Batteries Not Included
#01 in the Construction Series
by Caillech

It was one of those rare, perfect days in Cascade. A warm breeze was blowing lazily across the city from the Pacific. The cloudless sky was a dazzling shade of cornflower blue. Bayside Park was crowded with adults and children, all eager to shake off the drizzly cold aftershocks of the retreating Pacific Northwest winter.

“Come on, Josh! Hustle, hustle…let’s go! You hit the ball, then you RUN!” Jim Ellison clapped his hands enthusiastically, urging the youth toward first base. Spurred on by the confidence in the voice bellowing its support, Josh flew across first base, narrowly beating out the frantic throw from the player in right field.

“Safe!”

“Yes! All right! I knew you had it in you Josh! Way to go!” Pumping his fist up and down wildly, Jim advanced on the young man and clapped him heartily on the back.

“What’d I tell you, huh? Keep your eye on the ball till you see it meet the bat…then run like all get out.” A huge grin spread across Jim’s face as he watched Josh’s stunned expression.

“I did it! I actually made it to first base! Did you see me, Detective Ellison? It was great.”
After trying unsuccessfully to achieve a hit his last three at-bats, Josh was vibrating with joy at his personal victory.

“All right, guys…let’s call it a day. Gather up the equipment and bring it on in. Soda and snacks in the cooler. Come on…hustle in.” Jim waved all the players in from the field.

After being suckered in to volunteering as coach for an inner city recreational youth baseball league, Jim grudgingly had to admit that he was really enjoying himself. More than a few of these kids had potential, both on the field and off, to better themselves and Jim was making a difference. He’d have to remember to thank Simon for ‘dragging’ him into this.

As he was packing up the last of the bats and balls, Jim caught a slight movement out of the corner of his eye. Glancing up to see what had caught his attention, Jim noticed a long- haired, curly headed youth near the third base line covertly watching the activity on the field. There was something about his stance and furtive stare that spoke to Jim of loneliness and hidden desire.

Motioning Josh over to him, Jim nodded his head in the general direction of the silent spectator. “Ever see that kid before? Do you know who he is? Does he go to your high school?”

Stealing a quick look in the direction indicated, Josh shrugged his shoulders and shook his head. “Don’t know his name. We see him hanging out around the park every now and then. He’s always by himself. He’s usually reading but sometimes he just watches whatever’s going on around him. Not like in a perverted way or anything, I mean…he just seems to like watching people. I know for a fact he doesn’t go to my school. Want me to ask around? See if anybody knows who he is?”

“Nah…it’s okay. Just my detective’s curiosity I guess.” Jim turned to take another look at the kid but he was no longer anywhere in sight. He shook off the strange feeling that tugged at his senses and turned to say good-bye. “Nice hit…we’ll work on it some more next practice. See you tomorrow, Josh.”

Jim packed the cooler and equipment into the back of his pickup. Climbing into the cab, he chanced another look around the park, hoping to catch a glimpse of the kid. Not finding the curly head, he continued his survey making an unconscious visual sweep of the area. Content that all was well he put the truck in gear and pulled out.
 

%%%

Sixteen-year-old Blair Sandburg adjusted the backpack slung over his shoulder and hurried out of the park. //Damn…I shouldn’t have stopped to watch those guys playing ball. Now I’ll be late for Professor Stark’s lecture// He’d been happily looking forward to hearing the guest speaker at the university for over a month. He mentally reviewed the list of questions that he hoped to bombard the professor with if given the chance.

Since starting at Ranier the previous fall, Blair’s life had been a constant blur of classes, work-study, tutoring and an off campus job. The need to prove himself capable of handling all that was being thrown his way was his primary goal. He loved the challenge and excitement of life at the university…the perfect setting for a hyperactive genius.

People-watching at the park in his few moments of spare time was one of the few ‘recreational’ activities the aspiring anthropologist allowed himself. He had always been a square peg, not fitting into the round holes that society deemed acceptable. Under Naomi’s free-spirited guidance, it had never mattered.

Dodging traffic on the busy streets leading to Ranier, he rapidly continued on his way, oblivious to the changes that were soon to take place in his hectic young life.
 

%%%

Jim’s team won their game the next day, thanks in no small part to Josh’s improved batting. Members of the major crimes unit had stopped by to watch and add their enthusiastic support to the youngsters under their best detective’s tutelage. Lingering near the diamond after the game, the detectives took the opportunity to make their presence known. They took advantage of the chance to improve the PD’s community relations by congratulating the players and sharing sodas, jokes and sports related stories.

Simon sauntered up to where Jim was handing out sodas. He noted with some amusement the obvious pride that Jim was displaying. Every player received a pat on the back and a hardy ‘good game’ from “Coach Ellison”. It was hard to believe that this was the same man that had the reputation of being the biggest, baddest hard-ass in all of the Cascade PD. Who would have thought that Jim had a paternal side?

As he got closer Simon noticed that Jim seemed a little distracted. Each time there was a lull in the banter with his players, Jim would look up and steal a quick survey of the surrounding area. It was as if he was expecting, no…hoping… to see someone.

“Hey coach…nice game!” Shaking Jim’s hand, Simon made a sweeping movement with his free hand, encompassing the band of players. “They seem like a great bunch of kids. Looks like my suggestion was a pretty good one; you seem to be enjoying yourself.”

Shrugging his shoulders, Jim accepted the compliment from his captain and friend. “Yeah, thanks…they really are a good bunch. They deserve all the credit. They’ve really worked hard. And…yes, I’ve been having a good time. By the way, thanks for the kick in the butt. This is just what I needed to unwind from that last case.”

It was Simon’s turn to give his shoulders a slight shrug. “Knowing when butts need kicking…yeah, that’s my true calling. That’s why I get paid the big bucks.” They both chuckled softly at Simon’s wry observation.

Being undercover for four days earlier in the month had left Jim tense and uneasy. He had spent the time alone in an isolated spot outside of Cascade, staking out the suspected delivery point of an illegal arms shipment. As it turned out, the old hunting cabin was a false lead and Jim was called in when the real deal went down.

