Nine-year-old Connor Ousler sat on top of the kitchen counter. He shouldn't have been up there, nor should he have been snacking on a chocolate chip cookie but he was doing that as well. It was later in the day, a Friday afternoon, and the family was getting ready to head out. Their parents were going to have a date night at a local restaurant while Connor and his brothers, nine-year-old Carter (Connor's twin) and seven-year-old Niles, were going to be dropped off at a babysitter's house where they were going to spend the night.
Another family that was friends with theirs usually watched the boys for
their parents when the two were busy working or needed a date night. It
was usually a few hours and sometimes, like tonight, they would spend
the night. That was rare and only when they had plans to try for their
next child. The babysitter understood and happily would have the boys
over for even a full weekend at a time. The sitter, Hank Anderson liked
kids. Hank and his wife Molly didn't have any kids of their own yet, but
a family of their own was their dream. Things hadn't worked out yet,
and perhaps they should have tried harder than a few nights of fooling
around, but maybe one day they would have kids of their own running
around. But until then they enjoyed the ruckus the Oursler kids bought
to their home.
Their parents apparently needed the alone time. With three boys, it was
understandable, to grown-ups at least. The boys themselves were still a
little young to understand how hectic life raising a family could be and
that adults needed breaks from time to time. Or that their parents
needed alone time to build their family further. A little brother or
sister wasn't going to come along with tiny hands banging on the bedroom
door. Not that the older boys were all too excited for more siblings.
Connor was still dressed in his school clothes, a white polo shirt and, a
pair of navy dress pants. He wasn't a fan of more 'dressy' clothes but
his school had a strict dress code. His bright blue backpack sat slumped
by his feet, forgotten on the floor.
School had returned from summer break earlier that week and just several
days after his and his twin brother Carter's ninth birthday. Their
younger brother Niles was still waiting for his birthday to come around.
The seven-year-old was a November baby. November while only a few
months away seemed to be so far off compared to the current month of
August. It was hard to wait for gifts and a party while sitting through
multiple parties for older brothers. It was only a few days into the
school year and all three boys were already looking forward to a break,
like most kids they preferred to spend their days playing with friends
instead of sitting at school desks. Although they enjoy learning new
things and were happy to pick up a book.
As for today, Connor and his brothers had only gotten home a few minutes
ago and already the eldest boy was into an after school snack. He had
been told by his mother to go up to his room and change out of his nicer
clothes, in fact, that was where his brothers were but the child had
always had a sweet tooth. As long as he didn't get any chocolate on his
white shirt then he'd be fine. Right?
Or so that was what he figured until his twin caught him in the act.
"You shouldn't be up there, Connor." Carter said seemingly
appearing around the corner suddenly, and therefore causing him to
unintentionally startle his brother... who hadn't been paying attention.
The older of the twins managed to hold back a curse, that he didn't
want his mother knowing that he knew, and calmed himself from being
startled, and instead of cursing he steadied himself on the counter and
sent a glare in his brother's direction. "Like you always follow the
rules, Carter" he spat.
Carter ignored him and instead chose to try to take the cookie from his hand. "Give me that. I did what I was told to do. So I deserve a treat. Not you."
Connor wasn't having that. "No, screw off this is my cookie get your own."
"Not when your grubby hands were shoved in the cookie jar."
"Oh, but the cookie in my hand is just fine? It's all the same 'grubby' hands dumb for brains."
"Just give me the damn cookie." The boy cursed aggressively yanking his brother's hand.
"No." Connor yanked his hand back. "And I'm going to tell mom you cussed."
"Shut up."
"Don't tell me what to do." And just that quickly the twins were in a
tug of war over a cookie. Sure it was chocolate chip, arguably the best
flavor just ask any child, but it was also a pretty generic store brand
cookie. Nothing fancy or worth fighting over. Especially when there was a
jar full of ones just like it sitting right next to them. Just as
quickly as it started, the tug of war ended when the cookie inevitably
crumbled and fell to the floor. But that didn't stop their arguing. Now
they had something new to bump heads about.
"Now look what you did!" Carter yelled.
"Me? You started it." Connor yelled back. The boys were face to face almost nose to nose in their shouting match.
"I didn't start anything. You were the one who wouldn't give up your stupid cookie!"
"If it was so stupid then why did you want it so bad?" Connor retorted.
"Shut up stupid" Carter wasn't going to back down.
"I'm not stupid you're stupid." Connor just had to angrily call back.
They were deep in the stereotypical sibling squabble. A back and forth
argument of nothing but repeating the same thing over and over.
"No, you!" Carter insisted as he stepped closer to his brother.
"You!" Connor leaned closer.
"You" Carter nearly spit.
"Get away from me" Connor was the first to grunt, yet he made no move to further himself from the other.
"You get away from me." Carter didn't make a move either.
"You!" They both shouted as they both moved closer, and closer. Nearly nose to nose and Carter let out a growl of all things.
"Mom!!" They both called.
The disagreement was finally broken up by their mother, Laura, entering
the kitchen. The woman sighed. "Boys, boys! What's all this noise?" She
could figure as there was only one reason Connor would be up on the
counter, and even without the open cookie jar, the crumbs were all over
the floor. She pointed to Connor then in the direction of the stairs
"You, go get changed" Then she pointed Carter in the direction of the
broom. "And you, go clean up this mess." The woman shook her head and
sighed yet again, this is why they need a night without kids, she loved
her boys dearly but every so often her and her husband just needed a
date night. But date nights were rare, even more rare was for them to
get a whole entire night.
Even with all this chaos before they left, it was going to be a good
weekend, not only for the adults but the boys were going to have fun
away from home as well. Both boys grumbled but did as went off to do
what they were told, they were good kids even with their constant
bickering. The youngest of the three brothers, Niles, made his way
downstairs after he saw Connor head to his room. The seven-year-old had
been hiding at the top of the stairs since the argument started and
didn't want to be dragged into it. He had changed from his school
clothes to something else as his mother had asked, and he also had his
overnight bag packed into a backpack. He was all ready to go. He held
his favorite stuffed animal, a panda named Tommy, in his arms and had
his bag on his back.
"When are we going?" He asked.
"Not for a bit, go do your chores." His mother told him.
"What chores?"
"You know what chores. Your usual ones. Tidy your room, empty the dishwasher?"
"Ooooh. Right." Niles sat his bag down on the couch and placed Tommy
down next to it, leaning the stuffed panda's arm protectively against
the bag. Tommy would keep guard. Then he hurried off to do his chores.
Laura watched the boy head off and couldn't help but give a small smile
at all the chaos.
This routine was typical. It was the normal after school routine of
rounding up kids, getting uniforms put away, reminding them to get
chores done. Sometimes breaking up an argument. Kids coming and going,
here and there, the family kept busy. There was the noise, the chaos,
the fights, the hustle to get everything done and to get every boy on
task. She didn't know if she was coming or going some days, many days
she longed for a nap. But she loved all the chaos of raising kids. She
knew she was going to miss this someday when the boys were grown. The
twins were already nine. Tween and teen years weren't far off.
The house was filled with sounds of idle conversations and the sound of
chores being done. A typical atmosphere and energy for the household
afternoons. Once the kids finished their chores they were allowed to go
play, then the family would meet back up for dinner time. Typically they
would eat a meal at home and together. But tonight the kids would be
dropped off with the babysitter so that their parents could go on a
date.
With backpacks packed up as weekend bags, the boys gathered in the hallway near the garage entrance. They were ready to head out. Which was a good thing. Their mother was expecting to have to hustle last minute and scramble to get bags and pack list minute items. The boys were on top of it once. They must have been excited for this night.
"Ready to go?" She asked. All three boys nodded. She trusted all their
bags were properly packed and ready to go. She had packed Niles' bag on
her own and had checked on the twins' bags after they had packed theirs.
As long as they hadn't rummaged through them then everything should
still be ready.
With the house locked up, the family loaded into the car and headed out for the night.
They were only five minutes from their home, with only another ten to go
before they reached the Anderson's house when everything was ripped
away from them in an ear busting crunch. Twisted metal on metal scraping
and crunching. A car had run through a red light and hit the family's
car. With a crushing of metal and shattering of glass, the cars
screeched to a stop in the middle of the intersection. The tires of the
family car slowed to a stop as the vehicle rested on its side.
Connor didn't know what had happened. It was so sudden and fast. He
blinked and looked around. Car accident? Had to be he figured. He felt
disoriented and sluggish. Time moved slowly. What was going on? He felt
something warm running down his face but his arm didn't want to
cooperate with his attempts to try to wipe it away. What was that? He
felt the same sticky warmth building on his forearm. Was he hurt? He
didn't feel any pain.
Everything was unnervingly quiet in the car. Niles was whining but other
than the sound of the car settling there wasn't any noise. Connor tried
to ground himself and figure out what was going on. His thoughts were
swimming. He swallowed hard and held back a gag. He felt sick and the
coppery taste in his mouth wasn't helping.
Finally, he managed to speak up. "Mom? Dad?" No response. Scared, he
carefully turned his head to look at his twin sitting next to him.
Carter had a gash on his forehead that was oozing. The boy said nothing.
He looked out of it. Dazed the boy's eyes managed to meet Connor's.
Good. He was still alive. Connor reached behind him to Niles' seat. He
took his younger brother's hand. He couldn't move to check on the boy
but he knew he was alive from his sobs.
"Shh. It's okay Niles." The eldest tried to comfort. Blood slid between
their hands. Was that Niles' or Connor's? The boy didn't want to know,
and he barely noticed anyway.
Niles finally spoke up. "Mommys dead." he sobbed out.
Carter in his dazed state started wiped some blood off his face. It
didn't help, more trickled out. He croaked out "Daddys not..." When was
the last time he called their father daddy? "Dad's not breathing." His
eyes darted to the driver and back at his brothers.
Connor squeezed the younger boy's hand. He glanced over to their mother
she sat unmoving in the passenger's seat. There was a lot of blood.
Connor's stomach turned. He didn't want to look at their father. Was he
in any better shape? The boy shook. Was their mom really dead? If she
wasn't, would she even be okay? What about dad? What about them? His
head spun with questions and dizziness. What did he tell his brother?
Sirens broke him out of his thoughts. "Helps on the way Ni. Everything
will be okay." Was he trying to reassure his brother or himself? Sirens
got louder as they approached.
Everything was going to be okay. It had to be.
He hadn't heard what anyone was saying as emergency responders swarmed
the totaled vehicles. There was a lot of commotion and sounds but he
couldn't focus on any one thing. Everything seemed muffled and his head
hammered. His heartbeat in his ears. The nine-year-old drifted off,
letting himself slip now that there was help here. He was sleepy. He
could sleep, couldn't he? It was going to be hard. But he couldn't worry
himself with that. He just wanted to rest.
Hank Anderson was supposed to have the night off, he was to babysit the kids of one of his buddies from work. But he rarely actually had a night off. He was always prepared to be called in for various reasons. Tonight had been one of those times. He had been called in to help deal with a particularly bad car accident. His wife would be home to deal with the Oursler kids. Everything was a buzz. First responders swarmed the accident scene. Just two cars and a terrible twist of metal. Damn. This was a bad one. The sound of children's cries carried over the sounds of the scene. His heart ached. He couldn't stand children being hurt. The gruff man became a total softie whenever there were kids involved.
But tonight was worse than he could have imagined. His stomach dropped.
He recognized the van. No. It couldn't be. There were a lot of minivans.
It's probably not them. But then he caught a glimpse of the passengers.
God no. It was them.
As the youngest was loaded onto a stretcher, Hank pulled a stuffed toy
out from the wreckage and tucked the panda next to the injured child. He
didn't know how badly hurt everyone was but he knew one thing: he had
to get to the hospital.
Things were a blur. Connor didn't remember everything that happened. Had he drifted off at some point? The pain finally found its way to him. He hadn't even known he was hurt but now he was laying on a cot in a hospital. His left arm was thickly wrapped in bandages and a brace. His favorite shirt was missing and was replaced with a gown. His chest was wrapped in bandages taped to his side. He looked around. First inspecting himself, looking over the bandages and various tubes and wires leading to him. There was an IV in the back of his right hand, and much to his dismay he also had a tube elsewhere. He didn't like that at all. Where were his brothers and parents?
As he came to more he could hear crying. Was that Niles? He finally sat
up enough to look around the room. He saw his younger brother in a bed
next to him. He was crying for his stuffed panda. "Where's Tommy?" he
asked, no, sobbed. "Who's Tommy?" someone else asked. Connor glanced
around. Oh, it was... hmm must be a nurse he assumed. He tried to speak
up resulting in a mumble He tried again. "Tommy is his panda toy." he
informed them.
Tommy would soothe and comfort the boy when their parents weren't able
to. But nothing would comfort any of them if their parents were... no!
Their parents weren't dead. They were just hurt and being treated
somewhere else. They had to be. He'd see their mom soon enough. Connor
didn't want to think about the sight of their parents covered in blood
and eerily still. They were going to be okay. All of them. Connor
watched as there was some shuffling and then the toy panda was pulled
from a plastic bag labeled 'patent belongings'. Good, the toy wasn't
lost in the accident. Niles didn't go anywhere without his little Tommy
toy.
Niles looked okay. That reassured his brother. Like Connor, he had
hospital garb on, a gown as well as bandages. He had some visible
scrapes on his face and his left hand was heavily bandaged. There were
machines and wires around him. But he looked more upset that he couldn't
find his favorite toy than he was hurting. And now that he had Tommy he
was calmed down. Connor still had to wonder where Carter was. In
another room probably? He could only hope. He could have asked one of
the adults in the room. They would know, wouldn't they? He was pretty
sure they were medical professionals of some sort but the thought didn't
cross his mind. Nor did he have it in him to speak again. The boy
couldn't focus on his twin right now. While the worry tugged at him and
he wanted to see his family he also wasn't fully present due to a
combination of medication and pain. Thankfully the pain wasn't as bad as
it could be thanks to the drugs in his system. He was out of it. And
quickly found himself being pulled back into numbness and sleep.
Carter was alone, and he wasn't happy about it. He didn't like it at all. He usually was a more solitary person. Even for as young as he was, he never was much for touchy feelings but today was different. He was hurting. He wanted his mom and dad. He wanted his brother, Connor. Even if he spent his whole childhood bumping heads with his twin, he still felt comfort in the presence of his family. But instead, he was alone.
No. He wasn't actually alone. There were people buzzing around the room
and hovering around him but he didn't recognize any of their faces. Not
only was he surrounded by strangers but they were poking and prodding
him as well. Someone was always doing things to him. He didn't like that
either.
Carter had a rather clear recollection of what had happened, some
details were blurry and some chunks were missing but he was with it
enough to understand most of what was going on. Recollection of all of
the day's events only made his heart pound faster. He could see his
parents' bloodied faces whenever he closed his eyes. And he worried over
how his brothers were doing. They didn't seem too bad when he last saw
them in the car. Niles was crying. Usually, Carter was irritated by his
youngest sibling but this time it was different the pained sound was
something he never heard before.
He remembered being removed from the car, the movement causing him pain.
As he was put into an ambulance, he saw Hank. At least he thinks he
did. Why was he there? Did he know what had happened? He would be happy
to have him here even if his family couldn't be here with him. He didn't
remember the ambulance ride itself. That was a blur. His arrival was
when he was swarmed but he wasn't able to answer all the questions they
had for him. He either didn't know the answers or his mouth didn't want
to cooperate with him. He managed to tell them his name was Carter and
that his chest hurt. Wasn't that good enough? He couldn't really move
either. He'd be irritated if he was with it more.
That's when they cut his clothes away, which wasn't much of a shame. He
didn't really like that shirt anyway. It was when someone pressed some
gauze onto his forehead that he realized he was bleeding there and the
stinging finally came to his attention. He hadn't known he was hurt
there, or anywhere really. He was fine! Wasn't he? He felt a poke in his
hand but he didn't feel much pain from that. What were they doing?
Oh. He knew about those things. It was an IV. He heard them ask him
something, he knew that they wanted something from him but he didn't
really process what exactly they were asking. Something about peas..?
err peeing maybe? Couldn't be. That was just weird. Wasn't it? "No." He
tried saying, not really sure what was going on. But nothing actually
came out of his mouth. He did however, managed to shake his head as a
form of 'no'. Someone said something else and then they were touching
and poking him again.
He managed a complaint when taken somewhere else. They wanted to do some
type of scan or test to see how hurt he was inside or if he had any
broken bones. No thanks. While he wasn't in the mood for all of this, he
still tried to be cooperative with them though. He got yelled at by his
mom before for not listening to doctors. When Carter was little, no
more than a toddler, he would fight the physician at every examination.
But thankfully was a generally healthy child so doctor visits were
typically limited to his yearly checkups. Still his mother's stern
commands and pleas for him to behave stuck with him.
After x-rays and other exams, they had him bandaged and hooked up and
settled in a patient room. Finally, he was left alone. All the poking
and whatever else they were doing was wrapped up. He had stitches in his
head, his leg was elevated with ice, and his bruised ribs had a bandage
over them and the abrasions that were there. Carter was ready to rest.
But how could he do that when he didn't know about his brothers? Or
parents?
Carter's feet slid to the floor. He managed to get out of the bed without any alarms being raised, not that the boy knew what bed alarms were. He managed to worm his way out of the wires and tubes he was hooked into as well. Well not all. He left the tube in the more sensitive and private area in place. He didn't want to hurt anything down there and it seemed like it was mobile enough. He didn't need to remove it. It should not have been this easy, should it? Even Carter, just a child, knew he shouldn't have been able to do this. Nor should he even try but he didn't care about that much. He only cared about seeing his family.
