1Title: A Twist of Fate
Ratings/Warnings: In this chapter- very minor swearing and of course...Ryan angst
Beta: loracj2
Disclaimers: I own nothing in relation to The O.C. All mistakes are mine
Summary: Beginning of Season 1, AU, In The Pilot, Kirsten asks Sandy "What if this is all a scam? What if he's just using you to case the house?" In this story it is the truth, but not by Ryan's choice. For the purposes of this story Dawn is dead and there never was a Trey.
Note: Big hug to katwoman for helping with my writer's block. If she hadn't given my muses a good hard kick in the fanny, I would have given up after the first scene of this chapter.
Twist of Fate: Chapter Eight
Ryan sat in the dark pool house watching the lights of the main house. It had been over two hours since Kirsten and Seth had arrived home. She and Sandy hadn't moved from the living room in all that time. They sat huddled together, deep in conversation. From his view point on the bed, he could see them occasionally looking up and casting glances his way. He supposed he should be glad that they were just talking. Up until an hour and a half ago, he still feared that Sandy would be making an unwelcome visit to the pool house. He twisted his wrist cuff nervously, trying to figure out what he could have done that would merit such a lengthy conversationHe knew one thing for certain though, he had to leave...tonight. It was becoming too big of a risk to stay. He would wait until the Cohens went to bed and then sneak out.
For all Ryan knew, the Cohens were discussing taking him back to Chino in the morning. But he couldn't take that chance. The way Ryan saw it; there was simply no need to stick around any longer. He had everything he needed to complete the job. He knew the layout of the house. He knew the Cohens would be gone Friday night. And most importantly, thanks to Seth, he knew how to get in the house without tripping the alarm. For once, Art would be pleased.
Right after Ryan had escaped to the pool house, he decided it would be best if he left that night, when everyone was asleep. It would just be easier that way. There would be no awkward goodbyes, and he wouldn't have to thank them for everything they had done for him. He couldn't imagine having to face them one last time, knowing he would be back, only to steal from them.
While he waited, his mind kept wandering back to the past day and a half. He thought of how kind Mrs. Cohen had been to him. She seemed so genuinely concerned about his cuts and bruises. Ryan couldn't help but wonder what his life would have been like had his own mother ever shown him the same amount of concern.
Then there was Seth. Seth was different, no doubt about it. However, Ryan really liked him, and knew it didn't have anything to do with the fact that he had no other friends. Ryan knew that probably every other rich kid in this town would have been pissed if their father had brought home some delinquent from Chino, but not Seth. Hanging out with Seth that afternoon had been a lot of fun; he couldn't remember ever enjoying himself that much…ever.
Mr. Cohen was a whole other story. Ryan couldn't get a handle on the man. One minute Ryan was scared to death of him, and the next he was actually tempted to tell him the truth about his life. It had to be all those damn questions he kept asking him. The only other person who had ever asked him that many questions was the social worker back in Fresno, and that guy had only been doing his job. At times, Ryan almost believed that Mr. Cohen cared about him. But that just couldn't be possible. Look at what happened tonight. Ryan had let his guard down just a little bit, and Mr. Cohen had almost hit him. He thought...well, maybe...at least he could have...but he didn't.
Ryan shook his head, trying to clear his mind. It was crazy, stupid ideas like those that made him realize he had to get out of here and fast. So Ryan sat...and he watched...and he waited...and he waited.
ococococococococococ
Ryan never heard Kirsten's soft knock on the pool house door the next morning. He had fought to stay awake, but the stress of the evening had taken its toll on his already battered body. Sometime after two in the morning, he lost the battle and let his body succumb to its need for sleep.
Kirsten knocked again, this time calling out his name. She waited outside for a moment, unsure of what to do next. It may be her house, but she felt that Ryan still deserved a certain amount of privacy. Finally, after it was obvious that she wasn't going to receive a response, she slowly opened the door, this time saying his name a bit louder.
At the click of the door opening, Ryan instantly awoke. Still half-asleep, he frantically pushed himself against the headboard, ignoring the pain the pressure caused his back. He looked around frantically, trying to remember where he was.
"I'm...I'm sorry," he apologized to no one in particular. Art only had to wake Ryan up one time before he learned that sleeping late was a luxury he could never afford.
