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LiL Bros Chapter 16 Home and School.
Cory was kept for three extra days in the hospital, as the doctors wanted to make sure that he was healing properly and that his temperature wasn't going to spike again. Michael slept and sat with his lil bro through the whole thing, either reading to him or curled up beside Cory watching cartoons on the TV. Hospital beds are not the most comfortable things to sleep on, so when the young doctor came in on the morning of the fourth day and told Cory that he could go home, the squeal of happiness could be heard two hallways away. "Cory, you get dressed, while I do up the paperwork." The doctor said.
"Okay, I can't wait to leave here." Cory said.
Thirty minutes later Cory sitting in a wheelchair was gently pushed out the hospital door.
"Those are the two brats that cost me my job." Ms. Battleaxe screamed as she pointed a group of reporters towards Michael and Cory.
"Young man is what this woman saying true? Did you have her fired." A reporter asked as he tried to shove a microphone in Michael's face.
"Sir, first I don't know who you are and second get that damn thing away from me. Finally neither my brother nor I have any comments on that. Michael said as he helped Cory up and into a taxi. "Sir, can you take us to the airport please?" Michael asked the driver.
"Which airport, sir?" The driver asked.
"The one that has AirCo charters."
"Very good sir, we'll have you there soon."
The ride to the airport was about twenty minutes and soon Michael and Cory were seated in luxuriant seats onboard a Gulfstream IV and in the air. The boys were heading home. Michael and Cory were relaxing enjoying the flight and a movie, when their pilot came out and sat with them for a minute.
<><><><><>
San Antonio, Texas was under a torrential rain storm, with warning of possible tornados. Air traffic controllers were busy when the management came over with written orders to land the AirCo private charter from Alberta. The order was signed by the San Antonio DA's office and the chief of police.
Nadine Brookmeir was sitting in her office at nine in the morning going over the transfer papers for Jason Heilman when she was startled by the ringing of her phone. "DA's office, Ms. Brookmeir speaking." She answered.
"Nadine, it's been a long time. How are you doing?"
Craig Brookmeir was a tall man that never forgot much, and was forever wanting to get back at the woman that had spurned him. Craig now worked for a private firm that specialized in gathering information and one piece he found was Nadine's hatred for Michael Caine. Thinking he could get back with Nadine, Craig had been looking into the whereabouts of Michael, when he found him in Edmonton chartering a plane to fly home, Craig called his Ex and told her. An hour later, Nadine had sent the order for the pilot to land in San Antonio. On board the Airco charter the pilot had just finished explaining everything to Michael, when he was called back to the cockpit. "Sir, I don't know what is going on, and really don't care, however since we are flying to Florida, I would tell who ever, that you must follow your flight plan, or you could lose your license." Michael said as he sipped his coke.
<><><><><>
Ninety minutes later the Gulfstream was making its approach to the Naples airport. Looking out the windows Michael and Cory could see a lot of cars parked as their plane rolled to a stop. No sooner than the door to the cabin was opened than three men rushed in. "Mr. Caine, I am Liam Conners with the FBI. I have been ordered to place you and your pilots under arrest." Liam stated.
"Oh and what are the charges?" Michael asked.
"The failure to obey a lawful order from the San Antonio's DA's office to land at their airport."
"Well sir, it is my understanding that only the FBI, Secret Service, or air force can order such things. Oh yeah the president also, and since the order didn't come from any of them, it was an invalid one. I also know that the DA out there, a Ms. Brookmeir would like nothing more than to get her hands on me, since she had her butt chewed out. Now I would suggest you take everything you have over to Judge Alonzo Montoya and see what he has to say. In the mean time I am taking my brother home so he can rest." Michael spit out angrily.
"Mr. Caine, do you realize who we are?" Liam asked.
"Of course, you're three men that are doing what you're told to without all the facts."
Brushing past the three men Michael with Cory at his side stepped out and onto the stairs. Looking around he saw that their bags had been unloaded and Scott, Richie and Peter were standing there waiting for them. Scott seeing Michael started towards him, when Liam stepped out. "Mr. Caine, we are not finished with you." Liam snapped.
"Yes you are." Michael snarled and grabbed his cell phone and hitting the judge's number. "Judge Montoya please?" Michael asked as soon as the phone was answered. "May I tell him who is calling?" The clerk asked.
"Yes tell him it's Michael."
"One minute please."
"Michael, how are you doing, and further more how is Cory." Alonzo asked as soon as he was put through.
"We're doing well. I want to thank you for your help in Edmonton, and to let you know we are back in Naples." Michael replied.
"I was glad to help, and it is good you're both back home safe."
"Well sir, that's the problem, it seems that Ms. Brookmeir, the San Antonio DA has again tried to have me arrested."
"Oh, and what charges does she have?"
"Well from what the FBI is saying, it is failing to follow a lawful order of hers."
"Was the order signed by a judge?"
"I don't know, do you want to talk with the guy?"
"If he is still there, then yes please."
Handing his phone to Liam, Michael smiled. "Here the judge wants to talk with you."
"Your honor, I am Liam Connors with the FBI, what can I do for you?"
