Date: Mon, 26 May 2003 15:22:40 EDT
From: Gryffindor6698@aol.com
Subject: City Of Dreams - Chapter Thirteen

City Of Dreams

The following is a complete work of fiction.

Any resemblance between the characters and any real life person is
completely coincidental.  Please do not copy or distribute the story
without the author's permission.

This is my first attempt at writing.  I would appreciate feedback on what
you think of the story, but please keep it constructive.  I have a fragile
ego. LOL

Disclaimer:

The following story may contain erotic situations between consenting
adults.  If it is illegal for you to read this please leave now.

Thank you so much to everyone that has written to me!!!  I really
appreciate all the feedback, and I hope y'all keep sending me your thoughts
on the story.  If anyone is interested there is now a yahoo group for the
story.  It can be found at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/City-Of-Dreams.
And thank you to Sara for suggesting the idea!  I would be lost without
your guidance and encouraging words.  You are an angel!

Previously:

We all grinned through our tears.

"I take it you liked your surprise Miah?"

I didn't even answer him.  I pulled him against me and planted the biggest
kiss of his life on him.

"You are amazing Bailey.  I don't know how you did it, but thank you so
much."

"I love you Miah."

"I love you too Bailey."

As we kissed again my mom, Gina, and Austin surrounded us in a group hug.
Today has turned out to be the fucking best day of my life.  I'm married to
the man of my dreams, my brother and sister were here to share it, and my
beautiful husband brought my mom back into my life.  Things just don't get
any better than this.

Chapter Thirteen

The last two weeks have been the greatest of my life.  Not only was I
married to the man of my dreams, but also my mom was back in my life!  Gina
and Austin had gotten us a room at the hotel for our wedding night.  I had
a very hot sensuous night with my husband.  Just thinking about it now made
my face turn tomato red.  That man amazes me every time we have sex.  He
could write a flipping book!  One of the best things has been all the time
I've been able to spend with my mom.  It was wonderful to get to know her.
She is such a sweet and compassionate person.  I had a blast showing her
around the city and playing tour guide.  Unfortunately she hasn't been
feeling well the past couple of days.  We made her leave the hotel she was
staying in and come stay at the apartment.  This way I could take care of
her.  Of course everyone else pitched in and helped out.

I was lying across one of the couches sipping my coffee and having a smoke.
I was watching one of my morning talk shows as Austin came into the living
room.

"Morning bro.  How is it that you are always up before me?" he asked.

He stood next to the couch.

"I'm always up first cause you can't get your lazy ass out of bed."  I said
with a grin.

He motioned for me to move so he could sit down.  I leaned up a bit giving
him some room.  As he sat down though I plopped my head down in his lap and
made myself comfortable.  This had actually become sort of a morning
routine for us.  Gina and Bailey could sleep forever, but Austin and I were
always up early.  It was always good bonding time for us.

Austin glanced at the TV.

"So is Kelly giving Regis hell again this morning?"

"I wouldn't be watching it if she wasn't."

Anyone that lived with us would have thought the conversation was scripted
because we said that every morning.  It was nice though.  Comfortable.  We
sat through the rest of the show without talking.  We just enjoyed each
other's company.  The past few weeks Austin and I seemed to be getting
closer.  At first I thought that Gina or Bailey would be jealous of the
bond Austin and I had formed, but they weren't at all.  The two of them
seemed to have bonded in the same way Austin and I have.  The four of us
had really become a family.  That meant so much to me because it was
something I never got the chance to have but always wanted.

I heard movement in the kitchen and looked up to see my mom getting some
coffee.  I started to get up to help her, but she was already on her way
into the living room.

"Lay back down Miah.  I'm fine.  I am not an invalid.  I'm just not feeling
well honey."

She smiled at me.

"I'm glad to know though that you are concerned about me baby."

I grinned back at her.  Bailey stumbled in and plopped down on the couch
opposite us.  You could tell that the boy was barely even awake.  He
glanced over at us.

"Austin you better not be getting fresh with my husband over there."

My entire body flushed with happiness.  I loved hearing him call me that.
I was a very lucky guy.

"I'm not getting fresh B.  Besides, Miah is the one who put his head in my
lap."

Bailey shot me a look.

"If you feel something poking the back of your head you better remember
that it's not me baby.  I am the only person who gets to enjoy your
talented..."

I cut him off quickly.

