Murder by Blackmail


By Lorraine B.
© 2002

 

Part Three

Mother and Nancy had a great time telling Timmy of my misadventures in my younger years. The bad part about it is that they had pictures to back up the stories.

The worst story was during my senior year. The school as a whole knew of my transitioning. Many of the jocks had tried to date me throughout the year but I was like a dog that wouldn't shit were it slept. I refused to date anyone from school or attend any of the social gatherings.

Two months into the planning for the Prom, I was called into the Principal's office and then taken into a meeting room. In that meeting room were all the Assistant Principals, the nurse and all the Guidance Counselors.

I was informed that the Prom was strictly for heterosexual couples and that due to my deviant sexual status of being a transsexual they would appreciate me not attending in way, shape or form. If I were to cause any problems I would not be allowed to graduate either.

Being I was so scared, I told no one of what had happened. During the weeks after Abby, Inez and Nancy tried to interest me in everything there was for the prom, from dresses to shoes to accessories. After each outing with them I cried myself to sleep. I refused to eat while everyone thought I was trying to lose a few extra pounds for that perfect fit dress, for that perfect night.

Father was still alive and said there was something wrong, but no one else did until they were called to the school. I had been late and not going to school and my grades had slipped from where they had been.

It was then that my counselor slipped and asked if the meeting they had with me had anything to do with this situation. When father found out about what had happened he went crazy. He went into the principal office and beat the crap out of him; calling him a bigot to the staff and students that were in the school office he actually dared the man to call the police and press charges. The security officers deliberately did not go anywhere near the office when called as they truly disliked the principal. They blamed him for many past problems they had, had with the student body. Father called the principal man names in Sicilian I had never heard before and never cared to hear again. My father said I had more courage being the young woman I was than a full-grown man such as he.

Father became a gigantic hero in our eyes that day. Nancy, Inez and Abby had heard what happened from several of their friends and siblings that attended the school. The through them I had heard the kids and the senior class officers had decided to find another place for another prom away from the school prom and property to boycott it for discrimination.

One parent worked for a major hotel Downtown and explained the situation to the manager in a passing conversation. The manager of the hotel in turn offered one of the ballrooms with the banquet chefs offering the food and refreshments to the kids, as they too knew what discrimination was, as one was Hispanic and one was Afro-American. The only stipulation was that there was to be no Press or publicity and that them, all kids had a good time.

Abby, Nancy and Inez forced me to go with them to get what I needed to attend. Mother and father did their damnedest to make that night for me special; instead of getting ready at home I had a room at the hotel, my hair, nails and makeup was done in their salon.

The dress I wore was a simple matter all in lavender that was, ah, Ultra feminine, ah, revealing. That piping hot gown was totally strapless……… For the very daring at heart! The bodice was done in a soft re-embroidered organza that was fully boned and lined to hold, cushion and lift, my full breasts. Thank the Powers that be I didn't have to wear a corset, yet I felt as if I was falling out of the cups. The skirt of the dress was full length and very impressive. It was fully lined sin taffeta with crinoline underskirts. Underneath my dress I was in a pure sensory overload. My panties were French lace, cut very high up the thighs, a lacey garter belt and silk, seamed lavender stockings on my legs. My shoes had a four-inch spike heel with tiny straps that held it on around my ankles and formed the sandal of the shoe at the toes exposing my red toenails. Lastly was a Lavender silk wrap if I was cold and silk brocaded evening bag.

Father gave me a jewelry set that I still own, consisting of a large Italian made gold locket and chain which rested at the top my cleavage, heart shaped earrings and matching bracelet along with a kiss that he gave me after he placed it all on me, I cried. Joey then slipped the lavender orchid corsage onto my wrist as Mother and Father took pictures of that special night.

  

The Prom was held and I attended with Joey as my date. The students of the Senior Class and chaperones applauded as we came into the Ballroom with Mother and Father applauding the hardest. I felt the acceptance I had not had in the four years I had attended high school. I felt the acceptance of all the females as we walked in. I felt the stares of the flesh hungry males that stared at me as a potential conquest. Damn, it felt good! I heard remarks from both males and females such as, 'Damn, she has bigger tits than I do!' or 'Her boyfriend will be sucking her tits but you won't be sucking mine unless you pay attention to me.'

It felt good to be in the arms of a boy in front of these people I hid my true sexuality from. It felt good not to bind my breasts. (Little good that did or will do now.) It felt wonderful just to be what I had always been a female. I was exotic, I was sultry and the envy of practically every girl there. We both had a wonderful time that evening.  

Since the Prom was on a Friday I went back to school on the next Monday. The Senior Class all thought I would come back wearing a dress and heels, I didn't. But I did dress androgynously just as I always had. I sensed the relief of the administration when I came in that way. I believe that they had orders to suspend me if I came into the school any other way. Gee, maybe I should have come in naked. That would have really given them reason to suspend me. I could see it now as my breasts swung freely and that little thing protruding.

Plans were made for Graduation Day by the fiendish quartet; Abby, Nancy, Inez and of course mother. Several weeks before we received our caps and gowns. My gown seemed to be very long with the hem covering my street shoes and laying on the ground for several inches. I was going to hem it up but as usual Abby saw it, calling over Inez and Nancy. They decided I shouldn't hem it up and leave it alone.

During those last days of school I was preparing for final tests however I did notice a flurry of activity by those around me. There were meetings in the kitchen that even father attended. Bags and packages mysteriously disappeared when I came into a room, as did people having a conversation stopped talking.

The day before graduation I went to the hair salon to get my hair cut and styled by Janice in her basement beauty shop she had in her house. Janice's daughter was there and greeted me warmly as I tutored her previously in reading and comprehension skills getting her to a level to be accepted into a college.

Janice had washed my hair as she normally did. She showed me a picture of a new type of unisex shag hair cut and said it would look great on me. Giving her the go ahead I relaxed in her very capable hands and fell asleep after having a cola drink.

Several hours later I was awaken to a head full of permned curls, a second and third piercing of my ears, my nails extended and done in red with full makeup and very red full lips. My shoes and socks were off and my toenails done in the same shade of red as my finger nails. I almost went apoplectic until Abby, Inez and Nancy came into the room with their arms full of clothing.

I was told to be quiet and taken, no dragged, into another room and was stripped naked by them. Article after article of clothing was put onto me with the threats of taping my mouth shut to calling Joey over to screw me senseless. Hmmmm - that sounded real good at the time. Mother and Father were even used as threats to get me dressed.

I swore at them as I put on my white lace panties and bra set and the white lace full slip. I swore revenge as I put on the light gray colored pantyhose and gray pinstriped full cut skirt that rested at my knees. I cursed them all again as I put on and buttoned the white, full cut, laced blouse. I Imprecated upon them as I placed the gray ankle strapped leather pumps with the three-inch heels upon my feet. I further pissed and moaned as I put on the matching jacket to the skirt. When I finished my tirade of unladylike, unspeakable words they dragged me to the mirror and saw the reflected creature there in the mirror, I kissed them all in appreciation of what they all had done for me. I looked as any professional businesswoman did as she went to her job.

At graduation I wore those clothes and had the makeup redone in the Powder Room after I checked in. I added the jewelry after we sat down for the ceremonies. I was very nervous as I was also the Valedictorian of the class and had to speak before the guests, students and asshole faculty.

The Principal and some of the faculty almost choked when they saw me rise and walk to the podium. I took my time walking as the whispers of my peers increased. Those whispers were all for the good, turning into words of encouragement.

At the podium I shook the principal's hand making sure he saw my freshly painted and extended nails. I gave my speech on the Intolerances in our Society and how we, the new graduating class had an opportunity to change them.

Mother later said she saw several faculty members turning white; White from what - Fear or rage? I didn't take the gown off after the speech; yet I should have, so they could see the new me. I wanted the ceremonies to be remembered as a pleasant and not a disruptive experience. I wanted no controversies to be blamed on me.

When the ceremonies concluded I removed my gown to the amazement of all, except those girls that had seen me in the Powder Room earlier and bribed for their silence with a hug. I was kissed and hugged by many that I knew and many I didn't know. Many of the faculty including the Principal came and apologized for their intolerance toward me.

Timmy held me closer to him as these stories were told. They represented a part of my life that was sad and yet happy. Now I was truly happy although, at times I fit into the Manic Depressive category of psychiatric behavior.

The room seemed to get colder with I making Timmy get up to build a fire. The door silently opened slightly allowing King and Northern to come in; on seeing me both dogs ran directly to me. I hugged both dogs as Timmy turned to me and smiled his approval.

There was a soft knock at the door as Carmella came inside the den saying, "So this is where you're all hiding. Abigail and Theresa went swimming with all the other children. I just wanted to thank you for that wonderful meal. That was a real treat for us."

"Momma C., don't do that! You live here now and what we have is yours also. Anytime you want something ask Stevens or Henry." I said as I petted the dogs with Timmy coming back to the couch to sit beside me.

"Momma R. and I just told Timmy about Terri's Prom and Graduation from High School." Nancy said.

"Oh my, Terri you were a scourge to everyone at times."

"Were? More like still is. See those two dogs? They both dump me in the freshest manure piles, Terri comes here and they act as sweet as gentle lambs. Our driver calls them the Demon Dogs after they punctured his Butt. Angus would rather have them as rugs after they dig up the gardens or go fishing in his pond for trout." Timmy said.

"In some ways Terri is like those dogs too. She was a hellion to anyone that got her angry. She was a great one for practical jokes too." Momma C. said.

"Yeah, like Angela and Carlo Augusta and the Bran Muffins laced with Exlax for chocolate chips." Nancy said.

"Damn, not again, no more stories please. I didn't do that on purpose!" I said blushing.

"That family used to live next door to Rose. All of the kids used to play together and us wives would have coffee together.

Rose let Abby join the Girl Scouts and Terri was left out because of her status at the time. Terri came inside crying after Abby told her that Rose said she could join and Terri couldn't.

Well that night Mrs. Augusta told her husband what went on and he called our Terri a vile, vicious name in front of their kids.

Those two kids the next day called Terri that name and left ignoring her to play elsewhere. Terri went into the house and asked what the name meant. Poor Rose cried when she heard it. Instead of getting angry she decided to make a peace offering of Banana Bran Muffins with Chocolate Chips. Rose's thinking was to kill people with kindness.

She showed Terri how to make the batter and allowed her to stir it. In the meantime Rose went looking for the chocolate but couldn't find it anywhere because Terri and Abby ate what little she had.

Terri panicked and went to the bathroom remembering that there was a special chocolate in there, she was also told never to touch it. The box was big and it was new, somehow she retrieved the bag from the chocolate they ate from its hiding place. She broke up the pieces and took it out after throwing the Exlax box away.

Terri went into a cupboard and pretended to find the chocolate, which made Rose happy she still had some for the muffins not noticing the difference. Rose allowed Terri to add the chocolate to the batter and then the pans and baked the muffins.

Terri pulled the muffins out, allowing them to cool and then onto a platter. She then took the filled platter to the Augusta family.

After their supper each member of the family had two of those muffins. Several hours later the fun began and the ambulance came.

They moved in two days and the house was sold."

"I wonder whatever happened to those two kids?"

"Maybe they're doctors, Internal Medicine or Proctology." Nancy said laughing.

"Damn! Exlax; she even struck with our Pilots." Timmy said and proceeded to tell them about Pete and the Tampax. They all kept looking at me and smiling, yeah as if I caused the mess at the plane hanger, well I didn't. Then he told then about the payback I received from them all.

Nancy was laughing so hard she almost fell out of the chair. That was when eleven children and two more adults invaded us. They all looked tired from the exercise they received in the pool. Each of them had robes and slippers on to avoid tracking water about the house. King and Northern bathed in all the love they got from the kids.

"Aunt Terri, Uncle Tim, thanks for letting us swim. We had a great time in the pool." Theresa said.

"Hey Nance are you sure these are your kids, damn they are polite. How come they don't have your rotten attitude?" I said

"You can wake them up in the morning and find out if they're mine or not."

