Deek stared at the file he had just read. Any anger at Todd had flown out the window. Blowing air out his front teeth he sat heavily in the chair, running a meaty hand over his face, like it would erase what he just seen.
"_d_a_m_n_, Jared....I mean......._d_a_m_n_."
"Yeah."
Leaning his head back on the couch cushions Deek closed his eyes and let himself absorb the images he'd just seen. The two men sat there a long time in silence. Deek sat up and looked over at his employer and long time friend. He was concerned. Jared's face was grim, his eyes were staring out in the Ozone. Deek glanced down at the thick file he had dropped on the table. He tried to lighten the moment for both their sakes.
"Well, boss, this explains a few things."
"Oh."
"Yeah, like that attitude of his, guess the little _s_h_i_t_ has a right to it. That going to make life really fun for you."
Jared shot Deek a withering look, softened with a small lift of the lips.
"Great, thanks, that really helps. Any other brilliant observations?"
Pleased that he was able to drag Jared back from wherever his mind had taken him, Deek relaxed. Jared smiled gratefully at his friend. The records they had been waiting for so long from Todd's home state had arrived, finally. Brian had pulled some strings and got the ball rolling faster. He delivered them personally a while ago. It wasn't what any of them had expected. It was far worse. Jared had an idea that the kid had some tough issues in his past. The petty crimes he already knew about most of them. Nothing bad enough that would get him pulled from the home he was assigned to and tossed into a camp. He came close on a number of accounts, but always was released back to the home. The thought crossed Jared's mind that the boy had maybe done some of these things to get out of his situation.
There were a few they didn't know about from Arizona, one was thatTodd had been caught once for solicitation, but he had escaped from the officer but slipping out a bathroom window. It wasn't especially funny to Jared but both he and Deek shared a chuckle and sympathized with the officer as they read that report. Just like the boy they have been hunting down for the last month. Todd was slipperiest when caught. On the whole, Jared was familiar with or had assumed much of this new information. He had guessed Todd had dealt with some degree of abuse but never had he expected Todd's past to be so... violent. The photos of Todd's body at such young ages and various stages of bruising. In each photo, even as early as the age of nine Todd had that cold vacant look in the eye....old and hardened way before his time. Jared was well acquainted with that look.
The pictures covered Todd from the age of nine to thirteen. It turned his stomach and a rage so hot boiled high. "How in the hell could anyone do this...to a baby...Judas Priest, he was just a little kid. Where were the _d_a_m_n_ police?"
Deek looked again at the pictures, this time a little more prepared against the graphic brutality captured there. He gave Jared a moment to get his emotions under control while he read the file reports more carefully.
"Doesn't look like they were invited to the party. Hey, it was easy to fall between the cracks in the old system before the black out; it's just that much easier now. Todd was just _d_a_m_n_ lucky there was enough of a system up and running to at least attempt....however poorly to place him somewhere."
Both men looked more closely at the reports. The file contained police, medical and all too thin school transcripts. There was not much from the childcare services, just dates of Todd's transfer from home to home. No notes of any problems, no real reasons given for the transfers other than the mundane overcrowding, shifting boundaries, funding, etc. One photo captured both men's attention and it burned its image into Jared's mind. It was dated when Todd was thirteen. He was in front of a burnt garage; he was holding his arm and had a huge black and swollen eye, from eyebrow to cheekbone, dirt on his face streaked from tears. There was an official police report and with it was a report from the emergency station of Todd being treated for a broken arm and multiple scrapes and bruises.
"It's the only one with a police seal on it."
Both men looked through the records. Each report was explained as a sports accident or a childish mishap, falls, fights, and several were related to riding a motorcycle. Some complaints had a notation of being suspicious but no follow-ups were ever done. Most of the complaints were from teacher's, school nurse, neighbors but never investigated.... not deeply. One more symptom of the black out. No money...no manpower. Todd just slipped through a system that had holes the size of western states.
As Jared read he was barely able to absorb that it was Todd in these reports. The most recent record was one that the details had been a mystery to them for some months. Now they had more. Todd had been in the custody of a foster family, the Jefferson's. The police came out on a call to their home. It was about a structure fire, arson was originally suspected but no suspect was ever named or mentioned. Later it was determined that a lit cigarette was the culprit, so the case was closed. The report coincided with the police photo of Todd in front of the burnt garage. Todd had been taken to the hospital and treated for injuries from an alleged dirt bike accident. Including the casting of a broken arm. Didn't Todd tell him that he had never broken anything before? There were photo's taken at the hospital, a precaution Jared assumed or more than likely due to further suspicions. There was a notation about this being the second time Todd had been treated here for a broken arm, same Foster parents. Eight months earlier he'd been brought in for a broken arm from a fall. Jared looked very closely at the photos of the injuries. There was just something wrong, about everything. Jared brushed it off to the fact it was Todd, his Todd's body that was brutalized. He tried to concentrate on the rest of the report. At least the cops attempted to do a follow up. Only to find Todd now a runaway. Jared tossed the report in frustration back on the table.
"There is really something wrong with.....all of this. Things just aren't adding up."
