FREEWILL IS

by girlmoustakis

Young college-bound Arthur Hopkins, son of Jack Hopkins from Nappies in Midnight, has to learn the real meaning of the word freewill, when he tries to stop a lifelong friend from making the mistake of his life. He will learn that becoming an adult is not very easy. Reviews are welcome.

FREEWILL IS

BY

HENRIETTE PRUGER

The first day of school is chaotic. Everyone at the Hopkins home is busy. Allison is in the kitchen making Jack's lunch. Joey is upstairs getting dressed. Arthur is going out the door when Allison comes out of the kitchen.

"Where are you going, Arthur Jr." Allison asks.

"I need to get Joe. We can't be late today. He knows the pace bus schedule. I have to leave, now."

"Not until you kiss your sister good-bye."

"Mom not today. I don't want to miss the bus."

"Come with me to her room, now!"

He follows Allison to the nursery. She picks up little Anna and points her towards him.

"Come on. Give me some lip action."

Arthur kisses her. She puts Allison back into bed.

"He'll do better tonight."

Allison leaves the nursery and goes back into the kitchen. Jack has just put a piece of toast into his mouth.

"You're just having toast," Allison asks.

"I have to be at work early. I'm calling England. It's long distance."

"I'll forgive you that. Here's your lunch, "Allison says, handing him a brown bag.

"Thanks, luv. Where are the boys?" Jack asks, kissing her cheek.

"Arthur is picking up Joe next door and Joey hasn't come down yet. I hate the first day of school."

"Got to go. See you tonight, luv, "Jack says, leaving the room.

Joey comes into the kitchen and grabs a box of milk from the fridge. He tries to drink from it. Allison sees him.

"Use a glass, Joseph," Allison says, handing him one.

He pours the milk and puts it back. He gulps it down.

"When is your bus due?"

"In a half hour."

"Are you ready for school?"

"No. I can't wait till I graduate. At least Arthur's classes start later. I'm grabbing a bagel," Joey says, grabbing one and running out.

The three men have left the house. Allison is alone. She is still on maternity leave. It's just her and Anna.

Allison goes back into the nursery and picks up Anna. She brings her into the living room and prepares her for breast feeding.

"It's your breakfast now. Enjoy."

…..

Arthur is outside in the front yard. He calls to the next house. This is where his childhood friend, Joe, has lived for seventeen years. They are best friends and brothers.

"Hey, Joe! Hurry up. We have a long walk to the bus stop."

Another boy comes out of his house. He is the same age as Arthur.

"Sorry, got up late."

"Didn't you set your alarm? You know the pace bus schedule. They run every twenty minutes," Arthur says, starting to walk fast.

"It won't happen again."

….

The two boys are attending Northwestern University in Evanston. They and a few million students get off the pace bus. They enter the main building. A large billboard hangs on the wall by the door. On them are notices of every kind. One catches Joe's eye and he grabs it and pulls it off. He puts it in his book.

Hours pass and the boys are between classes. Arthur is at the cafeteria. He is grabbing a burger when Joe sees him and sits at the table across from him.

"Hey, Art."

"Hey, Joe."

"How are your classes?"

"Alright, I guess. I already have two term papers to write and it's not even 11:00. What about you?" Arthur asks.

"I only have one paper to write."

Arthur spots something hanging out of Joe's school book.

"What's in your psyche book?"

Joe pulls it out.

"It's a job ad. I saw it before classes started. It looks interesting."

Arthur grabs it.

"It's an ad for exotic male dancers. Are you crazy?"

"No. I hear the money's good. We always need more money."

"No thanks. I'd rather be a grill boy. My grand uncle was and he still died a hero. No girls are going to pay to see me with no clothes."

"You'd rather do it for free. Well, no way brother. I'm not waiting for a girl to love me to do that. I want to live. I want the money."

Joe grabs the paper back.

"The audition is today. Come with me."

"Hell no! I'm not working in a strip joint. Find another job."

"Please, Art. You don't have to audition. Just wait with me."

"I will NOT watch you strip."

"Then sit away from the stage. I don't want to go there alone."

"Please, Art. It's at four. You'll be home before dinner. Do it for me?"

"I still think it's a crazy idea. What if you get it and your parents find out?"

"I'll trust you to never tell. I've kept your secrets enough times."

"But I never wanted to be a male stripper."

"Try it Art. Think of all those sex hungry girls just waiting to complete their sexual fantasies? You wouldn't even have to buy them a meal."

"Well, I'm not going to be dessert."

"Art, you're a handsome guy. You even have eyes that kill. Your body is perfect. Just put some wiggle on your hips and you won't die a virgin."

"I am NOT a virgin. Can I help it she and I broke up?"

"Well, I still am and I'm not gonna be one much longer if I can help it. These girls are hungry and I WANT to be dessert. Please come with me," Joe begs.

"Okay, I'll go. But I'm not watching you strip."

"When's your next class?"

"In a half hour."

"I'll meet you at the bus stop. Sex life and money here I come," Joe says, standing.

…..

The boys enter a bar from the outside. Inside it is pure stage, bar and tables around the stage. Arthur already wants to leave. He starts for the door and Joe grabs his arm and pulls him back.

"You're not going anywhere, Art."

A gay man comes by them and gives them both employment forms. Joe takes his and Arthur refuses. The man looks at him.

"You don't want the job?" the man asks in a gay voice.

"No, not my style."

The man looks at Arthur and shakes his head.

"Pity. Your eyes and body would be a great improvement in this place. You have nice tush."

Arthur starts to feel uncomfortable. Other men and one particular woman are staring at him. Joe starts filling out the form. Arthur's skin is starting to crawl. The woman goes to Joe.

"You're next. What's your name?"

"I'm Joe," Joe says giving her the employment form.

"Come with me, Joe. I'll take you backstage to wardrobe. You can find some clothes."

"Clothes, but the ad said?"

"You come out dressed and then you take it off. How about you? Do you need some props?"

"I would like it if you put my clothes back on. I'm NOT auditioning."

"You'll change your story after you see your friend's paycheck," she says, walking Joe.

"Not a chance in hell, lady."

Arthur sits at the bar. The bartender comes up to him.

"I'll need ID to serve you."

"I'm not thirsty. I just don't want to look at the stage."

Arthur opens one of his textbooks and tries to read but can't. The music is too loud to concentrate. He hears the woman announce Joe. Arthur keeps looking at his textbook. The music begins and the bartender goes back to him.

"Your friend's not bad. You should try. When it comes to looks, you're better than he is. You would get good tips."

"It's not my style. Do these women really go wild?"

"You haven't seen the half of it. I've seen shy women come and animals come out. We guys are not alone when it comes to sex."

"I know one woman who wouldn't, my mother. She's a real lady."

"So are half the women who come here. Your friend is done. You can look now. He's gone backstage and the owner has gone back with him. Depending on long it takes to come back, he just might get the job."

"What does that mean?"

"She likes to examine the applicants."

The bartender walks away. Arthur turns to see an empty stage. He closes the book and starts to leave the bar.

"That's it, Joe. I'm getting you out of here."

He starts to go when a man grabs him.

"I wouldn't do that son. He won't mind being examined. Now, you just get a stool and wait. It shouldn't be long."

He makes Arthur sit down. Joe returns in a few minutes. His face is flushed.

"I got the job."

"And I can tell how? Joe, forget this crazy idea. We can go back to shooting hoops in my back yard," Arthur begs.

"No way Art. That was a lot more fun than shooting hoops. I start Friday night. Can you make it?"

"No, I will be shooting hoops," Arthur says dragging Joe out.

…..

Friday night comes. Arthur is in his room reading a textbook. He looks at the clock. It is dinner time. He hears Allison call the boys down. He leaves the room and enters the dining room. It may be time for food, but it is still work time. Joey has his books on the couch. Jack has his computer open on a small table. Both men are still working.

"Time to sit down, gentlemen."

All the men sit at the table.

"Time go say Grace. Your turn luv," Allison tells Jack.

Everyone takes hands.

"God, thank you for giving us the time to start a new year again. Please bless our school and family wishes. Thank you for the grub. Amen. Let's eat fast. I have work to do."

"Do you always have to bring your work home?"

"I have to. My job is worldwide. Tonight I have to call the Middle East. It's the afternoon there. Would you rather I stay late at work or be at home with you?"

"You have a point."

"How was schools today, gentlemen?"

"Okay," Joey says.

"How are the teachers?"

"Okay, I guess. I can't wait till I start college."

"Keep up your grades up and you'll go to Northwestern too. It helps having an academic scholarship. You boys will become somebody. They don't take just everyone."

"What about you, Arthur? You've been quiet all night. Schoolwork getting to you?"

"I guess. I have four term papers and I'm only taking five classes. My computer will be working overtime this semester."

"Good, that will keep you out of trouble. Speaking of trouble, where is your partner in crime, Joe?"

"I don't know. He said he was busy."

"Lovely night like this, you two could be shooting hoops."

"It will just be me tonight."

"Why don't you call Linda? You two were pretty tight for a while," Jack asks.

"She dumped me for a football player. She likes the athletic types. I'm too ethereal for her."

"A woman who doesn't like a man with brains has no brains. You're better off without her. Take it from me an INTELLIGENT woman is a blessing."

"I'm not hungry mom. My stomach is a little queasy," Arthur says.

"Take a plate with you. You can eat it after."

"Okay, mom."

Arthur goes back upstairs. He can see Joe's room across from him. He grabs his phone to call but puts it down and sighs.

"No, I'm not calling his mother. Joe is a man and can take care of himself. Nothing will happen tonight."

Arthur looks at the books on his bed and at the basketball hoop in the back yard. He grabs the ball and leaves to shoot.

…..

It is Monday morning and Arthur is walking for the bus to the red line. He doesn't stop to get Joe. Joe runs up to him.

"Hey! I waited for you to call."

"I didn't what to. I figured you know when to come to classes. How was Friday?"

"It was a dream come true. Showtime came and when I went out the women went wild. I felt like it was heaven. I did my dance and got a lot of tips, and that was before I removed the jock strap."

"You don't have to be graphic."

"I made enough money to treat us to pizza tonight."

"And what time did you get home?"

"About two. I got a ride from one of the guys. WE all got lucky. Those girls were hungry."

"I'm glad to hear that. I hope that was your last time."

"Oh, don't be such a fuddy duddy. It was fun. That's the one thing you don't know how to do."

"I get that from my guitar."

"A guitar is a glorified piece of wood. What you need is some real female—"

"Knock it off, Joe. I was taught to respect women and I'm not going to start breaking that now. The bus is coming. Time to use your mind at school."

Arthur gets on the bus and takes a seat. Joe sits across from him.

