Pyro

Jason

Chapter 1

The light blinds him, his head hurts. The cold hard ground of winter seeps into his body making him colder than he should be. He's alone, cold, and very tired, but he doesn't seem to know why. Slowly he opens his eyes slightly just enough to see his surroundings. He sees the forest he is in, and the dead leaves as they litter the ground. His body aches from head to toe, but he can't remember why.

Slowly he sits up, and even that little bit of moving seems to take what little energy he has. He looks down and notices that he is naked, but what shocks him the most is the dried blood that he is covered in.

Where? How? he thinks to himself.

Slowly he gets himself up off the ground and leans against the tree. More pain shoots through him, a pain he has never known before hits his left leg and right arm. Slowly he starts to walk, more limping then walking. He sees a little embankment and starts that way. As he approaches the embankment he can tell it is right next to a road. Slowly he starts to climb, but falls and cries out in pain. There is no one there to help him.

He cries lying on his side, he is in pain the most terrible pain he can remember. Slowly he gets back and on hands and knees makes his way up the embankment. After what feels like hours but only a few minutes he reaches the top and collapses right next to the road. He allows the dark nothing to take him and let him escape from the pain that is coursing through his body.

The next think he is aware of is a warm blanket being placed over him, and small murmurs, he must be dreaming he thinks. Slowly he drifts back off unaware of his new surroundings or what has been happening since he was found.

Voices that seem far away and like a dream come to him. He hears them but cannot make them out. Slowly he focuses and hears them more clearly.

"Yes he was just found by the side of the road. He hasn't woken up yet," he heard.

Who were they talking about he wonders to himself. He tries to move but his body feels so heavy. Like there is a blanket of concrete on top of him. He slowly starts to open his eyes then quickly shuts them. The light is to bright and is blinding him and causing a headache. He winces in pain. Who ever was in the room heard him.

"Shhh it's alright. You're safe now, I promise," he hears. Slowly he opens his eyes and sees a lady in a nurse's outfit. She smiles down at him. "Calm down honey it is alright. You're safe," she says.

"Wh… what… happ… happened?" he asked. Looking at her with pleading eyes. She smiled at him again.

"We don't know honey we were hoping you can tell us. Let me call the doctor in for you," she said. She hit the button and told who ever was on the other line that he was awake and to get the doctor.

A few minutes later the doctor walks in. He is looking at a chart and reading some stuff on it. He turns and looks at the boy.

"Hello there young man. I'm doctor Cunningham. How are you feeling today?" he asks in a cheery voice.

"Hurt" was all he could say. The doctor smiled down at him again.

"Yes I would imagine that you are. You have been hurt pretty badly, we were hoping you could tell us your name," he said looking down at him.

The boy seemed to think about that for a moment, and after a few moments looked up at the doctor.

"I don't remember," he said and started crying. Who am I? he asked himself crying even harder. The doctor and nurse look at him sympathetically.

"Shhhhh don't worry, we will find out. I am not surprised that you don't remember. You had a nasty crack on the back of your head," the doctor said, while he started examining him. "Do you remember anything at all?" he asked.

The boy seemed to think about that for a minute.

"I remember waking up in a forest. I was hurting and covered in blood," he stopped for a moment to catch his breath. "I remember trying to climb up a small hill or incline or something. I fell down then got back up a few minutes later. The last thing I remember was laying next to a road," he said with silent tears running down his face.

The doctor was nodding his head, and writing stuff down on the chart. "So you don't know what has all happened to you?" he asked. By the look in his eyes the boy could see sympathy and sadness for the boy.

"No sir" was all he could say, he couldn't remember who he was, where he was from or anything like that.

"As I said I'm not surprised, I won't tell you all that has happened to you but I will tell you that your left leg has a fracture in it. It will take about six weeks to heal. We put it in a cast. Usually we would use a half cast or soft case for it, but we weren't sure how you got yourself in the situation that you did and we felt it best to put a full cast on just incase. Also your right arm is broken in two places, that one we had to put in a cast as well. It will take about eight weeks to heal.

I am not going to go over everything that is wrong with you right now. You have a lot of healing to do and right now I don't think that you need anything else added to it. Just so you know you will heal completely. It will take sometime; also I am going to be sending in a friend of mine to talk with you. Maybe he can help you remember what happened to you," Doctor Cunningham said.

"Ok thanks," the boy said. Cunningham and the nurse left a few minutes later after writing some more stuff on his chart. As he lies there he tried to remember anything that he could about what happened to him but nothing came to mind. Slowly he fell asleep and slipped into darkness.

Screams and faces came and went, swirls of images that he didn't know or recognizes appeared and disappeared. Screaming he wakes up and cries, there was the same nurse there trying to comfort him, but it is no use the images are fresh in his mind and he is terrified of them. He feels something in his hip and then he slowly stops his crying, as the nurse seems to say something but he can't make it out. He is too tired now, what was going on?

The sun is shining through his window now and he feels the warmth of it on his face. He slowly opens his eyes. A dull headache has replaced the sharp pains that came to him at first.

"Where…" he starts then stops, he starts to remember the hospital and the nurses and doctor who took care of him. He notices the clock on the way 9:30 am it reads. He has been out all night. He feels the tenderness in his hip and remembers the injection that the nurse gave him.

"Hey there sunshine how do you feel this morning?" a nurse asks as she comes in bringing breakfast to him. He smiles at her.

"Fine, I'm still hurting though. Feels like something is stabbing me in my leg," he says wincing.

"Awwww dear I'm sorry, but as soon as you eat we'll get you something for your pain. Now eat up," she says putting the tray of food on the tray that is next to the bed.

Slowly he starts to try and eat, but he finds that his can't use his left hand.

"Oh dear you must be right handed. I'm sorry dear, but you are going to have to try and eat with your left for now ok?" she says. He nods his head and starts to eat again and the nurse leaves his room. About 15 minutes later she returns and gives him two pills. "Here you go dear, take these, they will help deal with the pain. They may make you sleepy," she warns. He nods his head and takes the pills, with his orange juice that is on the tray.

A few minutes later an orderly comes in and takes the tray, and walks out. Slowly he feels himself start to drift off to sleep. Again the nightmares and images of people and places invade his dream. He awakens once more crying, and screaming. Instead of a nurse there's a man there who helps to comfort him. After a few minutes he calms down and slowly stops his crying.

The man hands him a napkin and he wipes his eyes and blows his nose.

"Thank you," he says to the man.

"You're welcome. I'm Dr. Connor, I'm a psychiatrist, and I have been asked to come and talk with you. Good thing that I was able to come this morning, that seemed like a nasty nightmare you had. Would you like to tell me about it?" he asks smiling at him.

At first he is weary of the man but soon starts telling him about the nightmares that he has had.

"I don't know how to start, I see images and sometimes people's faces. I can't really make out who they are or where I'm at, but I do know that they are hurting me. It is like I can feel the pain that they are causing me," he says and starts crying again. Dr. Connor gives him a minute to clam down.

"Ok well let's get to that in a minute. Do you know how you got here to the hospital?" he asks.

"No sir," the boy replies. Dr. Connor nods his head and writes something down.

"Ok, do you know how you got into the woods?" he asked. Once again the boy said no. "What do you remember?" he asks. Thinking about it for a moment the boy shook his head.

"Nothing. I remember waking in the woods hurting, making it to the top of the embankment then nothing till I woke up yesterday. Or earlier today or whenever," he says. Dr. Connor nods his head.

"Ok. according to Dr. Cunningham you have a bad knock on the back of your head. I am not going to go into everything till he gets here, but it is not uncommon for you to have amnesia right now after taking a hard hit on your head. Now over time I will be able to help you remember things, but sometimes memories will come back on there own. Maybe a smell, or a face sometimes a scene will cause you to remember. Now whenever this happens I want you to write it down so you won't forget it. Together I think that we will be able to help piece back your memories.

It will seem like it will take forever but I promise you that it won't. I cannot tell you how many times people think that they would never get there memories back but they do. So I don't want you thinking that you won't ever get them back because you will, it will just take some time before they all will come back to you. Do you have any questions for me?" Dr. Connor asked.

The boy thought for a minute then shook his head. Dr. Connor smiled.

"Ok then I will be back in a bit with Dr. Cunningham to talk about what has all happened to you," he said. With that he walked out of the room, leaving the boy there to think about what he was told.

It may take a long time before I get any of my memories back. But how much have I missed in my life because of this, he thought to himself as he waited for the doctors to come back in and see him.

After about two hours both Dr. Connor and Dr. Cunningham appeared back in the boy's room just as he finished his lunch.

"Hey there young man how are you feeling?" asked Dr. Cunningham smiling at him.

"Ok I guess. I am tired and still hurting, but otherwise I'm ok," he said lying back and propping his leg up on the pillow that was brought to him. Dr. Cunningham smiled down at him.

"That is normal as I told you before you are going to be sore for a long time, but you will heal and get better, that I promise you. Now I think we need to talk, I told you I would tell you what has all happened to you. The reason why I asked Dr. Connor to be here is because your leg, arm and head are not the only things that were damaged.

You don't realize it but you have been here for about a week now. You have been sedated most of that time because of the damage that was done to you. I don't know if you have noticed or not but you have a catheter in you. That is basically a hose with a balloon on it. It is inserted up your penis to your bladder. Once there it is inflated and is used to catch your urine. That way you won't have to get up as much.

The reason that we had to do that is because you have been on pain pills and injections for the last week so you haven't noticed several things. First, you appendix has been removed. Your appendix is a sack that is on the lower part of your intestines. It is near your groin area. It really isn't used for anything and no doctor has been able to tell what function it has, we just have it.

Next you had to have an operation on your spine the damage was severe. It looked like someone kicked or stomped on your back several times. You had three-cracked vertebra and four discs that were damaged or completely destroyed. We had to remove the four discs and insert what we call cages in your back. They go in between the vertebra to help fill in the space and give support for in between the vertebra. There are four rods in your back to help hold your spine in place and twelve screws to help hold the rods in place.

The three-cracked vertebras are in the area where the discs are so the rods will help them heal. You may experience pain down your leg and lower back some, but hopefully that will pass. If not you will be put on permanent pain relievers, they will help control your pain and any pain that you will experience from the surgery as well.

As I told you your leg was fractured but what I didn't tell you is that there are rods and screws in your leg as well. I didn't want to worry you right then or I would have told you. They are there to make sure that the fracture doesn't get any worse. Also with how deep the fracture was we felt it was best to go ahead and put them in there.

Your right arm is broken and is in the cast. It will take eight weeks to heal but there are no rods, screws or pins in your arm," Dr. Cunningham said smiling and stopping briefly. "Most of your bruises are either healed or are healing. You have multiple bruises all over your body; I wish I knew how you got them. Some look like you were slapped and others looked as if you were punched.

Now for your head, as I told you before and Dr. Connor told you again you had a bad crack on the back of your head. By what the x-rays show someone took something and hit you repeatedly in the back of your head. There was some swelling of the brain but that seems to have passed or you wouldn't be awake right now. According to the x-rays it also showed that your jaw was broken at least one time, it is healed so we don't know how long ago it was," Dr. Cunningham stopped for a moment and looked at Dr. Connor. They looked at each other for a few moments before Dr. Connor nodded his head for Dr. Cunningham to continue.

"Son this is probably the worse part, of what I have to tell you, and honestly I really don't know how to tell you this," he started.

"Just tell me doc please," the boy pleaded, Dr. Cunningham looked at him for a minute then grabbed the chair and sat next to the bed. Taking the boy's hand he began to tell him the last part of what was wrong with him.

"Ok well here it is. You see the last thing that we did was to see if you were sexually assaulted. To do that we put a scope down your throat and swab it to see what is in there and then we turn you over and look at your anus. We swab there and look for any damage that might have been done if you were assaulted. I really don't know what to say especially to someone who is so young. I'm sorry but by the evidence that we gathered you were sexually assaulted. By the semen samples we got there were at least three different men that did it," Dr. Cunningham stopped right there.

Dr. Connor came up to the other side of the bed.

"How do you feel now that you were told about this?" he asked him, looking for any signs as to what the boy was feeling.

"I don't know how I feel. Numb, scared, even tired, right now I just don't know. How old am I?" he asked the doctors. Dr. Cunningham answered.

"By what we have seen and the test that we ran, the lack of hair on your body except for your head, eyebrows and the small patch of pubic hair you are about 13 maybe 14," he said. The boy nodded his head and then just sighed.

"Ok so I don't remember any of this. Good I don't think I could handle remembering everything that happened to me. I told you about the nightmares and the blurry images I saw, right now that's I all I have," he said lying back more on the bed.

The boy was scared and numb more than anything else. He didn't know what to think or how to feel about finding out what was all done to him.

"Well is there anything else you want to know?" Dr. Cunningham asked him. The boy shook his head. "If you need anything let us know."

"I'll be back later to talk with you," Dr. Connor said, as both doctors walked out the door.

The boy lied back and just waited for the tears. There were none. He didn't know why but there weren't. Finally he just stared out the window and watched the day go by.

About an hour later a realization hit him, he saw a bird flying past his window and a memory came to him.

He saw a woman calling to him, she was about 5'6 [1.68 m] with shoulder length brown hair. He couldn't make out her face only her height and hair but her face was blurry and he saw himself running up to her and hugging her, and then there was another set of arms around him and it was a man smiling down at him a tall man with big arms but like with the lady he couldn't make out his face only that he was tall with short hair either a dirty blonde or a light brown. They said something and at first he didn't hear it but after listening he heard what they said.

"I got it," he exclaimed sitting up in bed a little to fast. He felt the pain that his body was going through for his sitting up to fast.

"You got what?" asked Dr. Connor and Cunningham said at the same time as they both ran into the room.

"My name, I remember my name… it's Jason."

Chapter 2

Dr. Cunningham and Dr. Connor looked at him surprised. "How do you know that?" asked Dr. Connor. The boy smiled at the two doctors.

"After you two left I was just sitting here and looking out the window. I saw a blue bird fly past. Then the next thing I knew I saw two people holding me, one was a woman a little taller than me and a man that was way taller than me. They keep saying something and I couldn't make it out. Then the next thing I knew I heard my name. I don't know who the people are, where they live or anything all I know is that my name is Jason," he said smiling. Both doctors smiled back.

"Good, now Jason do you know your last name?" Dr. Connor asked him. Jason hung his head and shook it. "That's ok it will come to you. Now that we have a name it may be easier to find out where you belong. Don't worry," he said. Both doctors left the room to talk about the latest development concerning young Jason.

A few hours later Dr. Connor and Dr. Cunningham came in with a man in a suit. Jason looked up and looked at the man with concern. He didn't know him and he felt that he was about to get in trouble.

"Jason I would like you to meet detective Perry. Don't worry you are not in trouble. We have tried to tell him that you don't remember anything but he doesn't seem to believe us. So you are going to have to answer some questions. Ok?" Dr. Cunningham started.

"Also we are here to make sure that you don't get too aggravated. If you do the interview will be over with," Dr. Connor said looking at the detective. The detective didn't seem happy about that but nodded his head.

"Jason I'm detective Perry. I work for the local police department. I have a few questions for you. Just answer them the best you can. First what is your name?" he started holding a pen and a small notepad.

"Jason," Jason said.

"Last name?" detective Perry said.

"I don't know," Jason responded. The detective looked at him for a minute.

"You don't know?" he asked him.

"No I don't," Jason said already starting to get aggravated.

"Ok where do you live?" he asked.

"I don't know," Jason said.

"Ok then what happened to you?" the detective asked. Jason sighed and told detective Perry the same things that he told the doctors. He woke up in a wooded area made his way to a road and collapsed. That was all he knew. The detective didn't seem to believe him.

"So you mean to tell me you don't remember who hurt you and where it happened or anything?" he asked Jason looking at him with disbelieve disbelief.

"No detective I don't. All I know is my name is Jason and I only found that out a few hours ago. If you would listen to my doctors they will tell you what has happened to me and why I can't remember. If you don't want to believe me that is fine but then that is your business. Right now I don't know anything, and I don't know what has happened to me. Get out," Jason said turning away from the detective.

"Now just wait one minute kid, you don't talk like that to me," Detective Perry started but was stopped by a hand on his arm.

"That's it, the interview is over. He told you what he knows, and we told you what has all happened to him. Now you need to leave. Once he said it was over that was it. I will be calling your superior and letting them know of your attitude and the way that you handled a kid. Now leave," said Dr. Connor.

Detective Perry was pissed but he turned and walked out of the room. Dr. Connor walked over to the side of Jason's bed.

"You ok?" he asked him looked down with a worried expression on his face. Jason didn't say anything just closed his eyes. "Ok I'll be back later to check on you," Dr. Connor said. The two doctors left the room leaving the door opened some.

Jason laid there and let his tears fall from him face. Why didn't he believe me, he thought. I don't know anything even the doctors told him that. The question kept going over and over in his head as the tears came harder down his face.

Slowly he cried himself to sleep with images of people faces that were blurry, and strange objects that seemed to have caused him pain, came and went through his mind.

A nurse woke him up and had him eat. They keep the IV in his arm for pain medicine but still gave him pills when the pain was worse. After eating Jason flipped through the channels and watched the Simpson's.

A little bit later doctors Connor and Cunningham came into the room, with a man dressed in a policeman's uniform that had a lot of ribbons and medals on it. He sighed.

"What now, came to drill me some more and try and hit the truth out of me?" Jason asked with distain in his voice. Dr. Connor came up to the bed.

"No Jason that will not happen here. This is Chief Beasley he is the one I called after detective Perry left. I told him what happened and he came down here to talk with you. Not to ask you questions that I promise you," Dr. Connor got out of the way and let the Chief come up next to the bed.

"Jason I'm Chief Beasley but everyone call's me Chief. I am here to tell you that I am sorry that one of my detectives acted the way he did. I don't know why he handled you the way he did, but I have talked with both your doctors and him.

"As of now detective Perry has been suspended for a week. This is not the first time that this has happened with him but it will be the last. You have nothing to worry about on that.

"I am sorry for what has happened to you. I have talked with the doctors and they have explained to me what your injuries are and how severe they are. I am sorry that you have had to go through that. To let you know I am going to take a picture of you if that is ok and we are going to start posting them around town and on the computer to see if maybe we can find out more about you. I am sorry that you have had to go through all of this, and I am sorry for my detective. If you decide to call an attorney and file a lawsuit I will understand," the Chief said.

Jason looked at him and smiled. "Don't worry I don't want to sue anyone, I just want to know who I am and what happened to me. That's all," he said breaking down into tears. The Chief placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.

"I know young man I know." After Jason composed himself the Chief took the picture and shook Jason's hand he left with Jason's two doctors.

Around 9 o'clock that night Jason fell asleep, but woke up around 1 in the morning screaming and crying. The night nurses were told about his nightmares and were told what shot to give him. Once the shot was given a few minutes later Jason fell back to sleep, and thank God that he had no more nightmares.

Jason awoke about 7:30 the next morning when breakfast was brought in. He missed it the morning before because of the medicine but this time he was able to wake up earlier.

Dr. Cunningham came in about 11:30 and did his check up. He felt that Jason was healing but it was a very slow process for the amount of damage that was done. Dr. Cunningham told him to expect to stay in there for at least another two weeks. Jason sighed and nodded his head.

Around 1:30 Dr. Connor came in and shut the door.

"Well Jason how are you feeling today? Better now that no more policeman will be bothering you?" he asked smiling. Jason smiled back.

"Yes sir. I am sorry I got so upset but I don't know why he acted the way he did. At least it is over. I had more nightmares last night," Jason said. Dr. Connor wrote something in the chart that he had for Jason.

"Yes I was told can you tell me what you remember of it?" he asked him sitting in a chair next to his bed.

"Well most of it is the same stuff, I see people but I can't make out who they are. There faces are always blurry, and I can't really tell anything about that except that they are big and strong," Jason said.

"Ok well that is a start. Can you tell me if they are men and women or just men, just women? Anything like that?" Dr. Connor asked while writing more stuff in his chart. Jason thought for a few minutes.

"I'm pretty sure that they are all men. I can't be 100% but I am at least 99% that they are all men. Also this time I saw some strange looking objects," he said. Dr. Connor looked up at him.

"What do you mean by strange object?" he asked bending forward to make sure that he could hear everything.

"I don't know, one seemed kinda of long and it looked like someone was holding it. It was kinda floppy. I think it was black but it was all too hazy, so I couldn't really tell what it was. Another was what looked like a table with some straps on it, but once again they could have been holes, I couldn't see them very well. I'm sorry," Jason said lying back in his bed.

"No Jason don't be sorry, you are doing great here. With your help and what ever you remember you may be able to find out who did this to you. Now I am going to run to my office for a minute and get something I will be right back," Dr. Connor left.

A few minutes later he came into the room with what looked like a magazine.

"Jason this is a magazine showing old weapons from the middle ages and before. I would like to show you a picture and if you can I would like for you to tell me if this is what you saw in your dream" with that he showed the picture to Jason. Jason's eyes got wide.

"Yeah that's it. How did you know?" he asked holding the magazine and looking at the cat-of-nine tails whip.

"I had an idea when you described the device to me. I also think that I know what the other object is but right now I am not going to say anything till I can find a picture of it. I don't want you thinking that what I tell you is the actual device; I want you to see it and tell me if that is it or not," Dr. Connor said taking back the magazine.

Jason and Dr. Connor talked for about another 30 minutes then Jason started falling asleep. Dr. Connor left him and went back to his office to write down what all happened with his session with Jason.

Jason woke up about 5 and had his dinner. Roast beef and mashed potatoes. After eating he was in more and more pain and called the nurse for some medicine. When the nurse walked in she took one look at Jason and ran out leaving Jason with a confused look on his face.

A few minutes later Dr. Cunningham and the nurse came back in.