"Oh no, never in the morning. I still remember what you were you were like. I used to have to count my fingers after I tried to wake you when you slept over."

"Momma were you that bad?" Abigail asked.

"Oh yes and worse; sometime I'll tell you what your momma did to Aunt Terri and Aunt Abby. But now your cousins have to go to bed and so do you. Your friends Josh and Louise have to go to school too, so you'll see them also in the morning.

If your mother and Myrna give the okay you can sleep with our daughters tonight. We'll all come up shortly to tuck you in."

Nancy looked at the girls and said yes as did Myrna. I promised Josh and Louise to ask their father tomorrow if they could also.

I reminded them to wear the clothes for the funeral in the morning after their chores. We would be coming to get them at 10 AM. All the kids left from the den under the watchful eyes of Jack and Myrna. Northern and King lay back down at my feet.

"As I said you are the perfect mother, girl." Nancy said.

"and wife." Timmy added

"and daughter." Mother just had to add to embarrass me further to Carmella's joyous laughter.

"What funeral Terri?" Nancy asked after the children had left.

Timmy told them about how we happened to get the children living with us. He told them of the death of their parents and how it was tied into our investigation of the serial murders. Although they were somewhat shocked that the father had prostituted his daughter and led the type of lifestyle he led. Momma Carmella, Nancy and Mother cried allowing their full emotions to show.

"Terri it's all true, you have that knack. Be proud of the woman and mother you've become. Those children need you and Timmy, always be there for them, holding them and loving them all their lives.

One thing I must say is that our old neighbors just love the new you, many of them were surprised you got married to Timmy and when they all saw the children no one said a bad word against you. You are special in their eyes and always have been. We seem to get more telephone calls from them now then we ever did.

But now in their eyes you are just like any woman that is a wife and mother. They seemed to have forgotten about the boy Terry and always remembered the girl Terri and the good things that Terri always did for everyone. Many have the memories that you; have always been as you are now.

Father Carlucci at Our Lady of the Seraphim has even said he wants to remarry you two in the church. He asked for you two to come see him."

"Mother will tell you later what I said about that. In the meantime I am exhausted and need some much-needed sleep. So if everyone will excuse me I'll be heading to bed." I said as I got up from the couch and gave everyone a kiss.

I told the dogs to go to the puppies and I went upstairs towards our suite. I stopped at the children's room and tucked them all in, kissing them all. I made sure that Jack and Myrna had the times the children had to be up, bathed, dressed, ate and do their chores. I knew it would be done so I didn't worry.

Entering our suite, going into my closet and then my bathing area. I placed all that I had on into the hamper and climbed into the shower. The water refreshed me as it hit my skin standing in the sprays of the nozzles. I thought of the talk we had in the den and then thinking of those times I always had to defend myself for being what I was. I cried for those that didn't have the understanding from those around them. I cried for those that had to sell their bodies to be whole. I cried for those that died.

My thoughts were of my Father who was sometimes cold and distant as was my mother when I was younger. It was only later did they realize I wasn't a mental case or a medical anomaly. I realized later they were both worried about me.

I realized that they grew up during the hard times; they saw bigotry and racism firsthand. They saw a world war, Korea, Viet Nam and of course the cold war. They also saw good times with the age of technology approaching; man going to the moon and then landing on it. They saw the computer age. They saw the barrage of Labor saving devices and gadgets. They saw medical advances and equipment for the sick. They saw an age of prosperity.

We as human beings tend to forget that we are the most insignificant species there is. If all of the human race were destroyed life would continue, somewhere, if not here on this world we call Earth. For the present we are here and we should make every minute and every second count in whatever we do. We should overlook the banal matters and celebrate life to its fullest. Celebrate life!

Feeling better I turned off the shower and prepared myself for my husband to share our love lives and become one. Besides I promised the rascal! Okay baby come to momma! She has what you want lover.

I found a red and black diaphanous gown, panties and robe that left nothing to the imagination, elasticized top, black, thigh high seamed stockings and a pair of black marabou feathered mules. I used the faintest amount of makeup to accent my facial features topping it all off with a rich deep dark red lipstick. I got dressed into the clothing and checked myself in the mirror just as Gladys walked into the room.

"Terri you look wonderful! Timmy will be pleased." Gladys said as she saw me.

Yeah, right! I thought five minutes and I'll be naked. I had no intentions of being seen by anyone other than Timmy, However I took the compliment as I sprayed perfume on me in all the right places.

 

"Don't you dare say a word to anyone on how you saw me. Call Henry and Stevens and have a bottle of Champagne and two fluted glasses sent up on the dumb waiter for us. He promised me a new type of birthday gift and I want it." I said and giggled causing Gladys to giggle at my comment.

"Sorry, we had no idea it was your birthday."

"That's okay, I'm a little touchy about it. Timmy even forgot about it until Mother remembered and had the kids brought to the plane. I brought the food for everyone to share in the joy I have.

Gladys called downstairs and placed the order. In minutes a magnum of the bubbly wine with smoked oysters garnished with capers on a platter appeared. We placed the ice filled flagon, wine onto a table with the flutes and oysters.

Ah, Speaking of joy; are you and Stevens?"

"Mmmmm, Ah crap! I can't lie to you. Terri, we're married and have been for a two years."

"Timmy and the staff don't know, do they?"

"The policy of the house is basically, come here married but don't marry here. That policy was made by Master Timmy's mother and has remained that way."

"I see, does Myrna and Jack know?"

"Just you, and Stevens will kill me for telling you."

"Get me a cover up or robe. Have Henry keep Timmy busy in the kitchen until I call and have Stevens come up here with four more flutes. Tell him these are unacceptable being dirty. And use the intercom in my closet. Quickly now!"

"Yes Terri."

I followed her into my closet and removed another diaphanous gown set in Midnight blue, taking it out to the table. I used the intercom and told Myrna to bring Jack into our suite in ten minutes telling her I didn't care if they were dressed civilly or not, just to be here.

Stevens arrived with the glasses, just as Gladys came from the closet. I noticed he sensed something but laid the tray of glasses onto the table and was about to take the others, when I stopped him.

"Stevens, I've seen the security tapes and have seen you and Gladys play musical rooms in the briefest of clothing. The policy I believe is that it could be grounds for termination as well as being married. Is that assumption correct?"

"Yes Mrs. O'Shea, you are correct in that assumption."

"Do you both value your employment status?"

"We both have been here for many years. This is home and family to us." Stevens said.

"Very well, you will both stay on, however you will both move into larger quarters together and you will be married."

"But policy!"

"Am I the mistress of the household?"

Yes madam, you are, however………"

"No however about it. You're married to each other I presume, that’s my policy, you will move into the larger apartment." I said smiling giving them each a kiss.

  

"Blimey, Miss, I thought we were going to be sacked." Stevens said in disbelief as Gladys took his arm.

"Theresa Rose O'Shea, what the hell is this all about? Champagne and glasses." Timmy said entering the suite.

I told Timmy of the deceptions perpetrated by our staff members in our suite.

"Well policy must be……"

"Dear as my birthday gift to them and from you, I changed the policy and they will remain with us. After all I am the mistress of the house and my decision is final in this matter." I said challenging my husband.

There was a soft knock on the main doors of the suite. Timmy told them to enter with Jack and Myrna coming inside with the looks of puzzlement on their faces.

"Stevens, please, open and pour the champagne. Please give everyone a glass." I said.

Stevens did as was requested with Timmy raising his glass saying, " First a toast of long life, a blissful marriage to my wife and sanity even though we have children, motherhood does suit her. To Terri on her birthday."

Timmy then refilled all the glasses saying, "Compassion reigns and love pours from this house. We are gathered here to bless a union of two wonderful people that have suffered from my silly, foolish ways until Terri came here and settled the chaos that was obvious to her keen eye.

Myrna and Jack; you came here to prepare our children for life's path. You brought love with you, yet there was also sorrow being reunited with a father that everyone said was dead. You've suffered the deceit of many until Jack stabilized you and your life. Allow your father to also be a part of your lives along with his wife.

A toast to Stevens and Gladys; long life and happiness together." Timmy said as they all drank.

"Well this certainly is a surprise. You're correct in saying the things you have said, Tim. But daddy please; don't ever shut us out of your lives as I once was. It hurt me tremendously to find out I was prevaricated to a good percentage of my life.

Mummy dear, I ask that you be there for daddy and have a spot open for us too. Welcome to our family mummy and please accept me as your daughter. Myrna said placing the flute down and taking both Gladys and Steven's hands into her and Jack's as she cried.

"Bloody hell, why do women always have to bawl? Don't they damn well know it's contagious?" Jack said as he wiped his eyes.

"Darling Daughter and Son in law, may you both be blessed with many children for us to play with and spoil. I promise for both your daddy and I, we will always be ready to assist you both. Your daddy has been the best thing to ever happen to me in my life. Don't ever feel alone or that you you've lost him. We've gained much tonight; I gained a daughter and Son in law and you've gained me as a mummy. I would like us to be as close as a mother and daughter can be." Gladys said through her tears and sobs.

"Stevens, when?"

"Blimey sir, if I tell you I'll be sacked for sure."

"You heard the Mistress of the House previously, tell me."

"Bloody hell, Yes sir, two years sir." Stevens said softly.

"Two years and no honeymoon, days off, anniversaries. Damn, that's a lot of gifts I owe you." Timmy said smiling.

"Master Timothy, not getting sacked is gift enough for us." Stevens said.

"Nonsense, Terri and I will think of something."

"Now you both can wear your rings to honor your promises when you married. By the way Myrna where are your rings?" I said pointing to her left hand.

"We never thought it was important. We really don't have any."

"Ditto for us, Terri."

"Could your gift from us be your rings?"

"We would gladly accept the gifts." Myrna said for them all as they nodded their heads in agreement after some thought.

"I know that the tradition is the man buys them for his wife so Timmy will take Stevens and Jack to go pick them out for you girls.

Now that that's settled, I have a special gift to give my husband in private so if you don't mind, you will please excuse us for the night." I said as I closed my hand into Timmy's.

As a departing gift I gave them all the flutes and handed Gladys what I had taken out of my closet earlier for her to share with Stevens.

As the door shut I took off the covering I wore. Timmy's eyes lit up like a kid going into a toy store. We shared more of the bubbly wine and the oysters. Then we shared our bodies many times throughout the night.

During the night a light near the window that seemed to intensify awakened me. At first I thought it was all the Champagne I had drunk that was causing hallucinations. As it grew brighter I saw distinctive shapes within that light. It was just as I had seen before in this very room. I didn't panic or wake Timmy; I watched it intently growing in size. The light continued to grow allowing me to see what looked to be my father and grandmother Theresa, again those two women that I assumed were the parents of our children and another couple that looked facially similar to Timmy. She was mid height, slim, very pretty facially with brown long hair wearing a white long flowing gown. The man was about the same height, with a barrel chest, short brown hair wearing a white double-breasted suit.

The new couple came closer and looked at me and at Timmy then smiled at me. Both of them held a hand over their heart and then took that hand offering it to me. I did the same to them. I watched closely as they both smiled and mouthed the words, our love dear. I was about to wake Timmy, when they all did the same to me. I was stunned!

This was the second time that this had happened to me in this room. I think Momma Hazel was right in saying I was accepted and we all were watched over by them. Gradually their light energy started to fade with them all smiling at me until the light was gone. Somehow I managed to fall back asleep thinking of them all.

 

Awakening to a wet, cold nose and very wet tongue was far from anything I could imagine all the same that's what happened. Northern and King graced us with their presence on the bed. King was exuberantly washing Timmy's face as Timmy fought the rushing tongue, while Northern washed mine the same way after too, fully opening my eyes. Then the dogs switched positions on us. I swore to Timmy I locked the doors before we went to bed. All Timmy did was nod his head in disbelief as he looked at the dogs as they panted and drooled.

I manage to get out of the bed letting the air hit my body realizing, that my nightgown was gone and I was stark ass naked except for my stockings hanging about my ankles. I picked up the discarded nightgown looking at the tatters of the material.

