" Ufff ! "
Kamaria stood in her crib and gave the room a once - over .
She liked the fluffy soft toys hanging on the walls , the carpet beneath her crib that made late night jail breaks pain free and the sloppy but beautiful artwork splattered on the ceiling her big brothers had painted for her .
What didn't please her was being there alone .
Kamaria rattled the bars of the crib until the front loosened and fell open as it always did and she scrambled to escape , landing on the bone saving rug below .
" Uff ! ' she exclaimed , realized she had a particular situation happening that called for her Ma - Ma's help and went to find and inform her of the problem .
She wobbled as she strolled and peeked into the room of Mommy and Daddy .
" Vader , help ! Moeder , help ! Kammy made mess ! "
Mother didn't budge from bed and Dad's snores were loud enough to get his daughter to flee .
" No help ? " Kamaria asked , waited and sighed before going to get her Leok brother's help . Paw Ooner was usually a grumpy face towards her ( so Lee Yo had told her ) but her second brother was always glad to have her around .
She was his Smiley Girl ( something else that he'd told her ) because she made him smile all the time .
She kicked the toy planes , trains and cars out of her path while heading straight to her Leok brother and stopped to crane her little neck up to notice the upper bunk , from what she could see , was empty .
Kamaria smiled in the unlit room . Very good . She didn't want Paw Yoonyer there mad and mean at her anyway .
She crept to the lower bunk and its long legged occupant and poked his dangling feet .
" Lee Yooooo , you help Kammy . Help me now . I'm mess . '
The female toddler pouted at this third silent treatment and repaid her normally kind hearted brother by placing a plastic track across his forehead .
She stared immediately when the window creaked and bumped and birthed her other sibling , who fell on his bottom and gazed surprised at his baby sister .
" Paw Ooner ! ' his little sister beamed and waved . " You help me ? Kammy a mess . Lee Yo no help . No mommy , no Daddy help . '
" Phew ! Yuck ! " PJ grimaced . " You're right . The wallpaper's peeling , thanks to your nasty diaper . '
" I messy . I need help . '
" You NEED to get out of my room ! But I'll help only this time because I don't want my room stinking anymore and having Dad yell at me , thanks to you , little brat ! "
" You bad , Paw Ooner ! You mean to Kammy . Lee Yo not mean and bad . '
" Yeah , well , he shouldn't be nice to a brat like you and get that toy off of him . It looks stupid and he's not a train , idioot . '
" He is a choo choo . "
" No , he isn't . "
" It look pretty . You mean and bad . '
" Oh , I don't care if you like me or not . Stay in here and don't touch anything else while I run and find a clean diaper for you , dummy . '
Kamaria watched one brother disappear before she removed the plastic from the other sibling . She grabbed a section of blanket available to her reach and struggled it over her brother's body .
" Woah , hey , what are you doing ? '
Paul junior said in the doorway , fresh new diaper in hand and amazed curiousity in his expression .
" Kammy help Lee Yo when he sleep . '
" Did you ... you tucked him in ? ' her awake brother asked , keeping his amused smile in check . His sister was a pest , no matter how adorable , considerate and charming she could be and he warned his heart that she was the enemy and only worth being hated .
" Yeah , yeah , yeah . ' the young child beamed .
" Uh huh . Well then , let's - uhnm - go and clean you up . '
The older child slid a chair close to the inside of the front entrance and unlocked both door chain latches after a brief struggle and led his sister into the fenced yard that completely enclosed the home .
PJ had a definite concern - for himself . How was he going to change his sister's diaper and have her cleaned without having to view her exposed , embarrassment lack of the correct genitals ?
He felt a tiny crumb bad for his sister because from what he'd seen accidently before , the poor kid's pisser and dinkles had must have fallen off sometime .
" Kams , help me by getting your diaper off , okay ? I'm not in any mood to touch you . "
Kamaria blinked at her brother before shrugging and muttering hard to translate baby talk while fumbling with the heavily taped cloth bundling her backside .
Paul junior sighed and began tearing at the tape , ripping a side out of the crap container and grimacing when increased stench drifted out .
' Moeder should be paid all the money in the world for doing this every day ! " he groaned .
" This is yuck nasty bad . ' Kamaria stated and frowned .
' Damn right , kid . '
PJ searched the side yard , caught sight of Mother's washtub next to the garden and ran the hose into it .
" Kammy ! Would you help me ? "
' Wat ? Ja . ' the youngest child scrunched her nose and smiled her gums more than teeth baby grin .
' Groot . Bly hier . ' Paul junior tossed the filthy nappie over the barrier wall made mainly of extremely thorny roses crowning thicker shrubbery , then lifted his sister into the shallowly filled tub , making certain to not look at her unfortunate lack of male parts . He knew that the animals lurking in the night would drag the foul smelling diaper far into the tall grass and destroy it for him , easy cleanup of sorts .
' Augh ! Aahhh , no ! Water cold and bad ! It's cold ! " Kamaria shivered and kicked her tiny feet , splashing her brother's bare knees .
" Shhh ! You're almost done so deal with it . ' Paul junior argued and glared . " I don't like having to do this either . '
" Out ! Get me out of cold ! " his sister begged .
He contemplated leaving her outside in hopes the local predatory wildlife might eat her but knew he'd be grounded if that happened .
" Okay , now hush before the lions hear you and pay a visit . ' he said while relocating her from water to grass .
" I hush . '
" About flipping time . '
" Fah - lip ? Philip ! "
" Yep , that's my middle name . '
" Flip ! Flip . Flip . Flip . " Kamaria waved her small arms and began to sing .
