Happy Birthday to Me

This story is about a gay relationship and sex between consenting gay teens, both High School Seniors. This is completely a work of fiction and is not intended to suggest anything about the personality traits of anybody mentioned in the story that isn't publicly known about them.

Any similarities to actual people or places - other than the ones specifically mentioned - are purely coincidental.

If it isn't legal for you to read this for any reason, please use that handy browser line and jump to a subject/site that is more appropriate. Copyright Cory Radke.

Positive comments are always appreciated and welcome. Thanks to Jason, Jamie-Lee, Sean, Justin, quietprivate, drz, Peter, slenard, Bobby, Kent and Rich for their comments after reading Chapter 2. I am grateful to all of you for taking the time to e- me.

Want to comment? You may email me at cory.08@outlook.com

Happy Birthday to Me

Chapter 3

Buckling into his car on Tuesday morning after his regular run with Jaxson, Cory immediately started to work on the promises that he'd made to Aaron, his Mom and Dad. Before he pulled out of the garage, Cory sent a text message to Coach Thompson asking if he had a few minutes to meet before the start of first period.

He then typed Brandon an email to find out if all had gone good with replacement of his phone and reminded the forgetful college student that he had the bucks to get a new Survivor case. He also included Dad's thanks for the great footage of the still under construction Columbia River Bridge pylons.

With those two items complete, Cory hit the start button on his Charger and began his drive to school.

Engaging the car's Uconnect hands free call function he said "dial Steven" and heard the call go through.

"Hi Cory, so am I going to add another State Champion team autographed football to my lobby this year?"

"Depends on if you buck up your regular contribution to the Branson Football Booster Club, Steven," Cory said laughing.

"Hmmmmm... I may have to put a paralegal on researching if that should be considered extortion or bribery."

"I think it's probably a little of both, but if you want to enjoy the big pay-off you have to be willing to make the required investment in the venture."

"For only being 17 years old, you've already learned entirely too much from your Dad. I doubt that you're calling to hit me up for a Booster Club contribution, so what's on your mind Cory?"

"Mom reminded me when we were on our satellite call last night that I needed to get with you. I accept that the appointment is important, but no one has told me what this is about. As far as I know, there isn't anything outstanding that needs to be handled. So what's up?"

Steven smoothly shifted to high-powered attorney mode in an instant. "Cory I know that you're on your way to school. Why don't we just go over everything when we meet. The papers are already drawn up so anytime that is good for you is good for me. What works?"

"With school and practice it's tough for me to get downtown."

"That's something I already anticipated. So why don't I come out to the house tonight unless Aaron is coming over for a training session. That would certainly be more comfortable for you and won't overly impact your schedule. Does 6:30PM work?"

"Sure. Tonight is an off night for training with Aaron."

"Okay, see you tonight at 6:30PM. And make sure to tell Jaxson that I'm coming by or I might be mistaken for a burglar."

"No problem, Steven. Have a great day."

"Bye Cory."

As he continued to drive toward school, Cory had a focused look on his face. Something from his conversation with Steven wasn't adding up and the play analyzing part of his brain was hard at work trying to connect the dots. He knew he was missing a vital link that tied together what the attorney and his Mom had said, but he had a feeling he wouldn't get the full story until 6:30PM.

He decided to push it back and let his head work on it when a beep came through his speakers letting him know that he had an incoming text message. Pressing the Uconnect control, he let the system read it.

It was from Coach Thompson saying he would be available in his office prior to first period.

Looking at the clock, Cory knew that he would arrive at school with plenty of minutes to spare to connect with Coach Thompson and still make it to first period on time.

Walking down the steps to the locker-room Cory saw Aaron coming in through a propped open door from outside completely invisible behind a box stuffed to overflowing with gear - only his trademark Dr. Seuss Chucks let the teen know who it was.

"Hey Aaron, you need some help?"

"Is that you Cory?" said a voice behind the box.

"Ya it is Aaron. How are you even carrying that huge box?" Cory asked as he put down his backpack at the base of the stairs and grabbed the near side.

"It's not easy. I'm just lucky that most of the stuff inside is pretty light."

Aaron sighed gratefully as he felt Cory take up a good portion of the box's weight guiding the two of them through the also propped open locker-room doors and into the equipment area.

"Dude we gotta talk to Coach about getting you an assistant. You are waaaaaaaaaaay too important to the team to get yourself hurt. Plus you're a senior and need to be training someone who will be in place to take over next year."

"I know Cory and this job pays decent but I don't know that the money is there to pay for an assistant equipment manager. Heck, it didn't pay anything until the Booster Club came through and started giving me a salary and benefits."

When Cory took over as starting quarterback and began to fill the equipment room with his personal gear he felt guilty over how much extra Aaron had to deal with for nothing more than school credit. He'd worked with the Branson Booster Club President to add the Equipment Manager's position as the Club's only paid employee - not only giving Aaron a salary, but also much needed health benefits.

As he had gotten to know Aaron, Cory had learned that he was the oldest of three kids with a divorced Mom who worked hard, but had a job that only provided her with health insurance. Aaron was making up that gap with insurance that covered not just himself but also his two younger sisters.

"Let me worry about that, Aaron. I know the team would get behind another fundraiser if it helped you out. The guys count on you. You are part of this football team even if you're not taking hits."

"Thanks Cory. Btw... cool shoes man."

"No problem Aaron and thanks!"

As he walked out of the locker-room to grab his backpack, Cory not only pulled closed the outside doors, but also the locker-room doors as he turned to head toward Coach Thompson's office.

He wasn't really surprised that Aaron had noticed his shoes. When he got dressed this morning, Cory had put on a Diamond Supply Company Vision tee, a pair of black AE performance trunks, black Levi 514's and his Nike Lunar TR1's - the three color soles making up one of the few pairs of shoes he wore that even came close to competing with the "green eggs and ham" bright orange Chucks that Aaron was wearing.

Politely knocking on the door frame of Coach Thompson's office, Cory waited to be invited in before walking through the open door.

"What was so important that it required a text message, Cory?" Coach Thompson asked.

"Nothing big Coach, but something I did forget to ask you yesterday."

As he stood there talking, Cory watched his Coach open a drawer and pull out two Branson High School lanyards with 2013 season sideline passes hanging from them in plastic sleeves.

"I wondered how long it would take you to remember Adrian and Declan," Coach Thompson said smiling. "Cory, you made me proud yesterday with how you handled the offensive team side of practice while I was busy with the defensive team. I reviewed the video at home last night and didn't see anything I would have done different."

"Thanks Coach and I know Adrian and Declan will appreciate you allowing them to be on the sideline again this year."

"With the State Championship on the line, I can't tempt fate by only having one-half of the twin gang on the field this Friday. Besides, Jaxson would never forgive me."

The Coach and Cory laughed together as the warning bell went off.

"Sorry Coach, but I've got to get to class. BTW... if it's ok with you I'm going to talk to the Booster Club about coming up with the money to hire an assistant for Aaron to train. You're going to need an experienced equipment manager after we all graduate this year."

"I agree with you, Cory. It's something I've been thinking about for a while myself, but hadn't come up with a way to deal with the problem under the constraints of a tight school budget. Do what you need to do. Now get to class."

"Yes Sir, Coach!"

Cory was smiling and happy for the first time since he ate dinner last night as walked toward his first period class. Suddenly he was encircled by Trent and Troy.

"Hey bro... is it me or is QB wearing a 'plan in progress smile' that is normally the sole domain of one of us?"

"Hmmmmmmm... I think you're right Trent. We must investigate."

Grabbing Cory's arms the twins lifted him off his feet and carried their unresisting friend into the nearest empty classroom.

"GUYSSSSSSSSSSSS... I'm on my way to first period. I don't have time for a 'curious twin' kidnapping" Cory said as the twins set him down on his feet and crossed their arms waiting for him to talk.

Staring at the silent twins, Cory realized that he was trapped until he gave the pair what they wanted.

"Ok look. It's nothing big. I ran into Aaron on the way to meet with Coach and I realized that he's completely overwhelmed. So I'm going to work with the Booster Club to see if they can set him up with an assistant. He does a lot for the team and needs some help."

"Cory" Trent said "all that is great and you know that Troy and I are behind you 100% in every goal you set. If Aaron needs some help then let's get him some."

"But" Troy picked up "this just brings up stuff we've never pushed you on, QB. We know that the Booster Club is more YOU than any fundraisers in which our parents and teammates participate. Three years ago, you like dropped out of the sky as a Branson freshman. No history. Nobody knew you. Nothing."

"You're our best friend QB, not only because we like you but because you earned it a thousand times over" Trent said. "And more, we love you like a brother. However, sometime you gotta let us in bud. We know you're under pressures you don't share with anybody, and this semi-emo all black look you're showing today is completely UN-Cory. Something happened after practice yesterday."

Putting his hand on Cory's shoulder, Troy gave it a gentle squeeze. "We're not trying to back you into a corner. All we're doing is saying that we're here. Ok?"

Cory could feel himself starting to tear up at the intensity of what the twins were saying. "Ok. I hear you. Honest. The two of you have been one of the best things for me about Branson and I know that I haven't been as transparent as maybe I should. Just gimme some time and I'll work through what you said. Bottom line is that I need you both - not just on the field - but in my life. Just like I'd never betray you, I never intend to take you guys for granted. You mean too much to me. We good?"

"Cory, we're always good." the twins said together.

"UGHHHHHHHHHHHHHH... I knew this would end with you two speaking twin" Cory said laughing.

"Hey, we can't let Adrian and Declan steal our style. At least not until AFTER we graduate" the two said speaking simultaneously. "Let's get to class."

Later that day as he entered 4th period class, Cory walked up to his AP Social Studies teacher and asked if he could be excused 10 minutes early. Since she knew he wouldn't ask without a good reason and had already turned in homework that wasn't due for three days, she gave permission - asking only that her best student sit in the first row nearest the door to make the easiest possible exit.

With ten minutes to go before the warning bell, Cory packed up his stuff and headed out giving a smile of thanks to his teacher. He then walked down the central stair and through the lobby toward the main office. Opening the door he waited for another student to be helped before taking a place at the long counter.

"Hey Mrs. Blanchett" Cory said grinning. "Mind if I use your computer for a minute?"

Mrs. Blanchett was Branson High School's Administrative Secretary and knew that Cory was likely asking to look up something in student files, but as she also knew that he wouldn't make the request lightly she had an idea where this was heading. "May I assume this is part of the latest 'Cory-mission'?"

"You know me too well, Mrs. Blanchett. I promise that I'm only looking for a very narrow range of information on one student."

"Ok Cory, but don't take too long. I don't want our new Assistant Principal getting overly excited."