Looking up at Deek, for answers that neither one of them had. Deek grimly handed Jared a page from the file.
"Well, girlfriend, we won't be getting them from the Jefferson's. Both were killed in a car accident three years ago. Only Todd has those answers now. And I don't think you'll get those any time soon...not with our bloodshed bro."
Anger and frustration boiled so hot in Jared he thought he'd combust. His head began to throb; he just couldn't get passed the photos. Haunted eyes floated in front of him. Angrily he got to his feet and headed out the door.
"Jared, where you going?"
Practically ripping the study door off its hinges Jared just barked over his broad shoulders. "Out! I need some air...to hit something...hard..... very hard....repeatedly!"
Deek wisely didn't press him. Jared rarely got truly angry and right now he was as angry as Deek had ever seen him.
Todd was walking down the hall from the bathroom and heard Jared's voice. He sounded angry. Rounding the corner he was approached by Jared and judging by his expression.... the tank was very, very angry. Todd had never seen him like this. Deek must have said something about him mouthing off to the big man. Todd started to back up and defend himself.
"Look, dude, all I wanted was to see the _f_u_c_k_'n....."
"Todd! Look at me."
No matter how hard he tried he couldn't steel himself to hold that emerald gaze. Todd's eyes burned into the floor, he stuffed his hands in his pockets and waited.
"I'm.. going out. Make yourself at home while I'm gone. You ARE home. You hear me? Home and safe."
Todd looked up, confused by what Jared was saying. Jared's voice was nearly crackling with anger but it didn't seem directed at him. He was infinitely grateful for that. Jared was practically shaking he was so mad.
"I'll be out for a..while.... Deek will hang out here with you if you want.
"Look, I don't need to be _f_u_c_k_'n babysa-mfha"
A large black hand covered his mouth, cutting him off. "I'll hang with the kid.
"Thank's, Deek. Todd, you stay put. Hear me?"
Normally Todd would bristle at being ordered around but Jared's tone warned him that this would be a bad time for any fights. He shoved away from Deek and nodded.
"I need to hear you say it."
He was about to tell the tank to take a flying leap but with a more colorful flair, but the intense green eyes boring into him had a sheen to them almost like tears. Todd heard himself answer quietly.
"I hear you."
Jared gave him one long look, for a minute Todd thought the big man was about to hug him but Jared just turned and took the elevator down leaving Todd alone with Deek. Todd swung his confused gaze to Deek.
"Who pissed in his Cheerio's?"
Deek gave him an odd look. No sign of the anger from earlier.... just something that looked a lot like pity to Todd but then it was gone and Deek just looked tired.
"He's just..... had some bad news and needs to blow off some steam."
"Where is he going?"
"Gym probably."
There was more to this than just bad news. Todd felt distinctly uncomfortable at the way Deek was trying not to look at him. Between Jared's words and the way Deek was acting he was getting a weird feeling it had something to do with him.
"I don't envy the punching bag tonight. Man has a wicked right," Deek said lightly and moving his jaw like it had just been punched.
"You two go at it or something?" Todd asked surprised.
"No, kid, nothing like that...well not since we were little. No. Jared and I spar sometimes in the ring. He's clocked me a time or two and me him."
That was something Todd would like to see sometime. Battle of the Titans.
"Did that other dude piss him off or something?"
"Who? Jared's brother? No he didn't do anything to piss him off. Kid, now that Brian is one bad ass you don't want to mess with. Even at his age Brian's the terminator."
Todd could see that. The walking brick wall he met yesterday had all his warning bells ringing. Over the years Todd developed.... at a high price, the ability to size up a room. Who was safe and who was not? Cop, stoner, player, and the odd mass murderer. He could weed out and avoid most possible dangers. Most times. Deek he'd seen down in the zone.... the big dude just screamed cop to him. Turns out he wasn't far off the mark. But Jared and Brian messed up his radar. They gave off conflicting signals. If they were to walk into a room down there, half would think they were cops and the other would think they were hit men. Yet there was something about them that made Todd feel.... he didn't know the word for it. But if there were trouble he'd head for anyone of them and know he'd be safe. That bothered him, finding himself actually wanting to trust someone. He wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of their temper though...he'd already had several doses of what could happen when Jared was pushed too far. Todd's end got all the receiving. But right now Jared was giving off some strange signals. Todd found himself actually concerned about the big guy.
"D'ya think he's....um..okay?
"Jared? He'll be fine.....just needs some steam released."
Deek was amused at watching Todd try to stuff his open concern back behind that icy demeanor. What was amusing was the struggle the kid was having at doing so. Stuff something real behind something fake. The kid did have feelings for Jared, somewhere under all that anger and attitude. That had to count, didn't it? He hoped it did....for both of them.
