Disclaimer:
I don't own the characters I only borrowed them from Highlander the Series. The unknown mortals and immortals belong to me. Please be patient, I'm not English speaking. You will find probably some mistakes and some problems with the time terms because my native language is not English. So please forgive me! This is a first season story. It is about how Richie came to live with Duncan and Tessa and how they became a family. There will be more than one spanking for Richie in this story! If you don't like it, don't read it!
Coming Home
Chapter 1
Duncan Macleod and Tessa Noel came back from the island where they had spent a long weekend after Macleod had killed Slan Quince. Duncan had told Tessa that Richie Ryan was there and had seen him kill Slan and that Conner came back from the dead. He had also told her, that the boy was Pre-Immortal and as Conner said, needed some watching and an explanation about what had really happened.
Tessa Noel was not amused. She was afraid and had a feeling, that Duncan's and her life was about to change. She did not like it at all. But she was aware, that for Duncan it was a matter of honor and duty to help this boy. Anyway he could deal with the little thief on his own. She had to get ready for her flight to Paris early on Wednesday morning.
She would visit her Parents and her siblings and would teach some art courses at the Sorbonne. She would be back in six week. Enough time to get over the last unpleasant week and the news about the game and the gathering. She would miss her lover terribly, but perhaps this break was for the best. They both would have time to reflect and cope with the situation.
Tessa left at five o'clock in the morning with a cab and Duncan went on his morning run as usual. She and Duncan didn't like too long goodbyes, especially not at airports.
Duncan on his morning run thought about the little thief. How should he approach Richie? Where could he find him? Perhaps he should visit this annoying Sgt. Powell at the Down Town Police-Station. Well that was a good plan. It seemed that the man knows a lot about this kid, but Duncan was aware, that Powell didn't really like the boy.
After breakfast Duncan went to the Police-Station and asked at the front desk for Sgt. Powell. The receptionist told him to take a seat in the waiting room and that he would inform Powell about his visitor.
Duncan did as he was told and wondered if he had to wait a long. To his surprise Sgt. Powell was after only five minutes with him and greeting him with a smirk.
"Good Morning Mr. Macleod do you come finally to press charges against the Ryan Kid?"
"Good Morning Sgt. Powell. No I don't, but I need your help concerning the little thief. I really think that he needs a lesson. I want him to work for me and pay back what he owes me. Do you know where I can find Richie Ryan?"
Sgt. Powell frowned for a moment then said: „Very well, if you don't want press charges, then at least he needs a lesson, I agree with you on this. The boy is in need to be straightened out. I don't have his address.
But I think the Ryan Kid is living currently on the street. Because he will have his 18th Birthday in 3 Weeks, and you didn't press charges, we had him walking on his own out of here, but I informed the social security office anyway about his arrest. Best you go there to ask, if he has a foster home at the moment or where you can find him."
"Yes I will thank you Sgt. Powell. Have a nice day."
"Bye Mr. Macleod."
Duncan left the police station and went to the children division of the social security office. He went to the front desk and asked the secretary at the front desk, if he could talk to the responsible case worker for Richard Ryan. The secretary told him to take a seat and she would look what she could do for him.
Half an hour later a woman in her forties emerged from the back office and asked for a Mr. Macleod. Duncan crossed to her and said: "I am Duncan Macleod."
"Good Morning Mr. Macleod I'm Mrs. Graham."
"Good Moring Mrs. Graham."
"I'm sorry, you had to wait for me, but I had an important phone call. I heard you are here concerning my new case Richard Ryan. Would you like to follow me please to my office?"
„Yes, of course, thank you Mrs. Graham."
Duncan took a seat opposite from Mrs. Graham. She studied him for a Moment.
"Sgt. Powell informed us, that he arrested Richard Ryan last week because he was breaking and entering in your Antique Shop Mr. Macleod and that you wouldn't press charges and therefore he had to let Richie go. Mr. Macleod why are you here now?"
"I'm here because I thought about Richie and my decision not to press charges against him. I feel that the decision was correct but there should be a lesson for him after all about actions and consequences. So I want him to work off his dept to me at the Antique Store.
If he does a good job, he can stay and live and work with me and my partner, when he is 18. But it will be entirely his decision. We both think he is in need of a chance, a little bit guidance and care after all. So I would like to now, how I can contact the boy and have a talk with him."
Mrs. Graham said: "So I see.
Because his case is very new to me, I did ask for the paper files. I believe that Sgt. Powell did tell you that Richie is nearly 18 years old."