"Agent Connors, is what Mr. Caine saying true, that you have an arrest warrant for him?" Judge Montoya asked
"Sir, the order was sent to us ten minutes before Mr. Caine's plane landed, I am sure the warrant is at our office now." Liam replied
"Well since I am the juvenile court judge and I know that I have not signed a warrant for his arrest, so I would like for you to explain to me how you could have one."
"Sir I am just following orders."
"Then here is a court order. Mr. Caine and his brother/son are free to go home. I also want to see the report and the order that has caused this mess. I want them both within the next hour. Is that understood agent Conners?"
"Yes sir." Liam said as he hung up and gave Michael back his phone. "Mr. Caine you and your brother are free to go."
"Thanks. Come on Cory our friends are waiting." Michael said.
Once the two were off the steps Richie, Peter and Scott had them both in hugs, with Scott being the last to hug Michael, giving him a quick kiss at the same time. Smiling he picked up Cory and carried him over to the car. "How are you doing Cory?" Scott asked. "You had us all worried there for a while." "I'm okay, and I'm sorry Uncle Scott." Cory whispered.
"Nothing to be sorry for buddy, it's not your fault, these things happen."
"That's what Dr. Trembly said also, but I really scared Michael."
"Michael will be okay, he just needs you and his friends around him." "I am never gonna leave him." Cory said. "He's the best brother in the whole world."
"Well I don't know about that, but he is the best friend anyone could have."
When Mrs. Parker pulled into Michael's drive way Cory jumped out of the car and started to run around the back off the house.
"Cory." Michael called, the doctor told you no swimming till the stitches are removed."
"Aaah, but it's hot out." Cory pouted.
"Then go inside, I am sure one of our friends turned on the air conditioning. You can lay on the couch and either play video games or watch a movie."
"Okay, can Uncle Scott play with me?"
"Yes Scott can stay here and play games with you, but he has to have you all over at our place for dinner." Mrs. Parker said.
"Kewl and thanks Mrs. P " Cory replied as he entered the house.
With Cory settled on the couch playing video games, Michael took their bags up stairs and sorted their clothes for washing. Once he had everything done and a load in the washer, Michael grabbed a juice from the fridge and sat at the kitchen counter. He was just looking at the stack of mail, when Peter followed by Richie walked in. "Can we grab a juice?" Peter asked.
"Yeah, sure," Michael answered, not looking up.
"You know Michael, you have had a rough week; that can wait till tomorrow, you need to chill for a day." Richie said as he sat across the counter.
"If I don't..." Michael mumbled as he looked up and holding a large brown envelope from the head office of Aphex Holdings. Putting it aside Michael continued going through everything and soon had sorted out the junk from the bills.
"That's fine, so what are you going to do for the rest of the summer?" Richie asked knowing that there was a good chance for them all to go back out on Michael's boat.
"I haven't thought about it. Cory's getting better is the first thing." Michael replied.
"Well, umm you could take the boat out." Peter suggested.
"I could, but something tells me that it wouldn't be just Cory and me going."
"I never said that I wanted to go." Peter laughed.
"No you didn't, but just the idea of three weeks on the water has you drooling."
"It does sound like fun, but I know my mom won't let me go, for that long." Peter said. "Besides, I still have to go over to the college and register."
"Well you could do that tomorrow. I have to take Cory shopping for clothes, and see our doctor."
"Oh, lots of fun." Richie said just as the phone rang.
Scott who was closest to it answered. "Mike it's some woman for you." Scott hollered.
"Get a name." Mike called back
"It's a Nadine Brookmeir from San Antonio."
"Tell her I have nothing to say to her, she can call my lawyers and deal with them." After Scott had hung up the phone, he checked on Cory and saw that he was sleeping, so Scott walked into the kitchen grabbed a coke and then walked over to where Michael was sitting. Giving him a gentle kiss Scott sat and together the four boys talked. Then it was time for the boys to head over to the Parkers for Dinner, Cory decided that he was going to have Uncle Scott give him a shoulder ride and so as soon as he had his shoes on, Cory jumped on Scotts back and hung on tightly. "Giddy up horse." Cory giggled.
The walk over to the parker's home was full of laughs, as Scott gently bounced Cory and Richie was shoving Peter onto the grass. If you saw the two, you wouldn't think they were boyfriends. Michael who was walking behind the group just grinned at them.
Dinner was "boy food" pizza, pop and ice cream. There was small talk around the table as everyone ate, Cory telling the Parker's all about Disneyland and their time in Edmonton. "I even got a picture painted by Lucy the elephant." Cory gushed out around bites of pizza.
"Sounds like you had a lot of fun." Mrs. P said smiling at Cory.
"I did, but then I got sick and ruined things."
"Cory Caine." Michael yelled. "I have told you that it isn't your fault. Now stop blaming yourself."
Hearing Michael yell made Cory melt into his chair a bit and burst into tears. Never had Michael yelled at him before, even when Cory had been bad, Michael always talked calmly to him. "Michael Just what is your problem?" Scott asked. "Cory knows it's not his fault, you have no reason to yell." Scott said his voice rising in anger.
"Scott, stay out of this." Michael snarled.
