Insimenator.org

Hi, this is the first story that I have ever written and second to post anywhere, so here goes.....


"It had only been two days since we had brought Josiah home.  Selah was doing very well, I, on the other hand was a basket case.
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story1.jpg)

"Zach, honey, what's wrong?" Selah asked concerned.
"Selah...I promise you and Zach that I will be the best husband and father that I can be....unlike..."  I tried to finish, but the tears took over.
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story2.jpg)

"Oh hun, I already know that you a wonderful husband and I also know that you will be a great father.  Zach, where is all this coming from?  Why are you so upset?  I'm scared to death about being a mother to our little Josiah, but everything will fall into place, I promise."
"I know, Selah, I know.  It's not that...well, I mean, I am scared about being a father, but that's not what I'm upset about."
"Then what is it?"
"It's...just...nothing, ok.  You don't need to worry about me, I'll be alright.  Now you just go in the livingroom and get you a cup of hot tea and that book that you have been dying to read and get some rest.  I'll take care of the little rugrat for a while,"  I teasingly told her as we hugged.  I knew that she would question my feelings later on, but for now she gladly took the opportunity to rest.
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story3.jpg)

As I put my son in his crib and watched his eyes slowly drift in and out of sleep, I promised him and God that I would be the best dad he would ever know.  I promised him that I would love him no matter what happens and that I would always be proud of him.
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story4.jpg)

"Is he asleep?" Selah asked not looking up from her book.
"Yes, his little eyes finally lost the battle to the Sandman," I chuckled as I watched her read.  
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story5.jpg)

"Zach, come, sit and tell me what has been bothering you."
See I told you she would try to get it out of me.
"I'd rather not.  Some things should just be left unsaid.  It's not important, anyway.  What's important is you and the baby."
"Zach, I and the baby are fine, it's you, I'm worried about."  She did look worried so I sat down beside her and started my story.
"Well, I had a pretty decent childhood before my 10th birthday...." I started.
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story6.jpg)

"Dad was not a happy person.  Sometimes he would cause trouble and then just sit back watch the repercussions unfold.  Anyway, it was getting close to my birthday and I was getting excited.  I knew that he and Mom were in the bedroom discussing plans for my party.  I snuck by the door to listen in hopes of getting a tip of what my present would be...
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story7.jpg)

'Chris, what are we going to do for Zach's birthday?'
'Well we don't have any money to buy the kid a present if that's what you mean!' Dad replied rather irritated at the whole idea.
'That KID just so happens to be OUR son and he deserves the very best that we can give him.' Mom's voice was very irate, but how she managed to keep her voice down, I still don't know to this day.
'Hmph...All that kid deserves is a big bundle of switches and a handprint across his.....'
'Christopher Michael, I will NOT have you talk about Zachery that way.  He has done nothing but work his fingers to the bone with his schooling so that you would be proud of him.  The only other thing he has done is love you with everything he has!'  Mom was shouting by this time.
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story8.jpg)

I was absolutely horrified.  I knew that my dad wasn't really all that nice most of the time, but I didn't realize that he HATED me.
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story9.jpg)

The next day Mom was bustling around in the kitchen, humming to herself and making plans for my birthday.
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story10.jpg)

While Dad sat reading his paper.
'Sue, I don't know why you are making such a fuss about the boy's birthday.  If you ask me, it's just a waste of time and money.'
'Well, Chris, no one asked you.'
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story11.jpg)

The big day was here and I was very excited.  I jumped from bed and hurriedly got dressed.  I had high hopes that Dad would be nice to me for once, after all, I had been in his life for a whole 10 years.
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story12.jpg)

Everything was set up for the party.  Mom had worked all morning on the decorations and my favorite kind of cake.  I noticed that she had several small gifts wrapped up and sitting on the table.  Everything looked wonderful.
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story13.jpg)

'Mom, thanks so much for the party.  It looks great and I know that Jordan and I will have a lot of fun."  Jordan was my best friend...my only friend.  Dad knew his father and that was the only reason why we could be friends.  Dad didn't trust any of the other kids that I knew.  He wouldn't allow me to bring anyone home from school.
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story14.jpg)

I looked around for Dad, but I didn't see him anywhere.  I decided that he had left to get me something, maybe the switches.  Anyway, I waited until about an hour before Jordan was expected to be there and I asked Mom where Dad was...

'Mom have you see Dad?  I thought that he might be here.'  
'Son,' she said with a hagard breath, 'Your father is...'  She couldn't finish her statement.  
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story15.jpg)

'Is what, Mom?  What are you not telling me?' I was really worried.  I knew he wasn't there, but there was something more to it.
'Son, your father left this morning.  He didn't tell me where he was going or if he was even coming back.  I'm sorry, I thought you wouldn't notice him gone until after your party at least.'

Those words really upset me.  I'm not sure why I did, but I cried when she told me.  I knew that my Dad and I didn't have the best relationship...well, really no relationship at all, but I loved him because he was my dad.  I wanted him to be there with me and Mom to celebrate my day, but he wasn't...  
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story16.jpg)

...He was Gone.

Aw...How sad...Why did he hate him so much? :(
Medagic

Well, to not give too much away of the story, Zach's father was not very nice to him.  he was very angry with him all the time and besides he left him on his 10th birthday.

