After Soldiers Bridge
It is a first season story about Duncan & Richie and of course Tessa.
Warning / Spanking of a Teenager in later Chapters
Early the next morning Duncan called the social service and asked for an appointment with Richie's social worker.
They told him to come in about eleven and to ask for a Miss Harrington.
Duncan had washed Richie's clothes and they were dry now. He collected them and went to rouse the teenager about nine o'clock. He knocked and entered the room.
Richie was on his way to wake up but he was still a bit groggy.
"Good morning Richie, you awake?"
"Morning Mac yeah a bit, Richie admitted!"
"Good lad, try now to really wake up. I did put your dry clothes on the chair. Breakfast is ready in 10 minutes."
Duncan tousled his hair and left.
Richie got up and went into the bathroom. He decided to take a shower because he had a bit headache and he was drenched in sweat.
Under the shower he had to think about his situation. Well, the apartment was nice and the guest room and the bathroom huge. He would like to stay once at a home like that. But could he live with Mac and Tessa. He was an Immortal and she an artist what an odd combination. But despite his really bad behaviour they had supported and accepted him. Well, he could stay for some time if they got permission to take him in. If things don't work out, he could always run again.
Twenty-five minutes later Richie emerged from his room and came into the kitchen.
"Good morning, Richie, Tessa greeted him.
"Morning, Tessa, Mac."
"You ready for some breakfast", Duncan asked him.
"Always, Mac!"
"Good lad, sit down! You want some coffee, tea, milk, chocolate milk, or orange juice?"
"Chocolate milk", Richie answered Duncan. Tessa smirked and asked him, "You want some toast and some rolls?"
"Yeah sure."
"How about an omelette?"
"Yeah, love it, Mac."
"At eleven we have an appointment with your social worker Mrs. Harrington, Duncan informed the lad.
"What, Mrs. Harrington the old bat?" Richie exclaimed. She is the deputy head of that department. She is not my social worker. Mrs. Tyler was always responsible for me. This is so not good, I'm toasted"
"Richie, I think that's a good sign. Mrs. Harrington has more leeway than your social worker. We now need to stay calm and wait. Finish your breakfast in peace and then you will wipe up the shards in our living room."
"Oh, sure, Huh, I hope that was not valuable."
"I have to disappoint you; unfortunately, the statue and the vase were valuable."
Richie's face was immediately red as a lobster. "Oh, I'm really sorry about that."
"We know Richie but we cannot change what happened. I will notify our insurance company."
"How much was it? I will pay it back, I am really sorry", Richie stammered nervously.
"We do not dwell on it. Richie, you are forgiven", Duncan soothed the lad.
Huh, really Mac, Tessa? Are you sure about that?"
Yes, Richie it is all well, Tessa confirmed.
"Well, then you do your assigned task and be careful with the shards. Over there is the cleaning cupboard. You find there all you need."
Then you'll brush your teeth and get ready. We leave at a quarter past ten."
"Yes, I'll be ready, Mac."
At social service Duncan asked at the front desk for Mrs. Harrington. They had to wait so they sat down in the waiting-room.
After ten minutes a middle aged women asked for him and he introduced himself, Tessa and Richie. "Good morning, Mr. Macleod, Mrs. Noel and Richie. I'm Mrs. Harrington. Please follow me; we can talk in my office.
Richie you will stay with my assistant go over there, she awaits you. We will talk later.
Please come in and sit down, she addressed the adults.
Mr. Macleod. The front desk manager told me you called this morning concerning young Mr. Richard Ryan."
"Yes, that's true Mrs. Harrington.
"Please tell me why you are here, Mr. Macleod."
"About two weeks ago Richie has tried to rob our antique store but we did not press charges.
After talking about the situation Tessa and I decided that Richie should work off his debt to us. He has deliberately disabled and destroyed our alarm system and broken a window. Because of him we had to do the inventory and needed to inform our insurance.
I had his current address from Sergeant Powell and I wanted to talk to him and inform him about our decision some days ago, but the janitor told me that Richie's foster family moved away two months ago.
Yesterday I wanted to do our grocery shopping. I was drinking my coffee at Starbucks when I suddenly spotted Richie. I watched him as he stole a woman her purse. I forced him to return the purse to her and to come with me.
Sergeant Powell told me that the boy is nearly eighteen. So we thought that when he has worked off his debt to our satisfaction we would offer him a job and our guest room. We felt he is far too young to be on his own. The boy needs guidance and a chance.