"Listen to yourself; you're acting like an ass." Scott yelled slamming his glass on the table.
"Both of you stop this; you're both out of line." Mrs. Parker calmly said.
"I'm going for a walk." Michael stated as he stood. "Cory, stay here with Mrs. P"
"Okay." Cory whispered.
"Don't you think you should ask first Michael?" Scott yelled.
"Uncle Scott don't yell at my daddy." Cory yelled.
You could have heard a pin drop from that one innocent little outburst. Cory's face turning bright red as everyone stared at him. Michael who had his back to the table stood frozen, his cheeks turning wet from the tears he was crying. "What?" Cory asked.
"Nothing sweety," Mrs. P answered as she stood and hugged him.
"Yeah little guy, nothing is wrong." Scott whispered.
"Well he is my daddy right? Cory asked.
"Yes Cory I am your daddy, now and forever. I am sorry for yelling at you." Michael said as he picked his son up and kissed his cheek. "You can call me daddy anytime. I love you munchkin."
"I love you too daddy."
The rest of the evening was spent watching movies cuddled on the couch with Scott and Cory. About ten Michael carried a sleeping Cory home. After tucking him in Michael had a quick shower and went to bed himself.
<<<<<>>>>>
Sam Johnson wasn't in a good mood. He had just spent the last 18 hours dealing with the brother of a murdered six year old. Now with the young man at home, the parents in jail, Sam was about to go home when he was summoned to the San Antonio District 49 Courthouse. Sam Stood six feet even and was solid muscle. His jet black hair was a mess, his suit showed that he hadn't slept for a long time, so when he walked into the courthouse and over to the judge's chambers, he really wasn't in a great mood. " Yes sir may I help you?" the petite clerk asked as she looked up and saw Sam standing there, the nail file in her left hand still moving back and forth, her over painted lips made Sam shudder.
"Yes I have an appointment with Judge Masters." Sam answered trying to hold his temper.
"Sure, have a seat and I'll call him in a minute."
"No Miss you will put that file down and call him right now." Sam exploded.
"Well, you don't have to get huffy."
Picking up her phone the clerk called through to the Judge. "Your Honor, there is a Sam Johnson here to see you. I can tell you that he is a very rude person." The clerk spoke into the phone.
"Send him in, and please bring us some coffee." Judge Masters replied.
Hanging up the clerk looked at Sam and with an attitude that said your mud, led him to the judge's chambers. "You can go in." She said as she opened the door.
Stepping in Sam looked at the Judge before walking over and sitting in the first chair he saw. "Morning Judge, what can I do for you?" Sam asked.
"Let us wait till we have our coffees, then we can relax and talk." Judge Masters replied just as the clerk brought in two coffees, gently placing the judge's coffee on his desk she walked over and roughly set Sam's cup down spilling some over the table. "Ms. Sandoz is that how you treat people? I have had it with you and your attitude; finish the day here, but consider yourself fired." Judge spoke with a hint of anger in his voice.
"Sorry Sam let me get you another cup."
"That won't be necessary Your Honor, if I have another cup I may as well go back to work. I'd be up all day and frankly I am damn tired."
"I can see that. Now tell me what you know about a Michael Caine and his part in the Heilman case."
"Well sir, I know that Michael would like to get his hands on Heilman. I also know that Nadine Brookmeir has been a pain in Michael's side. Many times she has tried to have him arrested and brought out here, just so she could ask him some questions. Michael has refused has even told her that she could fly out to Naples and meet with him. She is a pig headed woman. I have spoken with Michael a few times sir, and find him to be fair, honestly till he has closure on the death of his brother Tommy, Michael will not be at peace with himself. May I ask why you are inquiring about him?"
"Well a Judge Montoya phoned me this morning. It seems that Michael's pilot refused to land here in San Antonio on the orders from Brookmeir's office and the chief of Police. The FBI was at the Naples airport when Michael landed and tried to arrest him, so Michael called Judge Montoya. Now Judge Montoya and I both attended the same school, in fact we graduated the same day. He has always been a friend and we both put the safety of children first. I am asking you to fly to Naples to talk with Judge Montoya, Michael Caine and the FBI agent Liam Conners and find out just what the hell is going on."
"I can do that your honor, but first I am going home to sleep. The other thing you should be aware of is that the neither the DA"s office or the chief of police can alter an approved flight plan. Had the pilot landed here he could have been charged."
Sam said as he tried to stifle a yawn. "It will also give me a chance to check on how another young man is doing out there."
"Okay you go home. The court will pay for your return flight. I am sure you have a few places to stay that won't cause you any hassles."
"Thank you sir, and yes I am sure that Michael will put me up, I'll just have to call him and let him know I am coming out there."
"Great, I'll call Alonzo back and let him know also."
Two blocks away Nadine Brookmeir sat in her office stewing, nothing she tried so far would get Michael Caine out to San Antonio. `No one says no to me you dumb little shit' she thought as she picked up her phone "Judge North please?" Brookmeir asked as soon as the phone was answered."
"One moment please." The clerk answered.
"Nathan North here how may I help you?"
"Judge North, this is Nadine Brookmeir, I would like to set a date for a show cause hearing, so that I may seize the assets of one Michael Caine."
