Synopsis:

Jamie is running away from home. What does he find on the road to adventure?

Home Sweet Home

by Barbara Lynn Terry

Story:

What had actually gone wrong with mom and dad? Why were they so angry with me? Whatever it was, I couldn't take it anymore. So there I was, fourteen years old and on the highway hitchhiking to new adventures. Where would this journey take me, I wondered.

A car was coming. I stuck out my thumb indicating I wanted a ride, but the driver didn't stop. I don't know how long or how far I had walked after that car had passed, but the next thing I knew, I heard a woman's voice telling me it was time to get up.

"Huh?" I managed to say. I didn't know where I was. I opened my eyes, and I saw a woman standing by the bed. I looked up at her, and then realizing I was in a bed, asked her, "Where am I," I said looking at her.

"You are at my home, young lady." She replied.

"I'm not a young lady, ma'am. I am a fourteen year old boy." I said rather stunned at her remarks.

"When I found you, you were asleep by the side of the road, wearing these." She held up the A-line plaid skirt and light blue blouse I was wearing. I looked over to the chair. I looked down and saw that she had left me wearing the bra, panties and slip. I tried to explain that I had put on a disguise in order to run away from home due to the cruelty I had been subjected to at the hands of my parents.

"Did they beat you, physically hurt you, I mean?" She asked.

"No, nothing like that," I replied. "They just wanted me to do everything around the house, such as the cooking and ironing, laundry, cleaning, including the garage. Then I had to mow the lawn and all the while they sat in the house and would make sure I did everything. Then when I got home from school, I had to get supper ready, immediately. After supper of course I had to do my homework. Of course I didn't mind that too bad, because it was the only chore my parents had no real control over. I couldn't watch tv or play any kind of video games, as my parents made sure I was always busy. If I didn't do a chore right I was made to do it over again and then was grounded to my room for that infraction also. If we needed food from the supermarket, I was given a list and the money and dropped off. Then my father would come back in an hour and pick me up but he would not help me load or unload the groceries. I had to put them away and make sure they were in their proper place. In the winter, I had to shovel the sidewalk, and make sure there was enough sand put down so they wouldn't slip. Last year the garage needed painting. Guess who painted it. Yes, ma'am, me. I was their slave and they enjoyed it."

"Oh my, how awful!" She exclaimed. "Tell me something, though. When you were wearing this disguise, weren't you afraid of being kidnapped or mugged or worse yet, raped?"

"Yes, ma'am, but my fear of those things, were less than my fear of my parents. I just wanted to get away."

"I see. Well, since you were wearing these things, you are a young lady in my house and my guest. I promise you that you won't have to do any of those awful things your parents made you do. I have a small but efficient servant staff to see to that. But, I have an idea. How would you like to stay here and be my daughter? I would take very good care of you and teach you everything you need to know to become a very convincing, young lady. I must say, though, that when I found you, I thought that you were a young lady."

"Ok, ma'am. I don't suppose though, that I can have the pack I was carrying."

"Oh, of course. It is over there," she said pointing to a place next to the dresser.

"Now what is your name?"

"Jamie, ma'am."

"Is that your real name?'

"Yes ma'am, it is."

"All right, Jamie, why don't you get dressed, come downstairs into the parlor and we can talk some more."

"Yes, ma'am," was all I could say.

When she left, I got out of bed and went and got my pack. I took it by the bed and opened it. I took out a light red v-neck t-shirt, a pair of white shorts that had a button fly front, instead of the usual zipper, and a red satin bra and panty set. I laid these things out on the bed and went into the adjoining bathroom and took a shower bringing the raspberry shampoo and conditioner I had taken from sister's room as well as the clothes I was wearing. After I washed my hair and put the conditioner in, I looked at my legs and saw they needed a little improvement. I lathered my legs, one at a time and shaved what little hair had grown in the last three days. I didn't have any hair on my chest, and I didn't have any hair on my face. I went back to the bedroom. I put on the clothes I laid out and went down to join the lady in the parlor.

"Well, you are very lovely dear," she said with a pleasing tone. "Come here, girl and sit down so we can talk."

I went and sat down in a chair facing the settee that she was sitting on. She looked me over for what seemed a long time, and then she said, "Jamie, dear, I was serious when I said that I would like you to stay here and be my daughter. You will have privileges that you have never known before, and all because I found you in what I would call dire straits. You know that even with what you have on, you look like a young girl."

"I know what you are saying, ma'am. My parents thought I looked too much like a girl and I think that is why they made me do those awful chores."

"Well, if you were to stay here and be my daughter, I would enroll you in a very exclusive school for young ladies and I would pamper you like the daughter I never had. I would even give you an allowance to spend anyway you wish. A very generous allowance. You would want for nothing. I wish you would at least think about it since you are my guest and I couldn't think of turning you into the street. You never know what will happen to you."

"Yes, ma'am. I will think about it. But, even if I decided to stay and be your daughter, I couldn't go to a girls school. I would be a laughing stock."

"Oh no, my dear. You certainly would not be a laughing stock. There is a school I know of where they accept young males who are feminine enough to pass as girls."

"Well, can I have couple of days to think about it. I mean this would be a drastic step and I want to mull it over in my mind, before making a decision."

"Yes, dear, that would be all right with me. I see that you are wearing girl's shorts, top and underwear. Didn't you pack any of your regular clothes, so that you could change into your regular things when the time came?"

"No, ma'am. These are some of my sister's things and I just threw a bunch of things together in my pack and left when my parents went out to get dinner at a fast food place. My sister's room was the closest to the door and I really was pressed for time. I had to get out of there quick. When I left I changed from my regular clothes into my sister's, then I hid my own clothes and left."

I never wanted to go back home again. I would probably do anything, within limits to stay away from home. But, was being some lady's daughter worth it? I mean, after all, I was a boy and I had only grabbed these things as disguises to get away. I mean, after all, I am fourteen years old, five feet, two inches tall, and skinny for a boy, but my sister's clothes fit almost perfectly. Now, I was being given an opportunity to have things showered on me by this lady who wasn't really that old. In fact, she looked about as old as my mother, but seemed nicer. I would have to really think about this. I should have packed at least one set of my clothes, but time was short and had to get away before my parents came back home. They had only gone out to get some fast food and come right back. So, I went into my sister's room and grabbed some of her things and threw them into my pack and left.

I didn't know where I was going, but I had stayed to the off highways and away from the toll way. Like I said before, after that one car had passed me and didn't stop, which I thought unusual, I must have walked some more and then laid down and fell asleep.

Now I was in this lady's house and she wanted me to be her daughter. I sat on the bed for maybe three hours just pondering this in my mind. Maybe, by being her daughter, my parents would never find me. They certainly wouldn't expect me to be enrolled in an exclusive girls school. I also know they wouldn't look for me on what they disrespectfully called ‘snob hill'.

I got up from the bed, and went downstairs and found the lady in the dining room having a light lunch.

"Hello, Jamie. Would you like something to eat?"

"Yes, ma'am. I think what you are having will be nice."

"Very well." She rang a bell and a younger woman, in a maid's uniform, came from the kitchen and the lady told her to bring me a salad plate.

We sat there, eating our salads and she was watching me all the time. She noticed that I was taking small bites of my salad, which also had real fruit in it. Not the ones at home with only fruit cocktail. I put my fork down very daintily and looked at the lady and said, "Ma'am, I have thought about what you asked. Now, I want you to know that I have ulterior motives with regard to this. I will accept your kind invitation to stay and be your daughter."

I could see the tears coming from her eyes when I had said this. She got up and came over to me and gave the biggest hug I had ever gotten. Never any hugs from my parents, they weren't the loving kind. But I got hugs from my grandma and aunt, but never like this. She sat down in her chair again and regaining her composure she said, "Jamie, you will not be sorry that you made this decision. Like I said, I will pamper you and bestow upon you gifts that you have never imagined. I will love you, and treat you like a young lady of breeding. I am so happy that you decided to stay. As for you ulterior motives. I understand completely. You feel that if you stayed here under my protection, you could escape the wrath of your parents. Right?"

"Yes, ma'am," I replied.

"Are there any ulterior motives, other than that?"

"No, ma'am."

"Good. I know we are going to have a happy time. As far as that girls school is concerned, it is a day school for you, because it is not far from here and my chauffeur will drop you off and bring you back home each day. Anyway, you can call me mom or mother. You must never call me by my name, unless you are introducing me to someone. Okay?"

"Yes, ma'am. But I don't know your name."

"OH! How careless of me, my child. I am Mrs. Howard MacCreeley. My late husband died in an airplane accident three years ago, and I have been very lonely here since. My first name is Amanda. I want you to know that since you are here, I won't be lonely anymore. Thank you, young lady for making my heart glad again. Now, I will introduce you to the staff."

She rang a bell and the same young woman came out and was told to assemble the staff. When they were all assembled, she looked very stern at them all, and the only guy there, I assumed was the butler, actually gulped.

"Everyone, what I say now, goes no further from this house. Do I make myself understood?"

They all nodded in agreement, and then the butler looked at me.

"This is my daughter, Miss Jamie Anne MacCreeley, I want you to accord her the same respect and dignity as you would me. Also, if anyone should come looking for her, or you happen to see her picture on the news, you are to say you never heard of this young lady and disregard all news bulletins regarding her. I know you want know why she is here, so I will tell you. She has been a slave in her own home, made to do the duties you all were hired to do, only she got no payment for doing them. She has run away from home, and I have offered her sanctuary here as my daughter. Does anyone have anything to say about this?"

"Yes, Madam. Begging Madam's pardon, but I think we will enjoy having a young lady in the house. It will bring back the laughter that we have heard in the past and make this house a home again."

"Thank you Charles. Yes, I agree. This house has been empty of gaiety for too long. Does anyone else have anything to say?"

"Yes, Madam. Hi Jamie, welcome to MacCreeley Manor. It is going to be so nice having a young lady in the house. My name is Donna and I am the downstairs maid. The bell your mother rang for service will bring me to see what you need. Of course, you can always go into the kitchen and get something yourself, if you would like. But, I am at your service, Madam."

"Thank you Donna. That was very nice indeed. Anyone else?"

"Welcome to MacCreeley manor, Jamie. I am Martha and I am the cook. If you have a special taste for something let me know and I will fix it for you. I also, want you to know that now we have a home again, and it is going to be so nice, having you here."

"Thank you, Martha. Simone, would you like to say something?"

"Yes, thank you, Madam. Welcome Jamie, my name is Simone and I am the upstairs made. I am the one who cleans your room, makes your bed, and straightens up when you are a bit messy. I also help Donna with the laundry chores and the ironing. If you have a need for my services, don't hesitate to pull the chord next to your bed, and I will come and see what you need."

"Thank you, everyone," I said and looked at Amanda, oops, I mean mother.

"Yes, thank you everyone for that very warm welcome. She ran away from a wicked house and into a warm home. I know you are going to like it here, Jamie. These people are my friends as well as my staff. And they will do everything they can to make your stay here a nice one. All right, everyone, you are dismissed, except for Martha, I want to find out what Jamie wants for dinner."

The others went about their business and Martha stayed behind.

Martha looked at me and smiled. "Jamie, what would you like for dinner this evening?"

"I would like some chicken with the skin removed and salad, along with some green beans."

"Well done Madam, I shall prepare you a chicken dinner you will tell your friends at school about." Martha went back into the kitchen.

We sat back down in the dining room and mother began telling me about the estate and her late husband.

"Jamie, this vast estate covers a good one hundred acres of land. Half of that is wooded area for the dear and other animals to have a home and to roam. The rest is devoted to the estate itself. The house is the center of the fifty acres outside of the forest area. There are flower beds, walk paths and benches where you can sit down and take in the beauty of the day. When it snows, we are pretty much just inside the house.

"My late husband was involved in stock trading, not as a trader, but as an investor. He was very shrewd in his stock dealings. He knew when to sell, when to hold, and when to buy. This estate is what he has to show for it. I have inherited everything in his portfolio and we continue to do very well. Better than I expected.

"He died at the age of forty seven in a private plane accident while he was flying around one Sunday afternoon. They put it down to pilot error, but I think something actually happened with the plane. But they said the plane should have been functioning normal as there were no defects found. That was three years ago, Jamie, and I have been so sad since. When he was alive, there was always laughter and parties and surprises he would bring me from one of his business trips. When I got the call that my husband's plane had crashed and that a car was coming to get me, I was crushed. My life had ended as I knew it. The staff here was very comforting, and from that moment on, I knew they were more than servants. They were people with feelings who cared about my well being. And now, Jamie, they will also care for yours as well."

"Thank you mother," I said. Then as an afterthought, "Mother, thank you for the nice home and thank you for being so kind and understanding. I love you." I put my arms around her and gave her big hug.

"Jamie, you are very welcome," she said as she hugged me back. "Now, young lady, we need to go into town and get you some clothes."

"All right, mother. Let me use the little girl's room first."

I went up to my room and did what I had to; checking myself in the mirror, making sure I was neat and presentable, then I went down and joined mother in the car. The chauffeur was standing there waiting with the door opened.

"Good afternoon, Miss Jamie. My name is Jeri, and I am the chauffeur. If you ever need to go anywhere, you just call on the intercom. They are located all over the house. Madam has already told me what I need to know about you. Just like the rest of the staff. And I also want to welcome you to MacCreeley manor. It is going to be so nice having you here."

"Thank you, Jeri, I am sure I am going to like it here."

I got into the car and Jeri closed the door. On the ride into town, I asked mother if we were in the same town as my parents and she said no.

"Actually Jamie, we are in another state. We are going into the city and only to the shops that cater to an exclusive crowd. The things we are getting today, will be very pretty and very chic. We will of course get everyday wear at maybe J.C.Penny's or Sears, but the rest of your outfits will be exclusive. I also want to get some nice things other than clothes also. It is going to be so nice buying for a daughter."

"Mother?"

"Yes, Jamie?"

"Why did you suggest I remain as your daughter rather than a son?"

"Because, Jamie, dear, when I saw you by the side of the road, I thought you actually were a girl. When I got you home and took off your skirt and blouse and saw you lying there on the bed, still asleep, you looked so beautiful, that I had made up my mind to ask that very question when you woke up. You know Jamie, you do look like a very pretty teenage girl, even without makeup and a skirt or a dress. Do you think you will be comfortable living as a girl all the time?"

"Yes, mother. I will be fine."

"That's good, dear."

We pulled into the mall parking lot and everybody stared at the Lincoln as Jeri pulled up to the front doors of the mall. When Jeri had opened the door for us, everybody stared as if to say why couldn't that be me. We went into the mall and to a very exclusive lingerie shop that only catered to pre-teens and teenagers.

As we entered the shop, a well dressed lady came up to mom and said, "Amanda dahling, it is so good to see you again. Who is this lovely young lady?"

"Jenna, this is Jamie, she is my adopted daughter. Jamie, this is Mrs. Jenna Dowling. She owns this very fine shop."

Mrs. Jenna Dowling was just a little bit taller than me, but not by much, maybe an inch or two. She wore a purple sheath dress, covered by a matching jacket, which was not buttoned. Her shoes were also purple, but had white tips and very fashionable two inch heels. Her hair was flaming red and set on her head in a bun. When she walked it was like Queen Victoria. Very regal and very straight. When she talked, she pronounced some her R's like H's.

"What can we do for you today, Amanda?" Jenna said.

"We came to get Jamie some under things and a few sleep sets. and maybe a very nice robe for lounging in," mom replied.

"Very good, Amanda. Jamie, come this way please and let us see what we can find. Okay?"

"Okay, Mrs. Dowling," I said.

"My, Amanda! What mannahs foh one so young," Jenna exclaimed.

"Well, Jamie. We have a very fine assortment of everything. So let's start with the training bras and panty sets."

We went over to a section along one wall that had bra and panty sets of various different styles and colors. When Jenna saw my hesitation in picking out something, she looked at mom with a puzzled expression, upon which mom said that I was not used to buying my own clothes and this would be a first for me. She wasn't lying, either.

"All right, Jamie, what size do you wear?'

"I--I don't know, Mrs. Dowling, I never had to do this before. My clothes were always bought for me."

She looked me up and down and picked out a white bra and panty set that had lace everywhere, and I mean everywhere. The bra was a size 30aa and the panty was a size 5. When Mrs. Dowling saw that they fit me like a glove, she had me pick out four more sets. We went over to another section that contained foundation garments. I was told by mom to pick out three body shapers, which were like a girdle and a bra together. The crotch either had a snap closure or a Velcro closure. When mom saw that she had me get three of each.

We next went over to where the sleepwear was and I picked out three night gowns, two pajama sets, and a long very plush, velvet crush robe. The robe had crinkles in it that made it look like it was always wrinkled. After I had picked out everything, we took all the items to the counter and paid for them.

"Amanda, dahling, you simply must come back again, and this time don't wait so long." Mrs. Dowling said, as she helped us to the limo with our purchases. Jeri was waiting and took the packages from Mrs. Dowling and put them in the trunk. She went to the curb side door and opened it for us to get in. Once we were inside the limo, mom said, "Oh, Jamie! that was such fun. Did you have fun once you got over your initial surprise?"

"Oh, yes mom!" I replied. "I never knew that shopping, for girls, was this much fun."

"Well dear, this is only the beginning. I know that you are only fourteen, but we need to talk about something I think you just might agree to. However, I will leave that up to you and I won't put any pressure on you to make up your mind about it. But, it is something I was thinking about while we were in the store. What I was thinking, Jamie is, how would like to be girl, I mean without all the boy parts in the way?"

"You mean, like have an operation to make a vagina and hormones to grow real breasts?"

"Why, yeas, Jamie, that is exactly what I mean."

"That would be wonderful. I mean, I have no objections."

"That's good, Jamie. Next week we will start everything moving toward that goal."

She must have seen the gleam in my eye, because then she pressed a button on a console and Jeri answered.

"Yes, Madam?" Jeri's voice questioned.

"Jeri, we'd like to Wendy's Boutique."

"Yes, Madam." Jeri replied.

Jeri, was a young woman, maybe mid twenties. Her hair was not real long, but came to rest on her shoulders. Her blond curls hidden beneath her chauffeur's cap. I could really tell what kind of figure she had, because she was wearing the traditional chauffeur's uniform, with calf high boots that had straps and buckles near the top. But, seeing she was slim I could only imagine what she looked like when she had a day off.

"Jamie, we are now going to an exclusive dress shop that I used to patronize when my late husband was alive. If you thought shopping as a girl in Jenna's was fun, wait till We get to Wendy's. She is just going to love doting on you."

"That sounds like fun, mother. I was just thinking though. Does the school I will be attending require uniforms?"

"Yes Jamie they do. It is so that they can tell who the students are from visitors that come and go. Why was there a reason for asking?"

"No, mother. I was just wondering is all."

We rode the rest of the way, which wasn't far, to Wendy's Boutique For Stylish Young Ladies. Jeri again, pulled up to the front of the store and another well dressed lady came out as soon as she saw the limo. She waited for Jeri to open the door to the limo, and then she said, "Oh! Amanda, dear, it has been too long. I thought that was your limo. It is so nice to see you again. And, my, who is this very pretty young lady with you today?"

"Wendy, this is Jamie, my daughter. She is fourteen years old and has never bought a thing in her life. She needs some drastic repair in the clothing purchasing department." Mother said jokingly and we all giggled. I think Wendy actually tittered.

"Well, that is my specialty, dear. You just come inside and we will get started." Wendy said taking my hand and leading the way.