I had a long conversation with Richie yesterday. Tessa and I had later on a discussion as well. We would like to help him. This cannot go on like that."
"Well, I get the picture Mr. Macleod and I agree with you that this cannot go on.
Sergeant Powell informed me about Richard's case ten days ago. Richard's until recently, responsible social worker gave permission to let him go by phone. That is not a usual process if it concerns a minor especially one just barely fifteen year old.
I wanted to visit him at his foster home and did not find Richie or the family. The janitor told me the same. So we put out a search order for him. I'm glad you found and took him in and contacted us this morning.
It is not the first time that Richie is living on the street but he is only fifteen years old and that is far too young for such a lifestyle. We noticed that someone changed his records and we are not sure who is responsible for this. I think Richie did it because he wants out of foster care.
He has a long rap sheet and he has big problems to integrate or settle down into a foster family. It is mentioned that he has a temper and sometimes terrible outbursts or tantrums. He was in several orphanages and 15 foster families in about ten years. Not really a good development I may add. I am absolutely concerned about the future and welfare of this boy.
Although I have no proper proof, I think that in some foster families there was neglect and also mental abuse or cruelty. I don't know about physical abuse, but it can be suspected too."
Oh God, that is a horrible situation for a child. No wonder he is so defiantly and angry, Tessa said shocked."
"Mrs. Noel, Richie is a difficult child with a problem to fit in and not easy to handle. But it is not his fault entirely.
However, I agree with you, that the attempted robbery should not go unpunished; He didn't do it because he likes to do mischief, he did it for survival. The boy had nowhere to go and he did not trust us enough to inform us about his situation. Therefore I am glad you didn't press charges against him.
To this day, it was not possible for us to find a good and stable home for Richie. We have failed and that makes me very sad. However, I am responsible for difficult cases in our department and he is now my problem and I want a good solution for him."
"What will happen now?" Duncan asked.
"We need to find immediately a new appropriate foster home for him. If not we have to place him in a specialized orphanage for maladjusted children or in a mental hospital. But that would be really the last option!"
"Oh, my god", Tessa exclaimed.
"Mrs. Harrington, would it be possible for me to register as a foster parent or legal guardian for Richie", Duncan asked.
"Yes, Mr. MacLeod if you are American citizen and have a steady income you can.
"Well, I am American citizen and I live in a stabile relationship since 12 years with Tessa. She is a well known French artist. We live in a large apartment above our antique store and we can provide for Richie a spacious room with a separate bathroom attached. Money is no issue for us we both have a good income. We would like to provide a permanent home for him."
Mrs. Harrington frowned and studied Tessa Noel and Duncan Macleod forcefully.
Then she said. "You know, this is not the usual way to process, but I have a gut feeling that this could work out for the boy. So I give you the forms and you fill them out.
We will do the necessary first check immediately and when all is correct you receive the temporary custody for young Mr. Ryan this afternoon, Mr. Macleod."
"You are willing to approve so quickly. I am very impressed", Duncan stated.
"Mr. Macleod, Richie needs urgently a positive father figure and a firm guidance. He needs love and patience, a lot of reassurance and understanding for his situation and problems.
You and Mrs. Noel are willing to take him in and you are interested in his well being. Otherwise you had not acted in this way. If I am able to place him with you, it should better be the last foster home.
If it doesn't work out, he will be certainly at a breaking point. It will be very hard for him to ever trust us from social service or any other adults.
I am also very sure he will test your intention and dedication to give him a home more than once. I will hold you to your promise to give him a permanent home. But I am willing to risk it. He deserves a chance."
"I understand Mrs. Harrington and we will give our best and are determined that it will work out. But it will not be easy to build trust", Tessa said.
"I agree with you, said Mrs. Harrington. He needs to be mentored in a firm but gentle way and there certainly have to be some house rules and a curfew, and if he doesn't follow your demands and instructions, there have to be consequences."
"Sure, Mrs. Harrington but it will be the hard part for him and us", Duncan said and smirked.
"Yes, she laughed, I'm sure about that Mr. Macleod but as a parent you have to go through that.
Please fill out these forms and let them with my assistant. I suggest that you go for lunch and come back at four. I have to talk to Richie now. He will stay here till I have definitively decided what happens with him."
"I hope for Richie that we are able to take him home this afternoon", Tessa said.
"That would also be my preferred solution, Mrs. Noel", Mrs. Harrington said.
"Okay, then we are back later, Mrs. Harrington", Duncan said.
