Eric slammed his keys down on the counter. Adam swallowed hard. Something had gone terribly wrong. "Daddy, what happened? What did Carol have to say?"

Eric fixed himself a glass of iced tea and brought his anger under control. "Well, when we got to Carol's office, she directed us to a family issues lawyer. Carol must stay neutral, just in case there is court action and she's the Judge. Your father and I kind of expected that, but hoped Carol would advise us as a friend. The good thing is, the lawyer is Michael Cole-Lawler. I'll tell you about that later. Anyway, your father called Bob, to set up a time to talk, and that's when he hit us with... oh! It makes me so damn mad!" Eric had to pause to sip his tea and calm himself down again.

Adam looked pale and Dean did not like it. "Mister Eric, please. What did Mister Orton say?" Dean asked as he took Adam's hand in his. He would be there for Adam no matter what.

Eric looked over at the boys, he too noticed how pale and worried Adam looked. "Son, I honestly don't know how to say it, but just say it. He wants a DNA paternity test. He thinks because you left Randy so fast for Dean, you're hiding the fact that you slept with Dean behind Randy's back. That you tried to... well... hurt yourself to make Randy feel bad, so the baby would inherit the Orton millions. I am so fucking angry! How dare he, how fucking dare he think that you would do something like that! He refuses to discuss any matters until the results of the test are in. Oh, and Doctor Ross won't be allowed to do the test, it has to be a neutral Physician." Eric decided it was better to get it all out now.

"I... would never... so... he's calling me... a... a... whore! He's no better than Randy. I would never... " Adam burst out in tears. Everything with Randy came flooding back. Adam got up so fast his chair fell over with a clatter. He ran out the door to the garage instead of running up to his room.

Dean started after him, but Eric held out a hand to stop him. "Let him go, Dean. He needs time. I just can't... doesn't Bob know what Randy did?" He gave Dean a confused look.

Dean stood fast. "I don't mean any disrespect, Sir, but I am going after him. Maybe he did what he did before because no one followed him. Oh and I'm done, Viper Orton is dead next time I see him." He left no room for Eric to respond and went out the garage door after Adam.

Eric sighed. "Maybe he's right. Don't worry, Adam, daddy is going to make it alright, somehow." He spoke to the empty room. He put Adam's chair back upright. Eric then noticed the drawing pad. He smiled, his baby was so talented. Judy had told him, Adam's artistic ability came from his grandfather, Eric's father. It made Eric proud, he could barely manage to draw a stick figure. He needed to occupy his mind, so he set in to start to bake.

Adam ran to the far end of the front yard, down the hill. There was a pile of rocks where Adam used to play with his toy animals and Matchbox cars. He fell to the ground by the rocks and cried like he'd never cried before. Everything finally bubbled out from the bottom of his soul. Starting from the first incident with Randy on the first day of school, to the suicide attempt, to being separated from Dean last night.

Dean caught a glimpse of Adam as he disappeared down the hill. He followed after Adam. He sighed when he saw Adam fall to the ground and sob. His heart ached for his lover. Dean quietly sat down close to Adam, but he figured a good cry would probably do him a lot of good. Doctor Page had said it would happen. Besides, it gave Dean time to think of all the horrible things he could do to Snake Shit.

Adam knew Dean was there, but that he didn't intrude. It was good to know he was there. Adam's tears just did not want to stop. He reached out a hand, when Dean's hand grabbed hold, Adam held on for dear life.

"I'm here, sweetheart." Dean spoke in a calm whisper. Adam didn't need to know how angry he was. He would do what Adam wanted, and for now, that meant holding his hand, just being there for Adam.

Adam pulled himself up off the ground and managed to lay his head in Dean's lap, and curl up around his fiancé. Dean put his arms over Adam like a gentle shield of protection.

"Am.. I..." Adam's hiccuped words were stopped by Dean. He knew exactly what Adam was about to say.

"Don't even think it, let alone say it, my prince. You are not a whore." Dean gave Adam's back a gentle rub.

