---

After the holidays Walt moved a few necessities from his cottage into the mansion to Ash's delight. The room Ash had designated as Walt's was a complete suite adjoining his own. "All the better to keep track of you," Walt teased when shown the connecting door. He found out later that Ash had taken what had been his father's suite, while he had been given the one Ash's mother had used. In each was an area with a desk and comfortable seating. Each of them used these as study areas.

Before school resumed, Ash took Walt to the men's clothiers his father had favored and outfitted Walt with several business suits and accessories, as well as casual clothing. "I look like Mrs. Astor's pet horse," Walt grumbled as he tried on the outfits.

"Bull!" Ash said laughing. "You may act like a jackass at times but you're no horse. You're my companion and you have to look the part at business meetings and the few social events I can't escape."

"I'm not going to anything like that," Walt declared.

"Want to bet? You're paid to be my companion and that means all the time." He hugged Walt. "Besides, you're the one I trust. With your education, you can spot anybody trying to screw me."

"Not at the business. You need an accountant for that."

"We got lots of those."

"Yeah, but you need one of your own, independent of the business, one not chosen by your guardians."

"Know one?"

Walt thought for a moment. "I just might."

"Look into it and let me know. Now let's get this stuff home. School starts again Monday."

"I want to see your grades improve, too, young man."

"Oh, Jeez, I hired myself a demon."

Walt quickly realized that Ash was forcing himself into an adult role in an attempt to do what he thought his father might have, so most weekends they spent at Walt's cottage with Walt treating Ash like a young teen. He felt vindicated on seeing the boy acting as a fifteen year-old would, including the smart mouth, but the moment they reentered the mansion Ash reverted back into an adult mode.

During the Easter break from school, Ash crawled into bed with Walt one evening as he often did when he wanted to talk. "Walt, I don't know why, but I've got a feeling that Uncle Hank and my other two guardians are screwing me and the business." He wiped a tear, "What hurts is I can't believe Uncle Hank would do it to me, but he has to know if anything funny is going on and he's supposed to be protecting me."

"He's not your real uncle is he?"

Ash shook his head. "He and dad were friends from college and when dad started the business, Uncle Hank put some money in and dad made him vice-president. I've always called him and Aunt Gertie uncle and aunt."

Walt hugged him. "You don't know anything for sure, so don't let your imagination run away with you."

Ash hugged Walt back. "I guess it's time you earned your salary as my financial advisor; go for it."

"Soon as we go back to school, I'll talk to the accountant. I know he's supposed to take his CPA exam soon, and it's a sure bet he'll pass it. He's already sending out resumés."

"Make it easy, I want him to start at the house. Sims controls an awful lot of money and Uncle Hank is the only one sees the monthly summary. That's a great place to do some skimming."

"You're a suspicious little bastard."

"Dad said if I could recognize opportunities it would be difficult for anyone to rip me off. That was the first thing he taught me. We'll give your guy an office at the house."

"No way. It's too easy for everyone to figure out what's going on. This guy's also a real computer nerd and has programs he's developed for himself. If he'll work for you, put him in the computer department at the business and make him independent, reporting only to you through me. Better yet, directly to you. Nobody would believe you can understand business accounting practice, heck, even I can't, that's why we need him. Your guardians will probably not even know he's around. He certainly won't do anything to attract attention to himself."

Walt smacked Ash on the backside. "Now get that cute butt in your own bed, it's late."

* * *

A few weeks before graduation Walt looked at the posted results of the CPA exam. As he expected Hillman's name was listed among those to receive the certification at graduation. When he later stopped at the student union for a cup of coffee he saw Hillman sitting alone and reading. Having often spoken to the unfortunate man, Walt had no hesitancy in approaching him.

He set his cup of coffee down and pulled out a chair. "How's it going, Hillman?"

Hillman shrugged in reply.

"By the way, congratulations on making CPA the first time around. I hear it doesn't happen that often."

"I suppose not."

"Having any luck with the resumés?"

"Had six interviews so far, but no offers. No way I can go into a solo practice at this point, so I'll take just about anything."

"What would you say to working for a private individual sort of undercover and reporting only to him?"

For the first time a look of interest crossed Hillman's plain features. "Figure there's somebody cooking the books or ripping him off?"

"Something like that."

Hillman smiled, the first smile Walt had ever seen cross his dour face. "That's the kind of work I've really wanted to do. Can you set up an interview for me?"

"Four o'clock this afternoon. You have a car?" When Hillman nodded, Walt continued. "You can follow me there when I finish classes. It's my employer you'll be seeing. No need to dress, what you've got on is fine."

"I thought you were babysitting some kid."

"Not exactly, and that kid is sharp as they come."

"So who is he? Or am I working for his father?"

"There is no father. You'll be working for the kid just like me."

"Don't I get a name?"

"When I introduce you. He likes to interview completely cold. See you at four in the north parking lot."

