Adam let go of Dean's hand as the couple walked towards the hospital cafeteria. Instead, his arm went around Dean's waist. Dean understood, Adam wanted closer contact. He wrapped his arm around Adam's waist, and they continued to walk.
"I have a bad feeling about this." Adam slowed their pace. While he really liked Doctor Regal, this was totally random. For Adam, random was never a good thing.
"Well, Han Solo, I don't know what to tell you. Oh... wait... maybe your parents called and asked him to write that affidavit about the transfusion, and he wants to give it to us. Baby, if you have one fault, it's that you tend to react first, think later. I have the same problem. Look how I nearly clobbered the Brit Shit this morning." Dean was thoughtful as he spoke. Maybe talking with Doctor Page once in a while, wouldn't be such a bad thing.
Adam laughed at the movie reference. "You can always make me laugh. You could be right. My first thought was, he's found something in the medical reports. Dean..." Adam stopped talking. Earlier signs of good humor vanished like a wisp of smoke, his hazel eyes filled with fright.
Dean had not seen Adam look so frightened since their first kiss, when Adam feared Randy would find out. Dean had never wanted to see that look again, but, now it was back.
Dean pulled Adam closer. "What, sweetheart? What has you so scared? I won't let anything happen to you; ever."
Adam sighed. "Dean, I'm still worried about the baby, when I died. What if I... hurt the baby. What if there is brain damage?" His hands rested on Dean's chest. Dean leaned back against the wall and held Adam against him.
"Sweetie, we've been over and over this. If our baby has a problem, it won't matter one damn bit. Doctor Ross will do the tests when you're further along. He can't tell till then, so why would Doctor Regal know something he can't yet know? Come on, he is waiting for us, and the Doc is a busy man." Dean pushed off the wall. He gave Adam a kiss. The couple continued to walk.
"You know, I don't think Randy could deal with it, if something was wrong with the baby. He's too... well, like father used to be; worried about being perfect. A child with mental or physical problems doesn't fit the Orton image." Adam gave a shrug.
Dean tisked. "Makes me glad I'm not an Orton. I would hope he'd be more a man than that. There was one little boy at the orphanage, who obviously intellectually disabled. He got a lot of shit from the other kids, but he didn't care, he didn't know any better. I tried to protect and defend him, but he didn't like it. Maybe he was smarter than everybody. He didn't want me to get in trouble defending him. The little guy got really lucky. He was adopted by a family who specialized in kids with problems." Dean's story ended when they got to the hospital cafeteria.
Doctor William Regal smiled when he saw Adam and Dean. He caught their eyes and waved them over. He stacked up the papers he'd been reading. He gave a thumbs up when Dean pointed to the bathroom. Dean kissed Adam's cheek, and Adam went to the bathroom. Dean got two cups of coffee, he'd let Adam have a cup for his nerves. Dean took the two cups to the table under the window where William sat.
"Hello, Doc. How are ya?" Dean smiled and shook the older man's hand, then sat down.
Doctor Regal grinned. Dean was his usual cheeky self. "I'm fine, Dean. Damien sends his regards. So, how are things?" He sipped his cup of hot tea and pushed his glasses further up his nose.
Dean swallowed a sip of coffee. "Everything is great, Adam and I are engaged. Doc, he's worried that you found something wrong in the medical reports..." Dean was halted when a young man with a Ward Clerk badge on his shirt ran up to their table.
"That blond you came in with, he's really tossing his cookies. Are you the Dean he cried out for?" The young man sounded rather frantic. Vomit was the one thing he couldn't handle. He'd picked the wrong time to go to the bathroom.
Dean got up and hurried to Adam. "Thanks." He called over his shoulder. He vanished into the bathroom.
"Thank you, son." Doctor Regal spoke to the Clerk and got to his feet. He quickly followed after Dean.
Adam was on his knees in the first stall. When Dean got there, Adam was already to the dry heave stage. Dean turned to get some wet paper towels, but Doctor Regal had already done the job. He held the wet paper out to Dean.
"Thanks, Doc." Dean turned back and knelt next to Adam. "Is it the baby or the stress?" Dean asked as he wiped Adam's brow.
Adam sat back on his heels. "Baby sickness. I was fine, then when I finished peeing, it hit me. Ugh." Adam let Dean wipe his brow. He stood with Dean's help.
When they came out of the stall, William stood by the sinks. "You alright? Need anything?" He pointed to a sink he had filled with warm water.
Adam let out a half laugh. "Yeah, a strong mint." He splashed water on his face, then rinsed his mouth. Adam laughed again. Both Dean and William held out containers of mints. To be fair, Adam took one from each.
Dean looked at Adam. "Ready?" His eyes were filled with concern. Adam's "morning sickness" was so random. Adam nodded. The trio left the bathroom. William led the way back to the table. The three sat down. Adam took a sip of his coffee.
"It's so random. I haven't been sick since being on the yacht. By the way, hello Doctor Regal. It's really good to see you again. How is Sargent Sandow?" Adam asked the doctor with a pretty smile.
Doctor Regal smiled back. "Good to see you. Damien is fine and sends his regards. Congratulations on your engagement. That is a beautiful ring." The Doctor admired the ring as Adam happily showed it off.