"Jason how do you feel?" he asked him. Checking his chest and throat.

"I'm hurting really, really bad right now. It feels like my back is trying to fall apart," Jason said letting the tears fall that he was trying not to show.

"Ok Jason we're going to take good care of you," the doctor nodded and Jason felt a needle go into his butt. Then sleep took him away.

When Jason woke up he was in a strange room. There was some sort of mask over his face and he kept hearing some beeping noise. Slowly he turned his head and saw a lady sitting there writing some stuff on a chart. She noticed him and smiled down at him.

"Hey little man you had to have another surgery but don't worry you are ok now. You have nothing to worry about. I know you are hurting but you will be ok, I promise you," she said about that time another machine hooked up to him started beeping really fast. She turned and saw Jason's eyes flutter shut. "Jason come on wake up. Jason," she said again but he didn't hear her. She looked and saw that the bed was covered in blood. She called for the doctor and he came immediately.

They had to rush him back into the operating room. Once again Jason woke up and saw the same lady standing next to him; this time instead of a smile she had a worried expression on her face.

"Hey there Jason you're ok, I promise you, you started hemorrhaging and we didn't know from where so the doctor had to go back in. He fixed you right on up, now I need for you to try and stay awake for me ok," she said to Jason.

Jason noticed that his throat was sore but nodded his head and whispered ok. So for the next hour Jason was in and out of consciousness. When they felt that he was ok and that he would not slip into a coma they took him back to his room.

Jason slept on and off for the next few days, Dr. Cunningham keep coming in every few hours and checking on him. Dr. Connor also came and tried talking to him but chuckled and gave up when Jason started falling to sleep.

Finally Friday rolled around and Jason was fully awake, in pain but awake. Dr. Cunningham came in and examined him and started talking to him.

"Jason you're ok, we had to go back into your back again. We missed a vertebra that was putting pressure on your nerves in your back. We had to go and take the pressure off. You will be ok now, I know you are in a lot of pain but don't worry everything will be alright for you," he said reassuringly.

"Ok thank you Dr. Cunningham for everything that you have done for me," Jason said smiling at him. Dr. Cunningham ruffled his head.

"Don't mention it, young man. You are one lucky boy," he said Dr. Cunningham was turning around to leave when the Chief walked in followed by Dr. Connor.

"Hello Jason how are you feeling?" the Chief asked. Jason smiled at the man, he knew that the Chief had come and visited him while he was in and out of sleep the past week.

"Fine Chief thanks," Jason replied smiling.

"Good I heard what happened earlier this week and I am sorry that you had to go through another surgery but hopefully that will be your last," the Chief said patting Jason on the shoulder.

"Thanks Chief," Jason said smiling at the old man.

"Now the reason that I am here is because we think we have found your parents," he said stopping for a minute to let what he just said sink in. "We found a report about a missing 13 year old boy. The boy fit your description and we contacted the local police. Tuesday a woman called and talked to me, she told me what her son Jason looked like. We believe that it is your family they will be here tomorrow morning," he said looking at Jason.

Jason didn't know what to think or say, he just nodded his head.

"Ok get some rest I will be back tomorrow with them, I will personally escort them here," the Chief said. With a nod to everyone he left the room Dr. Cunningham following him out. Dr. Connor stayed.

"Jason how do you feel about this?" he asked him. Jason just looked up at him.

"I'm not sure, scared, maybe happy if they are my family, but what if they are the reason that I am here like this?" he asked. Dr. Connor nodded his head.

"I understand and don't worry we will all be here for you. If they are the cause of what happened to you, they will never be able to hurt you again, that I promise." With that Dr. Connor left.

Jason lay there and thought over what would happen tomorrow, who these people were and if he really was their son. The next thing he knew was that it was evening and the food was there. Jason ate, watched some TV and fell back asleep.

Once again the nightmares came and the nurses gave him something to calm him down. The next morning he woke up scared and uncertain of what the day would bring. After breakfast Dr. Connor came in and they talked some more about what would happen that day. Finally at 11:30 there was a knock on his door and the Chief came in.

"Hello Jason are you feeling better today?" he asked smiling down at him. Jason looked at him with scared eyes.

"Yes sir, I'm scared though. What if they aren't my parents?" he asked with tears sliding down his face. The Chief did something very unlike his self; he put his arm around Jason and hugged him.

"Not to worry, I meet with them and they have a picture of you and the rest of your family. They are your family, and they want to take you home. I told them that you have to stay here for another week or so, at first it was only two weeks but after the emergency surgery I don't know what the doctor will say. Also if you're scared that they are the reason you are here, don't be. I did a full background check and had some cops I know from down there run the investigation again.

I can tell you that they are not the cause of what happened for you. But just in case you will always be able to get in touch with me if you need anything," the Chief said handing Jason a card. It had the Chief office and home number on it. Jason thanked the Chief and surprisingly hugged him. Jason put the card in the draw next to his bed. "You ready to meet them?" he asked.

Jason looked at him for a minute. "Yes sir I guess," he said. With that the Chief went and opened the door. Jason was scared but hopeful that maybe now he can find out what happened.

Chapter 3

The Chief opened the door and Jason watched as a man, a woman and two boys one older and one younger walked in. You could tell that Jason was apart of this family. The two boys walked to the end of the bed as the man and woman went up to the side.

The woman took Jason's hand.

"Oh Jason it is so good to see you again," she said tears coming to her eyes and down her cheeks. The woman was about 5'6 [1.68 m] with shoulder length brown hair and light brown eyes she weighted maybe 120 pounds [55 kg]. The man was 6'2 [1.88 m] and about 210 pounds [95 kg] it was all muscle he had dirty blonde hair and blue eyes. Jason just stared at them for a moment and didn't talk.

"Hey son how do you feel?" the man asked. Jason looked at him for a moment then turned and looked at Dr. Connor. Dr. Connor nodded his head at the unanswered question that Jason asked him.

"Fine but who are you?" he asked. The woman started crying more and the man started crying as well.

"Where are your parents Jason," the woman replied.

"I know that but who are you?" he asked again. They now understood that he was asking their names.

"Oh ok I am Pat O'Brien your mom and this is John O'Brien your father. The two boys are your brothers, Matt and Josh," the woman said. Jason then turned his attention to the two boys.

Matt the older he looked like he was about 15 and about 5'9 [1.75 m] and 115 pounds [52 kg], with dirty blonde hair and blue eyes. Josh looked about 10 or 11 with light brown hair and blue eyes. He looked about 100 pounds [45 kg] and only about 5'1 [1.55 m] or so.

"Oh hi nice to meet you," he said smiling at them. Matt and Josh looked confused.

"Why don't he know who we are?" asked Josh looking at his mother.

"Maybe I can answer that for you," Dr. Connor said coming to the other side of the bed. "You see your brother was hit pretty hard on the back of the head several times. Well that caused him not to remember who he is or any of you all. We are hoping that maybe you all could tell us what happened," Dr. Connor said looking the parents.

"We don't know. About a month ago he never came home from school. We called the police but they said we had to wait 48 hours to file a missing persons report. We were hoping maybe he just went to a friend's house," Pat started. "But he never came home and by Monday we knew that something was wrong. He never ran off and if he had any problems he would always come and talk with one of us. Well Monday morning I went down and filed the missing person's report. They started looking and said that a couple of the boys from his school saw him being forced into a green van. They didn't know anything else, we keep praying and looking but nothing ever came up, then the other day we get a call saying that they think that they found Jason, and well here we are," she finished looking at her son.

Dr. Connor nodded his head and wrote some stuff down, then turned and looked at Jason.

"Well does any of this ring a bell?" he asked. Jason just shook his head.

"No sir, I don't remember any of it. But I do have a few questions," he said, looking at Dr. Connor.

"Ok well why don't you ask them and if it is something that I think you don't need to know right now I'll let you know. How does that sound?" he asked.

"Ok thanks," Jason said, and then turned towards his mom and dad. "Well… hold on Dr. Connor where am I?" he asked the doctor first. Dr. Connor laughed.

"Haha I thought you already knew that sorry. You're in North Carolina," he said smiling. Jason blushed and laughed as well.

"Nope sorry, ok so where do we live?" he asked his parents. They looked at Dr. Connor to see if it is ok for them to answer him.

"It's ok to answer questions about where he is from, I'll let you know what things you shouldn't answer when he asks them, so don't worry go ahead," he said smiling at them. They smiled back.

"Son you're from Georgia, Savannah Georgia to be exact. We live in a gated community called The Landings," his dad answered him.

"Ok what school do I go to?" he asked.

"You go to Savannah Christian School," his mom answered. Jason just nodded his head.

"Ok do I have any other brothers or sisters?" he asked, but before he could answer Dr. Connor interjected.

"Before you answer him I may suggest that if you have lost any children to not mention it," he said. They nodded their head.

"That's ok and no you don't have any other siblings," his dad said smiling.

"Ok I guess that does it for right now. I don't know of anything else to ask about. Oh wait do I have any friends?" he asked. His parents smiled at him.

"Yes you do. You have a lot of friends and they are all worried about you," his mom said wiping his hair from in front of his face. Jason shivered but said nothing.

"Ok I think that is all for now, why don't we let him rest," Dr. Cunningham said. They all agreed and said their byes and left the room. Dr. Connor stayed behind.

"So what do you think?" he asked Jason.

"They seem nice, but I have no memory of them. They could be the people I saw in the vision I had, but I don't know," he said. Dr. Connor nodded his head.

"Well hopefully it will all come back to you. So what do you think about going home with them?" he asked watching and see what Jason's reaction would be.

Jason sat there and thought about that for a few minutes before answering him.

"I guess it would be ok, but I am scared. What if they were the reason that I am where I am? What if they hate me because I am not how I used to be? I mean there are so many what if's and other questions. I just don't know," Jason answered honestly. Dr. Connor nodded his head.

"I know, and I am sorry I wish I could help you on that. But according to the Chief they had nothing to do with you being taken or anything. I don't know if they know everything that has happened to you or not. I will sit down and talk with them before you all leave. How does that sound?" he asked Jason.

"That's sounds ok. Thank you," Jason said. Dr. Connor ruffled his hair and went out into the hall. There he saw Jason's family talking with Dr. Cunningham. He walked up and joined them.

"Well I think that is normal. Here is Dr. Connor why don't you ask him," Dr. Cunningham said. They all turned and faced Dr. Connor.

"Ask me what?" he asked the group.

"We were wondering if it was normal for him to treat us like strangers?" Pat asked. Dr. Connor nodded his head.

"Yes it is. Why don't we go over here and sit down," he said and led them to a waiting area. "Let me try and answer this question and any others that you all have and also tell you a few things as well. First it is very normal for him to act that way to you. You see even though his subconscious knows who you are, his conscious doesn't. It may take days, week, months and in some cases even years for people to get their memories back; some never do but with Jason I think he will get it back. Between the physical and the mental damage that is done there is no way of knowing how long it will take. I do suggest that once you all get back home that you get him to see a child psychologist. Also do not press him to try and remember things, if you do you may damage him even further than he is right now and he may never regain his memory.

"Also I don't know if you all know his problems, but he has been hurt a great deal. I'll let Dr. Cunningham tell you all of his problems in a moment, but first you must all learn to be patient with him, right now he doesn't know any of you, and he doesn't know where he is from. Boys I know that this is going to sound strange but you may have to treat him like a friend, before you can treat him like your brother again.

"He is scared; right now he is scared that maybe you all had something to do with what happened with him being taken. He is scared that you're going to turn him away for not knowing who you all are. I think he is more scared that he is going to get hurt worse then what he is now. So you must all be patient with him and try and not push him into anything that he doesn't want to do," Dr. Connor said. Pat and John nodded their heads, while Matt and Josh just looked at him.

"Ok thank you Dr. Connor we understand. I have a friend who knows a child and gave us the number to call her. We called her after we heard from the police, and she said that if he is already seeing someone to give her card to them and to have who ever it is to call and talk with her. Here it is," said John handing Dr. Connor her card. "Her name is Sherry Springer; she is a nice lady from what I have been told," he finished.

"Ok thanks I will go ahead and call her now and get her up to speed," Dr. Connor said, standing up and shaking hands with Jason's family.

"So Mr. and Mrs. O'Brien let me get you all up to speed on what has happened with you son. Why don't you send the boys to the snack room on this floor, that way they are close by. Matter of fact it is right there behind you so you can keep an eye on them," Dr. Cunningham said pointing behind them. He knew that they wouldn't want the boys out of their sight. Mr. O'Brien gave Matt some money for him and Josh and sent them into the room.

"Ok now that they are gone, I can tell you what is all wrong with Jason. I don't think that Matt or Josh should know everything that has happened. Well as you can see his left leg and right arm are in cast. His right arm is broken and his left leg is fractured in several places, there are rods and screws in his leg. His appendix had to be removed, it was damaged to a sever point of rupture. As Dr. Connors stated in Jason's room his head was beaten repeatedly. I also told him that it looked like his jaw was broken once, but I am assuming that was from before he was kidnapped," Dr. Cunningham said.

Pat and John laughed and nodded their heads.

"Yes he was about 11 or he just turned 12, he was up in a tree playing with his brothers when he slipped and fell. For some unknown reason instead of falling like anyone else he fell on his face. I was so scared but also trying not to laugh because it makes you think of one of those cartoons," said Pat, Dr. Cunningham laughed as well.

"Yes I can imagine it would. Good now we know about that we can move on. As you saw he has many bruises on his body. Some have already cleared up and some haven't. It seems that he was severely beaten as well. Those are going away it is just taken longing because of all the damage that he has been through also there are some scars that he has now that will never go away. They will heal but he will have them for the rest of his life.

Now his back is probably the worse, I have had to go in there three times. He had three-cracked vertebra and four discs that were completely damaged or destroyed. So we had to go in and remove the four discs and stabilize the three vertebras. So there are four rods and 12 screws in his back. The second time that I had to go in it was because we missed a vertebra that was putting pressure on one of his nerves. We didn't need to take the vertebra out but we had to move the nerve around some, so the vertebra wasn't pressing on the nerve anymore.

The third time I went in was because while in recovery from the second operation he started hemorrhaging. We got that under control but we had to go back in because we had to find out where it was coming from. I think that once you get back to Savannah that you find a good neurosurgeon to take him to that can examine him and make sure that everything is staying where it should. So those are things that are wrong with him that are in my opinion the least of his problems," Dr. Cunningham said.

"What do you mean the least of his problems?" asked Pat. Dr. Cunningham sighed.

"I'm sorry Mr. and Mrs. O'Brien but Jason has been raped, and not just once or by one person. What we can tell was he was rapped repeatedly and by at least three different people. He is fine back there and is pretty much healed up back there. But I am more worried about the scars that the rape is going to leave. So as you see to me that is the main problem," Dr. Cunningham said. Pat started crying and John comforted her.

"Doctor, we don't know how you are going to take this and we don't know if we should tell him or not, but the night before he was taken we were talking and Jason came and sat with us. He told us that he needed to tell us some stuff. Pat, Jason and I went into my office and sat down and talked. Jason told us he was gay; he was scared that we were going to hate him, but we already knew about him. It didn't make a difference to us if he was gay or not. We love out son. He told us he was not sexually active, nor did he plan to be for a long time. He said he wanted a boyfriend first and to see what was going to happen with a relationship before it went any further. Should we tell him or not?" John asked. Dr. Cunningham looked at them and thought, but before he could say anything Dr. Connor said something.

Dr. Connors showed up while Dr. Cunningham was telling them everything that was wrong with Jason.

"No you shouldn't," Dr. Connor said. "You need to let him find out on his own, if you go and tell him that then he may think that he deserved what happened to him. Gay kids tend to think like that. They have a tendency to think that what ever happened to them that it was their fault. I kinda of had my suspicions about him being gay but I didn't say anything. Do his brothers know?" Dr. Connor asked.

"No we decided that right now they don't need to know anything. That was Jason's idea. He wanted to tell them when he felt that they were ready and not before," Pat said holding John's hand. Both doctors smiled at them.

"You have once smart son. Ok I talked with Dr. Springer and she is caught up to speed. She said that once you get back in town to call her and set up an appointment. She is aware that he was sexually abused; I asked her if she had anything against gay people and she said no. That she had a brother who was gay, I told her why I asked that and she understood and agrees that he needs to find things out on his own," Dr. Connor said.

"Ok and thank you, thank you both," John said shaking both doctor's hands.

"It was our pleasure do you have any questions?" Dr. Cunningham asked.

"Just one when can we take our son home?" Pat asked while holding onto John. About that time Matt and Josh appeared. The doctors smiled at them all.

"Well by the way it looks Monday you can take him home. Dr. Connor will be talking with him till then and if you are there visiting you will have to leave when he is there. But come Monday morning if everything looks good you can take him home. I do hope that you have a big enough car. With his leg in a cast he needs to be able to sit comfortably," Dr. Cunningham said.

"Yes we understand and we have a Lincoln navigator. It is the type with a back sit and a middle and front seat. So he will have plenty of room," Pat said.

"Good now why don't you all go to the hotel and come back tomorrow, I know that you want to stay but right now you all need your rest." They agreed and the O'Brien's left for the day.

Dr. Cunningham went and did rounds and Dr. Connor when and talked with Jason. When he walked in Jason was having a snack and watching T.V.

"How do you feel?" he asked Jason. Jason looked at him.

"Ok I guess, I'm hurting but other wise ok," he said.

"Good well come Monday morning you will be able to leave with your family. What do you think about that?" Dr. Connor asked keeping an eye out for any stress.

"I don't know. Scared, and I don't know, mainly scared," he said starting to cry. Dr. Connor hugged him.

"I know you are but I promise everything will be ok. I have talked with a child psychologist down there named Sherry Springer. She will be expecting you within a week of you going home. So everything will be alright, why don't you get some rest?" Dr. Connor said. Jason nodded his head and lay back in his bed.

The weekend flew past very fast. Jason got his catheter out Saturday and his drainage tube came out on Sunday. His parents and brothers were there everyday to see him. They talked about what Savannah was like and their house and school and the neighborhood that they lived in. Whenever they were there Dr. Connor was there to make sure that nothing was said that shouldn't have been said.

Each time that the family left either because they went and got something to eat or because Dr. Connor wanted to talk with him or Dr. Cunningham was checking up on him Dr. Connor would ask about his feelings and what he was thinking.

By Monday morning Dr. Connor was assured and very confident that Jason was going to be ok and was going to make it.

Dr. Cunningham did his last check up on Jason and released him to his parents. By 1 that afternoon Jason was waving goodbye to Dr. Cunningham and Dr. Connor from the middle seat of the Lincoln navigator with his parents up from and his brothers in the seat behind him.

Now he was more scared and apprehensive then ever. He was on his way to a city he didn't know, a house he didn't remember, and being with people that he had no memory of. Jason was scared but he had the hope and belief that he would be ok and as long as he had that he knew he would be alright and he knew everything would turn out for the best.

Chapter 4

The drive back to Savannah was a long and mostly quiet drive back. Jason sat there in his thoughts trying to remember who these people that call themselves family are.

Matt and Josh tried talking to him about some games that they play but as far as Jason knew he didn't know how to play them. His mom and dad keep asking him how he was feeling and if he was hurting at all, Jason told them no most of the times but a few times it was yes and they found the nearest exit to let him get out.

Dr. Cunningham gave them a wheel chair for Jason to use so he didn't have to try and use crutches because of his arm. When ever they did get out Jason would just stand beside the side of the navigator and not go anywhere unless he had to use the bathroom. He didn't feel comfortable with these people yet. They understood and took their time with him.

One of the times that they did stop was at the South of the Border, a little town just past the South Carolina border from North Carolina. Jason didn't really want to stop but he had this feeling that they did so he agreed.

His dad pushed his wheel chair as they walked along the little town there admiring the different stories around them. They went into a little restaurant there and got some food. Jason was hungry but he was still apprehensive about these people that called themselves his family. He only orders one taco and a drink. His mom tried to get him to order more but he didn't want to. They left him alone and stopped trying to push him.

Before they got back on the road they stopped at a store and got some drinks and snacks, for the journey home. They decided unless there was a bathroom break or Jason needed to stop and get out they would just try and drive straight back home.

Jason, feeling like they didn't really want to stop, stopped saying when ever he got a cramp or was hurting. He just let them drive not knowing that his parents were happy and that they had no problem stopping whenever he needed to. He just didn't trust his family yet.

One time he was really hurting and started crying silently but not saying anything kept it to himself. His mom turned around and saw him crying and poked her husband. He looked in the rearview mirror and saw Jason crying. Silently and without telling anyone he stopped and pulled over to the side of the road.

"Why did we stop?" asked Matt who was in the back reading a comic book with Josh.

"Jason needs to get out," his dad said. Jason was surprised that he stopped for him.

"No it's ok we can keep going," he said sniffing.

"No son it isn't. You're hurting and you need to get out for a few minutes," John said. With that he got out and walked around and opened the side door. Helping Jason stand he held onto his son as he stood there.

"I'm sorry I'm causing you to stop," Jason said as more tears came to his face as the pain in his back, leg and arm increased.

"It doesn't matter we should have stopped awhile ok. I'm sorry I wasn't paying attention. Jason we are so sorry that this all happened to you, if I could go back and change it I would. I hope you will learn to trust us and believe us son. We do love you," John said hugging his son and crying.

Pat didn't get out of the car and didn't let Matt or Josh get out either. She felt that this was a father and son moment. A state trooper pulled in behind them, and started walking up to John and Jason. "Everything alright?" he asked them looking at them with concern.

"Yes officer my son just needed to get out for a bit he is hurting really bad right now. Pat can you get his medicine please?" asked John.

Pat got Jason's medicine and some water and stepped out and brought it to them. "Her son, take this. Remember what the doctor said, it will probably make you drowse if you feel the need to sleep do so. We have a pillow back there that you can use," Pat said handing him the pill and water.

