Post by Hawthorn on Dec 20, 2012 21:35:23 GMT -5
Merry Christmas!
From Sidney and John
Christmas homecoming
It is Tuesday December 18, half a day of school and classes are finished for Christmas break and will start again after the New Year. And the day has finally come that I will be heading home to New York where I was before I found out that I was a mutant to spend a couple of days even though I don’t have any family there, I will be seeing Father Flanagan of Saint Andrews church where I went with my dad who has been gone for a couple of years. And after a few years at school I will finally have a chance to pay my last respects to my late father and to finally say good-bye him because I didn’t have that chance the day he was killed.
I will be taking John Bryant aka as Johnny Knuckles with me and Storm will be our chaperone for the trip.
After a year of planning the trip and 4 months ago I asked John if he would like to go home for Christmas and spend a little time with his mom and younger sister. At first John thought I was joking when asked if he wanted to go home for Christmas boy I had too much fun trying not to crack a smile wanted to keep a poker pace, I did succeed and when I finally spoke to John that I wasn’t joking and that I would pay for his plane ticket and the ticket was my first Christmas gift to him.
Oh boy the look on John’s face was totally priceless he was happy about going home for Christmas it took a week to arrange things with his mom one could tell John was stoked to go home for Christmas.
Getting the airline tickets were a total nightmare for me I didn’t even know how to attain the tickets when calling the answer I got was that I was too young to purchase airline tickets I had to have an adult purchase the tickets. I had to ask one of the professors or teachers to help me purchase the tickets thankfully Storm was more than happy to help me after getting the tickets I paid Storm back for purchasing the tickets for John and myself I also offered to pay for Storm’s ticket as well, I was told it was okay I didn’t have to pay for her ticket I would need the extra money for shopping and other things I might need for school. And asked Father Flanagan if the three of us would be able to spend a few days with him, and Father Flanagan said it would be fine he was looking forward to seeing me again as I was looking forward to seeing him again as well and we also made arrangements for me to visit where my father was laid to rest, so I can pay my last respects to him and also finally say good-bye to him as well.
A year and a half ago Father Flanagan had finally managed to find me and made contact with me over the phone, and was told that he was my guardian until I was 18 and that my dad had left a small trust fund and I would be able to have full access to the trust fund when I’m 18 and if I needed any money to help with school and have a few extra things to let him know and he would send the a money order form the Post office.
Looking at my watch Storm would meet us outside in 10 minutes before we would be leaving for the Airport to catch our flight to from Frisco to New York the plane leaves in two hours, and we were told that we had to be at the airport an 1 hour early to get through customs before boarding the plane.
For the past hour or so Timber had been in his play area I had finished packing the few things that would be going with Timber and packed them in my travel bag. Taking the travel cage that looked like a backpack but as a pet carrier, I would be taking Timber with me though I forgot to ask Storm if the airlines would allow pets to travel with their owners.
I’m glad that I had made arrangements with Bobby Drake aka Iceman to care for Timber if the airline wouldn’t allow pets in the coach area while I was away and left him instructions of what Timber needed for food, water and make sure that Timber got his daily playtime, and Bobby was more than welcome to stay in the room with Timber or he could take Timber to his room if he wanted.
Looking at my watch again and then looking over to my roommate, “yo knuckles hope you are ready to leave have to meet Miss Munroe outside in 3 minutes better get your butt in gear ready to spend a few days in the Big Apple and spend a little time with your mom and little sister?” I asked with sly smile.
John had been busy the past hour packing his travel bag with what he was going to take with him. Hearing Sid say are you ready to see the Big Apple, this would the first time going to New York City and the many different culture and the famous quote the City never sleeps he finishes packing his travel bag and looked up to Sid grinning, “yeah I’m ready to hit the big apple Sid I’m so excited to see New York City can’t wait to tell mom about the visit to New York City,” John said picking up his travel bag.
Picking up Timber’s travel cage and sliding on my back and picking up a couple travel bags that I was taking with me one would be for the Christmas gifts that I was going to buy for John, his mom and his little sister, a gift for Storm and for Bobby to thank him for caring for Timber if the airline didn’t allow pets in the coach area. Stepping to the door and opened the door then stepping out.
John picked up his travel bags, and stepped outside of the room and we head outside to meet Storm, looking at John grinning, “The big apple has some of the best shops around and some of the best restaurants also. Though we won’t to get to those shops there are plenty of unique shops l like the best never can tell when you find those little treasures?”
John smiled as we hurried outside, “hope they have comic shops to browse I’ve been itching to get the last few issues of Justice Fist and couple of manga’s I’ve been reading.”
“I believe that there are comic shops around never been to them before I left home John just not sure where they are and I’m pretty sure that we can find on comic shop for you to browse through.”
Took us less than 5 minutes to reach Storm and Mr. Drake, the back of the school van was opened and we set our travel bags in the back, Storm has already set her travel bags in the back she saw that I had Timber with me also.
“Sidney I don’t think that the airline is going to let you take your pet companion to the coach area.”
It is worth the try Miss Monroe and if Timber can’t go with to the coach area I’ll have to leave him home I don’t want have him in the luggage area not knowing how he is doing, it would make me really nervous,” I said sadly and yet I was speaking the truth.
Storm had to laugh, “I see you are attached to the little fella I believe that he has helped you a great deal since you have found to help you cope with what happened at the old school?” She asked.
“More than you will ever know Miss Monroe Timber is my little buddy and he knows it and is spoiled too. You have been a huge help also Miss Monroe helping me with some of different plants you have in your garden and also with some of the herbs I’ve been working with.”
Bobby smiled looking at the time, “uh guys we better get moving if you are to get to the airport on time and go through all the customs before your flight leaves.”
Everyone nodded and piled into the school van, Bobby smirked at the us saying, “buckle up you two don’t want you two messed up before you even get to the Big Apple,” Bobby quickly made both us a snow cone with cherry flavor and handed it to us.
Storm smiled more or less shaking her head with assument, “Bobby you know you are spoiling the boys here.”
Bobby just grinned and he drove off to the airport it took about 30 minutes to get to the airport after parking we all headed into the terminal to find out where we were to go and go through customs.
After finding out where we are going and I was told that Timber could go with to the coach after I had asked the lady at the desk was really nice about it I told her that I didn’t want Timber to be in the luggage area I would be really nervous about not having Timber in my sights.
Bobby said good-bye to us telling us to have fun and that he would be here when we arrived back from seeing John’s mom John and I said good-bye and the three of us walked to the area where we were to board our flight.
After going through customs and it didn’t take as long as everyone thought it would and with no time we boarded the plane taking our seats and I set Timber in the middle seat while I took the window seat and John took the third seat to the isle.
Storm had a seat just ahead of us so she could watch us making sure we didn’t cause any trouble not that we could be trouble both us were a little nervous anyways and we were quiet until after we had taken off once in the air John and I were deep in conversation with each other talking about comics and manga’s. From time to time Storm would look over her seat checking on us.
One of the stewardesses asked us if we wanted anything to drink, we looked at each other surprised and we both said that a soda would be okay Pepsi or coke was okay.
Storm chuckled hearing us, looking over her seat, “looks like you were taken off guard must be the first time flying normally?” she said quietly careful not to give away that the other people on the flight hearing them talk that there mutants flying among them. Both of us nodded our heads telling Storm quietly that this was the first time for flight normally.
There was a 30 minute layover at Chicago’s O’Hare airport John and I bought a few souvenirs before and I took Timber out of his travel cage for a quick drink and I had a leash for him and quickly let him stretch his legs out quickly putting him back into his travel cage and sliding the cage on my back we quickly made our way to where we are to board our flight and we once again took to the air and it wouldn’t be long before we arrived at JFK airport in New York City,
After checking in making our way out of the Airport terminal we met up with Father Flanagan who was there to take us to his house. As Father Flanagan drove us to the church parish and going through some of the old neighbor hoods that I walked a few years ago wow lot has changed over the few years I’ve been gone was going to ask Father Flanagan what has happened decided not to ask.