…..

That night Arthur is in his room starting to type a paper when Jack knocks on the door.

"May I come in?"

"Sure, I'm not busy."

Jack enters and looks at the bed. It's full of papers. He sits down.

"Writing your first paper?"

"Trying to. I can't seem to make it work yet."

"I see your first mistake. Arthur knew exactly how to get a project started. He used index cards. I don't see one on your bed."

"I have those too. I just can't make the paper work."

"What's the topic?"

"The philosophy of freewill, and whether it's good or not."

"Freewill, that's a heavy subject. Did you start with its origin? You know Adam and Eve and the apple. And then work your way up."

"I don't want religion, Dad."

"So, what's the premise?"

"Freewill is the ability to know right from wrong and not feel guilty when we chose the right path."

"I like that. Go for it."

"How do I make it into ten pages?"

"You have a point there. Have you looked into history? Surely, there are examples you could use."

"Tons of examples but I can't prove its freewill or common sense. What is the difference?"

"Let's forget your paper quandary. Are you and Joe fighting?"

"No, we're just busy with school now. Northwestern is not an easy school. Why do you ask?"

"You haven't seen each other for almost a week."

"We take the bus to school together every day."

"And you don't even shoot hoops at night? You don't have much time. Winter will be here soon."

"School comes first."

"You've even forgotten your guitar. I hear Joey practicing but you haven't picked up your guitar this whole time. What's going on, son? Don't lie to me."

"Joe and I are practicing freewill. Only this time, our paths are not meeting."

"Is he doing something you consider wrong?"

"He's taken a different fork in the road."

"Is it illegal?"

"No. I'm just letting him breathe. He's trying something new, that's all."

"And you want no part of it."

"I am expressing my freewill and not doing it."

Jack shakes his head.

"You have me totally confused. Maybe that's why your paper won't work. I'll leave you and your freewill alone. Good luck."

Jack gets up and leaves. Arthur goes back to his computer.

…

Saturday afternoon. Arthur is in back shooting hoops. He can hear Joey practicing guitar in his room. Joe comes out his back door and walks up to him.

"Hey, Art? What's up?"

"Not much, just taking a break from school work for a while."

Arthur speaks still shooting hoops. He throws Joe the ball and he continues. They speak as they play.

"How you been, Art?"

"Busy. And you?"

"Busy.

"You still work weekends?"

"I work two nights a week. The money is really rolling in. You'll be sorry you didn't start when you see the tips I get."

"That type of money I don't want. Still partying with your new friends?"

"Every chance I can get. They want to meet you."

"I don't want to meet them. Just how old are they?"

"Early twenties. Some are seniors at school."

"And I bet they really corrupted you, a boy of nineteen. You must feel you're become a real man."

"I have. What's your excuse? Are you still a mama's boy?"

Arthur stops and faces Joe.

"My mother has nothing to do with this. I just happen to know what you're doing is wrong. You just haven't discovered it yet. Now give me the ball and go home. Don't talk to me till you grow up."

Joe gives him the ball.

"Art, give those boys a chance. Look, they're throwing a party next week. Come with me. You'll see you'll like them. Art, all I ask is that you give them a chance. They KNOW how to party. It's time you did."

"Absolutely not! Its bad enough you dance with no clothes on. God knows what else they taught you. I can tell you're lost respect for women. It's written all over your face."

"Art, just one party, please. Give them a chance."

"Okay, one party. But if I see anything that isn't you, I am dragging you out the door. We've been like brothers for a long time. I don't want to see you hurt."

"Don't worry. You'll love it. Give me the ball. We have time for more shoots," Joe says.

"No thanks, I'm tired," Arthur says, taking the ball and going in.

Joey has been watching the whole encounter.

….

The party in question has come. Arthur has borrowed Jack's car. He drives up to a house. Some students live off campus. Arthur parks the car. He can hear loud music and laughter.

"Let's go in, Art. What are you waiting for?"

"I have a bad feeling about this. Let's go home or get a pizza instead."

"Pizza! These guys want to meet you. You're all I talk about."

"You didn't tell me about that. Why would seniors WANT to hang out with freshmen? I don't trust them."

"Art, let's go in."

"Okay, but if I see anything bad we're both going out the door."

"Agreed, Art."

Arthur and Joe go to the door and knock. They are let in. Joe's new friends greet him.

"So, this is Arthur. Welcome. My name is Joel. This is my place. The girls will be here later. That's when the real party begins. I'm provided the equipment."

Joel pulls out some condoms from his pockets. Arthur starts to feel uneasy.

"You want a beer?"

"Not yet."

"Good enough. We have the good stuff."

Joe gets a big bag full of coke. The boys go wild. Cries of RIGHT ON are heard. They clear off a table and prepare. Even Joe grabs a straw. Arthur is shocked.

"Joe, when did you start this?"

"Two weeks ago. It feels great. You should try it. It's the new high."

"Something wrong, Art?" Joel asks.

"The only coke is do is drinking. I don't snort, inject or shoot. Joe, we're going home. This isn't you."

Joe stands up to him.

"It's me now. Get used to it, Art. I've grown up. You haven't."

"You've got it all backwards. All you've done is become corrupted. Stop before it's too late."

"Fuck you," Joe says, sitting down and getting ready to use his straw.

Arthur leaves and goes back to the car. He doesn't know what to do. He turns on the car and drives off.

…..

Arthur is in his room still trying to write his paper. Joey knocks and enters.

"Hey, Art."

"Hello, Joey."

"You want to practice a few songs. We've haven't played together in weeks."

"No, I have to get this paper down. I have writers block."

"Maybe the music will break your block. It helps me."

"You don't have four papers to write. I do. I will tell you what I really want to do. I'd like to have a brother to brother chat."

"Sure. Shoot."

He turns away from his computer and turns to Joey.

"I'm in big trouble Joey and I don't know how to fix it. I don't know how to tell to get help. I started something a few weeks back that's escalated. Now all I want to do is the right thing."

"Is it about Joe? I heard you two loudly discussing your different viewpoints a few days ago. I heard from my bedroom window."

"Yeah, it's Joe."

"Then start at the beginning, bro."

"It started the first day of classes. Joe ripped off an ad from the main bulletin board by the stairs. It was a job for male strippers at some joint in Evanston. He wanted to do it because he needed the extra money. I advised against it but I went with him to the audition. They wanted me to audition but I told them where they could stick it. Joe got it. He's been working weekends for at least three weeks."

"Does his family know?"

"He told me not to tell. That's where I went wrong. I should have. I'll go on now. He's been partying with the other dancers. Some are seniors at school. They've corrupted him. Joe was always venerable growing up. This has gone past corruption."

"He took me to a party to meet his new friends. I only spoke to one guy. His name is Joel. Those guys were ready to party. Joel said the girls were coming later and he pulled out loads of condoms. That didn't surprise me. I'm no virgin. You know that. I have my own."

"Do mom and dad know?"

"No, don't tell them. She and I broke up. But enough about me. It's Joe I'm concerned about."

"Joel brought a large bag of coke, not the drinking kind. I saw Joe getting ready to use it."

"That must be the bad part."

"Bad is not the word. I asked him how long he had been using and he said a few weeks. He liked it. I tried to get him to leave but he stood right in front of me and said FUCK YOU. I left him and came back home. Now I'm stuck. Who do I tell? Joe has been my brother and friends for over seventeen years. I have to do something."

"Why don't you ask Dad?"

"I'm nineteen. I'm an adult. I shouldn't have to go to mommy and daddy every time I have a problem. I can't tell Joe's parents because they'll ask me how I know and they'll blame me."

"Is there a school counselor? We have them at my high school."

"Now that's a thought. But that would mean squealing on his friends too. They're a big bunch of guys. They might get back at me. I don't relish getting beat up. But thanks for the advice. I'll keep it mind."

"So what will you do?"

"I'll have to get him to stop on his own. He job is NOT worth it. That group is NOT worth it. How they got into Northwestern I'll never know. Maybe their parents have money. I'll just have to help getting Joe to quit the group and his job. Maybe it's too late."

"Sounds to me it already is. Joe has never defied you. You always did things together. No one could break you up."

"Something has. And I don't know what to do."

"I say ask Dad. He had the same problem when he was young."

"That's different. It happened to him."

"But he never told anyone. And because of that TWO boys died, one Uncle Alf. This thing could get violent. You have to stop it before it does. You might end up being the causality, not Joe."

"You're right, Joey. I'll give Joe one more chance and I'm going to Dad. He can speak to Joe's parents. I just don't want to hear him lecture me. Thanks of the time. I have to get back to my paper."

"What's it on?"

"You won't believe me, freewill. With all this on my mind, no wonder I have writers' block. We'll go back to practicing after this is over, okay?"

"Yeah, but keep me in touch on what's going on. If it gets too bad I'm telling Dad."

"You have my permission to do that,"

Arthur turns back to this computer. Joe leaves the room.

…

A few weeks pass and Arthur is still taking the bus to school alone. Fall has started and the temps are going down. When he does see Joe on the bus, they sit apart. Arthur tries to get a few more nights of shooting before the snow stars. One night Joe sees him and goes into the backyard. Arthur sees him and continues shooting. Joe walks up to him with his hands in his pockets.

"Hey, Art."

"What brings you out tonight?"

"I wanted to talk to you about something."

Arthur continues shooting as he speaks, very coldly.

"So talk."

"I wanted to apologize about how I acted to you the last time. I was wrong. You're right. Those guys are too old for us. We're just freshmen."

Arthur stops, holds the ball and looks at Joe.

"I know you would come to your senses. Your turn to shoot."

The boys continue shooting as they speak.

"I've decided to join a fraternity instead."

"I wouldn't do that either. They have you make love to a LIVE pig. Those guys are very sick people."

"So, what's your advice?"

"Stay independent. You went there to learn. That's what you should be concentrating on. That's what I'm doing."

"Don't you want to fit in?"

"No, I don't. My dad has always taught me to think for myself. I double think every decision I make. It's time you start doing that. Joe, you've always been venerable. That was cute when we were young. We're both mem now. We have to grow up to match our age and our bodies. That job and your friends have to go. And another thing, all those girls you're meeting up with are bad news. They sleep with anything with a penis. You might catch something you will live to regret. Ever hear of AIDS?"

"I did like the girls."

"I would too. But with me it has to be a special girl, not some whore. That's why I've been celibate lately. Just because I know how to use my penis in a hard on doesn't mean I should."

"So what should I do about the fraternity?"

"You want my advice. Skip it. They'll find their own chuffs."

"What's a chuff?"

"It's a British derogatory term for prostitute. It's someone who kisses up just to fit in. Don't be a chuff. Be the Joe I know and love."

