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It was early May in Winnisimmet and the signs of summer were arriving earlier than normal. The budding relationships were in full bloom as Sam York and her girlfriend Iris Donaldson were walking with their friends Reed Pena and his girlfriend Jessie Lawrence. The three girls talked openly about their plans for the summer now that they were on the final approach to their 8th-grade graduation. Reed tried to tell them that it wasn't a big deal and to take things slow, but the trio wanted to plan out their summers down to the minute. The older boy just shook his head and smiled, it was a futile effort to explain working for that they couldn't plan for weather and the inevitable illness one of them would encounter. The group arrived down the street from Iris' home and parted ways, with Sam giving Iris a deep kiss before Iris broke it off and started walking on to her own home. Iris was visibly scared when Sam kissed her, looking around for people before giving in to the kiss and returning the passion was giving. Sam suspected something was amiss but never dared to ask her what was the problem, trying to be a trusting rather than investigative girlfriend. Iris rushed on home as the group walked off slowly, not looking back and trying hard not to look around to see what she may have been looking at. As she entered her home she was accosted by the one person she feared more than anyone in the world: her father. He had an angry look on his face that told her all she needed to know, that she was in for a beating for not coming right home from school despite calling to tell him she would be late. Try as she might she could never escape them. He always found her and always made things worse for her if she didn't give in and accept them. In the past few months, she had grown numb to the pain, she accepted it as part of life and knew not to run anymore as it only made things worse. Her father wasn't always cruel, he was a sweet man until he and her mom started to attend the same church that their next door neighbor attended back in January. Within weeks the two were different people, criticizing everyone and everything and that didn't meet the church's expectations. They would complain to the neighbors about what their kids were wearing and about who they were dating. Their antics alienated the family from their neighbors to the point that none of them would do anything for them even if Iris asked politely. They would gladly do anything for Iris herself but if it benefited her parents they refused. They would often ask her if she was alright and swore they'd get her help if she needed it but with her parents always hovering close by she couldn't ask without it causing more problems than it would solve especially for the neighbors. Try as she might, Iris was one of those things that didn't meet her parents' expectations no matter what she tried to do to meet them. She was a natural tomboy who eschewed dolls and dresses in favor of sports and jeans. Up until they started to attend the church it was fine but once their neighbor got her hooks in them she suddenly became a disappointment. She was tall and skinny, with small breasts and skinny legs but well- developed muscles from hours playing basketball and volleyball with her friends at the park or at the school. She was a mirror image of her father, yet he criticized her for not looking like her mother. She couldn't help how she looked, but he felt he needed to criticize her for it anyway as if she would magically morph into his ideal woman simply by berating her. Her father wasted no time in laying in on her, smacking her around with ease. She called and told her mother that she would be late and why but her mother didn't give her father the message. She had told him the day before that she would be late but he forgot or chose to ignore that fact. It didn't matter, her mother was just as bad as her father and encouraged him to, "Set her straight" whenever possible so even if he remembered her mother would start in on her and let her father finish when he came home. Iris grew tired of the constant abuse. She was able to hide her bruises with sweatshirts and jackets and changing in a corner in the locker room but it was becoming difficult now that summer was fast approaching. Her father was careful to leave the marks on her upper arms and back, away from prying eyes but they were still visible in t- shirts and blouses. He was careful to hurt her just enough to cause pain but not enough to seriously hurt her. She had collapsed several times already but never needed to be sent to the hospital for treatment so the abuse never surfaced, she at times longed for that to happen just so it would end but knew it would be a bigger issue. Now that she was dating Sam things were becoming harder and harder for her. She loved Sam and knew for a long time that she liked girls but she could never come out to her parents and could never show that she was in love with a girl. It's a miracle that her parents allowed her to be friends with Sam and Reyna Toro but she suspected that her time as friends was coming to an abrupt end once they all graduated. She was already slated to attend the technical high school according to them, which contrasted with all of her friends who were going to attend Winnisimmet High School. She had no interest in the programs she was being forced to enroll in. She wasn't mechanically or computer included nor was she very good with makeup or hair so she was going to waste four years there for nothing. She hoped that the school would simply expel her for poor performance so she could get a real education but that was unlikely with her father exuding so much influence from his job as a state trooper. As she was putting ice on her bruises Iris quietly sobbed, hoping for relief from her living nightmare. That wasn't to be, as soon as her mother came home she reported to her father that Iris was seen kissing Sam down the street. The two were seen by their neighbor, the zealot who started their descent into abusive, angry bible thumpers. It took just one minute for Iris' door to be ripped open and her father to start battering her with blows. Her mother held her arms down as her father grabbed his bible and hit her across the face several times with it. There was little Iris could do, her mother was pretty strong and Iris couldn't get loose. Her father put down the bible and instructed his wife to take over while he made a phone call. She proceeded to smack Iris several times before flinging her onto the bed and shouting at her. Iris saw her opening and jumped at her mother making her move out of the way to avoid Iris but toppling over her clothes hamper. Iris never broke stride as she barreled out of her room, knocking her father down on her way out. She had to kick him twice to give her some extra time as he instinctively covered his groin and head. She ran full speed from her house, trying hard to get as much distance before her parents got to their car and drove after her. Iris was able to cut across several yards then under the highway, zigzagging as she made her way towards the center of the city and away from her parent. She saw her parents drive by more than once, she had to quickly run for cover before she was spotted each time but was able to stay unseen while still making her way towards her unknown destination. The Donaldsons were getting closer and closer, boxing Iris in. She sought the safety of a porch just in time but the impact knocked the wind out of her and caused a chair and baseball bat to clatter across the porch. She was too scared to move but that was alleviated when her adrenaline rush ended and the poor girl passed out from shock. When she came to she was in a hospital. Standing over her were Dr. Richard Samuels and the man she knew as Mark Sylvester, a social worker, and friend to the Finn Family. She knew she was in trouble right away, if they were there then her friends and their families would already know. The truth was coming out, her world was caving in even more than it already had. Dr. Samuels explained that she collapsed from the assault on her and was helped by Leslie Finn and Jorge and Victoria Castillo. The trio was concerned when they saw her parents driving around looking angry and threatening her without her being there. They realized that something was going on and called the police and an ambulance. All that had happened several hours before. Dr. Samuels gave them the all clear to talk so Mark asked about what really happened. Iris asked if he could get her away from her parents, not wanting to talk unless he could assure her that she wouldn't have to go back to them again. If her life was going to be over then she was going to burn her last bridges and endure foster care for the next four years. He figured that this was extremely important but without more information, all he could say was, "I want to help you but I can only guarantee that there will be an investigation. I won't let you go back there if I feel that you are in any danger of any further abuse, but I need to know what happened. I'm sorry." Seeing no alternative Iris relented. She told him about the abuse that her parents constantly dealt out to her, starting with the first times and ending with the more recent times. Mark asked specifically about the incident that day to which Iris gave her the full story including mentioning that it was all over kissing Sam down the street from her house. Mark drew a deep breath and asked her, "Are you sure this was motivated by the kiss?" Iris reiterated that it was, vehemently telling him, "He already got his daily hits in; he wouldn't hit me more than once a day because he doesn't want to seriously hurt me and have you come around sniffing. He only tolerated Sam because he would have had to explain why I was moved out of our classes and stopped being friends with her to the other parents. He hates Sam and once we graduated in a few weeks I was going to be forced apart from her permanently." The story confirmed what he believed, it was essentially a hate crime on top of child abuse. Dr. Samuels came back in with the results of her x-rays and announced, "She has some small fractures but it's nothing to be concerned about. She also suffered a mild concussion. There is internal bleeding that needs to be taken care of, we can't do that without someone being appointed as her guardian." Mark asked softly, "So she needs surgery?" Dr. Samuels nodded, insisting they hurry. Mark made a quick phone call and got the permission from his boss to act as her temporary guardian to sign off on the surgery then made a second phone call to have a foster parent come on her behalf. Leslie Finn was sitting in her aunt and uncle's apartment waiting for news about Iris. She was frantic as she made the call to 911 for help, she was the one who actually found Iris passed out on the porch and who kept her out of sight of her parents while help was on the way and Victoria and Jorge redirected anyone away from the unconscious girl. It took all of her strength to keep from saying anything to Iris's parents, what they had done was beyond belief and for someone who had lived 40 years in Winnisimmet through the worst of the city's history that was saying something. Her phone finally rang with Mark calling on the other end. He needed her help and fast, telling her to get over to the hospital and to have Victoria and Jorge prepare her apartment for a long-term guest. She reluctantly agreed and gathered her purse and keys to head out. She shed a tear as she realized she was being asked to take in Iris as a foster daughter until she was placed elsewhere or she aged out of the system. This wasn't like the previous situations, this was someone who needed a home and a loving adult. She wasn't going to be a temporary guest, she was going to be with Leslie for a long time. What was worse was she was already part of the family, even if she rode the fringes she was still part of the family. She wasn't a stranger, she was simply someone they didn't know all that well. It was the worst Leslie had ever felt as an adult, even worse than she felt after the attacks on her nieces Jaimie and Nichole. It took her a half hour of frantic driving and lots of cursing before she reached the hospital. Mark was waiting in the parking lot with two hospital police officers. He briefed Leslie on what was happening and why then told the officers, explaining, "Mr. Donaldson will try to use his badge to get at his daughter, he is to be shown to a conference room and held until I return." Leslie was then told, "I am temporarily placing Iris in your care. If her parents try to contact her in any way call the police. If anyone tries to contact her on their behalf call the police. I need to head to the nearest police station to pick up the restraining orders but I shall return." Leslie and the officers went up to Iris' room to await her return. The nurse on duty noted that she was now Iris' guardian and informed that nobody except Mark and her was allowed near Iris. Noting the seriousness of their tone she complied and made note of it and had word spread among the other nurses. They were eager to help her out, she was the sister-in-law of one of their own making it personal for them. Leslie asked why the officers were so adamant about helping Iris to which both responded, "Thin blue line doesn't protect people who hurt children. You step over that line, you get it worse than any other perp. He will get what he deserves in due course, he won't get any help once word is spread about what he did to his own daughter." The trio had to wait three hours for Iris to be returned from her surgery. It was lucky that she wasn't hurt worse, the bleeding was minor but could have been worse if more blows had landed or she was hit with something harder than their bible. She would need several days to recover but would be alright in a week or so. She would be experiencing dizziness and confusion if under stress so would be barred from gym class the rest of the school year. Mark returned with the restraining orders just as Iris was coming around. Due to end of semester partying the Boston Police district that served the hospital was a little overwhelmed so his request was put on hold until the drunken party animals were put into the drunk tank to dry out. He wasn't happy but they couldn't spare the officer to make the formal request and the two adjacent districts were just as overwhelmed. While in the office with the officer Mark was able to receive the official change of custody along with the restraining orders. Mark didn't actually request the order as he was doing it for Iris' protection but this was a nice bonus. The judge didn't waste any time in awarding Leslie temporary custody in addition to the DCF-ordered removal, giving Leslie more leeway with her care just in case something happened later on regarding Iris' health. Mark asked why the quick decision, the judge nearly fell out of his chair as he proudly stated, "That family name comes with a lot of value in the small judicial community. The name Finn and Johnson are synonymous with integrity and justice as well as forced retirements and gubernatorial interest." Mark was still new to the area but knew when to take a gift when it's given and thanked the judge. Valerie and her parents had saved him a lot of haggling and begging later on without even being there. The officer who was politely standing by listening to the conversation asked what the real story was behind the family. Mark had to condense it down and managed to sum them up with, "They are a law family who is not afraid to fight for what is right and protect kids and have the ears of many people who can do what is right." Mark had a big smile on his face as he realized that her parents didn't fully realize that she was going to have a wall of people surrounding her to protect her from them and not one of them would back down from their intimidation tactics. As Mark apologized for taking so long a nurse came in to ask for the officers. Iris' parents were there and demanding to see her, making a scene out at the front desk. Mark excused himself and had the orders in hand, giving Leslie a smile as he left. She did the same to him, and then looked down at the sleeping Iris hoping things went alright down there. Shouting could be heard from the conference room as the two officers entered. Mark nodded and announced, "Mr. and Mrs. Donaldson you are hereby being placed under arrest for suspicion of child abuse, assault and battery on a minor, and assault with hate intent. You are hereby ordered to stay away from Iris Donaldson until further notice and are barred from contacting or sending someone on your behalf to contact Iris Donaldson. Any violation will result in immediate arrest and additional charges. All custodial rights are temporarily suspended pending further investigation by the Department of Children and Families into allegations of abuse per order of a judge." Mark nodded and the officers placed them in handcuffs while reading them their rights. The orders were taken by the officers who kept a copy on file for Iris' safety. The hospital was given strict orders to not allow anyone close to Iris who weren't cleared with the orders being strictly enforced prompting a flurry of activity as those who were supposed to work was cleared and Mark gave his blessing. The Donaldsons swore loudly as they were removed and swore they would get Iris back no matter what. Mark informed them that he would take their claims into consideration and would inform the judge that they were threatening her life and consider them to be a continuing threat to her health and safety. Both immediately shut up but fought the officers until they were placed in the awaiting Boston Police cruiser with officers casually telling Mr. Donaldson that they would inform the state police just why he would be unable to work his shift the following morning. Mark drew a sigh of relief as he walked back inside the hospital. As he walked into Iris' room he told Leslie, "Her parents have been arrested and served their restraining orders. The staff knows not to let them in. If anyone calls on their behalf call me and I'll have them picked up again. I believe you know who should be allowed to come in and who should stay away. She nodded and announced, "You know her girlfriend Sam and her best friends Reyna and Francesca are going to want to visit. I expect my aunt and uncle to come by as well to give me a break." He knew better than to fight that notion, Jorge and Victoria were too formidable and were the best people to have with her when Leslie wasn't there. He sighed and told her he'd try to run interference with the girls but John would be a better fit at doing that. They should know already but she needs her rest. The girls can wait a day or two to see her, she will need all of the help she can get from them in dealing with the emotional aftermath. She grew somber and asked about her clothing and personal items. Mark shook his head, unsure what to do. Leslie suggested talking with Willie Pena and Anne Connors to get their opinions which he agreed to. The two sat in silence watching Iris sleep, unable to say anything more with her laying there making them feel anger and sadness. Leslie spent the night at Iris' bedside. Her brother and sister-in-law came in early in the morning with clothes for Leslie and to check on Iris. They were shaken by the sight and that it happened to the one they least expected. They felt horrible that she had to endure such pain for so long without help. Iris started to stir around midmorning. She was in pain and feeling pressure in her abdomen but knew where she was. Looking up and seeing Leslie she shed a tear, if she was there then the others knew what happened and she was going to have a long road ahead of her trying to live down her personal humiliation. Leslie shushed her and softly told her that she had nothing to fear. Her parents were arrested and given restraining orders and informed to keep away. They couldn't hurt her anymore, they would only hurt themselves. This did little to settle Iris. She knew her parents would not give up no matter what the order said. He was a state trooper, they don't back down from a fight no matter the odds. Their church friends would see to it that she was brought to them and punished no matter what. Despite being asked to stay away for a while Sam came in after Iris finished her late breakfast. She was in tears when she saw Iris, causing Iris to cry as well. The two shared a deep hug as neither wanted to let the other go. Leslie stepped out to give them some privacy, proclaiming that she was going to get some coffee and talk with her brother-in-law Nigel Smith. The two hugged for several minutes before Sam asked, "Why didn't you tell us? We could have gotten you help. This was stupid to do, you could have died." Iris shed a tear and admitted, "I was ashamed. There was so much going on that it was hard to say anything. Reyna was hurt and Reed wasn't in the best shape yet mentally. The last thing I wanted was to make it seem like I was trying to get attention while those two had so much more going on with their lives than I did." Sam was in tears again. Iris was being selfless when she needed to be selfish. She just didn't get that they loved her no matter what, and what she endured was something that none of them would have allowed her to endure alone. Leslie returned with her coffee and asked if things were alright. Sam asked who her new foster mother was, to which Leslie admitted:, "I am." Sam let out a quick, "Then tell her she is an idiot for not telling us sooner" and left, giving Iris a kiss before she left. Iris looked at her deeply, trying hard to find a reason for her taking her on as a foster daughter. Leslie did the same to Iris before admitting, "You are the first person who I am taking care of that doesn't have anywhere else to go. Sam and Virgil had James, Will and Richard had Beverly and Olivia, Scott and Jessica had Quentin and Greta, even Daisy had Lilly I don't know what I am doing, and I don't know why I still try. You are the first person I have who didn't need a place to crash while your parental situation was sorted out, you need serious help but I don't know if I can give you that." Iris could see that Leslie was nervous about hosting her. The usually calm and collected Leslie that she had seen so often before wasn't there. Leslie was instead a bundle of nerves and concerned that she would make a mistake and cause Iris to be removed or want to go elsewhere. Iris was the same. She wasn't used to people trying to help her, especially ones who for all intents and purposes were acquaintances to her. She knew they considered her part of the family but she never felt like she was part of it. Over two years of being friends