"Bailey!  My mother is sitting right there.  You just be quiet about what
goes on behind closed doors."  My mother grinned at us.

"Your door may be closed honey, but it isn't sound proof.  From what comes
out of Bailey's mouth you are obviously doing something right."

Bailey turned the brightest shade of red.  I've never seen him blush like
that.

"If you stand by the door it's almost like you are right next to them."
Austin said with a laugh.

I looked up at him.

"And how would you know that bro?"

It was Austin's turn to blush.

"Well...I was on my way to the kitchen to get something to drink and I
can't help it that you two were going at it like rabbits and..."

I raised my hand up and put it over his mouth.

"Just hush Austin before you get your other foot stuck in your mouth."

Bailey stood up and stretched and headed towards the kitchen.

"I'm going to make some breakfast for us."

My mom stood up and followed him.

"I'll help make sure you stay awake Bailey."  She said with a laugh.

As they went into the kitchen I sat up and looked at Austin.  He looked
back and forth between the TV and I a few times.  I grinned at him.

"What Miah?"

I licked my lips and giggled.

"Did you really stand by the door Austin?"

He blushed again and looked away from me.  I leaned over to look at him,
but he moved up against the arm of the couch away from me.  I moved over
and tapped him on the shoulder.  He ignored me.  What the fuck?  I tapped
him on the shoulder again.  His snapped towards me.

"What Miah?" he snapped at me.

Oh shit. I shouldn't have teased him about it.  I put my arm around him and
rubbed his shoulder.

"Don't snap at me buddy."  I said in a low, but kind voice.  "You want to
tell me what's going on?"

He sighed and looked away from me again.

"I did stand by your door, but not for very long.  I couldn't help it.  It
just sounded so hot.  I am so fucking embarrassed."

His face turned red again, and I could see the tears build up in his eyes.
I reached over and turned his head.  I looked him straight in the eyes.

"I'm sorry I teased you about it.  I can understand you're embarrassed, but
why are you crying bro?"

He tried to turn his head away again, but I kept my hand on his face.  Our
eyes locked together.

"Tell me Austin."

"I'm jealous."

My eyes widened in shock.

"Austin..."

He interrupted me.

"Don't misunderstand me Miah.  I'm not saying that in a sexual manner at
all.  It's just that..."

His voice trailed off.  I moved a bit closer to him and tightened my arm
around him.

"It's just what bro?"

My voice was barely above a whisper.

"You mean a lot to me Miah.  I know we are friends..."

"Best friends."  I said interrupting him.

He smiled at me.

"I've had close friends before, but this is different.  It's hard to
explain. I feel connected to you Miah.  To be honest I was freaked out
about it.  I talked to Gina about it and she suggested I talk to Bailey.  I
would have done that even if Gina didn't suggest it.  I didn't want Bailey
or Gina to think I was trying to make a play for you or something because I
felt drawn to you.  I wanted to be close to you."  He sighed and ran a hand
through his hair.  "This isn't coming out right."

He might have thought it wasn't coming out right, but I understood exactly
what he was saying.  Since day one Austin and I seemed to click.  We had
similar personalities and we seemed to be in sync a lot of the time.  It
was weird at first, but then it became comforting.  It's very rare to find
a friend that you have so much in common with.

"I know what you mean Austin.  I understand completely."

His face lit up with a brilliant smile.  I didn't want to ruin the moment,
but I had to ask my question.

"Why are you jealous though?"

He looked down at his lap, and I was barely able to make out what he was
saying.

"I was jealous because Bailey is able to show you how important you are to
him.  He shows you that you are special.  I can't do that the way he does.
I know I must sound stupid, but you're very important to me Miah and...I
feel stupid."  He shook his head and wouldn't look up at me.  I leaned over
and rested my forehead against the side of his head.

"You're not stupid Austin."  I whispered into his ear.  "Don't ever think
that.  I understand exactly what you are saying bro.  I can feel the
connection between us as well.  You're important to me too Austin.  I love
you as much as I love Bailey."

He pulled back a bit and looked at me.

"What?"

I smiled at him.

"Bailey is the love of my life.  He's my husband and my best friend. I am
totally in love with him.  I love you just as much, but it's a different
kind of love.  You fill a role in my life that Bailey isn't able to fill."

Austin looked at me with confusion written all over his face.

"What role is that?"

"My brother." I said as I ruffled his hair.

Austin wrapped his arms around me and laid his head on my shoulder.