" Alright , that's plenty from your voice , chatter box . See how good you are at lifting your legs one at a time . " Paul junior demonstrated quickly . " Like this . '
His sister raised a pink wrinkle bottomed foot and teetered .
" I fall , Paw Yoonyer ! " she cried .
" You no fall . " her brother corrected . " I mean , you won't fall . Here , hold on to the side of the tub . "
" Now what ? ! "
" Lift one foot - good girl , thank you - okay , now the other . Careful and slow . I've got you . " The almost six year coached the toddler and he lifted , slid and tugged the diaper in place , battling the sticky tape on the sides and keeping his gaze averted to avoid her weird non penis and pitiful lack of testicles .
" We done ? "
" Yeah . You're clean and you did okay ... for a girl . Maybe . "
" Yayyyy ! Thank you , Paw Ooner , you help me . You good help for Kammy ! "
" Whatever . I don't care . " PJ replied , trying to not smile or blush . He walked hand in hand with his little sister back inside their home , through the main room , down the hall and ended in Kammy's room .
" You stay here . Sleep here , Paw Yoonyer . ' Kamaria demanded .
" No way , bossy pull up pants . ' her big brother replied . " Get in your crib and go to sleep , why don't you ? "
" You stay ! No go from Kammy ! "
" Woah , pipe down ! "
" Sleep here . Don't go away . "
" Urgh ... yeesh ... do I HAVE to ? ! " Paul junior asked in the same pleading , annoyed tone of voice he used when in argument conversation with his parents .
" Yes . Yes ! Good place . Good sleep for Paw Ooner . "
" Oh , alright . But be quiet . Shut up . "
" Me shut . Kammy quiet . "
" Humph . I won't bet money on it . "
" Bring Lee - Yo here . He sleep here too . "
" No , he's sleeping already and it's rude to wake him . You don't budge and I'll go check on him , lock the window and return with my sleeping bag , okay ? "
" Yes ! You don't go . "
" Hey , you're a pain but I'll never leave you long without returning to you , no matter where we are on this planet . "
Cassie instinctively awoke before the sky lightened into sunrise and staggered , yawning to her youngest's room , troubled that Kammy hadn't cried everyone in the home awake as she tended to on a daily basis .
The mother halted before her feet stepped down on her first born , cocooned inside his blue and black plaid sleeping bag and dozing on the floor of his sister's bedroom .
" You hush ! No noise ! Let Paw Yoonyer sleep . ' Kamaria commanded from inside her crib and her mother laughed softly , joy and love warming her heart and smile as the rising sun warmed the Earth .
Leo reached his hands out , took a deep breath and nearly touched the outfit before chickening out and stepping from it .
He disliked the school uniform and had nothing to look forward to , going to school this first day when it was much more appealing to stay at home with Vader and Moeder and his brother and little loud sister instead of being with strangers his age .
" Lee Yo ! Yay , Lee Yo ! Good morning ! Hallo ! " Kamaria shrieked after she'd scampered into the room her brothers shared and hugged the long legs of the only male sibling in the bedroom at the moment , staring with disgust at the hideous uniform .
" Good morning ? It always is because I get to spend time with you , My Smiley Girl . ' Leo answered jovially , attempting to detach his toddler sister from his knees .
" Paw Ooner not here . Where he go ? "
" You know where . "
" Oooohhh . He bad . "
" Well , I warned him last night but he went anyway . "
They clammed up immediately when their father passed by , walking through the hallway path between rooms .
" Vader ! " Kamaria shrieked and waved , toddling towards the biggest man .
" Good day , Dad . ' Leo said , nodding at his father's rectangular shaped and sturdy , stern yet dimpled face , more tanned now the weather had warmed and seeing something new that bothered him in Dad's short brown hair - one lone white strand .
" Hallo , my boy . I'll get her out of your way so you'll have the necessary privacy . ' Paul senior stated , quickly lifting his female child from the floor .
" She wasn't pestering me . '
" She should be with her Mother and leave the men alone . Come along now , your Mother's fixed your breakfast . '
" Bye , Lee Yo ! You get food with me ! " Kamaria called out and waved goodbye before her father carried her from view .
Leo closed the bedroom door and frowned . His father's comment and the brand new grey hair both had depressed him more than the ugly trousers , button up collared shirt , socks and loafers ready for him to wear that day - and every school day - did .
He checked the window to make certain it wasn't locked for when his brother returned and ambled into a nerve wracking day he would long to sleep through .
" Good morning , Moeder and my Smiley girl ! "
" Yayyyyyyyy , Lee Yo ! Hallo ! Good morning , Lee Yo ! "
" Good morning , precious son of mine . That outfit looks handsome and so do you . '
" Thanks , I guess . '
" Did you make your bed ? "
Leo hesitated and wiggled uncomfortably in his embarrassing and semi formal uniform , itching in the attire .
" What am supposed to make it into ? " he asked . Mom sighed and his sister giggled .
His mother transferred Purity vegetable and lamb from the little jar into a tiny shallow bowl and sat another small bowl of Mabele vanilla flavored porridge beside it .
" We'll work on the bedding and pillows after your school has ended later today . "
" No food ! " Kamaria said and flung her spoon .
" Kammy , please not today . ' Mommy dropped the defunct plastic untensil into the sink and opened a long drawer to retrieve a clean one . " Be nice and eat your morning meal . "
" No food ! "
" Mom , the breakfast is at one pack a day . ' Leo commented immediately and pointed to the pots and pans on the stove in panic .