Kirsten sat on the bed. "Ryan," she said, trying to sound calm despite her racing heart. "It's okay. It's just me."
"Mrs. Cohen?" He asked, slowly remembering that he was in her home. "I'm sorry," he repeated. "I didn't mean to... I shouldn't have," he took a deep breath hoping to settle his nerves. "I'm sorry I slept in so late."
Kirsten smiled sadly at him. "That's okay, Ryan. I should be apologizing to you. I didn't mean to wake you." Now that he had started to calm down, Kirsten took in the appearance of Ryan and the bed. "Ryan," she began hesitantly. "Why did you sleep on top of the covers, and in your clothes? You didn't even take off your shoes."
He quickly swung his legs off the side of the bed. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have my shoes on the bedspread. I probably got it dirty. It was a stupid careless thing to do."
"They're just sheets. They can be washed. I just want to know why you're already dressed and in your own clothes? Were you planning on going somewhere?"
"No, I mean yes, I mean, I kind of figured that Mr. Cohen would be taking me back to Chino this morning, and I didn't want him to have to wait for me to get ready." He answered, hoping it sounded like a reasonable excuse, all the while cursing himself for falling asleep in the first place.
Kirsten had always prided herself on knowing when she was being told a lie. It was a quality that came in very handy being a woman in business and being Seth's mother. So although she knew Ryan was lying to her, she acted as though she didn't.
"Well that's very considerate of you, but it wasn't necessary. Mr. Cohen and I have been talking, and we think it's best if you spend another night here with us."
"Oh no, I couldn't. You've done more than enough already."
"Nonsense. We've all enjoyed having you here. I don't want to hear any more arguments. Besides, it won't do you any good; it's already been decided."
"All right, I guess, if you say so," he said, fidgeting with is wrist cuff. "Thank you."
She smiled, patted her knees and quickly stood. "Good. I'll see you inside." Suddenly she paused. Frowning, she looked at him closer. She hadn't noticed before, but Ryan looked feverish. "Ryan, are you feeling all right?" She reached out to put her hand to his forehead. He flinched and jerked away from her. She pulled her hand back, thinking of the heartbreaking story Sandy had told her last night. But that was Sandy. She did nothing different than when she had tended to his cuts and bruises the night he arrived, or after the fight at the diner the day before. He hadn't seemed to be afraid of her then. Of course, she realized. The other times, he had always known what she was about to do. She had never before reached out to touch him without him first knowing.
"You look a little flushed. I just want to feel your forehead to see if you have a temperature."
He sat in silence as she ran the back of her hand over his forehead and cheeks, amazed at the gentleness of her touch.
"You feel a little warm. You might be getting sick. One of the neighbors is a doctor, perhaps I should call her."
"No!"
Kirsten jumped at his vehement refusal.
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to shout. I just meant that I'm okay, really. You don't want to bother your neighbor on a Sunday. I probably got too hot sleeping in this sweatshirt." He pulled at the grey material. "After I take a shower, I'm sure I'll be fine."
"Well, if you're sure, I'll hold off calling the doctor. But didn't you already take a shower this morning, the first time you woke up?"
How did these people keep making him slip up? "Um, I did, but since I fell asleep, I'd like to take another one. You know, to wake up again. Is that okay?"
Another lie.
"Of course it is, Ryan. I'll see you in a few minutes." She turned to leave. "Oh. I almost forgot why I came out here in the first place. I'm cooking breakfast this morning. Would you like anything in particular?"
"No, anything is fine." He looked at her questioningly. "I thought Seth and Mr. Cohen said you didn't know how to cook."
"Oh really?" Kirsten had a devilish grin on her face. "Well, don't tell them, but that little remark has earned the two of them extra helpings." With that, she walked back toward the kitchen.
ococococococococococ
Forgetting about the welts on his back, Ryan flopped back on the bed in frustration and exhaustion. As soon as he hit the sheets he hissed in pain, and pushed himself up on his elbows. This family was going to drive him nuts. He just didn't know what to make of them. Ryan figured he better play it safe and stick close to Seth the entire day. Ryan hoped that Seth's need to be the center of attention would take the spotlight off of him until he could safely make his getaway later that evening.
In the bathroom Ryan adjusted the water until it was barely lukewarm. He would have preferred a hot shower, but he was trying to lower his temperature. He took off his wifebeater and surveyed his back once more. The gashes that had been red the previous morning had turned to a deep shade of crimson. He winced as he gingerly touched a welt high on his shoulder.
