Playroom
Gundam Wing AU
Cherries
~*~* : flashbacks to Wufei's childhood.
~#~#~#~#~#~: flashbacks to Zechs's childhood
Part 5: Unwanted
"Dr. Po? May I speak with you a moment?"
Sally looked up at the sound of an unfamiliar voice. Standing in her doorway was a tall man with brown hair and dark glasses. Beside him was her nervous secretary. Sally raised her eyebrows, //"I should have known better than to hire Treize's cousin. He's trying to slip his entire family in here now. Dorothy really doesn't pay attention to anything but her nails and gossip." // Sally refocused on her intruder, "Excuse me? Who are you?" Sally's young secretary shrugged, "This is a mister, um, Alfred Richards and he is here about Wufei."
Sally stood up, "He is." The man nodded. "Yes ma'am. I wanted to see if he remembers me. I only just found out he was here at all." Sally walked over to the man. "And just who are you?" The man smiled and removed his glasses. "I'm the boy's stepfather. At least I was going to be. I went away with the army when his mother and sister were killed. All I ever got was a letter, saying that my family was dead. So I've stayed away since then."
Sally was staring wide-eyed at the surprise in her office. "That can't be. he doesn't. That's impossible." Alfred noticed the pained expression on Sally's face, "Is something wrong with him? Is he hurt? They said at the office he doesn't talk anymore. Is he okay?" Sally took a deep breath, "Yes sir. He's fine. That's all I can tell you until I see some papers, however. Good afternoon." With that, Sally dismissed the man. Alfred shook his head, "No wait! Can't I see him!" Sally sighed, it was going to be a very, very long day. "I knew I should of have that extra cup of coffee."
Alfred frowned and stepped closer to Sally's desk, "Look woman! I want to see him! He's like my own son! I was going to marry his momma! Let me see my boy!"
Dumbly, Dorothy replied, "You said you need to see the papers. I'm holding those right here."
***
Zechs couldn't remember the last time he had so much fun just playing in water. When he fell in, Wufei responded by also jumping in. For a good hour or so the two had played in the little shallow pond. When it seemed like the moment could last for forever, Wufei had sneezed. Zechs saw that as a signal to turn off the thoughts of eternity.
"I think," started Zechs, "That we should try getting out of this water and into dry clothes. You sound like you're catching a cold my dear." Zechs stopped and replayed his voice, "My dear? I sound just like Treize!" The tall blonde rolled his eyes and tried stepping out of the water. "Come on Wufei. We've disturbed the fish enough for one day. We'll come back out here tomorrow."
The little boy wasn't moving. He was staring into the water and watching as a few little gold fish swam around his bare feet. "I like fish, they're pretty." He leaned over and watched the fish closer. "They're so pretty." Zechs literally wrung his hair out like a towel. "You're so repetitive today. Come on up, Wufei. Time to go inside now." He stopped after hearing some more laughter from Wufei. "What so funny you little imp?"
The boy was out the water now and shook his wet head. "I shake off like a doggie Zechs. But you have stand and pull the water out of your hair!" Zechs raised an eyebrow. "I choose a long time ago not to cut my beautiful hair and so far it hasn't caused me much trouble. Just my face." Wufei frowned. "But it's not an ugly face. How does it cause you any trouble?"
Zechs sighed and started walking, beckoning Wufei to follow him. "When I was younger, it was very apparent that I looked like a little girl. Some boys use to give me a hard time for it." Wufei pouted. "Did you hit them. You should hit people like that." Zechs shook his head. "That's not proper thinking. We don't want you going out in the world fighting everyone Wufei." The boy sighed and leaned closer to Zechs as they walked near the door. "That's not what I meant. I mean did you hit them. Did you ever fight them?" Zechs nodded, "Yes, and that was kind of different. They were threatening my little sister. I had to protect her. Fighting is still wrong though. Even if I'm good at it."
Zechs stopped and returned the recorder to his pocket. "It's almost time for lunch. You think we can convince Sally you're ready for a lunch date?"
***
Wufei somehow managed to find his small frame wrapped outside of Zechs's taller one on the way to the playroom.
(Wait you want that to be something else don't you ^_^)
"Hop off cowpoke and you can take another ride later on," said Zechs. Wufei nodded and hopped off the older man's back. "I use to have a really fun teacher and he use to give piggy back rides to everyone, but his back fell out." Zechs raised an eyebrow while searching for his passkey. "I do believe you mean his back went out." Wufei frowned, "That's what I said. Now open the door, Zechs. We can play with the toys today okay. You can even play with my doll house." The door slid open, but Zechs was appreciating the moment. "My, what an honor. After lunch." The boy had become pale, however, and was staring into the playroom with shock on his face. "Wufei? What's wrong?"
Zechs turned to look into the playroom and saw the unwanted guest. It was man with dark hair and sunglasses. Sally looked like her heart had broken and was holding a folder of papers. "Where were you Zechs? This man would like to see Wufei." Zechs frowned and stepped in front of Wufei. The boy was clutching to the back of his shirt. Zechs cleared his throat. "Sally, we aren't suppose to introduce him to strangers like this. It's obviously shocked him. Please escort your guests out."