John stepped away and talked with the officer. "If you don't mind me asking what happened to him?" the officer asked.

"About a month ago he was kidnapped, we just found out where he was last Monday. He was up in North Carolina; we came here Friday and now were going home. He has had the hell beat out of him along with a lot of other problems," John said.

The officer nodded to him. "Damn man I'm sorry to hear that. Is he ok?" he asked him.

"He will be he is just hurting. He had to have two back operations and they had to go in a third time for hemorrhaging. As you can see his leg and arm are broken and he still has bruises on him that are taking there time healing," John said with tears coming back to his eyes. "I should have watched them better, but I wasn't there at the school when it happened," John said crying some more.

The officer put his hand on John's shoulder. "You can't blame yourself man, you didn't know what was going on. At least you have him back now so you have nothing to worry about. I am sure you will all get through this," the officer said and John nodded his head. "Where are you headed?"

"Savannah that's where we live," John said getting his crying under control.

John turned and looked at Jason who looked like he was starting to fall asleep, he rushed over there. Holding Jason up he called to his boys. "Matt, Josh get the pillow and put it on the door. Jason is starting to fall asleep," he said.

The boys did what their father asked them to do and the troopers help got Jason on the back seat. With in seconds Jason was out. "Thank you," John said to the officer and shook his head.

"No problem why don't you follow me I'll get you to the state border. And I don't take no for an answer. Do you have a cell phone?" he asked John.

With that the officer went back to his patrol car. John and Pat got in and pulled out after the officer. They saw the officer talking on his radio and the next thing John knew was the officer lights were on and he was motioning for them to follow him.

They reached the Georgia/South Carolina border in about two hours instead of the four it would have taken them. The officer pulled over and waved them on and then turned around and left. As they were approaching the gates to the Landings Jason started waking up. "Where are we?" he asked when he was more awake and sitting up.

"Were almost home Jason," his mom said.

Jason nodded his head and watched as the passed through a gate. He watched the streets and the other houses as they passed them, he noticed a few kids looking and staring at the truck as it passed. He saw them run inside and it looked like they were hollering something. Then he saw the families start to come out and watch them.

Soon they pulled up to a nice two-story house surrounded by trees. It looked like wood that was pained a soft brown. There were double doors for the front doors and huge panes of glass spread out. It looked nice to him. "This is where I live?" he asked them.

"Yes son welcome home," his dad said.

Everyone started getting out of the truck and noticed that some of their neighbors were there to meet them. John got the wheel chair out of the back and helped Jason into it. Everyone seemed so happy to see him but he didn't remember any of them. John wheeled Jason around the truck to the front steps of the house. He let Jason just sit there and look at it and take it all in.

"Jason I am going to have to pick you up and carry you up the stairs. I will have Matt bring up your wheel chair," John said.

Jason nodded his head and his dad picked his up. Before Matt could even grab the chair another boy did and brought it up to them. "Here you go Mr. O'Brien," the boy said.

"Thanks," he said. The boy nodded his head and walked back down the stairs. Jason watched him walk away from them with his head down. Jason's dad sat him in the chair.

The boy was about his height at about 5'4 [1.63 m] and probably weight about 120 pounds [55 kg]. He had dark red hair and if he saw his eyes right he had green eyes. Suddenly something clicked in his mind.

"Jimmy?" he more asked then said. The boy stopped and turned around smiling at him. He slowly started approaching Jason. "I don't really remember you but I know your name is Jimmy," he said.

The boy stopped in front of him. "Yes that right. I'm Jimmy, I'm your best friend," Jimmy said with tears in his eyes.

"Ok thanks," Jason said and smiled. Jimmy smiled then turned back around and started down the stairs again. When he reached the road he started running. "Did I do something wrong?" Jason asked.

"No son you didn't. I think he is just happy that you at least remember his name. Why don't we get you on inside? Ok," John said.

Jason nodded his head and with his family around him they wheeled him into his home. As Jason was wheeled in he saw that they were in a little foyer, he looked left and saw another little room. One thing that he noticed right away was that it looked like the entire house was carpeted. "What's that room?" he asked. His dad smiled.

"That is the formal sitting room. Whenever your mother or I have someone over, we can sit in there and talk with out any T.V. or radio's going. To your right is the staircase that goes up to the second floor," his dad said. "We'll get to that in a minute," Jason nodded his head. His dad led him down the hallway into what looked like a regular living room.

"This is the family living room. As you see there's the T.V. and stereo and movie," his mom said.

Going through the living room to the right was the kitchen and next to the kitchen was the dinning room. In the dinning room he could see a nice dark brown table that sat six easily. There was a china cabinet and a buffet in there as well. Going back through the kitchen on the other side was what appeared to be a playroom or sorts. "What's this?" he asked.

His parents smiled. "Jason this is your brothers' and your play room. Ya'll have ya'lls own T.V. with an Xbox and a PlayStation attached to it. All of ya'lls movies are over there. There is a family computer there as well," his dad said.

As his dad was talking to Jason and mentioned the computer. Pat his mom turned and whispered something to Matt. Matt ran out of the room. "Oh ok cool," he said smiling.

Coming out of the playroom and through kitchen again he noticed another room. "What's that?" he asked again.

"That is the laundry room and the door there leads to the side of the house. And there is a guest bathroom there as well."

Going back into the family room Jason noticed the patio doors. His dad saw him looking at them and wheeled him over to them. Out back Jason saw how big their yard was and was amazing. He saw a tree with a rope and old tire on it and he knew that it was for swinging. He also noticed a football, baseball and or sport stuff out there. He scrunched up his face. "I don't like sports," he said.

His parents laughed. "Well one thing hasn't changed. Those are Matt's and Josh's," his dad said.

Jason smiled at them and noticed Matt was back. "Yeah we tried to get you to play but you wouldn't," he said smiling at Jason, Jason smiled back.

"Ok so what about upstairs?" he asked.

His dad wheeled him to the bottom of the stairs and picked him up. While John carried Jason up the stairs Matt grabbed the wheel chair and with Josh's help carried it up after them. Once at the top they opened the chair and Jason got put back in it. Jason noticed how long the hallway looked. The first door on the left opened and it reveled what looked like a boy's bathroom.

"This is your brothers' and your bathroom. Speaking of which Matt and Josh need to clean it up," his dad said.

Matt and Josh just blushed and nodded their heads. Closing the bathroom door and heading a little ways up and on the right was another door. "Here is your mom's and my room," John said and opened the door.

Jason looked inside and noticed the big queen size bed. There were two dressers and he thought he saw a bathroom in there as well, but he wasn't far enough in to tell. He knew there had to be a closet in there somewhere. Coming out of his parent's bedroom and turning to the left was another bedroom that had the name Josh on the door.

"Well this room is Josh's." his dad said opening the door. "It needs to be cleaned apparently," John said looking at Josh who was blushing and trying to look like an angel. The bedroom was messy but looked very lived in, it had a single bed and a dresser with clothes hanging out of it. There was a little book shelf with a few books and mostly toys on it and a desk under a window that seemed to have papers thrown all over it. A closet and toys were all over the place. Closing the door they walked further down and came to a door also to the right hand side that said Matt on the door.

Opening it up he noticed that is was very clean and looked nice with a twin bed and a dresser there. He too had a bookshelf but it was half filled with books and the other half with trophies. There was a desk along one wall that had papers and books stacked on it. Matt had a lot of trophies of different sports along his wall.

"Nice room and clean to," Jason said looking at Matt who smiled then looked at Josh who just blushed even more.

They all chuckled over that. At the end of the hall was the last door. It had Jason's name on it. Jason was a little scared at first about opening it not sure what he was going to find but eventually he gave in and his dad opened the door for him. Wheeling him inside he saw a very neat and very clean room.

He had a twin bed as well and a nice size dresser. Along the left wall and under a window was a desk that was neatly arranged with papers, books, there were even a few pictures on the desk. On the left also just as you walk in was his dresser, with more pictures and other knickknacks on it. To the right was a door that he assumed was his closet. "This is my room?" he asked looking up at his dad.

"Yes son it is. Are you feeling alright?" he asked his with concern thinking that maybe it was too much on Jason right now.

"I'm ok I think I'm just tired, will it be alright if I lay down for a while?" Jason asked looking at his dad and mom.

"Sure son if you need anything there is an intercom by your bed. All of the rooms have them. If you need anything, just call and one of us will be here to help you. We love you Jason and glad that you are home," his dad said giving him a hug.

"We do love you Jason," his mom said giving him one as well.

His brother also gave him a hug then left the room with their mom and Jason's dad helped him in bed. "Remember if you need anything let us know. The doctors said that you can't get around for a while by yourself. Just call us," his dad said. Jason nodded his head and his dad left the room.

Jason lay there and just sighed. Wow too much right now, he thought to himself. Slowly he started getting tired and soon was asleep.

Chapter 5

Once again the images and blurred faces came to him. The whips and other devices that were used to hurt him appeared. Screams were heard, his screams, from pain and hurt, hunger and tiredness. Every time he passed out they woke him up, until they were satisfied. He felt the pain that was being caused and cried out for them to stop, they only laughed at him.

He woke up screaming and crying, his door opened quickly and fear came to him, he started screaming louder. John and Pat O'Brien were downstairs when they heard the screaming and ran up to find out what was going on. They tried to approach Jason.

"No stay back," he hollered at them, they stopped where they were standing.

"Jason, it's ok, no one can hurt you. We're here now, come on son let us help you," said his dad. Jason just shook his head and looked around. He saw a book on the table next to his bed.

"Don't come any closer; I swear I'll throw this," he yelled to them. Pat and John didn't know what to do so they backed off. Pat ran out of the room.

"Come on Jason you know we don't want to hurt you," John tried again; Jason started to throw the book. "Ok, ok I'm backing off," he said.

"I don't know you; I have no idea who you are," he said with tears streaming down his face. For 20 minutes John talked with Jason trying to get him to calm down but to no avail.

John heard running up the stairs and Pat came in followed by a woman he didn't know.

"Who are you?" John asked the lady. She smiled at him.

"I'm Dr. Springer. Pat just called me and I hurried over here. By chance I was passing this way when my cell rang. Is this Jason?" she asked. John nodded his head; he then noticed Matt and Josh standing there.

"Go downstairs," he told them they looked at him then to Jason, finally they headed downstairs. All the while that John was talking with Matt and Josh, Jason was grabbing more things he could throw to protect himself.

"Jason, I'm Dr. Springer, I think Dr. Connor mentioned me," she told him. Jason just looked at her.

"Yeah so what for all I know you lied to him and want to hurt me, leave me alone and get out. I only want to talk with Dr. Connor. Now go," he yelled at them. Dr. Springer nodded her head.

Pat, John and Dr. Springer walked to the door with Dr. Springer's ushering.

"Jason, I'm calling Dr. Connor now," she said. While she was talking with Jason she pulled out her phone and called Dr. Connor.

"Dr. Connor's office how can I help you?" a lady asked.

"Yes this is Dr. Springer in Savannah Georgia, I need to speak with Dr. Connor right away it is am emergency, tell him it is about Jason O'Brien," Dr. Springer told the lady.

"Yes ma'am, hold one moment please," the lady put Dr. Springer on hold and with in a few seconds Dr. Connor came on the line.

"Sherry hey what's wrong?" he asked.

"Hey Jack we have a problem. It seems that Jason lay down and took a nap when he got home and had a nightmare he doesn't believe that his family isn't going to hurt him and he won't listen to me. I am going to try and get the phone to him and maybe you can talk with him," Dr. Springer said.

"Ok try it," he replied.

"Jason, Dr. Connor is on the line, can I bring you the phone?" she asked. Jason looked at her but didn't reply.

"Toss it on the bed," he finally said. Dr. Springer nodded her head and gently tossed her phone onto the bed. Jason picked it up.

"Jason, it's Dr. Connor how are you?" he asked.

"Scared doc, I had this really bad nightmare I saw them hurting me again and calling me names. I saw the whip and other things that they used on me. I also remember that every time I passed out they woke me up and started again till they felt that they were finished. I'm scared; I don't know who to trust, why doc, why did they hurt me?" Jason asked into the phone and wailing, Jason cried and cried while holding the phone.

While Jason was talking with Dr. Connor Dr. Springer was talking with Pat and John.

"Listen no matter what he says no matter how much it hurts you must be strong for him ok. If you start falling apart now he will only see it as a sign that you can't protect him, understand?" she asked them.

"Yes, Dr. Springer. Thank you," John said holding Pat in his arms.

"It's Sherry," she said smiling at them, then turning her attention back to Jason.

"I don't know why they hurt you Jason. Some people are just mean and evil. I want you to listen to me; you can trust your parents and Dr. Springer. If I didn't think that you could then I would not have let you go home with them? You have to believe me Jason, I will not let you get hurt if I can help it. And no that is not a promise because I don't know what will happen in the future but I can tell you one thing: your parents are not going to hurt you. Please Jason believe me, let us help you ok?" Dr. Connor said.

Dr. Connor talked with Jason for about 30 more minutes before he asked him if he can hand the phone back to Dr. Springer, not throw, or toss, but hand it back. Jason agreed.

"Dr. Springer, Dr. Connor would like to talk with you," he said holding the phone out. Dr. Springer looked at it for a moment.

"It's Ok if I come near you?" she asked, Jason nodded his head. "What about your parents, can they come over there as well?" she asked him. Jason just looked at his parents for a few moments before he finally nodded his head. Dr. Springer went over to the bed and grabbed the phone. Jason lied back on his pillow and started crying more, as his parents went around to the other side of the bed.

"It's ok Jason, we're going to get through this, I promise you. I don't know what has all happened or why, but I promise you that we are here to help you not hurt you. We love you son," John said.

"Oh Jason, please know that we would never do anything to intentionally hurt you baby. We love you," Pat said. Jason looked at them for a moment.

"Thanks," he said then turned and looked at Dr. Springer.

"Ok thanks Jack sorry about the call," she said.

"No problem. I am glad that you did call as I should have told them more about the nightmares but I was hoping that they would hold off till they got him to you. I guess not, don't say anything but I will be down there this weekend," Dr. Connor said. Sherry smiled.

"Good I think that will help. Well let me get going I'll talk with you later," she said.

"Ok thanks, Sherry bye," Jack replied to her.

"You're welcome bye." With that Dr. Sherry Springer turned off the phone and looked at Jason. "Well young man I hope you're feeling better. I'm Dr. Springer by the way. How are you feeling?" she asked touching his hand. Jason jerked his hand away.

"Fine," he replied.

Dr. Springer just looked at him. "Ok why don't you tell me more about the nightmare you had. I heard what you told Dr. Connor but I would like to hear it from you," she said.

Jason just sighed and looked up at the ceiling for a few minutes. "Well like I told Dr. Connor the first time I saw him, I can't see there faces but I know there are at least two from what Dr. Cunningham said at least three men hurt me," he said stopping to take a break.

Dr. Springer nodded her head.

"I can't see their faces just that they're big and scary. I remember the whip and what it did to me. I know it hurt and I know I have some scars on my back, even though no one has told me about them. I remember some kind of table that they had me strapped to and I can see them over me, but that is all I ever dream about. I dream that and whenever I passed out that they would wake me up. Usually by throwing water on me, but one time I remember one of them peeing on me. They laughed and said that I would get used to it," Jason stopped there and started crying more, he felt a weight on the bed and at first froze but when he looked up his mom was sitting there and she held his hand. Jason relaxed after a few moments of looking at her and crying out some of his pain.

Through sobs and tears he told the rest. "I remember they didn't stop until they were tired, I didn't eat, they never feed me and if one of them left something to eat I would steal it to eat it. Then they punished me for eating what they said was theirs, I just realized that. They always left food so I would get in trouble, but I don't understand why they did it. Why did they hurt me? Why?" he screamed out collapsing into hysterics and crying more and more as the memories were slowly unlocked.

After Jason calmed down some Dr. Springer finally said something to Jason. "Jason just like Dr. Connor, I don't know why they did this to you. Some people like to hurt others and are just evil. They like the power that they have over people and to prove that they have that power they hurt them. When really all they're doing is causing themselves and their victim in this case you more pain. People like that usually were hurt in their past but not always. Some people just hurt others because they are that evil.

"Jason, I am going to try and help you get past these demons. I am not going to lie to you it will take a very long time to get over this. Years even, but I do promise you that you will survive. I am going to prescribe some medicine for you, one is an anti-depressant, but you are only going to be on it for a short time. There is some new research that some anti-depressants actually hurt people, so I am only going to want you to use them long enough for us to get you feeling a little better. After that I want you off of them. I don't want you feeling any worse and if you stay on them to long you may. So I am going to prescribe one month's worth and that is all. I am also going to give you medicine for anxiety, and another for sleep.

"The anxiety pill I want you to take one a day and if need be two, but no more. I want you to take one when you first get up with your anti-depressant medication and then if you need another one you can take another one in the afternoon. Now the sleeping pills are if you can't sleep or if you have a nightmare. Dr. Connor said that after you had nightmares they usually gave you a shot to help you relax and sleep and you didn't have any more nightmares after that. But you can only take them if you can't sleep because of anxiety, which hopefully the medicine for that will take care of that, or if you have a nightmare. Understand?" she asked him writing out stuff that he assumed was the prescription on several different pieces of paper.

"Yes ma'am and thank you, I'm sorry Dr. Springer and…" he stopped there for a moment not sure of what to call his parents.

"Jason, look at me," Dr. Springer said. Jason turned and looked at her, after looking in his eyes for a few minutes she spoke.

"It's ok if you're scared and you don't know what to call them. They are your parents, we know that, but we also know that you have no memory of them at this time. It may hurt them but if you don't think that you can call them mom and dad right now you can call them Mr. and Mrs. O'Brien or if they allow you to you can call them Pat and John. They won't be mad they'll understand."

Jason turned and looked at Pat and John for a few minutes, but he still didn't know what to say to them. "I don't know," he said still looking up at them. Pat was still holding his hand when she talked.

"Jason, it is and it will be ok. We don't know what you are going through and we don't know how you are feeling, but we do know that we love you. We also know that it will take time for you to heal and that it will take time for you to learn to trust us again. But please know that no matter what happens we will love you, and if you can't call us mom or dad you can call us Pat and John or Mr. and Mrs. O'Brien. What ever makes you feel the most comfortable?" she said squeezing his hand. Jason listened then turned and looked at John waiting to see what he says.

"She's right Jason. We love you and we only want what's best for you, what ever makes you comfortable," he said putting his hand down on theirs. Jason nodded then looked up at Dr. Springer.

"So you see Jason they will be ok with your decision. Ok now on to your treatment. I have decided that even though you need to get out, right now I don't think that going into the city will help you much, so I am going to come to your house three times a week. When I feel that you are making progress I will drop it to two then once and when that time comes I will start having you come to the office. Right now I am going to say no school for several reasons. One is that you just got home and with your memory you may not remember everything that you have learned. Once your memory starts coming back we can see where that leads us. Also if you want to go outside you can, but I am strongly recommending that unless he needs to go to the hospital or to his doctor for his back, leg and arm that he does not leave the house.

"No going to any friend's or neighbor's houses. If they want to come over that is fine but make sure that if they do come over that he is in an open room where he can leave. Right now Jason, I think any form of confinement will probably hurt you more then anything else. Also I do not recommend that he is pushed into doing anything, if he wants to watch T.V. that's fine but not violent or scary.

"If you want I would go to the video store and pick up some cartoons or comedies. Also I am recommending that one of you stay home with him at all times. If one of you work and want to stay home then I can write a doctor's orders stating that you are to stay home," she said John interrupted her for a moment.

"That's no problem, we own our own accounting and advertisement firm. Most of the work is done here at the house. We have an office downtown and I usually am the one to go down there," John said smiling.

"Good then I don't need to write one. Now I don't want to hinder Jason's education so I suggest that one of you go to the school get what ever books he needs and try and have him start reading them. If they can give you some idea of what he has been learning you can try and slowly teach him but if he doesn't remember then don't push him. Other then that just be careful and if you need me in between sessions call me like you did tonight. Any question?" she asked them as she finished.

"No and thank you," Pat said.

"Yes thank you so much for coming here and helping," John echoed his wife.

"Thanks," Jason said meekly. Dr. Springer looked down at him.

"Don't worry Jason you will get better. Well I think that is it for the night, consider this our first session and I'll see you Wednesday," she said getting up.

"Would you like to come downstairs and get some dinner?" John asked Jason.

"Yes please," he replied. John helped Jason into this wheelchair and wheeled him to the stairs. Once there, he lifted Jason out and carried him down the stairs as Pat grabbed the wheelchair and with Dr. Springer's help carried it downstairs.

Dr. Springer said bye one last time and left for the night. John wheeled Jason into the kitchen and up to the table. Matt and Josh were sitting there eating sandwiches.

Matt asked, "You ok?" before John or Pat could say anything Jason answered him.

"Yeah just a nightmare, I'll be fine. Thanks for asking." John and Pat smiled at each other.

John fixed sandwiches for Pat, Jason and himself after he found out what Jason wanted. Since Jason couldn't remember what he liked he just choose two peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. With a bag of chips and drinks they all ate a good dinner, by the time that dinner was over it was about 9:30 in the evening. They were all tired and decided to head to bed.

John carried Jason up the stairs and Matt brought up the wheelchair. John helped Jason in the bathroom and when he was sure that the Jason could get on and off the toilet without any help he closed the bathroom door and waited for him. Jason called him in a few minutes later and John wheeled him to his room.

Once there even though Jason was embarrassed he let his dad help him out of his clothes and into a pair of shorts and a nightshirt. Once Jason was ready for bed John helped him in the bed and covered him up. Debating with himself he went ahead and gave Jason a kiss on the forehead. Jason was both surprised and happy that John gave him the kiss. It helped to show that his dad really did love him, a few minutes later Pat came in and also gave him a kiss.