When Hillman saw Walt get into his rusting old Honda he was discouraged. "Job must not pay worth a damn if Smythe can't afford something better than that," he thought, unaware of the Jaguar sports roadster in the garage at the mansion. Walt drove it only on special occasions despite Ash's constant plea for him to junk the Honda.

"Look guy," he'd said to Ash, "if you ever want to go somewhere and not be recognized this is the car to use. Besides, I don't give a damn if this gets dented in the parking lot, but it'd sure piss me off to see a dent in my Jag."

Hillman pulled to a stop behind Walt and got out, looking at the mansion and groomed grounds. "This is it?"

"Yeah. Come on in." Walt's intended step towards the door was halted by a cream colored shape jumping up on him. "Yes, damn it, Dawg, I'm home. Go chase a rabbit or something, I got business to attend to."

It was not to the study, but Ash's bedroom suite that Walt led Hillman. A business suited Ash arose from the leather chair behind the desk as Walt introduced them. Walt was amused when Hillman's mouth dropped open as he mentioned the McAlister name.

"You will pardon me for seeing you here instead of my study," Ash began, "but it has not yet been swept for listening devices. I have no reason to think this room is bugged." He looked at Walt. "Want to lay out the requirements of the position for Mr. Hillman? I'll have Sims bring coffee," he said, picking up the phone.

When Walt finished the plans in so far as he and Ash had worked them out, Ash looked at Hillman. "Are you interested?" Ash hoped he was, for his nondescript appearance was what Ash wanted. Hillman would blend into the woodwork as Walt had implied.

"It's the very sort of thing I was hoping to find. Just handling numbers all day is boring unless there's some goal behind it."

"And you have no problem working for a," he grinned at Walt, "kid?"

"No, sir."

"Excellent. What are your salary expectations?"

Hillman studied Ash's face for a minute. "I was hoping for something around forty thousand. I am a CPA, you know."

Ash smiled. "What about fifty thousand and a ten thousand rise for each documented case of theft successfully prosecuted?"

Hillman looked stunned. "Di … did you say fifty?"

Ash nodded.

"When do you wish me to start?"

"As soon as possible. I know it's about five weeks to graduation so you will work after school hours. In a way it's good, because you can report directly to Walt at school and not be seen here where a stranger might raise questions.

"Walt will supply you with copies of the household accounts. I am interested in knowing how honestly my butler is handling the running of the house. We start there and later you will be given an office in the computer division of McAlister Industries. You will have access to the main frame for information."

"I couldn't ask for more, sir. Thank you. For bookkeeping purposes, I suggest I officially begin work on the first of next month. Of course I'll be working beginning as soon as Smythe gets the information to me."

"My kind of man," Ash said, coming around the desk and shaking Hillman's hand. "I'm glad to have someone like you on my personal team, Hillman. Now, go catch me some crooks."

"I'll do my best, sir."

"When's the man coming to check the place for bugs?" Ash asked, whipping off his suit coat and necktie.

"Tomorrow morning when there's less chance of anything going on."

"God, I must sound paranoid to you."

"Not at all, considering what you've been through. What the hell do you know about paranoia?"

"Enough. I'm just doing what you told me."

"Which is?"

"I'm in all AP classes, basic psychology is one of them."

Walt grabbed him in a hug. "Damn! I'm proud of you, kid. Keep it up."

"I plan to, now that I have somebody who cares. I love you, Walt."

"I love you, too, kid. You and Dawg."

"Damn!" Ash swore before going into his dressing room to change.

* * *

The technician called Walt and Ash into the study. "Good thing you decided to have this checked out. I hope you haven't done any confidential business in there recently. I found a transmitting device in the phone; one the base of the desk lamp, when the lamp was on it was operating; another in the table between the two wing chairs; and, if you will look up here," he pointed to a small hole in the crown molding facing the door, "a video camera."

"Shit!" Ash snarled.

"This was the easy part. I found they are all connected to a small transmitter in the attic with a little dish antenna facing south-west. Do you have any idea …"

"McAlister Industries building," Ash snarled again.

"How shall I proceed with finding the receiver, then?"

"Simple. For the next however number of nights it takes, we're going to be at the office. I have a full set of master keys and security will stay away from the executive area if I tell them I want privacy there, or anywhere else for that matter."

"Are you certain of that, Ash?" Walt asked.

"Damn right. Anyone who interrupts us will be looking for a job the next morning."

"Okay. We'll meet you at the corner of Fourth and Oak tomorrow night at Nine. No one stays later than that, even for meetings." Ash said, dismissing the technician.

"Damn it, Walt, this is one time I don't want to be right."

Walt hugged him. "I know. At least Hillman found Sims has never been less than totally honest, and he had no trouble getting set up in his office at the business. No matter what we find with the bugging, we have to wait for Hillman to do his audit of everything, and that's a lot of work."

"Yeah."

