Sawyer (Torey Hope: The Later Years #2)

by A. D. Ellis

  When Sawyer nodded, the doctor handed him more water. “Your throat is probably dry, drink this.”

  Dr. Hardin settled in on a rolling stool. “So, your injuries are bad, but could have been much worse. You’ve got a concussion, which is why your head is pounding and you’re dizzy. You received 14 stitches in the gash above your eyebrow. It’s a good bet your nose is broken, but it’s not crooked, so we left it alone other than just packing it. You’ve got 2 broken ribs, those are probably the most painful and will take the longest to heal. Your kidneys are bruised from the kicks you sustained, but we’ve run some tests and they seem to be functioning normally. We checked your spleen, but found no swelling or other issues with it. You’re going to have some black eyes and a busted lip for several days. All in all, you’re in pretty rough shape.” The doctor looked at the stitches, felt around on his abdomen, and handed him more water. “You’ll need to keep drinking so that your kidneys can continue to work and heal.”

  Sawyer sensed there was more the doctor needed to say. “Okay, so what are you not telling me?”

  “Well, based on the type of injuries you came in with, and the fact that your family was pretty sure they knew who did it and why, we ran a rape kit as a standard precaution.”

  Sawyer felt the room shift. “Shit, I think I’m going to be sick.” Closing his eyes, he breathed as deeply as his ribs would allow. “What did you find? I don’t remember that happening, but I know I passed out at one point.”

  “Well, the examination did show recent evidence of anal penetration, but when speaking to your brother privately he was able to tell me that you’d recently had sexual relations. Can you confirm that for me?”

  Swallowing thickly, Sawyer nodded, “Yes, not long before the attack. So, you don’t think I was raped or sexually assaulted?”

  “No, the examination didn’t show any tearing or bruising that would be associated with a violent penetration, so I’m fairly certain you were not raped.” The doctor placed a comforting hand on his knee as Sawyer breathed a deep sigh of relief. “We also did an oral swab to confirm there was nothing forced into your mouth while you were out. That was clear as well.”

  “Your family reports that you’ve seen a therapist in the past, is this correct?” The doctor consulted his notes. “A Dr. Parks?”

  “Yes, I’ve been seeing him for a while now. I’m thinking it may be a good idea to up the appointments to a couple times a week for now, huh?” Sawyer tried a sarcastic smirk, but his busted lip prevented it.

  “Yes, I will contact Dr. Parks and let him know the basic facts of the incident and have his office contact you about getting some appointments set up.” Dr. Hardin checked his notes again. “As long as you’re able to go to the restroom on your own and your kidneys continue to look good, I think you should be able to head home tomorrow afternoon. Do you have any questions for me?”

  Shaking his head slightly, trying to avoid the dizziness, Sawyer closed his eyes. “No, doc, I think I’ve got it all. Whoa, when the meds kick in, they kick in hard. Tell my family they can come in, but make sure they know I’m about to pass out.” Sawyer’s tongue felt thick as he slurred his words to the man.

  Chapter 16

  Sawyer spent most of the next day giving a statement to the police officers who came to speak to him, and trying to get his grandpa to stand down. The man was pissed, as was Sawyer, but he was trying to convince the captain that fighting violence with more violence was not the answer.

  “They beat you up and threatened you, the business, and Luke, Sawyer! They deserve to be punished!” The captain paced the small hospital room.

  “And they will be. The police officers said this appears to be an open and shut hate crime case. My lawyer has already assured me that she will fight for the toughest punishment allowed by law against all three of them. Heck, she even told me that their lawyers don’t hold out much hope; their job now consists of getting them the lightest sentences. There are security cameras all around that park, the police already confirmed that Joe, Ben, and Matt were seen entering that trail and then running back out of the woods about 15 minutes later. I’ve given my statement, I’ve identified all three of them, and they’ve already been arrested. The ring imprint on my face matches Matt’s ring; he squealed like a pig and turned the other two in. I also heard he slipped during the interrogation and basically outed himself when he found out I spoke to the police.”

  The captain was not to be pacified, so Sawyer caught his hand. “Grandpa, I appreciate you wanting to fight back for me, but more than anything, I just need you by my side. I need you to help me heal and stand up to the hatred by coming back strong.”

  When the older man finally relented and nodded his head, Sawyer sighed with relief.

  Later, as the nurse took away his lunch tray and promised to get busy on his discharge papers, Decker and his cousins entered the room and shut the door.

  Zach spoke first, “Man, I’m so sorry. I didn’t even think about you leaving by yourself and not having a way home.”

  “Those fuckers better never darken our doorway again. I won’t lower myself to their level, out of respect for your wishes, but I’ll make sure the entire town of Torey Hope knows just what twat wads they are. I wouldn’t be surprised if all three of them lose their jobs after someone places a few well-meaning phone calls to their places of employment.” Kendrick winked, and Sawyer had to just shake his head.

  “I’m so sorry, Sawyer. I know you said it’s not my fault, but I just feel like I should have heard you sooner, gotten to you quicker.” Decker sat in the chair beside his bed, head in his hands.