Deek found out that spending time with Todd was time spent in stony silence. Any conversation, if you could call the one-word sentences dragged out of Todd a conversation, had to be powered by Deek. His abilities at getting people to talk took a beating in dealing with Todd. The kid just wouldn't engage. At first Deek thought the kid was an antagonistic, arrogant brat. The more he sat there with him he began to see that maybe he had the kid pegged all wrong. Todd sat on the lounger staring out the window but he was plucking at his lip and bounced a leg in agitation. On a one-to-one, Todd was a very different kid than the one he had watched down in the Zone. Todd was not so much arrogant but surprisingly shy and clearly uneasy. Feeling the need to break the mood Deek made the first offering of peace.
"Wanna play a game of pool? Let's see how good you are, Slick?"
Four games later and 40 dollars lighter Deek cried mercy. His peace offering became more a sacrifice to the pool gods.
"Hungry? I'm not too bad in the kitchen."
Todd shook his head no. "No....um thanks."
"Well, then I'm heading home."
Finally.* Todd had been hoping the big man would leave so he could.
Deek helped Todd clean up the pool table. Todd was acting a little impatient.
"Just make sure you take the elevator straight to the main floor and go straight to the gym." Pleased at the guilty look on the pup's face. Deek just grinned at him.
"Son, I didn't just fall off the turnip truck, we both know you were just waiting for me to leave."
Tapping Todd on the shoulder in warning. "If you go anywhere else, you'd only be asking for more trouble than even an alley cat like you can handle. Besides, this building is locked up like Fort Knox. And I'll know if you try...remember the vid-cams. No one moves in this building that I won't know about."
Todd glared and snapped in irritation at the big man. "Back off. I'll go where I want."
Deek's smile disappeared. " Don't eyeball me, boy. Keep up the attitude and I'll old school your punk ass right here and you'll go no where."
Todd's eyes hit the floor. There was no empty threat there in that dark face. Studying Todd as he stood there quietly staring at his toes. Todd's posture said, "Okay you win," but the tense body and fire smoldering under those lids clearly said, " just wait asshole." Dealing with Mouse now seemed like a walk in the park compared to Jared's situation.
"Go on and find Jared, Todd..... Go easy on him tonight."
Frowning in irritated confusion, Todd had to squeeze bodily by the huge frame taking up the doorway. Deek left after he finished turning off all the lights in the game room. He was tired and was not unaffected by the photos of Todd's abuse. He'd stop by Mouse's and get a dose of that healthy energy, he could use it.
On the ride down Todd was tempted to hit the button for the garage but didn't. He looked up and in the left corner of the elevator was a small round lens. A camera. Another time, another way, he promised himself.
Stepping off at the main floor he was waved at by one of the guards. He nodded at Todd in greeting. Never comfortable around anyone in uniform Todd just hurried across the hall into the gym. It was empty and quiet except for the muffled sounds coming from behind some double doors. Todd peeked in the round windows of the swinging doors, he saw Jared over at a boxing bag. He had taken off his shirt and shoes. His upper body was covered with sweat. Light reflected off the massive muscles that rippled and bulged as Jared attacked the punching bag, bare fisted. The bag was secured from both the roof and the floor. Jared's forceful blows sent the bag straining violently against the chains. Todd watched in awe of Jared's awesome body as it moved in tight rhythm with the bags swinging. Then something snapped in Jared. He pummeled the bag like he was trying to kill it. Never had Todd seen him like this...he was enraged. Jared the tank, who was always so disciplined, so controlled looked to Todd, like he lost it completely.
Huge powerful fists, wildly struck the bag, two-handed at times. Loud, savage grunts and curses echoed in the room. A sick feeling began in his stomach as he watched the other man vent his anger viciously at the hapless bag. Yesterday he tried to remove that blonde head with a pool stick, seeing the exposed raw fury in the tank sized man, made Todd aware of how dangerous that rash move had been. The damage those fists could have.....
Jared felt Todd's stare even in the heat of his anger. Todd ducked quickly below the window just as he saw Jared's head move to turn his direction suddenly afraid of being seen. He hunched there until he heard the chains creaking again, risking another peek he saw Jared still hitting the bag, only more controlled now. Deciding that it was probably not a great idea. Todd left the gym and took the elevator back to the penthouse feeling frustratingly close to tears. A short time later Jared walked out of the gym, still bare-chested and drenched in sweat, his rage banked down but still smoldering. He smiled at catching the kid peeking behind the door. Why he thought Todd would mind him he had no clue, just a fond hope. Didn't blame the little guy for not making his presence known. He wasn't in the best of moods just now and was a little uneasy about having been caught out of control like that. He acknowledged Herb, the night guard, and got a knowing nod, the older man waved and pointed a finger up letting Jared know that Todd had gone back up to the penthouse. With a wave goodnight Jared followed.
He found the house quiet. A quick glance in the game room found the boy at the electronic chess game.
"Hey, kid...I'll just be a minute then I'll get some supper started."
Jared walked into his study; he picked up the reports and the disturbing photos. Todd silently walked in just as he finished locking it in his desk.
"What's that?" Todd asked gruffly.
Jared looked at the beautiful face, for a split second two images blurred. That of the younger bruised Todd and the current model in front of him. Then it was just Todd devoid of any bruising only that small scare on the corner of his mouth and the lingering dark smudges under the eyes.
"Just some paper work."