Btw, thanks for reading and commenting.  I really appreciate it.  It's my very first story.:toothy7::

i like it
sad though
great job

I like it too very well writen

awesome story. i like the feeling of sadness..lol 'how wierd did that sound?' lol

great job, keep it up. pics are amazing too!

i more than like it i love it its a great way to start the story

That was amazing. Great Job.

I really appreciate all the comments.  It makes my day.  I will be updating with chapter 2 soon--probably today.   Thanks again.

"Zach, you mean to tell me he left on your birthday?"
"Yes..."  I turned from her to wipe a fresh tear making its escape from my eye.
"What happened?  Where did he go?  Did he come back?" she asked quizitively.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story17.jpg)
"I don't know where he went.  Mom told me that they had a big fight and he told her that he had to get out.  She thought he meant just for awhile, to get some air...Not forever."

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story18.jpg)
'Zach go on and enjoy your party.  I'm sure your dad will be back soon.'  I didn't believe her and I knew she didn't believe what she was saying, either.
'I doubt it.  I'm not sure I want him back if that's the way he feels.'

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story19.jpg)
'Zachary David, what on Earth are you talking about?  Your father loves you.' Mom spoke with anger that fell through to sadness.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story20.jpg)
'I know what he said the other night about the switches and how he wasn't very proud.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story21.jpg)
'Now Zach, you father did not mean those things that he said.'  Mom tried to somewhat take up for dad.
 
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story22.jpg)
I pulled away from her embrace, anger so strong I could hear my heart beating in my ears,
'Oh yeah, then why did you get angry?  I heard what you said to him.  I was standing right outside your door.'

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story23.jpg)
I expected a smack across my face and sent to my room.  Instead mom stood there in front of me, broken, with tears streaming...no flooding down her face.
'Your right, Zach, I was angry.  Actually hurt and devastated that your father would talk about you that way.  What I didn't know was that you heard it.  That makes it worse and I'm sorry.'
'No, Mom, I'm sorry.  I wish that you hadn't heard it either.  What I don't really understand is why dad is doing this to me...to us.  Doesn't he know that I love him?'

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story24.jpg)
That night I prayed, 'God, would You help me understand why my dad did this to us?  Please help him to stop hurting and let him know that we still love him...even me.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story2534.jpg)
That night as I was drifting off to sleep, I could hear my mother's soft sobs as she cried herself to sleep.
'Happy Birthday to me'

Just to let you know that if you want another udate, I could probably do so later on today.  I would like for it to get to the second page so it won't take too awfully long to load.  Just let me know.

Yay! It was good.

Thanks Cookie.  I didn't really know how my first  story would go over, but I really appreciate your comments and the others as well.

MORE MORE!!!! Another update Please!

I'll be updating either later on today or tomorrow.  Thanks for all the support!! I really appreciate it.  You guys have made me get my brain working toward another story.

**Sorry it's taken so long.  Now on with the story.....**

"Yes sir....thank you.  I'll be down shortly."

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story27.jpg)

"Mom, who was that?"
"The Sheriff, Zach.  He saw your father and spoke with him.  He said that your dad left some items for us and he wanted me to pick them up."
"Is he coming home?"  I'm really not sure I wanted to know the answer to that question, but I asked it anyway.
"No, son, he's not."

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story28.jpg)
The rest of the day was a blur.  Jordan and I played at my house while Mrs. Fields watched us while mom was gone.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story29.jpg)

Mom was gone a good part of the day.  When she came back, she brought supper home.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story30.jpg)
"You boys hungry?"
"Yes ma'am."  We both said in unison.
We ate our pizza and chatted about school and other stuff boys talk about.  Mom was quiet and seemed lost in her own little world.
After Jordan left, I asked Mom what the items were that dad had left with the sheriff.
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story31.jpg)

"One of your dad's old shirts and his favorite book...and..."  Her voice trailed off and she turned from me.
"And?"  I asked a little concerned and frustrated at the same time.  She had a look that I had learned to get used to.  It was worry/fear/sadness all wrapped into one half-hearted smile that hid nothing of what she was feeling.
"Zach, your father wrote a letter in the book to you and I"

She gave me the book and I looked for the letter.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story32.jpg)
The letter was written on the last few blank pages of the book.  
'Dear Sue and Zachary.  I know that upon reading this you both know that I have left.  I cannot take the constant pressure of being married to you or being around that Boy!  I'm sure you'll do what you can with him..."

I couldn't read anymore.  I closed the book and started yelling until my throat hurt,
"I HATE HIM!  I HATE HIM! I HATE HIM!"

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story33.jpg)
Then I ran to my room and cried.  Those words that he wrote let me know just how much that man hated me.  How could he be so cruel not just to me but mom too?  

That night, just like I had done since dad left, I prayed,
"God, please help momma not to be sad anymore.  Help daddy to be better and help me to be the man of the house...and to love him again.  Amen"

Oh My!!!! This Story is fantastic... I like the way you´re telling it
poor, poor Zach.