with Rebecca and Jessie still hadn't made her feel like she was anything more than another person that they knew. They were good people but she just couldn't shake the feeling that she wasn't worthy of their friendship in the first place. Even Jessie and Rebecca weren't as close to her as they believed they were, she just didn't feel like she could truly open up to them without saying or doing something to show that she didn't belong among them. They were amazing friends but still, she felt that she was an outsider trying to break into a friendship that was more than just a friendship and she wasn't meant to be included. Leslie tried to make small talk while Iris tried to avoid saying or doing something she would regret. The two danced around things to the point of both trying to not talk if they couldn't help it. Leslie wanted to ask so many questions and Iris wanted to hide away, both fought for courage to say something but failed miserably. Their silent rodeo was interrupted by Nigel Smith checking on Iris's progress. He brought with him his wife Karen and daughter Nichole. The trio came by to check if they needed anything and stop the others from invading the hospital further. Leslie didn't need anything but Iris needed more clothes and some personal items. The two got her sizes and left, leaving Nichole to keep them company while they shopped. Iris tried to get her to stop, insisting that she could buy her own but that was shot down by all three adults. Nichole knew not to ask questions about what happened and tried to keep Iris' mind occupied by playing games and watching videos with her on Nichole's iPad. Iris seemed to relax a bit with Nichole there, even thanking her for distracting her from the boredom. Nichole couldn't stand the tension any long and asked her as calmly as possible what happened. Iris looked her over and saw the genuine concern and admitted everything to her, leaving nothing out. Nichole had no response to the opening up so she hugged her deeply, giving her a peck on the cheek and telling her, "Thank you for telling me, you won't regret it I won't tell anyone else." Leslie peered in and asked her if it was true. Iris tried to deny it but Nichole encouraged her to speak up now while they had the chance. She reluctantly admitted that it had been going on for months before she had to flee, this had been the first time she had an incentive to get away as she genuinely felt fear that they would do worse to her if she didn't leave immediately. Leslie shook her head in disbelief, scolding her for not seeking help from them sooner. Iris burst into tears as she admitted, "I didn't feel like I fit in with you all. Francesca and I felt like we were second class people among your group. Until Reyna came along and Sam started to get closer to me we were thinking about leaving you all alone." Leslie shed a tear and considered the truth of her statement. The younger teens were all focused around Jessie and Rebecca. Sam was closer than Iris and Francesca because of her dad and living across the street from Rebecca. They didn't try to include them more, they were always second thoughts. Neither realized they were doing that to them and she knew that neither meant to do that. It took Leslie a short time before she could respond. She softly said, "It ends now. You, Francesca, Reyna, and even Sam have been part of the group and you will always be. I won't let you four get left behind, you are part of this and you will be treated like part of it." Leslie hugged her and shed a few tears, the embarrassment at not seeing that there were people who supposedly were family members who were hurt by unintentional neglect was too much to endure. Nichole joined the hug, reinforcing that Iris was family despite her feelings otherwise. Iris stopped her crying and hugged back, feeling better about her confession. The hug fest was broken up by a cough at the door. Dr. Samuels was standing with Mark and ready to talk. Nichole sat beside Iris as Leslie asked what was going on. Dr. Samuels asked about the bruises on Iris's back and upper arms, stating, "These aren't from yesterday. I'd like to confirm my suspicions." Iris confessed, "They are from dad and mom. They would beat me daily for any reason they could think of, claiming it was to keep me in line and on God's true path. I told you before that they had already gotten their licks in before they came back, that is what I meant." Mark asked if she was willing to make a statement about the bruises to which Iris shot back, "It won't make any difference. As soon as he makes bail dad will come for me and he will have help. A piece of paper won't stop him and he will convince the police to help him." Both Leslie and Mark looked at one another and nodded. She needed to be moved and fast. Dr. Samuels told them she could be released the next day but she would have to rest for a week before she could return to school. Iris asked if she was going to be safe in school which Mark nodded. He added, "We will stop by your house tomorrow to get everything for you so you don't have to worry about a thing. Enjoy your stay with Leslie, it's never dull with the three of them." Dr. Samuels and Nichole snickered as Leslie groaned at the joke. Iris didn't seem to get it which further reiterated her stance that she wasn't really part of the family. She just sighed and looked away, feeling ashamed again that they had shown her again that she wasn't part of the family like they believed her to be. Karen and Nigel returned scolded him, telling Mark, "As funny as that seems she is having trouble with the family connections. She doesn't feel like she is one of us and I can't recall at all if she ever had to put up with a meal with Uncle Jorge and Aunt Victoria." Mark apologized and left them in shame, feeling terrible that he hadn't seen the signs before about her not feeling like she was one of them. Nigel and Karen handed Iris her new clothes and waited for her to inspect them. She tried to hand them back but Nichole told her to accept them, the only alternative was walking home in a hospital gown. The image caused Iris to blush and take the bag and utter a soft, "Thank you" to them. It was getting late and Bryan called to complain that the baby had given him some unwanted presents in his diaper prompting the Smiths to leave before their newborn son terrorized his older brother any further. Iris managed to let out a laugh at the joke which got the trio to smile as they left. Leslie told her softly, "If you weren't part of the family they wouldn't have done that for you. They went shopping because you are part of the family, not because you are in my care. I can guarantee you that tomorrow you will have John, Valerie, Melanie, Dan, and Gabby here to see you before we leave and escort you to our apartment." She tried to correct Leslie but she countered with, "It's our apartment. As long as you are staying with me as my foster daughter it is your home too. You will have responsibilities and you will have freedom but it is your home as much as mine." The two sat and watched TV for another two hours before Iris fell asleep. Leslie made arrangements for the morning quietly while Iris slept, smiling at her being peaceful after a stressful day. She fell asleep in the pullout bed/side chair soon after finishing her last call, herself with a smile on her face. In the morning Iris woke Leslie up by poking her in the arm. She shot up quickly realizing she was still in the hospital with Iris. Dr. Samuels failed to hide his laughter at the sight causing Leslie to blush deeply in embarrassment. Nigel cleared his throat and got the good doctor to calm down and give his final approval for Iris's release. Dr. Samuels handed Leslie a large packet of information for her care. There was little she needed to do but he wanted to have everything covered so iris didn't overdo things and followed the instructions to the letter. He then told her, "Not too much of Jorge's cooking no matter what he says. She needs limited exercise during the week so walks around the park or to and from the daycare center. Victoria should be able to handle her while you are taking your finals so don't worry about that. Give her the orders so Iris doesn't get away with overdoing things when you are gone." The two were escorted downstairs to parking garage where as predicted they were greeted by John and Valerie Finn, Dan and Melanie Lopez, and Gabby Lawrence. Iris was immediately embarrassed at the reception and asked if they could go getting a quick nod from Leslie. Leslie in turn mouthed, "Give her time" to the group as they left. They seemed to understand what she meant but looked hurt at Iris pushing them away. Melanie and Gabby were left speechless. They were unused to being rejected by any of the girls let alone one of their daughters' friends. Gabby was the first to admit they screwed up badly saying, "We all but ignored her for two years. We had two years to get to know her and her parents and not once did we try. Miles was right about us, we are tight knit and intimidating to people who don't know us." Melanie was rarely speechless but for the first time since John had known her, she couldn't say anything smart, witty, or calming. Dan read her mind and stated, "We made an effort with Mike, Alex, Greta, Quentin, Lupe, James, and Tanya but we didn't try with the Donaldsons or the White-Clarks. We should have included them but we were so focused on ourselves and our own kids that we forgot Iris and Francesca were their friends as well. Hell if Miguel didn't already know you, John, we probably wouldn't have tried with Lupe or Miguel." Valerie was silent for a different reason. She was trying to concentrate on Iris' case and hoped to find a way of permanently ridding her of the Donaldsons so this would not happen again. John calmly told them that they had better get going, then mentioned that Willie, Anne, and Mark were heading to the Donaldson home within the hour. Valerie smiled as he mentioned that. She proclaimed, "The neighbor is going to be our ticket to freeing her. She got the family involved in the religious movement and I don't doubt for a second that she will shoot her mouth off the first chance she gets at seeing Iris return home." John cocked his head at what she was thinking but he realized she was right. Someone that bigoted was bound to screw up and say something that works against them. She would not need any provocation to get her to go after them, the woman was giving them exactly what they needed and her actions would backfire against those she was supposed to be helping. The group headed to Leslie's apartment and met her outside to escort Iris back home to collect her clothing and personal items. She reluctantly agreed to go but John whispered to her, "We know what will happen so don't react when it does. Just focus on gathering your things. We will be there to protect you, nothing will happen to you while we are there for you. Nobody can hurt you now." Several minutes later the two cars parked in the Donaldson family's driveway and were met by Willie Pena, Anne Connors, Mark, and two uniformed Winnisimmet Police officers. The group entered and started to remove all of Iris' clothes and personal items. She was trying her best to keep herself together but this was the strongest sign yet that her life was changed irrevocably. She told Mark, "I kept the receipts from when I bought these with my summer jobs money; I hope I can keep them." Mark nodded as Valerie announced, "They belong to you, your parents have no claim to them. Take everything that you bought and leave whatever they bought. We can sort things out later if need be but I don't believe they will be able to claim any of your things as their own later on." She headed to her closet and took out several bags of clothes, some of which were clearly brand new and never worn. There was several hundred dollars worth of clothes, making Valerie ask, "Did you only wear what your parents bought you?" She nodded silently, showing her blouses that were clearly not picked out by a teen. She let out a sigh and stated, "As soon as they started bible thumping they wouldn't let me leave the house without inspecting my clothes. All of the ones I bought last summer for Spring are in these bags. I could only get away with wearing what others gave me since they felt it was an obligation to wear them but they hated what they didn't buy themselves." The group took the clothes out and then carried out several boxes containing her laptop, iPad, television, and bedding. Leslie looked at all of the things and smiled, the girl knew what to get and what to leave. Willie whispered to John, "You notice that there were no pictures or other mementos?" John nodded and added, "No jewelry either. She doesn't even have her pendant that the girls gave her. I suspect that was locked away but if it wasn't I'll ensure that whichever pawn shop that bought it gives it back to her." Mark signaled for them to stay inside for a bit. They saw movement next door and heard complaints and shouting. Seconds later they saw someone creeping into the Donaldson home with a baseball bat. Willie had his can of pepper spray handy and crouched. As the person got closer he announced:, "Winnisimmet Police, stop where you are and put your hands where I can see them." They heard the bat drop and someone run. The officers were with the person before she could get away, putting her in handcuffs as she swore at them. Willie announced, "You are under arrest for trespassing and breaking and entering. You do not have permission from the residents to be here." He proceeded to read her Miranda Rights then took her outside where Mark and Anne were waiting silently. The woman started ranting at them about the dyke girl coming home. She told them she had every right to be there, her parents told her to beat some sense into her and if she died so be it. Willie stated,, "You were read your rights and everything you have just said was witnessed by members of the Department of Children and Families and shall be used against the Donaldsons." She looked at Mark and Anne who showed her ID cards and proceeded to continue her ranting about getting the dyke daughter no matter what. She then claimed, "The reverend will get her. We will see to it that he is her next of kin and lays claim to her. She can't escape her punishment for dyke ways; we will ensure she finds God or pays the price!" Willie signaled to the officers to take her away. Mark and Anne nodded and told Iris, "We will include in our report that you were threatened with bodily harm and received death threats. We are also going to include that you have no direct next of kin and that the one claiming to be that person intends to harm you." Iris started to shed tears and asked, "Can you do what you did for Miles and Christina? Please? I don't ever want to go with any member of the church." Anne and Mark looked at Leslie who nodded. Anne smiled at her and softly told her, "We will try. They will fight it but we have people who aren't afraid to get down and dirty and know a few tricks to show the reverend and his ilk are a danger to you." Mark added,, "Leslie is the best person for you to be with but if you have to we can arrange for you two to hide out safely." Iris hugged Leslie and was led to her car to give her a chance to calm down. Willie secured the home and left with the officers while the others drove to Leslie's apartment. Mark informed Jorge and Victoria about the threats and was given a nod from Jorge who called a friend over and filled him in. He nodded to Jorge who told them, "If they show up, they will regret it. If they try anything, they might not walk away without an ambulance." Mark looked horrified but Valerie told him, "They protect the kids of the neighborhood especially ones associated with Jorge, Victoria, and Leslie. That isn't a threat, that's the truth." Anne came back down after helping Iris get situated and announced, "The Donaldsons posted bail, they will be looking for her soon. Iris knows not to answer the door and Leslie has a can of pepper spray just in case." Jorge made a quick phone call and told her, "My people know who they are and know what they look like, if the show up they won't get out of the car without a dozen of us around them." Iris pointed out, "Dad's a state trooper, he will claim I was kidnapped and try to get some of his friends to help get me away." John shook his head and smiled, Iris was offended by this but he told her, "His so- called friends have abandoned him. The officers at the hospital alerted the state police about his actions against you so he is under investigation already. Mike and Alex made some calls to the captain and lieutenants on duty at the airport barracks and the Kensington Beach barracks to let them know what is really going on with you and backed up the Boston officers' claims. He doesn't have any actual support and anyone who does help him out are looking at immediate suspensions and termination proceedings. As far as they are concerned he's tarnished the badge. No state trooper will lift a finger for him any longer." John and the others left leaving Iris and Leslie to get settled in. The mood was somber as Iris was worried but Leslie kept trying to raise her spirits. The two ate their dinner in silence and worked on her homework until it was time for bed. Leslie lay awake for a couple of hours after Iris fell asleep just in case something happened. In the morning Iris was jostled awake by Leslie. The two ate another quiet meal before Iris went downstairs to Jorge and Victoria's apartment so Leslie could attend class. The two were quiet and calm around her, in contrast to their usual fussy nature around the teens and young kids. Victoria told her to check her email and work on her schoolwork until lunch, she was out recovering but she wasn't excused from all work. Iris complied with Victoria's orders. She wasn't about to refuse to abide by her rules in her home and anger the other Finns. Victoria offered to help her if she needed any and double-checked her work as she completed it but Iris steadfastly refused any help even when struggling with certain parts of her math homework. Jorge kept watching outside on the porch. He talked with the neighbors for hours but always kept his eyes peeled for the Donaldsons or anyone else suspicious. By mid-morning he had seen a few people watching the building from down the street, sitting in their cars talking with someone on the phone at regular intervals. It was clear to the neighbors that they were sitting there too long to be one of the neighborhood's resident drug dealers nor were they visiting anyone in particular. The way they were acting they were there for one reason- they were there for Iris. After an hour Jorge nodded to a neighbor who walked up and knocked on the window. He told the occupants in not so kind words to leave and don't bother coming back, their cover was blown. To make his point he took pictures of them and their car and texted them to someone getting an immediate response back. The men in the car shouted at them and threatened them with bodily harm until an officer tapped on the window and repeated the same order, this time stating, "This is your one and only warning to all of your church members. Try to get her again and you will be arrested as will the Donaldsons. I can't guarantee that you won't be harmed by the neighbors, they gave you your one and only warning." The car sped away, vowing revenge and to fulfill, "God's duty". Jorge just nodded that he understood and showed Victoria's bat to the officer to show that he'd protect his home if need be. There was no need for any words, the people of Winnisimmet knew that when that was brought out the Castillos would use it. The officer just nodded and went back on patrol, making a note to have certain people aware of the neighborhood's response to the threat to Iris. During the observation period and while Iris was working on her schoolwork the Donaldsons were arraigned in court. Judge Matthews read the charges against them and shook his head in disgust. He asked Mark about the charges to which Mark stated:, "We have the report from Dr. Samuels stating that there are scars and bruising that range in age between several weeks to several months old corresponding to the period of time in which the couple has been under the influence of their church." Judge Matthews asked about the woman being arraigned beside them to which Mark told him, "She was found breaking into the Donaldson home while their daughter was obtaining her clothing and personal items. She stated that t the request of the Donaldsons she intended to harm her, to quote 'to beat some sense into the dyke and if she died so be it'. She was warned about her right to remain silent yet she continued to threaten the child. We believe that based upon her claims and the actions of her parents that the judicial order she should be placed into the custody of her foster parent be continued indefinitely." Judge Matthews looked over the charges again and stated, "Due to the severity of the threats bail is denied for the three defendants. Restraining orders are hereby issued against the Donaldsons, the reverend, and his church. Any member acting on his behalf is in violation of the order and will be subject to arrest. I'll see you in chambers, Mr. Sylvester." The judge adjourned the court and headed to his office with Mark in tow. He asked about the seriousness of the case and was told about the threats from her parents were real and that they had made an attempt to grab her already. Judge Matthews drew a deep breath and shook his head, telling him, "I understand she is with a member of the Finn Family?" Mark nodded then admitted, "She is in the care of Leslie Finn. She is taking precautions against the inevitable kidnapping attempt but Iris has requested what happened with Miles Finn and Christina Connors happen to her. We didn't tell her that it would be done, only that we would look into it." Judge Matthew nodded and admitted, "I hate to think that the Finns are abusing the system to get around the long waits for adoption but in each of those cases it was clear that there was a danger to the child and delaying could have been harmful if not deadly. The young lady needs help and a home, and I am ordering the immediate termination of parental rights based upon imminent and continuous threats against her life. Normally this should be held in front of a family court judge but I don't believe that the Finns aren't preparing for a contingency." Mark asked if this meant Leslie was going to be able to adopt her. Judge Matthews shook his head and told him bluntly, "As much as I'd like to grant it, they haven't acted yet. Threats don't amount to much except ammunition against them ever getting her back. I am going to process the paperwork and give my blessing but should