Clasping the kid about the back of the neck with his large hand Jared steered him to the kitchen. It took all of his will power not to put the kid in a bear hug and hold on for life.
"So what sounds good for dinner?"
"How' bout a shower."
Jared looked sharply at Todd. There was humor hidden there, sarcastic humor but humor still that surprised Jared. Todd however wasn't acting very humorous, tense was more like it. Todd surprised himself since that popped out of his mouth before he knew it and he didn't know what Jared would do or say in the mood he was in.
Green eyes grew round with feigned shock. " True to his word, ten
minutes later Jared returned to the kitchen, clean but he didn't smell
like flowers, more the woods. That suited Todd just fine. "So what
sounds good?" Todd sat down and shrugged. "Food.... just no hotdogs." Jared
smirked at him and shook his head no. Todd didn't want to eat at the
table, he moved to sit at the counter. He's always fidgety at the
table, like sitting there was uncomfortable, Jared joined him. "What?
Don't like sitting at the table?" Todd just shook his head and began
to pick at his food. Dinner was a quiet affair. Both lost in their
own thoughts. Todd's eyes kept darting to Jared's hands. The knuckles
were raw and starting to bruise. He was feeling a little uneasy around
Jared....more than usual that is. The big guy had always
been a rock. Even when he got angry with Todd, he kept his cool and
never lashed out really. But now he was showing some strain. Something
was just under that handsome face. Todd didn't want anything to do
with it. He'd seen tonight how violent this man could be. If that
punching bag had been human, there would have been a hospital in the
picture. Todd could take a hit or two; in fact he'd had more than
his share. There was no way he could handle what Jared could dish
out. He doubted few could. Seeing that side of Jared made Todd wary.
After dinner Jared gave Todd a glass of water and the other pill he
promised to take. Todd took it with nothing more than a frown. There
was something very intense going on with the tank and he didn't want
any to catch any overflow. He scolded himself for beginning to think
this giant was any different than anyone else. One thing on the outside
and something terribly different on the inside. Todd just kept his
distance. He flinched when Jared set the glass of water down in front
of him, he was really rattled and was having a hard time getting it
under control. "You feeling all right, Todd?" "Yeah." "How's
your...." "Dude....I'm fine." Jared
noticed the withdrawn, moody attitude. Todd had hardly said two words.
Not that that was unusual but the way Todd seemed to watch him, study
him, was not the norm, if there was such a condition for Todd. He
knew Todd was picking up on his own mood. He made every effort to
act like all was well and good but he could tell he was failing. Poor
kid was getting jumpy. A few times Jared nearly said something but
it never felt right. He needed to get a grip on himself before he
ruined the progress if any he'd made with Todd. It was 10:00 pm
when Jared said it was time for bed. He braced for the battle but
no shot was fired. Todd didn't complain but quietly asked if he could
take a shower first. "You can take a bath or shower whenever you
want. As often as you want. You don't have to ask permission, Todd.
Go ahead." Jared was relieved for the privacy when Todd headed for
the shower. He was tempted to run back down to the gym as soon as
the kid was asleep, but his fists were not quite up to the task. So
instead he removed his shirt and shoes and practiced some of the deep
relaxing techniques Deek had shown him. Nearly thirty minutes later
he was feeling more himself. It had been sometime since he heard anything
from the hallway; concerned he walked to the closed bathroom door. Todd
was startled by the knock on the bathroom door. The water was suddenly
cool, he must have dozed off. He had decided on a hot bath instead
to relax and get himself together. "Hey in there. Are you a prune
yet?" Jared didn't open the door but called throw it. "Na.. Todd found Jared waiting in his room. "I was
beginning to think you fell asleep in there." "Nah...just felt good." Shaking
his head at what a horrible liar Todd was and grateful for it, Jared
played along. Todd's internal radar was up and operational. He was
picking up no sign of tension now. The tank seemed more like himself.
Once again, Jeckel....but knowing there was a Hyde was
a disturbing letdown for Todd more than he'd admit even to himself.
Jared was just standing there pulling down the bedding. Todd frowned
at the man. "I'm a bit big to be tucked in," Todd grumbled, teenage
pride insulted. Jared just gave him a tired smile. "I suppose you
are. But I'm not here to tuck you in. I just wanted to let you know
that I made some doctor's appointments for you. It's a few days away
yet but I wanted you to know. No surprises that way." No surprises
his ass. "Yeah.... that'll happen." "Todd." "_f_u_c_k_ that,
I ain't see'n no _f_u_c_k_in' doctor." Being in no mood to fight
with Todd. Jared rubbed a hand wearily across his forehead. "Todd,
we had a deal. I make the corner pocket and you get checked out. Remember,
we keep promises and make good on all deals?" From the look he was
getting, Jared guessed Todd did remember and had wanted Jared to forget.