They both told him that they loved him and then left him to sleep keeping the door open a little so if he needed something they could come and help him.

Jason fell asleep tired and exhausted from the day's events and the nightmare from earlier. He prayed that he could go to sleep and not dream. Finally sleep came and he fell asleep wondering what tomorrow would bring.

Chapter 6

"AAAAAHHHHHHH…" he screams, waking up from another nightmare. Jason's parents are there in an instant.

"Jason, it's ok we're right here. Nothing can hurt you," Pat says holding her son. Jason crying and shaking from his dream can't do anything else. "Tomorrow we are going to get your medicine ok?" she says to him. Jason nods his head, as he slowly starts to relax. He lays back and tears still fall from his eyes, while his mom holds him he closes his eyes and falls back to sleep. Pat turned and looked at John.

"Tomorrow you get the meds ok?" she said, all John did was nod his head and hug Jason. They watched Jason for about a half hour then went back to their room to sleep, they left Jason's door opened all the way just in case.

The next morning Jason woke up and needed to use the bathroom, he didn't want to bother his parents so he tried to get up and out of bed by himself. As he got to his feet his left leg gave out and he fell to the floor. John was just coming up the stairs and saw Jason fall.

"Jason you alright?" he asked, picking Jason up off the floor. Jason clung to him as John helped him into the wheelchair.

"Yes sir sorry I didn't want to bother you so I tried to get up and go to the bathroom by myself," Jason said with his head hung down, he started trebling afraid that his dad would be mad and hurt him. John noticed the shaking and figured out that Jason was upset and scared.

"It's alright Jason look at me please?" he asked, Jason looked up into his face and John was smiling. "If you need something let us know ok we're here to help you. You don't have to be afraid. We know that you want to do stuff on your own because you don't think we want to be bothered, but trust us we want to," John said smiling.

Jason smiled back. "Yes sir, I need to go to the bathroom really bad," he said.

John took Jason down to the bathroom and wheeled him in, after making sure that the brakes on the wheelchair were set he walked out closing the door. Jason grabbed the sink and lifted himself up and with one hand pulled his shorts and underwear down. He sat on the toilet and relieved himself.

When he was finished he called his dad, John came and got him and wheeled him to the stairs. He set the brakes and picked Jason up and carried him downstairs to a chair that was waiting for Jason. John went and retrieved the wheelchair.

Once in the wheelchair John wheeled Jason into the kitchen.

"What do you want to eat?" he asked.

"Cereal is fine," Jason replied. John got the cereal, milk, a bowl, and a spoon and set them in front of Jason. Jason couldn't pour the cereal or milk and asked his dad to help him. John just smiled and was more then happy to help his son, while he was pouring the cereal and milk Jason noticed that his mom wasn't there and neither were Matt or Josh.

"Where is everyone?" Jason asked starting to eat.

"Your mom went to get your medicine and your brothers are at school. She decided to go since she had some other errands to run," John replied watching his son eat. He was so happy that Jason was home but he wanted the men who hurt his son. "When she gets back I'm going to run to your school and get your books and whatever the teachers have for you. When I get back if you want and feel up to it we can try and get you back to learning," his dad said. Jason nodded instead of trying to talk with his mouth full, for some reason he knew you weren't supposed to do that.

After swallowing Jason replied. "Oh ok cool, I don't know a lot I don't even remember where my school is or who my teachers were. So I hope I can remember what I am supposed to know," he said.

"Don't worry son we can work through this and if you don't remember something then we can start over and you can learn all over again. I also got you something," John said. He went into the living room and came back holding Jason's laptop but to Jason it was brand-new.

Last night John and Pat took all of Jason's journals that he kept on there and the stories that he read from a gay site called Nifty and down loaded them onto disk. They didn't read anything as they knew it was Jason's private stuff and since they knew he was gay they also knew about the Nifty archives.

"Here I know that you can't write with your right arm in the cast so we figured that maybe you can type. It will be easier on your hand and arm," John said putting it in front of him. Jason was speechless; he couldn't believe that they did this for him.

"Wow thanks but you didn't have to I could have found a way to write," he said rubbing his hand over the top of the laptop. John just smiled.

"It was no problem and we would do it for your brothers if one of their arms were in a cast," John replied smiling at his soon. Jason smiled back at him.

"Oh ok thanks. I don't want ya'll to think that you have to show me special treatment or anything. I'm not special, I'm just me," Jason said. John shook his head with a serious look on his face.

"Yes Jason you are special, you all are special to me and you mom never think that you're not because you are," John said ruffling Jason's hair.

Jason smiled back at him and continued to eat his breakfast. Just as he was finishing up the front door opened.

"I'm home," Pat said. John went and helped her to carry in some grocery's and Jason's medicine. Once in the kitchen Pat sat everything down and went over to Jason and kissed him on the forehead. "How do you feel?" she asked him.

"Fine, thank you," Jason replied smiling up at her. Pat smiled back.

"Ok I'm off to get his books I'll be back in a bit," John said kissing Pat on the lips then Jason on the forehead. After grabbing his keys he was out the door.

"How long do you think he will be gone?" Jason asked his mom. She turned and looked at him.

"It will take about an hour. He has to drive to the school and then find all of the teachers and get the syllabus, your school work and your books," Pat told him.

"Oh what's a syllabus?" Jason asked slowly pronouncing the word to make sure that he said it right. Pat looked at him and smiled; to her he was still very inquisitive as he always was.

"A syllabus is what the teachers use to let you know what they are going to teach you. On it, it will tell when you're going to learn a certain part of the subject and for how long. It can also tell you when each test is, that all depends on how each teacher makes out their syllabus," Pat told him smiling at him.

"Wow ok thanks," Jason said turning and looking out the window. "Is it always this quiet around here?" he asked her.

"Yes it is, that is one of the reasons why we bought this place. You have to have a pass to get onto the property. Also out here you don't have to worry about hearing all the sounds of the city and you can get a good nights sleep," she said getting up and getting two glasses of water.

She grabbed the medicine off the counter and brought it back to the table. She read each label and each of the cards that told about the medicine. Once she did that, she took one of the anti-depressant pills and one of the anxiety pills and put them in front of Jason with a glass of water.

"I want you to go ahead and take these. One is your anti-depressant and the other is the anxiety pill. The pharmacist told me that it may make you drowsy and if you want to rest then you can. It will take about a week for them to get into your system real good, but once they do they will start working better," Pat told him.

Jason nodded his head and took the pills. They sat there for a bit before Jason looked up at Pat.

"Can I go and watch some T.V.?" he asked.

"Sure honey let me wheel you in there," she said. She unlocked the brakes and wheeled Jason into the family room, she handed Jason the remote and turned around to clean up a little bit. After a few minutes she realized that the T.V. wasn't on. "Is everything alright?" she asked coming to stand back in front of him. Jason looked up at her with tears in his eyes.

"I don't remember how to work this. I'm sorry," he said breaking down again. Pat took the remote from him and hugged him gently.

"Awwww honey I'm so sorry, I kinda forgot that you didn't remember. It seemed like you were back here like before. Don't cry baby it will be alright, here let me show you how it works," she said picking up the remote control. For the next 15 minutes she showed Jason how to work the remote for the T.V. VCR and DVD.

Once that was done she let Jason watch T.V. while she cleaned up. After an hour John came home with Jason's schoolwork. About that time Jason had to use the bathroom anyways. John helped Jason into the bathroom and waited outside the door for him to finish. Once he was finished John wheeled him into the kitchen and up to the table.

"Ok I don't think that we're going to do any work today, but I want you too look over these papers and see if you can remember learning any of this. The teachers decided that you should have all of the work from the beginning of the year just in case you couldn't remember learning any of it. I hope you don't mind me telling them that you were home and that you had amnesia. I didn't tell them anything else that was wrong with you," John told Jason as he and Pat sat down.

"No that's ok, I don't mind. I just hope they don't ask me about everything that happened; I don't think I'm ready to tell anyone that yet," Jason said looking at his parents.

"Don't worry Jason if anyone asks all you have to tell them is that you don't want to talk about it. If the counselor at your school whenever you go back, to make you talk about it, tell who ever it is that you are seeing someone already and you don't want to talk about. If that person tried to make you then you let us know. We will take care of it from there," John said. Jason nodded and started looking through his books.

Jason seemed to remember most of the stuff that he was looking at but not how it was taught to him, how he was taught or who taught it. His mom put a sheet of paper in front of him.

"By the way your teachers gave me some test for you to take. With them we can help to determine what you do remember and what you don't."

"Ok thanks maybe that will be easier on me," Jason said closing the book he was looking through. Jason picked up another book and for about an hour looked through each of his schoolbooks. As with the first one Jason remembered a lot of the stuff that was in them and what he was taught, just not who, how or how it was taught to him.

Finally getting tired of looking through them he put them up and asked to go back and watch some T.V. His dad wheeled him into the family room and sat down next to Jason and watched T.V. with him. They were watching T.V. for about 20 minutes when the phone rang, and Pat got it.

"Jason it's for you," she said bringing in the phone. Jason was wondering who was calling him since he couldn't remember anyone.

""Hello?" he said into the phone.

"Hi Jason how are you feeling today?" the person asked.

"Dr. Connor hi I'm feeling ok. How are you doing?" he asked with a smile on his face.

"I'm doing good. I just called to see what was going on and how you were adjusting to being home. Also wanted to see if you had anymore nightmares?" he asked him with concern in his voice.

Jason frowned for a minute. "Yes sir I did, my parents came in and held me for a while then I fell back to sleep. It was the same dream of the people hurting me, but once again I couldn't remember who they were," he said.

"Well remember you may not remember much more then that right now but like I told you it will come back just slowly and when it does there are going to be people there to help you," Dr. Connor said.

"Yes sir I know," Jason replied.

"Well I don't want to keep you, oh did you get your medication?" he asked him.

"Yes sir and I already took one for the depression and one for my anxiety," Jason replied.

"Ok good, well I'm going to let you go, talk to you soon," Dr. Connor said.

"Ok and thanks doc. Bye," Jason replied.

"Bye" and Jason hung up with Dr. Connor. Jason went back to watching the T.V.

For the rest of the day Jason sat and either watched T.V. or read through his schoolbooks. Right before Matt and Josh got home Jason noticed that his dad never left for work, he was curious about this and decided to bring up the subject even though he was scared that his dad would get mad.

"Ummm I have a question," Jason stated still not able to actually call his mom and dad, mom and dad.

John looked up from the papers he was looking at and noticed the scared look on Jason's face.

"What is it son? You can ask me anything and I won't be upset," John said taking Jason's hand to help calm him down. Jason smiled a bit from the contact.

"I was just wondering why you weren't at work?" he asked him.

John laughed at that. "Well Jason like I told Dr. Springer, your mom and I own our own advertisement and accounting business. We don't have to go into the office all that much. Most of the work we can do from here, but there are days that one of us are going to have to go in. On those days depending on what the problem is will depend on which of us goes in. Your mom mainly handles accounting problems and other accounting related business, where I handle the advertisement side of the business. Together we do quite well and we have become quite successful."

"Oh ok thanks," Jason said turning back and looking at the T.V.

At 4 o'clock on the dot Matt and Josh walked in the door, they dropped off their schoolbooks and went into the kitchen for a snack. Not seeing anyone in there they headed to the family room.

"Hey were home," Matt said sitting down next to his dad, and Josh sitting on his other side.

"How was school dear?" asked Pat coming into the room.

"Fine everyone wanted to know if it was true that Jason was back, we told them yeah, then they started asking us a bunch of questions like, what happened to him? Where was he? Was he hurt? We really didn't know what to say so all we told them was that he was fine. Finally before school got out the principal made an announcement that Jason was home and was alright and please do not bother us about details because it is a private family matter and to not speculate on what has happened." Matt said telling the end like he was reciting something.

Jason looked down at the floor and then turned back to the T.V.

"Jason don't think that you did anything wrong or that you have caused any problems, you didn't" John said putting his hand on Jason shoulder, Jason shrugged off his shoulder and tried to wheel himself out of the room, he couldn't so Pat came around the sofa and took Jason out of the room.

"Where to?" she asked him. Jason pointed to the sliding glass doors. She put on the breaks and started to walk away.

"I would like to go out on the deck please," he said sounded very timid.

Pat was going to tell him no but decided that maybe some fresh air would do him good.

"Ok let me grab your jacket," Pat went and got his jacket and helped him put it on. She wheeled him outside and set the breaks. "I'm going to leave the door open so if you need anything," she said. Jason only nodded his head, with a sad and worried look on her face she went back in.

Once in the family room she turned towards her other two boys. "From now on do not mention anything from school that anyone says about Jason. I don't care what is said you wait till he is not around. Right now he is blaming himself and he is not to be blamed," Pat said sitting next to her husband with tears in her eyes.

"Ok mom we won't. Jimmy wanted to come over and see him, what do you think? I mean he did recognize him. He doesn't remember him but he recognized him," Josh said taking his moms hand.

"Tell him we will let him know. When Dr. Springer gets here tomorrow night I'll ask her about it," Pat said. The boys nodded their heads.

Later that night John went and got Jason for dinner. Jason was still outside and just watched the darkness come and watched as the twinkling of the stars appeared.

"Time to come and eat," John said taking the breaks off.

"I'm not hungry I just want to go to bed," Jason said. John was going to argue then remembered what both Dr. Connor and Dr. Springer said about not pushing him.

"Ok son I'll take you up," John said.

Once at the bottom of the stairs John picked Jason up and called for Matt to grab the wheelchair. Matt followed them up the stairs and set the wheelchair up for Jason then with his dads prompting headed back to the kitchen.

John stopped at the bathroom so Jason could go and when Jason was finished wheeled him to his room. John helped Jason into his night clothes and then into bed, with a kiss on Jason's forehead John walked out. He turned to say goodnight and saw that Jason was already asleep.

"Love you son," he said. John left the door opened half way and went to join the rest of his family for dinner.

Chapter 7

Wednesday started off like Tuesday and everyday before that, with another nightmare. They seemed to be getting worse as the days go by. Matt and Josh left for school and John had to head into the office that left Jason with his mom Pat.

Pat couldn't help Jason down the stairs until John came home for lunch. So she brought Jason his breakfast and medicine and nothing was said about the night before. Jason was fine with that. He stayed in his room not leaving unless he had to use the bathroom.

John came home for lunch and took Jason downstairs. They had a good lunch and the conversation was light and mainly about what was happening at the office.

After lunch John left to go back to the office and Pat started teaching Jason his schoolwork. Jason told her what he knew and what he remembered being taught, she was happy that he was able to remember the work.

So she started him on the lessons he was supposed to be on when he was kidnapped. Jason worked slowly because of his right hand but was able to get at least two subjects, history and math out of the way before he had to take a break because he was hurting. Pat was fine with him taking a break knowing that he was able to get a lot of work out of the way.

About two they started their next lessons of English, geography, reading, and science. Jason did well in each of those subjects as well. Pat didn't tell Jason that he was a straight A student and that he was one of the brightest people in the school, she felt that if she told him that, that he would feel that he had to study harder and that would only cause him more pain. So no she decided to let him go slow and to see how much he can do without him feeling like he has to be perfect.

At 4 Matt and Josh came home and relaxed watching T.V. until it was time for dinner. Dinner was at 5:30 and by then John was also home from a very busy day. Pat and John noticed that Jason didn't say too much at dinner and they were hoping that he was doing ok. They didn't want to bring it up with Matt and Josh there because they were afraid that they would try and push their brother into talking about something that he didn't want to. At 6 the doorbell rang and John went and got it. Dr. Springer was standing there with her bag in her hand.

"Good evening Sherry how are you doing?" John asked taking her coat.

"I'm fine John how are you doing? How is Jason doing?" she asked him smiling at him. John's smiled slipped off his face.

"Well last night we were talking and I think that Jason is starting to blame himself for what happened to him. One of his friends named Jimmy wanted to come over and we said no not until we talked with you about that. Matt and Jason also told us that people were speculating about what happened to Jason. Well Jason got really upset and wanted to go outside. So we let him sit outside for a while. He didn't even eat dinner. Then tonight at dinner he barely said anything at all. According to Pat he has barely spoken today," John told him.

Sherry nodded her head. "I have been expecting that. Don't worry I'll talk with him and see what I can do. Is there any place that Jason and I can talk in Private?" she asked.

"Of course you can use the office. It's this way," John said showing her where the office it.

John went and got Jason and wheeled him in, then turned and left the room shutting the door. When the door clicked shut Jason jumped and got a scared look on his face. Dr. Springer noticed this right away. "Don't worry Jason, remember Dr. Connor told you that I was ok. I'm not going to hurt you," she said sitting in a chair opposite Jason. Jason just nodded his head and relaxed a little not enough for Dr. Springer but she understood his fear. "So how do you feel?" she asked him.

Jason just looked at her for a minute. "I'm ok," he said but from the way he said it Dr. Springer knew he was anything but fine.

"Jason please look at me," she asked him. Jason turned and looked at her. "I know you're not doing ok. Your parents told me what happened last night and then today where you barely spoke. Now I know that you barely talk as it is, but you spoke more yesterday and the day before then you did today. I would like to know what is going on and I want to help. So please tell me," she said.

Jason just looked at her and didn't say anything. Finally he sighed. "I'm scared, I keep hearing people say that it isn't my fault what happened to me, but I can't help but feel that it is. Also what Matt and Josh said about school, I feel that it is my fault that they had to go through all of that. As for today I just didn't feel like talking. I'm sorry I'll talk more if you want," Jason said sounding very scared, crying and very upset. Afraid that they would send him away and he would only get hurt worse. "Oh Jason no we are not upset that you aren't talking. We are only worried that you didn't want to talk. And no Jason none of this is your fault but it will take time to get used to that. You need to hear it everyday and you are going to have to understand that you did nothing wrong. Jason it is very important that you understand that. Now I was told that your friend Jimmy wants to come over and be able to see you. What do you think of that?" she asked him.

Jason sat and thought about that for a minute. Then turned and looked at Dr. Springer. "I don't know. I know I remember his name but I don't remember anything about him. I just don't know," Jason said looking down.

Dr. Springer nodded her head and wrote some stuff on the pad she had with her. "I know Jason that is why we are going slow with this. We don't want you overwhelmed, but there are certain things that you do need to do and certain people that you may need to see to help you. So why don't we say that Jimmy can come over for one hour tomorrow, no more. Then you two can sit down and talk, I will leave certain things that he can't speak to you about. How does that sound?" she asked him Jason just stared at her for a minute.

"Ok thanks," Jason said. The rest of their time together they just talked about the nightmares and what all he remembered from them. Together they were able to come up with a few things that he could see more clearly. They talked about how Jason felt about his family and where he is. Dr. Springer thought that they had a good time and an excellent session.

Dr. Springer left leaving instruction with Jason's family about what Jimmy can and cannot mention. She also told them to let them have some privacy but also be in an area where if Jason needed them they could be there for him. Jason sat there for a few minutes more before he called one of his parents to come and get him. They brought Jason into the family room and sat him next to the couch so he could watch T.V. with them.

Later that night as Jason lay in bed he thought about the session that he had with Dr. Springer. He was excited to being able to see someone other then his family and maybe seeing Jimmy would help bring back more of his memories.

The next day Jason awoke and his dad came and got him. After using the bathroom and getting dressed he carried Jason downstairs. John went and got the chair and after putting Jason in it he went and took him into the kitchen. After eating John left for the office and Pat started tutoring Jason.

That afternoon when Jason's brothers came home Jimmy was with them. They all walked into the family room and saw Jason sitting there watching T.V. Jason looked up and watched Jimmy watch him. Before anything was said John came into the room and asked to speak with Jimmy.

"Jimmy I want you to know that Dr. Springer said it was ok that you talk with Jason. All we ask is that you not bring up anything personal between you two or anything that Jason said to you that is a secret. He has to find these things out on his own," John told him. Jimmy nodded.

"Yes sir I understand," he said. John nodded his head and let Jimmy go back into the family room with Jason.

"Hey how are you?" Jimmy asked Jason sitting in the chair next to him. Jason stared at Jimmy for a moment before answering.

"I'm ok I guess. I still don't know really who anyone is. I still don't know how I know your name, but I do," Jason said. "So were we best friends from what you said right?" Jason asked him. Jimmy looked and saw John and Pat standing at the door. They nodded their head for him to go ahead and answer the question.

"Yeah we are. We are the best of friends," Jimmy said, kinda sad because he wanted to tell Jason so much about what they meant to each other but couldn't.

Jason hearing that they were best friends was really exciting maybe he could find out what he was like.

"Cool so what kinda of things did we do?" he asked Jimmy excitedly. Once again Jimmy looked at John and Pat and they nodded their heads.

"Hmmm well we liked to ride our bikes around the neighborhood, we also liked to go and play in the woods. I play baseball and football, and a few others but you never were interested but you came and watched and cheered me on. When you went and played tennis I came and cheered you on," he said.

At first Pat and John weren't sure if Jimmy should have told Jason that but seeing that he was smiling they felt it was ok.

Jason giggles.

"Yeah I kinda of thought I didn't like baseball or football. When I came home I saw the baseball and football out back. I knew I didn't like it and I told them. They told me yeah that I didn't and that me not remembering didn't change that fact," Jason said and giggled

"Well we spent the night at each others houses," Jimmy said. Pat and John weren't sure what Jimmy was going to say but hoped it wouldn't be too much. "We stayed up late and played the game cube, and play station, we talked about school and our teachers. You sucked in math and I sucked in social studies, so we made fun of each other about that," Jimmy said chuckling. Jason laughed with him.

"I can imagine that, mom or Pat sorry, has been helping me with my school work. I am doing ok with math but I don't like it, and some of the equations are hard," Jason said laughing.