"It's my great grandmother's ring." It made Dean proud to be able to say that. It made him feel even more like he belonged to a real family.
"It is really elegant, but, it should be sized a bit bigger. I can see it is a bit too tight on your finger. I am also sorry to say, there will be a time when you can't wear it because of the pregnancy. I wore mine on a chain..." William paused. Now was not the time to get emotional.
Adam noticed a sadness pass over the older man's face. "Doctor, are you alright? Is something wrong with my baby?"
William patted Adam's hand. "Your baby is fine, Adam. Yes, I am fine. It's just, well, today would have been T.J.'s birthday. You never get over losing a child." He spoke with an honest sadness.
"I'm sorry. I still can't get over that my grandma and your Tina Jean... the same day, by the same person. Um, Doc, not to be rude, but, why did you ask to see us? I'm trying not to stress here." Adam's eyes filled with angst, his hand trembled a bit as he took a sip of coffee.
Doctor William Regal pulled an envelope out a file folder. "Your lawyer called. He asked me to write an affidavit about your blood transfusion. Personally, I think a request for a paternity test is wrong. Your former boyfriend should trust you. Anyway, Dallas mentioned he'd see you today, so this saves a stamp and possibly getting lost in the mail. I'm sorry if I worried you. Adam, I can give you a script for anti-nausea meds if you want."
"Ha! I told you so. Adam is still worried about the couple of minutes he... left us. Doctor Ross will do some tests later, when Adam is further along. And yes, we are going to have the ring re-sized. Is there something more natural Adam can take for nausea? I hate a lot of medications for every little thing." Dean stuck his tongue out at Adam The Doctor laughed.
"If ever two people were perfect for each other. I saw it the instant Dean volunteered his blood. Yes, there is. Take a teaspoon of baking soda and mix it in a cup of warmish water. It's not great tasting, but it works, but no more than four times per day." Doctor Regal looked at Dean in the eye to make his instructions clear.
Adam nodded. "Thank you very much for the affidavit, Doctor. Sir, can the transfusion affect the results of the paternity test?" He patted the envelope.
Doctor Regal grinned. "Happy to do it. You are two of the finest young men I have ever met. I will try to make this as simple as I can, so here we go. There is a slight chance that the transfusion can affect the paternity test. The DNA in a blood transfusion recipient persists for a few days, sometimes longer, but chances are it is unlikely to alter genetic tests significantly. See, the red blood cells have no nucleus and contain no DNA. Transfused blood, however, does contain a significant amount of DNA containing white blood cells called leukocytes, around a billion, per pint of blood. Even though Dean's blood went through a filter, donor white cells still hold all those leukocytes. The problem for you could be, the amount of Dean's blood. You received a large transfusion. Studies have shown, that patients receiving a large transfusion, have shown the presence of donor leukocytes for up to a year and half..." Doctor Regal had to pause, his pager had beeped. He made a quick cell phone call.
William ended the call and continued to speak. "Sorry, a trauma patient is on the way. Med One will arrive in thirty minutes. Now, where was I? Oh, yes. If a pregnant person receives a transfusion, some of the new blood will be shared with the fetus for a time. The child's DNA won't be altered. The blood cells containing the donor DNA will eventually disappear. So, because you received so much of Dean's blood, it could show up. I've said all this in the affidavit. I've also volunteered to speak as an expert witness if needed. I have a feeling, just from the behavior of young Orton, that Orton senior could make an issue."
Dean nodded. "You got that right, Doc. Thanks for explaining it. Sounds like they really don't know if blood transfusions matter or not in paternity tests." He laughed. The Doctor had lost him about thirty seconds in.
"Yeah, I know. Well boys, I have to go. Med-One will be landing soon. Good to see you. Congratulations and take care. I'm always here for you." Regal gathered his papers and folders, shook hands with the young couple and rushed off.
"What a sweet man. Let's go to the jewelery store. After that, I'm ready to get to your house, I'm tired now." Adam yawned as he spoke.
Dean picked up their cups and the one Doctor Regal left. "Okay, we can just go home if you want." The couple stood. Dean put the cups on the cart marked, "USED". They left the cafeteria.
"No, I want the ring sized, it is a bit tight. Dean, what do you think about what Doctor Page said? About spending weekends together? I'm torn. I would love to do that, but then on Sunday, we'd be all broken up again. I dunno what to do." Adam whined a bit more than he meant to. They had gotten to Adam's car. Dean unlocked the passenger door for Adam.
Dean got behind the wheel of the Mustang. He paused before he started the car. "To be honest, I am torn too. I get why; we aren't married yet. Our folks have been and still are more than understanding..." He started the car, put it in drive, and continued to speak.
"Nobody shocked me more than your father. I thought he'd kill me when the caught us in bed together at the hospital. But when they agreed to let us sleep together at home... well... for a minute I thought we'd entered the Twilight Zone. Then maybe letting us marry at Christmas? Oh... I don't know what to do." Dean drove to the jewelery store.
At six-thirty, Adam put the casserole into the oven in the Hart's kitchen. "I hope it's okay that supper will be late, traffic was a beast. You know, it must be awful, to bury your own child." Adam's voice drifted off along with his thoughts. He started a green salad to go with the dinner.
