said, "Dad, why did you come back? I was handling things just fine."
"Sam, you misused your power and hurt this boy deeply. If he wanted to he could charge you with abuse and I think he should. In fact there is only one thing you can do to prevent it from happening."
Sam looked at his father and asked, "What?"
"Take a visit with me to the Skinner woodshed and submit to an old fashion strapping, otherwise an abuse charge and conviction will end your career as a lawyer."
"Dad, you would do that? Why?"
"I would do anything to turn you around. Son, you have lost all sincerity in dealing with your clients. You don't really care for them only about making money. I want a caring man to take over after I retire, and you aren't it. Maybe a good strapping will help. So son, what do you say?"
Faced with those choices Sam, Jr. nodded and followed his father out the door. Walter, Jr. led the way to the woodshed and entering handed him the Persuader, then explained a few facts to both father and son. When Sam, Jr. understood that he would have to submit to his strapping without wearing his pants or boxers he nearly bolted but eventually took his place on the bench and waited for his Dad to begin.
Walter showed Sam, Sr. the tricks of the trade in handling the strap and stayed only long enough to see that he was doing it right before leaving. As he walked back to the house he could hear Sam, Jr.'s cries of pain as the strap visited his backside over and over again. Walter had whispered the best places to strike and was secure in the knowledge that Sam, Jr. would be finding sitting a difficult thing to do for the upcoming week, hopefully it would help to change him from a cold and uncaring man to one with more warmth and sincerity towards his clients. Only time and the continued application the strap would tell.
As Walter entered the room he saw that Paul had joined his parents in the kitchen. They were all eating a slice of chocolate cake with a glass of cold milk to wash it down. "Hey, what's going on?"
"We are celebrating, Dad," answered Fox with a mouthful of cake. "Celebrating what, son?"
"Paul's victory over Sam, Jr. and the boarding school, of course," and then in the next sentence asked, "When are you going to adopt him? He has no one and I want a little brother."
With all eyes on him Walter could only gulp and respond, "Fox, we have to wait and see what Sam, Sr. has to say about this?"
"What do I have to decide?" Sam, Sr. responded in a deep voice.
Before Walter could answer Paul spoke up, "If I can be adopted? Please say yes."
Sam looked up and said, "I need to talk to the adults first. Paul, why don't you leave us alone for a few minutes so we can talk things out?"
Paul nodded and after swallowing the last of his milk got up and left the table. Walter, Sr. noticing that Fox was still there requested, "Fox go with him." Fox looked like he was about to argue but after seeing the fire in his Gram's eyes, he hurried to obey. He didn't want another session with the Persuader.
It was about 30 minutes later that the boys were joined by the Skinners and Mr. Walters. "Paul, Rachel and Walter, Sr. want to be named your guardians. They want to become your legal grandparents. What do you say to that?"
Paul looked up with a huge grin on his face and said, "Yes, I would like that," and then looking at his new grandparents said, "Gram? Gran? That sounds wonderful to me. Does that make Fox my cousin or big brother?"
"Your cousin dear, is that all right with you?" Paul nodded. Rachel turned to Fox and asked the same question, "What about you Fox, and does it matter whether Paul is your cousin or your little brother?"
"Well, if he can't be my little brother then cousin will be just fine. I can still treat him like a kid brother, can't I?"
"Yes, dear, that will be just fine," answered Rachel with a smile. "Now why don't you take your cousin upstairs so he can change his clothes and we can go to our lawyer in Danville and see the judge as soon as possible."
As he was returning to his room Walter, Sr. picked up the phone and called his lawyer, Tim Miller and told him what they wanted to do and could they set it up as soon as possible?" Tim said that he would see if Judge Bennett was available and he would get back to them as soon as he could.
Paul sat on the bed after dressing and suddenly asked Fox, "Now that your grandparents are trying to adopt me, does that mean I have to take their name too?"
"No, Paul, not if you don't want to," replied Fox.
"Are you a Skinner, too, Fox?" Fox paused trying to see how he could phrase it.
"My real last name is Mulder, but in my heart I'm a Skinner. You see something happened to me last year that changed things for me." He sat down and explained the experiment that had been done to him and how he had the relived his childhood and now that he was once again an adult and reinstated in the FBI he wouldn't regain his true age for at least 4 or 5 more years. "So you see this second time I became a Skinner and I have a caring family in the Skinners that I didn't have as a Mulder. Do you understand now?"
Paul nodded and rephrased his question, "Fox will you ever change your last name to Skinner?"
Fox chewed on his bottom lip and said, "I would like to...some day. Maybe I could legally have it changed to Fox Mulder Skinner. As it is whenever I get in trouble that is what they call me. I don't know; I have to think about it."
"Boys, would you two please come down now. We're ready to go," called Walter, Sr. While the boys had been talking the lawyer had called back and said that if they could come right away he had set up an appointment with Judge Bennett. He would see them in an hour.
Soon they were on their way to town. They went in two cars, the lawyers in one car, father and son, with the Skinners in Walter's Cherokee Jeep. Sam and his son followed Walter first to their lawyer and then on to the Judge. Sam left his son in the car, still dealing with the intense pain in his backside. He was lying on his side on the back seat. Satisfied that he would have no more trouble from his son, at least for the next few days, Sam, Sr. followed everybody into the Judge's chambers.
Water and Rachel allowed their lawyer to present their case to Judge Bennett. After hearing it all of this Judge Bennett asked to talk to Paul alone and they went into his inner office together.
Judge Bennett showed Paul where to sit and then pulled a chair up close and asked, "Now I want you to tell me how you came to be with the Skinners?"