"What are the grounds for this?" North asked.
"The first one is the disregarding a lawful order from the DA's office also with the possible conspiracy to commit murder." Brookmeir lied.
"Very well then I shall let you have your hearing in two weeks, that is the soonest I have an opening. So be in my courtroom for nine in the morning of August 2nd." Judge North said noting it on his schedule.
"Thank-you sir," She replied.
"Ms. Brookmeir, make sure you have everyone there, that includes Michael Caine, and he better have a lawyer present also."
"Sir, Michael Caine does not accept my calls, in fact the last time I tried he told me to talk to his lawyer. I have no idea who that is, so how am I supposed to make sure the brat is here?"
"That is your problem, deal with it." Judge North spoke trying to hide his anger.
Nathan North was a portly man in his early fifties. He had been sitting on the bench for the past fifteen years dealing with young offenders and had always tried to give the youth a second chance. Hearing Brookmeir call a youth a brat almost made him tear into her right there on the phone, but held his temper. Nathan North had two great kids and four grandchildren and he could never understand why some people hated or called their children brats.
<><><><><><><>
Early mornings for Michael were a nasty thing, but the sounds of laughter slowly woke him. Getting out of bed Michael glanced out his bedroom window and froze. There in the back yard was Cory, playing in the mud and having a good time. What really caught Michael's attention though was the fact that Cory was just outside in his underwear. What should have been white were now black with mud. Cory's hair had streaks in it also. Grabbing his camera Michael took a few pictures, then having put his pants on walked down to the back door. "Cory." Michael called out.
Standing up Cory turned and Michael got a few more pictures before he spoke again. "Come on up here let's get you into a shower."
"Okay. I'm getting cold anyways." Cory laughed as he ran back to the house.
"Let me wash your feet here, then we can use the downstairs shower," Michael smiled, "On the other hand let me get you totally rinsed off, then into a bath, I want you to wash then soak for a bit."
"Okay, but you're not mad are you?" Cory asked staring at his muddy feet.
"No Cory, I am not mad, I just wish you had waited a few more hours."
"Oh, but I couldn't sleep no more, I was trying to be quiet."
Once rinsed off of mud, Michael wrapped a towel around Cory and carried him into the downstairs bathroom. "There are other ways to play quietly, son." Michael said as he hugged Cory. Setting him down on the edge of the sink, Michael started the shower. Okay munchkin, hop in here and let's get you clean."
After washing and making sure that all the mud and dirt were gone, Michael rinsed out the bath tub and then filled it. "Okay buddy soak for a while, I will go get you some clothes and maybe something to wake me up." Michael said as he helped Cory sit.
Going back to his bedroom, Michael finished getting dressed and then found some clothes for Cory. Michael was just heading back to the bathroom when he heard the back door open. "Cory, are you running around without your clothes?" Michael hollered.
"No I'm still in the bath." Cory yelled back.
"Okay stay there, I'll be right in."
"Okies," Cory said
Walking into the kitchen Michael saw a short dark haired lady putting her purse on the counter. "Excuse me, but who are you? And what are you doing in my house?"
"Señor Caine, I am Mary Mendoza, your cook/housekeeper. You hired me just before you left on vacation." Mary answered.
"Oh, I guess I forgot. So much has been happening."
"I know my father told me."
"Your father..." Michael started to ask when Cory called him.
"Daddy you coming back?" Cory yelled.
"Yes Cory, I'll be right there." Michael answered.
"Go look after the little one, I'll start some breakfast." Mary said with a smile.
Walking into the bathroom Michael had to hold himself up he was laughing so hard. It seemed as if Cory had dumped a full bottle of his bubble bath into the tub. All you could see of Cory was the top of his head. The floor was soaked, but the little guy was having fun. "Well buddy, looks like you're having a good time."
"Uh huh, I sunk my boat and now got to rescue it." Cory giggled.
"Well you will have to do that later, now pull the plug and let's get you dried and dressed, we have a lot to do."
"What do we gotta do?" Cory asked as he stood the bubbles sliding down his small body as he stepped out of the tub."
"Well, I have to dry the floor here then we can eat. After that it is a trip to the doctors to get your stitches out." Michael answered as he was drying Cory off. "Then we have to go shopping. If you behave yourself, maybe we can have lunch out and stop and find you a new game."
"Why do we have to go shopping?" Cory asked frowning.
"Well it seems my little boy is growing, so we need to get him some new clothes for school."
"Do I gotta go back to school? I hate it, everyone picked on me cuz I lived in a group home." Cory sobbed.
"Yes you have to go to school. Why didn't you tell someone?" "I did, but no one believed me."
"Well if it happens again you tell me, I won't put up with bullying, not by anyone."
"Okay, umm can Uncle Scott come with us?" Cory asked changing the subject.
"I don't know why don't you phone him and ask while I clean up here."
"I love you daddy, you're the bestest in the whole world. Cory said as he ran towards the phone.
"Cory stop and come back here, you can't run around like that, now let's get you dressed."
"But I like being naked."
"That is fine, but our housekeeper is here, and I don't think she'd like seeing a streaking little boy."
