Washington Academy

Disclaimer:

This story will describe the life of Robert David Mathews from his time as a teenager, through prep school, and into military service. If stories involving sex between consenting teenagers, including both straight sex and gay sex, offends you, go back to the Archives and pick a different story for your reading pleasure. There has been minimal research for this story therefore, names, places, dates are mostly fictitious and similarities to real life are coincidental. Some companies and organizations mentioned actually exist, but references to the activities, policies, programs and procedures are fictitious. I was not a SEAL and have limited knowledge of the force. I am writing this story from imagination and a little research, not from personal experience.

My editor, Bill, is a dedicated friend. His improvements in my writing style are greatly appreciated.

Reader feedback has been VERY positive about my story. Thanks to the readers who have encouraged me to continue posting new chapters. I don't have time to reply to every email that I get, but I want all readers to know that I appreciate your comments.

Stay tuned! Fate has more in store for our main characters!!

Washington Academy Chapter 21 Kansas City Turmoil

Robbie was dizzy and trying to understand what had happened at the party store. He was shoved into the Police Station and pushed into a jail cell. All of the police officers were yelling at him, and he was terrified.

"You're lucky that you got here alive!" Elliot Stabler, a police officer yelled at Robbie. "If I had my way, I'd break your fucking neck right now!"

He slammed Robbie against the wall of the stinking cell and then took off the handcuffs. When Robbie turned around, he punched Robbie in the face. Robbie was knocked unconscious and fell to the concrete floor.

When Robbie regained consciousness, he struggled to his feet. His jaw ached and his mind was reeling with confusion about what had happened and where he was.

"Give him his one phone call!" the police sergeant ordered.

Robbie couldn't remember the phone number for Tracker's parents, and tried to clear his mind. The only phone number he could remember was the one for the George Washington Academy.

Two officers took him to a desk, and Elliot Stabler waited for the teen to make the only call he would be allowed. He had recently been ordered to office duty because of Police Brutality charges that had been filed against him, and was still pissed that he wasn't allowed on regular patrol. He had heard that the teen had shot a police officer, and he hoped that he could beat the teen again without getting in trouble. This young offender was one that he wanted to beat, and he wanted the chance do it before the security camera system was repaired and running in the precinct.

"George Washington Academy" Joyce Carlin, Secretary to Chancellor Brown said. "How may I help you?"

"This is Robbie Mathews!" Robbie said excitedly. "I've been arrested! I'm in the 14th Precinct in Kansas City, Missouri, and I killed a man! Please help me!"

Before Joyce Carlin could say anything, the call ended. She had been the receptionist at the Academy for over 10 years, and she had never received a distress call like this one.

"I wasn't finished!" Robbie yelled at Officer Stabler when he pushed the button to end the call. "I didn't get a chance to talk to anyone!"

"SHUT THE FUCK UP!" Stabler ordered. "You got your only phone call, so get your worthless ass back in your cell! Anyone who shoots a police officer should be in a body bag!"

"I didn't shoot anyone!" Robbie insisted. "I hit that other man with a baseball bat! I know I killed him!"

Elliot Stabler was livid. He wanted to take the teen into the Exercise Room and severely beat him, but his sergeant was right next to the teen.

Sergeant Steve Davis didn't like Elliot Stabler, and was watching him closely. Officer Stabler had been involved in several incidents where suspects had been beaten, and was now being investigated for a new complaint. Steve Davis was upset that Officer Sean Finley had been shot during the robbery attempt, but he wasn't going to allow Elliot to violate the rights of the suspect. Previously a black teenager had been severely beaten by Stabler during an arrest and had been hospitalized. The investigation of the incident was incomplete, but preliminary facts indicated that the teenager was innocent and had not resisted arrest. Witnesses had come forth to describe how Officer Stabler had attacked the teen with his nightstick, and a large lawsuit had been filed against the officer and the Police Department.

The precinct was a madhouse, with officers reporting for duty learning that Sean Finley had been shot in the abdomen during a robbery. Sean was well liked by his fellow officers and was the son of the Chief of Police. Several officers went to the jail cell to see the suspect, and were confused. The handsome teenager didn't look like a person who would shoot a police officer, but they knew that the suspect had a gun in his hand when the backup units arrived at the party store.

Back at the George Washington Academy, Joyce Carlin went into action. "STEVENS, GET IN HERE!" she screamed at Guy Stephens. She knew that she had to take aggressive actions to handle the terrible situation in Kansas City.

Guy Stephens was in his office when he heard Joyce Carlin yelling for him. Joyce always handled her job very professionally, and he had NEVER heard her yell in the office. Most of the faculty and staff at the Academy had left the campus to spend time with their families, but Guy was on duty during the absence of Chancellor Brown.

All incoming phone calls to the Academy were recorded, and Joyce played the short phone call from Robert Mathews for Guy Stephens. He was shocked! He couldn't believe that Robbie would kill anyone, but knew that he had to take action.