Sitting at her desk, Cory quickly pulled up the student database. Typing in a locker number provided the last name he needed. Then he flipped to the address/contact sub file and finally to the list of free school lunch students. Closing out the search, he stood up picking his backpack up off the floor.

"All done Mrs. Blanchett. Thanks!"

"No problem, Cory. You'll let me know if everything works out, won't you?"

"I definitely will, ma'am."

Heading out the main office doors, he waved back as Mrs. Blanchett called out "And good luck Friday!"

Walking down the long hallway toward the central courtyard, Cory became part of a moving human wave as the warning bell emptied out classrooms on both sides. Holding open the doors for a few behind him, he moved across the courtyard and into the cafeteria standing in the lunch hungry line of students.

A few minutes later he took his usual place with Trent, Troy and their girlfriends as he joined in the conversation he had missed out on yesterday when he was rapidly plowing through his lunch. Joking with the others, Cory failed to notice the twins look at each other as they recognized that whatever had started their friend's day off bad had dissipated and their best bud was back to his usual happy self.

For Cory, the day had finally become a good day.

As his last class let out, Cory dashed through the halls toward the front of school stopping Troy for a second as he moved through the mass of students in the lobby.

"Hey Troy, I might be a few late to practice so let Coach know. Tell him I got a strategy on what we talked about this morning."

"No problem, QB. I'll take care of it."

Darting in and out of students heading toward the rows of buses waiting to take most Branson attendees home for the day, Cory scanned the crowd with the same intensity he scoped plays unfolding on the field. He finally caught sight of the face he was looking for and with his innate skills dodged through and around to reach the one student who was his goal.

"Hey Jay!"

"Cory?" the 14 year old said as he stepped out of the bus load line.

"You got anything going this afternoon, bud?"

"Not really. Am just gonna go home to do some class stuff before my Dad gets home from work."

"Well, if you're willing to stick around for practice I'll give you a ride home after. I wanted to talk to you about something."

"I guess that'd be cool."

"Ok bud, follow me to the locker-room."

As the two of them went back in the main doors Cory looked down at Jay. "Do you need to call anybody and let them know you won't be home at regular time? I wouldn't want anyone worrying about you."

Jay blushed. "I should probably call my Dad but..."

Cory put his hand on Jay's arm and knelt down to look him in the eyes. "But what buddy?"

"I kinda dropped my phone and broke it and Dad hasn't had the extra money to replace it." Jay was blazing red with embarrassment.

"You aren't related to Brandon Lawrence are you?" Cory smiled. "It's ok. Here use my phone." Pulling open a padded side pocket on his backpack, he handed Jay his phone.

Dialing a number Jay waited for an answer. "Hey Dad, I wanted to let you know that I'm not coming home on the bus." He paused. "No Dad, I didn't miss the bus. Cory asked if I could stay back and help him with something at football practice." Pausing again it was obvious he was listening to something his Dad was saying. "Don't worry about it Dad, Cory said he'd give me a ride home."

Jay held the phone out to Cory. "Dad wants to talk to you."

"Hi Mr. Wald, this is Cory Radke. I'm a Branson senior and quarterback of the varsity team."

"Cory, it's not that I think you're a bad person, but I believe you can understand that, as a parent, I'm concerned about my son getting talked into staying behind at school and then getting a ride home with a stranger."

"Sir, I completely understand. And if you'd like, I'd be happy to have Coach Thompson call you directly and let you know that Jay is safe and that I'm a very responsible driver."

"That would make me feel a lot better, Cory. It's not that I haven't read stuff about you in the newspaper so I know at least something, but I'd feel more comfortable if your Coach contacted me and let me know that all of this was legitimate."

"No problem, sir. I'm heading to practice right now. I'll ask Coach to call you as soon as Jay and I get there, and he'll also tell you why I've asked Jay to stay back. May I have him contact you at this number?"

"Sure. I will be waiting for Coach Thompson's call."

"Thank you, sir. You'll be hearing from him shortly."

Ending the call, Cory knelt back down and looked Jay in the face. "I know that was probably embarrassing to you Jay, but your Dad was totally right in wanting to know you were safe and nothing weird was going on."

"It's ok, Cory. Since my Mom died, it's just been Dad and me and he gets a little stupid protective."

"Since we got a minute, let me tell why I asked you to stay behind" Cory said as he walked over to one of the lobby benches and sat down with his pack between his feet waving Jay to take a seat. He bent down to slide his phone back in its pocket.

"I'm not looking for you to make a decision today because I think it's something you need to think about and talk about with your Dad. Plus you need to figure out if you can handle the extra responsibility along with your class work."

"What are you talking about Cory?"

"I talked to Coach Thompson this morning, and he agreed that we need an assistant equipment manager. It's even more important because Aaron is going to be graduating this year like me and right now there's no one ready to take his place next year. You with me so far?"

"Ya I guess so."

"What I'm going to do is take you down and let you talk to Aaron and see what he has to do. You'll then talk to Coach Thompson. If you're good then we can set up a schedule that works for you. Until you're 16 you can only legally work 18 hours a week and that probably shouldn't be more than 15 hours a week - just so it doesn't mess up getting homework done. You will get school credit for this, but it's also a real job which means it's gonna pay. I still have to get it cleared through the Booster Club, but you'd earn $15 an hour. How's that sound?"

"Dude that's like double the minimum wage jobs I applied for over the summer! Never got one, but the extra money would be great. I could pay for a lot of school stuff that - well, that Dad couldn't afford to buy for me." Jay look embarrassed again.

"Like I said Jay, this isn't something you should decide today. Look at it as your own practice run. You can see what Aaron has to do. See if you like being around the team. And then you'll have the info you need to think about it and talk it over with your Dad. Deal?"

Cory held out his fist for a bump. "DEAL!" Jay shouted bumping Cory's fist.

Jay deviously smiled as he looked up at the older teen. "That is one HUUUUUUUUUUUUUGE banner." He said pointing at the current bane of Cory's life.

Cory laughed as he reached over and messed Jay's hair. "Hey, what did I say about 'ignoring the guy on the big banner'."

"Dude at that size you're kinda hard to ignore" Jay smiled.

"UGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH... remind me to smack the twins around."

Reaching down, Cory picked up his pack and led Jay to the locker- room. Aaron was back in the equipment area after ensuring that all the practice gear Coach wanted was on the field. He looked up surprised to see Cory guiding a first-year into the room.

"Hey Aaron, meet Elijah Wald who likes to be called Jay. I've asked him to think about becoming your assistant, so run him through what he would need to do both to help you right now and what he'd be taking on as equipment manager next year."

"Sure Cory. Hey Jay it's great to meet you."

"And Jay don't worry. One of requirements of being equipment manager for Branson does not include wearing those crazy ass Chucks that Aaron's got on." The three of them laughed.

Leaving the two guys behind, Cory went to pull open his locker and stash his pack. He saw that Aaron had already loaded in his practice gear as he quickly pulled out his phone and closed his locker.

Running out to the practice field, Cory waited at Coach Thompson's side until the Coach finished giving instructions to the defensive team players on one knee in front of him.

Turning to his quarterback, Coach Thompson didn't even let him get a word out. "Don't worry Cory I got the message from Troy that you might be late. Is this about a potential assistant equipment manager?"

"Sure is Coach, I've got Jay talking to Aaron right now about what he'd be taking on. And I also told him he'd need to meet with you after to get your sign off. Then he's going to think about the offer and talk it over with his Dad before letting us know a final decision."

"So is this kid the right one for the job, Cory?"

"I think so Coach. Plus..." he said leaning in closer to Coach Thompson. "I think he kinda needs it the same way Aaron did."

"Ok Cory, I'll talk to Jay after he's finished with Aaron. I trust your instincts, but you're a student too so don't get over focused on these 'Cory-missions'. You got a great heart, but I don't want to see you getting hurt if something doesn't work out. You're definitely a 'fixer' but, sadly, you can't fix all the wrongs in life."

"I know Coach, but its okay to do what I can to help out right?"

"Definitely Cory" Coach Thompson said smiling proud at his quarterback as he reached over to pat his shoulder. "Now go get changed out, your team needs you."

"Yes sir, Coach!" Cory reached out his hand with his phone in it. "Coach I need you to call Jay's Dad and let him know that this is all genuine. I'm also giving Jay a ride home after practice. You're a parent so you know his concern."

"I'll take care of it and I'll give your phone to Aaron to put back in your locker when I'm done. Last number dialed right?"

"You got it, Coach. Thanks!"

Heading into the locker-room, Cory quickly pulled on full practice gear. After grabbing his mouth guard out of its keeper on the top shelf he looked around for his helmet which it didn't take long to realize was missing.

"UGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH... TROOOOOOOOOOY!"

Coming out of the shower room, Cory finished drying himself off then wrapped the towel around his slim waist. As he padded barefoot toward his locker he could see Jay in Coach Thompson's closed door office. The first-year was watching Coach closely and seemed to be seriously responding to all his questions.

As he headed down the aisle toward where Trent and Troy were already mostly dressed, Cory could see Aaron moving amongst the guys with a football and sharpie in hand - getting each player to sign their name on the ball. Taking the towel from around his waist, he laid it across the bench then opened his locker pulling the clothes he'd worn to school out of two of the storage cubbys.

Bending over to slide on his AE performance trunks, Cory could feel someone behind him. After he set the waistband in place he turned around to face a smiling Aaron. "Cory, that little dude is fantastic! I think he's got the equipment room organization system already down and he went out to the practice field to help me bring in gear without me saying a word. If you can get the Booster Club to hire him it'd be totally killer!"

"Aaron we gotta wait to find out what Coach says and then on what Jay decides after talking to his Dad. All we can do is make the offer and leave the choice up to him."

"I know but I thought this might help. It's only missing your signature and then you can give it to Jay on your way home - he told me that you were giving him a ride."

Taking the ball and sharpie, Cory signed his name then handed the sharpie back to Aaron putting the ball on the bench next to his wet towel. "So everybody signed?"

"Yep, you were the last."

"Thanks Aaron for thinking of Jay like that. Hope he agrees to come on as your assistant. You guys sure seem to make a great team."

"It's all you Cory. He couldn't stop talking about how great you were and how cool you are for even asking him. And I really appreciate you watching out for me" Aaron said blushing a little.

"Aaron you do a lot for this team. If we can get Jay on board I know you'll turn him into the Equipment Manager who can step in to your Chucks next year."

"Ya like you got something to talk wearing those TR1's."

"He's got you there, QB" Trent said lightly punching Cory's bare shoulder. "See you tomorrow Cory, I gotta head out so this dude can take our ride and go be carry boy for Amy at the Mall."