I´m following it ;)

Thanks, Fercho, I'm so glad that you are enjoying it.  It is a little difficult going back and forth with the storytelling, but I have enjoyed doing it.  Thanks for the feedback, it helps me to continue on.  There will be an update tomorrow, maybe two chapters--not sure yet.:tongue8:

MORE MORE!!!!(please)

very nice :)

Thanks for all the great feedback.  Update this afternoon (probably) and maybe even two chapters.  There are only about 4 or 5 updates left so this will be coming to an end soon.  You have all encouraged me to write another but I"m having to wait on the story to come to me.  I have had this story written out in fact I wrote it in one sitting, but it's taking a while to get the pictures.  These last updates will be a bit more difficult, I should think.  It gets more intense as the story progresses.  I am planning an epilogue, I think, maybe a couple of extra updates because you all have been so kind--being this my first story ever and all.  :toothy7:

I looked up at Selah with tears in my eyes and noticed the tears in hers.
"Sel, I didn't really hate him.  I had every right to, but I didn't.  He was my dad and I loved him."

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story34.jpg)
"Oh Zach, I'm so sorry.  You are so strong.  I would hate him forever if it was me."

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story35.jpg)

Josiah started getting fussy.  I looked at Selah and smiled thankful for the break in the story,
"Well, I guess it's baby time.  I'll go in.  It looks like you need a rest."  I winked, but this was the rest that I needed right now.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story36.jpg)
I held my child in my arms and cried, "Please, God, help me to be better than him."
I cuddled Josiah and laid him back in his bed.  I heard the phone ring and I waited for Selah to answer it before I opened the nursery door.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story37.jpg)
"Hello...Oh hi.  We're doing great.  Uh..huh..umm...ok.  Sure we'll be here...I'll tell him.  See you soon."

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story38.jpg)
"That was your mother.  She's coming over for a visit.  She was a giving us time to get adjusted with Josiah, but she couldn't wait any longer."  Selah spoke with an air of concern.  I know that she wasn't giving me all the details of that short conversation, but most of the time she didn't.  Yet there was something more than Mom just coming.  

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story39.jpg)
"Selah, is there...something you're not telling me?  I can't help but wonder that there is something wrong?"
"No...I guess I'm just tired dealing with Josiah and you."  She eyed me rather menacingly.
"I help, too, you know." I said as I tickled her.
"Yes, dear, I know you do.  I don't know what I would do without you here with me."  She said through her laughter.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story40.jpg)

I decided to fix me a cup of coffee and wait for the arrival of my mother.  She will be wanting to know the details of Josiah's life since he has been home.  If I know her, she'll be wanting to know if I have enrolled him in the local university yet.  As I was in the kitchen, revelling in my caffeine rush, I heard the doorbell and Mom and Selah were chatting.  Then I heard her ask where I was....

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story41.jpg)

"I'm in here, Mom."
"There's the proud poppa of my grandson."
"Hi, Mom.  How are you?" I said through gulps of coffee.
"I'm fine, now where's my grandbaby?"
"Why Mother, I figured you of all people would know that he is in his room studying to be a astronaut.  He wants to be the first 52 hr old to go into space."
She looked at me, spatted my arm almost spilling my coffee and without missing a beat,
"Is he asleep?"
"I'm not sure, but does it matter it anyway?  I"m sure going to wake him up even if he is.  Let's go see."  We both laughed and turned to go to his room.  

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story42.jpg)
My smile faded as I turned toward the livingroom.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story43.jpg)

"Hello...Zachary."

---------
Chapter 5 will be up soon.  Perhaps either this evening or tomorrow.  Enjoy!!

OOOHHHHHH!! now the suspense... this story is gonna be great!! (well, it is already but, I see some really good stuff coming). Excellent Cynthia... I like stories with time going back and forth, definitely ;)

Thanks for the comment.  I hope I won't dissapoint.  I have one more update that I have pictures for, but then I have 3 more updates left in which I need pictures for all 3.  

This has been a really fun experience for me.  I'm glad that everyone is enjoying this story.  I will definitely write more stories, being that is my first one and all.  

5th update I hope will be posted tomorrow, but it will probably be later in the day maybe toward the evening.

I stood there and looked at an aging man.  My throat tightened as if someone had tied it with a piece of damp rawhide drying in the morning sun.  I knew exactly who this man was, but I stuck my hand out cooly.
"Yes, I'm Zachary Montgomery, and you are?"
"Zachary this...."  My mother started to say before I cut her a daring look.
"I'm your..."the man diverted his eyes for a moment, "...father, Zachary.  I'm your father."

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story43.jpg)
"Are you now.  Hmm...let's see...if you are my father then where have you been for last 19 years of my life.  You left when I was 10 Dad.  How can I call you my father?  You are no more my father than...than that dog is outside!"

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story44.jpg)
With that, I stomped out of the house and hot angry tears threatened to fall.
'Oh no, that many in there does not deserve anmore tears.' I thought as I pushed them away.
How could he dare walk into my house and expect me to be civil to him.  Surely he is not that naive or stupid.  He's probably here to ruin my son's life like he did mine.  Well that's not going to happen.  I'll...

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story45.jpg)
"Zach..." I was irritated that someone was interrupting my sinister thoughts and was not the least bit appreciative.
"What!  Oh, sorry, Mom...I'm just..."
"Angry, upset?  We kind of gathered that when you blew up in there.  Look Zach, I can't imagine what must be going through your head right now...It's just..."
I interrupted her.  "No mother.  Ok, no you can't.  I was the man of the house for so long.  I prayed to God every night to watch over us...and him.  But then I stopped praying for him.  He has done nothing but bring sorrow and pain to our family and now..NOW he shows up on my doorstep."