* * *

Despite all the undercover maneuverings and likely unpleasant end results, Ash made the most of Walt's graduation by taking him to the four star restaurant for dinner. Seated at a semi-private table at Ash's request, they laughed heartily over Walt's first attempts to eat a whole lobster.

Ash also sent Hillman a gift card from the clothier that had outfitted Walt. Stunned to be so generously remembered, it was an almost speechless Hillman that accepted Ash's and Walt's congratulations, with assurances that he would soon have sufficient data for Ash to examine.

Ash and Walt were eating lunch when Walt's cell phone rang. "Yeah? … There's a Mailboxes, Etc. just down the block. Take it there and address it with no names to box 19. And thanks. Take a break and I'll be in touch." Walt said before terminating the call.

"Hillman came through. We'll take a ride into town and pick the package up. I rented that box for just such things as this. There's no way anything can be traced to a name."

"And you said I was sneaky," Ash said, grinning.

"So you are. I'm just a bit more worldly than you, though you're catching up fast. I'm just glad you're honest instead of being a crook."

"I'm glad you are, too."

* * *

It was 2 o'clock in the morning before Walt and Ash staggered out of the motel room where Hillman had met them to explain his findings after Walt found the pages of figures incomprehensible. It was the total figures that staggered Walt. Hank had taken the firm for over ten million; Baxter, the lawyer, had helped himself to the extent of seven million by billing the firm for hours over and beyond those required. Williams, the vice-president had only managed to skim off three million in bogus travel.

"Damn it, Walt, that's money belonging to the employees for all the overtime they worked without pay when dad was having liquidity problems, and probably the stockholders which means you and me." He gave a stifled sob or two, then wiped his eyes. "If Uncle Hank needed money so badly, dad would have given it to him and so would I. He said he loved me, so why did he have to steal it?"

Walt reached over and pulled Ash as close to him as the car seat would allow. "It's money, babe. Some people just can't be around it without some of it sticking to their fingers. I guess it's sort of like of like alcoholism, they just can't help it even when they know it's wrong. They don't think of who else they're hurting."

"So what do we do now?"

"I'm going to ask my law professor for some names of honest corporate lawyers and a judge and put it all in their hands. I'll demand full recovery of all misappropriated funds in so far as possible, even if it takes everything they own."

A few days later, Walt lay the papers before the law partners his professor had recommended. They had just begun practice and wanted clients badly. He also mentioned that the professor said they should seek a hearing before Judge Ammons who had a reputation for straightforward rules of evidence with no nonsense allowed.

"Hell, your guy has done all the work. We just need to arrange it in separate files and we're ready for the hearing. Our work'll be done in a couple of days. We'll call you regarding the court date, but he moves quickly."

"Good enough. Mr. McAlister wants this all kept as quiet as possible."

"No problem up to the court hearing. If there's a business reporter in the judge's courtroom then it becomes public knowledge. I'll warn you now, there usually is a reporter hanging around Judge Ammons' court, because his cases are always news.

"Once the defendants are served, they will probably try to contact Mr. McAlister. He should refuse any and all contact with the defendants or their family members before the trial. Oh, yes, as they are officers of the corporation, I am certain Mr. McAlister will wish to terminate them immediately. I suggest he have security accompany them to their offices tomorrow morning to gather their personal possessions and nothing more, then escort them from the building.

"One final thing, Mr. Smythe. Notify your present company attorneys of termination of contract today and notify anyone concerned that Arnold and Peterson are the new legal consultants to McAlister Industries so that we have access to all pertinent data."

"I will see to that the moment I'm in my office. It is very difficult for Mr. McAlister to make this move against a long time family friend, but I'll try to make sure there is no contact. Thank you." Walt left the lawyers' office with a broad grin as he imagined the looks of shock when he and Ash informed the men of their termination and had security escort them within the building and to the doors with instructions to never let them return for any reason.

Walt immediately hired an outside security firm and placed their men throughout the building, knowing that some of the company's security people were loyal to Henry Dearborn. Deciding to protect Ash as much as possible, he had Ash sit out of sight in the receptionists' office.

The cries of outrage and shock were all that Walt expected. However, the hired security guards calmly and professionally discharged their duties as outlined by Walt, though numerous threats were hurled at Walt as the former executives were escorted from the building carrying boxes of personal possessions. Not one had been allowed near a computer terminal.

The company security force were gathered in the lobby and told to report to the office of the hired security firm for vetting, the outcome of which would determine their remaining employed at McAlister Industries.

An uneasy month passed for both Walt and Ash, until their attorney called to inform them that the case would be heard before Judge Ammons the following Monday. Impeccably dressed, Ash, Walt beside him for moral support, sat at the table with their attorneys.