"Yeah you always worried about those, but hey you always got them in the end," Jimmy said.

Jimmy stayed for about an hour and finally left. Jason felt better talking with him and it did help him understand things about him self-better. There was only one thing that seemed to bother Jason. That was when Jimmy was around and they shook hands Jason seemed to of wanted to hold on longer. It was as if he didn't want Jimmy to leave. Pat and John noticed this as well.

Later that night while Jason lay in bed, he thought about Jimmy and the touch of their hands the next thing he knew he was hard and wanting to touch himself. But Jason was scared he wasn't sure if what he was feeling was right or wrong. He lied there and cried himself to sleep confused and afraid.

About 4 in the morning Jason woke up again from a nightmare. Screaming and hollering not to hurt him Pat and John ran in there and comforted him. Soon Jason fell back to sleep with tears streaming down him face.

The next morning John helped Jason downstairs. It was Friday and John or Pat had to go into the office to give out paychecks and to check the week's business deals and make sure that any problems that arose were taken care of. Finally Pat agreed to go she didn't want to leave Jason but John told her that maybe Jason would talk with him since they were both guys.

Pat left and John went into the kitchen to see if Jason needed anything.

"Need anything son?" John asked smiling at Jason while he ate his breakfast.

"No I'm ok thanks but when do I get to get this cast off? It is itching me like crazy," Jason said. John chuckled.

"Not for another 3-4 weeks I'm afraid. It needs time to heal, and we take you to the doctors next week for a check up and then he can decide on how much time it will take from there," John said.

Jason frowned. "Ok. So where is Pat, I mean mom, sorry," he said blushing.

John just looked at him. "No need to apologize. It is ok, we told you not to worry. Well she had to go into the office to pay the employees, and to help solve any problems that may have arisen this week," he said looking at Jason with a smile.

Jason lowered his head and looked at his lap. "Sorry for causing you so much grief, if you want you can just hire someone so I won't keep you out of work," he said.

John just stared at him for a moment; he put his hand on Jason's shoulder before speaking. "Son listen it is ok and we are not going to hire someone to take care of you. You are our son, and it is not a problem for us to be out of the office. We have an office manager that normally handles everything. There are just a few things that she can't do, so that is why either your mom or I go down there and make sure everything is going ok. So you don't have anything to worry about. Now finish eating and let's get started on your lessons," John said squeezing Jason's shoulder.

Jason hurried and finished eating and waited for John to bring in the laptop and the books. For the next four hours they sat and worked on his class work and homework, Jason didn't see to have any problems understanding anything. A few minor problems in math but he got those after they were explained in a way that he could understand.

Finally it was lunchtime, and John fixed grilled cheese sandwiches for Jason and himself.

After lunch they went back to work and finished a few house later. Matter of fact, they got so far ahead that Jason a lready did half of next weeks assignments as well. John wasn't through yet. He had Jason take a thirty-minute break then brought him back into the kitchen for an exam.

"Ok son this is your weekly exam. It is to see if you have remembered everything that you have learned this week. On Monday either your mom or I will drop it off at the school to be graded. You are going to have to write on the exam so that they know it is yours. The school has already been told that your right arm is broken so they are expecting some problems with your test, but they are going to grade it any ways," John said putting the sheet in front of Jason.

Jason picked up his pencil and when John said time he started. Jason only had 45 minutes to complete the exam; he was finished in 30 minutes. He reread over everything and then told his dad he was finished.

"I'm finished," he said, John came over and looked at it.

"Not bad," he said.

Jason blushed. "I would have been finished sooner but with writing with my left arm it slowed me up," Jason said blushing.

John just laughed. "Son this is fine. You had 45 minutes and you finished it 15 minutes before time was up. Why don't I roll you into the family room to watch some TV," John said. Jason nodded his head.

A few hours later Pat arrived home and then Matt and Josh did as well. They talked about their day and asked Jason how his was. Then they turned and watched TV together.

They ate dinner at 5:30 and at 6 the doorbell rang. Pat went and answered it. She was shocked when she opened the door to see not only Dr. Springer there but also Dr. Connor as well. Dr. Connor put his finger up to his lips for her not to say his name.

In a whisper he said. "I wanted to surprise Jason," he said. Pat nodded and led them into the office. The Pat went and got Jason.

When Jason was wheeled into the office he screamed in surprise.

"Dr. Connor," he was smiling when Connor came over and gave him a hug.

"Hey kiddo how you doing?" he asked.

"Fine thanks. What are you doing here?" Jason asked him. Dr. Connor sat down.

"Oh I just wanted to come and see how my favorite patient is doing. Dr. Springer has kept me informed on how you're doing. I was told that you remember a friend of yours," he said. Jason nodded his head, and at that Pat walked out shutting the door behind her. She went and told John and the boys about Dr. Connor being there.

"Yes sir I did. But I seem to…" He stopped and blushed not sure on how to say what he wanted to say. Dr. Connor and Dr. Springer both noticed this.

"Jason it is ok to tell us what ever it is that you want to tell us. We told you that what we say here is confidential. Besides there is nothing that you can say that either one of us has probably not heard from a patient before," Dr. Springer said, and Dr. Connor nodded his head.

Jason nodded his head in agreement but still sat there for a few moments before he started again.

"I mean it was great seeing and talking to Jimmy. He told me about how I liked tennis and he didn't but that he came to watch me and cheer me on whenever I played. I didn't know I liked anything but I'm glad that he told me because it did make me try and think about what I like and don't like. He told me that he played baseball and football but I even though I didn't like it but I always was there to cheer him on and to watch him. I kinda figured I didn't when one day Matt and Josh were watching a baseball game and I didn't like it," he said blushing. Both doctors laughed and Dr. Springer wrote something in her file on him.

"But when he got ready to leave he shook my hand and it seemed that…" He stopped once again and blushed. "Well it was like I didn't want to let his hand go. But I finally did and that night I thought about his hand and I kinda got hard…" he said the last in a whisper. Dr. Connor and Dr. Springer both smiled.

"It's ok Jason; I'm not only a doctor but a woman with a teenaged son as well. So that is nothing new to me, so what next?" she asked him to help him feel better about what he said.

"Well I started crying and I feel asleep. I didn't know if it was right or wrong to feel that way about him. I mean even though I know him I don't remember him. That had me worried and I cried myself to sleep. That night I had another nightmare about the men again. I woke up and mom and dad were there to help me. Well that is all," Jason said with his head down.

"Jason as a doctor there is nothing wrong with how you felt about your friend. As a friend just keep looking at your feelings and see where they lead, but don't push it ok. Let them come to you and just see how you feel," Dr. Connor said.

"That's right Jason. Remember over time you will hopefully and completely remember everything. So don't worry don't push yourself, let it all come together on its own," Dr. Springer said.

They all talked for about an hour and then finally the time was up. Dr. Connor promised to come back by the next day and to visit as a friend because he was leaving on Sunday to head home. Jason was very happy with this and couldn't wait to see him again.

That night John helped Jason into bed and as soon as Jason's head hit the pillow he was asleep.

Chapter 8

Dr. Connor did come and see him the next day and stayed for about four or five hours, then he left to head home. Over the next month Jason's physical health did improve and Dr. Connor kept his word and called him at least once a week.

Three times a week Dr. Springer came and visited him and they talked about his nightmares and the pain that he has gone through. He has slowly came to the point that he realizes it was not his fault and that he is a good person and that just because he can't do something doesn't mean that he is a bad kid.

Jason did go to the doctors and the doctor went ahead and took the cast off his leg. He has healed nicely and the doctors do not see any reason why he should have it on any more. They did give him a pair of crutches to use till he got the full strength and use of his leg. Physical therapy was going to be needed for that. He was scheduled to therapy three times a week. They made arrangements for a physical therapist to come to the house. His right arm was placed in a half cast and has another two weeks to go. Finally he was on his way home without a wheelchair just a pair of crutches.

While at the doctors they looked at his back and noticed that the fusion was doing well and he was healing up nicely in his back. They gave him more pain medicine to help him if he needs it. Jason told them that he hurt every now and then and when he first lies down there is a sharp pain and when he tries and sit up he hurts. He also told them that he can't seem to sit in one area for to long or the pain really starts.

John and Pat were upset because he never told them this.

"Sorry but I didn't want to be a bother," he said with silent tears falling down his face.

"Son you are never a bother. From now on if you hurt you let us know," John said smiling at him and hugging him.

"Yes sir. Thank you," Jason said.

Jimmy has comes over once a week and they talk about their friendship and slowly Jason has begun to feel real friendship towards Jimmy but also he has slowly started to fall in love with Jimmy. To Jason it has only just happened but to Jimmy this is the second time that Jason has fallen in love with him. And like wise Jimmy has fallen back in love with Jason.

On the Monday morning after he saw the doctor Jason once again woke with the nightmares but this time he could actually see a face. He screamed and screamed and wouldn't stop even when his parents came into the room to try and comfort him. He screamed so much and so loud it woke his brothers who came running into the room after his parents.

"Mom, dad what's wrong?" asked Matt as he stared at his brother screaming and huddled in a corner.

"Another nightmare son, go downstairs and look by the phone for Dr. Springer's number and bring it to me with the cordless," Pat said trying to hold onto Jason who was thrashing and screaming. Matt ran off to do as he was asked.

Matt came back with the number and the phone and John took it from him and started dialing the number. Hearing it ring after six times he thought she wasn't going to pick up when finally he heard a click and someone sleepy voice.

"Hello?" said a man.

"Hello yes this is John O'Brien I need to speak with Dr. Springer immediately it is an emergency," he said to the man on the phone. John heard her in the distance.

"Greg who is it at this time of the night?" she asked.

"Someone named John O'Brien asking for you he says it is an emergency," he said. John heard a frantic snatching of the phone.

"John it's Sherry what's going on?" she asked more awake now.

"Sherry sorry to call so late or early or what ever but it's Jason. He started screaming and when we came in here to calm him down he wouldn't stop. He is thrashing and won't stop squirming he is acting like he saw someone," John said into the phone, Sherry could hear Jason's screams over the phone.

"Ok John I think that he finally saw one of his attackers in his nightmares, I'm on my way. It will take about 30 minutes but I will get there soon. Call the gate and let them know I am on my way," she said.

"Ok Sherry and thanks, I'm sorry," he said.

"Don't be sorry John I think we finally had a break through," she said and hung up. John hung up as well.

"Pat… PAT," he screamed. She finally turned towards him. "She's on her way," he said. Pat nodded her head and turned back towards Jason and started talking smoothly to him again. John called the front gate.

"Yes this is John O'Brien on Parker Lane, there is a Sherry Springer on the way here. She is my son's doctor let her through immediately as soon as she gets here," he said to the guard.

"Yes sir I will," he said. John hung up and went and sat by Jason to try and calm him down as well.

"Come on son were right here. Don't worry it's going to be ok no one can ever hurt you again," he said. Jason kept screaming and crying. They heard the doorbell and John figured that someone might have called one of the guards. "Matt go and get the door explain what is going on, and tell who ever it is that his doctor is on the way," John said. "Josh go with him," he knew that both boys didn't need to be there right now and see this.

Matt and Josh ran out of the room and headed downstairs, when Matt turned off the alarm and opened the door he was shocked. It wasn't a guard who was there it was Jimmy. Jimmy ran past Matt and Josh and up the stairs to Jason's room.

When Jimmy got there he couldn't believe what he saw. Jason was screaming and crying with his mom and dad trying to hold him down because he was thrashing so much. John and Pat turned towards the door.

"What are you doing here?" Pat asked him.

"I heard him scream, I'm sorry but I want to help I love him to much to see him like this." With that Jimmy went to Jason's bed and grabbed the hand that Pat was holding. "Jason come on bud I'm here. Calm down, no one can hurt you I promise you. Jason I know you can hear me I love you. I don't want to lose you please listen to me. I'm right here," Jimmy keep saying and with his other arm he put it around Jason and turned him towards him.

Jimmy was about Jason's height maybe an inch taller, but where Jason was really skinny all around Jimmy had some muscle on him and he used that muscle to turn Jason towards him. Wrapping Jason in his arms he made him look at him.

Through images and pain racking his body, Jason looked through the tears and saw Jimmy there holding him. He still cried hard and heavy but he stopped thrashing and stopped squirming to get away.

"Shhhh that's right Jason I'm right here. No one will ever hurt you again; I'm going to make sure of that. I love you Jason and I'm here for you forever," Jimmy said, holding Jason. With tears in his eyes Jimmy held onto Jason and let him cry into his chest.

The doorbell rang again and Matt went and got the door. This time it was Dr. Springer and Matt lead her upstairs. When she entered the room she was very surprised at what she saw.

There was Jason calming down and she assumed that it was Jimmy who was holding him.

"What happened?" she asked Pat and John.

"Jimmy was able to get him calmed I don't know how," he said still in shock.

"I didn't know he stayed the night I didn't hear him in the background," she said to them as she came closer to the bed and same on the edge.

"He didn't" said Pat smiling at the two boys. "He said he heard Jason screaming and he ran over here to help him. Once he was able to get Jason in his arms and looking at him Jason stopped the thrashing and squirming and now he is just crying," she finished telling Sherry what was happening as she stroked Jason's sweaty hair.

Jimmy turned towards the adults and Jason's brothers.

"I'm in love with him and have been for two years. When he vanished I thought apart of me died, now that he is back I won't let him suffer again. If any of you have a problem with that then kiss my ass," he said sternly while holding onto Jason. They heard a giggle coming from Jason after Jimmy said that. They all turned and looked at Jason as he looked up into Jimmy's eyes. "What's so funny?" Jimmy asked him.

Still giggling Jason said.

"You just told my parents, doctor and brothers to kiss your ass," he said and started laughing again. Everyone chuckled at that. "My dad could break you in two and Matt could beat you to a bloody pulp and you still told them to kiss your ass," he said starting to laugh some more but soon the laughter turned to tears as he started remembering what scared him so much.

"Yeah I did and I don't care what they think I love you. Shhhhh calm down I'm here now and no one can hurt you," he said holding onto Jason as a new set of years set in. Jimmy too started crying tears of sadness for his love.

"Jimmy we don't care that you two love each other as long as you are both happy," John said.

Sherry spoke up at that moment. "I hate to do this but Jason what happened?" she asked him. Jason turned towards her and with tears falling from his eyes and holding onto Jimmy he told her of what happened.

"I saw his face," he said starting to cry harder, Jimmy held and comforted Jason letting him know that he was there with him. "I saw the man who grabbed me, and I saw what he did to me. I still don't know about the other two I know that two men grabbed me but I can only see one of their faces," he said breaking down and crying more.

"Shhh love it's alright," Jimmy said. John and Pat were rubbing Jason's back as he talked.

"Jason do you remember anything else?" she asked him. Jimmy shot her a nasty look. "He needs to tell us while it is fresh in his mind. I know you don't want to see him hurt but he needs to get it out or he won't get any better," she told Jimmy; finally Jimmy relented and let her continue. "Jason I need to know what you saw ok," she told him.

Slowly Jason calmed down and turned and looked at her.

"I saw a man who was tall taller than dad, and big I'm not sure if he was fat or muscled but big. He had a black beard. He had black hair and had dark eyes. I saw a tattoo of a cobra on his right arm," he started and took a shacking breath. After a moment he continued.

"I remember being put inside of a van and some kind of mask being put over my face. The next thing I knew I was in some kind of warehouse or basement of something. There was a collar on my neck, and I was chained like a dog to the wall. I'm not a dog, damn it I'm not a dog," he screamed and started crying more. Jimmy held him and comforted him; he wouldn't let Jason up no matter how hard Jason tried to fight him. After about five minutes he calmed down. "I'm sorry," he said still crying.

"No need to be sorry love we're here to help you," Jimmy said kissing Jason's forehead. Jason looked up into Jimmy's eyes and smiled a sad little smile.

"I wanted you to be my first," he said with fresh tears falling. Jimmy only held him tighter.

"I will be your first. What they did to you was rape not making love so don't worry," Jimmy said. Pat and John were a little surprised by this but they wouldn't worry about it now, they needed to try and see what Jason knew. They were happy that Jimmy wanted to be with Jason and they knew that he wouldn't let him get hurt again.

"What else Jason?" Sherry asked after Jason had calmed down.

"I saw the other things in the room. One was a table it had straps on it. They tied me down and started beating with whips. There was another thing that looked like a big X made out of wood on the other side of the room. They put me on that and beat me too. They took turns coming up to me and… and…" He broke down and shook his head crying.

"Enough for tonight ok?" Jimmy said. "I know you want to know more, but I don't think that Matt and Josh should hear anymore. Besides Jason's worn out," Jimmy said sounding older then his 13 years.

"I agree I'll be back tomorrow evening. I would suggest that you all take it easy and boys please don't talk about what you heard," Dr. Springer said turning towards Matt and Josh.

Both boys were shaking and silently crying. John and Pat got up and went over to them and hugged them.

"Shhhhh boys it will be alright I promise. No one is going to hurt ya'll it is over, we are going to make sure that you are ok. I promise that," John said. Both boys nodded their heads.

"Ok tomorrow I am going to come over at 3. I want to spend an hour with everyone. Jimmy you too if you want. If Jason wants you can sit in on his session ok," she said making a note on some paper.

"Ok thanks," he said cuddling up to Jason. Everyone looked on as Jason and Jimmy started falling asleep.

"Jimmy does your parents know where you're at?" Pat asked him Jimmy turned and looked towards her.

"No ma'am I ran out of the house when I heard him scream. I don't want to leave him," Jimmy said holding tighter to Jason. Pat nodded her head.

"Ok, John can you go and tell them?" she asked turning towards her husband.

"Yeah I will." With that he walked downstairs and to Jimmy's house. Pat walked Dr. Springer downstairs with Matt and Josh falling them.

"OK I will be back at 3 tomorrow, well later today. Don't worry about calling me at this hour I don't mind. I think were finally making a break through here. I do suggest that we call the police tomorrow and the Chief from North Carolina and let him know what and who to look for," she said stepping out side. John came back about then.

"I told them, they were a little worried when I showed up but I explained to them about Jason's nightmare and Jimmy hearing him screaming and wanting to stay with him. They are ok now. Thanks again Sherry," John said.

"No Problem, I'll see everyone later today." With that Sherry went to her car and left.

Pat and John got Matt and Josh back to their room and tucked them in. The reassured them that everything was going to be ok, and not to worry they left their doors open just in case Matt and Josh needed them.

After turning out the boy's light they went and checked on Jason and Jimmy. They found the boys under the covers and snuggled up together Jimmy holding Jason in a spoon position with his arm protectively about him. They knew that Jason would be safe with Jimmy.

Pat and John went back to their own room and went to bed. This was a long night and tomorrow would be even longer.

Chapter 9

Jimmy woke up about 9 and Jason was still snuggled up to him. He smiled and kissed the back of Jason's neck. Jason squirmed a little and turned towards Jimmy smiling at him.

"Morning," Jason said shyly. Jimmy smiled back at him and kissed him on the forehead.

"Morning baby. How do you feel?" he asked. Jason's smile vanished and he looked down. Jimmy made him look up into his eyes. "You have nothing to be ashamed of or to fear," he said pulling Jason tighter into the hug. Jason just snuggled into Jimmy and his protective embrace.

"I'm just tired and sad. I hate these nightmares," he said.

"I know love but soon they will be gone," Jimmy reassured him.

Jimmy and Jason got up and one at a time went and used the bathroom. After they washed their hands they looked into Matt and Josh's room and noticed that they were still asleep. Slowly and quietly the two boys made their way downstairs.

Entering the kitchen Jason noticed him mom and dad there talking. Holding hands they slowly approached Jason's parents.

"Morning why are Matt and Josh not at school?" Jason asked sitting down in the chair next to his mom while Jimmy stood behind him with his hands resting on Jason's shoulders. His mom and dad smiled at them both.

"We felt it was better if they stayed home. After last night they needed a break, but don't worry you didn't do anything wrong. They never knew the whole story and now they do. It is just going to take some time for them to understand everything," Pat told them.

"Jimmy take a seat next to Jason we would like to talk with you both," John said getting up.

Jimmy sat down next to Jason and took his hand and held onto it. Not as a life preserver but as a sign of his love and daring anyone to say anything about it.

John and Pat just smiled at the two boys.

"Ok here it is. We have known that you two have been in love for a long time. Jason you told us before the accident. The reason we didn't say anything to you is because we were told not to. You had to learn this on your own and as we can all tell you did. Jimmy, we are very happy that you and Jason love each other and want to be together. You standing up for yourself last night has shown us that no one else is better for Jason then you are," Pat said.

"Boys we know that eventually you two are going to want to try and have sex but we ask that you to wait for a while ok. You are only 13 and there is no rush for that, we know that you two love each other and that you two want to be together. If you two want to kiss, hold hands or cuddle on the couch while you watch TV that is fine. We just ask that you keep it indoors and not outside. The reason why is just because we are ok with it doesn't mean that the world is. I hope you two understand this," John said.

"Yes sir we do. We have already talked about this before the incident and decided that we want to keep it quite. Right now Jason doesn't need any harassment from the school or the kids at school," Jimmy said answering for the two. Pat and John nodded their heads.

"Ok now Jimmy do your parents know about you two?" John asked them. Jimmy looked at John for a moment before answering.

"Yes sir they do. They are not happy about it but I told them if they try and keep me from them that I would run away or try and hurt myself. I know that no one wants that but I love Jason enough that I would leave and hurt him that way instead of having my parents hurt him, that was before what happened to him happened.

They saw how I was with him gone and we have talked a lot since then. They are ok with it now. I think they realize how much that I love him and he loves me," Jimmy said turning and kissing Jason on the cheek. Jason blushed and John and Pat chuckled.