" Oh , thank you , sweetie ! " the tired parent responded , turning the heat down on the burners and fanning the air . " You've saved us and the house from burning . "
" I'm glad we didn't because I NEVER want anything bad to happen - "
" Sorry for interrupting but would you help me with something else though ? I hate to overwork you , today especially but your Father's busy with his work outside and I've yet to see your brother this morning . "
" It's nothing awful . I'll help . "
" If you can get your stubborn sister to eat her meal , that'll take a weight from my back . "
" Okay , Mom . '
" Thank you again , my dear boy . You're truly one of my rewards in life and I'm blessed to have you , my wonderful and caring son . "
He crimsoned lightly , then dipped into and stirred the pureed savory dish first and was careful to not drip any food on his sister's high chair since Kamaria tended to disapprove when her siblings made her territory unclean .
" Try this for me and Mommy . It's smooth and great , not chunky textured . "
" Not have food . " his sister shut her mouth , turned her face away and put laughable effort into keeping her brother's hand at a distance by placing both tiny pink hands on Leo's wrist and pushing .
" But you'll be hungry ! "
" Geen . '
" Geen ? "
" Geen ! Niks , Lee Yo ! "
" Nothing ? ! Okay then . If you don't eat , I won't have the ability to stand . '
Kamaria stuck her tongue out at Leo and blew a spit bubble as evidence of how little she cared .
" Okay ! I'm - I'm starting to melt ! ' Leo said and slid inch by inch down in his chair , watching unimpressed Kamaria and seeing Moeder smiling off in the corner of his vision .
He slipped to the floor and was facing the tile when his sister threw her shark shaped , sapphire blue teething toy at him .
" You bad , Lee Yo ! Get back here ! "
" Oh , nope . I'm stuck and can't move , not until you eat . '
" Kammy eat ! Back here now , Lee Yo ! "
Waves and curls of dirt brown hair swayed when he snuck a peek .
" You will ? You're sure ? ! "
' Yeah huh . ' the female child answered and sucked her thumb , beaming around it once her brother settled back into his tall backed wooden chair .
" Thank you , my Smiley Girl . Tummies with food in them are the happiest . ' Leo said and fed small bites slowly to Kamaria , startled enough to twitch when his brother made an entrance through the door instead of window , amazing them all .
" Paw Ooner ! " their little sister called with merriment .
" An endangered species sighting ! " Cassie quipped and portioned eggs , bacon and rusks onto three plates , then served warm tea from the kettle . " My son decides to acknowledge that his family exists and rejects the favoritism of the roof this grand day . '
" Quit it , Moeder ! " Paul junior said while his cheeks flamed . " I only came in here because I smelled that the meal is ready to eat . '
" One day , you'll learn that being a part of a family isn't horrible . '
Leo waited for breakfast , after noticing his sister had demolished most of her meal .
He nodded at his brother and they shared food , passing pieces to each other , snickering satisfied laughter now they were filling their mouths and small empty stomachs .
Leo's nose crinkle - wrinkled and he glanced at PJ , baffled .
" Something smells like - I'm not sure . Do you smell that ? It's bizarre . "
' Hush ! " his brother replied in a nervous tone of voice , quickly looking at their mother .
" Sssshhh . ' Kamaria repeated and also grimaced .
" Why are you wearing shorts and a tee , turned inside out with the tag showing ? ' Cassie left the household tasks to inspect her first born .
" Err ... uhnm ... well ... "
" And that scent is salt water , ocean water coming from your hair and skin . '
" Uh ... no . '
" So explain why there is sand on your ankles . That came from the roof ? ! "
" You bad , Paw Yoonyer ! "
" Shut UP , Kammy ! Keep your bratty mouth closed ! "
" You'll cease shouting at her and speak the truth with me or things will become terrible in your life for you and much more once your father finds out . '
Moeder disturbed them when faster than a person could sneeze , she removed her blood related son from his chair by using the back of his shirt collar , turned him to face her and shook him by the shoulders .
Kamaria cried above her bowl and spoon and Leo moved to her in a hurry , hugging her little body and head so she wouldn't be any more terrified and blast their hearing with her loud wailing .
The embrace kept him from putting focus on his chattering teeth and trembling , suddenly sweating fingers .
' Waarheen het jy gegaan ? ! '
' Om die strand ! NĂªrens anders ! ' Paul junior blurted , his tone of voice raised in an astonished shriek , his eyes bulging and his heart rate a cheetah's racing speed .
" The beach ? ! The ... beach . ' Cassie eased her child back into his seat with care , leaned against the closest countertops , sunk to the floor in a crouch and began crying .
PJ went to her immediately while Leo fought with his decisions , pining to be there for his Mom but couldn't and wouldn't abandon his sister to be scared and weeping .
" I didn't go to make you angry or sad either ! I felt like I HAD to go . I get weird and itchy late at night and I always want to be in motion and do things outside . '
" You could've - I'd rather keep that thought banned from my mind . '
" I was in disguise and didn't see any people . I was safe . I really was . '
Leo listened and skin near one eyelid twitched . A disguise ? He chewed on the inside of his mouth to stop himself from asking .
" No matter of that , you still placed yourself in a dangerous situation . Several . And you swam in the ocean too , didn't you ? After midnight ? "
" Well , yeah . ' Paul junior replied and used his shirt sleeves as tissues for his mother's tears . " But I stayed where it's shallow , close to the sand . '
" Did you forget what I've told you about being out at night ? Swimming in the ocean when it's dark ? ! "
" Uhmmmmm ... you said not to because I could get eaten by a shark . '
" That's right . Anything else ? "
" You'd miss me if that happened . '
" Yes . Indeed I would . '
" And that if a Great White got me , all there would be left of me is a foot . One foot . '
Leo chortled and he saw Kamaria grin .
" Now , wait . I didn't say - " their Mother began .
" And , um , you would have a foot for a son . " Paul junior said , mischievious , witty and with breath scented of bacon .