Rich Peterson, having researched the judge thoroughly and knowing that he had worked his way from poverty through law school, was well prepared to stress in his summation that the stolen funds belonged to the workers as overtime pay. This would be a strong factor in the judge's decision. Too, the defendants were defending themselves, bringing to mind the old saying that a lawyer who defends himself has a fool for a client. He knew they were relying heavily on the fact that they played golf and socialized with the judge, not to mention their public prominence.

Having greeted Arnold and Peterson and recognized their client, the judge turned to the others. "It comes as quite an unpleasant surprise to find the senior members of such a prominent law firm appearing in my court as defendants. Henry Dearborn, you are the guardian of Ashford McAlister and, if I am not mistaken, his godfather. I find it difficult to believe that you could be accused in such a matter considering your long relationship with the McAlister family. However, it is I who shall have to make such a decision based on the evidence presented. Let us begin. Mr. Peterson."

Peterson called Earl Hillman to the stand to explain each of his findings to the judge. To his pleasant surprise, the judge appeared fascinated with Hillman's explanations, asking deeply relevant questions as to how he had used computer programs to reveal the thefts. The evidence of Hillman took an entire day and most of the next before the judge thanked Hillman for his patient explanations and dismissed him.

Next was the technician who had uncovered the bugging methods and traced the receiver directly to equipment hidden in the bottom of an antique armoire in Hank Dearborn's office in the McAlister building.

Surprising to all were the judge's questions to Ash, primarily concerned with his guardianship. With the explanation that it was Walt who had guided him through the investigation because of discrepancies he had found in Ash's personal accounts, and Walt's credentials as a financial planner, his living in the mansion and demanding the best from Ash in his schoolwork, the judge, after one question of Walt, declared Walt to be Ashford's legal guardian, much to Ash's joy.

Turning back to the case at hand, the judge called on the defense to present their case. Having convinced themselves that the judge would not let longtime pals and members of the most prestigious firm in the city down, their defense was perfunctory at best.

Once more the judge had a surprise for all of them. When the trial was over, he called Ash back to the stand. "Young man, I know your opinions have no legal bearing on my decision, but you have apparently been most grievously wronged, therefore I would like to hear your opinion of proper punishment for each of the defendants, for I find them guilty as charged."

Without hesitation, Ash looked at the judge. "Those two lawyers deserve prison time for betraying the trust of a client, your honor."

"And your godfather?"

Ash broke down into sobs. When Walt stood, the judge nodded and Walt walked over to hold Ash in his arms until he recovered. Finally Ash was able to stammer, "I loved my Uncle Hank and my Aunt Gert, your honor. I … I can't bear to think of Uncle Hank in prison and Aunt Gert alone. Could you give him community service for a long time?"

"You may stand down. I must say that your loyalty to long time friends is commendable, but Mr. Dearborn apparently masterminded the entire scam and benefited the most. As such, community service is not a viable option. I will have to consider sentencing for these men, however they are no longer on bail. The bailiff will take them in custody until I determine sentence."

A few day later they were back in court to hear the judge pronounce what to all were unusually harsh sentences. He demanded immediate accounting and forfeiture of all personal assets to the amount stolen from McAlister Industries and a three year prison term for each.

"But your honor," Dearborn objected, "that will wipe out everything my wife and I possess, and we have a son about to finish medical school."

"You should have thought of that before you stooped to dishonesty. You also know your licenses to practice law will be revoked permanently by the bar association."

Pulling away from the bailiff, Dearborn hugged and kissed his sobbing wife.

Ash raised his hand. "Yes, young man?" The judge asked.

"May I speak with my aunt and uncle, sir?"

The judge nodded.

"Uncle Hank, don't worry about Aunt Gert, if they take your house I'll see she has an apartment somewhere nice and an allowance. I'll also pay Robert's tuition for this last year of school. He'll make a good doctor."

Hank sank into a nearby chair, wracked with sobs, as Gert embraced Ash tightly. "God bless you, Ash. You've been treated so badly and yet you can be so generous and kind. How?"

"Walt has taught me a lot of things dad never did."

"And done a damn fine job of it, too," said a wavering voice. They looked up in time to see the judge wipe away a tear of his own. "Mr. Smythe, take this young man home and continue to do what you seem to do best. I expect great things of him in the future."

"Thank you, sir."

Within six months full restitution had been made to McAlister Industries. Ash and Walt spent a morning with the company treasurer determining the full amount of money and the amount owed each worker for the unpaid overtime. With a handful of paper covered with names and figures, Ash and Walt paged the president of the company union to Walt's office.

"Who the hell are you two," the union boss demanded.

Walt stood. "Walton Smythe. I'm financial advisor to Mr. Ashford McAlister here."

The man looked at Ash. "Shit, you're just a kid. You mean I work for you?"

"Unless I fire your ass. Now sit down and listen for a change."

The man sat grudgingly then a slow smile of delight and admiration spread across his features. "You mean it?" He asked unbelievingly.