"NO WAY! No girls gonna see me like' this." Cory screamed and blushed.
With Michael's help, Cory was soon dressed and again running for the phone as Michael used the damp towels to dry the floor. After rinsing out the tub, Michael tossed the towels into the hamper and went to the kitchen. Michael had just sat down with a cup of tea when Cory came in crying "What's wrong Cory?"
"Unca Scott is mad at me he called me a loser before I could ask him anything." Cory sobbed out.
"Don't worry, you're not a loser. I will call him..." Michael started to say when the front door bell chimed. Getting up he was about to answer it when Mary came in followed by Scott and Sam Johnson. "Scott would you care go tell me why you yelled at Cory?"
"Cory, I'm sorry. You woke me up and it wasn't till I saw who it was that I felt bad, so I ran over here to apologize."
"I'm sorry I woke you up." Cory whispered.
"It's okay; now why did you call?"
"I wanted to know if you could come with us shopping."
"I would love to dude, gotta get you the best, your daddy doesn't have any taste when it comes to clothes." Scott laughed.
"Morning Sam, what brings you here?" Michael asked as he set Cory onto his chair.
"Morning, Michael, Cory. I wish this was just a friendly visit, but Judge Masters ordered me to come here to talk to you and a few other people. It seems that your call to Judge Montoya has stirred up a hornet's nest." Sam answered. "Now do you have any coffee, or are you still drinking that swill, you call tea?"
"I think we might be able to find you a cup of mud." Michael laughed.
"Well Mr. Johnson, if Michael makes it then it will be mud." Scott snickered.
"So where are you staying? And what is happening with Heilman?"
"I wanted to ask if I could use your spare room again. As for Heilman, the DA is playing a waiting game, she wants the death penalty, but Heilman's lawyer is saying no, in fact the lawyer is saying his client is innocent."
"Sam that BASTARD is guilty, everyone knows that. What damn game is that bitch playing at?" Michael screamed.
"Easy Michael, I am on your side here, Judge Masters isn't happy, that is why he sent me."
"Sam, Heilman may be in jail, but with the DA stalling, the lawyer could have everything thrown out on a technicality. Meaning she infringed upon Heilman's right to a speedy trial."
"You are right on that point. I think and this is just me, but I feel that Brookmeir wants you involved with Heilman as an accomplice, although she has nothing in the way of proof."
"What the hell did I ever do to her?"
"Daddy, don't be mad at Mr. Sam." Cory said as he hugged Michael.
"Cory, I'm not mad at Sam. I am mad at another person."
"Oh, then why you screaming at him?"
"Cory, son," Sam interjected. "Your daddy's mad because he feels that the man who took Tommy away from him will be let go."
"NO Way, he's a bad man. He hurt my daddy lots."
"Yes he did."
"Well you a policeman can't you keep him locked up?"
"I wish I could Cory, but that isn't up to me. That is for a judge to decide."
"Scott if you're going to be with us, maybe you should phone and let your mom know, that way she won't be worried." Michael said to Scott as he stood and took Cory to wash his hands and face.
"You're right." Scott grinned.
"Sam, are you coming with us?" Michael asked from the kitchen sink.
"No Michael, I have to meet with Judge Montoya at ten, I am hoping that your lawyer can be there at the same time, as that will save me a lot of leg work." Sam replied.
"That is funny. I thought you guys got a kick out of the leg work." Scott laughed as he picked up the phone.
As Scott was calling home and Cory was getting his shoes and jacket on, Michael went out to the garage and started his Mustang. The rumbling of the tailpipe was a thrill to Michael as he slowly backed out. As soon as Cory and Scott were seated and their belts done up, Michael took off for the doctor's office. Once at the Doctors office Michael and Cory were taken right in.
James Wrest was in his early thirty's and had moved to Naples right after graduating from medical school. This morning James was in a joyous mood, his wife had told him that they were about to have their first child. Walking into the examination room, he smiled when he saw Cory. "Well young man, I see you're looking good. Tell me, are you ready for school?" James asked.
"Ugg. No way, but dad says I gotta go." Cory replied
"That you do, now let's get your shirt off and have a look at you. I understand we are taking some stitches out today."
"Uh huh, I hope so, I want to go swimming."
"Well once the stitches have been removed I don't see why you can't go swimming, as long as you don't overdo it."
Twenty minutes later Michael, Cory and Scott were once more in the car and heading over to the mall. Coastland Mall was crowded and trying to find a parking spot close to the doors was next to impossible. Cory was once more riding Scott's back as they walked through the doors. Their first stop was to find some shoes for Cory. He would need new ones for school, but Michael also wanted some for him to just kick around in. The way Cory was growing it seemed like Michael was buying him shoes every three months, but that was okay the old clothes and shoes they would donate to a charity so nothing was wasted.
The shoes of today had Michael gagging, bright reds, oranges and even some green. Cory with the help of Scott chose one pair in each color. After that it was over to get some proper clothes, jeans and shirts, t-shirts and of course boxers.