I was here for a few days to say good-bye to father and do a little Christmas shopping before heading off to spend Christmas with John’s mom and little sister.
It didn’t take long before we reached St. Andrew’s church the place hadn’t changed all that much it looked the same as it did before dad and I left. After dinner we all sat in the parlor and talked for a little while before heading off to bed.
The next morning I was up fairly early and got ready to see where dad had been laid to rest I wore black kaki dress slacks, with a white dress shirt and dress shoes. Father Flanagan drove us to the cemetery after arriving and I walked to the grave site I stood there looking at the stone for a moment I hadn’t had a chance to mourn dad’s death and it seemed liked it hit me all at once the seeing the day dad died tear trickled down my face as Father Flanagan did the ritual for me like he did after dad was killed. Once Father Flanagan finished I knelt down in front of the grave placing winter roses on the grave and I quietly said good-bye to dad and I told him I would make him proud of what I make of my life. Standing up and wiping the tears from my eyes turning to Father Flanagan, “thank-you father this means so much to me to have the chance to say good bye to dad.
John and Storm had walked up behind me and placed their hands on my shoulders, “Sid I’m sorry about your father,” John said quietly he didn’t really know what else to say. “Sid I’m sorry for your loss I know you were really close to your father you must miss him a lot.” Storm said quietly.
Looking at John and Storm, “Thank-you both, yes Miss Munroe I was very close to my dad he was the only person I could lean on I do miss him a lot, though I have a new family and I will do whatever it takes to protect them,” I said to Storm.
Father Flanagan looked at me after I spoke to John and Storm saying, “you’re welcome lad I’m more than happy to help when I can, you’re father was a good person he was always helping in the community always helping others who needed help you are so much like your father Sid you are willing to help others when they need it most. Now let’s head back and let you give the tour of the old neighborhood and let you do some shopping.”
“Yes sir! Father again thank-you for bringing me here to see dad and thank-you for letting us stay with you.”
“Not a problem Sidney, now let’s head back for the tour.” We all piled into the van and headed back to the church, and I gave the tour of the old neighbor hood even showed John where I used to live wish I could have show him my room but another family moved in the old house.
After lunch we headed to the city to do some shopping after a couple of hours of shopping we had stopped for an afternoon snack, John was looking over the comics he had gotten, “wow I can’t believe the Big Apple is so big we’ve only been to part of the city it would take a while look the place over, hopefully there will be more comic shops to browse through,” John said with a sly grin.
I more or less rolled my eyes and laugh, “Oh boy I think I let the inter demon of Knuckles out, don’t forget Johnny you wanted to get something for your little sister and something for your mom. I think I have something in mind for your little sister can’t wait to meet your mom and little sister.”
“What you are getting something for mom and sis Sid? You don’t have buy something for them mom is going to be so happy to see me again she has missed me a lot and I have missed her just as much Sid don’t spend your money on mom and sis I’ve got a good idea what I’m getting both of them.”
Storm was for the most part quiet letting the boys have a good time, it was good that they had a chance to get away from the school the for a little while and John had a chance to see his family again for a couple of days. Sid had come home for a short time and said good-bye to his father; she smiled as the boys continued to talk.
Over the next couple of days both us went shopping and even managed to catch a concert seeing Trans-Siberian and both of us really enjoyed the concert part of the day and on the last day before they were to leave for Indianapolis International Airport to see John’s mom and sister we did our last minute shopping for Christmas and for souvenirs before leaving the next day.
That night after a wonderful Irish Christmas dinner we all sat around the fireplace talked about the old days and had a good laugh. Father Flanagan asked me how I liked the school.
“I like the school a lot Father the school is helping me to use my gift so I don’t hurt anyone and I can help them at the same time. It was kind of rough at first when I first arrived at the school as time went by I more or less adjusted to the new surroundings and I have friends unlike when I was before father made a good choice for me to go the school for the gifted, and feels like I have a family again in a way.” I said with a smile.
“Well Sid I’m very glad you like the school and have friends I know how hard it was before with making friends. I hate to see you leave it’s good to have you back Sid wish you could stay for a while longer kind of miss you being around you always helping your father with something in the community. Oh before I forget Sid I have something for you,” Father Flanagan said as he stood up from his seat and went to his office for a couple of minutes and then returned.
“Here you go Sid this was from your father he wanted you to have it, and it was something I think you will like it a lot,” he handed the small box to me
I carefully took the old box from Father and I carefully opened the small box to see an old ring I had to choke back tears, looking up to Father Flanagan, “Thank-you so much this ring belong to my mom it was her wedding ring, I’m sure you know what the ring is Father?”
“Yes I do lad I knew your father had kept the ring after your mom passed away from the story he told me the ring meant the world to him and I believe that you have also have a necklace that was from your mother also.”
I nodded to him, “yes I do and I cherish the necklace very much and I will cherish the ring as well.”
Father Flanagan sat back down cleared his throat and told a story about the time when I was about 10 years old I had been helping dad and the church with one of their fundraisers for the community with a spaghetti dinner I had been working on filling small bowls with tossed salad that went with the dinner I was bringing over a tray full of the salads when I dropped the whole tray on the floor and salad went everywhere and I looked like a tossed salad. Father Flanagan laughed for a moment before he spoke again, “Sid I have to admit that day when you dropped that tray of salad on the floor and the expression of bewilderment embarrassment was priceless I think everyone including your father were laughing at your expression I don’t think you could gotten a deeper shade of red from blushing and I think you must had apologized more than I could ever count in the end there were no hard feelings.”
I’m sitting and blushing big time I hearing some snickering from John looking over to him and seeing him laughing so hard and rolling on the floor shaking my head and smiling
John finally caught his breath wiping the tears from the corner of his eyes, “Oh man Sid I don’t think I had a good laugh like that in ages you must have been quiet the character Sid wish I could have been there to see that,” he said with a sly grin.
Again shaking my head, “you know Knuckles I’m sure you weren’t the little angle either bet ya you got into more trouble than I did,” smiling slyly.
“Nah I was a good little boy Sid unlike you,” he grinned
Raising my eye brow, “we will see about that I’m going to ask your mom about if you were a good little boy,” grinning evilly at John.
Now that got John’s attention he looked at me thunderstruck, “no you wouldn’t ask mom that would you?” he asked as his smile vanished.
Oh man this was going to so hard not to laugh getting out my best poker face I could possibly mustard up and called my bluff, “yeah I’m to ask your mom about you being a little angle or not.”
John fell flat on his back in disbelief that I would do such a thing, sitting back up and looking at me I still have my poker face still calling my little bluff, “you sir Mr. Maclachlan are a traitor how could you betray your friend?” he asked with disbelief
I’m trying not to smile it was getting really hard clearing my throat, “yep I sure would betray my friend,” I said coolly.
The look on John’s face was priceless with his mouth dropped open to the floor he couldn’t believe that I would betray him. I couldn’t hold my poker face expression any longer and I busted out laughing, “Gotcha ya Knuckle head,” I said laughing really hard.
That was all John could take and he tackled me, “Why you little brat you really had me worried there for a moment,”
I continued to laugh at John, “Oh man John you were beside yourself about that there is no way I would betray you as a friend not unless it was for your good.”
Father Flanagan, his wife and Storm were all chuckling at John and myself the way we were talking.
All of us continued to talk and laugh, Storm looked at her watch seeing it was getting fairly late and they had to catch a flight in the morning she looked at us, “alright boys time for you to head to bed have to catch a flight in the morning don’t want to miss that flight now do you?”
Both of us looked at Storm standing up stretching and yawned a little John and I said good night to Father Flanagan and went upstairs to turn in.