"I love you Miah.  Thank you."

"I love you too bro."

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Later that afternoon everyone in the apartment was sitting in the living
room and watching a movie together.  We had a blast.  Just as the movie was
finishing up Gina looked over and winked me.  She stood up and headed
towards the bathroom.  I leaned back against Bailey a bit more and tried to
relax.  Gina and I had planned a huge joke.  We planned on getting everyone
at once.  This was going to be a big one and I just hoped it worked.  After
about five minutes we heard Gina's voice echoing down the hallway.

"Holy shit!"  All of our heads turned to look at her as she came back into
the living room.  She was carrying something in her hands and looked
shocked.  Man she was good!

"Are you ok honey?  What's wrong?"  Austin asked.

Gina didn't say a word.  She just held up the object that was in her had.
It was a pregnancy test.  Silence engulfed the entire living room.  Austin
looked at Gina.  His mouth flapped up and down but no sound came out.  Gina
just nodded her head.  Bailey was the first one to say anything.

"You two are good.  I will give you that.  I never expected that either of
you would be sneaky enough to pull this off."

Everyone looked at him.

"Come on guys.  This would be the biggest joke the two of them ever pulled
off.  I have to admit that I am impressed."

I looked at him and laughed.

"I can't you believe you were on to us B.  Either we are slipping or you
overheard us talking about it."

Bailey grinned at me.

"Ok.  I'll admit that I heard you talking about it.  I warned everyone
though.  I couldn't let you two get us again."

I looked up at Gina.  She still hadn't said anything.  Tears were filling
up her eyes.

"Gina..."

My voice trailed off.  Gina reached into her back pocket and took out the
marker we bought to fill in the test with.  It wasn't opened.  It was still
in the package!  Oh. My. God.

"I don't know what I was thinking.  I took it before I tried to color it
in.  Just to see you know.  I...I can't believe..."

I jumped off of the couch and raced over to her.  Our eyes locked as she
handed me the test.  I looked down at the test and my eyes widened.  I head
snapped up and a huge smile was starting to form on my face.

"You're...you're pregnant."

Gina nodded her head.  A brilliant smile lit up her face.

Before I could say anything else a blur of motion shot past the corner of
my eye.  The next thing I know Austin was in front of me lifting Gina up in
the air.  He was hooting and hollering.

"We're gonna have a baby!  We're gonna have a baby!"

Gina was laughing and nodding her head.  Austin put her back down and they
kissed passionately. Bailey, Sara, and my mom came over and stood next to
me.

"I can't believe it!"  Bailey said.

Everyone looked at him.

"Has anyone else realized that these two bitches still got us?"

He had a mock glare on his face.  Everyone laughed.

"Miah and I are just that good B."  Gina said with a laugh.

My mom went over and hugged both of them.

"I am so happy for you two.  Gina you are going to be an amazing mom.
Austin I know you are going to a phenomenal dad!  This is so...so...."

My mom's voice broke off a bit and she swayed back and forth.  I ran up to
her and put my arm around her waist.

"Mom are you ok?"

She was blinking her eyes trying to get everything back into focus.

"Yes Miah.  I just got really dizzy there for a second.  I thought I was
going to..."  Before she could say anything else her body slumped against
mine.  She was out cold.  My other arm shot out around her and I was barely
able to stay standing.  Bailey was right there though and helped me keep my
balance.

"Mom....mom!"

She wasn't waking up.

"We need to get her to the hospital.  Now!"

I was practically yelling.

"Let's get her downstairs to my car.  It will take an ambulance too long to
get here.  There's that hospital a few blocks down from us.  I'll go get
the car started."  Austin said as he grabbed his keys and headed out the
door.

I could barely breath.  I felt like I was going to pass out myself.  What
the fuck is going on?  Bailey moved over and scooped my mom up into his
arms.

"Come on guys.  Let's go."

We raced downstairs as fast as we could.  Just as we walked out the front
of the building Austin pulled up in his car.  Somehow we managed to get
everyone inside.  Austin peeled rubber towards the hospital.  Bailey had
his arm around me.

"Everything is going to be ok Miah.  Don't worry."

I appreciated his words, but I couldn't stop the fear that was rising in my
chest.  Will everything be ok?