"Watch me," Ash said, picking up the phone and dialing a single digit. There was a click overhead and then Ash's voice spread throughout the entire building and plant. "There will be a meeting of all weekly wage employees in the courtyard behind the office building. Employees will shut down all equipment before attending this meeting because a paid half day holiday will begin immediately after my announcement."

"Mr. McAlister, you may be a kid, but you're a damn fine man. I'm ready to put our new contract to the members right now."

"You still have six months, so that would be premature," Walt said. "Let's go join the troops."

Ash stood on a box behind the hastily constructed podium and cleared his throat. When there was silence, he said, "I wish to make an announcement regarding the overtime pay all of you waged employees are owed."

"Yeah! Like we'll ever see it!"

"More company bullshit," another yelled.

Suddenly the union president was pushing Ash gently aside, then he grabbed the mike and yelled, "You buttheads shut the fuck up and listen to this man. I know what he's gonna say and it's gonna make you all happy."

"Fat day you'll trust a McAlister, Frank," someone yelled.

"I damn well trust this one, so shut up." He backed away saying, "Mr. McAlister."

With silence more or less insured, Ash delivered his talk until the end when he said, "The overtime cheques will be with your regular pay next week. I'm sorry it took so long and I'm sorrier to say company officers were guilty." There was a sudden collective shout of joy from the assembled and repeated, "McAlister, McAlister."

* * *

When Walt and Ash looked over Ash's personal financial statement at the end of the summer quarter, Walt noted that Ash had three million from the restitution, despite the monies paid as overtime and into the retirement fund for those salaried employees not receiving overtime.

"What do you want to do with this?" Walt asked.

"Put it in something making a little interest, but keep it liquid. I may have a use for some of it. I'll tell you tonight."

* * *

Walt knew that Ash loved him dearly, but gently discouraged his tentative sexual advances until the boy came of age. This did not preclude their nightly cuddle nor often sleeping in each other's arms. That evening, Ash said, "Walt, it's about time for it to turn cold. Last night I dreamed of Rusty. I want to see if I can find him and maybe give him some help, cause he took me in when I ran away."

"That's good of you, Ash, but who's Rusty, and what's this stuff about you running away? It's the first I've heard of it"

"Just after the folks died, the damn lawyers like to drove me crazy. I didn't have any privacy or time to grieve because they were always demanding something, half of which I didn't understand, so one night I grabbed my backpack and took off after the servants were all asleep. I wound up sleeping in a park. That wasn't too bad because it was fairly warm. The next night was chilly and was looking for someplace warm. I didn't have more than about twenty bucks in my pocket and I'd already spent over half of that on food. Anyway, I got propositioned four times before I got out of the park. Scared hell out of me. I stopped at a Quick Stop for a cup of coffee when this red headed kid with one hand came in and got coffee, too. We sat down and started talking and he told me he had a place was safe for kids not on drugs or selling their ass. When we got there, it was this shack built on top of a steam line which kept it fairly warm. There were three other guys there. Rusty told me he made the rules and I'd get kicked out if I didn't go along. It was share and share alike, so we pooled our money for food. It wasn't much, but at least it was something to eat. I stayed about a week and a half until the private detective the company hired found me when I was out with Rusty buying food for us."

Walt hugged him. "I'm sorry it was so bad for you."

"Now I'm kind of glad it happened. It showed me what a lot of kids go through. Rusty was so kind to me because he knew I wasn't used to that kind of life that I'd like to help him if I can. It might not work, though; he's awful independent."

"Do you have any idea where he might be?"

"I expect he'll be down at the point. There's a steam pipe there they build their shacks over so it's warm, but since they closed the power station I bet there isn't any steam, that's why I'm worried."

"I'll be glad to help you find him, babe."

"Good, cause we'll need your old car. If he saw the limo or your Jag he'd hide for sure."

* * *

A few days later Walt's old car rattled over the rough paving at the end of the road at the point. There was a crude shelter partially constructed over some exposed piping, but no sign of people.

"Rusty?" Ash called. "It's me, Ash."

Walt was startled to see a head of curly flaming red hair poke around the corner of the shack. "That really you, Ash?"

Ash walked slowly over to the shack as Rusty eased into full view. Ash hugged him.

"Man, I didn't think I'd ever see you again after what I saw in the papers. What's a rich kid like you want with trash like me?"

"You're not trash, Rusty. You just need a chance to make something of yourself."

"Shit, now you sound like one of them welfare creeps."

"You got anybody else with ya?"

"Yeah. There's Tommy and Mike, you remember them, and a new kid, Nate. He's too young to hang with us, but he ain't got nowhere else to go, he says, so I ain't turning him out."

"Would you guys like to come home with me? You can get hot showers, clean good beds and decent food like you all need. You can stay if you'll go to school. We'll get you new clothes and anything you need." Seeing Rusty's sneer, he added, "I know you help a lot of runaway kids, Rusty, but you need to help yourself. With an education you could run a home for homeless kids the way it oughta be run cause you got practical experience like the others will never have."