Storm was surprised at Father Flanagan that it didn’t bother him that he was among mutants she told Father Flanagan a little bit about herself. After seeing the boys head up stairs to turn in, she stood up and stretched herself, “Father Flanagan, I’m surprised you are not upset being among mutants and you are not scared either, you are one of the very few normal humans that are not upset being among the mutants.”
“Miss Monroe I’ve heard of the mutants before and most humans think the mutants are demons the mutants are not demons they have been given gifts in my opinion like Sid I believe his gift is healing I know he will use his gift to help others if they are willing to let him help them. I like to help everyone including mutants; it is my mission in life to help mutants and humans to live in peace with each other, though I may not see the mutants and humans living in peace and harmony with each other in my lifetime even if I could see humans getting along with the mutants in lifetime it would be the most blessed sight to see before I pass on from this world.”
Storm nodded she wish the humans would live in peace with the mutants as well and Father Flanagan was right about that maybe someday the wish of the mutants to live along with the humans in peace.
“Miss Monroe thank-you for watching over Sid he has a rough life only having one parent up to a couple of years ago I know he has friends and a family to a degree, please would keep watch over as he grows into adult since I can’t do that I’m so far away I know we will always stay in touch with each other he is a good lad and I know when he becomes an adult he will do good for the humans if they will let him help them. It has been a pleasure meeting you Miss Monroe I hope Sid can come and visit again sometime.”
“Of course Sid is more than welcome to visit you anytime he wants to visit you Father I’m sure that Sidney will be happy to see you again sometime all depends on what he is doing with school and so on. I will continue to watch over Sidney he is a wonderful teenager very mature for his age.” Storm smiled.
“Sidney was taught to respect his elders when he was his father and both of them had very close bond with each other, after seeing his father killed it must have torn him apart that he couldn’t use his special gift though I have a feeling that Sidney’s father’s last word to go to the school for the gifted and that his father loved him very much. I know that Sidney has made his father proud of what he has accomplished so far in school and with the mutants.”
“I would like to thank-you for taking Sidney, John and I in for the past couple of days I can see that Sidney is happy to come back to visit you Father and I’m sure he will want to visit again some time.”
“I will be looking forward to see Sidney again, when we see each other again Sidney will be a grown up.”
Storm nodded and smiled, “I better turn in myself Father it has been a pleasure meeting you.”
“It has been also a pleasure meeting you Miss Monroe and John Bryant and the pleasure was mine to have you all of you as guest of honor.”
Storm nodded shaking Father Flanagan’s hand and she headed up to the guest room that she was staying in before turning in she checked on the boys and both of them were resting and she turned in herself.
Early next morning everyone was woken by a loud crash coming from outside the kitchen door and a fairly loud scream of terror. I was the first out of bed and was nearly first to the top of the stairs Storm had just beaten me there and she headed down stairs I was right behind Storm and John was right behind me.
The three of us walked towards the kitchen Storm motioned John and I to stay where we were and she entered the kitchen first making sure there were no intruders or vandals Storm carefully walked to the kitchen door it was open and she heard someone crying quietly. Storm stepped out the kitchen door and nearly fell on the ground catching herself before she fell to the ground she saw Father Flanagan on the ground she stepped over to Mrs. Flanagan just as Mr. Flanagan was coming around she kneeled next to Mrs. Flanagan quietly asking what happened.
Mrs. Flanagan lifted her head hearing Storm’s voice she was about to answer Storm’s question when Mr. Flanagan tried to sit only to groan in pain and set himself down on the ground again.
Mrs. Flanagan told Storm that Mr. Flanagan had heard something outside and it knocked one of the trash cans over most likely it was a stray cat or maybe a raccoon he slipped on the ice outside the kitchen door lost his balance he fell into the trash cans.
Storm stood up and she quickly checked to see if the stray cat or raccoon was still lurking around and she checked to make sure there were no other intruders or thugs lurking around once she checked the back yard and front yard she walked to the back and she called for John and I to come outside and that Father Flanagan was hurt and to be careful when coming out there is ice on the ground.
Both John and I were careful when we stepped outside and I went over to Mr. Flanagan it looked like he slipped and fell on the ice and it looked like that he might have broken his left arm there was a nice cut about his right eye and a nice little black and blue mark that was also forming and he will have a good headache to follow.
Kneeling down next to Father, seeing if there were any other injuries that I could detect didn’t see any more cuts or bruises, “Father Do you hurt anywhere else besides your left arm are you able to stand up?”
It took a moment before Father Flanagan answered the question, “I don’t think so Sidney mainly my left arm and my head must when I hit my forehead on the edge of the trash can, I think I can stand up with a little help.”
Nodding to him looking over to Storm, “Could you give me hand with Father?” I asked Storm.
She nodded and stepped over and we both carefully helped Father up to a standing position, we stood there for a moment until he regain is balance. Once he was ready we carefully stepped back inside and walked him to the living room and set him down on the sofa and I kneeled down next to Father and spoke softly, “Father I would like to use my healing powers to fix your broken arm and the cut above your right eye if that is okay with you.”
He smiled though I could tell that he was in a lot of pain looking over to John, John could you go up and grab my small travel bag for me.”
John quickly went up to get the bag I had asked.
Father spoke, “sure you can Sidney,”
I carefully moved Father Flanagan’s left arm and set it out straight but not quite fully straight his arm was slightly bent, placing both of my hands over the break and I close my eyes and go into my little trance it took me several minutes before I mended the broken bone making sure the bone was healed I opened my eyes for a moment and I move my hands up to the cut and bruise over his right eye closing my eyes again and it took another couple of minutes for me to heal the cut and bruise once I finished I slowly come out of my healing trance, It had been a while since I had used my powers and I felt a little light headed sitting on the floor for a moment or two gather my thoughts.
Father Flanagan looked at me, “are you okay Sidney?” he asked with concern
Storm had noticed I was a little light headed after using my powers she knelt down next to me putting a hand on my shoulder.
Looking at Father, “I’m okay Father using my powers like that it drains my energy a little and I feel a little light headed and it has been a while since the last time I used my healing powers.” I smiled at Father and I felt Storm’s hand on my shoulder.
Looking over to her, “its okay Miss Monroe like I said it’s been a while since the last time I used my healing powers on others.”
Storm nodded as she stood up and smile, John had returned with the small travel bag that I brought with me he handed it to me.
“Thanks John,” smiling and I took the bag from him. Opening the bag and I fumbled around for a moment until I found what I was looking for taking out a small bottle opening the bottle and shook out a couple capsules and handed them to Father.
He looked at me a little confused. I had to chuckle a little, “nothing to worry about Father what I have is cherry powder capsules they help with headaches like aspirin or ibuprofen capsules.”
Father understood what I was saying and he took the two capsules from me and a glass of water and down the capsules, “Thank-you Sidney that was amazing the way you mended my broken arm and the cut on my forehead I felt warm inside.”
I blushed a little, “welcome Father I’m happy that I could help you in return.”
He nodded and smile and he sat up on the sofa.
Storm looked at the time our flight would be leaving in two that met that we had to get our things gathered up and head to the airport. “Boys gather your things our flight will be leaving in two hours and we have to be at the airport an1 before and go through customs.”
We did as we were told and went up stairs to gather out things which didn’t take long. Storm excused herself and went up to her room to gather her bags the three of us came back down stairs and Father Flanagan was getting his jacket on he drove us to the airport. I said good-bye to Mrs. Flanagan and I gave her the phone number to the school if she ever needed anything or wanted to talk to me and I promised to stay in touch and we piled into the van and headed off to the airport.
Before going in I said good-bye to Father Flanagan I didn’t want to leave I wanted to stay a little longer but I knew I had to go and I promised Father I would stay in touch with him and I would try to make another trip out for a visit when I had some time off from school.
Father said good-bye to me as well he was very glad to see me again and he would be looking forward to seeing me again for another visit. I gave him a hug and then I headed into the airport and I waved good bye to Father Flanagan.
Did not take that long to get through customs just before boarded our flight John called home to tell his mom that they would be arriving at the airport in Indiana in a couple of hours.