"Did you get the telephone number from the Caller ID?" Guy asked. "Page Barry Howell, Vincent Brown, and get me the phone number for David and Marie Mathews!"

Guy Stephens got the telephone number for the 14th Precinct in Kansas City, but was frustrated when the officer refused to give him any information. He was finally able to confirm that a teenager matching Robbie's description had been arrested after an armed robbery that included the shooting of a police officer. He refused to believe that Robbie would shoot anyone, especially a police officer.

"David and Marie Mathews are on vacation, but they gave me an emergency contact," Joyce Carlin said. "I pulled Robbie's file, and George and Martha Thomas are the temporary contacts. Here's their phone number."

The Academy office sprang into action, with Joyce Carlin and Guy Stephens making urgent phone calls. The emergency pagers had been activated for Barry Howell and Vincent Brown, and both men immediately called the Academy office.

"Barry, thanks for calling back so quickly," Guy Stephens said to the attorney. "Robbie Mathews is in deep trouble at the 14th Precinct in Kansas City, Missouri. He called here, but his call was cut off before I could talk to him. I listened to the recording, and he said that he killed a man.

I know he was visiting the Whitestone family, but we haven't been able to reach anyone at their home. What should we do?"

Barry Howell knew Robbie Mathews and couldn't accept that the handsome boy had actually killed anyone. "I have a close friend who lives in Kansas City," Barry said. "I'll call Jason Teague right away and ask him to get to the precinct and represent our cadet. I was going to fly my plane to Chicago to visit some friends for Thanksgiving, but I'll change my flight plan with the FAA (Federal Aeronautical Administration) to fly to Kansas City. I think I need to help Jason find out the truth and protect Cadet Mathews."

"Can I go with you?" Guy asked. "David Mathews is my friend, and you know how much I love Robbie. If he's in trouble, I want to be there for him."

"Meet me at the airport in two hours," Barry said. "You better pack some clothes for an extended stay in case things go badly. I know that Vince is in New York City, so you're the ranking member of the staff until he returns. You have legal rights to be the temporary guardian for any cadet, so I think you can really help Jason and me."

Guy Stephens knew that he had promised his wife, Sue, and his son, Eric that they would go out for supper and a movie that night, so he knew they would be disappointed. When he called his wife, she immediately agreed that being with Robbie was much more important. She agreed to pack some clothes for her husband, and also explained the change in plans to Eric.

Eric Stephens had developed a close bond with Robbie ever since the night that his rape had been revealed. He wanted to go with his father to be with Robbie, but Sue explained that his father would call them frequently with any news. He knew that Robbie could never rob a store or shoot a police officer, and was frightened that his friend was in serious trouble.

River Whitestone was frustrated by the way he was received at the Police Precinct. Because he wasn't a blood relative, the officers refused to let him see Robbie or give him any details of the charges or investigation.

Robbie was in the jail cell when Elliot Stabler came to the cell with another man. He hated the police officer for the physical abuse, and wasn't going to agree with anything that he was told. He demanded a lawyer, but Stabler refused his request. Instead, he held Robbie down on the cot while the other man pressed wax against each of his hands.

"The cop you shot is the son of the Chief of Police for this city!" Stabler said to Robbie. "I'm gonna see that you rot in prison! The big niggers will love fucking that cute little white ass of yours!"

Robbie hated Officer Stabler, and hoped that the other man would listen to him. He pleaded with the man to listen to his version of the events, and tried to convince both men that he had hit the robber with a baseball bat, and had never fired the gun or shot the police officer. His efforts were futile.

Jason Teague walked into the 14th Precinct and identified himself as the legal representative for Robert Mathews. He gave the Desk Sergeant the faxed letter from Barry Howell, Chief Legal Representative of the George Washington Academy that allowed him to represent any cadet in the State of Missouri. He demanded to talk to his client.

"Here's your fucking lawyer!" Officer Elliot Stabler said to Robbie. "He must be a real ambulance chaser to get here so fast to represent your sorry ass!"

Jason Teague was an experienced lawyer who was a personal friend of Barry Howell. He demanded that he be allowed to talk to his client alone, and was furious at the behavior of Officer Stabler.

Robbie was overwhelmed with emotions when he tried to explain what had happened outside the party store. It took over an hour for Jason Teague to get all of the facts, and then he took aggressive actions with the Police Department.

"Your officer assaulted my client, and you took statements from my client without him having legal representation!" Jason said to the Desk Sergeant. "He's a minor, and you know the law! You positively CANNOT question any minor without legal representation and he said he didn't consent to the paraffin test! Even if he understood his Miranda Rights, you CANNOT question him without a lawyer representing him. Any statements made, and any paraffin results will be inadmissible in court! Another boy was a witness to the events. Why haven't you questioned Hunter Whitestone?"

The Desk Sergeant was livid. He knew that Elliot Stabler was assigned to the precinct because of court proceedings, and didn't know that the officer had assaulted Robbie or forced him to take the paraffin test. Stabler was gone for the night, and the Desk Sergeant was now faced with a mess to clean up.