Before Sally could say anything, the man spoke up. "Excuse me blondie. My name's Alfred, I'm the boy's step-daddy." Alfred smiled and walked up to Zechs. "And you must be the new doc. Do you mind terribly if I get a good look at him. It's been a while." He tried looking behind Zechs, but a hand obscured him.
"I'm sorry," said Zechs. "But I can't allow you to upset him. I'm responsible for his health and safety now and judging by the bite of his nails, you are not someone he wants to see." Sally silently cheered Zechs in her thoughts. // "Way to go boy! This guy gots snake written all over him!" // Sally smiled, "I'm afraid Dr. Merquise is right. Wufei is not reacting properly to you, so you'll just have to leave until he's progressed a little further." Zechs nodded, "Right. I assume that won't be for a while. He really doesn't like strangers."
Alfred balled his hand into a fist. "I see. So he wouldn't even remember me? He got amnesia or something?" Zechs shook his head. "More like post traumatic syndrome. You must remind him of the terrible event that caused the death of his parents. You should leave now. I can set up a schedule for you later on to meet with him. We're permitted to tell family members about a patients progress, but we can't put him in harm's way." The Texan was getting obviously angry. "Alright. I'll come by later on and check on my boy. From what I can see, he's a good deal taller now. About as tall as his momma. Do you mind if I speak to you docs outside then?" Sally sighed, // "Why won't he just go the hell away and make my job a little easier." //
Alfred walked out, catching only a small glimpse at Wufei. The boy certainly did turn out just like his mother. // "That's so perfect, Mel. He looks just like you." // He stopped outside the door and looked back through the glass. Wufei had finally pulled away from Zechs and was heading towards Sally. He looked like he wanted to cry. Alfred backed away when Zechs turned and frowned at the door.
***
Treize held Zechs. He dearest friend came home sulking and suddenly broke into crying. He couldn't remember the last time he saw Zechs so miserable. He and the blonde sat in his favorite chair. Zechs was comfortable enough sitting in a familiar place like Treize's lap and Treize was always happy to be anywhere near his prince. "Calm down darling. Please tell me what's wrong. What on earth could have you so upset?"
Zechs sat up wiped his eyes. "I'm sorry Treize. I don't know what came over me. It's just. Someone claiming to be Wufei's stepfather came institute today. I wasn't expecting to be so upset about it. He wants to take Wufei out and take full custody of him." Treize smiled. "So you'll miss him then. It's all right. Sometimes the patients get better when they're with real family. This could be perfect for resetting his mind and attitude. Wufei will be fine." Zechs was still frowning. "No, Treize. You don't understand. Perhaps if Wufei hadn't reacted so badly."
Treize raised an eyebrow. "Badly? What do you mean badly?" Zechs stood up and started pacing in front of Treize. "Be quiet a moment. I'll tell you everything." Treize was about to open his mouth and ask another question but decided against it. After turning on his heel once or twice Zechs faced Treize. "First, he was in shock. He was clawing my shirt and back and clinging on to me the moment he noticed the man. Then I had to go speak to Mr. Richards, the idiot claiming him, and I did that outside. But I noticed Mr. Richards kept starring into the playroom. His eyes were locked on Wufei in the most sinister manner!"
Treize winced, "Sinister? What do you mean sinister?" The blonde shook his head, "Be quiet, I'm trying to tell you!" Treize sat back in his seat. Zechs continued. "Alright by sinister I mean. I mean creepy. He looked like a fucking predator or something, I swear. Wufei was still inside with Sally but he must have caught a glimpse of the bastard starring at him and then he had. he had." Treize stood up. "What? What happened to the boy?" Zechs wiped his face and brushed the flaxen hair out of his eyes. "He um. he had like a seizure. It was the most frightening thing I have ever seen. It wasn't like a seizure, I mean, he was just so scared just like out in the garden."
Treize sighed and held Zechs close. "Shhh. It's all right. I think you should take a bit of a nap darling. We can talk about this when you're feeling a little more composed. I can talk to Sally about this matter. Don't worry."
Zechs nodded. "Okay. Oh, did Lucrezia leave my stuff here?" Treize nodded, "Yes I found it outside when I got home. Everything is in the room now. Why don't you go take a long shower as well. I'd I ask for bath, but you're entirely too upset for that right now." Treize went into the kitchen and started pulling some things out for dinner. Zechs watched for moment and went into the bedroom. "I'm too tired for a bath, the shower will have to do. But later on after dinner, we can take a bath Treize. I promise." A confirmed, "Sure thing," let Zechs know it was all right to just go on to sleep.
After coming out of his long hot shower, Zechs plopped onto his bed in his favorite large blue towel. The box of his old things was sitting across from his side of the bed, begging to be looked through. "Alright. What did she save for me?" Two long legs carried his still wet body across the floor. The first thing he saw on the top of the box was an old photograph of his parents. "I thought I already had this with me?"