An hour and half later we arrived at the airport after going through customs and gathering our bags we walked through the airport and met with John’s mother Pamela Bryant.
When John spotted is mom he quickly walked up to her and his eyes were absolutely shinning with joy as he approached his mom and gave her a huge hug and his mom cried a little it had been a while since they had seen each other she was very happy to see and hold her son again.
Storm and I stayed back to let John have his moment with his mom and John’s little sister. John’s mom introduced his little sister to him saying, “John meet your sister Mania La’rai.”
John reached his hand out to his sister saying, “Hey sis nice to meet you, and you are really cute too.”
Mania giggled at John and reached her hand out to John they touched hands John smiled, “Here John take her I think she wants to see you.”
John’s eyes went wide he wasn’t sure if he should hold his sister after a moment or two he took his sister from his mom and held his sister for the first time and Mania laughed even more and she put her tiny arms around John’s neck.
John broke out into a huge smile, “well Mania it looks like you bonded with me really fast.”
John’s mom broke out laughing, “I guess so, come here little one,” John’s mom took Mania from John so he could gather his bags.
John turned around and waved to us and we walked over to him, John introduced us, “mom this is my best friend Sidney and Miss Monroe who is one of our teachers as school she our chaperone for the trip.”
Reaching my hand out to shake John’s mom’s hand, “a pleasure meeting you Mrs. Bryant and you too Mania,” I said to both of them.
Storm extended her hand to John’s mother also, “an honor to meet Mrs. Bryant and John is an excellent student along with friend Sidney.”
Mrs. Bryant shook my hand and Storm’s hand, “it’s an honor to you Sidney John has told me a lot about you I’m happy that he has friends,” she looked over to Storm, “nice to see teaches accompanying their students.” She looked at John smiling, “come on J bear time to go home for a short time.”
Now that little comment made John blush big time as we all piled into the family car, “oh mom com on you don’t have to embarrass me not in front of my friends you know that is more or less privet.”
“Oh I’m sorry John I didn’t know you didn’t like being called J bear anymore,”
“Not that I don’t like being called that mom that is just between us though not in public and in front of my friends makes me feel like a little kid.”
Mrs. Bryant more or less just smiled, “alright John I won’t call you J bear anymore not in public only at home and you are not exactly an adult yet and for your own well being, you will always be my little boy even when you are an adult I will always love you.”
Now that was making John squirm a little and I couldn’t hold back I had to taunt him a little, “Oh now I know you have a nick name oh boy I’m going to have some fun with this J bear.”
John looked at me like oh man Sidney if you even start I’m going to kick you’re butt into next week expression on his face. The expression was another priceless moment I quickly whipped my Ipod touch and took a picture of John and the priceless expression on his face.
“Oh man Sidney you really caught me with my guard down and thanks to mom Sidney now knows my kick name,” he said grumbling and sulked in the back seat.
Mrs. Bryant and Storm were chuckling lightly, “Now John lighten up I don’t see your friend Sidney will call you by your nick name and I’m sure that you have a new nick name that is far better than J bear at school.”
Looking at John grinning slyly, “I wouldn’t be a true friend if I called you by your nick name from home; no I wouldn’t do that John that is my promise.” I winked at him letting him know that this nick name was personal and it didn’t need to known at school.
John looked at me with relief and smiled, “wow Sid you are mature and I know you will keep that promise you are a true friend.”
I smiled back to John and I looked at Storm and winked at her as well. Storm knew that I was a kind person and I kept my promises the best I could, she winked back and smiled letting me know that I did fine.
Once we arrived at John’s house the three of us grabbed our bags and we all walked into the house setting my backpack on the kitchen chair and Timber scratched at the mesh netting Mrs. Bryant jumped a little seeing the bag move and she lets out a little gasp of surprise asking what was in the backpack.
“Oh I’m sorry Mrs. Bryan I forgot that I brought my little companion with me I found him at the school the little fella was hurt really bad and I more or less nursed him back to health since then we have become best of friends. I have a little ferret his name is Timber.” I said as I picked up the backpack so Mrs. Bryant could see Timber.
“Oh the little fella looks like a mink or weasel does he bite?” she asked with concern.
“Ferrets are related to the mink family but they can be part of a family like dogs or cats or any other animal that can be made into a family pet. And Timber doesn’t bite at all he is very gentle and he loves to play. Would you like to see Timber in person?”
Mrs. Bryant was a little hesitant at first she wasn’t sure if it would be a good idea with Mania though she had an idea that Sidney wouldn’t let the ferret run loose and most likely keep the little companion in the travel cage, “Sure Sidney I never seen a ferret before.”
I unzipped the top of the backpack reaching in to pick Timber up and took him out of the backpack and held him fairly tightly and I showed Timber to Mrs. Bryant.
She lightly petted Timber on the head, Timber chattered very lightly to Mrs. Bryant. “Whoa I didn’t know they chattered or even made noise.”
I had to laugh lightly, “Timber does like to chatter a lot and makes him unique.”
Mania reached her little hand out towards Timber, Mrs. Bryant reached her hand to her daughters hand and gently pulled it back, “no Mania Timber my not like you.”
Mania started to fuss a little she wanted to pet Timber, and as curious as Timber was he squirmed a little to get a closer look at Mania, “it’s okay Mrs. Bryant Timber should be okay with Mania I think Timber wants to meet Mania as much as she does wants to meet him.”
She let Mania reach her hand out to Timber who sniffed the little one’s hand and he waited to see what Mania would do, Mania touched Timber on the head and pulled her hand back and laughed at the fuzzy fur. Mrs. Bryant laughed too, “Well Mania I see you like furry little animals. Mania looked at her mom and giggled more.
“John why don’t you show John to your room and also show Miss Monroe to the guest room I’ll make some hot cocoa for you and Sidney. Miss Monroe would you like coffee or tea?”
Storm said tea would be fine and she followed the John upstairs once she entered the guest room she sets her bags down yawns as stretches.
Walking into John’s room I was impressed with the comic collection he had at home bigger than what he had at school also the manga he had too. “Wow John I didn’t think you were that big into comics and manga.”
John grinned, “Yeah I’m really big into comics and you already know how much I like the Justice Fist comics. Sidney you can sleep on the bed I’ll take the sofa,”
I was going to say something decided not to say anything setting Timber down on the bed and I unpacked the portable play pen and set it up next to the bed taking Timber out and setting him in the play pen to stretch his legs for a few minutes after a few minutes I put Timber back into his travel cage and we went down stairs for hot cocoa and tea for Storm.
After a really nice home cooked meal we all played a few board games and then we turned in for the night before turning in I made sure that Timber had stretched his legs really good made sure he had something to eat and water.
I woke up early the next morning and I quietly went down stairs to leave a couple gifts under the tree for John, his mom and sister then I went back up stairs and waited until everyone else woke up.
After breakfast we opened the gifts and spent the day talking and playing board games after a wonderful Christmas dinner we all watched a Christmas movie before turning in for the night.
The next morning we spent part of the day with the family before we headed back to school to spend Christmas at school. Mrs. Bryant said that John’s father would be home early Christmas Eve. Late Sunday afternoon Storm, John and I were all packed and ready to go. Mrs. Bryant drove us to the airport.
John said good-bye to his mom and sister though I could see both of them tearing up I know John didn’t want to go back to school, though he had to go back if his father saw him home I don’t think it would be good.
He walked over to us and waved to his mom and sister, “Come on Sid time to head back to school which is my home now with the mutants. I know I will always be loved and I’m happy that I had a chance to see mom and sis. I know I will be able to see them again sometime like you will see Father Flanagan again soon.”
I nodded I promised myself that I would visit Father Flanagan again sometime in the near future and I promised him that I would stay in touch with him also. I know John will do the same to stay in touch with him mom.
Storm smiled as she picked up her bags and headed to customs, I picked up the bags turning around I waved back to John’s mom smiling.