He carefully poked his head out the doorway and looked up and down the
hall. No one was around. No was his chance to sneak out. He slipped out
the door. He walked gingerly down the hall. Sneaking from one doorway to
the other carefully peaking in with hopes of seeing a familiar face. He
walked with the care of a child trying to catch sight of Santa on
Christmas Eve. Partially due to the soreness that roughed his whole body
and partially due to the fact that he didn't want to get caught. Three
rooms down, he achieved his mission. In the bed closest to the down was a
very familiar face. One that mirrored his own. Connor.
He entered the room and could see the second bed was occupied by his
younger brother Niles. Good. They were both alive. Relief flooded the
boy. Not knowing what else to do and not wanting to leave Carter managed
to climb into bed and squeeze in alongside his brother being mindful of
the areas wrapped in bandages and the IV. He didn't want to hurt his
brother. As Carter climbed into the bed, he accidentally jostled his
twin awake.
Connor's eyes slid open he groggily looked to Carter. "What..."
"Hi, Connor."
"Hi, Carter." Connor shifted slightly to make room for the other boy.
Carter settled in along side him. Both embraced each other and drifted
off to sleep. Finally being relieved that his brothers were alive and,
he assumed well, the tired boy who was craving the closeness of his
brothers, fell asleep intertwined with his twin.
After confirming John and Laura were dead and finding out which hospital the children were taken to, a very solemn face and heavy-hearted Hank informed his wife Molly of the loss of their friends and went to the hospital to see the kids. Someone needed to be there for them and he knew no one else would be. At least no one they recognized. It was going to be a rough night for everyone and it would be easier if a familiar face was there for them. He also wanted to get the ball rolling on being allowed to take them home when they were released. Thankfully Hank and Molly had everything set up to be foster parents, and Hank was also pretty sure that they also were the named guardians in John and Lura's will. That would make things go easier for everyone.
Hank had just arrived when the hospital became a buzz of activity. Security on high alert. It didn't take him long to figure out the cause for concern was a child missing from their hospital room. His gut twisted as something told him he'd know which kid it was. He wasn't sure which exactly but it was only of the Oursler boys for sure.
He presented his badge to someone at security and explained himself to
allow himself entrance to the pediatric wing. Or at least try. They
weren't letting anyone in or out until the alert had passed and the
child was found. The floor, and hospital as a whole, was on lockdown. He
had been able to get further than he would have if he didn't have his
police identification but he was still not allowed beyond the doors that
lead to the entrance to the pediatric wing. If they couldn't find a
sign of the missing child in the hospital and would have to contact the
authorities, then Hank would be allowed through the double doors to talk
to the staff.
Hank hopped for the shake of whoever was missing that they would be
found safe somewhere on the floor. Just a scared kid that slipped away
and hid to try to avoid some medical procedure and nothing more.
Thankfully for the shake of the missing child and Hank's own patience,
he didn't have to wait long as the child was quickly found after each
room was checked over. And his gut instincts were correct. It was one of
the boys. Carter had somehow slipped out of his bed and room and went
on a hunt for his brothers. He was found sharing a bed with Connor, both
boys sleeping peacefully. Hank hadn't been expecting that. He didn't
know what to expect with the situation but Carter out of all the boys?
Sneaking out to lay with his twin? That was unexpected. Carter wasn't
that type of child. He didn't do the touchy-feely kind of thing. He
simply wasn't the kind of person that did snuggles and cuddles. Not
since he was a very young toddler at least. He outgrew hugs and kisses
quicker than most other kids.
None of the kids were the type to wander off and do things they
shouldn't. And they shouldn't be sneaking out of hospital rooms. Poor
Carter must have been feeling really bad. Was he in pain? Was he
grieving alone? How badly were they all hurt? Hank didn't know. He hoped
none of them were in any pain. He hadn't had the chance to see any of
them yet. He got a visitors pass and an extra clearance to be allowed
into the children’s floor then went to find the kids.
His mind was racing as he walked through the halls to find the boys. He
might as well visit the accidental troublemaker first. Well. no. Maybe
trouble maker was the wrong word. Carter didn't mean to do what he did
or realized he shouldn't be doing what he did. He just wanted to see his
family. Accidental chaos maker was a better description for the boy.
Hank knew Carter was awake and well enough to wander the halls, so that
took some worry off his shoulders but he still had a lot to deal with.
He was dealing with the loss of two of his close friends and facing
taking on three injured grieving children. Not to mention all the things
that had to be dealt with from those things.
John and Lura didn't have any family other than each other and their
children. Someone was going to have to step up for the planning of their
funerals. Hopefully, they had insurance. Hank and Molly were going to
have to figure that out and be the ones to make final arrangements for
their friends. There were also a lot of details that had to be cleared
up when it came to who was going to be the guardians of the children.
Hank and Molly were named in the will and had already been cleared in
the past to be emergency foster parents, but that didn't mean there
wouldn't be any headaches, hassles, and paperwork hurdles to deal with.
Hank was also worried about Connor and Niles. He's yet to hear anything
about them other than Carter was in Connor's bed. Were they alright?
Actually, he hadn't heard anything about any of the boys medical-wise.
he hadn't talked to a nurse or a doctor in-depth yet. He only had heard
about Carter's escape story. Hank knew that the kids had been through a
lot today. But he didn't even know if the kids knew what had happened to
their parents. Was he going to have to be the one that broke the news
to them?
Hank steadied himself as he reached the proper room that Carter was assigned to, the boy having been resettled and rehooked up. With alarms set this time to prevent another attempt to get out of bed or leave the room. He knocked and entered the room. He scanned Carter over to see what his injuries were. He had heavy bandages around several areas and bruising had set in along some areas but overall he seemed to have come out of it no worse for wear. He had a thick piece of gauze taped to his forehead and a new IV in his arm. The arm the other one was in had a band aid over the area. Other than an IV and a few monitors he didn’t have to worry about any tubes or wires. He was going to be alright.
The boy was resting in his bed, seemingly content with where he was for
now. Perhaps he wouldn't try another vanishing act now that he knew his
brothers were safe.
"Hey kid, I heard about the accident. I came to see how you and your brothers are doing."
Carter gave the man a quick glance. But then averted his eyes. He cast a
sad look downward. The bed sheets were suddenly very interesting. “I
saw you at the…” What could he call it? It was an accident but he
couldn’t bring himself to say that let alone call it a crash. That was
too harsh sounding. Living it once was bad enough, he didn’t need to
relive the sound of crunching metal. “I saw you arriving as they were
taking me away.” Was that any better? “Did you see...” He wanted to ask
‘did you see my parents’ but just thinking it brought back visions of
them bloodied and not breathing. He froze. Unsure what to say and
trapped in his own memories.
Hank waited patiently for the boy to come back around. He didn’t want to rush him.
Blinking and speaking softly he finally managed to ask what he was
dreading. But he needed to know. "They're dead... aren't they?... My mom
and dad? I mean... I-I saw their faces… there was so much…" He
swallowed hard trying to compose himself but the young boy wasn't in
control of his emotions and the tears started to slip down his face.
"There was so much blood." Hank bit his lip and held back a curse. Damn.
The kid didn't know, at least no one had formally broken the news to
him yet. But the kid also had seen his parent's bloodied, lifeless
faces. That was fucked up. Poor kid. He was going to have a long road
ahead of him. Grief was a beast.
On top of the fact that he not only lost his parents but he saw his
parents die? He had the image of their blood covered faces burned into
his mind. He wasn't going to be okay for a long time. Hell, he wasn't
going to sleep well for a while either. And yet rest was what he needed
most to heal from his physical injuries. He was going to need a lot of
help and guidance in order to be able to healthily move on. His brothers
were going to need help too. This was just the type of thing Hank was
dreading. He'd told people their loved ones had died before. It was part
of his job. It was hard but he could manage. But this was different. He
knew the family. He had to look a child in the eyes and break his
world.
With a heavy heart, Hank gave a solemn nod. He thought he could handle
this but he was having trouble holding on. But he needed to. Carter
needed someone sturdy to lean on.
"I'm sorry kid. They didn't make it."
Carter let the words sink in. He had assumed it but hearing it still hit
him like a truck. The tears finally broke. He wasn't just crying but
sobbing. The child shook as tears flowed down his cheeks. Hank took a
step forward and reached out. Careful of the boy's injuries he put a
hand on Carter's shoulder, giving it a squeeze. Carter surprised him by
latching onto him. The boy buried his face into Hank's chest and wrapped
his arms around him. Hank hesitated only for a moment before wrapping
his arms around the boy to return the embrace. He wanted to say
something but what could he say? Something like 'it'll be okay' could
work. He knew it would all work out. He'd help him out through the long
haul but would Carter want to hear that?
He rubbed circles into the boy's back as a form of comfort. As he spoke
gently to the broken child. "I got you kiddo. Everything will be okay.
Eventually, everything will be okay"
Carter's crying slowly faded and he calmed down. His body didn't relax,
however. He was still tense. A few minutes later the boy pulled away.
Face and eyes red and puffy from crying. He sniffled and looked up to
the man.
"What's going to happen to me? And! And my brothers?" Carter asked.
Hank gave him a pat to the back. “You’ll be alright. It’ll take time but with some help you’ll heal up just fine.”
Carter shook his head. That wasn’t what he meant. He was sore but he
figured he would be fine. He was more worried about what happened when
he left the hospital. “I didn’t mean our injuries. I mean where are we
going to go? Who’s going to take care of us? I heard siblings go to
different homes sometimes when things happen to their moms and dads. I
don’t want to be split up!” He might be harsh on his brothers sometimes,
and sure they fought like any kid did but he still loved them. He
already lost his parents he didn’t want to lose his brothers too! He
preferred to be a loner but he didn’t want to be completely alone.
“You don’t have to worry about that. I’m here for you. All three of you.
Molly and I are going to take you kids in. I’ve already started working
out the details.” Hank reassured the boy.
“You’re gonna take care of us?”
“Yes, we are. You’ll always have a home with us.”
“Thank you, Hank.” Carter was surprised and genuinely appreciative of
what the man was willing to do but, still all the news of the day hadn’t
fully sunk in with him yet. He had a lot to process.
“You’re welcome kiddo. Now I got to go check on your brothers. Your rest
up and I’ll check back in later. No more running off either.”
Oh. He knew what he did? Oops. He wasn’t about to admit that he was
worried about his brothers or purposefully fell asleep curled up along
side his twin. Carter remained quiet and gave a simple nod.
“See you later kiddo, sleep tight.” He called as he left the room.
Carter settled in and quickly found himself nodding off. Hank had put
him at ease a little bit. Knowing the truth hurt, but the grief hadn’t
settled in yet. But being reassured that him and his brothers would stay
together and be fine helped ease the boy’s worries enough to help him
get some much needed sleep.
Hank made his way to a room down the hall. He still needed to talk to a doctor about the boys’ conditions but he wanted to see the kids first if he could. He knew they needed a familiar face. They needed to feel safe and reassured that they’ll be okay. He also needed to do the dreaded task of breaking the news to them about their parents. As he approached the door, he could tell both boys were awake, but neither were talking. Perhaps the brothers had some small talker earlier but neither was in any condition for much talking at the moment. There were thick bandages around Connor’s arm which was held in a sling and Niles’ had a split on his arm as well. Both have various sizes and thicknesses of bandages over various cuts and scrapes.
They were doing better than they were when they first arrived. Niles was
calmer and now that they were both awake, alert and, oriented some of
the tubes and wires were gone. Connor was grateful to have the more
uncomfortable things gone. The short time the catheter was in, it had
become his mortal enemy. As Hank approached, the door was open and he
still knocked on the door frame before entering. The privacy curtain
between the beds so pulled back allowing Connor and Niles to see each
other. It had been at Niles’ request and Connor agreed to it. They
turned their attention to the door when they heard the knock.
The boys looked surprised to see Hank entering the room. They hadn’t
seen Hank at the scene of the accident like Carter had and he wasn’t on
their minds as someone who would be in to visit them. But it did make
sense he would find out about what happened. He was a police officer and
the family was on the way to his house when the crash happened. He was a
good man who always checked on the family when he could. Tonight would
be no different. Their minds were on their own injuries and their
parents. Hank looked them over. Connor was the worse of the three boys,
and Niles looked the least injured. At least that’s how it appeared to
Hank from a quick visual once over. However, both boys had heavy
bandaging.
“Hi, Mr. Hank.” Niles greeted, quietly. He held his stuffed toy close to
him. Hank was happy the toy had stuck with him. The kid took the thing
everywhere for comfort. And he needed that now. Connor gave a polite nod
of acknowledgment. “Hi” was all he said.
“Do you hear about what happened?” Niles asked.
Hank gave a solemn nod. “Yeah, I heard kiddo. And I came to check on you kids.”
“Mommy and Daddy died. I saw them.” The boy cried out. Shit. Niles had a view of them as well. Hank bit back a curse.
“Ni keeps saying they died but they can’t be...” Connor had seen their
faces as well but he didn’t want to believe they were dead. He didn’t
want to think about it. No. They couldn’t be. His emotional brown eyes
locked onto Hank’s blues, seeking for reassurance. He needed to know his
brother was wrong. That he was wrong. That their parents were going to
be okay. They weren’t dead. Just hurt. It would all be okay. Wouldn’t
it?
Hank took a deep breath. This wasn’t any easier the second time he had
to do it. He shook his head. Sad eyes cast downward. He told both boys
the bad news. “I’m sorry. They didn’t make it.” The boys froze as their
brains slowly processed the news. They had suspected it to be true but
to actually hear it was different. Niles broke into tears. The young
child sobbing as he latched onto his stuffed animal friend. Connor
remained quiet staring at Hank. The seriousness and reality not fully
settled in.
Hank moved across the room to comfort Niles much in the same way he had
Carter. Niles was quick to latch on to the man. Burying his head into
his chest the boy cried his eyes out. Connor leaned back. Blinking he
settled against the pillows. He turned to watch his brother’s reaction
and felt his own heartache as it suddenly sank in. Tears broke the
floodgates flowing down his cheeks in rapid succession. Hank wished
there was less space between the beds so he could reach out to both kids
at once. As much as he wanted to help comfort Connor as well, Niles
kept him firmly in place. If he didn’t have so many things attached to
him, and if he hadn’t seen how everyone reacted to Carter leaving his
bed, Connor would have climbed out of bed to latch onto Hank as well. He
wanted to embrace Niles too. But instead, the boy remained in his bed.
Finally, something came to his mind. What was going to happen to them?
Someone had to take care of them. But who? Where would they go when they
got out of the hospital? He didn’t want to be trucked off to some
stranger. He needed the remainder of his family and the family needed
him. What would he do without them?
“Wait! What’s going... how are we... where...” He couldn’t gather his
thoughts enough to finish any of his questions. “I want to be with my
brothers. I don’t want to be taken off to some strange family! I don’t
want to be split up!” His thoughts were similar to Carter’s. He knew
siblings got split up sometimes. And that was the last thing he wanted
to think about. He might argue and fight with his brothers sometimes but
he still loved them. He already lost his parents, what would he do if
he lost his brothers too?
“What? We’re gonna be split up? I want my brothers! Don’t let them take us away!” Niles wailed.
Hank rubbed circles into the boy's back. “Shhh. Don’t worry about those kind of details. It will all be alright.”
“No, it’s not! Our family is going to be all broken! Mommy and Daddy are
dead and I’ll never see my brothers again!” The youngest cried out.
Hank continued to softly rub the boy’s back, trying to offer some type
of comfort. He shifted his position so he could look at Connor as well.
He wanted to reassure both of them. “No one said you’ll be taken away
from each other.”
“But Connor said-“
Hank cut Niles off. “Connor was just asking a question. But none of that is going to happen.”
“Then what’s going to happen to us?” Connor asked again.
”You’ll be kept together. I’ll make sure of it. I’m taking you kids in. All three of you will come to live with me and Molly.”
“We are?”
“Yes. Our home is your home, don’t you worry about it.”
Niles finally pulled away and sniffled as he looked up at Hank. He
leaned back in for one more hug before settling back down into his bed.
Hank carefully ruffled his hair, being mindful of the cuts on his head.
“You two rest up, alright? Sleep is important, it’ll help you heal up
and the sooner you heal up the sooner you’ll be out of here.” He stood
and moved to hug Connor. The boy returned the embrace, as best as he
could with his injured arm. And Hank ruffled his hair as well. “I have a
few things I need to go and do but I’ll be back later to check on you,
alrighty?” It was more than a few things, and none of them were simple
but he would be back to check on them soon enough. He didn’t want them
to feel alone or be scared by themselves. Hospital stays could be rough
on kids without them having lost their parents. They needed someone to
be there for them and Hank was determined to be that someone.
“Will you stay for a little bit longer? Just until a fall asleep,
maybe?” Niles asked holding Tommy tightly. The panda toy offering him
some comfort in an other wise tough time. Both boys had such sad brown
eyes, the puppy dog eyes, even when they weren’t orphaned and laying in a
hospital bed. The little boy’s question was more of a plea than a
request. Aw, damn. How could Hank say no to that? Everything else could
wait. The kids were more important. And yes, while everything he had to
do was for them anyway, they themselves still came first. He just wanted
them to feel safe and secure. If sitting beside them for a few minutes
would put them at ease, Hank would do just that. He gave a nod and
settled into a chair that was positioned between the two beds. “Alright
kiddo, I’ll stay for a little while so you can fall asleep.” He didn’t
want to leave their side but he had to at some point.
He’ll stay until they were asleep then moved onto his next task of
talking to a nurse or doctor. He needed to know what the boys were up
against, they looked fine enough but really, how badly were they hurt?
He needed to have an idea of what kind of injures they and how long the
road of recovery would look like. He also needed an idea of how long
before they could leave. If possible, he wanted the other details to be
worked out before then so the boys could come right home with him and
the transition could go as smoothly as possible.