Inside the store was a beautiful array of the finest dresses I had seen anywhere, and of course, since I wasn't allowed outside when I was home with my parents, except for school and shopping, I could only compare this to what I had seen the girls and women teachers wearing in school and at the supermarket. There were dresses in all sorts of beautiful colors and styles. Some were backless that had a spaghetti strap that went around the neck, some were off the shoulder peasant styles, some were strapless, and backless, others were strapless with a back. They were all so beautiful. It was like a rainbow had come and settled in the store.

Then we went into a changing room. Changing room! My God, this was as big as my bedroom at my parent's house. There was a dressing table, a full-length mirror that took up the whole wall and there were three chairs and one settee. The entire middle of the room was empty space and used for fitting purposes.

"I see you are surprised by the dressing room," Wendy said when she saw my expression.

"Yes, ma'am. I mean this room is about the same size as one of my friend's bedroom."

"Yes, dear. It is all right, Wendy knows I don't have a real daughter. It is all right if you tell her it is your previous bedroom that you are talking about."

"When was she adopted, Amanda?"

"Just yesterday. I thought she should get used to the house first and then we started our little shopping excursion right away today. Now, Jamie, you just wait right here and we will be back shortly. Oh I am going to love this."

They both went out into the store and I just awed over the size of this dressing room. On the dressing table there were cosmetics of all kinds and colors. There were foundations, powders, lipsticks, lip liners, eye shadows and liners, blushes, and all the brushes to go with them in protective cellophane coverings. The mirror on the dressing table had lights all around it. The French Colonial bench in front of the dressing table had a satin skirt with ruffles around it to hide the legs and came all the way to the floor.

The door to the dressing room opened. Mother and Wendy came in with a lot of dresses, and hung them on the hooks. "Now, Jamie dear, I want you to take off those clothes so we can start to see which of these dresses fit you and which we need to make alterations for." Wendy said.

I looked at mother with a concerned look, and Wendy said, "Your mother and I have had a nice long talk out in the store. I will not reveal you to any living soul. Your mother and I have been friends for many years and have shared many a secret. So what do you say young lady, shall we get started?"

"Yes, ma'am," I replied.

I took off my shorts and shirt and stood there in my panties and training bra. Wendy took a dress off of one of the hangars, and held it up to me. She told me to lift my arms and she helped lift it over my head. I found I didn't need a slip with it as it had one built in and about three layers of crinolines under the skirt. It was a light purple and set off my shoulders just a touch for that 'romantic' look. It went down to almost the floor, but Wendy said with the proper heels, it would show my ankles. The dress fit perfectly and wouldn't need any alterations. Next I tried on a knee length semi formal that you could wear to a wedding or to dinner or even to go shopping in as it was that kind of dress. This was pink with lace around the collar. The zipper only came to about mid back, leaving the rest of the back bare from the shoulders. This dress too, fit perfectly. Mother sure had an eye for detail never having had a daughter. There was one dress that I was told was a ball gown. This dress was white silk chiffon. backless from the waist up to the shoulders, and swept out like a fan from the waist to the hem. When you walked in it it made a rustling sound like the first dress I tried on. I was told to take small steps when wearing this or I might step on it and ruin it by ripping and tearing of the silk material.

This dress needed no alterations. We decided on these three for now and then Wendy said, "Jamie, because of your special circumstances, and because you are Amanda's daughter now, I have a special surprise for you. A present really."

We took the dresses out to the counter and laid them down and then Wendy told me to step over to where she was. I saw where she was standing and I must have looked like I was in heaven again, because she was standing by an assorted array of earrings.

"How would you like your ears pierced today, Jamie?"

"Yes, ma'am. I certainly would like that a lot."

"Well then, girl, get over here so we can get started."

She pierced my ears, two holes in each, and I had dangling hoops in the bottom and emerald studs in the top. When we got out to the limo, Jeri took the packages and laid them very gently in the trunk, using both hands to do so.

"Miss Jamie," Jeri said. "You look very nice with your new earrings, ma'am."

I smiled and said, "Thank you, Jeri, that's very nice of you to say so."

"Dear?" Mother began. "It is almost tea time and I don't want miss it today. Besides Martha will skin us both alive if we're late . So why don't we just go home for now, and we can go to J. C. Penneys or Sears tomorrow. Okay?"

"Yes, mother. I'm a little hungry anyway."

She smiled and told Jeri we were going home.

We drove to the front of the house and the staff was already there waiting to help with the packages. They were told to put them in my room and lay them on the bed and we would take care of them later. We went into the house and into the dining room where Donna served a very delicious tea. We ate from our salads, and the half way through mine, I said I was full, and mother just smiled and said, "That's all right, dear. We girls must watch our figures when we are young. Tell you what. Why don't you go out side and look around. Take in the beauty that is MacCreeley Manor."

"Okay. Thanks mom."

I gave her a big hug and a kiss and told her thank you for a very lovely day. She hugged me back and I went outside. I looked around and i saw Jeri over by the garage. I went over and said hi, and Jeri smiled and said hi back.

"There is someone I want you to meet, Miss Jamie."

We went into the garage and there was a man there working on one of the cars. He was grease from head to toe and looked like he had been swimming in it.

"Miss Jamie," Jeri said to me. "This is Doug. He is our mechanic and keeps our little fleet of cars running."

"Nice to meet you Doug," I replied.

"Nice to meet you too, Miss Jamie. I'd offer you my hand but as you can see they are very dirty."

Dirty! That was an understatement.

"Have you met Max, yet, Miss Jamie?" Doug asked.

"Max? No, I haven't. Who's Max?"

"Mister Max, actually. He is the enforcer around here. He keeps everyone in line if they misbehave." He whistled and I saw the most beautiful German Shepherd I had ever seen. Max sauntered out into the garage and sat down in front of me. "Max, boy, this is Jamie. She is a friend and is going to be staying here." Doug said to the dog.

Max then lifted his right paw up and I stooped down and shook it like you would shake hands with a person. Max then licked my face, and sat back down with his right paw up again. I shook it a second time and then I said to Max.

"Max, I'm Jamie and I want to be your friend. Okay?"

Max barked twice, which startled me, and then he licked my face again.

"Now, Miss Jamie, I told he was the enforcer, right. Watch this. Max! Protect Jamie."

Doug held up a wrench in a threatening manner and immediately Max got between Doug and I, looking at Doug and growling.

"Miss Jamie, there are some dog treats in that box on the bench over there. Would you get Max one treat, please?"

I called to Max to come with me, but the dog would not leave his place in front of Doug while he had that wrench in his hand. Doug put the wrench down and Max came to me to get his treat. I gave him one Beggin' Strip dog treat and Max just swallowed it, practically whole, after chomping noisily a couple of times.

"You see, Miss Jamie. You have nothing to worry about here. Max has the complete freedom of the premises, and will chase the deer back into the woods if they stray too far."

"Thanks, Doug. I think I will go and look at some of the flowers now. I will see you later."

"Okay, Miss Jamie. It was nice to meet you."

I smiled at him and left to go and look at the flower beds. I stopped at the Orchids, whose beauty and fragrance just amazed me. I sniffed even more so, and then started going lala lalalala, while skipping back to the house. When I got to the door, I could see Max, Doug and Jeri standing there watching me with smiles, while Max was holding up his right paw. Jeri gave me the thumbs up sign and Max barked twice. I waved back with my fingers instead of the whole hand and smiled. then I went inside the house.

I stopped and looked at myself in the mirror in the foyer. I looked real close. Then I said outloud, "Welcome home, Jamie Anne MacCreeley."

Yes, welcome home, my home. My home sweet home.

Notes:

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Synopsis:

Jamie has found a home. What delights, surprises and other things does she find in her Home Sweet Home?

Home Sweet Home II

by Barbara Lynn Terry

Story:

As I stood there in the foyer looking at myself in the mirror, Donna came up to me.

"Miss Jamie, your mother would like to see you in the parlor, please."

"Ok, Donna, thank you."

Donna was the downstairs maid. She was in her mid-twenties, I was told, and was working her way through college. She was five feet four inches tall, nice and slim with a pretty figure and auburn hair that cascaded past her shoulders. Her eyes were, while not emerald green, green enough to put a hint of mystery in her expression.

I sauntered off to the parlor, and when I got there, I was told to sit down. I sat in the same chair I did when I had first come into this room.

"Jamie, dear? I want to know something right now. If you say no, then I will forget the matter and never bring it up again. Okay?"

"Yes, ma'am."

"I want to know if you would let me contact your parents, and let them know you are all right. This would be done through a third party contact who doesn’t know me or where I live, but will be paid to deliver a message to your parents and wait for a reply to be dropped off. I think it is important that we do let them know you are all right."

I looked at her with such a gaze of terror that she wanted to know if there was something else I hadn't told her. I told her there was and she wanted to know if I wanted to talk about it now, and I said no.

"Well, Jamie, all in good time. Whenever you are ready, dear. You will need to tell me though, but in your own good time. Okay?"

"Yes, ma'am."

"Tell me something though, Jamie. Is it something very bad?"

"Yes, ma'am."

At the memories of what had transpired, the real reason I had actually run away in fear of my parents, came flooding back to me and I began to cry then I was uncontrollably sobbing. Mom had moved over to me and put her arms around me to comfort me, but I would not be comforted. The real reason I had run away wasn't because of the chores but because of something else. Something my parents wanted to impose on me. Well maybe it was because of the chores, that they wanted to inflict the final insult on me.

That final insult added to injury, was the wearing of a French maid's uniform. I was not about to become a maid in my own home. I was leaving and never coming back. Now, I was asked if Mom should contact my parents. Why? Everything started out great here. Why make it more difficult? I looked at mom and said.

"Mom? I need to think about that one for a bit. Okay?"

"Why of course, Jamie. Feel free to take as much time as you need. But if you decide you think we should contact your parents, I will assure you right now, they will not know where you are. Okay?"

"Yes, ma'am."

Thinking back to yesterday, the memories played in my mind, like a vivid dream. I saw it like I was still there.

"Jamie!" My father said in a stern voice. "We have decided that since you are the maid in this house, that tomorrow, we are going to take you to a uniform shop and get you a maid's uniform. It will not be just any maid's uniform, but a French maid's uniform. You will wear that uniform from the time you get home until you go to bed. On Weekends and holidays, you will wear that uniform from the time you get up until the time you go to bed. You will also wear that uniform when you go to the store and do the shopping. You will address your mother and sister as Madam, and you will address me as Sir. Do you understand that, Jamie?"

"Yes, sir," I replied.

"Good," my father had continued. "Right now though, we are going to go and get some carry out at that fast food place on the turnpike and come right back. I want you to make sure the table in the dining room is set and the place settings are proper. Do you understand, Jamie?"

"Yes, sir," I replied again.

"There is one other thing. Since you are now our official maid, you will keep your eyes lowered when addressing anyone in this house, including the guests. If you do a good job, we will get you presents that you can enjoy in your duties. Now we will back shortly, and the place settings had better be done."

They left to go get the food, and as soon as the car pulled out of the driveway and was headed down the street, I went into my room and got my back pack. I went into my sister's room and started rummaging through her closet. I took out two skirt sets (she always had her skirts and blouses together), a short set, and some socks, stockings and a pair of shoes. I put everything in my back pack and headed out. After I had gotten about two blocks from the house I ducked in an alley and changed from my regular clothes into white cotton panty briefs, a white bra and slip, and a light blue blouse with an A-line plaid skirt. The shoes were just regular black pumps with a two inch heel. After I was dressed in my sister's clothes, I hid my clothes behind a dumpster, and headed for the highways. Since they were going on the turnpike, I headed in the opposite direction. Well, you know the rest. I was not going to be humiliated just because my parents were lazy and unloving, as far as I was concerned.

"Are you all right now, Jamie?" Mom said as she looked at me with concern.

"No, ma'am. All the indignities they inflicted on me came flooding back into my memory and it was like I was still there. I could hear my father's voice as though he was standing in this room. Mom, what they wanted me to do was be their maid, and wear a French maid's uniform from the time I got home until I went to bed, and then on holidays and weekends, and during the summer, from the time I got up until I went to bed, and they even said I would wear that uniform to the store when I did the shopping. Also, my father told me I had to lower my eyes, whenever addressing any member of the family and guests. When you asked me if you should contact my parents, I was frightened. Mom? I am scared of my parents.

"It isn't the same thing living here and being your daughter, though. What they wanted me to do was be humiliated, and degraded and be treated less than a human being. I-I wasn't going to let them do that to me. I don't mind dressing like and being a girl, but I wasn't going to be humiliated in my own home as a maid."

"There, there, child. Everything is going to be all right. I will send a message to your parents and tell them that what they had planned is now known and that you are safe, but do not want to go home. I will tell them to reply and drop it off at the offcie of the man who delivered the message to them. I don't think they will be looking for you though. I have a suspicion that they wanted you to leave.

"Do you think they'd retaliate against your sister because you left?"

"No, ma'am. She is so neat and keeps all her clothes together. She puts her skirts and blouses together on hangers so she has a complete outfit to wear. Her under briefs are folded and her slips are hung up on hangers too. Her dresses are immaculate and hung up with plastic sheaths on them. What they will do is look for me, and then stop when they can't find me. They will not go to the police because they don't want their dirty secrets told and they know I will tell on them."

"Well, Jamie, you have had a very harrowing and fearful experience. I don't blame you for running away. But, you don't mind wearing these clothes like for always?"

"No ma'am. I am not being humiliated by this. You asked me to stay and be your daughter. I thought about it, and decided that it would be nice to be your daughter. I will be the best daughter I can be, mom. I will make your heart glad and you will make my heart glad. Together, we will be a team."

"Oh my god, child. You are a dear. I only wish my late husband was here to meet you. You know that it is almost another three hours before dinner. Why don't you and I go outside for a walk around the grounds and I will show you points of interest, at least to me?"

"All right mom. That would be very nice. Our first mother/daughter outing just by ourselves."

We went outside, and walked around by the flower beds. There were red roses, yellow roses, petunias, begonias, tulips, carnations and some very colorful ones I was told were from central and south america. It was so pretty out here and the scent that arose from the flowers made you dream of having a bubble bath and just letting this wonderful scent envelope you. Well yes, I am thinking like a girl, aren't I? It must have been all those household chores I was required to perform, while my parents and sister watched. Maybe it wouldn't have been so bad if they had helped, but when they told me I was officially their maid, I left. Then we went down a path that mom said led to the stables.

"Jamie, have you ever ridden a horse?"

"No, mom, I haven't. I have never even seen a horse, except in pictures in my school books."

"Well then, young lady. You are in for a real treat."

We walked to the stables and I began to hum a song I learned in school. I saw mom look at me and smile. I hummed all the way to the stables and when we walked in, there were eight stalls and every one of them had a horse in them. There was one stall she led me to that had a very nice horse with a reddish brown coat. Mom said they called that breed of horse a roan. This roan was what mom called a mare, a female horse. She had white just above each hoof, what mom said were called stockings. her tail was just a little darker than her coat, but she was a beautiful animal.

"Mom, she's beautiful."

"Yes, she is, Jamie. Take an apple from that basket there and hold it in the palm of your hand up to her mouth. She won't bite you."

I took an apple and held it to the roan's mouth and she took it very gently and ate it. Then she nudged me with her nose, which was a little wet and I giggled. The horse then nodded at my giggle.

"Why Jamie, dear, she likes you. That is the way horses show affection."

I then put my hand out to touch her by the mouth and nose and she leaned forward and bent her head down. I then gave her a hug and she she whinnied. Mom said that meant she like being hugged in that manner.

"What is her name, mom?"

"Well Jamie, until you came, I've been calling her Brownie."

"That's a beautiful name, mom. I like you, Brownie, you're very beautiful."

Brownie whinnied again but this time she nodded her head and pawed the hay with her right hoof three times. Mom said that meant she understood what I said and liked to be complimented. Then I understood the meaning of the phrase horse sense that I have heard my parents say dozens of times.

"Well Jamie, guess what. Would you like to have Brownie for your very own?"

"Oh mother! Do you really mean it?"

"Yes, dear. I really mean it."

I gave mother a big hug. "Oh mother, my very first, very own horse. Thank you so much." I hugged her again and then I turned to Brownie. "Did you hear, Brownie, we're gonna be friends, like forever." Brownie whinnied again and nodded her head and pawed the hay again three more times. I was very happy. I never imagined anything like this.

"Okay, Jamie. Say good night to Brownie. Tomorrow is Saturday and we will come back out here and you can learn to ride her. Okay?"

"Okay, mom. Brownie, I have to go now, you be good and I will be back tomorrow and we can go out and get some exercise." I hugged Brownie again, and she let me. What a wonderful gift. I was so happy that I was acting like a little girl with her first doll.

"School will be starting in about a month, so Monday we will have to get you registered. Now, Jamie, the school administrators and teachers will know that you are physically a boy, but if you act like you did today in the stables, you will have no problems. They will see you are a girl and they will accept you as such. This is a very exclusive school. The students there are mainly girls, but there are some boys there as well, taking classes as girls. I'm sure there will be no problems."

"I will be good, mom. I will make you proud of me."

She smiled and looked at me. "Jamie, when we register you, they will give us a list of clothing items to get for you. Your uniform, gym clothes, and maybe we will even get you some new earrings too. How does that sound."

"Like I died and went to heaven, mom."

I just could not believe this. Yesterday, I was being set up to be a maid in my parents house. Today, I am this lady's daughter and will be going to school as a girl. Is this what I wanted but just didn't know it? I had to think about this. I had to prepare my mind to act like I did at the stables. But I wasn't acting, was I? I mean my whole being just kind of seemed normal and the girl part of me just came out, and I wasn't even embarrassed. Mom smiled at me when I was being just a girl. I mean, is this something that was in me all along and I just didn't know it? I am going to have to think about this. Mom's a very nice lady. Lonely and uncontented. But now she seemed to have a purpose. She seemed alive and doing things. I wonder just how long it had been since she was down at the stables.

"Mom? When was the last time you went down by the stables just to be around the horses?"

"Oh, you are a sweet child. It has been a long time. I haven't been to the stables since my late husband died. I didn't know how much I missed those beautiful animals, until today when you were so energetic with Brownie. Thank you, Jamie. You made my heart glad today."

We started walking back toward the house, holding our hands in each other's. I started humming that song again and then mom did something I didn't think she was capable of. She began skipping and I skipped right along with her, our arms swinging back and forth, hand in hand. I looked at her face and saw life there, happy life. I was very glad that I could make this woman happy and if being her daughter made her this happy, then I was happy too. All of a sudden, there were tears in my eyes and mom looked at me and asked if I was okay, and I said Iwas, but that these were happy tears because I was happy to see her so full of life and she smiled, gave me a big hug, and we skipped back to the house.

We had to go past the garage to the house and Jeri was standing there watching us, with a big smile on her face. "Why Madam, it is so good to see you so full of life. I'll bet, Madam, that Miss Jamie is the reason." Jeri then winked at me and I winked back. We got to the house and Donna was outside, and when she saw us, remarked.

"Madam, you look ten years younger. What has Miss Jamie done to you?"

"Made my heart glad, Donna. Made my heart glad."

"Oh Madam, it is going to be so much fun in this home again. Thank you Miss Jamie, for just being you."