"Damn infection," he muttered, knowing it was to blame for his fever. He opened the mirror above the vanity and rummaged through its contents until he found the Tylenol. He read the instructions on the back of the bottle and took the entire day's recommended dosage. He hoped the pills would have time to take effect before he saw Mrs. Cohen again.
ococococococococococ
Ryan stood outside the patio doors, staring at Sandy, who was sitting directly in front of Ryan at the kitchen table. His back was facing Ryan, and if he knew he was being watched he gave no inclination. Every so often he would turn the page of the morning's paper that he was reading, occasionally taking a long sip of coffee from an oversized mug. Ryan was more than a little nervous about seeing him for the first time after last night's experience. Granted, the man had the chance to hit and hadn't, but that didn't mean he couldn't still be mad at Ryan for running and hiding in the pool house. He wished there was a way to enter the kitchen without having to walk within arms reach of the man.
"Mom, you are way too close to the stove. Please step away at least another 10 feet."
The sound of Seth's voice filtered through the glass doors. Ryan smiled; instantly feeling himself relax knowing that Seth and Kirsten were in the room. Seth didn't seem to be scared of his dad at all. That had to mean something. Ryan knew better than to believe that Sandy never lost his temper, but maybe it wouldn't be too bad when it finally did happen. Mrs. Cohen was also a definite plus. Even though his own mother had never once so much as lifted a finger to help Ryan, he felt safer with Kirsten around. She had a quiet strength about her. Ryan was willing to bet money that Mr. Cohen had never laid a hand on her. Ryan got the impression that he would have to do something really stupid for Mr. Cohen to hit him in front of her.
As he opened the door to the kitchen, Sandy lowered his paper and turned toward Ryan. "Good morning, Ryan." He greeted the nervous boy, trying to sound casual. "Did you sleep okay last night?"
"Yes, thank you." Ryan bowed his head and quickly walked away from the table.
"Oh good, Ryan, you're here." Kirsten put the spatula down and started looking for something in the pocket of her robe.
"Buddy, I'm so glad to see you!" Seth exclaimed. "Way to be a diversionary tactic for Mom. Get her attention away from the food. Good plan."
"You do realize that I'm standing right here, don't you and that I can hear every word your saying?"
"Of course I do, Mother. What has that got to do with anything?"
"Oh, forget it." She shook her head. "Here it is." Kirsten pulled a thermometer out of the pinstriped pocket. "Ryan, sit down and put this in your mouth."
Ryan backed up, pointing at the object in her hand. "What is that?"
"It's a thermometer. I want to take your temperature."
"Good thinking again, my man. You are on the ball this morning. Pretend you're sick before you eat Mom's cooking." Seth slapped his forehead. "Why didn't I ever think of that?"
"You know, son," Sandy said rising from the table and placing an arm around his only child's shoulders. "There was a time when you were a baby, when your Mother and I spent countless hours encouraging you to talk." He shook his head in mock frustration. "What were we thinking?"
"Do you two mind?" Kirsten turned back to Ryan. "It's nothing to be scared of. I promise. Haven't you ever had your temperature taken before?"
"Back in Fresno, when I still went to school, a couple of times the nurses there took my temperature. But it didn't look anything like that. It was glass." Ryan caught the look Sandy and Kirsten gave each other, and he realized what he had said. "I mean when I still went to school in Fresno. I haven't had to see the school nurse now that I'm in Chino." It wasn't technically a lie. He hadn't seen the nurses in Chino, or the school for that matter.
Kirsten motioned for Ryan to take a seat again. "This one is plastic and it's digital. Now sit."
Ryan did as he was told and Kirsten promptly placed it in his mouth.
"Dude, a mercury thermometer? How archaic. Someone should have told those people to get out of the stone age."
"Seth, hush. I won't be able to hear it beep if you keep talking."
"Beep," questioned Ryan nervously. He began to squirm in the chair. "Why would it beep?"
"To let me know it's ready to be read. Now no more talking. You need to keep your mouth closed so I can get an accurate reading."
"Wow. I bet that's the first time anyone's ever told Ryan not to talk."
"Shhh!"
"Okay, okay," muttered Seth.