No chance there. "I ain't see'n no _f_u_c_k_'n doctor." "Remember?" Jared
growled out in warning. "Yeah. I _f_u_c_k_'n remember." Todd started
to walk past Jared to the bed but a large hand took him firmly by
the arm. "Let's cool it with that word, for a while. Okay?" He couldn't
quite hide the irritation in his voice. Todd opened his mouth to
say something but caught a glint deep in the green eyes. There was
something...just out of sight. Jerking his arm out of Jared's grasp
Todd just got into bed without a word. With a sigh of exasperation,
Jared said good night and left the room. Lying there with his arms
folded behind his head Todd couldn't shake the crushing disappointment
he was feeling. Jared was just like the rest. What's one more in a
long line of disappointments? His mind plagued with all the shattered
hopes from the past. So many promises. Jerking himself out of the
past and staunching the hurt squeezing his chest. What was it to him?
It wasn't like he was going stay here, first chance and he'd be history.
He tried to convince himself there was no reason for the hurt. That
not working he turned that pain into anger mostly directed at himself. What,
a full belly and a dip in the pool and you're bought and paid for?*
He lectured himself on the dangers of getting attached to anyone.
That annoying voice in the back of his mind said he was jumping to
blind conclusions. He was too busy listening to his anger. Stupid
little bitch....you just don't learn do ya?* Mentally
reciting the list of those who came before Jared and the reasons for
distance. It was a long time before he fell asleep, it was a long
list. It was a long night for Jared, too. He sat in the living room
a long time. This morning started out bumpy but the afternoon seemed
to go so nice. Todd actually gave the impression he had accepted his
situation at least for the day. Who knows how the day would have ended
if Brian hadn't brought the file by. No matter. It was important information
and it gave insight into Todd. That was worth a small set back with
the kid. Finally ready for bed Jared turned off all the lights in
the living room, feeling restless and that sleep was just not going
to happen any time soon, he saw the bag of books Brian left him and
took it with him to bed. He looking them over he picked out the book
on anger management. Seemed appropriate. It wasn't a real big book
like the others. Only 360 pages including references in the back.
It looked dry enough to put him to sleep. The back cover of the book
had a picture of an attractive man in his 50's with silver white hair
that was tied back in a neat tail, complete with a gold stud in his
left ear. "Great, another book by some tofu eating, crystal loving,
incense burning, inner child guru." Jared grumbled irritably and
flipped open the back of the book with disgust ready to find the Hait
Ashbury philosophy to life, but after reading the short description
of the authors background, he changed his opinion. There was nothing
hippy about the man's credentials, even a military background. He
looked again more closely at the photo. There was an intelligence
and intensity to the deep silver blue eyes. There was a story there. Getting
comfortable he began to read with much interest. As much for the understanding
of anger and its triggers as the author's experiences with dealing
with all the various degrees and the solutions. He was a quarter of
the way through the book when he looked up at his clock. Three a.
m. He reluctantly set the book down. Just as he was reaching for the
light he heard a noise in the hall. Todd was up. His little night
owl just couldn't sleep the whole night....yet. Jared
eased out of bed, glad he had chosen to sleep again tonight in his
sweatpants. The sight waiting for him in the kitchen was enough to
steal his breath. He found Todd in just his jeans, unbuttoned at the
top, sitting at the kitchen counter, bare feet poked out of his pant
legs. A pleasant sight for a couple reasons. One the kid was _s_e_x_y
as hell, milk mustache and all and it was plain that the he wasn't
dressed for any kind of escape. Todd was more asleep that awake as
he studied his glass of milk. "Can't sleep?" Limpid eyes squinted
tiredly up at him. "Sorry... "Feeling okay?
Anything hurting?" Long bangs swung against a puckered brow negatively.
"Nah. Why you up?" "I was just reading a good book." Todd made
a face, Jared smiled with patience. Soon he hoped, Todd would learn
about the world of literature. They sat there in awkward silence a
while. Jared was pleased that the attitude from a few hours ago was
missing. Todd shifted in his chair in agitation. Todd's eyes flickered
nervously from Jared's hands to his face. "Hands hurt much?" Jared
had forgotten his bruised knuckles. "No. Well not too much." "They're
kinda messed up, dude." There was something just out of sight in
Todd's eyes as he stared at his hands and a tightness in his voice
having nothing to do with tiredness. "Something on your mind Todd?" It
took a moment for Todd to answer. "Would you....uh have
you ever...you know...hit..." Todd intended to sound cool and indifferent
but it came out wrong....scared. "Hit someone? Yeah
I have." Confused about Todd's interest, he frowned. "I got into
a few scrapes as a boy but my Dad and Brian broke me of that." Jared
wiggled his eyebrows and rubbed his backside. He got no response from
Todd. "I've had to protect myself sometimes with my job." "Oh." The
boys' eyes were trained on Jared's hands. In a flash it hit Jared
why Todd was so moody and edgy this evening. What an idiot he'd been.