We went into the house and it was time to get cleaned up for dinner. I was told to go to my room and put on the knee length dress we had gotten earlier. I went up to my room, and as I entered, I saw Simone putting out my clothes. Simone, the upstairs maid, was about the same age as Donna, in her twenties, with nice long blond hair and sky blue eyes. She had a very nice figure and was singing a song I wasn't familiar with. She saw me and came over and gave me a very big hug.

"Oh, Miss Jamie! You have brought back life to this drab old house. We now have a home again, thanks to you. C'mon, it's time to get dressed for dinner."

After taking a quick bath and putting body lotion on, I got dressed. I went downstairs to the dining room and saw that the staff was also standing at chairs at the table.

"Jamie, this is a special occasion. The staff, and includes both Doug and Jeri. You may all sit down now and I will say grace." Mom said grace and thanked God for bringing me into her life in answer to her prayers for someone to make her heart glad again. We then beagn passing around the food and when everyone was served we all just kinda 'dug' in.

"Miss Jamie," Jeri began. "I saw you and Madam skipping while holding hands and just having a blast. I want you to know that I am glad that Madam has a reason to be happy again. It has been a long time since she laughed the way she did today. I for one, am very gald that you are here."

"Yes, Miss Jamie," Charles added. "I had my doubts when you first arrived. But after what I was told today, I too, am very glad that you are here. I hear Madam is going to teach you to make your own dresses , so that you can learn to sew. I think that is very nice. So, as I said yesterday, welcome Miss Jamie, to MacCreeley Manor."

Charles wasn't very tall, but he was slim and I don't know if he was muscular becauase I haven't seen him with his shirt off. He was maybe mid-forties, and wore that Tuxedo that all butlers wear. He walked with a straight gait, and when guests were in the house used a formal type of speech you have seen butlers on tv do. I know, I said I never could watch tv. Well, somtimes I would sneak downstairs at night and watch a movie on cable, when my parents were alseep.

"Miss Jamie? I too am glad that you are here. It has been three long years since we have all sat at this table together and enjoyed each other's company." Donna intoned. She sounded like she was singing, when she said that. "I want you to know Miss Jamie, that if there is something I can help you with, or if you just want to talk. You can come to any member of the staff except Charles. Sometimes, he just isn't good at giving advice or just talking to young ladies." She giggled. "Thanks, young Miss, for just being you."

"Miss Jamie? I too am glad that there is a reason to sit down at this table and just be sociable again. Like Donna said, it has been a long time. Madam seemed so vibrant today and she is still smiling from ear to ear. You have done wonders in just one day. I didn't think it was possible. And yes, Miss Jamie, thank you for just being you and for just being here, also." Simone smiled, and ate more of her salad.

"Madam? May I make a toast, please?"

"Why yes, Martha. Go right ahead."

"For three long and dark years, this house was not a home like it used to be. But now, there seems to a bright light shining down on MacCreeley Manor. And that light is Miss Jamie Anne MacCreeley. Miss Jamie, I salute you for making this house a home again."

Everyone stood up but me and said 'here, here.' I blushed a solid red and because I had not known until today, just how much mom had regarded the staff as friends as well as hired servants. Then mom asked if I wanted to say something to the staff.

"I guess so," I replied. "Donna, Simone, Martha, Jeri, Doug, Charles. I just want to say thank you so much for this very warm welcome. I never had anything so good like this in my entire life. I want you to know that I will do nothing to disappoint any of you and I will definitely not do anything to disappoint mom. You are all very special people and I know we are all going to be friends." I sat down and began to cry. These people were virtual strangers to me and yet, they have welcomed me with open arms into their home. This made me very happy. So what was I crying about then? Because I was happy, that's why. Donna got up and took me into the parlor. We sat down on the settee and she held me in her arms and comforted me until I stopped crying. She wiped the tears from my eyes and we went back to the dining room. When we got there, mom was not there.

"Where did mom go?" I ahd asked.

"Madam will be right back, Miss Jamie. She had to, uhmm, take care of some personal business." Charles volunteered.

When mom came back to the table, I saw she had red eyes. She had been crying too. I said to everybody there that I was as happy as a little school girl wearing her new dress to school for the very first time. They all nodded and smiled. When dinner was over, mom and I went for a walk outside while the staff all helped to clear the table.

"Jamie? I want you to know that you are an answer to my prayers. For three long years, I had prayed that someone would come along and make my heart glad again. I was afraid I was going to end up like the Grinch, with too small a heart and too tight shoes."

"Mom? I will never, never leave you. And, who is the Grinch?"

"You mean you have never seen the the animated movie, or the one with Jim Carrey called How The Grinch Stole Christmas?"

"No mom. I haven't seen any movies that had Christmas in them."

"Not even the original Miracle On 34th Street? Or maybe, It's A Wonderful Life? Or maybe Santa Claus: The Movie?"

"No mom."

"Now that is child abuse, in my opinion."

"Mom? When you contact my parents. Tell them I still love them, and that I want to know why they were so mad at me and treated me the way they did. Okay?"

"All right, sweetheart. I will do just that."

We walked on some more and talked some more about nothing, really. But we laughed, and we skipped and giggled, and sang and held hands. Then we sat by a small pond near the stables. We had such a good time, I began to think of the saying my father used. All good things must end. I wondered if that was the case in this situation. After a while, the sun was starting to go down, so we walked back to the house. When we got passed the foyer, I gave mom a kiss and hug and went to bed telling her that I loved her.

That night I had a dream that I was back at my parents house. I was dressed in a black French maid's uniform that was very, very short. I was picking things up off of the floor that my parents and sister just threw there for me to pick up. Under the uniform I had two crinolines and bright red, ruffled panties. My stocking were black fish net and my shoes were black stilettos, with six inch heels. I was not allowed to stoop to pick things up, but had to bend over showing off my ruffled panties to everyone, including the guests that were there. Then I heard my father say.

"Maid! Pick up this piece of paper here. Do it now!" He yelled. The guests just looked in his direction but paid him no mind. Then he said low enough for my mother, sister him and me to hear. "If I had my way wench, you would have been gone a long time ago. You are worthless, a piece of trash. Now bend over and pick up that paper."

"Yes sir," I said. Then I realized my mistake as soon as I made it. I didn't lower my eyes when I responded to my father's command.

"Didn't I tell you to lower your eyes when addressing members of this family or our guests? Why I ought to . . . no I don't think I will this time. But, wait, maybe on second thought, I should." He got up threatening and began walking towards me. That's when I sat bolt upright and screamed "NOOOOOOOOO."

Simone was the first one in the room, running. In a very panicky voice she said.

"Miss Jamie, are you all right, girl?"

"Oh Simone. I had the most horrible dream. Please hold me, please." Mom had just come in and Charles was not far behind her.

"Madam, Miss Jamie has had a very bad dream. She is shaking very badly."

"Charles." Mom said rather than asked. "Please take Jamie to the parlor and lay her on the settee."

"Of course, Madam. Come Miss Jamie, just put your arms around my neck."

I did and Charles carried me downstairs to the parlor. Mom had brought my pillow with her and put it on one end of the settee. Charles laid me down and set my head on the pillow, and was just about to leave, when mom said.

"Charles I want you to stay. Jamie has had a very bad experience. And I would like to find out just what she dreamt about."

"Yes, Madam."

"Now Jamie, I want you to tell us what scared you so."

"Mom, I had a very horrible dream about my parents again, and this time I think I was going to be hurt." I told them about the dream, and as I related it to them, I saw the shocked look on all their faces. I told mom, that we should not contact my parents. I didn't trust them. I just wanted to stay out of sight until I was eighteen and then they couldn't do anything about me being gone, even if they wanted to. But mom said that they should at least know that I was alive because it was the right thing to do. She also said she would put in the things I said and send the letter out to a man whose specialty is delivering messages. He will be instructed to wait for a reply. I said okay, but I still think it's a bad idea.

I fell asleep and woke up in my bed. Charles must have carried me upstairs. The sun was coming throught he windows and mom was there in the chair. When I saw that, I knew she loved me and didn't want anything to hurt me, not even the bogie man. I got up and went over to the chair.

"Mom?" I said softly. "Did you sleep here all night?"

"Yes, I did honey. I didn't want anything or anyone to hurt you again. I love you. I told you I would take care of you, and that is what I inetend on doing. You had a nasty nightmare last night, and I could see that you were hurt and scared. So, I slept here and rode shotgun, as they say in those old dusty westerns."

I gave her a big hug and kiss and went into the bathroom. I did what I had to do and then ran my bath. I put in the magnolia and jojoba bath foam and put in some magnolia scented crystals. Today I want to be all girl, I mused to myself. I then did the slide in and out of the water, except for my head, so that the magnolia scent would cover all of me. Why is this all coming to me naturally? Are these things I had always wanted but was afraid to ask? Could be. All I knew is, I had a nightmare and mom slept in my room to protect me. That was a feeling that just made me warm all over. This lady truly did love me or she wouldn't have made herself uncomfortable during the night by sleeping in my chair. I got out of the tub after rinsing off and patted myself down. I put on some perfumed body powder that smelled of the magnolia tree. I wrapped the towel around me from under my arms and it looked just like I was wearing a terry cloth wrap around dress. I brushed my teeth and made sure my hair would stand a Saturday riding horses. I get to ride Brownie today I mused again. This made me happy. Very happy. I then went into the bedroom, but mom was gone. I started getting dressed. I selected just white panties and bra. I went to my closet and took out a pair of jeans that had an elastic waistband and a floral print shirt. I got dressed and went to my dresser again because I had forgotten my socks. I took out a pair of white ranch socks (double knit) and put on my black boots with the three inch heels. I then went downstairs and mom was waiting for me in the dining room.

"Well sweetheart," Mom said looking at me with approval. "I see you're ready for your first horse lesson. uh, excuse me, second horse lesson." She smiled when she said that because my first lesson was when I had met Brownie.

"Yes mom," I said back to her. "I'm really excited. I like Brownie. She's a nice animal and well behaved. I'm going to enjoy this day for the rest of my life." I gave her a hug and a kiss again. Everytime I hugged her and kissed her she just beamed with smiles. Smiles I was told, weren't had in this house for three years. I thought of how sad mom must have been those three years. I will do anythng to make her glad and keep it that way. As I sat down she again rang the bell that would bring Donna to serve our breakfast. As Donna entered the Dining room with the tray she said.

"Good morning, Miss Jamie. I see you are ready for your day with Madam. I know it isn't my place, Miss Jamie, but you are a welcomed ray of sunshine that I hope never leaves this house."

"That's all right, Donna," mom said. "You know that you are all my friends. Yes, you are also my hired staff, but also my friends. And I am sure that Jamie appreciates the compliment. Don't you, dear?"

"Oh yes, mom. I sure do. And if my being complimented makes you glad, then I am glad. I only want to make you glad that I am your daughter and you are my mother. I will even count Donna, Simone and Jeri as my sisters, Martha as my auntie and Charles and Doug as my uncles. I have never had a real family that loved me the way everyone here does."

I saw the tears start in Donna's eyes as she came over and gave me a big hug and hurried off to the kitchen. Then Martha, Simone, Jeri, Charles and Doug all came into the dining room and each in their turn gave the biggest hugs I had ever gottent from anyone except mom. Even Charles and Doug had tears in their eyes. I knew then just how much they had missed in the last three years. I looked at mom and said.

"Mom? It's all right if I consider them family, isn't it?"

"Oh, you are such a dear child. Where have you been all my life? Yes, of course you can consider them family. I do everyday of my life. Oh God, I wish my late husband could have met you. You are an angel sent from heaven in answer to my prayers." Then she broke down and cried. I laid my napkin on the table and went to her and held her until she stopped crying. There was even moisture in my eyes, because everyone was so happy I was here. When I told them I would consider them family, they were crying happy tears. I wish every family could feel the love bouncing off the walls of this house which is now a complete home.

After we had finsihed eating, we left for the barn. Walking hand in hand and humming and giggling to the delight of the "family." All of a sudden I burst into singing a song I heard on my radio. I started singing 'We are family, all my brothers, sisters and me . . .' Mom joined in and as we sang we began skipping to the barn. I looked over my shoulder and saw the smiles from the kitchen door as they were all standing there. Jeri again gave me the thumbs up. A little more skipping and singing and we were at the barn. We went in and found Brownie waiting by the stall gate. I got an apple from the basket and handed her one. She ate it and then let me give her a hug at which she whinnied and tapped her right hoof three times. Mom showed me how to saddle a horse, first by putting a blanket over Brownie's back and the tossing the saddle on top of the blanket. There was a strap that hung from saddle called a cinch. You buckled that under the horse to other side of the saddle. Not tight but firm. Then she showed me how to put the bridle on. Brownie opend her mouth to accept the bridal because she knew she would get exercise today, with me. Then mom took the reins on the bridal and ran them to the saddle horn and wrapped them around it. Then we went over to another stall, and mom gave her horse and apple and petted her she gave her a hug. This horse's name was Buttercup. She told me that was the name of Dale Evans' horse in the Roy Rogers series. Not wanting to be dumb, I just said Oh.

Just as mom was ready to put the saddle on Buttercup, I felt a hand on my shoulder. I turned to see Jeri and the rest behind me. Jeri gave me a hug and asked.

"Do you mind sis, if we go riding with you and mom today?" I looked into her eyes and the life I saw there and the life I saw in mom's eyes, they could have been mother and daughter. I looked at mom but she was busy with Buttercup. So I said.

"No sis, I don't mind at all. I would love for my sisters and auntie and uncles to go riding with us." That is when I knew the other horses belonged to the rest of the "family." More hugs and statements of don't you dare change, sis. I looked over at mom, and this time I saw the smile of approval. After all the horses were saddled, we took the horses out to the corral and I got my first lesson in horse riding. I was told that if I wanted the horse to turn left I just slightly pulled the right rein to my left and the horse would turn left, the left rein for right and just let the reins relax a little without tugging if I wanted the horse to go staright. Brownie was well trained, all I had to do was say come on Brownie, and the horse would go. I guess Brownie sensed this was my first time because she just loped along in the corral.

Mom said it was time we took the horses around the property and she opened the corral gate and we all went for our ride in earnest. By the time we had gotten to the edge of the forest area, we took the horses by the little creek that flowed there and let them drink and relax, while we sat and watched the deer and the rabbits and other wildlife just living there lives without a care in the world. Jeri pointed to a bird that was all red with a crown like you would see on a rooster only much smaller.

"Sis? Do you know what they call that red bird over there on that tree?"

"No," I said.

"It's called a cardinal. They are very beautiful birds. That red one there is the male of the species."

"Why is that, sis?"

"Because, where some bird families are concerned, it's the male that has all the color. The females, unlike us, are plain, by comparison. The cardinal is a member of the finch family."

"How do you know so much about birds, Jeri?" I asked astonished at her knowledge.

"Why, dear sister of mine. From our mother, who else."

I looked over at mom and she just smiled. I found out another important fact about my family. These weren't just staff and friends, they had been considered family long ago, when "dad" was around. They had been taught about various different and sundry things in nature and about love, understanding and acceptance. I was awed. These people sure weren't like my birth family. All I had known in my birth family was dejection and slavery. Here, I didn't have to do anything but make them happy just by being me. It's a wonderful feeling when you are accepted and treated like a human being.

Then mom said to Donna. "Donna? Did you bring any lunch?"

"Yes, Madam. Honey ham and cheese and some potato chips. I also brought some Iced tea."

"Well then, what are we waiting for? I'm famished. And since everyone here is family today, we can all help ourselves."

We had lunch taking our time and just talking about how things have gotten lighter around the house and how everyone seemed to be getting things done long before the day was through. Then Simone piped up.

"Well, it looks like we are going to have to start back so Martha can get the dinner ready."

"Why? When we get back to the house, we can order out. What would everyone like? My treat." Mom said enjoying the day with her family. She was so lively in her talk and gestures that everyone seemed relieved to have an extra day off.

"Gee, mom. I don't really know," said Donna.

"I know," Martha said enthusiastically. "We could have chinese. I've got the menus from the chinese restaurant in town and they deliver. Well, they will deliver to us, anyway."

We rode the horses a little more as mom was showing me the rest of the property. we went into the forest area a little ways and mom was showing me some deer that were just standing there looking at us. Mom said in a hushed voice so as not to frighten the deer.

"See, Jamie. They don't even run when they see us. However, if we talk in a loud voice they will get scared and run. So whenever you are out this way, just watch them. They are very skittish creatures. I provide this forest for their home and their food. I do not permit hunting here. That makes the deer safe from predators."

"I see, mom. That baby deer looks so cute."

"Yes Jamie. The baby is called a fawn. See the white spots? She will lose those as she gets bigger and older. The mother is called a doe, and the father is called a stag."

I giggled and the deer looked up at us as I told mom. "Deer have such funny names, mom."

"Yes Jamie, they may sound funny to you, because you have never learned about them. But these are my pets as are Buttercup, Brownie and the other horses. If you noticed Jamie, I don't have any cats and the only dog here is Mister Max, who belongs to no one. I take care of my animals. They are as precious to me as you are, Jamie."

"Thank you, mom."

So, we rode back to the barn to give the horses a rub down and clean their stalls while they were out in the corral. This was a nice day having a family that really and truly loved me. I wasn't going to do anything to hurt any of them. Okay, so I'm mom's daughter. What child wouldn't be proud to have her?

We went into the house and I went upstairs to change. I heard the phone ring. I heard mom say what real loud as if surprised at something. Then I heard her say, "When is suppposed to be here?" After an I see, I heard her say to call Corrine at the Sheriff's office and have Corby stop by about the same time.

The next couple of hours went by and we heard a loud pounding on the front door. I was ordered to my room and not to come out until called. What was going on? I did as I was told as I saw mom was agitated and I didn't want to hurt her by refusing. After all, she has been nice to me.

"Yes? May I help you sir?" I heard Donna's voice.

"You certainly may, young lady. Is the mistress of the house at home?"

"Yes sir, she is. May I ask who is calling sir?"

"No! Just get her out her to the door, pronto!"

"Yes, yes sir. Right away sir."

I heard mom's voice at the door about five minutes later.

"Yes sir? What is it you want that you have to be so rude to my staff?"

"I came for my son, Jamie. I know he's here so you better hand him over, if you know what's good for you."

Why don't you tell me what's good for her," I heard another man's voice. This must be Corby, the Deputy sheriff.

"I want my son and if she doesn't hand him over I'm going and take him out."

"I see," Corby said. "I wonder sir, if you will step away from the door and go stand by my cruiser."

"I want my son!" My father yelled and from a vantage point on the stairs I saw him push mom very rudely and he walked in the house. Corby had him on the floor and handcuffed before he took another step. Mom was actually knocked to the floor by my father. After Corby had him handcuffed and in the backseat of the cruiser, he came back in to talk to mom.

"Amanda, are you all right?"

"I - I don't know Corby. That man's insane. Come in Corby and I will tell you a story that goes right along with what happened here just now."

They went into the parlor and mom told Donna to bring refreshments. While that was being done I was called from my room to come downstairs. I walked into the parlor and ran to mom and just hugged her tightly. Now I was scared. My father had somehow found me, but didn't really know I was here because he hadn't seen me. My heart racing a mile a minute and tears in my eyes, mom told me to tell Corby what had happened with my birth family. I related what had happend and what my father wanted to do to me, which made me run away. I didn't leave anything out. Corby just looked at me in awe, and started asking me questions.

"Jamie, I notice you are dressed like a girl. Now tell me. Is this something that is being forced on you or is this something you are doing to hide from your father's wrath?"