"I don't even want to think about it. Oh, pops doesn't eat radishes. They make him fart, dad hates it." Dean gave a laugh as Adam quickly threw the radishes back into the fridge.
Dean and Adam sat at the kitchen table and did their homework. There was a flurry of activity as Bret and Shawn arrived home at the same time, along with Randal Keith Orton.
Randy looked at Dean and Adam. "My dad is at the same dinner as your folks,Adam. Dolph is with his dad and today is Mister Hudson's birthday. Their daughter is taking them out to dinner. Coach invited me for dinner and um, after, I would like to talk to Adam, if you don't mind." He looked like a lost puppy, not quite sure of anything.
Adam smiled at Randy, he patted the chair next him. "Randy, Dean and I don't bite. Sure we can talk later, relax. Shawn, we were a bit late, dinner will be ready in half an hour." He explained at Shawn checked the oven.
"No problem. I'll go shower. Thanks for making the salad. What a day, I am exhausted." Shawn kissed the top of Dean's head, then went to get ready for dinner.
"So, how are the classes going?" Dean asked Randy. He promised Adam he would try to be nice, so he was.
Randy shrugged. "Okay. I get a specialized teacher soon. I really fell behind when... well, I should have done my own damn homework. In some ways, it is kinda cool, being one on one, but I'd rather be with Dolph. I'm just glad I'm back on the wrestling team. Our first meet is Wednesday at WWE. That Gatorade Award Roman got is a huge deal. I'd hoped to win the one for wrestling. I fucked that up. Most all of the wrestling winners come from the mid-west. Nobody in California has ever won."
Adam wrote in a notebook as he spoke. "Yeah, it was. I thought Seth was gonna explode with pride. Good Lord, I forgot to tell you. Seth sent me a text a little while ago. There are a hundred and fifty relatives at Roman's celebration cookout. Randy I wish you good luck at your meet. One thing, now you have a boyfriend who will enjoy going. I'm sorry I wasn't a good boyfriend that way. I supported you and I was and still are proud of you, I just didn't like going to the meets." He gave a shrug, then got up to check the casserole in the oven.
"Dean, Randy, set the table, please. Let's make this a real night off for Shawn." Adam called to the two men at the table.
It wasn't long before the Harts, Adam and Randy were enjoying a simple but delicious dinner. Randy admired Adam's ring and congratulated both Adam and Dean. Adam was pleased, the ring fit perfectly now. Adam and Dean both told about seeing Doctor Regal, but not the reason why.
Shawn sighed. "Poor man. I can sort of understand how he feels, but to have to bury your only child for such a waste of a reason. Randy, good luck on Wednesday, if I don't see you before." He smiled at the wrestler.
Bret spoke up. "He's gonna do great, all the boys are. I think we may have another winning season."
Their banter continued. Even Randy joined in, once he realized Dean wasn't going to cut his dick off. Shawn was pleased when Dean chased him and Bret out of the kitchen. He then sent Adam and Randy out by the pool so they could talk, but still, Dean kept Adam in his line of sight.
Adam took off his sneakers and socks, rolled up his pant cuffs and sat on the side of the pool. He dangled his feet in the warmish water. Randy sat next to him cross-legged. Randy chewed on his thumb nail. Adam knew that was a sign that Randy was nervous.
Adam put a hand on Randy's arm. Randy looked at Adam. "Ran, it's still me. We've always eventually been able to talk. Just spit it out, before you turn cannibal." Adam gave Randy a soft smile.
Randy smiled back. "Ads, I'm sorry, about dad. I didn't... look, test or not, I know the baby is mine. Despite everything that happened, I know you didn't cheat on me. Adam, I can never make up for what I did..." Randy was halted by Adam.
"Ran, don't. We can't keep living in the past. You know as well as I do, we would have wound up divorced or at least leading completely separate lives. Our children would have suffered. Father knows now he was wrong, about planning our lives. We were both victims of different things. You're happier with Dolph aren't you? You're not breaking up with him, are you?" Adam gave Randy a worried look.
Randy shook his head. "No, I'm not. I love Dolph, like you love Dean. You're right you know. You were just... no, you were more than... but yeah... you would have just been the trophy on my arm. Adam, I did love you, like crazy, at first. Then this summer, it just... vanished. I honestly wish I could say why. Then I saw Dolph... Adam, it wasn't anything you did, it was me. I guess I heard so often what a perfect prize you were, a trophy. Maybe, in my head, you just became an object, so I started to treat you like one. But, nothing will ever change the fact that you were my first real love. Dolph understands that..." Randy paused again. He needed to figure out how to say what he'd come to say.
"It's the same with Dean. You were my first love and always will be. I am glad that you have Dolph. Thanks for telling me all this, it does make me feel better. I thought maybe I had done something to drive you away. I know I can be a bit of a girly, diva bitch, sometimes. Ran... I haven't even told told Seth or Jason this, but Dean and I want to marry, before the baby is born. Maybe even at Christmas, depending on... things... Randy, about custody..." Adam knew he'd just taken a big risk, but, something just told him it would work out.