  “Deck, don’t feel guilty. I didn’t even think to let your name run through my mind and call out for you until the very end. You probably got there right as they were finishing me off.” Sawyer reached out his hand and held Decker’s in his. “The twin connection comes through once more.” He smiled at his brother.

  Sawyer looked at his twin and cousins. “We’re going to get through this. I will get through this. As long as I have you all on my side, we can do anything. I think a meeting with the town would be best at this point. If I need to step down, I will.” He held up his hand to halt the protests. “If it comes to that, we’ll deal with it then. But, no guilt or hard feelings between us. I want to go home and start feeling better. I won’t let the hatred of a few ruin what I have found with my family and friends.”

  The four men hugged and stepped apart just as Hayden, Katie, and most of the rest of his family entered the room. The next three hours were spent with laughter and love filling his room to bursting. When the nurses finally kicked them out so Sawyer could change into street clothes Decker had brought him, his brother stalled at the door.

  “Hey, Sawyer, I wanted you to know that we thought about calling Luke, but we figured you might want him to see you at home rather in the hospital. I hope that was okay.”

  “Yeah, man, that’s exactly what I would have wanted you to do. Thanks.” Sawyer pulled him into a hug. “I’ll see you at home. There’s no way Mom and Dad are letting me leave here without them giving me a ride and making sure I’m all settled in.”

  The twins laughed, both knowing it was true.

  ***********

  It had been a couple of long, painful weeks, but Sawyer felt he was back to about 100%. He had insisted on only missing a couple days of work, but agreed to take it easy while he was there. Therapy had been going well. He’d long since grown accustomed to overcoming the anger of unfair situations based on his sexuality. There was hatred in the world and he knew he couldn’t control or end it all, but he knew he could work to end the fear, lack of understanding, and hatred in his small town.

  His therapist had him working more now on overcoming his feelings of guilt. He felt guilty that The Center+ was going through some bumpy waters because of him. Although, his therapist was helping him reframe those feelings into “The Center+ is going through a rough time because of the choices and actions of others. I can
’t control those people. I can only control myself, my own actions, and my own feelings. I will accept the support of my family and friends and move on in positive and productive ways.” He wasn’t completely over the guilt, but he was getting there.

  Sitting in the weekly staff meeting, Sawyer knew he was next on the agenda. When Katie finished her part, she turned to him smiling, “And now the stage belongs to Sawyer.”

  The meetings were always fun and relaxed, so Sawyer pretended to bow and blew kisses as the staff clapped for him in jest. He took a position at the head of the long table and cleared his throat.

  “So, most of you have probably heard through the grapevine, but I thought I’d keep you updated on the legal stuff. Matt, Joe, and Ben have all been sentenced to a year in jail for the attack. They’ll serve their time outside of town since Torey Hope’s small jail can’t accommodate them. Last I heard, their families were planning to leave town as well, both to be closer to them and to avoid any problems here. I’d like to think Torey Hope wouldn’t treat their wives and children poorly just because of what those three did, but I can’t control that. Luckily, the evidence against them was fairly damning and they didn’t do themselves any favors during their police interviews. So, I just wanted to say I appreciate all of you letting the law take care of things. I am truly grateful that the judge was able to make a quick decision and get their sentences handed down so we can all move on.”

  Sawyer took a drink and rubbed at the healing scar on his forehead.

  “The next thing I wanted to talk about is that I think we should have the follow-up meeting with the town. I’ve noticed some people being very supportive, but I also think some would feel better if we addressed the situation and put their fears to rest.” Sawyer glanced around the room.

  “I don’t like that we even have to calm fears. Some people are letting their lack of knowledge and predetermined notions about homosexuality play too big a part in their decision making. But, if Sawyer wants a meeting to clear the air, I’m for it.” Decker spoke to the rest of the room and everyone nodded their agreement.

  ***********

  Sawyer nervously waited for the room to fill and the hands on the clock to hit 7:00 p.m. When Decker stepped to the podium and began speaking, Sawyer couldn’t help the feeling of pride and support he felt listening to his brother.

  “Good evening. The Center+ has been around since before I was born. It’s made many changes over the years, and our family is proud to be the owners and managers of this integral part of Torey Hope. We hope that you will agree the changes we’ve implemented over the years have allowed for bigger and better programs and opportunities for you and your families.”

  Taking a sip of water, Decker continued. “In light of the incident that took place a few weeks ago, we’ve decided it would be best to address any concerns you all might have in a public forum so that all questions can be answered. I’m going to hand it over to Ms. Turner so that she can explain our hiring and employment procedures and practices. Kate…” Decker stepped back and allowed Katie to take the podium.

  “As Assistant Manager here at The Center+, I’m proud to be part of an ethically and legally sound business. When we hire any employee, a full criminal history is obtained. We follow every legal hiring procedure to ensure the safety of your families here at The Center+. In accordance with the Illinois Human Rights Act we are prohibited from discriminating against employees on basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, or disability. If we were to deny employment to qualified candidates based on any of these, we could be sued and forced to close down. That doesn’t even begin to get into the Non-Discrimination Laws we are also required, and pleased I might add, to follow. The Center+ prides itself on being a family oriented, fun, safe place where learning and enrichment can be found. We also pride ourselves in being open, fair, and equal to all members and staff.”