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story46.jpg)
"Zack, I prayed the same prayer.  Now look at you.  You were the man of the house just as you are the man of your own house with Selah and the baby.  I think we did a pretty good job together, don't you?"
"Yes, of course we did.  Mom, I love you and you mean the world to me as do Selah and Josiah do.  But, Mom, how...why could you let him back in?"
"Well lets sit and I will tell you about it."

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story48.jpg)

"Zach, you remember when you started college?"
"Yeah, I was so excited.  I was going to finally become a doctor.  I couldn't wait to get started.  But what does that have to do with anything?"
"Well, about a month after you started, I believe it was in October, your dad called me."

*******************
"Hello, Montgomery residence."
"Sue."  I recognized the voice on the other end immediately, yet it had changed.  The voice was quiet and shaken.  
"Chris....Christopher, is that you?"  I was a little uncertain.  I couldn't let myself think it was him.  He has been gone for so long and now here he is calling me.
"Yes...it's me Sue."  There as a long pause.  All I could hear was staggered breathing--slow short breaths almost like someone in a form of panic.
"Umm, are you ok.  I mean you really don't sound like you are.  Are you in trouble?"  I hesitantly asked him.  I found that after all these years I was worried about him.
"No, I'm not ok, Sue.  Yes, I am in trouble.  I have royally messed up my life.  I haven't got any sleep since....I can't seem to get anywhere with my career.  I've hit rock bottom, Sue.  The most important thing is that I have lost the only thing that has meant the world to me:  my family."
"Well, I...uh."  That's all I could get out.  I was speechless.  Here the man who had caused so much problems with me and Zach is now crawling back.  I should smash like the roach that he was, but instead, my softened--a bit.
"Chris, where are you?"
"I'm about 10 miles south of town about a 20 minute drive from your house.  Why?"
"Well," I took a deep breath, "do you want to talk?"  What was I saying.  I'm sure he wanted to talk, but did I?  I didn't really want to hear his excuses or pity party.  I have come too far with Zach to allow this man back in, but then again, I still loved him.  Love is blind you know.
"Yeah, I mean, if you're up to it.  I'm sure I'm number one on your hate list."
"Ok, come in about an hour and then we'll talk."  I breathed out the words before my heart had a chance to react.  Number one on my hate list?  Buddy you are my hate list.

Sorry for the long absence, but chapter 6 is now here.  Get your forks and knives ready because it is real "meaty"  :)


(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/snapshot_93b0fe79_b40d8b2c.jpg)

"Thanks for the coffee, Sue.  It's as good as always.
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/snapshot_93b0fe79_540fdaa9.jpg)

"Chris, you never liked my coffee so quit the bs and tell me what you  really want?"
"Well, you never was good at small talk were you, Sue?"
"Hmmph."  I had only spent about 10 minutes with him and was already wanting him out.
"I don't really know where to start, Sue."
"How about the beginning.  When and why you left us Chris."
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/1.jpg)


"Ok, I was sitting at the old restaraunt with my buddies having coffee like I always do.  Hero and I were talking about crap just to pass the time.  Jackson walks through door all out of breath and really scared.  He was looking for someone, me.  He came up to me and told me that the three men were back and was looking for me and 2 other guys."
Sue looked a little concerned, "Why in the world would there be three guys looking for you?"
"I was involved with a crime several years ago which involved these three men and two others, Sean and Witherspoon."
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/snapshot_93b0fe79_140fd41e.jpg)

"But Chris, Sean and Witherspoon died two years ago..." My voice trailed off in sheer panic.
"I know, that is why I wanted to distance myself between you and Zach.  I was afraid of what was going to happen to me and I didn't want you guys to be hurt, but I realized I was hurting you two more."
"Yes, Chris, you did very much.  But we'll discuss that later.  In the meantime, tell me what happened."
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/snapshot_93b0fe79_140fd557.jpg)


"OK, several years back before I 'left', Sean, Witherspoon, and I were playing cards at the old filling station.  Three well to do men walked up and asked where the local bank was.  It was very obvious they were out of towners and needed some assistance.  We offered to escort them to the bank and then buy them a drink at the pub.  They gladly took us up on the offer.  Little did we know that we were 'falling' into their plan.  Some days later, Sean told me that the Wilkins Brothers wanted to do some business with us.  I asked him what kind of business but he didn't know.  We were to meet them at the Courthouse around 9 the next morning."
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/snapshot_93b0fe79_140fd2b2.jpg)


"I remember that day.  You told me that you had some business to take care of and didn't know when you would be back."
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/snapshot_93b0fe79_140fd557.jpg)


"Yes, that's the day.  Anyway, we met the brothers and they wanted us to deposit a check in our bank accounts.  We didn't think much about it and they said that we would get a percentage of the income.  We questioned them about what kind of income and they told us that it was strict business and we just needed to wait for further instruction.  They seemed nice enough and law abiding citizens so we did the deposits.  However, unbeknownst to us, they were using these checks somehow to gain administration rights to OUR money and was making large withdrawals from us and others in the bank.  Luckily for us, we had joint accounts so we had your money to pay bills and what not.  Anyway, when we realized that we had been swindled, we confronted the Brothers.  They acted surprised at what we were saying and replied that we agreed to join in their business.  They told us that with business you give a little to get a little.  Witherspoon asked them what we were getting in return and they told us that we would keep on breathing.  Then their attitudes changed and told us that if we blew their cover then we would be picked off one by one by 'accidents'.  Well that scared the Hell out of us and we didn't know what to do.  I decided to keep quiet because I did not want either of you involved in this and I sure didn't want you guys hurt or worse."
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/snapshot_93b0fe79_140fd41e.jpg)