"You could be wrong, Art. If frats and sororities are bad, why do schools have them?"

"Because it's a long tradition no one wants to break. Some are good but some are bad. People get hurt. Some die. You can't tell which frat is good or bad. Do what I do? Ignore them. They'll go away."

"There's a party Friday night at the one I want to join. Will you come with me?"

"Been there. Done that, Joe. No. I know you'll be taken over by the crowd, like you were last time. Let's go get a pizza instead. It's safer."

"Pizza is boring."

"Pizza is the best thing to do. You don't know what happens at those parties. Just read the news. They drink boys to death. They call it initiation. It's really murder."

"I really want to go, Art. This time I'll listen and leave with you. I promise."

Arthur stops shooting and looks at Joe.

"Okay. I'll give you a second chance. But, you better do as I say. If I say go, we're gone."

Arthur throws Joe the ball.

"Your turn."

The boys continue shooting. Joey watches from his bedroom window.

"I hope you make the right decision, Art. I don't relish telling Dad."

…..

It is the night of the frat party. Arthur has borrowed Jack's car and drives up with Joe. Arthur is reluctant to get out of the car.

"You already don't want to go in," Joe says.

"How did you guess? Are you sure your friends won't be there?"

"Not unless they're part of the fraternity. I know they don't live here."

"Now you tell me. Let's go in. Maybe these guys will be okay."

They enter the fraternity. The place is packed. The music is loud and the booze is flowing. Arthur looks around.

"You didn't mention it would be packed. With all these people there has to be something illegal going on."

"I don't think so. Why don't we just mingle? I know I will," Joe says walking away.

Arthur looks around. Everyone is drinking from red plastic cups.

"There must be punch somewhere. That's something I'm going to avoid. God knows what's in it," Arthur says, under his breath.

Three girls enter the party. Two are very vivid and have been around to a few parties. The third appears slightly younger and quite shy. She's very out of place. Arthur watches her from a distance. He approaches her. She leans against the wall. The two girls have left her alone. Arthur sees Joel in the crowd.

"Just my luck," Arthur says.

Joel sees him and comes over to Arthur.

"Well, it isn't Arthur. You're the last person I expected to see here."

"I came with Joe."

"Ah, Joe's here. I have to find him."

"You stay away from him. You've done enough harm."

"What are you going to do? Spank me?"

Arthur grabs Joel's arm.

"Joe is off limits. Do I make myself clear?"

"Very clear, Daddy? Enjoy the party."

The shy girl looks at Arthur and smiles. He smiles back and walks up to her.

"You seem very protective about Joe."

"He's my best friend. We came together."

"I came with two girls. They're my cousins but they seem to have left me."

"That's not nice. A pretty girl like you could get into trouble in a place like this."

"You look safe enough."

"Notice, I'm not drinking, anything. Who knows what's in that punch. My name is Arthur Hopkins."

"My name is Sheryl Guttenberg."

They shake hands.

"Like the bible and the same as the main building. My father is a sponsor at this school."

"You're a pretty like rich girl. And I'm the son of a working class stiff. Shouldn't you have bodyguards?"

"I came with family. They deserted me."

"So did Joe."

"Then it's good we met. I'm thirsty but I'm afraid to get a drink."

"Play it safe and leave. Go home where it's safe. That's where I want to be right now. I just need to find Joe."

Joel looks around the room and sees Arthur talking to Sheryl. He nudges a few friends. They smile and it becomes dangerous. Joel walks over to them.

"Well, Arthur, looks like you a found a friend. And what is your name, Miss?"

"Sheryl."

"Sheryl, what a pretty name, for such a pretty girl. Are you thirsty? I could get you some punch."

"She doesn't want any, Joel."

"You're protecting her too. I thought you were worried about Joe. Where is he? He seems to have disappeared. Maybe you should find him."

Joel puts his arm around Sheryl's neck and drags her away from Arthur. She looks back in distress. He is torn between saving her and looking for Joe.

"I'll get you some punch. Just follow me," Joel says walking away.

Arthur starts to follow her but then changes his mind to find Joe instead. He looks all over the house. There are multiple floors. He doesn't know where to starts. He starts looking for Joe. First he tries the highest floor. He can't find him. He works his way downstairs. No sign of Joe.

A half hour passes and Joe can't be found. He finally reaches the basement. He goes downstairs and opens the first door. Joe is with his old friends. They are doing coke and he is already stoned. He turns to leave when he hears Joel's voice and follows it to the next room. He opens the door. An unconscious Sheryl is on a table with her legs spread apart. Joel is about to attack her.

"Get off her!" Arthur cries.

Arthur runs in, hits Joel and picks Sheryl up. Joel gets up and tries to hit Arthur but he pushes Joel back to the floor again. Arthur picks up her purse and carries her out. He goes by the next door and thinks of Joe inside. He looks at Sheryl. She is limp in his arms. Joel comes out and faces Arthur.

"Get out of here. We don't need your kind here. And take the girl with you," Joel says.

Arthur goes to the door, carries Sheryl and puts her in his car. He starts to head back to get Joe when he sees Joel block the door. Arthur gets into the car. He looks at Sheryl. She is still unconscious. He grabs her purse and checks her for purse for ID and finds an address. It is a rich gated community.

"Looks like I'm taking you home. After I make one phone call," Arthur says.

Arthur gets his phone and dials.

"Hello, police…I'd like to report a party where minors are served…I was just there. I suggest you check the basement. They're doing coke…I'd rather not give my name but I'm sure you can track me down by my phone…It's a frat house on the Northwestern Evanston campus. The street is Sherwin. Please hurry."

Arthur ends the call.

"Sorry, Joe. It was the only to save both of you."

Arthur starts the car.

…..

Arthur approaches a gated community on Sheridan Road. He drives up to the guard. The guard looks into the car.

"I'm bringing home Sheryl Guttenberg. Please tell her family I'm coming. Have someone meet me in front of the house. Please let me in. She's been drugged."

The guard lets him in. Arthur drives to the only house he can see. He sees a man come out and run to the car. The man sees Sheryl and panics.

"Oh my God! What happened to her? And who are you?" Where are her cousins?"

"My name is Arthur Hopkins. I was at a frat party with a friend. I lost him. When I went looking for him I found this girl. She was about to be raped. She's unconscious. I searched her purse and brought her home. Are you her father?"

"Yes. Where are the cousins?"

"They deserted her the moment they got to the party. We were just talking before she was dragged away. I strongly suggest you take her to a hospital and get her blood checked. If it's what I think it is, it doesn't stay in the system for long."

"I'll get my car," Mr. Guttenberg says.

He does and Arthur puts her in it. He goes back to his car and starts to drive off when Mr. Guttenberg blocks his path. He rolls down the window.

"You're not getting off that easy. I have a lot of questions for you. You're following me to the hospital."

Arthur nods and follows.

….

Mr. Guttenberg and Arthur are in the waiting room. He gives Arthur a dirty look. Arthur already knows he's in for a bad night. The doctor comes out and goes to her father.

"The boy was right. It was the date rape drug. We're giving her something to bring her out. It should take soon."

"Was she attacked?" Mr. Guttenberg asks.

"No, there's no sign of sexual penetration. You got a real hero with you. You can go see her now."

The doctor leaves. Mr. Guttenberg turns to Arthur. Arthur hangs his head. He sits next to Arthur.

"I see I owe you an apology. Thank you. I seemed to have forgotten your name."

"Arthur Hopkins."

"What were you doing at the frat party?"

"I came with a friend. I lost him. I found your daughter when I went looking for him. I left him at the party."

"I'll need your contact information for the police report. Did you recognize any of the boys?"

"Just one. His name is Joel. I don't know his last name. He was my friend's new friend. We weren't on good terms. I do know where he can be found."

"Where?"

"The police station. I called the police to raid the party. I may have just signed my death warrant. Joel is also a male dancer at some bar in Evanston. That's all I know. Give me a pen and paper. I'll give you my contact information."

He does and Arthur rises.

"I'm going home now. Tell Sheryl I said Hi."

Mr. Guttenberg goes to see Sheryl.

…

Arthur gets home. The house is dark. Jack comes out of the shadows. He has been waiting for him.

"Where have you been?"

"At a party."

Jack walks up to him.

"The same party Joe went to?"

"Yes."

"You left him there and the police came. He's in jail. Why did you do that?"

"It was for his own good. He's been doing coke. I didn't want to tell his parents. When I saw him do it again, I let the police tell them."

"I see. How long have you known?"

"Dad, I'm tired. I just want to go to bed."

"This isn't over, Arthur. I want a full explanation. Your room in five minutes."

"Yes, sir."

Arthur goes to his room.

…

Arthur sits on the bed waiting. The door opens and Jack enters. He sits by him.

"Start at the beginning."

"It was the first day of school. Joe grabbed a job ad from the school bulletin board."

"What type of job?"

"A male dancer. There's a place in downtown Evanston. He applied and got the job. I went with him. They wanted me too but I refused. It was just a weekend job and Joe liked the money. Male dancers make good tips."

"He started to hang around with the other dancers. They were also students, only seniors. They corrupted him. Joe took me to one party. I saw them bring out the coke. I tried to make him leave but he wouldn't. When he told me to fuck off I did."

"What happened next?"

"I didn't speak to him for a few weeks and one night when I was shooting hoops he came and apologized. He said he wanted to join some fraternity. I told him not to. He told me about the party and begged me to come with him."

"After the first time you still went? I didn't think I raised a dummy."

"I wanted to give him a second chance. He's my friend. Something else happened at the party. After Joe left me, I started talking to this girl. She was a nice girl and didn't belong there. She got dragged off and I still had to find Joe."

"I searched for him everywhere. I finally found him in the basement. He was already stoned. As I was leaving I heard voices and looked into the next room. The girl I was talking to was unconscious and had her legs spread. One of Joe's new friends was about to attack her. I had to make a choice, Joe or the girl. I chose the girl."

"I grabbed the girl and brought her to the car. She was unconscious. I went back for Joe and they barred the door. I couldn't get him. I drove off, stopped the car and called the police about the party. I then went through her purse and got her address and drove her home. Her father sent her to the hospital to see what she was given. I just came from there."

Jack sighs.

"Seems you've had a busy night. That's quite a choice you made."

"Should I have chosen Joe instead?"

"No, you made the right decision. Were you in time for the girl?"

"Just barely. I left the girl and the father at the hospital."

Jack gets off the bed and heads for the door.

"This isn't over. I applaud what you did for the girl. I don't applaud you hiding Joe's information from his parents. We'll talk about this later."

Jack leaves the room.

"That's what I'm afraid of Dad."