"Timmy dear did we have a good time last night?" I asked as I slid my feet into my mules after I had pulled up the stockings.

"Sure did, why?"

I threw the nightgown at him playfully saying, "I never get to wear anything to or in bed anymore. I always freeze my ass off when I get out of bed. I get licked to death in the morning or jumped on. Damn, I guess I never had it so good." I said giggling as I went to him and kissed him wearing nothing but my stockings and mules. The dogs jumped from the bed to the floor and lay there silently.

After further analysis of the situation, that was a mistake that I had made. Ladies, please, pay attention carefully it would seem that, a man that sees a woman dressed - he can't wait to get your clothes off. When you have nothing on, the action starts immediately. You know I just realized, that is a win win situation for us. Hmmmmm - Maybe naked twenty-four hours a day? That sounds enticing, doesn't it girls?

Who the hell ever said that romance was dead? I must say, it's up to us girls to revive it as many times a day as we can.

Bathing in the serenity and love we had for each other we held each other closely. We needed to get cleaned up and ready for the day. We needed to prepare ourselves for the oncoming sorrows of our children as we laid their birth parent to eternal rest. I also needed to speak to Momma Hazel and find out about this other couple that came to visit us last night. At the moment I didn't want to upset Timmy about what I had seen. The storm we had was gone and the sun shone through the windows; if it were not for the funeral the day would be perfect.

Both of us got out of bed to the happiness of the dogs. Quickly I put on a robe and sent them out of the room to the kitchen to wait, although I had a suspicion that they would visit the children in their rooms.

Hurriedly I showered and dressed leisurely so I could help the children do their chores. I was dressed as usual in a wind suit, Bobbi socks and sneakers, with my hair in a ponytail. I was ready to face the day head on and face the challenges. As I left the room I felt the familiar bounce of my breasts it was then I realized I hadn't but on any underwear. Now where the hell is that man when you want him?

Walking into the kitchen, Momma Hazel, Momma C. and my mother were sitting at the table eating. They all stopped talking as I entered and looked at me strangely.

"Excuse me! But I don't have any social diseases. I am, I think, dressed unless of course you saw me earlier in bed." I said, smiling, as I poured my coffee.

"Child, they were here visiting again?" Momma Hazel said 

The coffee cup slipped from my hand to the floor, shattering to pieces. My hands started to shake when Henry led me by the arm to the table to sit.

"How, how did you know?" I said as Henry went to get me another cup and fill it.

"We all sensed something last night. That's what we were talking about when you came in. Child, was this the third pair that came?" Momma Hazel said as she passed a silver framed, colored picture of a man and a woman to me.

I looked at the picture at the older couple in it. This was not the couple I saw, these people were much older than the people or apparitions I saw.

"No, the people I saw were younger, these faces don't match what I saw." I said.

"Don't match what?" Timmy asked coming into the kitchen surprising all of us.

"Why is this picture in here? Momma Hazel, what's going on?" He said coming over to the table to kiss all of us.

"Child, Terri had another visit last night but we all felt our visitors. I think your momma and poppa came too."

"I was about to show Terri another picture when you came in." Mother said.

"Gee, I'm sorry to have disturbed you with a morning kiss." Timmy said offendedly as he walked to get coffee.

"Terri, was it this couple?" Mother said holding the framed picture out to me.

After looking at the picture there was no doubt it was the third pair in my visitation. The lady was gorgeously resplendent in the Ball Gown and jewelry she wore and the man was very handsome in his tuxedo as he held onto the woman.

"Dear, that picture is Timmy's mother but the man is Timmy's uncle his father's brother. Timmy was named after him when he was born."

"Yes and it caused quite a stir in the house the previous Butler said." Stevens said as he entered the kitchen with Gladys on his arm.

"I would like to present to all of you Mr. And Mrs. MacDougal my mummy an da. May all their married days be warm and loving!" Myrna said as she entered the kitchen with Jack, Margie Gerry, Rachel, Monty, Theresa and Abigail.   

Myrna went to her parents and kissed them both just as Henry broke another dish after the announcement to everyone. As did our children come to us greet and kiss us too.

"Henry if you keep breaking those dishes we'll have to get more to replace them." Timmy said.

"Wait a minute, that was the first one I broke, today……"

"Yeah well, what about that pile of broken china over there?" Timmy asked.

"Dear, I broke that when I was told of the visitation without telling anyone; not even you." I said embarrassed.

"Blimey sir, another one of those. This is beginning to sound like the castles on the moors." Stevens said as he sat down with Gladys and Jack.

Myrna and Gladys had the children start their chores as we sat around the table eating and talking softly almost guardedly so as not to upset the children any.

After I retold the events of last night Momma Hazel spoke saying, " Timmy have you ever seen the wedding picture of your parents?"

"Well yes and to me they were strange. The photos were all shot from the chest up. Mother didn't seem too happy in any of them.

Uncle Tim was killed in a train collision many months earlier. I always thought she was sad he wasn't there for the wedding. Every time I brought up Uncle Tim's name she cried and my dad got angry. Eventually all of the pictures of Uncle Tim disappeared. I just stopped bring up his name to them.

When dad died all the pictures of Uncle Tim came out of storage but they weren't around when dad was alive.

When Mom died she was entombed in the family mausoleum between dad and Uncle Tim, that was her final wish."

Timmy had the look of sorrow in his eyes as I took his hand into mine. I didn't want to hurt the man I loved for any reason, yet I did to bring up those memories.

"I know what you're all thinking and I thought about it too for many years. As I said bringing up Tim's name was always sad to mother even when father had passed on.

Look all I can say it is the past and we all have to continue living, so let it lay buried in the secrets of this house." Timmy said sadly just as the children came in the house with King and Northern.

The dogs must have felt Timmy's mood as they both went to him putting laying their snouts onto his lap looking at him with their eyes. I smiled and squeezed Timmy's hand to let him know about the dogs looking at him.

"And you said those two hated you? You should be ashamed of yourself. They know how much it hurt to speak about the past. They came to show that they love you."

"Hey what's going on here? Damn if those two aren't out again. Shit and these are new pants too." Ernie said as he cautiously made his way to the buffet watching the two dogs all the while.

"Relax Ernie they were fed already. They're not even looking toward you." Timmy said smiling once again.

"Look if it would satisfy your curiosity to this mystery, mother's private papers are stored in the basement. Stevens and Gladys know where they are you have my permission to go through the boxes. All the family papers are down there dating back to probably to Shamus O'Shea the first Immigrant to this country from East Ireland."

"We'll look later and thank you for the trust, son. Maybe we'll do a family tree for you which will included my grandchildren." Mother said.

"Wait a minute did I miss something as usual?"

"Later Ernie; I promise we'll tell you. Mother that would be nice but only if you want to do it." I said as I looked at him forcefully.

"Damn, I miss out on all the juicy stuff." He said mumbling under his breath as he stuffed another breakfast sausage into his mouth.

"Okay children if you're finished eating, it's time for you all to get dressed." I said as I tweaked Margie and Gerry's noses lovingly.

Monty and Rachel came to me not to be left out wanting their noses tweaked too, now how can a mother refuse that request? All the children went upstairs happily as Nancy came into the kitchen.

"Damn that's miserable! They're all happy in the morning. How in the hell did Myrna make my two creatures so happy?" Nancy said.

"Perhaps you should ask my daughter or my wife Gladys, Nancy. Perhaps grouchiness is an acquired trait from their mother." Stevens said.

This time we all heard several dishes break and Henry saying "Holy Shit, Stevens married! To Gladys? Hot Damn!"

"Please replace those dishes today Henry." I said as I giggled.

Ernie's mouth hung open in surprise, which I closed. Momma Hazel looked at them both smiling and saying, "Finally the secret is out in the open. Bless you both."

"Yes they are married and it is made clear to all of you that in my and Terri's absence, Stevens and Gladys will make any decision necessary to run this house smoothly as a team. Henry that does exclude the kitchen but please advise the Major-Domo of the house."

"But Boss what about the house rules that we have to follow?"

"Ernie am I not the Mistress of this house and Timmy the Master?" I said.

"Yeah but………"


"No buts about it. I changed the direction of those rules; they were archaic and needed to be changed. I will not lose good staff and friends to something as ridiculous as they were. Do we have an understanding?"

"Ah, I guess so, yes Ma'am. Damn, I mean Terri."

"Ernie as of today I would like an additional set of work bags and utility belts placed into the Suburban for us. Take the spare bags out of the other Limo but leave the ones we have in the Mercedes. You will be the only driver for that vehicle. Also I've ordered an additional Suburban with newer specifications yesterday. The promised delivery date is in six weeks. That one will revert to the household. Stevens place those extra keys in your lockbox and make the staff aware of the change." Timmy said.

"Yes sir, I'll get right on it after breakfast." Ernie said smiling. 

"Sir that would mean the loss of one vehicle to the household."

 

"I know, have Angus rent one or until the new one arrives." Timmy said as Stevens nodded his agreement to the situation.

 

"Is Pablo ready to take the children to school?" I asked.

"He ate early to prepare the car for them Terri."

"That's good, Ernie we will be picking them up from school at 10AM sharp with us. Then to Fortunato’s Mortuary for the memorial services from there to the interment." Timmy said.

"Sir, if you don't mind I think we all would like to pay our last respects also. We've all come to love the children but this person was their birth parent." Stevens said.

"Thank you Stevens we both understand, if you all wish to come there are more than enough vehicles and drivers. Use the Rolls, Caddy and the Suburban along with any other car you need. One thing I do want is Angus to remain, lock the gates, house and let the dogs out on patrol but only King. Northern has to feed the pups."

 

I totally forgot to look in on the puppies. I excused myself and went to the room they were all in. Northern came into the room and laid down making herself available to the furballs. I had noticed that in the few days since their birth they all had grown a great deal.

I knelt down and picked each of the puppies up. All of the pups were pure white except for one that was totally black, a male. He was the largest of them all and licked my hand giving no indication of his temperament. The smallest was a female that licked my hand as I held her just as her brother had done. No matter they were all cute and cuddly as they all tried to walk on their stubby little legs to feed on Northern. I only hoped that they wouldn't be as bad as King and Northern were to Ernie in the coming months ahead.

I gave them all one last petting and stood up to leave just as King came in to lie down by Northern. I smiled at them and told them to be good I would see them later walking through the door back to the kitchen. I noticed that Ernie was gone from the table; he might be a pain in the ass but he did his job well.

"Timmy darling, I'm going upstairs to get ready. Please don't take too long down here." I said.

"Terri your clothes are ready, I pulled out a fresh under garments, and a velour pantsuit, blouse, tights and leather boots for you. The surface temperature is at fifteen degrees Fahrenheit, I thought warm is better on day like today that's very cold."

"Master Timmy your clothes are laid out as well." Stevens said.

I said my thanks to Stevens and Gladys just as I was almost knocked over by the children. The boys wore their black suits and ties and the girls wore long sleeved velour black dresses, black tights and black patent leather Mary Janes except for Margie that had patent leather ankle strapped pumps with a one and a half inch heel. Margie was allowed to wear the briefest of makeup and a slight red lipstick. All the girls wore a black bow of velour to hold their hair in a pull back style. I complemented them all on how well they looked and reminded them when we would come and get them.

Timmy, Nancy and I walked them to the front doors while Stevens and Gladys helped them into their coats, hats, mufflers and gloves at the foyer, Pablo was waiting at the car for them. We kissed them all again as they went out the door and into the waiting Limo with Josh and Louise waiting.

"Terri as soon as I get dressed I have to go to the school. Timmy arranged for them to start testing this morning but damn all that paperwork." Nancy said

"Ernie will drive you; if you have any problems you are to call us. Unless Terri would like to go with you, I have to do a few things here and Ernie can come back and get me." Timmy said as we stated toward the elevator.

"It might be for the best if I came with you to help smooth the way. After the time we had with Doctor DuValle she might need support; or I can shoot the Doctor." I said and giggled.

"Great, you keep Terri here with you. That's all I need is for the hot Dago and Irish temper flaring." Nancy said giggling as we got onto the elevator.