The photos of little Todd with a bruised face floated before his mind's
eye. No telling what Todd's brain had been conjuring all night. Especially
with the way Jared had been acting. Jared had to admit he didn't handle
himself too well this evening. "Todd?" Todd didn't look up but
focused on his own hands, he sat there like a stone. "Todd, look
at me.....please." Long lashes lifted up to reveal
dark eyes trying to look hard and cold, just missing the mark, the
anxiety showed through. "Do you think I'll hurt you, Todd?" No answer,
Todd just stared at his lap and a hand rose to his mouth. Fingers
played and picked at his lower lip. Todd's only outward sign that
he was getting agitated. "Do you, Todd?" Todd froze and glared
coldly at the large man across from him. "You wont find it easy." There
was too much angry bravado there. Jared could almost smell smoke from
the wheels that must be turning in the kid's head. He had no real
idea what could be going on behind those hooded eyes. Nothing good,
that he was sure of. " Wrong. Todd, I'd never hurt you, kiddo. I
will never hurt you, not like....um..,..not like you
think." Todd's heart thudded hard in his chest. What did the tank
know? He tried to blow it off. Didn't matter anyway, he'd jet out
of here when he got the chance, so it didn't matter what the tank
did or did not know. He wasn't about to wait around and find out. "Look,
about tonight. I....well no matter the reason, I didn't
handle it too cool. I'm sorry if I've been a little uptight." "
Whatever," was all the reply Jared got, that and stone faced silence. Todd
had completely closed himself off. There would be no more conversation
without a brawl. Jared let it go, it was late. He did have one other
idea though. "Feel like a game?" Todd squinted at Jared with distrust.
"What kind..... of game?" "Would you relax, kid? I
don't care, whatever you'd like. Pool, chess, yatzee? I'm pretty open
to anything." "Stakes?" Jared had to grin. Always the little hustler.
"Sure..... How about a game of pool.....let's
makes this interesting. I call it and make the shot you answer a question." Todd
rolled his eyes in disgust. He'd played this game before and didn't
like it much. He started to walk out. "Well if the stakes are too
high....we could just....." That got him.
Todd turned gave him a haunty glare. "_s_h_i_t_, too high. Dude that
ain't in my vocabulary." Jared decided to leave Todd's vocabulary
out of the conversation. "What kind of questions?" " Nothing too
personal.....for now. You game, Todd?" "Depends. What
if you miss?" " You ask me a question....fair?" All
he got as an answer was a curt nod. They entered the game room and
set up the pool table. Jared made the break and let Todd make the
next shot. Not surprisingly he made it with no apparent effort. Todd
declined to ask a question and just watched Jared make his shot. He
was torn between fear of the large man and the attraction he felt
for him that was messing with his radar. Jared was like quicksand.
The more you struggle against its pull, the more you sink and he was
close to drowning. Likewise Jared didn't ask Todd anything. He was
painfully aware of the intense study Todd was giving him. This went
on for a few turns. Then Todd broke the silence. " So..... Like are you rich?" Jared was momentary taken aback. " Uh.....well.....yeah I am. Is that going to be a problem?" "It's
not your turn to ask a question." Todd surprised the hell out of Jared
by the mild banter. It wasn't quite a smile that lifted one corner
of Todd's mouth more like a smirk but it was close enough for Jared. "Sorry,
my mistake." Jared made his shot without delay. "Sooo is it going
to be a problem?" Todd just shook his head no. Soon he began to
relax and was feeling almost comfortable.....almost.
He was aware that the pain pills made him mellow, but he only had
one tonight and that was hours ago, it should have worn off by now.
This just felt good and Jared seemed to have lost that intensity from
before. He would have to just be careful of what he said. They passed
the next hour or so getting reacquainted. Todd didn't ask many questions
and Jared kept his bland and non-threatening. Those rich eyes tracked
his every move with a mixture of distrust and lust. Made concentrating
difficult....the fact that all Todd was wearing was baggy
jeans still unbuttoned so they hung low. Each time Todd reached over
to make a shot was torture for Jared. He got a glimpse of flesh a
little whiter just below the tattoo. Todd's torso muscles flexed and
rolled over ribs still too lean but the tone was there and hard. Speaking
of hard, Jared had to readjust himself more than once. This was going
to be more difficult that he thought. Right now emotional needs preceeded
carnal needs....for both. *_d_a_m_n_* Focusing on the
game Jared tired to keep the conversation light and easy. He found
that Todd had just sort of stumbled on the cabin that night he'd actually
been lost. It was hard for Jared to hide his disapproval over Todd's
roaming around like that and Todd was pretty sick when he found him
that night. But that was a dead horse and no point in beating it. "So,
Todd, I'm curious." "Get out! Stop it! Really?" Shaking his head
at the mouth this kid had. Jared made his shot and played along. "Yeah,
shocking isn't it? So like I was saying, I'm curious about your tattoos." Todd
glanced at the Celtic band on his left arm. The right arm had its
mate. "What about'em." At the defensive tone, he looked up from
the table and grinned at Todd. "Relax Ansley, no big deal. I'm just
interested that's all. Nice work." "Yeah, I like it." Todd relaxed
and made his shot. "You never got any ink done, how come? " Todd
had seen most if not all of Jared's body at the cabin. "Nope, at
your age Brian would have skinned me and now.....well,
I don't like pain....it hurts me." Jared could have
sworn he heard a faint chuckle. He made another ball drop into a pocket. "How
about you, Todd? Didn't it hurt?" "_f_u_c_k_ yeah!" "Then, why?" Todd
wagged a finger at him. Jared rolled his eyes but with humor and studied
the table. Todd fought with himself on how to answer that. He liked
them so he got tattoos. He knew there was more to it. As bad as the
pain was, it was also good. It just seemed to take the edge off or
something. If he couldn't really explain it to himself, how could
he to the tank? Jared asked Todd again why but never got an answer,
the kid looked a millions miles away. "Todd?" "Huh....oh." Todd realized he must have zoned on Jared, he felt his face
get hot. "I don't know I saw some picture in a book....yeah I've opened one before. It had something to do with rights
of manhood and _s_h_i_t_..... sounded cool so I got them." Jared
left the whole subject of manhood alone....nothing there
but a fight waiting to happen. "How long have you had them?" Lifting
his arm Todd looked down at the band that circled his whole biceps
"I got these when I was 16 and the back I had done when I turned 17.