"I don't know."

"Try it for a few days. If you wanna leave, neither Walt nor I will try to stop you."

"Let me talk to the kids. You and him," he pointed to Walt standing by his car, "take a hike and come back in 'bout a half hour."

Walt drove them to a small café and ordered coffee. They drank silently, lost in thought. Finally, Walt indicated it was time to return.

"Rusty?" Ash called again.

"Shit, guy, I figured you done took off fer good. Tony's got a little radio and they say it's gonna get mighty cold tonight. There ain't no heat in the pipe no more and we ain't got much to eat, so we'll go with you, if we can up and leave any time like you said." He pointed to Walt. "You sure that guy ain't no welfare dude?"

"No way. He's a good guy. Call the guys and let's go, my ass is freezing."

Rusty grinned. "Okay, guys, let's live it up fer one night anyway."

Ash greeted Tommy and Mike with hugs. It was Nate stopped Ash midstride. Walt's mouth fell open. The diminutive child's long blond locks all but hid his face, his tiny body fragile looking. His general grubbiness almost revolting.

"Come on, guys," Ash said, and with no hesitation put his arm around Nate's thin shoulders urging him along.

All three were so skinny they fit in the backseat of Walt's Honda with room to spare, however the odor almost gagged him. Despite the cold he put the window down slightly for relief. No one spoke until Walt turned into the drive of the mansion.

"Shit, man, what's this, Buckingham Palace?" Rusty asked Ash.

"You know damn well it's no palace. It's where I live and where you're gonna live if you want to. When we get inside, I'm gonna show you where the showers are and I'll put out some things you guys can wear. I ain't sure 'bout Nate, but maybe I can find something."

Sims opened the front door before Ash reached it. "Sir!" He said with solemn dignity as Ash pushed the guys past and into the hall.

"Come on, up the stairs," Ash called, then replied to the butler, "Have the maid make up four rooms across the hall from mine, and tell cook to get her ass in gear."

"I shall inform cook that you have guests, but not in those terms. I do not care to contemplate her favorite carving knife sticking out of my chest."

* * *

An hour later four scrubbed boys in clothing Ash had rummaged up, including some just slightly large on Nate, sat at the table looking with awe at the huge platter of fried chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, peas, and green beans.

"Well, boys," Walt said and passed the platter of chicken to Rusty. It was then he noticed that Rusty's right arm ended at the wrist, not that it appeared to hinder the boy in any way. Rusty passed the platter to Tommy who held it for him to grab a large breast. And so it went, Tommy waiting until Rusty had served himself.

After second helpings of most things, Rusty pushed back from the table, "I'm 'bout to bust. Man that was sure good, and plenty of it, too. Thanks, Ash."

"Yeah," came echoes from around the table.

"Don't get up," Walt cautioned as Rusty started to rise. "There's dessert to come. I know it's cold but I think everyone would like a chocolate nut sundae."

"Oooh," squealed Nate, clapping his little hands in delight.

After the sundae dishes had been licked clean, Ash ushered his guests into the playroom/den where a fire flickered on the hearth and two video games awaited players. After the boys had teamed up and chosen the game they wished to play, Ash sat beside Walt on the sofa and watched their pleasure until bedtime.

There was quite a discussion over the sleeping arrangements until Rusty agreed to let the pleading Nate sleep with him. Out of the presence of Walt, Tommy and Mike let Ash know they were partners, and took a bedroom for themselves.

During the night Walt heard two resounding thumps then nothing more, so he went back to sleep. At breakfast, Mike commented, "Man that bed was too fuckin' soft. I didn't sleep 'til I hit the floor, then I slept good."

"Me, too," Tommy added.

"There's a much firmer mattress in the room next to the one Rusty is in. Try that one tonight. How did you sleep, Rusty?"

"Oh, man, like I done died. I could get used to this real fast."

"And, you, Nate?"

With a bound Nate was out of his chair and in Walt's lap, staring up at his surprised expression. "I love it here. It's nice and warm, and you got good food, and I ain't dirty no more. You're a nice man, mister."

Walt's heart melted. He hugged the tiny frame gently. "Thank you, Nate. Ash and I hope you will stay with us and make this your home."

"Oh, yes!" Squealed Nate, climbing down and going back to his own chair as Sims brought in breakfast.

Though the rest chatted, Mike and Tommy remained quiet, looking from Walt to Ash and back. Finally Walt asked, "What is it, boys?"

"Ash said he wanted us to stay here and go to school. I ain't saying much for the school business, but didn't you guys notice Tommy and me sharing a bed, and we kissed in front of you. That don't make no difference?"

"Not to Ash or me."

"Yeah. I'm in love with Walt, but he won't do nothing until I turn eighteen and that's another year and a half."

"Bummer man!"