"Believe me I know all about that temper of hers." Timmy said laughing.

"Now just for that I'll be ready in forty-five minutes. Darling, Please tell Ernie to wait for us. You go with mother and the children to the mortuary in the other car." I said just as we arrived at our floor.

"Okay, that sounds like a plan. We'll see you in forty-five minutes Nance." Timmy said as we got out of the elevator.

Timmy and I walked arm in arm to our suite and entered it. I was suddenly pulled close to him and kissed.

"What in the world was that for?" I asked after I recovered my breath for the very passionate kiss he gave me.

"Just for being you with that zoo downstairs. Have I every told you how happy you've made me? As well as how much I adore you?"

"No within the past ten minutes dear." I said before he kissed me again until I had to gently push him away.

"Darling if we continue this path we are on, the bed is a very short distance for us."

"What bed? The floor, right here and now." He said deviously.

"Ohhh, no! Timothy Aloysius O'Shea, no rug burns on my soft skinned knees. Thank you!" I said giggling and extricating myself from him.

I ran to the closet as he ran after me finally catching me. He kissed me and released me saying, "I love you darling and tonight will be ours. I can wait patiently although it will be very hard."

I kissed him and shoved him out into the suite so I could get dressed in peace. I smelled his cigar smoke as I went back into the closet it was then I knew that Timmy was happy.

Stripping off the clothes I wore I changed quickly into the clothing that Gladys had laid out for me. I second I had the black, silken panties and laced trimmed demi bra on. Next were the black off black tights and a pair of black velvet palazzo styled pants that accented the waist after they were hooked and zipped on my left side.

Gladys came into the bath and helped me to arrange my hair and checked my makeup. She then helped me to pull over the long sleeved velour top. I was about to change it due to the fact of it having a very low cut to my bra showing vast amounts of cleavage. If I bent at my waist everything would fall out and I do mean everything. The boots Gladys had picked out I placed into a tote bag and put on a pair of black patent pumps with a three inch heel and strap across the instep, big girl's Mary Janes I called them.

I was handed my jewelry next trusting Gladys after telling her not to pick out anything ostentatious. She returned with a double strand of fresh water cultured pearls, bracelet, a set of teardrop pendant earrings and a gold setting pearl and diamond ring for my right ring finger. She then helped me to put on a tunic styled pant coat.

Gladys said it was perfect, as did the eyes of Timmy when he saw me after I was dressed.

Gladys and I returned to the vault she picked out a black faux full-length fur coat, matching hat and leather gloves. While Gladys pulled out what I needed for the cold weather I found the purse that Timmy had given me. Going to another safe that I opened I took out my service revolver, that Timmy had given me and removed the trigger lock and ammunition, placing them into the holster of the purse.

We both agreed that with the children in the house as a safety precaution all firearms and ammunition would be locked up safely and trigger locks added to all the firearms.  

Gladys went downstairs with my outer garments as I came out to speak to Timmy.

"Dear, please go on ahead to the mortuary later. I'll have Ernie wait and he'll drive us all there together to meet you there."

"That sounds fine but I still want you to be careful. Ernie was told again to make sure he was carrying a firearm. I gave him a Mauser HSc 9mm automatic with six clips with fifteen rounds in each clip. "

"Lord that's over ninety rounds of ammunition; he better be able to hit something with that much lead besides his foot or my butt."

"Oh no, your butt is mine, my dear. I can verify to any one it is lead free." Timmy smiled and kissed me.

"Dear, I have to go but you go finish your cigar and please try to relax. I love you." I said as I kissed him again walking to the door.

Entering the kitchen I saw that Nancy had not arrived yet. I set Gladys to go help her if she needed or wanted to be helped.

"Henry, do you want Josh and Louise to go also?"

"I'm one step ahead of you Terri. I called the school and told them, you have my permission to take them and here the signed note they asked for." Henry said as he handed me the note.

I placed the note into my purse saying, " Thanks Henry, I'll make sure they get it. The kids will be safe with us and we'll meet you at the mortuary."

"I know they will be and I have no concerns with you or Timmy with them. I know they are inn safe hands."

"Hey squirt are you ready?" Nancy said coming into the kitchen wearing a calf length flowing black dress with the top being made similar to a long sleeved leotard. She wore black tights and black sling back pumps with a two-inch heel. The dress showed every vivacious curve she had including her oversized melons. She had the physique of a dancer only a bit top-heavy.

"Damn girl, that dress looks great on you." I said as Henry and Stevens whistled loudly.

"Alright boys none of that. Stevens you're married and Henry………"

"Sorry, not married." Henry said smiling.

"Well big boy maybe we'll talk about that later." Nancy said flirting.

"Come on Nancy before you lose your new found virginity. If I lose my chef because of you Timmy will have a fit." I said as I dragged her to the foyer.

"Jeez, I was only kidding."

"Oh no you weren't I've seen that look before with Spencer Kendricks. Those panties of yours are red hot to trot."

"Damn don't you forget about anything?"

"Nope and I am your conscience just as Abby is."

 

"Terri, give the lady a break." Gladys said as she and Stevens helped us into our coats.

"Never Gladys, I know her too well and how promiscuous she can be. She can be a real slut if she wants to be."

"That's very rude my dear, very rude. I bet Spencer still has my panties from that night too, I know Joey has yours too." Nancy said smiling

"See what I mean? Incorrigible!" I said as I giggled causing both girls to giggle knowingly as we went to the waiting Limo.

"Damn, you both look great." Ernie said as we reached the car.

    

"Nancy, don't even start with Ernie. He's worst than you are. He even baits Timmy!" I said.

"You mean he's still alive?"

"I've come very close to losing my skin with the boss, but I am still alive." Ernie said as he closed the door behind us.

We drove to the school without incident. As soon as we stopped one of the school security officers was opening the door of the Limo

"Good morning ladies, my name is Michael and I was requested to escort you to the office." The security officer said as he walked with us. I felt secure that these security people were here to protect our children I thought as we walked down the corridor and into the office.

"Hi I'm Nancy Carrillo, my daughters Theresa and Abigail became students today. Here's all their paperwork from their last school of enrollment." Nancy said entering the office.

"Hello, thank you Michael for escorting these ladies here. I'll take those from you and here are some papers to fill out, please." The clerk said.

Nancy and I sat at a table to fill out the paperwork. In several minutes she had completed all of it and handed it back to the clerk.

It was then that Dr. DuValle entered the office saying, "Inspector O'Shea, I am so happy you came with Ms. Carrillo. Inspector may I have a word with you please."

"Sure, c'mon Nance."

"Privately, please."

"Doctor DuValle, anything you have to say can be said in front of Nancy. We have been best friends all of our lives. Anything you have to say will be private, that I can assure you of."

"Very well, please come with me."

Since she had tweaked my curiosity we went with her. We were escorted to a room that adjoined the cafeteria. The room was empty except for a man perhaps in his early sixties and very distinguished looking.

"Ladies this is Chancellor Taylor. Chancellor this is Nancy Carrillo and Inspector Theresa O'Shea."

We both managed to say hello to the Chancellor. In the back of my mind I couldn't possibly wonder why both he and we where in the same room together.

"Inspector, I would like to formally apologize to you for the untoward words we had at our meeting."

"I don't understand?"

"Please let me explain. First I really didn't know who Theresa and Timothy O'Shea really are. That was my fault as the Chancellor just hired me at the beginning of the year.

It was our sociologist and head of security that told me exactly who you were after our confrontation and you had left.

I telephoned the Chancellor and told him what had happened."

"Mrs. O'Shea, I chose Charlotte over many candidates due to experience in administering an institution such as this and doing it quite admirably.

One of the reasons she left her past position was to be closer to her younger sister and to take help finish raising her children.

Charlotte's sister had four children and widowed. The other children adored their brother with a vast age difference between them. The sister blamed herself for the death of the oldest male child after he came to his mother and told her he was a homosexual. I use the past tense in speaking of the son, as he was one of the final victims of the North Side Serial Killer.

Charlotte's sister threw the young man from the house when the boy told her of his sexual preference. Several days later Timothy and yourself made the grim discovery in the killer's basement on his apprehension, his name was William Forrest and was eighteen years old." The Chancellor said in a very deep bass voice that had the resonance of one that once taught in the classrooms.

When you work in a job such as ours you have a tendency to remember all the names of every victim and I remembered this one name as well as the visual impression after the mother was told. I recall that the mother had a nervous breakdown shortly after the funeral with a relative called in to help her and her family.

I saw the tears forming in the eyes of Doctor DuValle; I saw her sorrow and grief. I reached into my purse and removed a second handkerchief I had, handing it to her.

Charlotte spoke after drying the formed tears in her eyes saying, "Jason was the one that found the altered records of Margaret. He called the States Attorney and asked what the situation was unofficially.

He was informed that you and your husband adopted all the children after the brutal murder of the father and the altering of the records were not done by you.

I was concerned about more of the possible mental trauma and called doctor Greene since he is your family

physician-of-record. That was when we found out totally about Margaret. At no time did I wish to upset you as I did. Upon reflection of those words I sincerely apologize."

Perhaps we did over react in this situation however I was concerned of the privacy that Margaret and the other children deserved. School employees do tend to gossip amongst themselves sometimes within the earshot of other students unbeknownst to the employees. My children did not deserve to be placed into a situation of bigotry by students or parents.

I stated those concerns being assured that this would not happen, as that there were only three people that knew in the school. No other records of this matter would be kept or this matter discussed by anyone. This placed my mind at ease.

I looked at my watch seeing that we needed to collect the children and leave.

"I really must cut this meeting short, as Timmy and the other children will be waiting for us at the mortuary. We thank you for the explanation and I intend not to over react as I did."

"The children are waiting in the office and I personally thank you for listening. You see, I have taken over the responsibility of my sister's children and her affairs, as she can no longer perform any duties she once had and quite possibly never will."         

I told the both that I appreciated her telling me of her private life. We told both the Chancellor and Charlotte that they we would appreciate them keeping in communication with us. With the connections that Doctor Greene had and Nancy I was sure they would help in any way possible either privately or the school. I reassured them that anything that was disclosed was to be held in the strictest confidence by Nancy, Timmy and I. I hugged Charlotte and shook the Chancellors hand leaving them to their own ways.

Nancy and I found the office and children with no problems. I asked the clerk if she had any problems with our brood.

"Not at all, however Jason has expressed the wish to speak to you both. Right through that door, he's waiting."

We both entered through the indicated door after telling the children we would be right back and to behave themselves.

"Hello ladies, I promise I'll only be a minute with you. I just faxed the results of some of the tests results to Doctor Greene at his request. All of the children have such great gifts.

Margaret shows promise in not only academics but the arts as well. Gerald is strong in liberal arts specifically English, reading and writing skills. His math is at a normal level and bored with it however science is nearly off the chart. Rachel has proven to be like her sister Margaret. Montgomery seems to be interested in everything and has great curiosity.

Now Theresa and Abigail are leaning toward the Arts but they seem to also be avid readers and writers.

These children are so gifted in so many ways. They are a delight to work with and follow direction easily. Our primary concern is to keep them all from getting world-weary with the subjects."

I was very pleased with this report that we received, as well as the copies of their results so far. We were explained that there was to be the final test to be administered tomorrow and placement.

We thanked Jason as we left his office. We thanked the clerk for her patience as we took the children out to the Limo.

I noticed that very little was said by any of the kids as we walked to the car or on the ride to the mortuary. I didn't know if it was the school or going to the mortuary that was causing the silence. All I knew was there was a problem that I had to deal with and soon; Ernie kept quiet as he drove which was a rarity, and then I knew. Nancy noticed the problem too as I was about to say something she touched my shoe with hers to let indicate much later and she wanted to speak to me first.

In minutes we had arrived in front of the Fortunato Mortuary; we seemed to be the first of our party to arrive. Due to Timmy and his teachings of being aware of my surroundings I scanned the entire area as I exited the car first. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary so allowed everyone to exit.