Ever since his return, Jim had been surly and next to impossible to work with. He complained of strange experiences with his senses. Lights were too bright, the noise in the bullpen at intolerable levels, food tasting and smelling weird, clothes scratchy and uncomfortable. At his boss’s insistence he had seen several doctors, none of whom were able to offer any medical reason for the odd sensations. Simon had suggested the volunteer coaching position as a last resort after Jim refused to see the department shrink.

Apparently it had done the trick. The distraction of being responsible for this small band of his city’s younger members had allowed his senses to slowly return to tolerable levels.

Noticing once again that Jim’s gaze was drifting away Simon decided to find out what was diverting Jim’s attention.

“Did one of your players not show up?”

“Huh?” Jim seemed not to realize that he had once again been searching for a sign of the kid from the previous day.

“You keep looking around like you’re expecting somebody to show up. I just thought maybe one of the kids didn’t make it. Are you worried about one of them?”

Jim turned back to face his friend. “No, it’s just that there was this kid here yesterday watching us. Something about him aroused my curiosity. I can’t explain it. I was kind of hoping he’d show up again. I’d like to talk to him. It’s nothing.”

Simon wasn’t sure he bought the explanation but there didn’t seem to be any reason to pursue it. As things broke up and everyone started heading their own ways, he couldn’t help but notice that once again Jim had scanned the area before climbing into his truck and driving off.
 

%%%

Things were crazy and getting out of hand. There didn’t seem to ever be enough hours in the day for all that Blair had to finish up before the semester ended. That was why he didn’t understand why it was that he found himself back at the park a few days later, once again watching the young ball players. They were all pretty close to his own age and he found himself wondering what it would be like to trade places with one of them, if only for a short while. As quickly as the notion occurred to him, he dismissed it. // No time, Sandburg, no time at all. You’ve got plenty to keep yourself busy without trying to make time for games.//

A loud shout of “Heads up!” pulled his attention back to the activity on the ball diamond just in time to see a hard hit ball sailing his way. The ball hit the ground with a soft thud a few feet from where he stood.

Anxious shouts of “Throw it in! Come on…throw it in!” were hurled his way as he noticed one of the players racing toward third base, obviously headed for home confident that he could beat any throw from the outfield.

Bouncing on the balls of his feet, Blair found himself caught up in the excitement of the event unfolding in front of him. Without conscious thought he picked up the baseball and lazily tossed it up and down several times, assessing how to make the play. Realizing that the ‘cut-off man’ wouldn’t be ready in time for the throw, he ignored the player’s wild arm motions and taking aim, let the ball fly directly toward home plate.

It took a minute for Jim’s brain to register the fact that the player in right field was the kid he’d been keeping a lookout for during the past few days. He watched in amazement as the kid let loose and the ball hurtled with accuracy, not to the infielder dancing in place between the kid and home, but toward the catcher who was now standing, doing his own dance of anticipation.

As the runner rounded third and made a beeline for what he was sure was a home run, the small white sphere found it’s mark and the triumphant catcher tagged the unsuspecting runner.
Blair’s inner child let loose with long withheld exuberance. Jumping madly up and down, arms waving, he ignored that fact that he wasn’t actually a member of the team.

“Hooyah! Yessss! Oh,yeah, baby! Sweet!” His backpack, dumped at his feet in order to make the play, was swept up and onto to his shoulder as he began trotting toward the huddled group of kids.

The adrenaline buzz from the unexpected flurry of activity was palpable. Blair allowed himself to be pulled into it amid shouts of praise and congratulations.

“Man what a throw!”

“That was awesome…where’d you learn to throw like that?”

“Where’d you come from…I didn’t know we had a player in right field today!”

“Great job!”

Blair felt a blush creep up his neck and settle on his bemused features.

Just then he noticed a tall well-muscled man approach. Stopping just outside of Blair’s personal space, he struck a rigid pose… arms crossed, and cast an appraising look at Blair through steely blue eyes.

The Coach.

Blair began slowly backing away. Running one hand nervously up and down the strap of his backpack, his other hand made small dismissive gestures.

“Uh, sorry man…I didn’t mean to upset your game or anything. I just sort of reacted without thinking, ya know? I tend to do that sometimes. They were shouting at me…like they wanted me to do something and, so, well, I did. Do something, that is. I know I shouldn’t have just invited myself in like this but well…again…I just reacted. I do that sometimes. Right, yeah, I said that already. I’ll just being going now. Sorry.” Blair turned and started to hurry away.

The rapid-fire speech was the last thing Jim expected. How could the kid have gotten all that out in one breath? Before he had time to digest all that had been rattled off he noticed the kid making a hasty retreat. Not wanting the object of his curiosity taking off now that he’d finally shown up again, Jim offered some encouragement for the kid to stay.

“Wait. Don’t go. I’m not mad, if that’s what you’re thinking. That throw was just unexpected, that’s all. You’re more than welcome to stay.”

Turning back around Blair saw the sincerity in the man’s eyes and the welcoming approval of the players. A small smile replaced the nervous lip-biting that he’d been doing since the coach had approached.

Jim allowed his normally rigid stance to relax. A hint of humor crept into his speech, extending a warm welcome to the wary kid.

“I’m Jim Ellison. I coach this sorry excuse for a team. Believe me, we need all the help we can get. We’d really like for you to stay.” His invitation was met by rolling eyes and a chorus of groans from the ‘insulted’ team.

Blair was caught up in the camaraderie and laughed along with the other boys.

“Okay. Sure. I guess I can stay for a little while.”

Blair dropped his pack on the ground and pulled a leather tie from one of his pockets. He quickly pulled his unruly mass of curls into a tail at the base of his neck, showing off the two gold hoops that adorned his left ear.

Bouncing on his toes once again he completely dismissed the mounds of homework and research resting in his abandoned backpack. He’d gotten by plenty of times with only a few hours of sleep at night. One more night wouldn’t hurt. The semester was nearly over; he’d worked hard and deserved a little fun.

Jim Ellison watched with pleasure as the kid grabbed a mitt and raced out to right field. At a subconscious level the sentinel silently came on-line, following the sense-grounding heartbeat of the young man who would soon become an integral part of his life.

Feeling a surge of contentment and protectiveness wash over him, Jim Ellison Cascade PD detective, allowed the sentinel to map the essence of the fleeting ball of energy, imprinting on his heart all he needed to know. Except…

He cupped his hands around his mouth, allowing his voice to be carried out across the playing field. “Hey…kid? What’s your name?”