"Chris, My God, why didn't you tell me about any of this?  We could have worked something out.  We would have found a way to tell the police about it somehow.  We knew all the police here in town.  Surely we could have told them in way that the "Brothers" wouldn't have found out."
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/1.jpg)


"Sue, don't you think I wanted to?  I was scared for my life, yours and Zach's.  I didn't want you guys to fall into the big mistake that I did.  It wasn't worth losing you both.  I loved you even though I didn't show it."
"Well, that you didn't.  Did you not trust me to help you?"
"It wasn't you I didn't trust, it was those men.  Somehow they found out things that happened in the community.  I believe they had 'others' helping them that lived in the community.  Why else would they know to come here?"
"You believe?  You mean this is not over?"
"Well, for the most part it is.  You remember how Witherspoon and Sean died?"
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/snapshot_93b0fe79_340fd3e3.jpg)

"Vaguely.  The newspaper article read that they died from natural causes.  They were found at the filling station playing cards, but there was no form of foul play or any of the sort."
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/snapshot_93b0fe79_140fd515.jpg)


"Well, they did die of a somewhat natural cause but not what you think. Witherspoon had a bad heart and Sean was just diagnosed with diabetes.  But somehow the Brothers got wind of these ailments.  Witherspoon and Sean told some close friends of theirs about the goings on and then somehow it was reported to the Sheriff.  One of the Brothers was slowly causing Witherspoon's heart to worsen--tampering with his prescriptions, I believe and basically doing the same for Sean.  The coroner report stated that there were high levels of glucose in Sean's blood which caused him to immediately go into a diabetic coma which ultimately led to his death.  Witherspoon had a number of meetings with one of the brothers which resulted in him getting extremely upset causing him to take numerous nitroglycerin pills to steady his heart or whatever it was supposed to do.  Anyway, the coroner report for him stated that there was a chemical found in his blood that caused his heart to overwork thus leading to his deadly heart attack.  No one suspected anything because the coroner's reports were kept hush-hush...."
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/snapshot_93b0fe79_b40d8b2c.jpg)


"Ok, stop.  I don't want to hear anymore about them.  What about you and why did you leave?"
"Apparantly, the Brothers were afraid that I would talk.  They knew that I hadn't and they were going to keep it that way.  They knew that I had a family and used you and Zach against me.  They told me that if I did not do as they said you two would die in front of me.  They instructed me to leave on a "business trip" and not to leave word to anyone.  I would return in about two weeks and that everything would be fine and they would leave, never to return again.  But somehow I didn't believe this.  I didn't really know who I could trust, but I knew that I had to get word to you to at least give some explanation of why I left.  That's why I left my favorite shirt and book with the letter in it.  I knew that would not expain anything, but I was hoping that after reading the letter that you guys would be angry enough to forget about me."
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/snapshot_93b0fe79_740fdb88.jpg)

With those words, he broke down.  Tears that had been in the making for a long time finally fell.  I could tell it was hard for him to say those words, yet it was like a relief as
well.  I held him in my arms and cradled him as if he were a child crying with a skinned knee.
**********************************
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/story48.jpg)

Almost speechless, I managed to squeek out, "Wow that must have been Hell to go through.  But still, didn't he love us enough to tell us those things?  Why did he stay gone for so long?  Did he forget about us and hoped we had forgot about him?  I guess I can see why he ran off, but why did he have to stay as long as he did?"
"Well, Zach, I can't really answer those questions for you...."
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/snapshot_93b0fe79_b40fe302.jpg)

"No, son, she can't.  But I can."

****************
I hope you enjoyed this chapter.

it's wonderful!!! where did u get the clothes for your little baby Josiah????
keep updating.

Hi Nikki.  THanks for the compliment and reading.  I got the clothes for Josiah from MTS2 website.  I can't really remember which download it was but there were a few.  The only thing is that you have several options for clothes, but you can only use one at a time.  You can download several and put them in a separate folder.  This download is a hack, so both sexes of babies will wear the same outfit.


Chapter 6 was solely written at my computer as I posted it.  I wrote out the first 5 chapters with only a few changes as I typed them out.  This last one was completely made up as I took the pictures in my game.  Actually I had only written 7 chapters for this story, but the way it has turned out, there might be more or less.  I'm not really sure yet.  I guess the story will play itself out as I type.

Thanks for the reading and supporting.

Thanks Cynthia!! do you know what i have to search to find it???

nikki.g xxx

This chapter is quite lengthy, with less pictures but lots of writing.
*************

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/A.jpg)

"O.K., dad.  Please tell me what kept you from us all these years.  I know why you left, but why did you have to stay so long.  What happened?"