"He didn't object to a paraffin test, and the results just came in," Sergeant Steve Davis said. "He fired a weapon, and ballistic tests will prove who shot our officer and the two robbery suspects."

"YOU'VE GOT TO BE INSANE!" Jason Teague screamed. "A MINOR CANNOT AGREE TO A PARAFFIN TEST WITHOUT LEGAL REPRESENTATION!"

"He agreed to the test, and I have sworn statements proving it!" Sergeant Davis said. He was afraid another major lawsuit would be filed against the Police Department for the obvious errors by Officer Elliot Stabler, and hoped that this lawyer wouldn't realize that the test was performed illegally.

"My client said he was held down by Officer Stabler and forced to submit to the test!" Jason Teague said. "I want to talk to Jefferson Smith, your legal council. Jefferson knows the law, and he'll also recognize that my client's rights have been violated. Get Jefferson on the phone, NOW!"

Jason was a talented attorney, and his conversation with Jefferson Smith got immediate results. The attorney for the Police Department came to the precinct, and immediately found the entire Whitestone family waiting for news about Robbie. He took Hunter into a conference room and recorded the interview with the exhausted young teen.

Jason Teague agreed to represent Hunter Whitestone during the interview, but quickly realized that the young boy hadn't seen most of the altercation at the party store, primarily because Robbie had pushed him down to protect him. The bits and pieces that Hunter had witnessed corroborated Robbie's version of the events, but ballistic evidence would take time to develop.

"Officer Sean Finley hasn't regained consciousness," Jefferson Smith said. "He was shot in the abdomen, but the doctors say that he'll survive. His father's the Chief of Police, and every officer in this city's upset and angry right now. The store attendant had a heart attack after firing two shots at someone, and he hasn't regained consciousness either. I'm trying to keep a lid on the emotions of these events, but rumors are spreading fast. We should have the ballistics test results soon, and then the District Attorney will decide what charges will be filed. Because of the seriousness of the potential charges, no visitors are allowed."

"I'll let Robbie know that you were here," Jason told to the Whitestone family. "Go home and try to get some rest, and I promise to call you when I have any news."

Tracker was devastated. Robbie was his best friend, and he couldn't even see him to try and calm him down. He knew that Robbie had protected Hunter from harm, and he wanted to thank Robbie and tell him that he knew Robbie was telling the truth.

Robbie had a sleepless night. The jail cells were filled with drunks and addicts, and their constant yelling kept him from sleeping. Because he was a minor, he was in a cell alone, but the other prisoners kept calling to him for sexual favors and wanting him to undress for them. When Robbie was able to fall asleep, he experienced horrible nightmares that caused him to wake up screaming. The other prisoners enjoyed the terror of the handsome teen, and continually reminded Robbie about what would happen to him when he went to prison.

Sergeant Steve Davis was not on duty the next day, but he had left explicit instructions in the logbook that Officer Elliot Stabler wasn't allowed near Robert Mathews.

Sergeant Phil Hauber had reported for duty, but hadn't had the time to read the logbook at the beginning of his shift. He was talking to a technician about the upgrade of the security camera system, and was pleased that the new system was now operational. He was still talking to the technician when he saw Officer Elliot Stabler walking with a tray of food and heading toward the cell area.

"Did you get a nice sleep last night?" Stabler asked Robbie sarcastically. "Here's your breakfast." He held the tray of cold scrambled eggs and dry toast in the slot in the cell bars, and made sure that Robbie saw him spit on the food. Then he tipped the tray to dump all of the food on the floor of the cell before saying, "Eat all of it off the floor or you don't get anymore food, you LITTLE PRICK!"

"Why don't you take off that gun and nightstick and come in here and say that again," Robbie demanded. He had reached his limit of tolerance, and was ready to release his martial arts skills on the nasty officer. He stood in his cell and defied the authority of the police officer, and the other prisoners whooped and hollered their approval.

Stabler was pissed. He wanted to beat Robert Mathews to a pulp, but decided to wait for the right moment. He spit in Robbie's face before leaving the cell area to perform his regular duties.

Barry Howell's Lear Jet landed at Kansas City International Airport early on Wednesday morning. Guy Stephens hadn't slept all night, and was trying to remain calm during the short taxi ride to the 14th Precinct. He knew that David and Marie Mathews had been located when their cruise ship was in Cozumel, Mexico for a port call. He knew that his longtime friends would arrive in Kansas City very soon, and he hoped that he would have good news for them.

When the two men arrived at the precinct, Jason Teague met them. They quickly went into a conference room to discuss the recent developments.