Tessa and Duncan went to fill out the needed forms and let them with Mrs. Harrington's assistant.
"Come Tessa we go for lunch and a walk at the waterfront. We can do nothing do to speed up the process but I really hope that we are able to take him home this afternoon."
Meanwhile Mrs. Harrington phoned her assistant and ordered her to send the boy in. Richie stepped very hesitant in her office. Mrs. Harrington said," Richie, please come in and sit down."
"Hi, Mrs. Harrington", he sat down and fell silent but fidget a bit.
Mrs. Harrington noted how tense the boy was.
"First of all, Richie, I must apologize to you. When I studied your case I realized that you had really bad luck with most of your foster families so far."
Richie looked at Mrs. Harrington really taken aback.
"Mrs. Harrington you really apologize to me," Richie asked shyly and incredulous.
Yes I do apologize to you Richie. We have not done our best for you and that makes me sad. I'm really sorry. However we cannot change it, but we can do better from now on.
I think Mr. Macleod and Mrs. Noel like you. I did not tell them intimate details about your life but I told them, that you had several foster families and it never did work out for you.
Mr. Macleod is American citizen and is willing to take over the responsibility and the care for you as your guardian and foster parent. They assured me, that they will give you a permanent home. I think that Mr. Macleod and Mrs. Noel are really interested in your welfare and I am willing to approve it.
They told me that they did not press charges against you. They felt that the decision was correct but anyway there should be a lesson in it for you. So they wanted you to work off your debt to them in the antique store.
If you would do a good job, you could stay and work and live with them, when you have reached the legal age. But I had to tell them your real age, Richie. It did not change their intentions towards you; on contrary it did reinforce them.
What do you think about Mr. Macleod as your guardian, Richie?"
Richie thought that he was oddly comforted by this statement from Mrs. Harrington. Macleod was from the beginning willing to take care of him, even thought, the man had only trouble with him and he had insulted the man several times.
Mrs. Harrington let Richie time for his answer. She was glad that the boy, thought before he answered her.
Richie admitted, "I would like to stay with Mr. Macleod and Mrs. Noel. He was nothing than kind to me even I was only big trouble for him. I don't like living on the street or in an orphanage."
"Mr. Macleod filled in all the application forms for your guardianship and we do the necessary first check at the moment. When all is correct you can go home with them this afternoon.
However, there is another problem Richie. Your social worker Mrs. Tyler got arrested. She has neglected her duty to find a good foster home for the entrusted kids. She has embezzled their money together with the chosen families.
Sergeant Powell wants to talk to you next week and I hope you will tell him the truth. He will contact you, well Mr. Macleod, for an appointment.
We want to interview all her charges. Therefore I want you to talk with Mrs. Keller she is our in-house child psychologist. I will bring you to her now. Come on Richie."
Duncan and Tessa were back early at the social service. The front desk manager informed Mrs. Harrington and they were accompanied to her office.
"Good afternoon, Mrs. Noel and Mr. Macleod."
"Good afternoon Mrs. Harrington."
"Please take a seat. Well, first the good news. You can take Richie home with you.
You just have to sign the temporary custody form here and the copy for me and the originals here. I will bring you the definitive permission paper when they are signed from the family court."
Duncan signed the forms. Tessa said, "Mrs. Harrington we thank you for your efficient and good work and for your understanding for Richie's situation and the quick help."
"That's my job Mrs. Noel and I really hope it will work out for Richie.
Now moving forward I need to inform you that Mrs. Tyler Richie's previous social worker got arrested and we investigate all her cases. She has neglected her duty to find a good foster home for the entrusted kids. She has embezzled their money together with the chosen families.
Therefore I wanted Richie to talk to our in-house child psychologist Mrs. Keller, but he had a terrible tantrum. Mrs. Keller let him alone till he calmed down but it was not possible for her to finish the interview.
So we decided to postpone this interview. Mrs. Keller suggested that we let the boy settle in with you and she and Sergeant Powell will visit you at your Home in about two or three weeks and try to talk to him again. Mrs. Keller will coordinate it and will arrange the meeting."
"Did you tell him that he has to talk to Sergeant Powell", Duncan asked.
"Of course, I did. Mr. Macleod. But I told him that Sergeant Powell would contact you."
"Well, Mrs. Harrington I think Richie's and Sgt. Powell's relationship is not the best. I would like to supervise the interview if possible."
