Date: Mon, 6 Dec 2010 00:10:41 -0700
From: Jacob Miller <jacobmillertex@aol.com>
Subject: Jacob Finding His Way: Chapter 55

{Jacob Finding His Way is based on mostly true events in his life. To keep
the story interesting for the readers, some events now in the story are
fictionalized. As I am writing this story, I am above the age of 21. If you
want a story with lots of sex, look elsewhere. This is a love story.

Any similarity to any other events, names, or life events is purely
accidental. If you are underage, (according to your state laws as a minor),
if this literature is offensive to you or to anyone around your viewing
area, or it is illegal for you to view such content where you are reading
it, stop reading the story. This story can't be distributed in any way,
shape or form without the author's expressed written consent.}

Written by J.P.G.


Chapter 55

Al sat in the study going through the work he brought home. As he worked
through each file, he kept ignoring the main file he needs to work on. He
keeps putting it to the side telling himself he will get back to
it. Finally he ran out of files and now he has no other choice but to deal
with the file he has been trying to ignore.

He got up and walked out of his study and up the stairs to Tony's room. He
knocked on the door and waited to be asked to be let in. When he heard Tony
invite him in, Al walked in and asked if he could speak with him in his
study.

Tony got up and followed his dad down to the study. As they reached the
study, Al asked him to take a seat while he goes and gets the other one he
needs to speak with. Tony nodded his head and headed into the study.

Al walked over to the TV room looking for Dewayne, but didn't find him
there. There is only one other place Dewayne would be, Al thought, and that
is his room. He walked up the stairs, knocked on the door. He waited to be
invited in, but didn't hear a peep. So Al knocked again and this time he
heard Jacob asking whoever is at the door to come in.

Slowly Al turned the knob, hoping if he disturbed them doing more than just
Jacob doing his homework. He is giving them enough time to compose
themselves before he walks in. Once Al opened the door enough to see in, he
sees Jacob at the desk and Dewayne lying on the bed.

"Come on in grandpa, I didn't even know you had gotten home. I have a
message for you from my mom." Al walked in looking at Jacob. "She stopped
by when I got home from school. She wants me to tell you that she came down
to meet her new brother and that you should throw some kind of party to
welcome into the family."

"If your mother came down just for that and nothing more, I would think
something is up. Maybe she got hit in the head with a ton of bricks! You
know something like that, because your mother is nothing like that. She has
something up her sleeve and always has an angle she is playing at all
times."

"I don't know anything about any angle except what she told me to tell
you. By the looks of it, she is trying to change. I think we should give
her the benefit of the doubt on why she came down. Let's go by her word and
if she has a different angle, well, we will catch it and expose it before
it gets too far."

"You're right Jacob and we should keep an open mind when your mother tries
to change. It's just hard because every time we do, she shows us that she
hasn't changed. Let's go ahead and put something together, but nothing
big. I don't think Tony wants a party to welcome him into the family.

Now the reason I came up here is to borrow Dewayne for a few minutes, if
that's no problem?" Jacob looked at Dewayne and back at his grandfather
nodding his head. "It will only be for a few minutes. Don't worry it is
nothing bad at all."

Dewayne walked out of the room with Al and down the stairs. At first
Dewayne thought that he had done something that has gotten Al upset. He has
never been asked to speak with Al in private except the day that Jacob got
that call from his doctor and didn't tell anyone about it. As far as
Dewayne knows, there is nothing being kept from the family dealing with
Jacob's sickness.

"Don't worry there is nothing that you have done wrong that I need to talk
with you about. How is work? I heard that you got a promotion at work to
assistant manager. That is great news to hear!"

"Yes sir, I got promoted off of the word of Martha. Although she doesn't
work for the company anymore, they are still asking her questions about the
restaurant. They brought over a manger from another store to run the store
when Martha left."

"Jacob knows how to select the right people to run things. When he first
told me about Martha, I didn't like the idea of bringing someone in from a
different company. Then I had a chance to sit and talk with her and she
changed my mind completely. She understands where I want to go with the
company and more so with the McDonalds part of it. With her onboard, we
will clean up the mess we took over."

They walked up to the door of Al's study, but didn't go in right away. "I
want you to listen to me before you answer. Tony is sitting in my study
waiting for me to return. After I finish, I would like you to stay so I can
explain why I am doing what I am doing. Once you hear me out, you will
understand what is going on."

Dewayne nodded his head again as he followed Al in. He sat down in the
chair next to Tony. They both looked at Al as he sat down in his chair. He
picked up a folder on his desk and looked through it a couple of times
before laying it down.

"I know you both are wondering why I brought you in here and let me say
this at the start, neither of you are in trouble. I need to talk with you
guys about something very important. Please don't interrupt me until I am
done. More than likely I will answer any and all of the questions you might
have as I tell you what is going on."

Dewayne and Tony both nodded their heads up and down. "Jacob and I have
been talking about this matter for a couple of weeks now. We finally came
to a decision on what to do. It wasn't hard; we were trying to figure out
how to make it fair. Let me explain what I meant by what I mean by that in
a little more detail.

You son, come into this family with money from your foster parents and
grandparents if I am not mistaken. While you are living under my roof, you
will not spend that money. You could decide to either let it stay in the
bank to get interest or let me invest it for you. But you will not touch
that money for anything while you live here in my house. You are my son and
I will provide you with whatever you need.

Dewayne, you came into this house during my grandson's darkest days. You
helped him through it and stood by his side when he needed someone strong
like you are. You never complained and never felt like Jacob was using
you. The straw the broke the camel's back of Jacob and Joey's relationship
was Joey always thinking Jacob and I were trying to keep him out of
business things. I will not say anymore about that. You are part of this
family and I can see that you are here for the long haul.

With all that said, something fell in Jacob's and my lap earlier this
month. A friend of mine has a friend that went to him for help. He owns the
Seven-Elevens here in El Paso. The economy is so bad and the owner has run
his company into bankruptcy. He wants to sell and come out even if he
can. Leaving things to the bank, he will lose. If he can find someone to
buy him out, he can come out breaking even. I feel sorry for the guy, so I
am going to give him a little more so he can walk away with something.

Next week I will be working out the final details of the transfer of
ownership. The last item I haven't dealt with is the name to file as
owner. Right now Jacob and I really don't have the time to take on this
business full time. I will be here to help it on its way, but I can't be
dealing with it everyday. This is where you two come in.

I would like to give you each part ownership of the business. I would like
to set up this business with you guys just like it is set up with Alex and
Matt. I will keep controlling interest of the business by owning fifty one
percent. The remaining forty nine percent will evenly be divided between
you two with the option to buy me out.

At no time though will neither of you two will own more than fifty percent
of the business. I will sell out, evenly, all my parts of the business up
to ten percent. I will always own ten percent of the business. Each of you
can buy the rest of my shares up to forty five percent. That way their will
never be an imbalance in ownership.

You will always have the protection of our company, but we will not tell
you how to run your company. If you run into problems dealing with the
company, you have to come to me or Jacob. You will not be allowed to get a
loan from the bank using the company. I know this sounds like we are trying
to keep our hands in it, but we are not. We will help you out of problems
and never take away ownership of the business.