"The preliminary test results are in," Jason Teague said. "The bullet removed from Officer Sean Finley was fired from a Glock 9 mm handgun, but both robbery suspects had similar weapons. The paraffin tests on Robbie's right hand and forearm prove that he either fired that type of weapon or was hit by the muzzle blast like he alleges. Whenever an officer's shot in the line of duty, police officers go crazy. I've talked to the District Attorney, and she wants to file charges of Armed Robbery, Attempted Murder, and Assaulting a Police Officer against Robbie. Each of those charges is a felony. Our biggest hope is that either the police officer or the store attendant will regain consciousness to corroborate Robbie's story."

"I need to see him!" Guy Stephens said. "I love that boy, and I know he would NEVER shoot a police officer! I have the documents to show that I'm his temporary guardian during the absence of his aunt and uncle. When can I see him?"

Robbie was pacing back and forth in his cell when he saw Sergeant Phil Hauber leading three men to the cell door. "MR. STEPHENS!" Robbie screamed.

"I KILLED A MAN, BUT I DIDN'T SHOOT THE COP!"

When the cell door was unlocked, Guy Stephens hugged Robbie and listened to the young guy sobbing on his shoulder. He tried to calm Robbie down, but the tears flowed down his face at how upset his star athlete was. He knew from his own life experiences, that killing another person was a terrible event to handle, and Robbie was only 17 years old. The first "kill" was always the worst to handle, and Robbie hadn't been trained as a SEAL and might never have that opportunity. He sat on the cot in the cell and held Robbie while he listened to Robbie's version of what had happened at the party store.

"We're all here to help you through this," Barry Howell said to Robbie. "The truth will come out when the police officer or the store attendant regain consciousness. One of us will be here every minute to help keep you safe, and you need to calm down and trust us to take care of you."

Barry Howell was pleased at the efforts of his friend, Jason Teague in handling the situation. After leaving the cell, the three men used a conference room to discuss their options and tactics. They were talking in the conference room when David and Marie Mathews ran into the precinct.

"My name's David Mathews and this is my wife, Marie," David said to Sergeant Hauber. "We're the legal guardians for Robert Mathews, and we want to see him, NOW!"

Sergeant Hauber was extremely busy with the flurry of lawyers and legal guardians who all wanted access to the young prisoner. At the same time, the technician was showing him the displays of all areas of the precinct that were now appearing on the monitors. Phil Hauber was still trying to get ready for the meeting with his patrol officers when he was told that he had an important phone call.

"This is Thomas Finley," the caller said. "My son just regained consciousness, and that boy that you're holding is a hero! The boy saved my son's life by stopping the second perpetrator from shooting Sean! Release that boy IMMEDIATELY!"

Phil Hauber was shocked at what the Chief of Police had just told him. Everyone at the precinct had believed that Robert Mathews had shot Officer Finley, but now the truth had been revealed.

"Stabler, get that boy out of that cell, NOW!" Sergeant Hauber ordered.

Barry Howell, Jason Teague and Guy Stephens had just walked out of the conference room when they saw David and Marie Mathews at the desk. Guy and Barry greeted their friends and tried to calm their fears for the safety of Robbie.

"I just got a call from the Chief of Police," Sergeant Hauber said to the concerned people. "Chief Thomas Finley said that his son, Sean, just told him that the boy didn't shoot anyone! Your boy saved the life of the Chief's son by stopping the perp from firing a shot! Your boy's innocent, and I just ordered an officer to release him!"

The group was shocked at the news, and couldn't wait to see Robbie and give him the great news.

"Our surveillance system has just been updated, and you can see the officer releasing him from his cell on the monitor," Sergeant Hauber said. "That's your boy walking down the hall right now!"

What the Sergeant and the other adults saw on the monitor was fine until Robbie and Officer Stabler got in front of the door to the Exercise Room. The monitor clearly showed Officer Stabler slam Robbie against the wall and then hit him in the head with a nightstick before shoving Robbie into the Exercise Room. It was a serious mistake to show two Navy SEALs how their loved one was being assaulted by a police officer.

David Mathews and Guy Stephens pushed aside the two lawyers and ran toward the Exercise Room. They were both ready to kill!

Elliot Stabler was still pissed at Robbie for challenging him to a fight in front of the other prisoners, and he was determined to teach the arrogant youth a lesson! The initial blow from his nightstick opened a cut on Robbie's head, but the teen didn't drop to the floor. Instead, Officer Stabler was slammed against the wall of the Exercise Room by a Karate kick from the teen, and he was livid! He tried to reach for his container of mace, but wasn't quick enough.

Robbie had handcuffs on his hands, but he used his martial arts skills to pummel the attacking officer with leg kicks. His attack was limited because he couldn't use his arms to maintain his balance, but he was able to drop the officer to the floor.

Officer Stabler was shocked that the teen was able to defend himself, and pulled out the mace and sprayed Robbie in the eyes. The effect was immediate.

Robbie screamed when the mace hit his face and eyes. He staggered around the room and tried to clear his vision so he could defend himself, but Officer Stabler had the advantage. Even though Robbie's hands were cuffed together in front of his body, he still had only limited use of his arms to defend himself, but his anger took control. He fought off the effects of the mace and used his legs and handcuffed arms to attack the officer.