"Certainly, you are now his guardian Mr. Macleod. It is your decision and I think it's a wise one", Mrs. Harrington said.
"Mrs. Harrington, Richie is under sixteen and there is the compulsory school attendance. What have we to arrange in this matter", Tessa asked.
"Well, it is okay if he starts school again in mid-October. He needs some time to settle in with you and I think nearly four month is enough time. But I would recommend a placement test. It would be very useful. He has often changed schools in recent years."
"I will talk to my friend, Mr. Lester. He is the director of St. Mary's High School. St. Mary's is just a few minutes to walk from where we live. He can certainly arrange such a test for Richie in the next two weeks. If necessary we can help Richie to fill in the knowledge gaps before school starts."
"It is a private school Mr. Macleod. We cannot subsidize them, unfortunately."
"This is not an issue. I want Richie to have a good start in a new school", Duncan said.
"I see that both of you are concerned about Richie's welfare. One could almost say that Richie was lucky that he has broken into your antique store.
I will visit you next week, because I must still verify the housing situation."
"This is not a problem, we or one of us will be at home", Tessa said.
"Well, Mrs. Harrington, we would like to collect our little trouble maker."
"Of, course he is with my assistant. He's in pouting mood and didn't want to talk again. Please follow me."
Richie sat in a chair and was visibly pouting. Duncan could see that the lad was still angry and tense.
"Hi, Richie", he greeted.
"Hi, Mac and Tessa", the boy said.
"We are here to collect you. You are allowed to come home with us. I'm your legal guardian."
Richie stood up and trotted to Duncan's side ignoring Mrs. Harrington completely.
Mrs. Harrington told him, "Richie I expect that you are a good boy and don't give Mrs. Noel and Mr. Macleod a hard time. They mean it well with you."
Richie just snorted and shot her a furious look.
"Richie, do you need a reminder about your attitude towards adults", Duncan asked.
"No, I just want out of here. Mac, I can't stand to be here anymore."
Duncan put his hand reassuringly on Richie's shoulder and said, "Calm down Richie, every person in this room wants to help you."
Mrs. Harrington said; "Richie, remember your rap sheet is a long one. Carry on with your attitude and you will find yourself definitively in juvenile detention and that's no fun.
You must understand that you have to change yourself! It is high time, Richard! It is your last chance. I hope you understand that. Take this chance and make the best of it. Mr. Macleod and Mrs. Noel will support and guide you. I am very sure of that."
"Just let me in peace Mrs. Harrington", Richie said still in pouting mode.
"It is best if we leave now Mrs. Harrington. He had some exciting and exhausting hours to endure and he is tired and irritable, Duncan told her.
They said their goodbyes to Mrs. Harrington.
Richie could nearly not believe that he could go home with Mac and Tessa and was not deported to another orphanage. Still he was tense and anxious he had not behaved well at social service like Mac and Tessa expected him to and Mrs. Harrington had informed them.
"Richie do you have things and clothes you want to collect", Duncan asked.
"Yeah, they are at the old warehouse where you had your sparring session with Conner."
"Did you sleep there, the last view days Richie?"
"Yes, I did. I thought it was a good idea because it has no alarm system. Okay, Richie we drive by and you can collect your things."
"Well, it is only a suitcase."
At home Tessa ordered Richie to bring her his laundry. She would wash his things. Ten minutes later Richie emerged from is room with the laundry and did put his dirty clothes in the laundry room.
Tessa and Duncan sat in the living room and he joined them hesitantly as they had asked him too.
Duncan asked, "did they serve you lunch at social service?"
"Yeah, they served me a sandwich but I'm a little hungry."
"Okay, we will have an early dinner. You can have another slice of this lemon cake you like, sit down and join us for a tea break."
Richie did as he was told. At the end he had three slices but he was a growing boy so what. Mac and Tessa had not stopped him.
"Mrs. Harrington informed us that you had another tantrum today and you didn't cooperate with Mrs. Keller. What happened and why did you behave like that?" Tessa asked.
"I don't want to talk about Mrs. Tyler and about things. I'm not stupid and I am normal. I don't want to talk with a child psychologist and certainly not with Powell again", Richie pouted.
"It was not about you being normal or not. It was about Mrs. Tyler and her behaviour towards you and other children", Tessa told him.
"I know, but I don't want to talk to her, Richie said forcefully."
"It is not over Richie, they want to talk to you again and this time I will monitor it", Duncan added. They let you settle in with us and then Mrs. Keller will arrange a new meeting. Powell will contact us also. Just that you know, what will happen.