"I'd just be glad if Troy left my helmet in my locker where it belongs. That was dead mean putting it on the tackling sled, Troy."

"Hey, it gave the defensive team a QB to target as they worked up for Ravensville" Troy said. "Besides it was wicked funny!"

"UGHHHHHHHHHHH... get your twin asses out of here!"

Waving bye to his best friends, Cory turned back to his locker and pulled on his tee as Jay walked out of Coach's office and sat down on the bench next to him.

"How'd it go with Coach, Jay?" Cory asked as he looked up and saw Coach Thompson give two thumbs up.

"He said the job was mine if I wanted it. Guess now I just gotta do what you said. Think if I can put in the time and still keep up in classes. Coach said he wouldn't let me stay on if any of my grades dropped. Plus, I need to talk it over with Dad."

"Ya, Coach is big on academics. Each semester every player has to sit down with him and review grade reports. A lot of the guys think he's tougher than their parents."

"Hey... speaking of the guys. The team wanted you to have this." Cory reached down and picked up the autographed football and handed it to Jay. "Actually, it's Aaron you should thank because he thought of it. But all the guys are already behind you. Trent and Troy were saying you're gonna be the team's new little bro."

"COOOOOOOOOOOOOOORY this is EPIC!" Jay yelled as he rotated the ball in his hands looking at all the signatures. "Thanks Aaron" he shouted toward the equipment room.

While Jay was busy staring at the football, Cory finished getting dressed. After grabbing his backpack he closed the locker.

"You ready to head home little dude?"

Tucking the ball tight against his side, Jay picked up his own backpack and followed Cory out of the locker-room and toward the senior's parking lot.

Pulling the fob out of his backpack, Cory unlocked the doors on his car and opened the passenger side for Jay.

"Dude this is your car?"

"Jay it's just a car. Four wheels. Engine. Gets from place A to place B. It's no biggie. Now get in and buckle up."

"Ya but a Charger is wicked cool!"

"Thanks Jay" Cory said as he settled in the driver's seat and buckled in. As he hit the start button he looked at the 14 year old. "Could you put your address into the Nav for me?" After Jay punched in his address, Cory pulled out of the parking slot and started the drive to the first-year's house.

"So you got all the info you need in order to think about the job offer and talk it over with your Dad?"

"Ya I think so. Coach is great. The guys are great. Aaron is great. And you're great for asking me" Jay blushed again. "Dad just is gonna want to know I can do the work and keep my grades up. Ummmmm... he's kinda counting on me getting a scholarship for college."

"You know both Coach and I want you to have a serious talk about this with your Dad. But, if you do take the job there is help. There are guys on the team who tutor in the subjects they got nailed, so if you need a hand in anything just ask. We're a team. We win together and we succeed together, even in the classroom. Aaron knows that he may wear a coach's polo and not a jersey, but he's still part of our team and you would be too."

"Thanks Cory, I think that'll make Dad feel a lot better."

"No problem, Jay. And even if you don't take the job, the team is not an exclusive club. If you need an assist in a specific class just ask me, Aaron, Trent or Troy and we'll hook you up with a guy who can help. We are all in the same school trying to learn. I think too many people want to go through Branson by themselves when we could be 1400 kids combining our skills to get everybody over the top."

"Wow you sound like my home room teacher."

"Nah, just repeating what Coach has said since I was a first-year and stuff that I believe myself" Cory paused for a second as pieces of what happened during his call with Mom and Dad last night and the stuff that Trent and Troy said to him today came slamming together. "You know I just realized that I haven't been as good as I should about putting into play what I was just saying to you. I got to work on that. See Jay, none of us does perfect all the time."

"What do you mean Cory?" Jay looked over at the senior eyeing him with concern. "Is something going on with you?"

"Don't worry about it Jay."

Cory was watching the road when a store caught his eye. "But there is something I can take care of right now." Pulling over into the strip mall he knew that Jay was looking at him odd as he stopped at an AT&T store. "Hey buddy, I've got to go in and take care of something. Would you be cool waiting in the car for me?"

Jay shrugged "no problem Cory."

Getting out, Cory walked inside. After about 25 minutes, he came back out carrying an AT&T bag. Getting back in the car he handed Jay the bag. "Here little dude this is for you."

"Huh?"

Opening the bag Jay saw a box with an iPhone and a second box with a LifeProof case. "You got a phone Cory why'd you get a new one?"

"That's not mine Jay. It's yours."

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY" Jay screamed excited. "Cory you can't do this, can you?"

"It's one thing I can fix today, Jay. The phone is already setup. I had the sales guy pull the almost dead battery and put in a fully charged one. You got a LifeProof case to help protect it the next time you drop it. You got unlimited minutes that are paid up for the next four years. And it's got an auto upgrade so when Apple releases the new phone you get it for free. Is that ok?"

"OK? Cory I can't take this."

"Dude it's in your name. It's yours. Think of it as an early Christmas gift or birthday gift or a Happy Tuesday gift. No matter what, it's yours."

"Cory this is incredible. Thanks huge." Cory could tell that Jay was near tears.

"Just personalize it and then get your new digits to your buds. Can't have one of Branson's best first-years not connected. That's just not right."

"Ummmmmmm... Cory?"

"Ya Jay?"

"Would it be okay for me to put you on the phone?"

"Sure Jay and put your number and contact info into mine as well. You know where my phone is in my backpack."

Reaching back, Jay pulled Cory's phone out of his pack. After confirming the number, he programmed it into the senior's phone and tacked on his pic. Jay then grabbed Cory's number and put it in his phone. At the next stop light, Jay had Cory look at him and took a pic of the smiling teen.

"You all setup?" Cory asked.

"Yah all setup!" Jay said almost bouncing off the car's roof with excitement.

"Cool, cuz ur home!"

"Man I didn't realize that we'd made it here already." Jumping out of the car Jay headed toward the front door with Cory watching from the front seat. Suddenly, the front door opened and an older version of Jay stepped out. He didn't look happy. He pointed at the bag from the AT&T store and seemed to be asking Jay a bunch of questions. He was looking back at the idling Charger as he listened to what Jay had to say.

Cory thought stuff might be getting out of hand so he turned off the car and stepped out. As he walked up the pathway to the front door of the modest home, Cory held out his hand.

"Hi Mr. Wald. I'm Cory Radke. I spoke to you on the phone earlier."

Noah Wald reached out and shook Cory's hand, but appeared more suspicious than pleased at meeting the athletic teen in person.

"Jay was telling me about your 'gift'."

Before he could go any further, Cory interrupted. "Jay why don't you head inside and start on the homework you need to get done. I think your Dad wants to talk to me direct."

Jay looked at Cory then his Dad and gave a kind of meek "k" and headed inside. Cory reach around Jay's Dad and pulled the door closed.

"Mr. Wald I apologize for interrupting you, but I thought it would clear things up faster if you and I talked without Jay. Would it be okay if we walked down the street?"

Noah Wald shook his head yes and followed Cory down the sidewalk.

"Cory, your Coach told me that you were a stand up guy. But that is a very expensive 'gift' you bought my son. I would have preferred if you had spoken to me first before purchasing it."

"I'm sorry Mr. Wald and you're probably right. But I promise you there are no strings attached and no bad intentions to me buying Jay the phone. There's also no cost to you. The minutes are unlimited for both voice and data and are fully paid up for the entirety of Jay's four years at Branson."

"Cory that's a very generous gift and something I probably wouldn't have been able to afford to give Jay for a long time to come. But as I said before, I also know how expensive it is and no matter what you say about 'no strings' I'm left wondering why you would give my 14 year old son something that valuable."

"Mr. Wald my reason for giving it to Jay was simple and maybe a little selfish. I'm hoping that you and he will decide to allow him to become the assistant equipment manager for the Branson football team. The reality is that for him to do that job, he's going to need a phone to stay in contact with Coach and the team."

"I can understand that Cory and it lines up with what Coach Thompson told me about both the job offer and you when we were on the phone during practice. But, it's still an expensive 'gift'."

"Mr. Wald, I had two Branson staff members - Coach Thompson and Administrative Secretary Blanchett - describe me today as a fixer. I saw a problem and I fixed it. The truth that I would like to keep between the two of us is that I have the financial resources to 'fix' things like this. I'm not trying to show off, but my Charger was a birthday gift from my Dad last year. And I have other vehicles that are even more expensive in my name. I could afford to do something that helped both Jay and you - by taking a burden off your shoulders. I was raised to believe that if I could do something to help that I should. That's the ONLY thing that is going on here, nothing more."

"Ok Cory. Based on what Coach Thompson told me earlier, I'm going to trust you. And I will keep what you said between us. I will also listen to what Jay has to say about the job he's being offered. Not just because I know he really wants to do it, but because I know he has felt bad all summer that he wasn't able to get a part-time job and help out when it came to paying for school stuff."

"Thank you Mr. Wald and I appreciate you keeping what I said private. I hope you'll give the job offer the serious consideration it deserves. I know both our current equipment manager and the team are optimistic that Jay will take the Coach's offer. That's up to you and him, but the phone is Jay's no matter what you decide."

"I appreciate the direct talk Cory. Jay and I will discuss this and he'll let you know the final decision."

"Thank you, sir. Now I need to head home myself. Please tell Jay that the team is counting on him to complete his homework so you have the confidence that he'll be able to take on this job and not have it affect his grades even a little."

Walking back to Jay's house, Cory and Mr. Wald shook hands one last time and then Cory got in his car to drive home for his meeting with Steven. Cory had no better idea what that would entail, but at least he felt good about what he'd been able to accomplish today for two very deserving guys.

It was 6:12PM when Cory pulled into the garage and closed the big door. As he grabbed his pack from the backseat Cory knew he would be facing an unhappy Jaxson when he walked into the house.

Sure enough, sitting on his haunches on the marble floor, Jaxson was again frowning at his master.

"Yes Jaxson, I know I'm late for the second day in a row" Cory said as he dropped his pack and knelt down in front of his puppy wrapping his arms around his dog in an affectionate hug. "But I promise you it was necessary and that we did good today. I was able to help out Coach, Aaron, the team, Jay and his Dad. So please gimme credit for a home run, huh?"

Jaxson looked Cory in the eyes tilting his head like he was considering what had been said. After a few seconds he gave a woof and climbed up to put both paws on Cory's shoulders slathering his face with wet doggy kisses.

"Thanks for forgiving me Jaxson. I love you too puppy. BTW... Steven is going to be here at 6:30PM so no growling at the lawyer."

Jaxson looked at Cory like he was draining all the fun from life, but rubbed his head against Cory's face and followed the teen into the kitchen to wait for Steven to arrive.

At 6:36PM the doorbell rang and Jaxson looked up eagerly at his master. "Ok Jaxson you can bark a couple of times at Steven."