~#~#~#~#~#
"Mimi!" Milliard cringed at the ridiculous nickname. "Stop calling me that Relena. Go back to bed. Mom and dad will be home any minute." A small three-year-old Relena stood at the bottom of the mansions staircase wearing pajamas with feet. He couldn't help but notice she was half way out of them. "I had to go potty, but I can't get back in Mimi." Milliard rolled his eyes. "Stop calling me Mimi, I'm Milliard, no Mimi!" The toddler nodded. "Okay Mimi. Help me please. I can't get in it right." Milliard swallowed his temper. He knew there was no use in losing patience with a baby, besides he used to be one. He walked over and zipped his sister back into her pink pajamas.
"Stay in bed this time Relena. Come on, I'll carry you upstairs." The little loved being carried by her older brother. He had such pretty hair. "OW! Relena stop pulling my hair." The toddler giggled. "I'm going to put a bow in it." Milliard pulled her hands away. "No you're not, now here." They had finally reached the nursery. "I'm going to watch TV for just a little while longer. I'll be up in a minute." Relena stood up holding the crib's side. She smiled, "Uh-oh. You're going to get caught again, you always do."
Milliard smirked, "Not tonight. Treize is sleeping and I can hear the car come up in the driveway." Relena swung a leg over the end. "Then let me out. I want to watch TV." Milliard sighed, "No you'll get me caught. You'll wake Treize up again." Relena carefully slid down and landed with a thud on her bottom. "Mimi! I'll go scream and wake him up!" Milliard sighed. "Whatever. come on."
About four hours later, Treize finally woke up in the Peacecraft's library. "What! My goodness! What time is it! Where are the children?" He jumped up and ran into the parlor and found Milliard and Relena lying asleep on a couch, in front of the TV on a cartoon marathon. Treize smiled for a second seeing the two so close sleeping like. well babies. // "Duh, they are. What time is it." // He finally managed a look at the grandfather clock. // "Great, three in the morning. Didn't Mr. and Mrs. Peacecraft get back. They must be punishing me. I can't help being tired sometimes, I'm a growing boy too." //
He gently shook Milliard's shoulder. The blonde woke up and gasped, "Treize! I'm sorry I wasn't in bed. Please don't tell on me. Relena made me do it." Treize shrugged, "Yep, and she made me fall asleep in the library. Now everyone's in trouble. Come on go up to bed. I need to get home." The small blonde yawned and looked over his sister. "She's terribly wicked. Everyone's in trouble?" Treize smiled, "Yep and it's all her fault. It must be the immature girl cooties. Oh yuck you slept by her all night!" Milliard started to laugh and punched Treize in the arm a little. "Shut up. You can't catch that from sisters. Stupid." Treize winked and picked the little girl up. "Shhh, you'll wake up the cootie baroness."
Milliard giggled. His world couldn't be anymore perfect. "Okay. I'll whisper like this, in a very small voice." Treize shouted, "What? Whisper?" Milliard gasped, "Shhh, you idiot."
The two made it upstairs with Relena still sleeping. "Well", started Treize. "I should be going. I hope your parents are up. You don't think they would just go to sleep after playing a trick on us?" Milliard shook his head. "Of course not. Where's the fun in sleeping? Come on." The little boy took his babysitter's hand and led him to the main bedroom. The door was open, and the beds were still made. Milliard frowned. "Are you sure they came back yet? Maybe they went to another party. Mommy's jewelry box isn't open. Treize shrugged and lifted the boy up into his arms. "Lets go sit downstairs a minute. I'll call and see where they are."
Treize sat the small boy down in front of the late night news on CNN (if you ever baby-sit, CNN works wonders for inducing sleep.) Milliard was about to fall over when he heard gunshots fired. Footage of a hostage situation shook him awake as the reporter spoke over it.
"Breaking news. The hostage situation at the Norwegian Embassy is finally over. Police arrived on the scene already facing bloodshed. Norway's ambassador, Jonas Peacecraft and his wife were shot first as an example. The ambassador tried fighting off the assailants before he was shot and managed to disarm two men-"
Treize dropped his phone and stared at the television in disbelief. "Oh, god. Milliard, I'm so sorry."
~#~#~#~#~#
Zechs sighed. // "I had my entire life change in a few hours. Hell, even my name. But Wufei didn't have anyone left when his life changed. So if this man really were close to him, wouldn't he be happy to see him again? It doesn't add up." // The picture was sat back in its place and Zechs smiled a little. // "Thank god for Trieze. I at least have my sanity intact, thanks to him." // He chuckled to himself a little. // "And no thanks to Relena. Well, she is my sister. At least I still have her." //
***
Sally knew she could cry out 'Security' and make something up to get this man out of her office. Oddly enough, she couldn't bring herself to do it. It was getting late and he still had only one demand. To see Wufei again. // "That's it! I've had enough of this guy!" // Sometimes men underestimated her, but not today! "Mr. Richards. You sound a bit obsessive about the boy. Any normal parent would have left hours ago. Any normal parent would know better than to endanger their child's psyche. Is something wrong with you?"