Leo guffawed and his sister shrieked and shuddered , face flushed light pink with uncontrollable laughing .
" Alright , complete son with two feet . ' Cassie had to join in the laughter but barely relaxed , her nerves still torn and twisted into knots . " Finish your meal and hurry to prepare yourself for school . Maybe you won't be late . Sethunya will be waiting at the path as lookout and in case either of my boys need help . '
" So I'm not in trouble ? " PJ asked with hope in his brown eyes that were dark in color enough to look black .
" Ah yes , my not a foot child . You'll have punishment given from me AND your Vader , after school . '
" Oh , rhino crap ! "
" Baaaaaad Paw Yoonyer . "
" You can't even say my name the right way . " PJ told his sister as he washed moisture caused by stress off of his eyelids , cheeks and chin .
" Be gentle with her when you speak . She's a baby and still learning . ' his mother said , climbing to her feet with help from her curly haired second son .
" Okay . ' The smaller Paul stood beside Kamaria's high chair seat and began lessons , not bothered by her little hands patting his bed head hair . " Say Paul Junior . "
" Paw Ooner ! "
" No , Puh - all . '
" Plaw ? "
" Puh - All . Try again . '
" Puhhhhh Y'all . '
" Eh , close enough . Now say June Your . Junior . Go ahead , I'm waiting for you . "
" Wading few ? ! " Kamaria wondered .
PJ's eyebrows shifted and dropped and hearing his brother and Mother's amused chuckling added to his sour pickle mood .
" June Your ! "
" Easy on the yelling , my boy . ' Cassie chimed in .
Leo squat - crouched at her feet , looking up to watch and staying out of what could become another arguement .
" Yoonyer ! "
" Not Yoonyer , JUNIOR ! With a Jay . '
" Jaaaaaaay ? "
" Ja , Ja ! Great job . good girl . You got it right . '
" Jay . ' Kamaria commented , enamored by her Moeder and both brothers ' huge , gleeful and encouraging supportive grins . " Paw - Luh . Paul ! Jay Paul ! "
" What the what , Kammy ? ! " PJ wondered . He was proud of her , flattered she really admired him and disgusted with himself for caring about a no good , nuisance little sister .
" She's re - named you . ' Cassie gathered the emptied plates and dishes , sat her husband's aside on a heating coil to keep the food warm . " It's hero worship . '
" I think it's a cool and lekker new name . ' Leo approved , gazing out the big window in case Dad finally dropped in to have a late breakfast .
" Yeah ... well ... ' Paul junior reddened with joy he wouldn't admit . " Only Kammy can call me Jay Paul because that's the name she thought of and nobody else . '
Kamaria embraced her big brother's uncombed , ruffled hair and placed her teething toy into the mass of salt water washed strands .
" My Jay Paul ! "
" Who's Jay Paul ? '
" It's me , Dad ! " the second Paul greeted the first with a tremendous and loving embrace .
" Dad , your brekkie is getting so cold , it'll have to wear a long sleeved shirt and a sweater AND a coat . ' Leo proclaimed , taking his father's free hand and leading him farther into the kitchen and dining area .
" That's very cold indeed . ' Paul senior exclaimed and made a beeline to his loaded plate . " Thank you and my appreciation for thinking of me and being considerate towards me , dear wife . '
Cassie nodded , smiling pleasantly but in her eyes was perhaps pain from sadness that her adopted child spotted and included it on the growing longer than his train set tracks list of Things That Perplexed And Upset Him .
' I do love you . Your children , OUR children do as well , without doubt . '
" My Jay Paul , my Lee Yo , Moeder and Vader ! ' Kamaria recited enthusiastically , putting together a song of sorts from the names and nicknames she'd spoke with joy .
" Your daughter is asking for you , husband . ' Cassie said and glanced at his wild child . " You'll be late enough , so go change into your classroom wardrobe and gather your books and supplies . "
PJ grumped without hesitation but headed to the hallway without complaining .
" I can tell . She's our small alarm , our chattering bird . '
" Daddy's a pink pan fur . ' Kamaria had used her entire set of items to sling on the floor and kicked her feet for emphasis substitute .
" Yes , he is . Paul , won't you say something to our daughter ? "
" After whatever amount of homework the two of you might have today , I want you boys out helping me set up the ring for this evening . '
Cassie closed her mouth and glowered . Leo could shiver when his heart possibly plummeted and when he looked at his brother , it was easy to see the disgusted scowl darkening the younger Paul's already anger filled eyes and had curled his upper into a carnivore's snarling sneer .
" They can wait to do that type of work at the double digit age , not earlier . '
" It'll only be unfolding the metal chairs and placing them in rows . I won't keep them out for more than an hour and no time if the weather turns bad . '
" Nothing else . I'll watch them in case you try to sneak something past me . '
" It's okay , Mom . I would like to help . ' Leo said , positioning back next to his sister so she could entertain herself by thumping his ears and patting his chin .
" Yeah , I'll work with Dad also . ' the recently named Jay Paul said bitterly before traveling to his shared bedroom .
Leo's mind was bashed in the jaw by what had happened .
That was what had hurt the Moeder , both sons and her daughter .
Dad had hugged him and Paul junior .
But not Kammy .
Not once .
" Are your packs too heavy ? ' Cassie asked , hand grooming her sour pickle son's mussed hair while he sulked in his uniform .
" Mine isn't . ' Leo replied , smiling broadly as Kamaria swatted both his legs below the knee . He kept an eye on her so she wouldn't accidentally ( or with intent ) wallop him in the wiener and company .
" Mine is okay too . No problem . ' PJ stated , also blocking his groin from painful mishaps .