"Yes he did, indeed."
"Well I found out, that he isn't Mr. Macleod. Therefore I'm very glad you didn't press charges. He will be 15 years old in 3 Weeks not 18. I don't know yet, why the computer files were incorrect.
Although, I agree with you, that the break and entering should not go unpunished, I think he didn't do it because he likes to do mischief, he did it for survival.
I believe that he is living on the street at the moment. I went to his current listed foster parents home and found out, that they had cleared out they're apartment and moved on to another State two month ago without contacting us. The boy had nowhere to go.
It is mentioned in his file, that he was placed with 11 foster families and in between stayed in several orphanages in the last 10 Years. Although I have no proper proof, I think that in some foster families there was neglect and also mental abuse. I don't know about physical one, but it can be suspected too.
You see, Mr. Macleod, Richard Ryan is a difficult child with a problem to fit in. But it is not his fault entirely. To this day, it was not possible for us to find a good and stable home for Richie. We have failed.
I am responsible for the difficult cases in our department. So I filled this very morning a search order for the boy. I don't know where he is now. But I hope the police will find him soon. "
Duncan didn't like what he heard about the boy. His heart went out to him. He did know that a lot of Pre-Immortal children had a hard childhood. In this century it could be as hard as in the previous ones. Even thought there are a lot of laws and social standards set nowadays. He wanted to help this boy, but how should he get the trust of this boy and his social worker?
"So do I Mrs. Graham. I will also watch out for him.
Mrs. Graham, would it be possible for me to register as a foster parent or legal guardian and give him a permanent home? I am American citizen and I live in a stabile relationship since 12 years with my girlfriend Mrs. Tessa Noel. She is a well known French artist. We live in a large apartment above our antique store and we can provide for Richie a spacious guestroom with a separate bathroom attached."
Mrs. Graham frowned and studied him forcefully.
Then she said. "You know Mr. Macleod, this is not the usual way to process, but I have a gut feeling that this could work out for the boy. So I will give you the forms and you fill them out.
I will do the necessary first check and when the boy is found I will inform you about it. If it doesn't work I have to find a place in a reformatory.
Mr. Macleod, Richie needs a firm hand but he needs also love and a lot of reassurance. If I am able to place him with you, it should better be the last foster placement.
If it doesn't work out, the boy will be certainly at a breaking point. It will be very hard for him to ever trust us from social service or any other adults. I am also very sure he will test your intention to give him a home more than once. I will hold you to your promise to give him a permanent home. But I am willing to risk it. It would be better for him.
"I see Mrs. Graham and I will give my best and I'm determined that it will work out. But it will not be easy to build trust. I also think he will not agree to this immediately."
"I agree with you, said Mrs. Graham. "
"I think that a Reformatory should be only the very last option, Mrs. Graham, Duncan confirmed. He needs to be mentored one to one and in a firm but gentle way."
"Yes, and there certainly have to be some house rules, and if he doesn't follow them, there have to be consequences, Mr. Macleod."
"Sure, Mrs. Graham but it will be the hard part for him and me."
„Yes, she laughed, I'm sure about that Mr. Macleod.
Please fill out these forms and let them with our secretary at the front desk. If you find the boy before the police, please inform me immediately. I give you my business card."
Duncan handed over his card in return. He thanked her for the information and help. He went to fill in the required forms and let them with the secretary.
He decided that it was time for lunch and he was near the waterfront. He went to one of his favorite Italian restaurant at the pier and ordered some salad and pasta.
Duncan was thinking about the information he had gathered this morning. My God, he thought, this boy is not even 15 years old and had 11 foster families and had stayed in several orphanages.
What a sad life. Never to fit in and never have somebody who really cared about him. What would do that to a child?
Would he and Tessa be able to give this boy what he so desperately needed a loving and stable home? He was Immortal and he had to face other immortals. That was not a stable lifestyle.
What if an evil Immortal comes for him and nobody is there to help and protect him? Tessa knows about the danger and stays willingly with him. But she is an adult and loves him very much.
Richie is a homeless child and therefore already leads a dangerous and troubled life. With the necessary rigorousness, love and patience, it should certainly be possible to get the little thief on track again.
Had he not won against Slan there would have been Richie's life in jeopardy too. He was certain, that Slan had sensed the boy as well as Conner and he. What would have Slan done to him. What will I do with the lad, when I or the police find him?