He heard the answer as clearly as if the kid were standing right next to him.

“Blair!”
 

%%%

Blair showed up on an irregular basis after that day. Jim found himself inwardly, inexplicably pleased on the days Blair was present. And equally displeased and concerned on the days when he wasn’t. He was developing a very paternal attitude toward Blair that he was finding hard to fathom.

Try as he and the boys might, they weren’t able to coax much information from Blair about Blair. He wouldn’t even divulge his last name.

He’d talk their ears off about obscure facts on a myriad of subjects, primitive tribal customs and even the origins of baseball for as long as anyone would listen. He’d captivate them all with wild stories of trips taken to the far reaches of the globe with a mystery woman by the name of Naomi…stories Jim thought to be elaborate fairy tales designed to entertain. But as soon as the conversation turned to anything resembling a personal inquiry he’d clam up or find a convenient excuse for needing to take off. Or worse, to Jim’s growing dismay, he’d fabricate some outrageous lie. Jim wasn’t sure how he knew Blair was lying; he just did.

And did he have a mouth on him! Not even in his army days had Jim heard so many creative ways to swear. When Jim warned him to clean up his language Blair just teased him with a mischievous smile and began cursing in some obscure language. At least Jim assumed it was still cursing.

Although he looked like a refugee from the sixties with his long hair, earrings and wild-colored, disheveled clothing the other boys had no problems allowing him into their inner city ‘clique’. And if Blair ever thought he didn’t fit in or not belong he never showed it.

The sound of Blair’s voice, the smell of the herbal soaps he used, even the sight of the russet and brown curls, all served as an anchor to the sentinel, sharpening and focusing the heightened senses that Jim Ellison was not fully aware he possessed.

After joining the team for a snack after practice the first day, Blair had launched into a massive lecture regarding Jim’s totally unhealthy selections. Passionately describing the ill effects of soda, chips and candy bars on the growing, aspiring athletes that Jim was supposed to be nurturing, Blair soon had the whole team joining him in demanding healthy alternatives.

Looking back on it, Jim chuckled to himself today, munching on his own granola bar… watching the bottomless pits in front of him eagerly devour the juices, fruits, veggies and granola that he’d finally agreed to supply.

Jim realized with some regret that his team’s informal season would soon be drawing to a close. He needed to find out more about Blair. He needed to find a way to keep Blair a part of his life. Jim wanted this; the sentinel demanded it.

He’d found it curious that someone as intelligent and as easy to like as Blair was didn’t have anyone that ever showed up to offer a ride home or watch the practices and games. Even the inner city kids, from broken or drug damaged homes, had some sort of family that occasionally showed up and took interest in the goings-on at the park.

On more than one occasion he’d considered following Blair to find out where he lived. He’d had to restrain himself from ripping Blair’s ever-present backpack open to see if it would help him solve the riddle that Blair was unwilling to share. But he had always pulled back, not wanting to destroy the trust that he knew had grown between them.

Allowing Blair to slip out of his life was simply not an option. Jim had opened a part of his heart and allowed Blair to enter. Ever since that first day he felt a growing fondness and protective instinct toward the energetic boy.

The thought that Blair might be homeless, living on the streets, having no one to watch out for him, had been nagging at Jim for days. It would certainly explain why the boy was always by himself, constantly hungry and so unwilling to give away any personal information.

Jim made up his mind to confront Blair sometime in the next few days and get the kid to give him at least some basic information about himself.

Before he had the chance all hell broke loose and the lives of Jim Ellison and Blair Sandburg were set on a course that would change both lives forever.
 

%%%

Despite his recent indulgence in non-academic activities, it was obvious that Blair would have no problem finishing the semester with his 4.0 grade point average intact. Maybe that old saying about all work and no play had some merit.

He had applied to participate in an anthropology expedition over the summer but had been turned down. His grades and study ethics more than qualified him, but being legally underage, the university had had no choice but to deny the request when Blair was not able to produce parental consent.

Counting on being accepted to go on the expedition, Blair had not signed up for any summer semester classes or made any arrangements for student housing over the summer.

But being the free-spirited child of Naomi Sandburg had taught Blair to ‘go with the flow’. He simply switched gears and had no trouble finding several odd jobs and some tutoring assignments that would enable him to pay the rent on the living space he’d found in an old warehouse. He’d certainly lived in worse conditions during his unconventional childhood.

The same day that Jim had made up his mind to confront Blair in the near future was the same day that Blair had decided would be his last as a member of Ellison’s “sorry excuse for a team”. Naomi had impressed on him many times in his young life that letting yourself become too attached to anyone or any place only resulted in heartache and betrayal.

He had let his defenses down and allowed himself to count on and enjoy the company and concern that the ‘big guy’ had been bestowing on him. Naomi had tried to be both mother and father to Blair, and Blair really had no complaints about his upbringing. But there were times when he wished for the attentions of a man, someone he could look up to and go to when the weight of his teenage world became too much for him.

Best to simply make a clean break. No good-byes. No regrets. Besides, it was possible that Jim didn’t feel the same way he did. Blair would rather walk away indulging himself with the small fantasy that Jim would miss him as much as he’d miss Jim than to face the reality that it had all been one-sided.

Flopping down on the musty old couch he had scavenged from the curbside, Blair began to make a mental list of what he would do in the short lull after classes ended and his jobs began.

His musings were short-lived as a deafening explosion ripped through his meager living space, throwing him across the floor. He impacted the far wall, jarring his shoulder. As he tried to stand, flying debris showered down on him, cutting his forearms as he shielded his head.

He staggered to his feet and somehow made his way to the door. As he reached for the handle gunshots rang out from beyond the door. Dropping quickly to the floor Blair cautiously reached up and cracked the door open. Peering through the small sliver he watched in horror as a man staggered to a halt and fell to the ground a few feet from where he crouched. Chancing a look past the victim Blair got a good look at the face of the killer before the crazed looking man turned and took off running.

The sound of retreating footsteps and the wail of approaching sirens registered in Blair’s mind as he succumbed to darkness.
 