Alfred scratched his head. "I'm sorry. I just don't understand what's so fucking crucial about keeping him locked up. I think he'd be better off at home. I've remarried. We don't have any kids. I'm sure my wife would fall completely in love with the boy. Wouldn't that be better for him?" Sally nodded. "Of course. That's sounds like an ideal situation. But he is not reacting to you properly. He was improving since Dr. Merquise came to the institute. I'm willing to follow anything Dr. Merquise says involving that child. He doesn't think this is the right time for you to see him. I think he's being flooded with old memories. It overloads him and the result is like earlier."
The man nodded his head and finally left. Sally sighed. // "Now I can finally get home. Hey, which way did that guy go?" //
***
Alfred wasn't in the 'normal' army. He was a special operation agent. He found it easy to sneak around a building like this. The security was tight, but mostly mechanical. He could knock all of it out with a simple device he carried in his pocket on a daily basis. "Fourteen camera's so far. Now, it was down this hall and past that garden place." He couldn't help but smile. "My, my. What have we here?" Wufei was already out. The boy was sitting in the garden's doorway looking up at the stars. He looked miserable. // "Now how do you suppose he got out here. That's right. He was a very smart little boy." //
Wufei started shaking a little. It was going to be a windy night. "I should go in." He started to sit up but a heavy hand fell on his shoulder. "Don't you remember," started Alfred. "I told you not to sneak outside. Sometimes, I have to work late." Wufei's eye's widened. "No! It can't be you! You can't come to this place!"
Alfred smiled and stood the boy up. "Now lets have a good look at you. My, my. Aren't you a gorgeous little thing. I'm going to take you home later. Keep your mouth shut and stop throwing those damn fits. If you don't, I'm going to hurt someone. That nice doctor lady or the guy with the blonde hair. They're going to die if you don't behave yourself, understand?" Hands were holding Wufei's arms tightly. "Answer me boy, or I'll get to work on Dr. Po."
Wufei nodded. His dark brown eyes were full of tears. "Please don't do anything to them. I' promise to be good. I won't tell anyone. Please don't hurt them." Alfred smiled, "I knew you were a smart little boy. You won't make the same mistake twice. You're not running away this time." Alfred let his hands go down a little farther. "You really look the pretty picture of Mel right now. But look at this hair. I think you need a haircut. Lets go to your room Wufei."
Wufei nodded and allowed the man to pull him close. "You smell good too. Which way to your room Wufei? I have to cut your hair." Wufei started shaking. Old memories were hitting his mind too fast. "It's down the hall from the playroom." Alfred was still holding his arms and walked directly behind him. A distinct bulge was pressing against his back. "Please don't do this. I won't say anything. I swear it. I just want to stay here."
Alfred's hand quickly wrapped around Wufei's neck. "I believe this is your room, precious. Now, no more talking for tonight. I need to remind you of a thing or two."
***
The next morning, Zechs woke up to his phone ringing. "Hello? Sally? What's wrong?" The voice on the other side was excited. "Zechs! It's Wufei! He's, well he's happy today! It's wonderful! He said he remembers his stepfather and he wants to go home immediately."
Zechs frowned. "What? That's not right. He was terrified yesterday. There can be no way for him to just suddenly-" Treize caught his attention. "Excuse me a moment Sally." He covered his cell phone, "What is it?" Treize pointed to the clock. "You're late for work and I'm off today. Get out." Zechs rolled his eyes and slammed a pillow on his partner's head. "Never mind Sally. I'll be there in just a minute. Don't let that man anywhere near Wufei 'till I get there!"
Zechs slammed his phone down and ran out of bed, leaving a confused and slightly bruised Treize suffocating. "Darling, what's going on? Why the hell are you trying to kill me?" The blonde stuck his head out of the bathroom. Over his toothbrush and foamy toothpaste he frowned. "Thur est noh reazon toh tayze mah! Hupei est eun truble!" Treize rolled over. "Right, whatever you just said. Try not to speed your way down to the institute. I'm well aware of our inheritances but it shouldn't go straight to your private accident fund."
***
Wufei sat in his playroom. There was a lovely smile on his face. His hair was cut short in a bowl cut and he was nowhere near his dollhouse. "Good morning Zechs. I'm happy to see you today." Zechs shook his head. "Something's wrong. Why did you cut your hair?" Wufei ran a hand through his hair and looked around. "I use to have short hair. I don't know why I let it get so long." The boy lowered his eyes. "I have to go home Zechs. Alfred has to take me home okay." Zechs frowned. "Why? Why does he have to take you home?" Wufei started pulling his hair. "I should be at home with Alfred. This is an institute Zechs. I should go home now."
***
TBC
( I feel a little bit evil.