I know I am throwing a lot at you all at once, but please understand
this. I will be here whenever you need my help, but not only for that. The
corporate office will send people down to train you guys. You will also
bring the staff along. I recommend that you do that, because they are good
people unlike what Jacob and I got when we took over the McDonalds. We got
dealt a very bad hand there. Questions? Please ask away!"

Tony started out asking questions, and Al answered every single one of
them. Dewayne threw in a question here and there, but not as many as
Tony. The main concern Tony has is the buy out procedure and why they can't
ever get a loan using the business as collateral. Al answered those
questions by using the owner they are buying the company from as an
example. He explained it wouldn't be fair to lose the business to the bank,
because of one owner's mistake and the other didn't make that mistake.

"I still don't understand that part at all, dad. If I need money for
example to send my kid to college, I should be able to use my part of
ownership of the company to get a loan. I don't see me doing it, because I
already have savings, but just in case."

"It is a very good concern and I am glad you are asking me to clarify
it. The owner that owns this franchise only owns half of it. His brother
owns the other half. His brother did not make the mistake borrowing against
the asset of the company, but he is being forced to sell his part out. In
their agreement, it was never specified that one owner could only go for a
loan on what he owns of the business. He borrowed against the entire
company.

Now, both are losing out because what one did. This way, neither of you can
hurt the other. Yes the paperwork will split the company into what
percentage each of you own and you could borrow against that percentage if
I didn't add this clause in the contract. If you were to default on the
loan, the bank can only take control of your percentage. If that happens,
the bank will sell it off to someone that is not part of the family. I want
this company to always be part of the family. That is why I am doing what I
am doing."

That cleared up everything that Tony wanted to know. Dewayne asked a couple
more questions, but nothing major. It involved issues regarding their
offices and when does he need to report to work. All explained the offices
will be on the floor under his and Jacob's and Dewayne needs to report to
work a week from Monday.

Al walked out of the study with Dewayne and Tony. Tony went running up
stairs to complete his homework. Al walked with Dewayne over to the
staircase. He wants to talk with Dewayne a little more, but doesn't want
Tony to think that he is favoring one over the other, because he isn't.

"Dewayne, the reason I want to talk with you without Tony around is because
what I have to say needs to stay between the two of us. What I am about to
say to you, you can't tell anyone." Dewayne nodded his head in agreement.

"You have shown me that you really do have the best intentions for my
grandson. If you didn't put your foot down to get Jacob to take the test,
he would never have done it. You put life back into my grandson, when he
was ready to give up. I really mean what I am saying and what I said
earlier in the study.

I want to give you a chance to be independent from Jacob, like you
want. This company gives you that chance. I know you will get it to
work. Once you start making money, you can come to me and I will help you
do more with it. By the time you are forty, you and my grandson could own
two large companies, independent from one another.

I believe in you Dewayne. I believe that you will do more with this, than
Alex, Matt and Tony will do with what has been given to them. You are part
of this family and I love you as a grandson." Tears started to roll down
Dewayne's cheek. "Don't do this for anyone except yourself. When you do
that, you will succeed beyond your dreams."

Dewayne walked over and hugged Al. He kept saying over and over again, in a
whisper, thank you. Al just held Dewayne as they hugged. There are times
that Al is worried about Dewayne; about not having his family here when he
needs them. He will not step into what is going on there, but he hopes one
day his parents would take accept their son the way he is. In Al's eyes, he
a great guy!

"Come on now, that is not cool. Dewayne is mine; I don't want to share him
with anyone else. If you want someone grandpa, go to grandma, but leave
Dewayne to me." Jacob stood at the top of the stairs with a huge smile on
his face.

Dewayne broke the hug with Al and went running up the stairs after
Jacob. Al started to laugh and said good night to them as he headed over to
his room. Dewayne chased Jacob back into their room and tackled him on the
bed. Before Jacob could say another word, Dewayne placed his lips over
Jacob's.

They rolled around on their bed, not breaking a kiss. Jacob had to come up
for air, so he broke the kiss. He looked into Dewayne's eyes and sees that
Dewayne is very happy. He moved to rest his back against the back board. At
the same time, he pulled Dewayne between his legs, until his back rested on
Jacob's stomach.

Jacob wrapped his arms around Dewayne and started tom play with Dewayne's
chest. "It looks like whatever you talked with my grandfather about was
good news. I haven't seen you this happy in a very long time."

Dewayne wrapped his fingers in Jacob's. "You know what Al and I spoke
about. Man, you do know how to keep it a secret. I was afraid that I did
something wrong when Al came up and asked to talk with me. You should have
given me some kind of hint, you jerk! That way I wouldn't have worried so
much." Dewayne tapped Jacob on the head. "Why didn't you come down and talk
with us about this?"

"I thought it was best that I let my grandfather handle the whole thing. My
grandfather was against the idea, but agreed to do it. This is your
business and has nothing to do with me, handsome. I will be here if you
need any help, but it is yours. You run it and make the money from it. Then
reinvest into making your business bigger."

Dewayne looked up to Jacob. Jacob leaned down and kissed Dewayne on the
lips they kissed for a few minutes before getting ready for bed. They both
got undressed and got into bed almost at the same time. Jacob hooked up the
machine before cuddling up against Dewayne. He noticed that Dewayne is hard
as a rock. So he reached around and grabbed hold of Dewayne's dick.

Dewayne grabbed Jacob's hand and put it back in front of Jacob. "There is
not a feeling in my body, that doesn't want to have sex with you. But we
both need to hold back on that part of our love life for now. It is part of
the no, no list that Dr. Whitmore gave you. I can wait till you get
better. When that happens, we will be having sex every minute we can with
each other."

"I am sorry for this Dewayne. I know that this is not what you signed up
for. You don't want a sick boyfriend that you have to be taking care of. I
just want to make you happy in every way a boyfriend should with his
boyfriend. You..."

"You stop right there Jacob! I don't want to hear anything like that come
from your mouth again! We are together for better or worse. Right now you
are going through a bad patch and I will be by your side not matter what
happens. If you and I can never have sex again, I am fine with that. As
long as you and I are together, that is all I want."

Dewayne moved Jacob's face into the light so where he can see him. "I am
not saying this right now because what just happened. I love you Jacob and
I want to spend the rest of my life with you. That is the bottom line. So
stop thinking the way you are thinking."

Jacob started to tear up and Dewayne wiped away the tears from Jacob's
face. He leaned in and kissed Jacob on lips before letting go. "I love you
Jacob and no one will ever have my heart the way you do."

"I love you so much; I don't know how to show it. I just want you to know
that I as well want to grow old, grey and wrinkly with you." Both of them
started to laugh as they kissed one last time.

They cuddled up with each other and went to sleep. The next thing Jacob and
Dewayne heard is the alarm clock going off. Jacob reached out to turn it
off, but Dewayne beat him to it. Jacob tried to fall back to sleep, but
again. Dewayne knew what he is trying to do and didn't let him. He pulled
off the covers causing Jacob to jump up.

"Damn it is cold Dewayne! Give me back the covers! It feels like someone
turned off the damn heat in this house." Jacob tried grabbing for the
blankets, but Dewayne didn't give the blankets up to him.