" And your lunches should stay at proper temperature as long as you don't remove them from your satchels until lunch . ' Cassie lifted her daughter into her arms and kissed both her boys' foreheads . " Be safe and do well , happy , healthy and unharmed for this day and throughout your lives . '
" We will ! "
" Whoops , I can't go yet ! My inspector hasn't checked me for the boogers . '
" Oh , come ONNNNNN . ' Paul junior complained to his brother . " Do you have to encourage her everyday to do that stupid waste of time ? ! "
" Kammy's my helper and she makes sure my nose is boogie free . '
Kamaria took a glimpse into the nostrils after her brother tilted his head , ready for inspection .
" Nose clean . Nose clean , Lee Yo ! Jay Paul ? " the toddler said and stared fascinated at her second male sibling .
" Oh yuck , no ! ' PJ threw his hands up quickly . " You're not looking inside my face holes , kid sis . "
" I'm grateful you're saving me from walking out the door with a nasty nose . ' Leo propped his chin upon his sister's baby bowling ball head with extra caution and gentleness , giving her the giggles .
" My crown . My hat your chin , Lee Yo ! "
Cassie relocated her daughter once more and glanced over her sons' scalps .
" There's Sethunya at the end of the walkway , waiting for you . Go ahead , hurry now and my love goes along with both of you . '
' Bye , Mom ! "
" Byyyyyyye , Mommy ! "
Kamaria thrashed and her frustration grew the farther her brothers were from her .
" No go ! Come here now ! "
" They have school today . They'll be here after awhile . ' her mother said and called to her sons who'd braked at the cries . " She'll be fine . Keep walking while I take her in for the nap she needs . "
Paul junior frowned , worried no matter what Mom had said and Leo backtracked without a second thought to the squalling child .
" No go ! No goooooooooo ! "
" I'm here for you . Leaving doesn't mean we won't be together after some time passes because with you , here , is where I belong . '
' Ja , Kams . Stop crying . You'll see us again . "
Kamaria sniffled , rubbed her snot dribbling nose on her brothers ' shirt fronts and placed her favorite best tasting thumb in her mouth .
" Good Jay Paul and good Lee Yo . "
" Yes , they're the greatest and you need a nap . Goodbye , my sons ! Remember return straight home after your last class . No running around and exploring ! "
" Right , Mom . "
" Yeah , okay . ' Leo jogged to catch up with his brother who'd paused and grabbed a fistful of colorful flowers sprouting on one side of the road . ' What are those for ? "
' I'm giving them to Sethunya because when I'm grown up , I'll marry her . '
" You're not old enough yet . '
" When I'm ten , I'll be an adult . ' PJ argued .
" I'm closer than you to being ten , so I should marry her . ' Leo shot back , picking his own clump of flowers . His brother had claimed the goats foot so he took the Watsonia .
" Well ... huh ... okay , you can until I'm old enough . But while I wait , I'll marry her motorcycle instead . "
" You can do that ? ! "
" I can do whatever I want , any damn time I want to . ' Paul junior gloated .
" Not if Moeder catches you . '
" Oh . Yeah , that's true . Okay , MOST of the time then . '
" Ja . ' Leo agreed .
A brown fuzz ball blur tripped PJ . He stumbled over it and face planted , coughing and wiping dirt from his face as he got to his feet , scowling .
" Oohhh , ouch ! Are you alright ? "
" That idioot hare ran in front of me on purpose so I'd fall ! "
" Well , if a rabbit was mean to you , I'll hate every one of them for my entire life , always . "
" You will ? Thanks ! I don't like them anymore either , not now . '
" Is that Sethunya ? See ? Her hair's a different color . "
" I don't care what the color is . Look at that bike ! It's perfect ! " Paul junior dropped the bouquet and darted directly towards the brand new red and black painted motorcycle with matching sidecar . " You can have Sethunya for your wife but her motorcycle is ALL MINE . "
Leo laughed , rescued the discarded flowers and mixed them with his own pretty , bright colored and fragrant greenery gift .
" Hallo , Sethunya ! "
" Hallo , young gentlemen ! This day is a nice one , isn't it ? "
" Yeah , it's okay . Push over . I want to ride . ' Paul junior demanded , scrambling into the light sepia tone skinned woman with recently dyed auburn dread braids , startling and amusing the female game warden .
" What has happened to your face ? Are you in pain ? Were you harmed or injured ? "
" It's only sand from when I fell and that dumb haas tripped me . "
" A haas did ? "
" That really happened ! I saw it . " Leo proclaimed , sticking by his brother .
" I believe you . Animals share similarities with people whenever they celebrate warm , sunny and pleasant weather . "
" Wait , that was a PARTY rabbit ? ! Oh man , I really do hate him . '
" Then grump and run at the same time so that we won't be any later ! " Leo yelped , grabbed one of his brother's hands and attempted to get him to hurry .
" No way . I'll ride with Sethunya . ' Paul junior stated hopefully .
" Not this day . I'm sorry but my work keeps me busy and the sidecar is filled , besides that . '
Both of the children became astonished and horrified at the sight of the rifle , several smaller guns and two shiny machetes the woman carried with her as cargo .
They receded after the two burly men , also packing weapons , stormed through the tall grass and glanced around , ready to take on poachers .
" That was - that was scary . ' PJ gasped , halting at the school entrance . His brother could run fast but not race the way Paul junior did .
" Yeah . Maybe her job isn't fun games after all . ' Leo replied , shifting his bag from his back into his hands . " She could get hurt bad or - '
The first bell rang , making both boys flinch at the unexpected blast of sound .