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Three hours later we were all still sitting in the waiting room at the
hospital.  They took my mom back almost immediately, but we hadn't heard
anything else.  I was totally freaking out.  Hospitals just aren't my
favorite place.  I don't know what it is about them, but they freak me out
completely.  I was pacing back and forth.  Bailey came up to me and put his
arms around me.

"Why haven't the doctors come out yet B?  Why isn't anyone telling us what
is going on?  I need to know what is going on!"  Bailey ran his hands up
and down my back trying to soothe me.

"We'll find out as soon as they know anything.  I'm sure they are doing the
best that they can baby.  We'll..."

A voice interrupted Bailey.

"Mr. Summers?"

I spun around to find a nurse standing in front of me.

"That's me."

"Can you come with me please sir?  The doctor would like to speak with
you."

I felt Bailey's arms tighten around me once more and he let go.

"You want me to come with you baby."

I shook my head.

"I'll be ok.  Thank you honey."

I followed the nurse down the hallway and she led me into an exam room.
The doctor was looking at x-rays on one of the light up screens that hung
on the wall.  He turned as we entered.  The nurse quietly left the room and
closed the door.

"Jeremiah?"  He asked.

I nodded my head.  He put his hand out and I shook it.

"I'm Dr. MacGregor.  Please call me James."

His name seemed so familiar, but I just couldn't seem to place where I knew
the name.

"I know you must be wondering what took so long, but we needed to run
another MRI before we really could distinguish what is going on."

"What's wrong with my mom?"  James motioned for me to sit down.  As I sat
down he pulled a chair over and sat down facing me.

"Your mom has a tumor in her brain Jeremiah."

I gasped.  I must have thought a million different reasons on why she would
pass out, but this certainly was not one of them.

"Can you operate?  There's something you can do right?"

James locked his eyes with mine.

"We took the second MRI to make sure we had everything correct Miah.  The
tumor is buried slightly in her brain.  With the way it's positioned we
wouldn't be able to operate.  If we tried to remove the tumor it would
actually damage the brain even more."

I could hear the compassion in his voice.  It helped a little bit, but it
certainly wasn't making things any easier.  I could feel the tears building
up in my eyes.

"How long..." I managed to say before my throat closed.

He leaned over and grabbed my hands.

"When we got the results from the second test Miah the tumor had grown.  I
really wish there was something I could do but..."

I managed to find my voice and I interrupted.

"How long do we have James?"

I could see pain in his eyes.

"With the rate of growth we observed Miah, I would say a few hours.  I'm so
sorry."

My mouth opened, but before I could say anything a sob ripped through my
body.  James pulled me to my feet and wrapped his arms around me.  He
didn't say anything and I appreciated that.  There was nothing he could
have said that would have eased my pain.

"Can I see her?"

James nodded.

"Of course.  I'll go in with you.  I haven't had the chance to meet your
mom yet.  The doctor that was handling her case had called me down to look
at the test results."

"I'll meet you back here ok?  I need to go talk to the people that are here
with me first."

"That's fine.  I'll meet you right at the nurses station."

"Thank you."

I turned and walked out the door.  I headed straight back to the waiting
room.  I don't know how I was even able to get back there without walking
into anything.  Tears blurred my vision completely.  As I walked back into
the waiting room all four of them jumped to their feet and rushed over to
me.

They all saw my face and no one said a word.  Bailey rushed over and pulled
me into his arms.

"Miah..."

I sobbed against his chest.  This wasn't fair.  I just got her back and now
she's being taken from me again.

Austin, Gina, and Sara crowed around the two of us.

"What's happening bro?"  Austin asked as he rubbed my back.

I was barely able to talk.

"It's a....there's a...in her head..."

Bailey's soft voice carried over us.

"There's a tumor in her brain."

I nodded my head.  "What are they going to do?"  Gina asked.

I held back another sob that threatened to rip through my body.

"There's nothing they can do Gina.  The position makes it inoperable.  The
doctor said it's growing and she only has a few hours left..."

My voice broke off.  I don't know how I am going to handle this.  Everyone
was hugging me now and no one really said anything.  I understood though.
There really wasn't anything they could say.  As I was trying to compose
myself something clicked in my head from the conversation was just had.  I
stepped back a bit and looked at Bailey.  His eyes locked with mine.

"How did you know it was a tumor?  I didn't say anything..."

I could see him gulp and he licked his lips.

"I..."

My eyes flared with anger.  I interrupted him.

"You knew didn't you?"

Bailey didn't say a word.  He just nodded his head.