Before Adam could continue, Randy spoke. "Adam, wait..." Randy took a deep breath. "Sorry, this is harder than I thought, but it is the best for the baby..."
"Randy, stop, just stop. It's my baby too and you are not going to take the baby from me. No fucking way!" Adam had turned very angry, like a momma bear protecting her cub.
Randy turned more toward Adam. He put his hands on Adam's shoulders. Adam tried to pull away, unsure of the frantic look that filled Randy's eyes. Was he about to be attacked once again?
"Get your hands off him, Snake Shit. I've tried, for Adam's sake, to be nice to you, but do not touch him. I understand the baby connects you, but that's it." Dean stood over Randy, hands on his hips, auburn bangs hung wildly across his brow.
Randy held up his hands. "Look, I don't know what you thought I was going to say, but please, give me five minutes, please, Adam?" Randy's eyes were wide with question, his face reflected the emotion he felt.
Adam wrapped a hand around Dean's leg and braced himself to stand. "Let's go sit. Then speak." He led Dean to one of the lounge chairs. They sat side by side and faced Randy who sat in another lounger.
Randy's forearms rested on his legs. He looked the couple in the eye. "I want what is best for the baby and Adam. I don't want this to go to court, neither Adam or Dolph need the stress. This probably going to cost me everything. Dolph and his dad will be there for me if my dad... blows up..." He locked his hands together and lowered his head.
Adam reached over and put his hand over Randy's. "Ran, what are you trying to say? You are starting to scare me me a bit." He put his other hand in Dean's and held on tight.
Randy's head shot up. "No, that's not my intention. If anyone should be scared, it's me. I am about to make Bob Orton of Orton Shipping very, very angry. Adam, Dean, I am going to give up any and all parental rights to the baby Adam is carrying. Dean should be the father. He is more of a man than could ever hope to be. All I ask is that maybe I could be Uncle Randy? See the baby from time to time. I will never say anything about who I really am. Dolph and I will have our own baby to raise, and that's enough for me, and I'm sure I will screw that up somehow. I've done some research. I can do this legally, the age of consent for things like this is eighteen. At least California thinks I'm an adult. Just.. with my dad, I'll be in for a battle. Adam, this is the only thing I can do to make up for the pain and misery I caused you. This is what you wanted, isn't it?" Randy looked at Adam. His storm colored eyes were filled with emotion. There was a mix of fear and uncertainty.
Adam looked at Randy. "Ran, did you just, but why? Is this some trick you and your dad set up, so later you can say I kept you away from the baby? Charge Dean with kidnapping or something?" He was on alert and wary. Adam might trust Randy a little, but he would never trust Bob Orton.
"Arg!" Randy was frustrated now. He was trying to do the right thing. "Adam! No! I would not do that. Look, I beat and abused you to the point that you wanted to kill yourself. I am trying to do the only thing I can do to make it right. I want Dean to be the father of the our baby. Adam, I will even sign a paper that says I won't turn on you later. Dean, this is a hard thing for me to do, give up my own kid, but you will be the better father. I don't know what else to say." He buried his head in his hands.
"Boys! What is going on out here. Randy, are you alright? Have you two been giving him a hard time? You know he is working so hard to make things better." Bret was not happy. He and Shawn had come out for an evening swim to help them relax.
Dean stood. "No, pops. We are not giving him a hard time, we are just confused. He wants to sign over custody of the baby to me, name me the father of Adam's baby. We aren't sure why, or that it won't bite us in the ass later. Randy said it's the only thing he can do for all the shit he put Adam through." Dean gave a shrug and threw his hands up in the air. Adam gently pulled Dean to sit back down.
Shawn sat down next to Randy. "Son, is this true? You want to legally give up your parental rights to Dean? Does your father know about this? What about Dolph?" He was a bit worried, Randy didn't look so good.
Randy nodded. "Yes, sir. Like Dean said, it's really the only way I have of making things a bit right with Adam. No, my dad doesn't know. When he finds out... Well, Dolph and his dad are behind me. I can't take on two babies at the same time. I want to be with Dolph. It's hard enough for me to worry about screwing up one kid, let alone two. Maybe giving up my baby makes me a rotten person, but I am trying to do the right thing; for everyone. Adam, I will help financially, and any other way I can. Just because I'm giving up my rights does not mean I don't love the baby. It will just have an Uncle Randy instead of a poppa named Randy. I am doing the right thing, aren't I? Shawn? Coach?" He looked at Shawn with anxious eyes.
Bret sat across from Randy. "Are you alright? No, I am not going to test you, I can tell you're sober. You said Bob doesn't know about this, but he has to agree, because you're not twenty-one yet. Randy, have you really thought this through?" He paused as he saw Dean begin to get angry. To Dean, it sounded like Bret wanted to talk Randy out of giving him parental rights to the baby.
Bret addressed Dean. "Son, calm down. I am on your side, a thousand percent. But you have to realize, this is a life changer, to sign your child away, even for the right reasons. Wouldn't you rather find out now, than have Randy change his mind, down the road?" Bret gave Dean a slight smile, but his eyes held a firm seriousness. Dean nodded and held Adam's hand, ready to listen to Randy.