It didn’t take long for both boys to drift off. Hank quietly left the room, careful to silently close the door behind him. Now that the boys were all checked on and resting, Hank’s mind was once again overwhelmed with everything he had to take care of. Although he knew Molly was also taking care of the things she could. She was working to ensure their custody of the boys. Hank was halfway to the nurses’ station when he felt his phone buzz. He checked his messages. Much to his relief, he had a voicemail from his wife telling him that they had been granted emergency custody of the boys. Thank God. That will make things easier.
There was still a lot of things to work out custody wise to make their
placement permanent. Things that were already complicated was made even
more difficult by the fact that they weren’t related by blood. Typically
it is preferred that children are placed with family where possible, if
not they would go into the foster system. But the Anderson’s were just
as much as family as someone biologically related to them would be. It
was easy to see that. Plus there were other factors to take into account
as well. The boys knew them. Their parents specifically named them as
their guardians if anything happened to them. The Andersons were already
working with the foster system as an emergency foster home.
Hank figured they would be approved but it was still a big weight off
his shoulders to know it was official. Even if they still had to work to
make their emergency foster into a more sustainable placement. Hell,
Hank was already thinking of adoption. Once the boys were home and
settled, he didn’t want to risk anything ripping them away. That would
make the process so much harder than it needed to be. Plus Hank had seen
how overburden the system was and how messed up it could be. It could
help but unless a kid was in danger Hank always thought it was better
for them to be with familiar faces, they considered family.
But their approval as emergency caretakers is still a good step forward.
It would also make the other steps they had to take easier. With that
off his shoulders, he could focus on the boys’ health. He reached the
nurses’ station and introduced himself, explaining who he was and that
he wanted to know how the kids were doing. He was the guardian of the
three Oursler boys recently admitted and wanted to know the extent of
Niles, Connor, and Carter’s injuries. He wasn’t sure if he would be told
without him showing any proof of who he was in relation to the kids but
he still wanted to try. If it didn’t work out, he would have to try
again once he had the paperwork on hand that stated him as their
guardian.
Luckily for him, he didn’t have to wait. He got the run down on their
conditions. Thankfully they didn’t have any life threatening injuries
which, Hank had figured from his visits with them. Most of their
injuries were bumps and scratches. However Carter did need several
stitches in his head and, both Carter and Connor had concussions. Niles
had a broken arm and, Connor had a dislocation in his arm. It would take
some time for everything to heal fully but they were expected to make a
full recovery in the coming months. The things taking the longest were
going to be the bone and joint injury that Niles and Connor had. But all
the other injuries would be fine in the coming weeks. The main concern
was keeping an eye on them for the head injuries, and the biggest thing
for him to keep in mind was the soreness and pain the boys might have in
the coming days. Better news was that they were being kept overnight
for observation due to the head injuries, or potential in Niles’ case,
and would all be able to leave in the morning.
It didn’t give Hank and Molly much time to work out everything they
would need to but since the biggest step was already taken care of
regarding them taking the boys in, they wouldn’t have to worry when the
time came for the boys to be discharged. They were for sure going to be
able to take the boys home with them, but before then they would have to
set up the guest room. The Andersons’ guest room was typically always
set up for the potential of unexpected company. They often looked after
the Oursler kids and the Andersons were also emergency foster parents.
They had to be ready to have kids in their home. But Hank wanted to make
it up for the twin and work out the other spare bedroom for Niles. He
wanted to give each boy their own space and make them feel welcomed in
their new home. It would make things easier in the long run, wouldn’t
it? He didn’t know how much the two of them could get done tonight, and
he did want to spend some time at the boys’ bedsides but maybe they
could at least get two rooms set up with the basics. The extra cozy
aspects could come later, with the boys adding their own touches as they
settled into their new rooms.
Having gotten the information he needed about the boys’ injuries Hank moved onto his next task. He was going to meet with a social worker. His phone had a few messages that he needed to tend to, and it was mostly from friends who heard. One was from a friend who was a social worker who offered to meet up. It wouldn’t be anything official right now, he was going to meet with a friend, but he hoped talking to her would help make things less overwhelming.
He met up with his friend, Camille with a deep sigh. Settling down at a table with a coffee in his hand.
“Hey, Hank.” Camille greeted. “How are you fairing?” Caring brown eyes looked to the man with concern.
“Eh, well. Ya know. I’m hanging in there… honestly I don’t think it’s fully hit me yet.” Hank said.
It must be so overwhelming, Camille thought. She’s seen a lot in her
years and line of work and knew how it could be. Plus he looked more
tired than usual. And it has only been a few hours. Where would he go
from here? But that is why she offered to help once she heard the news.
She didn’t know the Ourslers in any way but she had heard that the
Andersons were taking on the kids of their recently deceased friends.
That was a heavy hitter. She wanted to help where she could, in order to
make it all less overwhelming or to help offer guidance to them.
Anything she could to make the situation go as smoothly as possible for
all involved.
“Thanks for getting back to me Cam. I appreciate it. I could really use
some help here.” Hank took a much needed sip of his coffee. He didn’t
even put sugar in it like he usually did. But he needed something strong
to get him through this.
She gave her long time friend a small smile. “Not a problem. I can’t do
much officially, conflict of interest and all that, but I can offer up
some advice and guidance if you need it.”
Hank took another sip of his coffee and looked Cam right in the eyes. “Trust me. I fucking need it.”
Camille pulled out a folder. “Let’s get started then. I think we had a lot to cover.”
After talking with Camile for a while about his concerns and the complications and paperwork in store for him, Hank was more than ready to head home. How long had he been here? How long since he found out about the death of his friends? He rubbed at his face and gave a deep sigh. Things weren’t going to slow down any time soon. He felt tired and needed some rest but he had other things to focus on first. Once he had the kids home, he would start to get some rest but even then, he would only have more details to work out for permanent custody and the funerals. It was going to be a hell of a week ahead of them all.
Hank also wanted to meet up with his wife and get some work done on
setting up the bedrooms before heading back to the hospital to be by the
kids’ sides. He needed a moment to decompress and hold Molly in his
embrace before jumping at it again. More coffee would be nice as well,
he certainly wouldn’t complain. Even if he knew his wife wouldn’t
approve of the late night caffeine. But if it was going to be a late
night anyway might as well drink some to give him the energy, he needed
to chug along a few hours more.
Before he left it stopped in one more time to each of the rooms to check
in on the kids. Niles and Carter were sleeping soundly. Connor was
awake but didn’t request Hank to stay with him. He happily gave him a
hug and half turned his attention to a show that was quietly playing on
the room’s tv. While keeping his attention on the tv he leaned into
Hank’s chest. “Will you be back?” Connor asked quietly.
“I’ll be back later kiddo.” He whispered so as not to disturb Niles.
“Promise?” His voice was full of anxiety and uncertainty. Moving to look him in the eyes.
Hank squeezed the boy’s hand and ran his other hand through his hair.
“Promise. I won’t forget you. An’ you won’t be alone for long. I just
have to deal with something but I’ll be back later.”
The boy nodded and settled back down. “Thank you.”
“You’re welcome son. Get some more rest, okay?”
“I will. Goodnight Hank.”
“Goodnight, Connor.”
Finally making it into the front door, Hank would have been ready to collapse if it wasn’t for his determination and focus.
“Hi, honey.” Molly greeted.
“Hey, sweetie.” Hank returned the greeting and took her into his arms.
She returned the embrace. It had been a long evening for both of them.
Hank wanted to cherish the moment and soak up the silence and slow. The
warmth of his wife. He needed this. A break and distraction that was
sorely needed and very welcomed. They pulled away, the hug over far too
soon. But they had more pressing matters to tend to.
“How are they?” Molly asked.
Oh shit. He hadn't updated her, had he? Oops. Time to fix it now. Hank
explained their injuries to Molly. He was happy to say they should be
ready to go home tomorrow, and that none of their injuries were overly
serious. Concerning sure, head injures weren’t something to take
lightly, but overall they were going to be fine.
“I’m going to have to buy some kids Tylenol for them. They’re going to be sore and I don’t want them hurting.”
Hank nodded. “Good call. I didn’t even think about that.” It’ll be good
to have that on hand. Those who had been in car accidents were often
stiff and sore all over afterwards for a few days after, and the nurse
even said the mores would be hurting a bit.
“I started working on the spare room. I figured we could give the boys
some more space if we put them in two rooms instead of one.”
“You have? Wow, You’ve been busy.” She not only dealt with all the
details on securing the boys when they were released from the hospital
but she also started moving boxes from the spare bedroom to the garage?
She was just as busy as he was.
“I was thinking the same thing.” He added. “They would probably like their own rooms.”
Molly smiled. “I got the sheets on all the beds and moved some boxes
around. We still have some work to do but things are coming along.”
“Thanks, Mol’ you’re awesome.”
“You’re the one dealing with the medical side of things.”
“But you had the headache of working out temporary custody.”
As the couple conversed, they made their way to the spare room and worked to clear it out some more. They had normal bedroom furniture in the room but also used it heavily for storage. They needed to clean it up a bit before anyone stayed in it. They needed to move some boxes from the bedroom to the garage. They could better organize it later. “So I’ve been thinking… Why don’t we adopt the boys?” Hank brought up as he made another trip to the garage. He’d been thinking about it and felt his wife would be on board but it was still something that needed to be discussed.
Molly didn’t even pause to think. “I don’t want them to be split up and
they deserve a good home to grow up in.” She started. “We can be that
for them.” She set the box she was carrying down and wiped some sweat
away. “We’re going to adopt them.”
They finished clearing out the spare room and had all the storage items stacked neatly in one corner of the garage. They managed to move everything without making a mess elsewhere. That was something to be proud of. They made the beds. The spare room had a single bed and the guest room had a bunk bed. Once the beds were made up with spare sheets and blankets the rooms were as good as they were going to get them for the time being. After all that, it was getting late and Hank was getting tired but with the rooms taken care of, he was planning on heading back to the hospital. He wanted to make sure the boys weren’t alone overnight. Niles especially seemed scared to be alone. and he knew Connor wasn't comfortable with medical settings. He knew Molly wanted to see the kids as well.
There wasn’t any limit to visiting hours for the pedantic wing. They
would be able to send the night if they wanted to. They made their way
to the hospital and got their visitors' passes and headed to the boys’
rooms. All three kids were asleep. The in room TVs quietly droning on in
the background. After visiting all three boys, it was decided Molly
would stay with Carter and Hank would sit with the other two boys.
The night was thankfully very uneventful. The boys slept through the night and Hank managed to get some rest as well. Not very good sleep. It wasn’t good to sleep in a hard plastic molded chair, but it was something. He somehow felt refreshed while at the same time his back was killing him. He stretched and looked over the still sleeping children before going to check on Carter and Molly. After peeking in on them both sleeping, her back was going to hurt as well, Hank went on a search for some coffee.
It was going to be another busy day. The morning slowly crept on and the
boys woke up. They were starting to feel sore for sure, and the
emotional toll of the day before was finally hitting them. But they were
happy to know they were getting to leave the hospital that day. It was a
bit sad to think about when they went home it wouldn’t be their home or
that their parents wouldn’t be there. Things were different now.
After some time had passed, they were finally released. Thankfully, Hank
and Molly brought some spare clothes for the boys to change into, as
they knew the clothes they did have would have been cut when they were
first brought to the hospital. Some of the spare clothes were a bit big
on them, but overall they fit well. Hank was glad to have the clothes on
hand. The Anderson’s kept a few extra clothes on hand for their
fostering as well as any babysitting mishaps that might happen. The
clothes were in various sizes, as they never knew what they needed and
also covered the basics. A shirt or two, new underwear, socks. The spare
stash came in handy today.
The boys’ actual clothes and other belongings they could pick up as the
final arrangements for John and Lura were finalized and brought into
motion. And if they needed to in the meantime, they could take them
shopping for the things they needed things such as some more clothes
that were better fitting, footwear that wasn’t hospital gripy socks or
flip flops, or jackets. Whatever they needed. Even once they had the
boys’ belongings, they were going to need to go shopping. More blankets,
some hygiene items, kids’ snacks. Stuff like that.
After the boys were dressed Hank escorted the boys to the car. They could walk but were required to use a wheelchair as per some type of protocol. Carter had argued it but the other boys didn’t mind as much. Molly pulled the car around to the pick up spot and stayed as Hank walked each boy out and helped them into the car. It was a slow one by one process. As he would help settle a kid in with their bag of belongings – which wasn’t anything more than their ruined clothes but they were still going to take them with them-, then he would wheel them out, help them into the car and go back to help the next boy. And this didn’t include talking them into using the wheelchair when they insisted that they were completely fine. It was time consuming but easy enough. Hank was happy to have the boys’ home so quickly. Bringing them home and them arguing about discharge procedures meant they weren’t badly injured and that was all that mattered. They were going to be fine.
The real trouble started when they reached the car. Carter and Niles
were both afraid to get into the car, the trauma from the previous day’s
events became apparent. Carter was first. He was relaxed until he was
to get into the car. That was when he tensed up. He refused to move and
went quiet.
“Come on Carter, it’ll be alright.” Molly tried to help him along. The
boy shook his head and gripped the armrests of the wheelchair. Hank
tried to persuade him as well. The boy wasn’t budging. He was clearly
nervous. What were they going to do? How does one handle this kind of
situation? After some reassuring and words of gently encouragement,
Carter finally climbed into the car. He was still a little tense but had
relaxed enough to actual sit down. Hank made a mental note to work with
Carter on this and to consult a counselor. Probably one specializing
with kids. That would help a lot. All three boys were going to need some
therapy and help to really see the end of this.
Niles was second to be brought out and he had just as bad of a reaction
as Carter had. He even cried out and shook his head. Thankfully, the
past fifteen minutes of trying they had dealing with Carter helped bring
the younger boy to ease quicker. But he was clearly very anxious,
holding tight to Tommy and crewing on the edge of his lip. He was going
to need some extra help as well. Connor was brought out last and
thankfully for him, and the rest of them, he didn’t seem to have such a
reaction. And not only was he not scared but he was more than ready to
leave. He didn’t like doctors’ offices and hospitals were scary for kids
even without that kind of fear. But even with his willingness to ride
in the car, he was going to get a check in with a therapist as well.
There was going to be a lot of trauma and grief he needed to process.
With all three boys in the car and buckled in, they finally headed home.
Keeping a close eye on Carter and Niles for any signs of panic or worry
that would need to be taken care of right away.
It was a short drive home, and thankfully the boys’ anxiety was kept relatively low. They were all happy to get out of the car. Not only did it put them on edge and worry due to the accident but they also weren’t happy sitting so close to one another. Siblings had a special way of irritating each other. Maybe the Anderson’s needed to get a different car that could give each child more space between each other.
Hank and Molly showed the boys inside.
Once in the house, Molly got started on making lunch for everyone while
Hank showed the boys to what was going to be their rooms. They were used
to squeezing into one room or lounging on the couch but he was excited
to show them that they each had a little area to call their own. The
twins’ room was first. And they were excited to have the bunk bed. That
was always a point of arguing and ‘calling it’ when they stayed over.
What made bunk beds so intriguing to kids? Niles was the most excited it
seemed, to have his own room here instead of sharing with his older
brothers. He happily set Tommy down on the bed. He could guard the room
while Niles was away! However, Connor and Carter looked ready to dispute
the fact that their younger brother had his own room when they had to
share. Hmpf. That just wasn’t fair now, was it?
To defuse the situation, Hank took a risk at upsetting Niles and told
the boys the room with the bunk was the bigger room. And they didn’t
want a smaller room just to have their own, did they? It was true but it
was potentially disastrous to bring to their attention. Thankfully it
worked out in his favor and calmed the bickering brothers down.
With the boys shown to their own places in the house and the family
settling in Hank helped the boys change some of their bandages and made
sure they had Tylenol if they needed it for soreness or any other pains.
Finally, they sat down for lunch, grilled cheese and tomato soup.
Something that was a classic comfort food. Just what everyone needed.
Sometimes comfort was found in the simplest things. It was just the
beginning of a long road ahead, but some big hurdles were already
overcome. Things weren’t always easy but it was okay. They had each
other, a roof over their head, and warm soup in their stomachs. They
would get through this.
A few days had passed and the boys were slowly feeling better,
physically at least. Their pains started to go away and some areas with
smaller abrasions no longer needed bandages. The larger wounds would
need more time to heal. They would need to be taken to get their
stitches removed and Niles' arm needed to be reevaluated.
Once the swelling went down he would likely need a cast. Maybe
he would be given a brace or other kind of splint but Hank was secretly
hoping the kid would get a cast. A cast would be a bigger pain in the
ass but it also couldn't be removed or readjusted as a brace could. A
brace just seemed like a different kind of trouble. None of the options
seemed appealing but something did need to be done. Maybe they would
luck out and Niles wouldn't need anything. Slim chance of that.
Thankfully the other boys didn't have any fractures.
Along with being given time to heal, the boys were also allowed
to adjust to their new surroundings and loss at their own pace while the
adults worked on various details for them in the background. Hank kept
things for custody and wills in the background as he didn't want the
boys to worry over details they had no control over. When it comes to
the funeral and burial he was planning to step up for their options. He
wanted them to feel as comfortable and at ease as possible, all things
considered. If they wanted a smaller and private service then Hank would
see to it that the memorial was just that. But until then he quietly
worked on other details.
However, even with details being worked out, there was still
plenty of bumps in the road. The family found out on their first night
home that the eldest two, Connor and Carter, were bedwetters. The
following nights weren't any easier. It was quickly becoming a nightly
occurrence.
The Andersons had been aware of it before with Connor due to
their past babysitting but it hadn't always been an issue, and it also
had been forgotten in all the recent events. And as for Carter, that
took them by surprise. He hadn't wet the bed before. Not since he was
still just a toilet training toddler at least.