There are other things we want to discuss with you. But we will do that one by one and not now.
We will just give you a little overview what will happen with you and what we expect and demand from you.
First we want you to relax a bit, settle in with us and feel at home, that is the most important thing for us at the moment.
You will start school again at St. Mary's High School in Mid-October and that's decided. I will arrange a placement test for you with the principal. Mr. Lester is a good friend of mine."
"But, Mac that's a private school it costs a lot and they don't want kids like me, Richie pouted.
"I know that it is a private school and that it costs Richie, but it is not an issue. St. Mary's is only a few minutes to walk from here and has an excellent reputation. I see no reason why they shouldn't let you attend.
If it is however not possible, we can always find another solution.
But I'd rather let you attend St. Mary's because it is an opportunity for you to make new friends and to start over in a new environment. It is an investment in your future."
"Huh, you are sure about that", Richie pouted.
"Yes, we are very sure and a High School Graduation is important Richie", Tessa said forcefully.
"If necessary we will help you to close your knowledge gaps, so you are hopefully able to start school on the normal level for a fifteen year old child, Duncan told him.
The next four months you will work in our antique store and we will assign you some chores in the household. For that you will receive an allowance if you do them correctly and in due time.
For your work in the antique store you will receive a salary after you have worked off your debt to us. The conditions we will clarify later.
It goes without saying that your room and bathroom is always in a habitable state and clean. It is your responsibility."
"Okay, I think I can live with that", Richie said.
"Now we should move forward to what we expect from you Richie, Tessa continued. Some of it you know already.
"Duncan and I talked about the house rules and a curfew for you. We want to set only a few house rules now because we want to get to know you better. We are not accustomed to children in our home and we need time to adjust as well."
"We will discuss them with you in two months again, when we know each other a bit better", Duncan said.
You already know how we expect you to behave. You know there is always soap in our home. You speak up and behave decently, Duncan reminded him.
We decided for now that you are not allowed to leave the house without mine or Duncan's permission. So no curfew is needed at the moment.
We want to know where you are and what you do and with whom. If you want something feel free to speak up. We will discuss it and give permission if possible," Tessa instructed.
"Huh, you are really strict Tessa", Richie pouted again.
No, Richie we are strict and you do need to know where you stand with us, Duncan said forcefully.
And Richie, you go to bed when we tell you to and you don't whine and try to argue about it with us, Duncan informed him.
"Oh, Mac, I'm not a five year old I know when I'm tired", Richie pouted again.
Richie, I'm not so sure about that, but I want to move forward.
"It is also crystal clear from now on you are not allowed to do any criminal or illegal stuff and you do nothing that endangers your life.
If you do one of those things you are definitively in for a spanking and a severe punishment in addition.
Do you understand that, Richard?"
"Yes, Sir, I do."
"However, small mistakes we will overlook but we will point them out for you so you can adjust.
If you don't obey us you have to reckon that you get a punishment. We don't want you to wonder about this punishments so I will them point out for you. However I cannot guarantee we won't have another idea I do not mention.
If you have to reflect over your behaviour or calm down we will send you over there. Duncan pointed in the empty corner in the living room. I introduced you yesterday to this corner.
We will call it the Richie calm down and reflection corner. You will stand there like I instructed you yesterday and you only come out if Tessa or I give you the permission. If you do not follow our instructions immediately then you may receive a spanking in addition.
But there are other punishments for you if you don't obey. Like a lecture or a sermon, write sentences or an essay, we can dock your allowance, you get house arrest, no watching TV or contact your friends, no desserts or extra chores, make you read a book and tell us about it and so on. But we won't yell and we won't beat you, no abuse that is a promise."
"Huh, Mac that's quite a list, but no yelling, no abuse and no beating, I think I can live with that, but for a spanking I am definitively too old", Richie informed them.
"That's entirely our decision and we think you are not too old for a spanking", Duncan said earnestly.
"What is my punishment for my behaviour yesterday and today at social service", Richie asked defiantly.
"Duncan and I talked about it this afternoon and your behaviour at social service is included in this decision.
We just let it go this time because it was a difficult situation for you. You know that it is not right to behave like that and that is enough for us."
"You sure about that Tessa", Richie asked because he could not believe it.
"We are very sure about it my lad. Remember we want to help you and be there for you. It is not our intension to be your jailors. We want to provide a permanent home and you are now a member of our family", Duncan said.