something happen then I'll order it immediately finalized. I expect this to end up in family court, but I know Valerie and John have someone who will step up to take care of things." Mark shook his head and admitted,, "Their neighbor already said he's going to do just that." Judge Matthews shook his head and made a note to write a letter of recommendation to grant custody to Leslie due to the threat of harm and to point out that there is a precedent for supporting the custody award to Leslie. It may not sway the judge but the judge would know that it was a serious criminal matter beyond a family squabble. Outside Mark was served with notice of the intent to sue for custody. He examined it and laughed, the reverend was out of his mind if he believed his bigoted claims against Leslie would stand up in court. He did, however, contact Valerie to alert her and get her to contact her lawyer friend. Mark called Anne to notify her that the right to take away Iris was being challenged by the alleged next of kin. She listened to what the judge had told Mark and what he had planned. She had trouble suppressing her laugh at the attempt but knew enough that this was going to be taken seriously by the courts no matter what. She let him finish and stated flatly, "Ricardo is going to rip them to shreds and leave no stone unturned regarding their intention to abuse her. I have done some background research on the good reverend and he is notorious for his use of camps designed to turn gays straight through whatever means necessary. That's just a cursory glance, there is likely more going on with him than we know about." Mark shuddered at hearing that and told her he was going to the Castillo apartment to warn them. Mark made it just in time to witness the reverend's enforcers arrive. There were six of them, all carrying handcuffs and rope and not even trying to look like they belonged in the neighborhood. Mark called 911 immediately while Jorge called his neighbors. Iris saw the men coming, locked and barricaded the back bedroom door, and hid in the closet while Victoria grabbed her bat and had it at the ready. The men pushed Mark aside telling him, "If you try to get in our way we will make you regret it." Jorge was pushed aside by two before he could land a blow, getting knocked down in the process and hitting his head against the chair. Victoria swung at the first one to enter the apartment, knocking him down and was in mid swing when two tackled her. All eight were in the apartment now and knocking open the doors searching for Iris. Three knocked the back bedroom door off its hinges toppling the barricade then opened the closet door pulling Iris out kicking and screaming. Two grabbed her legs and bound them while another two grabbed her arms. One gagged her mouth and punched her face to keep her quiet. The group knocked Victoria and Jorge down again as they exited, telling them they will kill them if they tried to stop them. Mark stood on the stairs with Victoria's bat and shouted, "All eight of you are hereby under arrest for violated my client's 209A rights. You are in violation of an existing restraining order and are hereby going to be placed under arrest." The eight laughed at him and pushed him down, grabbing the bat and whacking him in the back twice with it. Mark was just distracting them, holding them in place long enough for the neighbors to come streaming out with all sorts of weapons. In as span of two minutes 30 people had stopped what they were doing and grabbed whatever they had on hand to incapacitate the eight. Mark coughed hard and stated again, "You are hereby under arrest for violating my client's 209A rights. You are also on camera assaulting three people and kidnapping a minor. Enjoy your stay in prison." With this Mark collapsed in pain. Jorge and Victoria's neighbors rushed the men and beat them senseless with their weapons only stopping when one of the responding officers shouted something to them. The eight were bloody and bruised, with dozens of teeth missing and multiple bones broken among them. The officers read them their rights and called for ambulances then went to look over Jorge, Victoria, and Mark. Iris was quietly sobbing to herself in a corner. She was uninjured but she was traumatized. Jorge had a concussion and small cut on his head. Victoria ha a few bruises but otherwise alright. Mark had difficulty breathing and needed to go to the hospital for x-rays. Victoria offered to drive them to the hospital and did so with the blessing of the medics. At the hospital Jorge was kept overnight for observation, they wanted to ensure the concussion didn't lead to something worse given his age. Mark was given the all clear, the impact left deep bruises but they didn't break any ribs. Iris was checked out as a precaution but thankfully her sutures didn't rip open. Judge Matthews called Mark to ask what just happened as the news hit his chambers quickly. Mark told him they wasted no time in going after her and were willing to hurt an elderly couple to get at her. Judge Matthews issued an arrest warrant for the reverend and the Donaldsons and told him, "First chance you get have Leslie and Iris down here to talk with me." Mark told him about the reverend's attempt to gain custody which could complicate matters. Judge Matthews just laughed it off and admitted, "I'll have the orders ready for final signatures regardless of the outcome of the hearing. I can't take direct action due to the case being on record already but I can have it ready to go for when you win. I expect a phone call immediately after both sides are heard and will give the judge my own take." Victoria drove the three back to her home and was met by a stunned and fearful Leslie. Shortly after they were met by John and Valerie and a man that Valerie introduced as Ricardo Ramirez, Leslie's new lawyer. Leslie hugged him deeply and apologized for dragging him away from his normal cases. Ricardo nodded and asked for the petition. Spending several minutes reading it over he laughed at the idiocy of it. He pointed out that it was blatantly obvious he is not a relative, his only interest in Iris was to, "Save" her, and he intended to cause her harm. Mark pointed out that the abduction attempt was done on his orders which Ricardo smiled and nodded at. He wasted little time in pointing out, "They claim that Leslie is unfit because she is a lesbian. They say that she is influencing her to become like her and that she is damaging Iris's moral well-being." Iris looked at her and asked,, "Is it true?" Leslie shook her head in disappointment, telling her softly, "I am single, I have gone on one date in 25 years, but that doesn't mean I am a lesbian. I am straight. I just put other people first. I took you in because you needed a place to go, not because you were like me or I wanted to make you into what I am." Iris was ashamed of herself for making that assumption of her. Ricardo admitted to Iris, "They are hoping that a judge will believe that just because she is single she must be a lesbian. It's neither relevant nor is it a reason to deny her custody in this day and age in this state." Valerie told them to gather several days' worth of clothes and come with them, they couldn't stay there any longer. Iris looked at her in horror but Ricardo told her, "You need a safe place to go and her home is the safest place for you." Mark told her, "I hate to agree but it's too dangerous for you here. Their colleagues will come again and this time they might just use a gun to end the problem." The Finn home was the last place Iris wanted to be but Leslie reassured her with a hug. She too had tears in her eyes, this was the worst thing to happen to anyone she knew and that was saying something. She couldn't let Iris get hurt, not while she was under her care. In Leslie's car, she openly wept. Iris asked why she was crying getting a soft, "You were almost taken for us because I wasn't there. I could still lose you just because I am not like my brother and sister. Judge Matthews might be favoring adoption but that still won't matter to the family court judge. If he rules against me I can't think of what they will do to you." Iris was now in tears. Leslie was showing more caring for her than she had ever had from any of the Finns before. She too broke down and admitted, "I wouldn't care if you were a lesbian or not. You actually give a damn about me. The only other people who seem to were Sam, Francesca, and Reyna. I like Victoria and Jorge too, but I like staying with you." The two dried their eyes as they pulled up to the Finn home. Leslie was immediately mobbed by JD and Cat Finn who in turn looked over Iris with suspicion. Cat grabbed her hand and dragged her into the living room to play while JD hopped alongside Leslie to the dining room. Cat hugged her for no reason then pointed at her toys telling her to play with her. Iris couldn't say no to her, she was just too cute and was the first Finn to give her the time of day let alone seek her out. Iris liked her already. Leslie and Valerie were watching Cat and Iris play while JD bounced on Leslie's lap. Despite Iris knowing the Finns for two years, Cat had only met Iris a few times and normally didn't warm up to people until she knew them for a while. This was out of character for her, but it was a rare time where Cat was helping the family without knowing she was. Valerie finally broke the staring contest by asking, "Are you serious about adopting her?" Leslie shook her head in disbelief and asked, "Do you really think I would leave her to the mercy of DCF for the next four years? She would get terrorized or worse, handed over to that church without so much as a second thought. I can't do that to her. She needs a parent who knows her and understands what she is going through. She needs love and support, not just a bed to sleep in. I know I am less than ideal but she needs me." Valerie gave her a big smile and announced, "That's exactly what I expected to hear. You may be a single parent but you have more child raising experience than any of us. She respects you but she needs someone to ease her into the family." John entered with Miles, Michael, and Jaimie and was surprised if not shocked to see Iris there with her bags packed. Valerie loudly told them to finish their homework before starting their interrogation which got the three of them moving quickly. John looked at Leslie and her anxious demeanor and asked bluntly, "Did they make their move already?" Valerie shot back a harsh, "Didn't even wait for the ink to dry on the restraining orders." Cat led Iris into the dining room and went off to find Jaimie. Iris looked at her and asked,, "What just happened?" Leslie looked at John then Valerie and answered her with a sharp, "You learned where Cat places you on her hierarchy. Reed is at the top followed by Jaimie. You are either number three or four now depending on how much more she likes you than Christina and Nichole." Iris was trying to figure out what that meant but John explained, "She has her favorites among all of the members of the family, normally she won't pay attention to you unless she is bored but there's something in you that she likes. Don't try to understand it, only Cat knows what's going on and she doesn't have the communication skills yet to explain. She likes who she likes and right now she knows you needed some attention." Jaimie, Michael, and Miles came in and announced they were done with their homework and wanted to know what was going on. Valerie sat them down and told them about what Iris' parents did to her and what happened that morning. The three were visibly shaken with Miles growing angrier by the second. He had to leave the room for a bit to get his anger in check. Jaimie and Michael looked at Leslie then at Iris and asked:, "When is the hearing?" Valerie was taken aback by their question, Jaimie asked it again with Valerie telling them, "Tomorrow morning, and we expect it to go in Leslie's favor." Michael asked,, "When is the adoption going to be finalized?" Valerie shook her head and said a sharp, "As soon as the gavel drops and Mark calls Judge Matthews. He would have done it today but the bastards ran right to the courthouse to file to prevent that from happening." The two went over to Iris and hugged her, causing her to flinch out of shock. They broke the hug immediately but kept close to her. Miles came in and saw the poignant moment and slipped out only to be told to get back there by Michael. Miles hugged her as well, giving her a kiss on the cheek and telling her, "It'll get better soon." The four were interrupted by the doorbell and Rebecca and Stacy Lopez coming inside. Both ran up to Iris and hugged her as the trio stepped away to give them a chance to talk. Rebecca was all questions as Stacy kept silent. Stacy had known some people who had serious family issues but Iris was the first one that involved actual family to her. Word had reached the middle school through family members of Jorge and Victoria's neighbors about the abduction attempt. Details were sketchy but it was known that Iris was the target. Her friends raced to Jorge and Victoria's apartment to check on all of them only to see Iris and Leslie were gone and the couple not telling them where they went. Victoria suggested strongly that they return home and talk with Rebecca's aunt but didn't say exactly which one. The six teens got the hint and left for Rebecca's home with Thomas Gault, Jessie, Sam, Reyna, and Francesca waiting for the OK to come by from Rebecca. Iris told Stacy and Rebecca about the abduction attempt and what happened to Jorge, Victoria, and Mark. She was in tears describing what they said to her, barely able to get the words out as she broke down. Stacy held her tightly as Rebecca tried to curb her rising anger, fighting the urge to scream and punch the walls in frustration. When they composed themselves Rebecca asked her softly if she was able to see the others, turning to Leslie and Valerie for approval. Both nodded as Iris said a quiet, "Yes". Stacy texted the group and in two minutes Iris was surrounded by hugging friends. Thomas kept his distance, he wisely chose to lay off while the girls helped Iris get her face in order and calmed their own anxiety. Miles and he sat in the living room with the twins as he texted his dad asking him to make sure Iris' parents didn't get out after the events of today. Miles admitted to him, "It sucks that she was hurt and all we can do is wait." Thomas agreed and added,, "Dad will get them, it'll take some time but it'll happen." Miles added,, "I hope Aunt Kennedy can get her people after him, those people like to play loose with their money but they always make mistakes." Thomas looked at him and texted his dad getting a quick, "Tell him he is going to be a good detective" from his dad then getting a laugh from Miles as well. Rebecca and the girls were finished hugging while Thomas texted his dad. Valerie suggested they do their homework if they were going to hang around Iris which got them to laugh, breaking up the tension in the room. Iris was relieved to focus on something else and dug in with them, with Thomas joining them as they started the first of their math problems. The teens focused on their work for two hours until their phones started to ring with their parents requesting that they return home for dinner. The group broke up with Sam being the last one out, giving Iris a deep kiss and hug before crossing the street to her house. Iris was blushing but feeling happier than she had in days. Cat giggled at her kiss, saying, "You make Sam happy". Iris smiled and told her, "Yes I do, and she makes me happy." Cat hugged her and said, "I make you happy, I like you" then went on her way. Iris now understanding what John had said about Cat and her ways, she was young but she was lovable in her own way. JD came over and hugged her telling, "I like you too" then ran off. John shook his head as he said:, "He likes you but he only said it because Cat did the same." Iris smiled and looked at the twins smiling back at her, she told him, "They are lucky to have one another." Dinner was quiet as the four teens had little to talk about. Leslie was quick to finish her meal then went up to her room to study for her finals the next day. Iris and Jaimie were sharing a room so the two sorted out their sleeping situation with Iris taking the bed while Jaimie got the floor. Jaimie was comfortable with Iris seeing her all but nude while Iris was uncomfortable changing in front of her. She was uncomfortable with her body, while Jaimie was proud of hers. Jaime sensed her shame and told her, "You have a beautiful body that any girl would kill to have." Irish shot back, "Dad made fun of my being tall and skinny." Jaimie looked her in the eyes and told her bluntly, "The man is a total idiot. You are tall and skinny, so what. You will have guys and girls drooling over you for decades. You hit the genetic jackpot, you could be a model if you wanted." Iris looked at her as if she was joking. Jaimie put her arm around her and asked her, "Tall, skinny, beautiful face, nicely proportioned boobs, a perfect butt. You are better looking than the girls in the fashion magazines Stacy and Jessica subscribe to." Iris was again brought to tears as Jaimie hugged her. Jaimie softly told her, "This is what family does for one another, we know what to say and do to make one another feel better." The two broke the hug and went to bed, Iris again thanking her for being so kind to her. In the morning Jaimie silently got dressed and went to school, letting Iris sleep in. At school, she told her friends about the day before and telling them to give Iris a few more days before they came by. Stacy and Claire were the only ones immune to the request, Claire needed to have some time with Iris to get to know her newest cousin. Christina asked to go as well, her experiences were more like Iris' experiences and it might help her to see that she was in the right place for her to get the help that she needs from people who will love her unconditionally. As Jaimie was updating her friends, over at the family court courthouse Ricardo and Mark traded notes. Ricardo read the police reports on all eight attempted kidnappers and the Donaldson's' neighbor and grinned. They matched up. The reverend, the alleged next of kin, was directing them to cause Iris harm and was guaranteeing that she was either going to become as they saw fit or die. No judge could ignore the evidence no matter how bigoted that judge was. The duo entered the courtroom with neutral expressions, offering no hints about their evidence. The reverend had a big grin on his face as if he was going to win no matter what, Mark just shook his head in shame. Ricardo stood firm as his lawyer tried to preen for the judge in victory without having actually done anything yet. The judge entered and called the case to order. He read the two briefs and asked that the reverend's attorney states his claim. The lawyer went after Leslie with vigor, claiming her to be a deviant who was trying to manipulate a young mind to become like her. He never bothered to include and evidence, just using generalities against her that anyone who actually knew her would laugh at. He then claimed that the charges against the Donaldsons were bogus and conjured up by Leslie to cover for her wanting to make Iris into a deviant like her. He claimed that she had turned three young boys into believing they were girls and that her family had turned two more into them as well. He claimed that the reverend was told he would be able to watch over Iris should anything happen to the Donaldsons, claiming this was agreed to months before but never put into writing. Things turned interesting when he started to extol the virtues of the reverend and made claims about what he had done to many young men and women like Iris who mistakenly believed they were becoming deviants. He claimed that the reverend wanted to save her from that life and help her get back on the path of God like her parents had wanted her to do. Ricardo just jotted down some notes and shook his head as he had left his client wide open for direct assaults regarding his actions. The judge listened with boredom as the rant became fiery and filled with rage and arrogance. He expected all of this and let the lawyer finish allowing him to get his vitriol out of the way so there were no claims by the lawyer of not being allowed to adequately defend his client. He looked at Mark and nodded, telling Ricardo to begin his case. Ricardo went for the throat and told the judge, "We have here nine statements from members of the reverend's church telling us exactly what they were going to do with Iris once the good reverend had obtained custody of Iris. In his claims my counterpart conveniently left out the penalties for not going along with the reverend's will- they were ready to kill her if need be." Ricardo presented the statements to the judge who read them over and cringed as they were all alike and all stated that the reverend ordered them to get her on the right path no matter the cost. The lawyer tried to claim they were fake but Mark countered with, "They are in no way fake unless you are going to claim that ADA Taylor Gault and members of the Winnisimmet Police Department are lying about what they said. All of these were conducted after Miranda Rights were explained and told freely to anyone who would listen, including myself." The judge asked for Mark to take the court oath and then asked what this was about. Mark explained what happened the day before just after the restraining order had been issued against the reverend. The judge asked if there was additional evidence to which Mark produced the orders which he then turned on the lawyer by saying, "You knew about the orders of protection against your client and did nothing to stop him from sending his people out? You were with him in the courtroom as they were issued! You allowed an attempted abduction to occur without so much as alerting the authorities nor trying to stop your client from committing a crime!" The judge asked the lawyer point blank if he knew the implications in allowing a crime to occur without first advising his client to which the lawyer claimed:, "We were within our rights." The judge shot back, "You knowingly allowed a crime to be committed! You allowed a serious crime at that! That is not within your rights nor is it even allowed under any ethics rules!" Ricardo took over and started in on the claims against Leslie. He proclaimed, "Ms. Finn is a highly respected member of the community who has opened her home to children in need of a temporary home on multiple occasions; this has been noted in court records multiple times. What she did not do was turn boys into girls. Those three children claimed to have been turned into girls by Leslie not turned by her. One of those