…..

The weeks pass and there is tension between Jack and Arthur, and the Hopkins family and their neighbor. Arthur keeps taking the bus to school but this time he is alone. His whole life surrounds itself with school work. Jack keeps an eye on him at all times.

Fall is ending and winter is coming. The air is crisp. Snow is around the corner. That is when the letters started. They were all addressed to Arthur. One day Allison gets the mail and brings it in. Arthur is in the kitchen with Joey. She comes into the kitchen.

"Arthur, there's a letter for you," Allison says.

"From who?"

"Don't know. No return address."

She gives him the mail and walks away. Arthur opens it, shakes his head, crumbles it and throws it in the trash. He leaves the kitchen. Joey picks up the crumbled paper and opens it. It is a picture of a dead rat. He is baffled.

The anonymous letters continue almost every day. Arthur is very worried. He tries but can't concentrate on school anymore. Joey notices. He enters Arthur's bedroom unannounced and Arthur jumps out of his skin.

"Don't do that Joey. Knock first."

"What's going on Art? You've been getting letters for some time. I saw one. It had a dead rat on it. Tell me. I'm your brother."

Arthur goes to his closet and pulls out a reebox shoe box and hands it to Joey. Joey opens it and sees more letters.

"Why are you getting these?"

"Because I ratted on that party. I get notes everywhere. I find them in the mail. Some are even slipped into my coat pockets when I hang up my coat. I never see who does it, but they see me."

"Art, these are death threats. You have to tell the police. You have to tell Dad."

"Don't you think I know that? Do you think I want to go through life always looking over my shoulder? I'm afraid of what they'll do to this family. These people know where I live. They know where ALL of us live. I can't tell Dad. What will he tell mom? We have a new baby sister we have to think of. I start a night class next week. I have to walk through a dark parking lot to get to the bus stop. I'm scared, Joey."

"Maybe someone could pick you up?"

"For how long? For the rest of my life. I'm a grown man. I should be able to take care of myself. I'm not in kindergarten."

"When is your first class?"

"Tuesday night. I get out at 7:30."

"I'll take Dad's car and pick you up. I'll wait for you in the parking lot."

"For how long Joey? I'm your big brother. When did you become my babysitter?"

"Now. You have to tell Dad. Show him the letters in the box. He needs to know."

"I'll tell him Tuesday when I get home."

"Promise?"

"Yes, I promise."

Joey stands up.

"Don't worry. I'll be there."

"What will you tell Dad?"

"I'll tell him I have an errand to run. It's not a lie."

Joey leaves the room. Arthur puts the box back into the closet.

…

Tuesday night comes and Arthur leaves the building where his class is. He goes down the stairs and starts walking on a path with trees. One man jumps up behind him and hits him on the head. Arthur falls but he is not completely out. He starts to get up. Other men join in. Two are Joe and Joel. Joel drags Arthur into some bushes and they start beating him up. Arthur can't defend himself and finally passes out.

Joey and Jack are waiting in the car for Arthur but he doesn't show up. Joey has asked Jack to join him but has not told him why.

"You're worried, Joey. What's going on? Why am I here?" Jack asks.

"Art's in trouble, Dad. We'll tell you when we get home tonight. You wait here. I'll go get him."

Joey gets out of the car and runs across the parking lot. He reaches the school building and hears voices. He goes to the bushes and sees Arthur being attacked. He recognizes Joe. Joel hands him a gun.

"Get it over with, Joe. He's not your friend anymore. Friends don't betray each other."

Joe starts to aim at Arthur.

"NO! DON'T DO IT!" Joey screams.

Joe looks up and sees Joey.

"What are you doing, Joe? Can't you see he's already half dead?"

Joey walks up to Joe.

"You want to kill somebody, kill me. I'm a witness. Kill me right and no one will ever know. Kill me Joe."

Jack reaches Joey and freezes. The other men see Jack.

"Get out of here! Too many witnesses," another man says.

The men run, leaving Joe with the gun.

"Kill me Joe. You might as well kill the other brother. Go ahead. Do it."

Jack is in shock. Joe raises his gun to Joey and pulls the trigger. The gun jams. Jack sighs and runs to Joey. Joe drops the gun and it goes off. It was primed and loaded. Joey runs to Arthur and holds his head.

"Art, talk to me. It's Joey. Art, please say something. Art, don't die on me."

Joey rocks him and starts crying. Jack is still in shock. He picks up his phone and dials.

"I need an ambulance. Quick!" Jack says.

…

Jack and Joey are in the ER waiting room. Joey is pacing. Jack sits there quietly glaring at Joey. He goes to him.

"Now will you tell me what is going on? Your brother is lying in the ER just waiting to die."

"We were going to tell you tonight when we came home. He's been getting death threats."

"Why? How? When?"

"It started when the frat party was raided. They know he's the one called the police. It's been going on for weeks."

"And you knew about these death threats?"

"Only one. It was the first letter Art got in the mail. We were in the kitchen. He opened it and threw it in the trash. I picked it up. It was a picture of a dead rat."

"Who would do this?"

"Joe has new friends. He changed about a month ago. All I know is he's doing drugs and dancing somewhere on weekends. Arts been trying to get him away from them but Joe won't listen. They must be sending Art the threats."

"Would you have names?"

"All I know is one named Joel. He's a senior at school. There all seniors. The police probably have their names from the raid."

Jack sits down.

"That explains the dead rats we've been seeing around the house."

"What dead rats?" Joey asks, sitting down.

"A few weeks your mom found one on the front steps. She didn't think much about it. It looked like it had died from natural causes. Chicago does have big rats. A few days later I saw some in the bushes. I thought someone put out some poison and they all died by us."

"Art has a reebox shoe box in his closet. It's full of threats. He showed it to me. He said he was scared. I told him to tell you but he wanted to wait."

"Scared for him?"

"Scared for us. He's worried about little Anna. He doesn't want someone to get hurt. That's why I was picking him up."

Jack turns to Joey and is about to speak when the doctor comes in.

"Mr. Hopkins?"

"Yes?" they both answer.

"Are you the father?"

"Yes. How is he?"

"I won't lie to you. He's very badly injured. His ribs are cracked and he was kicked repeatedly on his sides."

"We're checking if any major organs were hurt. But that's not my main concern."

"What is your main concern?"

"He was hit on the head with something hard. He has a serious concussion. I'm concerned his brain will swell and will develop into blood clots. I've put him in an induced coma. We're giving him blood thinners and medicine for the swelling. He's going to be admitted into ICU. Was this a mugging?"

"No, it was planned."

"He's being moved upstairs now. We've done all we can down here. I have to get back to him."

The Doctor leaves. Jack sits down and starts breathing heavily. He turns to Joey.

"I wish YOU had told me sooner. I'm so mad at you, I could kill you. Why didn't you tell me?"

"He kept saying he was a grown man and he didn't want to tell his parents. He could take care of it alone."

"And why did you have to challenge Joe tonight? I saw you."

"I didn't want him to kill Art. I thought if he saw there was a witness he would stop. That's why I challenged him. I didn't think he would really do it."

"Well, he did and that gun jammed. There was no reason for it to jam. It was primed and loaded. That's why it went off when it hit the ground. You were damn lucky. Don't you ever do that again? I know guns. They very rarely jam. I would have lost two sons instead of one."

"I'm sorry, Dad. I didn't know any way to stop him. I had to give Art a chance," Joey says crying.

Jack puts his arms around Joey and holds him close.

"It's okay, Joey. It seems you did the right thing. God didn't want you yet. Let's just hope he doesn't want your brother."

The Doctor comes in.

"We're moving him now. Please come with us."

"I'll be right there. I just have to make a call."

Jack picks up his phone and dials.

"Hello, Meg. It's me Jack… Everything. Can you pick up Joey at Evanston Hospital ER? I need you to take him home. He needs to get something…I can't tell you now. He knows where to find it. Then tell Ally to come back with him. Arthur's been hurt. He will be in ICU. Afterwards, could you stay with Anna? I'll call you later with the details…Thanks, Meg. You have our set of keys? Fine."

Jack closed the call.

"We're ready now. Joey you wait for Meg outside."

"Yes, sir."

Jack goes with the Doctor and Joey goes to the door.

…

Jack waits as they put Arthur into ICU. Two detectives come off the elevator and approach him.

"Are you Mr. Hopkins?" Detective one asks.

"Yes."

"We're from the Evanston police department. We hear your son has been brought in. We're here to investigate," Detective one continues.

"How is your son now? Is he able to speak to us?" Detective two asks.

"He's in an induced coma. He can't speak to anyone."

"Do you know what happened?"

"Not really. Most of what I know is hearsay. He told me but he did tell his brother, Joey is on the way with some evidence. He can fill you in with the rest when he gets here."

"Did you see the attacker?" Detective two asks.

"Yes, but I don't know them. Only one. It's the boy who lives next door. His name is Joe. He was my son's friend."

"Why would he try to kill him?" Detective two asks.

"It's a long story. Joe pointed a gun at my other son. I saw it. It jammed."

"They found the gun outside the school. We already have it," Detective one tells Detective two.

Joey and Allison enter the ICU. Joes goes to Jack.

"Here's the shoebox, Dad."

"Joey, these are two detectives from the Evanston Police Department. Tell them what you know. But first, can I see the box?"

Joey gives Jack the box and Jack opens it. He opens one letter can closes his eyes.

"Oh my God! Why did he wait so long?"

Jack gives the detectives the shoe box.

"This should help answer some of your questions. Joey, you tell them all you know and them come back. Your mother needs to know everything."

Jack sits down. Allison sits next to him.

"What happened? Why is Arthur is ICU?"

"Do you remember the frat raid I told you about? It was Arthur who called it in."

"Yes, I remember."

"This is their answer to it. He was beaten up. Joey and I came there right before they were going to finish off the job. It's bad, Ally."

"How bad?"

"They hit him hard on the head. The Doctors are concerned about blood clots. They put him in an induced coma and are giving him blood thinners. Joey will tell you the rest when he finishes with the police."

"There's more. Joey decided to play Lone Ranger. He challenged the one with the gun to kill him."

"Gun?"

"It jammed when fired. There's more."

"I'm afraid to ask."

"Joe had the gun. They were best friends. We almost lost two boys tonight."

Joey comes over and the detectives leave. Allison turns to Joey and slaps him in the face.

"How dare you? It's bad enough your brother may be dying. I have to lose you too!" Allison cries, and then hugging Joey.

"There's more, Ally."

She stops and turns back to Jack.

"You know the dead rats we've been finding? They weren't poisoned. They were warnings. We've had them for two weeks. Arthur is in bad shape. He was repeatedly kicked by the time we got there. The doctors are checking for any internal injuries. He has broken ribs. We got there too late to stop any more injuries. I hope we don't lose him."