"This entire time you've known why she was sick.  You knew what was fucking
going on and you didn't tell me??"

My voice had gotten louder by the end of my question.

"Baby she already knew what was going on.  She knew there was nothing that
could be done.  She didn't want you to know.  Your mom didn't want the time
you two had together to be sad.  She..."

He reached over to hug me, but I stepped back.

"Don't touch me."

The look on his face would make you think I just slapped him.

"Miah..."

"Just shut up.  I can't believe you would keep something like this from me.
You should have fucking told me.  Yes things might have been sad, but
unfortunately it's a sad situation.  Instead of knowing about what was
going on and trying to deal with it I had to find out this way.  I had to
find out about it when my mom collapsed in my arms.  A doctor had to tell
me what the fuck was going on, and I should have fucking heard it from
you."

Complete silence engulfed us.  No one said a word.  The three of them
looked back in forth between Bailey and I.

"I have to go see her."  My voice broke off a bit. "There isn't much time."

Bailey stepped forward to go with me, but I put my hand up.

"No.  You stay here with everyone.  This is something I have to do alone."

Bailey's eyes filled with tears.

"Miah...I'm sorry."

I locked eyes with him.

"Yeah.  I'm sorry too Bailey."

I turned and walked away from the group without saying another word.  How
could he know and not tell me??  I understand my mother wanting to keep it
a secret, but this isn't something you should keep from people.  I didn't
think this situation could be any worse.  Obviously I was greatly mistaken.

"Miah!  Miah wait!"

I spun around at the sound of Austin's voice.  He came running up to me.

"I know you said you wanted to be alone, but I thought I could at least
wait outside the room.  In case you needed anything."

I didn't say a word.  I nodded my head.  As we headed down the hallway he
put his arm around my shoulder.

"Did they send you down here?"

He nodded his head.

"I planned on it anyways, but they thought it was a good idea too.
Miah...you know that Bailey thought he was doing the right thing.  He was
keeping the promise he made to your mom..."

I interrupted him.

"I know Austin, but it's just one more thing I can't deal with right now.
I need to be there for my mom right now.  I will deal with everything else
later.  Ok?"

He nodded his head and I felt his arm tighten around me.  When we got the
nurses station the doctor was not there.  A nurse approached me.

"Mr. Summers?"

I nodded my head.

"The doctor needed to go in and see your mom.  She's in the third room on
your right.  He said to send you right in."

"Thank you."

As we approached the door Austin gave me a hug.

"I'll be right out here if you need anything.  Ok bro?"

"Thanks Austin.  I love you."

"I love you too buddy."

I took a deep breath and walked into the room.

James was sitting next to my mom's bed and he was holding her hand.  At the
sound of the door opening they both looked at me.  My mom's face broke out
in a smile.  She reached her hand out to me.

"Hey baby."

I rushed over and grabbed her hand.  I sat down on the bed next to her.  I
leaned over and kissed her cheek.

"How are you feeling mom?"

She smiled at me.

"I feel as good as can be expected honey.  They've given me some
medication.  I'm just really tired right now.  Where's Bailey?"

I didn't answer her.

"Jeremiah you cannot be upset with him.  I made him promise me that he
wouldn't tell you.  I didn't want you to know right away.  I did plan on
talking to you about it though before something like this happened."

"I know mom. I'll handle things with Bailey later."

My mom looked at James and then looked back at me.  They both looked a bit
nervous.  Something was up!

"Ok you two.  What is going on? What else do I need to know about?"

They could hear my voice getting more upset.  My mom squeezed my hand.

"There is something we need to talk to you about, but it's not bad.  I
promise."

I saw the doctor squeeze my mom's hand and he rubbed his other hand on top
of hers.

"I have to say you've got a great bedside manner James.  I wish all doctors
were like you."

James looked at my mom and then looked at me.

"Well normally I don't give patients such special care, but your mom is a
special case.  We're old friends."

I looked at my mom.

"James used to live by us Jeremiah.  He worked at the local hospital where
I used to volunteer at.  We worked together a few times and became good
friends."

I smiled at them both.

"I'm glad you were able to see each other again.  That wasn't too big a
surprise mom.  It was a good one though."

My mom squeezed my hand.

"There's more Jeremiah."

I opened my mouth to ask her what was going on, but she interrupted me.

"Let me tell you everything first.  You can ask all the questions you want
afterwards ok honey?"