children was diagnosed as being transgender several years before she and her mother stayed with Leslie while they awaited the purchase of their home. She had been openly living as a girl during that time and in no way did Ms. Fin influence her living as a girl. Another girl was diagnosed as being transgender three months before staying with Leslie and was living openly as a girl during that time. A third who stayed with her was staying with her father in addition to Leslie and was diagnosed as transgender four years prior to moving to this country let alone living with Leslie." He grinned then added, "Your honor the one child who may even be remotely believed to have supposedly been 'turned' into a girl by her was, in fact, a female born with a genetic abnormality that made her appear to have male genitalia. This abnormality was discovered by a medical doctor during a routine medical exam, and that had been missed by medical officials at birth. She was never male, she was never 'turned into a girl' as she was always a girl. I won't even bother to point out that there were also four boys who stayed with her at different times and not one of those boys has now nor have they ever had any feminine tendencies nor dressed as girls but once again my counterpart chose to ignore facts to scandalize an upstanding citizen and model parent." Ricardo took a deep breath before beginning again. This time he was going for the throat. He all but yelled, "Ms. Finn is being unfairly called a lesbian by my counterpart for no reason other than being single. If he had bothered to learn any history of her he would know that Ms. Finn has spent most of her life caring for others and left little time for a love life. She has had a strong influence in raising seven children since her own childhood. When she isn't caring for the family she and her business partner run a successful daycare center. During the past three semesters, she has worked hard on her degree in early childhood education to allow her to expand her business. All of this leaves little time to date. Just because she has chosen to remain single does not make her a lesbian and my counterpart is well over the line towards slander in claiming that she is and that she is trying to turn Iris into one." The judge asked where Leslie was at that moment. Mark and Ricardo both stated, "Taking her final exams for school." The judge nodded at the news not bothering to address the claims. Mark added, "Before you ask where she is, Iris is staying with trusted people in preparation for whatever the outcome of this hearing will be. I will not tell the court whereas the reverend has shown that he does not care about the rule of law and will not hesitate to send his people to get her." The judge nodded and stared at the reverend who was glaring at Mark. Ricardo went after the lawyer again asking, "My counterpart claims that an agreement that the reverend is the next of kin and the Donaldsons was created months ago yet he has produced nothing to back up his claim. I ask if there was such a document why is it not on file and further why was the reverend not notified that Iris was in the hospital on Friday? I believe there never was such a document and that the claim is false and only came about when the Department of Children and Families found that Iris had been abused for many months prior to her being found unconscious after being assaulted last Friday." The judge smiled and asked the reverend's lawyer to produce evidence that there was an agreement to which he claimed:, "It was verbal!" The judge shot him down and told him, "And let me guess, the only actual witnesses are the reverend's family and the Donaldsons. I may be old but I'm not senile, we both know there was never such a document and that you are knowingly hoping that I would ignore the laws and the rights of the child to rule in favor of the reverend." The judge closed the hearing while he deliberated. He made a phone call to Judge Matthews and got his direct opinion about the case. Judge Matthew was honest in saying, "The reverend is using you to do what his minions couldn't do directly. If he loses Iris he knows he will be open to investigation from the state into his finances and practices. This hearing was all about him and had nothing to do with Iris' care." The judge asked him firmly, "Are you of the belief that she is in danger?" Judge Matthew drew a deep breath and stated, "She is in danger no matter where she is. She is safest with the Finns. There are four officers of the law around her with one within the home. Across the street and next door are the other three." Judge Matthews added to his advice by saying, "Leslie actually cared about her otherwise she would not have taken her in. Iris is among several abused children who found homes among the various friends and family of the Finns. These include children who like her were on the fringe of the family but were included inside when they suffered like Iris suffered. I fully intend to issue the official adoption order as soon as you rule, I cannot allow her to be in danger from the reverend and giving my proclamation will force him to back off or actually go to jail this time." The two judges came to an agreement without saying anything and hung up. The judge exited his chambers and called the session back into order. He looked towards the reverend who had a smug look on his face as did his lawyer. The judge shook his head and stated, "Wipe those grins off your faces I am ruling that full custody is given to Leslie Finn with the order that Iris Donaldson is adopted by her. I am permanently terminating all parental rights by her birth parents and issuing orders that they permanently have no contact with Iris." The lawyer claimed he couldn't do that, they had an agreement. The judge shot him down faster saying, "You knowingly perjured yourself in my court multiple times regarding the agreement. There is none. If you continue to insist I will have you held in contempt and charges of perjury brought against you by the state. And as you were with the reverend when the restraining order was issued yesterday I am ordering the state's bar association to investigate you for serious breaches of ethics in allowing a criminal act to be undertaken with your full knowledge nor an attempt by you to dissuade your client from undertaking it." Addressing the reverend the judge shook his head and proclaimed, "You attempted to use the court to kidnap a child. Your plans failed. I am asking that the Attorney General's Office investigate your church to see if this has been done to innocent children before. I suspect this isn't the first time you have done this as you are too confident to not to have. Further, I am ordering you to call back your followers, any actions taken against Iris or Leslie Finn will be directly in violation of the pre-existing restraining order and will bring criminal conspiracy charges against you. Court is adjourned." With that, the judge nodded to Mark who immediately made the phone call to Judge Matthews. Ricardo joined him in the walk to their cars as the reverend and his lawyer fought verbally over the result of the hearing. Mark had a big grin as he proclaimed, "It's all set, we just need Iris and Leslie." The two got in and drove off. They immediately spotted two cars that were clearly tailing them. The reverend's minions were at it again, only this time Mark had ammunition to fight back. He called the police and as they rounded the block to double back towards the courthouse were met with three cruisers who pulled over both tailing cars and questioned the people inside. Mark then called Leslie to inform her to stay put until they got there. Ricardo at the same time dialed the campus police to tell them about the stalking minions and coordinated a joint arrest. They informed him that they claimed to be Leslie's ride which was immediately shot down by Ricardo who stated, "She is there with her car, I can give you the exact specifics on its make, model, and VIN number if you need but they are not there for her and have already lied to you." They told Ricardo to hold off a bit while they made a quick check of the parking lot and found her car with four flat tires. Ricardo stated, "Book them for malicious destruction. I can guarantee they are on camera as she knows where the cameras are thanks to her brother." The mention of John wasn't lost on them and they immediately checked the video and sought out the three men allegedly waiting for Leslie. Mark and Ricardo arrived just in time to see them being handcuffed then fight the officers. Seeing Ricardo and Mark they swore and yelled, "We will get the dyke! You can't protect Iris forever. The reverend told us to get her and we will get her!" The officers asked what that was about and were told:, "They just admitted to us that they intended to kidnap a girl and were doing so at the request of a person with an active restraining order against him regarding her." The officers smiled and told the men, "Congratulations, you are now under arrest for conspiracy to commit kidnapping. We will be informing the state police about your claims." The officers were less than gentle handing the men off to state troopers for transport, with the troopers, in turn, taking pride in seeing them complain about the treatment. They didn't go over the line, they just didn't make things comfortable for the three of them as they were placed in the cruisers. The troopers asked what that was all about and were told the story. They shook their heads and freely admitted, "Trooper Donaldson is in deep trouble over this mess as our internal affairs investigators found several emails discussing kidnapping attempts via his state-issued email account yesterday. He is going to be fired and the information turned over to the state for prosecution." Mark thanked them for the help and let them go. Leslie knew something happened as she exited the building and saw Mark and Ricardo coming towards her. She immediately asked about the hearing and let out a big sigh of relief as she was told:, "You are her foster mother for the time being." Mark then told her, "We have to pick up Iris and head to the courthouse, we have a standing appointment with the judge." The three left immediately and were again tailed. This time it was a campus police officer who was acting as an escort. The three arrived at the Finn home with Iris rushing to Leslie who in turn had her get in the car quickly. The cruiser and two cars drove on to the courthouse with Iris not even trying to ask what happened, she could see Leslie's face was concerned making her anxious. The trio was led inside with the campus officer asked to come in as well. Ricardo introduced Iris to Judge Matthews who looked over her and asked:, "Are you aware of the outcome of this morning's hearing?" Iris shook her head no to which Judge Matthews stated, "DCF was awarded permanent custody of you through the stripping of all of your parents' parental rights over you. They, in turn, have placed you in the care of Leslie Finn for as long as you please." Iris looked relieved and looked over at Leslie who did the same. Judge Matthews noted the mutual relief then added, "With mutual consent of both of you and due to circumstances I have determined that it is in the best interest of Iris to forgo the unnecessary security, financial, and personal checks of Leslie as they are unnecessary and on file with the state and grant a full adoption and name change to Iris. You are now Iris Finn, daughter of Leslie Finn. Congratulations on hitting the family jackpot young lady." Iris hugged him deeply causing him to briefly wince. He wasn't used to this kind of affection but given the circumstances, he felt it was justified. Iris then went and did the same to Leslie, only this time shedding tears which Leslie, in turn, started shedding. Judge Matthews cleared his throat and got Iris and Leslie to calm down then asked what matter of business had transpired in the short time since the hearing ended. Mark told about the tail they had coming from the family court then about the group trying to take Leslie at the college. Judge Matthews asked what happened which the campus police officer chimed in and told him about the three being caught on camera slashing her tires and keeping a close watch on the exit doors. Judge Matthews then asked if there was anything else which the campus officer smiled and announced:, "They admitted that someone named the reverend told them to get the girl, that they couldn't protect the *ahem* dyke forever." Judge Matthew grinned and thanked him for helping, and told him, "This will be a little bit of a pain but it's necessary." The campus officer grinned and shot back, "It's not often that we get to work with our big brothers at the State Police but given the circumstances, I don't believe there will be any complaints." Judge Matthews wrote out an arrest warrant for the reverend. This was now the second time that he had broken the order, and he had little doubt that he had every intention of going after Iris despite losing all connections to her. He added a request that Mark and DCF look into the welfare of members of the reverend's church as he suspected Iris wasn't the only one who was abused. It was after lunch so the group headed to the Finn home to eat. Leslie hadn't said a word since getting in the car at the campus. The shock of having Iris as her daughter was starting to hit and it was taking its toll on her. She walked into the house and went up to her room to lay down. Valerie met the others at the door and hugged Iris, not even bothering to ask how things went. Iris hugged her and announced, "It's over" then burst into a deep cry. The other two were led into the dining room to rest a bit as Iris was walked up to Jaimie's room to take a nap. When she came downstairs again Valerie started dishing out lunch with Leslie joining them shortly thereafter. The meal was eaten in silence as Valerie forced the three to eat, not wanting to let them dwell on the past few hours just yet. The meal eaten, Valerie asked for the lowdown and all of it with them leaving no stones unturned. Ricardo did most of the talking, with Mark adding in some additional things that Ricardo left out. She listened closely and added, "He was so sure that he would win that he made a major mistake, he left himself open to investigation from all sides. The man is too arrogant to see that he attracted attention from the state, if her former parents knew anything about their daughter they would have known Kennedy and Taylor would become involved immediately. I guess that's about the only good thing about us not having much contact with them." Ricardo asked what she meant, he wasn't aware of them knowing anyone by those names. Mark smiled and told him, "Their friend and neighbor just happens to be head of the state's Financial Crimes Division and the Attorney General's Office. I believe this is exactly the kind of thing investigation that she does for a living" Ricardo was impressed, but Valerie added:, "Miles told me about accidentally telling Taylor Gault to look into their finances, so this is going to be a three-pronged attack." Ricardo jokingly asked, "Next you are going to tell me that the DA's office is looking into it too." Valerie nodded, adding, "That's who Taylor works for, his son just happens to be dating my niece and is friends with Iris and Kennedy's son." Mark had to chuckle at seeing the reaction. Valerie chuckled and told Mark, "Ricardo has worked with the family but this is something outside his work. Thomas wasn't close to Sam then and Kennedy hadn't adopted Reed and Kylie yet and both she and Willie were not that close to us at the time Daisy had her battles." Ricardo shook his head in disbelief and added, "It was a slam dunk with Daisy and with Sam and Virgil it took Joshua Raymond showing up to tip things in our favor. Even with Sean's help, we would have lost. We could have used their help then." Leslie was still silent so Valerie asked her if she was going to visit the school to change all of the records over to her. Leslie was broken from her fog and nodded, saying softly, "I was going to do it tomorrow." Mark suggested that she do it immediately to stop any problems which Valerie agreed with. Leslie went upstairs to check on Iris and was surprised to see her curled up sobbing. She sat down next to her and asked what was the matter. Iris grabbed her into a hug and kissed her cheek, offering a quick, "I am just happy. I am your daughter. I have someone who actually cares about me for being me." Leslie hugged her back and offered a quiet, "I love you too, honey." Iris asked in a voice barely above a whisper, "Can I call you mom?" Leslie smiled, the told her softly, "I would love that." She felt a major rush that she had never felt before. She felt like she was finally a mother. She had a daughter who needed her and was no longer, "Honorary" among the parents. Iris got out of bed and fixed her makeup, smiling brightly for the first time since the ordeal started. Leslie gave her some privacy as she finished, going downstairs and checking with Valerie. Valerie asked if Iris was alright getting a big grin and, "She asked if she could call me 'mom'." Valerie snickered then shot back, "It would be odd if she called her mom Leslie." Leslie blush as she softly added,, "I really am a mom now, aren't I?" Valerie hugged her and kissed her forehead, telling her, "It'll take time to sink in." Iris came down and asked if they could go. Cat grabbed her and demanded to go to, which prompted JD to grab her as well. Unable to deny their request without causing a major meltdown among the two kids Valerie gathered her purse and set off with the other four. Cat cheered and hugged Iris as they walked out to the cars. At the middle school, the five walked into the school and headed towards the office. They were greeted warmly by principals Alice Rodriguez and Dorothy Vega, the latter of which showed some sympathy towards Iris. Valerie explained that they needed to speak in private regarding an important matter which prompted her to usher the five into her office. Valerie explained the situation to her regarding Iris, "Iris was removed from the care of her parents today. Her parents have been found to be abusing her and she had to flee them last Friday after a severe beating. Leslie was appointed her foster parent while the situation was investigated. During the course of the weekend, it was found that her parents were planning harsher punishments prompting permanent removal of all rights today. Multiple attempts have been made to kidnap her and force her to follow her parents' religious views. She requested an emergency adoption by Leslie which after another attempt yesterday was granted." Dorothy let the news sink in. She asked Iris if she was fit to return to school which got a quick, "Dr. Samuels said I can come back on Monday." Dorothy nodded then asked if she changed her name as well which got a quick, "I am now Iris Finn." Dorothy asked to see the paperwork then satisfied that it was truthful she updated Iris' records. She then asked who would be Iris' emergency contact which prompted Leslie to say, "Valerie is my first choice, then my aunt Victoria." Valerie shook her head and told them, "Add Gabby Lawrence and Lilly Peterson as well." Leslie tried to protest but Dorothy nodded in agreement, telling her, "Gabby and Lilly are fine choices. I would have said Tanya York and Melanie Lopez but that would leave your center shorthanded." Leslie reluctantly agreed, Valerie was rarely wrong and she knew the two women better than Leslie. With that out of the way, they talked about the looming troubles. Iris wasn't safe yet but the school knew who was really supposed to be dealt with. Dorothy asked about the whole story and was told the truth down to the fine details. She was stone-faced and unemotional, offering a strong, "I will inform the staff to only deal with the people you listed. Anyone else who inquires or claims to be acting on her parents' behalf will be arrested." There was nothing else to be said so the information was handed to the secretaries who made a notice to Iris' teachers about the changes. As they were leaving they ran into Iris' classmates who were happy to see her back. She told them she wasn't back yet but would be on Monday. Cat started glaring at the students getting a quick, "Who is she?" from one of her classmates. Cat shot back, "She my big cousin." Rebecca and Jessie tried to explain the whole Finn Family dynamic to them but Cat insisted, "She my cousin, she auntie Leslie daughter." Sam started to laugh which got Rebecca and Jessie looking at her oddly. Sam annoyingly stated, "You guys don't get it, Leslie adopted her. What happened with Reed happened with Iris. She is her cousin, Cat's aunt's daughter." Reyna and Francesca hugged her deeply, while Rebecca and Jessie were still flabbergasted at being wrong. The group had to break up as they needed to head home, Sam left Iris with a kiss and hug while Cat giggled at them. Iris asked what was so funny getting a smile and, "She makes you happy." Iris just blushed and walked hand in hand with her back to the cars. The drive back to the Finn home was quiet as Leslie and Iris thought about the situation. Iris asked if she was going to move back to her apartment which got Leslie to answer, "I think it's time I moved out to my own home." Iris didn't press her on the issue, it was something that was entirely her own and she didn't want to influence it one way or another. Cat had Iris' full attention for the next hour until John arrived with Jaimie, Michael, and Miles. The trio didn't make any sort of fuss over what happened that day, John kissed Iris on the forehead then put his school files away. Iris went upstairs to where Jaimie was and told her softly, "I think mom is going to move out of her apartment soon." Jaimie nodded and added,, "We expected she would eventually, just not until she found a boyfriend or Uncle Jorge or Aunt Victoria passed away." Downstairs John, Valerie, and Leslie made small talk until Leslie found the courage to announce, "I think I am going to look for a home for Iris and I. The apartment is fine but she needs to be closer to her friends." John shook his head in disbelief but Valerie agreed with her, adding, "It's probably a good idea to start over." The two were in agreement but John was on the fence. He asked,, "When did you want to start looking?" Leslie looked down in shame and admitted, "When I get a loan from the bank. It'll take a while but it needs to be done first." Valerie looked at John curiously. He had a grin on his face which gave away that he was hiding something. Valerie told him bluntly, "Spit it out John, don't string her along!" John took a deep breath and dejectedly told her, "When we sold mom's and your home to Quentin and Greta we agreed to