I'm thinking of having the ankles done or a band on my calf done when
I'm 18." Jared pinned Todd with a look of pure challenge. "What?
Aw 'Cmon! So like, I got no say in anything? That's horse_s_h_i_t_!
It's my _f_u_c_k_'n life, my _f_u_c_k_'n body dude...." Todd's
voice rose and his soft southern twang grew more pronounced when he
got angry. "Hey! Did I say anything? It's open for discussion, so
yes you have a say. So chill out. And you're not 18 yet or 21. So
we have plenty of time." It took some time but Jared got Todd's
ruffled feathers smoothed. What a powder keg this brat was. "Where
did you have the art done at?" "Arizona." "Did you go to a.....well....a reputable artist?" Todd tossed Jared
a look centuries old. Teenagers' exasperation. "Yes, Daaad! I checked
the place out." Jared got the hint and backed off from what was
starting to sound like a lecture. He didn't care for the dad reference
much. "Big bucks for that kinda work." Todd took his next shot.
He knew what Jared was trying to get at. "Yeah and before you waste
a question, I boosted a couple bikes for them alright?" It wasn't
all right with Jared but that was in the past. Todd stood there almost
daring him to make an issue of it. "Fine by me, kiddo. As long as
you understand that any further artwork will be paid for the old fashion
way..... honest money." Jared's answer was meant to
keep the kid off balance and judging from the furrowed brow, it worked.
Todd had been prepared for the usual tank response. Not even close.
Jared had no luck getting Todd to talk about his life before Arizona,
except a lot of attitude and a few choice words about the state. Beyond
that he could only get a few details about Todd's road trip between
Arkansas and Arizona. The trip took the thirteen year old a week to
get to Arizona. There were some details that were hard for Jared to
remain composed and not rant and rave. Like Todd's propensity for
boosting bikes. He stole his first right after running away or as
Todd put it "Bustin' loose". Turns out the bike he had in Arkansas
belonged to his foster father. Todd never mentioned him by name other
than names that turned the air blue. Jared had the name and didn't
want to press yet a very sore subject. Todd told him how he got
by. He hustled pool, played Craps, panhandled, and siphoned gas from
any vehicle when he couldn't fix bikes or compete. But he seldom shoplifted,
too risky. Jared was stunned. What, like all else wasn't risky? He
shouldn't be surprised but he was. Todd didn't mention anything about
prostitution. His records showed a citation for it. Jared wanted to
know the details but he also feared them. He'd let Todd tell him in
time, if there was anything to tell. What this kid has gone through
in his life was nothing short of frightening. Why was this kid still
alive. He hadn't meant to ask that out loud but he did. "Why are
you still alive?" "Duno really. Just lucky I guess." Todd answered
dryly, he began to close off after that. Jared guessed he was getting
too personal for Todd. So he changed the questions to more recent
events. "So....what happened between you and Deek today?" Without
hesitation Todd answered. "I mouthed off and he didn't like it." The
admission caught Jared a little off guard. Todd wasn't usually so
honest. " I bet not." "He'll get over it." Jared frowned at Todd's
derisive tone. "What started it? " "I asked if we could.... It was Todd's turn to be surprised.
Jared didn't get mad; he just smiled at him, kind of. Todd wasn't
sure what made him more uncomfortable. Jared pissed at him or smiling
at him. Both gave him a tight feeling in his stomach. Like being on
a roller coaster. "I see. Hmm. Funny, I recall telling you no not
today?" The teen's shoulders shrugged but the way Todd avoided eye
contact gave away his unease. "You did." Todd said mater of factly. Oh
this kid is going to be trouble* Jared thought to himself, but he
couldn't help the smile that found his lips. That smile soon turned
into a frown. As they played Todd seemed to slide back into his earlier
mood, withdrawn and tense *Always one-step forward and two back with
Todd* Shaking his head he tried to keep any pressure off the kid.