"Oh, okay" Richie said, relieved.
"Now I believe I have to wash your clothes and cook dinner because it is my turn. It is now five and I think dinner will be ready shortly before seven."
"Would you like to join me for a walk in the nearby park", Duncan asked Richie.
"Yes why not!"
"Good then go get your jacket and meet me at the door in five minutes."
"Good idea Duncan, the boy needs a bit fresh air. He had two hard days."
"Exactly my thought, I want him to be tired, otherwise it will not be easy to have him in bed at a decent time.
"You are a wicked one, Duncan."
"I know, my love but now we have to be smart and always one step ahead of our little brat. It will keep us young and fit."
"Oh, you Duncan go and let me in peace."
They kissed and then Duncan went to fetch Richie at the door. They only had five minutes to walk to the park. Soon they walk along the waterfront.
"Why did you do that, Mac?" Richie asked.
"What do you exactly mean, Richie?"
"Take me in", Richie said.
"Why not Richie, you deserve a home, the rest of your childhood and a family. You know my secret so there is no reason not to do it. Tessa and I always wanted to have children but Immortals cannot have children. We are sterile."
"But you told me Conner has a daughter and a son."
"They are adopted. He took Rachel in after the Second World War. She knew what he was. She saw him die and come back. He smuggled her out of Germany.
John also knows about immortals and the game. He found the boy in Morocco in the desert next to his dead parents. He was alone so he had to take him back to civilisation and then decided to take care of him. He had not the heart to just leave him at an orphanage.
Most immortals don't take children in because they feel it is too dangerous for them. There are some evil immortals out there and some of them try to use family members against their opponent."
"Am I the first child you take care of?"
"No, I lived for a while with little Deer and her tribe and she had a son called Kahani. His Dad died when he was eleven but Kahani knew him and he viewed me more as his Dad's friend, an uncle or his mother's lover but we liked each other and had a good relationship.
Little Deer and I had only two years together and then some soldiers murdered the whole tribe when I was away. I had a very hard time after that because I loved them very much.
So you see it is also a big adjustment for Tessa and me not only for you. We all have to be patience with each other and we really want you to speak up if you want or need something. Don't be shy or think we do not try to understand you. It is important especially in the beginning. We are not used to take care of a child and we have to learn to be good parents. If you don't communicate with us it's more difficult because we have to guess.
Some of mine or Tessa godchildren visited us over the years for a weekend or a bit longer but I do not think that this counts. It is not the same."
"You can ask Conner he has experience in rising children", Richie advised.
"Well, I know for sure that Conner is a very strict parent and he was my mentor. He was very strict with me when I was a young and foolish immortal."
"Did he spank you? Of course he did, Duncan said seriously and smirked.
"That's a joke, Mac or did he?"
"You have to ask him yourself my lad."
"You are not honest with me, Richie accused Duncan."
"If you talked to Connor like you did to me yesterday, he would have dragged you immediately to the next washroom without a warning. You would have had some soap in your mouth before you could have said another word."
"Huh, so strict!"
"Yes, so strict", indeed.
"So, you want to tell me that I can be glad that you are my guardian and not Connor."
"No, I just mean, that we have to find our own way to deal with the upcoming situations and we will.
So, I think we have to turn around and go back otherwise we will be late for dinner and Tessa won't allow us any dessert for the next 3 days"
"You think she would be so strict with us. I like desserts."
"It was just a joke, don't worry, Richie."
Duncan put his arm around Richie and the two walked on. "You don't need to worry it will all turn out all right.
You're fifteen and you have to get used to it, that we will now take care of you. Children have a right to have parents who fully supported them in their development and only want the best for them.
I hope that you'll enjoy the rest of your childhood and you feel at ease with us and loved.
It is not our desire to punish you, but if needed we will do it for your sake."
"Do I really need to return to school?"
"I told you that this is decided. You will be sixteen years old in May next Year. I assume that you have heard of the compulsory school attendance for minors below sixteen. We cannot and will not ignore it because a good education is very important.
Why are you so reluctant to go back to school?"
"The teachers hate me and give me bad grades. I am always so bored in school. The other students tease me often and the teachers always blame me if something happened. I usually get detention for things I didn't do just because I am Richie Ryan the foster kid."
"Well, I think in a private school is all a little different. There are not so many children in the classes and the teachers are better educated and take more time for each child. I am sure that you will feel at home in St. Mary's. If you have problems in school you talk to us so we can help you to sort them out."