What was going on with them? Hank had his haunches that it was
due to the week's trauma, changes, and grief but he couldn't be sure. He
was a detective, not a psychiatrist or pediatrician. Since it wasn't
anything new for Connor, Hank and Molly turned their attention to
Carter.
The boys were keeping quiet about it, which was understandable
due to the embarrassing side of it, but the Andersons still wanted to
help them in some way. Which meant acknowledging the issue and bringing
the topic up. Talking about those late-night and early-morning laundry
runs would probably be a good starting point.
It wasn't going to be the most comfortable of conversations, but
Hank figured it wouldn't be the worse either. The twins were only nine
and Hank was already looking to the preteen and teen years. Those were
sure to have more than a few awkward moments, it was almost a right of
passage for humans, wasn't it?
Hank was worrying over everything he needed to figure out on top
of this new issue when the moment presented itself. It was later in the
night, the boys were in bed and should have been asleep, and Molly had
recently gone to bed as well. Hank remained up to focus on some work
when he heard the sounds of someone walking down the hallway followed by
the sounds of movement in the laundry room. Yup. That was his rouge
bedwetter.
Hank got up and made his way into the laundry room. Carter was
in a different pair of pajamas than Hank had seen him go to bed in and,
the boy was trying to quietly start a load of laundry with an arm full
of bedding.
"Hey, kiddo." Hank started. Carter was startled but quickly regained his composure.
"Hey, Hank."
"What are you up to?"
"Uhhh you know just doing some laundry."
"At midnight?" Hank pressed.
The boy shrugged. He didn't have a good answer for what he was doing, without admitting his problem. Hank continued,
"You know you can tell me anything, right? I won't judge or be
mad or anything. If something is going on I might be able to help you
out."
The boy remained quiet as he got the washer started. He finally glanced at his guardian. "Nothing is the matter."
"No one tosses their bedding into the washer at midnight unless something is up. But there's nothing to be ashamed of if
something
is going on."
"Nothings going on"
"Alright, if you say so. But so you know bedwetting isn't anything to be ashamed of. It happens"
"But it hasn't happened to
me
before. I should be better than that. I
am
better than that." Carter admitted.
That was progress. Good. Hank can work with that. "You've been
through a lot lately. Sometimes stuff like that can lead to unexpected
things... It's not your fault and it's normal, alright?"
The boy remained quiet for a few moments before speaking up once more. "It is my fault"
"No, it's not." Hank insisted. "bedwetting happens sometimes.
Look, kid, if you want I'll take you to see someone about it. That could
help." He had to offer something.
Carter's face heated with embarrassment. He was what? Going to
talk to some doctor about how he was some baby that wets himself? Yeah,
no thanks. There wasn't anything wrong with him. He didn't need to see
anything about this.
The conversation was cut off when another person entered the
room. Connor. Ah. Bedwetter number two. Right on time, it seemed as he
too had his arms full of bedding and pajamas.
"And what are you up to Connor?" Hank questioned, although he clearly knew the answer already.
Connor paused. He knew he had been caught but his bedwetting
wasn't exactly a secret. Even if it had been a while since the issue
reared its head. The return of wet nights after nearly a year and a half
of being dry was upset, to say the least. And he wasn't about to admit
it in front of his twin. He knew Carter would only tease and torment him
about it as he did before. Heat built up in his face. He could feel it
in his cheeks and ears. Embarrassment races through him. What could he
say?
Finally, he found his words. "I... It happened
again
." It was easier to refer to it that way than to be forward and
straight up say he had wet the bed. At least it felt better for him to
say. It didn't feel as embarrassing. He hopped his new guardian knew
what he meant. "I'm sorry." He added a quick apology. It was his fault
after all, wasn't it? He messed up the mattress and needed to waste time
and resources on doing late night laundry.
Hank shook his head. "It happens, kid. No need to apologize.
Either of you. Now you both go get cleaned up and I'll worry about the
laundry. We'll talk about this in the morning." He'll sit them both down
alone and have a private talk about their issues and what they could do
about them.
It was needed. And it would help them in the long run even if
they didn't want to talk about it or acknowledge it. Or even admit it in
Carter's case. The boys needed to go see someone. Hank was sure their
bedwetting was a result of everything that happened. Changes and grift
more than anything physical can he still wanted them to be checked out.
He'd take them to a doctor and then a child psychiatrist. It was the
best he could offer. That and being understanding. He knew some people
yelled and punished their children for bedwetting but that sure as hell
wasn't going to help anything. In his own personal experience from
childhood, it only made things worse.
Both twins gave serious nods before huffing out of the room. He
heard mumbled and hushed arguments and aggravation between them as they
shuffled to their bedroom and no doubt were both at their dresses at the
same time or trying to find clean sheets. Hank shook his head. Kids
would be kids. They needed their own closet spaces.
Hank tossed the needing into the wash and pulled dry clean
sheets from the hall closet and helped the boys make their beds. They
didn't argue although he could see the look in their eyes that they
wanted to say they could do it themselves. They were stubborn kids but
good.
The night turned quiet and the family finally settled in and got
their much needed rest. Hank kept an eye on the laundry and settled in
bed with his wife, Molly, who was still awake. "Everything alright?" She
asked him. She had her own suspicions. She knew the boys' issues even
if she hadn't caught their late night laundry runs for herself.
"Both the twins wet the bed tonight. I was helping them with
laundry. I sent them back to bed while I took care of the bedding." Hank
told her. No sense in keeping anything from her. He figured she either
already knew or would find out soon enough and besides they were
supposed to be co-parenting here. Those kids were both their
responsibility. She needed t know what was going on with them.
"Poor kids, it must be rough." She shook her head.
"What are we going to do about it?"
"I think we should take them to a doctor, just to be safe. At
their ages, sudden bet wetting could be a sign of something physically
wrong. Some abnormally in the urinary tract or infection. But sudden
life and home changes can disrupt a child as well. It could just be
their body's way of dealing with the stress and grief of their loss. I
don't think anything thing is wrong with them... but can't be too safe.
Plus a doctor can help rule out anything physically wrong and point us
in the right direction for a child phycologist." Molly told Hank. Molly
had worked several years as a nurse. She knew what she was talking
about.
Hank nodded. He agreed with her. He was thinking of making a
doctor's appointment before but this helped solidify the decision. He
didn't want something to go untreated if one or both of the boys had
something physically wrong. An untreated infection could be very bad.
And if it was just the trauma then he needed guidance from someone else
to best help and support the kid.
"I'll call a pediatrician tomorrow to see when we can get the
twins' appointments." Any luck the boys could be seen at the same time.
That would be the easiest. "And I'll talk to them again make sure they
understand we're not mad and it's not their fault. Hell, we're just
concerned. I want them to know we are here to help."
"That sounds like a good plan. Now, no more worrying tonight.
There's nothing we can do none. Don't go gray on me" Molly kid. "Get
some rest." She kissed her husband and turned off the bedside light,
getting comfortable in the bed. Hank returned the kiss and turned over
to get comfortable himself.
With that out of the way, Hank finally went to bed. Soon enough
morning came. Hank finished up with the laundry he let run overnight and
then set out on making breakfast. He was usually in charge of the
family's breakfast routine. Although there were times when the boys made
things for themselves, however, that was rare as they were overall
still trying to get used to things in their new home.
On the menu for today was eggs and toast. Hank's go to. it was
quick and easy and everyone in the house seemed to like it. Plus it was
easily customizable to everyone's different tastes. The kids typically
wanted plain eggs or cheesy eggs with a buttered slice of toast. Where
as Hank and his wife typically enjoyed peppers and onions with their
eggs.
Sitting around the kitchen table the family had small talk as
the kids picked at eggs and sipped at milk. The boys were not morning
people Hank had learned. Or maybe it was the grief and processing of
everything that had happened. Most days started off slow and quiet. The
real noise and chaos typically started when they were done eating and
went off to get ready for the day. They, or the twins at least, fought
over the dressers and bathroom. Poor Niles usually had to go last as his
brothers pushed him out of the room.
Niles, the youngest of the boys, sat his favorite stuffed animal
on the table to 'eat' breakfast with them. He carried the toy
everywhere with him. Milk ran down his bare chest as he spilled some
milk down himself. Carter rolled his eyes at the mess while Connor
helped his younger brother clean up.
It was a normal morning. As normal as they could get these days
at least. It was their normal. "You gotta make such a mess whenever you
eat?" Carter huffed.
"I don't mean to! I'm just trying my best! I'm little still!" Niles called back.
"Ugh." was all Carter could offer in return.
Connor handed Niles some napkins and put some on the table
within reach when another spill inevitably happened. He didn't comment
on his twin's harshness to their younger brother. He typically had some
type of retort.
Today Hank also imagined the older two boys' silence, perhaps
over irritation as well, was also due to them anticipating a
conversation about last night's fiasco. If they recalled it that was.
Maybe they had forgotten it with time and sleep. But Hank certainly was
still planning that particular discussion.
Hank had to laugh at himself thinking about it. It was almost
like he was preparing for 'the talk' oh God, so help him when the boys
were older and such a talk was actually needed. Hank was not ready for
that and didn't know if he would be when the time came. But he wouldn't
worry about that a few years from now.
Today was something different and thankfully Hank was not
actually all too worried about this discussion, even if he could tell
the boys wanted to ignore their issues. It wouldn't be too bad for Hank
but he could tell it was going to be embarrassing for Connor and Carter.
He couldn't blame them he remembered his own issues as a child. He
certainly didn't want to talk about it when he was a kid.
Carter helped clean up after breakfast, while the other two went
to get dressed for the day. The day slowly getting started. When was
going to be a good time for this discussion? Hank wondered. He didn't
know. Perhaps the sooner the better. They should just get it over with.
"Hey, kiddo, when you're done loading the dish washer come meet
me in my office okay?" Hank told Carter. Might as well get it out of the
way and start with the more stubborn of the two boys. His issues were
more difficult as well. Connor used to wet the bed and has started again
but Carter never experienced something like this. That must make it
hard for both of them, but prideful 'I'm better than you' Carter might
have been hurt a little to have some karma come back his way. And Hank's
home study would be a good place to talk in private.
Carter paused in his morning chores. Last night's conversation
came back to him, no doubt he had already figured out what this was
about. But he went back to putting plates and pans into the dish washer.
There wasn't much that needed to be loaded for just breakfast. "Okay."
He nodded.
He finished up and met with Hank inside his home office. There
was a little study off the main hallway. "Hank? What's up?" Carter asked
as he settled on a beige couch. He had a good idea of what this was
about. "You're not mad about last night are you?"
Hank was in a computer chair near by. He shook his head. "Nah. I
already told you it's not your fault, I'm not mad at something like
that."
"Then what is it?"
"I just wanted you to know I'm making you an appointment with a doctor."
"Why? I'm fine!" Other than his still healing injuries from the
accident but nothing that needs a doctor. Carter didn't like going to
the doctors.
"For the bedwetting. I just want you to get checked out to make sure there's nothing wrong."
The boy didn't take that well. "There isn't anything wrong."
"I hope not but just to be sure. Maybe they can help figure out what's going on." Hank tried to assure.
"I don't like going to the doctors" He admitted. "Do I really have to go?"
"I think it's for the best. Since it just started out of
nowhere. That doesn't just happen at your age. Maybe it's just
everything that's happened, those sudden changes could be messing with
ya. Or maybe there is something wrong going on down below. I don't know.
I only know so much but I talked it over with Molly and she agrees that
you should be seen by someone."
Hank's wife Molly was a nurse at one point before she went back
to school for a technology related career. She would know what was best
for this situation. She agreed it was best to get Carted checked by a
doctor in case there was something physically wrong, although neither
Molly nor Hank thought that was the case. Sometimes sudden life events,
changes to the family or home, or emotionally taxing situations could
cause various issues with children. Sometimes there were behavioral
issues and other times there were physical issues such as bedwetting or
just not feeling good. They figured it was from the loss of both of his
parents and everything that went with that, especially since Connor was
also wetting again.
"Don't you want to stop bedwetting?" Hank asked
Carter was quick to respond. "Yeah of course"
Hank continued to press. "And if something is wrong don't you want to take care of it before it gets serious?"
"I suppose" The boy added.
"Then you're going to the doctor." Hank's tone was final. Carter knew it wasn't worth arguing any more.
"Fine... but nothing is wrong."
"Of course." Hank wasn't going to circle back around with this argument again.
"What's going to happen...? What will the doctor do?" Carter asked.
Now that was something Hank wasn't sure about. He didn't know
what the appointment would be like. He was going to have to talk to his
wife about that, she would know and they would need to prepare the boy
if he was asking questions. It would make the appointment run smoother.
"I don't know for sure we'll talk about that later. I'm sure Molly will
know, okay?" He waved the boy off
"Now go get ready for the day" The boy was still in his pajamas
since all he did was have breakfast and clean some dishes. "And tell
Connor I want to talk to him too."
Carter nodded and bolted out of the room, glad to be done but
still worried over what might happen with the doctor. He made his way to
the bedroom. After pulling on a shirt and jeans he tracked down his
twin.
"You're in trouble" He singed songed playfully as he teased his
brother. Like a classroom of children 'oooing' when someone was called
to the principal's office. He poked his twin. "Hank wants to talk to
you. He's in the study." He knew Connor wasn't really in trouble, or at
least he assumed he wasn't. It probably was the same reason Hank pulled
Carter in. He knew that would embarrass his brother. He could have
teased him about his bedwetting. But the trouble song was just as fun.
Connor knew his brother was likely just teasing him and swatted
his hand away. "Shut up" the boy said. But Carter kept up his tune. He
was already heading down the hall.
He gave a small knock before he popped his head into the home
office. "Hank? Carter told me you wanted me?" He was pretty sure he knew
what this was about. He took a seat on the same beige couch that Carter
had. In the room, there were two couches, a desk, a computer, and a
rolling chair. The kids didn't come in the room often in their times
visiting the house before they came to stay. But both twins had found a
liking to the large couch along the left wall.
"What's up?" The boy asked
"I just wanted to let you know I'm making an appointment with a doctor about your bedwetting."
"I don't want to go" Connor didn't like going to the doctors
either. Who did really? But while Carter just didn't want to go, seeing
it as a waste of time or embarrassment, Connor had fears of various
things within doctors' offices. And that fear was why he did not want to
go.
"No one wants to go to the doctor's kid, but Molly and I think
it's for the best. It's just to make sure nothing is wrong. Don't you
want to stop this bedwetting and take care of any problems before they
get worse?" Hank was jumping straight to the chase this time. He quickly
added, "I'm sure nothing is wrong but we just want to be safe." He
didn't want to worry the boy that something was wrong or have the same
old 'nothing is wrong' argument Carter gave him.
Connor seemed to take it easier than Carter despite his fear. He
gives a nervous nod. "Alright." He says. "When is the appointment?" He
questioned.
"I'm not sure yet, I'll be calling soon. I just wanted you to
know that I'm not mad about the bedwetting and just want you to get
checked out. Okay?"
He nodded. "Okay,"
"I'll let you know when I have a date. Don't worry about it."
Maybe he should have made the appointments first before telling the kids
about it. Hank questioned himself but he couldn't dwell on it.
Connor nodded again and played with his hands, "Alright."
"Go play, you have the whole day ahead of you. And try not to worry, there's nothing to worry about ."
The boy said nothing as he slid off the couch and bolted out of
the room. Hank shook his head. He had the boys for only a few days and
he already felt like he had messed up. How was he going to be a good
guardian to them for years to come?
Shaking it off, he moved on to making a phone call to the
pediatrician's office he and Molly had chosen for the boys. He hoped
they were taking new patients and could see the twins over their issues.
Thankfully they were taking new patients and had an opening for the
following day. Hell, that was amazing. He sometimes spent days trying to
get into his own physician. He made appointments for both twins as well
as Niles. The three would get new patient physicals and the twins would
also be seen for their bedwetting concerns. He marked the time down in
his calendar and went to tell the family.
All three boys were in the living room with some tv show on the
screen. They didn't seem to actually be watching it. Maybe they couldn't
find something good to watch or maybe they just couldn't agree on what
to watch.
"All three of you have doctor's appointments tomorrow at noon.
Just check ups." He told them. Knowing it was coming, the twins huffed
while Niles didn't seem bothered by the news at all. The youngest was
the easiest of the three boys. As long as he wouldn't have to be alone
he wouldn't put up any fight.
"What's going to happen? With.. uhh you know?" Carter asked.
"It'll be a normal check up. The doctor will listen to your heart have you say aaa that sort of thing.
Probably will make you pee in a cup. Simple nothing to worry about."
Carter wasn't so sure about that and Connor was visibly nervous as well. "... Okay." The boy huffed.
Niles made a face "Ew gross" he was quick to say in response to
peeing in a cup. Why did doctors always make you do things like that?
Hank chuckled at him and ruffled his hair. "Yeah. It is gross huh? But
you gotta do it sometimes to make sure you're all healthy inside and
out."
Tomorrow was going to be eventful. Hopefully, it wasn't all too
interesting. Hank didn't need any more issues. And he hoped so for the
boys' sake as well. They didn't need any more issues either.
The next day came sooner than anyone in the house seemed to have
liked. Now, it was a little more than half an hour before their
appointment time. The boys were cleaned and dressed. Niles clutched his
stuffed animal in his arms. Of course, he was going to take it with him.
It was his comfort object. He was still nervous but he didn't seem as
antsy as his older brothers. Most of his nerves seemed to have come from
the car ride to the office more than the visit itself. The twins had
more to worry about. Not only were they still wary of being in cars but
they both had their own level of fear for doctors and had to face
embarrassing issues.
It was going to be a long day.
After a lot of fussing, dragging feet, arguing, the family was
all in the car and on their way to their appointments. Finally, the
family arrived at the office and checked in. It wouldn't be long before
they were taken back. They were led to two different examination rooms.