Adam couldn't stop the small smile on his lips. Dean was just one of a kind. Adam sat up, his hazel eyes still leaked tears. "Why... why would he say that? Randy... beat me... hurt me... but I stayed faithful. Dean, don't kill Randy... he may not even know what his dad said. I didn't know half the stuff father and Bob talked about. Plus, I don't want Dolph hurt. One victim is enough..." The more Adam spoke, the more the tears dried up. The more the tears dried up, the more strength he drew, not only from Dean, but from himself. Adam decided Bob Orton was not going to destroy him.

Adam sat up and swiped his blood-shot eyes with the back of his hand. "He's not going to destroy me. I am not going to tolerate his slander. I've decided, I don't care what he has to say. You will be the baby's father. I'll take that fucking paternity test, and prove Bob Orton wrong. He will have to eat his words. Dean, I love you, thank you. You give me a strength and courage I didn't know I had. I need to talk to daddy, I need you beside me." He stood up, squared his shoulders and helped Dean to his feet.

Dean jumped up and wrapped Adam in his arms. "That's my brave prince. Okay, I won't kill Randy; yet. If he did, or does know what his dad said, then I will kill him. I love you, baby, and you too, royal baby." He leaned down and kissed Adam's abdomen, then kissed Adam square on the lips. Hand in hand the couple went back to the house.

When Dean and Adam entered the kitchen from the garage, they were hit with the smell of freshly baking cookies and two pots boiled on the stove. Eric was bashing and mashing the hell out of a pot of boiled potatoes.

"Fucking bastard! Call my son a... a... GAH!" Eric spat as the poor innocent potatoes were beaten to mash.

"Daddy I'm alright. Bob isn't going to get to me. I will take that paternity test, and make him choke on his words. I am demanding Dean be given full parental rights. It's what Bob gets for accusing me of cheating on Randy. So please, stop or those will be cream of mashed potato. Can we have some cookies, please?" Adam tried to make his dad laugh by begging in his own special, annoying way.

Eric stopped punishing the poor potatoes and turned to Adam. "Oh baby, you are just too wonderful sometimes. Alright then, we will schedule the test. All you, Randy and Dean have to do is give a little blood. I just... it's the way Bob said it. Your father was not only angry but hurt, he and Bob were good friends for a long time. It makes my blood boil. Dean, you have my blessing to... to do what you said." While Eric spoke, he filled a plate with cookies and poured two glasses of milk. He put it all on the breakfast nook table.

Adam and Dean sat down. "No, daddy, Dean is not going to kill Randy. Randy probably has no idea about what Bob said. Did Mister Lawler say how The King is doing? Seems like ages since his heart attack." He took a bite of a chocolate chip cookie.

Eric had gone back to stove to finish dinner. "Michael said Jerry is doing fine and loves retirement. We are probably going to be his last clients, depending on how long everything takes. They have bought a lovely RV and their house is sale pending. Michael said, on January first, they are pulling out and going where the road takes them, they are only going to drive on small roads, no Interstates. Jerry wants to stop at all the little roadside tourist traps they come across. In one way, I envy them, but in on the other hand, I am too much of a homebody. Dean, Shawn said you can stay for dinner if you want. You are to be home by midnight." He put a pan of rolls in the oven to bake as he took a pan of cookies out.

Dean grinned. "Thanks, sir. I was just about to call and ask if I could stay. I'm glad Mister Lawler is well enough to enjoy himself like that..." He stopped talking when they heard a car pull into the garage.

Eric stopped what he was doing and went to the kitchen door to greet his husband. He put on his best and most handsome smile. Vince had been so let down, now all Eric wanted to do was cheer him up.

Adam shut down his lap top and closed it and put it in the case that it had come in. He stacked the books and papers they had been using and put them on the wide sill of the bay window that made the area a nook in the kitchen. The last thing Adam did was to move his chair closer to Dean's. Dean smiled and held up a cookie for Adam to bite. They were both a little nervous about Vince's arrival.

Eric opened the door. "Hello, honey." He kissed his husband as he took the brief case from Vince's hand.

When Vince's hands were free, he wrapped his arms around Eric and held him close. "Are you alright, sweetheart? I was so worried about you. Look, maybe we'd better not tell little Addy about Bob. He is still too... delicate, especially since Dean has moved back home. I don't want to see him so broken again. Honey, it tears me to pieces every time I see those... Our baby, E. We nearly lost our baby." He pulled Eric in close and held on for dear life. Vince was unaware Adam had heard every word he'd said.