It certainly would be better, when he found him first. He needed to talk to him and make his intentions towards him clear. He had talked with Tessa about the job and the guest room but because they thought he would be 18 years old in some weeks never thought about a guardianship or to be foster parents.
What would Tessa think and feel. Would she be all right with it? He had to ask her. He would mention it, when she called from France.
He must also inform Conner about Richie. Conner had far more experience with children than he had. He needed his advice.
He also should talk to Mahiri di Montalban a very old immortal female who was about 10'000 years old. She and her 9000 year old husband Matthew were mentoring him and Conner for the last 370 years on and off.
Conner was his first mentor but he is his kinsman and brother. Matthew and Mahiri are like Immortal parents or aunt and uncle and really good friends and confidants to both of them. He had learned so much from them. They took occasionally Pre-Immortals or mortal children in like Conner did. Was there a reason he shouldn't do it? He thought of his life with Little Dear and Kahani.
Could he build a family again? Should he do it? To lose them was always so painful but he also knew that it could give so a lot pleasure and his live a real reason aside from Tessa. The lad could live forever and needed someone to take good care of him. He could make the difference for this child? Couldn't he?
How would Tessa cope? She always wanted a child of her own. In the beginning of their relationship she wanted to adopt a child, but he intervened, because of the danger.
Richie was a 15 years old teenager. That would definitely be easier but he had to be honest with the lad from the start about his immortality. But the boy should never be aware of his potential because that would be too dangerous for him.
Well he should probably go for it. He had filled in the forms. On his honor he couldn't and wouldn't let this lad go on like that. He deserved better than he had previously. His mind made up and his lunch gone he paid the bill and went in search for the missing teenager.
He drove through the worst area of Seacouver. But he hadn't felt or seen the lad. Now it was nearly six o'clock and he needed to go to a grocery store. So he went to the next mall.
He did his shopping and was on the way to pay when he suddenly felt the low buzz of a Pre-Immortal. He looked around and spotted a certain red-head, who was well on the way to shoplifting some food and probably get caught on the way out.
The boy had not spotted him yet. Duncan used this to his advantage. He grabbed the boy by his left arm and whispered in his ear: "Richie put the stolen goods in my shopping cart you are being watched. Richie was shaken when he recognized Macleod and needed a moment to come out of his stupor.
"Let me go you damn bastard. What the hell you want from me? I didn't tell anyone, you know."
Duncan soothed. "I know Richie, don't get upset. All is Okay. Just put the goods in my shopping chart and come calmly with me. I won't hurt you and I will even pay for your goods."
He dragged the boy by his arm to the cashier. There they had to wait.
Duncan had no time to further talk to the lad because he saw two security guards coming towards them. Richie saw that too and put hastily the last merchandise in the shopping cart.
One of the security guard asked Duncan if the boy was his son. Duncan just retorted," Is there a problem Sir? "
"Yes, Mister there is. I saw the boy stealing some goods. We need to search him. Do you agree? If we do not find anything the boy is free to go, otherwise we will press charges."
Duncan signed and gave the permission to search the boy with just a nod. A little scare would help to deal with the boy afterwards. Duncan hoped the teenager had put all goods in his shopping cart.
Richie gave Duncan a furious glance and shouted; "The hell they will. I have done nothing. You damn Bastards!
The first security guard just manhandled Richie and the second one did search him. But they didn't find anything and apologized to Richie. Duncan just smirked.
Duncan had taken advantage of the situation and had paid already. He took the shopping cart with one hand and with the other hand he took hold of the teenagers arm. "Come Richie, I provide dinner and we will have a much needed talk."
Duncan didn't quite reckon with the teenagers temper. "Let me go, asshole; I won't come with you. First the hell has to freeze! You stupid bastard let me alone!
Duncan just said calmly. "Richard maintain a civilized language or I will wash your mouth out with some soap. Now come and no further protest or we get another problem with the security guards.
"Duncan dragged the teenager to his T-Bird and led him to the passenger's seat. He closed the door firmly, so that the teenager was not able to open it.
Then he put the groceries in the trunk and climbed in the car. The whole way back to the antique store the lad was pouting. Just like Amanda would have, he mused and was glad that his little problem was silent. But he noticed that Richie did feel uncomfortable. But it was to be expected, so at the moment, he couldn't help it.
At the antique store he got out of the car and stashed the groceries in Tessa's workshop and then went to fetch Richie. He opened the car door and after Richie climbed out he dragged him inside and led him in the living room.