Guy Stephens was terrified. The attack on Robbie was unwarranted, but he knew that David Mathews was going to kill the police officer that attacked his nephew. He knew that he could never stop David, and feared that his friend would be charged with murder.

In David Mathew's mind, he was back in Vietnam on a SEAL mission. Someone that he loved was in danger, and he was ready to kill. When he got inside the Exercise Room, he saw that Robbie had the police officer down on the floor and was choking him with his handcuffed hands. It was obvious that Robbie was going to kill the cop, and he quickly knew that he had to stop his nephew.

"ROBBIE, DON'T DO IT!" David screamed. 'HE DESERVES TO DIE, BUT DON'T YOU KILL HIM! THAT'S A DIRECT ORDER!"

"UNCLE DAVE! YOU CAN'T BE HERE!" Robbie screamed.

"LISTEN TO HIM CADET MATHEWS!" Guy Stephens screamed. "STAND DOWN!"

Other police officers ran to the Exercise Room and wanted to get inside. They quickly realized that they were in danger when David Mathews threatened to kill anyone who came into the room.

"You take care of Robbie!" Guy ordered to David. "Anyone who comes in to help that fucking officer is dead meat! I've got your back, so take care of Robbie!"

Robbie was disoriented. His head ached from the blow from the nightstick, and he couldn't believe that his uncle was actually with him. His eyes burned from the mace and he couldn't clear his head or eyes to see David Mathews or Guy Stephens. He finally realized that he was safe with the two Navy SEALs, and released the unconscious police officer. He had been ready to snap the officer's neck when he heard the two adults order him to "stand down" and knew that he had to obey the orders.

"I've got you now!" David Mathews said while hugging his nephew. "You're safe!"

Sergeant Hauber took control of the officers outside the Exercise Room and ordered them away from the door. He was trying to restore order, but learned from Barry Howell that the two adults in the room with Robbie were both Navy SEALs, and could take apart the entire contingent of police officers assigned to the 14th Precinct.

"Get two ambulances!" Sergeant Hauber ordered his officers. "I want all of you to get in the Squad Room and stay there!"

"WHAT THE FUCK IS GOING ON IN HERE?" Chief Finley demanded of his sergeant after he ran into the precinct. After hearing what had happened to the boy who had saved his son's life, he was livid! He opened the door to the Exercise Room and walked inside. "My name's Thomas Finley, and I'm the Chief of Police for Kansas City," he said. "I came here to thank this young man for saving my son's life, but now we have a real mess to clean up! Please let me help you take care of the boy."

"Your fucking officer attacked my boy with a nightstick!" David Mathews yelled. "I could kill the bastard for what he did, but Robbie nailed him before I could do it!"

"Sergeant Hauber, take that uniform off of Stabler!" Chief Finley ordered. "Make sure that the first ambulance takes this hero to the hospital, and put Stabler under arrest and post guards with him around the clock. If he gets released from the hospital, put him in the same cell that this boy was in! He will NEVER wear a police uniform again!"

Paramedics rushed into the Exercise Room and immediately began treating Robbie and Officer Stabler. Marie Mathews had been terrified seeing Robbie attacked by the police officer, and feared that her husband would kill anyone who hurt their boy. She pushed her way into the room and ran to be with Robbie and her husband. She wept when she saw the blood soaked bandages covering Robbie's head, and saw several bruises and cuts on his face. One of the paramedics was pouring distilled water into Robbie's eyes while her nephew was being pushed out of the room on an ambulance gurney.

"Let me do that!" Marie ordered. "I'm a registered nurse and his aunt, and I want to be with him!"

"I'm sorry for ruining your vacation!" Robbie sobbed. "I didn't want anyone to call you!"

"You're more important than a million cruises!" Marie said. "Try to be still!"

"No Demerol!" Robbie said to the paramedics. "I'm allergic!"

"We saw your necklace," the paramedic replied. "The hospital's only five minutes away, and we'll take good care of you! Try to relax!"

Three hours later, Robbie was taken to a semi-private hospital room. The other bed was empty, and the hospital broke their rules by allowing multiple visitors in to see him. His head still ached, but his vision had improved. His face was swollen and he knew that many stitches had been used to close the cuts from his attack at the precinct.

The entire Whitestone family came into the room to see Robbie. Hunter was the most emotional. He realized that Robbie had saved his life by pushing him down behind the retaining wall, and he didn't know what to say. He was relieved to finally see Robbie, but he sobbed uncontrollably when he saw the cuts and bruises on his friend.

Tracker had tears running down his face when he hugged Robbie. He knew some of the details of the events at the party store, but wanted to hear everything from Robbie. When they had left the Academy, he had hoped that Robbie would enjoy the visit to Kansas City, but the entire trip had been a disaster. He felt guilty, and begged Robbie to forgive him.

"This isn't your fault," Robbie said to Tracker. "The world is full of shitheads, and we happened to run into a bunch of them. I did some terrible things, and I hope your parents will let me come back some other time, but I really want to go back to Michigan right now. I won't feel safe until I'm back at the Academy."