Adam looked at Dean. Dean gave him a nod and smile of encouragement. Adam kissed Dean's cheek, got up and went to his parents. The teen managed to worm his way between his dad and Vince with a smile.

"I already know, father. I'm alright. I'll tell you exactly what I told Dean and daddy. I'm not going to break, but maybe Bob Orton will..." Adam went on to tell Vince the same things he'd told Dean and Eric. "... so, when Randy is proven to be the father, I'll serve Bob Orton a delicious slice of crow pie. Father, I am not being backed into a corner, by anyone; not anyone." Adam gave his father a very firm look. Adam wasn't going to be a doormat ever again.

Vince looked at Adam. He saw a look of determination on the young man's face. It was a look Vince had never seen on Adam's face before. It made him proud. He gave Adam's shoulder a firm grip.

"Son, I'm proud of you. This is your show, your life and your child. We will do all we can, and we will support you..." Vince paused. He noticed the sapphire ring on Adam's left finger. "Well now, what is this, son?" Vince took Adam's left hand in his and took a closer look at the ring.

Eric's eyes went wide. "I never even noticed. It's beautiful. When did this happen?" He looked at Adam, brow arched.

Dean stood and joined the McMahon's. Eric slapped his forehead and quickly moved to pull the rolls that were baking out of the oven. They were a very deep golden brown, but Eric had caught them just before they burned. Eric now calmly turned his attention back to his family.

"Well, it happened this morning. It was my great grandmother Michaels ring. Shawn said it was my family inheritance and it suited Adam perfectly. We need to size it just a bit, ran out of time today, but tomorrow after Adam's appointment, we can do it. We're just going to tell people at school we're engaged, just not when we hope to marry. I will ask you, sirs, once again, do you approve?" Dean looked from Vince to Eric.

"Yes." Vince and Eric spoke at the same time. It made everyone laugh and lightened the mood, which was very much needed. Both Adam and Dean were hugged.

Vince went to shower and change. Adam helped Eric with the final preparations for their dinner. Dean helped out by setting the table and poured glasses of iced tea for everyone.

Eric had to laugh, when he was upset, he cooked. So, not only was there the brisket from the crock pot, and the well mashed potatoes,but also corn on the cob, green beans, tossed mixed green salad and the rolls. Best of all, Eric made his wonderful au jus gravy.

They had decided it was cozier to eat in the breakfast nook. Vince sat down at the smaller table. Vince gave his laugh. "Honey, you must have been more furious than I realized." He indicated to the amount of food.

Adam also chuckled. "And a batch of chocolate chip cookies. Father, did Randy know about what his dad was going to say?" He took a bite of food and waited for Vince to answer.

Vince stopped his fork half-way to his mouth. "I honestly don't know, son. I do know, Randy is still staying with the Hudson's and Bob isn't overly happy about that. However, he knows Randy feels safer right now. We need to schedule that test ASAP. You, Dean and Randy have to give some blood and it will be done." He gave a shrug.

Dean scratched his head. "What's gonna happen if my DNA does show up? The transfusion, you know. Adam didn't get just a bit of my blood, he got four pints of my blood, if not a bit more. That's half a gallon, and the body has a gallon and half or so. Maybe Doctor Regal had better write an affidavit proving the blood transfusion. I don't want Orton to be able to utter one word against my fiancé for any reason." He bit into his corn on the cob like an angry dog.

"Dean, you have the makings of a lawyer. I'll do that, first thing tomorrow. The lawyers will set up the test. They have to agree on a neutral testing center. Adam, are you sure you are alright?" Vince looked at the young couple.

Adam nodded. "I am now. I finally got all the tears out, now I am angry. Ask Dean how guilty I felt when we kissed a couple of times before things ended with Randy. You can ask Seth too. I will not be happy until Randy gives Dean full rights and Dean adopts the baby. But father, as I've said to daddy and Dean, I do not want Dolph stressed over this. Promise me, you will keep Dolph out of it." Adam gave his father a hard look. Vince agreed, more for Adam than any other reason.