%%%

“I just wish I knew more about him, Simon. He’s an amazing kid…really smart. Special. All the kids on the team have been great, but there’s something about Blair that sets him apart. I wish I could get him to open up to me. I’d like to be able to keep in touch with him, you know…check on him every now and then once the team disbands.” Jim shrugged. “I can’t explain this, Simon. I’ve never felt this before.”

Simon poured himself another cup of coffee and pointed the pot at Jim in a questioning motion. Jim declined the offer of another cup with a curt shake of his head.

“Don’t get me wrong. He can also be a pain in the butt. He’s got more energy than any three of the other players and he’s constantly moving. When he gets into one of his stories his hands and hair fly all over the place. And then it’s next to impossible to get everyone’s attention back on the game. And he is stubborn…absolutely refuses to tell anything about himself.” Jim shook his head and pulled himself up out of the chair in front of Simon’s desk. He moved over to the window and stopped to look out over the bullpen.

“And sometimes he outright lies. I swear, Simon, one minute I want to hug him and the next minute I want to paddle his behind.”

Simon took a moment to take a good look at his best detective and let his words sink in.

“Sounds a lot like how I feel about Daryl most days. Maybe someone like you is exactly what he needs in his life.”

The ringing of Simon’s phone interrupted any further discussion of Jim’s newly found paternal feelings.

“Banks…When did this happen?...Who?…Okay…Who’s on the scene?…All right, I’m on my way.”

Motioning for Jim to join him, Simon reviewed the phone call on their way out the door.

“There’s been an explosion down in the warehouse district. Seems a drug lab was taken out. And Johnny De La Rosa was shot and killed.” Simon punched the button on the elevator and the two men waited for the elevator to arrive. “There’s a witness. Brown and Rafe are there. So’s Taggert. They’ve secured the area.”

The drive to the warehouse district was short and quiet, both men silently examining the ramifications of Johnny De La Rosa’s death at the site of a drug lab. Whoever had gunned down the councilman had foolishly left a witness. It would be up to the Cascade PD to keep that witness alive long enough to testify.
 

%%%

The crime scene was chaotic. The forensics unit and bomb squad had already established their perimeters and were gathering evidence.

As Jim left Simon’s car he was nearly overwhelmed by the assault on his senses. Yards of yellow police tape and the flashing lights of numerous emergency vehicles sent his hand to shield his eyes. The smell of explosive material and dust met his nose and caused a short sneezing spell. The noise of several dozen people shouting at once and trying to sift through debris rang in his ears.

Jim concentrated on shaking off the strange sensations. “I think I’ll just go find the witness and get out of the way here. Holler if you need me.”

Pulling a cigar from his breast pocket, Simon nodded his consent to Jim and went off to find Joel Taggert.

Picking his way over chunks of concrete Jim slowly worked his way over to one of the ambulances where he saw Detective Henry Brown scribbling on a notepad. He looked around for H’s partner and noticed Rafe moving toward H from the opposite direction, coming from the warehouse.

Jim’s eyes zeroed in on what Rafe was carrying and his heart leapt into his throat. It should have been impossible from this distance to distinguish anything about the object swinging loosely from Rafe’s left hand.

A backpack. Blair’s backpack.

Jim immediately changed directions, picking up his pace to intercept Rafe.

Grabbing the unsuspecting Rafe with one hand and the dangling backpack in the other, Jim brought the backpack up to eye level and shook it menacingly in Rafe’s startled face.

“Where’d you get this? What’s it doing here? Where’s Blair?” Jim demanded loudly.

Rafe shook himself loose from Jim’s hold and glared defiantly at Jim. “Watch the material! Do you have any idea how much this suit cost?”

Jim released his hold and tried to remain calm. “This backpack belongs to a kid named Blair.” He again held up the pack for Rafe to see and continued speaking slowly and clearly, as if to a small child. “Do you know where Blair is?”

Rafe smoothed imaginary wrinkles from his coat and pointed to the ambulance that had been Jim’s original goal. “Yeah…He’s over there with H. Blair Sandburg is our witness. He asked me to see if I could find this for him in the warehouse back there. You know him?”

Sandburg. Blair Sandburg.

Ignoring Rafe’s question, Jim rolled the name Sandburg around in his head as he turned and headed back to the ambulance.

Coming up behind H, Jim peered over the detective’s shoulders and spotted the kid sitting in the back of the open ambulance. He was obviously hurt and scared.

Jim shouldered his way past H and crouched down in front of Blair’s trembling figure providing a protective, paternal presence.

He gently laid his hands on Blair’s thighs and gave them a light squeeze. “Hey kiddo…how’re you doing?”

“Jim…?” Blair started slowly. His trembling lessened as he looked into Jim’s concerned eyes and his soul recognized a connection between them that he had tried to ignore. Throwing his arms around Jim he allowed himself to be hugged and consoled.

Surprised and pleased at finding himself with an armful of Blair, Jim began running his hands up and down the frightened youth’s back, offering comfort. “Shh...shh…It’s okay…Everything is going to be just fine. I’m here. I’ll take care of it.”

“It was awful, man. I’m just sitting, minding my own business when Wham! Bang! This huge explosion busts through my place and I hit the wall and all sorts of shit starts falling on me. My arms are kinda sliced up and my shoulder really hurts but I get up and try to haul ass outta there. But then I get to the door and there’s, like, these gunshots, so I crouch down and peek out really sneaky-like to see what the hell is going on when Pow!..that dude over there…” Blair halted his narrative long enough to point a shaky finger at the sheet-covered body by the warehouse… “hits the dirt right in front of me. I look up and see this other dude and the gun’s still pointed at the dead guy. I know he’s dead cuz he’s got this, like, huge fuckin’ hole right in the middle of his forehead. And the gun-dude didn’t see me cuz I know if he did I’d be dead too…” Blair’s colorful description of the shooting came to a halt as the realization of his last words began to sink in.

Brown, Rafe and the paramedics were all staring at the suddenly animated kid. Brown was the first to offer the spectators’ consensus. “Doesn’t he ever come up for air?”

Despite the situation Jim chuckled to himself. “They’re onto you, Chief.” Jim was relieved to feel Blair laughing also, relaxing further into his protective embrace.

Jim decided to take charge at this point and made it clear by a pointed look at the two other detectives that it wasn’t up for debate.