" Here's where we split , I think . We'll meet after school but I can't before then since we have different classes and recess time too . "
" I'll be okay . I mean , I HOPE that I will . ' Leo looked more at his feet and the hallway floor tiles than at any child's face excluding for his male sibling's .
" If somebody bothers you , come tell me and we'll fight them and then go home . I hate this damn place ! "
" I don't hate being in school but ... well , I oughta go . '
" Hey , don't stay scared . Bye for now , okay ? "
" Yeah . Okay , bye ! "
Mom had written notes on a square bit of paper for him and because of this , he easily located his homeroom , one of several and each age group's homeroom had a color photo of a different animal taped to the side wall in the hallway , right next to the door .
Leo became mesmerized by the picture of the long necked , tall creature and droplets formed a line on the floor .
He wiped the blood off and hoped that the female teacher stepping into the hall , hadn't seen .
' It seems I've found the other new student . Was there much trouble locating your homeroom ? "
Well , she spoke nicely and looked friendly , having yellow hair like his brother did and that was a comfort .
" No . The Ree Tick You Late Ed giraffe showed me the way . '
The older woman squinted at the child , although her eyebrows arched slightly .
" Reticulated ? I'm impressed by your intelligence . There happen to be ADULTS that can't tell apart giraffe subspecies , so you're quite astounding . '
Leo beamed . This teacher lady was Mom's age or older but he would ask her after awhile if she'd like to be his wife , in case Sethunya couldn't .
" Mom takes people to look at animals and she helps them when they get hurt or feel sick so she knows EVERYTHING about them and teaches me and my brother and my sister but not my Dad ' cause his job is beating people up and showing other men how to fight . '
" That's - ' the pause stretched like taffy pulled . " Fascinating and you could tell your fellow classmates about you and your family once it's your turn for introductions . "
" Yes , thank you . ' Leo peeked at the notes and read his continuing manners . " I would like to do that . "
Homeroom was a mob scene and the students either scurrying ants or swarming bees , hectic in the nest with the Queen teacher in charge of them all .
He found and took one of the scarce empty desk seats and noticed that the small square wooden desks were able to fit and lock together to form medium sized tables to share and sit at with other children .
Leo was glad for his sitting area since it made him the lone boy at a table with three girls .
Females were not only a fascination and something terrific to look at but maybe they could answer a question that had stumped him for awhile , a question Mom wouldn't for whatever reason .
First , the getting to know you introductions .
' Is it a bother if I sit here ? "
" No ! "
" Not at all . "
" Go ahead and stay here with us . "
Yellow hair like his brother's , brown hair like his ( but straight and light brown ) and reddish brown hair that his Mom had except shorter and tied in tails on each side of the head , above the ears .
A trio of welcoming and lovely grins .
He was a hit with the ladies .
This WOULD be fun , being in school . His brother had been correct . Easy and fun to attend and participate in with no worries , no stress and no frowns .
" How do you keep your wieners from showing if your skirts fly up ? Does your underwear hide them somehow ? "
The female children scooted from him , three as one and all looking panicked , baffled and repulsed .
" Oh ... ew ! Why would you ask that ? ! "
" You really think that we - Ew , you're stupid ! "
" You're dumb and disgusting ! Go and sit somewhere else , not near us ! "
Blondie and Brunette and Auburn turned their faces to not see him after glaring . Leo slid his chair into the close corner and sat without the upset girls , a young man going from accepted to rejected in less time a sneeze or cough took .
He was a flop with the ladies .
He failed at remaining still at his lone desk with a bent leg that made the entire small square wobble annoyingly and he wiggled and moved his feet until the teacher frowned with an unspoken warning ready to spill from her vocal cords into her light ruby glossed mouth .
Another woman who had stopped being fond of him . He hadn't spoke to the boys yet or introduced himself to the other children either .
Maybe there was some hope for him . Maybe it would be okay after all .
His turn presented itself soon after the other new student , also a boy his age , had ended his chattery description of his name and family and things he liked or hated .
Leo breathed and stood and walked , gulping to keep the hiccups subdued .
He mulled over what Mother had told him to say and he spoke his name first for these small young people he wanted for friends , slightly rolling his R s and saying who he was in a thicker than usual accent in his voice .
They laughed . Not one after another but all together , the boys and girls , united to mock him and bring him down .
They injured his heart successfully and he pined to be at home and not with enemies but his family who loved him and never laughed at his name but cherished it , thought of it as special and great .
The craving increased from class to class , leaving homeroom to zigzag from math to reading and writing and crash landing for the recess and lunch on the playground combo .
No other child , male or female , wanted his friendship and cared to associate with him .
He could sense that the teachers as well had little trust and kindness for him .
Peace , quiet and privacy from the bullying , Leo foolishly believed .
Mother had packed the container as though she was filling a suitcase for a lengthy vacation , loaded so that he was astonished she'd been able to seal the lunch box closed .
He rummaged through the big meal of an apple , two half sandwiches on toasted brown bread , one made with bacon and banana and the other chicken mayonnaise with green pepper , some plain crisps and the sweet ending of Hertzog cookies .
Leo wasted no time in discarding the bread crusts and dropping them for the little birds , chirping , flapping their tiny wings and hopping near his feet .
' Wees bly en eet die goeie kos my ma maak . '
" Of course you talk to animals and have them for friends because nobody else likes you . ' One of the boys that had laughed at him in class spoke , strolling towards him and glaring .
" My family LOVES me ! My parents and brother and sister . "
" My family saw yours buying food in town and they're a freak show that also have animal friends , just like you . I bet you got thrown in the garbage and they took your home by accident . '
Now most of the little boys his age surrounded him in a lopsided circle going oval . Leo was the tallest in class , except for the adults , but he was outnumbered . His brother was in a different grade and not there at the recess break outside to be his got your back tag partner on the playground and everywhere else in life , leaving him unfortunately on his own .