Jacob reluctantly got out of bed and walked over to the bathroom. He
splashed water on his face to wake up before doing anything else. Once he
woke up, Jacob got ready for school. He is glad that it is Friday and the
weekend is here. He can sleep in without the alarm clock waking him up for
school.

Once he got dressed, he walked over to the bed to put on his shoes. Just
like the past mornings, Dewayne asked Jacob if he could help him put on his
shoes. Jacob slid them on, but Dewayne tied them up. Jacob felt pampered
with Dewayne doing this for him. He can see that Dewayne isn't bothered in
any way tying his shoes for him.

After eating and kissing Dewayne good bye, Jacob headed out with the others
to school. They jumped into the truck and headed to school. At no time
Jacob mentioned what happened with Dewayne and Tony last night. Neither did
Tony. In Jacob's mind, it is not his place to say anything about what
happened last night.

As they sat there eating their second breakfast for the morning, Jacob told
everyone that they will not be going out for lunch again. So everyone needs
to meet in the cafeteria for lunch, not his truck. Everyone looked at each
other with confused looks on them. They went back to eating and not asking
the question that each of them want to ask.

Jacob got up to throw his trash and go over to the ROTC building. Chase
followed Jacob and stopped him as they reached the door. When Jacob turned
around to see what Chase needed, Chase started to feel weird on what he is
about to say.

"Jacob, don't take this the wrong way, but I need to get it out there. We
are all wondering why you don't want to go out to eat anymore during
lunch. Is it because you are spending all the money to do so? If that is
the case, we can pay for our own meals."

"No Chase that's not the reason why I don't want to go out to eat. The
money thing has never crossed my mind. If it had, I would have told you
guys, not keep you guys in the dark. I just don't want to embarrass Dewayne
while he is learning his new position. It's hard trying to get the
confidence of his crew being the new guy and all."

"Oh, I understand where you are coming from. I just needed to ask because
we are all wondering the same thing. Now that I know, I will tell the
others we are wrong. I will not tell them what you told me. That is for you
to tell them."

Jacob thanked Chase and headed out the door. He spent the rest of the
morning before first period getting the newsletter ready to be handed
out. He handed Major Moore and Sergeant Haney several copies to look
over. Once they okayed it, he left a copy per cadet in each company
commander's box to hand out during class. The rest he instructed his
recruiting officer to give to teachers to hand out if they want to.

After taking care of the news letter, he walked back to the main
building. Just like every morning before class, Jacob went to his locker;
the locker that he shared with Joey since they started attending
Newman. The last couple of days Jacob has been getting these weird feelings
about Joey. He can't put his finger on it, but the weird feelings are
there. Jacob shook it off, closed his locker and headed off to first period
class.

The first two periods flew by fast, and by third period. Jacob started to
hope that this period would go slower than his first two periods. Instead,
it went even faster than the others. It felt to Jacob like he just blinked
and the bell rang for lunch.

After putting his books away, Jacob joined the others at the table. The
minute he sat down, Jacob knew something is going on. The way Chase and the
others looked at him. Ignoring the weird looks he is getting, Jacob started
to eat and talk about what they are going to so after they eat.

Without any disagreement, everyone agreed to go out and throw the football
around hoping that other students would ask to play an actually game! When
they started throwing the football around, no one came up to join them. So
they ended up spending the remainder part of their lunch splitting into two
teams and playing against each other. None of them cared about the score;
they just played for the fun of it.

No matter what Jacob did, the rest of the afternoon he couldn't shake off
the weird feeling he has been having about Joey. Normally he just started
thinking about something else, but that isn't working anymore. Somehow, his
mind would go back to thinking that something is up with Joey.

After school, Jacob and Tony went straight home. At first their
conversation was nothing but about school, but that changed when they drove
out of the parking lot. Tony started to talk about the conversation he had
with Al the night before. He told Jacob everything that was discussed. At
the same time, he thanked Jacob for trusting him the way he does.

"My grandfather and I trust you, or should I say your dad." Jacob looked at
Tony and grinned. "On a serious note, we trust you and know that you and
Dewayne will make this company work. There is no doubt in my mind that you
two are going to grow this company together. Neither of you is going to
screw the other."

"That is the truth Jacob, I promise you. The biggest thing that surprised
me last night is when my dad told me that he doesn't want me touching the
money I came in with. He set it up for me and Dewayne to pay him back for
our current shares in payments from the money that we make. Once we do
that, we then can buy him out. I never thought I would get adopted again
and now this."

"Look, my grandfather is helping a friend that is helping a friend. He
would not have bought this company if you two were not around. He has no
interest in gas stations and convenience stores. Nor do I. We already own
so much, we can barely keep up with what we have.

Now there is nothing wrong with owning gas stations. You two will not be
working in the stores at all. You two will be running the main office,
because they are your stores." Jacob looked over at Tony and saw that he is
confusing Tony the more he tries to explain what he is trying to say.

"I am really confusing you by the looks of it. Let me put what I am trying
to say another way. We already have our hands full with the McDonalds we
took over. Then, we bought a lot of other things that my grandfather plans
to do something with. Before the deal of the Seven-Elevens came up, we
already had our hands in a lot of business. My grandfather got a great deal
on the Seven-Elevens and is giving his youngest son and my boyfriend a
start up company to make it bigger than just gas stations."

"I completely understand what you are trying to say Jacob. It is better to
be your own boss than to let others get rich off of your sweat. Don't
worry; I do plan to make Dewayne's and my company just as big, if not
bigger, than many out there."

Jacob nodded his head in agreement as he put the truck in park. They got
down and headed into the house. Tony went up to his room, but Jacob
couldn't. Just as he started to head to his room, his grandmother called
out for him that he has a phone call. When he walked into the study, his
grandmother handed him the phone telling him it is his grandfather on the
line for him.

He took the receiver form his grandmother. Before he couldn't get past the
word past hello, his grandfather started to speak. At first, Jacob couldn't
understand what his grandfather is saying. The little bit he picked up, he
found out that his grandfather is not in town and his calling about Joey.

"Wait a minute grandpa; you are going way too fast! Slow down and start
over again." Jacob didn't even bother to sit down; he walked back and forth
trying to understand what his grandfather is saying.

"Jacob, I want to be the one to tell you before you hear it on the
news. Beth and Joey's uncle kidnapped Joey and put him away in a camp that
tries to change teens from gay to straight. I found out that Joey was
missing earlier this week, but we didn't know that he got put into this
place until this morning.

With the help from the Governor, we got into the camp and got Joey, but he
isn't well. They really did a number on him. Right now he is being looked
examined so they can decide where to take him. I should know in just a few
minutes if he is going to El Paso or they will take him back to
Alamogordo."

"That is where I am confused at grandpa. He lives in Alamogordo, so why
would they bring him here to El Paso? Also I don't understand how his
mother and uncle got away with putting him into that camp. His mother lost
her rights as a parent. I don't know much about the law, but what I do
understand is that moving from one state to another doesn't change that
fact."

