I stayed silent the entire car ride, as did Soda. He was really busy trying to comfort me cos I kept on crying. I thought, I didn't know how to cry apparently I do. Soda's been quiet ever since he talked with Agent Gibbs. That's unusual, he's normally yakking his head off with stories during car rides. Today is different, real different. I'm getting used to death. I think…no I know Soda is too. He just isn't willed enough to admit it. Let's see I've lost one friend in a fight and now four family members. Looking up at Soda I realize just how old he is. He looks like a broken teenager ready to face the world at any moment, I wonder how I look. Probably like some little kid, trailing his big brother around.
The elevator is silver and reminds of me of steel; strong and capable of holding anyone and anything. I watch silently as Soda sees the Emergency Stop button and flicks it downward. Even I jolt a little bit, when the elevator stops. Both Agent David and DiNozzo look down at us. I've never seen Soda look so wild and untamed. His hair is in all different directions, his eye balls are practically popping out of his head, and he's really jumpy. I touch his arm, and he smiles warmly down at me and manages to remain somewhat control. I think all we need is sleep, but how can we sleep after something like this?
"You have our attention" Tony said, I stare intently at my fingers. I too, am waiting to hear the question. Soda is trembling his burnt arm looks so messed up, I begin t wonder if they think Mom and Dad beat us. Nah, my parents were good people. Real good.
"Is there something you want to tell us?" Ziva asked Soda flicks his golden hair out of his irresponsible blue eyes and nods. He must not trust his own voice, he must really wanna cuss his head off.
"Ask away" Tony said giving Soda a nod to go ahead and ask. Soda blinks quite frankly he must be feeling like me; so damn confused.
"Are you goin to call Social Services?" Soda asked cautiously and weakly, I feel my self stiffen and the tears re-appear on the walls of my gray-green eyes. I forgot about them. Lilly's nice and all, but she always wants to know how I'm feeling. I usually keep my trap shut tight.
Ziva said, "You don't have any other kin" her voice sounds pained and almost like she doesn't wanna throw us into the trenches either. I guess that's our answer.
"I know, but…we have friends" Soda said, that is the reason Kenny probably hasn't been caught by Social Services. The weird thing is, our parents didn't know he was a runaway. They thought, he liked sleeping over or something. They're really busy people, and Kenny is small like me.
"They aren't family" Tony said, Soda turns red with anger. When he's angry, he lets off steam by telling other secrets.
"That's stupid, we have..." I nudge him a little, he was going to talk about Kenny "nevermind..." Soda stopped. He flips the switch back on. The elevator moves a little and I see their faces become even more confused. I would laugh, but then I remember how lousy I feel.
"What?" Tony asked sounding annoyed with our refusal to participate with them. I begin to hope Soda'll just shut up. They look at me to answer the question. Soda can tell I am going to give in if they continue to stare at me for another couple minutes.
"Uhh" I look at Soda for help, he jumps in almost instantly.
Soda said, "Nothin, right Johnnycake" I feel myself turn redder, but I manage to keep a straight face.
"Right Soda" I answered confidently, as the elevator doors opened and they stroll out with us trying to keep up. That's when I can see they think I'm the weaker one, and they'll crack me easier.
Tony nods for me to sit down. I shake my head tiredly; the day is beginning to become starry out. I like the stars, they're cool. My Granny said, 'stars are where the spirits of loved ones go when they die. So they can watch over you.' I remember saying 'she was going to be the shiniest star in the sky' Granny smiled fondly at me. I've always known I am her favorite, she'd give me exta chocholates and sweets and stroke my cheek saying how much I looked like my Dad. I didn't think so, Soda looks tons like Dad and I look a lot like both of them. That's always bugged Sodapop, he likes being unique. I don't mind as long as I look like Soda, which to some people I do. I really do not see it.
"Sit down kid" Tony offered I look at Soda for some help. He knows I'm not a little baby kid; he doesn't even look my way.
"I'm not a kid" I protested softly, Agent David and DiNozzo share a knowing look. I don't like that look.
"Uh-hu" Tony said as they lead us into the bullpen. I look at everyone's desk; their personalities are all scattered on their desks.
"Why couldn't we take anything?" Soda asked yawning and checking the Rolex he swiped from some dude walking down the street. He's got slippery fingers, but not as slippery as mine.
"Federal crime scene evidence" Ziva explained in a kind voice, not the know-it-all voice that Mitch Hoffman uses all the time.
"But, they were shot in the yard, Agent David Soda said smartly, he's always been a smart ass to new people. Its apart of his appeal, being funny and charming.