Just kept his own mood light and easy. When he caught Todd nodding
off standing his feet between shots on their fifth game he called
halt. " Todd tried to convince Jared he was fine
but try arguing with a tank, odds are the tank will win. Todd did
manage a small victory. He convinced Jared into letting him sink all
the balls first. "So how did it go with you and Deek this evening?" Jared
asked as he watched Todd pocket the remaining balls. Todd just shrugged
but he missed a ball all together. A _d_a_m_n_ good clue that something
happened. "Todd?" "Yeah?" The questioning look Todd was getting
didn't bode well for dodging questions. "It....we..fine
okay." Nice try* Jared motioned with his hand in an unmistakable
sign to give up more detail. Todd looked at him like he was weighing
his thoughts. Jared did not like the looks of this. Blowing a suspiciously
nervous breath Todd put down his pool stick and reached in his jeans
pocket and pulled out a slim, familiar wallet. Pinching his nose between
tightly closed eyes, Jared had to take a deep breath himself. "Todd.
Tell me that's not Deek's wallet." "Okay, it's not Deek's wallet,"
Todd said mockingly, and continued to sink balls like the subject
was now closed. Jared was both outraged and amused. Only this kid
would chose to pick Deacon's pocket....a man even the
most brave of men left alone. This teenager had the nerve to be flippant
about it. Jared was surprised he felt more amusement than anger. Amused
or not Jared had to nip this new or old habit in the bud now. "You
find this funny do you, Todd?" "Not really." Flinching under the
unyielding green gaze, Todd stopped and reluctantly faced Jared. "
Fine, it's Deek's. Um....I wasn't going to keep it or
anything." Jared didn't know what to make of this kid. Usually sullen
and combative, Todd now stood in front of him almost..... Embarrassed or shamed. "Good.....that's good to
know. How did you get it....I don't think I'm going to
like the answer am I?" Todd had the good grace to actually blush.
He felt nervous now. He regretted showing Jared the wallet and was
confused why he even did it. He could have just dropped it in a hall
or elevator. Too late for that now. Maybe he could smooze his way
out. "Oookay, I don't think you will so let's not go there. You
look.....tired and I think I should just go and we can
just talk about it in oh say.....this time next lifetime." Todd
turned to put away his own stick. "Ansley." Uh oh, he was getting
all too familiar with that tone. It tended to be followed by a sore
butt. Todd moved quickly away from the advancing tank. He even went
as far and to slide over the pool table to the other side using it
as a shield. Really nervous now. "Look, he pissed me off....okay I probably pissed him off first. I lifted it when I left.
I....uh....I wasn't planning on doing it....it sort of happened. I wasn't going to keep it or do anything
with it." "Just sort of happened? Accidents just happen, Todd. You
knew what you were doing. You did it out of spite, pure spite you
little brat. And you most certainly are going to do something with
it, because tomorrow your going to give it back and you better make
your apology a good one." Jared's voice was stern but he didn't
seem to be real upset.....Todd was still alive, much
to his surprise. "I'd rather just mail it." Todd muttered sullenly.
The kid did have a wry humor hidden under all that ice. Hiding his
own smile Jared forced himself to speak firmly. " I'll just bet you
do. But you wont." "Alright, alright." Risking getting closer
to the larger man Todd handed him his cue stick and headed out the
door. As he walked by Jared and got a sharp swat to his jean-clad
seat as he passed. "OW! Hey! Lighten up, dude." Stepping in front
of Todd, Jared poked him firmly in the chest. "No, I wont. Its stealing..... pure and simple." Jared spoke firmly, losing all trace
of humor. Todd looked completely confused. With a heavy sigh Jared
turned out the light in the game room. "Okay, lights out." Clearly
keeping his backside out of reach, Todd walked with Jared down the
hall. He was stopped at his doorway by large hands on his shoulders. "Are
we clear on this subject, Ansley?" It wasn't a harsh voice that
spoke but an earnest one. Todd could only nod. "Good. Night, Todd." "Night." What
a weird day it had been for Todd. He didn't know what do make of it
or himself. Only yesterday he found himself basically a prisoner here
and today he was hot and cold over the whole situation. His moods
were all over the place. Today Jared did a one eighty, it was a side
to Jared Todd for some reason was crushed by. *What is that about?*
He was asleep before he could answer himself. Jared went back to
bed still wide-awake. Picking up the book again he continued to read.
It was really informative and well written. Todd fit so many of the
profiles. _d_a_m_n_ shame it was published 16 years ago. He'd love
to have picked this doctor's brain over Todd. It was unlikely that
the author was still alive. One last time Jared got out of bed and
made a final check on Todd. Faint snores could be heard from the doorway.
Quiet as a man Jared's size could be, he crept into the room and bent
over the bed to peek at the face that so imprisoned his heart and
soul now. Sweet faced, angry little rebel. Don't forget to add pickpocket.
A warm smile tugged Jared's lips. Yep, Todd was pure trouble. Unaware
of the large form over him or the vows of protection being silently
promised, Todd traveled through troubled dreams. Once back in his
bed Jared drifted off to sleep himself hoping Todd would now stay
the rest of the night in bed. Jared sympathized with parents of fussy
newborns. These A. M. interruptions could get real old.
More stories by Frost Spinner