Molly took Niles to one exam room while Hank took the twins into the
other. It was easier to keep the twins together as they were here for
the same reason.
The room was a normal looking examination room. A counter with
various jars and cabinets were along one wall. A computer was on a cart
next to the exam bed along with a rolling tray. Instruments lined the
right wall with blood pressure pumps, lights, and a whole bunch of other
things Connor and Carter didn't know what they were. An examination
bench lined with white paper was in the middle of the room for easy
access to the patient and all the necessary tools.
It had a strong disinfect and sterile smell to it. That super
clean smell all medical facilities carried. That was the kind of smell
Connor hated. It was always too strong and had an odd cold tinge to it.
Or perhaps it only seemed that way due to the lack of colors in the
often simple and boring rooms. It didn't help the room also always
seemed so chilly. This room was no different with the slight chill. But
the walls did have some colorful designs on them. Perks of being in a
doctor's office that was just for children.
On top of the twins' prior dislike for doctor's visits and
anything medical, this was also the first time they were in such a
setting since the accident. Memories of the hospital, and all the
uncomfortable exams, pokes, and probes that came from that admission
came flooding back. Along with the memories came reminders of the loss
of their parents. That made their hearts ache. They might not be alone
since they had each other and the Andersons were with them but there
were some gaps that could never be filled.
The kids eyed the room taking it in and finding a place to go.
Singling out the chairs that lined the one side of the room, they made a
beeline for them. Carter and Connor each settled into some chairs that
were off to the side by a counter. Neither wanted to be the first to hop
up onto the exam bed.
The nurse that lead them to the exam room took both boys'
heights, weights, and vitals, jotting down the information with the use
of quick typing skills on a small computer in the room. Much to Connor's
dismay, it seemed his twin was ever so slightly taller than him. Carter
beamed with pride at the news.
The nurse made note of their temperatures, heart rate, and blood
pressure. And then, much to both Connor and Carter's embarrassment,
sent them off to a restroom across the hall with cups to fill and
cleaning wipes. The situation was not helped by the fact that the nurse
not only loudly proclaimed the need for urine samples from both of them
but also how to clean before hand. She talked about this all the time,
she was used to it and clearly not embarrassed. But that didn't mean the
boys weren't embarrassed.
Connor went in first and found that he did not really need to
go. Not in the slightest. It took him some time to get what he needed.
But then, to make things worse as he exited the bathroom his twin
commented on how long it took him to produce his sample before pushing
past him to provide his own. Rude.
Not wanting to go back to the exam room just yet, and trying to
kill as much time as possible, Connor waited outside the door for his
brother to return. But that proved to have been a bad decision as Carter
commented on the situation again on his way out.
"I knew I was better than you at a lot of things, but peeing? That's a new one." Carter teased.
"Shut up." Connor grumbled in return.
"No wonder you were always the bedwetter, you probably do have something wrong with you." Carter continued.
"I said shut it." Connor said through his teeth.
Returning to the exam room the nurse was gone, made sense since
the office was busy. But a set of gowns was set on the exam table. Were
they out there before and the boys not notice them or were they pulled
out by the nurse while the boys were out of the room? They supposed it
didn't matter. They didn't even think of it. That was until Hank brought
it up.
"Sorry boy's you gotta change, but no worries there's a curtain." Hank said.
That part didn't bother Connor or Carter. They often changed in
their bedroom with each other close by or spent time shirtless for one
reason or another. For Connor, it wasn't changing out of his clothes to a
gown that bothered him and sent butterflies through his belly. That was
nothing, even if it wasn't the most comfortable thing to wear he could
put up with it. It was the exam itself he was worried about. Even just
check ups were. With a push from his brother and a pull of a curtain,
Connor changed first followed by Carter.
They returned to the chairs they had slid into when they first
entered the room. Now that they were here Connor's nerves were starting
to act up. He didn't know if it was better if he went first or waited
out his time and go second. While he supposed it was better to get it
over with, he also wanted to wait as long as possible. Besides letting
Carter go first would let Connor see what to expect. The question was if
that was a good thing or not.
Unfortunately, he wasn't given a choice. The decision was made
for him. "Why don't you hop up on the table Connor?" Hank motioned
between him and the padded exam bench.
Knowing he would be teased by Carter if he were to protest, and
he had to get examined today at some point, Hank was not going to take
no for an answer, the boy gave a simple nod and moved from his spot in
the plastic waiting chair to the exam bed. There was a small step up
near the center of the padded bench. A quick climb up his legs were left
dangling over the side and made him feel rather small as he anticipated
what was to come. He resisted the urge to swing his legs. That was just
childish he thought. At nine Connor was young enough to still be
childish but already moving into a phase where he didn't want to be seen
as childish. Kiddie things were too babyish for him.
The room was quiet except for a very light hum of the computer
and tick of the analog clock on the wall. The boys didn't want to hold
any small talk. After what seemed like an eternity to the nervous
children, a knock came at the door and the pediatrician entered.
On the younger side with medium cut blonde hair, the woman
wearing a white doctor's coat was in her early thirties and gave a
friendly smile to the family. "Hi, I'm doctor Samantha Holi." She
stopped in front of the exam bed. "And you are.." she trailed off
waiting to hear him introduce himself. She knew she was seeing twins
today, and could see both of them. The question was which boy was which.
While he was feeling a wide range of emotions from nerves and
fears, the boy didn't have any problems responding to the doctor. With
all his anxieties and other issues, he was at the very least not a shy
child. The shy and timid kid in the family was Niles.
"Connor." The boy on the examination bench replied.
"Nice to meet you, Connor," The doctor turned to the family
seats on the side. "So you must be Carter." she smiled at the other boy.
He responded with a huff and crossed his arms over his chest. He was a
friendly one, wasn't he? She didn't think anything of his attitude. She
could tell they were both nervous. That was common with kids.
Doctor Holi introduced herself to Hank as well and shook his hand. "Dad?" she questioned.
"Guardian." He corrected.
With introductions out of the way the examination began. Doctor
Holi started by asking various questions. Some Connor was able to answer
and others Hank had to provide. Unfortunately, there were also some
that neither could provide. That was the problem with taking in someone
else's kid. Some health history was unknown to Hank and Connor, while an
older child, was still too young to know his own history.
But thankfully there was no major injuries or illness that they
could report. The worse was the most recent accident the boy was
involved in and his hospitalization last week. Hank made a careful note
of it to the doctor, knowing she would need to know about it but also
not wanting to upset either boy by bringing it up.
After discussing Connor's history, the doctor moved on to
examing the boy by looking in the boy's eyes, ears, and mouth. That was
the easy part of the exam that Connor did not mind although it was
always weird to feel like someone was in his space and so close to him.
"Okay now stick out your tongue and give me a big aaaaa" The doctor requested.
Connor obediently said the typical and expected 'aaaa' when he
was asked. Things were going good so far. She moved on to feeling his
neck for... something. Connor didn't know what. He didn't know nor care.
There was something important there he supposed. And then the doctor
moved on to listening to his heart and lungs. Once more despite his
fears and nerves, Connor was a good patient and did what was requested
of him, taking slow deep breaths and holding them when asked. The check
up portion of the appointment was moving fast.
Moving quickly but still with care and proper attention, Doctor
Holi moved from exam to exam. Making notes and observations as she went.
After checking Connor's heart and lungs, came the abdominal exam. This
was one of the things Connor never liked about check ups. Not that it
was a painful exam or uncomfortable. It wasn't really. But something
about it the boy didn't like.
"Alright, your heart and lungs sound nice and healthy. Now I'll
have you lay back for me, okay?" The doctor announced as she pulled her
stethoscope down.
Connor hesitated since he knew what was coming but still, he
laid back when asked and put up with what felt like various pushing and
prodding. The boy didn't know what it was actually called. There were
some parts that were uncomfortable but he tried to stay still.
Guess his belly was still healing from the car accident. He did
have some sore cuts and bruises all over his body that needed careful
hands. Doctor Holi tried her best to be gentle and apologized when she
saw the boy react to something. "It'll be over soon I'm sorry. Don't
mean to hurt you here." She said as she continued the exam. When she
touched a particularly tender area and Connor winced she paused. "That
hurt?" She asked concerned.
Connor nodded. "It's a bit sore there. I have uh, I have a bruise there. From the seatbelt..."
It clicked then. Oh. The car accident. Poor thing. She gave a
simple nod and an empathetic smile. "I'm sorry. I'll skip the rest of
that area, how does that sound?"
"..Please.." The boy was already nervous enough without worrying about being in pain.
The doctor moved onto another area of his stomach being mindful
of any healing injuries. Thankfully there weren't any more painful parts
of the abdominal exam.
As things progressed, his nerves were building as he worried
about the real reason he was here today. He could already feel the
embarrassment bubbling up. He knew something was coming, he just didn't
know what.
Thankfully the exam didn't last long and quickly the exam was
wrapping up. The required new patient exam finishing up. Now came the
part about their concerns over his bed wetting.
"Okay, you can sit up now if you want." She grabbed a rolling
stool and took a seat. "I'm just going to test your reflexes real quick
then we'll have a small chat, okay?"
Connor was glad to sit up. He didn't have a reflex test before
and for a moment his fears were forgotten as interest and curiosity took
over. He watched as the doctor tapped his knees with some instrument.
It was interesting how his knee jerked and reacted. But the final exam
didn't last long. Doctor Holi put the rubber hammer tool away and then
rolled away to face both Connor and Hank as she wanted to talk with both
of them.
"You are very healthy Connor." Doctor Holi started. "Other than a
few injuries that are healing well and as expected you are a very
strong and healthy boy." She turned her attention to Hank.
Hank sat in a plastic waiting chair. Carter sat next to him with his legs pulled up and tucked to his chin.
"Now you had some concerns about his bedwetting?" The doctor brought up the topic Connor has been dreading.
Hank was ready to explain. "I know he was a bedwetter when he
was younger but it has been over a year since he last had an...
incident. But this past week he hasn't had a single dry night." Hank
explained. He didn't know Connor's full history but did know enough from
the time he babysat the kids when they were younger. "My wife and I
thought it would be best to take him in to make sure there wasn't
anything wrong."
"Any specific concerns about him other than the wetting?" Doctor Holi asked.
"No, and I haven't got any complaints from him either... and to
be honest I don't think anything is wrong physically. I think it's
just... the events of the last week might have thrown them off?" Hank
explained.
The doctor nodded. "Yeah so, kids especially when there are
sudden changes to their routine or home life, or some kind of trauma
they might start bedwetting even at older ages. Although it's more
common in younger kids. That's likely what this is especially since he
was recently just starting to have dry nights."
"So, do you think he's good? What do we do from here?" Hank wanted to know.
"Alright so, while everything seems to point to it just being a
result of the sudden changes, at this age, sudden bedwetting can be a
sign of something being wrong. Infections are common in children,
although it's more of a concern with girls than boys it's still a
possibility." Doctor Holi started explaining.
"And there is also a chance of something wrong in the urinary
tract. Sometimes it turns up when they're younger but there are a few
things that don't show up until around this age. The urine sample we got
today will help tell us if there's an infection. We won't worry about
any anomalies until we know if there's an infection or not."
"When will we know if there's an infection or not?"
"Because we are specifically concerned about possible infections
the tests should be done by the end of your appointment. I'll check
back in with you before you leave."
She turned to Connor and continued. "Any pain when you pee?"
Connor felt warmth run through his cheeks and his belly stirred as
embarrassment creped in. This was the kind of thing he was worried about
with this appointment. Connor shook his head. Thankfully he didn't
"No."
"Ever had a sudden need to pee? Like you just suddenly really needed to go?"
"No."
"Any other issues going to the bathroom?"
"Nope."
"Alright. Do you have any concerns?" She asked Connor. The boy shook his head. "I don't think so. I'm good."
"Okay then well, if you two want to swap out we'll start
Carter's exam." Connor was happy to be out of the hot seat. He slid down
and rushed to the seat that Carter still occupied. Carter was not happy
to have his number up, so to speak but at least he knew what to expect.
It didn't seem too bad. He reluctantly gave up his seat and climbed up
to sit on the exam table.
Carter's exam followed much the same manner as Connor had.
Doctor Holi asked a bunch of questions about Carter's health history and
the family filled in as much as they could. Then she moved on to
looking at the boy's ears, nose, eyes, and mouth.
"Alright stick out your tongue and say 'aaa'" The doctor
requested. Just as his brother Carter gave an obedient 'ahhh' and stuck
out his tongue when he was asked.
The exam moved just as efficiently as Connor's. The doctor was
careful but attentive. She was mindful of the stitches on the boy's
forehead and the wrap on his wrist. She didn't want to accidentally bump
anything that was still sore. Once again she moved on from the head and
throat exam and moved onto a quick feel of the boy's neck. Carter
didn't know what that was either but sat obediently and still for the
doctor. Then came the heart and lungs exam.
"Take a deep breath for me." She said as she placed a
stethoscope on his back. He jumped slightly at the cold metal on his
bare skin. "Sorry, it's a little cold huh? Okay now take another deep
breath." The pediatrician was very good with both kids.
Carter took deep breaths as he was told, and the doctor listened close to his lungs.
Then came the part where she would press on his belly. He laid
back on the exam bench and braced for it. he didn't have any problem
with this part of the exam before but he knew his abdomen was all kinds
of sore from the accident still. She was also careful with the abdominal
exam knowing it was sore from the seatbelt bruises and other injuries.
"Alright, we're done. With that. That wasn't too bad, was it?"
Doctor Holi said when she completed the exam. Carter gratefully sat up.
"Go on a sit up for me, we have one more thing to check and you're all
done, kay?" She got out the same hammer like tool from before. Carter
had never seen one either. This kind of exam was new to him.
Just like that it was over.
He wasn't as nervous about the check up itself as Connor was. It
was this next part he had been embarrassed and worried about but having
seen Connor go first he knew what to expect.
"So I hear you have had some troubles with bedwetting?" Doctor Holi asked him. And so it begins.
"...Yes..." He finally admitted to someone his well known
problem. He knew he had to be honest with the doctor and she had heard
from Hank about the bedwetting anyways. No point in lying or trying to
skirt around the topic. It had to be done, huh? He might as well get
this over with. He braces himself for more embarrassing questions. The
quicker he spoke up the quicker this would all be over.
"Any pain when you go pee?" The doctor asked.
"Nope," Carter replied with a shake of his head.
The doctor gave another question his way. "Ever had a sudden need to pee? Like you just suddenly really needed to go?"
"No." Another shake of Carter's head.
"Ever feel like you have to go but only go a little bit?"
"No" He shook his head. He didn't have any issues.
"Any other issues going to the bathroom?"
"Nope."
"Alright. Do you have any concerns?" She asked Carter. The boy
shook his head. "I don't have any." If it were up to him he wouldn't
even be here. He didn't have any concerns or worries even if this whole
bedwetting thing was new.
Doctor Holi turned to Hank. "Same thing as his twin?" She asked. "Can I have his history and do you have any specific concerns?"
"As far as I know he never had any issues with bedwetting after
toilet training. This is the first time something has come up which is
why I wanted to get him checked out." Hank explained. He was more
worried about Carter than Connor since the boy never had any issues
before where as Connor had bedwetting before.
"Normally that would be a concern as I explained before at this
age sudden onset of bedwetting can be a sign of an infection or another
problem finally making itself known but since there have been recent
traumatic events and another kid in the family is experiencing similar
issues I'm not too concerned right now. We'll wait on those test results
to come back and go from there. If something does come back positive
I'll start him on a course of antibiotics and we'll get him into the
pediatric urologist."
"And if nothing is physically wrong?" Hank asked, concerned
about the next steps. He didn't think anything was wrong and the doctor
currently didn't think anything was wrong either. So what were they
going to do?
The doctor gave a quick and honest reply. "I can get you in
contact with a pediatric phycologist that could help with therapy for
them, it could be the trauma of recent events."
"Anything else?"
"No, it's just a waiting game for the results. When I leave here
I'll check in on the result and have a nurse check back in with you
before you leave. Do you have any more questions?" She turned to the
room "Anyone?"
No one had anything else to add or any questions. Or at least
Hank didn't. If the twins had anything to say they kept it to
themselves. The doctor nodded. "Alrighty then, I'll be on my way now,
you boys can get dressed. Someone will be in with news soon. You can put
your gowns into the bin over there labeled 'used gowns'. Let the nurse
know if you have any questions."
The doctor turned and left the room. With that, the boys were
quick to get back into their clothes. They were very happy for it to be
over. They did not even take turns behind the curtain. Connor and Carter
went at the same time. Not that this was any problem. They were used to
getting ready in the mornings together, limited time and one bathroom
resulted in such. But as twins, they were comfortable with it. Being
shirtless was nothing.
After getting changed and tossing their medical gowns in the bin
they were directed to, they settled into the plastic chairs they
settled in when they first got into the room. Things were just as quiet
waiting this time around as when they were first waiting to see the
doctor. The kids were still not feeling talkative, small talk was not
going to happen and Hank had long since stopped trying to make small
talk.
Part of the silence was from the boy's nerves earlier but things
were better now. Although the boys' tension and nerves were clearly
alleviated a bit now that the examinations were over they still were
fidgeting and anxious. They still were waiting to hear if there was
anything wrong with them from their urine samples. They hoped not but
now that they heard about the possibility, they couldn't help but to
think about the what ifs. There had to be something wrong. Right?
While waiting, Hank got a text from his wife Molly that Niles
was done with his appointment. He was hing and recovering well from his
injuries. And was otherwise healty. That was great news to hear.Hank
gave her an update on the twins. Molly and Niles went to the waiting
room to wait for the rest of the family to be done.