"He doesn't change that, you are right Jacob. They kidnapped Joey at school
and brought him here by force. As we speak they are going to arrest Beth
and Dominic on several charges. They will not see a day of freedom for a
very long time.

Now as far as the other issue is concerned, the camp is located outside of
El Paso. In-between the border of New Mexico and Texas! El Paso is the
closet, but Harold wants to take Joey back to Alamogordo. That way if they
need anything for Joey, they are closer to his belongings than they would
be if he is taken to El Paso."

Jacob spoke with Al for a few more minutes, but had to let him go. Before
hanging, Al promised Jacob that he will call him back as soon as he finds
out where they are going to take Joey. For now just stay put around the
phone until he calls again! Reluctantly, Jacob agreed and hung up the
phone.

It seemed like seconds to Jacob, but it had been over a half an hour since
he hung up the phone with his grandfather. Dewayne pulled him out of his
trance when he walked into the study looking for Jacob. At first it looked
to Dewayne as if Jacob had fallen to sleep with his eyes open, but after
calling his name several times, Jacob snapped out of it.

Once Jacob got his bearings, he explained everything to Dewayne. "So what
do you want to do Jacob? I will do whatever you decide to do. If he goes
back to Alamogordo, we will go. Or if he comes here, we will sit by his
side. Just tell me what you want to do."

"Right now all we can do is wait for my grandfather to call back. Once he
calls back, I will know more about what I'm going to do. For now, all we
can do is sit by the phone and wait for the call."

Dewayne nodded his head and sat down in the chair in front of the
desk. They didn't say a word to each other; they just sat there in their
own minds; both thinking about different things, but at the same time they
are thinking the same thing.

Jacob couldn't stop kicking himself for not listening to the feelings he
was getting about Joey all week long. He knew something was going on, but
he just pushed it aside. Now he knows that Joey has been hurting the entire
time, and he didn't do what Joey did for him. When Jacob needed Joey at his
side when he was sick, he was there.

Now Dewayne couldn't believe what Jacob said. He doesn't know if it was
just a slip or he meant what he just said when he said `what I am going to
do'. Not we, I, and that is the word that is bothering Dewayne.

He thought that Joey had finally out of their lives. For months he had to
endure Jacob always thinking about Joey; always worried about him, in spite
of the fact that Joey is the one that ended their relationship on a whim!
It looked like Jacob put Joey in the past where he belongs and now
this. Joey is back and is hurting. Knowing Jacob and his big heart, he
might go running to be at Joey's side.

The phone rang, causing both Dewayne and Jacob to jump. By the second ring,
Jacob answered the phone. Dewayne could only hear Jacob's side of the
conversation, but it was enough. Jacob is being told that Joey is being
taken back to Alamogordo and that's it. It sounds like Al doesn't know what
hospital that Joey is being taken to once he arrives in Alamogordo, and
that is making Jacob uneasy.

Jacob hung up the phone and sat back down in his chair. "I will go up and
pack you a suitcase. That way when Al calls you back and let's you know
which hospital they are taking Joey, you will be ready to go."

Dewayne got up to leave the study, but Jacob called out. "I don't want to
go without you Dewayne, so pack your suitcase as well. I don't care what
Joey thinks, you and I are together now. The only reason I am going is to
make sure Joey is okay. Trust me, nothing more than that will happen,
because he no longer means anything to me."

The only thing Dewayne could do is nod his head in agreement as he walked
out of the study. He now feels bad thinking the way he thought about
Jacob. Jacob has just proven to him again that he is completely over
Joey. It was a slip when he just said `I', instead of saying `we', when he
talked about what he is going to do.

As he finished packing the suitcases, he started to take them down to the
front door. When he reached the middle of the staircase, Chase, Tom and the
others walked in. They just looked at Dewayne trying to figure out why he
is carrying several bags. They moved out of the way when Dewayne almost
tripped over the bags he had already brought down and set right at the
bottom of the staircase.

Tom and the others walked into the kitchen except for Dewayne. He went back
up to get Jacob's machine ready to go. As he started to unplug the machine,
Jacob joined him in the room after getting off the phone with his
mother. Dewayne turned around, and noticed that Jacob didn't look too
happy. He stopped what he is doing and sat with Jacob.

"What is wrong Jacob? It looks like you got some bad news about something."

"I kind of did and can't believe it. The one time I need something from my
mother, she says no. She claims that she can't watch Jeremy over the
weekend because she has plans already. That is nothing but bullshit. There
is no way I can take Jeremy on this trip. He will not sit still in the
truck or in the hospital for that matter."

"Don't worry about Jeremy. I know it is easier said than done, but don't
worry. We can ask your grandmother and Franseca or the guys to watch
Jeremy. I know that none of them will say no to doing you a favor. After
all, they all owe you so much as it is."

Jacob agreed that Jeremy is the least of his worries right now. He has
plenty of people in the house that will watch over Jeremy for him. He got
up and packed up their shampoo and other personal items that they will
need. After getting everything that Dewayne forgot, they went downstairs.

He put the bag next to the suitcases that Dewayne had already brought down
before heading to the kitchen to explain everything that is going on. Jacob
walked in, sat down, but didn't say a word until Dewayne joined them. As
they waited, everyone just looked at Jacob with questioning looks on their
faces.

"What I'm about to say will more than likely come as a surprise to all of
you. There are things you guys don't know that has been happening behind
the scenes dealing with Joey. I have talked to him once since he
left. Also, my grandfather has had some dealings with him since he left.

I will explain more to you guys as soon as I know more. I don't want to say
something and have to later correct what I said. The long and short of it
for now is that Joey has been put into one of those brainwashing camps by
Beth and his uncle. They located him, and currently he's on his way back to
Alamogordo. As soon..."

Jacob explained to the others about the phone call he is waiting for. He
told them once he gets that phone call; he and Dewayne are going to head to
Alamogordo. At the same time, Jacob invited the others to go if they want
to go. The reason he did that is that Joey was their friend as well. At no
time, Jacob had asked them to not be friends with Joey.

The only ones Jacob didn't invite to go on this trip are Alex and Matt. It
wasn't because who they are and what Alex did when Joey was around. Jacob
is thinking about their well being. They can't leave the city limits since
they are on the anklet. Jacob knows they want to go, but they need to stay
put. It is too late to get permission for them to go.

To Jacob's surprise, he didn't have to ask twice. They all answered Jacob
that they want to go. They ate as fast as they could before heading
upstairs to pack. In the mean time, Alex and Matt helped load the truck
with the suitcases already at the bottom of the stairs. Then they loaded
the added suitcases as they got brought down.

While everyone pitched in to help load the truck, Jacob spoke with Franseca
and Virginia. He explained his situation he is in with Jeremy. They both
understood and told Jacob that he has nothing to worry about with
Jeremy. They will watch over him while he is out of the town.

After they agreed to watch over Jeremy, Jacob went up to explain to Jeremy
what is going on. Before Jacob could get into the room, Jeremy ran up to
him shaking. He has no idea what is going on. Because of that, he is
freaking out. Jacob hugged his brother and held him as they walked over to
his car bed.

