by Mimi Barbour
She interrupted his musing. “Don’t talk about it if you don’t wish to. I didn’t mean to pry.” Her hand patted his clenched fingers and then cradled them.
“It’s okay, honey. I intended to share it all with you sooner or later. To make a long story short, my father passed away when I turned twenty-two, and he left me quite a large sum of money. My parents still lived here then, in the Lower East Side. After raising three kids—I was the fourth—they were pretty lax about rules with me. But by then I wasn’t a kid anymore. Unfortunately, I had no direction, no goals, and aimlessly hung out with my friends, working at odd jobs now and again. After I came into the money, it kinda went to my head.”
“Can I ask what you did with it? What happened?”
“Just before he passed, I’d gotten dumped by my girlfriend at the university. I cared about her, so that soured me on girls, on life, and even on school. I quit and got myself into a lot of trouble is what happened. Picture it—a big-shot kid with too much money and too little brains. I partied and did all the stuff that any knucklehead would do. For months I lived the high life, and I mean that literally. What a waste of skin I was in those days.”
“You were young and stupid. There’s no law against that.”
“Yeah, well, there is a law against using drugs. There is a law against speeding around in fast cars. And there oughtta be one against the users that hit on me and encouraged the runaway madness.”
“I wish I’d known you then.”
“You wouldn’t have liked me.”
“I’d have cared enough to help you.”
“You just answered your own question—about why I wanted a career helping street kids. Because I care! I know how it feels to be out of control, to be scared enough to take the next hit, and to hate myself for where I was going to end up afterward.”
“Oh, Tyler, you’re breaking my heart.” She kissed his cheek and turned his face so he could see the love for him spilling from her eyes. “What did you do?”
“Well, first I thanked God that no one got hurt from any of my stunts. I accepted that my disgusting habits weren’t a terminal illness but a curable sickness. And then I changed. I sought counseling from an uncle who worked here in Manhattan. He was a social worker who’d spent all his time with the street kids. I went to his office one day for my appointment, and he introduced me to a group of five messed-up posers. All were part of his caseload. Most of them were out-and-out bottom-feeders, but one was incredibly smart. He had the clear eyes of a dreamer, not the hazy eyes of hopelessness.”
“You connected to him?”
“Big time! I felt his pain, and it woke something inside me. Frustration over his sad future had soured him, and it was then I appreciated what all that money could do.”
Her hand gently rubbed his chest as he talked. Pride lit her face. “Tell me.” Her voice murmured the words to keep their circle of warmth from flowing too far beyond them.
“First I signed up to go back to school. Then, with my uncle’s help, we established a foundation called Scholarships for the Streets. It’s a simple premise. The criteria—for the kids to be able to apply—is that they have to have been registered in the welfare system at some point. It’s the number one rule, and number two is that in the future they have to pay it forward. Seems when money is freely given it’s not appreciated as much as when it’s earned. I can attest to that myself. And so our foundation has a program where once the individual has finished his education, and has established himself, he will then apply to help someone else. Not only with money, because it’s not just about the money, but with his or her time.”
“I haven’t heard about the foundation. Is it kept low-key on purpose?”
“Not really. We don’t publicize because the word on the street telegraphs it straight to the kids it can affect. We’ve helped a lot over the last seven years. Dominic is one of our successes, and he took seriously his pledge to pass it forward when he spoke to Lea that night.”
“You must be so proud, Tyler. What a wonderful idea.”
“It wasn’t mine, I have to be honest. My uncle was instrumental in setting up the bulk of the rules and conditions. His wisdom about the streets and with the kids proved invaluable.”
“Is he still working, or has he retired?”
“Actually, he’s dead. Killed by some punks strung out on crystal meth. He was trying to coax them out of a basement suite the landlord wanted cleared. The owner of the building, fed up from too many complaints, called my uncle to come and talk them into moving out or he’d call the police. The guy was trying to cut the kids a break—mistakenly, as it turned out. The two boys, both only sixteen, had guns and a stash of product to protect. My uncle posed a threat to them, so they shot him. The police, furious, pursued them for days, not letting up until they had them in custody. I guess my uncle was a favorite with the department, too.”
