Jason looked at Adam. He'd seen Adam look serious, but not like this, it almost unnerved him. "Good lord, Addy. What is it? Has something bad happened?" Jason's face was scrunched with worry.
Adam shook his head. "No Jason, nothing bad, but, it could have a serious affect on us. We all have to have a say. It's a group decision; majority rule..." He paused and pulled a folded piece of paper out of his pocket.
Adam continued. "Roman got this email while we were in London. Let me read it..." Again he paused to put on his reading glasses. He went on. "Dad fascinated by the article I wrote. Wants to film an investigation for a live television show. Would you be willing? Let me know ASAP. Hope your trip is fun. Steph." Adam removed his glasses. He handed the email to Jason, who already had his hand out.
Shawn spoke up first. "Adam, what is your opinion?" He wanted a serious talk, before emotions ran high, as they tended to do sometimes.
"To be honest, I am against it, as a live investigation, however, Roman and I came up with another idea. Maybe put together our own video presentation, that focuses on the scientific aspects. Perhaps some of Roman's aura study, and Hunter's medical research during the investigation. I'm just concerned about the image those weekly ghost hunter type shows project. They barely show any scientific studies. But, as I said, this is a group decision. What ever we decide, everyone agrees and supports it or we won't do anything at all." Adam spoke firmly as the group leader.
Mark let out a puff of blue-gray smoke, it curled up and wafted up into the summer night air. "Those shows make us look like... clowns. All that screaming and shouting. That one group, that provokes spirits, well, they are lucky they haven't been truly harmed by demons. The other show at least tries to debunk, but they laugh and horse around, something a professional does not do. McMahon is into sensationalized television. I'm not sure if he wouldn't rig tricks or do some creative editing to make us look foolish. I vote no to a live show, but, perhaps yes, if and I mean if we get to make the video, alone, without McMahon." His eyes blazed as he spoke. He meant what he said.
Hunter tapped his the ashes from his cigar, then leaned forward to address the group. "I'm with Mark. I'll tell you what else I'd do. Have Jerry come up with a binding legal agreement, that McMahon nor any of his employees can touch our finished presentation. If he does, we sue his fucking ass, to the highest possible court." He too had fire in his eyes, he remembered how McMahon had destroyed the career of a wonderful surgeon.
"I'm fairly sure I can come up with a safety measure that would ensure our program couldn't be tampered with. If he puts it through an editing machine, it would wipe out our disc. I'd have to work on it though, it's really only a theory." Seth spoke with a thoughtful wrinkle to his brow, already lost in his technical thinking mind.
Jason nodded. "Another sure way would be to not give him the disc until the last possible moment, and Seth would stay with it. Of course, Dean and I would be there as well... to... um... protect things." He looked over at Dean. A knowing smirk on his lips and sparkle in his eyes.
Dean returned the smirk and hit his left fist into the palm of his hand. "Right Officer, excuse me, Sargent Reso, and I will make sure no disc is …. interfered with." His eyes flashed with deadly seriousness.
Shawn shook his head. "Now boys, no need for that, but, I agree with Hunt. Jerry should be consulted, if we decide to do this. Roman, you're turn, what do you say about all this?" He once again tried to maintain a serious decorum to the conversation.
Roman exhaled a perfect ring of cigar smoke. "Well, I have to be honest. I'm with Adam, no live show. I would like a chance to show my aura theory, but would anyone outside of the scientific paranormal world watch it? I'm worried that people are only really interested in that other type of show. My suggestion would be, to set up a meeting with McMahon, on our turf and work it out, then make our final decision. However, I will stay to my word, no live show. Period." He looked at the other members of the College Hill Ghost Hunters.
"Everyone agrees then, no live television? I'll email Stephanie and tell her. We will see if we can set up a meeting to talk about it with her when we get back. Does that sound satisfactory?" Adam looked at his team.
"I think you show good sense. I've watched that live ghost hunting show we have over here, with that horrible screaming woman. If they ever did find a ghost the poor thing would be terrified!" William added with a laugh. He hoped they would not do such a television program.
"Yes, we're agreed. No live television. Oh William, I've seen that program as well. She nearly screamed down Dracula's Castle. Shame too, because they actually do try to be serious, they come close, but then they just go one scream too far. I can understand it though, I mean, we have hours and hours where nothing happens, an audience of casual viewers would lose interest quickly, if they didn't do "entertaining" things." Shawn made air quotes around entertaining, as he spoke with a shrug, for the group.