The family continued with their dinner. Eric asked about the drawing of Queen Anne. Adam blushed as Dean gushed about Adam's talent. That led to a deep discussion about Dean's future in Archeology and what role Adam would have. Vince was really impressed with Dean. He could see the passion in the young man's entire being. Vince also learned something else; Dean Hart was smart; incredibly smart.

After dinner, Eric sent the boys up to Adam's room with a box of cookies and more iced tea. They laid on Adam's bed, munched cookies and watched television. It seemed like only five minutes had passed before it was time for Dean to go home.

Just as Dean prepared to leave, Jason called to say good-bye. He and Heath were about to fly out on the red eye. Dean hated to leave after Jason's call, but Adam insisted. He was okay with Jay and Heath going. Besides, it wasn't long till the Holidays when they would be back, for almost a month. Dean was proud of Adam and headed for home with confidence that Adam would be okay.

Tuesday morning, Adam left early. He went to the Hart's to pick Dean up for school. Once he was at the Hart house, Shawn sat Adam down to a breakfast of toast and cereal. Adam admired Shawn's new kitchen, it was so nice.

"So, what about Shawn's Weekend Catering?" Adam asked curiously.

Shawn sighed. "I have decided to hold off for now. I know, you think Hunter scared me off, but, no. It is just too stressful while teaching full time. If someone calls, I'll think about it. When I retire, I will plunge in head first and you can help me." He explained as he gave Adam a glass of orange juice so Adam could take the vitamin he had brought.

Shawn spoke again. "The ring looks good on your finger, Adam. I am so pleased and grandmother would also be pleased." He ruffled both Dean and Adam's hair.

Dean finished his breakfast. "Dad, don't forget, I'm going to the hospital with Adam after school. Then to the jewelery store to size the ring just a bit."

"Okay, and I take it you're going to Adam's?" Shawn started to put some school papers in his messenger bag.

Adam wiggled the fingers of his left hand. "I love it, I simply love it. Actually, if you don't mind, it's my turn to hang out here tonight." He gave Shawn a rather sheepish look.

Dean slapped his forehead. "Sorry, dad. I completely forgot. Adam's folks have a meeting tonight and I said Adam could come here for dinner and hang out. Sorry again, it's all the engagement excitement and the Orshit... err... Orton stuff. It's okay isn't it?" He gave Shawn his own hang dog look of guilt.

Shawn laughed. "I actually forgot my self. Eric asked if I could feed you tonight. He'd called to tell me about Bob. Listen boys, just don't bring all this up at school. Bret is worried about Randy. That's why he went out to run with Randy this morning. Bob did not tell Randy what he was going to do. Randy overheard by accident. He called Bret, very stressed. Dolph doesn't know. So please, don't talk about it, don't even think about it." His eyes burned into Dean. He wanted his point understood.

Dean nodded. "Don't worry, dad. It is nobody's business. We've decided we're only telling about being engaged, not that we might marry at Christmas. There is too much up in the air." Dean reached over and caressed Adam's cheek with a smile.

Shawn shook his head with a little laugh. "I tend to forget how grown up you can be. Well, I'd better get. Mark has called an early staff meeting, said there is some big news to be announced today. Before you ask, I don't know what it is, or if it's for just us or you students. Adam, help me out, please. If you and Dean are back before I am, please put the casserole in the oven at six at three fifty. It's King Ranch Chicken." Shawn stood and picked up his messenger bag.

"Why so late, dad? Usually you're home by four-thirty." Dean was curious. Shawn was usually like a clock.

Shawn rolled his eyes. "I am forgetting everything in my old age. Your pops and I have to have our annual insurance physicals at Doctor Ross'. Nothing to worry about."

"Don't worry, Shawn. I'll take care of supper. Shawn, I love you. I promise, I will take good care of this ring." Adam gave his future father-in-law a smile and kiss his cheek.

Shawn left for school. Dean and Adam were finally able to properly kiss. They washed their breakfast dishes and double checked that all their homework was done and in order. They packed up their backpacks and Dean carried them out to Adam's Mustang. Adam gave Dean the keys, he knew his boyfriend loved to drive the classic car.

Dean and Adam pulled into the WWE High parking lot. They were right behind Roman's truck and Dolph's Audi came in behind the Mustang. They all parked in their usual spots. Randy's red Viper was already there. Adam, Seth and Dolph hugged as Roman and Dean shook hands.