"I am doing this so my father doesn't find me, sir. I'm scared of him. He's mean and cruel. Mom here, offered to let me stay and be her daughter, if I so chose. She didn't put any pressure on me to make a decision, either. I don't know how he knew I was here, but I am scared of him."

"It's all right, Jamie. He's not going to hurt anyone, anymore. Aman . . . your mother here, is going to file felony assault charges against him. You see, Jamie. In this state, what your father did will land him in prison for a long time. Plus, your mother has me for a witness. I want you to understand too, young lady, that you will have to testify. Do you think you can be brave and come into court and tell what all happened that led to this?"

"Yes sir, I can be brave. If it will put that, that, that skunk where he can't hurt no one else."

"Jamie, I'm only twenty six years old. My name is Corby, not sir. Okay?"

"Yes sir, I mean, Corby."

"Now, when the court hearing comes up, there is going to be a social worker there who is going to interview you before the hearing starts. All she is going to want to know is, are you happy. Just be yourself, okay, young lady?"

"Yes Corby. Thank you so much."

We heard a siren outside and we went and saw another sheriff's car there that had just pulled up. Corby went out and said something to the other officer and they put my Father in the back seat of the other car and then it was gone along with my father. I looked at mom, and she too was shaking. I went over to her and gave her a hug and a kiss and told her everything was going to be all right. Corby then said that he was going to drive mom to the station to file a complaint and he would bring her right back. I gave mom and big hug and kiss again, and said I would be waiting. Donna came to me and put her arms around me and held me, as I was trembling. We went into the parlor and sat down.

"Jamie, your mother will be fine. Corby is the area deputy here for the sheriff's department. He knows what he's doing. Want to know what, though? I bet Corby can find some case that is unsolved and throw that at your father too. I hope so, for the way he treated your mother and me."

"I want him to suffer, the way he made me suffer. When mom comes back I am going to ask if maybe my real mother and sister can come and live here. I know they're not bad people. I think they were just scared of my father."

"Why Jamie! That's a good idea. It will be very nice to have your mother and sister here. Then they can see, what a real home is really like."

"Thank you, Donna. So far you and the others, including mom, are the only ones that have treated me with love and kindness."

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Synopsis:

Jamie wants her real mother and sister to come and live with her at McCreeley Manor. Will she get her wish?

Home Sweet Home III

by Barbara Lynn Terry

Story:

After the other deputy left with my father, Corby, the area deputy left with mom so she could file a complaint against my father. Donna and I went into the parlor to wait for mom to get back. I was so frightened I just clung to Donna. My father had found me, or at least he thinks he did. But he didn’t see me so I know he doesn’t know for sure that I’m here. He actually shoved mom to the floor. This has resulted in his being arrested in a state he didn’t live in. Which means he may not get out until he has his hearing. Why is my father so mean and so wicked. Why did he treat me the way he did and then got my mother and sister to do the same thing. Why? I wasn’t crying, I was just frightened. Mom, Donna, Simone, Martha, Charles, Doug, and Jeri are my family now. They love me and have shown that in just the twenty four hours, well maybe a little more, that I have been here. Mom gave me my own horse for a present. Brownie is a good horse and so well behaved. Why does my father hate me so much? I couldn’t get it out of my head, that he actually showed up here. Then we heard the front door opened and mom and Corby came in. I ran to mom and just clung to her. That’s when I started to cry. Corby then said.

“Hi Jamie. Listen, the judge wants to see you and your mother on Friday afternoon. I have had a talk with him and told him what you told me. Your father’s bail has been set at twenty-five thousand dollar cash. That means he has to come with all of it or he stays in jail until he goes to court. Now, when you see the judge, your father will be in there too, but not before you see the social worker. The social worker will take a statement from you and your mother, and will talk to the judge. Then you and your mother will go in one at a time and talk to the judge. Okay?”

“Yes, Corby. And thanks again.”

“No problem, young lady. I’ve known Amanda and the others since I started the department. You have a good home here. These people will love you to death.” He smiled when he said that. Corby left and we went into the parlor and sat down. I just clung to mom and didn’t want to let go. Today was still Sunday. The judge wanted to see us on Friday and then I would have to talk to a social worker. Well, if everyone treats me the way this family has and Corby, I should have nothing to worry about.

I don't know when I was carried upstairs, but I woke up in my own bed. MY OWN BED! The bed I had at my parents house was a shabby thing, with springs sticking through the mattress, which laid on the floor. This bed, however, was not too high off of the floor, mainly made for a child, and just right for me to sit and put on my stockings and shoes. The frame was hardwood of some kind but it was solid. The sheets had little animals on them and my blanket was pink cotton. The comforter had little animals too and was the same color as my blanket. the pillows were soft and the pillow cases matched the blanket and comforter. I was warm and comfortable. I couldn't get it out of my head how these people were treating me. I knew one thing for certain. If my real mother and sister didn't want to come and live here, that would be fine too. I had a family right here. But I was hoping that they would come and be able to love me now that my father was out of the way.

I got up and went in the bathroom and did whatever, brushed my teeth and ran my bath. I put in the magnolia bath foam and some magnolia bath crystals. The scent just filled the room. I got in the tub did what I normally did and got out and patted myself down. I put on some magnolia body lotion and powder, and went to get dressed. Let's see, what haven't I worn yet? I know, relaxing day. I took out a pair of the black slacks that zipped on the side and my red Bambi and Thumper long sleeved sweater. I chose white for my lingerie and my black three inch high heeled boots. I put on the panties, bra and slip and sat down and put my makeup on. This again took me twenty minutes as I wanted it to be perfect. I then put on my slacks and sweater and, oh no, I did it again. I forgot my stockings. Well, today I just put on a pair of socks, and my boots. Then I went down to breakfast. Mom was already in the dining room when I came in.

"Mom? I was wondering. When everything with my father is over, could we invite my real mother and sister to come and live with us. I think the reason they were treating me the way THEY did was because they were afraid of my father. Would it be all right?"

"Well, sweetheart, we will ask them together. They are coming to town for your father's trial. Now listen to me. They have been subpoenaed by the district attorny, who is the prosecutor. Apparently what you just said seems to be true. They were afraid of your father. But when they heard that a deputy sheriff was a witness to my assault, they readily agreed to testify. So, when they come to town, I have already offered them to stay here instead of a hotel. I didn't talk to them, Jamie, the district attorney forwarded my invitation. I was told they would call when they are coming. Okay?"

I got up and gave mom a very big hug and kiss. "Thanks mom."

"I was going to tell you about this this morning. Apparently, your father gave them the phone number so they could raise bail money. But, little does he know they will be witnesses against him. So you see, Jamie, you have nothing to be worried about. Today, we have to take you to school and get you registered. I would like it very much if you would put on a skirt and blouse or a dress. This is a very exclusive school, and I would like you to be femininely dressed. Okay, sweetheart?"

"Okay, mom. Be right back."

I went upstairs to change. I put the pants back on their hanger and selected a rose colored skirt with little bunnies and deer all the way around it. I left my sweater on. I put the skirt on and got a pair of tan nylon stockings and a garter for each one. I put on the stockings, slid up the garters and then put my boots back on. I then went downstairs and mom said we had a little time yet. We didn't have to be at the school until nine o'clock. Mom wanted to get the registration out of the way early so we had a full day to do whatever. OMG! I'm going to be attending school as a girl. I never thought I would live to see the day. But, they say life is full of surprises. I guess so. After I finshed dressing, I went downstairs and mom looked at me.

"Well, that will do, at least you look like a young lady now."

"Thanks mom."

We talked more about my father. Mom wanted to know if I knew how he had found out where I was. I said I didn't know. But my father has that uncanny ability to find the impossible. I mean they were gone when I left. Unless someone saw me being put into mom's car that first night. My father always said, 'anything is possible'. Except for his words of wisdom, he was hateful, selfish and very much conceited. Everything had to be his way or no way. He thought that he was always right and everybody else was wrong. One time he even got two tickets from the police because the officer said he was speeding and he argued with the officer and got another ticket for what he said was obstructing an officer. But, did he learn anything by that? OH NO! Not my father. He was always right.

The time came for us to leave for the school. We got our coats and purses and went to the limo. Jeri opened the doors for us and said good morning with a real big smile. We got in and mom told Jeri where we were going. I was off to be registered at school. A girls school, which also had boys attending as girls. The drive took about a half an hour. It was sprawling place. There was so much room here, it could used for sports games. Jeri pulled up to the front door and got out and opened the doors for us. As we got out, and started up the stairs, Jeri opened the doors to the school and we went in. Jeri then returned to the limo. As we walked down the granite hallway to the registration office, an older lady came out of another office.

"Amanda!" She exclaimed. "And this must be Miss Jamie. I will be registering you today, Miss Jamie as most of the registration staff isn't here yet, and the others are busy with new students. Amanda, it is so good to see you again. How have you been."

"Just fine, now, Vera. In the last couple of days this young lady has made me glad again."

"Miss Jamie. You have nothing to fear here. If you act like a young lady, you will be treated as such. This school started accepting young males to attend classes here as girls, when the medical profession determined that transgenderism was not a mental aberration or disease, but a normal way of life for them, whether they were male wanting to be female or female wanting to be male. The curriculum here is oriented toward being female. We have cooking classes, sewing classes, child care classes, as well as regular classes you would find in a regular high school. Plus, we also have a deportment class in which all the girls must attend. This class is intended to correct your posture. The way you sit, walk, eat at the dining room table, the way you dab at your mouth with your napking, and we even have makeup classes. Do you think, Miss Jamie, that this is something you would like to learn about.?"

"Yes, ma'am. I would very much like to learn everything you have to teach me."

Good, young lady. Now here are the things that you will need to get before school begins. It is a requirement that you wear your uniform the first day of school. Your books will given to you by your teachers on the first day also. Now, let's get you signed in, and your class schedule printed."

Vera Richards was a lady in her late fifties, with silver grey hair styled in a bun. She wore a grey business skirt suit, with a plain white blouse. Her shoes were just simple black pumps with a two inch heel and she carried herself with the regal manner of a queen. She was soft spkoen and had assured me that I would have no problems with the girls, who, when I am attending classes, will correct any mannerisms that are not feminine. I was also assured that there is not bullying here, and any girl caught bullying another would be on house detail for a week. That meant that after calsses were through for the day, the guilty girl had to do janitorial duties, such as erasing the blackboards, sweep out the classrooms, and take out the trash. These menail tasks were considered degrading, so the girls were always on their best behavior.

We left the school and mom looked at me and asked me waht I thought of Mrs. Richards.

"Well, Jamie. What did you think of Mrs. Richards and the curriculem we signed you up for?"

"She's a nice lady, mom. I'm going to like the classes. It will give me experience in being a girl, fully."

"That's nice. I'm glad you like Mrs. Richards. She will be looking out for you, in particular, because you are my daughter. But there will come a time very shortly, you will start to call me auntie, instead of mom."

"Why is that, mom?"

"You will see, sweetheart, you will see. It is a surprise for now."

"Ok, mom. But whether I call you mom or auntie, I want you to know that I love you."

"Have I ever told you what a sweet, dear child you are?"

"Why no, mom, I don't think so. What a nice compliment." We both giggled at that.

We went to the various stores and got what we needed, the uniform store being the last. What can I say about school uniforms, they are drab and make you look like everyone else. After we made all our school purchases, we went home. Jeri opened the door to the limo as we parked in fron of the house, and she gave me that wink. Donna and Simone took my packages up to my room, while mom and I went into the dining room to sit down and talk.

"Jamie, there is only a few weeks left until school starts. How would you like to take advantage of that and go horse riding, as often as you'd like. How about we go riding tomorrow and we go all around the grounds and maybe even down to the neighbors?"

"That would be great, mom."

And that's what we did for next few days. On Thursday, we went into the bran, and Brownie was just waiting there for us. I gave her an apple from the basket and petteed her. Then I went in a put the saddle blanket on her and the the saddle. I cinched the saddle firm and put the bridle on her. As I was leading Brownie out of her stall, mom was leading buttercup. We went out through the corral and went for a ride along the road way. As we were riding, a car went past us and turned in to go to the house. We rode to the house just in time to see my real mother and sister get out of the car. They didn't see me yet, so I asked mom if I could go upstairs and change, and she said all right. I went to my room unnoticed by my real mother and sister, and ran a bath. After the bath, I got out my coral satin bra and panty set, and my coral dress. I put on the bra and panty set, and also put on a coral full slip. I sat and mussed with my hair, to make sure it would pass inspection. I then put on my makeup and then my dress. I put on a pair of coral pumps with two inch heels with a buckle strap around the ankle. Looking at my self in the mirror all different ways to make sure everything was straight. I went downstairs to me my mother and sister.

". . . and where is Jamie?" I heard my mother ask.

"I'm right here, mother." I said, looking at her.

"Oh my god! Jamie, you are very beautiful, dear. Do I get a hug?"

I gave her a hug. I was so happy to see her, that I didn't want to let go. Then I started to cry. My mother just held me and then my sister came over and joined in the hug too. Next thing you know, it was a family group hug, which included auntie Amanda.

"Mom? I have a question to ask you."

"All right, dear. But first, I want to aplogize to you for everything your sister and I did while you were at home. When your father saw that you did everything in the house real well, he told us he was going to make you our maid and get you a French maid's uniform. I protested as did your sister, but he said we either went along with it or he would make sure none of us would be able to say anything to anyone. We didn't want to hurt you, Jamie. After we got back from getting the food, and that was my idea, your father started yelling for you to get the place mats on the table. When he couldn't find you, he went looking for you. Now, let me tell you this. I had called your aunt Amanda and told her I was looking for a way to get everyone out of the house except you. I knew if we were gone long enough, you would run away. The night that your aunt found you, I am told, you were sound asleep by the road side. I am very thankful it was she that found you. Yes. Jamie, Amanda McCreeley is my sister, your auntie."

"Oh mother!" I exclaimed and hugged her tightly. I was crying again. I was so happy that none of what had happened at home was my mother's or sister's doing. Aunt Amanda came over a joined in the hugs.

"Mother? Are you mad at me because I'm dressed like this?"

"No, sweetheart. I'm not. In fact, your aunt Amanda has been keeping me informed as to your progress. You see, Jamie, I always thought you would make a beautiful girl. Now, your aunt tells me that you are registered at an exclusive girls' school. I think that is just wonderful. Guess what? Your sister will be registered there tomorrow. You two will be going to school together. We're going to living here from now on."

Now my mother was the same height as me, and a little heavier, but not by much. Her hair was flame red, and she wore everyday clothes unless she decided to go somewhere special. My sister Mary, was five foot, five inches tall, long auburn hair that went well with her Irish green eyes. My sister popped in and said.

"Jamie? Now that we are sisters, I know we are going to be friends. When I go to get registered for school, want to come along, and then we can go shopping. okay?"

"Oh yes, Mary. I would love that."

We all hugged again, and then Donna came in and said that dinner was ready. Dinner consisted of a chef's salad, roast turkey, green beans, elbow macaroni with a creamy white sauce and for dessert, a small dish of ice cream with no topping. It was delicious. After dinner, we went into the parlor and over coffee and tea, we talked about things to come. The first one was regarding my father.

"Now Jamie," aunt Amanda started. "Your father's trial will start next week Monday. We still have to see the judge on Friday. Your mother and sister will also see the judge too. I have already talked with your mother about this, and she tells me she has been looking for a way to get a divorce from him for quite some time, but was never able to while he was still in the house. Your father's arrest here, has now given her the opportunity. I grant you this, though. He will be convicted. He has been charged with assault with intent to do bodily harm, criminal trespass, and attempted kidnapping. These are just for starters. Corby is helping the district attorney to see if there are other charges they can bring against him, also. I . . ."

"I'm sorry, aunt Amanda. But it looks like Donna was right. She said she wouldn't be surprised if Corby found some unsolved crime to charge him with also," I interjected.

"It is very impolite to interrupt someone when they are talking, young lady. Remember that, because if you do that at school, you will have house duty to perform."

"Yes, ma'am. I'm sorry."

"It's all right, Jamie. But, you are right. They are looking for some unsolved crime. What they need is a crime that was comitted when your father was out for an extended period of time, and only your mother can provide that information. Given his assault on me, with Corby as a witness, whatever they charge him with,it is certain he will be convicted. The district attorney will be talking to your mother and will see what they can come up with. He should have stayed at home. But we knew he wouldn't, didn't we?"

"Yes, aunt Amanda."

"Oh Jamie, we are family. You can call me auntie or aunt Mandy."

"Thank you so much auntie Mandy. And, no matter if I am your daughter or your niece, I love you very much."

I hugged her and started crying again. As aunt Mandy held me, I thought that I must be a girl, because everytime I get happy, I cry and want to be hugged. I like wearing nice, soft feminine clothes, and I like wearing nail polish and makeup and having my hair styled. My sister, Mary and my mother also got into the hugging, and, after I calmed down, Mary looked at me eye to eye and said.

"You know, Jamie, when I am happy, I cry too. It is going to be so nice having a sister to share things with."

"Thanks sis."

Then we talked about the shopping and what we wanted to buy, try on, and just look at. We talked about the different shops, and last but not least . . .

"Jamie?" Mary asked. "What say, when we are done shopping you, mom, auntie and I get our hair done at the salon?"

"Oh sis, I would really just love that!"

"Okay then it is settled. Tomorrow, I am going to go and get registered at school. Then we can go shopping."

Well, before you know it, it was time to go to bed. We went to our rooms and got ready for bed. Mary's room was right across from mine, and when I was done, I went over and knocked on her door.

"Come in," she said.

"Mary? Can I help you brush your hair?"

"Of course, sis. Then we can talk."

As I brushed her hair she told me what had really happened before my father lit out to find me. He had accused mother of setting the whole thing up, and had hit her, knocking her onto the bed. Mary had gone to see what was going on, and he threatened her too, so she went back into her room. After about ten minutes of yelling and screaming, he left to go find where I was. In fact, the first place he looked was aunt Mandy's. Mary said he really didn't know I was here, but he had said that was where he was going to start. The phone call auntie had received that night was from my mother warning her that my father was on the way. My mother knew everyone at the sheriff's office and it was mother that had called to have Corby intercept my father. Thank God for Ma Bell. When I was finished brushing her hair, Mary told me to sit down, and she would brush mine. She continued talking. She told me that when they got the phone call from the sheriif's office that my father had been arrested, and what for and that he wanted my mother to come straightaway to post bail, my mother had said she didn't have the transportation, because he had taken the only car. Mother had asked who it was he had assaulted and was told Mrs. McCreeley and that a deputy sheriff was a witness. Mary said that mother told whoever she was talking to that it served him right and that she wouldn't post bail even if she had transportation. It was only a few hours later that the district attorney conveyed aunt Mandy's invitation to stay with her, if she agreed to testify against her husband. She was also told she didn't have to because a spouse is not required to give evidence against the other. My mother then told the district attorney that she would indeed give testimony for the prosecution. Ohhhhhh, this made me real glad, and I was happy that we were a family again.

The next day, we went and registered Mary at school, and had no problems. Mrs Richards knew mother, and was astoudned to see Mary had grown so big, as the last time she saw her was when she was just a baby. We postponed shopping, except for the school uniform and other school supplies, until after father's trial.

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Synopsis:

The trial has begun. What will the verdict be?