They finished their brandy and cigars, talking about their London adventures. Evan and Adam told in greater detail about their mini investigation they had at the hotel. Everyone laughed a bit, but Seth let out a sigh. He was annoyed with himself.
"I shouldn't have taken all the equipment. That would have been a fantastic event to capture on film. Cell phone cameras just can't catch it. I won't let that happen again. Sorry boss." Seth sighed again and hung his head a bit.
"Seth, no, don't you dare feel bad. No one thought an investigation would come up. I'd much rather have you do the maintenance on the equipment. It was interesting, but you know, I'm not so sure she would have been so forthcoming with a camera. She was terribly shy." Adam smiled at Seth to show he wasn't the least bit upset.
Dean too gave his lover a firm pat on the shoulder. Seth smiled, Dean always made him feel better, no matter what.
Later that evening, Mark and Wade were the last ones out on the patio with William. Mark enjoyed a rare second glass of extra fine brandy, and a cigar. Wade sat next to his Uncle.
"Do you want to talk?" Wade asked, brow raised. He wanted his Uncle William to know he was there for him.
"It's hard to let go of someone you love, even though it's for the best. You know, I was going to propose to him the night of the accident..." William's words faded as he pulled a small black velvet box from his pocket.
William opened the box and revealed a beautiful blood red ruby, on a platinum band. The ruby was cut into the shape of a crescent moon, and tiny stars were etched into the band. It was one of a kind, William had it custom made.
"That is beautiful, Uncle. You... didn't want to give it to him anyway?" Wade was a bit surprised that William hadn't given the ring to Mason long ago.
"I... I did not think it was right. He might have said no. Now that I know, he would have said yes, I'll take it when I go to visit him on Tuesday. Say, do me a favor, keep everyone occupied, I don't want a bunch of questions. Just … tell them I had business to attend to in the city." William spoke thoughtfully as he closed the box and put it back in his pocket.
"Of course, Uncle. I am so glad Evan's idea worked. Are you... at peace?" Wade asked, his hand gently on his Uncle's shoulder.
"I am. Hard as it is, I am finally at peace. I will never be able to properly thank Evan. Please, let me know when their wedding will be. I want to send a nice gift." William sipped his last bit of brandy and gave his cigar a final puff.
"Good. Well, Uncle, we will say good night. Love you." Wade stood as did William. Uncle and nephew hugged and Wade kissed his Uncle's cheek. Mark and William exchanged a firm handshake with a pulled in hug. With that, the entire household was turned in for the night.
The rest of the College Hill Ghost Hunter's vacation passed peacefully. The night of June 29th was their last evening at Regal Manor. The next morning, the group would go to the Heathrow Airport Hotel. They wanted to be there a day early so they would easily make their flight on July 1st.
William had arranged for a parting ceremony at Stonehenge. He offered up a blessing for a safe journey home. It was a beautiful and emotional moment as they stood in the center of the ancient ring of stone. The moon was full and the sky way brilliant with uncountable stars.
William rode to London with the travellers, in the limo. It was an emotional farewell as the ghost hunters bid good bye to their host. William and Wade hugged tightly and vowed to see each other again; soon. Mark and William also hugged. Mark vowed to William on the stones of the Henge, to take care of Wade, always. With that, William left the best guests he'd ever had, with a lone tear on his cheek.
What William hadn't said was that just before they had left London, the call had finally come. Mason had gone to be with the Ancestors, at four-thirty, that morning. He was finally free and happy. William was sad, but at peace because he knew his beloved Mase was with the Ancients. It was for the best.
No one would know of William's grief until after they got back home to Iowa. William knew they would have wanted to stay, but he knew the group had to get back to work and their lives. It too, was for the best.
While the flight home was still premium first class, they didn't have private cabins like they'd had on the flight to Ireland. The College Hill Ghost Hunters landed safely in Chicago. After they checked in to the airport Hilton, Mark and Wade went to rent another mini bus. Mark was happy this time, the were able to rent a black mini bus, much better than neon yellow.
The drive back to Cedar Falls was uneventful. Each mile they went the happier everyone became. As they drove into the city limits of Waterloo, Adam had a sudden horrible thought.