"AD-AM! It's beautiful!" Seth took about ten seconds to notice the ring on Adam's finger. Dolph also took a closer look.

Adam smiled. "Thanks. It was Dean's great grandmother's ring. We are officially engaged. I am so happy."

"Congratulations, you two. Adam it is a beautiful ring. Dean, congrats man." Roman shook Dean's hand. He knew how long Dean had loved Adam from afar, and now, he was going to marry Adam. It was proof, dreams can come true.

Dean gave Roman's shoulder a squeeze. "Thanks, man. I appreciate that." A knowing look passed between them as they followed behind Dolph, Seth and Adam.

In the school building, when they got to the crossroads, Principal and Vice Principal Calaway were directing students towards the Auditorium. It was unusual, normally there was an announcement a day or two before an assembly.

Dean, Adam, Seth and Roman went down to sit on the front row for two reasons. One because Adam was the Class President, and two Principal Calaway had told them to sit on the front row. Dolph had wandered off to find Randy.

Dean grumbled, he was not a front row person. "Why would we have to sit on the front row. Come on, let's go sit further back." Dean pulled for Adam to follow.

Adam stood firm. "No, Dean. Principal Calaway said for us to sit on the front row. I'm not about to make trouble with that man." He led Dean down to the last seats, by the wall. The same seats that were part of Camp McMahon during play rehearsals.

Dean was at least happier not to sit front and center, so with a sigh he sat. He let out a growl, Barrett and McIntyre sat in the seats that were directly behind Adam and Dean.

Wade leaned forward in his seat and spoke to Adam. "Good morning, love. You look lovely today. I would like to say happy birthday, sorry that it is a few days late." He dared to kiss Adam on the cheek. Roman managed to grab Dean before his friend flew over the seat.

Adam laid a hand on Dean's leg as he turned in his seat. "Thank you, Wade. Now, get something in your head. You can be my friend, but nothing more. See this..." Adam held up his left hand. "I am engaged to marry Dean. I love him. Next time you send me flowers or kiss me, I won't let Big Dog stop Dean. And Drew, the same applies to Seth. He is with Roman, and they are promised to each other. Now, either be good friends or leave us alone. Am I understood?"

Wade sank back in his seat like a scalded dog. "I'm sorry. I didn't know you and Dean were in that deep of a relationship. Congratulations." He sank even deeper into his seat and was silent.

Dean was furious, but Roman was finally able to let him go. Adam gently toyed with the hairs at the base of Dean's neck. Dean calmed under Adam's touch. He let out another sigh.

"Where do you get your patience? Don't speak to him alone, okay? I can't tell you not to be friends, but, I don't have to like it. He is no good, baby. I'm worry about you. But boy, you sure have gotten feisty and that I like. " Dean's angry growl turned to a smile as Adam continued to comfort him.

Adam leaned closer to Dean. "Because nobody is going to back me into a corner. I have the strength to be strong because of you. You don't tell me what to do and you let me do what I need to do, and you don't pressure me, but I know you're there if I stumble. That's what I love about you. Don't worry, I have no intention of speaking to him..." Adam had to hush, Mark Calaway had stepped onto the stage along with the football Coach, Kevin Owens. Mark stood at the podium. He waited as the bell rang to start the school day.

Roman was the most curious out of the group of four friends. First, why was Coach Owens on stage and two, why was he smiling like a cat who'd just ate the canary, coated with cream.

Adam had a sudden thought. "Seth, take pictures, please. I'll take notes. After all, we are the Editors of The Parrot." Just as Adam said that, Enzo Amoré leaned over from behind Seth.

"Seth, you will want to take pictures for The Parrot. I see Adam is ready to take notes." Enzo gave the school camera to Seth and a nod to Adam.

Mark Calaway cleared his throat, then spoke. "Good morning. As you know, our football team has had a most tremendous season with nine wins and no losses..." He had to pause as the audience of students began to whoop and cheer.

Mark gave the students a couple of moments, then held up his hand for silence. "Yesterday, Coach Owens got some very exciting news. I will now turn the podium over to Coach Kevin Owens.

Kevin strode to the podium with confidence. He shook hands with Mark. Kevin had some papers that he placed on the podium. He gripped the sides of the podium and spoke.