Running out to the front door with Cory behind him, Jaxson took position and let out four barks then sat down happy. Looking at his puppy, Cory asked "feel better?" Jaxson shook his head up and down as Cory unlocked and opened the front door.

"Does Jaxson still feel the line is 'the first thing we do is kill all the lawyers'?" Steven asked laughing as he walked into the house.

"Maybe but he knows there'd be huge trouble over the mess from Maria and Stephanie if he actually did it" Cory said as closed the door and led the attorney into the den.

Waving Steven into a comfortable leather chair, Cory took his place behind the desk. Steven had mentioned there would be papers and he was guessing that meant he was going to have to sign something. What that would be he still had yet to figure out.

Steven put his briefcase on the chair next to his and leaned back. 'This is when the real story unfolds' Cory thought to himself.

"Cory four years ago when I took your emancipation case to release you from direct parental control, I understood your reasoning - and your desire to make your own decisions about how you were educated - just like they did. Your Dad wanted you to be represented by an attorney that he trusted which is why he released me from my duties as the family attorney and I became solely your attorney while my firm retained responsibilities for the rest of the family, the family corporation and the family foundation."

"I know all of this Steven. It's all history. It's also why you had me legally change my last name and file the emancipation case in a small city courthouse in Montana. I kept my privacy because there was no reason for the world to know anything about what was entirely a family matter."

"All true Cory. However, in just three weeks you will turn 18 and will be an adult in fact as well as in law. There are significant matters of which you should now be aware."

"Now, I get the full story about the reason for this meeting?"

"Cory, first I want to tell you that nothing was maliciously withheld from you. Even though you were granted emancipation, you agreed that I would have the authority to act as your guardian in general financial matters. You know it was the opinion of both the Judge and me that - because of whom your family is - for a 14 year old the financial issues involved - while not beyond the comprehension of someone of your known intellect - were beyond what was important to you at that time."

"Again, we're going over old history Steven. You haven't told me anything new."

Picking up his case, Steven opened it and pulled out a large pile of both folders and paperwork covered with red 'sign here' post-its.

"Ok Cory. However, for you to understand what you'll be doing tonight I do need to go over some additional 'history'. Eighteen years ago when you were born, your grandfather had what ultimately became his final will drawn up. Beyond some specific details which aren't really important, the general parameters of that will were relatively simple. Upon his death, 40% of his estate went to the family foundation. The remaining 60% was divided three ways - your Dad and Aunt both inherited 10% while the remaining 40% was placed in Trust for you."

"What are you talking about? When the emancipation case was completed, I signed over control of the 10% of granddad's estate I supposedly gained to Dad's management. I didn't 'divorce' my parents because I didn't love them or they didn't love me. I did it because I wanted get out of the public spotlight and choose where I went to school, not have it picked for me by Mom, Dad or circumstance."

"That's exactly right, Cory. But the 10% you gained at the time of your emancipation was what the terms of the will granted you prior to turning 18. On your behalf, I signed management of that remainder of the Trust over to your Dad as well. And, you should be proud that he handled it in the same exceptional fashion that he and your mom did raising you. In the 10 years since your grandfather died, your Dad not only doubled the principal in the Trust but added another 50% on top of that. And since you don't exactly lead an extravagant lifestyle, 50% of the proceeds you gain every year from the original 10% went back into the Trust for reinvestment."

"Steven, I think we're getting lost in numbers. And we're putting Jaxson to sleep." Cory looked down at the dozing Weimaraner lying next to him.

"Then let me summarize. At 12:01AM on your 18th birthday, you gain full control of the 40% of your grandfather's estate that was left in Trust to you in his will."

"Steven, I know how much the 10% that I received on emancipation totaled out to be. Doing quick math on the remaining 30% and how much you said Dad has increased it; you're talking a gigantic amount of money."

"Hence the reason for this meeting."

"No joke."

"But there's more."

"EXCUSE ME???" Cory's loud exclamation brought Jaxson awake in a second looking around for any danger. "Everything is okay, Jaxson. I'm sorry for waking you up." He reached down to scratch his puppy's ears as his own anxiety level went through the roof.

"Exactly what 'more' is there?"

"You know that as your grandfather desired, your Dad took the 10% that had been left to him and grew it into a company that has major operations around the world. In essence, your Dad created a company that is currently larger than the one your grandfather built and it is still growing."

"Yes I know that and am very proud of what Dad has achieved."

"What you may not know is that you have second Trust which also comes under your control when you turn 18. When your Dad organized the new company, he did so as a privately held firm and divided the stock between him, your mom and you - each owning 1/3 of the stock."

"Okay... I'm with you so far, Steven."

"A few weeks ago, your mom executed a change in the ownership of the portion of stock she was granted. As of your 18th birthday, she is dividing her stock in two pieces and transferring half to you. The upshot is that you will then control 49% of the family company."

"Rather than wake Jaxson up again by screaming, I'll just quietly say... what?"

"Cory, I know this is a lot to have to take on all at once, at least without a flow chart, but let me say there are just two more pieces and then we'll get down to the busy work."

"Steven you've already thrown my life into the twilight zone with just what you've told me so far, and yet there is more?"

"Much like a band-aid on a scab, I'll try to get through all of this as quickly as possible. Here's the first part. Your Dad's attorney has asked me to pass on to you that he has changed his will. At the time of his death, you will immediately gain a sufficient portion of his stock to give you 55% and absolute control of the family company. The remaining stock will devolve to your mom until her death. Then you will gain a final 5% of the stock with 40% going to the family foundation in the tradition set by your grandfather. Besides having a seat on the Board of Directors of the family company, you are also being given the responsibility of a Board position at the family foundation. As you know, by the terms of your grandfather's original will, there may only be four board positions at the foundation. Your Aunt has the fourth and it is specifically barred to any of your cousins upon her death unless you approve."

"Why do I feel that part two of this equation is something that I'm going like even less than what I've already heard?"

"Here's part two. Your Dad's attorney has let me know that you will not be getting a new car for your 18th birthday, a fact I'm sure you'll appreciate since I know what you thought when the Charger was delivered. Instead, what you'll be getting is full title to this house and everything in it that isn't already owned by you."

Cory fell back in the chair; he was in completely stunned and very near tears. "Steven what you're telling me is that Mom and Dad have absolutely no plans to ever return to this house, to Portland... or to me. I'm being abandoned for choosing my own path on how I desired to be educated."

"Cory that's not what I'm saying. Your Mom and Dad love you. While they have no current plans to come back to Portland because of the press of other business matters, you know about the other family homes in this country and around the world. You will always be welcome at them and ultimately they will become assets that you inherit. The reason for the change in ownership of this house is that they recognize that very soon you will be going someplace for college and your Mom and Dad simply wanted to provide you with a base of your own. Maria and Stephanie will switch from being family corporation employees to your employees. With the expanded financial resources to which you have access, I promise you will have no difficulty paying either them or the expenses of running this house. Your Dad is also making an additional recommendation to you, but one that you have sole discretion to either accept or reject."

"Oh goody, I can't wait."

"He strongly recommends that you also add Aaron Rocha as a personal employee. The guest house on this property is large enough in both number of bedrooms and space for his family. Your Dad feels that you need Aaron as an on site security person. With the various changes that will occur on your 18th birthday, there is an increased likelihood that the cover story that was developed to allow you anonymity in Portland will dissolve and your Dad feels you will need Aaron around as a supplement to Jaxson."

"As much as I don't like it, and I know Jaxson won't either, it makes sense. I'll talk to Aaron about it when he comes over to train me tomorrow. If it's what he wants - instead of just what Dad wants - then we'll go ahead. Now what do I need to sign?"

Pulling out the pile of paperwork with 'sign here' post-its, Steven separated it into various smaller piles.

"The first set involves the question of who will manage your assets until you choose to do it on your own or hire a financial manager to do it for you. My recommendation as your attorney is that you keep your Dad as financial manager. As long as he continues to retain day-to-day control of the money, stock, property and other components of your Trust, it will increase the chance that your cover story remains in place since most analysts will be unable to differentiate between where his assets end and yours begin."

"Steven, I trust my Dad completely and he's already shown that he can manage the Trust better than anybody else. So yes, I want to keep him as my financial manager."

Steven pulled one set of documents from the first pile and handed it to Cory. "Please sign or initial at each indicated place."

"This second set of paperwork converts part of your Trust into a corporation. While you have to sign the paperwork for its creation, the materials that will be filed with various government agencies will not bear your name in any way. Thereby keeping your cover story intact to the degree my firm is capable of achieving. I've also selected a name for this new company that you can change in the future should you wish - in case you're wondering, Cynfab means 'first son' in Welsh."

Cory returned the first set of documents and took the second.

"This third, and final set, is the longest. It transfers the employee contracts and confidentiality agreements from the family corporation to your newly created corporation. All employees will be paid by direct deposit through ADP Payroll Services. So your name doesn't appear on anything. It also transfers ownership of this house from the family corporation to your newly created corporation. This is to ensure that no one can track back the property transfers directly to you. I will put the transfer of the contract for Aaron Rocha here on the side for you to sign or not after your discussion with him. Just contact my office and we'll send out a courier to pick it up."

With a sigh, Cory picked up the third set of documents and began to sign after handing back the second set.

"This last part is easy, Cory. Then I'll be out of here. Your current credit card will be terminated as of first of next month. This new VISA card has your name on it, but the monthly bills will be paid by your new corporation. This second card was arranged for by your Dad as a second birthday present and will also be paid for by your new corporation."

Steven opened a folder and handed Cory a new Platinum VISA card that he could use for everyday purchases. Even though it was a Platinum card it wasn't something that anyone who saw him use it would find unusual. The second card was.

"Steven is this really necessary?"

Cory held in his hand the American Express Centurion card - commonly known as the 'Black' card. It was made from solid titanium and had the name of his new corporation on it.

"I know it may seem excessive to you Cory, but that card is the path through which all your employees and household expenses will be paid. So yes, it is necessary. I'm not suggesting you carry it around. Probably the best thing to do is just lock it in your safe."

Steven gathered up all the documents except for the one involving Aaron Rocha and put them back in his case. "I know this was tough for you Cory, but we're done."

Steven held out his hand and Cory shook it. When he stood up, Jaxson came awake and walked with him to the front door as Cory let the attorney out of the house. Staring at the closing door, the puppy whimpered. "Okay Jaxson, go ahead."

Jaxson smugly let go three barks at the back of the retreating attorney and then looked up at his master with a smile on his face.

"You're so silly sometimes, but I love you completely Jaxson."

Walking back into the den, Cory picked up the Black card by its edge and tapped it against the desktop. He looked at it and felt that in one piece of metal it represented the end of his youth and the further sundering of ties between himself and his Mom and Dad that he had never intended or wanted.