I nodded my head.

"You know how much of a bastard your dad was.  Well one night he had beaten
me up really bad.  I ended up having to go to the hospital.  Luckily James
was on duty that night.  He ended up helping me and we both had a really
long talk.  We became really good friends after that.  One night I got into
another huge fight with you father and I needed to get away.  I went out to
get something to eat.  I ran into James.  He had just had a fight with his
wife.  They were starting to go through a divorce and things were getting
bad.  We sat for a few hours and talked.  It was really nice."

My mom paused for a second and looked at James. He nodded his head telling
her to go on.

"One thing led to another and...well...James and I shared a very special
evening together."

My eyes widened a bit.  I can't say that I blamed her though.  James was
certainly a handsome man, and my father was a major fucking asshole.

"I understand mom.  I can't say I blame you.  Wilson was an asshole."

She nodded her head.  She took a deep breath.

"That night with James was definitely one of the few gifts I've had in my
life, but I soon found out that I was getting an even greater gift from
him."

My mom's eyes filled up with tears.  I squeezed her hand.  She looked up
and her eyes met mine.  Silence had filled the room.  What is she talking
about?

"What gift are you talking about mom?"

"You.  Nine months after that night I had you baby."

It took a second for what she said to register in my brain.  My eyes
widened in shock and I looked back and forth between the two of them.

"What?  How?  You mean..."

She nodded her head.

"I never got the chance to tell James about you.  He was transferred out of
state a few weeks into my pregnancy.  I was trying to find a way to tell
him, but it was too late.  He was gone."

I looked at my mom.  She nodded again.

"Wilson isn't your father.  James is your dad."

I never saw James get up, but all of sudden he was standing next to me.

"If I would have known about this Jeremiah I would have came back for you
and your mom.  I know that you're an adult now, but I would like to have
the chance to get to know you.  If that's ok with you I mean."

I looked at my mom.  Tears were streaming down her face.

"Wilson knew he wasn't the father.  We hadn't had sex in over a year.
That's why he pushed me away honey.  He made me leave and I'll never
forgive myself for not coming back for you.  I wish..."

I leaned over and grabbed her into a hug.

"You did everything you could do.  You have no reason to feel bad and there
is nothing to forgive.  Wilson was an evil man, and there was nothing you
could do.  I love you and nothing can change that."

I sat back up and I looked at James.  My father.  I can't even believe it.

"Dad?"

He smiled and reached over and grabbed me.

"Even though this isn't the best day in the world I have to say that I've
never been happier."  My mom said.

We all smiled at each other.  I looked back to James, I mean my dad.

"I'd really like it if we got to know each other.  You obviously know what
Wilson was like, and it would be great to have a father again.  My real
father."

Tears rolled from his eyes, but he had a huge smile on his face.  He looked
at my mother again and they smiled.

"There is just one last thing we need to tell you baby."

I looked at my mother.

"Jeremiah..." James said.  "I have another son.  You have a brother."

"WHAT?"

I may have yelled, but a huge smile was forming on my face.  This was
fucking unbelievable.  The sound of my loud voice must have worried Austin
because as soon as the word left my mouth the door opened.  He stepped into
the room.

"Is everything ok in here?  I thought I heard you yell Miah."

I smiled at him. I really got lucky to have a friend like Austin.  I was
about to answer him, but he beat me to it.

"Dad what are you doing here? I thought you were off today?  Are you the
doctor working on Miah's mom?  That is great!  Miah I can guarantee she
will get the best care ever!  My dad's the best doctor in town!"

I could barely find my voice.

"Austin...James is your dad?"

He nodded and a smile broke out on his face.

"Yup!  Mrs. Summers you are going to get the best care in the..." His voice
broke off.  "Why are all of you staring at me like that?  Is my fly open?"

He glanced down at his jeans, but looked right back up at us.  His face was
a mask of confusion.

James looked at me.

"Miah?"

I nodded.

"Austin this is who you've been talking about the last few months?"

Austin nodded and grinned.

"I have to admit I wanted you to meet him under better circumstances
though."

Tears filled my eyes.  Could this really be happening?  I wanted to pinch
myself.  I looked back and forth between James and my mother.

"Please tell me this isn't a joke because if it is..."

Austin interrupted me.

"What is going on? What joke are you talking about?"

James walked over to Austin and put a hand on his shoulder.