After what seemed like a very long minute to Ryan, the thermometer started beeping. Kirsten read the results with a slight frown. "Hmm, not too bad. It's a little high, but nothing to be concerned about, yet. I still think we need to keep an eye on you. Sandy, remind me to take his temperature again later this afternoon."
Ryan was glad he had thought to put more Tylenol in his pocket. Just then, he noticed a dark cloud of smoke rising from the stove top. "Mrs. Cohen, I think something's burning."
"My omelets!" She rushed over to the already ruined eggs waving a dish towel in the air to clear the smoke.
Seth began to open his mouth, but Sandy cut him off. "I wouldn't if I were you. I don't think your mother is up to the Cohen wit at this particular moment."
"I'd be happy to cook breakfast for you guys. I could feel like I was paying you back for being so nice to me."
"That's very thoughtful of you Ryan, but not necessary."
"Mom, let Ryan make breakfast. You work so hard all week. You shouldn't have to slave over a hot stove on your day off. I'll even help. You are always lecturing me about doing more around the house. How about it? Please?"
"Oh, all right. I'll let the two of you cook breakfast, but only if Ryan really wants to."
"Thanks. I would like to."
"Okay then, I'm going to go get dressed. I look forward to whatever you make, Ryan." As she left the room she looked at Sandy and motioned for him to follow her. Before Sandy had time to move, Seth was already pushing him out of the kitchen.
"Dad, why don't you go read the paper in the other room? The couch is certainly more comfy than these kitchen chairs."
Sandy folded the paper and placed it on the kitchen table. "I appreciate your concern for my comfort, but I think I'll go shave instead. See you boys in a few minutes."
ococococococococococ
"Thank goodness. I never thought they'd leave. We need some serious Seth/Ryan time."
"Seth/Ryan time?"
"Yes, that's what I've decided to call our little chats."
"O…kay." Ryan answered. He liked Seth, but he did take some getting use to. "Can you tell me where the skillets are and then look in the fridge to see what's in there?"
"Ummm, when I said I'd help, I meant in a supervisory type of way. Don't get me wrong, I am eternally grateful for you for getting my mom out of the kitchen, but under no circumstance am I willing to be reduced to performing menial household chores." Seth jumped up on the kitchen counter. "Now, on to the topic of this morning's conversation. Aren't you even going to ask me how my evening went? Because my friend, I have news...big, big news."
Ryan opened the refrigerator door. "So I take it you saw that Summer girl."
"Saw? Ryan, that is not even the half of it. She spoke to me. Her voice is not unlike the dulcet tone of an angel. I digress. I really should start at the beginning."
Ryan hit Seth in the knee. Seth glared at him, while Ryan motioned him to move over. Seth muttered a quick sorry and scooted to the corner of the counter. Ryan crouched down and started going through the cabinets in search of anything he thought he might need.
Seth held on the edge of the counter and leaned over. "Can you hear me with your head stuck in the cabinet like that?"
"Yes."
"Okay, good. Anyway, I was standing behind Summer in line to get a drink. She smells wonderful. Not too flowery like some girls."
"Seth, please tell me you weren't like, sniffing her."
"No. I was completely stealth. Well, that is until I accidentally knocked into her and made her spill her drink on me."
"That sounds smooth."
"I couldn't help it. She turned around and she was wearing this little black dress that was cut down to here." He pointed to his lower chest. "And I kind of blacked out for a minute. But it was the best thing that could have happened, because after she spilled her drink she said...wait for it..." Seth put his palm out, pausing for a dramatic effect. "Excuse me, Steve."
"You do realize your name is Seth, don't you?"
"Of course I do. I can't believe you don't see the significance of that statement."
Ryan looked at him blankly.
"Dude, we totally have pet names for each other already. Well, at least she has a name for me. I'm still working on hers. I'd like to think of something that rhymes with her name, but the only thing I can come up with is bummer and dumber."
"Uh, I wouldn't use either one of those. Don't you think it might be a little early to start with the names? Maybe you should give it some time."
Seth nodded his head. "You're probably right. I should play it more cool, hard to get, even. Good thinking."
Seth rambled happily on for the next twenty minutes about Summer's many attributes, until he pointed at the bacon Ryan was frying. "Are you about done with breakfast?"