He had never felt so alone in his life.

"Happy Birthday to me" Cory said out loud with no real joy.

Putting the card back down on the desk, he picked up the papers that would change his and Aaron's relationship forever and slid them into a side drawer. He then noticed a file folder that Steven had left behind. It had a tab on it that said "Cynfab Corporation Assets".

Cory opened the folder to find a nearly 25-page accounting report. "OMG!" was all he could come up with as he looked at the bottom line and the unbelievable number of digits on the last page.

He closed the folder and put it in the drawer as well. He then made a decision.

"Come on Jaxson, we need to take a drive." Jaxson barked happily as he followed Cory back into the kitchen. Grabbing his phone out of his backpack, Cory scrolled up Trent and Troy and sent a '911' text to both of them.

Within two minutes, Cory's phone rang with caller ID showing it was Trent. "Cory what's up with the 911?"

"Trent, would it be okay for Jaxson and me to come over right now? I need to talk to you and Troy."

"Sure buddy, you know you're always welcome. Come on over."

"Thanks Trent. We'll be there in 20 minutes."

Cory held the open door for Jaxson as the two headed into the garage and past the Charger. Opening the digital key safe mounted along the back wall, he pulled out the keys for the second vehicle in the four bay garage - a 2013 mocha metallic Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ.

Hitting the opener button, Cory waited for the door to fully rise before walking past the big four wheel drive SUV and pressing the lift button. As the hatch went up, Jaxson waited until his master had opened the crate door then jumped up and walked into the padded TransK9 carrier that was anchored to the floor of the vehicle's cargo area. Cory gently rubbed his puppy's head as Jaxson settled on the floor of the crate.

"Sometimes it's like you're the only family I've got, Jaxson."

The Weimaraner seemed to sense that something was very wrong as he rubbed his head against Cory's hand doing what he could to comfort his buddy. Closing the crate door, Cory dropped the hatch and climbed into the driver's seat pulling down and buckling the seat belt.

"Ready to go see Trent and Troy, Jaxson?"

The puppy gave two happy woofs as Cory started up his Tahoe and backed out of the garage. The SUV's headlights automatically coming on as Cory turned out of the drive and headed into Portland - the rapidly darkening sky just mirroring his mood.

The 20-minute drive to the comfortable Riley home went by fast and after what seemed like only a few minutes, Cory was in the driveway of the brightly illuminated large home that was the residence of Dr. & Mrs. Riley along with Trent, Troy, 13 year old Tabatha and 11 year old Tyler.

Cory had barely come to a stop when the front flew open and Tyler came hurtling out of the house with Tabatha hot behind him. Cory had to wait for the two to run past the driver's door before he could safely open and climb out of the Tahoe. The shorter Tyler had already hit the lift button while the taller Tabatha opened the crate.

They both giggled as Jaxson leaned out and started licking their faces.

"Geez guys you could let stop first before you attacked" Cory said smiling as he motioned for Jaxson to jump out of the carrier and onto the ground where the two youngest Rileys eagerly hugged and petted the kid-friendly dog.

"Tyler would you do me a favor?"

"Sure Cory what is it?"

Reaching in to one of the side storage compartments of the SUV's cargo area, Cory pulled out a gallon sized Ziplock bag full of dog food. "I forgot to give Jaxson dinner before we left the house. Would you please give him some food and water for me before you three start playing?"

"Will do Cory. Come on Jaxson" the 11 year old said as he ran back into the house carrying the dog food closely followed by the hungry puppy.

Closing the hatch, Cory locked up the Tahoe and headed toward the house. Sliding the keys into his pocket, he looked up to see Trent waiting for him.

"I think you just made their week, Cory" Trent said. "Getting to feed AND play with Jaxson is Tabatha and Tyler's #1 thing. To them that's the same as winning the lotto!"

"Glad I could make somebody happy."

In an instant, Trent's face changed to concern and he shifted into empathy mode. "Troy got your 911 same as me and is heading back, but he has to drop off Amy first. I don't think he'll get here for twenty minutes plus."

"That's ok. I just appreciate you answering my text."

"Okay bro, now I know something is going on."

The two walked into the house with Trent closing the door behind them. They could hear the two younger Riley's arguing about who got to pour out Jaxson's food as Mrs. Riley acted as referee - suggesting that Tabatha fill a bowl with water while Tyler did the same thing with the food. Jaxson, of course, just sat calmly as the kid storm rotated wildly around him.

"Hi Cory" Mrs. Riley said as she stepped up and hugged the twin's best friend kissing him on the cheek. "It's not like you to leave the house without feeding Jaxson, but it sure made the 'terrible T's' happy."

"Well I didn't feed myself either, Mrs. Riley, so I guess he and I are even. Where's Dr. Riley?"

"Oh he's at the hospital; you know the life of a surgeon. And what's this about you not eating dinner either? I'll make you a sandwich and salad while you wait for Troy to get home. How does corned beef and swiss cheese sound?"

"That sounds fantastic Mrs. Riley. Thank you."

"Take a seat at the peninsula and I'll get your food. Would you like some ice cream, Trent?"

"Sure Mom. Chocolate sauce, sliced strawberries, peanuts, whip cream and sprinkles too please!"

"Trent would you like anything else on that?" Cory asked smiling at the ice cream fanatic twin.

"Nah... that's enough for me Cory. I seriously have got to watch the pounds" he said lifting up his tee and patting his six pack.

Cory looking over at Trent and about fell off his stool laughing.

"Got you smiling again, bud."

"Thanks Trent" Cory said grabbing the shorter twin around the neck and faked out some head punches. Jaxson looked up from crunching his food probably thinking 'silly humans' as Mrs. Riley, Tabatha and Tyler all laughed.

Cutting the huge deli style corned beef & cheese sandwich in half, Mrs. Riley put it on a plate next to a generous mixed green salad drizzled with ranch dressing and placed it, a fork and napkin in front of Cory. She then put Trent's ice cream sundae in front of him.

"Enjoy the food boys."

"Thanks Mom!"

"Thank you Mrs. Riley."

All was quiet in the kitchen for a few minutes as Jaxson, Trent and Cory all enjoyed their food.

Cory was tucking into the second half of his sandwich when he heard the door to the Riley's garage open and a voice holler from the hallway "I sense ice cream being eaten and none for me" Troy said as he walked into the kitchen.

"Yours is almost ready Troy" Mrs. Riley said as she finished scooping out and loading up a matching ice cream sundae.

"Thanks Mom!" Troy said cheerfully. As he walked past Trent he muttered "pig" and playfully smacked the back of his head. Taking an open seat next to Cory, Troy squeezed his shoulder in greeting.

"Hey QB!" he said making no reference to the 911 text in front of his Mom. Grabbing the spoon he was handed, Troy dug into his sundae and crammed a huge bite into his mouth. "Mmmmmmmmmmmmm... this is gooooooood" he mumbled around the melting ice cream.

"Hey don't talk with your mouth full" Tabatha sounded off as she petted the still eating Jaxson.

"Yes little Mom."

Trent and Cory smiled at Tabatha for correcting Troy's bad manners then went back to finishing their food. Standing up, Cory gathered both his empty plate and Trent's empty bowl and carried them to the sink.

"At least one person in this house pays attention to civilized manners" Mrs. Riley said.

"Awwwwwwwwww Mom" Trent said. "Cory is just sucking up so you'll give him food next time he comes over."

Cory leaned over and kissed Mrs. Riley on the cheek. "Thanks again, Mrs. Riley that was great. Troy, come up to Trent's bedroom when you're done. And Jaxson play nice with Tabatha and Tyler."

Jaxson looked up from the water bowl he was lapping from with a scandalized 'when don't I?' look on his face.

"Ok buddy, I'm sorry. I know you're always good. I was just reminding Tabatha and Tyler to hold down the mayhem on a school night or Mrs. Riley might remember some homework they haven't done yet."

"Mmmmmmmmmmmmm... homework" Mrs. Riley said thoughtfully.

"MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM" Tyler said indignantly. "I showed you that I'd got all my homework done."

Everybody laughed as Cory and Trent headed out of the kitchen and upstairs to Trent's bedroom. Walking in Cory took his usual place sitting on Trent's bed and the elder twin sat down on the floor leaning back against his dresser. Cory looked quietly down at the floor as Troy walked in and closed the door then took the chair at Trent's desk opposite from Cory.

"Ok QB" Troy said. "Why the 911? I had to promise Amy HUGE to get her not to be pissed at me for bailing."

"Guys what I'm going to tell you can't leave this room, at least for right now. I'm not saying you have lie to your Mom and Dad, but just talk to me before you say anything, ok?"

"Cory" Trent said "I told you earlier that you're like a brother to us. We'll keep your secrets same as we keep each others. But, if you're in trouble I'm gonna do whatever it takes to help you even if that means breaking a promise to you and talking to Mom and Dad."

"Don't worry Trent I'm not in any trouble. In fact, it's exactly the opposite." Cory looked up at the twins and they both saw him fighting back tears. "I also have to apologize for lying to both of you about some stuff. After I tell you what I can, I hope you'll understand why it was necessary and forgive me."

Troy reached over and grabbed Cory's right bicep. "Dude don't worry about it. There's nothing you can say that is going to change how we think about you. Well, unless you're about to let loose that you're really a girl who went through a guy sex change. That'd just be too ass out weird."

The three of them laughed breaking the somber mood.

Wiping his eyes, Cory looked at his two best friends. "I think you've both seen me enough in the showers to know I was never a girl."

"Ya that's true" the twins said together.

"UGHHHHHHHHHHH... I knew you guys were going to revert to twin."

"Troy could you hand me Trent's tablet?" Starting up the browser, Cory scrolled as he began to talk.

"Okay the first thing you should probably know is that the last name I was born with wasn't Radke, its Arris. Well, actually my last name is Radke but that's because I had it legally changed. And in a sense it's not a fake name because it's my grandmother's maiden name and is one of my middle names."

"Well that made perfect sense" Troy said rolling his eyes. "So what? You like in the witness protection program or something? "

"Nope. Sorry Troy but it's not for a reason that interesting to your criminal mind."

"Troy, earlier today you asked where I went to school before I showed up at Branson as a first year. I was here." Handing back the tablet to Troy, the twin saw a website pulled up. Trent scooted over to also look at the tablet.

Using his finger, Troy started to navigate through the site. "Cory this is about a private school in Washington, D.C. called St. Albans."

"Yes I know Troy."

"It's like one of the best private schools in the country."

"Knoooooooooooow that too Troy."

"It has a 7:1 student-teacher ratio. Is an all boys school with better athletic facilities than Branson. And like everybody who goes there is either brilliant, famous, or both."