And the three of us headed home back to school for Christmas.
From Sidney and John
Christmas homecoming
It is Tuesday December 18, half a day of school and classes are finished for Christmas break and will start again after the New Year. And the day has finally come that I will be heading home to New York where I was before I found out that I was a mutant to spend a couple of days even though I don’t have any family there, I will be seeing Father Flanagan of Saint Andrews church where I went with my dad who has been gone for a couple of years. And after a few years at school I will finally have a chance to pay my last respects to my late father and to finally say good-bye him because I didn’t have that chance the day he was killed.
I will be taking John Bryant aka as Johnny Knuckles with me and Storm will be our chaperone for the trip.
After a year of planning the trip and 4 months ago I asked John if he would like to go home for Christmas and spend a little time with his mom and younger sister. At first John thought I was joking when asked if he wanted to go home for Christmas boy I had too much fun trying not to crack a smile wanted to keep a poker pace, I did succeed and when I finally spoke to John that I wasn’t joking and that I would pay for his plane ticket and the ticket was my first Christmas gift to him.
Oh boy the look on John’s face was totally priceless he was happy about going home for Christmas it took a week to arrange things with his mom one could tell John was stoked to go home for Christmas.
Getting the airline tickets were a total nightmare for me I didn’t even know how to attain the tickets when calling the answer I got was that I was too young to purchase airline tickets I had to have an adult purchase the tickets. I had to ask one of the professors or teachers to help me purchase the tickets thankfully Storm was more than happy to help me after getting the tickets I paid Storm back for purchasing the tickets for John and myself I also offered to pay for Storm’s ticket as well, I was told it was okay I didn’t have to pay for her ticket I would need the extra money for shopping and other things I might need for school. And asked Father Flanagan if the three of us would be able to spend a few days with him, and Father Flanagan said it would be fine he was looking forward to seeing me again as I was looking forward to seeing him again as well and we also made arrangements for me to visit where my father was laid to rest, so I can pay my last respects to him and also finally say good-bye to him as well.
A year and a half ago Father Flanagan had finally managed to find me and made contact with me over the phone, and was told that he was my guardian until I was 18 and that my dad had left a small trust fund and I would be able to have full access to the trust fund when I’m 18 and if I needed any money to help with school and have a few extra things to let him know and he would send the a money order form the Post office.
Looking at my watch Storm would meet us outside in 10 minutes before we would be leaving for the Airport to catch our flight to from Frisco to New York the plane leaves in two hours, and we were told that we had to be at the airport an 1 hour early to get through customs before boarding the plane.
For the past hour or so Timber had been in his play area I had finished packing the few things that would be going with Timber and packed them in my travel bag. Taking the travel cage that looked like a backpack but as a pet carrier, I would be taking Timber with me though I forgot to ask Storm if the airlines would allow pets to travel with their owners.
I’m glad that I had made arrangements with Bobby Drake aka Iceman to care for Timber if the airline wouldn’t allow pets in the coach area while I was away and left him instructions of what Timber needed for food, water and make sure that Timber got his daily playtime, and Bobby was more than welcome to stay in the room with Timber or he could take Timber to his room if he wanted.
Looking at my watch again and then looking over to my roommate, “yo knuckles hope you are ready to leave have to meet Miss Munroe outside in 3 minutes better get your butt in gear ready to spend a few days in the Big Apple and spend a little time with your mom and little sister?” I asked with sly smile.
John had been busy the past hour packing his travel bag with what he was going to take with him. Hearing Sid say are you ready to see the Big Apple, this would the first time going to New York City and the many different culture and the famous quote the City never sleeps he finishes packing his travel bag and looked up to Sid grinning, “yeah I’m ready to hit the big apple Sid I’m so excited to see New York City can’t wait to tell mom about the visit to New York City,” John said picking up his travel bag.
Picking up Timber’s travel cage and sliding on my back and picking up a couple travel bags that I was taking with me one would be for the Christmas gifts that I was going to buy for John, his mom and his little sister, a gift for Storm and for Bobby to thank him for caring for Timber if the airline didn’t allow pets in the coach area. Stepping to the door and opened the door then stepping out.
John picked up his travel bags, and stepped outside of the room and we head outside to meet Storm, looking at John grinning, “The big apple has some of the best shops around and some of the best restaurants also. Though we won’t to get to those shops there are plenty of unique shops l like the best never can tell when you find those little treasures?”
John smiled as we hurried outside, “hope they have comic shops to browse I’ve been itching to get the last few issues of Justice Fist and couple of manga’s I’ve been reading.”
“I believe that there are comic shops around never been to them before I left home John just not sure where they are and I’m pretty sure that we can find on comic shop for you to browse through.”
Took us less than 5 minutes to reach Storm and Mr. Drake, the back of the school van was opened and we set our travel bags in the back, Storm has already set her travel bags in the back she saw that I had Timber with me also.
“Sidney I don’t think that the airline is going to let you take your pet companion to the coach area.”
It is worth the try Miss Monroe and if Timber can’t go with to the coach area I’ll have to leave him home I don’t want have him in the luggage area not knowing how he is doing, it would make me really nervous,” I said sadly and yet I was speaking the truth.
Storm had to laugh, “I see you are attached to the little fella I believe that he has helped you a great deal since you have found to help you cope with what happened at the old school?” She asked.
“More than you will ever know Miss Monroe Timber is my little buddy and he knows it and is spoiled too. You have been a huge help also Miss Monroe helping me with some of different plants you have in your garden and also with some of the herbs I’ve been working with.”
Bobby smiled looking at the time, “uh guys we better get moving if you are to get to the airport on time and go through all the customs before your flight leaves.”
Everyone nodded and piled into the school van, Bobby smirked at the us saying, “buckle up you two don’t want you two messed up before you even get to the Big Apple,” Bobby quickly made both us a snow cone with cherry flavor and handed it to us.
Storm smiled more or less shaking her head with assument, “Bobby you know you are spoiling the boys here.”
Bobby just grinned and he drove off to the airport it took about 30 minutes to get to the airport after parking we all headed into the terminal to find out where we were to go and go through customs.
After finding out where we are going and I was told that Timber could go with to the coach after I had asked the lady at the desk was really nice about it I told her that I didn’t want Timber to be in the luggage area I would be really nervous about not having Timber in my sights.
Bobby said good-bye to us telling us to have fun and that he would be here when we arrived back from seeing John’s mom John and I said good-bye and the three of us walked to the area where we were to board our flight.
After going through customs and it didn’t take as long as everyone thought it would and with no time we boarded the plane taking our seats and I set Timber in the middle seat while I took the window seat and John took the third seat to the isle.
Storm had a seat just ahead of us so she could watch us making sure we didn’t cause any trouble not that we could be trouble both us were a little nervous anyways and we were quiet until after we had taken off once in the air John and I were deep in conversation with each other talking about comics and manga’s. From time to time Storm would look over her seat checking on us.
One of the stewardesses asked us if we wanted anything to drink, we looked at each other surprised and we both said that a soda would be okay Pepsi or coke was okay.
Storm chuckled hearing us, looking over her seat, “looks like you were taken off guard must be the first time flying normally?” she said quietly careful not to give away that the other people on the flight hearing them talk that there mutants flying among them. Both of us nodded our heads telling Storm quietly that this was the first time for flight normally.
There was a 30 minute layover at Chicago’s O’Hare airport John and I bought a few souvenirs before and I took Timber out of his travel cage for a quick drink and I had a leash for him and quickly let him stretch his legs out quickly putting him back into his travel cage and sliding the cage on my back we quickly made our way to where we are to board our flight and we once again took to the air and it wouldn’t be long before we arrived at JFK airport in New York City,
After checking in making our way out of the Airport terminal we met up with Father Flanagan who was there to take us to his house. As Father Flanagan drove us to the church parish and going through some of the old neighbor hoods that I walked a few years ago wow lot has changed over the few years I’ve been gone was going to ask Father Flanagan what has happened decided not to ask.