"Oh crap, we have to stop at Hy-Vee. We don't have any any food or drink in the house". Adam actually whined. He didn't want to go shopping, he wanted to get home and into his own bed.
Shawn laughed. "Don't fret, son. I got a text from Mike Chioda, listen. 'Knew you'd be tired. Got a few groceries to tide each of you over for a day or two. Hope you don't mind. See you soon. Mike' He is so thoughtful." Shawn showed Adam the text message just to ease his mind further.
Adam let out a happy laugh. "Remind me to buy that man a gift." He was even happier as they crossed into Cedar Falls.
"Look!" Heath pointed out one of the windows. They saw the most beautiful sight. They saw the clock tower Campanile, as it stood sentinel over the campus of Northern Iowa University; and home.
They first dropped Dean and Seth at The Lunatic Fringe. Shawn and Hunter were next as the minibus turned down the alley that ran all the way to 6152 Olive Street, then to Walnut Street.
Adam got his chance to thank Doctor Mike Chioda as Hunter and Shawn gathered their suitcases. The Doctor was pleased that Adam and Heath, along with Wade were happy about his grocery shopping.
The minibus drove down the last few yards of the long journey. They pulled up next to the garage. First things first, as they carefully unloaded the paranormal equipment tote boxes and stored them in the basement. Hunter's medical totes were also unloaded and stored.
Heath grinned as he entered his kitchen from the basement. It was good to be home. Jason was pleased that everything had been well cared for. Even the lawn had recently been mowed.
The Reigns', Calaway's, Chris and Evan made their way up to the second and floor. Adam and Roman continued to the third floor. Adam was almost dancing as Roman unlocked their door.
Adam rushed in, tossed his bags into the corner and flopped down on their extra long, king sized bed. He let out a groan that was nearly sexual in nature.
Roman laughed. "You happy to be home, my Viking?" He put his bags down next to Adam's. He opened the six windows to let in the fresh air.
"Yes! Yes! Yes!, My pillows, my blanket, my feet don't hang off the end of the bed." Adam grabbed his favorite pillow and hugged it to his chest.
"I know what you mean about the short beds. Then again, most men aren't as tall or as handsome as we are. I'm gonna check the groceries." Roman bent down and gave Adam's lips a wet smack. He went to the kitchen, he was getting rather hungry.
Adam got up and followed after Roman. His man was hungry and it was his pleasure to be the one to feed him. Sometimes truly enjoyed being the "wife", especially when it came to making Roman happy.
"Oh wow!" Adam exclaimed as he looked at the huge basket on the kitchen table. Roman had begun to pull out the groceries.
There was a loaf of whole wheat bread from the Hy-Vee bakery, along with a box of fresh pastries. There was a bag of apples, oranges and bananas. A huge box of wheat flakes cereal and a box of plain corn flakes. There was a bag of fresh ground cinnamon caramel coffee, a bag of sugar, and a plastic bear filled with honey. Next came a jar of strawberry preserves, a box of biscuit mix, and maple leaf shaped tin of real, Canadian Maple Syrup. A note explained there was milk in the fridge.
Adam opened the fridge and let out another gasp. There was a gallon of milk, gallon of orange juice, a twenty four can box of Pepsi, a dozen large eggs, a pound of butter, and two pounds of bacon. There blocks of cheddar and American cheese. A large pack of hamburger, a pack of chicken breasts, a pack of ham steaks and an eight pound beef roast.
"Good grief, I won't have to shop for a couple of weeks. That man was too generous. I'll have to freeze most of this meat. How about some bacon and eggs?" Adam asked as Roman started to make a pot of the delicious smelling coffee.
"And biscuits?" Roman asked with puppy eyes as he held up the blue and white box of baking mix.
"Of course, my Lord." Adam bowed deeply and took the box from Roman with a laugh.
While Adam prepared their meal, Roman went around and plugged in their television, DVD player, stereo, game system and desk top computer. Roman also started the ceiling fans in the kitchen, living room and bed room, mainly to get the fresh air circulating.
Roman laid on the couch and turned on the television, he wanted to catch up on the local news. Out of curiosity, he turned to KWWL, McMahon's station.
Adam had just taken the biscuits out of the oven when Jay and Heath popped their heads in the door. "Can we come in?" Jason called out.