split the money three ways. Karen and I never took our share of the money, we had no intention of doing it. We had no real claim to it as Karen never lived there and I only spent a short time there. It was your home so it was your money. Greta has kept an eye on the money and it's now in excess of $1 million. You don't need a loan, you have the money already. And further, the rest of the money is going into a trust fund alongside what I already started for Iris." Leslie looked at him as if he was kidding but Valerie shook her head and told her, "He intended to save the money for this very reason. It was always for in case you ever needed it. Well, you need it now and you have a good reason for tapping into it." John asked where she wanted to move to which Leslie couldn't answer. John again grinned which Valerie shot a glare at and told her, "I think he knows the house you are going to buy. The one next door is up for sale." John nodded and added,, "It's perfect timing, they are looking for a quick sale." Iris came in and was asked by Leslie, "How would you feel living next door?" Iris looked at them as if they were joking. John looked her in the eye and told her, "The house next door is up for sale, you mom was going to make an offer on the house." Iris squealed in delight and hugged Leslie, Valerie sharply said:, "I guess that's a yes." Jaimie, Michael, and Miles came downstairs to see what the commotion was and was immediately told by Iris, "Mom is going to buy the house next door!" The three weren't entirely enthusiastic but smiled at the news before heading back upstairs. John shook his head in astonishment telling Iris, "They are alright with the idea, they just don't want to do the work." John made a phone call to the home's owners and got the asking price for the home then asked for Dan to inspect the place to see what needed fixing. Dan's reputation of being honest and fair got him a quick approval and an appointment the next afternoon. John announced that he figured if there were any major renovations they could still live in the apartment before fully moving out which was enough to satisfy everyone. Greta arrived with the paperwork needed to make the transfers. She explained to Leslie what she currently had and where it was invested. She also explained how John had initiated another trust fund, Iris now had the same trust fund that all of her cousins had. She was thorough and explained everything that would happen and when. Greta didn't pull any punches and told her bluntly, "You should have been told this but I think John wanted this to be kept secret to prevent you from spending everything on all of the kids." John blushed and said a quick, "Can't fool you for a second." Dan was in next and offered his input. He knew there were some problems that would take a little work but otherwise, the house was solid and worth the money. He refused to give her a quote on how much it would cost to fix, telling her, "This will be next to nothing, it's just basic things that I could use the practice doing. Unless there is a completely unknown problem you will not have to pay anything beyond the cost of the materials and even then I get a good rate for them. Plus I can't charge family or else Melanie would never let me hear the end of it." Leslie went upstairs as Dan left, gathering her thoughts and calming her nerves. She shed tears of joy, she had never been so happy in her life. Iris came in just before bed and gave her a hug and kiss, holding her tight to show she loved her making Leslie shed more tears of joy. In the morning Cat and Iris spent all of their time together. Cat imitated Iris' writing, trying to write what Iris was writing but only making scratches and smudges. Iris showed her what to do and helped her work her way through the alphabet before returning to her own work. Cat squealed in delight at being able to write like the older people showing JD who just shrugged and continued playing with his blocks. When she was finished with her homework Valerie asked Iris what that was all about. Iris grinned and admitted,, "She wanted to be like us, I just wanted to show her that she could do it too." Cat grinned at her and announced,, "Mommy I write!" Valerie told her, "Yes you are, keep practicing at it." She turned to Iris and asked,, "Did you ever consider working as a teacher?" Iris nodded, telling her, "I like kids but mom and dad wanted me to get a better job. They wanted me to go to the technical school to be a stylist or chef, I never bothered to send in my application and told them I didn't do well enough to get accepted. They bought the excuse for a while but were going to make an appeal to get me in through dad's influence. I don't want to go there, I'm not cut out for any of their programs." Shaking her head Valerie proclaimed, "No you wouldn't have gone there even if he got you in. Leslie and I would have rescinded your application on your behalf. You are a smart girl and have great empathy; you will be an outstanding teacher." She hugged Valerie, saying softly, "Thank you, Aunt Valerie, You really do care about me. I am so happy that I was lucky enough to find a family that cares about what kids want and not what the adults want." Valerie shed a tear at her sincerity. Iris was tugging at Valerie's heartstrings more than the other adoptees had done and all she had done was admit the truth about the family. Cat asked her mom why she was crying dragging Valerie out of her fog, Valerie was honest with her and told her, "I was thinking about something Iris said and she is right, we do care about what you kids want." Cat smiled and added, "I want a puppy" prompting Iris to laugh and Valerie to tell her, "The answer is still no." Cat walked off fuming as Iris tried hard not to burst into laughter. Valerie started laughing herself, prompting Iris to break down. Shaking her head Valerie smiled, telling her, "She has wanted a puppy for months, one of the kids at the daycare got one for Christmas and she has tried everything to get us to get her one." Iris countered by asking, "Are you ever getting a pet?" Valerie nodded, telling her, "When her sister and brothers go off to college we will get one, she will be older then and more able to help with the dog." Cat heard that and squealed, telling JD that they were getting a puppy prompting Valerie to chase her down and explain as Iris went back to work, the whole event made her see some of the benefits of a good mom like Leslie. After a quiet lunch where the twins were disgruntled over hearing the truth about the dog Leslie came in practically bouncing with joy. She announced,, "I passed my last two finals and was given the all clear to forgo the additional courses due to my work experience making them redundant!" Valerie and Iris started clapping getting JD to laugh at the two. Iris gave her a big hug and asked:, "When can you start teaching?" Leslie told her about the process now that the school had awarded her a degree. Melanie called to tell her that she was asked to confirm their relationship and Leslie's work experience then said:, "We have to meet with the state about your license but you should be clear in about a month, just in time for summer vacation." Celebration over Melanie added, "The girls are going to the baseball game this afternoon and wanted Iris to go along. Reyna wanted Iris to help with some of the setup if she felt she was up to it. Zeke Williams has told them that Iris will get credit for helping in lieu of participating in class." Leslie asked if Iris wanted to go getting a quicker, "Yes" than expected. Looking at the time all five decided to go giving Dan and his people a chance to inspect Leslie's new house without pressure. Dan knew what to do but with Iris and Leslie there it gave him a sense of having to be more thorough than probably necessary. Iris was quick to change clothes, she knew she would get dirty and wanted to look like she was ready to work even if it was limited. Cat giggled at her changing clothes, then told her, "You pretty" which she countered with, "You are much prettier" which got her a hug and brought a big smile to Cat's face. Downstairs Valerie and Leslie saw Cat beaming and seemed to know that Iris had said something to make her act that way but didn't press the matter, it was keeping Cat quiet and happy so it was worth not knowing. At the diamond Reyna and her mother, Lupe, were waiting. Reyna took Iris over and introduced her to Shawn Xavier and went to work outing down the bases, painting the chalk outlines for the batter's box, then laying the foul lines in the dirt. Reyna showed her which bats and helmets went on the rack and which were kept as spares. All the preparations took just under 30 minutes. The girls had by now arrived and waited for them to finish, giving them time to focus on their work rather than them. Sam gave Iris a big hug and deep kiss while the others looked on with smiles then talked among themselves about the school gossip. Shawn Xavier had his interest piqued by Iris. She hadn't attended any football or baseball games with the other 8th graders so she was unknown to him. Reyna mentioned her being John's niece which was odd to him as he practically brags about them, especially Hannah. Even the non-related nieces get mentioned in some form but Iris was an unknown. The parents were clustered together along a wall and were talking up a storm. Francesca's mothers were eagerly listening to Leslie talk about her college work finally being completed and the business expanding. Belle and Wendy White-Clark had an ulterior motive, they enjoyed Iris immensely and felt strongly that she was in the perfect place and wanted to ensure that Leslie and they got along. They didn't have to try too hard, she was actually entertaining and insightful. The couple had heard Lupe talk about Leslie and her big heart since moving into the new Toro home several weeks before. Iris had grown up with Francesca so they knew everything about her so hearing that Leslie was both tempering her growing unease and bringing out the girl's blossoming interests made their hearts melt. Shawn Xavier kept an eye on Leslie, something was amiss about the situation that didn't quite sit well with him. Iris was perfectly normal, albeit a bit anxious. Reyna was working well with her and the other 8th graders were interacting yet keeping some distance while the two worked. After another half hour, he sought out John and asked what was really going on, explaining that this was a bit too sudden for it to be normal yet everyone is acting as if it was. Unable to lie to a friend John told him the truth, "She is a friend of theirs and we thought she was friends with the group but unfortunately learned too late that she felt like she wasn't. She was adopted by Leslie to keep her from her abusive parents and their fanatical church. She was found by my aunt and uncle unconscious and badly hurt last Friday. She was being beaten for being a lesbian and has been threatened with death unless she gave in to her parents' demands that she be normal and follow their church's beliefs. The girls and Thomas are keeping a close eye on her to ensure she doesn't overdo things and keeping an eye out for people like those people over there who are going to make another attempt at kidnapping Iris." John pointed out a group of five men and two women who were loitering in the parking lot, none of which were paying attention to the game nor were they parents of students. The one thing they were paying attention to was Leslie and Iris. Shawn pulled out his cellphone and placed a call to the school's police officer who in turn radioed for another few cruisers. Within minutes the group was detained and as no shock to the assembled parents resisted leaving, ending up in handcuffs for assaulting an officer. Iris and the students were kept unaware of the situation. John misdirected them by asking about some things while the officers herded the group out of sight. Rebecca asked him sharply why he was keeping them from seeing what was really happening, getting a terse, "I had hoped you didn't notice what was happening." She stood her ground and shot back a terser, "You would have to be a complete idiot to not know why seven people were hanging around the parking lot in this city after what they tried to do on Monday." Thomas calmed her down but she was still itching for a fight. John wasn't that surprised that Rebecca had the gall to stand up to him but her words still stung. She rarely acted up but when she did she had good reason. Things were quiet after that. Iris was kept in the dark about the events but Leslie was told which infuriated her. There was another game the next day but once she was done helping set the chalk Reyna told Iris told her that she didn't have to do anything else, telling her that she should go with her mom to get some exercise. Leslie got the meaning of the request immediately and took Iris inside the school. The principal and close family friend, Jake Bollinger, gave them a quick nod and smile leaving them to walk around silently and privately. Iris was given a tour that made up for the one that her birth parents forced her to miss coupled with a flurry of second and third-hand jokes about things that John had done. Iris felt bad about doing the tour especially when she heard about the athletics. She retold what her mother had said about girls and athletics, rehashing the idiotic, "Only lesbians and ugly women play sports." Leslie burst into a deep laugh, which prompted Iris to think she had thought it was a joke. Seeing Iris concerned Leslie explained, "That is the most idiotic thinking I have heard. Your birth mom is full of crap. Look up at that banner." She pointed to a specific banner that had three consecutive championships on it., "Those were won by someone you know. Karen, my sister and your aunt, was the captain of those three teams and is one of the best players this school ever had. You see how feminine and beautiful she is, and you know Bryan, Hannah, and Nigel Jr. her children by birth so tell me how exactly it is for ugly women and lesbians? She is neither. Now don't get me wrong there are quite a few who do play sports who are but I'd venture to guess that your birth mom was jealous of what they could do and she couldn't." Iris looked as if she was joking but Shawn Xavier came to Leslie's rescue with, "You left out that you were also a four-year, two-sport athlete". Iris saw Leslie blush which prompted her to ask, "Is that true?" Leslie nodded, telling her, "I was center for the basketball team and centerfielder and catcher for the softball team." Shawn added, "And she helped mentor some of the younger players helping set up that three-year success run. Plus she had the best grades on the teams and made most of the girls in school jealous with her good looks and constant praise from the boys." Leslie was by now blushing so deeply she was sweating. Shawn let out a giggle that prompted Iris to see that he was setting her up for her modest reaction. Leslie calmed herself and told Iris to stand back and keep them aligned as she and Shawn moved the bleachers out. Iris just smiled and did as she was told, after which she admitted to Leslie, "I guess mom was right about some things, I am a lesbian and I want to play sports but I hope I am not in that 'ugly woman' category." That prompted Leslie to shoot a quick, "If someone thinks you are ugly I'd think they were either blind or had a ridiculous idea of what real beauty is. You are going to break a lot of hearts in school but yours already belongs to a lovely young lady." The two walked back to the baseball diamond silently as Iris' smile beamed brightly, getting brighter as she saw Sam and hugged her deeply. Sam asked what prompted the affection, only getting a smile and hug from Iris. The girls giggled at their affection with Leslie whispering, "She learned she can be beautiful and athletic and not one or the other." Rebecca groaned and added,, "Did you have to use me as an example again?" Leslie raised her eyebrow and asked,, "I used myself and Karen unless you mean we aren't that." That set the teens off laughing as they realized Rebecca had gotten caught making another wrong assumption. Rebecca grinned and tried to make a joke until Jessie caught her and added, "She meant the others usually use her as an example. We know all about you and Aunt Karen but we are so used to Rebecca being the one who is talked about as being cute and athletic." Thomas chimed in with, "It's the truth, she's really cute and athletic" prompting Rebecca to kiss him before Leslie cleared her throat and stopped their make out session getting the others to snicker at the little mothering moment. Back at the Finn home, Jaimie came in from work at the department store grumpy. She complained that the zealots were in the store complaining about her working. They were normally there but this time they were louder than usual. Valerie asked what it was all about being told, "They saw me working and demanded I be fired. One said I should be banned from the store and they would picket until they got their way. They got loud and made a scene until I was sent home. The manager said not to bother coming back, I was too much of a distraction. They got me fired!" Iris heard all of this and told her, "They planned that thing weeks ago. Mom and dad were going to help with the police, the officers who usually work the store detail are friends of theirs. The manager is a member of the church as well. They waited for the time when their friend was working and you were working the front of the store to cause this whole scene. You were set up by your boss." Valerie called the store and talked with the manager who informed her that Jaimie was terminated for causing the scene and costing the store sales. Valerie listened to the claims then countered with a quick, "Is that so? Fine, we will have a talk with corporate about your allowing of a known hate group to enter the store and harass an employee then terminate her without justification because of the actions of that group. We will also inform the Attorney General's Office about your actions, as they are in violation of her civil and worker's rights as we have it on good authority from a reliable witness that you were part of this event from the start." There was a bit of swearing and the phone clicked off. Iris and Jaimie looked at her with fear but Valerie calmed them saying simply, "They chose the wrong lady to mess with." After the two girls left Valerie turned to John who was already on the phone with his contact at corporate while Leslie was on the phone with several of her friends. Karen came over to help and she herself was busy with friends. Within the hour Leslie announced, "Jaimie is to show up to her normal shift tomorrow and things will happen from there. The manager made a mistake in procedure and the real reason for her being terminated is actually her missing her shift tomorrow. If he tries anything you have him by the balls as he has no right to terminate her for what happened today. We have coordinated a complete walkout and call out for staff over what happened, if she goes the entire store goes." Karen added, "Word got around fast about what happened and nobody is going to cover any shifts. Jaimie did the worst jobs in the store so losing her is going to cripple the store. Nobody can cover for her, now nobody will cover for her." Jaimie and Iris were looking at her like she was joking. Karen shot down their looks with a strong, "You know we have friends there, we might not work there anymore but we still have a lot of friends and none of them will accept this. The store will shut down for the evening and the only one to get the blame will be the manager and his reason will not be acceptable. He can't retaliate against the workers without being put into further trouble with corporate and the state." John chimed in with, "Corporate has been told exactly what happened and is going to have people in the store tomorrow. The fact that they are facing investigation by the state scared them enough to send the big guns in quickly." Leslie corrected him in saying, "The fact that it's your daughter caused that. They fear you more than they fear the state." Jaimie broke down with Iris leading her upstairs to her bed. Behind closed doors, Jaimie confided in her, "I just wanted to be normal. I just wanted a regular job and something to do but all I get is people hating me for being me!" Iris sat her down and explained to her what was actually happening, "They went after you for attention. They could care less about what happens, the store manager will get a new job with one of the church's supporters. They only care about attention and new money. You are a big target and after this, they will go after someone else. They are likely to go after Reyna's uncle next, hoping that they get national attention." Jaimie hugged her for being honest. Miles, who was listening to two talking, knocked and asked if Jaimie was alright then added a quick, "I guess I was right, it's all about money. I hope Mr. Gault and Aunt Kennedy can find something wrong to take them down." The following afternoon the family drove to the store and was met by Leslie and Karen's friends. The group walked in and waited as Jaimie went to the back with Leslie and Karen to sign in for her shift. Karen and Leslie noted there were several eyes on Jaimie before she could reach the time card she was confronted by the manager who told her she was terminated for causing a major disruption. Jaimie ignored him and clocked in, heading out front for her shift. She was stopped before she could leave the office, told again that she was terminated and had no right to be there. Jaimie ignored him and continued on, this time the manager saying if she did not leave she would call the police. Jaimie again ignored him and continued on, fighting the urge to say something but knowing that doing anything except trying to work would do more harm than good. She was now out front on the sales floor with the manager in hot pursuit. Jaimie went to where she was supposed to be working and was again held up by the manager who this time grabbed her and tried to pull her off the floor. This prompted several customers to pull him back as he claimed she wasn't an employee, she had been fired the day before. One pointed out that he didn't have the right to assault her no matter what to which he countered, "To protect my store I'll do as I damn well please." As soon as he said this every employee within hearing range dropped what they were doing and walked out of the store. Employees at the register shut down their registers and left, with customers waiting in line scratching their heads in disbelief. A signal was heard over the radio and employees in the rear walked to the front and exited alongside the others. The only employee left was the store