I was here for a few days to say good-bye to father and do a little Christmas shopping before heading off to spend Christmas with John’s mom and little sister.
It didn’t take long before we reached St. Andrew’s church the place hadn’t changed all that much it looked the same as it did before dad and I left. After dinner we all sat in the parlor and talked for a little while before heading off to bed.
The next morning I was up fairly early and got ready to see where dad had been laid to rest I wore black kaki dress slacks, with a white dress shirt and dress shoes. Father Flanagan drove us to the cemetery after arriving and I walked to the grave site I stood there looking at the stone for a moment I hadn’t had a chance to mourn dad’s death and it seemed liked it hit me all at once the seeing the day dad died tear trickled down my face as Father Flanagan did the ritual for me like he did after dad was killed. Once Father Flanagan finished I knelt down in front of the grave placing winter roses on the grave and I quietly said good-bye to dad and I told him I would make him proud of what I make of my life. Standing up and wiping the tears from my eyes turning to Father Flanagan, “thank-you father this means so much to me to have the chance to say good bye to dad.
John and Storm had walked up behind me and placed their hands on my shoulders, “Sid I’m sorry about your father,” John said quietly he didn’t really know what else to say. “Sid I’m sorry for your loss I know you were really close to your father you must miss him a lot.” Storm said quietly.
Looking at John and Storm, “Thank-you both, yes Miss Munroe I was very close to my dad he was the only person I could lean on I do miss him a lot, though I have a new family and I will do whatever it takes to protect them,” I said to Storm.
Father Flanagan looked at me after I spoke to John and Storm saying, “you’re welcome lad I’m more than happy to help when I can, you’re father was a good person he was always helping in the community always helping others who needed help you are so much like your father Sid you are willing to help others when they need it most. Now let’s head back and let you give the tour of the old neighborhood and let you do some shopping.”
“Yes sir! Father again thank-you for bringing me here to see dad and thank-you for letting us stay with you.”
“Not a problem Sidney, now let’s head back for the tour.” We all piled into the van and headed back to the church, and I gave the tour of the old neighbor hood even showed John where I used to live wish I could have show him my room but another family moved in the old house.
After lunch we headed to the city to do some shopping after a couple of hours of shopping we had stopped for an afternoon snack, John was looking over the comics he had gotten, “wow I can’t believe the Big Apple is so big we’ve only been to part of the city it would take a while look the place over, hopefully there will be more comic shops to browse through,” John said with a sly grin.
I more or less rolled my eyes and laugh, “Oh boy I think I let the inter demon of Knuckles out, don’t forget Johnny you wanted to get something for your little sister and something for your mom. I think I have something in mind for your little sister can’t wait to meet your mom and little sister.”
“What you are getting something for mom and sis Sid? You don’t have buy something for them mom is going to be so happy to see me again she has missed me a lot and I have missed her just as much Sid don’t spend your money on mom and sis I’ve got a good idea what I’m getting both of them.”
Storm was for the most part quiet letting the boys have a good time, it was good that they had a chance to get away from the school the for a little while and John had a chance to see his family again for a couple of days. Sid had come home for a short time and said good-bye to his father; she smiled as the boys continued to talk.
Over the next couple of days both us went shopping and even managed to catch a concert seeing Trans-Siberian and both of us really enjoyed the concert part of the day and on the last day before they were to leave for Indianapolis International Airport to see John’s mom and sister we did our last minute shopping for Christmas and for souvenirs before leaving the next day.
That night after a wonderful Irish Christmas dinner we all sat around the fireplace talked about the old days and had a good laugh. Father Flanagan asked me how I liked the school.
“I like the school a lot Father the school is helping me to use my gift so I don’t hurt anyone and I can help them at the same time. It was kind of rough at first when I first arrived at the school as time went by I more or less adjusted to the new surroundings and I have friends unlike when I was before father made a good choice for me to go the school for the gifted, and feels like I have a family again in a way.” I said with a smile.
“Well Sid I’m very glad you like the school and have friends I know how hard it was before with making friends. I hate to see you leave it’s good to have you back Sid wish you could stay for a while longer kind of miss you being around you always helping your father with something in the community. Oh before I forget Sid I have something for you,” Father Flanagan said as he stood up from his seat and went to his office for a couple of minutes and then returned.
“Here you go Sid this was from your father he wanted you to have it, and it was something I think you will like it a lot,” he handed the small box to me
I carefully took the old box from Father and I carefully opened the small box to see an old ring I had to choke back tears, looking up to Father Flanagan, “Thank-you so much this ring belong to my mom it was her wedding ring, I’m sure you know what the ring is Father?”
“Yes I do lad I knew your father had kept the ring after your mom passed away from the story he told me the ring meant the world to him and I believe that you have also have a necklace that was from your mother also.”
I nodded to him, “yes I do and I cherish the necklace very much and I will cherish the ring as well.”
Father Flanagan sat back down cleared his throat and told a story about the time when I was about 10 years old I had been helping dad and the church with one of their fundraisers for the community with a spaghetti dinner I had been working on filling small bowls with tossed salad that went with the dinner I was bringing over a tray full of the salads when I dropped the whole tray on the floor and salad went everywhere and I looked like a tossed salad. Father Flanagan laughed for a moment before he spoke again, “Sid I have to admit that day when you dropped that tray of salad on the floor and the expression of bewilderment embarrassment was priceless I think everyone including your father were laughing at your expression I don’t think you could gotten a deeper shade of red from blushing and I think you must had apologized more than I could ever count in the end there were no hard feelings.”
I’m sitting and blushing big time I hearing some snickering from John looking over to him and seeing him laughing so hard and rolling on the floor shaking my head and smiling
John finally caught his breath wiping the tears from the corner of his eyes, “Oh man Sid I don’t think I had a good laugh like that in ages you must have been quiet the character Sid wish I could have been there to see that,” he said with a sly grin.
Again shaking my head, “you know Knuckles I’m sure you weren’t the little angle either bet ya you got into more trouble than I did,” smiling slyly.
“Nah I was a good little boy Sid unlike you,” he grinned
Raising my eye brow, “we will see about that I’m going to ask your mom about if you were a good little boy,” grinning evilly at John.
Now that got John’s attention he looked at me thunderstruck, “no you wouldn’t ask mom that would you?” he asked as his smile vanished.
Oh man this was going to so hard not to laugh getting out my best poker face I could possibly mustard up and called my bluff, “yeah I’m to ask your mom about you being a little angle or not.”
John fell flat on his back in disbelief that I would do such a thing, sitting back up and looking at me I still have my poker face still calling my little bluff, “you sir Mr. Maclachlan are a traitor how could you betray your friend?” he asked with disbelief
I’m trying not to smile it was getting really hard clearing my throat, “yep I sure would betray my friend,” I said coolly.
The look on John’s face was priceless with his mouth dropped open to the floor he couldn’t believe that I would betray him. I couldn’t hold my poker face expression any longer and I busted out laughing, “Gotcha ya Knuckle head,” I said laughing really hard.
That was all John could take and he tackled me, “Why you little brat you really had me worried there for a moment,”
I continued to laugh at John, “Oh man John you were beside yourself about that there is no way I would betray you as a friend not unless it was for your good.”
Father Flanagan, his wife and Storm were all chuckling at John and myself the way we were talking.
All of us continued to talk and laugh, Storm looked at her watch seeing it was getting fairly late and they had to catch a flight in the morning she looked at us, “alright boys time for you to head to bed have to catch a flight in the morning don’t want to miss that flight now do you?”
Both of us looked at Storm standing up stretching and yawned a little John and I said good night to Father Flanagan and went upstairs to turn in.
Storm was surprised at Father Flanagan that it didn’t bother him that he was among mutants she told Father Flanagan a little bit about herself. After seeing the boys head up stairs to turn in, she stood up and stretched herself, “Father Flanagan, I’m surprised you are not upset being among mutants and you are not scared either, you are one of the very few normal humans that are not upset being among the mutants.”