<><><><><>
Over at the Courthouse, Sam Johnson was sitting in the outer foyer waiting for his meeting with Judge Montoya. Sam had called Mr. Talbert, Michael's lawyer and been told that Mr. Talbert was already heading to a meeting with the judge. Sam was just about to ask the clerk where he could get a coffee, when she looked up. Mr. Johnson, Judge Montoya will see you now. Would you follow me please?" She said with a flirtatious whisper.
"Thank-you, do you know where I might get a cup of coffee, I haven't had my fill yet." Sam asked with a grin.
"I'll bring you a cup when the others are here."
"Thanks, I appreciate that."
As Sam entered the judge's chamber he saw a short balding man with horn rimmed glasses sitting behind a large ornate desk. The white shirt the judge wore seemed to glow against his dark skin. "Come in Agent Johnson, have a seat." Judge Montoya spoke as he stood.
"Good morning, Your Honor." Sam replied shaking the judge's hand before sitting.
When everyone was there and coffee had been brought in, the judge got the meeting going. "Gentleman, it is time to stop the hassling of Mr. Michael Caine. I personally know Mr. Caine and there is a no more upstanding, caring or law abiding young man. Now Agent Conners, I asked for and received your report, what I don't have is the signed court order for Michael's arrest, so where is it?"
"There isn't one. It seems that my boss decided that Ms. Brookmeir's request was enough for him." Liam spoke up.
"Mr. Talbert, I understand you are Mr. Caine's lawyer, and that you took over after Mr. Crimmins moved to England. What proceedings do you recommend to stop this?" Judge Montoya asked.
"Well sir. The way I see it there are only two choices. A court order restraining Ms. Brookmeir from any contact with Mr. Caine, or have Mr. Caine give into her demands, and meet with her. I honestly cannot see the second happening, since Mr. Caine has a brother/son to raise." Mr. Talbert answered.
"Sam?" The judge spoke.
"Well, I have to agree with you on Michael's outlook, and from what I know and heard this morning something has to be done quickly. What I am saying is that if these hassles keep going Michael is going to break. Also late last night I got a phone call from Judge Nathan North, it seems our Ms. Brookmeir is going to try and seize Michael's assets in Texas. Judge North has booked a show cause hearing and Michael will have to be there." Sam told everyone. "Also if Michael has a lawyer in San Antonio, he could have them file a law suit on grounds of harassment."
"I know Nathan North, the two of us plus judge Masters all went to the same college, if he's called for a hearing, then there is more than just seizing Michael's assets. Do you Sam, know anything else?"
"Other than the fact, that she keeps delaying the Heilman trial, nothing that is concrete."
"Very well, I will contact Judge North and find out when this hearing is set for. Agent Conners as of right now Mr. Michael Caine is to be watched around the clock, not because he has broken the law, but because I want him and his son kept safe. You will have a court order waiting at the front counter for you."
"Your honor, my boss isn't going like that, nor is the director." Liam stated.
"I really don't care whether he likes it or not. Just show him the order and if he still refuses to follow it then he will be dealing with me personally. Do I make myself clear?" Montoya fumed.
"Yes sir.
"Oh and one more thing," Judge Montoya started. "I'm not at all happy with your boss for not having a juvenile petition signed by a juvenile court judge. You can rest assured, Judge North will hear about this and I'm sure he will have a lot of explaining to do plus I'll be calling your boss personally."
Liam was now sweating bullets. "Yes Your Honor."
<><><><><>
Malcolm, Cory and Scott had finished their shopping spree and were now seated having lunch when Michael's cell phone rang. "Yeah," Michael answered not liking having his meal interrupted.
"Michael, it is James Talbert, it seems like we might have to take a trip to San Antonio. Ms. Brookmeir has gotten a hearing to try and seize your assets out there." Talbert spoke.
"Let her try. I want you to get a hold of Joseph Little Bear, he is my lawyer for Aphex holding in Texas tell him what is going on and let him know that I also want him to start a harassment suit against that damn bitch." Michael snarled.
"Michael you don't need the money, what the heck are you going to do with it?"
"Well if I win then I will donate it all to the Sanchez Boys Ranch. I am sure they could use it."
"Fine, I will get a hold of Mr. Little Bear and get him working on it. Judge Montoya will be calling me later to let me know when you have to be in San Antonio for that hearing."
"Okay, now let me finish my lunch and get Cory home, he's dying to go swimming, since he hasn't been for a week." Michael Laughed.
"Go have fun."
With lunch over and with everyone back home at Michael's place, Cory took his clothes in and Mrs. Mendoza took them right away and said she would wash and fold them for Cory, but that he would have to put them away. "Can I go swimmin now daddy?" Cory asked as he started to take his shirt off.
"Yes, but go upstairs and get your swim suit on, I don't think this is the place to undress." Michael smile.
"Okay, you comin in to Uncle Scott?"
"Maybe later, I didn't bring my suit with me, so I have to run home and get it." Scott answered as he gave Cory a hug.
"Hurry I wanna swim and play tag."
"Alright little guy, give me ten minutes maybe fifteen, I know my brother and Peter will probably want to come over also. Would that be okay Michael?"
"Sure, Why not plan on staying for dinner, I can let Mary know." Michael replied.
"Great anything is better than mom's cooking." Scott laughed and ran out the front door.