"I have received some very exciting and special news. Every year, Gatorade presents nationwide awards to outstanding athletes, male and female in various high school sports. Since nineteen eighty five, the Gatorade Awards have become the most prestigious high school athletic award in the nation..." Kevin had to pause to turn to the next page of his speech. A pin drop could be heard. Every athlete in the Auditorium knew the prestigious award. What was happening?

Kevin continued. "The winner of the Gatorade Award, receives a trophy for themselves plus a trophy and banner for their school. The winner also gets a trip to the annual ESPY Award for themselves, a parent and a guest. A ten thousand dollar grant is given to an organization, chosen by the winner, in their name. It is with extreme great pride, that Gatorade has chosen an athlete at WWE High for one of these prestigious awards..." He had to pause once again as murmur began to buzz around the room. Who had been chosen?

"Quiet, please..." Kevin raised his hand. Adam's pen paused over his journalism notebook. The vast room once again became quiet. "It is with pride that I now announce, that the Gatorade Player of the Year for High School Football is, our star quarterback, Roman Joesph Reigns!" Kevin's voice was filled with excitement as he waved Roman up to the stage. Adam grabbed the camera before Seth's trembling hands dropped it.

Roman sat, unmoving, like he hadn't even heard what Kevin had said. It was Seth who finally got Roman to snap out of it. He pointed Roman to the stage.

"Go, baby. Kevin wants you. Oh Roman, I am so proud of you!" Seth poked and prodded Roman till the football player stood. The audience had gone insane with the news.

As Roman got up, he grabbed Seth's hand. "Need you." Roman barely spoke above the din of the audience and their applause, cheers, whistles and shouts. Parrot Spirit was alive and well.

Kevin managed to continue to speak. "At the completion of his regular High School Senior season, Roman completed two hundred of two hundred fifteen passes for two thousand, three hundred sixty-two yards, and forty one touchdowns with just one interception. He also rushed for one thousand, two hundred fifty-seven yards and twenty-one scores. Roman has the record of one hundred thirteen passes before his single interception. All of these stats are new WWE High and California State records. Ladies and gentlemen, your Gatorade Player of the Year for High School Football, Roman Reigns." Kevin had to shout, even though the microphone was full blast.

Roman held tight to Seth's hand as they went up on stage. Roman nearly tripped up when he saw his parents standing just backstage. They had stayed out of sight so Roman wouldn't be suspicious. He could tell his mom had tears on her cheeks and his dad's eyes glittered with pride.

Kevin motioned for Roman to go to the podium. Roman hesitated, being in a play was one thing, but making a speech was another. Seth gave him a gentle nudge and a look that said "you've got this." Roman still held Seth's hand, but he went to the podium. Seth stood to Roman's left. His own dark eyes glittered with unshed tears of utter love, support and pride.

The applause and cheers died down. They wanted to hear what their star quarterback had to say. Adam had given Dean the camera with every confidence. Adam continued to write while Dean snapped away. He had taken the camera to help Adam out.

Roman gave another look to Seth. Seth gave his boyfriend another confidence filled look. Roman turned to the crowd. "Thank you, very much. I could not have done anything without the rest of the team and, Coach Owens. The WWE Parrots are the absolute best!" Roman was interrupted when the students began to cheer. The football team being the loudest as they began a chant of "Big Dog! Big Dog! Big Dog!"

Roman raised a hand. The crowd settled a bit, at least enough for him to continue. "Thanks again. I just never expected anything like this. I am honored and humbled. I will give my donation to Make-A-Wish. All I can say is thanks again, and I am nothing without the rest of The Parrots. But, nothing in my life would have any meaning without the love of my life, Seth Rollins." Roman pulled Seth up against him. They connected hip to hip an arm around each others waist. The crowd again applauded and Dean took pictures.

Roman called for silence one last time. "I also couldn't be here without the most important people, my parents. Dad, mom?" Roman waved for his parents to come out from behind the curtains. Mr. and Mrs. Reigns came out and hugged both Roman and Seth.