Home Sweet Home IV

by Barbara Lynn Terry

Story:

Before The Trial:

Well, the week went all too fast for us, and Friday was here. My mother came in to my room and told me it was time to get up and get ready because we had to see the judge at nine o’clock. I got up and went in to the bathroom to run my bath. As the tub was filling I put in my usual magnolia bath and shower foam and went out to put my clothes on my bed. With that done, I went back in the bathroom and turned off the water. Ohhhhh this heavenly scent. While I was in the bath tub, I looked at my legs and saw they should be void of any hair. So I took the razor and shaved them. I rinsed off with the shower head and patted myself down with a soft terry cloth towel. I then messaged in some magnolia lotion to make my entire body feel soft and smooth. Ohhhhh that feels sooooo good.

I then went in to my bedroom and put on my blue lace bra and panty set, with a powder blue full slip. I then sat at my vanity and put on my makeup. I did this slow because I wanted to make an impression on the judge. After that was done, I carefully stepped into my powder blue, chiffon lace, dress. It looked like a party dress, but was more for occasions like this one. I mussed with my hair a bit to give it a very feminine coiffure, and went down to breakfast.

Everyone was in dining room when I came in. Auntie Mandy and my mother saw me before my sister did, and let out a big gasp, covering their mouths as they did so. My sister looked up at me and she too did the same thing.

"Oh my god, Jamie!" My mother excalimed. "You looke absolutely beautiful! And, and, you did this all by yourself, too?"

"Jamie, if I didn't know you were a boy, I'd swear you were a real girl." My sister added. Then she got up from the table and gave me that sisterly hug all girls give each other when they are pleased to see them or agree with them.

"Jamie," mom started. "I want you to know that I talked with Corby and he said that you will have nothig to be afraid of by talking with the social worker. The judge just wants to be sure of a few technical details. But, he can't see us, unless your father and his attorney are in there too. Corby says he will be handcuffed, so he won't be able to do anything to you, except maybe bad mouth you some. But, don't you worry about that. Okay?"

"Yes, mom. I won't be afraid."

We all got up and got our coats and purses and left for the courthouse. Jeri parked the limo in front and got out to hold the curbside door for us. We all got out and Jeri gave me another wink. Geez, that girl sure winks a lot! We went into the courthouse, and went to the second floor. The courtroom and judge's chmabers were at the end of the hall. When we got to the courtroom door, Corby was there to greet us.

"Amanda!" Corby said, happy to see us. "I'm glad you could actually make this appointment. Jamie, I want you to come with me. The social worker wants to see you before you see the judge. All right?"

"Okay, Corby. I'm ready, I think."

He took me in to a room where there was a lady sitting at a table looking over some papers. She was about maybe thirties, bonde hair, nice oval face with blue eyes and full lips. I didn't see how tall she was because she was sitting. As we came in to the room, she looked up at us and smiled.

"You must be Jamie. I like your dress, it is very pretty on you. And, your makeup. Did someone help you with that, it looks very natural."

"Thank you, ma'am. And no, no one helped me with my makeup. I did this all on my own, but I did it slow to make sure I got the effect I wanted. With your compliment, it looks like I succeeded." I giggled when I said that and she smiled.

"My name is Gwen and I am a social worker for the county department of social services, childrens division. We have heard quite a lot about you from your father who claims you are being held by your aunt, against your will. Is this true, Jamie?"

"No ma'am. I was sort of being held against my will when I was with my parents because they wanted me to do everything in the house. Like cleaning, laundry, cooking, washing the dishes, shopping which included going to the stores and getting things for them, like clothes, makeup for my mother and sister shoveling snow in the winter and then in the summertime I would have to cut the grass and wash the car. Then on the night I finally had the courage to get out of there, they wanted to take me to a uniform store and buy me a French maid's uniform to wear when I did my chores. That was my father's idea and he even called me names like sissy and faggot and told me I should get a boyfriend. I was scared because my father is a very mean and selfish man. If it isn't what he wants, then forget it. I . . ."

"Okay Jamie, I see that you are becoming upset. We can stop for a bit, if you want to."

"No, that's okay. I can keep answering your questions."

"Good. Now, I see that you are dressed as a girl, but you are really a boy. Is that right?"

"Yes, ma'am."

"All right then, tell me how it is that you were frightened of your father when he suggested, or rather told you, that he was going to get you a French maid's uniform to wear while doing your chores, but you are now wearing these clothes here for this interview. Did your aunt force you to dress like this?"

"Well, the reason I was scared of my father is because he wanted to make me a servant in my own house, you know, like in Cinderalla. Well anyway, I wasn't going to be humiliated like that in my own home. When my parents and sister went out to get some dinner at a fast food place and bring it right back, I saw that as my way out. I took some clothes from my sister's room, put them in my backpack and left. When I woke up the next morning, my aunt, and I didn't know she was my aunt, until my mother and sister came to stay in my auntie's house. Well anyway, my auntie Mandy came and woke me up and said, 'it's time to get up, young lady.' I asked her why she called me that and she said that she had found me by the side of the road and thought that I was a young lady because I had been wearing one of my sister's skirts, blouse and underthings. When I woke up she said that as long I was wearing those clothes, I was a young lady and that is how she was going to treat me. Well, I didn't have any boy clothes with me, just a few sets of my sister's things, so, I figured, why not. Then my auntie asked me if I would like to stay and be her daughter. I told her I had to think about it for a while, and I did. After I had thought about it for a while, I went down in to the dining room and told her that I would accept her offer to be her daughter and we talked about the reasons why I had made that decision. I wanted to remain there so I would not have to face my father's anger."

"I see," Gwen started. "So, it isn't that your parents wanted to make you wear feminine clothing, but the fact that they wanted you to be the maid of the house. Is that correct?"

"Yes, ma'am."

"Now, Corby tells me that he has talked with your aunt, and has been reassured that you are not being abused, either sexually, mentally or physically. Is that correct, too?"

"Yes ma'am. My aunt Mandy said she would treat me with respect as a young lady, and that I would never have to do those awful things my father wanted me to do. Aunt Mandy even gave me my own horse to ride whenever I want, providing there is no school and I don't have any homework to do. But during the summer and on weekends and holidays I can ride her whenever I want. Her name is Brownie. So, when my mother and sister came to aunt Mandy's house, they told me that everything that was done, was because my father wanted it done, and forced them to go along with it. I'm glad my mother and sister are here now. We are a family again."

"Jamie, I must say. When I was preparing to see you, I had visions of a young, mixed up mind. But, you don't seem mixed up at all. You were abused though, in a mental sense, but only by your father. I will make my report to the judge after I have talked with your mother, sister and aunt. Now I want you to know right now, you yourself, have nothing to worry about and neither does anyone else in your family, except your father. Okay Jamie, you may wait outside. Tell your mother to come in next."

"Yes ma'am."

I went out in the hallway and told mother to go in. She went in and I sat next to my sister and aunt Mandy.

"Well Jamie, what did she say?" Aunt Mandy asked.

"Just that father is in a lot of trouble. She even complimented on how I looked in my dress and thought that someone had helped me with my makeup." We all giggled at that last part.

After my sister and aunt talked witht the social worker, we sat out the hallway some more just talking among ourselves. I don't know how long we waited, but then we were all told to come into the chambers. As we walked in, the judge was looking at me intently, and when I sat down after smoothing my dress underneath me, and folding my hands in my lap by keeping my knees together, he said.

"The reports from the sheriff and from the social worker seem to be in agreement. That agreement is, that the young person known as Jamie Anne MacCreeley, is a young woman in every regard. This court will not undo what has been done. Amanda MacCreeley. You have been one of the most prominent citizens in this county ever since I became a judge 20 years ago. We here, are in your debt for more than just one reason. Now, this is your niece, Mrs. MacCreeley?"

"Yes, your honor. She came to me in an emergency situation. My sister, his mother, called me and said he had run away. At that time he was my nephew, now she is my niece."

"Very well. Jamie? After all this is over with, would you consider going back to being a boy and boy ways?"

"No, your honor, I would not. Girls have so much fun and share so much with each other. Girls are free to just be themselves, without having to worry about whether they are a sissy or other degrading names. Girls can wear the prettiest colors and fabrics. We can hold hands, hug and dance with each other in public and no one says boo about it. But if a boy did those things he would be laughed at, called nasty names and even maybe beat up. No, your honor, I would not like to go back to boy ways."

"You understand, young lady, I had to ask that question. Your response was what I was hoping for. Well, on Monday, the trial for your father starts on this offense. It seems that he was picked out of a lineup by someone who was the victim of a sexual assualt. That trial will be much later. But, I can guarantee that he will be convicted."

My father, who was also sitting in the judge's chambers, with his attorney, just look like he wanted to kill everyone there. I knew he was looking at me like how dare you come in here.

"Now, Mr. MacNeeley? Do You have anything to say about these proceedings, in these chambers?" The judge said to my father.

"Yes, I do. You have no right to charge me with a crime. That woman was holding my son against his will, and I went there to save him from that."

"Young lady, were you being held against your will by your aunt?" The judge asked.

"No sir, I was not."

"Okay ladies. You're free to leave. The trial will start on Monday, and you will all have to come back and give testimony. Have a good weekend. Bailiff! You can take the defendant back, now."

We all left the courthouse and into the waiting limo. Jeri gave me another wink as I got in, and she drove us home. We didn't talk much on the ride home except that aunt Mandy pointed out certain points of interest as we drove past. We got home, which seemed quicker that the ride into town. We all decided to go into the parlor and talk about what had happened with the social worker. My mom, who was just a tad taller than me, with red hair and Irish green eyes and a very nice figure, spoke first.

"Well, all I can say is, that social worker said Jamie has been treated with the utmost respect while here at MacCreeley Manor. Then she asked me what I thought of Jamie being a maid in her own home, and I told the social worker that neither I nor Mary agreed to it, but told her that if we didn't, Jim would make sure we didn't object to anyting anymore. So, I told her, that we thought he meant he would harm us or even kill us, if we didn't go along with his insane plan. That night when we went to get the food, I called you Amanda to be on the lookout for Jamie, because I had a feeling she would take the off highways away from the turnpike. I am so relieved that you found her, Amanda."

"Oh it was nothing, Rita. I am just so glad that I could be of some help. The social worker had asked me if I was forcing Jamie to dress like a girl and I said no, but did put the idea into her head. I told her that I'd let her make up her mind. Then she asked me if Jamie didn't want to dress like a girl, would I have turned her out on the street. I told her, nephew or niece, she was welcome in my home, always."

"The social worker only asked me how I liked having a sister, instead of a brother, and I said it was wonderful having a sister, because we could do so much as sisters that we could never do as brother and sister. She also asked me if I had anything to say in how Jamie was treated at home, and I told her basically the same thing mom did. She was satisfied that with what Jamie told her and what we all told her, that Jamie was not being mistreated. She said also, she will have to give testimony on her report to the judge. I think that father, is in a whole lot of trouble. And, don't you worry none sis, all of us will look out for you. Besides, I need to show you something. I'll be right back."

She left us and went upstairs to her room. A little while later, she came back down with the loveliest maroon party dress I had ever seen. Mary came over and right away unzipped the dress I was wearing and had it off before anyone could say anything, and then helped me put on the new dress. It had a cowl neckline, and was covered in a thin layer of chiffon lace. The body and skirt of the dress was taffeta and had a sewn in underslip. I looked in the mirror that was in the parlor, and I was amazed to see a grown woman. It had to be the color, because I was only fourteen, but this dress made me look like I could buy alcohol without an I.D. I gave Susan a big hug and she informed everyone that this was her gift to me. Then I knew how she felt about having a sister, instead of a brother.

"I'm going to go hang this up in my room. Thanks sis, you're the greatest." I gave her a big hug and kiss and left the parlor. I took my other dress with me to change back into. When I got to my room, I looked at myself in the mirror again to make sure I wasn't seeing things downstairs. I wasn't. I was gorgeous. I unzipped the dress and carefully removed it, then I hung it up in my closet. I put my other dress back on, and went back downstairs, and found they were all in the dining room. I saw they were all ready for dinner, so I took my usual place, and mom said grace. After that we sat down and aunt Mandy rang the little bell telling Donna she could now serve the meal. Well, I guess, even in manor houses, simple meals are appreciated too. We were served tacos for this evening's meal and I had two, with a small lettuce salad and a glass of milk. After dinner we had all decided that this weekend was going to be for happy things, such as horse riding, maybe going shopping to get a few "unneeded" items of clothing, or just going out and enjoying the day. For tonight, we decided on television. While we watched we talked and really didn't care about what was on the screen. We talked about our weekend and what we were going to do.

"I'd like to go riding tomorrow. I think Brownie would like that too," I said.

"That's a great idea Jamie," my aunt said. "I think tomorrow we will all go riding in the country by horseback. See some of the countryside and just have fun. I'll tell Martha to pack us a lunch and we can have a picnic. How does that sound, Jamie?"

Oh, just heavenly, auntie." I gave her a hug a kiss.

"I haven't been horseback riding since I was, what Amanda, fourteen or fifteen?"

"Yes Rita, somewhere thereabouts."

"Well, I for one would just love to go horseback riding with my sister, mother and auntie. A family outing in the country, as they say." We all giggled.

It was was time to go to bed. Where had the time gone? We all hugged and said good night. I went in my room and took another shower before going to bed, remembering to put my shower cap on, so my hair didn't get wet. After my shower, I put on my lavender, three tiered, nightie that came about three inches above my knees. I then went over to Mary's room and knocked on her door.

"Come in, sis," she answered.

"Can I help you brush your hair, sis?" I asked.

"Well no, sis. I just finished. But yuo can come in and we can talk for a while."

"Okay."

"Now look, sis," she started. "We have to seriously get you in the knowledge about boys. I realize that you are still one, but it isn't the same. You are a girl now, and it is important you know exactly what to do incertain situations that will come up. I know that before you ran away, you always looked at the girls. Am I right, sis?"

"Yes."

"Was it because you wanted to go out with them, date them?"

"Actually no, sis. I watched them to see how they moved, the way their clothes moved with their bodies, and how they wore their clothes. I was kind of jealous because I couldn't wear clothes like that, or move like that, and I was kind of jealous at the attention the boys showed them. When I went to the mall, I watched them in the stores just having fun looking and talking about all the fashions and, well, just being girls. You see, Mary, for a long time, I wished I was a girl. That's why I didn't argue when aunt Mandy asked me to be her daughter. That's why when I ran away I took a few changes of your clothes, instead of mine. If only I could somehow tell mother and auntie that this is what I really want out of life. It is so much nicer being a girl, than it is a boy. When I first saw my horse Brownie, I was like a little girl with her first party dress. I was so happy and buoyant, that I was floating on cloud nine. I just wish that I could somehow tell mother that the 'son' she raised, really wants to be a girl."

"Oh sis. All you have to do is tell her. I think you'd be surprised at what mom and aunt Mandy will understand and accept. I mean, the whole staff here knows you as a girl. Everyone in town, including the judge and Corby and that social worker, know you as a girl. If they didn't understand or accept that fact, do you think they would let you dress like this?"

"No, I guess you're right. I should tell them. But, when is the right time?"

"How about tomorrow morning. While we are at breakfast. Did you also know the staff here also knows that you are physically male, but they keep treating you like a lady. Don't they?"

"Yes. I guess you're right again. Tomorrow morning at breakfast then. Yes, I think that would be the prefect time."

When we had finished talking, I went back to may room after giving her a hug and kiss and saying good night. I slept well that night. I didn't even dream about what my father wanted to do to me. I fell alseep, but it seemed that as soon as I closed my eyes, the sun was up. I woke up, stretched my arms out and yawned. I drew my bath, and put in some magnolia bath foam and just sat there. I thought about what Mary and I had talked about last night. Yes, today I would tell mother and auntie about my decision. I washed every part of my body as the water staretd getting cool, and pulled the plug. I got out of the tub abd patted myself down, and then wrapped the towel around me. I went out into the bedroom and got out a pair of white socks, a pair of my black pants that zipped in the back and my red, ruffled blouse. I put on simple white bra and panties and the the pants and blouse, finishing with my calf-high boots with the three inch heels. Looking at myself in the mirror, I saw that I was ready to face my mother and aunt.

I walked in the dining room, and just looked at them sitting there. For the first time I saw a family, and if we were a family, they would accept me and understand me. Mary did, that's why she gave me that dress. Well, here goes nothing.

"Good morning," I said cheerfullyand with a smile on my face. I sat down at my usual place and then I started, saying.

"Mom, auntie, sis? I have something I would like to say, if it is all right?"

"Why yes, Jamie. Go right ahead." My mom said.

"Mom, auntie, sis. I don't want anyone to be angry at me for saying this. Okay?"

"All right, Jamie. We won't be angry at anything you say or do, as long as it isn't illegal." We all giggled. Then I got real serious.

"Mom, auntie, sis. Last night Mary and I had a talk in her room before we went to bed. Mary told me that it was about time I was educated about boys and how to handle myself in certain situations that should come up. She also said she noticed that I looked at the girls at school and wondered why. I told her then that I watched the girls at school to see how they moved, talked, wore their clothes, and was jealous that I couldn't wear clothes like that. Mom, auntie, Mary already knows, but I would be so much happier if I were a girl, instead of a boy. I mean, the whole thing. Hormones, operation procedures, and a change of sex on my birth certificate. I don't want you to be mad at me, but this is what I really want."

"Oh, dear Jamie," my mother said. "If you only knew how long I have waited to hear those words. I am not angry at you sweetheart, I never will be. And, it is going to be so much nicer having two daughters."

I got up and ran to her and just hugged her and began to cry. Auntie told Donna that Breakfast would be postponed for a bit, while they settled me down. We went into the parlor and my mother kept her arms around me all the while. We sat down on the settee, and my mother lifted my chin to look at her.

"My dearest daughter. I will never stop loving you. I knew for a long time, that maybe this is what you wanted. But, you had to ask or say it was your wish. I have nothing but love for you. I think it was Martina McBride who sang, 'love is the only house'. Well Jamie dear, my love is the only house with room enough for all of my friends, family, and even those I haven't met yet. You and Mary are my world now. And I love you equally. Now, that you have made your decision known to me and auntie, you won't have to live in torment, ever again. You will get your wish."

"Oh my god mom, thanks." But I couldn't stop crying. Auntie, Mary and my mother all held me in comfort. After about ten minutes of having a good cry, I settled down and we went back in to the dining room. breakfast was served. After Donna had served the meal, I saw the entire staff standing just inside the dining room door from the kitchen.

"Madam? May we address Miss Jamie, please?"

"Yes Donna, you may."

"Miss Jamie. I want you to know that your aunt told us everything the same night you came to us. We treated you like the young lady that you are, not because of what Madam told us when we first saw you and she explained your dire circumstances. I want you to know right now, that I overheard what you said, and we all talked about it, and the women of the staff, will teach you also about being a girl. Miss Jamie, welcome to womanhood."

Oh no, did God give my tear ducts Niagara Falls capacity? I started crying again. This time I was hugged by the entire staff.

"Th - thank - thank you, Donna. Th-thank you all. I am s-so happy. I thought everyone would be mad at me."

"Not on your life. You brought life back into this drab old house. Laughter that hadn't been heard for three years. You even told us that Simone and I were your sisters, that Martha was your aunt and that Charles and Doug were your uncles. How could we ever be mad at family? No Jamie, dear. No one here is mad at you. In fact, I like having a younger sister. Jamie, you are so full of life. You like pretty flowers and even Mister Max took to you immediately. No Jamie, you are a girl. Sometimes mother nature plays a cruel joke on us and gives us the wrong body and we spend years trying to find a way out. But you have just found that way. By saying it is your wish. So, once again Miss Jamie, welcome to womanhood."