"Well, I went with the Brothers for the two week "business trip" in hopes that if I cooperated with them, they would let me go.  I don't know why I thought they would keep their word, but I had to trust them.  I didn't want to chance them hurting you and your mother.  I loved you guys too much. I know that I didn't show it alot, but I was just an ass hole who didn't see the fortune I had right in front of me.  Anyway, we traveled to this town.  I was blindfolded because they did not want me to know my way there so I could escape.  We traveled most of the day because when I was finally able to see it was dusk.  They put me in this building type structure that was more like a jail cell without bars.  It had thick concrete walls and an old bed where the matress was only a tattered foam sheet with pieces torn out as big as your hand in most places.  I looked around the room and saw dried blood on the wall and floor in one corner and in another corner there were bullets lodged in the wall.  I was scared...no I was petrified.  I knew these cats meant business and I also knew that if I valued my life at all, I would do what was asked of me.  The only way I knew the days was I would count the sunsets from the first evening I was there."
"Wow, dad, I guess they didn't house you in the Hilton did they?"
"No I suppose not.  Maybe a better name would be the HELLton."
"What work did they want you to do?"

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/C.jpg)

"The first morning and several after, they wanted me to do what I did here at home.  They gave me a sum of money and open a bank account in the banks in the nearest town.  I was really reluctant, but I did as they said to do.  One night after I was dismissed to my "quarters" a man came into my room and gave me a good beat down and told me that was insurance not to go running my mouth about anything.  I know that he broke a couple of ribs and two fingers on my left hand but I dared not complain or even show any pain around them.  I managed to use some of the tattered sheet to bind my ribs until I felt they were well.  My hand I just babied until I could use it again."
"My word, dad.  That must have been a little difficult to deal with."
"Yeah it was, but not as difficult as coming here today to see you for the first time in nearly 20 years."
"Yes, well, it was hard for us too.  I had a love/hate attitude toward you, dad.  I loved you because you were my father, but I hated you for what you did to us."
"Son, I am so sorry for what I did.  I want you to realize that I left because I loved you and I didn't want anything to happen to you.  I felt I had no choice."
"Well, you are here now, so tell me how you managed to escape."
"Let's walk around a bit.  I'm getting old and just standing makes my bones hurt."
"We could sit down you know."
"I know, but there's so much to say I don't feel like sitting."
Zach shrugs his shoulders, "Suit yourself, we can walk around the house.  I'm surprised there's not a rut around it because I walk when I get stressed."
Chris chuckled.
"Dad I believe that is the first time I have heard you laugh if not the very first, then the first in a long time."
Chris laughed and put his hand on Zach's shoulder, "You haven't heard anything from me in a long time."
Zach just looked at Chris--not laughing.
"Sorry, I meant that as a joke.  I guess not a very good one."
"Nope, not really."  Zach although saying that, did have half a grin on his face, then holding it no longer, laughed which made Chris laugh even harder.
"Let's walk."

While Chris and Zach were making their way around the pond, someone was walking past the house....

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/E.jpg)

"Well, now, this looks like the place.  I wonder if he came here...Wait, I hear voices.  I guess I need to get out of here for now..."

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/G.jpg)

"O.k., what happened after your two weeks of playing the bank bandit." Zach smirked and Chris smiled.
"It was the morning after my fourteenth day and I confronted the Brothers about leaving.  They told me that I had done my time with them and I was free to leave.  They gave me ten lousy bucks and told me to head out.  Well, I didn't know where to head to.  I questioned them and they told me that was my problem and I would have to find the way.  So I headed out not really knowing where I was going.  I just prayed that my sense of direction and determination would get me back.  I started out on my journey and found that it would be alot harder than what I thought.  I also learned that you can't buy much for ten bucks.  I walked until dark and suddenly realized that I was being followed, but I couldn't see anyone but I just had the feeling.  I decided to duck into the nearest station and get a light supper and seek shelter for the night.  After filling my gullet, I sought shelter.  I found this abandoned shed and decided to sleep there.  Before I fell asleep, I saw the outline of a familiar person.  I guess I was half asleep and I called out your name in hopes that I was close to home and it was you, but the voice that spoke back was not you it was one of the Brothers coming to shut me up permanently."
"Oh my god, dad, what happened?"
"We fought for a good bit.  I was fighting with all my might.  Anything I could find, I used it as a weapon.  I even used an old broom--just the bristles, no handle--I "swept" his face and poked the straw into his eyes, but that didn't even phase him.  He just kept coming.  Finally, I found an old two by four that had been busted.  I broke it in half and used the splinered end to end this battle, as I stabbed him in the stomach, he used something metal and whacked me in the head.  Before I passed out, I saw him stagger back and fall with the wood stuck in his stomach.  As he fell I heard running so I was sure that there would be more to come."
"So, you killed one of the brothers.  One down two more to go, right."
"That's what I thought, too.  I didn't know how long I had been out, but when I came enough to my senses despite the searing pain in my head, I knew I had to get outta dodge.  So I walked by day and hid out well before it got dark.  I was very paranoid that someone was after me which I knew there was.  To make a long story shorter.  I ended up staying a little town about fifty miles south of here and disguising myself and changing my name just to keep safe.  I knew where I was and that I wasn't too far from home, but I feared for my life as well as yours and Sue's.  One night, I was coming home from my job as a security guard when I had the sinking feeling that I was being followed.  I hurriedly got home and call the police.  I had discussed the past goings on with an old police friend of mine and he reported it to the local yocals and told them if I called that it would be a life threatening emergency.  This had occurred about five or six years after I left and my first attack.  I sat and waited for the police to arrive.  While I tried to calm my nerves with a cup of java, I heard a blood curdling scream.  I dropped my cup of coffee which spilled all over the couch and shattered into a million pieces on the floor.  I ran outside not thinking, just wanting to help whomever was being hurt or whatever.  Before I made it to the road, a man stood in front of me laughing and holding a tape recorder.  I stood there frozen.  I knew I couldn't make a move or else he would attack.  He dropped the recorder and without skipping a beat pulled out a shotgun and put his finger on the trigger.  About that time the police pulled up and I swear they got out of their cars before they come to a complete stop.  I heard a shot and then another and then I felt pain in my right arm.  The man had been shot, but simultaneously pulled his trigger as a reflex.  Luckily I jumped out of the way, but did get a few shots in my arm.  Luckily, it wasn't a full choked shotgun or else I would have been killed.  The police took me to the hospital to get patched up and I was home by morning.  I stayed at home for a while despite the need for money.  I began watching the news earnestly every time it was on in hopes that the third brother had been found.  Finally after about 6 months of being shot, I heard through the grape vine that the third brother supposedly had been shot.  I waited another couple of years to make sure it was completely safe and when I didn't hear or see anyone from my horrific past that is when I contacted your mother.  And as they say, the rest is history."
"Wow, dad.  You were filled with some determination to get back to us.  You could have given up a long time ago or even stayed with the brothers and none of this would have happened to you."
"Son, I had determination and an undying love for your mother and you.  I wanted to get back to you both to make sure that you were alright."