Thankfully they didn't have to wait very long as it didn't take
long for someone to knock on the door and enter the room. A nurse,
different than the one they saw earlier when they had their vitals
taken, came with the news they had been waiting to hear.
"Well?" Hank asked. Both boys looked up eager to hear what she had to say.
"Connor?"
The boy gave a small wave of his hand. "That's me."
The nurse turned so she could talk to both Connor and Hank at the same time.
"Connor doesn't have any signs of infection. He is good to go.
If the bedwetting continues and you have any more concerns Doctor Holi
will be able to get you a referral to a childhood specialist, a
therapist that can help with dealing with trauma. Considering everything
that has happened, we recommend you see them. Therapy can be a big
help. The boys can be seen individually and the family can be seen
together. It might help."
"So I'm good?" Connor asked
The nurse nodded. "Yes, you're all nice and healthy."
"What about Carter?" Hank asked.
Her demenaror changed. She gave a small frown and shook her
head. "Carter does have an infection. An antibiotic is being prescribed,
you can let us know what pharmacy to send it to when you check out at
reception."
She either didn't notice the small smirk Connor gave his twin at
hearing the news or she choose not the bring it up and ignored it.
Although while he wanted to tease him he still felt bad as well. He was
worried about his brother too.
"An infection? How heck did that happen? I thought only girls
got those?" Carter asked. Was he not listening earlier when the doctor
said boys could get them too?
"Yes, you have any infection. There are a few different causes
for infections. We might not know what caused it or there could just
have been something that irritated your urinary tract. It's likely that
your time in the hospital is what caused the irritation, since you had a
tube called a catheter placed. That can cause all kinds of problems but
is needed sometimes... And yes boys can get them. It's more common in
girls but any one can get a urinary tract infection."
"Anything else we should know?" Hank needed to know.
The nurse continued. "Yeah so, on top of that, he is going to
need to come back to be seen by the pediatric urologist to make sure
there isn't anything physically wrong that caused the infection. You can
make an appointment when you check out but we'll want to make sure the
infection is cleared up first before we do anything else."
"Could there be anything wrong?" Connor was the one to speak up
this time, genuinely concerned for his twin. His voice was full of
concern.
Picking up on the concern the nurse gave a sympathetic smile.
And explained the situation. "There could be something wrong, as
infections are sometimes caused by an anomaly in the urinary tract but
we are not worried since this is only his first infection. It is
probably because of that catheter he had in the hospital caused it. It's
typically only after a few infections that we start to get worried
about something more serious being wrong. The second check up is only to
be safe."
"So I'll be fine?" Carter asked. He wasn't good at hiding his worry. He sounded anxious, which was not common for the boy.
"Right now there doesn't seem like there is any cause for concern. You'll be fine once you finish your medicine."
Hank rubbed the boy's shoulder and moved his hand up to brush
some hair out of Carter's face. "It'll be fine." He told him. He turned
his attention to the nurse. "Is that it?"
"For Carter's physical health yes. But we are also giving him a
referral to the same therapist as Connor to make sure he is progressing
well after the trauma they experienced. We'll give you their contact
information so he can make an appointment. It's a different office than
ours so you'll need to reach out with a phone call to their office. But
that's it. Any questions?"
They had a lot but all their immediate thoughts and questions
were answered. They shook their heads collectively. "No." The boys said
togehter. Hank followed suit
"No, we're good. We'll call the office if we have any questions."
"Alright. That's it then. You're good to go. Head out when ever
you are ready. Be sure to stop by reception to check out and get
Carter's antibiotic set up along with his follow up urology
appointment."
"Thanks." Hank thanked as he finally stood and stretched. Those
plastic chairs were not good on his bed. He followed the nurse out of
the room and herded the boys back to the front of the office. They were
quick to make their way out of the room glad that it was over. For
Carter a new set of worries set in but he was quick to squash them down
so he didn't visibly show his fears or frustrations.
Now that the conversation was over he worked to make his face
neutral again. Connor didn't dare try to comfort him in public. He might
not even dare while alone in their room but the bunk beds were the best
place for them to drop their guard and for Carter to drop his tougher
persona.
Hank stopped at a small window by the doors that lead back to
the waiting room while the twins kept going to the waiting room. They
met back up with Molly and Niles. Niles was still holding Tommy his
stuffed animal friend. The twins wordlessly took seats on either side of
him.
It only took a few minutes for Hank to work out the details he
needed for Carter's follow up and antibiotics. He choose to have it sent
to a pharmacy near by their home so it wouldn't be a hassle to pick it
up once filled. That was the pharmacy he went to when he needed things
filled. He then made an appointment with the pediatric urology just over
a week from today. He gathered the stack of papers handed to him and
thanked the woman behind the desk before meeting his family in the
waiting room. Time to herd the children into the car and finally head
home.
It didn't take nearly as long as it felt. The entire visit was
just over an hour long for all three boys to be given check ups. That
wasn't bad Hank supposed. Not bad at all.
On the way home, Hank filled Molly in on the update about the
twins. He told her how Connor was fine and how Carter had an infection.
Carter would have preferred if the whole family didn't know. But he
supposed he didn't have a say in it. The embarrassment bubbled in his
chest and puffed in his cheek.
"It's okay. It happens sometimes. It's very common in kids, you
know? Kids get them all the time. Like stuffy noses or coughs. You'll be
fine and there's nothing to be ashamed about." Molly tried to console
and reassure him. Carter felt the heat spread through his face and
cheeks as the shame and embarrassment continued. He needed to have some
alone time.
Just as the family got home, Carter's prescription was already
ready. That was quick. Things were moving good today. Things were good.
Other than that infection Carter found himself with. Hank dropped Molly
and the kids off at the house and turned around to head to the pharmacy.
When they got home, Carter went to his room to be alone while Connor and Niles went to watch tv.
Hank got home and put the antibiotic in the fridge as it needed
to be refrigerated. He settled into a chair with a huff. It was a long
day and dinner had yet to even be served. Oh fuck, it was going to be a
rough next few days. Between getting Carter to take his antibiotics and
the final details of the funeral taking shape, along with the funeral
itself the family was going to need all the support from each other that
they could get. It was going to be a very emotionally taxing week.
At Niles' request, and to no one's protest, Hank ordered a large
pizza for dinner. It was easy and a crowd pleaser. Easy and delicious
was something they all needed. It was the perfect dinner. The family ate
dinner in various places around the house. Pizza made it easy to do but
most nights the Andersons weren't too picky about where the kids ate as
long as they ate something. Molly wanted them to eat at the table all
together for a more traditional family meal but Hank usually vetoed it.
Not that the kids seemed to want to eat anywhere but the table. Tonight
was the first time since the boys came to live with them that they ate
in the long room and Carter ate in his bedroom. That was something even
Hank had to pause but he would allow it this time. Kid needed to be
alone but also needed dinner. He got it. Hank wouldn't allow it again.
After dinner, Connor slipped into his new shared bedroom to check on his brother.
"Car?" He asked as he closed the door behind him. It was just
them now. Maybe Carter wouldn't push him away or be too aggressive.
"Yeah?" Carter responded.
Come to think about it, Connor didn't know what to say. What was
he going to say or do? Why had he come in here anyways? After a moment
of silence, he spoke up. "I'm sorry" was all he said.
Carter huffed. "Why? It's not your fault." Guess he wasn't going to be friendly after all.
"Doesn't mean I don't feel bad" he felt sorry for his brother.
About everything he not only had to go through but everything the family
had been through.
There was a long moment of silence where neither boy spoke.
Finally Carter spoke softly "Thanks," he said "I mean it. Thanks Con."
"It's going to be okay." Connor moved closer and sat next to his brother on the bottom bunk.
"How do you know?"
"I don't..." Connor didn't have an easy answer. He didn't feel
like it was going to be okay so how could he tell his brother that? And
mean it? Or ensure it? The young boy gave a simple shrug. "Because it
has to be..." That was the best he could give.
To Connor's surprise Carter rested his head on his shoulder.
They didn't get moments like this much anymore. Not since they were
little did they have close moments.
There was a time in particular Connor remembered where they were
in the back seat of the car on a long ride. Family vacation? Maybe. He
couldn't recall all the exact details. What he did remember was him and
Carter. Their arms intertwined and heads rested on one another as they
drifted off to sleep. They were very young then. They were still in
booster seats. Whatever happened to them being able to tell each other
anything and sharing secret codes? Hours of shared play? It shouldn't
have taken their parents dying to bring them back together.
Connor shifted and wrapped his arms around Carter. "I hope you're right. I don't want to feel like shit forever." C
onnor ignored his brother's curse and felt the weight of the
words. He didn't want to feel like this forever either. "It won't be. It
won't be." Was he trying to convince his brother or himself?
They laid in silence for a while each boy processed the day and
whatever else their minds wondered too. Every so often they would
exchange a few words as they thought of something to share. Finally,
they started to drift off to sleep.
"Good night Connor." Carter sleepily mumbled.
"Night Car" Connor returned, barely able to keep his eyes open.
The twins fell asleep, putting another day behind them. Maybe things
would be okay after all.
Some more time passed, a few days where it almost seemed things
were getting into a normal rhythm. Plus as the days went by the boys
continued to show signs of progress as they healed. Their physical
injuries were mostly healed. The casts would need to stay on a bit long.
Hank was once again thankful the boys were not hurt worse. It could
have been much worse. Mentally they seemed to be hanging on but Hank
didn't know anything about that. The good news was that they had an up
coming appointment with a child psychologist. That was a good step
forward.
Also with some help, the bedwetting issues were almost
completely resolved as well. Once Connor adjusted, his issues went away
on their own just as the doctor had suggested they would. As for Carter,
his issues cleared up as his urinary infection also cleared up with the
help of a specific antibiotic. He had a coming urology appointment to
make sure nothing was wrong physically with his body.
Other than the injuries and infections there were other things
the family had to deal with. The funeral for the boy's parents was this
week. Things moved quickly in the short amount of time since the boys
lost their parents. This was the thing Hank was most worried about for
the boys. It was going to be a rough day but then it would also be a
good thing. They could start to step forward and move on.
Before the funeral midweek there was the task of going to the
Oursler family home so that the boys could receive whatever items they
wanted and Hank and Molly could help clear the house out. Hank and Molly
were not only named the guardian of the boys in their parent's wills
but also were given the house and processions within. They didn't have
any family. The Andersons were close family friends. The boys were
comfortable with them and in their home. The boys should be able to have
their familiar possessions and surroundings. Their parents had thought
this though if the worse were to happen, which it tragically did. The
boys would go to the Andersons, and the house and all the possessions
would go to the Andersons and the boys. Hank and Molly were to take care
of everything.
Hank couldn't believe it had only barely been a week. Time
seemed to somehow stand still while also blurring by. He was so focused
on taking care of the boys and all the details of their parents' passing
that he didn't have time to stop and mourn his friends himself.
Today was the day he was going to take the boys to their
parents' house to collect some of their things. It would take a while to
move everything out of the house and take what they wanted and sort
through everything else. Honestly, Hank was planning on making multiple
trips out to the house to do everything that needed to be done. Today's
goal was just to let the boys get some clothes and toys. Hank also
wanted to check if the boys had something to wear to the funeral or if
he would need to buy something for them. He was sure there was something
appropriate in their wardrobes.
The boys were hesitant to go to the house but came along none
the less. It didn't take much to convince them to tag along and once
there were there they were happy to see their home and familiar
surroundings. Plus they each had things they wanted to grab. They had
their favorite belongings for one reason or another and were glad to
have them back. They found comfort in some of their possessions.
The eldest boy, Connor was happy to pick up his favorite jacket
and a coin his father had given him. He had been given it after he
learned a few coin tricks. His dad taught him some hand movements and
the boy had gone on to perfect the tricks.
Carter had things he wanted to grab as well. He had a pair of
boots that was also a gift from his father before he took the boys on a
camping trip one year. Carter doesn't remember when that was but he had
yet to outgrow the boots so it couldn't have been too long ago.
The two older boys wouldn't admit they had any favorite toys but
still packed some stuffed animals in the bags Hank gave them to fill.
Niles on the other hand had gathered a few toys. He already had his
favorite of course but there were still others he wanted with him.
Hank made sure to grab some clothing for them as well. They only
had so many in the house already so instead of buying full new
wardrobes, he decided it was best to use what the boys already had.
Although he was sure they would be replacing them soon enough, kids
always grew quick and as preteens, the twins were especially sure to
start shooting up in height sooner rather than later.
Hank carefully saved and tucked away family photos and special
items. He didn't know if the boys were ready to see them yet but knew
they would want them someday. Keepsakes and memories became even more
precious as loved ones tragically passed away. They needed to be kept
safe for years to come, especially as the boys might not remember all
the details of their parents as they grew. The twins were old enough
that they should remember enough but how much would Niles recall? They
deserved a reminder of what their parents at least looked like.
Not under any time crunch and not feeling under any pressure to
get stuff done at the house the new family unit took their time and left
when they were ready. They didn't take much with them but that was
okay. They could always come back another time. There was no rush to get
things done here. The boys had some clothes and toys, Hank found
funeral appropriate wear for them in their closets as well. Hopefully,
everything still fits them. Kids grew quick. Finishing what they had to
do here, t
hey headed back to Hank's to drop off the things they had picked
up at the boys' parents' house and Connor and Niles were dropped off as
well. Carter and Hank headed to a doctor's appointment. There had been a
lot of running around and doctor's appointments lately. This one was
Carter's follow up after that infection he had. He wasn't looking
forward to this urologist appointment. Who would? Surely this wasn't
going to be a comfortable experience. And it was certainly going to be
embarrassing wasn't it? How could it not be? Carter tried not to think
about it. If he didn't think about it he would get through it. Although
really needing to pee didn't help him keep his mind off it. He was told
he shouldn't go right before his appointment to make it easier to give
them the sample they would inevitably ask for. Not that Carter ever had
an issue providing.
They arrived at the doctor's office and made their way inside.
Carter entered slowly, following behind Hank. He clearly didn't
want to be here. He also didn't know what to expect. That made him
nervous even if he wouldn't admit it. He found a seat in the back of the
waiting room while Hank went to check him in. Hank filled some
paperwork out while they waited. It was mostly basic information along
with a few other details that he needed to fill out and note for the
office. He did what he could, some of it he didn't know. The struggles
of taking in someone else's kid. But when he was down he rose and handed
the clipboard and pen back to the receptionist.
He returned to Carter's side to wait for the boy's turn.
Thankfully it was only a short wait until Carter was called back. Carter
just wanted to get this started and therefore over with as soon as
possible, so waiting was the worse part for him. Waiting for anything
the good, bad, or uncertain, anything was always the worse part of
anything, wasn't it?
A door opened and a woman in scrub uniform called his name.
Carter stood and went back when his name was called following the person
who called his name. After a detour to the bathroom to give a sample,
he was led to an exam room where he sat up on the exam bench anxiously
waiting for the doctor to enter. His vitals were taken and jotted down
then the nurse left him alone to wait. Well, not completely alone. Hank
sat in a chair along the wall. He wanted to ask the doctor a few
questions and he and Carter both knew Carter would leave details out to
avoid more trips to the doctor, he things came down to it.
Finally, after what seemed like forever to the young boy, there
was a knock at the door and the doctor entered the room. The doctor
greeted them and introduced himself. Doctor Harolds.
Once the doctor was in the room things moved at a decent pace. Even though there seemed there was a like a lot to talk about.
The appointment went rather quickly. There was mostly talking,
much to Carter's relief. That helped minimize the embarrassment for him
but it was still an uncomfortable conversation to have. carter answered
all the questions asked about him and shifted uncomfortably on the table
as he felt an embarrassed heat blush across his face. Some of the
questions he didn't mind but others were gross or personal and he didn't
like that at all.
After a lot of talking, questions, going back and forth, the
doctor reviewed Carter's history, and test results and then, to the
boy's dismay and embarrassment did a quick examination. That was one of
the things Carter wasn't looking forward too but knew it not only was
going to happen but that it was just something that had to get done. He
might have been embarrassed about it but knew it was something important
that had to be done. After he was done reviewing the boy's history and
was done taking notes, answers and the like he moved over to a supply
counter and grabbed a pair of gloves that he pulled on
The doctor started by pressing on Carter's belly, sides and
back. That part wasn't too bad. That was something he put up with when
ever he had to go to the doctors for a check up.
And there wasn't anything too weird about his tummy. He put up
with it as the doctor moved on. The next part was the part he had
suspected would happen, but wasn't sure about but seemed it was
something that needed to be done. He was glad for the privacy curtain
that the doctor pulled close before continuing to the exam of er well
down below
and then, thankfully it was over quick enough. When the doctor was done, Carter hurriedly righted his clothing.
Thankfully the full exam didn't take long. The exam seemed long,
especially the ending part but it didn't take too long in reality and
the boy was glad when it was over.
Then, before he knew it, the appointment was over altogether and
he found himself walking back to the car. He could finally have a sigh
of relief, It was over and done with. It wasn't as bad as he was worried
about either. That was good. He was grateful for how quickly things
moved.
Even better, there was good news from the doctor. The doctor
didn't think anything was wrong with him and didn't recommend any more
appointments. No, follow ups or procedures or tests or anything. Not
unless he had issues again. That made Carter very happy. He didn't want
to go through all this again or anything else that might have happened.
He was a free kid!
"Come on kid. You earned a treat." Hank said to try to make the
experience positive for the kid. Rewarding him would probably make him
more cooperative with medical appointments in the future, right? Hank
could only hope. But Hank knew that was a rough appointment for Carter,
as the kid was clearly antsy, worried and just obviously embarrassed. A
treat was always a good reward after doing something that needed to get
done but someone didn't want to do it or when something wasn't a
comfortable experience. Plus Hank wanted to eat out for dinner as well. A
treat from McDonald's would kill two birds with one stone.