Once Jeremy settled down, Jacob explained to him about what is going on. He
told Jeremy the truth out of respect to Jeremy. From day one, Jacob told
Jeremy that he will be treated like the others, no differently, no matter
what. That includes telling him the truth about what is going on in the
house.

Jeremy understood and agreed to listen to their grandmother and
Franseca. Jacob also asked Jeremy to be on his best behavior while he is
gone. He will bring him something back from Alamogordo if he does. That got
Jeremy happy and jumping around.

The call that Jacob had been waiting for came in a little after
eleven. Everyone waited patiently in the TV room and the hallway for what
is to come next. Those standing near the study could hear Jacob talking on
the phone, but no one knows exactly what is going on. The only thing that
is for sure is that they are about to leave.

The minute Jacob hung up the phone; he headed over to talk with his
grandmother. When he returned, he had one more suitcase to add to the rest
of the luggage. As Jacob went out to put the suitcase with the others,
everyone else used the bathroom and got something to drink and munch on
before getting in the truck.

Once Jacob felt comfortable with leaving Jeremy, he jumped in the
truck. "Here I need you to hold onto this for me." Jacob handed Dewayne a
bank bag. "I doubt we are going to spend it all, but I want to take it just
in case. Some of it I am going to give to my grandfather and the rest I am
going to keep."

Dewayne took the bag and held it tight. He knows this bag contains the
emergency money that Jacob and his grandfather keep at home. They always
want to be ready for any emergency that may come up during the night when
they can't get money from the bank. This for sure is the kind of emergency
they have this bag for.

"So Jacob, what else did you find out about Joey?" Chase leaned forward in
his seat in order for Jacob to hear.

"As far as new information, I didn't get anything else except where they
took Joey. Beyond that, I am in the dark. Like I said, Joey got taken
against his will from the parking lot from his school on Wednesday. They
found out that he was taken to this camp this morning and once that
happened, everything was put into play to get him out of that place, which
includes help from our Governor."

"That sucks for Joey! No one deserves that no matter what they have done in
their lives. I don't understand what happened to Beth to cause her to
change. She had it good living with you and Joey. Now she is scrambling
around trying to get what she had before."

"Yeah, I agree with Tom on that. What the hell happened to Beth? I really
think all this has come about because of Joey's uncle. The minute he
appeared on the scene, everything fell apart. He has some kind of pull over
Beth and Joey."

"Come on Chase that is dumb. No one has that kind of pull. Beth just got
stupid in love and is not thinking straight. That is the only logical
explanation for what happened. Beth is in love with Joey's uncle and will
do whatever he asks her to do. If you take that creep out of the picture,
the Beth that we know would return."

"A agree with you it being love, David. Love makes people do things that
they wouldn't normally do. But at the same time, Beth should never have
turned her back on her own kids. Joey and I always felt that we had Beth in
our corner. We never thought that we had to worry about her. My mom yes,
but we never had to worry about Beth. Boy, were we wrong because Beth did
what my mom had tried to do for years."

The truck went quiet after Jacob brought up how they never felt threatened
from Beth. They always worried about his mother, but never Beth. It made
everyone in the truck take a close look at their lives. They started
thinking about those around them and can they be trusted in the way they
trust them.

This is the first time Jacob has taken his truck out in the open road. When
he went to pick up Jeremy, he used his car. He can feel a difference
between the car and the truck, even more when the wind is blowing. In the
car he barely felt it, but in the truck he has to keep both hands on the
wheel to keep it from being pushed around.

Just as everyone started to doze off, Jacob turned off onto a side
road. Everyone started to look out of the windows as they passed police
cars with their lights flashing all over the place. The further Jacob gets
down the road, the amount of police cars increased to a point that you
could walk across them without having to walk on the ground.

Jacob slowed down as he reached the road block. He rolled down his window
when a police officer walked up. At first the officer didn't say anything
to Jacob. He flashed his flashlight in the truck to be able to see who is
in the truck.

"I need to see your driver's license and proof of insurance." Jacob opened
the glove box to get his insurance card. "You are going to have to turn
your vehicle around and go back to the interstate. This road is closed for
now unless you have official business."

The officer handed Jacob back his driver's license and insurance. "I am
here to deliver some things to Alfred Serna. My name is Jacob Hernandez and
I should be on some list that allows me to drive in."

The officer stepped back and radioed in. He gave the person on the other
end Jacob's name asked if he is listed to be allowed in. A few seconds
later the office got the all clear that Jacob is allowed to come in. He
yelled out to the other officers to remove the road block and to let Jacob
through.

No one said a word; they just looked at everything that is going
on. Besides all the police cars, there are also several helicopters. Some
are medical helicopters and others have the State seal on them. The closer
they get to the building, the more they can see what is going on. They just
can't believe what is unfolding before their eyes.

Dewayne tried to count how many teenagers are standing, sitting or laying
down, but he stopped counting when he reached fifty. There are way too many
of them to count. Some of them look okay and some of them look like they
had not eaten in days. Some of them look like they were tortured in one way
or another.

Jacob stopped when he realized that he couldn't go any further. He looked
around before getting out of the truck. Everyone else stayed. They figured
if Jacob needs them, he would ask them to go with him. He went around to
the passenger's side of the truck to get the bag for his grandfather.

"I need you guys to stay in the truck for me. I need to drop off a few
things to my grandfather and than we are off." Jacob poked his head in to
kiss Dewayne.

Just as Jacob started to walk off, Dewayne called him back. He handed Jacob
the money bag when he reached the window. Jacob thanked him for
remembering, opened the bag, took out half of the money and handed the bag
back to Dewayne. They kissed once more before Jacob walked off to find his
grandfather.

Dewayne and the others did as Jacob asked and stayed in the truck. They sat
there looking around at this place that housed gay teens. As they sat there
looking at what is going on, several more ambulances drove in. They still
can't believe what they are seeing right before their eyes. If they didn't
see it themselves, they would think all this was made up out of someone's
warped creative mind.

The huge spotlights are so bright; you can see everything that is going
on. The building is huge, but run down. The ground is covered with sand,
weeds and a couple of trees right at the entrance of the building. A metal
fence surrounds the entire property. All the windows of the building have
metal bars on them. It really looks like a prison.

The teenagers that are out of the building are trying to be strong, but you
can see in many of their faces they are not. Most of them that are standing
are barely able to. Those that are sitting on the ground look like they can
barely keep their eyes open. Those that are laying down look like they are
dead! The only reason you know that they are not dead is because you can
see their chests going up and down.

They also notice that there are girls as well as boys. They tend to forget
there are girls that are gay as well. The only gay people they know are
guys, but now they see that both sexes are being treated the same by their
family. No matter if you are male or female, if you are gay; you are bad
and need to be fixed.

Dewayne spotted Jacob walking back to the truck with Al. Jacob climbed into
the truck and as he shut his door, he rolled down his window. Al leaned in
and looked around at everyone. He smiled when he saw that everyone is okay.

"You guys be careful on your way over to see Joey. Someone please stay
awake and talk with Jacob so he doesn't fall asleep. The trip before you
guys is long and it is even worse when you drive at night. There is nothing
you can see while you drive.