“Okay, kiddo…here’s the plan. We’re going to get you to the hospital so you can be checked out thoroughly. Then we’re going to get ahold of your parents and let them know what’s going on. After that we’ll see about getting you down to the station for an official statement and have you look through some mug shots.”

It was obvious by Blair’s body language that he didn’t approve of Jim’s ‘plan’. He stiffened and pulled back from Jim’s embrace.

“Ah, that’s okay. I don’t need to go to the hospital. There’s no way I’d be able to afford it. As for my parents, well, they’re not around, exactly. And I really don’t want to go down to the cop shop. I already told the other detectives everything I saw so what’s the big deal?”

H and Rafe knew the signs and gave the kid a sympathetic look. The paramedics seemed to pick up on it too and eased back out of the way. Only Blair failed to see the upcoming eruption.

Jim’s entire posture changed. He stood up straight, assuming an almost military stance. He looked down at the now defiant youth who, just moments ago, was more than willing to accept Jim’s comfort and support. Jaw muscles twitching, eyes narrowed, he pinned Blair with a no-nonsense look. It was time to get off the fence and come down on the side of ‘cut the crap Blair, I’m in charge here’. The sentinel was 100% in agreement.

“Those weren’t requests, young man. You are going to the hospital and you will cooperate. You will tell me how to get ahold of your parents. And you will come to the station with me where you will also cooperate.”

Jim saw the rebuttal forming in Blair’s mind and didn’t give it a chance to find a voice.

Pulling the kid up he turned him and guided him into the back of the ambulance with three healthy swats to an unsuspecting butt. Jim climbed in next and nodded at the paramedic to follow. He pulled the door shut and instructed the driver to proceed to the hospital.

Blair rubbed at his butt, trying to remove the sharp sting before taking his assigned place on the gurney. “What the hell was that for? Who do you think…”

Jim held up a hand cutting off Blair’s retort. Leaning into Blair’s personal space, out of earshot of the EMT, he answered. “That, kiddo, was just a warning. Keep up the bratty act and smart mouth and you’ll find yourself over my knees and I’ll give you a spanking you’ll never forget.”

This time Blair had no problem reading the big guy and he knew without a doubt that Jim would have no qualms about following through with the threat.

Blair gulped, laid back on the gurney and closed his eyes in defeat.

The hospital probably wouldn’t be so bad, although he really didn’t know how he’d pay for it. Even going to the station would probably be okay. But his parents…he’d really hoped to avoid telling Jim. The man was a cop after all. Once he knew the truth he’d have to do something about it, wouldn’t he? And then that would be it for Blair Sandburg.
 

%%%

The ride to the hospital was made in uncomfortable silence. Jim never took his eyes off Blair who steadfastly refused to open his eyes.

As the gurney was being rolled into an examination room Jim reached out and gave Blair a reassuring pat on the arm. “I’ll be waiting for you right out here, kiddo.”

Jim filled out the necessary paperwork noting on the form that he would assume monetary responsibility. He’d work out the details with Blair’s parents later. He gave Simon a call letting him know where he’d taken off to and why. Simon offered to pick Jim and Blair up and convey them to the PD.

Simon showed up shortly before Blair was declared ready to be released, leaving Jim only enough time for an abbreviated version of what had transpired.

A doctor approached with a tired looking Blair in tow. The only visible signs of any injury were the bandages on his forearms.

“Are you here with Blair Sandburg?” Jim nodded and stood next to Blair, wrapping one arm around his slumped shoulders. “We ex-rayed the shoulder and it looks okay…just bruised. We cleaned the cuts on his forearms. Only a few stitches were required. I’ve prescribed an antibiotic to help prevent any infection. That’s it except for assorted bruises. I’d like him to take it easy for a few days and get plenty of rest.”

Simon stayed off to one side and got his first good look at the kid Jim had been telling him about just a few hours ago. Under the circumstances he certainly didn’t look anything like the picture Jim had painted of a perpetual motion machine. Jim, on the other hand, was clearly living up to Simon’s impression of parental concern that Jim had exhibited in his office.

“Thanks, doc…I’ll make sure he follows your orders.” Jim shook hands with the doctor and then steered Blair over to Simon.

“Blair, I want you to meet my friend and boss Captain Simon Banks. He’s going to give us a ride to the station and help us get this whole mess straightened out.”

Looking up at the tall captain Blair reached out and shook Simon’s hand. “It’s nice to meet you. Thanks.”

Simon sent a questioning look past Blair clearly asking if this could be the same hyperactive, talkative kid that Jim had been telling him about.

Jim’s arched eyebrows and shrugging shoulders indicated to Simon that this was far from normal behavior for Blair and what did the captain expect under the circumstances.

“It’s nice to meet you too, Blair. Jim’s told me a lot about you. He thinks very highly of you and I hope we get the chance to know each other better. Now let’s get you down to the station.”
 

%%%

After being ushered into the back seat of Simon’s car and securely belted in by Jim, who seemed to be in protective overdrive mode, Blair sat back and quickly processed the recent turn of events in his relationship with Detective Jim Ellison.

Okay, Sandburg. Time to once again go with the flow here. There’s no use worrying about the future until you’re sure there’s something to worry about. Besides, if Blair was being honest with himself, he realized he actually kinda liked the fact that Jim had been there for him and stepped up and took charge.

The Blair that Jim had described to Simon came to life after the big police captain innocently asked Blair where he went to school and what subjects he liked in an attempt to lighten the mood.

Blair launched into an animated recitation of his life as a college student at Ranier. He literally bounced in his seat while describing his love of anthropology and his hopes to one day do field research in his chosen field. Once started, Blair never slowed down and the two confused police officers were treated to non-stop chatter all the way to the station.

Jim was even more surprised than Simon upon learning that Blair wasn’t a high school student as they both had assumed. But it just opened a whole new set of questions in Jim’s mind. If Blair was in college then it was possible that his parents weren’t in Cascade. And why was Blair living in that old warehouse instead of on campus? What kind of adult supervision, if any, did Blair have?

Once they got to the station Jim intended to get some answers, pronto. The sentinel and the detective came into perfect synchronization. Both felt the need and responsibility to look after the future guide. And there was still the little matter of a killer on the loose…one that Blair could identify. It looked like “Cut the Crap Blair” was going to be Jim’s new motto.
 