I just stared at my breakfast and poked at it with the fork. All of a sudden I wasn't hungry, anymore. I looked up at everyone, and they were all smiling at me. Even in my happiest hour, and crying like a baby, they still smiled. Well, that did cheer me up. I stopped crying and then I asked if the staff could go along on our ride too, and I was informed that Charles and Doug would be going into town, as they usually do on a Saturday when they aren't needed for work. That left two horses for mom and sis. I told them I would be right back down, as I had to wash up. I went up to my room and washed my face, and saw I needed a new blouse as the red one I was wearing, was all tear stained. I got out my blue ruffled blouse and after putting it on and making sure nothing was out of place, went back downstairs.

We all had a wonderful time. The picnic lunch was good and my outing, with my entire family, was just soooooo great. We laughed, told jokes, and even sang songs in which auntie and I showed mom and Mary how we did the skipping and singing that first time, last weekend, when she showed me the stables and gave me Brownie. After we had settled down to catch our breath, Mary spoke.

"Well Jamie, Donna is right. You are sooooo full of life and laughter that you bring in rays of sunshine, even when there is no sun. Ohhhhhh sis, we are going to have such fun together." Everybody agreed to that and it was time to head back to the house.

When we got back to the house, I went up to my room telling everyone I needed to wash off the trail dust. I went up and ran my bath and put in some lilac bubble bath and crystals. I got into the tub and just lay there soaking up the lilac scent. I got out the shampoo and conditioner and washed my hair. I pulled the plug on the tub and rinsed off with the shower head. I went in my room and got out a white, knee length dress, with lace from the collar to he top of my breast forms. It also had lace around the cuff of the sleeves and the hem. I got out a white silk slip, and tan silk stockings. I put on the garter belt first and then the white silk panties, a white lace bra and then the slip. I sat down to do my makeup and when that was done, I unzipped the dress and stepped into it. I zipped it up and looked at myself in the mirror, turning this way and that to make sure everything was straight and even. I blow dried my hair and set it in a high pony tail and went downstairs. Mary was the first to see me.

As I came down the stairs, Mary whistled and everybody looked in my direction. The mouths just dropped open. Then everyone came over to me and hugged me telling me how pretty I looked.

"I thought," my mother started, "that you were just going to wash the trail dust off."

"Well mother," I said, "a girl has the right to change her mind, doesn't she." We all giggled and laughed and I got more hugs. Tomorrow was church, and we discussed what to do after. Donna came in and said it was time for dinner, but we had a big lunch and weren't very hungry. But we did eat something, as breakfast wasn't until morning.

"Mother? How does this outfit look for tomorrow?" I asked her.

"Oh my, Jamie. That is such an adorable outfit. I think I'm jealous." We giggled and laughed again. After we watched a little television and talked some more it was time to go to bed. I kissed and hugged everyone good night and went up to my room to change out of my outfit and hang it up for tomorrow.

Why is it when you just close your eyes, the sun comes up? If anyone has an answer or can figure it out, please let me know. I opened my eyes and stretched with my palms facing toward my toes, yawned and got out of bed to greet the day. I took the same bubble bath that I did last night, and lotioned and powdered myself down and went to get dressed. I took the stockings I wore the night before off of the towel rack in the bathroom and proceeded to get dressed. When church was over we went to the mall just to look around. Girls do that, just in case we want to buy something. Giggle. We didn't buy anything but we did have a small lunch and then we all agreed we would go back to the house and go riding. I was looking forward to it and so, I think, was Brownie. We went riding and had a wonderful time but as evening approached, we rode back to the house for dinner. At dinner we talked about what tomorrow would bring.

"Jamie," My aunt Mandy said. "I want you to understand that the courtroom is open between the audience, us, and the attorneys and your father. There is a depauty sheriff in the courtroom referred to as the bailiff. He is the one who provides security for the courtroom and plus there will be other deputies there as well. Corby will also be there even after he is finished testifying. You will be called to testify too. Now, I don't know exactly even if we'll get to testify, because the attorneys have to select the jury. They will question the juorors and based on their answers will pick certain ones and since there are twelve jurors, you fathers attorney gets to pick six and the district attorney gets to pick six. If we do not get to testify tomorrow, we will have to go back until we are finished with our testimony. Do you understand, Jamie?"

"Yes Auntie Mandy, I understand. I also know that my father will not be allowed to talk to me or even come near me."

"That is correct," my mother interjected. "Your father has to sit at the table on the other side of the barrier, with his attorney. The only time he will be allowed to leave that chair is when he takes the witness stand, if he does, and when they take him back to jail."

"I understand. And mom, aunt Mandy, Mary? I will not be afraid, even if he looks at me mean."

"Good girl, Jamie. I want you to know how proud of you we really are. Because of you, this whole mess will now be cleared up. As to the other charge they have your father in jail for. If he gets a fair trial, and his rights are protected according to the constitution of the United States and of this state, he will not win on an appeal, when he is convicted. When he is convicted on the second charge, he could be sentenced to a maximum of life in prison. Do you understand that, Jamie?"

"Yes, aunt Mandy. I understand all of this. I will say this. When father came to this house looking for me, I was afraid he would find me. But now, I know that I am protected not only by this family, but by the judge, Corby and the district attorney."

"Did I ever tell what a sweet, adorable child you are, Jamie?" Aunt Mandy asked.

"Uhm, gee aunt Mandy, I don't recall." We all giggled at that and we turned to more relaxing talk.

We watched television that evening and we saw reruns of the Ed Sullivan show. I laughed at the little puppet and heard an old rock and roll song called 'My Boyfriend's Back' by the Angels. It was a good show, I learned something new that night watching Ed Sullivan. I don't remember the full name Ed Sullivan used Gigio Tippio or something like that, but he was funny. After that it was time to get ready for bed and I just took out a simple cotton night gown, brushed my teeth and went to bed. I didn't dream anything that night, which was unusal, but maybe it was because my father couldn't hurt me now. But, as we all know, morning comes fast. I woke up with the sun shining in my window. I yawned, stretched and went to draw my bath. I put in some lilac bubble bath and crystals, got out the lilac shampoo and conditioner and proceeded with the bath. I lingered in the bath for a while just relaxing, and then I washed my hair and conditioned it. I actually washed my hair twice and conditioned it twice. I got out of the tub and took out my lavender sheath dress, a white ruffled blouse, lavender panty, bra and slip set and a pair of tan nylon stockings, plus two garters. I put on the bra, panty and slip and sat down to do my makeup, but before that I went and got my mother and asked her to help me with my hair. I went back to my room and applied my makeup and then my mother came in and did my hair. She brushed it and commented on how tangle free it was and proceed to put it up in a high pony tail. Once she had the scrunchie around the base of the pony tail, she spread it out so it looked fuller. When everyone was done, it was time to go to the courthouse. We walked out the front door and Jeri was waiting there with the limo.

"Miss Jamie, ma'am, you look absolutely stunning today. Got a hot date?" We all giggled and Jeri complimented each of the others on their great look also.

The ride to the courthouse was uneventful because we had talked about it the night before, so we just took in the sites as we were moving along the road. We got to the courthouse, and Corby and the district attorney were waiting for us outside the courtroom.

"Hi Amanda, Jamie. I am glad you could all come today, but I doubt we will get you in to testify before tomorrow. However, you never know." Then looking at my mother and sister he introduced himself as the assistant district attorney that will be trying the case. He was a tall man, maybe thirties, thick black hair and one eyebrow that went straight across. His name was Victor Manian and he wore the best suits his money could buy and judging from his suit he had money. He walked with a regal manner. Then we all went into the courtroom. My father was sitting there with another man, I presumed was his attorney. As we came in, my father looked back at us with an evil look on his face. His attorney said something to him and my father turned around a faced the front of the courtroom

THE TRIAL

Voire Dire (pronounced vwa deer)

"All rise, the circuit court for Plymouth county is now in session, the Honorable Winston McNeil, presiding. silence is commanded and gentlemen, please remove your hats." Said a deputy sheriff as the judge walked in to the courtroom from his chambers. The deputy was about five feet, ten inches tall. The judge then walked up some steps and sat at a high desk that made him look out over everybody. The judge sat down and the deupty said, "you may be seated."

"Bailiff, you may call the first case." The judge to the blonde haired deputy.

"The Commonwealth of Massachussetts versus James MacNeeley, case number F-99-373, defendant is present your Honor."

"Thank you Mark. I am addressing the people who have come here to be selected as jurors for this case. This is a felony case and is expected to last at least three days counting today. There are 24 of you in this panel. Only twelve will be selected with one alternate. You will be questioned by the attorneys and when they are finished with their questions they will begin their selection. Mr. Manian, you may begin."

It took three hours to question the jury and select twelve who would decide my father's fate. There was one other person selected as an alternate in case any juror couldn't finish his or her duty. since it was only two o'clock in the afternoon, we were told to go and get some lunch and be back by three thirty. We asked directions to the courthouse caferteria and found the food greasy, but good enough considering the circumstances. After we were finished eating and digesting by relaxing a bit, we returned to the courtroom. After we had sat down, they brought my father in from a different door than what the judge had come out of. On the door was a sign but I couldn't makeout what it said from where I was sitting. The deputy who brought my father out walked him over to the table where the same man from before was sitting. The deputy took off the handcuffs and waited until he had sat down, then this deputy sat in a chair behind my father.

"Mr. Manian, you may call your first witness." The judge said to the district attorney.

"Yes, thank you your Honor. My first witness is Jamie Anne MacCreeley. Your Honor, if the court please, I would at this time request that all non essential persons not having any business with this case, be removed from the courtroom during this tesitmony, as Miss MacCreeley is a minor, your Honor."

"Very well, Mr. Manian. The motion is granted without objection. Any person who is not connected with this case must leave the courtroom at this time until this young person is finished testifying. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated." Several people got up and left the courtroom. I was then directed toward the witness stand. A lady stood up with a Bible in her hand and told me to raise my right hand and place my left hand on the Bible.

"Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole thruth and nothing but the truth, so help you God?"

"I do," I answered.

"Please be seated and state your name," the lady continued.

"Good afternoon, Jamie," Mr. Manian said. "Now I am not going to ask you a whole lot of questions, but I want you to tell us in your own words, what you saw or heard, if anything, on Sunday, a week from yesterday."

"Yes sir," I started. "I was at my aunt's home and we spent the day out riding our horses and having a picnic. After we were finished eating, we rode a little more and looked at the animals on the property and went back to the house. My aunt and I were talking about different things and then the phone rang. My aunt went to answer it and I heard her say 'what!' in a loud voice and then something about 'when is he supposed to be here?' Then she said 'I see' and ordered me to go to my room and stay there until I was called. I didn't know what was going on, but I saw that aunt Mandy looked very serious and worried. Then, it must have been a couple of hours, we heard a very loud knock on the front door. Donna, the downstairs maid answered it and my father, James MacNeeley, asked Donna if the mistress of the house was at home and to get her pronto. When my aunt Mandy went to the door, she asked my father what he wanted and he said that he wanted his son and to bring him out right away if she knew what was good for her. I then heard another man's voice say 'why don't you tell me what is good for her. I thought that it was the voice of the deputy sheriff Corby and I was right. Corby then told my father to step away from the door and go stand by his cruiser. My father then yelled 'I want my son' and pushed my aunt Mandy to the floor and started to come in the house. The deputy sheriff Corby then tackled him like a football player and put handcuffs on him and took out to his car and put my father in the back seat. Then Corby came back in and talked to my aunt about what had just happened."

"Okay Jamie. That was good. Where were you that you saw and heard all of this?"

"I was at the top of the stairs, peeking around the corner from the landing."

"And is it your testimony today, that you were an actual eyewitness to this assault on your aunt?"

"Yes sir, it is."

Thank you, Jamie. I have no further questions your honor."

"Mr. Beale? Any questions?" Asked the judge of my father's attorney.

"No, your honor. Not for this witness."

"Very well," the judge stated. "Jamie, you may step down. Call your next witness, Mr. Manian."

"I call Corby Wilson to the stand."

Corby went to the witness stand and the same lady got up with the Bible and asked the same thing she asked me. Corby said I do and was told to be seated. After he sat down Mr. Manian started his questions.

"Would you please tell us your full name sir?"

"Corby Adam Wilson."

"Where are you employed, sir?"

"Plymouth County Sheriff's department as a Deputy sheriff."

"Were you on duty on Sunday, a week from yesterday, sir?"

"Yes, I was."

"While you were on duty, did you receive any duty calls and if so, was one of those calls related to this case?

"Objection, your honor. Leading." Said my father's attorney.

"Over ruled," said the judge. "You may answer the question."

"I was dispatched to a manor house on the outskirts of the city."

"When you arrived at this manor house, what if anything, did you see or do?"

"I saw a man talking with the owner of the manor house. he said something about he wanted his son and she better hand him over if she knew what was good for her."

"What happened then?"

"I then spoke at the man and told him why doesn't he tell me what is good for her."

"And then what happened, if anything?"

"The man then yelled 'I want my son", and proceeded to push the woman to the floor and entered the house."

"Go on, What happened next, if anything?"

"I ran in after him and tackled him to the floor immediately placing him under arrest."

"Do you see that man in court here today?"

"Yes, I do."

"Would you please point him out and tell us where he is sitting, and what he is wearing."

" He is seated at the table directly behind you, close to the jurybox, and wearing county issued coveralls."

"Let the record show that the witness has identified the defendant."

"So ordered," said the judge.

"I have no further questions."

"Mr. Beale? any questions of this witness?"

"Yes, Your honor. Thank you. Mr. Wilson, you say you saw and heard all this excahnge between my client and the owner of the house?"

"Yes, I did."

"How is that if you had just driven up to the house?"

"I was already there sir. I was waiting for a man to appear because our office got a call that a man was coming and that there was going to be trouble. I parked my cruiser by the side of the house where it couldn't be seen from the entry gate at the beginning of the property and out of sight and waited for the man to make his appearance. When I saw the car pull in, I walked along the house until I got to the front door. That is when I heard the exchange between the victim and the defendant."

"I see. Thak you, sir. No further questions, your honor."

"Any re-direct, Mr. Manian?" The judge asked.

"No, your honor."

"Very well. You may step down, sir. Call your next witness."

"I call Donna Ann Mailing."

Donna was sworn in just like the rest of us and was told to be seated.

"Good afternoon, Donna. Where are you employed?"

"I am a domestic at MacCreeley Manor by Amanda MacCreeley."

"Is MacCreeley Manor located within this county and state?

"Yes sir, it is."

"Were you working on Sunday, a week from yesterday?"

"Yes, I was."

"Did anything unusual happen that day?"

"Yes."

"Would you be so kind as to state in your own words, what unusually happened that day?"

"Yes. It was in the evening hours, and everybody was doing just nothing really, except talking about things. Mrs. MacCreeley was talking to Jamie about contacting her parents and letting them know she was alright, when Mrs. MacCreeley received a phone call. It was about maybe, just about two hours or maybe a little more, that we heard a very loud knock on the front door. I answered the door and there was a man standing there. I said 'yes sir, may I help you' and he had told me to get the mistress of the house out to the door, pronto. I did. Then I went to get Mrs. MacCreeley, and I was told to stay were I could see and hear everything."

"What, if anything, did you see and hear?"

"I heard the exchange between the man and Mrs. MacCreeley that she had better bring his son out immdeiately if she knew what was good for her. Then I heard another voice say to tell him what was good for her. the first man then said he wanted his son, and then the second man, a deputy sheriff requested that the first man go stand by his patrol car. The first man shouted real loud that he wanted his son and entered the house violently pushing Mrs. MacCreeley to the floor. The deputy sheriff then tackled the first man and put handcuffs on him and took him out of the house."

"Did you see where the deputy took the man?"

"No, I was in the house a ways and couldn't see out the door very far."

Okay, Donna. Thank you. No further questions your honor."

"Mr. Beale? any questions?"

"No your honor."

"You may step down, ma'am. Do you have another witness, Mr. Manian?"

"Yes, your honor. I reserve the right to call my other witness, if there is any rebuttal."

"Mr. Beale? any objections."

"No your honor."

"Very well. Mr. Manian should there be cause for rebuttal, you will able to call your witness then."

"Then, your honor, the state rests."

"Mr. Beale? Are you ready to proceed, at this point."

"No, your honor. I would request a recess until tomorrow morning."

"A very good idea, Mr. Beale. Ladies and gentlemen of the jury. Your are commanded to return here tomorrow morning and you are also admonished from speaking about this case to anyone including yourselves, until this trial is concluded. Thank you, everyone, court is adjourned."

Tuesday Morning

We arrived at the courthouse on Tuesday morning because we might be needed to testify some more. I was dressed in just a plain blue blouse and a little lighter blue jumper, with black Classic pumps with two inch heels. We went in the courtroom and sat down, then Corby came in and sat with us. This was going to be interesting because Corby said my father's attorney was going to call him to the stand and ask him questions about me when I was at home. Corby said that my father will testify the way his attoney coached him, so we shouldn't be surprised if he blamed everything on everyone else. Yes ma'am, that's my father, you know the one over there who can't take responsibility for his own mistakes. Yes, I could just see it. That would be him all right.

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Synopsis:

The defense puts Jamie's father on the stand.

Home Sweet Home V

by Barbara Lynn Terry

The Trial Part II

Story:

The Defense

We all arrived at the courthouse and went directly to the courtroom. I looked around and saw the tables where the attorneys sit, empty, as was the place where the judge sat. There were three people just below the judge's seat. Two of them were women, maybe in their forties and a young man that looked to be about mid-twenties. He sat off to the left of the women in a little space next to the witness stand. I assumed he was what auntie said, the stenographer. He punched keys into a little machine that recorded everything that was said during the case. Mark, the court deputy, knocked on the judge's door and peeked in to tell him we were ready. He then opened the other door and my father was brought by the same deputy as before. When my father sat down, the deputy sat in the chair behind him. Mr. Manian came in at that moment and said he was sorry he wasn't here to greet us. Mark went through another door and the jury took their places in the jury box.

Then Mark said facing all of us. "The circuit court of Plymouth county is now in session. The Honorable Winston McNeil, presiding. Silence is commanded and gentlemen, please remove your hats. This is case number F-99-373, the Commonwealth of Massachussetts versus James McNeeley, Your Honor."

"Thank you, Mark. What would I do without you? Mr. Beale, are you ready to proceed?"

"Yes, Your Honor, thank you. I call James McNeeley to the stand."

The deputy behind my father got up and then my father did too. The deputy escorted him to the witness stand. After my father was sworn in, he sat down. The deputy then returned to his seat.

"Your name is James McNeeley, sir?"

"Yes, it is."

"Where do you live Mr. McNeeley?"

"I live in Hudson, New Hampshire, sir."

"Do you recall the events of Sunday, a week from this past Sunday?"

"Yes sir, I do."

"Would you tell us in your own words, sir, what happened on that day?"