"Yeah. You can go get your folks if you want."
ococococococococococ
Sandy had no more than barely entered the bedroom when Kirsten swiftly shut the door behind him. "Ryan was going to run away last night."
"What? What makes you think that?"
"Because when I went to wake him this morning he was fast asleep on top of the covers."
"Honey, that's hardly cause to believe that he was going anywhere."
"Maybe not, but how about the fact that he was fully dressed and in his own clothes?"
Sandy sat on the edge of the bed and sighed. "Damn," he swore. "Did you say anything to him about it?"
"I didn't tell him that I knew what I knew, but I tried to subtly let him know that I knew."
Sandy raised one eyebrow. "Honey, I don't mean to scare you, but that sounded frighteningly like Seth. I don't have a clue what you just said."
Kirsten threw her hands up. "It's not important. Basically, when I questioned him on why he slept in his clothes, he came up with some story about getting ready early in case you wanted to take him back to Chino. I think what really happened was he fell asleep waiting for us to go to bed."
"We're going to have to keep a closer eye on him today. I don't think we should leave him alone anymore than is absolutely necessary."
"Do you think we should tell Seth? I told you last night how I already hinted at some things when I spoke to him. I think maybe we should expand a little more without going into too much detail."
"You're right. We need Seth on our side. Ryan feels the most comfortable around him. I don't think he would suspect anything if Seth didn't let him out of his sight. I'm sure Ryan's already figured out that Seth is more than a little demanding when it comes to needing constant attention."
"Like father, like son."
"I'm going to take that as a compliment." He leaned down and kissed her lightly on the lips.
They were interrupted by a knock on the door. Seth stuck his head in the room. "Hey, guys. Ryan says breakfast is ready. Mom, you're not even dressed yet. What have you two been doing?" Seeing the kiss, he screwed up his face in disgust. "On second thought. Don't answer that."
"Seth," his mother began. "Where's Ryan?"
"Where do you think? He's in the kitchen."
"You left him there all alone?"
"Jeez, Mom, chill. He seemed to know what he was doing. You're the one who almost burned the place down this morning."
Kirsten didn't take time to answer her son as she rushed passed him on her way to get to the kitchen.
Seth pointed at the door. "What's up with you and Mom? You guys are acting weirder every day."
"Son, we need to talk about Ryan."
"Again? Mom already talked to me last night."
"I'm aware of that, but now it's my turn. This is serious. We're going to need your help."
"Okay," Seth replied, looking worried. "He's not in more trouble is he? I thought you took care of the whole stolen car thing."
"I did. This isn't about that. I'm talking about a different type of trouble. Your mother and I are very worried about him."
"You're starting to freak me out, Dad. What's wrong with him?"
Sandy looked around the room almost as if to check to see if Ryan wasn't hidden there somewhere. "You are not to repeat a word of this to Ryan, is that understood?"
"I got it already," he answered impatiently, "What is it?"
"I know your mother mentioned to you that we are concerned about Ryan's stepfather. Well, I have some people checking into his background."
"What do you mean, you're checking into his background? What does any of that have to do with Ryan?"
Sandy shifted uncomfortably. He was treading on thin ice. He knew Seth would want to know more than he was telling him. However, he also knew the sheltered life his son led. He doubted Seth's ability to believe, let alone understand, the life of abuse Ryan may be living. He decided to skirt the issue and stick mainly to Art's history. "We think he may be involved in some illegal activities."
"I still don't understand what this has to do with Ryan."
"He's his guardian, Seth. I can't just let Ryan live with a known criminal. I'm concerned about his ability to care for Ryan and the influence he has over him. Think about it. Does Ryan really seem the type to steal a car?"
Seth looked at his feet and kicked the foot of the bed. "No." He looked at Sandy, suddenly understanding. "Do you mean you think his stepdad made him steal the car?"
Sandy sighed in relief, glad that he didn't need to explain anymore. "Yes, son, that is exactly what I think."
"So, what does all this mean for Ryan? What are you going to do if you find out this guy is a crook?"
"Honestly? I don't know. However, until I find out everything I possibly can about his stepfather, Ryan's not going back to Chino tomorrow. And if the guy is a criminal, he won't be going back at all, if we have anything to say about it. Remember, I haven't said anything to him. We're not going to, for the moment."
"Okay, I won't say a word, but what did you need my help with?"