Randy shrugged. "Actually, I have done a lot of research. Eighteen is age of consent in California. I also double checked with one of the Orton Shipping lawyers, he deals in family issues with employees. Yes, Coach, I've thought about it. It's not just to make things right with Adam, it's for the baby too. It must be awful to be passed around like a football. Very unsettling for a baby. It's also better for Adam and Dean as parents. They can make decisions without having to consult with me. Adam and Dean don't need a third wheel in their relationship and neither do Dolph and I. Maybe if Dolph wasn't pregnant, I would feel differently. As it is, this is the best and right thing to do. I will be happy being Uncle Randy. As I said, I will secretly help you, financially, you know with college or braces, any major expense that comes up. Would Layfield write up the paper for me to sign? I'll pay for it, but I can't use our family lawyer." Now, he was tired of talking about it. Randy simply wanted to get it done.
Shawn responded. "It would probably be better for Michael Cole to do it, as he is the McMahon's lawyer but I will ask to be sure. Layfield is our lawyer, and Dean is involved, it might seem... wrong. I will find out. Randy, this is a terrible thing to think and say, but it has to be considered. What happens if, God forbid, something happens with Dolph and he loses the baby?"
"Shawn! Don't! That's terrible!" Adam was horrified by the older man's words. Shawn didn't normally think like that.
Randy jumped in. "I know what he's getting at. Shawn, once I sign the papers, Dean is the father, no matter what happens. I swear it. I also said I'd sign a paper swearing, that I will never change my mind. Now please, stop talking about it. I want this done and over as quickly as possible, before my dad does anything else stupid." His tone had an authoritative finality to it. Randy was done.
Adam leaned over and whispered something in Dean's ear. Dean nodded, but he didn't look happy. Adam leaned toward Randy and hugged him.
"Thank you, Randy. I won't ever hide the baby from you. You have done the right thing. You just concentrate on taking good care of Dolph." Adam spoke softly and hugged Randy again.
Dean stuck his hand out for Randy to shake. "Thanks, Orton. Look, I didn't mean to be shitty, it was just a bit of a shock. I already love the baby like it's mine. I'll never get in the way of you being Uncle Randy. However, from this moment on, it's our baby, mine and Adam's. Orton, you made a man's decision, and you will be a good father. Just... look, I came from a drug addict and a drunk, stay sober Randy, please?" His last words were soft, and filled with emotion.
Randy shook Dean's hand, then held it for a brief moment, as a friendly gesture. "Thanks, man. This has been a hard decision to make, but it is the right thing for everyone. Dean, I know, between Dolph and mostly me, I have taken a lot of Coach's time from you. I wouldn't be here without his help. I couldn't have made this decision without being sober. I am sober because of Coach, and a lot of hard work on my part. I'm sorry, about your birth folks, but now, you have real parents, who, love and care about you. I know my, now your, baby with Adam will have the same. Dean, we don't have to be friends, but Dolph adores Adam. Can we at least be civil and tolerant for their sakes?" Randy gave Dean's hand a slight squeeze, with an anxious eye.
Dean shook Randy's hand again, then let go. "Yeah, we can. If you ever need an ear, I'm around. Thanks, Randy." He gave Randy a return smile and nod.
Randy stood to leave. "Let's just keep this conversation here, please. I want to do this without my dad finding out, if possible. I want the lawyer to tie this up tight as soon as possible. Please, you will help?" Randy looked at Shawn and Bret. His eyes begged along with his entire being.
Shawn nodded. "Yes, Bret and I will help you. But, you will have to do all the work. I will not have your dad coming at us, saying we forced you into something. I trust you, Randy, don't get me wrong, it's Bob I don't trust. He is not going to take this news very well. Are you still staying with the Hudson's?"
"Yes, I am, and dad isn't overly happy about it. Dad knows though, without them, I might be dead by now. Don't worry, if I can help it, Dad won't know till it's done and over. Thanks for dinner." Randy turned to leave. Bret and Shawn walked with Randy back into the house.
Dean took the opportunity to pull Adam into a very deep, passion filled kiss. Adam grinned into the kiss.
"Do you think he's on the level? I mean you know him, better than any of us." Dean asked Adam as he pulled the blond deeper into his embrace.
Adam curled up to Dean, his head rested on Dean's shoulder. "Yeah, he was telling the truth. He looked me directly in the eye. He really is trying to make it up to me. Well, you are really the poppa now." He smiled when Dean's hand rubbed his abdomen.
"I was always the poppa, but to be so legally is fantastic. Ya know, I kinda feel sorry for him. His dad sounds like a real tyrant." Dean wrapped both arms around Adam as he spoke.
Adam gave a bit of a "um hum" sound. "Yes, Bob can be a tyrant. Well, now, that's not really a fair word. He is more like a Hollywood stage parent. Randy is his only child, his only living relative, as far as I know. He simply wants Randy to be the best he can be. So much so, that sometimes, Bob just forgets to be dad. That's why Randy is doing so well with Bret, your pops is the dad Randy so desperately wants. Does it bother you?" He realized that no one had really considered Dean's feelings in all the mess.
Dean sighed. "Maybe, a little. Pops and I always talked at breakfast, but now he's always gone by the time I get up. Off to run with Randy. Then, I remember, pops likes to help and Randy needs that help. I know pops loves me. That's what really matters."