He turned the teenager around and looked at him sternly. He told him: "Richie I will not hurt you and I want to talk to you, in a calm manner. I want to explain what you saw and the reason for it."
Richie repeated his earlier question. "What the hell do you want from me you Neanderthal?"
Duncan just smirked and said; „I think you are the Neanderthal here. You smell certainly like one. I suggest you take first a shower. I show you our bathroom and then I go looking for some clean clothes for you to wear."
Richie blurted out;"Where is your Lady. I don't want to stay here alone with you."
"She's in France for the next six week.
You don't need to be afraid! If I wanted to hurt you, I would have had enough opportunities;" Duncan told him patiently.
Duncan led him to the bathroom and ordered him to take a shower. Richie was afraid and tried to flee but was captured by Macleod in a big bear hug. He tried to free himself but he was held firmly.
Duncan waited until the boy calmed down and the will to fight subsided. Only then did he let go shortly. He sat down on the toilet lid and put Richie extremely fast on his knees with his head down and his posterior up. The teenager had not expected that and felt humiliated and embarrassed.
Duncan informed him firmly; "You receive ten strokes, five for the cursing and five for not cooperating!"
The boy squirmed and trembled slightly and tried to escape once again but Duncan held him in place and landed 10 light strokes on the boys butt. It did not really hurt.
Duncan told him; "Now I have your attention, haven't I."
"Yes", the boy admitted.
"Well, stand up Richie", Duncan ordered.
The boy did as he was told and Duncan took hold of Richie's both wrists before he could escape again. He shook them slightly and instructed. "Look at me Richard!" The lad raised his head and looked him into his eyes.
"If you don't follow my orders and watch your language, you are in for a real spanking! Understood?"
"Yes!"
"Richard", Duncan intoned annoyed.
„Yes, Sir, I understand!"
"Good. I will now cook dinner. Do you like steak with rice and some peas and carrots?"
"Sure Mr. Macleod!"
"Okay, take your time for the shower and when finished come out for a drink. Soap and Shampoo is in the shower! I try to find some clean clothes for you" Mac told him and left.
Richie admitted to himself, that he really needed a shower. He had slept the last few nights in the warehouse, where Macleod had his friendly little practice battle with Sir Lancelot, the different vintage Macleod, guy.
Richie had no money left, he was totally broke. If Macleod had not helped him at the shopping mall, he would have had another conversation already with Sgt. Powell. The shopping mall would have pressed charges against him and he certainly would have ended up in jail. His situation was real bad by now.
What should he do? Ask the guy for help or try to blackmail him? The man was a killer, but he hadn't harmed him so far. Best shower first and then go on from this point. Decision made, he did what Macleod had so strongly suggested.
Meanwhile Duncan went in search for some clean clothes and towels. He had noticed that the shower had started to run. He put the things inside the bathroom, took the boys dirty clothes and put them in the washing machine. Then he went to prepare dinner as promised.
25 minutes later the boy emerged from the bathroom. Duncan noticed that the boy's hair was still very wet and the smaller towel was around his neck. Duncan just took the towel and began to rub the boy's hair and chided; "You will get sick, when you don't dry your hair properly!"
Richie let him, but said; "I'm thirsty, I like whisky on the rocks!"
No, I don't think so. What about water, orange- or apple juice?"
"Then apple juice;" Richie said.
Duncan smirked and handed him a glass. "Dinner will be ready in about 20 minutes. You can go to the living room and watch some TV if you want". Richie did as Macleod had suggested.
Duncan had set the table and when dinner was ready called the lad to come over. Richie was very hungry and came instantly.
Duncan put a plate in front of him with the promised steak. "Richie, help yourself with the rice and the vegetables". He put all in the middle of the table. Riche helped himself to a very large portion.
Dinner was a silent affair. Richie wolfed down the food. "It seems that you are hungry, but slow down before you choke. But I see you like it", Duncan observed mildly.
"Yes, thank you Mr. Macleod!
"You're welcome, Richie! Do you want some dessert?"
"Yes, sure, what is it;" Richie asked and Duncan saw that his eyes just lit up for a moment.
Ah, he thought, he can be bribed? "Vanilla Ice cream with chocolate sauce if you like!"
"Yes, sure!"
"Go to the living room and I will bring it in a moment!"
Richie was looking television when Duncan entered the living room.
Duncan handed Richie his dessert and let him eat first. When the boy had finished Duncan started the conversation. "What can you remember form last Wednesday night?"