“What a horrible waste. I’m so sorry, Tyler.”
“Yeah, me too. Hundreds came to his funeral, many of them under twenty, and they sincerely grieved for him. A legacy any man would be proud of. I was still in university when it all went down. My one regret is that I didn’t get to work under him. To learn from his skillful way of judging character, and his utter clarity in believing in everyone’s right to a good life.”
“Well, I believe some people are naturals and don’t need to be taught. People like you, and your uncle. Kids may be cunning and smart, at least street smart, but that also works to help them cut through all the crap and recognize authentic from bull. You are your uncle—the real deal, Tyler, and they know it. They trust you because they feel your compassion.”
“They feel yours, too, Annie. That’s why I’ve never hesitated to bring anyone to you. Your heart is huge, and when the girls leave you they invariably come to me afterward to say how much they respect you and want to be like you.”
“I’m so ashamed, Tyler. For such a long time I disliked who I was and hated my life. It took a tragedy to wake me up to see how lucky I am. I don’t wish to spoil our evening, but remind me tomorrow to describe the day I had today. I need to share it all with you, every part.”
“I’m listening, if you care to explain now. We can tell the cabbie to drive around.”
“No, it’ll keep. We’re already at Dominic’s, and you know what? There’s no room in tonight’s pleasure for sadness or regret. All I care about is that Lea is safe, and Dominic wants us to help him celebrate.”
Chapter Twenty-Five
Arriving at the crowded, noisy café, Annie and Tyler were quickly surrounded and absorbed into the laughing group. Their obvious happiness, a flare to the ones who knew them personally, lifted everyone’s mood higher. The music, played by a mediocre neighborhood band, blasted through the balloon-decorated room, and many couples took to the floor.
Annie excused herself to go and find Dominic and Lea, who were secluded in the kitchen. As she swung the door open, the two young people jumped apart, guilty smiles on their faces.
“Hi, you two. Tyler and I just arrived, and we’re getting into the swing. Nice party, Dom. Thanks for inviting us. And Lea, I can’t tell you how ecstatic I am about your news, and the way everything’s turned out. I have to admit you had me worried when we didn’t hear anything. On the other hand, I’m so happy to see you, sweetheart, that I won’t give you heck for not letting us know sooner that you were okay.”
She walked toward Lea with globby eyes and her arms open wide, inviting the teen in. Lea rushed to Annie to get her hug. The difference between the sullen, dirty girl of a short while ago and the glowing, pretty girl of tonight was staggering, and Annie, overcome with emotion, had a hard time to keep it in control.
As they embraced, Annie stroked the softly flowing hair, noting the pretty butterfly hairclips used to lift the mass away from Lea’s animated face. Her crisp white, tucked-in shirt emphasized the lean waist that Annie hugged, and Lea’s fragility brought out every protective cell in her mentor. Annie sent up a pray
er of thankfulness that she was able to hold this precious girl—this precious living girl.
“Annie, I’m so sorry about your apartment. Dominic was telling me you thought maybe Doug had broken in.”
“It might have been him, but no one is sure, so let’s forget about it for tonight. We don’t want anything to spoil the festivities. I’m so happy you’re here safe with Dom.”
Dominic patted both shoulders before he beat a hasty retreat and left them to their affectionate displays and their girlish jabbering.
“Annie, I’m sorry I worried you. That night, after I took off, I didn’t know what to do at first, until I thought seriously about Dominic’s offer. I’m still terrified that Doug will find out where I am and come looking for me. Some days I can’t breathe for fear he’ll hurt Dom or you or even Tyler. I wouldn’t put it past him. He’s sick, Annie, sick in his soul, and he’s so strung out on drugs that he doesn’t care what he’s doing half the time.”
“Just stay close to Dominic, and call Tyler or me if you need help. Where are you living? Tyler said something about upstairs here.”