"Yes, I do. Dean, I am sorry. I never even gave a thought to missing our breakfast chats. I realized till now how much I do miss them. Say, why don't you come with me, we can talk while Randy runs. I only run a few laps, then when Randy does his road work, I follow in the truck. I'd love to have you come along." Bret answered as he and Shawn returned from showing Randy out.
"I appreciate that pops, but nope. That is your time with Randy. I realize that he needs you more than I do, right now. Adam, tell him what you told me..." Dean paused while Adam told Bret and Shawn what he'd said about the relationship between Randy and his dad. Dean then continued.
"... So, I will share ya, for a while. I guess I was... jealous. That's part of why I disliked Randy so much, Adam aside. I mean you are my parents, not his. Guess sometimes, I feel like..." He was interrupted by Shawn.
"A little boy, afraid of being abandoned again. Son, that will never happen. You're our child, no matter what, but that doesn't mean we will stop helping others. I'm sorry too, Dean. We should have been aware of your feelings. I'm proud of you, son. This has all been shocking." Shawn hugged Dean and whispered words of parental love in his ear.
Shawn sat down next to Bret and looked at his husband. "Honey, you had no idea Randy was going to do this?"
Bret shook his head. He laid back in his lounger, Shawn curled up with him. "Nope. Not a clue. I knew he had something major on his mind, but he brushed it off. Said he'd talk to me if he felt over stressed. I also know he and Dolph have been doing a lot of talking. I guess we now know why. Well, Dean, you're a pops yourself now. Babe, that makes us old fogies grandpas." He gave Shawn a kiss, with a playful grunt of effort.
"Hey, who are you calling old?" Shawn leaped of off the lounger and dove into the pool's deep end like a graceful swan.
"Pops, you gonna let him show you up like that?" Dean teased as the stood, along with Adam.
Bret laughed. "Nope. Going up to your room to finish your homework? Just remember to behave, you know how sneaky your dad can be." He gave the teens a wink, then went and dove into the pool.
Dean and Adam settled in the middle of Dean's new queen sized bed. Adam bounced a few times. "This is nice. It's not as small as I thought it would be. I still can't believe what Randy did. Poor Doctor Regal, that affidavit was a waste of his time now." Adam laid back against the pillows on Dean's bed.
Dean laid his head on Adam's abdomen. "Keep the affidavit, things might not go according to plan. I have a feeling Bob Orton won't take this quietly. You know, I didn't mean to make my parents feel bad." He gave a sigh. Adam's fingers gently carded through his auburn mop.
"Yeah, you're probably right. Babe it's okay, your folks love you. I think Randy just kind of threw everyone off. As much as I hate to say this, we'd better finish our homework. We have a lot of Calculus to do, thanks to grandpa Bret." Adam laughed, he bucked Dean off.
Dean sighed and sat up. He leaned over and pulled their backpacks up onto the bed. "You and you're sense of responsibility. I had other things in... I just... Randy... I mean, I'm happy that Randy wants to sign over his rights, but, I dunno, it was like it was too easy. We were preparing for a battle and he signed the truce before it was even on the table. Feels like trouble. Know what I mean?" Dean pulled out their math text and workbooks.
Adam opened his book. "I can see why you would feel that way. I know Randy, he was being honest. Bob will cause problems, but I have a feeling, Randy is working on a plan. Randy can be very smart when he is thinking clearly. Did you hear what he said about Dolph and his dad? About helping financially? I think he must be slowly taking money out of his account and preparing to go live with Dolph and his dad. Randy Orton does not rush and he is careful. That's why he is so good at wrestling, he is really good at psyching out his opponents. Like I said, I have a feeling he's been planning this a long time..." Adam paused and opened his Calculus workbook.
Adam continued. "Randy was also serious about why. He is sorry for what he did to me. It really is the only thing he can do for me, for us, all three of us." Adam smiled at Dean and rubbed his abdomen.
"You know, I'd hate to really be on Orton's bad side... oh fuck... fuck... I'm sorry... You know I didn't... fuck..." Dean hugged Adam close. He'd forgotten. Adam had been on Orton's bad side.
Adam smiled. "It's fine, my knight. I'm glad you forgot, because I am trying to. Come on, we've got a lot to do and I have to leave at eleven." He gave Dean a nudge with his elbow.
Dean leaned over and slobbed Adam down with a very wet, very sloppy kiss. Adam kissed Dean just as sloppy back. When the kiss broke, they both wiped their mouths with the backs of their hands. Heads together, they began to work on their Calculus.
Out at the pool, Bret had Shawn pinned up in the far corner of the deep end. His hand was down Shawn's board shorts and Shawn's hand was down Bret's shorts. Their lips pressed together as they swallowed down each others grunts and groans.
Bret gave Shawn's cock a final squeeze. Shawn bit back the cry of release that threatened to escape over his lips. Shawn's release caused his hand to grip Bret's cock in a way that brought on his release. Bret pulled Shawn away from the wall. With their lips locked together, the couple ducked under the water.