“Miss Monroe I’ve heard of the mutants before and most humans think the mutants are demons the mutants are not demons they have been given gifts in my opinion like Sid I believe his gift is healing I know he will use his gift to help others if they are willing to let him help them. I like to help everyone including mutants; it is my mission in life to help mutants and humans to live in peace with each other, though I may not see the mutants and humans living in peace and harmony with each other in my lifetime even if I could see humans getting along with the mutants in lifetime it would be the most blessed sight to see before I pass on from this world.”
Storm nodded she wish the humans would live in peace with the mutants as well and Father Flanagan was right about that maybe someday the wish of the mutants to live along with the humans in peace.
“Miss Monroe thank-you for watching over Sid he has a rough life only having one parent up to a couple of years ago I know he has friends and a family to a degree, please would keep watch over as he grows into adult since I can’t do that I’m so far away I know we will always stay in touch with each other he is a good lad and I know when he becomes an adult he will do good for the humans if they will let him help them. It has been a pleasure meeting you Miss Monroe I hope Sid can come and visit again sometime.”
“Of course Sid is more than welcome to visit you anytime he wants to visit you Father I’m sure that Sidney will be happy to see you again sometime all depends on what he is doing with school and so on. I will continue to watch over Sidney he is a wonderful teenager very mature for his age.” Storm smiled.
“Sidney was taught to respect his elders when he was his father and both of them had very close bond with each other, after seeing his father killed it must have torn him apart that he couldn’t use his special gift though I have a feeling that Sidney’s father’s last word to go to the school for the gifted and that his father loved him very much. I know that Sidney has made his father proud of what he has accomplished so far in school and with the mutants.”
“I would like to thank-you for taking Sidney, John and I in for the past couple of days I can see that Sidney is happy to come back to visit you Father and I’m sure he will want to visit again some time.”
“I will be looking forward to see Sidney again, when we see each other again Sidney will be a grown up.”
Storm nodded and smiled, “I better turn in myself Father it has been a pleasure meeting you.”
“It has been also a pleasure meeting you Miss Monroe and John Bryant and the pleasure was mine to have you all of you as guest of honor.”
Storm nodded shaking Father Flanagan’s hand and she headed up to the guest room that she was staying in before turning in she checked on the boys and both of them were resting and she turned in herself.
Early next morning everyone was woken by a loud crash coming from outside the kitchen door and a fairly loud scream of terror. I was the first out of bed and was nearly first to the top of the stairs Storm had just beaten me there and she headed down stairs I was right behind Storm and John was right behind me.
The three of us walked towards the kitchen Storm motioned John and I to stay where we were and she entered the kitchen first making sure there were no intruders or vandals Storm carefully walked to the kitchen door it was open and she heard someone crying quietly. Storm stepped out the kitchen door and nearly fell on the ground catching herself before she fell to the ground she saw Father Flanagan on the ground she stepped over to Mrs. Flanagan just as Mr. Flanagan was coming around she kneeled next to Mrs. Flanagan quietly asking what happened.
Mrs. Flanagan lifted her head hearing Storm’s voice she was about to answer Storm’s question when Mr. Flanagan tried to sit only to groan in pain and set himself down on the ground again.
Mrs. Flanagan told Storm that Mr. Flanagan had heard something outside and it knocked one of the trash cans over most likely it was a stray cat or maybe a raccoon he slipped on the ice outside the kitchen door lost his balance he fell into the trash cans.
Storm stood up and she quickly checked to see if the stray cat or raccoon was still lurking around and she checked to make sure there were no other intruders or thugs lurking around once she checked the back yard and front yard she walked to the back and she called for John and I to come outside and that Father Flanagan was hurt and to be careful when coming out there is ice on the ground.
Both John and I were careful when we stepped outside and I went over to Mr. Flanagan it looked like he slipped and fell on the ice and it looked like that he might have broken his left arm there was a nice cut about his right eye and a nice little black and blue mark that was also forming and he will have a good headache to follow.
Kneeling down next to Father, seeing if there were any other injuries that I could detect didn’t see any more cuts or bruises, “Father Do you hurt anywhere else besides your left arm are you able to stand up?”
It took a moment before Father Flanagan answered the question, “I don’t think so Sidney mainly my left arm and my head must when I hit my forehead on the edge of the trash can, I think I can stand up with a little help.”
Nodding to him looking over to Storm, “Could you give me hand with Father?” I asked Storm.
She nodded and stepped over and we both carefully helped Father up to a standing position, we stood there for a moment until he regain is balance. Once he was ready we carefully stepped back inside and walked him to the living room and set him down on the sofa and I kneeled down next to Father and spoke softly, “Father I would like to use my healing powers to fix your broken arm and the cut above your right eye if that is okay with you.”
He smiled though I could tell that he was in a lot of pain looking over to John, John could you go up and grab my small travel bag for me.”
John quickly went up to get the bag I had asked.
Father spoke, “sure you can Sidney,”
I carefully moved Father Flanagan’s left arm and set it out straight but not quite fully straight his arm was slightly bent, placing both of my hands over the break and I close my eyes and go into my little trance it took me several minutes before I mended the broken bone making sure the bone was healed I opened my eyes for a moment and I move my hands up to the cut and bruise over his right eye closing my eyes again and it took another couple of minutes for me to heal the cut and bruise once I finished I slowly come out of my healing trance, It had been a while since I had used my powers and I felt a little light headed sitting on the floor for a moment or two gather my thoughts.
Father Flanagan looked at me, “are you okay Sidney?” he asked with concern
Storm had noticed I was a little light headed after using my powers she knelt down next to me putting a hand on my shoulder.
Looking at Father, “I’m okay Father using my powers like that it drains my energy a little and I feel a little light headed and it has been a while since the last time I used my healing powers.” I smiled at Father and I felt Storm’s hand on my shoulder.
Looking over to her, “its okay Miss Monroe like I said it’s been a while since the last time I used my healing powers on others.”
Storm nodded as she stood up and smile, John had returned with the small travel bag that I brought with me he handed it to me.
“Thanks John,” smiling and I took the bag from him. Opening the bag and I fumbled around for a moment until I found what I was looking for taking out a small bottle opening the bottle and shook out a couple capsules and handed them to Father.
He looked at me a little confused. I had to chuckle a little, “nothing to worry about Father what I have is cherry powder capsules they help with headaches like aspirin or ibuprofen capsules.”
Father understood what I was saying and he took the two capsules from me and a glass of water and down the capsules, “Thank-you Sidney that was amazing the way you mended my broken arm and the cut on my forehead I felt warm inside.”
I blushed a little, “welcome Father I’m happy that I could help you in return.”
He nodded and smile and he sat up on the sofa.
Storm looked at the time our flight would be leaving in two that met that we had to get our things gathered up and head to the airport. “Boys gather your things our flight will be leaving in two hours and we have to be at the airport an1 before and go through customs.”
We did as we were told and went up stairs to gather out things which didn’t take long. Storm excused herself and went up to her room to gather her bags the three of us came back down stairs and Father Flanagan was getting his jacket on he drove us to the airport. I said good-bye to Mrs. Flanagan and I gave her the phone number to the school if she ever needed anything or wanted to talk to me and I promised to stay in touch and we piled into the van and headed off to the airport.
Before going in I said good-bye to Father Flanagan I didn’t want to leave I wanted to stay a little longer but I knew I had to go and I promised Father I would stay in touch with him and I would try to make another trip out for a visit when I had some time off from school.
Father said good-bye to me as well he was very glad to see me again and he would be looking forward to seeing me again for another visit. I gave him a hug and then I headed into the airport and I waved good bye to Father Flanagan.
Did not take that long to get through customs just before boarded our flight John called home to tell his mom that they would be arriving at the airport in Indiana in a couple of hours.