"My wife and I decided to go out to get something from a fast food place. As we were going to the car, my daughter wanted to know if she could go along. I asked my son, Jamie, if he wanted to go too but he said no, he would wait at home. We then left. When we got back, Jamie was nowhere in the house. So we called a few of his friends and they hadn't seen or heard from him. I then told my wife I was going to go look for him. When I couldn't find him, I went back to the house and called my sister-in-law who lives here in Plymouth county."(a shocked look was on my mother's face at that point). " asked her if she had seen Jamie and she said no, why. I told her he was missing. I then decided, maybe I should go down there because maybe she wasn't trelling me the truth. I . . ."

"Why do you think she wouldn't tell you the truth?"

"Because Jamie has done this before"(a shocked look was on MY face). "so I drove down to my sister-in-law's and demanded that she bring Jamie out so I could take him home."

"Did you at any time, threaten or strike anyone in your sister-in-law's home?"

"No sir, I did not."

"What do you make of the testimony of a sworn law enforcement officer and the maid, as well as that of Jamie?"

"I'm sorry, sir, but they are lying. My only intention was to bring Jamie home."

"I notice that you refer to Jamie in the masculine pronouns. Is this the same Jamie that testified here yesterday?"

"Yes sir."

"I see that a young lady by the name of Jamie Anne MacCreeley tesified here yesterday. Is this your son?"

"Yes sir."

Mr. Beale was looking at the police report and then looked back at my father. "Did you ever, while at your sister-in-law's home, make an attempt to go in the home, without being invited?"

"No sir."

"Thank you, Mr. McNeeley. No further questions, Your Honor."

"Mr. Manian, any cross?"

"Yes, Your Honor, thank you. Mr. McNeeley, is it your testimony that a sworn officer of the law would perjure himself on the witness stand, just to lie about you?'

Mr. Beale stood up and said, "Objection Your Honor, inconclusive."

"Over ruled, you may answer the question."

"Well, they have to be lying because I only went there to get my son."

"Do you know Deputy Corby Wilson, sir?"

"No."

"Then why would he make up a lie about you?"

"I have no idea, sir."

Oh, my father was smooth. He answered these question while facing the jury, as though he were the victim and not my aunt.

"Well, I want your honest opinion about my next question. Have you ever mistreated anyone in your family by threatening them, causing them physical injury or humiliating them?"

"No sir. Never would I do something like that."

"Can you think of anything, anything at all, that might have made Jamie run away?"

"No sir, I can't."

"No further questions, Your Honor." I could see the look of anger on Mr. Manian's face as he walked back to his table.

"Any re-direct, Mr. Beale?"

"No, Your Honor, the defense rests."

"All right, Mr. McNeeley, you may step down." the deputy that was my father's escort went to the witness stand and walked him back to Mr. Beale, and when my father sat down, he did too.

"Mr. Manaian, you made a motion to the court, at the beginning of the trial, to call another witness for the purposes of rebuttal. Do you wish to re-open at this time, sir?"

"Yes, Your Honor, thank you."

"Then call your witness."

"I call Amanda MacCreeley to the stand."

My aunt went to the witness stand and was sworn in. After she was sworn in she sat down and Mr. Manian started his questions.

"Mrs. MacCreeley, please state in your own words, what happened on Sunday, a week from this last Sunday."

"I was at home with my niece, Jamie, and we were talking about sending a letter to her parents to let them know she was all right. I then received a phone call from my sister, in Hudson, New Hampshire, telling me that her husband was on the way to get Jamie. I told Jamie to go to her room and stay there until I called for her. It was a couple maybe a few hours later, that my brother-in-law came pounding on the door as if he were going to break it in. Donna, my downstairs maid, answered the door. she inquired as to what he wanted and he demanded in a very loud voice that he wanted his son and if I knew what was good for me, I had to hand him over immediately."

"Did anything happen, after he made his demand?"

"Yes."

What if anything, happened after he made his demand?"

"A deputy, who patrols our area quite frequently, responded to my sister's call for help. When he arrived, he asked my brother-in-law to tell him what was good for me. James, my brother-in-law, told the deputy that he wanted his son. The deputy asked him if he would step over to his patrol car, and that is when my brother-in-law pushed me with a forceful shove and began to enter the house."

"Did James succeed in entering the house, after he pushed you?"

"Objection, leading."

"Over ruled. You may answer the question."

"Yes, he did. He only got in past me, when the deputy tackled him like a football player. The deputy then handcuffed him and took him outside."

"We need to clear the air, her a little bit. you say your niece, Jamie, was in the hosue with you, but James says that this is his son. Would you care to elaborate a little on the gender confusion?"

"Yes. The night that Jamie ran away, he was wearing his sister's clothes, as a disguise, so he wouldn't readily be identified. I was called by my sister to be on the lookout for him. When I found him, he was sleeping on the shoulder of the road, dressed as a girl. Well, I knew right away who he was, but I didn't let on. I took him home and put him to bed, and the next morning I started calling him 'young lady' because he was dressed like one. I also told him that as long as he was dressed in that manner, he would be treated as young lady in my home. You see, sir, Jamie didn't remember me, because it has been many years since we saw each other. So, I asked him if he would stay and be my daughter. This was all talked out by my sister and I before I even mentioned it to Jamie. Jamie said she would have to think about it and a couple of hours later at lunch, she told me she would like to stay and be my daughter because it gave her respite and protection from her father, well, she said parents, but I knew what she meant. So I told my staff that her name was Jamie Anne MacCreeley and she was to be treated with respect and dignity as my daughter. They all agreed. That is how my nephew became my niece."

"Thank you, Mrs. MacCreeley, No further questions, Your Honor."

"Mr. Beale, any cross?"

"No, Your Honor."

"State rests, Your Honor?"

"Very well. both sides having been heard in this matter, it will now go to the jury for deliberations. I see that it is lunch time, and we will re-convene at two thirty this afternoon, at which time I will instruct the jury. Have a good lunch."

Mark then said all rise and we did until the judge was out of the courtroom. My father was led back to the jail and we went to a restaurant outside the courthouse to eat. As we ate, we talked about my father's testimony.

"I can't believe that weasel," my mother said. "I mean he actually said all of that with a straight face."

"Yes," my aunt continued. "I thought he was going to walk on water, next." We all giggled.

"Mom, auntie, I don't understand why they made such an issue out of my being a girl."

"Honey," my mom answered. "It's just the way his attorney was trying to make your father look like he had done nothing wrong. Don't worry though. Okay? Your father is in for a big let down. I saw the smirk on his face as they took him back to jail. He thinks he is getting off on this one. But when he called Corby a liar, I was looking at the jury and I saw the disbelief in their eyes, He will be convicted."

"I agree," my sister put in. "I was looking at the jury too, and one woman even opened her mouth in a shocked manner that James could call a man of the law a liar, since the deputy was right there as a witness. I swear, there are times when I wonder what this earth did to deserve him." Mary and I giggled.

"Well, don't worry, sweetheart. Your father is going to be locked up for a long time. This charge is light compared to the one facing him. That one will put him out of our lives forever."

"I know, mom, and thanks. All of you. You have been very nice to me."

It was time to go back to the courthouse and sit in the courtroom. When we walked in my father's attorney saw us and just smiled. That was odd! We sat down and then my father was brought in and he sat next to his attorney. Mark called the court to order like he did before, and the judge entered and sat down. Then the jury was brought in and they took their places.

"I am now going to charge the jury. Anyone who doesn't want to be here should leave as the courtroom door will be locked until I have finished." No one left.

"Very well, Mark, please lock the corridor door." He did and the judge proceeded. "Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, you have heard all the testimony and seen all the evidence. It is now up to you, the jury to decide if the defendant is guilty or not guilty. You will discuss the testimony and review all the evidence in order to arrive at a just verdict. Your first duty, upon retiring to the jury room is to select a jury foreperson, then discuss the facts of the case and arrive at your verdict. You may now adjourn to the jury room."

After the jury left the judge said the court was in recess. My father was taken back to the jail. We decided to wait and see if they came back in a short period of time or a longer one. It was a short period of time and my father was led back in the courtroom. As soon as he sat down, so did the deputy. The judge came back in, and told Mark to bring in the jury. As the jury walked to the jury box, they all had solemn faces and didn't even look at my father. When they sat down, the judge began.

"Madam foreperson, has the jury reached its verdict?"

"Yes, we have, Your Honor," said a woman who looked like she might have been middle thirties. She had on a nice tan skirt with an off white blouse and her auburn hair was just a little past her shoulder and looked like it had been feathered.

"Please hand your verdict to the bailiff."

Mark walked over and took the verdict from the lady and handed it to the judge, who looked at it, and gave it back to Mark, who then gave back to the lady.

"Madam foreperson, how say you as to count one of the indictment?"

"Guilty."

"How say you, as to count two of the indictment?"

"Guilty."

"Mr. Beale, do wish to poll the jury?"

"Yes, Your Honor, thank you. Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, with a nod of your heads, was this and is this now your verdict?"

They all nodded together and then Mr. Beale said thank you and sat down.

"Sentencing will be in three weeks, in order to give the state time to investigate. Mr. Beale I assume you are going to appeal?"

"Yes, Your Honor. I will have my motion filed in the morning."

"That is acceptable, Mr. Beale. Very well, this court is adjourned." After my father was taken out the courtroom, the judge came up to us and said to me.

"Young lady, you conducted yourself with respect and dignity in this court. I wish you luck in your new life."

"Thank you, Your Honor," I said with a smile.

We left the courtroom and went to the car. This trial was a drag on all of us and we were tired. Relieved too, now that it was over. I asked my aunt what will happen to my father, not that I cared, but I was curious.

"Well Jamie, first of all the district attorney will investigate all the things your father said. When they don't find a record in the phone company of that pretentious call to me, he said he made, that will weigh heavily against him as far as to how much time he will get in prison. Plus, he called Corby a liar. The judge will not take kindly to that either. With all of the testimony we gave, he will go away for a long time. The second count, in case you didn't know it, was attempted kidnapping. You won't have to ever worry about him again."

"Well, that's good. Hey! Can we go riding tomorrow. Brownie needs excercise." We laughed a little at that and my aunt and mom agreed that it would be a good idea. We got in the limo and Jeri just smiled.

The next three weeks included school starting, so I wouldn't be there for my father's sentencing. I heard he was going to get a lot of time out of just this case alone. Mr. Manian said he would see to that.

On the first day of school, there were so many limos coming and going, I lost count after twenty. Jeri pulled up to the main entrance and Mary and I got out, ready to face the music. We went in to the office to get our locker numbers and combinations and went to our first class. My first class was civics, and we were told by Miss Kenyard, the teacher, that we would all be going to the courthouse to see the sentencing phase of a trial. She was about my height, nice build, early thirties and today she wore a gray skirt suit, with a white ruffled blouse. Her brunette hair was shoulder length, and her makeup impeccable to bring out her natural beauty. Her round blue eyes sparkled as she spoke and she seemed to enjoy her work.

"Jamie. After we get back from the courthouse, would you please give us a run down on what the trial phase of a criminal case is like. I don't want you to go into detail, just touch on the highlights as to what happens. Okay?"

"I would be happy to, Miss Kenyard."

The rest of the day was much like first period. We got our books from each class, except sewing, that we received patterns and were told that for our class project, we had to make something that we would like to wear. It could casual, formal, dress, skirt, blouse, pants, it didn't matter as long as we made it ourelves. The day being over, we went to our lockers and got our things and I met Mary at the front door. Jeri was already there, and she opened the door for us.

"How was your first day at school, ladies?" She asked with a smile and then gave that famous wink.

"It was nice, Jeri. Thank you for asking," we both said together. Then all three of us laughed at that.

When we got home, I told auntie about our field trip and had my mother sign the permission slip. She said that we were probably going to go see my father's sentencing. I also told them that Miss Kenyard wanted me to speak on just the highlights of what happens during a criminal trial.

"Why Jamie, that's wonderful. Looks like you kinda fell into this class. Huh?"

Giggling time again. Mom was right on target. Well Mary and I took our things up to our rooms and changed out of our uniforms and hung them up, then we went back downstairs after changing into casual clothes for the evening. Dinner that evening was roast beef, with three kinds of vegetables, and for dessert, we had Dutch apple pie. Ala mode even. Dinner was nice, but the conversation centered around my father and the sentencing.

"Mom? Can we change the subject please? I have really had enough of the trial and tomorrow, we will see exactly what James gets from the judge."

"Okay sweetheart. We're sorry. Yes we can change the subject. How did you like your teachers at school?"

"Mom, they were great. In sewing class we have a class project each student has to do. We have to make something to wear. It can be fromal, casual, pants, skirts, dresses, blouses. Miss Kenyard said it didn't matter, as long as we made them ourselves."

"Honey, that's great!" She exclaimed. "Do you know what you are going to make, yet?"

"Not yet, mom. I'm still thinking about it."

"Okay, dear. Just take your time. If you need any advice, I'll be glad to help."

"Thanks mom."

When dinner was finished, we went in to the parlor and watched t.v. Auntie just loved the old movies and this one was with Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn called, The African Queen. Since it was on cable, it was only on for an hour and a half. No commercials. It was a good movie and after it was over, it was time for bed. We all hugged and kissed and said good night and Mary and I went up to our rooms to get ready and go to sleep, because we had school tomorrow. I was going on a field trip and I made sure I had my permission slip in my pack. I brushed my teeth, brushed my hair and went to bed.

THE SENTENCING

I awoke to the singing of birds and the sun shining in my window. Today, I was going on a field trip to the courthouse with my civics class. I turned to sit up on the edge of the bed, my feet following in a flowing motion, with the rest of my body. Shaking the mildew and cobwebs out of my head, I greeted the day with a smile, as the birds seemed to put me in that mood. I stood up and went to the closet. I took out my uniform, and went to the dresser to get my underthings and knee hi socks. I got out my black t-bars and went in to run my bath. I put in lilac bath oil and beads, then I went to brush my teeth while the tub was filling. I then got in the tub and just soaked in the fragrance of the lilac. After washing and rinsing I got out and patted down and went to get dressed. I put my bra, half slip, and panties on and sat down to do my makeup. I did that slow and when that was completed, I put my clothes on. After I was dressed, I looked in the mirror at my hair. It needed a little brushing, and I think today, I'll make it a ponytail. All of that done, I went down to breakfast taking my pack with me. I met Mary in the hall just coming out of her room.

"Well, sister of mine," she said, "I smell something good cooking. Let's find out where it's coming from."

"Lead on, Sherlock," I quipped.

"Right then, Dr. Watson." We both giggled.

Breakfast was ham and eggs, with wheat toast, milk and juice. As I was eating my mother asked me if I had my permission slip for the field trip.

"Yes mom, it's in my pack."

"All right, dear. I was just making sure."

Mary and I finished eating at the same time, almost, and we rinsed our dishes and put them in the sink. We got our coats from the closet and went out to the limo. Jeri was smiling and said good morning, ladies, and closed the door after we were in. When we got to school, I gave Miss Kenyard my permission slip and she said we were waiting for two more students, then we could leave. The students arrived in short order, gave the teacher their permission slips and then we lined up at the door. Miss Kenyard made sure everyone was out, and then closed and locked the classroom door. We went out to the bus and as we were all seated Miss Kenyard said:

"Ladies, we are going to an official proceeding at the courthouse. The sentencing phase of a criminal trial. I want you all to be on your best behavior. You are representaives of the school, so conduct yourselves accordingly." She nodded to the driver who closed the door and we were on our way.

We got to the courthouse, without any hard bumps or rolling you experience on a school bus when going to public school. This driver was very good at her job. She was an older lady, with greying hair and she wore stretch pants and black, soft leather shoes. She wore a green jacket with the school bus company's insignia on it and another patch below that said she was a fifteen year safe driver. As we filed out of the bus in an orderly fashion, there was a female deputy sheriff there to greet us.

"Welcome, ladies, I am Deputy Karen McCall, I will be your chaperone for this field trip. Hi Jamie, good to see you again. You know which court we're going to, don't you? It's all right, you are going to be very well looked after here. Okay ladies, let's go, we'll all go through that door on the side there."

She took us to a door and unlocked it with a key and held it open until we were all inside. Then she closed it and locked it. She took us to an elevator and we went to the courtroom where I and the others had given our testimony. We went in the courtroom and deputy McCall ushered us into our seats. We all sat down and waited for the proceedings to begin. Then I saw Mark come in from the judge's chambers. He then went to his desk and called someone, and shortly my father was brought in the courtroom. Mark then told the judge everyone was ready. Mark did his usual all stand thing, and when the judge sat down, we did too.

"Before we begin with the sentencing, I see we have visitors. Welcome ladies, you are going to see first hand what I do with persons convicted of a crime. This proceeding should always stay with you because the phrase that 'crime does not pay' is true, as you will see.

"Mr. James McNeeley, please stand before the bench."

My father was escorted by the same deputy who brought him and who stood behind him.

"Mr. James McNeeley, do you have anything to say before I pronounce sentence?"

"Yes, Your Honor. I was only going there to take my son home. I really didn't mean to--to push my sister-in-law like I did. But she blocked my way."

"I see. Well, that is no excuse for shoving her and invading her home without her permission. There were other resources you could have used legally to accomplish what you set out to do. Is that the end of your statement, sir?"

My father just looked down and said, "Yes, Your Honor."

"Very well. I think you will notice that the charge on your copy of the indictment was changed to Home invasion, by use of force. Did you notice that change before the trial began?"

"Yes, Your Honor."

"Mr. James McNeeley, pursuant to Chapter 265, Section 18C of the General Laws of Massachussetts, I hereby sentence you to not less twenty years nor more than life imprisonment. You are to be delivered to the superintendent of the Bay State Correctional Center, designated as the reception center for the crime upon which you have been convicted. I also sentence you to five years for the crime of attempted kidnapping, pursuant to Chapter 274, Section 6 of the General Laws of Massachussetts, both sentences to be served at the Bay State Correctional Center and both sentences are to run consecutive to each other. Mr. McNeeley I hope you think very seriously as to what you have done. We do not take kindly to strangers coming into our state and causing us problems. Deputy you may remove the defendant." After my father was escorted from the courtroom, the judge addressed the class.

"Ladies, I hope that this was a good learning experience for all of you. Thank you for coming. Mark, I will hear the next case in fifteen minutes. Court is in recess."

There were tears streaming down my face and deputy McCall asked me if I was all right.

"Yes ma'am. I'm just glad this is all over. I'm glad he got what he deserved."

"It's all right Jamie. This whole mess had to be quite a drain on you and your family. You won't forget about this, ever. But time heals all wounds. Now, let's get your class back to the bus."

I didn't see my mother and aunt in the courtroom until after we started to file out. I asked deputy McCall if I could go with them instead. She asked Miss Kenyard, who said it was all right because this class was going to be excused for the rest of the day, anyway. I went home with my mother and aunt.

Notes:

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Synopsis:

Will Jamie's father get out of prison? What other surprises will she find after leaving the courthouse?

Home Sweet Home VI

by Barbara Lynn Terry

Part 6 - All Good Things

Story:

We walked out of the courthouse to the waiting limo. Jeri opened the doors for us and we got in. On the ride home, we talked about the sentencing and the case as a whole.

"Mom? Aunt Mandy? Why did my father treat us the way he did? I mean, why did he want me to be the family maid and then make mom and Mary go along with it?"

"Well Jamie, your father was what most people would call a control freak. If he wasn't constantly yelling, threatening, or just being plain nasty, he felt he wasn't in control. But they have doctors, even in prison, who can help him, if he will let them. But he is one person who is better off behind bars anyway. If he tries that control stuff there, the other convicts will teach him a lesson he will never forget."

"It would certainly teach him a lesson, wouldn't it?" I said with a slight giggle.