"I saw Sir Lancelot, the other vintage Macleod guy fight with the hockey-mask guy. He got deadly injured and went over the bridge. I thought he was dead. And then you started your fight with the guy and then you cut off his head.
Then I saw a white mist rise and there were suddenly some lightning and thunder. Then you have fished Sir Lancelot out from the water and pulled the knife out of his heart and he lived once again. That's it. Are you aliens?"
"I understand", said Duncan. Then he instructed Richie about Immortals and about the game. And he also demonstrated it with a cut to his arm. Richie was very fascinated about that and asked him to do it again. Duncan gave in, but told Richie that he would not do it a third time, because it would hurt him.
"Oh, I'm sorry, I thought it wouldn't!"
Duncan laughed and said it was okay. He thought that the lad had taken it pretty well, even better than Tessa some years ago.
Duncan continued. "Now you know my secret and I trust you to not tell. If you do, it would be dangerous to all of our kind and for mortals too. It is a very old secret and mortals normally don't know about us. We try to live a normal life and to blend in".
Richie was silent for a moment and then told Duncan:"I will keep it a secret. I won't tell!"
"Thank you Richie", Duncan added.
"How old is the oldest of your kind? Do you know him or her"; Richie asked.
"Yes, I know some very old ones. They are about 10'000 years old. Both of them are mentors and really good friends to me and Connor also".
"That's awesome"; Richie said then fell silent after a lot of question about immortality and Connor.
Duncan thought it was time to continue with Richie's problems. "Richie, when you would have a proper home, with people who would actually care about you, would you anyway choose to be a thief"?
Richie was stunned about Duncan's question.
"No, Mr. Macleod, if I had a decent home I would not need to be a thief"; Richie mumbled and didn't look Duncan in the eyes.
"That's what I thought exactly", Duncan retorted. That comment let Richie's head snap up and look at Duncan.
"Richie, I visited today Sgt. Powell because I thought he knew where I could find you. But he told me, that he thinks you are actually living on the street. He advised me to go to the social security office, what I did.
Mrs. Graham, your new Case Worker told me, that you do actually live on the street and that your last foster parents just cleared out the apartment and left you on your own. She also told me, that your computer file was not correct and you will be 15 years old in about three weeks. She has also filled in a search order for you!"
Richie couldn't answer, because he was really shocked, what they had found out and looking for him. What the hell should he do now? He did not want to go back to the orphanage or to another foster home. He had enough. He didn't need parents, didn't he? He could take care of himself!
Duncan watched Richie but did not disturb his flow of thought for the moment.
He went to the kitchen to heat water for a tea and went back to the living room to the silent teenager, who had now buried his face in his hands and was quietly weeping.
Duncan sat down on the sofa and started to rub comforting circles on Richie's back. After a while Richie calmed down a bit and asked Duncan with a shy glance at him. "What will happen to me now, Mr. Macleod?"
"Well, Duncan told him, we certainly have to visit Mrs. Graham tomorrow morning. She told me that there are actually two possibilities.
One would be an orphanage or a reformatory for children with a behaviour problem, but she and I think, it should really be the last solution.
The one with priority is to find you a new decent and permanent foster home.
Duncan then took Richie's chin in a firm hold and looked him in the eyes. "Richie; Duncan said; Tessa and I would like to give you this home. If you let us we can help you!
But it will be Mrs. Graham's decision and she will ask for your opinion on it. I filled the necessary forms in this morning but Mrs. Graham has to check them first. But she told me, she is willing, to give it a real chance!"
Richie retorted aghast; "You really did that? And you mean it?" He glanced shyly at Duncan.
"Yes, Richie, I mean it. But for now, I think, it would be best to have a tea and then go to bed. It is past my and certainly past your bed time and it was a tiring and long day. I will show you our guest room later."
With that said, Duncan went to the kitchen to make some tea. He took out the special mix for a good nights sleep. Mahiris recipe! It would definitely help the lad to calm down and sleep well and he could use that too.
When Duncan came back he found an overburdened and overtired teenager on his sofa. Duncan brought the not too hot tea to the sofa and handed Richie his mug.
He told him gently; "Sip this slowly Richie and then its bedtime!"
Richie was too tired and drained to answer and did as he was told. When they had finished sipping their teas in silence, Duncan put the mugs on the kitchen counter.
He went in search for a tooth brush and toothpaste and found new ones.
"Richie, come on I show you our guest room, so you can rest!" Richie stood up and followed Duncan.