Allison is having trouble breathing.

"Jack, why do guns jam?

"There aren't many reasons why. They jam when they're old or dirty. That gun was neither. Joe threw it down to the ground and it went off. It was fine. Why it jammed when he pointed it at Joey I don't know. I'm just glad it did."

"It wasn't his time. That's why it jammed. Let's pray it's not Arthur's time."

Jack puts his arm around Allison's shoulders and holds her. Joey hangs his head. The Doctor comes in.

"Mr. and Mrs. Hopkins?"

"Yes?" Jack says.

"I'm Doctor Singh. I've just examined your son. I won't sugarcoat it. It doesn't look good. His injuries are pretty massive."

"What are his odds?"

"Not good. Between the internal side injuries, his brain might kill him. We're doing our best to help the pain and we're watching for any more repercussions. We need some more x-rays to give you a more complete diagnosis. Whoever did this did a good job. We'll be lucky not to lose him tonight. I have to go back now."

"If I knew who did this, I would kill them myself," Jack says.

He continues holding a crying Allison.

"That makes two of us, Dad," Joey adds.

….

The three are around Arthur's bed. Arthur is attached to many machines and on an IV. His head is bandaged and he has the beginning of a black eye. They are silent as they watch the heart monitor beep. Jack looks out the window. It has started raining.

"Why is it always raining? It was raining when Mary died. It stopped when she passed," Jack comments.

"That's what Uncle Arthur asked. I hate rain," Allison adds.

Jack looks at Arthur and takes his hand.

"At least they didn't hurt his fingers. He can still play guitar."

"But will he remember how? What if he loses his memory? What if he has amnesia?" Joey asks.

"The Doctor said he will wake up confused but he won't have amnesia. His memory will come back. It's an induced coma, not a real one. I hope he still remembers how to play?"

"I just hope he makes it," Joey says.

Jack looks at his watch.

"It's late, Joey. You need to go home. You have school tomorrow. You better go."

"Fuck school. I'd rather be here."

"School is important. You're going."

"And what is Arthur should die while I'm in school?"

"I'll tell him not to."

Jack stands, grabs his phone and dials.

"Meg, it's Jack again…No, Arthur is the same. I'm sending Joey back in a cab…Could you please pay them when he gets there?...Thanks. I'll pay you back and thanks for watching Anna."

He concludes the call and turns to Joey.

"You can come back after school. Okay?"

"Okay."

Joey gets up and goes to Jack. Jack rises and hugs him.

"Try and get some sleep. They're doing all they can for him. Love you."

Joey walks out. Jack goes back and holds Arthur's hand.

"Why didn't he tell us sooner?" Jack asks.

"He was trying to be macho like you."

"I'm not macho."

"You are when you play parent. You gave those boys a good set of morals."

"And that's why Arthur is here now. He has good morals. A lot of good that does. It was the choice he made. He saved the girl instead of Joe."

"Some girl? If some boy saved my daughter I would at least say thank you. We haven't heard from them. It's been two weeks. There's no excuse, " Allison comments.

"Maybe they have their reasons."

"Arthur is in that bed to save her honor. Isn't that reason enough?"

There are two voices heard at the nurse's station. They are Mr. Guttenberg and his daughter Sheryl.

"I'm sorry sir, but you can't see him. You're not family."

"I've come to see the father. It's important."

"Alright, but please be quiet. Patients are sleeping."

Mr. Guttenberg enters Arthur's room. Jack sees him.

"Mr. Hopkins?"

"Yes. How are you?"

"You don't know me. My name is Eric Guttenberg. I'm the father of the girl your son rescued. I came as soon as I heard. The police called me because of MY complaint. It seems we're related. Could I speak to you please?"

"Yes, just be quiet. My son is sleeping."

Mr. Guttenberg goes to the bed.

"How is he?"

"He's in an induced coma. The Doctors are afraid of blood clots. They're giving him blood thinners. They don't know if he'll make it till tomorrow."

"I don't know what to say. You son did a brave thing. I'm sorry we haven't been in touch but we've had police problems. It seems they can't prove our case. My daughter was never hurt. Only your son could help us."

"You might not get it now. They almost killed him. We got there before they did."

"Did those boys do this?"

"Yes. The police are getting them now."

"Shame. He's a good kid."

"He's a man. I raised him well. He did everything right that night. How is your daughter?"

"She's here. She wants to see him. May I bring her in?"

"Of course. Sorry I forgot. This is my wife, Arthur's mother, Allison. Ally this is the father of the girl Arthur saved."

She rises and shakes his hand.

"Please consider my condolences. I hope your son makes it. He's a good man."

"Thank You."

Allison sits back down. Mr. Guttenberg calls Sheryl and she enters.

"Sherrie, this is Mr. and Mrs. Hopkins, Arthur's parents. This is my daughter Sherrie."

"It's nice to meet you," Jack says.

"May I approach the bed?"

"Feel free."

Jack moves aside and goes to Allison's side of the bed. Sheryl bends down to Arthur. Her necklace comes out of her blouse. It has a Star of David on it.

"You're wearing a Star of David?" Jack asks.

"I'm Jewish. Does that matter?"

"No. We're Catholic. My sister is engaged to a Jew back home."

"What did they do to him?"

"Almost everything. He's in an induced coma. The Doctors are giving him blood thinners. They're afraid of blood clots."

"He was so nice to me. He kept telling me to go home. I didn't belong there. He warned me about drinking anything."

"May I ask what happened? He was never clear about that," Jack asks.

"A group of boys grabbed me and dragged me away. They made me drink something. I didn't want to. And then everything went blank. I woke up in the hospital. Arthur had left by then."

"Do you remember those boys' faces?"

"Not really. It all happened so fast. I remember one boy knew Arthur. That's all I know. I'm sorry I can't help you more. Will he live?"

"We don't know. By the time we got there it was too late. They had a gun. The gun jammed."

She strokes his hair.

"I hope he does. He seems like a good guy."

"He is. We're very proud of him."

She bends down and kisses his cheek.

"God bless you Arthur."

She back away.

"Thank you for letting me see him."

She takes Arthur's hand.

"Come back, Arthur. I would really like to know you. Thank you for helping me."

She goes to her father.

"If you need anything, just call me. Here's my card."

Mr. Guttenberg gives Jack a card. He reads it.

"Guttenberg? You're the boss?"

"I'm a founding sponsor at Northwestern. Your son was attacked in front of the building named by me. I can take care of the bill if you want."

"That won't be necessary. This is the last year my son is on my insurance. We'll be fine. Thank you for coming."

The Guttenberg's leave. Jack turns to Allison.

"Now we know why they haven't called. I told you there was a reason."

Jack goes back to sitting on the other side of the bed.

"She seems like a nice girl," Allison says.

"I can see why she got his attention," Jack says, taking his hand again.

The two parents settle down in their chairs and wait.

"When shall we relive Meg?" Jack asks.

"I don't know. I have to feed Anna. I need to go home and pump some more milk. Anna needs to eat."

"You can't get formula from the store?"

"I am the store. I'll go home in the morning and take care of it. We'll see how long Meg can stay. He could be awake tomorrow."

She grabs the other hand and kisses it.

"I'll bring you a change of underwear when I get back."

…

Time passes and each takes turns looking out the window. It is still raining. Both are quiet. Arthur doesn't move. The morning comes and Allison has left. Jack goes back to the bed. He closes his eyes and tries to sleep. Billy enters the room. Jack opens his eyes and rises. Billy goes and hugs him.

"Meg called me. She told me what happened. How is he doing?"

Jack looks at the bed.

"The same. At least he's still alive. He made it through the night."

Billy goes to the bed and takes Arthur's hand.

"What animals did this?"

"Some frat boys. It's a long story."

"I'm glad I never went to college."

"It's not the schools fault. It's the fault of the parents of some of these students. Crime is very high at universities. But it mostly involves female students, not male. The world has changed."

Jack goes back to the bed. Billy looks at Arthur's face.

"His eyes are moving under the lids. I can see them."

"I can too. I think he's dreaming."

"I wonder what he's dreaming about."

"We'll know when he wakes up, if he wakes up."

"He will Jack. Your son will be fine. He's a Hopkins. No one can destroy them."

"Unless they destroy themselves. My brother died two years ago. I hate funerals."

The Doctor comes in. Jack goes to him.

"Any news?"

"We've got the latest x-ray results. The swelling in his brain has gone down. We'll still continue the meds. We'll get some more tests tonight. If the swelling has gone down enough, we'll consider bringing him out of the coma."

"What about the other injuries?"

"That's the miracle part. He was not kicked by any major organ. He will still be bruised and very sore."

"Is he in the clear? Will he make it?"

"That depends on him. If he has a strong will to live, he just might. Right now we're taking it one step at a time."

"Doctor, I can see his eyes moving under his lids? What does that mean?" Billy asks.

"It means he's dreaming. They all do that. I wouldn't worry. My main concern is his brain."

The Doctor leaves. Billy turns to Jack.

"See he's doing better. He'll feel like he was hit by a truck, but he'll be okay."

Jack sits down again.

"I felt so defenseless last night seeing him lie there. I didn't know what to do. Those boys saw me and ran. Joe was the only boy who stayed."

"Meg told me."

"I thought I would lose both my boys last night. I almost did. For some crazy reason a perfectly working gun jammed. It makes no sense. Joey should be dead."

Billy goes to him.

"He's not. Joey had angels watching over him. All you guys did. Arthur has his own angels. We can't see them. Can I get you some coffee? You look as if you need it."

"That would be great, Billy. Thanks."

"I'll be right back. We'll wait together."

Billy leaves. Jack goes back to the bed and takes his hand.

"Fight, Arthur, fight. Come back to us," Jack says, a tear running down his cheek.

…..

Arthur is walking down a busy street in New York. He turns left on Hudson St. and stops in front of 7368. He walks through the glass lobby doors and approaches an elevator. The door opens and he gets in and rides to the seventeenth floor. It opens to a long hallway of apartment doors. He walks to 17A and goes through the door and enters an apartment.

A little girl about eight years old is sitting on the couch. She is shuffling playing cards. It is a young Allison Grofton. A man about early 20's is in the kitchen. He goes into the living room. It is a young Jack Hopkins.

"Hello, little girl," Arthur says.

She does not hear him. He feels as if he is watching a movie. The man sits on a chair before the little girl. He does not see Arthur either.

"This has to be a dream. That's what this is. It's a dream," Arthur says to himself.

"Did you shuffle those cards enough?"

"Yes, Uncle Jack."