"Of course, come in." Roman sat up and called out to the Reso's in return.
"Oh sorry, didn't realize you were fixing to eat. I just wanted to know if you got a weeks worth of food too? Wade and Mark sure did. Evan got a huge basket of stuff too." Heath explained as he nosed around in the Reigns' basket.
"Might as well join us. I'll just fry up a couple more eggs." Adam said with a nod to the couple.
"Well, if you're sure. It smells great. I love breakfast for supper. I'll set the table." Heath replied as he reached for the plates in the cupboard.
Jason had joined Roman on the couch. There was and expose piece on the Waterloo Police Department. A cop had been accused of police brutality.
"That happened just before we left for Ireland. Of course, they don't mention the perp was higher than a kite and had a baseball bat. That video was after the bastard had belted an officer in the jaw. How does McMahon get away with that fucking shit?" Jason's face was like thunder, his eyes were the sparks of lightening.
"He uses the words, alleged and possibly. The truth will out. Internal Affairs, right?" Roman asked. He clicked to the retro music channel when the police story ended.
"Yeah, but of course, that won't get any mention..." Jason was cut off when Adam called everyone to the table.
After Roman said grace, Jason continued to rant. "I'll tell you, we ain't doin' a fucking thing for that station until Lawler has McMahon's balls squeezed so tight he won dare fucking fuck with the CHGH!" He took an enormous bite of food and chewed violently.
Adam swallowed a sip of coffee. "Don't worry, Jay. Jerry will see to it. Have you gotten your shift schedule yet? Can you be there Saturday?" Stephanie had replied and asked for a meeting their first Saturday back. That was the day after tomorrow.
"Oh, I'll be there. I'll just tell dispatch to reach me by my hand-held radio. We still doing the pig roast on the beach, to celebrate our belated Forth of July?" Jason took another violent bite of food.
"Yup. I ordered the piglet before we left. I'll pick it up early. Mark and Wade are going to come help dig the pit. Don't forget to get the fireworks permit. I hope it all comes together." Roman scowled a bit of the thought of everything that had to be done. While it was a belated Fourth celebration, it would be the last big get together before starting work on the fall semester.
"Roman, my love. You spent nearly the entire flight from London, issuing instructions. We all know our jobs. I'm glad Jerry will be there, give us a chance to talk about McMahon." Adam laid a calm hand on Roman's leg.
"You are right, it will all get done. Well, it is Jerry's riverfront cabin and property we will be using. But, I swear, if the box from Dwayne doesn't arrive tomorrow morning, I am going after UPS. Remember, when the box of banana leaves get here it goes in the basement." Roman kept thinking about the pig roast.
"Yes, Roman dear. Stop fretting. More eggs, babe?" Adam hated when Roman got like this, mainly because the man tended to worry himself sick.
Roman shook himself. "Yes, please. Sorry. I said I wouldn't obsess, and trust everyone to do their jobs. I'm glad that I put Hunter with Dean and Seth. At least I know with Hunter there, Dean won't get overly dangerous with the fireworks." He laughed and was back to himself.
Adam fried two more eggs for his husband, and one more for Jason. Heath refilled their coffee cups, then started a fresh pot to brew. They ended the evening with a rousing game of Skip-Bo.
On Saturday, before they could even get all their laundry washed, it was suddenly time for their meeting with Stephanie.
All the College Hill Ghost Hunters and Stephanie McMahon sat around a large table in the basement of the Olive Street house. Seth had set up all the computers, they were still analyzing all the data from the Hellfire Caves. However, for the meeting, Seth had carefully stored the data and shut down the computers. The data wasn't ready to be seen by anyone, especially a journalist.
Jason had just arrived. He'd told the dispatcher he was out for his lunch break. He took off his baseball style police cap, kissed Heath and sat down.
Adam smiled. "Now, we can officially get started. I guess we'd better not beat around the bush. Stephanie, we've talked about it, and voted on it. We are not willing to do a live, televised investigation." He was friendly,but the stony gaze on his face expressed his seriousness.
Stephanie looked at the men around the table. It was obvious, by looks on their faces, they were just as serious as Adam. She couldn't believe it.