He instructed the teenager: "If you have a problem in the night, my bedroom is just here. I'm a light sleeper, just knock".
Then he opened the guest room door and switched the light on. He handed Richie the toothbrush, toothpaste and some towels and showed him the entrance to the bathroom.
When the boy came out of the bathroom Duncan had already changed the bed linen. He told Richie to hop in and when the boy had, tucked the blankets around him. He tousled Richie's hair. "Good night, Richie, sleep well!"
"Good Night, Mr. Macleod".
Duncan switched off the main light and closed the door.
Richie was tired but his head spun from all the things that happened to him in so a short time and all the information he had gotten in the last view hours. Finally he felt in an uneasy sleep.
Duncan went to bed and was really surprised how well the boy had taken the information about Immortals and accepted it. He was also pleased, that the boy had dropped his hostile and rude behaviour fairly soon. This was a good sign and is a good prerequisite for the following day. The evening could have been worse or even more exhausting.
Duncan got up at six for his usual morning run. The boy was sound asleep and would probably be for some time. He debated briefly with himself if he should go for his run. But in the end he thought, that when the boy would snake out in the mean time, he was not the right person to help him. He could not force trust. At least he did know about Immortals and holy ground. Richie had to decide if he wanted his help or not.
If Richie noticed him gone and would make a remark, he could always tell the lad that he had trusted him to stay put and behave like a guest.
When he was back he noticed, that the lad was still asleep. Good, the boy needed the sleep after the ordeal.
He phoned Mrs. Graham and told her that he had found the lad last night and had taken him in. She told him to come to her office about 11.00. What was fine by him?
At 9.30 he went to rouse the teenager. He knocked on the door and told Richie to get up. He heard a loud groan. He opened the door and laid the now dry clothes on the chair.
"Good morning sleepyhead. I will have your breakfast ready in about 15 minutes." There was just a mumbled morning from under the covers. But that was expected.
Duncan left the room and went to the kitchen to do what he had promised. About 25 minutes later Richie emerged from the guest room and looked tired but presentable.
"I let you sleep as long as possible but we have to be at the social security office about 11.00 to meet Mrs. Graham." Richie just nodded and gave Duncan a shy side glance.
"I know Richie that you are in a complicated situation right now, I'm positive we can sort this out. All will be well. I will do my best to help you and Mrs. Graham too."
Richie just shrugged, not sure what he should think or say. He was just so confused.
"Would you like milk, coffee, tea, or juice," Duncan asked the boy.
"Milk, please."
"Here your toast and some cinnamon rolls and a croissant. I hope you like them."
"Sure, thank you."
"You're welcome, Richie."
Duncan sat down and breezed through the local daily paper and sipped some coffee.
"We must leave in 15 minutes Richie. Go and get ready when you have finished your breakfast. "
"Yeah, sure! I have no choice, haven't I," the boy grumbled.
Duncan did not answer but noticed that Richie had put his dishes in the sink before he went to get ready.
The car drive to the social security office was a silent one. Duncan noticed that Richie was very tense and looked forlorn, vulnerable and really very young at the same time.
Duncan pondered once again the fate of this teenager. He would do his best to help and be there for him.
Richie meanwhile was thinking about an escape but it seemed hopeless. If he tried it, Macleod would certainly be angry or annoyed with him. Would he even put up with him after that? The new case worker had put a search order out for him. Perhaps not immediately but on de long term he would end up with Sgt. Powell again for sure.
Macleod was a killer, wasn't he? But he had not harmed Richie and he was kind and easy going last night and this morning. Richie was certain that it was not just for show. He did not gain a lot from it, when he helped or was kind to him, didn't' he?
Macleod had trusted him with his secret and had patiently answered his questions. Would he tell his new case worker how he found him? Would that be the final straw and he had to go to a reformatory? Richie was desperate.
Duncan parked the car and looked at the boy and sighed. "Richie, I think it is best, that I and you tell Mrs. Graham that we met at the mall and I asked you to join me for dinner and that you agreed willingly. We should not tell her about your attempt to steal at the mall. It does not help your case. I already told her so at the phone early this morning. Do you agree, Richie?"
"Yes, Sir I am," the boy retorted politely and felt a little bit better.
"Why do you want to help me", Richie asked and looked directly at Duncan.
Duncan took hold on Richie's chin and looked him in the eyes, "Richie I believe you are a good boy and you did not deserve what happened to you so far. You have a lot potential and it would be very sad to lose that, because they are not able to find a decent home for you.