"Ok Jimmy we understand. Now I don't know how Matt or Josh will handle this but I will make sure that they understand they do not hurt either one of you with words or say anything mean to you two," John said. Before he could say anything else Josh spoke up.

"We don't care how they feel for each other. We love Jason and Jimmy is his best friend," Josh said.

"And as long as Jason feels safe that is all that matters. And if any of the kids at school find out I'll take care of them," Matt said smiling at Jimmy and Jason then walking over and hugging each of the boys. Josh went and hugged Jason and Jimmy as well.

Later that day Dr. Springer came by and talked with all of the boys to make sure that they were ok. She talked with Jason and Jimmy the longest making sure that they were ok with the nightmares and talked with them and explained how with Jason's traumatic experience could have some problems with there relationship but she did let them know that she would be there to help them through it all.

Through out the week Dr. Springer stopped by several times to make sure that Matt and Josh were ok, along with Jimmy.

Every night Jason woke up screaming and crying remembering the pain and the tears that he cried as he was hurt by the strange man.

Jimmy came over everyday after school and did his homework with Jason and helped Jason with his homework that he had to do. No one mentioned the night of the revelation of the latest piece of information.

Dr. Connor called every other day to make sure that Jason was ok and he was getting everything that he needed.

Jason did start having memories come forward while he was awake. He was scared to say anything about them because some of them didn't make sense to him.

Through out the month that Jason was home schooled and saw Dr. Springer he went outside everyday so he could get used to being outside again. He never went out the front door only the back where no one would see him. He was scared that the neighbors would make fun of him and his family.

On Saturday night Jimmy was staying the night as he did on the weekends and once again the nightmares came and this time he couldn't seem to stop them or control them.

Jason screamed and screamed and Jimmy was scared because this time he couldn't help him. Jon and Pat ran in and grabbed Jason and tried to wake him up and it didn't seem to work. As Jason screamed they saw blood coming out of the side of his mouth, at first a little like he bit his lip or tongue a little, but then more seemed to start flowing.

Scared Jon and ran called the ambulance, and then called Dr. Springer. Dr. Springer told him that she would meet them at the hospital. John then called the front gate and told them that they had called an ambulance.

A few minutes later the ambulance pulled up and Jimmy ran out and saw the police and an ambulance there. He directed them up stairs to Jason's room.

"What's going on?" asked the police officer, seeing John and Pat holding Jason down.

"He's having a nightmare and we can't wake him up, all of a sudden he started bleeding from his mouth at first just a little then in gushes," Pat said. The officer and paramedics nodded and then the paramedics started working on Jason.

As the paramedics worked on Jason John and Pat told the police officer what all led up to Jason being like this, he was both stunned and upset at hearing this.

"My God and all he is having is nightmares. I'm sorry, is there anything that I can do?" he asked them. They nodded there head and watched as the paramedics loaded Jason onto the stretcher and with tears in their eyes thy followed the stretchers out of the house and into the street.

"Mr. and Mrs. O'Brien only one of you can come in the ambulance." One of the paramedics said. They looked at each other then at Jimmy.

"He will go with him. Don't ask but he needs to be there with him, please," Pat said looking at the paramedic. He nodded his head and helped Jimmy into the ambulance, Pat, John, and the two boys watched as the ambulance drove away then went and changed and left the house to head to the hospital.

They arrived at the hospital and saw Jimmy talking with Dr. Springer.

"Sherry thank you for coming," John said shaking her hand.

"You're most welcome Jason is a very good young man and needs all of the help that he can get. I have called Dr. Connor and Dr. Cunningham and they are going to be calling the doctors here. Maybe they can find out what is all going on and help even though they are not here," she said.

"Ok thanks, Jimmy how are you doing?" John asked. Jimmy looked up and he could see fresh tears falling. John pulled Jimmy into his arms and hugged him, Jimmy started sobbing and Pat rubbed Jimmy's back as John held him.

"It's going to be alright Jimmy. I promise he will be alright," Pat said.

"Yes he will be fine," said Dr. Springer.

They all sat down and waited for what must have been at least two hours, and it was in fact closer to three. Finally a doctor came out and found them.

"Are you the O'Briens?" he asked.

John and Pat stood up. "Yes doctor we are." They said at the same time.

The doctor smiled at them. "I'm doctor Walker, and if you don't mind me asking who are the rest of these people?" he asked them.

"This is Matt and Josh his brother, his best friend Jimmy, and his psychologist Dr. Sherry Springer," Pat said.

The doctor nodded. "Ok well why don't all of the adults come down here and let the boys sit here and wait. I need to talk with you all in private," said the doctor.

"Doctor, I am Jimmy Bradshaw, and I live next door to Jason and his family. I want to tell you I am more then Jason's best friend, I am his boyfriend, and his lover. I love him more then you will ever know. If there is something going on with Jason then I have a right to know about it. And if you have a problem with two boys being boyfriends, then keep that opinion to yourself, frankly I don't care. Now you will tell us what in the hell is going on with Jason and you will tell us right now," Jimmy said his face turning red from anger and from being scared. Dr. Springer put her hand on Jimmy's shoulder.

"Calm down Jimmy, if the doctor does have a problem with it, he cannot speak his mind. It is against the rules. Now doctor I think you can safely tell us all what is going on. This is Jason's family, all of them so I think they have a right to know," Dr. Springer said.

The doctor just stood there and looked at them all. "You're right and I apologize, as for you being with Jason, don't worry about it. My son is gay and is about your age, he also has a boyfriend. Ok whey don't we all go over to this room and I will tell you all what is going on," the doctor led them over to a room and they sat quietly waiting for him to speak.

"Ok here is the deal, you said that he had a nightmare well there was more to it then that. When he had the nightmare he struggled and he screamed so much that he tore several muscles and this is the bad part, some of his veins were torn as well. He started bleeding so bad that he started chocking to death. We had to send him up to emergency surgery; he will be fine though, so there is no need to worry.

I will say that he is going to need to take it easy for a while, he will have to stay in the hospital for several days and he won't be able to speak for about a week or two. He tore his throat up pretty bad with the amount of screaming he has done.

Doctor Cunningham told us about what surgery he had, but not about what happened to him. Does anyone know why he was having a nightmare?" he asked looking around, at first no one said anything.

Pat and John were about to speak when Jimmy spoke up first. "He was kidnapped and raped months ago. His family finally found him a few months ago and he has been seeing Mrs. Springer here since he got back. I think you should call Dr. Connor. No offence Mrs. Springer but I think that Jason may want to speak with him," Jimmy said not looking up.

"You're right Jimmy and I already have, he is on his way down here. He should be landing in about an hour," Dr. Springer said. About that time the door opened and walked in Dr. Connor.

"Sorry I'm late, the plane hit a small problem," he said walking in. Jimmy got up and ran and hugged him. "You must be Jimmy nice to meet you," he said hugging him back. "Don't worry Jason will be fine he is a strong kid and to make sure that he is going to be ok I brought in his doctor," Dr. Connor said and about that time Dr. Cunningham walked in.

"Sorry were late," he said. John and Pat got up and shook the doctors had."

"Thank you Dr. Cunningham for coming here to help with Jason, I know that he is in good hands with Dr. Walker here but I know that he will feel more comfortable with you here," Pat said.

"No problem at all, when Dr. Walker called and then Dr. Connor we decided to come down and see what we can do. Dr. Walker has kept me updated and I know that Jason is out of surgery and in the recovery room. Now if you don't mind I would like for Dr. Walker to take me to him so I can see what all is going on." With that Dr. Walker and Dr. Cunningham walked out and headed to Jason.

"Well let's all sit and see what is going on," Dr. Connor said. After they all sat, Dr. Connor began. "Jimmy, Matt, and Josh lets start with you, how do you feel about what has happened tonight?"

For the next hour and a half both Dr. Connor and Dr. Springer talked with the boys and Pat and John about how they are feeling and about what they have all thought about what is going on with Jason this time.

Finally about 8 that morning both Dr. Walker and Dr. Cunningham walked into the room.

"How's everyone doing?" Dr. Cunningham asked. They all just looked at him, "Yes I see. Well we have some good news and bad news," he started out.

"The good news is that Jason is going to be alright and that he will be out of the recover room soon and into a room by him self," Dr. Walker said sitting down next to Dr. Cunningham.

"The bad news is that we had to go back in and operate once again. He started bleeding out in his chest so we had to go and look and find the problem and we did. It was a small hole in his pulmonary artery leading to his left lung. We don't know how that happened it just did. We are assuming that it is from all of the screaming he has done," Dr. Cunningham finished.

"Well I will say this I don't think it is over. Until we can catch the men who did this it isn't going to be over. He needs to confront his demons and until the police catch him there isn't going to be much we can do. We need to stand by his side and let him know that he is safe and loved," Dr. Springer said.

"I agree hopefully soon we can help him understand that the nightmares may have come from what happened to him but they can't hurt him anymore," Dr. Connor said.

They all agreed and sat there for a while longer till a nurse came and told them that Jason was in a room and they could all go and see him.

Pat, John, Matt, Jason, and Jimmy all followed the doctors up to the 3rd floor to the pediatrics floor to where Jason was. When they got to his room they saw a nurse walk out and hand Dr. Walker a chart.

"Ok before you all go in there is something that you all need to know. You will see Jason with a tube down his throat. The reason for this is because he needs to be able to breath with out to much pain as he inhales. His throat is already raw and sore and yes the tube will irritate it some but not as much as if he had to breathe on his own.

So don't be surprised by that or the wires that are connected to him, those are to help monitor his heart and breathing. So please try and understand that, also right now he is still sort of out of it and may not be awake to much to respond to anyone." With that they all walked in.

Jimmy walked straight up to Jason and looked at him and smiled.

"You're still beautiful as the day I first saw you nine years ago. Yes I knew back then that I wanted to be by you for the rest of your time. I didn't understand that back then when I was four but I do know. Jason I am going to stay by your side and walk with you till the end of time. Please get better and please know that no matter what happens I will always be here to help you. Please wake up soon and be with us, I love you." With that Jimmy bent and kissed Jason on the cheek with Jason's family and doctors all watching and not caring what they thought about what he said at that moment.

Chapter 10

Jimmy did stay there by Jason's side for the entire day. Pat called Jimmy's parents and they brought Jimmy some clothes so he could get out of his night clothes.

All they could do now was wait to see what was going to happen and to see when Jason would wake up.

Jimmy stayed that night, with Jason and about 10, Jason finally woke up. Jimmy was watching T.V. and holding Jason's hand when he felt a squeeze. Jimmy turned and looked at Jason with a smile on his face. "Hey baby, you ok?" Jimmy asked holding Jason's hand and squeezing it back in return.

Jason just looked back at Jimmy with a scared look in his eyes. He tried to pull on the tube but Jimmy stopped him.

"No baby you can't do that. I know you can't talk right now and you want to tube out but right now you have to keep it in. I'll call the nurse ok?" Jimmy said, Jason nodded his head and Jimmy reached over him and hit the call button.

A few moments later a nurse answered. "Yes?" she said.

"This is Jimmy Bradshaw I was calling to let you know that Jason is awake," he said.

"Ok thank you Jimmy I'll be there in a moment," the nurse said.

Jimmy took Jason's hand and held it, while looking straight into Jason's eyes. "Baby I know you're scared but I promise you that you are going to be ok. They had to operate again but don't worry it went well and you're going to be alright. I promise you. I love you Jason," Jimmy said holding onto Jason's hand and squeezing it once again.

Jason looked deep into Jimmy's eyes and knew that Jimmy was telling the truth that he was going to be alright. About that time the nurse came in and smiled at Jason.

"Well now how are you doing Jason?" she asked him looking over his chart and looking at the monitors beeping off and on.

Jason touched his throat and his chest and pulled slightly on the tube, telling her that he wanted to tube out and telling her that his throat and chest were hurting him. The nurse smiled down at him and nodded her head.

"I know Jason I know I will call the on call doctor and see about giving you some more medicine to help with the pain. As for the tube will you have to wait till tomorrow for your regular doctor to decide if that comes out or not. I'll be back in a few minutes ok?" she said. Jason nodded his head and the nurse walked out.

A few minutes later a doctor walked in and looked over Jason's chart.

"Hey Jason I'm Dr. Will, I'm the on call doctor for the night, I was told that your chest and throat hurt?" he said looking at Jason for confirmation. Jason nodded his head as he looked at the doctor. "Ok well I will have them give you something for pain and put it in your file. As you know the tube will be coming out tomorrow. Would you like for the nurse to call your parents and let them know that you're awake?" he asked.

Jason nodded his head, and the doctor smiled back.

"Ok I'll have her call them and let them know that you are awake. If you need anything else just have your friend let us know. There is paper and a pen in the drawer next to your bed so you can write down anything that you want," Dr. Will said.

Jason nodded his head. "Ok thanks doc," Jimmy replied for them. The doc smiled then walked out. Jimmy sat and talked with Jason while they waited on the nurse. About 15 minutes later the nurse returned with a needle and a smile on her face.

"Hey Jason I called your parents and they are on the way. This is for you, since I can't turn you over I am going to give this to you through your IV ok?" she said, Jason nodded his head and looked at Jimmy. Jason pointed towards the drawer and Jimmy got the hint and opened the drawer and grabbed the pen and paper.

Jason took the pen and paper and wrote three words on it. Jimmy took the paper and read what he wrote.

I Love You is what he said to his love. The nurse looked over and saw what was written and smiled at them both.

"You're lucky to have each other," she said then walked out of the room with a smile on her face.

"Yes we're very lucky," Jimmy said to the door. Jason slowly started getting sleepy and soon was out.

A while later Jimmy was asleep in the chair next to Jason when he felt a hand on his shoulder, Jimmy looked up and saw Mr. and Mrs. O'Brien standing over him.

"Hey," he said stretching and turning to see if Jason was asleep or awoke, but with the medicine that the nurse gave him he was sure that Jason was asleep, and he right.

"He woke up for a few minutes?" asked Mr. O'Brien turning and taking Jason's hand in his own.

"Yes sir he was scared and tried to take the tube out but I stopped him. The on call doctor came in and he had the nurse get him something for pain and told Jason that tomorrow the tube could come out," Jimmy said.

Jimmy got up and headed to the bathroom to relive himself. When he came out he heard Mr. and Mrs. O'Brien talking quietly. Jimmy went back to the chair he was sitting in and sat down taking Jason's hand and listening to his parents.

"So they think that he can go home in a few days?" he asked them, they turned and stared at Jimmy for a moment. At first they were silent then Pat went and kneeled next to Jimmy and took his other hand.

"Not exactly Jimmy. We have been talking and with Jason's nightmares getting so bad we aren't sure what to do. Dr. Springer said that maybe a group home with other boys like him could help him recover faster and they could deal with him nightmares and emotions," she said staring at Jimmy.

Jimmy was shocked and scared he heard about things that could happen in a group home and he snatched his hand out of her hand.

"You're thinking of sending him to a group home. What you don't love him enough to try and help him yourself? Or is it that you don't want to try?" he asked standing up and walking away from them. "I have always heard that when a person has amnesia that the best thing for them is to be around those that are his family and friends. Well I am telling you now that if you send him there he is going to feel that you don't love him and that you are abandoning him. Jason already told me that he feels that you all don't love him. Hell he's told me that he feels that ya'll are ready to get rid of him some days. Maybe he is right and your are," he said all but shouting at them.

Jimmy turned to walk out of the room when he felt a hand on his shoulder stopping him. Jimmy turned and stared up into John O'Brien's eyes.

"Jimmy it isn't like that. We are doing the best we can and maybe you're right but right now we don't know what else to do with him. We want him to stay home and we want to take care of him, but at the same time we feel that we are neglecting Matt and Josh. We don't know what else to do, and you just can't keep on taking care of one and ignore the other two. Maybe when you are older you will understand but right now this may be our best option," John said.

Jimmy just stared at Mr. O'Brien with contempt on his face.

"I understand alright, I know what you mean but have you ever thought that if you send him there then you are giving into his fear that you don't want him. I know that you all feel that you are neglecting Matt and Josh, Jason and I have talked about that but he also understands that if he weren't there then you wouldn't have to choose between them. He has already cried about that, I guess he is right. Your lives were better without him there, I told him no but that is how he feels. Maybe he was right and ya'll think the same thing." With that Jimmy walked out of Jason's hospital room.

Pat sat down and laid her head back in shock at what Jimmy had said. Maybe he's right, she thought she closed her eyes and slowly fell asleep. John sat down in the chair on the other side of the bed and closed his eyes thinking the same thing. Slowly he too fell into a deep sleep.

Neither one heard the door open and Jimmy come into the room. Jimmy saw them and just sneered then went and gave Jason a kiss on the forehead. Jimmy said a silent pray then went and lied on the floor at the foot of Jason's bed and he too fell asleep.

The next morning John and Pat woke up with the sun shining, Pat looked and didn't see Jimmy and was afraid that he never came back to the room, scared that he could have been hurt or got in trouble she got up and started walking and stopped. Pat got Johns attention and he too got up and looked, and they both saw Jimmy asleep on the floor.

John thought as he watched Jimmy and decided that he couldn't do that to Jason or his brothers. If Jason was to leave them again it could hurt them all, John got Pat's attention and shook his head. Pat knew what the shook meant and she agreed, they would not be sending Jason to a group home.

About that time the door opened up and in walked Dr. Sherry Springer and another doctor. They both stopped and looked at what Pat and John were staring at. The new doctor shook his head.

"That is neither healthy or comfortable," he said. He slowly walked over and knelt down and shook Jimmy's shoulder. "Come on young man it's time to get up," he said. Jimmy slowly awoke and noticed a doctor standing over him.

"Yeah, yeah I'm up," he said and slowly stood up and winced slightly because of his back.

"You see sleeping on the floor does not help you. Are you Jason's brother?" he asked staring down at Jimmy.

Jimmy stared at the doctor for a moment. "Who wants to know?" he asked him looking at the doctor with uncertainly. The doctor gave a small chuckle.

"You must be Jimmy, Jason's best friend," he said looking at Jimmy smiling. "I'm Dr. Abrams," he said sticking out his hand for Jimmy to shake. Jimmy looked at him for a moment before shaking his hand. "Now why don't you go use the bathroom and wake up while I check out Jason." With that Dr. Abrams shooed Jimmy to the bathroom.

When Jimmy came out of the bathroom he noticed Jason awake and went and stood by his side. Jason looked at him and tried to smile.

"Ok Jason I am going to remove your tube, but I will let you know right now that you will not be able to speak for a few weeks. All the screaming that you did from your nightmare has not only made your throat raw but also has torn some muscle and tore your larynx some. So for the next few weeks no talking, if you must talk and I mean if it is necessary then you may whisper but only if it is necessary. Dr. Abrams said. Jason nodded his head.

"Good now I am going to pull out the tube and when I tell you to take a deep breath I want you to inhale as much as you can and when I give you the word I want you to blow it all out. Understand?" he said to Jason. Jason nodded his head and then Dr. Abrams started loosening the tape. "Ok Jason you ready?" he asked and Jason nodded his head. "Take a deep breath," he said, and Jason took a deep breath and held it until the doctor said other wise. "Now," Dr. Abrams said and Jason started blowing all the air out of his body as Dr. Abrams pulled out the tube.

It seemed like Jason was going to start throwing up and it sounded like he was choking. Dr. Abrams assured everyone that this was normal and to calm down. A few moments later Jason was able to breathe regularly and everyone relaxed.

Dr. Abrams had Jason open his mouth and he checked out his throat.

"Ok well I am going to prescribe some antibiotics so you won't get an infection and if you do start to get one I will give you something else. Remember Jason you must not strain your vocal cords or your throat. You have done some very serious damage to them. I would advise gargling with warm salty water. It will burn and sting but it will help it heal up as well. I am going to keep you in here today and depending on how you are responding to the medicines I am going to be giving you will depend if you go home tomorrow or the next day," he said, the Dr. Abrams turned to Jimmy.

"And you young man do not sleep on the floor again. Remember it is not healthy and you can hurt yourself." With that Dr. Abrams walked out of the room. Dr. Springer walked over to Jason.

"Well we will have to revise our sessions so you can write everything down," she said smiling down at Jason. "I do have something I would like to talk with you about," she said, but before she could continue Jimmy started talking.

"What, that group home?" he asked turning and looking at her. "I heard about that and I think that you are wrong to want to send him there. All you're going to do is hurt him more, but then again I guess that none of you really care," he said staring at Dr. Springer waiting for her to say something else.

Dr. Springer took a deep breath. "Jimmy it may be the best thing for him, he needs attention plus his brothers are…" at that point John interrupted her.

"Hold on Sherry, Pat and I decided that we don't want him to go to a home. It hurt his brothers when he was kidnapped and now he is back. If he goes away again they may feel that he is not coming back. We have decided that were just going to try and stick it out and make sure that we spend time with all of the boys," he said.

Dr. Springer looked at him and then turned to Pat who was nodding her head. She smiled at all of them.

"Ok I understand, we won't do that. We will work with him at the house, now if you will all excuse me I would like to talk with him in private," she said. John and Pat both gave Jason a hug and a kiss, and told him they would be right outside.

Jimmy came up and kissed Jason hard on the lips and hugged him as well. "I love you I will be with your parents," he said pulling out of the hug. Jason nodded his head and mouth I love you back and watched Jimmy walk out with his parents.

"Now Jason lets talk about your nightmares and what happened this time, I am going to ask questions and you nod your head yes or no." That is the last thing Jimmy heard before he shut the door.

Jimmy walked into the hall where Pat hugged him. "What made you change your mind?" he asked them still hugging Pat.

"You did kiddo," Pat responded walking over to a bench with Jimmy beside her and John behind them.

"Me! What did I do?" he asked sitting down.