"Troy, I went there for five years I know."

"And it costs $60,000 a year."

"That's only when you become a boarding student in the upper grades, but yes I know that too."

"Dude what are you doing at a public school like Branson?"

"Short answer? I divorced my parents."

"WHAT?"

"UGHHHHHHHHHHH... more twin."

"Cory, we know that your Mom and Dad didn't throw you out" Troy said "because we've been to your condo like a dozen times."

"Ummmmmmmmmmm... that's not where I live Troy" Cory said blushing.

"WHAT?"

"UGHHHHHHHHHHH... if you guys keep talking twinish this is going to take a lot longer than necessary."

While Troy and Cory had been talking, Trent had taken over the browser and pointed something out to his twin.

"Cory" Trent said calmly "this says that you're the son of one of the richest families in the United States."

"Yes, that's true."

"It also says that Cory Michael Radke James Arris is currently boarding at a private high school in Switzerland where he's an all around academic and star player in... LACROSSE? There are even pictures of you there."

"Yah Photoshop is great isn't it?"

"Cory can you play lacrosse?"

"Yes Trent I played it when I was at St. Albans and was pretty good too."

"Cory you're good at everything."

"Okay overload is occurring here" the twins raggedly said together. "Let's go back to where you divorced your parents."

"You both know I'm an only child."

"Cory if you're looking for a younger brother, I think we can talk Mom and Dad in to trading Tyler for Jaxson" the twins said.

"Guys you're wandering off the topic and don't be mean to Tyler he is super cool" Cory said. "As I started to say I was 14 years old and an only child. My Dad was busy growing his company and my Mom was always away running the family foundation. The people I had around me almost 24/7 were mostly housekeepers, tutors, trainers and security guys. I just wanted to be a guy."

"So you divorced your parents?"

"Not at first. I went to Mom and Dad and told them that after being in private schools from pre-kindergarten to 8th grade, I wanted to go to a public high school. You gotta remember that at the time I was in Washington, D.C. which doesn't exactly have the best public schools. So, Mom and Dad said no and insisted that I stay at St. Albans as a boarding student."

"So you rebelled" Trent said. "Sounds like you got more in common with us than you've previously admitted."

"Well you guys have hardly rebelled, but yes. I told Dad that I was going to file for emancipation. In a way I think he was actually proud of me for standing up to him and Mom and wanting to be my own person, but he also knew that I couldn't go to public school anyplace in the country as Cory Arris."

"So you became Cory Radke and parachuted into Branson and met us."

"It wasn't quite that simple but ya."

"So how do you go to school at Branson and Switzerland?"

Troy looked up from the tablet where he'd clearly been doing more net research. "QB this says that you're the nephew of the Princess of..."

"Troy I know that my Aunt is married to a Prince. Let's not go there as it's not particularly relevant at this moment."

"Ya but I wanna know about the 128-room castle. That's like dead cool. It could have like ghosts and stuff."

"Troy..."

"Ok ok ok... I'll hold off so keep talking. But the pics of you with all those royal people are way too interesting."

"UGHHHHHHHHHHH... your parents should never have taught you what Google means."

"What and not have access to hot babe porn. QB you're crazy!"

"TMI Troy!"

"Anyway, Dad knew I couldn't attend a public school as Cory Arris, so he and Mom agreed not to fight the emancipation and helped create a cover story that kept Cory Arris busy while I became me."

"Personally" Trent said "I'm just comforted that you don't have a time machine that allows you to attend two schools at once."

"You do know that it is very difficult to get you two to focus on what's important off the field don't you?"

"Ya, but its part of our charm" the twins said together.

"UGHHHHHHHHHHH... I've got to remember to smack you two around."

"Long story short, my dad's personal assistant Grace did a ton of research and suggested five public high schools. I went through each of them and picked Branson mostly because my family has an historic connection to Portland."

"Well, for one thing it says here" Trent said looking up from the tablet "that the construction division of the Saeth Corporation is building the new Columbia River Bridge. It has a sweet looking design btw."

"Thanks Trent. I'll let Dad know that you approve."

"So where do you live, QB?" Troy asked.

"Troy I'm sorry but I can't answer that. I promised my Dad's Chief of Security that I wouldn't tell anyone without letting him know first. The condo that you've guys have been to is owned by the family corporation as a guest facility except for the bedroom that's been staged for me."

"Ok QB, but you will tell us sometime won't you?"

"Yes I will Troy, I promise."

"QB?"

"Ya Troy?"

"Do you live alone?"

"Except for Jaxson yes I live alone. I have mother-daughter housekeepers and a landscaping crew that takes care of the property, but they're mostly around when I'm gone at school. So I don't see anybody else."

"Dude that's seriously not right" Trent said grabbing Cory's leg from the floor. "Is that why you're over here so much?"

Cory started to tear up again and he found it difficult to keep emotion out of his voice. "Ya it probably is Trent. The Rileys are the family I've never had."

"I think I can speak for Mom and Dad" Trent said "you may not be biologically part of our family, but you are part of our family."

"Thanks Trent. Thanks Troy. It's getting late and it's been a wild emotional day for me. I know you're going to have more questions, but I think I need to take Jaxson home and get me to bed. Plus I got one more thing I've got to do tonight."

"Ok dude, but take care of yourself" Trent said. "And remember we got your back 100% 24/7 so 911 if you need us. None of that has changed because of anything you said tonight."

"Heck, I'm just glad you didn't turn out to be a girl, QB" Troy said. "That would have given me nightmares!"

"UGHHHHHHHHHHH..."

"QB?"

"Ya Troy?"

"Not that there was anything to forgive because we do understand. But we do forgive you" the twins said together.

"Thanks guys. That means a lot."

Opening Trent's door, Cory walked out and down the hall. There he found what he expected - Jaxson asleep on Tyler's bed with Tabatha and Tyler snuggled around him. Mrs. Riley came up behind him. "You ready to head home Cory?"

"Yes Mrs. Riley and I know you probably want to get the T's to bed. Come on Jaxson, let's go home."

Jaxson was awake in a second and carefully stepped around the kids jumping off the bed without waking either of them.

"Say hi to Dr. Riley for me when he gets home please."

"Will do Cory" Mrs. Riley said. "Drive home safe."

Walking out of the Riley home, Cory opened the lift gate and settled Jaxson in to his carrier before closing the hatch, getting in and buckling up. As he started the engine he also instructed the system to "call Aaron Rocha".

A few seconds later the call picked up. "Hey Cory, what's up?"

"Aaron I know it's late, but can you meet me at the house in 15 minutes? We've got some stuff to talk about."

"No problem, Cory. I'll be there."

Driving home through the quiet night, Cory felt good about what he had told Trent and Troy. He didn't know how Aaron was going to react to the whole thing, but he knew he could trust the twins.

Pulling into the garage at home, Cory let Jaxson out of the crate and headed inside the house closing the bay two door. He had been in the house less than a minute when the doorbell rang.

Jaxson looked up at Cory wanting to know who could be coming over this late. "Don't worry Jaxson, it's just Aaron." At that Jaxson rolled over and his tongue hung out waiting for tummy rubs.

Cory laughed and went over to let in Aaron.

"Come into the den after you take care of Jaxson. I would have thought he'd enough excitement from the terrible T's, but guess he needs more."

Aaron bent down and started to rub Jaxson's tummy. The happy dog just wiggled his back around on the floor almost purring with joy.

As Aaron took care of Jaxson, Cory walked into the kitchen and grabbed his backpack. Backtracking to the den he pulled out the sideline passes for Adrian and Declan that Coach had given him this morning. He then reached into the desk's side drawer and pulled out the blue bound legal papers that Steven had left him. Moving the AMEX Black card to the side, he waited for Aaron to join him.

'I'm only 17 years old' Cory thought to himself. 'I shouldn't have to be dealing with things like this yet.'

Cory didn't really feel sorry for himself, he had just received a hard lesson today in what emancipation truly meant. He wasn't unhappy about his decision four years ago, but he had to admit to himself that the price was higher than he had anticipated at the time.

Aaron finally walked into the den with a rubbed out Jaxson following behind. Taking the seat that Steven had been in earlier, he watched as Jaxson took his place next to Cory.

Holding up the contract transfer paperwork Cory said "Aaron you wouldn't be who you are if you didn't already know about this. Either because Dad has already spoken to you, or you found on your own. So, what do you want to do?"

"Cory, I know today wasn't an easy day for you. You're a 17 year old who just found out he's got a bank balance with more digits in it than you would have dreamed possible when you woke up this morning."

"Oh ya. I figured that one out when I barely held off wetting my pants after looking at the financial statement that Steven left me."

"Adrian and Declan don't know anything about the transfer offer, but you know what they will say if I ask them. The opportunity to be nearer you and Jaxson is not something they're going to turn down. I have spoken to my wife about it and she feels the same way. Whether you believe it or not, she and I consider you as one of our sons. So, yes, boss I'll work for you."

"Okay, but do you want to move you and your family onto this property?"

"With the renovations your Dad did when he bought this place, the guest house is bigger and more modern than the one we live in now. I'd be willing to bet that your Dad had it customized the way he did because he realized that this day was going to come. Don't ever underestimate his ability to preplan."

"Have no fear I don't. So we're good?"

"We're good Cory. Sign the papers. I've already checked out some moving companies. We'll be in the guest house before your 18th birthday."

"Then I guess I'll make my first decision as head of the Cynfab Corporation. Don't worry about selling your house; I'll have Steven arrange to buy it at whatever you think its worth. Then the corporation will arrange to sell it. That way you don't have to worry about anything. I also want you to expense the cost of your move to the corporation as well. Deal?"

"Deal. Ok guess I better head home and tell everyone we're moving. See you tomorrow night for training boss."

"Thanks Aaron, and here are the sideline passes for Adrian and Declan. Also, I know you probably won't be happy, but I did tell Trent and Troy some stuff about the Arris me tonight."

"Actually, I'm sort of surprised that you didn't tell them long before now, so am proud of you for holding back as long as you did. I know it's not easy to keep anything from your best friends. I've watched both of them over the last three years and I'm pretty confident that they can be trusted. So you did good Cory."

"I appreciate you saying that Aaron. Now, Jaxson and I should get to bed."

"Goodnight Cory, but do me one favor."

"Sure Aaron what is it?"

"Would you get that card off the desk and put it in your safe."

"Yes Coach Rocha, sir!"

For Cory, Wednesday and Thursday turned into the best days of the week - outside of school, practice and training with Aaron absolutely nothing happened. He signed the papers transferring Aaron Rocha's employment contract from Saeth Corporation to Cynfab Corporation and left a note for Maria that Steven would be sending a courier to pick up the envelope.