When you see Joey, don't make him feel bad. He looks really bad, but he
will heal. Support him and let him know that you guys are here if he needs
you. I know I don't have to say this, but I am. Put aside the anger or hurt
you have with him and just support him."

Almost at the same time, everyone nodded their head. Al handed Jacob back
some of the money before he rolled up his window. As carefully as Jacob
could, he backed out of the parking lot. He watched to make sure that he
didn't hit anyone as he drove out.

As they reached the road block, they checked the truck even more than they
did when they drove in. It made them think that they thought that they were
smuggling out one of the kids from this place. Once they cleared Jacob to
leave, they removed the road block. Jacob waved at the officers as he drove
passed them.

It didn't take long for everyone to doze off again. This time they are able
to fall asleep without being woken up. Even Dewayne fell asleep, leaving
Jacob the only one awake. He put the speakers of the radio to the front and
to his side only. That way the music doesn't wake up the others trying to
get some sleep. Jacob reached over and grabbed a hold of Dewayne's hand and
held it tight as he drove.

No one woke up again until they reached Alamogordo. Even then, they didn't
wake up until Jacob got off of the freeway. He had to let go of Dewayne's
hand and that woke him up. He yawned, stretched and looked around to see
where they are at. He can't believe that they are already arrived, but he
noticed the sun rising.

He looked over at the clock on the radio and felt bad that he slept the
entire way. "Jacob, I am sorry that I fell to sleep. I really wanted to
stay awake and talk with you but I was just so tired from work and all."

"There is nothing for you to be sorry for handsome. All of you fell asleep
and the radio kept me company. Do me favor and wake up the others. I figure
that we should eat before we go to the hospital to see Joey. I don't know
when we will get another chance to eat of we don't do it now."

Dewayne took off his seat belt and reached to the back. He woke up Chase
first then Tom and with their help; they woke the rest of them up. They
looked around to see where they were and just like Dewayne, they can't
believe that they are already in Alamogordo. They straighten themselves up
as much as they could.

Jacob pulled into the Denney's off of interstate seventy. "I don't know
where I am right now. Somehow I landed up on this interstate from
interstate twenty five. Let's get some breakfast and find out how far off I
am from Gerald Champion. I think I'm close, but I really don't know."

Every one agreed as they got out of the truck. Jacob signed in his party
and went to the restroom to rinse his face. After cleaning up, he walked
out and the others went in one at a time. Jacob asked the hostess where the
hospital is at. When she told him that he is not that far off, he didn't
feel as dumb as he thought he was.

The conversation at the table steered clear from Joey pretty much. Although
everyone is thinking it, no one really wanted to say it out loud. Instead
they talked about what they want to do here if they have the chance. The
only time they got close to the topic of Joey is when they talked about the
camp.

After they finished eating, Jacob paid and they headed back to the
truck. On the way to the hospital, Jacob got lost a couple of times. No one
said a word to Jacob; they just let him figure out how to get to the
hospital in his own way. One thing that gets Jacob angry really fast is
when others back seat drive on him.

They waited for each other to get out of the truck once they got there. As
soon as everyone got out, they walked as fast as they could to get out of
the cold. On the way in, Jacob told everyone what they will see when they
walk into the room. He told the guys how bad Joey looks so they are not
surprised when they see him for the first time.

Jacob got Joey's floor and room number from the information desk and headed
over to the elevator. Everyone followed Jacob and got on the elevator. No
one said a word on the elevator and when the got off of it they stopped in
the waiting room. Jacob pulled Dewayne over to the corner to talk with him
privately.

"I need you to do me a favor and wait here in the waiting room." Dewayne
just looked at Jacob not understanding why he is asking this of him. "Let
me make it clear I want you at my side without question. Just give me a
minute to let Joey know that I brought my life partner with me. That way if
he gets angry, I walk.

You mean more to me than anything else in this world. If Joey doesn't want
you around, I walk as well. We are one and if someone doesn't like one of
us, than they don't get to be friends with either of us."

Dewayne kissed Jacob and told him to go and make sure Joey is okay. He sat
down in a chair as Jacob and the others left. They kept walking up and down
the halls, not able to find the room. By the third time passing the same
restroom, they gave up and asked a nurse in the hallway. She pointed out
where Joey's room is.

Chase led the group over to Joey's room. He knocked on the door before
entering. One at a time walked in to find Joey lying in bed with another
guy sitting at his side. Tom and David knew right off the bat this guy is
Joey's new boyfriend. He doesn't scream gay, but he is holding Joey's hand.

It looked like the kid recognized Jacob when he walked in. He leaned in and
whispered into Joey's ear. Everyone just looked as the kid at Joey's side
talked to him. They couldn't believe the way Joey looked. Yes Jacob gave
them a warning so they wouldn't be surprised, but they thought that Jacob
over stated the facts.

Jacob walked up to the kid and shook his hand. Neither of the boys said a
word to each other. They were not staring each other down, they just didn't
speak. Jacob walked over to the head of Joey's bed and broke the silence.

"Joey, I know you can't see who is in here, but I know you can recognize my
voice. My grandfather called me and told me what is going on. Knowing you,
you don't want us to see you until you are better, but we needed to get
down here.

Everyone came, Chase, David, Tom, Tony and Marie. I don't know if you know,
but Alex and his friend Matt got released and they are living with
Franseca. They wanted to come as well, but couldn't because they have the
monitor bracelets around their ankles."

When Jacob stopped talking, he moved out of the way. That way the others
could shake Joey's hand and say hello. Once they all greeted Joey, they
went back to where they were standing at when they first entered into the
room. Jacob walked back up to the head of the bed where he could talk to
Joey without yelling.

"No matter what happened between us in the past, I don't wish anything bad
to come to you. You and I went through a lot together, and no matter what
you think, I will always be there on the other end of the phone for you as
a friend whenever you need a friend. I don't want you to go at this alone;
you need friends in your corner to at least talk to."

At first Joey didn't even move, and then he surprised everyone. He moved
over and started to pat on the mattress for Jacob to sit down. Jacob looked
over to the young kid sitting at Joey's side and pointed to the
mattress. He got up and sat down on the mattress, giving Jacob the seat
next to the bed.

"Thank you guys for coming and I know there is nothing I can say to fix
what I did. I will not make any excuses for what..." Chase interrupted Joey
as he spoke.

"You don't have to explain a thing to us. If Jacob can forgive you and move
down the road to a friendship, we can as well. So don't even bother with
that stuff, and let's just leave the past in the past where it belongs. Why
don't you introduce us to this young guy here and we can start talking
about the present."

That is all it took, the ice was broken and Joey introduced Caleb to
everyone. Jacob didn't mind at all when Joey introduced Caleb as his
boyfriend. Jacob realized right there that he is completely over
Joey. There are no remaining feelings he once had for him.

He looked over to Tom and nodded to him. Tom understood what the nod meant
and went out to get Dewayne. When they returned, the entire room was
quiet. It looked at first that Dewayne was angry, but when he saw Jacob he
looked like himself. He walked over to Jacob and sat down on the arm
rest. He noticed that Jacob is shaking, so he grabbed his hand and held it
tight.

"Joey and Caleb, I would like you to meat Dewayne, my boyfriend." Dewayne
got up from the arms rest and shook Caleb's hand first and then Joey's.