 (http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/I.jpg)

"Zach, would you like a cup of coffee?  I could fancy one myself."
"Sure, dad, that would be great.  I'll go in and start a pot."
"No, I'll go.  I need to check in with your mother to let her know that you didn't beat me down or anything." With that he winked and headed toward the door......but suddenly
[size=18]BANG[/size]

The sound of a gun rang through the air
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/H.jpg)

"Oh my God, DAD!!"

Chris had been hit in the chest by the shooter's bullet.  Neither Chris nor Zach had seen the driver much less the car that sped past them.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/gunshotdad.jpg)

Zach ran into the house and breathlessly called out for his family,
"Mom, Selah, Dad has been shot!"

**********
Enjoy!  The next chapter will be the final chapter.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/F.jpg)

I watched as the ambulance took my dad away to the hospital.  I was filled with so much mixed emotions.  I finally had a chance to talk with my dad and find out what happened all those years.  I forgave him, but I didn't get a chance to tell him.  I can't believe that he was shot right here at my home.  It was not fair.  I finally got him back and then pose a good chance of losing him...forever.   Mom and Selah hollered at me through the door and said that a sitter was coming to watch Josiah and that we were going to the hospital as soon as she arrived.

*********

We arrived at the hospital and the nurse told us that he was rushed into to surgery.  We waited for what seemed like an eternity until Dr. James came out into the waiting room.

"Mrs. Montgomery, your husband is in stable condition.  The bullet just missed his heart by about an inch or two.  It did cause one of his lungs to collapse and reparable damage to the muscles around it.  He is on oxygen for now to help with his lung.  He is in recovery for now but he will be moved to ICU within a couple of hours.  You may go in now for a few minutes, but he will not know that you are there.  Although he will be very sore and out of sorts for awhile, he is planned to make a full recovery."

With that news, I just broke down and cried.  Mom and I held each other.  We decided not to go in the recovery room so that dad could get some rest. While we waited, Selah got a phone call from the sitter stating that she had an emergency and had to leave.  Sel was reluctant about leaving but I told her that dad was doing better and that if anything changed I would let her know.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/EE.jpg)

About an hour after Selah left, Dr.  James told us that dad was in a room in ICU and that we could see him.

"Zach, your dad was lucky.  If the shooter had been aiming just a couple of inches to the right, he wouldn't be here now."
"Rick, dad has been lucky ever since he has been gone.  One of these days, I want you to hear him talk about his ordeal.  He's been through hell and back and now this happened...."  I couldn't finish my sentence.  My throat tightened up.
Dr. James put his hand on my shoulder and gave it a light squeeze.  
"You know, Rick, I've been sitting here thinking.  True dad has been lucky because he is here despite all he went through, but I'm really the lucky one because he went through all that crap because of me and mom.  I thought that he hated me and that's why he was gone for so long, but it wasn't.  He was gone to keep mom and me safe from harm and yet he still was nearly killed right in front of me.  If I ever get my hands on whoever did this, I'll...." My cellphone rang and interrupted my thought.
"Zach, hey, I just heard on the news that a man was picked up for reckless driving in town.  While the police were searching his car for alcohol or drugs, they found a gun.  They believe they got the man who shot Chris.  The man was questioned to who he was and he replied, "I'm the last of us."  Do you know what that means?"
"Yes, Selah, I believe I do.  I'll explain it all later, or rather I'll have dad explain it when he's up to it."
Hmm...the last of us?  He must be the last Brother who was supposedly arrested.  Well he IS arrested now.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/FF.jpg)

Dr.  James was talking with mom when dad started stirring.  He was still out of it but he was mumbling something under his breath.  We couldn't make out what he was saying and we decided that he was dreaming.  
"I want to keep an eye on him for a while.  If he is dreaming, he could get upset in his dreams and cause his heart to race.  Why don't you two go get some coffee and we will let you know when he wakes up."
Mom wasn't willing to leave, but I told her I needed to talk to her anyway and so I guided her out of the room.
"What is it Zach, something wrong with the baby?"
"No, Jo is fine.  Selah told me that the police may have dad's shooter in custody."
"Oh Zach, that is wonderful."  With that news she grabbed me around the neck and liked to squeeze the breath right out of my body.
"I'm sure glad we are at a hospital, mom." I half gasped and chuckled at the same time.  Mom laughed and so did I.