"Yes, it would," aunt Mandy answered.

"Well, anyway young lady, tomorrow is school so I think when we get home, you should pick out your clothes for tomorrow. Okay?" My mom said sternly.

"Yes mom. I know exactly what I want to wear."

We pulled up in front of the house and Jeri got out and opened the door for us. Then she opened the door to the house and we all went in except for Jeri who had to park the limo at the garage, so Doug could check the fluids and gas usage. I went directly to my room and pulled out my clothes for tomorrrow. Tomorrow we were having a formal and we weren't supposed to wear our uniforms. I took out my lavender dress, lavender pumps, and my lavender bra and panty set. I also took out my lavender full slip and I laid everything very carefully across my vanity bench. The stockings could wait until the morning. I then went downstairs.

"Dinner will be ready in about two hours, Jamie."

"Thank you, Martha. I'm going for a walk outside by the flower beds. I enjoy seeing all the pretty colors."

"All right. I'll let your mother and aunt know."

"Thanks, Martha."

"Anytime Jamie."

I walked down by the flower beds and just looked at the pretty colors of the different flowers. I took in the scent they gave off. They looked a smelled so beautiful, I thought they could be used to make perfume.

"They are quite lovely, aren't they Jamie?"

I tured to look and saw my aunt. She was standing there with a smile on her face.

"Is it dinner time already?" I queried.

"No, Jamie. Martha told me you were out here, so I thought I would join you."

"Okay. I was going to go to the stables too and give Brownie an apple."

"That's a great idea. Let's go."

We started toward the stables when my aunt grabbed my hand and we started skipping and singing. That brought Doug and Jeri out of the garage and they clapped as we passed by. I looked at Jeri and she gave me that famous wink of hers. We got to the stables and I gave Brownie her apple and petted her and talked to her. When I said I was sorry for not coming around earlier, she nudged me with her nose. Then she tapped the ground three times and nodded her head while she winnied. I then told her I would see her tomorrow and she tapped the ground three times with her right hoof and nodded. We headed back to the house, skipping and singing and just enjoying each other's company.

When we got back to the house, it was dinner time. We had roast beef with a lyonnaise sauce, three different vegetables, rice and for dessert, we had Dutch apple pie. The adults had wine with their meal and I had grape kool aid to make it look like I had wine. We talked as we ate, but it wasn't anything important, just a bunch of fill in the gaps talk.

After dinner was over, we all went into the parlor for an evening of relaxation due to a very busy day. We watched a movie on a cable channel where a curly blond haired little girl sang "On the Good Ship Lollipop." I was told later that her name was Shirley Temple. That was a very good movie and I told my mom that I would like to watch it again sometime. Then it was time for bed. I went upstairs after hugs and kisses goodnight, and got out my white satin nightgown and after brushing my teeth, got into bed and went to sleep.

Morning comes way too fast and I got up and turned my alarm off. I took off my nightgown and got in the shower. I bathed myself with a rose perfumed soap and made sure my legs were shaved. I didn't have any chest or facial hair, so I didn't have to shave that. I got out of the shower and patted myself dry, then I put on some body powder and went to get dressed. I put on the clothes I took out the night before and made sure my hair was neat and presentable. Today, we didn't have to wear our school uniforms becasue it was a special day. Today we were having boys at the school for a formal. There would be dancing, food, and a live band. I was going to have fun.

What can I say about school? Nothing that everyone doesn't already know; it's boring. Today, however, we talked about the sentencing of my father and what we thought about it. I was the first one asked to say something.

"All I know is this. That I now have a good life, with my mother, my sister, my aunt and her staff, which I adopted as my sisters, aunt and uncles, because they have shown me such happiness that I didn't know existed before I went to my aunt's house. As for my father, I'm glad he got what he deserved. I thought the sentence was appropriate. Now I'm free to enjoy life, instead of living in fear of him every day."

A couple of others said the they thought the sentence was appropriate too and found the court proceedings interesting. When no one else had anything to say, the teacher spoke up.

"All right class, we had a very interesting experience. I think maybe you should write about what you thought about it in a small essay, which will be due two weeks from today. Okay?"

We all groaned, but said yes ma'am. Then we went to lunch and several of us were talking about doing our essays together so we could get feedback from each other about what to write, and since I had been involved personally and had tesified at the trial and saw all those proceedings, the girls were more than happy to have feedback from me. I could give them tips on things they may get wrong.

The Formal

After class was over and we got our assignments (you call it homework), we went into the dining hall, which had been rearranged for dancing and chairs had been placed neaere the walls so people could sit down without disturbing those dancing. A small stage had been set up in the back of the room for the local group who was going to supply the music. The food was placed on four tables and consisted of everything imaginable for a formal dance. We were all standing around and talking with our friends when the boys came in. They were all immaculately dressed in rented tuxedoes and as handsome as could be. I think my hormones were wroking overtime when I saw a certain boy. He was taller than me by a good six inches. His name was Brian Hampton and he had the blondest hair I have seen on a boy, which was cut very nice and combed straight back. I walked over and introduced my self and asked him if he would like to dance. He said "sure why not?" Then came the boring part.

"All right ladies and gentlemen, it is time to state the rules." Mrs. Richards stated firmly.

"Rule number one! All the girls will behave as young ladies should and the boys will behave as young gentlemen.

"Rule number two! There will be no kissing, no close dancing and definitley no sexual innuendo.

"Rule number three! All students will remain in the dining hall until the formal is concluded. Am I understood?" We all nodded.

After Mrs. Richards was finished the band began playing its first number and everyone got up to dance. Since we couldn't dance close I wouldn't know what it would feel like to be in Brian's arms. But I did get to talk to him and gave him my address and phone number. Then I aasked if he would get mad if I told him something personal.

"No Jamie, I won't get mad. But first let me tell you. I was in the courtroom covering your father's trial for our school newspaper. I don't care that you are male now. It's what's inside that counts and to me you are all girl."

"Thanks Brian. That means a lot to me. I have had nothing but acceptance since I ran away that first night. I no longer have to live in fear. Do you think you wouldlike to come over on Sunday and we could have a picnic and then maybe go into town and see a movie?"

"I would love to, Jamie. You know, you have the cutest expression when you're trying to be serious."

I looked shyly at my shoes and moved my foot like I was digging my heel into the floor, while clasping my hands behind my back and swaying my body slowly from side to side. Then, I don't know why, but all of a sudden, the rules didn't matter. He took me in his arms and gave me a very passionate kiss. I was in heaven. I put my arms around his neck and submitted to his tender passion.

"Ahem!" It was Mrs. Richards.

"Just what do you two think you are doing? Didn't I say no kissing?"

"Yes ma'am," I said looking at the floor.

"Well?!? What are you waiting for? Don't just stand there, kiss him again," she said with a wink in her eye.

I looked around and saw others were doing the same thing. So? What was I waiting for? I put my arms around his neck and we kissed, this time longer and more passionately. I was in heaven. When we stopped for a breath of air, Mrs. Richards spoke again to everyone.

"Ladies and gentlemen, the formal is concluding. It is almost four o'clock and we have dinners to go home to. I must say this has been a very nice formal and we will have them again. So, for today class is dismissed."

Everyone started filing out of the dining hall towards the front door. Brian and I walked hand in hand to the parking lot where his school's bus was waiting.

"Jamie? Can I come over tonight? I want to be with you."

"Of course dear. I would love to have you over for dinner. Bring your parents too. I'm sure that my mother, sister and aunt would love to meet you all. Especially after I tell them about you. And, I want to be with you too."

We kissed again and he got on his bus and sat by a window. I stood there watching as the bus pulled out and blew him a kiss which he blew one back. After the bus was out of sight and i couldn't see Brian anymore, I folded my hands in back of me and skipped back to the school to get my books. Jeri was just pulling up to the front of the school and saw me skipping and with a happy smile on my face like you would have when you have just fallen in love.

"What's this sis? meet a nice boy, did you?"

"Oh Jeri, I'm just busting all over. I met this nice boy and he's the sweetest boy anyone would ever want to meet. We danced, held hands and we kissed, oh, did we kiss. I'm so happy. He's coming over tonight and I think he's bring his parents so we can all meet them."

"That's good sis. I think you better get your books so we can leave."

"Okay, Jeri."

I passed Mary on the way in and she looked at me and giggled. I knew what that giggle was for, but I was in love and didn't care. When I got back in the limo, Mary was the first to talk.

"Jamie, you lucky girl you. Will he be coming over sometime?"

"Yes, Mary. he's coming over tonight and I think he's bringing his parents so we can all meet."

"That is so cool. Your first formal and you've already met someone. I'm so happy for you sis."

"Thanks sis." Then we gave each other a siterly hug.

We rode the rest of the way home just chattering about Brian and how happy I was. When we got to the house, I went in and yelled 'YESSSSS'. Mom came out of the parlor and looked at me and asked what the 'yesssss' was all about. I told her to call auntie and everyone so i could tell everyone my good news. When everbody was assembled, I began talking very excitedly.

"You'll never guess what happened at the formal. I met a boy and his name is Brian and I invited him over with his parents for dinner tonight so we could all meet each other and I could be with him and then he kissed me and we held hands and..." I was interrupted by my mother.

"Slow down Jamie. My God, you'd think you had won the lotto or something."

"I have mother, I have. Brian is the winning ticket and I am rich with love and OH MY GAWD! I've got to get ready they'll be here in an hour! OH MY GAWD!" I dashed up the stairs to my room and began taking off my dress.

"Just a minute Jamie. My God girl, catch your breath. You're all excited and rushing. There's time and I will help you get ready. I know how it is. Go in and take a nice bubble bath and I'll find you some real nice clothes. Okay?"

"Okay mom. Thanks."

I went into the bathroom and ran my bath water putting in some sweet smelling lavender bubble bath and cyrstals. I got in and just sat in the tub letting the bubbles soak through me from my shoulders to my feet. after the water started getting cool I rinsed off and patted down with a thick terry cloth towel. After I was dry I wrapped the towel around me and went out into the bedroom. My clothes were all laid out and they were beautiful. Mom had picked out my white print dress with the roses on it and my sky blue bra and panty set and my white pumps with the two inch heel. She also had a pair of nylon stockings out too. I began to get dressed. I put on my bra and panty set, then my sky blue matching slip and sat down at my vanity to do my makeup. While I was doing that my mother was selecting a nice pair of earrings. Mother of Pearl in a gold triangle. When I was done with my makeup, she cam over and helped me with my hair. While doing that, Donna came in and said that the young man and his parents have arrived. I almost bolted through the door, but my mother held me firm and then she said...

"Young lady, you will finish getting dressed first. Besides, it's a lady's prerogative to be a little late."

"Yes, mom."

I finished dressing and then almost ran out the door but stopped. I then slowed down and walked regally like a queen to and down the stairs. As I came near the bottom, Brian looked at me and whistled. He then came over and took my hand and introduced me to his parents.

"Mom, dad, this is Jamie. I fell in love with her the first time we met."

"Nice to meet you, dear," his mother said giving me a hug.

"Same here, young lady," his father said.

"Thank you, both of you. I want you to meet my mother, and this is my aunt, Amanda MacCreeley and this is my sister Mary."

"Well, we are certainly glad to meet all of you. Jamie, Brian has told me that you have also adopted the entire staf here as an extended family. That is so nice of you." His mother was very nice and very caring.

"I understand," said Brian's father, "that you two want to go on dates. Is that correct young lady?"

"Yes, sir. I would love to spend more time with Brian. He seems so very nice and caring."

"He gets that from his mother," his father said sort of gruffly.

"Now dear, you'll scare the poor dear away. Jamie, I understand that you are actually going to go through a life changing transition. I would love to have you for a daughter-in-law."

"Thank you, Mrs. Hampton. I will be the best wife for Brian that I can be."

"I know you will, dear."

STUDY GROUP

For the next two weeks, we all met at my house, well I guess it's my house now too. We started by discussing how the sentencing proceedings started. Jan, a very nice girl, who wore her school uniform like she was born in it, with long sun colored blonde hair, down to her shoulders and custom made pumps with a one inch heel (for school), was the first to speak.

"Jamie, when you were at home, in New Hampshire, what was it like?"

I related everything to the group and even cried a little at which the group comforted me. I told them about the dreams I had after coming to my aunt's house. I told them about how I thought that my mother and sister were involved and only found out afterward that they were forced to treat me nasty by my father or he would hurt them. I told them about after coming here, the love I found not only in my aunt, but in her staff as well. How my aunt had accepted her staff as friends not merely servants and how I adopted all of them as my extended family.

"Wow, girl," Jan said. "You've had a horrifying experience. I wouldn't want to go through that and don't know what I'd do if it happened to me."

"I would probably kill the bas...well, anyway I'd probably hurt him enough that he wouldn't try it again," Doreen stated emphatically.

Doreen was a simply plain girl that has as much charisma as Kevin Bacon, the actor. She is a likeable girl, with brown hair styled in a page boy and wears very simple clothes. Today she was dressed in an A-line brown skirt with a white see through blouse, turquoise blue bra, white knee high socks and brown penny loafers. She was about my height, maybe an inch taller. Instead of glasses, she wore contacts and had a few freckles on both cheeks.

"So, Jamie, tell us what it was like having to face your father in that courtroom and having to tesify against him?" Asked Kathy.

Kathy was a real siren. Her figure could be on the cover of any magazine she would choose to model for. She also was about my height and wore the latest in fashions. Her clothes she told us were custom made as she didn't like anything off of the rack. She had nice blonde hair to the middle of her back and her face was void of any blemishes. Her makeup was perfect and looked very natural. Her fingernails were one inch extensions covered in bright red nail polish, as were her toenails.

"Well Kathy, I was really all a bundle of nerves. But I didn't let it show, or my father would think he was getting out of this by mistakes I made on the witness stand. As it was, I testified as though I wasn't scared of him at all. But, I was...just a little."

I then looked at the last girl in our group. Her name is Jennifer McAllister and she is an exchange student from Ireland. She had fire red hair with Irish green eyes that sparkled in the light. Today she wearing a tartan plaid skirt, with a lawn green bouse, plaid knee high socks and black penny loafers. It actually reminded me of a school uniform, but it wasn't.

"Jenny, what do you think about all of this?" I asked.

"Well, you see," she started with her Irish accent. "I find your American justice system very fascinating, because in Ireland, things are done differently. The judges still wear powder wigs in formal proccedings and when people are testifying they have to stand in the witness box and face the jury when speaking. If it is a criminal prosecution, the crown's attorney gets to question the witness many times while the defense only can counter the prosecutor twice. So, I find this system very interesting. I'm going to take my essay on this back to Ireland and show my classmates and teachers how things are done over here. Jamie, I think what you did was very brave."

"Thanks Jenny."

"So, I think we should get started, at least on the preliminaries, so that we can change and correct anything that isn't right," I said. They all agreed.

About two hours later, we were all finished with our first drafts of our essays. We looked over what each other wrote about the sentencing and trial, and found that nothing had to be changed. So, we put our finished essays in our binders and put them away. Then i suggested we all go to the kitchen and see if aunt Martha had anything for us for a snack. As we got into the kitchen, aunt Martha said:

"And, what can I do for you young ladies today?"

"Uhm, aunt Martha, we came to see if there was something we could have for a snack. All that studying made us hungry." We all giggled including aunt Martha.

"Well let's just see what there is." And then, she began rummaging through the over large refrigerator.

"Here is some grape juice. Now girls, this is real grape juice, no imitation flavor here. and let me see what you can have to nibble on. Oh! Of course, here are some Ritz crackers. Would any one of you like a little cheddar spread to go with those?"

We all nodded and sat down to enjoy our little repast. After we were done, the girls all said that they had to go home and I wished them a very good day. I also invited them over for dinner as a group with their parents and siblings. We would make a sort of party out of it. They readily accepted and i told them i would tell my aunt about it so she could send out invitations. With a group that large, you need invitations. I was happy the way things turned out. I now had four more close friends. Who knows, maybe we could all go shopping as a group, or swimming, or dating with our boyfriends. Oh! Speaking of boyfriends, I had better give Brian a call.

I dialed his number and his father answered.

"Hello, Hamptons."

"Hello Mr. Hampton. This is Jamie, may I speak with Brian, please?"

"Yes you may, just a minute."

"Hi Jamie? How nice of you to call. I was just thinking about you."

"Everything nice I hope." I giggled and he laughed a little.

"So how'd the study group go?"

"Fine Brian. We got everything right the first time. I invited the girls over with their families and we are going to make a sorta party out of it. Do you think you and your parents would like to come too?"

"Hey, my precious and fairest of the fair, you know I'd like to come even if it wasn't a sorta party like." I giggled again and he laughed a little.

"Why thank you, Prince Charming, I'm sure. So when we get everything planned I will send out and invitation. Okay?"

"Okay, Jamie. Hey! What are you doing this Saturday night. They're having a concert at the soldiers arena and i would like you to go with me."

"You bet," I squealed into the phone.

"Don't do that girl, I only have two ears, you know."

"Uhm, sorry."

We continued to talk about how nice it is to know each other and how we'd both like to be in each other's arms and just making out. We talked about other insignificant things too then we each hung up. I was in ninth heaven. I had a nice home, a nice family, very nice friends and real nice boyfriend. What more could a girl ask for?

JUSTICE TRIUMPHS

It has been three months since my father's conviction on criminal trespass and entry into another's home with intent to commit a crime. it was Thursday evening and we were just sitting around relaxing in the parlor, some of us watching a cable channel on television and others just talking or reading. The phone rang. I heard Donna say it was Mr. Manian from the District Attorney's office. I couldn't hear what all was said except for an occasional "I see" and "oh! all right". "Thanks you Mr. Manian, we are so very relieved to hear that. Yes, you too sir."

"That was Mr. Manian the assistant D.A. who prosecuted your father. The Massachussets court of Appeals has affirmed your father's conviction. That means he stays in jail. He still has two appeals left. One the Massachussetts Supreme Court and if they uphold the court of appeals, then to the United States Supreme Court. But Mr. Manian says that the higher courts won't reverse a conviction if the defendant has had a fair trial and no constitutional rights were violated. Mr. Manian said your father's rights were protected with the utmost care. So, there is no way he can get out of this."

"GOOD!" I screamed. "Maybe he'll finally learn that not everything in this world goes his way." Then I started crying.

"Jamie," my mother said coming over and comfrting me. "What's wrong dear?"

"I'm just sad that he couldn't find it in his heart to be a decent father. I really do feel sorry for him that he had to think that by being abusive that he was always in control. Now that control is no longer his. It's just so sad that people have to learn the hard way."

"Yes it is, sis," Mary said hugging me also.

"Well," started aunt Mandy, "What ye sow, ye shall reap. Says so right in the Bible. If you sow misery, misery is what you reap and your father has reaped what he has sown. I myself have known him way too long and what he is like. I do not feel sorry for him at all, as this has been a long time in coming. He was like this even before you were born Jamie. Some families are really blessed when everyone in the family has respect for each other and treats each other like they would want other people to treat them."

"I know aunt Mandy, but I can't help it. If only he had been nicer."

"Well, sometimes we can't help those who don't want to be helped no matter what we do. In a way it is sad that he had to learn the hard way."

Well, I am living in a good home, with a good family. I have good friends and I have a very nice boyfriend. I am very happy with how things have worked out. Maybe I will ask my mother if I can transition before my eighteenth birthday. I certainly hope so.

Notes:

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