I was the last to enter the old expansive building and the first one to come to a reception desk that behind the desk was seated a young woman.

"My I see Inez Fortunato please?" I asked.

I was asked to wait as she used the telephone intercom. When she hung up she said, " Ms. Fortuato is in a meeting but her associate Mr. Bracchio will be done in a minute to assist you."

"Did you speak to Ms. Fortunato?"

"Why no, not when she is in a conference."

I was about to say something as my temper began to rise slowly but surely. An older, smallish man came down the elaborate staircase to walk over to us.

"I asked for Inez Fortunato and I get you. Now kindly tell her that Mrs. O'Shea is here." I said harshly to the man making the receptionist squirm in her chair. The man nodded his head toward the receptionist indicating for her to do so. 

 

"I'm sorry for the miscommunication Mrs. O'Shea but no ones calls Ms. Fortunato by her first name except employees, family or friends. I'm sorry to say but many feel a woman should not be in this business."

"I see, is Joey here also?" I said watching Mr. Bracchio's eyebrows raise and the receptionist really began to squirm in that chair making it squeak.

"Joseph is with her in the meeting with their father."

"How is Joe Sr. doing? Well I hope?" I said as Mr. Bracchio's eyebrows must have touched his hairline and I think the receptionist peed in her panties or close to it as she ran for the back of the building down the hallway.

I heard the sound of high heels clacking on the wooden floor with the sounds of men's shoes squeaking on the floor.

As the trio came around the corner of anther hallway I heard Joe Sr. say, "Oh shit! Here we go again!"

"Terri, Nancy when did you get here? James, why wasn't I paged?" Inez said.

"I didn't know that you and Mrs. O'Shea were friends." Mr Bracchio said,

"We've been here for about ten minutes trying to see you. Joey you look great and so do Mr. Fortunato."

"Sorry but the employees try to build a wall around us. That will change today Poppa. I don't like it, you built this chapel to help those of the living to find peace for the loved ones they lost."

"Okay Inez, Okay, I get the message. Terri, Nancy welcome but O'Shea?"

Nancy and I told the children to sit quietly as we would be right back. Inez took us into another chapel room that was close by and not in use.

"My husband's name is Timothy O'Shea and four of those children out there are my adopted sons and daughters. Timmy made the final arrangements for Barry Scanlon that was their biological father." I said.

"Jeez, when I first saw the body I thought it was a woman." Mr. Fortunato said.

"Poppa Joe, Barry had a hard life after the wife died and with seven kids that that we adopted."

"Poppa Joe, you remembered. You always called me Poppa Joe. You know it's been along time since I heard it. I understand dear; that's why she will be interred as she is. The ME Office had her name spell with a 'I' instead of a 'Y' that's how we have it listed."

"The problem was the bullet hole. Joey and I did the embalming and used every bit of the reconstructive arts we had." Inez said.   

"Poppa Joe went to the door and yelled to the Mr. Bracchio to stay with the children and we would be right back.

"Married Huh?" Inez said smiling, as we were lead down anther hallway.

"Well Joey, Terri's married so you have to stay with Pam. Damn, you two look great for told old ladies." Inez said.

"Who's Pam? Did I miss something? And what do you mean old?"

"Pam is a girl I met, we're married and adopted two children." Joey said softly.

"Terri, she was like you used to be. And you're both well preserved. Been hitting the fluid lately?" Inez said almost whispering as we went through a preparation and embalming room.

"Hey, I don't care! She's the mother to my grandchildren and Joey's wife. She's family!"

Okay Dad, clam down." Joey said as he held a door open that lead to a chapel. As soon as the door opened I smelled the fragrances of flowers, many different flowers.

I was about to give a retort back to Inez but I felt it was inappropriate at the present time as we walked further into the chapel. The chapel was crowed with many different arrangements of flowers along the walls this in itself bewildered me as to her situation. The chapel could hold perhaps one hundred and fifty people with the amount of seating there was available.

Near the door we had entered, sitting on a funeral bier a light colored wood coffin with silver handles. In front of the coffin were two kneelers similar to the type found in some churches. On top of the closed coffin was a spray of roses of different colors and the words 'Loving You Always' spelled out.

We went closer to the coffin with Inez and Joey raising the viewing half of the coffin lid. When the lid was raised the body inside looked to be of the same person that had visited me in our suite.

She was gorgeous as she lay in that coffin. Her hair was nicely done, as was her makeup. She had a slight smile, which it was difficult to comprehend considering the way she had died. Inez had dressed the body in a light pink nightgown that highlighted the red of her hair.

"She was a mess from the photos we saw. We reconstructed from some old publicity photos that Timmy got us. We did what we could." Inez said sorrowfully.

"I guess we better start this then. You did a miracle from what I heard from Timmy and the ME." I said.

"Mr. O'Shea said nothing but the best and that coffin is all the finest of cherry wood and silk materials inside." Joey said with pride.

"Inez took me to the side saying, "Your aunt, uncle and cousin are being prepared now. What's going on? I mean we appreciate the business but……"

"Look I'm not supposed to say anything yet in my opinion we have another serial."

"Shit! That's all we need after the last one. Hon, We need to all get together sometime and just talk. It's been so long and you look great. How's Abby?"

I told her the progress of Abby and mother. How both of them had changed so much after Abby recovery. I wanted to say so much more to bring her up to date but it was difficult with everything that still had to be done.

"Oh, tell Timothy that the mausoleum has been readied like he wanted. That's where she'll be interred at."

I didn't quite understand what Inez said so I just decided to tell Timmy.

Nancy and I left the visitation chapel managing to find my way back to where the children were. I had them follow me to the chapel allowing my children to go in first as I followed behind them to the casket. Nancy held the other children back to allow some privacy for them and to allow them to show their grief.

I saw as they went to the casket to view the body they each had shed tears and I was prepared to help them if I could. I went to them placing a hand onto all their shoulders just so they would know I was there and available for them.

I had that feeling that both parents were there watching. I once again said a silent prayer that the children would be in good loving hands, somehow I knew that they both knew that, after I felt a slight wave of euphoria come over me. Perhaps it was their only way to convey to me they understood? I genuinely hoped it was.

I brought all four children closer to me as I stood in the middle of them saying, "Children, I love you all and so does daddy. If you have questions or want to talk now or later please come to us."

"We will momma." Gerry and Margie said in unison with slightly breaking voices.

Just at that time Timmy walked into the chapel with everyone from the house except Angus. I saw the eyes of the four children with me when they saw everyone. I saw the love and appreciation for them all as they came forward to pay their respects.

Dotty and Philly were strangely quiet as they viewed the body. Not a tear was shed between them. I saw Inez and went to her asking for somewhere I could speak to my younger children in private. I was shown to an office nearby that I could use.

I saw that Dottie and Philly were seated next to Margie and Gerry. I went and asked them to come with me along with Margie and Gerry if they wanted to come.

The five of us went into the office and I shut the door to have the privacy needed so we could all speak together.

"Dottie, Philly what's wrong?" I said as I sat them both onto my lap.

"Is daddy asleep?"

"No sweetheart, she's with your mommy. They gave us all of you to take care of. We promised that we would see that you all grew up to be fine young people and to love you all very much." I said as I hugged the younger children of our brood.

I had to go through the process of explaining that we are placed in this world for a short time and everything dies eventually. After explaining to them our cycle of life my children cried allowing their grief to come forward.

Sometimes we tend to think of ourselves as invincible or that we will live for infinity. Well boys and girls that is a fallacy and by my adopted children seeing their parent in that casket bought home the finality of death to them.

I hugged them all as they cried with Margie and Gerry crying the hardest. I knew what it was like to lose a parent but not both of them. I had to remain strong to allow them to grieve and for them to bid their parent goodbye on the final journey from this plane of existence to the next higher plane.

I held them all close to me not realizing I was crying along with them. These children I held, are ever so precious to me. I never in my life thought I would be in the position I was in now, yet I was. I appreciated life more than I ever had; the past was the past and any mistakes I made in my life I couldn't correct however I wanted to make sure our children didn't make any of the serious mistakes I made.

There was a soft knock on the door with my mother entering and saying, "Dear I was checking to see if everything was alright."

"Sure mother, we needed to talk and we did." I said as I found a Kleenex box on the desk. I handed each of the children several sheets to dry their tears as I did the same.

"Mother would you come with us to the washroom so they don't look like I beat them."

"Yes dear and you need to repair Margie and your makeup too. The chapel is quite full and Timmy has been a tremendous help out there.

Dear, Uncle Sally is out there also, he slipped in the back door, for some unknown reason I think Timmy would like you by his side."

As we left the office we used and found a washroom, mother and I sensed from the children that they perceived the matter we discussed was more acceptable to them. By leaving the door open for any and all questions by all the children was more of a blessing than a curse as I had imagined the matter to be.

I checked everyone before they went back out of the room, at least I hadn't received complaints from Gerry as I had upon entering this bastion of femininity, using the Powder Room with all the girls, and I found this amusing as mother did as we departed.

It was as mother said that the chapel was near capacity from many former neighbors, along with people we both worked with including many of the bosses and their wives. I saw that Robbie and Bev were in attendance; and they both had a slight smile on their faces as they held hands, sitting together. Neil, his wife, Gail, Iggy and Paul came and paid their last respects as well.

Now Uncle Sally, he was something else. I noticed that some of the people in attendance recognized who he was. Timmy had said later there were some questions as to why there was a leader of the crime syndicate present. It was explained that he is the Patriarch of Terri's side of the family which raised some eyebrows but they understood what family was all about, a support infrastructure. It didn't bother Uncle Sally in the least in the least why any questions were raised; he was there to support his Blood Family. At least he left his bodyguards outside with the Limo the Fortuna's sent for him through another company.

I found Timmy sitting holding Dixie under the watchful eye of Myrna.

"We had a slight family emergency that needed to be addressed." I said.

"Did mom handle it okay?"

"She sure did dad, yet I still think there might be questions later."

"Terri if we can help, we will." Myrna said knowingly and with jack agreeing.

I thanked her and told them both to be watchful for any adverse signs. I was assured that they both would.

Father Carlucci had arrived just as we finished and for all of us to agree as to watch the children carefully for the next several days. Timmy went to the aging priest when I noticed he brought a younger Monsignor with him both wore the traditional cassocks and mantels. They all spoke for a few minutes before walking toward me.

"Terri my dear, how nice it is to see you. I was taken by surprise that you're now a wife and a mother. Timothy has explained the situation to me as I explained it to Monsignor McFarland. We quite agree what you have done was the right thing to do. We are all God's children and he or she is a forgiving God."

"Mrs. O'Shea we offer our condolences to your children, but now Barri is at peace from her destructive lifestyle. Now they have Timothy and you as parents to show them the way to adulthood." Monsignor McFarland said.

"We all thank you both for coming." I said as I tried to decipher their cryptic message.

Timmy led them to the pulpit like podium that was placed in the front. The both said several prayers together for the repose of the soul of Barri Scanlon wife and mother of the children we had adopted.

It was during that time that the priests called Barri a wife and mother that I thought someone might jump up and yell Barri was a TS and the priests would run like hell from the chapel. I gave thanks silently that wasn't what happened. The two priests blessed the casket and the body within it with Holy Water and stood against the wall as the funeral director allowed the mourners to pay their last respects to the dearly departed Barri.

As part of our request we asked to pay our last respects last. This was to allow the children to say their final goodbyes to the person not only their biological father but acted as their mother and friend for the past year. I didn't agree with some of the things she did to or for Margie but no one should speak ill of the dead. I prayed silently that any sins she did would be overlooked and have a peaceful eternity.

Soon it was turn to come forward and to view the body one last time. I held Dottie and Timmy held Philly we both raised them up so they could see the body one last time. I touched the very cold hand and allowed Dottie to do the same once again I said a prayer for Barri as I wiped the tears from Dottie's cheeks and held her to me. I did the same for Margie and Rachel. Timmy did the same for the boys giving them the spare handkerchiefs he had. Mother and Abby came with several more for the girls.