When the Hart's resurfaced, both panted, not only from their sexual release but also the long dunk under the water. Shawn's turquoise eyes sparkled in the moonlight as he gave a chuckle.
"I love you, Bret Hart. Even after all these years, you can still make me feel like a first time virgin." Shawn spoke softly, his hands on Bret's shoulders.
Bret gave a soft growl. "I love you, Shawn Hart. You're still a beautiful as you were on our wedding night. Come on, you will catch cold. Hot shower is waiting." Bret picked Shawn up and carried him to the pool steps.
Shawn and Bret each took a hot shower. Now, all warm and dry, they sat in the sitting area of their master bedroom and watched television, well, the television was on, but the couple ignored it and talked quietly together.
"Are you worried that Randy will slip up? I'm sure Bob is going to slam down on him hard." Shawn's eyes were filled with worry. Would Randy go back to the cocaine?
Bret pursed his lips and rubbed his chin. "No, not really. I honestly don't think he'll go back to the crutch. Dolph would kill him. I may call William Ziggler tomorrow, do a little fishing. Sounds like he's behind Randy's decision. I'm actually more worried that his wrestling will be off. Is that terrible of me?" He looked to Shawn for an answer.
Shawn brushed a bit of hair from Bret's brow. "No, it's not, honey. You're the coach, it's normal that you want to have a winning season. My advice however, don't put Randy under undue pressure. He will do his best. You do tend to get a little, uptight during meets. I'm always afraid you will have a stroke or something."
"I can't help it, but, I will try to relax more. And, I will try not to over coach Randy." Bret looked at his watch. "We'd better send Adam home..." Bret was interrupted when his cell phone rang. He picked it up off the coffee table and answered it when he saw it was AJ's number.
"Bret Hart... hey AJ... no, he's not...Oh... how long ago... I'm sure he will be home soon... well, maybe he got to talking to someone, or maybe he got a flat tire or broke down. I am sure he will call... oh he did... well, that could be the problem, he broke down and has to wait for someone to stop to help, you know how that can be... want me to drive around and look for him?... you sure, I don't mind... well, okay... Don't worry... alright, AJ... glad to help... call us if he doesn't get in touch soon... you too... bye, AJ." Bret ended the call.
Bret looked at Shawn. "AJ's worried. Chris ran to Wal-Mart to pick up some stuff for school. He's been gone a couple of hours. Chris left his cell phone at home, he'd put it to charge. You know Chris, he could have run into someone, got to talking and forgot the time. Or, if he broke down or got a flat, well, you know how helpful people are around here." He explained the call with a shrug.
Shawn stood. "Yeah. I remember once, Owen called all frantic. Chris had run into an old friend and stood talking for three hours. I thought Owen was gonna kill Chris once he knew Chris was alright. I'm sure Chris will turn up soon. If not, AJ will call, then we can go look. Now, we'd better..." Shawn was halted by a knock on their bedroom door. "Come in, son." He called out.
Dean and Adam came into the bedroom. "I came to say goodnight. I've got to go. Look, I've decided to do what Randy asked, I am not going to say anything to my folks yet. I know father, he might just say something to Bob Orton, and that could mess up everything. I won't risk Randy changing his mind."
Bret stood next to Shawn. "Wise decision. We will talk to Layfield in the morning, see what he recommends. Dean, see Adam to his car, then hit the sack. I'll get you up for coffee before I run Randy. Be careful driving home, Adam. Goodnight." Bret moved to hug Adam.
"I agree. The lest said the better. Drive safe. Love you, kiddo." Shawn hugged Adam with a kiss to his cheek.
"Love you both, goodnight." Adam smiled then left with Dean to go downstairs. Dean carried Adam's heavy backpack.
Adam leaned against Farrah's door as Dean kissed him goodnight. Dean broke the kiss with a couple of soft pecks to Adam's lips. Adam pushed off the car and opened the door.
"I'm still in shock about Randy. Oh well. Say, after I have coffee with pops, can I come to yours for breakfast? We can ride to school together." Dean asked with another soft peck to Adam's lips.
Adam put his backpack on the passenger seat. "Of course, you can come for breakfast. Well, poppa Dean, I've got to go, or I'll be grounded. I love you, Dean."
"Don't you dare get grounded, your room is too high for me to climb up to sneak in. I love you, Adam and you too, Baby Hart." Dean kissed Adam again.
Adam grinned. "Baby Hart, I like the sound of that, it's better than Royal Baby. Don't you dare try to climb up to my window, I don't want you hurt. Okay, I am going." Adam slipped into the drivers seat, and started the car.
"I'll be there around seven-thirty." Dean leaned in the open window and kissed Adam again. He watched with a heavy heart as Adam pulled down the driveway.
When Adam got home, he saw his parents were still gone. Adam hated going into the huge, dark house all alone, but he had no choice, but he sure missed Miss Ellen about now. He pressed the security code on the pad by the door to the kitchen and entered the mansion. He took the short cut up the long, narrow stairs. He got to his bedroom, opened the door, dashed in and closed it. He took a deep breath, he was safe.
Just before Adam fell asleep, Peanut in hand, he heard his parents return. Adam feigned sleep. He was too worried that he might accidentally blab about Randy. Adam remained still when he felt Eric kiss his cheek and tuck in the covers a bit.