"Can I come in?" Thomas Finley asked. "My name's Thomas Finley, and I'm the Chief of Police. I see that you have a bunch of visitors, but I want to thank you for saving my son's life. The doctors were successful in removing the bullet from his abdomen, and they say he'll make a complete recovery. He wants to thank you himself, and I can arrange for him to be in the same room with you if you'll let me."

"I heard that you're the Chief of Police," Robbie said. "I'm sorry that all of this crap happened. That bastard would have killed you son along with Hunter and me if I didn't do something, but I didn't know what else to do but hit him with that baseball bat. I know I killed that man, and I feel sick about it."

"The Medical Examiner listed his cause of death as two gunshots to the chest," Chief Finley said. "The store clerk will live too, and he gave us a complete statement that matches your account of the robbery. He's still in Intensive Care, and he could only speak Arabic when he regained consciousness. You're a hero, and I want to know what I can do for you."

"I wanted to go to Smokey Joe's Barbecue this weekend, but now all that I want to do is go back to the Academy in Michigan," Robbie admitted. "That man was dead before the store clerk shot him, and I know it!"

"He might have lived from those hits from the baseball bat, but he couldn't survive with two bullets in his heart," Chief Finley said. He had used his influence with the Medical Examiner to list the official cause of death as "gunshots" in an effort to protect the teenager. "Where did you learn about Smokey Joe's?"

"My uncle said it was the best in the world for barbecued ribs," Robbie replied. "Chancellor Brown said the same thing, and asked me to bring some back to the Academy for him. I guess I'll have to wait for my next trip down here."

"The doctors said you might be released tomorrow," Chief Finley said. "My son's condition is improving, and he should be moved to a room this evening.

Will you consider letting him be your roommate?"

"I'd like to meet him," Robbie admitted. "Maybe if I get a speeding ticket down here, he can 'fix' it for me!"

Everyone laughed at Robbie's joke. It was a welcome relief to laugh again after all the turmoil, and Tracker called Robbie an asshole for teasing the Chief of Police.

That evening, Sean Finley was wheeled into the hospital room. He was still in pain, but he was pleased that he would have the opportunity to thank the teenager who had saved his life. Carrie Finley, Sean's wife, was also thrilled to meet Robbie who had saved her husband. She fussed over Robbie and Sean, and talked to everyone in the room. She was seven months pregnant, and was excited about delivering her first child. When she heard that Sean had been shot, she was terrified that her husband would die. The nurses finally made all of the visitors leave so Robbie and Sean could get some rest.

The next morning, Robbie was released from the hospital. He begged his aunt and uncle to return to their cruise, and they finally relented when they found out that Barry Howell would fly Robbie, Tracker and Guy Stephens back to Traverse City after the group had Thanksgiving dinner at the Whitestone home. They knew that Guy Stephens would do anything for Robbie, and they finally agreed to rejoin the cruise in San Juan, Puerto Rico. When they got the emergency call, they had left their luggage on the cruise ship, so it was easy for them to fly down to continue their vacation.

Barry Howell wanted to return to Traverse City as soon as possible, but he realized that he had some final details to complete with Jason Teague before he left. Because of the Thanksgiving Holiday, court officials weren't available, so he had to delay his departure until Friday morning.

River and April Whitestone offered to have Barry Howell and Guy Stephens stay at their home, but the two men graciously refused, and let Robbie and Tracker spend time together at the Whitestone home. Both men had several phone calls to make, and they didn't want to disturb the family, so they checked into hotel rooms.

Robbie felt guilty for keeping Mr. Howell and Mr. Stephens from spending the holiday with their families. His head still ached from the attack, and his mind was filled with images of the shattered face of the robber after being hit with the baseball bat. He just wanted to be alone, but Tracker was tuned in to Robbie's emotions, and knew his buddy needed company.

When the Whitestone family returned to their home, the street was nearly blocked by a multitude of media vehicles. Several television stations wanted to interview Robert Mathews and had sent their crews to the Whitestone home. Barry Howell, Jason Teague and Guy Stephens had agreed to share the Thanksgiving meal with the Whitestone family, and were in a taxi following River Whitestone's mini van. Everyone was pleased to see several police officers holding the crowd of reporters away from the Whitestone property so the van could drive into the garage without being stopped. Many of the police officers had originally believed that Robbie had shot their fellow officer and had been angry with the teenager. Now they were pleased to protect him from the media sharks, and they all wanted to shake Robbie's hand and thank him for his bravery.

"I'll handle the media," Jason Teague offered to Barry Howell. "You'll have to face the vultures when you get back to Michigan."

Barry Howell knew that Jason was right. Even if an interview were held in Kansas City, the local media in Michigan would want their chance to interview Robbie.