You are very much in need of a break and Tessa and I are willing to give you that chance. But Richie, we all will need some patience and sensitivity for each other. Tessa and I are unused to have a teenage boy around. But I'm sure we will find a good way to cooperate and live together.
But now we have to go and face Mrs. Graham first."
They went together in the social security office. Duncan had put a reassuring hand on Richie's shoulder. And Richie felt oddly comforted.
They went to the front desk and asked for Mrs. Graham. The secretary told Macleod and Richie to take a seat in the waiting room. Five Minutes later an assistant came to fetch them.
He told them, that Mrs. Graham first wanted to talk to Mr. Macleod then to Richie. Richie would have to wait in his office.
Duncan went to the indicated office and knocked. Mrs. Graham gave permission to enter and greeted him warmly.
"Mr. Macleod, I did the necessary first check and can approve. Are you willing to take over the responsibility and care for young Mr. Ryan?"
"Yes, Mrs. Graham I am."
"Then I now talk with Richie. If he is willing to go home with you, Mr. Macleod, we will allow it. But you have to understand, that we have to visit you occasionally unannounced and talk to you and Richie.
Would you please wait outside my office at the visitor corner? When I have finished my conservation with Richie I will inform you about the further actions in his case."
"Yes, thank you Mrs. Graham." Duncan left her office and took a seat.
Mrs. Graham phoned her assistant and told him to bring the boy in. Richie stepped very hesitant in her office. Mrs. Graham said," Good morning, you must be Richie, please come in and sit down."
"Good Morning Mrs. Graham." He sat down and fell silent.
"First of all, Richie, I must apologize to you. When I studied your case I realized that you had really bad luck with most of your foster families so far. But I think Mr. Macleod likes you. I did not tell him intimate details about your life but I told him, that you had several foster families and it never did work out for you.
He is willing to take over the responsibility and the care for you. He assured me, that he will give you a permanent home. I think that Mr. Macleod is really interested in your welfare and I am willing to approve it.
He told me yesterday that he came because he thought about you Richie and his decision not to press charges against you. He felt that the decision was correct but anyway there should be a lesson in it for you. So he wanted you to work off your dept to him in the antique store.
If you would do a good job, you could stay and work and live with them, when you have reached the legal age. But I had to tell him your real age. It did not change his intentions towards you, it did reinforce them.
What do you think about Mr. Macleod as your guardian, Richie?"
Richie thought that he was oddly comforted by this statement from Mrs. Graham. Macleod was from the beginning willing to take care of him, even thought, the man had only trouble with him. Mrs. Graham let Richie time for his answer. She was glad that the boy, thought before he answered her.
Richie admitted, "I would like to stay with Mr. Macleod. He was nothing than kind to me even I was only big trouble for him. I don't like living on the street or in an orphanage."
"Good, she said and got up. Mr. Macleod, can you come inside again, please."
Duncan came and sat down on the vacant chair next to Richie."You can take him home", she informed him.
"You just have to sign the temporary custody form here and the copy for me and the originals here. I will bring you the definitive permission paper when they are signed from the family court. "
Duncan signed the forms then stood and thanked Mrs. Graham for her efficient and good work and her understanding for Richie's situation and the quick help. They said their good bye and left.
Richie could nearly not believe that all went well for once. He thought he was dreaming.
"I think it is time for lunch. We can go to the waterfront, and you can choose the restaurant. There is a French one, an Italian or Indian Restaurant with good food. What will it be, little one?"
"I like Italian best", Richie decided. They walked the short distance and sat down for their lunch.
Richie did not know, what he should order because, he noticed the high prices. Normally foster parents did not invite him to a Restaurant because it was too expensive.
Duncan noticed Richie's insecurity and asked him if he would like the daily special. Richie nodded. Duncan ordered two daily specials and a bottle of water and a coke for the lad.
"Do you feel a little bit better, now that things with the social security office and Mrs. Graham are settled?" Duncan asked gently.
"Yes, Mr. Macleod a bit."
"Now you are very nervous about what happens to you in my care, am I right?"
The boy nodded.
"Well, Richie, there will be certainly some house rules to follow and a curfew but I assure you I will not beat you up for mistakes or molest you.
I first have to think about the house rules and the curfew I will lay down for you. As mentioned you are the first teenager I have to care for.
I have some godchildren, but if you have them over for a weekend, it is not the same. But I will have a chat about it with Conner. He has an adopted son called John and he is sixteen years old. His adopted daughter Rachel is in her fifties."