"Watch over him, dear Peanut." Eric barely whispered as he fingered the stuffed toy in Adam's hand. Adam was soon asleep for real. Dean would be there in a few hours.
Adam had set his alarm for five AM, an hour early, so he would have plenty of time to do his yoga and shower. Today was Wednesday, deep conditioning day for his hair. Plus he wanted to look his best for Dean. Dean was so much easier to please than Randy.
Both Vince and Eric were surprised when a happy, chipper Adam sat at the breakfast table. Adam wore his royal purple button down with his dark blue dress jeans. Today was also the meeting of the Ink and Press Club, and the Student Council was going to meet at lunch. The first Wednesday of the month was always busy.
"Well son, not that I object to seeing you so early, but, it is unusual." Vince took a bite of the quiche Erich had made for breakfast.
Adam smiled. "Dean is coming at seven-thirty. He's having early coffee with Bret, before Bret runs with Randy. Bret felt kinda bad about ignoring Dean. Dean understands, but he was really happy to be invited for coffee. Since he is already going to be out, I asked him here for breakfast. Hope you don't mind." Adam gave his best "stay out of trouble" smile.
Eric laughed. "And if I said no, he can't come, what would you do? Of course, he's welcome, anytime. Will you be home late today? Eric asked as he poured Adam's juice and put out his vitamin.
"Not terribly late, five probably. Ink and Print starts at three-thirty. Seth has most of the jobs and articles assigned so, it won't be a long meeting." Adam sipped his juice and took his pill. He would wait to eat with Dean.
"Good, I actually have a free day so, I'm going to do a bit of cleaning. I'm grilling steaks for supper, invite Dean if you want. Vinny, home by six?" He looked at his spouse.
Vince looked at his appointment book on the table with other work paper. "Maybe even before. Now that the Janitorial talks are over, I have a lot more time to get normal things done. Amazing news about Roman Reigns. An excellent achievement for him and our district." Vince beamed.
Adam pulled out his little reporters notebook. "May I have a quote from the Superintendent about Roman's accomplishment?" Adam's pen was poised to write. His tone of voice became professional as he spoke to Vince.
Vince grinned even brighter. "Yes, you may. Oh behalf of myself, the other members of the Long Beach Board of Education, I congratulate Mister Reigns. He and other members of the WWE High Parrots Football team, have brought pride and school spirit to the entire Long Beach District. Personally, I am extremely proud of Mister Reigns and I wish him luck and Godspeed in all his future endeavors." Vince spoke firmly and ended with a nod. He then finished his last bite of breakfast and began to pack up his brief case.
Adam put his little notebook back in the front pocket of his backpack. "Thanks, father. Roman said the award usually goes to a player in the south or east. Randy always wanted to win the award for wrestling, but, the mid-west is tough to compete with. Oh..." Adam pulled something out of his backpack.
"This is from Doctor Regal. He gave it to me yesterday at the hospital. It's the affidavit about the transfusion. Oh and..." He pulled out more papers. "I am officially off suicide watch prevention treatment. I'm going to keep seeing Doctor Page, for a while anyway. Dean is too." He gave the papers to his dad.
Eric smiled. "That sounds good. Say, Dean is a bit late, want your breakfast?" He got up and went to the oven.
Adam looked at his watch, it was ten minutes to eight. "Hum. Well, I am hungry, so yes, please." Adam wasn't worried. Dean and Bret probably had a lot to talk about.
Eric cut Adam a slice of the breakfast quiche he'd made, there was still plenty for Dean. "Probably having a good talk with Bret." Eric sat down with his own breakfast. He and Adam continued to talk as they ate. Vince bid his family good morning and headed off to work.
At eight o'clock, Adam frowned. "Dean is really late. He should have called." Adam pulled out his cell phone, he punched up Dean's number and called. It went right to voice mail. Adam sighed and sent Dean a quick text message. He was more annoyed than anything. Punctuality was a priority for Adam.
Adam hit send, then called the Hart's land line. Sometimes the cell service in Long Beach did go screwy. He smiled when Shawn answered.
Shawn sighed, he was on his way out when the phone rang. Well, it could be important. "Hello, Hart residence... oh hi, Adam... Dean? No, I thought he was with you... he's not... Adam, he left here around seven fifteen, he was on his way to your place, happy as a lark... no, they decided to have coffee out by the pool, not a café... voice mail... oh... hang on, my cell phone, it could be him..." Shawn put down the land line receiver and answered his cell phone.
"Shawn Ha... AJ?... never came home?... Police?... AJ... Dean never showed up at Adam's this morning... yes, voice mail... yes... yes... alright... I'll bring Adam as well... the school... okay... yes... bye." Shawn's hand shook as he ended the cell phone call.
Shawn went back to the land line. He took a deep breath to calm himself. "Hi Adam... no, it was AJ... Adam, listen. Go to school, but come to my classroom... yes... it will be okay... His motorcycle probably broke down, and I will probably pass him on the way... yes, I will bring him to you... Okay... Adam, drive safe... yes... bye." He ended the call.
Shawn was extremely worried. Chris had never returned, and now Dean was missing. What in the hell was going on?