Gundam Wing AU
Cherries
~*~* : flashbacks to Wufei's childhood.
~#~#~#~#~#~: flashbacks to Zechs's childhood
Part 5: Unwanted
"Dr. Po? May I speak with you a moment?"
Sally looked up at the sound of an unfamiliar voice. Standing in her doorway was a tall man with brown hair and dark glasses. Beside him was her nervous secretary. Sally raised her eyebrows, //"I should have known better than to hire Treize's cousin. He's trying to slip his entire family in here now. Dorothy really doesn't pay attention to anything but her nails and gossip." // Sally refocused on her intruder, "Excuse me? Who are you?" Sally's young secretary shrugged, "This is a mister, um, Alfred Richards and he is here about Wufei."
Sally stood up, "He is." The man nodded. "Yes ma'am. I wanted to see if he remembers me. I only just found out he was here at all." Sally walked over to the man. "And just who are you?" The man smiled and removed his glasses. "I'm the boy's stepfather. At least I was going to be. I went away with the army when his mother and sister were killed. All I ever got was a letter, saying that my family was dead. So I've stayed away since then."
Sally was staring wide-eyed at the surprise in her office. "That can't be. he doesn't. That's impossible." Alfred noticed the pained expression on Sally's face, "Is something wrong with him? Is he hurt? They said at the office he doesn't talk anymore. Is he okay?" Sally took a deep breath, "Yes sir. He's fine. That's all I can tell you until I see some papers, however. Good afternoon." With that, Sally dismissed the man. Alfred shook his head, "No wait! Can't I see him!" Sally sighed, it was going to be a very, very long day. "I knew I should of have that extra cup of coffee."
Alfred frowned and stepped closer to Sally's desk, "Look woman! I want to see him! He's like my own son! I was going to marry his momma! Let me see my boy!"
Dumbly, Dorothy replied, "You said you need to see the papers. I'm holding those right here."
***
Zechs couldn't remember the last time he had so much fun just playing in water. When he fell in, Wufei responded by also jumping in. For a good hour or so the two had played in the little shallow pond. When it seemed like the moment could last for forever, Wufei had sneezed. Zechs saw that as a signal to turn off the thoughts of eternity.
"I think," started Zechs, "That we should try getting out of this water and into dry clothes. You sound like you're catching a cold my dear." Zechs stopped and replayed his voice, "My dear? I sound just like Treize!" The tall blonde rolled his eyes and tried stepping out of the water. "Come on Wufei. We've disturbed the fish enough for one day. We'll come back out here tomorrow."
The little boy wasn't moving. He was staring into the water and watching as a few little gold fish swam around his bare feet. "I like fish, they're pretty." He leaned over and watched the fish closer. "They're so pretty." Zechs literally wrung his hair out like a towel. "You're so repetitive today. Come on up, Wufei. Time to go inside now." He stopped after hearing some more laughter from Wufei. "What so funny you little imp?"
The boy was out the water now and shook his wet head. "I shake off like a doggie Zechs. But you have stand and pull the water out of your hair!" Zechs raised an eyebrow. "I choose a long time ago not to cut my beautiful hair and so far it hasn't caused me much trouble. Just my face." Wufei frowned. "But it's not an ugly face. How does it cause you any trouble?"
Zechs sighed and started walking, beckoning Wufei to follow him. "When I was younger, it was very apparent that I looked like a little girl. Some boys use to give me a hard time for it." Wufei pouted. "Did you hit them. You should hit people like that." Zechs shook his head. "That's not proper thinking. We don't want you going out in the world fighting everyone Wufei." The boy sighed and leaned closer to Zechs as they walked near the door. "That's not what I meant. I mean did you hit them. Did you ever fight them?" Zechs nodded, "Yes, and that was kind of different. They were threatening my little sister. I had to protect her. Fighting is still wrong though. Even if I'm good at it."
Zechs stopped and returned the recorder to his pocket. "It's almost time for lunch. You think we can convince Sally you're ready for a lunch date?"
***
Wufei somehow managed to find his small frame wrapped outside of Zechs's taller one on the way to the playroom.
(Wait you want that to be something else don't you ^_^)
"Hop off cowpoke and you can take another ride later on," said Zechs. Wufei nodded and hopped off the older man's back. "I use to have a really fun teacher and he use to give piggy back rides to everyone, but his back fell out." Zechs raised an eyebrow while searching for his passkey. "I do believe you mean his back went out." Wufei frowned, "That's what I said. Now open the door, Zechs. We can play with the toys today okay. You can even play with my doll house." The door slid open, but Zechs was appreciating the moment. "My, what an honor. After lunch." The boy had become pale, however, and was staring into the playroom with shock on his face. "Wufei? What's wrong?"
Zechs turned to look into the playroom and saw the unwanted guest. It was man with dark hair and sunglasses. Sally looked like her heart had broken and was holding a folder of papers. "Where were you Zechs? This man would like to see Wufei." Zechs frowned and stepped in front of Wufei. The boy was clutching to the back of his shirt. Zechs cleared his throat. "Sally, we aren't suppose to introduce him to strangers like this. It's obviously shocked him. Please escort your guests out."