Mother, Abby, Myrna and Jack helped me to take the children from the chapel. We all retrieved our coats and belongings

As Timmy stayed just to make sure no problems occurred. We could have stood outside as the casket was taken from the chapel to the hearse but I didn't want them catch a chill.

Ernie and Pablo were at the Limos holding the doors open. I had the children get in first along with Dixie, Myrna and Jack. I had Pablo escort mother and Abby to the other Limo thanking them for their help. We kissed just as I went into the limo to be with the children allowing Ernie to close the door.  

Inez and Joey were each driving a flower car in front of the hearse loaded with all the flowers from the chapel. I noticed the children watching as the casket with the spray of roses laying on the top cover was placed into the hearse by the pallbearers, Uncle Sally, Paul, Iggy, Timmy, Robbie and Neil. I saw that Father Carlucci, Monsignor McFarland, Poppa Joe were also coming to the mausoleum. The priests went in the flower cars and Poppa Joe in the hearse.

 

"Ernie, call Pablo and tell him to get Uncle Sally and have him ride with mother. Also tell the driver that got him to take his people home; we'll take care of him until he's taken home."

"But Terri……"

"Do as I say or I'll let Northern have a piece of brown butt when we get home." I said.

"Damn, that's not fair! Sure, no problem."

Timmy signaled Ernie to stay in the Limo as he went to the back door and entered. As soon as the door closed Timmy took my hand into his bring me closer to him. I saw that the children were watching us. I smiled at them and motioned for them to all come to us. Margie sat next to me while Gerry next to Timmy. Dottie and Rachel sat in my lap while Monty and Philly sat in Timmy's lap. Okay for safety purposes I knew this shouldn't be done but sometimes adults override their common sense when it comes to the love of their children and their happiness. Myrna and Jack smiled and nodded their heads in disbelief that we did this however neither said a word.

The procession of the many vehicles that followed arrived at the gates of the cemetery. We stopped and waited a few scant minutes for us to be escorted to the final resting place for the earthly remains of Barri Scanlon.

Eventually we were moving again past all the marble markers, family crypts, mausoleums and statues that memorialized those that had left this plane of existence to stop in front of an imposing and looming marble stoned and columned family crypt. I saw the lettering of the name, which said O'Shea above and to the side of each massively constructed gate and door.  

I was somewhat baffled as to the reason why Barri was to be laid to rest in his family mausoleum, as the look on my face must have said that.

"I tried to have Barri laid to rest next to Gloria but all the plots were filled and the cemetery wouldn't dig the plot out deeper to accommodate two coffins. I was getting angrier at all the paperwork as the day progressed. I decided to allow her to be interred here."

Before I could speak or to think of the matter Ernie had the car door open. I saw that much of the snow had been removed as I took Dixie into my arms and the green carpet like matting was laid down to form a walkway for entry. A few cemetery employees were busy removing the flowers from the flower cars and two more came over to help with the removal of the coffin from the hearse.  

The skies had clouded and grayed with bits of snowflakes fluttering in the air as we all gathered at the back of the hearse with its single door wide open showing the coffin it carried with the remains of the birth parent of our children. The children all remained close to me as we stood and watched the casket being removed by the pallbearers from the hearse to the pallbearer's hands for the final journey to the mausoleum.

Inside the mausoleum chapel the coffin was placed onto a bier next to another coffin that was made of the same materials of the coffin that was just brought inside. I was a bit confounded as there had not been a death in Timmy's family for many years not since his mother had passed. The coffin that was on the other bier had also a spray of roses identical to what lay on Barri's coffin.

After the pallbearers had lain their gray colored gloves on the coffin Timmy rejoined us. The Priests blessed and said the prayers for the entombment and I caught the name Gloria Perkins-Scanlon as well as Barri Scanlon. I realized then that the other coffin contained the remains of the birth mother. I thought of this unselfish act that Timmy did and realized their mortal remains would now be together as they once were in life.

The services had concluded with Inez inviting all that attended to a luncheon that was to be at one of the many restaurants close by. We all went back to our cars but Timmy stayed to oversee that the coffins were placed correctly into the right crypt the two coffins would share.

The heat of the car felt wonderful to all of us that entered it waiting for my husband and the father to our children. Feeling the heat was a reminder that we were still alive, as were the tears we all shed for our sorrow. 

Eventually we saw him leave speaking to Inez, poppa Joe and Joey as they walked toward us waiting patiently in the vehicle. We, Myrna, Jack and I consoled the children on the loss, as Ernie stayed outside the car patiently waiting for Timmy.  

When Timmy came into the car he hugged and kissed each of the children without saying a word. I saw the tears in his eyes and took his hand into mine.

"I hate coming here. I see the crypts with the names of those that once lived and the thoughts and remembrances of the past come flooding into you. I see all of their faces yet only see the crypt they are at rest in. You remember all the good times as well as all the bad that you shared with them."

Damn I knew that feeling all too well but in my case it was every time we went to a crime scene. I held his hand tighter as Ernie drove the car to our destination.

The children sensed the sadness we shared and came back to sit once again with us. Not even Ernie tried to cheer us up as he normally does; Myrna and Jack were both silent taking turns in checking on Dixie in her seatbelt fastened carrier.

Once again we were traveling along the streets and pulled into a restaurant parking lot. There was nothing special about the building as it looked to be very austere as Inez and Joey stood by a doorway to let those that came to the funeral where to go.

Saying that the outside was austere was putting the inside into the same category. There were some pressed cardboard paintings and plastic plants were the extent of the decorations along with the indoor-outdoor carpeting. I'm not a snob by any means but this place was the pits. I just hoped that the food was better.

Entering the banquet room was a pleasant surprise seeing perhaps one hundred restaurant style tables covered with red tablecloths, china and silverware was waiting for all of us. A very long bar was readied to serve refreshments and drinks manned by four bartenders. Each side of the bar had a roaring fireplace taking the chill from the air. Taking a spot was a water fountain and fall with real plants in it and gold fish. As soon as the children saw the fish they were all drawn to them, several times I had to go to the water fountain and tell the children to keep their hands away from the water.

The lighting was somewhat subdued but far from dark. Musical strains came from the ceiling to help in lighten the past moments of the day. The walls had original artwork mostly of forest and animal scenes depicted on the canvas. This was a reminder to everyone to not judge a book by its cover.

I watched as Margie and Gerry took control of their brothers and sisters, ensuring that their behavior was acceptable in the public eye. Myrna as well as Jack and I, watched how they each interacted with each other. I was proud of these children as they rebounded for the day's earlier events.

Due to the DUI laws most of the people that had liquor limited themselves to one alcoholic drink. Most of the others had soft drinks, coffee or tea as their refreshment beverage of choice. 

Shortly we all sat down to eat at the set tables as the waitresses brought many different plates laden with food served family style. I noticed Henry really stuffing his face pointing it out to Timmy. Timmy laughed saying Henry enjoys anything he doesn't have to cook and then tells the chef in the kitchen if there is a mistake in seasoning or the preparation of the food.

We had finished eating and everyone was very satisfied with the meal from the comments that we had heard throughout the room. I had just taken a sip of coffee when the thunderous sound of a multitude of pagers went off all at the same time.

Timmy responded first using his cell phone calling the office. In seconds after he disconnected he stood up saying, "All investigators we have an Investigator and a Officer Down report.

Follow my Suburban to the location. Perpetrators may be on the scene. All Investigators will wear Vests. The Perps may still be on the scene."

I kissed all the children and ran after Timmy. Ernie had traded keys with Stevens. I ran to the Suburban almost getting run over by Robbie with his bag of goodies that we all had.

"Hey, Bosses stay at home and do not go into the field." I said as I climbed into the back seat with Timmy.

"I know but not this time Terri. Our people are hurt or possibly dead. Neil is with Iggy and Paul so we have everyone."

"Ernie, roll us Hot and use City Wide Three for comms with all the units. Advise the PD and our dispatch that we have SA zero one with us." Timmy said as he handed me my utility bag.

   

I had just finished changing heels to the black sneakers I had in my bag as Timmy snickered.

"You should have left the heels on, damn if they aren't sexy on you."

"Hey, none of that when I'm driving. No hairy white asses up in the air to blind me, please." Ernie said as Robbie laughed.

"Boss, now you know why I'm stressed out when I get to work." Timmy said laughing.

Fifteen minutes later and some very close calls from drivers not paying attention we arrived at the crime scene where the officers were shot.

We stopped to the rear of the PD Mobile Command Post with the three of us getting out of the Suburban with Neil, Iggy and Paul running to us. I saw that an ambulance was just pulling away from the curb.

"Iggy, Paul, go secure the CS. Have the area locked up for three blocks in any direction. Any problems call Neil or us." Timmy said as Iggy and Paul ran.

Timmy and I followed our Bosses into the MCP, seeing Deputy Commissioner Harry "Balls" Townsend and a thoroughly shaken Investigator Roberto Martinez.

"Harry, Roberto what the hell happened?" How's Paco?"

"We were on the Drug Stakeout of the Tambrina home with the PD as additional eyes and ears like you wanted. The place has family traffic going in and out all day long. Suddenly it stopped. Nothing!

Maria Ramos and Juan Gutierrez saw, what we saw and said they were going to check it out. Paco decided to go with them volunteering me to stay in the car with the radio.

The three of them went up the outside stairs. Juan tried the door and found it open, which wasn't normal. All of them drew their guns and went inside.

Damn, they weren't in there but seconds when all hell broke loose. Gunfire came from the house and I called for assistance and ran to them.

As I reached the stair, Juan came flying out the front picture window with Paco right behind him. Thank god they were wearing their vests. All the bullets hit the vest except for one that hit Paco in the groin area and thigh. Both of them were breathing as I called the Officer Down in on the handheld unit. Jeez, they shot it off! All the blood!

I found Maria in the foyer she was dead from a wound to the head and multiple hits to the vest. They blew her fucking head off!

I stepped over Maria's body and saw a massacre; maybe ten people, blood all over the place. I heard the bolt of a gun hit home and hit the floor. It was the damnedest sound you ever heard, faster than an UZI or MAC. I know what those sound like. Definitely not a handgun! Those shells ripped over my head it sounded like a swarm of bees, I'll never forget the sounds those bullets made. Brrrrap! I have to check on Paco!" Roberto said urgently.

"Roberto, I want you checked out at the hospital. We have your statement on tape. I'll have Gail bring the transcription over tomorrow. I want you to get some rest and see Dr. Flanders." Robbie said.

"Roberto, I'll have Paulson drive you or the ambulance can take you. We'll have your wife to meet you at the hospital." I said just as the man collapsed from shock.

"Get those Paramedics in here. Now!" I yelled as bent over the prone body removing the vest of the man we had been speaking to. The abdominal area had traces of blood on his shirt.

Within seconds the paramedics arrived to handle Roberto. They had him in the gurney and were transferring him to the ambulance then to the hospital for treatment.

I sent Paulson and his partner Steele, to get Roberto's wife, Carlota and to stay with them both at the hospital. Anything they wanted they were to see it they received it was Robbie's order.

Timmy sent Lewis and Hendricks to the hospital after getting Paco Sanchez's mother and father since he wasn't married.

"There's a SOTAC Team (Special Operation Tactical Team) and a B Squad in there now. From what I've seen on the CCTV it's as bad as Roberto said it was." Harry said to all of us.

"Harry, just tell them to be careful and touch nothing leave it for the Techs." I said.

"Terri, I know from reading all the reports from you and Tim here. I had a feeling that our Hit Team might strike but when was the question. We set up personnel according to the guidelines the both of you set up from the last Serial. That was another reason we got here so fast, seven minutes from downtown headquarters. We never figured on a massacre at a drug house though, with four cops down."

"Sir, Air one and three reports black smoke rolling from the roof area in the back." A comm tech said.

"Roll the FD, Have SOTAC cover the FD inside notify BS and Arson." Harry said.

"Well whoever the perps are just added arson to cover up a crime scene to all the murders they committed." Robbie said.

"Harry what's the BC (Body Count) on the first floor?" I asked.