%%%

The sights and sounds of the major crimes unit captivated Blair. It was immediately clear to the anthropologist in him that there was a definite sub-culture here with a language and set of rules all its own.

Before he had a chance to dig a notebook out of his pack and start taking notes, he was steered into Simon’s office. Rhonda, the captain’s secretary, looked in and asked if anyone needed anything. Without consulting Blair, Jim requested juice and something ‘healthy’ for the hungry kid and then turned his no-nonsense look at Blair intending to get some answers.

“Listen up, Chief, because we don’t have time to put up with any of your embellishments. I want some answers and I want the truth and I want it now. My earlier warning stays in effect.”

Blair nervously looked from Jim to Simon then back to Jim, absently brushing a strand of curls behind his ear and worrying his lower lip with his bottom teeth.

“Ah, okay…sure Jim. What do you want to know?”

“For starters…where are your parents and how can we get in touch with them?”

A soft sigh escaped his lips. Hanging his head, allowing the wild mass of curls to hide his face from view, Blair took a few moments to silently consider his options. There really was only one. Blair looked up once again at Jim and calmly explained his ‘family’ situation. Let the chips fall where they may.

“I never knew my father. Naomi never told me who he is. I’m not sure that she even knows.”

Jim interrupted. “Who’s Naomi? Is this the same globe-trotting Naomi from your stories?”

“Yeah it’s the same Naomi. And they aren’t just stories, Jim. I really have been to all those places. Naomi’s my mom. And she’s…” Blair hitched in a small breath. “…dead.”

“When did she die, Blair? And who’s been looking out for you?” Jim’s tone was soft and full of understanding.

Blair continued his explanation, no trace of his momentary hesitation evident.

“She died about six months ago. She was on a spiritual retreat in Nepal. There was an accident on the hike down from the monastery where the retreat was held. Her body was cremated and the monks scattered her ashes in the Himalayas. It was what she would have wanted. One of our friends, who was with her at the time, called me a week later. I suppose the proper authorities were notified; I don’t really know. I was expecting social services to show up and haul me to foster care, but it never happened. I’ve been taking care of myself.”

Jim and Simon were both slightly unnerved by Blair’s calm recital.

“I don’t mean to sound cruel, Blair, but you don’t seem too upset by the whole thing.”

“Okay…look. I don’t mean to go all ‘Lion King’ on you here or anything, but dying is part of the whole circle of life thing. Naomi taught me that you accept what comes your way in life, embrace it, and live it to the fullest. Dying is part of the deal. Moving on to a higher plane of existence and all that. I love Naomi…I always will. Her dying doesn’t change that. You think I didn’t cry over losing her? You think I don’t still cry sometimes?” Blair hesitated and hitched another small breath. He wasn’t sure why he felt it was okay to share these feelings with Jim but it seemed so right.

“Look, man, if I had told anybody in authority about Naomi’s death I woulda been yanked out of school and dropped into foster care so fast my head would still be spinning. No way that’s gonna happen. I’ve been taking care of myself for a long time.”

Just then Rhonda knocked on the door and entered with the snacks Jim had requested. “I hope I’m not interrupting.” She nodded first at Blair, then at the items in her hands. “It looks like he needs this.”

Needing time to assess the newly acquired information and decide what to do about it, Jim agreed. “Why don’t you show Blair where the men’s room is. He can freshen up a little if he needs to. Then find H and Rafe. They can keep an eye on him while he eats and then get his statement and a description of the killer. They can show him some mug shots after that.”

Jim drew Blair to his feet and wrapped him in a warm embrace. Blair struggled slightly, trying to extricate himself, but Jim was having none of it.

Jim spoke quietly into the soft curls under his chin. “It’s going to be all right, kiddo. I’ll make sure of it. You threw us for a couple of loops just now, that’s all. We’ll work something out.” Placing a finger under Blair’s chin, Jim directed his gaze up to meet his own. “I promise.”

The solemn vow brought a contented smile to the young face. “Wow. Thanks, Jim.”

Bouncing once again, Blair followed Rhonda out the door with a playful swat to his behind along with a warning from Jim. “Behave yourself.”

Jim laughed at the mock salute and serious “Yes sir!” that was directed at him before Blair left the room.

Turning with a now serious look, Jim faced Simon. Releasing a pent up breath and running a hand over his close-cropped hair Jim wondered how he was going to keep his promise. “What do I do now, Simon?”
 

%%%

The solution seemed apparent to Simon. “We sign you up as a foster parent.”

“You’re kidding, right? I don’t know the first thing about being a parent.” Jim stared at Simon as if he had suddenly grown a second head.

Simon’s frame shook with unrestrained mirth. “Well you sure could have fooled me. And Blair, too apparently. I don’t think I’ve ever witnessed a finer display of parental affection and authority.”

The look on Jim’s face was priceless. Simon wished he had a camera. The look was one that should be kept for posterity.

“But…but…I don’t know the first thing about taking care of a teenage kid. It’s not like he comes with an instruction manual, you know.”

“An instruction manual…that’s a good one, Jim.” Simon began laughing again and this time Jim joined in.

Jim suddenly stopped and assumed the serious tone of a salesman. “You have chosen the Blair Sandburg model of the highly sought after teenage American boy. This particular model is hyperactive, highly intelligent, self-reliant and too curious for his own good. His upkeep requires a firm hand, lots of understanding, an endless supply of food, constant supervision and plenty of love. *Batteries not included.”

Simon was practically rolling on the floor by the time Jim finished. Wiping tears from his eyes he picked up the phone and dialed his secretary.

“Rhonda? Is Blair with H and Rafe?… Good. I need you to put me through to social services. Thanks.”

Covering the mouthpiece, Simon spoke to Jim. “That settles it, Jim. The two of you belong together. I’m sure you’ll have no problem meeting the requirements that are needed to be a foster parent. I can’t think of any reason why they’d object. It’s one less kid for them to have to try to place. And this way Blair can continue at Ranier with no hassles. Besides, he’s still a witness to a high profile murder and he’ll need to be placed in protective custody. It works out all around.”