"Jimmy you slept on the floor at the foot of Jason's bed. You wouldn't leave him no matter what happened. You have been by his side and you have stayed there even when things got scary. Jimmy your love for him is what is keeping you here. How can we do anything less?" John said hugging Jimmy to him.

"You see Jimmy your dedication has shown us that even through the bad times that you are going to stay by his side. His brothers have been there and they even understand why we spend a little more time with Jason. They don't resent him, they love him. You have shown us that there are people who will stand by the ones that they love no matter what. We are going to start spending more time with all the boys, not just Jason," Pat said smiling at Jimmy. Jimmy smiled back at Pat and started crying.

"Thank you, thank you both," he said John squeezed Jimmy's shoulder and Pat hugged him again about that time Chief Beasley from North Carolina walked up to them. John stood up and shook the Chiefs hand. Pat noticed the Chief and she too stood up and shook his hand.

"Hi Chief how are you doing?" John asked? Chief Beasley just stared at him for a moment.

"I'm doing good. How are you and your family doing?" Chief Beasley asked.

"Well since you're up here then I guess that you have heard that Jason is back in the hospital?" she said and the Chief nodded his head. "He is going to be alright, Matt and Josh are doing good and this is…" she started to say but was cut off by Jimmy.

"Hi Chief Beasley I have heard a lot about you, I'm Jimmy Bradshaw," he said shaking the Chiefs hand. "I'm Jason's boyfriend," he said standing his ground against anything that this man may say to him.

The Chief stared down at Jimmy for a second then started smiling.

"I'm glad to meet you Jimmy, it sounds like with you around Jason won't have any problems with anyone," he said.

"Not if I can help it he won't," Jimmy said smiling and meaning it, the Chief chuckled and smiled at Jimmy.

"So Chief, what brings you here?" asked John. The Chief turned and looked at John.

"Well John I have some good news and some bad news," he said.

Chapter 11

John and Pat stared at the Chief as he said that. About that time the door to Jason's room opened and Dr. Springer walked out. She walked down to where they were standing and introductions were made.

"Dr. Springer I would like you in the room when I tell Jason what I need to tell him. I have some good news and some bad news," he said. Dr. Springer agreed and they all walked to Jason's room.

"Jason someone's here to see you." said John, Jason faced the door and watched as Chief Beasley came in the room. Jason smiled at him and shook his hand when the Chief came over to his bed.

"How you doing Jason?" he asked. Jason moved his hand in the so-so jester and the Chief looked at John and Pat.

They went and explained to him what happened the night before and about it taking time for Jason to heal up. The Chief nodded his head.

"Jason I hope you have a speedy recovery. Well let me get to the reason why I am here. Jason, I have some good news and some bad news for you. Do you want to hear what I have to say or would you prefer me to tell your parents and I let them tell you?" he asked Jason not knowing what Jason would want.

Jason grabbed the note pad and wrote something then handed it to the Chief. The Chief read what was written and nodded his head.

"Ok I'll tell you. Jason the good news is that we think that we have caught the guys who did this to you?" he said looking at Jason, and as he watched he saw fear, and relief both pass through his eyes. "Now I have some pictures here with me, and I need you too look at them if you think that you are up to it and tell me if you see the men that hurt you in any of the pictures, I need you to do that before I tell you the bad news ok?" he said. Jason nodded his head and the Chief turned and looked at Jason's parents then at Dr. Springer.

"Go ahead it will help him if he sees the faces and if he can confront them," Dr. Springer said. The Chief nodded his head and handed Jason five pages with photos on them.

Jason looked at the first page, he looked over each picture very carefully, he didn't seem to recognize anyone on them, he looked at the second page and froze, the first picture he recognized the man. Jason pointed to him and the Chief nodded his head.

On the 3rd and 4rth page he also recognized one man from each page. When Jason got to the last page he not only froze but started crying pointing to the 4th person on the page. The Chief looked and took the pictures from them, Jimmy hugged Jason and started comforting him.

After a few minutes Jason started calming down but he still cried. Jason wrote another note and handed it to the Chief.

The man on the last page is the one that I see the most of in my dreams. He is the man who mainly hurt me, the note said. The Chief took the note read it then handed it to John and Pat then to Dr. Springer.

"Jason are you sure?" asked Dr. Springer, Jason nodded his head.

"Now Jason, the other three men are you sure about them as well?" The Chief asked Jason. Once again he nodded his head and silent tears still fell from his eyes. "Ok Jason I had to ask that. The four men that you picked out are the ones that we arrested. Now here is the bad news. I am going to call the DA's office up in North Carolina and he is going to have to issue you a subpoena. What that means is that you are going to have to come back up there and testify against the men," he said watching as the horror and fear ran through Jason's eyes and face.

Jason started shaking his head and silently saying no. The Chief took Jason from Jimmy and from Jason's parents and held him.

"Jason I know that this is scary but I need you to do this for me. Not only for yourself, but to make sure that they don't do this again. Besides once you confront them I bet it will help you with the nightmares and with the other problems that you are having," he said hugging Jason. Jason hugged him back.

"He's right Jason once you confront them then you can start to heal more," Dr. Springer said. Jason sat there silently for a moment just hugging the Chief and looking at Jimmy.

"I'll be there for you all the way through it," Jimmy said taking Jason's hand in his.

"Son we'll all be there for you, you will never go through this alone," John said patting his sons shoulder. Jason leaned his head back and looked at the Chief.

Ok I'll do it, he mouthed. The Chief just nodded his head and hugged Jason again. He put Jason back on the bed, stayed and talked a few more moments then turned and let to get started on the case.

Later that evening after everyone but Jimmy left, Jimmy and Jason watched T.V. until they both feel into a deep sleep.

The next day Jason and Jimmy sat and talked until Jason's parents were able to show up and see him. They brought along Matt and Josh, both boys were happy to see their brother.

"Hey Jason, how do you feel?" Matt asked taking Jason's hand and squeezing it slightly. Jason shook his hand in the so-so gesture and Matt smiled. "I know you will get better and soon. I can't wait for you to get well and be able to come home," he said smiling at Jason.

Me too, mouthed Jason who smiled back at Matt. Josh hugged Jason's hand as well and quietly talked with Jason for a moment before letting go.

Dr. Connor and Dr. Cunningham walked into the room about that time and Jason looked at them with surprise. What are they doing here? he mouthed to his parents.

"You didn't think we would miss this chance to come and see you did you?" Dr. Connor asked smiling as he shook Jason's hand. Dr. Cunningham shook it next.

"Well my boy I am assuming that Dr. Abram has told you about the surgery and all?" he asked and Jason nodded his head. "I bet he didn't tell you that when they went back into you that I was with them?" he asked again and Jason shook his head.

"Well we did and you are going to be just fine, I promise you that my friend. Now I am assuming that he told you that you won't be able to speak for the next few weeks?" he asked and Jason nodded his head. "Good well it will give you time to heal, we have been giving you medicine to help you sleep and that is probably why you haven't had any nightmares," he said.

"Jason I want you to try and do something for me ok?" Dr. Connor started and Jason turned his attention to him. "Ok it may work or it may not, when you have another nightmare try and make yourself realize that it is that and nothing more. I want you to try and realize that it is nothing more then that. It may work then again it may not, we won't know till you try. If it does then great and if not then fine we will understand. It doesn't always work," he said and Jason nodded his head in response.

"I have also been told by Dr. Springer that the Chief came and saw you, is that true?" he asked and once again Jason nodded and tears welled up in his eyes. "Ok is it true that you picked out the guys that hurt you and you have to go and testify against them?" he asked slowly and as the tears fell from Jason's cheek. He nodded his head. "Ok, well I want you to know something. When you have the trial I will be right there with you. I may not be able to be in the court room till after I testify and I will have to because I helped take care of you while you were in North Carolina. Dr. Cunningham will also have to testify, so you will be having both of us with you," Dr. Connor finished.

Jason cried silent tears then reached up and hugged Dr. Connor and cried on his shoulder.

"It's alright to cry Jason. Just remember that and no matter what know that I am going to be here with you through this all. I have heard it could be up to a month maybe a little shorter before you will have to be up there and when you do I am going to be there with you every step of the way to make sure that you are safe," he said holding on to Jason and wishing he could take the pain away from him.

"I will be there as well Jason, not matter what I am going to be there with you also," Dr. Cunningham started. "Matter of fact, while you are up there I will be doing check-ups on you to make sure that you are doing ok and that you are healthy. If I find anything wrong with you then you won't testify," Dr. Cunningham said.

Jason pulled back from Dr. Connor and mouthed a thank you to them both.

"You're welcome. Now come on lie down and get some rest that is the best way to heal up," Dr. Cunningham said covering Jason back up with the blanket.

Dr. Abrams came in and saw everyone there. He recognized Dr. Cunningham and started talking with him a bout how Jason was doing then he turned towards Jason's parents.

"So have you all decided if he is going to a group home or not?" he asked and before anyone could say anything Jimmy stepped up.

"Dr. Abrams we have decided that Jason will not be going to a group home. We feel it would be in his best interest to be with his family," he started, and before he could continue Dr. Abrams interrupted him.

"Jimmy I am sure that you don't want him to go but I feel that he needs to," he said with a smile putting his hand on Jimmy's shoulder, Jimmy shook it off and started stepping up to Dr. Abrams with fire in his eyes, but before he could do anything Dr. Connor stepped in and turned Jimmy back to Jason's bed.

"Dr. Abrams the family has already discussed their decision and it was decided that he will not be going," he said.

"I don't think that you understand Dr. Connor, Jason needs to be with people who can take care of him twenty-four hours a day. He needs professional help and I will insist that he goes to one," Dr. Abrams said. John interrupted this time.

"Dr. Abrams if you try that I will have you arrested for false imprisonment. My son will do better at home then at any group home. Dr. Springer already tried to talk us into it but we have decided against it. It is our final decision and if need be I will hire a full time nurse to take care of him," he said.

"Jason don't you want to get better? Don't you want to go to a place that can take care of all your needs? Don't you want to stop being a burden on your family, and taking up all of your parents time and taking the time away from your brothers?" he asked trying to smile and making it seem like it was the right thing to do. No one noticed Dr. Cunningham exiting the room.

Jason didn't think like that and turned and looked at his brothers with a worried face. Josh spoke for both of them. "Bro don't even think about it, we understand that sometimes you need mom and dad more then we do, we understand that. We have already talked about it and we still get time to be with them so don't listen to him, we want you to come home," he said turning giving Dr. Abrams a nasty look.

Before Dr. Abrams could reply there was a commotion and the door opened. Dr. Cunningham and another doctor walked in at that moment.

"Dr. Abrams what is going on in here?" he asked him. Dr. Abrams turned and faced Dr. Michaels the head of the hospital.

"Nothing sir I am just trying to make sure that Jason gets the help he needs," he said turning and looking at Dr. Cunningham like he had lost his mind getting the head of the hospital involved.

"Well from what I was told you tried and made Jason feel guilty about wanting to go home and were trying to force him to go to a group home. Is this true?" he asked looking down at Dr. Abrams.

"I was just making sure that Jason was going to get the help he needed," he said standing firm on his decision.

"I see, well as of now you are no longer his doctor. I will personally be taking Jason's case with Dr. Cunningham's help, you can leave now," he said to Dr. Abrams.

"Fine but I still think he needs to be in a group home?" he said. He started to walk out of the room when Jimmy stopped him.

"Dr. Abrams how many of your patients have you sent to the group home?" he asked him. Dr. Abrams turned and faced Jimmy.

"That young man is none of your business," he said turning and starting to walk again.

"Dr. Michaels, does the hospital get a commission or do doctors get a commission or some other form of honor if they send someone to the group home?" Jimmy asked. That stopped Dr. Abrams dead in his tracks; he turned and glared at Jimmy.

"You know I am not real sure but I think that the doctors get an incentive for sending patients there. Why do you ask?" he asked smiling knowing what Jimmy was thinking but wanting Jimmy to say it anyways.

"Well I was just wondering how many patients that Dr. Abrams have been sent to the home, and how much he got from each one. I think someone needs to look into that," he said smiling at Dr. Abrams, who was turning redder by the minute.

"You know young man I think you're right," he started them turning to Dr. Abrams he continues. "Dr. Abrams as of right now you are suspended following an investigation, get out of the hospital," he said.

Dr. Abrams knew that he was defeated and turned and left the room.

"Well now that all of the excitement is over let me have a look at his chart," Dr. Michaels said.

He read Jason's chart then turned and talked with Dr. Cunningham. After conferring for a few moments he turned back towards Jason.

"Jason I'm sorry I have not formally introduced myself. I'm Dr. Michaels," he said holding out his hand for Jason to shake. Smiling Jason took his hand and shook it then mouthed a thank you to him.

"Don't worry Jason I have heard a few things so I was not surprised that this happened I was only hoping it was a one time thing. Well after talking with Dr. Cunningham we have decided that you can leave tomorrow afternoon if you are feeling better and a little more of the swelling in your throat has gone down. How does that sound?" he asked and Jason just nodded his head. "Good, well I will let you go for now, if you need anything just let the nurse know."

Dr. Michaels shook everyone's hand and left them all alone.

"Ok Jason now it is time for you to rest I didn't want you to get upset or excited but I wasn't sure how to stop Dr. Abrams without some help. Well it is time to rest and everyone can come back later tonight," Dr. Cunningham said.

Everyone but Jimmy said their goodbyes and left Jason to rest. Jason fell asleep a few minutes later, and Jimmy just sat there holding his hand and watching T.V.

The next morning Pat and John showed up around 9 and sat quietly till Jason woke up. Jimmy was awake and told them that Jason woke up at 8 when his breakfast came and while he ate Jimmy went and got something from the cafeteria.

They were pleased that Jason ate his breakfast and that Jimmy also was able to eat. Jason woke up about 10 and was hurting so they called the nurse who brought in a pain pill for him.

Dr. Michaels did his rounds and checked on Jason, he saw that the nurse had to give him another pain pill and slightly frowned. He looked at Jason's throat and saw that he was still swollen.

"Well you're still pretty swollen lets see what this afternoon brings you then we can see if you are able to go home or not ok?" he said and Jason nodded his head. Dr. Connor and Dr. Cunningham walked in and talked with Dr. Michael's then Jason.

"Well Jason let's hope it goes down enough that you can go home, you know otherwise that you won't be able to," Dr. Cunningham said and Jason nodded and frowned which caused everyone to laugh. The laughing only made the frown worse.

"Come on love, it's alright don't worry," Jimmy said trying to give Jason a kiss but Jason just turned his head and which caused Jimmy to laugh. Jimmy turned Jason's head and gave him a kiss anyways.

"By the way Dr. Connor and Dr. Cunningham where are ya'll staying?" asked Pat.

"Oh were staying at the Ramada Inn on 204 and 95," Dr. Cunningham replied.

"Well why don't you stay with us. We have two extra bedrooms that you can use. I mean you have been so much help for Jason and our family I figure we owe you something?" John said.

"Well I don't mind if Jack don't mind," he said.

"No that is fine with me but please start calling me Jack and him Tom," he said.

"Ok that is fine and you can call us Pat and John," Pat said. Agreed, they all turned back towards Jason.

"Well young man it is nearly noon. They are going to bring in the lunch tray soon so we are going to go and get something to eat. Come along Jimmy lets go," Dr. Connor said.

Jimmy just shook his head. "No offense doc but I promised Jason I would stay right here with him and be with him till he is home, and I plan on making sure that I keep that promise," Jimmy said taking Jason's hand in his.

"Jimmy I admire that about you that you want to be with Jason but I am pretty sure that Jason would not want you to stay cooped up in here; also you need some exercise and a decent meal," Dr. Connor replied. Jimmy just shook his ahead again and turned towards Jason.

Baby please go and get some real food, I promise that I will be alright. Don't worry you will only be gone for a little bit I am sure I will be alright. Jason mouthed to Jimmy.

Jimmy only stared at him then asked, "You don't want me here?" wanting to cry. Jason grabbed Jimmy's hand. Of course I want you here with me. He smiled at Jimmy causing him to smile back. I just want you to get some real food and tell me how it tastes so I can get all mad at you and everything, he said silently laughing causing Jimmy to giggle.

"Ok I will. I love you," Jimmy said bending down and kissing Jason.

Jason smiled back. Love you to, and with that Jimmy, Pat, John, Dr. Connor and Dr. Cunningham all left for some lunch.

They returned about an hour later and Dr. Springer was there talking with Jason everyone but Dr. Connor stayed outside of the room for about a half an hour, then they could go back into his room.

Later that day Jason was released to go back home since Dr. Cunningham would be staying with him. Jason and Jimmy were both very happy and with Jason and Jimmy in Jason's parents car and Dr. Cunningham and Dr. Connor following Jason's family car finally left the hospital and headed home.

Chapter 12

Jason's return home was good, yet sad. He was scared of the nightmares yet he hated being in the hospital. Jimmy had to go home because he hadn't been home for over a week, and he needed to spend sometimes with his parents and family.

Jason hated having to stay in bed all the time but Dr. Cunningham wanted him to rest so he would heal faster. Jimmy came home with Matt and Josh everyday and helped him study so he wouldn't lose learning what they were learning in class.

Jason still had the treatment time with Dr. Springer and Dr. Connor and that did help him dealing with his latest ordeal along with everything that had happened to him.

Everyday Jason got better and by the end of the week he was able to whisper without it hurting him. The following Monday an ADA from North Carolina showed up to talk with him about the upcoming trial and all that is expected of him.

They invited the man in and he sat on the couch and talked with the two doctors while Pat and John went and got Jason.

"Jason there is a man from North Carolina here to see you. He is with the DA's office and his name is Mr. Jacob Ewing. So you don't have to be scared. He is here to find out what you remember and let you know how the trial is going to go," John told him.

Jason just stared at his parents and nodded his head. Even though he could whisper he still didn't talk unless he needed to.

Jason followed his parents downstairs and sat on the couch across from Mr. Ewing.

Mr. Ewing just stared at Jason for a moment before he started to actually talk with him.

"Now Jason I understand form your two doctors here that you have amnesia. Is that correct?" he asked him.

"Yes," was all that Jason said sitting in between his parents.

"Well what can you tell me about what happened to you?" he asked taking a pad out of his briefcase and writing some stuff on it. So for the next half an hour Jason wrote down everything that happened to him and gave it to Mr. Ewing.

"Ok. Now Jason, I have some questions for you, even though you just told me what happened to you I need to ask these questions so that I have them answered directly ok?" Jason nodded his head and Mr. Ewing began.

"Is you're name Jason O'Brien?" he asked. Jason nodded his head. "I need you to verbalize your answers please," he said looking at Jason. Before he could continue Dr. Cunning ham interrupted him.

"Mr. Ewing you have to realize that you need Jason to do that but you must remember that he can barely whisper. So you are going to have to get the answers another way if you need him to vocalize his answers," Dr. Cunningham stated staring at Mr. Ewing, who nodded his head.

"Ok then Jason I will write down all the questions and you can fill them in ok?" he asked and Jason nodded his head. For the next 10 or 15 minutes Mr. Ewing wrote down all the questions that he needed answers for. "Now Jason I know that some of them are going to be very personal and make you think about everything that happened but I need the answers for them," he said handing Jason the pad.

Jason nodded his head and took the pad to the dining room table and started writing while the adults all talked.

"Mr. Ewing when do you think that the trial will be?" asked Pat holding John's hand.

"We're not sure I am hoping sometime in the next month but who knows really it depends on if we can get all the investigations done and if the gentlemen's attorneys try and block some of the warrants that we have issued. So who knows really but hopefully in the next month," he said again.

"Ok will we all be subpoenaed to have to be there?" John asked looking at Mr. Ewing directly in the eyes.

"Yes you will be, Jason and the both of you along with the kids that told the police that they saw Jason being put into a van," he said.

"Ok well when should we expect them?" John asked again.

"Not until we have a date for the trial. Dr. Cunningham and Dr. Connor and probably Dr. Springer will also be subpoenaed," he responded looking a two of the three doctors that were there at the moment, Dr. Springer wasn't there that day.

"That won't be a problem. Matter of fact, Pat and John, when you are your family come up you can stay with me. I have a big house and plenty of room since I am single," Dr. Cunningham said.

"Are you sure we don't want to put you out?" Pat asked.

"Absolutely, don't worry about it, as I said I have plenty of room," he responded smiling at them.

"Ok thanks." About that time Jason walked back in and handed Mr. Ewing the paper. Mr. Ewing looked at the paper then back to Jason and smiled.

"Thank you Jason I can see that it was hard on you and I am sorry for that, but I needed the answers. I do need you to sign one more piece of paper. Since you had to write out your answers I need you to sign this paper saying that you were the one who wrote out the answers on it. Then I will need one of the doctors to sign it as a witness," he said pulling out the said piece of paper reading over it and then signing it.

After he signed it he read it out loud then let Jason read it and sign it then turned and faced the two doctors.

"If it is alright with Dr. Cunningham I will sign it," he said looking at Dr. Cunningham who smiled and nodded his head.

Dr. Connor signed the paper and handed it back to Mr. Ewing.

"Ok well that is all, I think I'm going to go now, thank you all for your help. Jason don't worry this will soon be over and you won't have to worry about it anymore," he said to Jason as he shook his hand.

Thank you, Jason mouthed at him and Mr. Ewing nodded his head then shook everyone else's hand. With that he turned and John showed him the way out.

Dr. Connor and Dr. Cunningham left the next weekend and Jason was healing up very well.

A month later the subpoenas came and they called Dr. Cunningham and let him know. He told them not to worry and that the house was ready, they thanked him and made the arrangements and talked with the boys about what was going to happen.

Jimmy wanted to go and they talked with his parents and they agreed saying that with what Jason was about to go through that he would need his best friend/boyfriend there with him to help him through it all.