manager. He threatened everyone who left the store, yelling at them and swearing at them for ignoring him. The threats and swears were barely out of his mouth when the people who were staring at Jaimie as she came in made their presence known to the manager. They were appalled at his behavior and were ready to say something about it. Jaimie nodded to the people as they told him bluntly, "You may be in charge of the store but you have to abide by corporate rules and you have violated multiple rules tonight. You terminated an employee yesterday without justification, allowed a protest to enter the store and disrupt business, physically assaulted an employee, attempted to prevent an employee from working her shift without justification, incited an employee walkout, and verbally assaulted employees in front of customers." The manager pleaded with them, complaining that it was all Jaimie's fault. He swore at her, using multiple vulgarities. Then he started to complain about her being transgender and went off on a rant about her being allowed inside the store at all. This was all the evidence they needed, the words matched exactly what the protesters were using the day before and the corporate officials bluntly said, "That protest was clearly planned and incited by you. Not only are you terminated you are barred from all stores in our company. You also forfeit all benefits that we have paid to your retirement funds. And since you felt that you needed to call the police the officer who is now just arriving will kindly take you up on your offer of arresting a trespasser as you assaulted an employee and we do not under any circumstances allow any kind of behavior of that sort by our employees." Before the officer could conduct the arrest Iris intervened and told Valerie, "That's one of mom and dad's friends. He is just going to release him down the street or something. He won't make it to the station let alone actually arrest him." Valerie made the call to the police station and found that there had been no call to the police so this officer was not there on official business. She had one dispatched immediately and had the sergeant assigned as well. She then added that a reserve police officer was on hand and witnessed an assault that the officer on scene was going to allow the suspect to go free unless an on-duty officer was sent. Things got interesting as the sergeant and assigned officer arrived and asked what was going on and heard two stories. They were going to believe their fellow officer until John showed he was an officer as well and witnessed the actual confrontation and the man who was claiming Jaimie was trespassing had actually assaulted her. The manager was taken into custody with the dirty officer being told to report to the lieutenant to explain his actions causing a verbal then physical fight prompting John to have to help subdue the wayward officer while his sergeant placed him under arrest for assaulting him and his colleague. Things grew quiet as the wayward officer was stripped of his equipment and hauled off to jail. The department then informed the store that they were withdrawing their officers from the store until they could weed out the rotten eggs. The corporate officials just shrugged it off and opened the store up again, the workers returning to where they were supposed to be and Jaimie clocking out. She tendered her resignation effective immediately, she didn't need to work and didn't' want to be a distraction anymore. There were pleas for her to stay but she let it go, it wasn't worth it to her anymore. John and Valerie smoothed over ruffled feathers with corporate, Jaimie wasn't going to sue but she was ensuring that the company knew there was going to be a reprisal against them by the group. They were ready already and had the facts ready. Iris saw the other side of life with Jaimie and was both angered and proud. She endured more traumas and drama than anyone should have to endure yet kept going strong. Back at the Finn home, the two talked quietly about what happened with Iris telling her how she felt with Jaimie hugging her deeply for helping her and many others out by speaking up. Iris started to see what being a Finn was all about and she loved it. Things were quiet for the weekend. The foul-up at the department store didn't spark the news that the reverend wanted. Miguel Toro and the team were ready for the protesters and had them outwitted before they could set foot on Yawkey Way. Miguel and the team simply had them present their claims before the assembled media who in turn picked apart everything they were saying and turned around all of their claims. Unbeknownst to the group, the, "Media" were, in fact, religious scholars who were pleased to have the chance to make fools of bigots and help a person who had helped many young people. John, Jaimie, Michael, and Reed had given several thousand dollars in donations to help the programs that they ran so helping Miguel was really helping them in their eyes. The team dealt with media inquiries about the group trying to protest and had the scholars take the bulk of the inquiries. When it was learned that it was in regards to kidnapping and assaults on minors the church's actions led to cries for an inquiry by the state which added fuel against them. The team was entirely in the clear and earned praise for helping protect youngsters from a hate group. Miguel in turn just let it settle with nobody except certain front office personnel and the Finns knowing about his true involvement. Monday was Iris' big day, she was returning to school. She would be among her friends and classmates again. She would also be among the gossips and worse, in the presence of Rachel Murphy. As soon as she saw Iris arrive Rachel made her way over to her. The first thing out of her mouth was "enjoy your little vacation? I heard you and Sam had a big argument and you couldn't face being dumped by her." Before Iris could react Sam chimed in with "still jealous that no boy will get within a mile of you, Rachel? I guess being humiliated by everyone in school isn't enough, now you have to resort to creating more rumors to make yourself feel like a big shot. Oh well, you will learn eventually." Rachel tried hard not to react and didn't look at Sam, continuing "guess lover girl can't take a joke. Mom was right, those trannies don't have a sense of humor or they have them removed when their balls a taken out." That too didn't have its desired effect but was enough to stop everyone around her from doing what they were doing and listen in. Iris just shook her head and muttered "I pity you. You are going to get eaten alive next year. You just don't get that nobody likes you and you keep showing us why." Rachel grew furious at Iris not taking her bait and shot a loud "is that right? Mom and dad said your parents beat you they couldn't stand their dyke daughter taking it from a tranny freak. They said you two are doing the rest of us normals a favor, you are keeping away from the real boys and girls." This was followed by a slap to Iris and Sam, both of who just stood and didn't react. Rachel's words caused all of the students to stop talking all at once. She never saw Principal Rodriguez making her way towards her and once she made contact her wrist was grabbed. Rachel tried to fight off whomever grabbed her and brushed her had across the principal's chest causing a loud gasp from the students. Alice Rodriguez had a smile on her face over this turn of events, it was years in the making. Principal Vega immediately announced to Rachel "you certainly are going out with a bang, Rachel. You have been caught red-handed verbally assaulting two students with language that is in violation of the school's anti-discrimination policy, you have assaulted them unprovoked, and you have just assaulted a school official. This goes beyond suspension, you are expelled. Further this is no longer a school matter, this is going to be criminal and we will prosecute." Laughter and cheers went up. The wannabe queen was led away in shame as the school's police officer read her her Miranda Rights. Dorothy checked on Iris and Sam who both told her they were fine and expected her to do something like that. Neither girl wanted to do anything to give her any claim of self- defense nor her parents reason to claim bias. Their inaction was what frustrated her more than anything. Iris added that she would get out of the punishment but she wouldn't get over the reputation she was going to keep once John heard. In class Iris was treated normally which to her was a big relief. Her teachers kept a close eye on her but it was all for nothing, she was doing well and feeling fine. In gym she and Reyna helped with the set- up and tear-down, with Zeke Williams being surprised at her knowing how to move the bleachers. Reyna complained that she had more credit for her work than Reyna had gotten getting a giggle from the others and smile from Iris. The rest of the week was more of the same as Iris and her friends worked hard to keep in the good graces of their teachers before the inevitable final tests. Rachel's parents tried to sue the school for expelling her but the two assaults were caught entirely on CCTV and by one of the students who had recorded Rachel's slurs as well. The judge tossed out the lawsuit, giving them a laugh as they kept pleading that he was ruining their daughter's life. The victory coupled with her already poor grades caused Rachel to have to repeat 8th grade in another school. She would not harass any of the seven friends again, they would be in high school and entrenched among 15 people who already had the school as well as the faculty supporting them. When she actually made it there she was going to be up against 22 established students with chips on their shoulders. Leslie closed on the sale of the house that Friday. Her offer was right on par with what the family wanted and as they had met Leslie several times before and were assured she had the money available right away to transfer to their account it was quickly accepted. Dan only needed to do some light work and that would take only a few days to finish but would be done while Leslie was at work and Iris in school allowing them to move in immediately. The move out of her apartment was an emotional one for Leslie. It had been home for only two and a half years but it also meant that she was truly moving on to a new stage in life. Iris kept her grounded and distracted her from her emotional moment with a hug and kiss and "it's all for the best, mom." To replace her as a tenant Mark had agreed to move in to the old apartment. Patrick and David Peterson were good roommates but he needed his own place. He made it legitimate with a full lease and market rate rent but John ignored the rent entirely, putting it aside for Mark as part of his security deposit account. When it got large enough he'd tell him to use it as a down payment for his own home. Iris and Leslie helped Mark with the move while the others were busy with other activities. There was a spark between Mark and Leslie that Iris kept picking up on. Jorge and Victoria pulled her aside and asked what was going on, to which Iris smiled and said "I think they like one another." The couple smiled and nodded, but added "they won't make a move to date, at least not without prompting." Iris started thinking about what to do about the two. Victoria and Jorge sensed that she was plotting and wisely backed away, having some plausible deniability in case it went wrong but also giving her a chance to show she loves Leslie. Iris finally had a brilliant idea and went off to one of the bedrooms for some privacy. She found support from Patrick Peterson. Patrick had the same idea but didn't think it a good idea to broach the subject with Mark directly. Iris had him arrange a guy's night out with Mark to celebrate his new apartment while Iris had Lupe Toro do the same with Leslie. The two duos would just happen to bump into one another and lead to dinner and talking. To help with the arrangements Francesca invited the two of them over to her house. They went further and included Sam, Jessie, and Rebecca to make it a slumber party. The White-Clarks were alright with the idea but did warn Sam and Iris to keep things decent, albeit with a wink. Iris made sure Leslie looked fancy with makeup and stylish clothes. She got a lot of stares from John and Valerie as she got into the awaiting cab with Lupe. John asked Iris directly what she was doing only to get an unenthusiastic "just helping mom with her evening out." Valerie shook her head and had to explain to him "your niece just set her mom up on a date. Think about how she was dressed up. Lupe is acting a bit too out of character for this to be a normal ladies night out." John tried to look stern and asked "who did she set her up with?" Iris smiled and stated "Mark" which got John to groan at not seeing it sooner. Valerie just about lost it as John played the concerned brother act perfectly. She then got serious and told Iris "don't push them. If it's meant to be it'll happen on its own. We know she and Mark have a good connection that neither notices and need a little push but there's only so much anyone can do without forcing it." Iris seemed to understand her aunt's words and promised to only let it go naturally from now on. Sam and Rebecca met up with Iris and demanded an answer for what was really going on. The two accepted the truth and wanted to help but were backed off by Valerie and Melanie. Melanie herself was a bit concerned, Leslie was sensitive and a bad date with someone she genuinely liked could force her off dating entirely despite wanting to get out on the market and finally find love. The girls met up with Francesca and Reyna at the White-Clark home and enjoyed a quiet evening of movies and gossip. Reyna noted that her mom got home rather late, but had Leslie with her. The girls held off listening to the conversation between the White-Clarks and Lupe but Leslie was strangely silent. The White-Clarks had waited up for Lupe to return home, expecting her to have Leslie with her for the night. The foursome talked about what happened on the date with Lupe filling them in "we got there at the same time as Mark and Patrick. Mark and Leslie looked at one another then at Patrick and I and told us 'you set us up?' we admitted it was a mutual agreement among the three of us with Leslie shaking her head and swearing 'that girl knows how to tug at your heartstrings sometimes.' Patrick and I gave them some privacy and kept an eye on them in case things didn't work out." Belle and Wendy White-Clark looked over to Leslie who was blushing deeply. She admitted "he was a perfect gentleman and we had a deep conversation about our jobs and other small talk. He kept looking me in the eyes, he was genuinely interested in what I had to say. He had the funniest stories. We barely drank and nursed our two drinks until it was time to go. He asked me for a second date, without our minders this time." Her face lit up. She softly admitted "I haven't had a second date before. In fact that was the second date I ever went on. I only went on a date with Jake Bollinger because Nichole was so insistent that I go out with him. He is a great man who has a heart of gold and I enjoyed every minute of it. This was different though." Lupe, Belle, and Wendy looked at one another and smiled. Iris had hit gold. Lupe announced she'd be glad to host Iris for her if she wanted a night with Mark which prompted Leslie to accept right away. Lupe texted Iris and Patrick giving them the all clear and that she wanted a second date, which would prompt Mark to ask again. Patrick happily texted that Mark had not stopped smiling since they got home showing just how he felt about the night. Mark was holding back from asking but knowing it went well he was going to ask for a second one, albeit without supervision. Belle suggested they turn in before the girls noticed they were back and tried to question them. Wendy noticed movement inside and agreed, but told them "the girls will likely already know about tonight. Patrick would have told his uncle by now and John would not be able to withstand Jaimie's questioning for long." Leslie just shook her head and admitted "don't think I didn't see you guys texting earlier. The girls and other ladies already know and are being kind enough to stay away. But thanks for doing this for me." Lupe nodded and smiled, telling her "that's what friends do, especially since our daughters were not going to let this die without a fight. You deserved a little love and affection from someone who admired you. Plus he must have John's approval as he didn't vet him like most brothers do." Iris and Reyna heard the whole exchange and hugged. It worked perfectly and Leslie was being shown that she had good friends. Iris whispered to Reyna "mom really likes your mom." Reyna countered with "mom likes your mom too, she says she's the older sister to all of the ladies and mom wants her to finally be happy and Mark makes her happy." The others walked over and admitted the same. Leslie was the one person who everyone had some interaction with and who all of the parents looked to for guidance and advice. Even Gabby Lawrence, Jessie's mom, sought her advice and she rarely asks for anything from the others. Iris asked if Leslie knew how everyone felt but got a blank stare from the others, to her that meant nobody told her that. Iris shook her head and said "I guess I'll tell her then." She smiled at that, Leslie deserved to know just how everyone felt about her. The next morning the girls went for a long walk around the city. They were met by their older counterparts who kept quiet about Leslie and her date. Jaimie was the only one who said something about it, asking if Iris was going to stay with them next time with Reyna and Francesca trying to encourage her to accept. Claire asked to speak with Iris for a minute. She was concerned that Iris was trying to push away from the older teens especially her cousins. Iris shook he head and admitted to her "we don't have a lot in common. Before we only had Rebecca and Jessie. You guys are all so busy that I don't want to take you away from your activities. I like you guys a lot but you have to see that it's tough to be around people with little in common with you." Claire was taken aback by what she said. This was the first time she had ever heard anyone try to back off from the group. It was even tougher to accept as it was the truth, they knew little about Iris beyond that she was friends with Rebecca and Jessie and dating Sam and was now Leslie's niece. To most of them the truth of her situation was intentionally kept muddied or in the dark. Claire quickly thought up a good reason to be with her, telling her "Friday night, me, you, Jaimie, and Stacy at my house. This isn't an option, it's a cousin sleepover." Iris countered with "what about Hannah and Paige and Nichole? Or Rebecca and Jessie?" Claire understood what she was getting at and countered with "Nichole has her own planned with Nancy, Kylie, and Margaret. Hannah and Paige are having dates with their fianc?s and need to get in as much time together before Bryan and Pete leave for basic training next month. Rebecca and Jessie can deal with us leaving them out, this is more important than how they feel. It's just us four, we need to know our cousin and your mom could enjoy a night away with Mark." It wasn't negotiable. Claire rarely said something definitive but this was one of those rare occasions where she did. Her mom needed another night with Mark and to say no to them would be costing her mom a date with her new boyfriend. Iris reluctantly agreed. The group walked back to the White-Clark home and was greeted by their parents. Claire announced to Leslie "Jaimie, Stacy, Iris, and I are having a sleepover at my house on Friday. Maybe it would be a good night for you to go out?" Leslie looked at Iris cross which prompted Iris to plead innocent proclaiming "don't blame me! Claire was the one who planned this. All I did was agree to it. She wouldn't take no for an answer!" Leslie looked over at Claire who quickly said "it's true, it was my request. I told her that she needed to go over on Friday. It'll be just Iris, Stacy, Jaimie, and I." Leslie asked pointedly "what about your sister or did you forget you have to watch her this weekend?" Claire groaned then added "can't I dump her on Nichole?" Leslie sharply told her "not when you are supposed to be watching her. You made the plans, if she is going to be with cousins she should be around Daisy too." It was settled. Leslie thanked Belle and Wendy for their hospitality and Lupe for the entertaining night and left. Iris tried to apologize for putting her on the spot with the date but Leslie countered with a smile and soft "you didn't do that, your cousin did. She wants you to feel included and that means being around your cousins. Rebecca should have been included but I think I know that this was prompted by feelings about the older cousins than anything else. They do care about you and are taking what happened to you hard. Just enjoy yourself with them and don't let Daisy work her cuteness too much on you." As things were starting to calm down for Iris things started to heat up with the investigation into the reverend's activities. Kennedy's office and the DA's office worked closely on the case. It was a rare opportunity for both offices to get something out of an investigation and given that some of their own people in the law enforcement community were involved it meant more to them than most other investigations. The good reverend was a very naughty boy. For someone who claimed to be a man of the cloth he had no record of being one in the state. He didn't exist. Whoever he really was still a mystery but this little fact made him a criminal already as he made false claims on the court records when he tried to get custody of Iris. His church was a fraud within a fraud. It didn't physically exist. The space being used as a church was an empty retail store with the lease in the name of one of the parishioners. The members contributed money to the church but all the money went to a personal account that still wasn't identified. The members who claimed donations were in for a shock as all the money was gone and all the donations were being denied by tax officials. Essentially they were bilked out of their money. The members who tried to kidnap Iris at Leslie's former apartment were all found to be common criminals who associated with the reverend and were paid by him for their services. None of them were members of the church, they only claimed to be to keep up appearances by the reverend. The lawyer for the church was actually a sleazeball lawyer who was disbarred in another state and who used a false identity to become a lawyer in Massachusetts. He