"I'll tell her that." Michael yelled after him.
Cory had changed and before Michael had a chance to talk to Mary, Cory had run through the house and straight into the pool."
"Cowwa bunga" Cory screamed splashing water and giggling.
"Hey squirt, didn't you forget a towel?" Michael asked as he came out with two in one hand and a couple cans of juice in the other.
"Nope, cuz I knewed you would bring them." Cory laughed and sank under the water.
When Cory had his head under the water, Michael slipped off his shorts and jumped in and swam up to his son. Lifting him Michael tossed Cory back into the deeper water and soon the two were playing tag and Michael was tossing Cory around.
"Daddy this is fun, I wish we could do it all the time." Cory said as he threw a handful of water at Michael.
"Well we can do it for a bit everyday till school starts, then maybe on the weekends."
<><><><><>
Four blocks away in a mediocre neighborhood a mother and her ten year old son were just moving into a new home. Mrs. Allston had packed her things and taking her son, moved from New York to Naples to get away from an abusive husband and a drunk. Hannah Allston was a small woman with long blonde hair and bright eyes. Her young son Derrick stood 5' even and his hair was a strawberry blonde, but what made him stand out were his bright green eyes. Derrick was glad to have moved, he hated his dad, for beating on him and his mother, but Derrick was also scared that he would not make any friends. With the help of his mother and the men who had moved them, Derrick's room was soon set up and now he stood waiting for the movers to bring his bike out so he could go riding. When he saw his bike come out of the van he shouted with glee and started dancing around. "Mom can I go riding please?" Derrick asked.
"Sure son, but try not to get lost and stay on the sidewalks, I don't want you hurt."
"Okay mom, I'll be back in a couple hours."
"That's fine, have you decided what you want for dinner?"
"Uh huh, can we please have pizza?" Derrick asked.
"Well alright. Only because I haven't had the time to go shopping" Hannah smiled as she watched her son get on his bike and start riding away.
Derrick soon found himself lost. He had ridden further than he intended to and was trying to remember his way home when an older boy on a skateboard went flying by and knocking Derrick off his bike." Get outta the way kid." The skater yelled.
Derrick didn't have a chance to say anything as he fell scrapping his knees and screaming. He was still sitting there crying when Scott, Richie and Peter came around the corner. "Hey little guy, what's wrong?" Peter asked as he knelt down in front of Derrick.
"I'm lost, some guy pushed me off my bike, and my knee is bleeding." Derrick cried.
"Well dude, first let's get you cleaned up, then we can help you get home, how does that sound." Peter said.
"Why you being nice, I am just a little kid."
"Maybe, that is reason enough. Also I don't think you will get far with that knee like it is do you? And we are right at our friends place so let's go in and see what we can do."
Okay, but mom says I should never go anywhere with people I don't know."
"And she is right. I am Peter and these two lugs are brothers. The goofy one is Richie and the other is Scott. Oh wait they're both goofy." Peter laughed
"Are you all friends, I don't got any yet."
"Yes we are all friends, and I think you have three already." Richie said with a smile.
"Yeah, now let's go raid Michael's fridge for some juice." Scott giggled.
"Damn bro, you're gonna be going to the bathroom every two minutes, that's your sixth juice." Richie said frowning.
"So, I am always thirsty. Grab this little guy's bike would you Peter, I'll carry him" Scott said as he bent and picked Derrick up in his arms.
"Okay."
"My name is Derrick, not little guy, so would you stop calling me that?"
"Sure Derrick, I am sorry."
Taking Derrick into the house Scott went into the kitchen and sat him on the counter. Getting a damp cloth Scott carefully wiped Derrick's knee and saw that it wasn't too bad. As Scott was doing that Michael and Cory had gotten out of the pool and were just drying off when Richie and Peter came outside. "Hey guys, how's the water?" Richie asked.
"Wet, but good and yes you can go in, Cory and I need to get a juice and see what's to snack on." Michael laughed.
"Okay. Oh Scott has a little guy on your counter, seems someone pushed him off his bike."
Hearing that Cory ran inside and into the kitchen where he saw Derrick sitting there. "Uncle Scott, I thought you was coming swimmin with me." Cory asked as he stared at Derrick.
"I am, but Derrick here needed some help, besides you have the other two and your dad, so you can play with them till I come out."
"Okay, you wanna swim with us Derrick." Cory asked."
"Umm, I'd like to, but I gotta find my way home. I got lost, when this happened and your Uncle came up." Derrick mumbled.
"Well maybe you can come back and swim some day." Scott said.
"Really you mean I could do that."
"Yes, but it has to be okay with your mother also."
"Oh yeah, she might not let me, since we just moved here."
"Well when we take you home, I can meet her and let her know that you are allowed over to swim, whenever we are home."
"But won't your friend get mad?"
"Daddy never gets mad, well not at me anyways." Cory said.
"Does he" Derrick started to say as he saw Michael walk into the kitchen.
"Do I what young man?" Michael asked.
"You're his dad?" Derrick asked in surprise."
"Yes I adopted this little stinker and never regretted it." Michael answered.
Wow, but you're like their age" Derrick said pointing to Scott and the other boys.