"That is so easy for you to say. You are not the one who has to attend school."
"That's right I am a bit over the age limit to be exact 383 years over it."
Richie laughed.
"You sure there is no compulsory school attendance for Immortals under 500 years. Connor just didn't inform you because he hates school too and didn't want to attend himself."
Duncan snorted. "You are a little brat. But stop worry and concentrate on the here and now. There are enough changes in your life at the moment and you need to get used to them first.
"Uh, Mac I try but I'm glad we are back, I'm hungry."
"Hello you two, did you have a nice walk?"
"Hi, Tessa", Duncan kissed her.
"Hi and yes", Richie said.
"It was a tough day wasn't it Richie?"
"Yes it was but I'm hungry and it smells good!"
"Well then, go wash your hands and then come sit down, you too Duncan."
"Yes, Madam, we follow your instructions", Duncan smirked.
"Come on Richie or we get nothing to eat."
Tessa laughed and went back to the kitchen. Duncan and Richie followed within a very short time.
"Richie, I think you need to write down what you do not like and what you are allergic to. So we know what we can cook. Pin it on the fridge."
"I can do that, Tessa no problem."
"You are still a growing boy and need plenty of food. Take what you like but please write it on the list on the refrigerator if you take the last of something. Remember a fruit is healthier than sweets."
"Yes, yes, I know Tessa. That is the parents preach number 125."
"So then you're well informed, Richie and you will remember it.
We also need a list with the names of your friends, their addresses and phone numbers. Please write this down and pin it on the fridge too.
"Sure, I will do that."
"Make sure that you write down all your friends, Tessa said.
Then we have another urgent problem.
I wanted to wash your clothes and I must say that they were very old and worn out. I almost had to throw everything in the trash. Duncan tomorrow you have to go clothes shopping with Richie. Here I made a list. It is only the most necessary for the start."
"That's a big list my love."
"Yes, but necessary Duncan."
Richie glanced at the list. He shouted angrily, "You're crazy Tessa. My clothes are okay. You cannot throw them away without asking me."
Tessa had inherited the French temperament of her parents and said with a very icy voice.
"Richard, go immediately to your corner!"
"I'm not the one who made the mistake, I want my stuff back," he yelled at her.
"Do immediately what I told you or you will feel the consequences!"
Richie stormed out of the kitchen ran into his room and slammed the door.
"This behaviour cannot be tolerated, Duncan."
"No, you meant well but you have exceeded his limit and you have to apologize for that.
Ha, I haven't to apologize at all Duncan."
"I suggest that we review the matter and decide together what is still viable.
Should I get him?"
"No, that's between me and Richie. It is not good when you get involved now. This is about respect."
"Yes exactly, Tessa but that goes for both of you. You can only punish him for having yelled at you is that clear."
"Oh, you again!"
"Think again, Tessa!"
"Well, maybe you are right."
"I am right Tessa."
Tessa knocked at Richie's door and entered. Richie sat on the bed, with his knees drawn up to his chest and his head on his crossed arms.
"I'm sorry that I have sorted out your clothes without involving you. It was not my intension to hurt your feelings. I have thus exceeded a limit. I want to talk to you later and we will find a solution.
But I won't tolerate that you yell at me. I give you five minutes to think about it. If you don't stand in your corner, we have a big problem. The time starts now." Then she left the room.
Oh, no, now he had a problem with Tessa. That was not good. What should he do now? Should he give in or not? Probably better to give in. I do so not want a spanking.
The five minutes had passed. Richie was not aware of this. When he came into the living room, only Mac was there. Richie went to stand in the corner as ordered by Tessa.
"Good that you've chosen to obey Tessa. The five minutes have already passed, but we will overlook it.
Be aware that you are only punished for yelling at her. I assume that she has apologized for throwing away your clothes without discussing it with you. She meant well, but didn't think about your feelings. You may answer me."
"Yes, she apologized."
"Good. Tessa will tell you when you can come out of the corner. It is a problem between you two and you will find a solution together I am sure."
Twenty minutes later Tessa came back and emptied the garment bag and sorted the clothes a little on the coffee table. Duncan saw that she had not been exaggerating. Almost everything should be sorted out.
"Richie you can come out and sit down on the armchair." Richie obeyed.
"I'm sorry that I yelled at you Tessa."
"Well, we have now apologized both. We forget it. Now we want to talk about your clothes. Look, the socks and boxer shorts are full of holes. It makes no sense to patch these holes. The other clothes are also in a bad condition. Some seams are open or frayed. What do you want to keep?"