"Thirteen, men women and children. SOTAC was just going upstairs to check it out."

"Runner out the back of the house all in camouflage, in the alley now, direction north."

"Deploy all free units."

Timmy and I were out the door and running. As we ran Ernie saw us, slowing the Suburban allowing us to jump on the running boards with us holding the handholds built into the body as he drove. We were at the alley in seconds with our guns in hand. Ernie stopped at the mouth of the alley with Timmy running and I was behind the armored fender on the driver's side placing the fugitive in my gun sights.

"Freeze asshole!" Timmy yelled as he leveled his pistol at his target, the man.

His escape was cut off, the person in the camouflage suit stopped, started to raise his arms and with his left hand pulled the trigger of the small pistol he had in it. The bullet went directly through his temple and he died instantly from the bullet piercing the brain.

While the blood poured from the self-inflicted wound as Timmy slowly approached the prostrate body while I was watching the body just in case, still covering my partner's ass.

Timmy kicked the pistol away from the hand lying on the concrete pavement saying to the first cop showing up, "Call the ME, techs and secure the CS, please, Officer."

I saw that Timmy was pissed as I holstered my gun with him saying, "Sonofabitch killed himself, didn't even see the palm gun. Damn it, I wanted him alive!"

I took his arm and led him to where Ernie was waiting in the safety of the armored Suburban.

"Don't say a word if you value your life. Not one word! Take us back. " Timmy said to Ernie.

We arrived back to the MCP without Timmy shooting or strangling Ernie. This I thought was an accomplishment by itself considering his mood at the time.

Robbie came to the door of the MCP saying, "Get to the hospital. Paco tried to kill himself. Besides, it will take the ME all night to check out this mess. There are bodies on all three floors of the building. I know and you'll get three sets of photos for your investigators. Both of you get going and cool down. That was a real good job and give Ernie a raise for his driving skills."

"Yeah I'll give him a raise, with my foot up his ass." Timmy said under his breath.

I gently kick Timmy so that he knew I heard every word he said. Ernie wanted to help and he did. He was protected by the armor so what the hell was the problem?

"Timmy, Ernie helped you get in the alley, so what the hell is the problem?"

"He's not an SAI. If the Press………"

"That's not the reason, now spit it out or it's the den for you tonight." I said meaning every word I said.

"Damn it Terri! Okay, I don't want to get anyone hurt. An animal did this. Thirteen dead and counting in that house."

"Gee boss, I didn't know that you cared so much."

"Ernie shut up. If he doesn't kill you I will. Hillcrest hospital, now move it!"

We pulled into the spot labeled for police vehicles leaving Ernie in the Suburban. In the ER we asked to see Paco Sanchez after showing our Identification.

Security was called and we were taken inside to a room where Mr. and Mrs. Sanchez were. Paco was the product of a loving Anglo mother and very proud Puerto Rican father. He has two younger sisters and two older brothers, which places him right in the middle. We had met the Sanchez family many times since Paco joined the SA's Office at age twenty-one as a civilian investigator. Now Paco was Twenty-six years old and an invaluable part of the team.

"Lisa how is Paco?" I said as I embraced the mother as she cried.

"Terri, he's bad and he tried to ………" Paco Senior said with tears and much sadness.

"Why? He has a great deal to live for." I said.

"They shot him twice down there, twice. Nothing is left, but he's alive." Lisa said.

I asked Timmy to stay with the parents as I looked for the attending physician. As I looked for the physician a nurse found me.

"Excuse me but there are no visitors allowed in here."

"I'm not a visitor, I'm Inspector O'Shea with the States Attorneys Office. I need to speak to the Attending of Paco Sanchez Jr."

"I understand, please follow me."

I was walked into a cubicle where a very tired looking woman sat. I was introduced to the doctor.

"Doctor, what's the problem with Paco?"

"As you know he was traumatized in his male reproductive area. Pardon the non-medical jargon but his penis and balls were blown off. It appears that there is no hope for reattachment as there is too much missing or destroyed from the bullets that impacted the area.

I've seen gunshots but these were very high power and very soft lead or split like a Dum-Dum round. They almost exploded on impact."

"Are you saying he's lucky to be alive?"

"Yes, I think that's reasonable to say."

"What can be done?"

"Well he can be a Eunuch and catheterize himself every time he has a full bladder. He'll never be able to reproduce. He has a small frame, nice olive skin and not too tall. He could be a possible candidate for sexual reassignment. The surgeon might have to do some skin grafts but life would be normal for him."

"Look doctor I'm calling my personal physician, Dr. Greene and his colleague Dr. Malowski to consult with you. While you have that consult I would like to see Paco alone."

I placed the call to Dr. Greene's cell phone giving the phone receiver to the attending physician. I was told where Paco was and entered the room.

Paco was heavily sedated, electronic monitored and had the necessary IV lines in him.

I took his hand into mine and said softly, "Paco my dear friend, do you hear me?"

His eyes fluttered a moment looking at me with him saying, "Damn, I'm dead there's an angel here. Hi, Terri my love.

I hurt bad Terri. I'm numb down there. They said I'm not a man anymore, I'll never be a poppa, is it true doll face?"

"I won't lie to you. Take my hand dear and hold it tight. It's all true what they said, but there is an alternative. First you have to grieve for your loss and not deny it didn't happen. You are alive and two other officers are dead." I said as Paco cried for his loss.

"Terri that place was a mess! All dead! Men, women and children, all dead, Roberto saved me, Terri. He stopped the bleeding I think." Paco said between sobs.

"Okay, now the big question. Do you want to live?"

"Yes."

"What if you had to catheterize yourself to urinate or become a woman?"

"Jeez to live with a tube in me and sit to pee for the rest of my life, no. I'd rather sit to pee as a woman with no tubes. Ya know, strut my stuff. Hey, maybe a little sex. " Paco said in a drug-induced stupor.

Paco may be on the meds to kill the pain but he still knew what he was saying to me. The reason I could tell was he knew that people were dead and Roberto had saved his life.

Just as I squeezed his hand the doctor came into the room saying, "Did you tell Paco?"

"Yes Doctor, Terri did. The pain is great but I understood my friend and I trust her. She will tell you." He said.

"Call Dr. Greene with the go ahead." I said.

"I already did tell him that. An ambulance will be here to transport Paco to Dr. Greene's hospital for the surgery. Now Paco I'm going to take the pain away and let you sleep. When you wake up it will be all over. Good night Ms. Sanchez may you have a good, new life." The attending said as she slipped a syringe into the IV that was hanging.

I held Paco's hand until I was sure he was asleep. In the corner I saw the Vest he was wearing, deciding to take it with me at it as it might give us so information as to why this happened or how to prevent another occurrence.

"Doctor I'll take his personal effects out to his parents." I said as I released Paco's hand making sure he was asleep.

I walked over to the bagged clothes and vest and carried them toward the gurney taking one last look at the person that would get a second chance for life.

"I'll tell security you have the personal effects of the patient." The doctor said just as an ambulance crew came to take Paco to his new life.

"Inspector, I'll be going also with the patient. Dr. Greene invited me to scrub up with Malowski and himself for the surgery.

I already contacted the Chief of Staff and received the permission to follow this patient all the way until she will be released from the hospital."

As the crew was placing Paco onto the gurney I saw one male paramedic eyes open very wide at the mention of the word she.

"I'm Inspector O'Shea of the States Attorney Office and this person was shot on duty. We'll be following the ambulance to the hospital with our lights on. We'll have our radios set to the Mutual Aid frequency one with the call sign of SA zero two. If you need us call us." I said with the doctor giving last minute instructions to the crew.

I left the room and saw the security person asking him to retrieve Paco's firearm. After calling the security supervisor I was informed that his weapon was being brought to me.

I took out my cell phone and called the office with Patricia, an acting supervisor, answering the phone.

"Pat, notify the PD that we will be following the ambulance to St. Boniface Hospital. Paco is being transferred there for surgery. We'll take his parents with us but see if you can get in touch with his older brother Michael, he's a teacher at the vocational school. Have him contact the rest of the siblings and get cars to drive them to St. Boniface. We're taking the parents in our car. We'll be monitoring Mutual Aide one and SA one.

I have his gun and clothes have a forensics tech meet us to collect them. There's something not right with the vest."

"Sure Terri, I'll tell everyone here and let the Bosses know. Tell Paco we love him and to get well for us."

"Pat, have Doctor Flanders call me on the cell phone."

"Sure, why the shrink?"

"Pat if you tell anyone, I'll have you ass hanging in my office on the wall for Timmy to look at."

"I promise, okay maybe Gail but that's it."

"Paco can no longer be considered a he. The Perp shot it off and I think the Vest are defective."

"OhMyGod, Roberto is at Boniface too, in surgery."

"Have the Techs get his vest too."

"Will do, call me after you get there."

I disconnected from the call and called Ernie having him pull the Suburban near the ambulance and turn on the emergency strobes. I also had him meet me at the doors to get the personal effects and gun of Paco.

Going back to the waiting room I told Paco's family and Timmy that Paco was being transferred to St. Boniface. I told them that the office was contacting Michael at the school and sending cars for all their children.

Lisa and Paco Sr. were both escorted to the Suburban. Timmy held Lisa's and I held Paco walking with them. As we hit the cold air two PD cars pulled up with their emergency lights on and one officer leaving the car's warmth.

"Inspectors O'Shea, we're your escort to Boniface. How's the Investigator?"

"Alive Officer, Alive. Sorry about the PD's loss." Timmy said.

"Thanks I'll let everyone know."

"We're using Mutual Aid one for comms with the ambulance. They haven't loaded yet." I said.

"We'll be ready to roll when you tell us."

We thanked the officer again and helped the Paco's parents into the Suburban.

"Lisa, Frank." I said using the English translation for the father's name.

"I spoke to Paco before. It's going to be a long time for Paco's recovery. The physical part will depend on how fast it heals but the mind will take months."

"He's never going to be the loving child we had together?" Paco Sr. said.

"Paco will always be loving to you and the family. It's just that things will be different. Paco will still be able to live, love, get married and adopt children."

"Terri, I'm confused, how can he please his wife to consummate a marriage? There's nothing down there!" Lisa said in a panic, squeezing my hand tightly.

I took the parents hands into mine as I sat between them in the back seat. I took a deep breath saying, "Paco was given a choice in being a catheterized eunuch or having a sexual fulfilling life and chose a fulfilled life. Doctor Malowski will be doing the surgery."

Timmy was even confused until I said Malowski name. Lisa I saw had calmed down somewhat.

"Frank, I think that Terri is saying that we'll still have five wonderful children but three girls and two boys." Lisa said as she sobbed.

I felt the father's hand tighten to almost crushing my hand. When he squeezed it to beyond my endurance I took a breath and yelped.

"I'm sorry Terri I didn't mean to squeeze your hand like that. Is that true? " He asked as the knowing tears of truth filled his eyes.

I nodded yes and brought him to my shoulder to cry for his loss and the loss of his son. I held both the mother and father as they cried for their loss of their son. I brought them both to me as I held them as tight as I could.

"I told him to go to school and learn to be a architect like me. No, the pendejo decided to join the States Attorney or be a cop or a fireman. He wanted to help people, see what it got him? A fucking sex change!

Damn that kid was a good athlete. Has a good brain too and used it."  He said as he cried to no one in particular.

"Frank, Paco does help the innocent. Paco will always be a good athlete. Paco can still go back to school to be anything she wants to do." Timmy said.

"But as a woman?"

"Watch it Frank! You're sounding like your grandfather now, that's a sexist remark." Lisa said angrily through her tears.

"I'm sorry Cara, I remember when Frank and the boys were small we used to go to the park and play baseball."

"Sure and you took the girls too. They all played baseball and they all learned to cook and sew. They all learned to repair the things you and I broke. Boys didn't just do boy things and girls just didn't do girl things in our house. They all played together and argued together and loved each other together." Lisa said calming down.

I decided to allow them to sit next to each other. I quickly moved over so Lisa could sit next to Frank, which she did. Lisa at once became very strong and shared that strength with her mate.