"Yah, but we need your computers. Your house is being searched" Tony explained giving Soda a look, the fifteen year old sucks in his cheeks.
"Hope they don't find the magazines under my bed" Soda winked at me. He smiles a crazed and drunken with life smile at Agent David who can't help but smile back. Everyone smiles at Soda. Even, when Soda was caught for swiping a few packs of gum, the cashier smiled at him. She even let him take the gum, without paying. She lets me too, cos I'm Soda Matthew's little brother and 'soooo cute and look like Soda.' I really don't see it, but hey I get free gum and I don't complain after that.
Soda's P.O.V
I've never liked being the oldest. That comes with baggage. Johnny is the cutest and youngest. I have to be the responsible one, only I know I'm not. Johnnycake is a good kid. I guess, I remember at his age I came home half-drunk. Mom and Dad, didn't let him out with me until he turned eleven. He's thoughtful too. I have to be the brave one and show no sadness now that Dad and Mom are both gone. Mom's always been the one that held us together. Now its up to me. I remember the day Johnny was born. When life was simple and I had plenty of family. Now all I have are Johnny and the gang. Dad lifted me up and into his arms. I was three at the time and he smiled at me, obviously happy to have another kid.
Flashback Twelve Years
"Kyle, looks like you have a new job" Dad said stroking my cheek, I had short spiky blonde hair. Oh, I forgot to mention my first name is Kyle Sodapop Matthews, I've always prefered Soda. Its cooler and orginial. I didn't know any of the guys then, some of them were in my class. Like Dennis, he got in trouble a lot. Cal if you can believe it, was a jokester too.
"What is it?" I asked yawning tiredly, I had to wake up from my nap to come here. Granny said, I got a new brother. I didn't have a clue what she meant, I didn't have a brother to begin with. How could I get a NEW one?
"You have to be your little brother's new protector" Dad said tickling my tummy. He hasn't done that in years, but sometimes I'd secretly wish he still did. Dad's busy is all, he has to provide for a lot of people. Sometimes a few kids come over and stay there when they're pissed at their parents. My parents never complained, they adored everyone from our gang. Mom wanted six kids.
"I'm too little" I said sticking out my lower lip. Everyone at school calls me shortie or shrimp boy. I don't like school at all. I hate bein the shortest one in class. It no fair.
"Soda, someday your going to be big. You'll need to teach him new things and protect him" Dad said grinning down at me. For once I am lost for words, and I am told to be a chatter-box.
I think for a moment. "Do, I get paid?" I answered unsure, if this job was really worth it. Daddy gets paid at his job. He brings home toys for me, maybe if I get paid I'll get to bring home toys too. And give them to my little brother, then he'll think I'm the greatest person ever.
"No, you don't. But, this job is the most important in the world. Do you know what important means?" Dad asked, I nodded like I understood everything he was saying. He's always treated me like his equal, well when I'm not in trouble or anything.
"Promise me, you'll always look out for him and take care of him" Dad said giving me a long stare hoping I'll say yes. I don't really understand what he means, how come I hafta do it? Why not someone bigger? I bet my new brother will like bigger and more important peoples.
"Daddy, what if I can't do it? What if he doesn't want me? What if I'm not good at it?" I asked sadly, Daddy smiles down at me and strokes my cheek once more.
"Come with me. I want you to meet someone. Who has been wanting to meet YOU! His big brother, the most important guy in his world. Trust me, Pepsi-Cola you can do anything you set your mind too" Dad said, walking me down the hall and into Mommy's room. Mom was sleeping. Beside her bed, was Johnny. I looked at Dad as he set me down beside the mini bed. I nodded and saw Johnny for the first time and almost smiled.
"Is he gonna stay with us?" Dad nodded "Will you still love me when he comes home?" I asked worried that this little baby was going to steal my daddy away.
"Of course I will. I'll love you and your brother, forever" Dad promised giving my tummy a little tickle. I laugh and throw my head back happily. Dad smiles, he'd do anything for someone to smile. He's my clown-like Daddy.
"Me more, right" I prompted this time Dad sighs and raises an eyebrow. He does that when he's in a problem he can't get out of. Like when he comes home from some RANDOM meeting two hours late.
"Soda, I love you both equally" Dad explained, I fold my arms over my chest. This isn't fair, Daddy's are possed' to be fair and like me the bestest.
"How come? He just got here? I've been here longer" I complained stomping my foot, Johnny stirs in the bed. Dad lightly smacks my bottom almost warning me to behave a little better. I smile up at him, innocently. Dad rolls his eyes.