Paul took a deep breath and started at the beginning with the death of his parents and how the Sam Walters, Jr., representing his own father's cases shipped him to a boarding school without even contacting his father, Sam Waters, Sr. "Mr. Walters, Sr. was my Dad's personal advisor and lawyer. He was on a sabbatical and left everything in his son's hands. His son was the junior member of his firm and quite capable but didn't have the personality his dad did. He always thought that I was a spoiled brat and now that he was in charge he decided to get me out of his hair. Judge Bennett there were several families in my hometown that would have taken me in but he didn't want that. He even sold my dog to my best friend." This last part brought Paul to tears and the Judge patiently waited until he got control of himself again.
"What happened next Paul?" Paul took another deep breath and told him how he escaped from the boarding school on several occasions only to be caught and sent back. "They caned me every time I was brought back, Judge. I vowed that they wouldn't catch me ever again and the last time I managed to get as far as the Skinner farm where Fox found me. Gram treated me like I was hers even then and nursed me back to health. I got sick from being in the cold and wet November weather as did Fox for finding me. Fox treated me like a treasured little brother and we bonded. He tried to save me from going back by running away with me. His Dad found us and returned us to Gram's caring hands."
Judge Bennett then asked, "What about the lawyer, Sam, Jr.? What happened with him? Is he still going to be a problem?"
"No sir. We got in contact with his father who came back and regained his custody of my affairs and me. He punished his son for his actions and he is waiting in the car outside."
Paul paused before continuing. He was choosing his words very carefully as he continued, "Judge I've never known my real grandparents and the Skinners want me as their grandson. I want them as my grandparents just as much. For as long as I've been alive there were only my parents and I now I have grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles...please Judge, I want to stay with Gram and Gran."
The Judge nodded, pleased with Paul's account of events and request for adoption. "Paul as soon as I can, you will now be the grandson of Rachel and Walter Skinner, Sr. You can go to them now," and turned to get the papers ready. Paul started to the door and with his hand on the doorknob he suddenly came to a decision. "Judge, can I have my name legally changed to Skinner?"
Judge Bennett turned around in surprised and asked, "Is that what you want?" "Yes, sir...that is if I can have four names." Judge Bennett asked kindly, "What do you want your name to be?"
Paul took a deep breath and blurted out, "Paul Mikhail Atkins Skinner."
Judge Bennett smiled and said, "I think that can be arranged, now go out to your new family while I make the changes. I'll only be a few minutes." This time Paul eagerly returned to the outer office and sat next to Fox and said, "The Judge said he would only be a few more minutes."
"Is everything all right, Paul?" asked Rachel.
"Yes, Gram. He just wanted to hear everything in my own words. He said he had some papers to change and then he would be right out."
They only had to wait about 30 minutes before Judge Bennett came out carrying several papers and being followed by a young woman. The Judge introduced her as a Miss Echols, his legal assistant. "She will be our witness to the proceedings."
The Judge began with stating that usually there were background checks on the perspective parents. "I don't that we will have to worry with that, I know you'll pass. We will skip that part for now and get on with the proceedings. But, the adoption won't be official until Social Services gives its mark of approval."
After conferring with Miss Echols for a minute Judge Bennett turned to Paul and asked him to stand and said, Paul Mikhail Atkins Skinner do you take Rachel and Walter Skinner, Sr. as your legal grandparents?"
"Yes, Sir," Paul said as tears of joy began to fall.
Judge Bennett then turned to a surprised Rachel and Walter and asked, "Rachel and Walter, will you take Paul as your legal grandson?" They nodded and then Paul was in their arms before the Judge could bang down his gavel. The Judge watched as Walter and Fox joined in on the group hug and knew that the little boy now had a family that would last him a lifetime.
He gave them a few minutes more before clearing his throat and saying, "Walter, all this document needs is yours, Rachel's, and your grandson's signatures." They acknowledged it and quickly signed their names in the required places before being given a copy and leaving the office. They all shook hands with the Judge before leaving.
They went out to celebrate before returning to the house later in the night. Sam Walter, Sr. had said his good byes soon after leaving the Judge's chambers and left with his son. He had a lot to clean up back home but said he would check back with them later in the month.
The week leading up to Thanksgiving seemed to go quickly as Paul really began to settle in. The first of his belongings came within the week and Walter and Rachel gave him Jeremy's old room as his own. He put his clothes and other belongings up as they came, and soon the room took on a different look. He had his carvings on one shelf and his violin on another.
A skateboard was found leaning against one wall while mitt, baseball and bat were against the other. On the bookshelf next to his desk was found old favorites of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn as well as several by favorite author, Gary Paulsen. There were several by Mississippi author Willie Morris. There were several sketchpads lying around with an assortment of colored pencils.
Walter and Rachel both took him to school to register him for his classes. They found out that being 11 placed him in the firth grade and that he would be starting as soon as the Thanksgiving holidays were over.
Thanksgiving Day came with the traditional gathering of family. Fox came up with Walter and was the first to introduce Paul around to his numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Just before sitting down for dinner Paul was reunited with his best friend, his dog Rebel, a golden retriever. Paul was led outside by Fox and pushed forward as Rebel was released. Boy and dog met midway to the back door and soon all that could be heard was the giggling of boy and happy barking of young dog. The rest of his family just watched from a distance happy to be a part of this joyful occasion. When they finally sat down for their Thanksgiving dinner Paul was the most thankful of them all. Not only had he been reunited with his dog but also he had gained a huge family in the month following his parents' death.
At the dinner all of the family stood up and told what they were thankful for. Rachel and Walter were thankful that the Lord had seen fit to give them another child to love and bring up. Fox was thankful that he had a little brother in his new cousin Paul. When it came to Paul he simply said, "I'm Thankful that the Lord has given me a loving family after my first was taken away."
The End