"Yes I just turned sixteen. Now you were asking if I, what?"
"It's nothing. Can I go home, my mom's gonna be mad."
"Sure Derrick. Scott, why don't you use the car." Michael answered.
"Can I go with him dad?" Cory asked.
"Yes, but get a shirt and shorts on." Michael said with a smile.
"Okay, wait for me Unca Scott."
"I will squirt, but you better hurry." Scott grinned at Cory's retreating back.
With Scott slowly driving it didn't take them long to find where Derrick lived. When Scott parked at the curb, Derrick quickly hopped out and ran to the back of the car and tried to get his bike out. Scott had just got it on the ground when Derrick's mother stepped onto the front porch. "Derrick Allston, what have I told you about getting into a strangers car?" Hannah said in an angry voice.
"Mom, they're not strangers, they're my friends. They helped me." Derrick cried.
"Ma'am, I am Scott Parker and the squirt beside your son is Cory Caine. Your son was pushed off his bike and my friends and I helped Derrick. Your son is a very brave boy." Scott said as he helped Derrick push his bike into the garage.
"I see, Derrick go in and change." Hannah said in a quiet voice.
"Oh man she's mad." Derrick whispered.
"Don't worry, Unca Scott will fix it." Cory said.
"Mom, can I show Cory my room please?"
"Not today, dinner will be here soon and we still have unpacking to do." His mom replied.
"It's okay Derrick, maybe some other time, besides you gotta find your swim suit. Remember we said you could come swimmin anytime. Cory whispered.
"Yeah, umm Cory can I call you when I get finished?" Derrick asked.
"Yeah you can call me anytime." Cory said as he wrote down his number.
"Thanks anytime." Derrick giggled. "You're my first friends here. With that Derrick ran into the house followed by his mom. In the car Cory sat quietly all the way home. Just as Scott drove into the garage Cory turned and looked at him. "Unca Scott, did you ever have a feeling somethins not good?" Cory asked a sad look on his face.
"A few times I have had feelings like that. Why do you ask?"
"I don't know, it's just the way Derrick's mom was.
"Well don't worry, he'll be okay."
<><><><><>
Sam spent three days talking with the judge, FBI, the Naples police and Michael's lawyer before heading back to San Antonio. Sam had a clearer picture of what was going on and he wasn't happy. Just before boarding his flight, Sam called Judge Masters and told him he was coming back and then asked if Judge Masters could set up a meeting with the state AG, Judge North, Joseph Little Bear and the two of them for as soon as possible. "Sam, what is this all about, can you explain a bit." Judge Masters asked.
"Sir, all I am willing to say is abuse of office." Sam answered.
"All right Sam, you will get your meeting."
"Thank-you, sir. Now my flight is just boarding, so I will talk to you soon."
<><><><><>
It had been over a week since Michael and Cory had gotten home and the two had spent time with their friends. So it was on Sunday morning that Michael remembered the large envelope from Aphex. Getting a fresh cup of tea, Michael grabbed the envelope and sat back at the counter, where he tore the top off. Going through the papers Michael noticed that most were just the statements of expenditures and other things needed to run the company. The last page though brought Michael up short. It was a letter outlining the points of the general meeting that had just taken place. A meeting that Michael had not been informed was happening, but he sure knew now and he was about to take some people to the floor. Grabbing the house phone Michael looked up and saw Cory standing there." Cory could you please run over and stay with Uncle Scott for a few hours." Michael asked as he punched numbers on the phone
"Sure dad, but why can't I stay here?" Cory asked.
"Well things are about to get loud here and I don't want you to hear me."
"Oh are you mad at someone again."
"Yes, but it is okay, I won't be mad for long then we can get some hotdogs out for dinner how does that sound?"
"Yummy, can we have chips with them too?"
"Yes munchkin; now off you go."
"Joseph, this is Michael Caine. I want a full meeting of all company managers and it is to be held here in Naples within the next two days. Make damn sure that everyone is there, no one is to miss this meeting or they will be looking for a new job starting right away." Michael told Joseph before he even had a chance to say hello."
"Hello Michael, and would you like to start over, or did I miss half the conversation." Joseph laughed.
"Joseph this is not a joke. Some people think they can sell MY companies without MY knowledge or say so."
"Michael I will have them all out there for Wednesday but where are we going to meet.
"My back yard or front room if it is raining, or I can get Mr. Talbert to book me a conference room at one of the hotels here, which ever I will have answers tomorrow afternoon. Just make it clear to everyone that there are to be no absences.
<><><><><>
Sam's plane touched down in San Antonio, late Sunday afternoon. Though the flight was short it had been rough with turbulence, making the passengers stay seated and belted. The plane had just landed and was rolling down the runway when everything started being tossed around. The next thing Sam knew was the loud screaming sounds of tearing metal and panicking passengers. The smell of smoke started to fill the cabin as Sam undid his seatbelt and stood to try and help the others. Having gotten everyone off Sam started going through the plane once more, but soon the smoke and heat over came him and Sam fell to the aisle and blacked out.
Email me if you wish me to continue. thewriter1@live.ca Lot More Too Come Just Please Be Patient.
To Be Continued