"We're worried that Ryan might leave without telling us."
"Do you mean, like, run away? Because you do realize he doesn't live here, don't you? If he wants to leave, I don't think you can stop him."
"He's a minor and I think he's in trouble. So, yeah, I can stop him if I want to." Sandy's voice was stern. "I don't want him going anywhere without me knowing about it. Do you think you can keep an eye on him without him knowing that you're watching him?"
"I don't know, Dad. I understood what Mom talked about last night…not covering for him if he's hurt and letting him speak for himself, but spying. He's my friend. It feels wrong."
Sandy put his hands on Seth's shoulders. "I don't want you to do anything you don't feel comfortable in doing." He stopped for a moment, trying to find a way to get make Seth understand the importance of the matter. "What did you two guys do yesterday?"
"Play video games, go sailing, hang out…you already know all of this."
"Okay, in all that time, were you ever not with him for over a few minutes?"
"Well, I didn't follow him to the bathroom, if that's what you mean."
"I'm not asking you to do anything different today, except come and find me or your mother if you don't know where he is. Right away. Is that understood?"
"Okay. I guess I can do that, but I'm still not sure if I like it."
"I know, and I'm sorry, but this is important. Thank you. I knew we could count on you. Now, let's go have some breakfast before your mother somehow manages to ruin it."
ococococococococococ
Kirsten paused in the hallway just outside of the kitchen when she heard the clanking of silverware signaling that Ryan had not run off. She took a moment to catch her breath, and composed herself before entering the kitchen.
"Everything smells wonderful, Ryan. If it tastes as good as it smells and looks, we'll all be in heaven."
"Thanks. My mom was never much of a cook." He motioned to her robe. "I thought you were going to change?"
"Oh that, well I was...," she began. "But I'm a very thorough flosser and I didn't want to risk the food getting cold." She hoped she was a better liar than Ryan. Changing the subject she pointed to the stove. "Is that bacon?"
He looked at her hesitantly. "I'm sorry. Was that not okay?"
Kirsten had a huge smile on her face. She leaned over and picked up a piece. "Of course it is. I love bacon. How do you get it so crispy without burning it? Every time I try I just end up with black charcoal strips."
Kirsten caught a moment of sadness cross his features before Ryan ducked his head. He placed one hand around his wrist-cuff and brought his arms almost to his chest. With his thumb, he began to slowly rub the snaps on the cuff in small circular motions.
"I had to learn pretty fast that burning food was not acceptable." He took a ragged shallow breath and tightly gripped his wrist, stopping the motion.
"Ryan?" Kirsten asked. There was something about the way he was acting that made her heart ache for him.
He looked up at her startled, as if he had been awakened from a trance.
"I...I just meant we couldn't afford to waste food. We didn't...we don't have much money."
She nodded her head as if she understood.
Ryan was relieved when Seth slowly walked into the kitchen, dragging his feet. He threw his head back in an exaggerated gesture and rolled his eyes to the ceiling.
"Puh-lease tell me breakfast is ready. I'm starving."
Sandy, who was been following close behind him, placed his hands on Seth's shoulders, giving them a playful shake. "It always amazes me how you can do nothing but play video games morning, noon, and night, and still be hungry all the time."
"Mental exertion can take a lot out of you too, you know. Not to mention, have you seen the speed at which my hands must fly to properly maneuver the controls?"
"No. However, I would like to see the speed at which your hands fly when it comes to setting the table. You said you would help with breakfast, but I'm guessing you didn't so much as lift a finger."
"How did you know?"
"I've been your mother for fifteen years, honey. I know you. Now, if you're really as starving as you say you are, you'll hurry up and set the table."
"Okay, if I must. But let me warn you, I am feeling a bit weak from hunger, and the strain of carrying the plates may be too much for me. If I pass out, you will only have yourself to blame, Mother."
"That's a risk I'm willing to take." Kirsten shoved the dishes in her son's hands, and turned toward Ryan taking the silverware from him. "Ryan, why don't you go ahead and have a seat at the table with Sandy? Seth and I can finish getting everything ready."
She saw his eyes dart to Sandy and the empty chair next to him and back again.
"That's all right, Mrs. Cohen. I'd rather help you and Seth."
She noticed how slowly Ryan brought over the last remaining breakfast items. It was obvious that he was trying to waste time so that he would not have to take a place at the table until after she and Seth were already seated on opposite sides of Sandy.