'Give me the cards. I want to shuffle them too. You win MUCH too often."

The man shuffles the deck and they prepare to play poker.

"I put supper in the oven. They should be finished soon. I don't understand why your uncle likes TV dinners. I prefer my own cooking. Next time I babysit I'll make us bangers and mash. It's my favorite."

"You talk funny, Uncle Jack."

"I do not talk funny, Miss Allison. It's my dialect. I am from London. I'm a cockney. We drop our H's, G'S and A's. We replace the word MY with ME and the word them with 'EM."

"You talk that way at work?"

"No, there I speak the King's English. I speak proper."

"What's work like?"

"I'm one of three junior executives. In plain English, I'm a fluky. I wish I could get a promotion. I don't even have a window."

"What do you do all day?"

"I talk to people and draw up contracts. It's bloody boring, but it keeps me here in New York City. One day I will be the boss. Just not here."

"And what do you do all day, Miss Allison?"

"I go to school, do my homework, watch TV and go to bed. And on the nights Uncle Arthur is home, I stay in my room. He smokes too much."

"I know. He's a bloody chimney. He needs a chimney sweep. I'll talk to him again."

"It won't work. Uncle Arthur doesn't listen."

"What did you learn in school today?"

"I learned us YANKS wiped your asses in 1776."

"That's only because we let you. We could have won. We just didn't try enough. What do you want to do after supper?"

"Why do you always call it supper? It's dinner."

"It's what we call it back home."

The man smiles.

"You know who you remind me of Ally?"

"He called her Ally," Arthur mutters.

"No, who?"

"My little sister, Anna. She was seven when I came across the pond. I miss her. She had the biggest eyes and smile. She brought happiness into every room. The day I left she cried. She didn't understand why she was losing me. I look at your eyes and see her."

A timer goes off.

"I'll get supper."

He goes into the kitchen, brings the two TV dinners and puts them before them. He picks at his.

"This stuff is disgusting. Next time it's bangers and mash. After supper you will take your bath and go to bed."

"And what will you do?"

"I'll probably watch TV. Uncle Arthur should be in about two."

"Can we skip the bath tonight? I want to watch TV with you, Uncle Jack."

"Uncle Jack. My God. That mom and dad. But how can I see them?" Arthur asks again.

"Okay, we skip the bath but you're in bed before Arthur comes home."

"You're so gullible. I love you, Uncle Jack."

"I love you too, Ally."

"You think we'll ever get married?"

"Not till you're a lot older. Right that's against the law."

They eat supper, sit on the couch, and start watching TV. He puts his arm around her shoulders and she puts her head against his chest.

"I like listening to your heart, Uncle Jack. It makes we feel safe."

"You make ME feel safe, Ally."

They continue watching until she falls asleep. The man removes his arm and she falls gently to the couch. He picks her up in his arms, goes into her room, and returns empty. He sits on the couch and lowers the TV volume. The man watches the clock. It is almost two when a man in his early 20's enters. It is Uncle Arthur. The man looks up.

"Just in time. How did tonight go?"

"I got phone numbers. One girl said she had a sister for you. Her friend wasn't bad."

The man gets up and walks to the door.

"You know one day, Art that type of life style will get US both in trouble. I can feel it. We can't spend all our free time shagging every girl in New York. Ally is your niece. How do you think she sees us?"

"She's too young to understand."

"That's what you think. She already has. Good night, Art."

The man leaves. Uncle Arthur turns to Arthur.

"And now it's your turn, Arthur." Uncle Arthur says.

"You can see me? They couldn't."

"They weren't really here. They're still very much alive. And so are you."

As Uncle Arthur speaks he starts to age appearance and clothing. Arthur can't believe what he sees. Uncle Arthur finally stops as a man of forty-five wearing army fatigues.

"Uncle Arthur!"

"Yes, son. It's me. I've been watching you grow up. You've become a good man unlike I was when I lived here."

"Where am I then?"

"You're in-between two worlds. You might say in limbo. Do you remember what happened last night?"

"I was leaving school, going down the stairs to the sidewalk, and something hit me on the back of the head. I saw four men. They dragged me into the bushes and they began hitting me. I felt like I was going to die."

"Did you recognize any of them?"

"Two, my buddy Joe and his new friend Joel. Why did they want to kill me?"

"Do you think you'll be able to remember that?"

"I can never forget it. I never hurt anyone in my life. Why would someone hurt me like that?"

A young woman enters the room. She is beautiful. She has brown eyes and plenty of jet black hair. Her facial features resemble a Grecian female statue. She stands near Uncle Arthur.

"Arthur, this is my wife, Mary."

"Mary from the diner?"

"Yes, Arthur. Are you Jack's boy? My you have become such a handsome man. He must be very proud. It's time you told him, Joe."

"Tell me what?"

"It's time to go back home. Your family needs you," Uncle Arthur says.

"You don't belong here with us. You belong among the living. Go home, Arthur. Your father and Billy are waiting for you," Mary says.

"Give Billy our love. Tell him we miss him and are very proud of his franchise. We trained him well. When you get back, tell your Dad we love him. Right now you're in 17A, but you were made in 17H. Tell him that."

The walls in the apartment start to fade into a helicopter port on top of a high rise. A helicopter waits for Arthur in front. Uncle Arthur and Mary wait with him.

"Time to go, Arthur," Uncle Arthur says.

"In a helicopter? Okay."

Arthur goes inside and closes the door. He looks out the window. Uncle Arthur smiles, raises his hand, and the sixties peace sign. Arthur does it back as the helicopter starts to go up.

…

Billy feels Arthur's hand move. He looks at Arthur who is waking up.

"Jack! He's coming too!"

Billy looks out the window. It has stopped raining.

Jack looks up and smiles.

"It's stopped raining, Jack. I'll get the nurse."

Billy runs out of the room.

Jack goes and holds his hand. Arthur's eyes open.

"Dad?"

"Yes, son. It's me," Jack says, crying.

"Where am I? What am I doing here?"

"You're in a hospital. Someone beat you up."

Billy and the nurse come in.

"He's awake alright. I'll get the Doctor."

"Is this supposed to happen?" Jack asks.

"Sometime they wake up by themselves. I'll be right back."

"I feel like I've been run over by a truck. I had the strangest dream. I was in this high rise building. The address was 7368 Hudson. I was in apartment 17A."

"That was where we lived in New York. Your mom lived in 17A and I was in 17H."

"I saw you and mom. Only she was young and you were babysitting. You played cards, had dinner, and then when she fell asleep on you, you put her to bed. I tried to talk to you but you couldn't hear me."

"Then this man came in. They called him Arthur. BUT, he talked to me. As he spoke, his body and clothes started changing. He aged and stopped when he was wearing army fatigues. It was Grand Uncle Arthur. He asked me if I remembered what happened to me and I did."

"Do you still remember?"

"Yes, I remember. I was leaving school and I got attacked. They wanted to kill me."

"Do your remember faces?"

"I only knew two, Joel and Joe. Why would Joe want me dead?"

"We'll never know son. What else do you remember?"

"This beautiful woman came in. She had brown eyes and long thick jet-black hair. Her face had features of a Grecian statue. She was the most beautiful woman I've ever seen. Uncle Arthur called her Mary, his wife. That's not how I remember her. She was ill and bald."

"She looked like that when I first met her. You were barely one year old. She fell in love with your eyes."

"She said to tell Billy hello. They both miss you and very proud of your franchise. How did she know you were here? Where the hell was I?"

"I don't it was Hell, Arthur," Jack says.

"Do you remember anymore?"

"Uncle Arthur said I had to go home. Mary agreed. The next thing I knew I was at a helicopter port. They told me to get on and I did. The door closed and I looked out the window. Uncle Arthur smiled and gave me the sixties peace sign with his hand. I did it back. I don't know why. Next thing I knew, I was here. I am so confused."

"Do me an A chord with your left hand," Jack orders.

"Why?"

"Just do it."

Arthur does.

"You are not confused son. You are just fine. You look like hell but you're fine," Jack says, smiling.

The Doctor comes in. Jack turns to him.

"He just woke up, by himself."

"Nurse, call x-ray. I want new x-rays," the Doctor says, pulling out a pen light.

"I'll need a few minutes to examine him. Could you leave please?"

Jack and Billy go outside the room. Jack is crying.

"He's back, Billy. My little boy is back. They didn't win."

Billy holds him.

"No, they didn't win. And this time WE are fighting back."

Jack raised his head.

"I have to tell Ally."

Jack starts to go but Billy pulls him back.

"Wait till you hear from the Doctor. It might be too soon. The brain could still swell. He's not out of the woods yet. All he is is awake."

Jack stops crying.

"At least he's alive."

"Yes, Jack, he is alive."

Billy wipes a tear from his eyes. The Doctor comes to them.

"He's definitely awake. I've ordered a new set of x-rays. I need to make sure the swelling is gone. I'm still keeping him on blood thinners. There may still be clots."

"Is he out of the woods?"

"Yes, he is. Your son is back. I have to write the orders."

The Doctor leaves. Jack smiles from ear to ear. He is almost giddy.

"Calm down, Jack. Let's go back in. Then you can call Ally."

Jack calms down and goes inside. He goes to the bed and hugs Arthur.

"I was so worried, son. Why didn't you tell us about the threats?"

"I was more worried about everyone else's safety, especially Anna."

Jack faces him.

"Next time, you tell ME and I'll worry about everyone else. You got that?"

"I got that."

Jack lets go but can't keep his eyes off Arthur in amazement.

"Did I miss anything?"

"Sheryl, the girl you saved, came with her father to see you. I can see why you spotted her."

"I spotted her because her friends deserted her and she seemed lost."

"But she's still pretty. Do you want me to call mom?"

"No, let me. Give me your phone."

"You want to give her a heart attack?"

"I want to hear her scream."

"Okay son, your ears."

Jack pulls out his phone and gives it to Arthur who dials.

"Hello. May I speak to Allison Hopkins…This is your son, Arthur."

She screams and he holds the phone far away from his ear. He puts the phone back.

"It's me, mom. I just woke up…Well, you come right over. I wish you could bring Anna…I know the age limit. See you soon."

Arthur gives Jack back his phone. Arthur's face drops.

"Did they catch the boys yet?"

"I don't know. I know they have their names and addresses. It shouldn't take long. Mr. Guttenberg says he needs you to speak to the police about Sheryl. They don't believe them."

"I don't know what to say. I just met her and they dragged her away. I wasn't there. I went looking for Joe."

"What do you intend to do Arthur? Those boys almost won. Will you press charges?" Billy asks.

"Yes, I have to. They won't win this war, I will!"

"Even at the expense of Joe," Jack asks.