Throughout the two months before the trial Jason got his voice back but he was told to still be careful with it because it would take at least six more months before it was completely healed up.

Jason worked on his school work and continued to see Dr. Springer. She decided that the time came that he could leave his residence as long as his family was with him.

They all agreed and on one Saturday took Jason along with Matt and Josh and Jimmy to the mall. Jason was scared and nervous but stood up straight and with his family and Jimmy by his side went and faced other people.

They spent about two hours at the mall and Jason enjoyed himself immensely. They visited several stores that Jason started remembering he liked and even bought a few things. Finally Jason was tired and wanted to head home. They left and by the time that they arrived at the house Jason was asleep. With Jimmy's help they got him up to his room and Jimmy kissed Jason then headed home.

A week before they were to leave for North Carolina the O'Brien's got a visit from the local State Attorney. He informed them that since a majority of the charges were done in North Carolina that they agreed that all charges will be dealt with at one time in the federal court house in North Carolina.

They decided to do this so that Jason wouldn't have to have two trials and it would be less stressful on him. They thanks the man and he left, after he left they all sat around and talked about what was going to happen now.

The day came for them to leave and Jason was more scared then he had ever been. He really didn't want to go but he knew that he had to. They decided to fly up to North Carolina and rent a car. All the arrangements were made and they all left for the final chapter in Jason's past.

They arrived with no problems to North Carolina and Dr. Cunningham and Dr. Connor was there to meet them. They got their rental car which was a small van and followed the two doctors to Dr. Cunningham's house.

The arrived and while everyone else unpacked Dr. Connor went and talked with Jason about what was going to be happening.

"Ok Jason I know you're scared so don't worry about it. Here is what I want you to do. When they ask you a question I want you to answer it honestly, do not lie and if you can't remember anything then tell them that," he said and Jason nodded his head.

"What about their attorneys?" he asked them.

"Well the DA has already talked with the judge and he told all the attorneys that they are to treat you with respect and to not make up anymore upset then you already were. He explained to them about your memory problems and about what you have been through so everything should be just fine," Dr. Connor said.

"Ok thank you," Jason said. They talked for a few more minutes then rejoined everyone else. As they walked out of the office Jimmy came up and stayed right next to Jason's side.

Dr. Cunningham had pizza delivered and they sat down and ate as they ate Dr. Connor turned towards Jimmy.

"Now Jimmy, when Jason gets up there to testify they are going to ask him questions that may make him cry. I know that you're very protective of him, but you're not going to be able to jump up and defend him. You are going to have to stay quiet and be polite no matter what happens understand," he said to Jimmy. Jimmy looked at him and it wasn't friendly.

"Jimmy, you have to behave yourself or they are going to kick you out of the court room understand?" Dr. Cunningham said, Jimmy looked at them both then nodded his head. Jason reached out and grabbed Jimmy's hand.

"It's going to be ok, I may cry but I will be alright, I promise," he said looking deep into Jimmy's eyes.

"Ok," he replied and squeezed Jason's hand. Jason smiled back and they went back to eating and talking about what was going to happen.

That night Jason and Jimmy barely slept, Jason because he was scared of what would happen the next day and Jimmy because he was worried about Jason.

When morning came both of their eyes were slightly red from not sleeping and had bags under their eyes. Dr. Cunningham saw this and gave them both some medicine to help calm them down. They thanked him then went and had their breakfast.

They arrived at the federal courthouse at 9 and were met by Mr. Ewing. He was going to take Jason into a side room and talk with him but both Jason's parents and Jimmy all said no. Jason was not going to be separated from them for anytime.

Mr. Ewing agreed and they all went into a side room once seated Mr. Ewing began.

"Everyone this is state attorney Miguel Cruz, since this is a federal case we have agreed for the federal system to try him, and I will act as second chair."

"Jason, as he said I'm Mr. Cruz I don't want you to worry young man. I am going to do everything I can to make sure that they treat you with respect and I will make sure that no one can hurt you ok?" he said to Jason. Jason nodded his head then looked back to Mr. Ewing.

"Ok Jason, I know that you were told that we were all supposed to treat you with respect and treat you very carefully, right?" he asked and Jason nodded his head. "Ok well, the defense attorneys are going to try and make it seem like you either wanted to run away or will try and make it seem that you have been having sex and that you asked these guys to do this to you. The good thing is that we have all of this evidence that proves that you did not ask for any of this. You are to speak openly and not scream but make sure that it is loud enough for everyone to hear ok?" And once again Jason nodded his head.

They were lead into the courtroom and sat behind the prosecutor's table. The judge came in and the court was called to order, but before anything could happen the defense attorney stood up.

"Your honor I am Mr. Samson for the defense, I would like to make a motion please," he started. The judge nodded and let him continue. "Well your honor I have been told that the key witness to the prosecution is here, I would like to ask that he and his family wait outside until he is called, and then when he is called for them to all wait outside," he said smiling at the judge. The judge turned and faced Mr. Cruz.

"Your honor Mr. Cruz for the prosecution, with the amount of emotional, mental and physical damage done to this young man his family is here as a support group. I am asking that they stay when he testifies for not only moral but emotional support.

"He has been through a great trauma and he needs the support your honor. I have both his doctors here who can testify to his mental well being. I have Dr. Sherry Springer from Savannah and Dr. Jake Connor from here at the hospital where he was treated. I also have paper work here from them both showing explaining his emotional trauma," he said and before he could continue the judge held up his hand.

"Ok gentlemen this is what I will do. They will all wait outside and when Jason has to testify his parents may sit in the gallery. I understand from the briefs that he needs the support…" the judge stopped and looked at Jason who stood up. "Yes young man?" he asked smiling at Jason.

"Umm your honor my name is Jason O'Brien I would like to ask that one other person be in the room. Please?" he asked the judge.

"Ok son who is it?" he asked.

"My best friend Jimmy, you see when I came back home and I couldn't remember anything and the only person I remembered was my best friend here. He has been here for me through all of this and I would like him to sit with my parents please," he said looking at the judge like he was about to cry.

"That is fine young man and I understand. So your parents and your best friend may be in here when you testify, but when you are not on the stand you, your parents, brothers and best friend must wait outside," he said and Jason nodded and he and the group left the court room to wait outside.

For the next two hours Dr. Cunningham and Dr. Connor were both in the court room testifying. By the time they both finished it was lunch and the judge called a recess till 1 o'clock.

They all went to the deli across the street and had something to eat. Jason barely ate and it was only with Jimmy encouraging him that he even drank anything.

One o'clock rolled around and they were all at the court house once again. This time Pat was called in and testified for nearly an hour then John was called in and he too testified for about an hour. After both of them were finished, Dr. Springer was called in to testify and she was on the stand for about an hour and a half.

It was nearing 5 o'clock and the judge decided that that was all that was needed for the day. He called recess until tomorrow at 9 am.

Mr. Cruz said that this was not unusual when the key person was to testify last. They all left and headed back to Dr. Cunningham's house.

They arrived and once the door was open and the alarm turned off Jason bolted up stairs and shut the door that was his and Jimmy's room. There was a soft knock and John came in.

"Hey son what's wrong?" he asked him.

"I'm sacred I don't want to testify. I don't want to relive it again and again," he cried and John reached out and hugged Jason who climbed in his lap and held on to him. John rocked him back and forth and helped him to relax.

"I know son but you're going to have to. You need to put this behind you and this is the only way. I want you to be brave and you have to remember the judge said that your mother and I along with Jimmy can all be there with you. So you will have nothing to worry about," John said calming Jason down.

Jason nodded his head ad relaxed in John's arms. They went downstairs a while later and Jimmy was once again by his side and holding him. Jason wrapped his arms around Jimmy and held on.

The next day, when they all arrived at the courthouse Mr. Ewing once again met them at the entrance and led them into a side room.

"Ok Jason today is your day. I know you don't remember much but I want you to remember what you can when you're on the stand ok?" he said and Jason nodded his head.

At 9 o'clock the court was called into order and the defendants was brought in before they called in Jason the judge turned and faced the accused.

"Gentlemen I am going to only tell you this one time. If you try and intimidate this young man or you try and scare him. If you do anything that makes it look like a threat I will add on more charges against all of you, and you will not be present for the rest of this trail. Do you understand me?" he asked the men. They nodded their heads then he had the bailiff bring in Jason.

Jason and his mom, dad and Jimmy all came in. Jimmy. Pat and John all sat in the gallery while Jason was sworn in.

"I do," he said after he was asked if he would tell the truth.

"Please state your name for the record?" asked Mr. Cruz

"Jason O'Brien," he replied.

"Ok Jason can you tell us what happened to you in October of last year?" he asked smiling at Jason.

"No sir," he replied.

"Why not?"

"I have amnesia; I have part of my memory back but not all of. I don't know how I was kidnapped. I do know that I was raped, and beaten and left for dead," he said.

"Ok Jason, how do you know these things?" he asked him again.

"Dr. Cunningham told me about them, he told me about the surgeries and everything that happened to me, and Dr. Connor has been helping me along with Dr. Springer in dealing with the nightmares," he said.

"What nightmares?" Mr. Cruz asked.

"I awoke out in the woods do to a nightmare, and I have been having them every night since then," he said.

"Jason in these nightmares do you ever see the faces of the people who hurt you?" he asked Jason knowing that this would be one of the most crucial questions.

"Yes sir, at first I didn't but over the months their faces started appearing in the dreams and I was able to make out who it was," he said looking down at his hands.

"Ok Jason can you tell me if you see those same men in the courtroom today?" he asked.

At first Jason just sat there and didn't say anything then the judge turned to him. "Young man you're going to have to say something," he said facing Jason.

Jason looked at him and with tears in his eyes he nodded his head. "Yes sir," he said.

"Ok Jason are you saying that they are here today?" Mr. Cruz asked once again.

"Yes sir," he replied not wanting to look up.

Mr. Cruz looked at Jimmy and had him stand up. At first Mr. Samson stood up and was going to object but the judge waved him into his seat. "Jason look up and over my right shoulder please." Mr. Cruz said.

Jason looked up and saw Jimmy standing there. Jimmy nodded his head and smiled at him. "The men who hurt me are there sir sitting at that table," Jason said pointing to the defendants table.

Chapter 13

No one said anything when Jason said that but everyone did turn and stare at the defendants.

"Ok Jason from what you said you have amnesia, and you say that you remember their faces from your nightmares is this correct?" Mr. Cruz asked.

"Yes sir."

"Ok Jason what can you remember happened to you?" he asked Jason knowing that this story was the most damaging of all questions.

"Umm well I remember being hit a lot. I know that they put me on something called the rack and stretched me. They would beat me with whips and chains until I passed out. Then they would pee on me to wake me up…" He started then started crying on the stand.

Jimmy stood up and looked at Jason and tried to will him to be strong. Jason looked up and saw Jimmy who mouthed he loved him. Jason smiled then turned and actually faced the men who hurt him.

"They would leave food out and if I ate it they beat me for taking what was theirs. I remember one of them stomping on me and I heard a crack but didn't know what it was, I was hurting so much. I remember them putting me up on some boards made like an X. I remember them taking turns shoving their penises up my butt, and down my throat. I remember the hurt and the pain.

They would laugh at me when I cried, they called me names and would just whip me some more. No matter how much I cried and told them no they keep on hurting me. One of them even tried to shove their hand up my butt but it wouldn't go so they beat me for that. I told them NO," he said and broke down crying.

The judge called a recess and Jimmy ran up to Jason and took him in his arms and held him. With John and Pat's help they lead him into the side room where he could calm down.

It took nearly 20 minutes to calm him down and in that time Mr. Cruz had to ask the judge for additional time due to how upset Jason was. Dr. Connor and Dr. Springer came in and talked with Jason and helped him calm down as well. Finally he was calm enough to take a sip of water and not throw it up. Jimmy stayed by his side the entire time.

They went back and waited for Jason to be called to the stand again. He was called back and Jimmy walked with him up to the gate and stopped. Jason smiled at him and Jimmy smiled back and they both sat back where they were supposed to be.

"Mr. O'Brien do you think that you are well enough to continue or do you want some more time?" asked the Judge.

"I'm fine your honor thank you," Jason replied with in a weak voice.

"Ok well then lets begin, and I am warning you both Mr. Cruz and Mr. Samson you will be very careful about how and what you ask this young man," the judge said once again, they both nodded there heads and Mr. Cruz stood up.

"Ok Jason what happened when you were found?" Mr. Ewing asked.

Jason went on and told him about being naked and covered in blood, and crawling to the side of the road. He told them about Dr. Cunningham and Dr. Connors and how they helped him and the many different surgeries that he has had to undergo.

While he was up there he told them about his feelings of being scared and about how he wasn't sure about his family till he got home and saw the pictures of him and his family. Jason really smiled when he told them all about Jimmy.

"I remember when my dad had to carry me up the steps because of the cast and there was a boy there who helped carry my wheel chair. I looked at him and at first I didn't recognize him but then I did. I didn't know where I remembered him from but I remembered his name as Jimmy. I called him and he smiled so bright, and he said yeah, I remembered his name and he was happy about that," Jason said smiling at Jimmy, Jimmy smiled back with tears in his eyes remembering that day.

"Ok Jason after that what happened?" Mr. Cruz asked.

Jason went on to explain about the nightmares and how bad they got. About how one was so bad that he had to be rushed to the hospital and had to have another operation because he tore his larynx and vocal cords and tore several veins in his throat and even one in his chest.

Jason went on to explain about Mr. Cruz coming and visiting and him having to write down everything that he told him here.

"Ok Jason, thank you for that. No further questions your honor," Mr. Cruz said and sat back down.

"Mr. Samson any questions?" the judge asked.

"Yes your honor just a few," he said. Mr. Samson got up and grabbing a pad went and walked up to Jason.

"Mr. O'Brien are you gay?" he asked.

"I object your honor what is the relevance?" Mr. Cruz said.

"Your honor I am trying to show that Mr. O'Brien could possibly have ran away because of his sexuality."

"Ok I will allow it but you will need to tread carefully, and if you slip up you're not going to like it," the judge said looking at Mr. Samson.

"Yes your honor," he said turning back to Jason. "So Mr. O'Brien are you gay?" he asked. Jason looked at him for a moment before replying.

"Yes I am," he said staring right at Mr. Samson and not letting him get to him. Mr. Samson walked up and put blocked Jason's view of Jimmy.

"Ok who is your boyfriend?" he asked.

"Your honor I object, to me it is as if he is trying to give someone else either a bad reputation or because he can try and intimidate the other young man." Mr. Cruz said.

"I don't intimidate that easily. If he wants to come after me he can," Jimmy said standing up. People gasped and started whispering and the judge had to bang the gavel to get order in the courtroom.

"Silence or I'll clean the courtroom," he said and waited till it was quiet. "Young man you will not speak out again do you understand me?" he asked Jimmy.

"Yes your honor but if I may?" Jimmy started and the judge decided to allow Jimmy to speak.

"Your honor I'm not ashamed and I'm not scared of these men sir. If they want to know about my relationship with Jason I'll be more then happy to tell them. I'm not going to be scared off and I have my faith in God that he will not let anything happen to me," Jimmy said.

The judge stared at him for a moment.

"Young man I am proud that you are willing to stand up and protect Mr. O'Brien, and I am proud that you are not afraid to say who you are. I will let you know now that if Mr. Samson's reason for trying to find out who you are is so he can intimidate either one of you, then he will find himself in a cell, now please take your set," the judge said and Jimmy nodded looked at Jason then sat back down.

"Ok now Mr. O'Brien did you run away?" he asked.

"No, why would I?" Jason replied.

"Did anyone know about your sexuality before you disappeared?"

"Not that I can remember, but I was told by my parents that I told them," Jason replied smiling at his parents.

"How did they say they reacted?"

"Well they said that they were fine with it but asked us to talk with them before we decided to try anything sexual. After I got back home from being kidnapped and Jimmy and I started hanging out then I fell back in love with him and he with me. We talked and decided to wait on anything sexual till we are older," Jason said staring the man down.

Mr. Samson didn't know what to say to that.

"Ok then. You said you had amnesia so how do you know that it was my clients?" he asked Jason.

"Like I said earlier when Mr. Cruz asked me I had nightmares and they were in them," Jason said.

"We only have your word and supposed dreams. When did you first see the pictures of the defendants?" he asked.

"When Chief Beasley came and saw me in the hospital in Savannah after I had the nightmares that caused me to hurt my throat."

"Did he point out any of the people in them?" he asked.

"No he just handed them to me and asked me if I recognized anyone. I looked through them and pointed out the four men that are sitting at your table," Jason said.

"Ok and you're sure that he didn't point any of them out?"

"No he didn't."

"Are you sure?"

"Your honor I object he has already asked him and gotten a response, this is badgering now," Mr. Cruz said.

"I agree move along counselor," the judge said.

"No further questions your honor," Mr. Samson said.

"You're excused young man," the judge said. Jason stepped down and walked to Jimmy and his parents, they started walking towards the doors when they heard.

"Your honor the prosecution rest," Mr. Cruz said.

"Mr. Samson do you have any witnesses?" the judge asked him.

"Sir if the court pleases I would like to call Jason O'Brien's boyfriend," he said.

Jason, Jimmy and Jason's parents stopped walking and turned towards the judge to see what he says.

"Your honor I object."

"Why do you want to call him Mr. Samson?" the judge asked him.

"I think that he could shed some light on Jason's attitude and his behavior before the alleged kidnapping."

"Your honor they were barely boyfriends I don't think that he can talk about his mental state," Mr. Cruz said.

"I don't mind," Jimmy said stepping back up. "As long as Jason and his parents can be here," he said staring at the judge.

"Ok take the stand young man, but Mr. Samson you can only ask him about their relationship not about what any parent thought about it," he told Mr. Samson who nodded his head.

Jimmy took the stand and was sworn in.

"Please state your name for the record?" Mr. Samson asked.

"Jimmy Bradshaw."

"Ok Mr. Bradshaw we have heard evidence that you are the boyfriend of Jason O'Brien is this correct?" he asked.

"Yes it is," Jimmy replied smugly.

"Ok when you and Jason decided to become boyfriends what did you two decide?" he asked him.

"Well we decided that we wanted to try and be boyfriends then decided that we wanted to wait for sex because we didn't feel that we were ready," he stated.

"Ok; what did either parents say about it?" he asked.

"Well far as I knew neither one knew about it. Now that Jason has his most memories back both of our families are fine with it and like Jason said they have told us to talk with them before we decide about sex."

"Ok, did Jason ever mention anything about running away if his parents were to find out?" Mr. Samson asked.

"No he didn't. He didn't feel that it would be a problem but we still wanted to wait to see if our feelings were real or just friendship," he said.

Mr. Samson was speechless and didn't know what else to say.

"Nothing further your honor," Mr. Samson said in defeat.

"Mr. Cruz would you like to ask any questions?" the judge asked.

"No thank you your honor," Mr. Cruz said.

"So be it, Jimmy you're excused," the judge said.

"Thank you your honor," Jimmy replied and walked back to Jason and Jason's parents. They all walked out and waited in the hall way.

Three hours later Mr. Ewing came out and started talking with his assistants. 15 minutes later he was called back in.

After about 30 minutes Mr. Cruz and Mr. Ewing came out smiling.

"It's over, the defense called all four guys and we buried them. The jury deliberated and it only took 15 minutes. They were found guilty on all charges and were given 50 years each. They have to serve at least 35 years. Jason you have nothing to worry about anymore. It's over." Mr. Ewing said smiling at him.

"Thank you," Jason said smiling and hugging Mr. Ewing and then Mr. Cruz with tears in his eyes. Jason turned and hugged his parents and then turned and faced Jimmy. "It's over baby, I'm free," he said.

"I know love I know," Jimmy responded and held Jason tightly letting him cry.

"Come on son lets go home," John said.

"Ok dad, and dad, thank you and thank you too mom," he said.

This was the first time that he really called them that. He only called them that a few times this time he knew he could do it and wasn't afraid.

They flew home the next morning and for the first time in almost four or five months Jason was able to sleep in peace.

At the beginning of the next year when the boys were starting the 8th grade Jason finally was able to go back to school. No one said anything about him being gone and they all said that they were glad to see him back.

Over the summer more of Jason's past came back to him, he still has holes in his memories and a large part of his past growing up was missing. He decided not to worry about it and decided that when and if they came he would worry about it.

Jason and Jimmy also decided to come out. They got some flack and some students caused a few problems for them but soon everyone just left them alone.

For Jason his life was about as complete as it could be. He knew that there were going to be hard times and he knew that there were going to be times that he was going to go through more hell then he can imagine, from memories and even nightmares, but Jimmy is there and he knew that with Jimmy next to him he could make it in life and knew that he would be alright.

Jason knew that he had a long road to travel to not only get better all the way but he knew that his parents, brothers and most importantly that Jimmy would be there to help him all through it.

So Jason lives and over time he was made whole and became a great man who had another great man named Jimmy standing beside him through the good and the bad times. And in the end they stayed together to over come the odds and to make the perfect family with the children they adopted.

They adopted and raised four children two girls and two boys who became some of the best students the school had ever seen and some of the best and strongest leaders there ever was.

Jason and Jimmy watched with pride and with joy in their hearts what had become of their life together. Their love for each other proved they could over come anything and together they beat Jason's demons and he was healed and loved.

Jason lived and made his life the best he could and proved even through hell with a good family and a good man he could make it and he did.

Epilog

Most people would want to know why the men took Jason and did what they did to him. The answer has already been given, they did it because some people are just evil and they wanted to hurt someone. They felt it would be better to get someone from another state, and as you read, it wasn't. They still got caught, tried and found guilty, so in the over all reason for doing something like that was because they wanted to hurt someone else, and in the end they hurt themselves because Jason survived and with his family, his boyfriend Jimmy, his therapist he confronted his demons and won.

The End