Sandy took a large bite of the banana pancakes. "Kid, these pancakes are fantastic."
Seth chimed in. "He's right. Not that we have much to compare it to, but these are definitely worthy of the pancake tour of North America."
Ryan smiled shyly, ducked his head, and muttered an embarrassed, "Thank you."
For a while, they all ate in silence, each enjoying the moment for their own reason. There was, of course, only so much quiet Seth could take at one time. "Hey, Ryan," he said with a mouthful of food. "I never asked you what you and my dad did last night."
Tension immediately filled the room. Even Seth knew something was wrong. Despite the two little heart-to-heart chats that he'd had with his parents the last two days, he knew there was a lot they weren't telling him. His parents looked uncomfortable to say the least, especially his dad, and Ryan had immediately stopped eating. He now sat head down, hands in his laps, casting nervous glances around the table.
Seth was determined to get everyone back in the good mood they had just been in a minute before. He looked around; trying to think of something to say that would work. Then he saw it, the previously unnoticed Movie Palace sack sitting on the coffee table.
"Dad," he cried out in fake astonishment. "Tell me you did not subject Ryan to Stallone movies." He walked over to the table and peered into the bag. "Ack, you did! What could you have been thinking?"
Sandy smiled. He had never been so proud of his son in his life. "Sorry, son. I didn't realize I had done something so horrible."
"Obviously not. I just hope it wasn't too bad. Let's just see what you picked out." He pulled out the first movie. "Over the Top, isn't that an arm wrestling movie?"
"Arm wrestling classic," Sandy deadpanned in a perfect Sly imitation, which earned him a smile from both Kirsten and Ryan.
"That's not tooooo bad, it could have been worse. What's this one? Oh no! It did get worse." He held up the second movie's case. "Tango and Cash? Even you have to admit that one is pretty bad. Exactly what made you pick this?"
"I can guess that one," Kirsten interjected. "I'm going out on a limb and say that it has something to do with Teri Hatcher. Isn't that right, dear?" She looked smugly at her husband.
"You got me. I'm a sucker for her beautiful, big…"
"Sandy!"
"I was going to say beautiful, big, brown eyes. What did you think I was going to say?"
"Never mind." Kirsten shook her head and laughed.
"Uh, excuse me, parents. That's more information than we needed. I will concede to the fact that she is hot, and she once played Lois Lane. However, I'm upset that I spent my valuable time trying to convince Ryan that Dad wasn't a total geek-ball only to have him pick out inferior movie titles. I'm going to let this slide…for now, but please consult me before going to the video store again."
"Thank you, son. I'm so relieved that I'm being forgiven for such a heinous crime. I'll try to do better next time."
"I'm just glad that I had finished eating. Because this…" He held up the movie again. "Is enough to make anyone lose their appetite."
"If that's the case, why don't you start helping clear off the table?"
"I'd like to, Mother. I really would, but after making such a discovery, I feel like I should rest and perhaps play a round of video games. Ryan, would you care to join me?"
"I should help clean up." He stood and started carrying his plate and Seth's to the sink.
"Sandy and I will take care of the dishes. You did more than enough by cooking this morning. Go…go have some fun." Kirsten shooed him in the direction of the living room. "By the way, boys, I've decided that we're going to the Club for lunch today so stick around the house. I don't want to have to track you down when it's time to leave."
"I'm not going, am I?" Ryan asked, clearly nervous.
"Of course. Why?"
"Well…I mean….I just thought since I didn't go that party last night."
"That was different, kid. Last night was a grand social event. This is just lunch."
"Sandy's right. Last night was a lot of mingling. We would have had to leave you on your own most of the evening. Today we'll all be together. It'll be fine. I promise."
Tbc
Thank Yous: I need to thank loracj2, beachtree, finlee, and fifimom for helping me out with questions regarding home security and gated communities. I may have written some things in regards to this incorrectly, but it's how I wanted it to work for the purposes of this story.
Also, for their help in questions regarding the Cohens' household I need to thank 60schic, loracj2, smc36, and beachtree. Big thank yous to Katwoman76 who in helping me gave me pretty pictures of Ryan to look at and Millstone1005 who actually watched a Season 3 episode to try and figure out if Seth had a bathroom in his room.