"Yes. I can't trust him anymore. Our friendship is over. I can't turn the other cheek on this one."

"Understandable."

Jack pulls out a card from his jacket and smiles.

"Maybe I should call a certain Miss Guttenberg and tell her you're awake. I'm sure you'd rather see her face instead of mine. It's much prettier. I'll be right back."

Jack leaves and Arthur turns to Billy.

"I still can't believe Joe would want to kill me."

"He tried to kill Joey too."

"What?"

"Joey showed up as Joe pointed the gun on you. He defied Joe to shoot him instead. He pulled the trigger and the gun jammed. Both you boys have angels watching over you. Your father is so happy he doesn't know what to do. It was good to see him smile again."

"What do I do with Joe?"

"Let the courts handle it. What's important is that you're still here."

Jack comes back.

"She's on her way. That girl will be a breath of fresh air."

"Thanks, Dad, for believing in me. I made big mistakes with this. I guess I still have some more growing up to do. I thought I was grown up."

"You're getting damn close," Jack says, smiling.

….

Arthur is sleeping in bed. Jack is by the rails. Billy has left. Allison comes in and Jack shhh's her.

"He's asleep. The excitement was too much. They took more x-rays. The swelling is gone. He's still on blood thinners," Jack whispers to Allison.

"That was a dirty trick you played," Allison says.

"Don't blame me. It was his idea. Our son is back, Ally."

Arthur wakes up. Allison turns to him. He opens his arms and she runs it. He rubs her back.

"I'm back, mom. You can't get rid of me that easy. Just do me a favor. Don't squeeze so hard. My ribs hurt."

She lets go and just keeps staring at him.

"I was so afraid I lost you."

"You didn't. I'm going to be here for a long time. I heard Joey played Lone Ranger."

"He did it to give you more time."

She lets go.

"I wonder if that gun would have jammed if it were me."

"It was too early for you too."

"Mom, you can stop staring at me. It's freaking me out. I'm back. Cool it. Calm down. How is Joey?"

"Oh, I forgot to call him. School has let out. He'll be here soon. He was upset when you were out. He just kept holding you."

The nurse comes in.

"The Doctor just called. Your son will be going to a regular room tonight. No more ICU for you, young man. The visiting hours are much longer, and you don't need to be family. All you need is a little bath."

"A bath?"

"It's been two days. You want to go to your room smelling. Could you two leave me alone? I won't be long."

Jack and Allison leave the room. They are giddy.

"I'm still so happy I don't know what to do," Jack says.

"I want to kill Joe."

"Let the courts handle it, luv. That's what they're here for."

"I don't know how you can be so calm. All I feel is anger."

"I feel anger too. But those boys will be found, and we will be there. They are going to regret the day they hit a Hopkins."

"And Groftons."

"Let's get some coffee. Arthur will be busy for a while."

He grabs her hand and they walk away.

…..

Arthur lies in bed. He is restless but can't move because every movement hurts. Jack and Allison come back in.

"All clean now?" Jack asks.

"The nurse thinks so."

"When will Sheryl be here?"

"I'll go check," Jack says.

He opens the door and Sheryl comes in. She runs to him. Jack turns to Allison and motions with his thumb, mouthing the word OUT. They leave the room but can still see in by a slit in the curtain. Sheryl lets go.

"I thought you were going to die."

"Nothing can kill me. How are you?"

"Okay."

"I hear the police don't believe your story. I don't know what else they need to know."

"Thank you for saving me."

"My namesake did the same thing. He married her."

"I can't stop looking at you."

"Everyone is doing that. It's freaking me out. I've never had so much attention."

She bends down and kisses him on the lips.

"Why did you do that?"

"I just wanted to."

"Do it again."

She leans down and kisses him. He makes it a long kiss. Jack and Allison look at each other.

"I guess he found out she's pretty. Arthur is feeling much better. He's got a bit of your uncle in him," Jack says.

They look back and the kiss is continuing.

"Time to break it up," Allison says.

"Do we have too? Let's give him a few more minutes more. Call me a romantic."

Joey comes and sees them.

"How's he doing?"

"He's a little occupied right now," Jack says.

"What does that mean?"

"Look in-between the curtain."

Joey does.

"He's awake!"

"And kissing the girl he saved. It's been five minutes. Time to interrupt."

The three open the door. Arthur let's go of Sheryl. Joey runs to him and hugs him.

"I am so glad to see you."

"Oh, please! Stop with the staring. This is getting ridiculous."

The boys break apart.

"I hear you challenged Joe. That was dumb. You're lucky the gun jammed."

"The gun was active. Joe threw it on the ground and it went off. I was surprised he would even do it."

"Next time, don't do that. I don't want to lose you, Joey."

"I promise. I won't."

"This is Sheryl. I saved her the night of the raid. Sheryl, this is my only brother, Joey."

They shake hands. Joey looks at Arthur.

"You look like shit. They did a number on you. You won't be handsome again for a long time."

"I feel like shit. Mom, Dad, why don't you two get some food and leave us three young ones alone?"

"Come to think of it, I do feel hungry.

"So do I. We'll be back."

Jack and Allison leave the room. The three smile at each other.

…..

Mr. Guttenberg is sitting in his office. There is a knock. His secretary peeks in.

"Excuse me, Mr. Guttenberg , a Mr. Wilcox is here to see you?"

"Please, let him in."

A man in his forties comes in. He is carrying a brief case. Mr. Guttenberg stands up.

"Please sit down. What did you find?"

"Plenty. Your Mr. Hopkins has a very interesting history. Just why do you want to know about him?"

"It was his son who saved Sherrie that night. Before I go any further with that family I want to know more about them. Please tell me what you found."

Mr. Wilcox opens up his briefcase and pulls out a file.

"First I put in the name Jack Hopkins and found nothing. Then I put in Hopkins and London and this came up. In 1985 a woman, Althea Gleason was put on trial for the murder of a twelve year old boy. She turned out to be a female John Wayne Gacy. Turns out she attacked many boys in London. Most testified against her. She was found guilty and hung herself in jail."

"What does that have to do with Mr. Hopkins?"

"One or the boys who testified was Alfred Hopkins, brother of Jack. This is a family photo."

Mr. Wilcox gives him a picture.

"Look at the middle brother. I had the picture blown up and aged."

Mr. Wilcox gives him another picture.

"This is what he would look like now. Look familiar?"

"It's Jack Hopkins."

"I then made a few phone calls and found he was also a victim but never testified. As for Alfred, he committed suicide almost two years ago. Is this what you wanted? I could dig deeper."

"No, that will do. That explains why his son saved Sherrie. The family is known to violence. Thank you, Mr. Wilcox. I'll have my secretary write you out a check."

Mr. Wilcox rises and closes the briefcase.

"Pleasure working with you."

He leaves. Mr. Guttenberg looks at the pictures.

"I just got my way of out this relationship."

….

Jack is back at work. Jack's phone goes off and he picks it up.

"Yes, Elizabeth, what is it?...Please, send him in."

He puts the phone down as the door opens and Mr. Guttenberg enters. Jack rises.

"Mr. Guttenberg, please sit down."

Jack sits across from him.

"What can I do for you?"

"I was in the area and thought I'd give you a call."

"At my work? You have our contact information at home. Is something wrong? My son told the police all he knows."

"It's about your son I'm here. My daughter has been asking about him and would like to know how he's doing."

"Much better. The doctors want him to rest at home for a week before he goes back to school. It gives him time to spend with his new baby sister. My wife and I just had a daughter a few months ago. It's strange being a new father at fifty."

"How are his injuries?"

"He still feels like he's been run over by a truck. And he hates missing shooting hoops. He loves basketball. I have my own Michael Jordan."

"And his memory?"

"As clear as ever. Why are you asking all this?"

"My daughter wants to know. Plus, I think I can do you a favor."

"I'm intrigued. What favor?"

"You mentioned you have insurance."

"I got it with BP. Arthur is still on it, thank God. I don't relish paying that bill."

"Do they pay it all?"

"It's 90/10 if the hospital is on their plan and Evanston Hospital is. Why do you ask?"

"Since we are now related because of our children, I'm willing to cover the difference. It will probably be high."

"It will be. Two days in ICU in an induced coma. Three days on a regular ward isn't cheap either. The good thing is he's alive. I almost lost him."

"I've spoken to the hospital administrator and have volunteered to pay the balance. He agreed."

"No, absolutely not. Arthur is my son, not yours. We'll be able to pay it. It will just take time."

"He saved my daughter. I want to do something to pay you back."

"It's the way I raised him. You don't have to pay me back."

"Would you settle for 50/50 of the difference?"

"It's very nice of you but I don't see why you keep insisting."

"I'm a man in a high position. I like to investigate people I do business with. And I want to do business with you."

"I'm afraid you lost me."

"I had you investigated. What I found out was quite interesting. I know about Althea Gleason and what she did to your family. I'm sure it was awful, especially the loss of your brother."

Jack sits back. He is NOT amused.

"You do this to all your friends? Arthur saved your girl without a credit check."

"And we appreciate it. The boys that tried to hurt her have been dwelt with. No school will ever let them in. I made sure of that. I'm a powerful man, Mr. Hopkins, and they screwed with the wrong family."

"So, you want to help because of our family history?"

"Your family lived through hell, as did you? Am I correct?"

"I don't know how you found out but you are correct."

"You spared my daughter that hell. She's all I have and I love her very much. Helping you financially is the least I can do. Is 50/50 fine?"

"I don't take charity, Mr. Guttenberg. Everything I have I worked for. I may work with oil, but I'm just an employee. I am NOT oil. And I don't like being investigated. How did you know?"

"My investigator found records of the Althea Gleason trial. He found pictures of the victims and their families. He had one picture blown up and aged."

Mr. Guttenberg gives him the file and Jack opens it. He sighs and closes the folder.

"That's me all right."

"Mr. Hopkins, we ARE now family. It will not be charity. I want to help. Please, let me. It's only 5%. It's the least I can do for Sherrie."

Jack gives him back the file.

"And what's to stop you from using this information against us?"

"I would never do that. You have to trust me."

"When I trust people I don't have them investigated. That is not the meaning of the work trust."

"It's only 5%."

"And that's 5% you would OWN me. I'm sorry, Mr. Guttenberg. The answer is NO. If you hadn't had me investigated, the answer would be different. I agree we are now family, but only as it deals with the courts. Both our children were almost hurt or killed. But I can't take your money. I come from a poor family and we always worked hard to put food on the table. We didn't have much but we ALWAYS had our pride. There's nothing more that needs to be said."

"And what about our children's friendship?"