Duncan noticed that Richie began slightly to relax. "You don't need to worry or be afraid, he soothed the boy. If you want you can call me Duncan or Mac that will be easier for you."
"Okay, then I will go for Mac", Richie decided.
At this moment he waiter came back with their drinks and food. They enjoyed the food and the sunshine at the waterfront. After they had eaten their lunch Macleod ordered a coffee for himself and paid the bill.
"We have some errands to take care of this afternoon. First of all you need some new clothes, shoes and some other necessities. Then we can take care of your belongings. Is that all right with you Richie?"
„Yes, Mac."
Richie did not like shopping but he was certainly in need of the mentioned things. He would not refuse, if the man wanted to spend money on him. That would be very stupid.
Five hours later they had collected Richie's belongings and the boy had a lot of new things. Never in his life had someone spent that much money on him in such a short time.
After coming home, Mac had just ordered him to put his belongings in his room and put the clothes in the wardrobe. Some of them would go first in the laundry. Mac had told him, he would show him how things had to be done around here, tomorrow.
When Duncan had prepared dinner he wondered about Richie's disappearance. He went in search for him and found him sound asleep in his room. He looked like a little angel. Duncan debated with himself to rouse him or not and decided against it.
He went to fetch the afghan from the living room for the lad to keep him warm and tucked him in. He would emerge on his own when he was hungry or tomorrow morning. Duncan was now free to call Conner and do some work.
About eleven he heard Richie come out of his room. Duncan called, "Richie can you come in my office, please." When the boy stepped in, he seemed to be a bit nervous.
"Did I do something wrong", he asked.
"No of course not, just sit down for a moment please!"
Duncan finished his letter and then looked at Richie. "Are you hungry, Richie?"
"Yes", the boy admitted.
"Well, I prepared dinner, but I thought it best, to let you sleep.
Was I right, Duncan asked the lad?"
"Uhm, yeah I think so."
"Would you like an omelette? We can have tonight's dinner for lunch tomorrow."
"I don't want to disturb you Mac. I can make a sandwich for myself, if I get your permission."
"Richie, it's no trouble. Come we go see, what you can have for a belated light dinner."
Duncan steered the boy towards the kitchen and told him to sit down.
Richie was not used to adults who acted like that. In some foster homes he had not been allowed to eat at a late time like this, when he missed dinner. But he had not missed it. He had been just too tired and felt asleep.
Duncan prepared an omelette with spinach and onion for him. It did smell good, the man must have a talent for cooking, Richie thought.
Duncan handed him the plate with the omelette and told him to dig in. That he didn't need to tell him twice. Duncan just watched him silently.
"Thank you, that was really good."
„You're welcome.
If you are hungry just help yourself, you don't need to get my permission. It's now your home too. There will be always enough. Just tell me, when you finished or miss something. I will add it to the shopping list. It would be helpful, when you would write down tomorrow what you don't like and pin the list on the fridge."
"Yes, sure Mac."
"Tomorrow we will unpack a shipment. I want you to work off your debt form the burglary attempt as a lesson."
"How long do I need to work for it?"
Duncan told him at least 80 hours and that he would decide when the debt was worked off.
Richie sighed, "I'm sorry for the trouble I caused you."
"Yes I know, little one. But when I make it easy for you, you will learn nothing.
Now go to bed, Richie, it's almost midnight. I come and say good night in about five minutes."
Duncan washed the dishes and went to say good night. He knocked on the door and entered. Richie was already in the bed and had put the afghan neatly folded on the chair.
Duncan sat down and asked the boy if he was okay. "Yeah, I'm fine."
"Good then sleep well, Richie" and with that he did give the boy a kiss on the head and turned to go. "Good night, Mac." "Good night, little one."
Richie was very confused. He was not used that people or especially guys paid attention to him or treated him nice. Did Mac really not want more than give him a home and a chance? Mrs. Graham thought so. He did mull over this thoughts for some time then fell asleep again.
Duncan noticed that the teenager was not used to attention or to be treated in a gentle way, especially not from men. It let him defenceless and embarrassed. He had to watch it. But he had to learn that care not only was meant in the material way. It was not too late for this teenager.
He would make the difference together with Tessa for this boy. He was glad that he had taken the responsibility for him. But there was a long way to go.
He would ask Mrs. Graham the next time, if it was possible to adopt the boy and if she could help him. The lad needed desperately to belong to someone and learn what family means.
Decision made, Duncan went to bed.