For the first time since seeing the curly head on the third base line a few weeks ago Jim was able to see clearly that this was meant to be.

He only hoped that Blair agreed.
 

%%%

Frannie O’Keefe was all business. After hearing the urgency of his request she had shown up in Simon Banks’ office within an hour, all necessary paperwork neatly stacked and ready for signatures. In triplicate.

Jim couldn’t help but think that she’d have made a great attorney. Or pit bull. Her questions for Jim were well thought out and concise. There was no way any child would end up being placed in the wrong environment. Not on her watch.

“Everything seems to be in order here, gentlemen. Under the circumstances I have the authority to make a final decision right now. But before I do I’d really like to have a few moments with Blair. Whether or not he’s placed with you is really not his choice. But I would like to get a feel for what he thinks of the arrangement.”

Jim really liked this woman’s style. He was just about to tell her this when he suddenly cocked his head to one side as if listening to something only he could hear and then stood and raced out of Simon’s office.

As he passed Rhonda’s desk he threw a quick “Where’s Blair?” in her direction but never slowed his pace.

“In interrogation room three with Brown and Rafe.” Was called out to his retreating form.

Blair was staring at the photo on the table in front of him, wordlessly rocking slightly, arms curled around his torso as Jim burst through the door. Hurrying to his side, Jim placed a hand on the kid’s shoulder and began a massaging motion.

“Are you all right, Blair? What happened?”

Never taking his eyes from the picture Blair stated, “That him, Jim. That’s the man with the gun. If you’ve got his picture that means he’s probably done something like this before, right?”

“Look at me, Chief. Come on, Blair…I said look at me.” He gave Blair a shake.

Blair slowly tore his eyes from the table and looked at Jim.

“We know who he is. These guys that I work with? They’re the best. We’ll get this guy and your testimony will put him away for good. And in the meantime we’re going to keep you safe. There’s somebody here who’s going to help us with that too.”

Jim pulled Blair up out of the chair and steered him toward the doorway where Simon and Frannie stood. Observing the interplay in those few moments, Frannie’s mind was made up. There was no way these two were going to be separated.

Blair recognized Frannie right away for what she was. Her entire demeanor screamed ‘Social Services’. She was here to take him away. He didn’t blame Jim or Simon. They were just doing their jobs. Still, he inwardly cringed at the thought of what type of ‘home’ he’d be placed in.

Resigned to what he assumed was his fate, Blair allowed himself to be walked back to Simon’s office. Jim kept his arm firmly around his shoulders the entire time and Blair basked in the secure feeling for what he was sure was the last time.

Once seated at the conference table Blair allowed his mind to wander back over the past few weeks. He idly wondered if he’d be allowed to keep in touch with Jim and visit him once in awhile. He pointedly ignored the rustling of papers and tried not took look out of the corner of his eye as Jim signed the documents.

He felt slightly light headed as it became obvious that things were being wrapped up. He slowly stood, ready to say his good-byes, hoping he wouldn’t break down and cry.

Frannie looked at him, a warm smile on her face. “Good luck, Blair. I know you and Jim will do just fine together. I’ll check back in with you in about a month to see how things are going, but feel free to call me anytime. Jim has my card.” And with a slight nod to Jim and Simon, she was out the door.

She was out the door. And Blair was still here. Her words finally began to sink in. He and Jim... together? Together? As in…?

Blair turned to see Jim and Simon staring at him with smiles as sappy as his own plastered on their faces.

“Let’s wrap things up here and head home, kid. We need to get you settled and discuss the house rules.”

Blair couldn’t believe the turn of events. Home. He was going home with Jim. That sounded great. Except for one thing.

“House rules? Like what? I don’t do too well with rules. I’m more of a free-spirited kinda guy. Go with the flow and all that.”

Jim merely shook his head and herded his charge out the door, signaling good-bye to Simon.

Now where did he put that instruction manual?
 

%%%

After stopping at the warehouse to retrieve the rest of Blair’s meager possessions, Jim swung by the market and he and Blair stocked up on an assortment of food that would suit them both.

Coming through the door of apartment #307, Blair’s backpack was deposited on the floor and the sacks of groceries placed on the kitchen island.

“First rule. The door remains locked at all times. It’s a good safety rule any time but absolutely mandatory now. I’ll see about getting you your own key first thing tomorrow.”

Blair nodded his head while allowing his gaze to do a preliminary sweep of his new home.

“Next.” Jim picked up Blair’s discarded backpack and hung it on one of the hooks by the door. “I expect you to pick up after yourself. We’ll find a place for all your things and you’ll keep everything where it belongs.”
Another nod. “Sure, man. Not a problem. I can live with that.”

“Let’s get the groceries put away and grab a bite to eat. Then we can make up the couch for you to sleep on tonight. There’s a small room under the stairs. I use it for storage now, but I think we can fix it up nicely so you can have your own space. After we eat we can go over the rest of the rules.”

“There’s more? Just how many are there?” Blair’s totally surprised look caused a hearty laugh to escape Jim’s mouth.

When the meal was over and the dishes were washed and put away Jim and Blair sat in the living room and settled in to go over the basics.

Jim decided it would be best if he took control right from the start.

“This is your home now Blair. It might take some time to get to know each other better and get used to each other’s ways. But I know agreeing to this arrangement was the best decision I’ve ever made. Most of my rules are just common sense and courtesy. We’ll work them out as we go. But there are a few that will be absolute and non-negotiable.”

Pleased at the first part of Jim’s speech, Blair grew apprehensive as the last statement registered in his mind.

Jim forged ahead.

“No drugs or alcohol. Curfew is 11:00 pm although I’m willing to extend it for special occasions if we discuss it first. No disobedience. Again, I’m willing to talk things over, but my decision is final. No lying. You are also in protective custody right now, so you will be escorted anywhere you need to go either by me or another officer.”

Blair couldn’t believe what he was hearing. Jim had to be kidding. He’d been completely on his own for months now and was independent and self-reliant for a long time before that.

“No way! Okay…the drugs and alcohol I understand. I don’t do that anyway. But I stay out way past 11:00. The campus library is open most nights until 1:00 am and I spend alot of time there. And disobedience? What the hell’s that all about? I’ve been making my own decisions for a long time now, man. Why should I hafta start doing what anyone else says now?”