Ash smiled. "Yeah, but he's worth the wait. He's got a lot to teach me between now and then. I meant it when I said you guys could stay, but you have to go to school."

"I ain't been in two years, they'll put me back with the little kids," Rusty growled.

Walt shook his head. "There are special classes for students like you to attend. You move ahead as fast as possible and when you're up to grade level you're placed in a regular class with people your own age."

"Yeah? That might be okay, but I ain't made up my mind yet."

"No rush. Rusty, I need to ask you a question or two in private. Would you go in Ash's study with me?"

"Sure, but I ain't promising no answers."

When the door was closed, Walt asked quietly, "How old is Nate?"

"He said he's eight. I don't believe it, but he didn't have nowhere to go. I got a look at his back and somebody done beat the shit out of the poor kid. He needs a lot of love, more than I got to give."

"Where'd you find him?"

"Back of a school out near the point. He was still bleedin' and could hardly move. I got a clean rag and some water and washed him off, but that's all I could do for 'im."

"You do realize I'll have to notify Child Protection as young as he is?"

"I hear ya. Long as it's you not me. If they come here, we're all gonna split so they can't find us."

"No need. Tell Nate not to say your names to anyone but Ash and me. We'll let you guys hide out in the attic in case the worker wants to see the bedroooms. I've got to call my lawyer because I want full custody of Nate. No body needs to be treated like you say he's been."

"I guess that'll be okay."

"Thank you, Rusty. I hope you stay, too. It took someone quite mature to have kept these kids together, sheltered, and somewhat fed. I'm proud of you."

Rusty's face turned as red as his hair. "Ain't nothin' special."

That night at dinner, Ash sat next to Rusty. "You know any other gangs like yours? I don't mean kids doing drugs or selling their ass or that shit, I mean just to stay alive and have a little protection."

"I know maybe two, but they move around more than we do. I might find them if I looked real hard. Why?"

"Do you think they would be glad to have a place to stay and go to school?"

"You mean like here? You ain't got the room."

"I could have if someone needed it. Can you find out for me?"

"I guess. You got a bike or something?"

"I got a motorbike you can use. It's not real fast, but it'll get you there."

"Show me tomorrow morning. I gonna go put Nate to bed."

Rusty gently picked up the sleeping child and carried him up the stairs with no effort. A few minutes later Walt went to his room for something and stopped by Nate's door. Rusty's voice came softly in a story. "Damn he's a good kid, a natural leader. I hope he stays, he's got so much potential."

While they cuddled, Ash said softly, "I know what I want to do with the extra money, Walt. I want to start a home for homeless gay boys. Think I can do it?"

"It's going to take a hell of a lot of work and our private lives will be laid open in court for everyone to see. There are all sorts of investigations to see if we're fit to be around kids, whether they're gay or not. You're young enough they won't amount to much, I shouldn't think, but they'll be hell on me and the staff. I'll call a lawyer specializes in that sort of law and have him talk to us before we get into something we wish we hadn't."

"I'll always want this. If I can't get it now, I'll get it when I turn twenty-one."

"It's a grand idea and something that's needed. I hope you succeed."

Rusty had found no trace of the gangs he searched for. "I think I'll find 'em tomorrow. If I don't, I quit." He said as he came in.

"It's turning unseasonably cold, Rusty. Please keep looking for them," Walt begged.

"I'm cold, too. Soon as we eat I'm going up to bed. That bike damn near whipped my ass."

"You don't ride it wide open, dunce. Take it slow and easy. I'll give you a cell phone so if you find them you can call so I can send the car. You can come home in it, too, the bike fits in the trunk." Ash told him.

Walt aroused to the sound of footsteps in the hall. He glanced at the clock - six-thirty. The sky had barely begun to lighten. He tiptoed to the door to see Rusty walking down the stairs. "Guess he thinks he might find them if they're still sleeping." Walt thought, going back to bed.

They were eating breakfast when Ash's cell phone rang. He listened then put the phone away. "Get the your car, Walt. He found one group. They say the others got picked up by Child Services and put in a shelter."

"How many?"

"Six. Rusty makes seven. Damn, I guess we'd better take the limo. I hope Rusty can talk sense to 'em."

"What's the big deal with a limo?"

Mike looked at Walt as if he were completely ignorant. "Man, that's what the slavers use to pick up kids. Any kid with street smarts ain't gonna get in no limo."

"Oh. Say, Ash, who does the old station wagon I see sometimes belong to?"

"I don't know. Sims will. I'll ring for him."

"Ah, Sims. Who owns the station wagon I sometimes see parked out back of the garage?"

"It belongs to the gardener, sir. He's here today, shall I ask him to come to the back door?"

"Please, before he gets too dirty. Ash and I want him to take us to pick up the kids Rusty found. We'll buy him a full tank of gas."

"Of course, sir. I'll have his response momentarily."