Before Sally could say anything, the man spoke up. "Excuse me blondie. My name's Alfred, I'm the boy's step-daddy." Alfred smiled and walked up to Zechs. "And you must be the new doc. Do you mind terribly if I get a good look at him. It's been a while." He tried looking behind Zechs, but a hand obscured him.
"I'm sorry," said Zechs. "But I can't allow you to upset him. I'm responsible for his health and safety now and judging by the bite of his nails, you are not someone he wants to see." Sally silently cheered Zechs in her thoughts. // "Way to go boy! This guy gots snake written all over him!" // Sally smiled, "I'm afraid Dr. Merquise is right. Wufei is not reacting properly to you, so you'll just have to leave until he's progressed a little further." Zechs nodded, "Right. I assume that won't be for a while. He really doesn't like strangers."
Alfred balled his hand into a fist. "I see. So he wouldn't even remember me? He got amnesia or something?" Zechs shook his head. "More like post traumatic syndrome. You must remind him of the terrible event that caused the death of his parents. You should leave now. I can set up a schedule for you later on to meet with him. We're permitted to tell family members about a patients progress, but we can't put him in harm's way." The Texan was getting obviously angry. "Alright. I'll come by later on and check on my boy. From what I can see, he's a good deal taller now. About as tall as his momma. Do you mind if I speak to you docs outside then?" Sally sighed, // "Why won't he just go the hell away and make my job a little easier." //
Alfred walked out, catching only a small glimpse at Wufei. The boy certainly did turn out just like his mother. // "That's so perfect, Mel. He looks just like you." // He stopped outside the door and looked back through the glass. Wufei had finally pulled away from Zechs and was heading towards Sally. He looked like he wanted to cry. Alfred backed away when Zechs turned and frowned at the door.
***
Treize held Zechs. He dearest friend came home sulking and suddenly broke into crying. He couldn't remember the last time he saw Zechs so miserable. He and the blonde sat in his favorite chair. Zechs was comfortable enough sitting in a familiar place like Treize's lap and Treize was always happy to be anywhere near his prince. "Calm down darling. Please tell me what's wrong. What on earth could have you so upset?"
Zechs sat up wiped his eyes. "I'm sorry Treize. I don't know what came over me. It's just. Someone claiming to be Wufei's stepfather came institute today. I wasn't expecting to be so upset about it. He wants to take Wufei out and take full custody of him." Treize smiled. "So you'll miss him then. It's all right. Sometimes the patients get better when they're with real family. This could be perfect for resetting his mind and attitude. Wufei will be fine." Zechs was still frowning. "No, Treize. You don't understand. Perhaps if Wufei hadn't reacted so badly."
Treize raised an eyebrow. "Badly? What do you mean badly?" Zechs stood up and started pacing in front of Treize. "Be quiet a moment. I'll tell you everything." Treize was about to open his mouth and ask another question but decided against it. After turning on his heel once or twice Zechs faced Treize. "First, he was in shock. He was clawing my shirt and back and clinging on to me the moment he noticed the man. Then I had to go speak to Mr. Richards, the idiot claiming him, and I did that outside. But I noticed Mr. Richards kept starring into the playroom. His eyes were locked on Wufei in the most sinister manner!"
Treize winced, "Sinister? What do you mean sinister?" The blonde shook his head, "Be quiet, I'm trying to tell you!" Treize sat back in his seat. Zechs continued. "Alright by sinister I mean. I mean creepy. He looked like a fucking predator or something, I swear. Wufei was still inside with Sally but he must have caught a glimpse of the bastard starring at him and then he had. he had." Treize stood up. "What? What happened to the boy?" Zechs wiped his face and brushed the flaxen hair out of his eyes. "He um. he had like a seizure. It was the most frightening thing I have ever seen. It wasn't like a seizure, I mean, he was just so scared just like out in the garden."
Treize sighed and held Zechs close. "Shhh. It's all right. I think you should take a bit of a nap darling. We can talk about this when you're feeling a little more composed. I can talk to Sally about this matter. Don't worry."
Zechs nodded. "Okay. Oh, did Lucrezia leave my stuff here?" Treize nodded, "Yes I found it outside when I got home. Everything is in the room now. Why don't you go take a long shower as well. I'd I ask for bath, but you're entirely too upset for that right now." Treize went into the kitchen and started pulling some things out for dinner. Zechs watched for moment and went into the bedroom. "I'm too tired for a bath, the shower will have to do. But later on after dinner, we can take a bath Treize. I promise." A confirmed, "Sure thing," let Zechs know it was all right to just go on to sleep.
After coming out of his long hot shower, Zechs plopped onto his bed in his favorite large blue towel. The box of his old things was sitting across from his side of the bed, begging to be looked through. "Alright. What did she save for me?" Two long legs carried his still wet body across the floor. The first thing he saw on the top of the box was an old photograph of his parents. "I thought I already had this with me?"