The assembly broke out in applause and a chant-clap of Big Dog, clap, clap, clap clap clap, came from the football team. Mark Calaway came back on stage and shook hands with Roman and his parents. Roman kept Seth plastered to his side. The cheers kept on as Roman and Seth went back to their seats. Roman's parents followed. The people who'd sat on the other side of Seth and Roman had moved so that Roman's parents could sit.

Principal Calaway took to the podium once gain. "Don't forget, the first play off game is Friday night in Pasadena at the Rose Bowl. The Parrot Cage will pull out at four sharp. Good luck to Coach Owens and our WWE Parrots. When the bell rings, proceed to your second period classes. Have a good day." He gave the students a smile with a nod. There was more applause.

Adam leaned forward in his seat and Dean got up. Dean shook Roman's hand. "Well done, Big Dog. Congratulations." He added a pat to his friends shoulder.

"Thanks, Lunatic. I never expected this. Coach told me he nominated me, but never ever did I expect to win. It's usually a southerner or an easterner. Such an honor. I just play high school football, and I love it." Roman gave a shrug. Dean sat back down.

Adam hugged Seth then reached over to hug Roman. "So proud of you, Big Dog. Can I interview you for the paper at lunch? Just a couple of follow up questions?" Adam hoped maybe the L. A. Times would pick up his story. It was big enough. He'd actually been surprised no media had been at the assembly.

Roman nodded. "Sure, Edge. You, I don't mind talking to. I still can't believe this..." He turned to his dad, a huge Samoan with long gray hair. He was an older version of Roman. "Tama, did you an Tina know about this?" Roman asked his dad. In Samoan, Tama meant father and Tina meant mother. Roman spoke fluent Samoan and Seth was learning.

"Liai, o latou, we did not. Last night, Coach Owens called and asked if we could come to the school, but not to tell you. We thought it might have had something to do with UCLA. We are so proud of you. Family party tonight. Seth you too." Sika, Roman's father spoke with pride. He was all smiles, and so was Roman's mother, Patricia, who was also called Atta by the family.

The rest of the school day passed quickly. When school was over, Dean drove Adam to his appointment with Doctor Page. Thirty minutes into Adam's session, Doctor Page asked Dean to join them.

Dean sat next to Adam on the couch. He liked Doctor Page, but it reminded him of the sessions he had to go through as part of his adoption. Doctor Page sensed Dean's unease.

"Dean, you don't have to say anything you don't want to say. So, relax, okay?" Doctor Page smiled at Dean.

"Sorry, Doc. I had to do a lot of sessions for my adoption. I was afraid if I said the wrong thing, the adoption would fail. Made me not like sessions like this, but, for Adam, I will do it." Dean explained how he felt.

Doctor Page frowned. "I have fought against those style of sessions. There are much better ways to interview children in adoption cases. I don't blame you. Normally, I would discourage a marriage at such a young age, but Adam said you would explain it to me, and then I would understand. So, will you tell me?" Dallas arched his brow at Dean.

Dean reached over took hold of Adam's hand, then spoke. "Because our baby will not be called a bastard. I won't put our baby through that. Adam and I will marry before the baby is born. If all the custody stuff works out, wonderful. If not, well, the baby can't be called a bastard because we will be married." Dean spoke firmly. He wanted the Doctor to know he was serious.

Dallas gave a small laugh. "Adam, you were right. Dean, that is not the thinking of a boy. That is the thinking of a man; a man who loves another so much, he is willing to take on a baby that isn't his. There aren't many who would do that, and even less at your age. Yes, you may be young, but, I support your marriage. Dean, you also want full parental rights?" Doctor Page's looks turned serious. Was it real or just revenge on Randy?

"Absolutely. Adam and I don't want the baby to feel like a basketball. How safe can a baby feel if it falls asleep surrounded by everything familiar, then wakes up in a different place, without daddy and someone they only know a little? Our baby needs to feel safe and secure. Randy will have another baby to love and care for. It's not like Randy would never see the baby. He could be Uncle Randy. I love this baby as if it were mine." Dean didn't hesitate to answer at all.

Doctor Page nodded. "Good. I wanted to be sure you weren't just seeking revenge on Randy. He has been through a lot. If Dolph wasn't pregnant too, I might feel differently. It's hard for me to explain and I am Psychologist. In my opinion, it would be better for Randy to just concentrate on one child and since he and Dolph are together, their baby is the one they should take care of."