"My black and green jacket the jeans and four of these T-shirts."
"Okay, we will throw everything else away. Now I have to work at one of my projects. I go to my workshop. I wish you a good night Richie."
She gave him a peck on the cheek and left the living room. Richie said, "Good night Tessa."
"Well, everything is back to normal, you all right Richie?"
"Yes sure, whatever Mac."
"Good, then come here we want to watch a football game." Richie sat down and Mac put his arm around Richie's shoulders.
"When it comes to clothes Tessa has the lead. She is a woman and for the love of peace's sake it is better to give in. This is an advice which you should consider in the future. Be glad that Tessa have entrusted me with the clothes shopping tomorrow. With Tessa everything would go three times as long."
An hour later, Richie began to yawn constantly. "So you go to bed now. Tomorrow we have a busy day."
"I want to watch the discussion about the game till the end, please Mac."
"Stop arguing and go."
"Do I have a choice?"
"Nope, go to bed, Richie!"
Ten minutes later, Duncan knocked and entered Richie's room. The lad was already in bed.
"Hey, are you taking me back through this relaxation exercise; I slept well last night until the night mare."
"I am glad you liked it. Then we make it a tradition. But I want to change something. I will tell you good night before and give you a kiss, so you know you are loved." Duncan tousled Richie's hair and kissed him on the forehead.
"Mac, you cannot love me; we know each other only a short time, Richie said."
"That's true but love is not bound by time. Every child deserves to be loved and you too. I liked you from the start.
You looked cute when you fought with the Mayan statue. And I liked your quick thinking at the police station. I was a reckless and curious child and I did a lot of mischief so you remind me a bit of myself.
You have made too many bad experiences in your short life, Richie and you need time but eventually all will be well. They say time heals the wounds and that will happen to you too. It is clear to me that you find it difficult to trust adults but you will learn it again.
Now you belong to me and Tessa. We are a family and we will not leave you or send you away because you're not a model child. We will stand by you and help you as long as we can."
Duncan kissed him again and said, "good night and sleep well little brat." "Good night Mac."
Duncan took Richie's hand and began the relaxation exercise. Fifteen minutes later, Richie was sleeping deeply. Duncan kissed him turned off the light and left the room.
Duncan went to bed himself and Tessa joined him half an hour later. "Do you feel better now Tessa?"
"Yes, I do. I'm glad you stopped me tonight with Richie. I was too harsh and I really stepped over a boundary. But Duncan the boy needs some appropriate clothes."
"Yes, you are right Tessa."
"Perhaps I should come with you."
"No, Tessa that is not necessary. He is a boy and we don't know his preferences. I think he should pick what he likes and I will guide him a bit. Let me handle that."
„I find it quite disturbing that he has only this few old battered clothes. It looks like the previous foster parents did not spend the money they got for his care."
"Well, I think you are right my love but we can change that and we will tomorrow."
Richie really hates to stand in the corner. How did you come to this punishment Duncan? It is quite a new method."
"Oh, I think not that new. My mother used it a lot on me. She started with it when I was a small child and I hated noting more than this punishment. I was a reckless kid with a knack for dangerous situations and I did a lot of mischief. My father was more the spanking type and it impressed me for a while. But when he noticed that I really hated to stand in the corner I always got a spanking and in addition I had to stand in the corner for at least an hour."
"Oh, poor little reckless Duncan, now I know how to punish you if you are a naughty boy."
"Hey I'm 399 years old and an adult."
"Oh, you again Duncan, Tessa giggled and this led to other activities.
Richie had nightmares and woke up during the night. It normally was not his intention to piss of his foster parents or social workers like this but it happened regularly.
When he was frustrated then he had the urge to do some stupid actions including illegal or criminal stuff. Maybe Mrs. Harrington was right and he had to change. He would try.
A foster home was better than an orphanage. He was sure Mrs. Harrington would not hesitate if he wouldn't get along with Mac and Tessa. He had to try and give them a chance. They certainly gave him a good one. They are different, perhaps it would work out. If not he could always run away.
Richie was not feeling well, he had a headache and he was hot. Should he go to Mac? No, let him sleep. I'm only the second night here. But he told me explicitly, that I'm allowed to knock, when it is necessary. Okay, if it gets worse then I'll go to him but I'm just too tired. Richie drifted off to sleep without informing Mac.
Thank you for reading, please review. Next chapter coming soon!