Five orange size brown globs and one hen's egg size soared over the fencing and splattered on the shirt fronts and shoes of the hateful boys , the rest barely missing smashing into the hair of the girls .
More stinky comets flew through the air , past Leo while he sectioned his lunch as reward for the help from his friends slinging what wasn't mud .
Children screeched and wailed , running about frantically as more dung was tossed by the elephant herd , one bull and four females plus one young baby with a tiny snake of a wiggly trunk standing gathered right on the outside of the school yard fence barrier , grey giant gathering in the tall grass .
Leo took the advantage of panicking teachers distracted with rescuing and herding sobbing , filthy boys and girls and scaled the chain link easily , taught by his brother with no sweat.
" Hallo , long nose friends ! " he greeted before being swung upside down and grinning to land on the back of the eldest aged female , who'd scooped him up and plopped him their to sit on her wrinkled skin . " I'm thankful that everyone helped me . But I want to go home and if you take me there , not only can you have my cookies but I'll bring you more food too . '
He was tall and powerful as a monster movie giant creature , perhaps the lizard from Japan or the massive King gorilla , when he rode in the throne of an elephant's back and then , his outgoing self once more as soon as his house came into view .
" There it is ! ' Leo exclaimed , pointing and ' parking ' the elephant female ( but not quite sure how to brake correctly ) and with a eel like trunk lending him a helping nose , he plopped on the ground with no harm done . " Wait here and please do not eat Mommy's flower garden , thank you . '
The herd trumpeted and sounded off in many other ways and the baby head bumped against his body , tumbling him over laughing .
" You're strong and that's great ! Wait here - no , go over there in the field so your big poops won't be next to my house all stinky . '
The group stomped and traveled , huge ears waving and string tails swaying as they relocated at a distance .
Leo used his house key and ran for the kitchen first , grabbing an armload of goodies before going hunting for toys .
He chose his old kicking ball and hula hoop from the donation box because Mother had taught them to give to others who didn't have as much .
Outside in the yard , he loaded the wheelbarrow with the toys and all the carrots , lettuce , celery and sweet potatoes he could carry and jogged the bounty to his massive pachyderm buddies .
" This is plenty for now until Mommy fills the cookie jar again . " he said and started handing out snacks .
The female elephants broke the fruits and vegetables into small chunks and dropped some for the baby and then did something that Leo thought to be odd . They held pieces of treats with their trunks and slid the food into the male's open mouth .
Leo wondered if this was their Leader but knew from what Mommy had taught him that the women were in charge in most elephant groups , females supporting other females and the males in men only groups with one old man as the Leader .
" My Leeeeeee Yoooooo ! "
He turned around and smiled when hearing the happy small voice and ran to his family before the car's driver door slammed shut .
Mom jogged to him , cautious to not lose Kamaria in her arms , Dad running behind the ladies and Paul junior beside senior , also in full sprint .
" I told you so that I saw him ! '
" That's true but isn't keeping from being punished for what you did at school . ' Father told son while they ran . " And getting suspended for a week will add to the trouble you're in . "
" Some creep was a jerk to my brother , so I beat the shit out of HIS brother . ' PJ bragged with a smug grin .
" Bee the shidt . ' Kamaria mimicked , trying to escape her Moeder's hold to get closer to her brothers .
Cassie frowned and peered at her first born . " You've been suspended , fought other school children AND taught your baby sister to use trash language . "
" Yeah , I'm a star ! '
Paul senior choked to not laugh and his wife only smiled inside the flash in her eyes .
She finally let her toddler out of her hands and used them to grip her second boy into an embrace .
" When we heard that you'd been taken from school , we thought that - I was scared that - "
" Cassie , wait until he's a little older before telling about ... those sorts of awful things . "
Leo didn't understand what the adults were speaking of anymore than his siblings had a clue about the unspoken stranger dangers .
" The long nose friends DID take me home , Mommy ! I made them not stand next to the house in case they poop . '
His mother wiped her eyes , then blew her wet nose into the same tissue before guffawing and smiling .
Dad broke up laughing too , Leo was glad to hear it and his brother chortling and Kammy giggling and hugging his lower legs .
" I'm behind on my work and we need to relax after today's stress . ' Cassie commented , shifting her daughter back into her arms . " Two Pauls , I'll be pleased if you'll go for takeaway burgers for our night meal and the rest of our brood will stay at home with me while I'll see what's going on with this gang of pachyderms . "
" I'll be right on it . ' her husband agreed and led his namesake child back in the main vehicle's direction .
Cassie beamed and stared at the soccer ball kicking female elephants , snickered at the hoop rolling baby and squinted at the male standing alone , then frowned .
" That's strange . '
Leo felt better now his family was with him and not the mean kids at school and that she'd noticed what he had about the Mister Long Nose friend .
" My Jay Paul ! " his sister called to PJ .
" What is it , Kams ? "
" Bring food for Kammy . '
" Anything for you , Kammy Boo . " PJ said , climbing into the front passenger seat . " Including chips . "
They had takeaway salads , chips and bacon with cheese burgers to eat , along with water and rooibos tea to drink plus bubblegum milkshakes for the children .
Leo's at home casual clothing matching the table cloth . His tee was the same blue and white striped , his boots and shorts were the same black the painted wooden chairs he and his family sat on were and his socks were blue and boot laces white .
Blue and black and white . His happy colors , the ones he'd like all his life , he thought to himself .
" I am eating my food . ' Kamaria said each word at a slower pace than she typically spoke to be certain the focus spotlight was shining on her for the moment .