"I know you have. Kyle, you'll always be my irreplaceable, first born. Now your going to have to share Mommy and me, that clear" I smiled and nodded glancing down at my brother "he looks a lot like you" Dad comented, giving me a special smile. He only gives Johnny and me those smiles. Him and mom have been a sinking ship since I was born. They just didn't know it, until after Johnny was born.
"He's littler, than me" I squeaked out looking astonished. I was short for my age, Mom was worried I was a midget or something. Then at five I grew and become medium sized kid, Mom stopped worrying so much.
"That's right. Meet Johnny Carlos Matthews, your little brother. Johnny this is your big brother Kyle Sodapop Matthews" Dad said smoothing out my hair a little, he left to sign mom out of the hospital. Mom has always hated hospitals, she never liked the way doctors looked down at you. I don't like them, cos I get poked and proded with needles. Johnny started flailing around looking so worried.
"Hiya Johnny. I'm your big broder, Kyle" I said reaching out to touch his small tiny fist. Johnny stopped flailing and looked up at me with full and utter trust and happiness in his eyes.
"I promise I'll look out for you and protect you forever. I'll be the best big broder" I declared seeing his cherry red lips, curl up into a smile. He smiled at me first! I grinned excitedly down at him as his fist held onto my hand. Almost like we were shaking hands and confirming this deal. I've never told anyone that story before.
"Your okay, for a little broder" I glanced down at him, he had no hair and looked like a vanilla ice cream. But I couldn't call my brother JohnnyIce-Cream. That would be stupid. Johnnycake, sounds much better. "I'm gonna call you...Johnnycake" I said at last, nothing else seemed to fit. Johnny gurgled to show his pleasure, as he slowly fell asleep once again.
"I love you, Johnnycake...foreva" I promised falling asleep on Mom's bed beside him, wondering what's going to be like being a big brother. I may not like being the oldest, but I've always loved being Johnnycake's big brother. He's my best friend.
End Of Flashback.
Looking out of the window, I withdrawl myself away from that memory. It is probably the best memory I've ever had. I do not have so many great memories like that one. That is why, I cherish it so. Johnny looks up at me with the same trusting and hopeful look that he's always worn when he looks up at me. He looks up at me, like I'm some sort of Hero. Like I'm Superman, he calls me that sometimes. I don't mind at all. Who would?
"Johnny, can you sit over there for a few minutes?" I asked in a weak voice, Johnny reluctantly sits down in the chair beside Agent Gibb's desk. He does not like it very much when I order him around. Only when I feel completely weak or sad, is when he actually obeys.
"I want a deal" I declared to Agent David who glances at me looking stunned by my decision.
"That isn't how this works" Ziva replied earnestly, giving me one of those looks they give kids who're troubled.
"I don't really care" I snapped at her. Why does everyone hafta treat me like I'm five instead of fifteen?
"We can't do deals with children" she said a little more firmly. I watch Johnny from swinging his legs looking so innocent.
"I ain't a kid" I said stepping back and into Agent DiNozzo who looks down at me knowing he's superior.
"You're fifteen, you're a kid" Tony said coming out of no where, I don't like the way they're talking to me.
"And you're old" I said matter-of-factly like voice. He smiles a wavering smile at me, almost like he wants to put me over his knee. Wouldn't be the first time I ever got that look.
"Funny, we aren't going to make a deal with a…teenager" Tony corrected winking at Ziva who smiles at him.
"It isn't against the law to do that" I said wondering if it really is. I dunno, I don't listen very well.
"I know, but that is not what we do here" Ziva said softly, she's pretty smart. She knows the American Law, well even though she sounds foreign.
"Just…hear me out, please" I said softly, in the softest and most respectful voice I could even muster.
They contemplate about this and then nod at one another. All the agents here have a secret language with one another; it's like a family. "You have one minute" Tony said showing me his watch.
I become shocked, how the hell can I say something in one minute? "That isn't enough time" I complained giving him a frustrated look. They shrug at me, like I'm some little kid who can get over something in a few seconds.
"Now you have fifty three seconds" he tapped his watch and raised it to his ear so he could hear it tick.
"That isn't fair" I whined, hearing my self whine I look up and groan. I am not the whining type, I don't even remember whining all that much.
"Forty eight seconds, time flies when one teenager is being whiny" he smiles at me and I glare at him. But, but, this isn't fair.
"I ain't whiny" I whined once more, and groan for being whiny like he said. This sucks, how come I'm whining like some baby?
"Hmm, maybe I was wrong. Now you have forty three seconds…no wait thirty nine seconds. You better state your deal, fast" Tony threatened, I really don't know if he means business or not.