“I’ve been staying with Dom on his couch and coming down to work with him in the kitchen each day. He’s been super-nice to me, Annie.”
“Honey, that isn’t hard to do. You’re a sweet person.”
“Says you! No one else in my life has ever worried about me like that. I’m not sure how to deal with you caring so much, but it makes me wanna be the person you think I can be.” She rested her cheek on Annie’s hair and squeezed Annie’s smaller body tightly.
The tears in the teen’s eyes could be heard in her wobbly voice. Annie was touched beyond anything she’d ever known. Being held in such respect made her feel humble.
“Lea, look at me.” She moved a step back from the girl and took her hands to hold. “I love you, and I care about what happens to you. I was born as a single child, to older parents, and I never knew what it would be like to have a sister, except in my imagination. I always felt sort of cheated, because I think having another girl as family must be wonderful. So would you like to be my adopted baby sister?”
Lea’s eyes grew big and shone with gladness. “A sister? You know what? I used to lay awake at night and wish I had one to talk to and confide in, someone to look after and care for. Annie, I’d love to be your family. Except, I’m not sure I know how.”
“We’ll just figure it out as we go along. It’s settled then. From this day on, we’re family. Never think of me again as just a friend, think of me as someone who belongs to you, and I’ll think of you in the same way.”
Adoration lit the teen’s face, and she bobbed her head up and down repeatedly, too overcome to speak. Gulping and blinking, she grasped Annie’s hands tightly. Her top teeth bit down on her bottom lip to stem her transparent emotions and stop the lip from wobbling. Finally, she got herself under control, and she spoke as if taking a vow.
“I love you too, Annie, and I’ll forever be there for you when you need me. I promise.” While she talked, and with every word she spoke, Lea’s gripping hands tugged and added pressure until she was white-knuckling Annie to the point of pain. They hugged again, both silently committing.
When the back door of the restaurant blasted open, they jumped apart at the noise, both heads twisting to see the cause of such a ruckus. Doug and two of his buddies swaggered into the kitchen.
“Now ain’t that sweet, boys? Two lessies getting it on.”
Annie stepped in front of Lea and demanded, “What the hell are you doing here? Get out!”
“Whaddaya think? I’ve come for my girl. Lea, you dumb bitch, you’ve had your fun, now let’s go.” He leaned past Annie, and jerked his thumb at the girl, seething with disgusting arrogance, expecting her instant obedience.
Even if Lea intended to obey, Annie stood fast in front of her and had no intention of moving any time soon.
“She isn’t going anywhere with you, creep.” Annie’s arm went around behind her, a protective barrier, keeping Lea in the safe zone behind her body.
“Listen you, Miss Big-Shot, Nosey-Parker, I’ve had about enough out of you. She’s mine, and she’s coming home with me where she belongs.”
He reached behind him to the waist of his jeans, and a gun appeared in his hand. He held it down by his side, but the threat was blatant.
Before Annie could stop her, Lea pushed forward to stand next to him and played the best role she ever had. “Hey, Annie, back off. We’re cool. He’s totally boss. I told you I’d had enough of this place, but you wouldn’t listen to me. I belong with Doug.”
She slid alongside him, in front of his gun hand, and wound her arm over his shoulder.
“Doug, she’s lying.” Annie had to make him see reason. “She doesn’t want to go back with you. Let her have her chance at a decent life. She’ll have that if she stays. Please! Don’t force her to be your slut, because we both know, with you, it’s what she’ll end up. Employed here, she can save and get an education, make something of herself. Don’t mess things up for her, if you care about this girl at all.”
“What about me? I care about me. What’s in it for this guy?” He shoved Lea aside and pointed at his chest. “I don’t give a shit about her having the good life.” He smirked, and the slurred words were toned with disgust.
At that moment, Lea turned, grabbed his arm, and bit the fatty part above his wrist as hard as possible. He dropped the gun and screamed. “Shit, woman! Let go.” Then he hauled off and slapped her so hard she ended up spinning across the room until the counter stopped her flight. He started after her.