"I know that it will take time for us to get used to this set up. First you
and I, Joey have to build a friendship between each other. That doesn't
mean that I am not here for you when you need me. You call me day or night
and I will do what it takes to help you. Over time we can build a
friendship that will be strong the rest of our lives."

Joey agreed with Jacob and explained to him what he sees before
them. Everyone sat there listening to them talk. They can tell what was
there before is gone now. There is nothing left of their past
relationship. It is obvious in the way that Jacob is talking to Joey. On
the other hand, Joey is trying to get Jacob to the point of a
friendship. But everyone that can see can see that is a long time in the
future for Jacob to get there.

Once both of them got through the talk that needed to be done a long time
ago, everything went back to normal. It was as if Joey never left the
group. It's no surprise to Joey they included Caleb in their group
immediately.

At first, they walked on egg shells on what they talked about. When they
mentioned that Franseca moving into Beth's old house, they thought that
they screwed up. Joey told them that he didn't expect things to stay the
same after he left. He asked them not to leave anything out because they
think it might bother him.

With that, they talked about Alex and Matt moving in; how it felt with
having Alex's younger brothers running around the house. They told Joey
about Tony moving and becoming part of the family. Before they knew it,
several hours had passed. None of them could believe that they have been
talking that long.

The only reason they knew that they have been talking for hours is because
Joey's lunch got brought in. They all got up and decided to go and grab
something to eat down in the cafeteria. Before they left, they shook Joey's
hand and promised him that they will be coming back before they leave back
to El Paso.

"We are going to go down and get something to eat while you eat your
lunch. Then we are going to come right back up and visit with you until
they kick us out of here. After they do that, we will find a hotel to stay
the night and come back in the morning to spend a couple more hours with
you before heading back."

Jacob shook Joey's hand before he turned and whispered in Caleb's ear. "You
guys are lucky to have each other. You both take care of each other. He has
some flaws, but not bad ones to end a relationship over. It looks like you
have done him some good. He really sounds like a different person, a better
person."

Jacob nodded Caleb's hand and walked out of the room. He caught up with the
others at the elevator. As they walked into the elevator, Jacob grabbed a
hold of Dewayne's hand. He leaned in and kissed him on the neck before he
whispered into his ear.

"Thank you for being such an awesome boyfriend. No one in your shoes would
have done what you did for me when we first got here. I know I ask a lot of
you. I just want you to know that I know how awesome you are and how lucky
I am to have you at my side. I love you with all my heart!"

"I love you and there is nothing I wouldn't do for you! I know we are going
to be together for the rest of our lives." Dewayne leaned in and kissed
Jacob on his lips.

Jacob kept going back and forth, not able to choose what he wants to
eat. It all looks good, but he wants to eat something that has been made in
the last hour. He turned and noticed a line of people. Jacob walked over to
see what they are standing in the line for. To his surprise, they are
waiting for the hamburgers, steak or grilled cheese sandwiches to be
ready. Not needing to think about it, Jacob got into the line.

When he got up to order what he wants, he asked for a double cheeseburger
with yellow cheese. As the cook started to make his cheeseburger, he
gathered all the fixings. The cook handed Jacob his cheeseburger with fries
and moved onto the next person in line.

Grabbing a cake for dessert and fountain drink before he joined the others
and paid for the food. They walked out to get a table to seat them all. At
first, they didn't say a word. They just started eating as if they hadn't
eaten all day. Chase broke the silence.

"Put aside Joey's eyes and the cuts and bruises, he came out of it I one
piece. He seems to be a lot stronger than he was when he lived with us."
Chase stuffed his mouth the lasagna he picked to eat.

"To be honest I don't think Joey had any other choice but to grow up
fast. Beth talked him into moving out and then abandoned him and his sister
almost immediately after they got here. If he wanted to show that he can be
on his own without any help, he had no other choice than to grow up." Tom
looked straight at Chase.

"I really didn't get to know Joey before he moved out. The little that I
did get to know him, he seemed to be pretty much grown up. Yes there were
areas that he needed to get better in, but I think we all have that."

"That I agree with Tony about that. We all have flaws and no amount of
growing up will get rid of all of our flaws. I also agree with what Jacob
said and I not just saying it because we are together. No person deserves
what Joey got. No matter what that person has done in their life. They
don't deserve to get taken against their will, locked up and tortured all
for the sake of a person being different."

Everyone nodded their heads in agreement with Dewayne. They started talking
about what they would have tried to do if they were in Joey's shoes. At the
same time they all believed that more than likely they would not have been
able to do what they say they would do if they were ever in that
position. One thing they all agree is that they are lucky that it will
never happen to them, they hope.

Jacob sat there listening to everyone put in their two cents about what
happened to Joey, what they would do if it happened to them. He didn't say
a thing because that is something he will always have to worry about since
these camps are in business. The only difference between Joey and him is
that he has a lot of friends around him most of the time. The rest of the
time he has to hope that nothing bad does happen to him.

He got up and walked over to get Caleb a couple of cheeseburgers. He
noticed that Caleb looked hungry, but didn't say a word. When Joey's food
arrived, Jacob saw him lick his lips and basically in his mind it is
telling him that that person is hungry.

The others waited for Jacob at the elevators once they finished
eating. They headed back to Joey's room, but when they got there, they
noticed that Joey has company. At first, they debated on going in or
not. When Jacob saw Fran at Joey's side, Jacob waved everyone over to him
as he walked down the hall.

As soon as Jacob walked into the door, Fran jumped up, causing Jacob to
jump a couple feet back. They hugged each other as family does. She hugged
everyone as they walked into the room. Once Marie walked in, Fran grabbed
her arm and pulled her out of the room. Everyone else just stood there
chuckling.

Joey introduced them to Caleb's mother. As they shook her hand, each of
them introduced themselves to Helen. Once they all had shaken her hand,
Harold walked in and they went through the whole thing again. No one minded
they know that they are a huge group of visitors that they have not met
before.

Jacob walked over to Caleb and handed him the cheeseburgers, fries and the
soda he got for him. Caleb sat down, opened it and dug in. Helen thanked
Jacob for the kind gesture. Jacob acknowledged her and teased Caleb a
little about his size. Caleb is big, but Jacob doesn't think he realizes
that he is as big as he is.

Harold informed Joey that the doctors are going to release him in the next
hour. Jacob couldn't believe they are going to release him this
quickly. With what he understands, Joey went through a lot at that
place. They need to at least keep Joey in the hospital a little bit longer
than they are doing, but Jacob bit his tongue.

Joey invited everyone to eat dinner with him and the Evans at the Evan's
house. Jacob looked at the guys and they all said yes immediately. Jacob
agreed, but thought to himself that he needs to get to a phone in order to
get them some rooms to sleep in for the night.

Just then a nurse squeezed through and started to take Joey's IV out. Once
she finished, she handed paperwork for Joey to sign. Jacob wanted to go up
and slap the nurse for being dumb. He screamed in his head to the nurse
that Joey can't see. Harold got up and signed the paperwork for Joey. She
handed Harold several prescriptions to get filled and then left the room.