***************

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/HH.jpg)

Several days passed and dad was sitting up and talking.  He was finally off the oxygen which he fussed about all the time.
"Let me get this straight, Zach, the police found Alexander?  He was the last brother.  I thought that he was arrested or killed or something."
"Yep, I watched the news last night and it was him.  They had a big report on the 11 action news with all the Brothers and said that he was in jail for robbery, at least 5 counts of murder, numerous assaults, and three counts of attempted murder."
"Well, now, I guess it is finally over."
About that time the Doc came in and said that if dad was ready to go home the hospital was tired of him and ready to leave.  We all laughed.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/JJ.jpg)

"Why do I have to be in this dadblasted chair.  I can walk perfectly well."
"Dad, hospital protocol states that you leave in a wheelchair.  I guess they want to make sure that you don't fall and break a leg or something and have to spend more time here." I had a big smile on my face which made everyone laugh including dad.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/BB.jpg)

Several weeks later, we went to the jail so dad could make a positive identification on Alexander.
"Chris, do you feel up to seeing Mr. Franks?"
"Yessir, I believe I am."

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/CC.jpg)

Dad looked into the eyes of one of the men that caused him so much pain and suffering.
"Alexander, I want you to know that you have not broken my spirit.  You and your brothers hurt me physically, mentally, and emotionally.  You have caused pain for my family for over nineteen years, but I am here to say that you will no longer cause anyone anymore pain.  You did not win your little game.  I am leaving this place while you sit in your little jail cell and think about all the lives that you have broken and destroyed all for the greed of money and fortune.  I want you to take a good long look at this face because you will never see it again."  
With that, dad walked away.  About a year later the man was found guilty for all charges and later executed for the pain he had caused.
*********************
2 Years Later

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/R.jpg)

We sat at our kitchen table discussing Josiah's birthday coming up.  Dad was all excited.  He wanted to buy him a pony and everything else that he could think of.
"Dad, Jo will be five.  He's not old enough for a pony and besides we don't have any room for one."
"I guess not.  But, Zach, there is not one day that I done right by you and I want to make sure that my grand son is spoiled rotten."
"Dad, what are you talking about?  You saved me and mom from God knows what and you endured our pain.  I believe you did very right by me.  Although I didn't know it at the time, but you loved me as I loved you."

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/Q.jpg)

Dad got up and I thought he was going to leave the room so I got up to stop him.  He grabbed me around the neck and held on tight.
"Son, I am so sorry for everything.  I love you so much."
"Dad, I forgive you and I love you too."
We held each other and cried.


(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/X.jpg)

The day came for Josiah's big day.  We were all there cheering him on as Mommy helped him blow out his candles.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/Y.jpg)

He grew up into such a handsome young man.  We had so much to be thankful for.  The doctor had given dad a clean bill of health.  Dad and I had as close a relationship as any father and son would want.

(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/N.jpg)

Dad picked up Josiah and hugged him tight.
"Jo, I want to tell you something.  I love you and so does your daddy.  You mean the world to me and your daddy.  When things go wrong, don't be afraid to go to your daddy.  He loves you and wants to help whenever and whatever."  With that he kisses Josiah on the forhead and puts him down to go play.
"Zach, you are a good father.  I'm glad you didn't take after me."
"Well, in some degrees I did, dad.  I would do anything for my son and wife even if it meant being separated from them for a long time.  My dad didn't do too bad himself--AFTER I learned why.  I love ya, dad."
"I love you too, son."

*************
Seven Years later
(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m168/cyn_fite/Z.jpg)

It has been three years since dad died and one since mom died.  It was really hard for all of us to lose them.  We slowly got on with our lives.  Selah came up to me the other night,
"Zach, we need to go to town tomorrow and buy paint."  
"Paint, since when do you paint?"
"Well, I was thinking about a fresh coat of paint for the nursery..."
"NURSERY?!?  When....how...?"
"Well, I found out on Monday and how?  Now honey, we already have one child, if you don't know how then...."
We both laughed, hugged, and cried.
We told Josiah and he was ecstatic.

I guess my life turned out to be pretty great after all.  I made an amends with my father and spent several great years with him.  I am proud of who I became.  His undying love and devotion for his family is one that I strive to have for my own family.

AW! I'm so happy for them having another baby. Dangit, you should show it to us! I hope it's a girl.

Simfreakkristen:  When I play the family and the baby is born, I will post her/him on this site.  Right now I'm planning a new story which will be a bit more complex--taking many more pictures with a lot more characters.  I also have an after story party if anyone is interested in this mini chapter.  Just let me know.  

Thanks for all the feed back and comments.  I really appreciate it.  It's been really fun writing my first story and am excited for more to come.