Alarmed, Annie picked up the weapon and swung around to confront the two bystanders only to see their butts disappearing out the door. Meantime, Doug reached out for Lea’s hair and twisted his hand in the long strands, hauling her to her feet. He stopped when Annie cried out. “You touch her, you bastard, and I’ll shoot you, sure as hell.”
That caught his attention, as Annie had hoped, and he turned threateningly towards her instead. “Give me that, bitch, or I swear you’ll be sorry.” Not believing she’d use the weapon, he dove at Annie, grabbed the pistol, and at the same time pushed her against the island where pots and pans were stacked. They cascaded in a mass to the floor.
At that moment, Tyler burst into the room and saw Doug striking Annie. From the look of fury on his face, nothing in the world could have blocked his dash across the space to tackle the other man. His wild backhand picked the guy off his feet and slammed him against the far wall, where he slid down like slimy, melting grease. Tyler followed him with only one intention, and that was written clearly on his enraged face.
The gun had dropped harmlessly to the floor. Dominic, who’d come in behind Tyler, picked it up and threw it to the people standing at the doorway before he proceeded to pry Tyler off the bloody, beaten, whimpering coward.
“Enough, Ty, amico mio. He’s had enough.” Dominic wrapped his young, strong arms around Tyler. “We’ve called the cops, and they’ll be here soon. Look, Annie needs you. You go with the girls and get them a drink. I’ll handle this rubbish.”
Tyler looked over at Annie and blinked the hate from his eyes. He shook his head and his reddened fists slowly unwound and hung relaxed down by his sides. Lea and Annie both approached him warily and reached out their hands for him to come.
“Honey, we’re okay. Truly! Both Lea and I are fine. Let’s go and get a drink—we’re fine.”
Tyler hauled Annie into his right arm, and snagged Lea with his left, and the three-way hug settled nerves and slowed down heartbeats. Making their way into the front of the restaurant, Annie noticed everyone’s attention riveted on them. Curiosity was rampant. The keyed-up partygoers wanted the rundown on what had happened, but they hesitated to bombard the shaken trio. The hum of excited questioning voices quieted once the three appeared unhurt, and a calmer atmosphere settled over the room.
Standing at the bar, Tyler shakily ran his hands through his hair, and they remained cros
sed behind his head. He forced his breathing to slow down by taking in large amounts of air and holding it in before slowly exhaling. Annie ordered him a cold beer and put it down in front of him. She rubbed his shoulder and waited for his tremors to stop.
“Honey, we’re fine. Just relax. Lea, tell him.”
“Ty, Annie and I will be okay now, thanks to you coming in when you did. That slime attacked us with a gun. The police will have to deal with him now. He’ll go to jail for sure.”
Just then the police siren’s annoying wail ceased as it stopped out front. Two younger officers walked in and instantly took charge.
They made their way into the kitchen, only to reappear shortly escorting a handcuffed Doug. He didn’t look good; his bloody face was swollen, and he couldn’t walk upright. One of the officers, showing little sympathy, forced him outside to the waiting vehicle, while the other stopped to question Dominic.
“Hey, Dom, had a spot of trouble here tonight, I see?”
Since the two officers had enjoyed many free pizzas and bullshitting sessions with Dominic over the last couple of years, it was obvious whose side they were on. “Yeah, Jim. That bad-ass, junkie, piece of shit and two of his poser friends broke into the kitchen and attacked Annie and Lea at gunpoint. The girls are both fine, thank goodness. Tyler happened along just in time to shut him down. Lea said his two buddies took off out the back door like scared rabbits.” Dominic stepped over to the end of the bar where the gun had been left. He flipped it over, passing it to the nearest officer handle first. “You’d better take this with you. And, by the way, we’ll be pressing charges.”
“Great! We’ve been looking for this fellow for a coupla weeks now. Mr. Big-shot’s been up to a lot more mischief than this little party. We’ll be needing a few statements from those involved, and then we’ll leave you to get on with your celebrations.” With a wink, he mumbled, “When our shift’s over in about an hour, we’ll be back to help celebrate.”