I saw the look of pride on Timmy's face for what I had accomplished. I saw Ernie send a smile my way too.

"You're right, Paco will always be Frank no matter if her name is Frances or Franki. She will always be our blood." Paco said.

I saw the ambulance team was loading Paco into the back with a paramedic and the doctor climbing in next. The driver of the ambulance came toward us with Timmy lowering his window.

"Ah Sir; are these police cars for us? If not the you have me blocked in."

"Their the escort, all the way to Boniface so watch the that car in front of you."

"Sure and thanks." The paramedic said walking back to the ambulance with a smile as Timmy raised the window back up to seal out the cold air.

"Ambulance two two one to dispatch enroute with SAO and PD escort to SBMC, advise them, with one female patient and MD."

"Will do. Hey Sam, how do you rate getting an escort?"

"Maybe I'll tell you later."

We proceeded slowly through the parking lot until we turned onto the street that was blocked by the PD to let us out.

"Is this normal for the cops to block traffic for an ambulance?" Frank asked.

"Not at all, it's because of your child, Frank and the job she does. You see she has many friends that want to help her get well." Timmy said over the sirens.

"Terri, Tim I have to apologize for what I said. We've both known you for too long to not realize that what you said was the truth.

Franki will have the love of all and help from all of us to get her through this or I'll beat my kid's asses.

My father and Grandfather were terrible when I was growing up and believed in the sexist attitudes of the past. You know keeping the woman barefoot and pregnant, I hated that shit."

"My father was the same but the kids and Terri have made me realize what love and caring is." Timmy said smiling at me and grabbing my knee.

The procession finally pulled into the parking lot of the medical center and went directly to the ER entrance. We made sure that the ambulance parked at the doors.

Ernie found the Police only parking and came inside the building with us. We found out the Franki was taken directly to surgery but Doctor Malowski had waited with an Admissions Clerk to get all the paperwork done.

Ernie went for coffee and the admission clerk left after all the paperwork was signed. We were then taken to a private room where Timmy and I sat next to the parents with the doctor standing.

I explained to the doctor that the parents now understood what was to happen in the surgery. Doctor Malowski told all of us what the surgical procedure entailed internally. He asked what Franki's sisters were like physically in age, height, weight and physical dimensions as we as Lisa's.

Lisa was taller being five foot eight inches and wore a size ten or twelve depending on the manufacturer and style of the clothes. Her cup size was a very full C and shoe size an eight narrow. Being as the two younger daughters had not stopped growing, Lisa was the model for her new daughter, As Franki was very close to her height and so on which included her shoe size except for the weight which was fuller. Liposuction would be done to create the hips and breasts and if necessary implants could be used to augment. If more was needed to be done to shape the new girl it could be done later.

"Damn, I'll be able to borrow her clothes or she could use mine. Now I can send the other girls to Franki's closet instead of them raiding mine." Lisa said in disbelief, which made her husband laugh.

The more I heard this man speak to these traumatized parents I was pleased to have him as Margie and my doctor. He had the compassion, knowledge and skill that every doctor should have.

Doctor Malowski had left to attend to Franki while I took Lisa into the nearest Powder Room to freshen up.

"Lisa, Malowski is one of the best. Franki is in good hands." I said as we entered.

"Terri, I'm so worried what if Franki…made a mistake? I mean becoming a girl."

"Lisa I was there when Franki made the decision. She was in pain, which meant she was conscious and coherent still she made her own decision. Me, I would rather have my child alive than dead from the realization that child would be looked at as an asexual freak."

"But you have no idea……"

"I will only bring this up this one time. Oh yes I do, Timmy and I have seven adopted children and one daughter is a TS, however, she chose her sex as she was unhappy as a boy and not by an accident. Life is too short for anyone to be intolerant of anyone or any lifestyle.

So please, you as a mother of that child will have to be patient and understanding just as you've always been in all their lives. You will have to be the driving force to maintain sanity among everyone in your family."

"Weren't you……"

"A transsexual, sure and I went through a living hell mentally and physically as I grew up. It was hell being born with the wrong parts that didn't match your brain. School was an absolute horror for me as I saw all the girls developing into young women. I saw them dating and socializing with boys. Mingling with other women, shopping, hair and nail salons and least we forget all the sleepovers.

It was worse later on trying to find the right man to accept me and to love me. I have everything now, Legality, family, a husband, children and everything that any woman wants or needs." I said as my eyes teared up.

"Oh Terri I'm so sorry for bring back all the pain." Lisa said as she hugged me.

"I want Frank, Franki and you to come see us when she's all healed up. I'll send a car for the entire family. My mother and sister live with us and my best friend Nancy is their nurse. Let them tell you all about me when I was growing up. Maybe Franki might shed her fears then. Unfortunately there are those in the TS community that don't have their heads on straight but there are others that are remarkable in what they have accomplished with their lives."

"You sweet girl, are one of those ladies. Now how in the world are we going to tell our grandchildren that their favorite uncle is now their aunt?" Lisa asked.

"That's easy as all children are, they are very perceptive in and to everything around them. Just tell them the truth that Franki had an accident, which they'll understand.

When they see and observe Franki they'll treat her as they always did, but as a woman and their aunt."

"I only hope it will be like that." Lisa said as Melissa and Sheryl came into the Powder Room with swollen eyes running to their mother.

"Mother the school pulled us from classes and said Frank was hurt badly. The police drove us here and they wouldn't tell us anything. Is he dead? What?" Melissa asked tearfully.

"Girls, Franki will be fine. She's in surgery now. Oh Terri please help me."

I saw the looks of confusion on the two young girls as their mother used the feminine pronoun instead of the masculine. Both girls had the beautiful Hispanic qualities about them just as Franki has with defined classic faces and very long dark hair.

Melissa the oldest at eighteen had her mother's good looks along with her figure and would be buxom as her mother is. Sheryl at the age of seventeen looked like the twin of her older sister. 

"I remember you from coming to see us. This is the first time we ever saw you wearing a classy woman's pant suit with high-heeled boots, your hair styled and face made up. We didn't know if you were a boy or a girl." Sheryl said.

"And I bet you both giggled when I left?"

"Nope, we thought you were very pretty and always said that. But now, you are beautiful."

"Thanks for the uplifting moment, I needed it. Franki is hurt and is going to need a huge amount of love from everyone in the family."

"Why did you say she? Mother, were you speaking of Franki?" Sheryl asked as her sister nodded agreement trying to pull the information out from her.

"Both of you have had biology and sex education classes. So, Franki was trying to help some people when he was shot. The man had a gun like an UZI that fired many bullets. Two of those bullets hit him in the groin area. He lost his penis and testicles because of those bullets.

=Franki chose to live and not be asexual. The doctors are making Franki whole again. The person you see will always be Franki inside but she will look like the both of you and your mother." I said.

"Damn, Franki a girl? Oh, I can't wait! All that teasing we took from him, her before." Melissa said cattily.

"That's not fair sis. Franki was always there when we needed him. Terri said just the physical appearance has changed. Franki was around to help with Steve and his gang.

How about all the dances and concerts." Sheryl said.

"Yeah, but wait until she has a boyfriend and makes love."

I saw the look of exasperation on Lisa's face with her saying, "How many daughters, Terri?"

"Four girls and three boys; only one teenager."

"Just wait mom, just wait." Lisa said

"That's okay I have strong knees to take them over and paddle their butts."

Lisa and I laughed as the teenagers pouted.

"Girls, just remember that Franki has to be treated just as you all treat each other, with love, kindness and compassion. Always respect her as your older sister." I said as we walked from the Powder Room to the cafeteria.

Inside the cafeteria I saw Timmy and Frank with two men and women sitting. The looks on their faces were sullen as we came closer to them.

"Michael, Tomas how are you both?"

"Terri, Damn it is you. This is Marla my wife and Claire Tomas's wife." Michael said as he and Tomas hugged me and I shook the hands of their wives I had never met before.

"Pop and Tim told us about Franki. Will she be okay?" Michael said.

The minute I heard Michael call Franki, she, I knew that the situation would be in control.

"I think so Michael, Franki lost a great deal of blood but she had her full mental faculties when she made the decision in front of the doctor and myself." I said.

"Jeez that was a hell of a decision to make." Tomas said.

"Mother, girls; Claire and I will help all we can. Besides having a new little sister might be interesting like you two demons were." Marla said as she hugged the two girls and Claire agreed.

"Thank you but we'll manage. You have our grandchildren to worry about." Lisa said.

"They'll be fine mother and they can be around for Aunt Franki to get used to children. Franki has always been there for us now we have to be around for her. Franki was the one to take me to the hospital when I was having Mike Jr.; I was scared so badly by Franki's driving that Mike Jr. almost popped out by himself." Marla said.

"Franki is not the safest of drivers, she did the same to me." Claire said.

Franki was the brunt of every bad driving joke there was at the office. The worst joke they played on her was to mount a child's steering wheel and two large magnifying glasses to her desk chair one morning after an accident she had with a garbage truck that was parked spilling the garbage onto the car and through the windows. The partner, he received several cases of very cheap perfume for the smell.

 

As we spoke Neil and Robbie entered the cafeteria and saw us seated. We introduced our Bosses to everyone.

"How is Franki doing?" Neil asked.

"We haven't heard a word. What about that other mess?"

"It was a Crack House, the guy that killed himself was ripping it off. There were three of them. The one that killed him self killed his partners too. We found a nine millimeter pistol with a silencer and several nine millimeter TEC-9 automatic pistols." Neil said.

"Were they using Dum-Dums?" I asked.

"Don't know, I'll find out." Robbie said with Neil shrugging his shoulders.

"Frank, Lisa, if you or Franki need anything please let us know; or at least tell Timmy or Terri. I want Franki back in one piece.

I've called personnel to make sure Franki is paid for as long as she needs. She was injured in the line of duty and we take care of our people."

Lisa and Frank thanked Neil and Robbie, as did the others. I had to call home and check on the children excusing myself from the group.

I finally found a telephone as the cell phone had a reception problem in the hospital.

Stevens was happy that I called, as the children were upset after hearing of the shootings. I had him get Margie to the phone.

I told her not to worry, as daddy and I were both all right. We would be home soon as we had to stay to check on the persons that were hurt. I gave her our love to share with her brothers and sisters as we hung up.

Ernie found me just as I was hanging up the telephone saying, "Terri, the cop that you helped in the Command thingy asked to see you."

"Oh you mean Roberto."

"Yeah, that's it. Before you go Timmy and you did great with those parents we brought here. I heard the whole thing and I wanted to tell you that. Please don't tell Tim I said that or he'll think I was going soft."

I hugged Ernie saying, "Ernie, we both love you and everyone in that house. You can be as Timmy says a pain in the ass but you know I like a little pain in my ass." Then I kissed him on the cheek as he smiled.

I took his arm as we walked to the area where Roberto was. I walked into the darkened room as Ernie stayed in the hallway. Roberto was on the bed receiving several IV's and his wife was beside him in a chair holding his hand.

"Hi Roberto, Hi Carlota, how are you feeling?" I said as I saw the pain still etched on his face.

"Better I guess. Terri it should have been me instead of Frank, damn it! Jeez, He's never been married, no kids and I have kids." Roberto said.

"Roberto, I will only say this once so listen to me. You are both lucky to be alive. The PD lost two of their own and we're stuck with you two.

Franki has decided a new path in life that's not living as a eunuch. Franki can have kids too, if they're adopted and there is nothing wrong with that. Franki can have love too and sex if she marries a man.

You're both alive; family, coworkers and friends love you both. The woman next to you, your wife has tears in her eyes from the love she has for you."

"Terri, I told him all that, except about Franki. Damn that poor kid. "

"Carlotta, that poor kid might get laid more than the both of us. She'll be a knockout giving her younger sisters competition.

Franki said and I quote, 'Jeez to live with a tube in me and sit to pee for the rest of my life, no way. I'd rather sit to pee as a woman with no tubes. Ya know, strut my stuff. Hey, maybe a little sex.' That's th