"I would never use a child like that, Doc. If things don't work the way we hope, it won't change how I feel about the baby. I've told Adam, that I would not interfere between him and Randy on parental matters. Doc... I.." Dean sighed. He wasn't sure how to say what he wanted to say.

"Want me to step out?" Adam looked at Dean. He could see there was something on his lover's mind.

"No, baby. I have no secrets, it's just, I don't want to... to... I can't do it Doc. I just... I need him, Doc." Dean sighed. He couldn't really express how he felt without sounding like a baby himself.

Adam put an arm around Dean. "You mean us being apart? I don't like it either and it's only been one night. It's like I told my dad. It feels like my heart and soul are half missing. How Doc? How?" Adam looked at Dallas with emotion filled eyes.

Dallas rubbed his chin. "I was afraid of this. The best thing I can say is, it won't last forever. Look at it like this, if you can. It's only going to make your times together, better. But honestly, as amazingly open as your parents have been, especially your father, Adam, maybe you can talk to them. Perhaps they would let you have weekend sleep overs. I would keep trying, to stay apart, but if it does get too hard, then ask. I just have one very strong warning..." Doctor Page paused, he needed to word this carefully.

Dean scoffed. "Don't use it as an excuse for sex? I wouldn't do that. My heart actually ached last night. Ached for the feel of Adam pressed against me. Ached to hear his deep breaths as he sleeps, peacefully, because he feels safe. Ached for his scent to fill my nose..." I sound like a fucking idiot."

A tear rolled down Adam's cheek. "Oh Dean, I could have said it any better. If I could, I'd marry Dean right now. But, as much as my heart aches for Dean, I am not going to add to these." Adam held up his left arm, with the worst scar.

"Good, Adam. That is a huge step. I can tell you are not the same person I first spoke with. You and Dean will be alright. I'm always here. I'm going to sign you off officially. However, would like to have some more sessions?" Dallas picked up a clipboard and signed the paper. Adam was now officially off suicide watch.

Adam smiled. "Thanks, Doctor Page. I think I'd like to come once a month, just to talk. Dean and I will work it out. Like I told you at the start of today's session, that purge of tears yesterday really washed out the last of the Randy crap I had buried. If we need papers for the custody stuff, will you help?" Adam wasn't sure what to expect, but he wanted his bases covered.

Doctor Page frowned again. "Yes, I will, but I won't lie for you. I know you wouldn't ask, but I want it understood."

"Hey, that's not what he meant, Doc!" Dean was not happy with what Doctor Page had just implied.

Adam laid a hand on Dean's arm. "Easy, babe. I understand what he meant. He had to say that because people would use a friend like Doctor Page. He knows we wouldn't do that." Adam scolded Dean a bit. Dean had a hot head at times.

"Exactly, Dean. I will help if needed. Adam will get a full and honest report. Dean, consider coming with Adam, to talk. Taking on a husband and baby, plus ending high school and starting college is a huge deal. I'm here for you too. Oh and keep up with the yoga, both of you. Trust me, Dean, it will help you as well when Adam goes into labor. Well boys, our time is up. Miss Jackie will give you an appointment and a copy of your release papers. So, you good? I can make just a bit more time if you need it." The Doctor wrote more things on a paper on his clipboard.

Adam took the papers from Dallas with a smile. "I'm good. It never seems like a session, and, I always feel much better. Thanks, Doc." Adam stood as did Dean and Dallas. They shook hands and hugged. The teens left the Doctor's office.

Adam handed the papers to Jackie, the secretary. "Adam, Dean, Doctor Regal would like to see you, he said it was urgent. He is having his dinner break in the cafeteria." Jackie worked as she spoke. She gave Adam an appointment card and a copy of his final release papers.

"Oh, okay. I would like to see him. Thank you, Miss Jackie. See you next time." Adam smiled at the pretty secretary.

Jackie nodded with a wave, she had answered her ringing phone. Dean opened the door for Adam, and Adam passed through. Dean and Adam walked hand in hand towards the cafeteria.

Adam couldn't help but worry a little. What could Doctor Regal want that was so urgent? Was something wrong? Had something showed up in the reports about... his incident? Whatever it was, Adam had a feeling it was not going to be good.