turned on his employer quickly and gave them the bulk of the information about the reverend as he made a plea bargain to avoid a serious prison sentence. The investigators were able to get search warrants and electronic surveillance warrants for the church and senior members' home offices. Those warrants yielded immediate results as the phone calls captured multiple plans to "turn around" several children and plots to kidnap several gay, lesbian, and transgender youths. Iris was the most prominent and was targeted by the church because of her association with the Finn Family. They were planning to go after Sam next once they had Iris in their grasp. Sam herself wasn't that big of a deal, her father's money though was. The plan was to take her, convert her, and use her to get him to give money to them in exchange for helping "save" his son but in reality they were going to blackmail James until he paid up and dump Sam when she was of no use to them anymore. The biggest shocker was that their real target was Jaimie Finn. Through Jaimie they hoped to use the church to expand their business to earn vast sums of money from unsuspecting patrons. This in turn would be used to convert more people to their cause allowing the church to expand further. They were after Jaimie's money and John's but what they'd get from her was immaterial, their real intentions were the converts who were more numerous and would add up to millions in revenue for the church. The investigators gathered reams of transcripts and hours of conversation over the course of two weeks. They were reacting but had the benefit of being unknown at the time. Iris being adopted almost immediately by Leslie had caused ripples and they needed to regroup allowing the investigation to gather additional evidence. They had to lay low before they could strike at Iris again and would go after Leslie as well, taking her out so she couldn't damage their plans further. Once this plan was set to go in motion the investigators passed it along to the State Police. They in turn alerted Willie and John who put in place their own plans to keep them safe. Willie's officers worked with the troopers to establish undercover people within the area and have constant surveillance on both Iris and Leslie at all times. This surveillance had a snag. During school they couldn't get close without alerting people that there was something going on. This was the weak point that the group would use to try to go after Iris, it was the one thing they agreed on as they talked about the abduction but didn't say how they'd conduct the actual snatch though. Unbeknownst to the investigators there was already a snake in the church's grass. Iris' former "friend" Rachel had gotten a reprieve by the superintendent at the strong urging of his friends the Murphys. Because she was up until that point a non-violent student Rachel was granted the right to attend school as an in-school suspension student before being forced to repeat the 8th grade. Her parents were silent supporters of the reverend and were in contact with his people through other means that the investigators weren't aware of and were more than happy to help get rid of Iris especially after what she had done to their daughter. Rachel was unaware of what was going to happen that day. She was only going to be there because her parents were forcing her to be there. She hated them with a passion but had to act the way they wanted no matter what or risk them going from apathetic towards her to being physical. They were her parents and you did what you were told as she had been forced to learn long ago. Early that morning Rachel, could hear her father and mother talking with some people and didn't like what they were saying. She could hear everything and could easily make out Iris and the words "dyke" and "revenge". Then she heard what the worst thing she could have heard, something that was unforgivable and went beyond what she had thought her parents were capable of doing. They said they were going to kill both Iris and her new mother to make an example of them! She disliked Iris, but she didn't want her hurt. She needed to help her, she was going to be a pariah anyway so she felt it best to become one for doing something she could be proud to say she did rather than something she was forced to do. In school she passed a note to the secretary who looked up at Rachel shocked. Rachel nodded then went in with her parents and Dorothy Vega for their scheduled meeting. A knock at the door brought Dorothy's attention and a request that Rachel join her outside so she could talk with her parents without Rachel. Rachel was ushered into Alice Rodriguez' office and asked what was going on. Rachel told her the truth "mom and dad are really here to distract you while their friends try to get at Iris. This whole meeting was a sham, they don't care what happens to me. The real reason they are here is they are going to cause a stir on the way out; dad is using the meeting to get inside the school while mom opens up the side doors. They are going to do something terrible to inside the school, they don't care what happens to her so they may even kill her. Please do something, stop them before they can do anything." Alice had to calm her then asked "who are they going after?" Rachel pulled herself together long enough to say "Iris". She mumbled a stilted "please, save Iris." Rachel was now bawling, showing emotion that she had never shown before. This was no lie. Alice called the police and had them close by then had Iris moved out of class discretely. The school officer, Ian Bailey, was placed by one set of doors viewing the entering and exiting while the principals' secretaries took up the other set of doors. All had radios and were coordinating with one another while additional police were en-route to there. It all seemed so surreal to them but it was deadly serious after having experienced what happened to Reyna only six months before. The Murphys started their fight routine with Dorothy. Mrs. Murphy was caught on video slinking off and heading towards the doors. She chose the ones with the officer close by, with Ian listening in as she told four men "she's on the third floor in history. It'll be the only classroom without lights on." One asked her what they were to do when they found her, she was quick to say "just kill her. You have your masks on and nobody will be able to stop you in the uproar." Ian just shook his head at the sheer stupidity of Mrs. Murphy not even thinking that they could be on camera already. The four entered and found themselves trapped in the stairwell. The doors to the second, third, and fourth floors were locked. They knew they were caught. As they broke through the doors they were met by police with Tasers drawn. They tried to head down to the first floor only to be met by the same response. They were trapped and arrested on the spot. The Murphys didn't fight their arrest. Rachel was tearful as she told them "you two are simply unbelievable. You make me into your perfect princess, cost me every friend I had, and get me arrested and possibly facing jail time then pull this stunt. You used me! You don't care one bit about me! I hope you rot in hell!" She sat down on the school's bench and broke down. Her life was over. She was essentially an orphan now that her parents were going to get sent to prison for attempted murder. Dorothy took her into her office and called for DCF to come for Rachel. She hoped they could know what to do, Rachel wasn't exactly the best person in the world but she was also a victim of her own upbringing. There had to be someone out there who could help her be what she needed to be. A knock at the door broke her fog. Mark was there with detectives from the State Police. Rachel had heard the plans entirely and had chosen to get involved, she had saved Iris' life. It was also explained that if she hadn't tried to stop them she would have been guilty of several crimes even if she was not actually part of the conspiracy. She shuddered at the thought but knew it to be true. Mark asked her what was going on and was given the full story from Rachel. Rachel had grown tired of the life her parents were forcing on her and after getting expelled she had a strong crisis of conscience and couldn't put up with the torment anymore. Hearing what they were going to do to Iris sent her over the edge. It was the best way she could get away and not have to fear them coming after her. She would lose her parents but she would regain a normal life, even if it meant she was stuck with a terrible reputation and nobody to help her. When she finished Mark explained that since her parents are going to be held without bail and due to the severity of their criminal acts she was going to have to be placed in foster care. Rachel just nodded at that. He explained further that she was going to be placed with a trusted family and that she would not be able to act the way she had before. Her language, actions, and demeanor had to change. This hit Rachel hard. She was a conceited brat but she was also trying to please her parents. She agreed with the changes and was told "the Samuels family is taking you in. Dr. Samuels is aware of the situation and his wife is sympathetic to your plight. You must be warned though, there are people you know who live next door and two houses down so please try to keep your old ways from creeping in. The Samuels family are good people but even they have limits." Iris was shown in and thanked her for what she did. Rachel hung her head low and muttered a quiet "I don't deserve thanks, I did what I had to do to get back at them." Rachel went off and didn't try to think about what was going on in the office, only going with Mark and the officers to gather her clothes and personal items from her old home. An hour later Rachel was outside her new home, meeting her new foster parents. She got the shock of her life when she saw who lived next door and two doors down. It was as if fate was mocking her, Reyna Toro and Francesca White-Clark came out to see what was going on with the Samuels family and nearly fainted at seeing Rachel there. Rachel looked down is shame as she walked inside. She could hear the two talking about her as if she wasn't there. She went up to her new room and put her clothes away with Olivia Samuels keeping an eye on her. Rachel knew she wasn't trusted and that the Samuels were just looking after her as a favor to Mark. Olivia sat her down and told her firmly that her behavior towards the other girls was well known to them and that they would not tolerate any such behavior from her. She then asked her directly "did you mean what you said to Sam and Iris?" Rachel shed a tear and fought for the right words. She broke down and admitted to her "no. I just wanted mom and dad's attention. The only way to get it was doing what they wanted was to do what they thought I should be doing or what they suggested I do. Mom and dad were so proud of me for saying those things and trying to hurt them. I hated it." Rachel broke down further. The real Rachel was hidden beneath a veneer of hate that her parents put up. She was their princess but only if she did as they pleased. It explained a lot about her past run-ins with the girls at school, at the beach, and most recently at the dance. She was just acting out to gain mom and dad's favor. Her parents weren't loving, they were manipulative and cold. Olivia handed her a facecloth and washed off the tears. She hugged her, telling her softly "you don't have to do any of that. You should never have had to do that. No parent should ever force their child to choose between their love and their common decency towards another person." Rachel stayed in her room for the rest of the evening. Richard Samuels Jr. wasn't too pleased to have Rachel there and let his mother know it loudly. He had good reason for not wanting her there, he had to endure the abuse from others because of his relationship with Jaimie. Rachel got off easy as far as he was concerned, he would have beaten her to a pulp for trying to hurt Sam and Iris. Rachel had her things packed and was ready to leave when Olivia stopped her. She was blunt with Olivia, telling her "I know where I am not wanted or needed. It doesn't matter what I say or do I am going to be nothing but the rotten bitch to everyone." Olivia stood in her way and wouldn't let her pass. Rachel tried to get by but broke down in tears, sobbing violently as she collapsed to the floor. Richard tried to say something against her staying but was told harshly "go to your room and stay. I raised you better than this. She is hurt and needs help, and you are just hurling abuse towards her." He was quick to say "I don't care! She deserves every word of it. Just because her parents are complete filth we should ignore everything she did? No! Sorry mom but no!" Olivia loudly told him "your room, now!" Olivia held the sobbing Rachel. She cradled the girl and walked her to the living room and laid her on the couch with her head in her lap. Olivia sat with her until she fell asleep, herself falling asleep shortly thereafter. Dr. Samuels came home late and saw Rachel asleep with his wife next to her. He crept upstairs and was confronted by an irate Richard. Dr. Samuels shook his head firmly asked his son "you are quick to condemn her yet you were eager to accept Scott, Reed, and Christina as friends. They were all abused as she was. I know you went through a lot to date Jaimie but there are some people who just aren't monsters behind the bluster." Richard tried to counter that what she did was unforgivable. His father countered with "and what Scott did was? Call me crazy but she never actually physically hurt someone let alone caused them to become impotent and need major surgery, nearly killing them. She is attention starved and has never experienced real parental love the way any of your friends have. She needs someone who can show that she doesn't have to work to be loved, that there are people who care about her for being her. You don't have to forget what she did but you do have to forgive it. You did it for Scott, you gave Reed the chance to prove he wasn't his parents, and you accepted that Christina wasn't really the snob that she acted as for three years so why can't you do the same for Rachel?" Richard had no response. In fact he didn't want to deal with it. He wasn't going to win this argument. He didn't say anything, he just went to his room and sulked. The frantically texted Jaimie to complain about Rachel but eventually she told him to stop and ignored him afterward. Over at the White-Clark home Reyna and Francesca were at odds over how to react to Rachel living with the Samuels family. Neither were happy about it, in fact they were almost irate. Belle had managed to talk with Dr. Samuels about Rachel's stay and felt that it may have been rash to take her in with two people she acted out against living so close. Wendy countered that Rachel's actions weren't done for the same reasons that others had acted towards Sam and Jaimie before. In fact she told her wife that Rachel needed people to try to befriend her and help her become a better person, not people who hold grudges. They went back and forth with their arguments and their voices rose considerably. Looking at their daughter and Reyna cooler heads prevailed and Belle reluctantly agreed with Wendy, the girls should try to make amends with Rachel. Lupe was told of their plan and she agreed that Rachel needed people to help her. If she refused their help or she kept up her antics the girls would be justified in shunning her but they could at least try. In the morning Richard was still angry at Rachel being there. His parents ignored his antics, telling him to act like the mature man he always was and not a spoiled child. Rachel didn't leave her room until Richard had left for school, with Olivia having to coax her out to get something to eat. Dr. Samuels informed her that they had a meeting with the principals in an hour and she had to be ready to go. Rachel did as ordered and was ready in minutes. The trio drove on to the school with Rachel not having said a word since she broke down the night before and barely keeping herself together since breaking down in Olivia's lap. Dorothy met them outside the school and led them to the conference room where Rachel was met by the school's lawyer, the deputy superintendent, and representatives from the state. Looking at the group against Rachel Olivia made a quick phone call and stated "I see you have all the big guns ready. We aren't going into this without help so until our help arrives this meeting will have to wait." The wait was a long 15 minutes and the people inside were getting anxious. Dorothy went outside and asked "are you sure this is wise to keep them waiting?" Olivia bluntly stated "do you really want an angry Valerie on your hands?" Dorothy went pale at hearing that but had to agree with her, her friend was one person she didn't want to anger especially if it was felt that she was needed and wasn't able to help. Valerie arrived and was told what the meeting was about and shown the state's rules and regulations about school and education. She didn't bat an eye at seeing Rachel there and sat down next to her. Dorothy began the meeting and explained the circumstances and the special mitigating factors and the actions of Rachel which caused her to feel that she should be allowed to advance with her class. Valerie examined the claims against her and the reasons for changing her punishment. She looked at a loophole and asked "if she is able to show that she did her work but was prevented from handing it in would you allow her to receive credit?" Dorothy asked what she meant, actually surprised at Valerie finding a way around the rules for Rachel's benefit. Valerie smirked then explained "reread what she said. She said she did the work but never turned it in, that her parents were forcing her to stop being a 'smarty pants'. This was specific, she has to have done the work but not turned it in. She has the work, it is late but it should be accepted as is done for all other students. This isn't an exception, this is treating her just as everyone else. If the work is good enough then the advancement can't be denied on the basis of academic issues as it currently stands." Dorothy asked Rachel if she did the work. Rachel meekly said "I have it all saved" then handed a flash drive to Dorothy. She also added "the worksheets and written assignments are in my locker." A quick message and 10 minutes later several large folders with completed but uncorrected work was shown proving Valerie was right. Valerie sharply stated "it is amazing what children will do for their parents' love. What they did to her should not be ignored now that the truth is out. She should be punished for her behavior but to force her to repeat a year and force her out is not the right one. She has enough work done to improve her grades enough to be above passing. She will live with the humiliation and endure the abuse of fellow students because of what she did but she at least needs to be given a chance to show that she is able to be a decent human being. She has already shown that she is willing to try." Valerie's plea fell on deaf ears with the school's lawyers, they were ready to be done with Rachel. Taking a few minutes to deliberate, the state officials chimed in with "if they are able to obtain a verification that she is indeed suffering from the effects of mental abuse and has been for some time and that in fact she wasn't directly responsible for her actions you will under our laws have to allow her leeway in returning. Further as we know that she has done the work but impeded due to the abuse she is to be given credit for work done with a reduction due to lateness. As much as it pains you to do so your hands would be tied and if you continue you will be open to a lawsuit which Mrs. Finn will gladly file. Our advice is to have her evaluated and given the results to make your decision. We recommend that her punishment be a week suspension with detention and close watch for any behavior against the rules. Any further violations then the withholding of advancement to the 9th grade is warranted as would expulsion. Should she complete the year without action she can graduate and pass on to high school with her classmates." Dorothy agreed fully with the officials. Dr. Samuels would handle the evaluation arrangements while Olivia took over ensuring that Rachel did her schoolwork. Valerie had the proposal put in writing with all signing making it binding. Rachel was back as a student, albeit tentatively. Rachel was lucky, she obtained an appointment with Dr. Dane that afternoon. Dr. Dane was doing the evaluation as a favor to Dr. Samuels and hearing her story he gave her additional time to talk. Her name had come up before with Reed Pena and Scott Nelson so he knew Rachel was going to be a tough case but she was worth taking a chance on if she indeed was just a victim of her parents' abuse. Rachel was reluctant to be completely open but what he did gather from her was alarming. She was open about what her parents did to her and what they did regarding others. She didn't hold back anything, her feelings about her parents were strong and what she told him matched what he had heard from Scott and Reed. It didn't take him long to pull together the opinion that she did, in fact, endure mental and psychological abuse. They weren't direct, it was always in the form of disappointment towards her forcing Rachel to do what they actually wanted to get the attention that she needed. This was often perpetuated by their needs to show off their wealth and status which in turn caused Rachel to act out as a spoiled brat to please them despite the personal cost to herself. The surprise to Dr. Dane was when Rachel talked about the loss of her supposed friends over two years before. She lamented the fact that Iris and Francesca were the only people that her parents allowed her to be around. She was blunt in saying that the two were never happy with her and were only her friends out of pity. She hated that they felt that way and wanted to be closer but her parents wouldn't let her act like a normal person even among people who were supposed to be technically her friends. She was jealous that Iris' former parents were able to give her plenty of space and let her go over others' house, to the Murphys this was them knowing they were not as good as them but it let Iris' parents work a few more hours. They weren't too outgoing whenever she met them but she did sense that they did what they did to provide for Iris even if it turned out that deep down they were terrible human beings that just needed someone to bring that out of them. Francesca's parents were what Rachel hoped parents would be. She didn't care that they were lesbians, she