" Your speech has improved along with your other capabilities . Very soon I'll have less to help you with . ' her Mother replied and made eye contact with her spouse . " Don't you think it's glorious that your daughter's growing up ? "
Paul senior drank from his tea mug . " I think that it's the time to discuss our brawling , runaway son's punishment . '
Cassie's hope disingrated . She gave up that final time .
" Then tell him and if it's suitable , I'll agree . "
" When the suspension ends , you're going back to school and you'll stay there . '
" Aw , maaaaaaaan ! I'm NOT living there ! " Paul junior bellowed and scowled at his father , which ocurred less than the fury he'd sent flying at his Moeder many times before .
" Actually , what we say to do , you'll do . But , no , home and not inside a school house is where you'll live until you're old enough to be on your own . '
" Woo hoo ! "
" However - '
" Crap . "
" However , your mother and I have decided that you're staying in school until you graduate . '
" That isn't fair ! He gets to be at home and I go for TEN more years ? ! " PJ complained , pointing at his brother .
" Leo's only being home schooled until he's twelve and he'll be back with you in no time . So stop fussing . Your attitude , disobediance and absurd risk taking , along with your mouth , brought you into what's dropped in your lap right now . ' Cassie told her firstborn , overlooking his glare fixed on her now .
" So you want me to be around the kids who insult our family ? ! That's stupid ! "
" You'll be quiet . ' his father added . " And if you battle anyone again , you'll make things worse . This can be a beginning or to end it , you choose how life goes . '
Paul junior fought his tongue to be sarcastic , bitter and rude . He swigged bright pink milkshake instead and frowned into the cold sugary beverage .
" I coaxed that old man male into letting me tag him and fortunately , his female friends didn't try to trample me . ' his Mother broke through the silence born from mixed , unexpressed emotions . " he may have a decayed tooth or tumor in his mouth . I couldn't tell by the mere use of the small flashlight beam but my old school gang from Balule are going to fly in this week and track him , maybe take him to Kruger for his medical check , unless they locate the male group he seems to have been lost or seperated from . "
" My name ? ! That's what the kids laughed at , Mom . At my name . And at me . " Leo explained and slumped in his chair , only smiling when it was obvious that his baby sister was pushing her last slurp of milkshake in the paper cup to him as a present to cheer him out of gloom .
" Yeah , see ? ' PJ grunted . " I was right to fight with those losers . '
" No , you weren't . Not only did you do wrong but you attacked boys that had nothing to do with what took place . ' Cassie said , depositing the food wrappers , crumpled straw paper and used napkins into the trash bin , quietly relieved to have no dishes to wash this night . " But those who hurt my children did the wrong thing as well . Your name isn't anything to mock or insult . It's a special , important and good name . It's YOU . '
" Mom's got a point . You have a great name . ' Paul junior agreed .
" Good , my Lee Yo . ' Kamaria complimented .
" You really are spectacular and our boy that we love . ' Paul senior commented . " They insulted you and bullied you because they know they'll never be as good as you always will . '
" But it's WRONG . ' Leo pointed out . " Your last name and Mom's and Kammy's and my brother's is Lloyd but mine isn't . '
" Oh , sweetie . ' the short , round faced woman hugged him after washing her hands at the kitchen sink . " It is but we call you what we nicknamed you after the park . Your elephant friends may be moving there to live in a safe home because of your kind heart . '
Leo took the hug , a snuggling nice one that didn't hide Mommy's forehead creases . She was smiling , not frowning but SOMETHING he had said or did unnerved her .
" The girl elephants were caring . They fed the man elephant and let him join their family even though he belonged with other elephants . So that means they love him . '
Mom had extra wrinkles by the time he'd finished the sentence and so did Dad .
Paul junior also looked uncomfortable and Kammy was attentive over what remained of the milkshakes .
" Yes , that means they genuinely do . '
Leo couldn't sleep when his skin was unstoppable itchy . He tossed , turned and writhed on the bottom mattress of the shared bunkbed , squirming under the blue , black and white stripe blankets and wiggled from beneath to land on the floor and look out the open window .
He frowned , squinted , blinked and rubbed his sleepy eyes while his little sister baby snored in her room a few long leg steps from his own .
Dad was standing in front of the open door garden shed which had a dog dish of water , a bunch of blankets and pillows and what looked like a raw chunk of meat on the shed floor .
Mom stood with him , carrying a long chain with a lock attached .
" It's a beautiful therianthropy night , one that reminds of how we met . "
" You with your paw caught in a trap . "
" And you , the pretty human , fascinating and rescuing me . '
" You'll be safe here tonight . I love you . '
" Love you too , my human mate . "
Dad entered the shed and closed the double doors from the inside somehow before Mom wrapped the chain through the handles and closed the lock .
She glanced at the happy face , big eyed full moon glowing bright once the cloud cover had decreased and walked back indoors .
Leo itched to an extreme that made him jump out of the open window and rub against the home's brick exterior and then roll on the lawn , wanting the grass to scratch his irritated skin .
Instead of insect bites making him , the fur sprouting did .
His human child teeth grew and changed shape into pointed stubby fangs .
Leo cackled in the dark and he snapped at the tail waving on his backside , almost catching the grey brown short fur in his mouth .
A howl above his furry head rang out and the creature who'd made the canine call thump landed on his hyena back .
" Fun night , isn't it ? " the golden wolf pup yipped and the little hyena yapped a greeting and reply , understanding his brother's language with no trouble or translation .
" It is ! " Leo spun and snapped once more . His tail would probably forever be The One That Got Away . " And you're like me when we're in the darkness . "
Paul junior chased his brother and then switched places to be the 'prey ' .
" We're the same in the sunshine and different animals at night . "