"I... I... don't know what to say. I was so sure you'd jump at the chance to show the viewers how serious you are. Have you really thought about this Doctor Reigns? A chance to prove some of your theories on live television! And Adam, you'd be able to prove your gift is real. May I ask why? Why refuse such a fantastic opportunity?" Stephanie again looked at every man seated at the table.
Jason opened his mouth to speak, but Shawn wisely beat him to the punch. "If I may? He looked at Adam. Adam nodded.
"Well, you see Miss Stephanie, Adam doesn't need to prove anything. Please, forgive me for being so blunt, we don't trust your father. We are afraid he will try to manufacture evidence for ratings. You must realize, the type of sensationalized stories he puts on the air." Shawn was honest, but there was no other way to be. The matter was too important.
Stephanie nodded. "Well, yes, I do. It's something he and I often argue about. He says sensation is ratings, ratings are money. This what I didn't tell you, I'd be producing the show. Father is giving me full control. He was interested in the things I told him about the park. I didn't give him anything to breech the agreement I signed. I swear. I just gave him a very general overview, no details. I never told him people or the exact location. I was careful, just like I would be for the program. Is there nothing I can say that will change your minds?" She had an earnest gleam in her dark eyes.
"No way! No way in hell!" Jason's eyes blazed, his arms folded over his chest. His breaths came in short huffs.
Adam frowned at Jason. "Jason, we don't have an issue with Stephanie, so knock it off. Sorry, he is a bit upset right now, but I don't blame him. However, that has nothing to do with this." Adam paused and gave Jason a hard glare. He loved his 'brother' but some times Jason spoke before he thought. Jason looked sheepish.
"You're right. I'm sorry Miss McMahon. Tell your father to tell the truth. No, no, I'm sorry, I have no issues with you. I'll keep my mouth shut." Jason sank back in his chair. Heath put his arm around his husband's shoulder in solidarity.
Adam continued. "We do have an alternative idea. Let's put together a program. We'll include Roman's aura theory study, Hunter's medical research and of course, investigation footage. We would want total control of all content. We would also expect your father to sign an agreement not to tamper with the program. Seth will be with the program disc at all times. Would you be willing to do that?" He looked hard at Stephanie. It was this or nothing as far as the CHGH were concerned.
Stephanie bit her lip. "I... is that the only way? You won't consider dad's offer at all?" She looked worried as her brow furrowed deeply.
Even with his empathic door locked, Evan could see Stephanie was worried. "Stephanie, is there a problem. You know, we are your friends. Just tell us. That's why we're all here." Evan spoke softly to his fellow student.
Stephanie let out a sigh. "See, dad and I haven't always gotten along. This is my chance to prove to him that... I'm his daughter too. I know he borders on yellow journalism, I do. Maybe I can show him how exciting real news can be. Please? Give me a chance to prove to you I am not my father." She was on the verge of tears, but she remained professional and stoic.
Adam rubbed his face with his palm. "I'm sorry, Stephanie. We are not opposed to helping you, but, we just can't risk being made fools of on live television. I know you wouldn't do that, but your dad? I'm sorry, I don't trust him. I will tell you this, you work with us on a program and it will be so good, and legitimate, he won't be able to ignore the ratings. " He laid a gentle hand on Stephanie's shoulder with confidence.
Stephanie's face contorted in deep thought, she then smiled. "Alright, we'll do it. We'll make the best program on the real paranormal ever made. If dad won't air it, as we make it, KWWL isn't the only station in the area. Thank you, so much. We will need to meet again, soon. Brie is going to be my assistant. She hasn't stopped researching the paranormal since the Island Park. She's even taking Doctor Reigns' intro class in the fall." Stephanie gave a bit of a laugh.
"That's good. Maybe you should as well. Tell you what, if your not busy next weekend, come to our Samoan pig roast. We can talk then about how we want to do this. Bring Brie too." Roman gave Stephanie a nod.
"That would be great, and I appreciate the invitation, but I was going to the festival with Brock, Brie and Daniel..." She bit her lip again, she was torn about what to do.
"Bring them along. There will be plenty of food and Seth does a killer fireworks to music. Can you guys bring some loaves of French bread?" Adam added to Roman's invitation. He also let out an external sigh, he'd forgotten about someone getting the bread.
"Thanks that would be great, but um... Evan... you..." Stephanie looked at Evan. She knew Brock and Evan had made peace, but they hadn't spent time together socially since.