~#~#~#~#~#
"Mimi!" Milliard cringed at the ridiculous nickname. "Stop calling me that Relena. Go back to bed. Mom and dad will be home any minute." A small three-year-old Relena stood at the bottom of the mansions staircase wearing pajamas with feet. He couldn't help but notice she was half way out of them. "I had to go potty, but I can't get back in Mimi." Milliard rolled his eyes. "Stop calling me Mimi, I'm Milliard, no Mimi!" The toddler nodded. "Okay Mimi. Help me please. I can't get in it right." Milliard swallowed his temper. He knew there was no use in losing patience with a baby, besides he used to be one. He walked over and zipped his sister back into her pink pajamas.
"Stay in bed this time Relena. Come on, I'll carry you upstairs." The little loved being carried by her older brother. He had such pretty hair. "OW! Relena stop pulling my hair." The toddler giggled. "I'm going to put a bow in it." Milliard pulled her hands away. "No you're not, now here." They had finally reached the nursery. "I'm going to watch TV for just a little while longer. I'll be up in a minute." Relena stood up holding the crib's side. She smiled, "Uh-oh. You're going to get caught again, you always do."
Milliard smirked, "Not tonight. Treize is sleeping and I can hear the car come up in the driveway." Relena swung a leg over the end. "Then let me out. I want to watch TV." Milliard sighed, "No you'll get me caught. You'll wake Treize up again." Relena carefully slid down and landed with a thud on her bottom. "Mimi! I'll go scream and wake him up!" Milliard sighed. "Whatever. come on."
About four hours later, Treize finally woke up in the Peacecraft's library. "What! My goodness! What time is it! Where are the children?" He jumped up and ran into the parlor and found Milliard and Relena lying asleep on a couch, in front of the TV on a cartoon marathon. Treize smiled for a second seeing the two so close sleeping like. well babies. // "Duh, they are. What time is it." // He finally managed a look at the grandfather clock. // "Great, three in the morning. Didn't Mr. and Mrs. Peacecraft get back. They must be punishing me. I can't help being tired sometimes, I'm a growing boy too." //
He gently shook Milliard's shoulder. The blonde woke up and gasped, "Treize! I'm sorry I wasn't in bed. Please don't tell on me. Relena made me do it." Treize shrugged, "Yep, and she made me fall asleep in the library. Now everyone's in trouble. Come on go up to bed. I need to get home." The small blonde yawned and looked over his sister. "She's terribly wicked. Everyone's in trouble?" Treize smiled, "Yep and it's all her fault. It must be the immature girl cooties. Oh yuck you slept by her all night!" Milliard started to laugh and punched Treize in the arm a little. "Shut up. You can't catch that from sisters. Stupid." Treize winked and picked the little girl up. "Shhh, you'll wake up the cootie baroness."
Milliard giggled. His world couldn't be anymore perfect. "Okay. I'll whisper like this, in a very small voice." Treize shouted, "What? Whisper?" Milliard gasped, "Shhh, you idiot."
The two made it upstairs with Relena still sleeping. "Well", started Treize. "I should be going. I hope your parents are up. You don't think they would just go to sleep after playing a trick on us?" Milliard shook his head. "Of course not. Where's the fun in sleeping? Come on." The little boy took his babysitter's hand and led him to the main bedroom. The door was open, and the beds were still made. Milliard frowned. "Are you sure they came back yet? Maybe they went to another party. Mommy's jewelry box isn't open. Treize shrugged and lifted the boy up into his arms. "Lets go sit downstairs a minute. I'll call and see where they are."
Treize sat the small boy down in front of the late night news on CNN (if you ever baby-sit, CNN works wonders for inducing sleep.) Milliard was about to fall over when he heard gunshots fired. Footage of a hostage situation shook him awake as the reporter spoke over it.
"Breaking news. The hostage situation at the Norwegian Embassy is finally over. Police arrived on the scene already facing bloodshed. Norway's ambassador, Jonas Peacecraft and his wife were shot first as an example. The ambassador tried fighting off the assailants before he was shot and managed to disarm two men-"
Treize dropped his phone and stared at the television in disbelief. "Oh, god. Milliard, I'm so sorry."
~#~#~#~#~#
Zechs sighed. // "I had my entire life change in a few hours. Hell, even my name. But Wufei didn't have anyone left when his life changed. So if this man really were close to him, wouldn't he be happy to see him again? It doesn't add up." // The picture was sat back in its place and Zechs smiled a little. // "Thank god for Trieze. I at least have my sanity intact, thanks to him." // He chuckled to himself a little. // "And no thanks to Relena. Well, she is my sister. At least I still have her." //
***
Sally knew she could cry out 'Security' and make something up to get this man out of her office. Oddly enough, she couldn't bring herself to do it. It was getting late and he still had only one demand. To see Wufei again. // "That's it! I've had enough of this guy!" // Sometimes men underestimated her, but not today! "Mr. Richards. You sound a bit obsessive about the boy. Any normal parent would have left hours ago. Any normal parent would know better than to endanger their child's psyche. Is something wrong with you?"