Okay. What did the ‘instruction manual’ say? A firm hand… lots of understanding. What Jim had said jokingly was turning out to be prophetic. Jim took a deep breath and let it out slowly.

“Because that’s the way things are now. The piece of paper I signed today makes me responsible for you. I don’t see it as just a legal responsibility either. It’s something I want to do. Being on your own all this time and having to make your own decisions isn’t necessarily a good thing, Blair. It’s time someone else took control. That someone else is me.”

Blair was torn between the need to retain his independence and the desire to allow Jim to take over the burdens that had been overwhelming at times. Knowing it was probably a foolish decision on his part, Blair nevertheless chose to test Jim’s resolve right then and there.

“Well thanks, but no thanks, man. I am so outta here.”

Blair launched himself up and off the couch, heading for the front door. His short flight ended abruptly as Jim grabbed him around the waist, lifted him off the floor and settled him face down over his knees as he took a seat on one of the kitchen chairs.

“By the way…my earlier warning didn’t have an expiration date.”

Jim spanked the wiggling bottom in front of him with gusto. He fully intended to make a good ‘first impression’ on his new charge.

Smack…Smack…Smack…Smack…Smack

“Ouch! Oh! Jim, stop! Please stop! It hurts!”

“That’s the idea, kiddo. It’s not over yet. I believe I promised a spanking that you’d never forget.”

And with that Jim renewed his efforts.

Swat after swat rained down covering Blair’s entire bottom with sharp stinging blows.

All Blair’s attempts to push himself off the hard thighs were met with a tightening of Jim’s solid hold.

Feeling the heat radiating off the chastised backside, Jim was sure he had achieved his goal and brought the spanking to an end by delivering six sharp swats directly to the ‘sit spot’.

Released from Jim’s iron grip, Blair jumped up and began dancing in place, rubbing frantically at his sore, stinging butt.

Jim pulled the resistant youth into a hug. But the last thing Blair wanted at this moment was any kind of attention from Jim. He pushed and strained wildly against Jim’s hold.

“Let go of me you sonofabitch! I thought you were my friend! I don’t need you or your fuckin’ rules!”
Ignoring the foul language for the moment, Jim tried to reason with and console Blair. He needed to establish in Blair’s mind not only that Blair no longer had to deal with things on his own, but also that Jim had no intention of letting him do so.

“Stop it Blair. Settle down right now and listen to me.” Jim pulled the squirming youth closer, enveloping his upper body with one arm and bringing the top of the curly head to rest under his chin.

His effort was met with a swift hard kick to his left shin and a renewed chorus of Blair’s view of the current state of affairs.

“It’s not fair. I don’t need this you asshole! I can take care of myself. You can take your fuckin’ rules and…” Oomph.

In one swift motion Blair once more was deposited across Jim’s lap. Resting his hand on the warm bottom, Jim felt Blair stiffen and draw in a breath preparing for the first blow.

Jim waited.

Blair squirmed.

“This is not really how I had planned on spending our first night together. You’re welcome to keep on acting like a little brat but I guarantee I can keep this up much longer than you’d like. Let me explain things one more time.”

Ten hard quick spanks were delivered to the already tender butt. Jim stopped but this time did not release his hold. He spoke gently but firmly to the gasping figure still draped over his knees.

“Now. I know things happened pretty quickly today. But I sure got the impression that you wanted this…partnership…as much as I did. It’s going to require some adjustments on both our parts. One of the biggest adjustments is going to be for you to realize that I’m in charge. I’m not sure many kids your age would have been able to handle things or take care of themselves the way you have. I’m proud of you and admire you for that.”

The small gasps began to lessen as Blair began to listen in earnest to Jim.

“But you’re still a kid. Moving into that warehouse was obviously not the best decision. And having to cope with the loss of your mom all by yourself is something that no one should have to do alone. It had to be very hard and even scary to think that at any moment the authorities could show up and take you away. You shouldn’t have had to deal with all of that on your own.”

Silently, tears began to fill Blair’s eyes and roll down his cheeks as he remembered those first days and weeks after hearing the news about Naomi.

“You don’t have to anymore, Chief. I’m here now. What I’m offering…for both of us… is a home. But we’re going to do it my way. So…what’s it going to be? If you intend to renew your tantrum, then you’re going to be in this position for quite some time yet.”

Blair’s mind was racing and his heart was screaming. Jim was offering something that Blair had been yearning for, but had never allowed himself to hope for.

Between sobs, Blair began to softly chuckle to himself.

Naomi’s voice filled his head. “Go with the flow, baby. Take what life gives you and embrace it.” Naomi’s child made the choice.

“The tantrum is over, big guy. I promise. I, um, would really like to get up now.”

Jim quickly complied and this time his hug was returned wholeheartedly.
 

%%%

Blair lay on the couch in the loft, sheets and blanket in wild disarray. The heat still radiating from his backside coupled with the constant replay of the day’s events in his mind conspired to keep sleep away. The light filtering in through the balcony doors illuminated his new home as he once again scanned his surroundings.

He flipped once more onto his back, disregarding the fire rekindled on his tender butt, to gaze up once more to where Jim slept and beyond that point to catch a glimpse of the stars that were just barely visible to him through the skylight.

The small cuts on his arms started to be annoying as the tiny stitches began to pull and itch. Bruised muscles, forgotten during the events of the last few hours now ached.

Turning once again onto his stomach to try and finally find sleep he failed to hear Jim’s silent approach.

“Here…let me help.”

Jim gently lifted Blair from the couch, pulling and straightening the scattered coverings. He seated himself on one end and eased Blair down to lay on his side, his head cradled on the pillow placed on Jim’s lap.

Gentle fingertips lazily massaged Blair’s temples. Eyelids flittered shut as the sentinel lulled his guide to sleep.
 

%%%

Across town, in the back room of a grimy bar, a very different scene unfolded.

“Bad news, boss. Word has it there was a witness to the hit on De La Rosa today. He fingered Eddie from a mug shot. It’s just some kid, but he’s already in protective custody. There wasn’t supposed to be nobody else down there. Eddie got sloppy. What do you want done?”

“Eliminate the witness.”
 

Continued in Construction Series -- Chapter #2: Some Assembly Required

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