Cory was a little disappointed that no word had been forthcoming from Jay about the job offer, but since the first-year was friendly to him in the hallways and cafeteria he assumed that it was still under discussion with his Dad. So, he just took a wait-and-see attitude.

What made him happiest was that Trent and Troy were completely normal to him. It was as if nothing odd had been said Tuesday night.

Cory knew that they were likely boiling over with additional questions as they Googled more information on 'Cory Arris', but with the ramp up in the intensity of practice as Coach Thompson prepared the team for Friday night's game all three of them had their focus on Ravensville where it belonged.

The only odd thing was that Cory had never received an email back from Brandon. But that just proved to be an embarrassment when Cory finally noticed an email in his spam folder... from Brandon. He had forgotten to check and his spam tracker mistakenly assumed that the message from the unknown response number was something that Cory wouldn't want to read.

After logging Brandon's new number into his safe senders list, Cory sent the college student an email back apologizing for not responding sooner. Brandon was wild happy with his new phone and the thank you from Cory's Dad over the footage he received of the Columbia River Bridge pylons.

Cory knew that Brandon had likely made a new addition to his portfolio - one that was certainly deserved.

As he went to bed late Thursday, Cory sent Brandon a text reminding him that Jaxson's flexible carrier would be waiting at the side gate. Taking a few minutes to do one last scroll through the Friday night playbook, Cory said goodnight to Jaxson and then rolled over for what turned out to be his most peaceful night's sleep.

Friday started like any day. Cory and Jaxson did their regular six mile run then he made himself an egg white and three cheese omelet with 12-grain toast after filling Jaxson's food and water bowls. Heading upstairs after eating his breakfast, Cory took a plain white AE tee, white ankle sox and a pair of AE performance trunks out of the dresser and laid them on his bed before going into the bathroom to shower and shave. He deliberately avoided putting out any other clothes.

Striding out of the bathroom naked, Cory went into his closet and grabbed his jersey dyed custom Nikes, his game day jersey and a pair of AE jeans. Holding his clothes, Cory headed out of the closet into the bedroom at the same moment that Jaxson walked in after finishing breakfast. His puppy froze in place took a long look at what Cory was holding and went ballistic happy.

Jaxson was alternately bouncing up & down and running high-speed around Cory as the teen tried to get dressed. This was nothing new and happened every game day - which is why Cory never put out clothes in advance. He couldn't help laughing as Jaxson's excitement carried over to him. Kneeling down he wrapped his arms around his ecstatic puppy and let him give his master the billion wet game day doggy kisses that Jaxson felt was his responsibility to provide.

His face completely soaked in puppy drool Cory went back into the bathroom to wash off and then walked downstairs. Jaxson barreled ahead of him at every point. Going into the garage, Cory grabbed Jaxson's flexible carrier and with puppy in tow took it around the house to leave at the side gate.

Jaxson watched Cory intently to make sure he did it right. "Do you approve?" the teen asked and got six happy woofs in answer.

"I'm glad I'm smart enough to figure out how to place your carrier. Jaxson be nice to Brandon and try not to overload on treats." Jaxson looked up at Cory as if the mere suggestion of modest self- control when it came to treats was nothing more than insanity that deserved to be disregarded.

"Jaxson I love you even when you're crazy silly." Cory knew that the Weimaraner would park himself next to the carrier hours in advance of when Brandon would pick him up, and would pester Brandon the entire way to the stadium - which was why the college student always loaded his carrier with doggy snacks just to keep Jaxson busy.

Heading inside, Cory grabbed his backpack and then knelt down on one knee as Jaxson put his paws up on his chest and looked him in eyes smiling. Cory had never exactly figured what Jaxson was trying to say when he did this, but he assumed it was his puppy wishing him luck for tonight's game.

After giving his dog a few last ear scratches, Cory told Jaxson that he would see him at the Stadium and headed back into the garage to grab the Tahoe keys and drive to school. He would need the big SUV to bring home both Jaxson and the second carrier.

Pulling into the senior's parking lot, Cory found Branson in a state of semi-organized pandemonium. School banners were hanging above every door and spirit committee made signs plastered the walls.

Throwing his backpack over his right shoulder, Cory walked through the milling crowd. Smiling as students patted him on the back for luck. His #08 jersey was a magnet for attention.

Finally making it through the east door, Cory headed toward his first period class only to almost step directly on top of Jay who appeared to be waiting for him.

"Hey Jay! Are you looking for me?"

"Sure am Cory."

As the teen knelt down in the crowded hallway to look Jay in the face, the younger student wrapped his arms around Cory's shoulders and screamed out "DAD SAID YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!"

"Cool Jay that's totally fantastic. Now do this for me... run to the equipment room and tell Aaron what you just told me. He'll give you a Branson team polo and instructions on what to do for the pep rally during 2nd period. Ok?"

"YES SIR, QB!"

Cory shook his head as Jay ran down the hall. 'That kid has spent waaaaaay too much time listening to Troy' he said to himself.

Sliding into a place in his first period class, Cory took out his tablet and started to quietly review material for the AP Math class. He was his usual polite self in saying "thanks" as other students walked in and tapped him on the arm or shoulder and said "good luck."

Cory was barely paying attention when the Assistant Principal came on the room's flat screen to give the usual 5-minute list of daily announcements, but his head snapped up when he heard that the pep rally had been moved from the gym to the Stadium - a first ever in his time at Branson.

He felt like he was watching a slow moving play develop on the field as he suddenly recognized that this was Phase 2 of whatever plan the twins had set in place starting with the lobby banner. Cory desperately wanted to grab his phone to text Trent and Troy, but as soon as the screen shut down the teacher started class and he knew he was stuck. Cory briefly considered sending a text through his tablet, but his habit of sitting in the front row made it impossible to do so without risking being caught. So he just sighed.

'This is NOT going to be good' he thought to himself.

As soon as class was over, Cory was packed up, out of his seat and dashing through the door - directly into the chests of a smiling Trent and Troy.

"Guys" Cory said quietly and with a hint of danger "what have you done? Tell me now, tell me fast, but tell me."

"Us QB?" Trent and Troy said together in apparent innocence.

"UGHHHHHHHHHHH... no twin, just talk."

"Coach sent us to take you to the Stadium locker-room" they again said simultaneously. "Pep rally starts in 15 minutes."

"GUYSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS... you're instructing, not informing."

"Ya, it's fun right?" Trent said. "Don't worry Cory, it's gonna be unbelievafreakingly GREAT!"

"Exactly how many times in all the years we've been best friends have I ended up feeling that way about one of your disreputable plans?"

"None I think" Trent looked at Troy who nodded. "But this one is going to be different, so trust us."

"Oh God it's more terrible than I imagined. Those are the three worst words in the twin vocabulary."

"Naaaaaaaaaaaaah... it's gonna be totally rockin QB" Troy said. "Well, at least for us."

Grabbing Cory's biceps they led their dazed friend through the hall and outside toward the Stadium breaking off from the crowd to head downstairs to the game day locker-room. Aaron had spent the last three days, with help from Jay, getting things ready. Every locker was already loaded with gear and in front sitting on the change out bench was the player's new 2013 season helmet.

Putting his school pack in his locker, Cory snapped the lock shut and went to join the rest of the team in the tunnel leading out to the field. Locked in place by his friends, Cory turned to look down the tunnel wanting to know what was going on outside. All he could see was a fabric tunnel that seemed to curve toward the field. Any view outside was totally blocked.

Cory could hear the school's marching band playing and the sounds of 1400 students settling into the seats above his head.

Coach Thompson appeared with the rest of the Coaches along with Aaron and Jay. "Guys" Coach said "remember this is for the students and school spirit. Look happy, look ready, and be the winners you are! Now, hands together."

Gathering around their Coach every player leaned in to lay one hand on another then together yelled "GOOOOOOOOOOOOOO CHARGERS!"

As the rally began, Coach Thompson, the Assistant Coaches along with Aaron and Jay were introduced. Then Coach Thompson took over and started to introduce the 2013 varsity team. Immediately, Cory saw that something was new. Every rally before players had been introduced in number order starting with the kicker/punters and going up. This time it was in reverse order.

Cory immediately walked over to the twins and grabbed both their heads in his hands pulling them close. "Guys" he spoke quietly "please tell me I'm not going to want to kill you after this is over."

"Eh" Troy said smiling in that peril filled twin way he had "you might, but you won't."

"UGHHHHHHHHHHH..."

"BTW QB" Trent said. "Brandon's here."

"Brandon never comes to the Pep Rally."

"Yah, but he wanted to video this one" Trent said. "In his words, 'it'll be the epic of epic'."

"Oh God" Cory looked up at the ceiling willing himself strength.

As more and more players disappeared out onto the field, Cory's anxiety point only increased. But he set himself in place and accepted that whatever the twins had planned was clearly exciting the students to an unheard of level of school spirit. The Stadium concrete was almost shaking from the screaming voices and stamping.

Soon he was the only one left in the tunnel.

And then it came, Coach Thompson's voice saying "And our State Champion winning 2013 varsity quarterback, Branson's #8 COOOOOOOOOORY RADKE!"

Pasting a smile he didn't feel on his face, Cory began jogging down the tunnel and into the add-on fabric tunnel. As he emerged from that he was almost staggered by what he saw. From goal post to goal post a cable had been run and hanging from it was a series of three times life size banners of each player in full gear with their helmet held in hand.

And then IT started.

With the marching band playing the school's fight song, Cory barely kept from flinching as fireworks began to shoot skyward 20 feet from both sides of him. Still smiling Cory kept jogging toward the riser set over the center of the field where the rest of the team was gathered. The fireworks continued to go off in series leading Cory to the team and then from the cable his banner dropped - a 40' high image that at its base dragged the stadium turf. The students in the bleachers were beyond euphoric and while Cory didn't like it he had to appreciate all the twins had done.

At that moment, Cory decided he wouldn't kill them, but he wasn't discounting some mild maiming.

Jumping up on to the flat wooden riser painted in Branson colors, Cory high-fived his team and then shook hands with the Coaches never dropping the smile from his face. He turned and waved to the Branson student body as the rest of the rally program continued.

As the rally came to close everyone filed out and headed back to a delayed 3rd period class. The team gathered one last time as the field crew started to clean up for the game. After a short speech from Coach Thompson, the players put together hands again and yelled "GOOOOOOOOOO CHARGERS!" Walking back into the Stadium locker-room they each touched their helmets for luck and grabbed packs to head to their own classes.

With the end of 4th period class, Cory headed to his locker for his regular book trade out. When he got there he noticed something new. Instead of the usual spirit committee made sign taped over his locker, he found a full locker sized magnetic decal of himself in action. The image was in pass mode, with his arm outstretched. A football was two lockers down with a running Jaxson chasing after it.