Alfred scratched his head. "I'm sorry. I just don't understand what's so fucking crucial about keeping him locked up. I think he'd be better off at home. I've remarried. We don't have any kids. I'm sure my wife would fall completely in love with the boy. Wouldn't that be better for him?" Sally nodded. "Of course. That's sounds like an ideal situation. But he is not reacting to you properly. He was improving since Dr. Merquise came to the institute. I'm willing to follow anything Dr. Merquise says involving that child. He doesn't think this is the right time for you to see him. I think he's being flooded with old memories. It overloads him and the result is like earlier."
The man nodded his head and finally left. Sally sighed. // "Now I can finally get home. Hey, which way did that guy go?" //
***
Alfred wasn't in the 'normal' army. He was a special operation agent. He found it easy to sneak around a building like this. The security was tight, but mostly mechanical. He could knock all of it out with a simple device he carried in his pocket on a daily basis. "Fourteen camera's so far. Now, it was down this hall and past that garden place." He couldn't help but smile. "My, my. What have we here?" Wufei was already out. The boy was sitting in the garden's doorway looking up at the stars. He looked miserable. // "Now how do you suppose he got out here. That's right. He was a very smart little boy." //
Wufei started shaking a little. It was going to be a windy night. "I should go in." He started to sit up but a heavy hand fell on his shoulder. "Don't you remember," started Alfred. "I told you not to sneak outside. Sometimes, I have to work late." Wufei's eye's widened. "No! It can't be you! You can't come to this place!"
Alfred smiled and stood the boy up. "Now lets have a good look at you. My, my. Aren't you a gorgeous little thing. I'm going to take you home later. Keep your mouth shut and stop throwing those damn fits. If you don't, I'm going to hurt someone. That nice doctor lady or the guy with the blonde hair. They're going to die if you don't behave yourself, understand?" Hands were holding Wufei's arms tightly. "Answer me boy, or I'll get to work on Dr. Po."
Wufei nodded. His dark brown eyes were full of tears. "Please don't do anything to them. I' promise to be good. I won't tell anyone. Please don't hurt them." Alfred smiled, "I knew you were a smart little boy. You won't make the same mistake twice. You're not running away this time." Alfred let his hands go down a little farther. "You really look the pretty picture of Mel right now. But look at this hair. I think you need a haircut. Lets go to your room Wufei."
Wufei nodded and allowed the man to pull him close. "You smell good too. Which way to your room Wufei? I have to cut your hair." Wufei started shaking. Old memories were hitting his mind too fast. "It's down the hall from the playroom." Alfred was still holding his arms and walked directly behind him. A distinct bulge was pressing against his back. "Please don't do this. I won't say anything. I swear it. I just want to stay here."
Alfred's hand quickly wrapped around Wufei's neck. "I believe this is your room, precious. Now, no more talking for tonight. I need to remind you of a thing or two."
***
The next morning, Zechs woke up to his phone ringing. "Hello? Sally? What's wrong?" The voice on the other side was excited. "Zechs! It's Wufei! He's, well he's happy today! It's wonderful! He said he remembers his stepfather and he wants to go home immediately."
Zechs frowned. "What? That's not right. He was terrified yesterday. There can be no way for him to just suddenly-" Treize caught his attention. "Excuse me a moment Sally." He covered his cell phone, "What is it?" Treize pointed to the clock. "You're late for work and I'm off today. Get out." Zechs rolled his eyes and slammed a pillow on his partner's head. "Never mind Sally. I'll be there in just a minute. Don't let that man anywhere near Wufei 'till I get there!"
Zechs slammed his phone down and ran out of bed, leaving a confused and slightly bruised Treize suffocating. "Darling, what's going on? Why the hell are you trying to kill me?" The blonde stuck his head out of the bathroom. Over his toothbrush and foamy toothpaste he frowned. "Thur est noh reazon toh tayze mah! Hupei est eun truble!" Treize rolled over. "Right, whatever you just said. Try not to speed your way down to the institute. I'm well aware of our inheritances but it shouldn't go straight to your private accident fund."
***
Wufei sat in his playroom. There was a lovely smile on his face. His hair was cut short in a bowl cut and he was nowhere near his dollhouse. "Good morning Zechs. I'm happy to see you today." Zechs shook his head. "Something's wrong. Why did you cut your hair?" Wufei ran a hand through his hair and looked around. "I use to have short hair. I don't know why I let it get so long." The boy lowered his eyes. "I have to go home Zechs. Alfred has to take me home okay." Zechs frowned. "Why? Why does he have to take you home?" Wufei started pulling his hair. "I should be at home with Alfred. This is an institute Zechs. I should go home now."
***
TBC
( I feel a little bit evil.