An hour and half later we arrived at the airport after going through customs and gathering our bags we walked through the airport and met with John’s mother Pamela Bryant.
When John spotted is mom he quickly walked up to her and his eyes were absolutely shinning with joy as he approached his mom and gave her a huge hug and his mom cried a little it had been a while since they had seen each other she was very happy to see and hold her son again.
Storm and I stayed back to let John have his moment with his mom and John’s little sister. John’s mom introduced his little sister to him saying, “John meet your sister Mania La’rai.”
John reached his hand out to his sister saying, “Hey sis nice to meet you, and you are really cute too.”
Mania giggled at John and reached her hand out to John they touched hands John smiled, “Here John take her I think she wants to see you.”
John’s eyes went wide he wasn’t sure if he should hold his sister after a moment or two he took his sister from his mom and held his sister for the first time and Mania laughed even more and she put her tiny arms around John’s neck.
John broke out into a huge smile, “well Mania it looks like you bonded with me really fast.”
John’s mom broke out laughing, “I guess so, come here little one,” John’s mom took Mania from John so he could gather his bags.
John turned around and waved to us and we walked over to him, John introduced us, “mom this is my best friend Sidney and Miss Monroe who is one of our teachers as school she our chaperone for the trip.”
Reaching my hand out to shake John’s mom’s hand, “a pleasure meeting you Mrs. Bryant and you too Mania,” I said to both of them.
Storm extended her hand to John’s mother also, “an honor to meet Mrs. Bryant and John is an excellent student along with friend Sidney.”
Mrs. Bryant shook my hand and Storm’s hand, “it’s an honor to you Sidney John has told me a lot about you I’m happy that he has friends,” she looked over to Storm, “nice to see teaches accompanying their students.” She looked at John smiling, “come on J bear time to go home for a short time.”
Now that little comment made John blush big time as we all piled into the family car, “oh mom com on you don’t have to embarrass me not in front of my friends you know that is more or less privet.”
“Oh I’m sorry John I didn’t know you didn’t like being called J bear anymore,”
“Not that I don’t like being called that mom that is just between us though not in public and in front of my friends makes me feel like a little kid.”
Mrs. Bryant more or less just smiled, “alright John I won’t call you J bear anymore not in public only at home and you are not exactly an adult yet and for your own well being, you will always be my little boy even when you are an adult I will always love you.”
Now that was making John squirm a little and I couldn’t hold back I had to taunt him a little, “Oh now I know you have a nick name oh boy I’m going to have some fun with this J bear.”
John looked at me like oh man Sidney if you even start I’m going to kick you’re butt into next week expression on his face. The expression was another priceless moment I quickly whipped my Ipod touch and took a picture of John and the priceless expression on his face.
“Oh man Sidney you really caught me with my guard down and thanks to mom Sidney now knows my kick name,” he said grumbling and sulked in the back seat.
Mrs. Bryant and Storm were chuckling lightly, “Now John lighten up I don’t see your friend Sidney will call you by your nick name and I’m sure that you have a new nick name that is far better than J bear at school.”
Looking at John grinning slyly, “I wouldn’t be a true friend if I called you by your nick name from home; no I wouldn’t do that John that is my promise.” I winked at him letting him know that this nick name was personal and it didn’t need to known at school.
John looked at me with relief and smiled, “wow Sid you are mature and I know you will keep that promise you are a true friend.”
I smiled back to John and I looked at Storm and winked at her as well. Storm knew that I was a kind person and I kept my promises the best I could, she winked back and smiled letting me know that I did fine.
Once we arrived at John’s house the three of us grabbed our bags and we all walked into the house setting my backpack on the kitchen chair and Timber scratched at the mesh netting Mrs. Bryant jumped a little seeing the bag move and she lets out a little gasp of surprise asking what was in the backpack.
“Oh I’m sorry Mrs. Bryan I forgot that I brought my little companion with me I found him at the school the little fella was hurt really bad and I more or less nursed him back to health since then we have become best of friends. I have a little ferret his name is Timber.” I said as I picked up the backpack so Mrs. Bryant could see Timber.
“Oh the little fella looks like a mink or weasel does he bite?” she asked with concern.
“Ferrets are related to the mink family but they can be part of a family like dogs or cats or any other animal that can be made into a family pet. And Timber doesn’t bite at all he is very gentle and he loves to play. Would you like to see Timber in person?”
Mrs. Bryant was a little hesitant at first she wasn’t sure if it would be a good idea with Mania though she had an idea that Sidney wouldn’t let the ferret run loose and most likely keep the little companion in the travel cage, “Sure Sidney I never seen a ferret before.”
I unzipped the top of the backpack reaching in to pick Timber up and took him out of the backpack and held him fairly tightly and I showed Timber to Mrs. Bryant.
She lightly petted Timber on the head, Timber chattered very lightly to Mrs. Bryant. “Whoa I didn’t know they chattered or even made noise.”
I had to laugh lightly, “Timber does like to chatter a lot and makes him unique.”
Mania reached her little hand out towards Timber, Mrs. Bryant reached her hand to her daughters hand and gently pulled it back, “no Mania Timber my not like you.”
Mania started to fuss a little she wanted to pet Timber, and as curious as Timber was he squirmed a little to get a closer look at Mania, “it’s okay Mrs. Bryant Timber should be okay with Mania I think Timber wants to meet Mania as much as she does wants to meet him.”
She let Mania reach her hand out to Timber who sniffed the little one’s hand and he waited to see what Mania would do, Mania touched Timber on the head and pulled her hand back and laughed at the fuzzy fur. Mrs. Bryant laughed too, “Well Mania I see you like furry little animals. Mania looked at her mom and giggled more.
“John why don’t you show John to your room and also show Miss Monroe to the guest room I’ll make some hot cocoa for you and Sidney. Miss Monroe would you like coffee or tea?”
Storm said tea would be fine and she followed the John upstairs once she entered the guest room she sets her bags down yawns as stretches.
Walking into John’s room I was impressed with the comic collection he had at home bigger than what he had at school also the manga he had too. “Wow John I didn’t think you were that big into comics and manga.”
John grinned, “Yeah I’m really big into comics and you already know how much I like the Justice Fist comics. Sidney you can sleep on the bed I’ll take the sofa,”
I was going to say something decided not to say anything setting Timber down on the bed and I unpacked the portable play pen and set it up next to the bed taking Timber out and setting him in the play pen to stretch his legs for a few minutes after a few minutes I put Timber back into his travel cage and we went down stairs for hot cocoa and tea for Storm.
After a really nice home cooked meal we all played a few board games and then we turned in for the night before turning in I made sure that Timber had stretched his legs really good made sure he had something to eat and water.
I woke up early the next morning and I quietly went down stairs to leave a couple gifts under the tree for John, his mom and sister then I went back up stairs and waited until everyone else woke up.
After breakfast we opened the gifts and spent the day talking and playing board games after a wonderful Christmas dinner we all watched a Christmas movie before turning in for the night.
The next morning we spent part of the day with the family before we headed back to school to spend Christmas at school. Mrs. Bryant said that John’s father would be home early Christmas Eve. Late Sunday afternoon Storm, John and I were all packed and ready to go. Mrs. Bryant drove us to the airport.
John said good-bye to his mom and sister though I could see both of them tearing up I know John didn’t want to go back to school, though he had to go back if his father saw him home I don’t think it would be good.
He walked over to us and waved to his mom and sister, “Come on Sid time to head back to school which is my home now with the mutants. I know I will always be loved and I’m happy that I had a chance to see mom and sis. I know I will be able to see them again sometime like you will see Father Flanagan again soon.”
I nodded I promised myself that I would visit Father Flanagan again sometime in the near future and I promised him that I would stay in touch with him also. I know John will do the same to stay in touch with him mom.
Storm smiled as she picked up her bags and headed to customs, I picked up the bags turning around I waved back to John’s mom smiling.
And the three of us headed home back to school for Christmas.