"They can still be friends. Arthur never did a credit check on anyone. He's very trusting. That's why when his best friend tried to kill him, it really hurt him. This is the boy who lives next door. We still have to deal with that. Thank you for coming. The bills will be our headache"

Mr. Guttenberg puts the file back into his suitcase.

"Thank you for seeing me. We'll keep in touch."

"Of course."

Mr. Guttenberg leaves. Jack just shakes his head.

"This is one man you will NOT own."

…

Arthur is at home. He is sitting on the couch giving Anna her bottle. Allison is taking a shower. The doorbell rings. He answers it with the baby in his arms. It is Sheryl. She is surprised to see him with Anna.

"Arthur, I didn't know you were a father?"

"It's my baby sister. Please come in."

She enters, but not before she tickles Anna's moth. Arthur sits back on the couch and grabs the bottle. She sits by him.

"Her name is Anna. She was a late baby. I'm feeding her because Mom is relaxing and taking a bath. The baby takes a lot out of her."

"She's adorable."

"Why are you here?"

"Dad tells me you're staying home for a week before you can start school."

"The doctors want me to rest. I'm climbing the walls. I can't even play basketball and I've got a hoop outside. So, I babysit. Why are you here? I told the police everything."

"I thought I'd do you a favor. I got your class assignments for the week. You won't be behind."

"But how? You're not in my classes?"

"I'm a Guttenberg. I can do anything at Northwestern. My father went to the principal and got the information. He told me and I went to your instructors. Now you won't have to climb the walls anymore."

He puts the bottle down, puts a rag on his shoulder, and prepares to burp Anna.

"Must be nice saving the daughter of a CEO? I'm sorry. I didn't mean to say that. You probably hear that a lot. It wasn't fair."

"I do hear it. I think that's why the boys chose me."

"No, it was because of me. They didn't like me so when they saw someone I liked they took revenge. Maybe they were even going to frame me. I don't know. It was not because they knew you. The whole think is a mystery."

Anna burps. He takes off the towel and puts her back in his arms. He looks at Anna and smiles.

"She is pretty, isn't she?"

"Very pretty. I can tell you will be good when you have your own babies."

"Hopefully not too soon. I'd like to finish school first."

Allison walks into the room and stops.

"Will I ever get my daughter back?" Allison asks.

The two look up.

"Mom, Sheryl came and brought me my classwork for the week. I will finally be out of your hair."

"That was nice of you. Thank you. A week is a lot of work to make up," Allison says, sitting next to Arthur.

"May I have Anna back now? Is she fed and burped?"

Allison takes the baby.

"She's all yours," Arthur says rising. "Sheryl and I are going upstairs. That okay?"

"That's fine. Behave you two. We saw you at the hospital."

The two go to his room.

…..

They enter his room. He turns to Sheryl.

"Look, Sheryl. I'm sorry I said that CEO thing downstairs. I didn't mean it."

She walks up to him, puts her arms around his neck and kisses him. He kisses her back for a few minutes and stops still holding her.

"Now that I didn't mind. What was that for? I should get my homework assignments more often."

"Because I wanted to."

"Please do it again."

She does and they fall to his bed. They continue kissing. She reaches for his belt and start unbuckling it. He stops and stands.

"WO! Don't do that. I didn't save your honor for me to take it. You don't have to repay me."

She sits up.

"But back at the hospital?"

"At the hospital I just woke up from a coma. I was a little upset. And here was this pretty girl who kissed me. I'm not upset anymore."

"I like you, Arthur. I liked you when we first met."

"And I like you, Sheryl. But we don't know each other. Maybe we should take this slow?"

"I'm not a virgin."

"Neither am I, but this is just too fast, even for me and I'm a guy. You seem like a nice girl. I don't want to take advantage of it. That's not how I was raised. I saved you because I wanted to."

"I'm sorry, Arthur. I just want to be with you."

He stands up.

"And you can. But let's start as friends first. We don't have to stay friends for long. At least let's get to know each other. Let's do it slow."

She stands up and walks up to him.

"Okay, we'll take it slow."

He puts his arms around her waist and pulls her closer.

"Good. Now we both understand."

HE kisses her and they fall back to the bed. They continue kissing. He stops and sighs.

"Damn! I wish we were really alone. I wouldn't mind making love to you right now. It's not everyday someone like you wants to be with someone like me."

"I do want you, Arthur. You were my knight in shining armor."

"And you were my princess in distress."

He kisses her again and starts to lie on top of her and stops. He sits up.

"Time to stop or I will need a cold shower."

She sits up and stands.

"Thanks for the assignment. At least I won't fall behind."

"I better go home now. Will I see you on campus?" Sheryl asks.

"Only if we meet between classes. We don't have the same major."

Arthur stands and walks her to the door.

"One more kiss before you go," Arthur asks.

They kiss and leave the room.

….

He walks her to the front door and they stop.

"I'll give you a call. Maybe we can have lunch at the cafeteria."

"I'd like that."

Allison walks in. Arthur bends down and kisses Sheryl again. She turns and leaves. Arthur turns to see Allison folding her arms.

"Has somebody found a girlfriend?"

"Mom, don't push it. We really just met."

"And your lips seem to keep meeting. Upstairs. Homework time."

He goes upstairs.

…

Jack comes home. He is very pissed and Allison notices. Arthur stands at the top of the stairs.

"What's wrong, Jack?"

"Mr. Guttenberg paid me a visit today. He wants to pay part of Arthur's bill."

"That's nice of him. Why are you pissed?"

"He is a powerful man. He had us investigated. He knows about Althea Gleason."

"What?"

"He also knows about my connection."

"How? That's confidential."

"I don't know. I do know I don't like that man. I don't trust him. It's better if we break it off with that family after this is over. I don't like being OWNED by anyone, rich or poor."

"That won't be so easy."

"Why?"

"Sheryl came over and gave Arthur this week's homework today. They looked pretty cozy when Arthur kissed her good-bye. The hospital was cute but after what you just told me it scares me. What else did he say?"

"He said he destroyed the lives of the boys who tried to attack her. That's when I knew there was a problem. What's to stop him from destroying our lives? We better nip this relationship between Arthur and Sheryl while we still have a chance. For now we're on the same side. What will happen if we ever aren't?"

"Don't tell Arthur that. Right now he's in heaven."

"We'll just keep an eye on him for the moment. Once he starts school again, he'll be okay."

"I hope you're right."

Jack goes into the kitchen. Arthur goes back into his room.

…

A few days have passed. Arthur is catching up on his homework. He looks out the window. It is across from Joe's room. He sees Joe come in and sit on his bed. Joe looks towards Arthur's room and he hides. Arthur stands and pulls the shade down. This will not be easy to live with. There is a knock. Joey enters.

"Hey, Art. How you doing?"

"Better. My side doesn't hurt so much. I was just catching up on some school work. I still haven't finished my paper on Freewill. Maybe you should write it for me."

"I've got enough homework."

"It's in-between snow storms. The yard is clean for hoops."

"That's not what the Doctor says," Joey reminds him.

"One small game won't kill me. I'll stop when it starts to hurt."

"I don't know, bro."

"I'll let you be easy on me."

"Okay, one small game. But stop if it hurts."

….

The two boys are playing in the backyard. Allison and Jack watch from the kitchen. The game goes on until Joe enters the back. The two boys stop.

"What do you want, Joe?" Joey asks.

"I wanted to talk."

"We have nothing to talk about. You tried to kill your best friend."

"Since when do you speak for him? He can speak. I need to speak to Art."

Arthur stands forward.

"We have nothing to say, Joe."

"I'm really sorry."

"Forgive me if I don't believe you. You held a gun on me and Joey. That makes you a killer."

"I am so sorry, Art."

"I want to make this perfectly clear. I forgive you because Christ would want me to. But you are no more my friend. All those years we have are now gone. You are a stranger to me."

Jack and Allison go into the backyard and say nothing.

"Art, give me another chance. Please!"

"Two chances were enough. I almost died when your friends beat me up. I will never forget that. We've said enough. I can't help it if we share mutual property. I'll learn to live with that. For now, and forever, get OFF of our property."

"Do you feel the same, Mr. Hopkins?"

"Please leave my property or I will call the police."

Joe shakes his head.

"Damn it, Art! I was high. I wasn't in my right mind!"

"I didn't make you high. You did. Get out."

Joe walks away. Arthur goes inside. Joey starts to go after him and Jack grabs his arm.

"No, son. Let him be. This is his problem, not yours."

Arthur comes back out wearing a coat and starts heading for the sidewalk.

"Where are you going?" Jack asks.

"For a walk. I need to think. Don't worry. I'll be back. Don't hold up dinner."

Arthur walks off.

…

Arthur comes home. It is very late. He has missed dinner. Jack waits and stands as Arthur enters. They meet.

"Enjoyed your walk son?"

"It was brisk."

"Have a seat. We need to talk."

Jack pats the couch and sits down. Arthur sits next to him.

"Take your coat off. Stay awhile."

Arthur does.

"Did you make any decisions on your walk?"

"Not really. I just blew off steam. I still feel the same way I felt before. I miss all those years Joe and I were together. I wish it wasn't over."

"I know you do. How will you do about seeing him every day?"

"I'll take it one day at a time."

"And when his trial comes up and you have to face him as an attacker?"

"Bond means nothing to me. He will just be an attacker. I just miss him as a friend. It was those boys who did it. If only I had stopped him from going to that audition. He wouldn't have met Joel. Joel who was the devil, just like the snake in the Garden of Eden."

"You couldn't. He was an adult, just like Eve was an adult. All you can do is listen to your gut. What does your gut say?"

"It tells me Joe and I are over, straight or high. He's no more. I've eaten from the Tree of Knowledge."

"You know, son, the gut is a very important part of a man. I had a visit from Mr. Guttenberg today. He officered to pay for the rest of your hospitalization. My gut said NO and I was right. He then told me he had us investigated. So much for trust. It's best if we break that connection. He treated us like we were common criminals. Then he said he was a powerful man and he destroyed the lives of the boys who attacked Sheryl. It's best to avoid him at all costs."

"Sheryl is not like that. You met her."

"I can see that, but her father is. I can't tell you what to do. You're a grown man. I can tell you NOT to live by your penis. Use your brain. You've got a good one. You almost lost it. We don't need any more problems. The last thing we need is to be OWNED."

Jack stands and faces Arthur.

"I've said my keep. Think about it. Let's get to bed."

Arthur stands up, grabs his coat and they go upstairs.

….

Arthur goes into his room and throws his coat on the bed. He turns on his computer and calls up his paper. He reads it over and completely deletes it.

"I think I know what I have to say. I have eaten from the Tree of Knowledge."

He starts typing the words "Freewill is-"

THE END

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