"My name is Jason Teague, and I'm the legal representative for Robert Mathews, the brave young man who risked his life to save Officer Sean Finley from certain death," Jason began when the microphones were held in front of him. "Robbie was just released from Montgomery Hospital where he was treated for wounds from an altercation at the 14th Precinct. Robbie's doing fine, and I'm happy to report that Officer Sean Finley will make a complete recovery from his gunshot wound. I will not comment on the investigation of the robbery attempt at Mickey's Party Store or the incident at the 14th Precinct. I will tell you that Robbie will meet with the Chief of Police and the District Attorney tomorrow morning at 10:00 a.m., and will soon return to Michigan. This young man is a hero, and I ask you to respect his wishes to be left alone. I will not answer questions at this time, and ask you to let the Whitestone family have peace during their Thanksgiving meal. Thank you!"

The reporters were disappointed that they weren't able to interview the young cadet, and fired questions at Jason Teague. The experienced lawyer turned away from the microphones and was pleased to see the police officers holding the crowd back.

Robbie was relieved to be out of the hospital and wanted to spend some quiet time with Tracker and Hunter. He was still having some vision problems from the attack in the precinct, and wanted to relax and spend some peaceful time with Tracker's family.

Hunter didn't want to be away from Robbie for any reason, and constantly asked Robbie if he needed anything. Robbie was his hero, and he didn't want Robbie to go back to Michigan.

"I wish you boys would stay until Sunday," April Whitestone said. "We don't get to see you often enough, and we want you to see more of Kansas City. I know that this visit has been a disaster, but don't judge our city by these terrible events."

"Those reporters will hound Robbie," River Whitestone said to his wife. "If the boys stay until Sunday, the reporters will be at the airport waiting for them. I just hope that Robbie will come back for a visit again, and pray that the next visit will be an enjoyable one."

"I really want to come back again," Robbie said. "I never dreamed that I would have to use my training to defend myself or Sean Finley. I'll be honest with all of you. I know that I killed that man, and I need to see Dr. George Mathis in Traverse City to talk about my feelings. I'm having nightmares, and I think that I'll feel better when I'm back at the Jefferson Dorm."

"You've had a bunch of people calling here to talk to you," April Whitestone said to Robbie. "Drew and Keith have called several times, along with a bunch of other cadets. We stopped answering the phone because of the reporters, but you might want to consider calling your friends to let them know that you're recovering. Our telephone number was listed in the directory, so everyone can call here. Several girls called too! We made a list of the names and telephone numbers, so you can choose whom to call. Who is Jennifer Anderson?"

"Jenny Kay called me?" Robbie asked. He was thrilled to hear Jennifer's name, and decided to call her first. He wanted to limit the long distance charges, and offered to pay for the calls that he made.

"Don't worry about the phone bill!" River Whitestone said. "I had the phone company change our telephone number and make it 'unlisted' but we want you to call your friends. It's the least we can do for you after you saved Hunter's life!"

When Robbie made his first phone call to Jennifer Anderson, he was so excited to talk to the beautiful girl, and enjoyed their private conversation until Drew picked up an extension.

"What's the deal?" Drew blurted out. "I'm your Big Brother; you should have asked for me instead of my sister! Are you okay? I can't let you out of my sight or you'll get your ass busted! Did you kick a guy's ass at O'Hare Airport? Did you really kill a guy in Kansas City? Your name has been plastered all over the newspapers and television stations!"

Robbie listened to the litany of questions from Drew, and also to the argument between Jennifer and Drew over who should be talking to him. He finally told them to stop arguing or he would hang up the phone. He could hear Tom and Carol Anderson in the background asking to talk to him, and felt dizzy.

"We're all in my home office now, and you're on a speaker phone!" Thomas Anderson said. "We've been worried sick about you, but the hospital wouldn't let us call your room! Keith Phillips is here too, and we all want to hear how you're doing!"

Robbie gave an abbreviated account of the altercations in Chicago and in Kansas City. He admitted that his head hurt and his vision was still blurred, but he wanted to get back to the Academy as soon as possible. He wanted to talk to Jennifer again, but knew that Drew would be upset.

After the phone call ended, Jennifer teased her brother about the phone call from Robbie. "Now you know where you rate!" Jennifer teased. "He called ME, not YOU! God, I love him!"

Drew didn't like to be teased, but he knew that Robbie and Jenny were close friends. He decided to cut his vacation short so he could be back at the Academy when Robbie returned. He wanted to hug his Little Brother and hear all the details of the tragic vacation, but was also concerned about his sister being in love with Robbie.

On Friday morning, Robbie and Tracker packed their clothes for the trip back to Michigan. Thomas Finley, the Chief of Police, had asked Robbie to meet with him, the District Attorney, and the mayor before leaving the city. The city officials were concerned about Robbie's injuries and feared that a major lawsuit would be filed against Officer Elliot Stabler, the Police Department, and the city, but still asked for the meeting.