Evan held up his left hand, his engagement ring glittered in the light. Stephanie grinned. "No, Steph, I don't mind, I couldn't be happier." Evan held Chris' hand tightly, Chris beamed with pride.
"Congratulations, Evan, you too Doctor Jericho. Great! We're gonna bust out the best show on television. Um... what about next weekend, where and when?" Stephanie had cheered up and was excited about the new idea.
"I'll text you or email you the time and directions. We're doing it on the beach down river a bit. Bring about six or seven loaves of bread." Adam said as they all stood up.
Stephanie bid everyone good bye. She gave Evan a hug and left the Olive Street house. Jason left as well, he had to get back on duty, plus he didn't want to get yelled at by Heath. Instead, he kissed his husband and headed back out to work.
"I feel bad for Steph. She's wanted to make up with her dad for a long time. It's deeper than she says. Vince blamed her for Shane's death." Evan spoke in a rather cryptic voice.
All eyes turned to the youngest team member. "Whoa, what?" Dean asked as he blew a puff of smoke out of the door that led to the backyard.
Evan sighed. "Brock told me about it, one night. He and Steph got into a really bad fight, and Brock got drunk. It was one of the times he wanted to talk, not hit..." Evan paused as Chris pulled him close. They were still seated at the table.
Seth stopped fiddling with the computers and joined Chris and Evan. Dean finished his cigarette and sat next to Seth. The others had gone up to the Reso's to make sandwiches, assembly line style.
When the College Hill Ghost Hunters were all settled in and eating their lunch, Evan continued. "...so anyway, Brock said Stephanie was trying to make up with her father, but he shoved Shane's death in her face, like he always did." He took a bite of his chicken salad sandwich.
"That's a horrible thing for a parent to do to their child. No wonder Stephanie was … a bit troubled when we first met her." Shawn gave a sad shake of his head with sip of iced tea.
Evan nodded in agreement. "I'll start at the beginning, or at least with what Brock told me. Shane McMahon was a senior at Cedar Falls High, big man on campus type. Quarterback, All American on the baseball team, star pitcher, perfect grades, headed for college to be pre-med student. From what I understand, he was a very nice guy as well. Never acted like the star of the school. Stephanie was a sophomore, and equally as popular as her brother. Shawn and Stephanie were going out to the Cross Roads Mall. A drunk driver pulled out in front of them and there was a terrible crash. Both Shane and Stephanie were unconscious. When the rescue squads arrived, they had to pull Stephanie out first, to get to Shane. See, their car was on its side, up against a tree, so Shane was trapped until they got Stephanie out..." Evan paused to take a sip of his tea.
Hunter suddenly smacked his forehead. "Of course, I remember hearing about that accident. The... no, you finish, Evan." He nodded to the younger man.
"According to Brock, they got Stephanie out, as they did, the other car burst into flames. It was attached to Shane's car by the twisted metal. The two cars blew up before they could get the fire out. Shane's car probably had a broken fuel line, because it happened so fast. Shane, the drunk driver and his wife were all killed instantly. Vince blamed Stephanie. He told her that they should have gotten Shane out first. Mrs. McMahon couldn't stand the way Vince treated Stephanie. It was the final straw in an already troubled marriage. They buried Shane, then split up. Steph went with her mom. That's why she says her father doesn't like her, but... well... now you know." Evan gave a small shrug as he finished his story.
"Poor kid. So now she has a chance to show her dad she can do a job, and we turn her down? I might have voted differently..." Heath let his words trail off as he got lost in thought.
"No." Adam shook his head. "I'll do what we agreed to, but no, Heath. We just can't risk live television. No matter what. She understands that. There is just one thing, I want understood. Keep what happened to me out of it." He looked at his team. A burning sadness filled his eyes as he spoke of the "incident."
"Oh Adam... I would never... absolutely. I would never ever show... that. That disc is locked away. I haven't even watched it …. it's just... there. I want to really focus on Roman's aura theory and now with some video of Evan to compare with, it will be great. We can use the Mandalay Case and the Island Park. I'll write Baron Dashwood to clear the Hellfire stuff. Don't worry it will be great!" Seth made the "OK" sign with his fingers and gave a wink.
The College Hill Ghost Hunters were gaining excitement at putting together a program or KWWL. Would it be a success or would Vince McMahon find a way to bring them down?