"Austin do you remember when we talked about me and your mom?"

He nodded his head.

"Do you remember a few weeks ago when I told you about the woman I met back
in our old town?  How I wanted to try and find her?"

He nodded again, but looked even more confused.

"You tried to find me?" My mom asked.

James nodded his head.  Austin looked back and forth.

"You mean Miah's mom was the woman you were looking for?"

James nodded his head and smiled.

"What a small fucking world this is?  What are the odds that Miah and I
would end up friends?"

Austin smiled at me.

"There's more son."

Austin looked back at his, I mean our dad.

"What?"

"I just found out today that Raquel, Miah's mom, had a baby after we left.
My baby."

You could see on his face that Austin was shocked.  He looked at our dad
and then at me.

"So...that would mean..."

Austin looked back at James.  He nodded.

"Miah is my son.  He's more than your friend Austin.  He's your brother."

Austin looked at me.  Tears had filled both of our eyes.  We've called each
other brother for a few months now, but today we find out that it's true.
We started towards each other at the same time.  My arms reached him first
and I pulled him up against me.  We were both crying, but it was definitely
happy tears.

"Is this awesome or what?"  Austin said in my ear.

"It's pretty fucking awesome bro."

We looked at each and smiled.  Dad came over and put his hand on Austin's
shoulder.

"Let's step outside son.  Give your brother some time alone with his mom."

Austin nodded.  He went over and hugged my mom.

"Thank you.  This means so much to me.  I love you."

"I love you too honey.  I'm glad everyone was able to find out."

I gave my dad a hug.  He whispered in my ear.

"There might not be much time son.  I'll make sure you two are left alone.
We'll be right outside if you need us."

"Thanks dad."

He ruffled my hair.

"I like the sound of that."

I grinned at him.

"Me too."

Dad went over and gave my mom a hug and a kiss.  He whispered something in
her ear.  Austin came over and gave me another hug.

"I'll be right outside with my dad Miah.  I'm sorry. Our dad."

He grinned at me.  I leaned over and gave him a light kiss on his lips.

"Thank you Austin."

He kissed me back.

"No reason to thank me Miah.  That's what brothers are for buddy."

Austin and his dad headed out the door.  Both of them smiled at us. I
turned around and my mom patted the bed next to her.

"Come sit with me baby."

I sat down next to her and she wrapped her arms around me.  We talked about
anything and everything for the next few hours.  We laughed and we cried.
It was like we were never apart.  I could tell she was getting tired, and I
couldn't stop the tears that were in my eyes.

"I wish there was something we could to do.  I don't want you to go."

A sob escaped me.  She ran her hand over the back of my head.

"I don't want to go either baby, but it's my time.  Just remember that I am
always with you.  You have a father and brother to help you through this.
You have a wonderful husband as well.  I couldn't have wished for a better
life for you Miah."

We held each other as we both cried.  She pulled me closer and tucked my
head under her chin.  Her soft, sweet voice filled my ears.

Child, I know you're weary And your eyes want to close The days are getting
longer We're not getting any stronger Trust me momma knows

But lie in my arms while your sleeping And think of the rivers you crossed
I'll tell you the dreams I've been keeping For moments like this When your
hope is lost

Hear my song It will help you believe in tomorrow Hear my song It'll show
you the way you can shine Hear my song It was made for the time When you
don't know where to go Listen to song that I sing You'll be fine

The words she was singing echoed through my memory.  I knew this song.  She
used to sing this to me as a lullaby.  I don't know how I remembered it,
but I did.  Her voice brought me comfort.  My arms tightened around her.  I
felt her hug me closer, and I knew that she knew that I remembered.

Child, I know you're frightened And your throat's parched and dry But just
trust in mama's singing And the gift tomorrow's bringing Trust it don't ask
why

Just lie in my arms and I'll tell you The things that you know but forget
The lies that no one could sell you I know that's hard But don't give up
yet

Hear my song It'll help you believe in tomorrow Hear my song It'll show you
the way you can shine Hear my song It was made for the times When you don't
know where to go Listen to the song that I sing You'll be fine

She started to rock me gently back and forth.  I felt safe.  I knew that
this moment couldn't last forever, but that didn't stop me from wishing
that it would.  Even with everything that was going on my mom still found a
way to be strong for me.  This moment I will cherish for the rest of me
life.