Cory didn't know whose idea this had been, but it was really creative and he loved it huge.

Trading out the books he would need for the last two classes before the game, he headed downstairs to join the cafeteria line. As usual after picking up his tray, he headed over to the table where Trent and Troy were already sitting and eating with their girlfriends.

Cory had barely set his tray and backpack down when he looked up and started heading toward the cafeteria doors and outside. Troy looked at his brother and said "Trent we're on the move." Standing up the twins told their girlfriends to stay where they were and turned to run after their friend.

Rounding the corner to the south side of the cafeteria, Cory saw 100-150 other students in an open circle. Walking up to the outside of the ring, he unconsciously switched to quarterback voice.

"MOVE."

Seeing it was Cory, the students separated and allowed him inside. When he got to the middle of the circle he saw one student on the ground and another menacing him - this one he knew and they had a history.

"WAGNER what the hell is going on?"

"This faggot was staring at my ass so I put him down."

"Unless you've suddenly grown eyeballs on your butt how would you even know?"

"Joey told me. Now get out of my way so I can finish the fuck."

Walking to stand in front of the student on the concrete and between him and Hudson Wagner, Cory stood his ground. "Wagner you're not doing anything to anybody. Now back off."

"That fuck was queering on me. What the hell business is it of yours Mr. Quarterback? Oooh, got your twin posse here to protect to you, huh?"

Waving back Trent and Troy, Cory turned to face Hudson. "Wagner there probably isn't one girl at this school that would look at your ass. Why would a guy waste his time doing it?" He could hear laughter run through the assembled students. "And if you want to push this, remember back to freshman year when you tried to take me on and lost... bad. I didn't need Trent and Troy then and don't now. So back off and take your gang with you."

"Fuck this, we're outta here" Wagner said grabbing Joey and the rest of his gang and heading into school.

Looking at the rest of the students Cory said "alright excitement is over everyone to lunch or class."

Bending down he grabbed the hand of the student on the ground and pulled him up. "Hey I know you. You're the one who tripped over me on Monday when Brandon and I were talking. I know this is the second time, but are you okay?"

The jade green eyes of the 6'4" golden blond looked at him with a blush creeping into his face. "Ummmmmmmmmmm ya I think so, all he really did was knock me down and I didn't think it was smart to get up with him standing over me."

"Where are you supposed to be right now?"

"I was going into the cafeteria to get some lunch."

"Okay, let's go. BTW... I'm Cory and the twins are Trent and Troy."

"Yah I kind of know that already. And I'm Chris."

"Let's get you some lunch while you still have time to eat it."

Turning to the twins Cory said "Guys head back to the table and I'll be with you shortly."

"Okay QB we'll see you inside."

Keeping a hand on Chris' arm in case the other student was hurt, Cory guided him into the cafeteria line as Chris picked up a relatively modest lunch.

"Dude you're bigger than me you got to eat more than that." Cory added a few more items to the Chris' tray then headed to the cashier where he ran his pay card when it came time. "Hey my treat, it's the least I can do to make up for that dipshit Wagner. Come on and join us at our table."

"Ummmmmmmmmm... I'm not sure I should."

"Don't worry Chris they are twins not pit bulls" Cory said laughing as he guided the blond to the table and motioned him to sit down then took a seat next to him.

"QB" Troy said "you know what Brandon is gonna say when he finds out about that save."

"Ya but he's never going to find out about it. Right Trent? Right Troy? I remind you of what I said in the tunnel." Cory looked at them hard ass and then smiled.

"Ok QB, no Brandon."

"Who's Brandon?" Chris asked.

"Brandon was the guy talking to me on Monday when you tripped. He's a PSU film student and has made it his goal in life to be my personal videographer... whether I want it or not." Cory said as he ate his lunch.

"Awwwwwwwww... you know you like Brandon, QB" Troy said. No one noticed how Chris looked at Cory when Troy said that.

"Ya I do and besides its Dad who hired him not me, but it's still like having two puppies following me around instead of one."

"Puppies?" Chris asked looking confused.

"Jaxson is Cory's Weimaraner who's our sideline mascot" Trent said. You've seen him at all the games."

"This is my first year at Branson" Chris said.

"Between stumbling over me and getting in the way of Wagner and any intelligence he might trip over you haven't had a very good week Chris" Cory said digging into his backpack and coming up with six game tickets. "Take these and bring your family. You can help cheer us to a win."

"Thanks Cory" Chris said "I'll check with my Mom and Dad and try to be there tonight."

Just then the warning bell rang. The teens all stood gathering packs before heading out to afternoon classes.

"See ya at the game tonight Chris!" Cory said waving.

Chris stood staring for a minute at the senior before heading out of the cafeteria to his own classes.

Opening his locker at the Stadium, Cory was happy about four things. First, the initial five days of school were over. Second, Jay had signed on as assistant team equipment manager and was happily running around the locker-room bringing the guys any gear that had inadvertently been missed when he and Aaron had loaded up the lockers. Third, he had survived the latest diabolical twin plan.

Fourth and most important, he knew where his helmet was without having to chase down Troy.

All-in-all it was a good personal pre-game review.

Cory had just pulled up his Shockskin 5-pad compression shorts over his Shock Doctor jock and carbon flex cup when a cheer erupted from the lockers nearest the tunnel and a silver-grey bullet came flying in his direction. Skidding to a halt and appearing very self- satisfied, Jaxson looked up at Cory with a smile.

"Hey Jaxson. The guys were missing you."

Sitting down after putting on his 7-pad Shockskin compression shirt, Cory reached over and scratched his puppy's ears for luck before sliding on his two pairs of Nike socks. As he finished gearing up Cory watched as the rest of the team came by and did exactly the same thing. Turning around for a final time to grab his mouth guard out of its keeper, Cory reached down to pick up his...

MISSING HELMET!

"UGHHHHHHHHHHH... TROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOY!"

"Calm down QB" Troy said from just a few steps to the left of him "I'm right here."

"That's good because I was about to release Jaxson on a seek-and- destroy mission. Suddenly a little twin maiming doesn't sound so bad."

"Oh please" Troy said. "If you haven't figured it out yet this is our new thing for the season so get used to it. Now let's go, Coach is ready for our pre-game kill talk."

"It's called a pep talk, Troy. Pep!"

"Same difference."

Taking his helmet from Troy's hands Cory held it extra tight to prevent the twin from stealing it again.

The dry board was littered with lines, arrows and marks from the final briefings the special team coaches had given specific players. The entire team was gathered together and went down on one knee as Coach Thompson came out of his office with Jaxson at his side. It was a team tradition and generally the only time the Weimaraner wasn't next to Cory.

During Coach's speech, his dog stared at each player reminding them in turn that he expected their best. It was almost as if they were getting two pep talks - one from Coach Thompson and another from a very strong-minded dog.

After he finished, Coach put out his hand and every player leaned in to put his on top of it yelling "GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO CHARGERS!"

The team then filed out of the locker-room to wait in the tunnel.

With Ravensville introduced and on the field, the opening ceremonies for the Friday night game turned to the home side. The announcer ramped up the Branson crowd to its second fever pitch of the day and suddenly the team was bursting through the paper cover at the end of the tunnel as the marching band played the school fight song.

Lining up on the sideline for the presentation of colors and the national anthem, Cory gave the pledge and then sang along as the band played. Finally it was time to begin the game.

In a break with tradition, the team had voted Trent and Troy as team captains. They joined the Ravensville team captains in the center of the field for the coin toss.

Ravensville won and chose to receive.

Moving down the sideline Cory said "hi" to Adrian and Declan. The twins were dressed in team polos and as happy as Jaxson to be there. Besides being an additional set of team mascots, the boys were there standing on both sides of Jaxson with instructions to keep him off the field. The last thing Coach Thompson wanted was a needless penalty - not that Jaxson would do it, but having the twins there was insurance.

In their first three possessions, Ravensville managed to move the ball only three yards before having to punt it away.

Running on the field, Cory pulled on his helmet holding his mouth guard between two fingers. Kneeling down in the huddle, he looked at his team. "Guys, Ravensville is smaller than us, less talented than us and less prepared than us. We're going to play this game clean and to the book. We're not gonna needlessly run up the score and embarrass a weaker opponent in front of their families. Agreed?"

Everyone nodded.

Cory put out his hand and everyone piled on top. "READY? GO CHARGERS!" Breaking from the huddle, Cory pushed in his mouth guard and snapped on his chin guard. It was time to win this game.

For the next two-and-a-half hours, Cory dominated the field. Running a strategy that made every player a game star, he proved time and again that he could pick apart the Ravensville defense and put the ball where it needed to be.

At half time he huddled with the defensive team and told them that the blitz was off the book and there would be no sacking the Ravensville quarterback.

As the clock ran down with Ravensville again failing to significantly move the ball, the game ended. With a score of 21-10 it wasn't close and Coach Thompson and Cory were proud of their team for how they had played.

Shaking hands with the opposing players, Cory was stopped by the Ravensville Coach who thanked him for not running up the score.

"No problem Coach" Cory said "next year it might be Branson on the other end of that score and I'm certain our families would appreciate the same consideration."

Running back to the sideline, Cory handed his helmet to Declan since he knew the twin wouldn't give it up. It was time for his favorite part of the game. Since taking over as Branson's starting quarterback, Cory had instituted a tradition of throwing a ball into the stands for every touchdown made.

With three balls in hand, Aaron walked up to him and stood at his side. Cory threw the first two footballs into the student section of the stands at complete random. The third he took and rotated until he saw his target. Cory then stepped back and released. With a perfect spiral, the ball headed high into the air and then dropped with defined precision into the surprised hands of Chris.

The first game of the season was over.

Author's Notes:

This was one long chapter.

As I told a couple of readers who emailed me in anticipation of Chapter Three, this one took on a life of its own. I'm sure I'm not the first writer to say that the characters took over the story, but in this case it's true. Story Cory was completely out-of-control.

Like I promised at the beginning, this story is a series of reveals. And this chapter had a lot of them.

But wait, in case you're wondering, there are more to come!

I hope you enjoyed all the new stuff you learned about the characters, but like with the story there is still more about each of them to look forward to reading.

For example, this was not the only sighting of Hudson Wagner. There's a history there that needs to be explored, and he's going to turn into a recurring antagonist.

Finally, you can tell from this chapter that the part of story Cory that I wrote about in the author's notes of Chapter 2 has yet to written about. So, if you'd like to look back a chapter and read about my offer, I'm still open to suggestions.

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Positive and constructive comments are always welcome. You may email me at cory.08@outlook.com