Hearing he could get a treat rose Carter's spirits even more, he
practically skipped to the car. Something rarely seen in the boy who
built up his walls and closed off his childish side. But he was still
young, and this just goes to show it. He could still get excited over
happy meals. He wasn't as grown as he wanted to say he was. He had a lot
of childhood left in him.
Today was going to be a good day, he thought. Plus he got to
show off his happy meal to his brothers who wouldn't be getting any toys
or chicken nuggets. That was always a good feeling, he thought.
"Can we get McDonald's?" He asked with excitement. He already knew what he was getting if they went there.
Hank nodded. That was exactly what he had in mind. Good."Yup sure. Where ever you want, that's where you want to go?"
"Yeah!" The boy said happily.
They made their way towards the nearest McDonald's which was
just down the street. "What do you want?" Hank asked as they pulled into
the drive thru line.
"Nuggets, fries, and uhh can I get a milkshake? A chocolate one?"
Hank nodded. "Yeah, alright." Hank didn't mind spoiling any of
the kids after everything they already been through over the last week
let alone the doctor's appointments Carter had to deal with. A
milkshake? He could do that. "Nuggets on their own or the happy meal?"
He asked carefully. The boy could go either way.
"...the happy meal..." He said quietly. Hank held back a chuckle.
"And I want the sweet and sour sauce to go with my nuggets." He
added quickly. He had his favorites in mind, certainly. His parents
never let him get milkshakes and happy meals were rare. He was excited
to be treated out like this.
They made it to the ordering speaker and Hank placed their
order. He gave them Carter's list and asked for a hamburger for himself
then listed off a few other items.
The thought of gloating about having a treat that his brothers
couldn't have was crushed, however, when he heard Hank order meals for
the entire family. But Carter and his spirits were still in good nature
as he still got a special milkshake that his brothers didn't get to
have. It was the little things sometimes.
Hank and Carter arrived home with food in hand. Carter was happy
to show off his milkshake to his brothers. He was always happy when
ever he could show something off that he had or could do that his
brothers couldn't get. A better than you type of response. He always
wanted to come out on top out of all his siblings and what better way to
come out on top than with chocolate?
Carter got nuggets and fries to go with his milk shake. Connor
and Niles had gotten hamburgers and Hank even got them sodas. All three
meals were a win for any of the boys. Three happy meals for three kids
who needed a pick me up. T
he meal was interrupted by the sounds of crinkling and clinking
plastic as the brothers opened their included toys. Niles was especially
excited, which made sense since he was the youngest. But even the twins
got into it.
Carter had a toy that launched cardboard discs and of course he
took aim for Connor. Connor's toy was a pull back action type toy. And
in retaliation, he took his car and aimed it at his twin. Niles was on
his own, tongue stuck out as he focused on putting the stickers on
straight. His toy was also a car that took off when pulled back. But he
hadn't tried that yet, He had to set it up first!
After sitting around the table to eat their dinner, another day
was finally over. The sun was starting to set and the Andersons ushered
the boys into a bedtime routine. Pajamas, brushed teeth, get into bed.
Things were slowly getting into a new rhythm with each day that passed. T
he twins settled in bed. Carter in the top bunk and Connor in
the bottom bunk. A color changing nightlight gave off a soft light to
the other wise dark room. Carter was used to it but also thought he was
getting too old for a night light.
"Carter?" Connor spoke up.
Carter huffed from under his blankets. "What?"
"What was your doctor's appointment like?" The twin asked. He
was just curious. He wondered what happened and also was just curious
about how Carter was. He hadn't heard anything about the appointment.
Carter shook his head. He felt his cheeks heating up again as
the embarrassment of the day's event and memories came back to him.
"Shut up." He spat. He didn't want to talk about it.
Connor went quiet. He didn't have anything more to ask if Carter
didn't have anything more to say. Well then. Connor sighed and turned
over. "Goodnight... I guess."
"... Goodnight."
Another day had come and gone. Then another. And one more. And
then it was finally the day of the funeral. It would be a hard day for
all of them but also an important step to help the boys move forward.
Had it only been a week since everything happened? Hank shook his head.
Damn things were a whirlwind.
The funeral was delayed from an investigation into the Oursler's
deaths but it wasn't delayed long, thankfully. It only took a few days
longer for the bodies to be released so that they could be laid to rest.
The day was just getting started and there was a quiet and heavy
blanket hanging over the house hold. Slowly the family got ready and
prepared for the day. It was not something anyone was looking forward to
but saying goodbye was a necessary hurdle that they had to over come.
After breakfast, a breakfast that Hank tried to make special to
help ease the kids into the day, everyone got dressed. They would be
heading out soon enough. Niles, the youngest, held his favorite stuffed
animal in his arms. Tommy was his go to comfort object. Hank wasn't
surprised to see the boy carrying it around today. He didn't mind it
either. If it helped the boy even in the slightest, then he would let
him do whatever he needed to feel secure and get through the day.
The boys were in their funeral attire and kept stern faces as
they got ready. Hank and his wife could tell there were going to be
tears today, and that was okay. Crying is normal, a healthy part of
life, especially in these circumstances. They would be there to help to
support the boys however they needed.
Ready, the family headed out. Prepared as they could be, and ready to finally face the day.
The funeral was a small memorial service to help keep the boys
comfortable and at their own requests. The Oursler family didn't have a
lot of connections either. The boys parents really on had each other,
their boys, and the Andersons. But bosses and coworkers of the parents
showed up to the services as well. There were a few distant relatives
that came out of the woodworks as well.
From their behavior around the boys and reactions at the
funeral, Hank could see why the Ourslers had fallen out of contact with
these certain relatives. They seemed 'nice' enough but didn't know how
to keep quiet and seemed judgmental even to the dead duo and to the
grieving survivors. Hank shook his head and kept his distance from them.
Hank and Molly tried their best to steer the boys away from them as
well, but they also didn't want to tell the boys what to do. They wanted
to let them talk to who they wanted and take things at their own pace.
But Hank was glad that none of them were the ones handling the
kids. He could see why the boys' parents had left the family out of it
all together and named Hank and Molly as the boys' to be guardians and
godparents. Hank didn't think some of these people should be around kids
let alone raising them. Especially how the one was upset to see Niles
crying. That got Hank's blood pumping. He pushed his anger down for the
child's shake and pulled him away to a different part of the funeral
home. What kind of person was mad that a grieving child was crying at
their parents' funeral? Maybe it was the stuffed animal the person was
poking at but that was just as bad! It was the kid's comfort object. He
needed something to comfort him, didn't he?
Fucking hell. Hank shook his head. That didn't matter. He needed
to keep his other thoughts away and remember that his focus should be
on the boys.
"You okay kiddo?" he asked Niles. The
boy clutched his stuffed animal and nodded."I don't like him."
"Well, that's okay. And you know what? After today you never
have to see him ever again." Or at least Hank hopped and would try. He
was pretty sure that would be the case.
Niles gave another small nod. "Okay." He paused in thought
before quietly speaking up once more. "Will you stay with me until we
can go home?"
"Of course kid." Hank said as he brushed some hair out of the
boy's eyes and gave a firm squeeze of his shoulder. "I won't leave your
side."
The twins stayed together, close at each other's sides. A rarity
for them but when the chips were down they hang close by one another.
Other than each other they clearly wanted to be alone and stayed in the
back or corners of the room just quietly observing. Their new guardians
were close by if they were needed but also made sure to give the boys'
their space.
The day moved along with the service and burial. Biting his lip
Carter almost drew blood as he watched the caskets lowed into the
ground. All three boys cried as they said their final goodbye to their
mom and dad and took turns dropping flowers into the open graves. By the
end of the day entire family was exhausted emotionally and was also
spent socially.
And unfortunately, tomorrow was going to be a busy day as well.
The boys all had their first appointments with a child phycologist, and
Hank and Molly had some loose ends to wrap up involving their custody of
the boys. Everything had mostly been taken care of all ready but there
always seemed to be a somehow never ending list of things to do.
Stopping home to change into more comfortable clothes, the
family decided to eat out for dinner. There had been some food at the
services but nothing substantial. They needed some real food in them,
especially the children who took the heaviest burden that day.
The family decided on a casual fast food option. Sometimes the
simplest and cheapest food was the thing that brought the most comfort
so Chick Fil A it was.
After dinner, Connor and Carter slipped into the same bottom
bunk bed. Another rarity for them, but the twins had their moments and
tonight they needed that connection. It had been a very rough day, the
most difficult so far. A lot of tears, emotion, and energy were spent
today.
"Goodnight Car" Connor said.
"Night Con." Carter replied sleepily.
As they drifted off Niles joined them, trying to squeeze in on
the small bed. All three brothers fell asleep in each other's embrace.
Finally drifting off to sleep after a very long, difficult day.
The boys were allowed to sleep in the next morning. The children
were exhausted in every sense of the word for a variety of reasons. It
was very understandable why they would ve so tired. A lot had happened
over the last two weeks. In just a week and a half, they had dealt with
bedwetting, infection, injury, hospitalizations, doctors appointments,
becoming orphaned, moving to a new home, their parents' funerals.
It would be a lot for anyone to handle, let alone a seven year
old and two nine year olds. They needed a well deserved break. Today
they still had some things to do outside of the house but at least they
can rest a few extra hours before hand and after wards they could relax
and play and continue to get used to their new home and lives.
They needed the rest and thankfully there wasn't much going on
this morning. At least not in the early morning hours. It was later in
the morning and the afternoon that the family got busy.
It was going on nine thirty when the boys started to wake up.
They didn't even need to be woken up thankfully. Waking kids up in the
morning could be a struggle as the family already found out. In an hour
there was yet another appointment they had to be to. Hopefully there
would be enough time to get the boys fed, ready and get to the office.
An hour seemed like a long time but Hank and Molly both knew that with
kids that time was going to be tight work especially first thing in the
morning.
The boys each had their own separate therapy sessions as well as
a joint group family therapy. It was a much needed and important step
in the healing process. After that, Hank and Molly had one last meeting
and paperwork session to finalize their custody of the boys. As slow as
the morning was, the day ahead was gearing up to be a busy one.
Molly made the boys breakfast and slowly the day got started.
Toast was on the menu for today with eggs for those who wanted it.
Connor was not a fan of eggs. They were okay but they didn't always
agree with him so the boy would avoid them sometimes unless he really
was in the mood for them. Today was not one of those days.
However, Carter and Niles had a pile of scrambled eggs with
their toast. All three boys buttered their toast and had orange juice to
drink. it was a good breakfast. Connor had more than one piece of toast
to help fill him up. Connor also had a side of fruit. Molly and Hank
tried to persuade the other boys to have fruit as well but Niles only
picked at it and Carter did not even touch his. Connor smirked. "I ate
my fruit and all my breakfast. Guess I'm the better twin"
"And I can eat eggs without getting a rash mister 'I'm the better one' no you're not." Carter replied.
"Shut up."
"You started it."
Their argument continued as they headed down the hall to get
ready for the day. Hank shook his head. Those two were something else.
He could hear them fighting in the bathroom as they tried to brush their
teeth at the same time. Soon enough they came back down the hall fully
dressed and ready for the day. At least no one had to get on them to
make sure they actually got ready. Carter finished brushing his hair and
tossed it on the couch. Well, you could only expect so much from a nine
year old, Hank supposed.
Not too long after the twins entered the family room, Niles
entered as well. Niles was dressed but his hair was still a mess and his
face was sticky from breakfast. Smudges of ketchup here and there left
over from when he drowned his eggs in the condiment.
"You two," Hank motioned to the twins. "Get your shoes on" He
said as he moved to get a damp washcloth to wipe Niles' face. "Niles,
where's your hair brush?" The boy shrugged. "Okay.. well did you brush
your teeth?" He shrugged again. How could you not know if you brushed
your teeth or not? He guided Niles to the back of the house to help the
boy get ready. Hopefully, the older two were ready by the time he came
back.
While Hank was helping Niles, Molly helped the twins. Connor
couldn't find his shoes and Carter needed socks. Oh boy. "Well if you
take your shoes off in the same place each time you won't lose them" she
said. "Go look in your room." She turned to Carter.
"You too. I'm sure there's plenty of socks somewhere in your
room." Because where else would they all be? He certainly had clean
socks somewhere. "If you can't find any then you just have to go
sockless."
"Can I go barefoot?" Connor called.
"No. You have to wear shoes. Find shoes. You got a pair
somewhere" She ushered them to their room to help them search for their
needed footwear.
Finally, both the twins found appropriate footwear and Niles was
completely ready as well. They were ready to head out the door. Somehow
mornings were always hectic with three boys to manage. Hank knew soon
enough they were going to have to deal with getting them ready for
school as well. And secretly he was fearing those busy mornings. If days
like today were any indication, school days were going to be just as
chaotic and busy. Hank could sense a few running late days in their
future.
Thankfully today they were on schedule they had time before the
first appointment. Finally, in the car and on the way out, the day was
rolling on. They arrived on time to the pediatric therapist's office and
heard their small circus into the office.
Niles had his appointment scheduled first, then Connor, then
Carter and lastly all three had a group session. It was going to be a
busy day, they are going to be here a while but that was okay because
Hank knew that it was something that needed to be done. It would help
the boys in the long run.
Although Niles should have gone in alone, he didn't want to. It
was clear that he was nervous and also had some form of separation
anxiety. Thankfully the therapist was very patient and understanding and
allowed someone to come with Niles. They would work on it with the boy
to work him up to spending his sessions on his own. Niles wanted Hank to
come with him. He had boned with him more than Molly and had been
sticking to the man's side since everything had happened. He also leaned
towards the man plenty before. Even when the family friend was just the
occasional babysitter, it was Hank the Niles had gone too not Molly.
Today, thankfully Niles quickly warmed up to the therapist and
Hank was able to slip out. Together the three of them made a plan that
Niles would start his sessions with Hank and then the second half will
be on his own and will work up to him spending the entire session on his
own. Niles was more than okay with that plan and already seemed at ease
and more comfortable. It seemed he just needed help with something new.
But he still had some separation issues. That would be worked on as
well.
After Niles, the other two boys had their time as well and both
of them went back with ease. They didn't have as much trouble that their
younger brother did. That was a good thing. Carter had some hesitation
but went easily enough. He only needed to have someone walk with him. He
didn't need or want Hank to stay with him.
Finally was the family as a whole's turn. The three boys went on their own first and then Hank and Molly joined them.
With their needed therapy appointments over for the day and next
week's scheduled the family headed out. They had one more thing to do
today then the boy could relax and stay at home the rest of the day. It
was a weekend! They should get out and play while the fall weather was
still nice and crisp. Soon enough winter would be here after all.
Molly and Hank had a meeting and paperwork to tend to relating
to their custody of the boys. But hopefully, everything was settled at
least for the time being and they wouldn't have to worry about it for a
while longer yet. In the long run the Anderson's already talked about it
and they agreed that they wanted to adopt the three kids. But that was a
road that was going to be a long ways off. For now they just wanted to
ensure that they were the guardians of the boys and that they could stay
together in familiar surroundings.
After talking and filling out some final paper work, everything
was finally taken care of. The family headed home so the boys could
spend the rest of the day relaxing, playing, resting or whatever else
they wanted or needed. They still had a lot of adjusting to do and on
top of it Monday they were going to start going back to school. That was
going to be another big adjustment. Especially since Hank knew it was a
new school to them. Their old school's zone didn't reach to where the
Andersons lived. It was the same school district but a different
elementary school. So everything was going to be completely new to them.
They deserved to have one final weekend of adjusting to their at home
changes before they faced even more changes.
It was an interesting thing that Hank's mind was on the upcoming
school week as that's when the youngest boy spoke up. "Do I have to go
to school on Monday?" Niles asked.
"Do you want to?" Hank asked him. Maybe the kid wasn't even
ready. But then again when he was a kid he would have said no, no matter
what was going on. He wasn't much of a school person.
But Niles was someone who was missing school apparently as the boy nodded. "I miss my friends."
That made things worse. He was going to be somewhere new. But
hopefully he did have friends in this new school already. It was the
same city and school district after all.
"Then yes, you'll go to school on Monday. I was planning to send
you kids back at the start of the week anyways." He didn't know how to
tell him of the change in schools. Not only how but, when to tell him?
There was so much Hank had to consider.
"You don't worry about Monday though, okay kiddo? Spend the weekend just playing." Way to avoid, Hank.
Hank figured he could tell them later tonight or sometime
tomorrow. He certainly wasn't going to drop it on them the day of. He
shouldn't have waited this long but they had a lot going on and he
didn't want to burden them with any more worries until everything else
was worked out. Now that things had started to come together and school
was coming up it was finally time to tell them.
As they got home, Hank and Molly watched the boys go relax or play, each going off in their own way.
"How are we going to tell them about switching schools?" Hank asked.
Molly sighed. " I don't know. But I have to go back to work on
Monday as well. It's not a day I'm looking forward to." Molly had taken
off from work to best be able to help the family. She was on emergency
family leave. Hank had taken emergency leave as well. But his family
leave extended until Wednesday and he could probably take a few more
days as well. He didn't know when he was going back yet. He was playing
every day by ear. Molly, on the other hand, had to return on Monday. She
had used up all her emergency family days along with several sick days.
She didn't have anything left.
"After dinner tonight, we'll just tell them?" Hank suggested.
"It'll give them some time to process the news rather than drop it on
them last minute." Hank didn't want to drop it on them at the last
minute that wasn't fair to them.
"That's the best I can think of." Molly shrugged. "I wouldn't give them it last minute that's for sure."
"Everything we could do feels like last minute at this rate"
"That's not your fault. It's been a hectic time for all of us."
Hank sighed. "Yeah... Yeah, it has."