"Mr. McAlister, sir, I don't know why you want to ride in my old car. It's purely filthy from where I haul stuff, but I threw some clean ragged towels on the seat, sir."

"Excellent, Bobby. The kids we're looking for would scatter like chickens if they saw the limo, and we can't get them all in Walt's old car. Before we find the kids, fill up your tank with whatever brand you use."

"No need, sir. It does need some oil, though." He smiled ruefully. "Burns more oil than gas. Maybe I'll get a newer one some day. Which way, sir?"

"Out by the cotton mill at the county line."

The truck stop where Bobby stopped for gas and oil was having a sale. When Bobby had taken care of his car's needs, Ash told the clerk, "Give him a case of oil," then paid the bill.

"I sure thank you, sir."

"No thanks necessary. You never said a word, just offered to take us where we wanted to go. I like that, Bobby. I think you're due a raise in the new year."

When they stopped in front of the old mill, Ash got out and called through the partially open door, "It's us, Rusty."

Here was the sound of shuffling footsteps and six grubby boys lined up in front of Ash. "I've seen a couple of you before," he said. "Any druggies in the bunch?"

"I don't want none of them around," an older boy snarled. "What cha want with us?"

"To give you a clean place to sleep, good food, and hot showers. I guess Rusty told ya, but ya gotta behave and go to school if ya wanna stay. Long as it's so cold you can crash anyway."

He saw the boys look at one another and nod. "Okay, we'll give it a try."

"Good. Come on."

With many misgivings, the streetwise boys allowed themselves to be herded into the old station wagon, the mansion, and up to the showers. Walt and Ash searched for clean clothing to fit each boy. A row of slippers awaited their feet.

After breakfast two morning's later, Walt said to the assembly surrounding the dining table. "I want you all to meet me in the study when you finish eating. We've got something serious to discuss."

"Boys, there're three things we've got to settle now. First, if you want to stay, we want you, but you'll have to be registered with Child Protective Services. Ash and I are working to be foster parents and the judge is friendly toward us. Two, we'll buy you good but minimum clothing because you can't travel heavy. Three, if you stay we'll buy you ample clothing and provide some Santa for you as well. You guys can help Ash and me decorate the tree. Okay, go think about what I said and come back to tell me your decision. I don't want anyone trying to influence anyone else."

The others filed out leaving Nate seated alone on the sofa. When Walt looked at him, he flung himself into Walt's arms, thin legs wrapped around his waist. "I wanna stay. I want you to be my daddy."

Holding the precious child, Walt sat down. "I want that, too, Nate, my son, but it's not up to me. The decision is the court's."

"If they don't I'll runaway again and come here."

"Oh, Nate, this is the first place they'll look for you. Be calm and let's see how it works out. If we're approved, you can be our foster child."

"Yeah."

By noon only Spike, the leader of the second group, had not indicated he wanted to stay. Finally, Spike wandered in and faced Walt. "Guess I gotta stay. You done took my gang from me."

"I'm glad you're staying with the others, Spike, but I will tell you we have no gangs here. I admire examples of positive leadership and we'll help you develop your potential, Spike. So do your work well and set a positive example for the younger ones. Oh, yes, we're going to the mall shopping after lunch. I'll be depending on you and Rusty to keep the younger boys together."

"That I can do," Spike said proudly.

The shopping went without a hitch and the boys returned home in the limo, each burdened with many bags of clothing. Walt carried Nate's clothing for Nate clutched a large teddy bear.

At the dinner table that evening, their hair neatly cut, each boy was dressed in new cargo pants and a polo shirt, covered by a soft woolen sweater. To Walt they looked as preppy as the boys at Ash's prestigious school.

"I want you guys to dress like this tomorrow when the Child Services people show up. The judge we know is coming also to help us if he can, so be nice to him."

With Walt constantly being asked questions by the Child Services people while trying to keep an eye on Rusty and Spike, Ash and the judge had disappeared into the formal drawing room with a Child Services staff member and closed the doors for privacy. By the time it was over the people were barely out the door before Walt was at the bar pouring himself a stiff bourbon and coke.

"Fix me one and give me your opinion," the judge said. The boys had scattered throughout the house.

"How can I have one? Hell, I don't even know what we talked about. She asked me a hundred questions on different subjects all at the same time"

.Ash walked over and hugged Walt, then kissed him. "Thanks to the judge, we're approved for foster care. I sent the paperwork in from the study."

"And I've started your adoption procedure for Nate, Walt. I know the juvenile court judge and he'll accept my recommendation. We have all the pictures we need to prove the hell he's been subjected to."

Tears streamed down Walt's cheeks. "Nate, my little Nate." Then he kissed Ash. "I've got my Christmas already, but tomorrow we better go get the tree and put the boys to work.

Even the most unbelieving and jaded entered into the festivities readily. Christmas morning dawned with the family room filled with gifts of love for boys who had had none until a young man used his gifts wisely.