The entire Whitestone family wanted to go to the meeting with the boys and then take them to the airport. Guy Stephens was proud of Robbie, and knew what the cadet was going to say to the city officials. The two attorneys, Jason Teague and Barry Howell, had talked to Robbie along with David and Marie Mathews on Thursday morning, and supported Robbie's decisions.

When the large group arrived at City Hall, Thomas Finley warmly greeted them at the front door.

"How are you feeling?" Thomas Finley asked Robbie. "I hope you're feeling better today and will make a complete recovery. The Mayor and District Attorney are waiting for us in the Mayor's Conference Room."

"I'm feeling better," Robbie replied. "I called Sean before we left, and he's feeling better too. Is it really necessary for us to bother the Mayor and District Attorney?"

"They both wanted to meet you and talk about the options that you have," Chief Finley replied. "They're waiting for us in the Conference Room. No one will put any pressure on you in this meeting, so please relax."

After everyone was introduced, Mayor Neil Snyder began his comments. "As mayor of Kansas City, Missouri, I apologize for the way you've been treated in our city," he began. "You saved the life of a fine police officer by your actions, and every member of the Police Department and every law-abiding citizen of this city is grateful. Thank you for your bravery!"

"Thanks for your comments," Robbie began. "Before my aunt and uncle left to rejoin their cruise, we had a long talk together. I'm still having nightmares about what happened, but I have a lot of people who'll help me handle the emotions of killing that man. My uncle has NEVER lied to me, and he agreed that the man was probably dead before the store clerk shot him. I've been shot before, and it's a terrible experience with a long recovery period. I want to put this mess behind me and get back to school in Michigan quickly."

The three city officials were still concerned that the Mathews family would bring a lawsuit against the Police Department and the city, but they couldn't stop it. They were very impressed with the handsome cadet in the blue uniform from the George Washington Academy, and allowed him to continue.

"My biggest fear is that Elliot Stabler will return to the Police Department and will attack another innocent person," Robbie admitted. "If my uncle and Coach Stephens hadn't found me, I know I would have killed him too. I'm ashamed that I lost control of my emotions when he attacked me. Anyone trained in the Martial Arts is expected to control their emotions and match their actions with the threats from their attacker, but I blew it."

"It would have been self defense," District Attorney Joanne Hall said. "Elliot Stabler's facing a multitude of charges and will NEVER be a police officer again, ANYWHERE!"

"I know that you're afraid that I'll file lawsuits against the Police Department and Kansas City, but that WON'T happen!" Robbie continued. "I hope I don't offend any of the lawyers present, but my uncle and aunt talked to me, and we don't like lawsuits. I filed charges against Mr. Stabler, but I won't sue this city!"

Guy Stephens was bursting with pride! David and Marie Mathews had been his friends for a long time, and they had raised Robbie well! Robbie could collect millions of dollars from lawsuits against the Police Department and city, but wasn't going to do it. Guy knew that Robbie had a large trust fund from the untimely death of his birth parents, but could have become wealthier at the expense of Kansas City. He loved Robbie like he was his own son, and was proud of the handsome cadet.

Neil Snyder, Thomas Finley and Joanne Hall were relieved. The city had liability insurance, but a lawsuit would still affect the financial future of Kansas City with increased insurance premiums.

"Thank you!" Mayor Neil Snyder said. "When you return to testify in the trial of Elliot Stabler, you'll be the guest of the city, and we'll cover your travel expenses, hotel room, and pay for all of your meals and entertainment. Again, I thank you for your understanding and sacrifices!"

"If you knew how much I eat, you wouldn't make that offer!" Robbie teased. "When I come back here, I hope to stay with the Whitestone family and see more of the city."

Everyone laughed at what Robbie had said. The tension in the room evaporated, and everyone was now relaxed and enjoying their important meeting.

"Jason Teague will be representing Cadet Mathews during the legal issues," Barry Howell said. "After listening to this young man, you know why I provide legal services to the George Washington Academy on a pro-bono basis!

The Academy teaches young men to become model citizens of this fine country, and I'm proud of him and his actions."

"Can you believe that?" Thomas Finley said to his boss, Mayor Neil Snyder after the guests left the meeting. "That kid had us by the balls, but he let us off the hook!"

"A similar lawsuit in Jefferson City cost the city 10 million dollars!" Joanne Hall said. "Now that Robbie Mathews has let us off the hook, it's my job as District Attorney to make sure that Elliot Stabler serves hard time in prison. The security camera tapes will make our case a 'Slam Dunk'!"

"Make sure that you interview the other prisoners who witnessed the other attacks against Robbie," Chief Finley said. "I want the case to be airtight!"

Jason Teague knew that reporters would be waiting outside City Hall to interview Robert Mathews, but he wasn't going to allow it. He made some brief statements and refused to answer questions that were fired at him.

"District Attorney Joanne Hall will be right out to talk to you," Jason said to the reporters. "These two young men are returning to Michigan today, so hold your questions for Ms. Hall."

Robbie and Tracker left Kansas City and happily headed back to the George Washington Academy campus.

To be continued.....