The day went on as the afternoon came and went. Soon it was
dinner time. And with that Hank decided it was finally the best time to
tell the boys about the change in schools. The best way to go about this
was to just do it, right?
As the family was sitting around the table enjoying a meal of
chicken and veggies, a homemade meal instead of the fast food they had
fallen into, Hank took the dive. "Boys there's something you need to
know."
The three children turned their attention towards their
guardian. Hank continued on. "When you go back to school, whenever you
are ready for it that is, you're not going to be going to the same
school as you used to."
The silence in the room seemed heavier somehow. Carter of all
the boys was the one that seemed the most taken back and anxious even.
"What? Why?"
That was hard to explain to a seven year old but, was it really? Or was Hank just making it difficult on himself for no reason?
"The way the schools are set up, which one you go to depends on
where you live. The school in this area is a different one than where
you used to live." It wasn't hard at all it seemed.
Niles seemed uncertain and Connor was taking it the best of all.
Each boy was taking it in their own way, but none of them were
particularly okay with the news. It would take time to adjust.
Connor seemed to take it the best. He looked more curious than
upset. Carter was trying to keep his feelings to himself but it was
obvious he was not dealing with the news well. Niles continued to
nervously poke at his dinner.
"It'll be alright." Hank tried to assure. "Remember your first
day of school at your previous school? It must have be scary huh? You
were nervous like you are now but everything worked out."
Niles gave a thoughtful nod. "Yeah… I guess so. I still don't like it though."
"You can stay home a few extra days if you don't think you're
ready yet but you do have to go back eventually kiddo." Hank tried to
offer.
Niles shook his head. "No. I wanna go." He said with certainty.
That was good. Because they really did need to go back to school, they
missed enough days as it was but those missed days were understandable.
"That's good," Molly added in with a reassuring smile. Hank gave a nod and a smile of his own.
"Don't worry about it now. It's still over a day away. Enjoy the
rest of your weekend." Hank told all three boys. "Now let's finish up
dinner and maybe you can play a bit before bed."
The children agreed with a nod each and went back to their
meals. They already learned that with their new routines, they liked to
have free time before bed. Before with their parents, they didn't get
much free time before bed. After dinner was a time used to finish up any
chores they didn't get to before. Sometimes they got free time,
sometimes they didn't. It depended on the day and how quickly they took
care of their assigned chores.
Now they had a good amount of time between dinner and bedtime.
About an hour usually but it depended on how the day went. They were
still getting into the rhythm of this new life.
They would try their best to focus on the weekend and not the
new week ahead that would bring a new school and all the changes that
came with new schools. At least it was still the same school district
so, something would still be the same? Hopefully. Not that the boys
understood that kind of system.
They finished their dinner, and helped clean up the table and do
the dishes. They weren't asked to do so but they wanted to help out and
were used to doing it from their own parents expecting it. Then they
were sent off to get ready for bed and they were free to relax until it
was bedtime.
The twins fought over the sink as they brushed their teeth and
Niles changed into a pair of pajamas. Neither Connor nor Carter wore pjs
these days. They either slept in what they had on or they switched into
a t-shirt and set of shorts that they found comfortable. They didn't
have anything that was considered just pajamas or something special just
for bed. They thought it was childish.
Connor wouldn't say anything to Niles about it but Carter would
tease the younger boy from time to time. Thankfully it seemed like
tonight wasn't one of those times. Connor changed into an oversized
t-shirt and Carter kept what he had on. After all three boys were
changed and had brushed their teeth, they were free to relax and play
until they were sent to bed.
Connor and Carter could stay up slightly later than Niles
because they were older, but since they were still rather younger even
their bedtime wasn't too late.
The weekend came to an end, and Monday arrived. Now it was time
for the boys to go back to school after the car accident and the loss of
their parents. They had experienced a lot of pain and changes over the
last few days. It was almost two weeks since the crash. Most of their
injuries were still healing. They had a lot of progress to make. But now
they had another new change to tackle, they were going back to school
but were going to be attending a new school.
Molly was already off to work, her first day back since she took
a leave to help with the boys. Hank was left to get the three kids
ready for school all on his own.
It was hard to get the boys out of bed, early mornings were
something that would be hard for anyone. But it was especially hard when
you had gotten into the routine of sleeping in and lazy mornings. Over
the two weeks of living in their new home and adjusting to their new
lives, the boys had gotten used to getting up on their own, whenever.
Usually, that meant eight or nine in the morning. But now? Now they had
to get up at six, and even with an early bedtime, they couldn't be
prepared for it.
Niles was first to roll out of bed, and Connor was next to
follow. But coming down the hall for breakfast. But Carter was the real
problem. The boy just wouldn't get up no matter how much Hank tried to
get him up. The child continued to grumble and pull at his blankets even
when Hank tried to pull them from the boy. But finally, twenty minutes
later, he was up and started to get ready as well.
Carter went straight to the bathroom to get ready for the day,
fighting his twin over the sink. They couldn't share to brush their
teeth it seemed. Hank shook his head. Kids.
"Carter? Do you want breakfast, kiddo? We can grab something for
the car because we need to get going." Hank called. Carter grabbed some
fruit to eat in the car.
With breakfast taken care of and the boys dressed they were
ready to head out, and somehow still on time. Things were bumpy and
rocky this morning but they were right on track.
With their shoes finally on and back packs slung over their shoulders Hank ushered them into the car.
It was only a short drive to the school, Hank played music on
the radio to help ease the boys' nerves. They were ready to go back to
school in some ways but the new school aspect only complicated their
feelings. They were worried, nervous, and antsy about the day ahead.
Pulling up to the student drop off area, Hank bid the three boys a goodbye and waved them off as they headed to the door.
The students of the school gathered in different areas based on
their grades and then further gathered based on their classes. Niles
found his way to the cafeteria, splitting off from his brothers while
the twins went to a courtyard area. The twins were in the same grade but
were in different classrooms. They were happy about that. They liked
going their own ways. They were in the same class once when they were
younger, and they didn't like it at all. They needed a break from each
other. What classes they would be in was one of their worries going into
the day. They were ecstatic when they found out they were in different
rooms in their new school just like their old school.
Carter found his class right away. Connor gave a small wave to
Carter and went off to find the line for his class. The classes were
ordered in numeric order in lines up and down the courtyard. His class
was towards the back.
Keeping to the back of the group he observed his peers and
classmates. He was approached by a girl in his class. She gave a small
smile.
"You're new." She stated. "My name is Delilah. What's yours?"
She was soft spoken and Connor could tell she was probably a bit shy but
was still trying to be out going. He always was good at picking up on
details like that.
He smiled back. "My name is Connor.
"Did you just move here or something?" The girl asked. It was an
understandable question. It was reasonable to assume he had moved. That
was the most common reason he thought. If there was a new kid in his
class he would have asummed they just moved for one reason or another.
But that wasn't the case for Connor. He lived in the city for as
long as he could remember. He moved to a different part of town and to a
new house but he would not consider it the same thing. So what should
he say? Connor was usually good in social situations but this was a new
feeling. He averted his gaze and looked to the floor, tracing patterns
with his eyes. The various marks on the tiles gave a lot to look at.
"Something like that." He muttered.
What more could Connor say? How could he explain how he ended up
at this school instead of his old school? He couldn't just tell it to
some kid he just met. So he remained silent, not adding anything more to
his comment.
The girl continued. " I'm sort of new here myself. I started
here in August when school started. But if you need any help let me
know. I'm happy to help!"
"Thanks, I appreciate it." He was glad to already have someone to go to, but he also liked to figure things out on his own.
"So did you
move
here?" Connor countered. He could ask questions too. He always
was the type to try to learn about other people. Learn, observe, be
curious, and figure things out. He was good at adapting and learning.
It was her turn to avoid the moving question. "I… uh… My sister
and I move around a lot. But we've been in the city for a while I guess.
My dad… works a lot of odd jobs." Interesting. Connor didn't follow up
on her reaction, even though it brought more questions to mind. He's
sure she had more questions about him as well.
"I was born in Pennsylvania. But I've only ever known Detroit. My family moved here when my brother and I were really little."
"You have a brother?"
"Two, actually. You have a sister?"
"Yeah, her name is Molly she's a few years younger than me. What about your brothers?"
Connor shrug. "Carter is my twin and Niles is our younger brother. He's only in second grade."
"I always wanted a twin." Delilah said with a smile.
"I didn't." Well, that was something. Their conversation was cut
short by the sound of a bell ringing. The day was getting started. The
teachers came to lead the students to their respective classrooms.
The entire routine was new to Connor but some parts of it still
felt familiar to him now that they were in the classroom. There were
cubbies along the wall of the classroom, and this is where students put
their bags and where their coats would be in the colder weather months.
Most had papers and books stored in there, clearly in use. He went to
the end of the row to find one that seemed empty and unused. That was
where he left his book bag for now. He didn't know if the cubbies were
assigned or not. He remembered last year kids could use any cubby they
wanted but this year in his last school his teacher gave the students
cubbies in numeric order. What were this classroom's rules? He guessed
he'll learn soon enough.
Now came the question of where to sit? Everyone had their own
specific desk for sure, every desk he ever had was an assigned seat and
he could see the name tags from here.
He stood by his chosen cubby until he spotted a desk that didn't
seem like it was in use. He couldn't see a name tag nor did it look
like there were any supplies inside. He took a seat there and figured he
could move if need be or if he was told to.
He waited to see what would come next. Being the third week of
school the other students had gotten into a smooth routine. Even with
this classroom being new to him the morning shuffle of putting things
away and chattering in seats was all too familiar to him Somethings
never change. Connor thought of something his father said once, an old
saying everyone said, 'the more things change the more they stay the
same'. The morning carried on. The teacher helped Connor settle in and
had the class greet the boy. It was time for what the teacher called the
'morning meeting'. A teacher he had a few years ago did them as well,
but his last teacher this school year didn't. This was all new to him.
But thankfully Connor wasn't asked to stand up in front of the
class and talk about himself, as he was thinking might happen. He saw it
happen to 'new' kids before. He didn't have a problem talking in front
of others or introducing himself but considering the reason for his
changing in schools, the boy wasn't ready for any happy go lucky
intros.
The teacher did give Connor a cubby and desk, letting him stay
where he already settled in, and also gave him some papers, ones she had
handed out to the rest of the class at the start of the year, to help
him get familiarized with the classroom rules, routines, and procedures.
There were papers for parents as well. Connor figured he would give
them to Hank once he got home. The teacher also asked another student to
be his buddy to help him learn the routines as well and so he had
someone to ask if he needed help.
Meanwhile, in Carter's class, the boy was having a different
morning. It wasn't bad by any means, however, but it was off to a rough
start. Maybe it was his reluctance to get up this morning that had set
him off on the wrong foot or maybe it was a sign to some. Either way, he
was grumpy and he didn't have any friendly faces to greet him either.
But Carter liked it that way.
He kept to the back of the line in the morning meet-up area,
looking around with an observant eye. The school courtyard was spacious
with benches and natural light but was enclosed near the center of the
school. Hallways split off in each direction lined with different colors
of tile. There was a blue hallway, red hallway, green hallway, and
yellow hallway each with that color flooring mixed with normal white
tile. The walls had colored accents as well. Carter knew from what he
had heard from those in the school as well as details Hank had told him,
that there were different 'wings' of the school denoted by color.
Different grades and classes in different wings. It was an interesting
concept. His old school wasn't organized like that.
He kept pace with his class as a bell rang and his teacher
escorted the students to their room. As the other kids made their way to
their cubbies and desks, the teacher summoned Carter to the front of
the room and called the other students to attention. Uh oh. He was
introduced, the kids were told of the new student and then he was
prompted to tell his classmates a little about himself.
What should he say? 'Hey I'm Carter and I'm only here because I
was suddenly orphaned'? No, he couldn't nor did he want to. But he had
to make a good introduction and entrance, he wanted to be known and
remembered. Plus, he had always been more of a dramatic child that was
an attention getter. He liked the spotlight and attention. So… why was
this difficult? He wasn't prepared, that's why. He was caught off guard
and suddenly. He swallowed hard and tried to gather his thoughts. He
worked to think about what he was going to say.
"My name is Carter, my brothers and I are new, it's our first
day here. I'm the talented and best looking brother. My twin and I are
nine and our brother Niles is a little second grader. I can play the
piano." There that was good, wasn't it? Plus people loved someone who
could play the piano. His mother always insisted that each of the kids
in the family learned to play an instrument, they could choose which
one, but they had to play some kind of instrument. Carter's had been
piano. Connor picked up guitar and Niles was piano and violin, some over
archiver the baby was. His kid brother just had to pick two instruments
and play them better than he did no less.
The teacher smiled and praised him before prompting the rest of
the class to say their own greeting. With that over and taken care of
the teacher showed Carter to the cubbies to show him his assigned spot
and then took him to his assigned desk. It was time to settle in and get
on with the rest of the day. The worst was over, wasn't it? He wasn't
given a student buddy to show him around or ask questions but the
teacher did seem open to helping the boy figure things out and adjust to
the new class. There were a lot of routines and protocols for him to
learn.
Niles was having the best morning of all three brothers, which
was a good thing given how he was the most nervous and anxious about
starting at a different new to him school. He liked his old school, his
old teacher, and his old classmates. He had gotten into a comfortable
routine, and why should he change it? But after finding the cafeteria
and finding his class's designated section his fears were eased. Several
of his new classmates greeted him and started conversations. That
helped ease his worries. He hopped right in, answering their questions
and asking some of his own.
"My name is Niles… yeah it's my first day." He didn't know what
else to say, how could he explain why he was starting at a new school?
It's not like he just moved across town, even though he did do that.
There was more to it but he didn't want to explain it. He found himself
in the same dilemma as his brothers did. His classmates didn't seem to
care even with their curiosity. They had plenty of other questions about
him. His favorite color, what he did for fun, his favorite show, etc.
The typical things kids were interested in. Before he knew it, it was
time to head to his classroom.
There weren't any cubbies in this room, but the wall along the
side of the door had hooks lining it. Kids hung their bags on whichever
hook they wanted. After finding a place for his bag Niles turned to the
rest of the room.
Instead of desks, there were four large tables with chairs lined
along the sides. The one boy Niles was working to make friends with
grinned and lead him to a table in the middle of the room. "You can sit
with us, at least until the teacher assigned your seat! But we have an
empty spot at our table so I bet that's your seat anyways!"
Niles smiled. "That sounds good." He was relieved to have an
easy place to sit He didn't want to stand around waiting for the teacher
to tell him where he was able to sit and he didn't want to take someone
else's seat either. Maybe starting a new school wasn't so bad after
all.
The teacher let Niles stay in the seat he had found and had
handed some papers out to him along with a planner. After getting the
boy set up, the teacher jumped right into the day's writing lesson.
The school day carried on, and soon enough it was lunch and
recess time. A kid's favorite time of the day, is it not? The scheduling
worked out that all three brothers had lunch at the same time, but
other than in passing they didn't see much of each other as each class
had to sit together. They wouldn't want to eat with each other anyways.
They were all happy going their own ways. But it was still somehow
reassuring to see each other. They all bought school lunch.
Cheeseburgers and tater tots, something any kid would love and couldn't
ignore. The side of fruit was hit or miss however, Niles and Connor
enjoyed the fruit cup while Carter ignored it completely.
While they had lunch at the same time, the boys' recess
schedules were flip flopped. The twins had recess before lunch, while
Niles had recess after lunch. But it still proved to be a good time for
them to get to know their new classmates. Lunch and recess were also a
good midway point of the day breaking up the lessons and letting the
kids take a break, this was important for any student but it was
especially important today for the newcomers. They had a lot of new
things to deal with. Taking some time to just talk and play was
important to help them adjust and take a moment to just be kids.
The day continued on, and after what seemed like a very long
day, the school day was coming to an end. The boys were glad to have
their first day back behind them. It was going to take some time to get
used to all the new routines and rules that they needed to learn but it
was a good first step forward.
The dismissal was a bit hectic, but Connor suspected this was a
daily occurrence and not just him not knowing the proper procedure. But
it did seem easy as enough, it was like the arrival routine but in
reverse. Everyone met in the courtyard but they didn't need to be lined
up by class. Over the intercom system, someone called off bus numbers,
various after school programs, car riders, and other dismissal groups.
It only took a few minutes for the car riders group to be called and
that was the group the boys were a part of. Connor, Carter, and Niles
met in the hall way and exited the school together. Connor took a hold
of his younger brother's hand while Carter walked ahead. They searched
for Hank's car in the line of parent vehicles. Finally, they spotted him
and made their way to the car.
"Hi, Mr. Hank." Niles called with a smile. "I had a great day!"
"That's wonderful Kiddo." Hank was happy to hear that, Niles was
the most nervous when he found out the news that he would be going to a
new school. But it seemed there wasn't anything for any of them to
worry about.
"What about you two?" He asked the twins.
Both boys shrugged. "It was okay." Carter replied.
Connor on the other hand had more to say. "I think I made a new friend, so I guess I had a good day."
"A friend who is a girl who he totally has a crush on" Carter butted in.
Connor glared. How did he already know who his friend was and possibly
tell he had a crush?
"Carter shut up!" Connor gritted. Hank ignored the boys teasing and
chuckled. Kids will be kids. Brothers will be brothers. And news did
have a way of spreading around a playground. Hank shook his head and
moved on.
"That's good to hear. I'm glad you all had good days, it wasn't as bad as you thought huh?"
"Yeah… I guess." Carter still wasn't sold on his new school but
he knew he didn't have much of a choice but figured he would get used to
it.
"How about we get a treat from the convenience store?" Hank
offered. It was their first day of school, well first day back to school
but still it was their first day here all the same. The first day of
school meant a special after school treat!
The boys all cheered in excitement and agreement.
Hank chuckled. Now if only Hank could get the boys to do their homework that easily.
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