Cause I'll be singing Hold on Hold tight I know it's dark right now But
just believe somehow There will be light

Hold on Hold fast That's not enough for some But trust the light will come
And we'll get past You and momma safe at last

Hear my song It'll help us get through till tomorrow Here my song It'll
help us survive all the pain Here my song It's one thing I have That has
never let you down

Listen to the song that I sing Listen to the words in my heart Listen to
the hope I can bring And we'll start to grow And shine

Listen to the song that I sing And trust me We'll be fine A new world calls
across the ocean

The song had taken on a different meaning to me.  As her voice trailed off
I knew that what she was singing was true.  A new world does wait for her.
She was being called to better and brighter things.  I had to be strong.  I
had to comfort her and let her know everything was going to be ok.

"Thank you momma.  That was so beautiful.  I love you so much."

I leaned up and kissed her cheek.  She smiled and kissed me on the
forehead.

"I love you too baby.  Don't ever forget that I will always be with you.
I'm always here if you need me."

I moved up on the bed.  I wrapped my arms tighter around her and she laid
her head on my shoulder.

"Just rest mom.  Everything will be okay.  We're together and that's all
that is important.  I love you."

"I love you too Jeremiah."

We sat together like that for about fifteen minutes.  She was very relaxed
and calm.  I felt her body take one long slow deep breath and she exhaled
very slowly.  In that moment I knew she was gone.  I couldn't help the
tears that streamed down my face.  I continued to hold her for a few more
moments.  One of the machines next to her bed started beeping obnoxiously.
Austin and my father rushed into the room.  They both looked at me with
tears in their eyes.

My dad helped me off the bed and he gently laid my mom down.  Austin
crushed me in a giant hug.

"I'm so sorry Miah.  I'm so sorry."

I hugged him tight against me.

"I know bro. It's ok.  She's in a better place now."

Our dad came over and pulled us both into his arms.

"Come on boys.  We need to go."

I stopped on our way out the door.  I turned around and went back over to
my mom.  I leaned down and kissed her gently on the forehead.

"I love you.  I'll miss you."

I left the room with my new family and we headed back towards the waiting
area.  Bailey, Gina, and Sara were all on their feet as soon as they saw
me.  >From the look on my face they knew what happened.  Bailey started to
walk towards me but stopped.  Tears flowed down his cheeks.  I couldn't
help myself.  I practically ran right to him.  As soon as I was close
enough his arms opened and his body slammed up against mine.  Any strength
that I had was gone.  I melted against my husband and sobbed.

"Baby I'm so sorry.  You were right.  I should have..."

I cut him off by kissing him.

"You don't have to be sorry Bailey. I know why you did it.  I'm sorry I got
upset..."

He pulled me tighter against him and kissed the top of my head.

"Let's not worry about whose sorry baby.  I love you so much Miah."

"I love you too Bailey."

After a few minutes we separate a bit and I could see everyone else looking
at us.

"Everyone I would like you to meet Dr. James MacGregor, my father.  You all
already know his son, my brother Austin."

You could have pushed them all over with a feather.  It took a few moments
to explain everything, but we managed to get through it.  My dad and Austin
did most of the talking.

"Let's go home guys.  We have some things we need to take care of."

I walked over to my dad and gave him a hug.

"Thank you so much.  Get directions from Austin.  I want you to come over
when your shift is done."

He nodded.

"I'd like that."

We walked out of the hospital as a group.  I had Bailey one side of me and
Austin on the other.  Gina was hanging onto Austin.  Sara held onto Bailey.
Today was been a roller coaster ride.  My mom was gone, but in her place a
father and brother emerged.  I knew things were going to be very tough, but
with my family and husband by my side I knew I would get through it.  As we
got into the car to go home I stopped and looked up into the sky.  The warm
sun shone down on my face.  Suddenly I felt at peace.  Somehow I knew my
mom was watching and she was proud.  It filled my heart with happiness.

* * * * * * * * * * *

I am sorry about the long wait on this chapter everyone.  This was a very
difficult chapter to write and it took a lot out of me.  I hope everyone
understands with what has happened.  As always please feel free to send me
any of your feedback or thoughts.  Your words and emails mean a great deal
to me.  You can send it directly to Gryffindor6698@aol.com or you can check
out the yahoo group that is now up and running for the story at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/City-Of-Dreams.  And if you email directly
please remember to mention the story in the subject line.  Until next time
everyone!!!!

Michael

Copyright - Gryffindor 2003