  Katie shuffled her notes a bit, and then spoke. “I’m going to hand the stage over to Sawyer here in a moment. Before I do, I’d like to remind you that you’re allowed your opinions and your questions will be answered to the best of our abilities, however, hate speech will not be tolerated and we reserve the right to ask individuals to leave if they are in violation of Illinois Non-Discrimination Laws.”

  She let that statement soak in while gathering her notes and stepping away from the microphone. Walking past Sawyer as he moved to take her place, she leaned in and kissed his cheek, whispering, “If at any moment you feel uncomfortable, just look at me, and I will step in.”

  “I got this, Katie-girl. But, thanks.” Sawyer winked at her and took his place.

  “Good evening, Torey Hope. I’m happy to see so many of you came out tonight either as a show of support for The Center+ or to get your questions and concerns addressed. One of the biggest foundations for hatred and discrimination today is the lack of knowledge about a certain subject. We fear that which we don’t understand; giving knowledge to that lack of understanding takes away the basis of fear. So, I commend those of you seeking knowledge and clarification this evening.”

  Sawyer took a long drink of water and almost choked when the back door of the room swung open and Luke stood watching him. There had never been a better or worse time for the man to return to town. Sawyer fought the urge to rush across the room and gather him in his arms. Heart beating double time, Sawyer took a deep breath and opened things up for questions while forcing his eyes not to follow Luke’s every move.

  Sawyer allowed comments and questions to be shared first in order to gather himself and see if a general theme was present in most of the concerns. He found quickly that the general themes of the fears were worry that he would sway the children who attended The Center+ or that he would basically come on to every man who walked through the doors.

  Forcing himself to take the apprehensions seriously, Sawyer swallowed the laughter and smirk which were threatening. Letting his eyes skim over his brother and cousins, he had to fight harder to stamp down the laughter when he saw Kendrick’s eye roll. Watching Luke intently for a few seconds, he then returned his attention to the crowd.

  “First, I want to offer my sincere promise that I’m not trying to recruit your children. I would never wish for a child to go through the struggles that accompany being gay….just as I would never wish for a child to struggle with diabetes or a learning disability or a physical disability…..being gay is not a choice or a whim. If a child or teen were to come to me and express he or she thought they were gay, I would offer them support just as I would to a child or teen struggling with self-harming or bullying or abuse or suicidal thoughts. I’m not here to press my sexuality upon anyone, but this is who I am, just as if I were a different race or a different religion. I’m here to teach classes and offer training to our students. I can be a role model in several different ways without my sexuality ever being brought into play or questioned. I love what I do, and I’m good at it. I hope that my sexual preference won’t deter you from allowing your child to learn all of the various art forms we offer here at The Center+ just as I would hope you wouldn’t keep your child from enrolling in classes if the instructor was of a different religion or race. As for me hitting on every male client, I’d like to ask if you hit on every member of the opposite sex.”

  When laughter erupted and heads shook in the negative, Sawyer smiled and continued, “Just like I don’t hit on every member of the same sex. We all have different tastes and what we find attractive. I would never hit on someone unless I knew the feelings were reciprocated, and members of The Center+ are firmly on my Do Not Date list.” More laughter erupted, and Sawyer allowed for more questions. When none were presented, he stepped aside for Katie to conclude the meeting.

  Feeling satisfied that he’d said all he could on the subject, Sawyer stepped from the podium and slipped through the side door with one goal in mind, finding Luke.

  ***********

  Storming into the break room
and locking the door behind him, Sawyer forced himself to slow down. His chest heaved, and he saw Luke was breathing just as heavily.

  He crept toward Luke like a lion stalking his prey. When he reached the other man, he was momentarily thrown off when Luke launched himself at him and slammed a kiss against his mouth. Several hot, rough moments later, they surfaced from one of the most memorable kisses in Sawyer’s recollection.

  Clinging to each other, foreheads pressed together, they just stood and absorbed each other.

  Finally speaking, Luke smiled, “That was quite the speech. Seems as if I may have missed quite a bit while I was gone.”

  “You have no idea.” Sawyer smirked.

  Luke gently swept a hand across the fresh scar on Sawyer’s head, and let his hands feather down the yellowing bruises on his face.

  “Want to take me home and tell me about it? I have some things to tell you as well.” Luke presented the invitation casually, but Sawyer knew there was more to it than that.

  Bringing his lips down on Luke’s again, Sawyer savored the taste he’d missed so much. “I’d be glad to take you home. But I think there’s something else I want to do before we talk.” He winked at Luke and they both laughed.

  Walking out of the break room, they passed Decker, Kendrick and Zach.

  “Hey, Sawyer won’t be home tonight, and we likely won’t be in to work tomorrow. If that’s okay with my boss?” Luke smiled at Decker.

  Smiling broadly at Luke and his brother, Decker laughed, “I think I can allow it this time.”