While the nurse tried to get Joey to sign the paper work, he asked Jacob
and the others to join him and the Evan's for dinner. Everyone agreed
almost immediately. Before Jacob could say anything, Harold got up and
signed the paperwork for Joey. When he finished, the nurse handed him
several prescriptions to get filled.

Jacob pulled everyone else out of the room that came with him leaving only
Caleb and Joey in the room by themselves. They walked over to the elevator
and waited for Joey and Caleb to arrive. It didn't take long for the two to
join them at the elevator.

As soon as they got off the elevator, Harold walked out of the pharmacy and
met them at the front door. He instructed his party to stay in the building
while he goes and gets the car. Jacob grabbed Dewayne's hand and asked Tom
and the others to stay put as well.

They walked as fast as they could to the truck. Neither of them could
believe how different the weather is. Jacob unlocked the doors as the
reached the truck and they both jumped in. Jacob let the truck warm up
before pulling out. As he circled around to the main entrance, he found
that Joey and his group are already in their car and waiting for him. Both
Jacob and Dewayne opened the passenger's doors to let the others in.

Jacob followed Joey and the Evans to their house. He noticed that Harold is
driving slower than the speed limit. Jacob figured that Harold didn't want
to loose them. He looked over at Dewayne and smiled as he grabbed his hand.

He looked back to the front and couldn't help but think the luck he
has. There in front of him is his ex and right beside him is his
boyfriend. A boyfriend that is willing to do anything to make him
happy. Once again, Jacob can't help but think how lucky he got when he met
Dewayne. Not to sound mean, Jacob thought, but he feels that he got a
better life partner. No disrespect to Joey in any way, but Dewayne and he
are suited better.

TO BE CONTINUED...

WRITER'S CORNER:

{Welcome back one and all to another filled chapter of this saga. I
couldn't find a breaking point, and I hope where I stopped wasn't in the
middle of a plot. There is just so much going on, I can't fit it all in one
chapter. At times I use the other stories for my over flow I can't put in
this chapter. But when I do that, I have to make sure I don't screw up the
timeline. I have readers out there that will point it out if I do!

Talking about timelines, the last part of this chapter is also happening in
"Regrets and Heartaches" in chapter ten. Joey's point of view and what
happened while Jacob and the others went down to eat, before they arrived
and the other characters point of view from "Regrets" is in chapter ten of
that story. For more detail on what exactly happened there, you will need
to read that chapter.

Now let's start at the beginning of the chapter. Al didn't believe Jacob
when he said that his mother came down to meet her new brother. We all know
the truth; it is in chapter fifty four of this story. But Jacob isn't the
kind of person that throws people under the bus. He didn't tell his
grandfather what exactly happened when Gloria stopped by, but I think Al
knows. He didn't say it in to many words to Jacob, but he did say it.

I like what Al is doing for Dewayne and Tony. He is giving them a chance to
run their own business separate from his and Jacob's. He made it clear they
will be there to help them out, but they run the show. Do you all agree on
the set up though? You know, neither Dewayne nor Tony will ever own more
than the other. I don't think Al thinks that one or the other is going to
do something to hurt the company. I really think he is doing this to
protect both them just in case.

I also like the fact that Jacob stayed from away from this. It wouldn't
have looked good if Jacob was in that meeting in Tony's eyes. We know Tony
isn't bad in any way, but he is human. After all Dewayne is Jacob's
boyfriend he might have thought by Jacob being in that meeting, Dewayne
would have an advantage over him.

Poor Jacob! He never catches a break from his mother. He needed her to take
care of Jeremy for two days and she said `no'. Jacob never asks her for
anything, but yet gives her so much. I don't think Jacob wanted to leave
Jeremy alone with their grandmother, but he had no other choice. At least
Franseca and her sons are there to help out Virginia.

Talking about Jeremy, he gets scared really fast. In real life my brother
is the way I am writing him in the story. I have so many stories I can tell
you about him, it could fill several chapters. I will squeeze things in as
the story goes along. But for now we all have to understand people like
Jeremy. They need to be walked through and explained everything before
anything happens. If not, they either do two things, freak out, like we
have seen, or get scared and close off themselves into their own little
world.

Finally, the trip to see Joey in the hospital! Jacob made his feelings
clear the minute he walked into the room. It may seem cold to some of you,
but don't forget what happened in the past. At least Jacob is willing to
let the past be in the past and start working towards a friendship. Also
the other guys are willing to follow Jacob's lead on this.

In the next chapter you will see a little more of Jacob basically making it
clear the only thing that Joey has to hope for is a friendship in the
future. If you want to cheat here, go to chapter ten of "Regrets". I am
pretty sure by the time this chapter is posted; chapter ten of "Regrets"
will have been posted already.

 As always I can go on and on about the open plots in the story! If I do
that, I can actually write several more chapters. There are so many plots
that can take a turn at anytime. You might think it is going to go one way,
but is lands up going another. Don't miss out on anything, or you will be
kicking yourself for it.

I keep saying over and over again don't forget about Chase. He will be
spending time between two of my stories. I am giving that away, but look
for him in Beneath the Mask. He is going to come back full and what is
happening in his life will stun you.

There is a so much to answer in the chapters to come. Stick around and keep
reading the future chapters, and enjoy! Please email me and let me know how
I am doing at jacobmillertex@aol.com, Thanks!}

EDITOR'S CORNER:

Readers, I have NO idea how Jacob keeps his three stories straight in his
mind!  I know he doesn't even work off an outline or anything of the sort!
I have no idea how he juggles it all and not get confused! <shaking my
head>

I can't even imagine the horrors of the reprogramming camps.  I know they
exist, many in the west and southwest. There are many that cater to "help
out" confused Mormon kids. I hope in this story that the Governor gets
legislation through that will criminalize the camps.

Jacob is getting chance after chance to process his relationship with Joey
into the past. It appears he's being successful. I give Jacob credit for
his accomplishments in that arena but I fully recognize the role that
Dewayne plays in Jacob's trek along the rocky path.

Dewayne has incredible strength and composure. He keeps his head on and
focused when Jacob gets a bit squirrely here and there. This benefits them
both beyond any measure. Yes, Jacob is lucky to have Dewayne in his life
and so dedicated and so totally in love with Jacob.

Now, I have a question...  What is going to happen to Dewayne's job (and
new position) at Taco Bell now that he has the 7-11 stores? Will he give
proper notice? Will he serve out the notice?

It is going to be interesting to see the forging of a partnership and the
interactions between Dewayne and Tony as business partners. Tony is still
very young and in school. What role will he be able to actively play in the
running of the stores?

Gloria slipped. She, once again, showed her true colors not being willing
to take care of Jeremy. Now, on the flip side of that coin, Jeremy has no
real bond with his mother. She could possibly end up terrorizing Jeremy not
meaning to. Probably the way it worked out was the best for Jeremy's
wellbeing.

What is going on with Marie and Greg these days ? There's an open plot
we've not heard about in a while...unless I missed something...

I hope that this finds you all well and happy.  Thank you to those readers
that speak to me in the e-mails to Jacob. I truly appreciate hearing from
all of you when you write!

Until next time,

"Daddy" Rick