No way, in hell I am going to do that. I don't care, they can't make me do stuff I don't wanna do. This isn't fair; I mean why do; I really hafta be timed to tell my deal. Adults aren't well maybe they are cos on cop shows they are. But, I prefer cartoons, and I'm really proud to admit that. I don't care what people think of me.
"Ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three…" Tony raises an eyebrow at me and I suddenly know I am going to have to give in.
"WAIT" I take a deep breath and try not to look defeated "I wanna watch Johnny's Interrogation" I blurted looking down at my blue and white striped shoes.
"Uhh, what'd you say?" he asked doing a double-take, almost like he's trying to hear me right.
"I wanna watch Johnny's Interrogation" I scratch my golden hair. Dennis calls it my yellow mane, I think he's stupid. All he does is smile and has to put his two cents into the conversation all the time.
"I don't think so" Tony said not meeting my blue eyes. I sigh; can't they see I'm all Johnny has left? I need to watch his Interrogation. Maybe if they'd ask Johnnycake's opinion, they'd know he might agree. Johnny's a private person.
"Aww come on, it won't hurt nobody. I'll tell you what you wanna know and you lemme watch his Interrogation, deal" I pleaded hopefully, the agents look at one another uncertainly. I hold out my hand, they both take a step away from my hand like its some contagious disease.
I rolled my blue eyes at them trying to keep the smile off my face. "You'll tell us what we want either way" Tony said sternly, my face turns pale. Why'd I say that? Why? I must be a true and utter idiot, like Dennis. Crap, this ain't fair. They're detective and I'm a…young adult.
"I won't tell you everything. Only some things" I said slyly, his face turns red with rage. He is probably wondering how a kid my age could be so intolerable.
"You could end up in jail for with-holding evidence" Ziva said knowingly, I glance over at Johnny and smile weakly. He'd be so lost without me and he's only twelve. I know he thinks he's much older, but he's my kid brother. I don't want anything to hurt him.
"Johnny's only a kid" I protested angrily, looking over at Johnny who looks up at me and struggles to smile.
"You're a kid too. I hope you know that fact too" Tony added smirking at me; I don't like it when adults think I'm a kid. Cos I am not, I'm fifteen. I'll be sixteen in a year, I take another breath.
"I ain't a…" I started, but I'm cut off by Agent DiNozzo.
"We know, we know. You're a teenager. Happy" Tony finished, he reminds me so much of Dennis. Happy-go-lucky and incredibly know-it-all like. Maybe a little bit like me too. Only a LITTLE!
"I could help you guys out with our case. I mean really help. I know tons of stuff" I offered sounding care-free wondering maybe I could tell them stuff that Mom and Dad didn't want Johnny or I to know about.
Johnny does know more than he lets on; he's a lot smarter than people think. We're brothers; we would never keep anything from one another. I do have one tiny secret, but that's private and I don't think Johnny is ready to know about it just yet.
"How?" Ziva questioned giving me a look. I look away from her and out the window and then back at her once again. She's very pretty.
"Trust me" I begged sadly, I am not usually the begging type. I guess I am now. I smile thinking how much I sound like Dad. Cool.
Tony placed a hand on my shoulder. "I'll get back to you on this"
"No. I need an answer, now" I shiver away from him, making a big point that I don't wanna be treated like some lost five year old.
"We have to talk to our Boss, Agent Gibbs" he exasperated thoughtfully, this satisfies me a little.
"Fine" I grumbled nodding at him distastefully. He rolls his darkened green eyes at me and shakes his head.
"Why do you want to watch, anyway?" Ziva asked aloud and looking very confused. Agent DiNozzo smiles warmly at her, is there something going on between them?
I smile my genuine smile. "He's my little brother, and I promised my dad I would protect him. No one else will"
"We can help you" Ziva offered, she obviously feels bad for us. I can see it written on her face that she wants to help, but it feels like charity to me.
"We don't want you're pity" Johnny blurted loudly, all three of the agents turn to little Johnny his lightbrown hair is shining in the light.
"Or charity" I concluded, smiling fondly at Johnny. He smiles rightback at me. Johnny is the type of kid, who'd dream away an hour. He'd just smile softly to himself. He's the type of kid; who's smart for his age. But, now-a-days he doesn't look much like a kid. I watch the agents faces harden and become more annoyed. Looking out of the window, I begin to realize why Johnny day-dreams so much. It's addictive, I wonder if Mom and Dad are in heaven right now. Playing poker or baking chocolate cakes with Jesus. I know they might've done bad things, but at the end of the day. They were good people. Mom, Dad, why'd you hafta leave us? Can't you see we need you? The stars look especially shiny tonight.