Disclaimer: Never changes, I still don't own them.
Gordon's First Day of School
Staring up at the huge building before him, Gordon clutched his father's hand as tight as he could. "Daddy, do I really hafta go to school? Can't you teach me at home?" Eyes wide with fear, he looked up at his father.
"Son, you're going to be fine here. Scott, John, and Virgil are all here in the same building. And they like school." Ruffling his red-headed son, he gently led Gordon into the building that his older sons had already disappeared into.
Stubborn and more than a bit overwhelmed by all the other students, parents, and teachers, Gordon shook his head. "Nuh-uh, Daddy. Scotty says schools sucks and Virgie said the same thing. Only Johnny likes school but that's only cuz Scotty says that he's an alien."
"Gordon, your brother is not an alien. He just enjoys learning new things," Jeff said. "And Scott is the same way only not as interested in the same things John is." Jeff made a mental note to speak with Scott about how impressionable his younger brother was and just how imaginative he could be.
"Why he learn new things, Daddy?" Stalling in hopes of his father forgetting that he was supposed to be in his classroom, Gordon decided to ask as many questions as possible. "And how do you know that Johnny isn't an alien? He stares up at the stars all night. Maybe he came from one of them and he hides his alien body from us."
Hiding his smile, Jeff continued to steer Gordon towards his new classroom. "I was with your mother when John was born and I can definitely say that he is not from outer space." Spotting the correct classroom, he gently pushed his son towards the door. "Here's your classroom, Gordon. I want you to have a good day but remember that I expect you to behave yourself and mind your manners."
Shoulders slumped, he swallowed nervously before answering. "Yes, Daddy, I'll behave but I'm not gonna like being here today. I want to stay home with Grandma and Allie." Straightening, he walked into the class only to turn around and run back to his dad for one more hug. "I love you, Daddy, even if you're making me stay with a bunch of strangers. And you told me never to talk to strangers."
"Your classmates won't be strangers for long, Son. They'll be your friends before the day is over," he said. "Gordon, I love you, too, now have fun and listen to your teacher." Gordon walked back into his class and as Jeff watched, he walked to a couple of students who were crying. His son's voice carried back to him.
"Hi, I'm Gordon Tracy and I'm gonna be your friend, okay?"
With one last glance at his second youngest, Jeff sighed. His smile was bittersweet as his thoughts drifted to his late wife. "Lucy, our boys are growing up so fast."