loved that they treated her well. The White-Clarks were tolerated by the Murphys as they were rich and through the White-Clarks they could get contacts that would help them build their own personal wealth. When they were lost as, "Friends" the Murphys blamed Rachel and started to make things tougher for her and needing her to become the horrible bitch that everyone saw but wasn't really her. Dr. Dane asked about the beach incident which Rachel grew quiet about. He knew what happened but getting the information from her was important. Rachel admitted she was goaded into saying and doing something to try to get Iris and Francesca back but it backfired badly. Her voice softened and tears welled up as she admitted that she was happy that they had friends but jealous of the other families who were quick to support them. She wanted parents like that and spent months afterward quiet and alone. It was her lowest point until after her parents were arrested, she was all alone with a lot of people around who hated her. She had tears in her eyes now, the pain from the memories was taking a toll on her. Dr. Dane gave her a few minutes to compose herself and asked about what she was going to do regarding school. Rachel quietly told him, "I have to go back. I have to face my punishment and take what I have coming to me." Dr. Dane asked her a soft, "Why?" to which Rachel barely above a whisper admitted, "Because I deserve it. They deserve to get their chance to make me miserable for what I did to them. I don't deserve to be there, but Mrs. Finn got it so that I have to be there so I have to accept my punishment from them. It's what I earned, it's what I deserve." There was genuine remorse and penance in her voice. She fully intended to endure the abuse that she created and would not back down from taking it. Dr. Dane made notes and typed up his letter to Dorothy, handing the letter to Olivia and telling Rachel, "Your classmates will go to great lengths to make your life miserable but you are doing a harder number on yourself. You need to accept that you aren't that person anymore, the sooner you accept it the better. I only know of the people you hurt but I do know the people around them and if you give it half a chance they will not let you go through this alone. Give them a chance. They will come to your aid." In the car, Olivia told her softly, "You aren't that person." Rachel countered with, "Tell that to Richard. To Iris and Sam. To Jessie and Rebecca. It's only a matter of time before they start banging down the door to come get their revenge. They deserve to get their revenge on me, it's only fair." Rachel was silent after that, tears streaming down her face as she said it. Olivia would need to have a long talk with the girls about her and soon. Rachel was on the verge of breaking down and she feared Rachel might do something to herself to escape the pain and humiliation. At home, she emailed Dorothy about Dr. Dane's findings. Dorothy called her back and informed her that she read a lot of the work Rachel had done and alerted her teachers that she would be returning. She would allow her back on Monday but she would have to come in early and print out all of her assignments, handing them into her teachers directly. The two agreed fully and Rachel was informed, she said she'd comply but behind her quivering voice Olivia could see her starting to cry at the impending humiliation. The doorbell rang and broke their focus. Olivia was greeted by Iris, Francesca, and Reyna who asked to speak with Rachel. Olivia was reluctant to allow them to until Rachel told her, "Just let them speak, they are going to do it anyway at least they will be more open here than at school." Iris wanted the truth. Rachel told her everything. She didn't hold back, telling her things that she didn't tell anyone else. Iris turned to Olivia and told her quickly, "Call Mr. Gault and Mrs. Pena. They need to talk with Rachel as soon as possible. This is serious, she knows things that nobody else does." Iris turned back to her and asked bluntly, "Did you remember to bring the files?" Rachel smiled and nodded, pointing to one of her flash drives. Iris smiled and announced to her two friends, "You wanted proof she was sincere? Yesterday she gave up her mother and father to save mom and me and many other kids. She has the real accounting information for that nasty church and has the way to decrypt their files. She knows what was really going on with them!" Reyna asked what she was talking about, Francesca swiftly told her, "Rachel made copies of the computer files!" Iris nodded, telling her, "Her dad worked with my dad a couple of times on church things, he said it was him donating his time to the church. Her dad set up the computers for the church and kept everything on his computer. Rachel made backups in case they grabbed the computer and wiped it clean. She has the answers that they need to put them all away!" The girls realized what was going on and why. Rachel told them everything her parents made her do and why. Reyna listened to the stories and started to see a pattern and admitted to Iris and Francesca, "I think it's called 'passive-aggressiveness'. They didn't exactly say something but the meaning was there and she understood and had to do what they wanted to get them to approve." Rachel nodded, shedding a tear at them finally seeing the truth. Olivia came in and told the girls, "Mr. Gault and Kennedy will be here shortly. Whatever you have you need to turn it over to them." Rachel told her softly, "I'll give everything, and I have a lot more hidden at home." Olivia smiled, Rachel was honestly trying to help and the real girl was starting to break through the damaged shell. Kennedy and Taylor were swift in meeting Rachel. She was quick to show them the files she copied and tell them everything they needed to know. Kennedy saw a lot of names she recognized from talking with Iris and Jaimie, and as no big shock she saw money funneled into a personal account rather than a business account. The key was they got the account number and could work from there to reveal who actually had the money. Taylor asked how Rachel was able to obtain the files. She smiled and told him, "Dad let me use his computer all the time without telling me where to stay out of so I had free reign to do whatever I wanted. His files were out in the open and clearly marked, and more than once the spreadsheets were left open. I also had to help him with the backups so there are old copies still on disk in his home office. One of the disks was from yesterday morning, just before they tried to go after Iris at school so you should be able to get what you need and may even have the plans for what they wanted to do to Iris and the others." Taylor smiled and made a phone call to obtain a search warrant. The girls were grinning at seeing his enthusiasm, he was normally serious but this was a genuine smile of enjoyment. Kennedy herself was grinning at the good fortune and the girl trying hard to show she wasn't the ogre that they believed her to be. Kennedy asked,, "Can you testify to what the files contain?" Rachel nodded and added, "I'll even lead you to where the original statements are hidden. I only know about half of what they contain, dad kept a close eye on me whenever the safe was opened but they are still inside there." Taylor had his warrant and had his colleague and detectives ready to go. Rachel demanded to go along, even handing them the keys to the house. Kennedy told him what she knew and with her there to guide them it was going to be a lot quicker. Olivia and the girls followed along but were kept back a safe distance. Rachel showed them the office and despite being trashed and the computer missing Rachel showed them the backup disks complete with dates, particularly the most recent backup, the goons missed those important items while taking the less important computer. They were seized as well as the flash drives and whatever else was left laying around unnoticed by the burglars. Rachel then showed them the false back to the closet and opened the safe, showing dozens of documents. Taylor shook his head and said, "Jackpot" showing them to Kennedy. She read them over and hugged Rachel, telling her affectionately, "These are what we needed more than anything else. These are the actual bank statements and change of ownership paperwork. This is the full paper trail, you connected the dots for us and assured convictions for them all." Outside the plain clothed troopers saw several people coming towards the house. Iris pointed out to the detectives via signals that they were church members. This was relayed to inside people who were ready for action. Hiding in Rachel's former bedroom they waited for them to enter. When they were inside the troopers entered behind and demanded to know why they were there. There was shouting for several minutes then claims that they had permission from the owners to be there which was followed by Rachel saying, "Drop the act. You don't have permission. They are in jail and under strict segregation so unless you are saying their lawyer told you to break into their house and remove certain things you are here illegally." Taylor smiled at her brashness and told them, "The only one who could give you permission to be here is her and she has done no such thing. You are being placed under arrest for breaking and entering and trespassing." Then the big news dropped, "This building is owned by our church, we have permission to be here by the reverend." Rachel shook her head and told them, "Bullshit. I have the deed to the house as well as the tax records and it isn't owned by the church. It's all in my name. Mrs. Pena can show them to you." Kennedy smiled at her boldness and asked:, "Is this true?" She nodded telling Kennedy, "Mom told dad to keep some assets in my name in case something happened to the church. Even though they were helping the church mom didn't think it was wise to give them their home too. Dad gave them the deed to an empty lot that was supposed to be developed into a church but never did." Kennedy then said to the men, "As she is the owner, anything removed from this home is theft. We will have a search of the church to see if anything belonging to her is there." Taylor barely contained his glee, they had a reason to search the church now. Iris came in and told them, "You better check my house too, if they did this to Rachel's house they did it to mine too." Taylor had the troopers rush to her house and confirm there was smashed windows and broken doors. Taylor was now on the phone with the DA regarding the home invasions. Kennedy was on the phone with the Attorney General and got her blessing to get a search warrant for the church. The two-pronged attack was coordinated with additional teams being used to search the homes of senior church leaders and families. By the end of the afternoon there were six raids in place all of which were to be conducted simultaneously. Iris and Rachel headed back to the Samuels home. Olivia was proud of the work both did and let them know it. Seeing Richard get up and leave upon seeing her with his mom caused Rachel to lose her good nature and got Iris to feel for her. No matter what she did that day he would still react badly to her. Rachel didn't let on how affected she was regarding Richard's snub. As she closed her bedroom door she broke down fully, letting all of her built-up feelings. She was alone now. Her family was going to be going to prison for years. She lived in a home where their real child hates everything about her and lets her know it. She had a nice foster mother and foster father but she was still all alone. Iris didn't leave just yet after arriving at the Samuels home. Seeing Rachel upset and hearing Richard's muttering was too much to handle. In the past, Rachel was a bitch, but this was not what she needed nor deserved. Iris went after her, she needed someone with her even if she did nothing to deserve it. Hearing Rachel sobbing through the door she slowly opened it and saw the most pitiful sight she had ever seen. Rachel was curled up on the bed, hugging a pillow and tears streaming down her face. She looked over at Iris and told her softly, "Just get on with it, say what you are thinking. Get your punches in while you can. The others are going to love hearing about this." Iris leaned over and hugged her. Rachel tried to pull away but was pulled in tighter. Iris wasn't letting her go, she needed a friend and Iris wasn't letting her go. After a couple of minutes Iris spoke. Digging deep inside her she asked Rachel, "Are you truly changed?" Rachel had tears in her eyes and blurted out, "It doesn't matter. Don't you see, no matter how I act or what I do it doesn't matter. I can't live past what I have done no matter what I do." Iris needed to go home but before leaving she told Rachel, "It matters to some of us. I am going to talk with Francesca and Reyna. You can fool others and you can fool yourself but you can't fool us. I know you are changed and you are remorseful. Francesca needs only to see you now to see you aren't lying or acting. Please don't do anything rash or stupid, I'll see you tomorrow." As she walked out Iris quietly told Olivia, "I am worried about her. She is on the verge of doing something horrible if you don't keep an eye on her. Richard is making it worse, if he says or does something again she might make a run for it or worse." Olivia held her up and asked her how she knew. Iris admitted, "She thinks I didn't notice her blank eyes and quivering hands. She is on the verge of losing herself completely, she is trying to act like it's not as bad as it seems but she is emotionally spent. Another confrontation or disappointment and she will snap. She doesn't have anything to hold her back, she could hurt herself to make the pain go away." As she walked out Richard was returning. He sneered at Iris, hearing part of what she said and blurting out, "It didn't take long to have you fooled." Iris lost her composure and shot back, "I am sorry that I have some common decency and compassion for someone who I have known since preschool. I hope you like bullying an emotionally fragile girl because it's making you look like a total scumbag. Your parents raised you better than this!." Before he could counter Iris was gone, heading to the White-Clark home with a pissed off look on her face. Richard turned and his mother had the same expression. She told him bluntly, "You don't have to like her living here but you are NOT going to say or do something to cause harm to her. She is in the middle of a mental breakdown and is one small step from running away or worse- suicide. Do you want that on your conscience? Do you want her to die to prove your point about her?" Rachel was listening to their argument and gathered her things. She rushed out without stopping. She was gone too fast for Olivia to comprehend what just happened. Richard quickly told her, "I was right, nothing but trouble." Olivia didn't bother to fight anymore; she was too concerned about Rachel. Rachel's fleeing was noticed by Lupe, Wendy, and Belle who all joined in with Olivia to look for her. The three mothers rushed off in their cars in different directions trying to locate Rachel leaving their daughters to ask what was going on. Richard had a big grin on his face as he freely admitted to them, "She finally snapped. She showed her true colors and left. She won't be back again." Reyna asked him if he was serious, giving him a look of complete shock at his statement. Richard told her, "Mom said she was going to go, and she left. No big deal, you don't have to put up with her anymore." Francesca erupted in a fury at Richard. She screamed at him, "Do you have any idea of what you did? You just ran off a mentally unstable teenage girl into the city without any means of protecting herself. Your mom wasn't joking, she is likely to do something horrible to herself. What the hell is wrong with you!" She turned and called Rebecca, Sam, and Jessie as well as got them calling the older teens. This was serious and all hands were needed. Within a minute Miles and Reed both said:, "Check her old home." In her depressed and clouded mind that was her only safe place and would be the most likely destination. Being the closest Reyna and Francesca rushed off towards it, yelling to Richard, "If she did anything it's on your conscience, not ours!" The girls ran as fast as they could and saw a light inside Rachel's house. Creeping inside the girls found her huddled on the floor, weeping and shaking. Beside her was a bottle of pills in the name of her mother. Reyna called for an ambulance while Francesca called her mothers and Iris called Lupe. Olivia was told immediately and raced there at top speed. She got the girls out of the room. She counted the pills and was relieved to see that she hadn't taken any yet. Rachel broke down before she could take any, mentally and physically exhausted. Outside the girls and their mothers were begging for answers. Olivia sat on a couch and told them, "She can't come back, if she tried this once she will do it again. Richard isn't going to let up until she is gone. I can't do that to her, as much as I want to help her having her return will only make things worse." Leslie stepped forward and told her, "I'll take her in. She needs stability and people who know her, Iris might be the only person to keep her from harming herself further. Richard can complain all he wants about her living with you but he has no right to complain about her living with me." Mark arrived next and was told what happened. He looked at Olivia and at Leslie to gather what was going on and see if they were serious about Rachel being transferred to Leslie's care. He tried to fathom why Olivia would give up on her so quickly while trying to see why Leslie was so willing to take in someone who had tormented her daughter. Iris broke the back and forth and told him bluntly, "Stop acting like she is some piece of meat and think about her for a second. Richard is pissed at her and making her life miserable. Nobody else can take her in and she won't survive in a normal foster home. Mom wants to help her and she needs mom." All eyes turned towards Mark who sighed and reluctantly turned to his formal speech saying, "You did your best Olivia but for Rachel's safety I have to remove her from your home. Leslie, I know this is sudden but we need your help again." Leslie agreed without hesitation. Mark had the change of custody paperwork drawn up and signed with Leslie now officially having custody of Rachel. The others left silently as Leslie and Iris stayed with the sleeping Rachel. An hour later she stirred and was shocked to see Iris and Leslie with her. Iris spoke first and told her softly, "You don't have to go back with the Samuels, you are coming home with us." Rachel looked over to Leslie who just nodded silently. She got up and put her things together, silently following the two out. She turned back to her old home and shook her head, saying bluntly, "I hope you burn to the ground." Rachel was silent as they drove to her new home. She was shown to her new room and set out her things without saying anything. She fell asleep quickly and slept straight through until the early afternoon the next day. Down in the living room she seemed to finally relax, with Iris sitting down next to her and offering her a kind, "He's going to be in deep trouble. Mom, his aunt, and his mother were talking for hours last night about his behavior and it's angered everyone else." Rachel asked her, "Why? I deserved everything he said." Iris shook her head and told her, "Did you ever hear the story about Scott or Christina?" Rachel shook her head no prompting Iris to tell her, "Four years ago, out in Missouri, Scott was the school bully. When the secret that Jaimie was becoming a girl came out he beat her badly, so badly the doctors had to remove her testicles and left her permanently impotent. Two and a half years ago Jessica called Jaimie and told her the truth about Scott, that his father was badly beating him and he was only doing what his dad wanted him to do. Jaimie, Jenna, Richard, Hannah, Bryan, and Michael all helped his secret get revealed causing Jessica's parents, his aunt and uncle, to move the four of them east for his own protection. He became their son later on." Rachel looked at her like she was joking but she continued, "Christina's birth parents taught her for years that she was better than everyone and she needed to look down on people who were different or didn't fit their criteria for good people. Then when she started to fall for Miles and get closer to him they started to lash out at her, resulting in her being beaten in front of the football team and cheerleaders. She and her sister were removed from her parents' care and adopted by Jenna's mom. Later her parents were found to also be stealing from her trust fund giving them a lavish lifestyle at the expense of their daughter's wealth. Does this all sound familiar to you?" Rachel just stared in disbelief. Iris shook her head and stated, "This all happened. Richard was there for all of it. Scott is his best friend now. He knows better than anyone that you need to give someone the benefit of the doubt yet he didn't do that. He bullied you when you were most vulnerable and without reason. You never did anything to him, but he acted like a bully to you." Rachel asked her if it was really true, that it wasn't some elaborate lie. Leslie chimed in with, "It's the truth. I asked Christina to come by and see you, you can ask her yourself." Leslie texted someone and a few minutes later there was a knock on the door. Christina looked over at Rachel and smiled at her, then told Iris to give them some privacy. Christina wasted little time and told her, "Ignore whatever Richard was saying about you. He's an ass and thinks he's protecting everyone by driving you away." Rachel tried to correct her but Christina quickly shot her down saying, "It isn't what you deserve and it isn't called for. He knows damn well what the hell is going on and he knows you are hurt badly. He is doing it because he needs to get it out of his system but he isn't getting away with it." Christina drew a deep breath then started telling her, "Iris told you about me and Scott but you need to know that what you went through is much worse. His dad started acting like he did after his mom died and my parents started acting like they did after my great aunt died. The real person came out and it was terrible. You, however, had had to put up with your abuse for longer. It's all you know and it's going to be a while before the damage can be undone. We, the victims of abuse like that, are not going to allow you to go through this alone. Aunt Olivia meant well but she was in over her head here. Aunt Leslie is going to be a better role model for you. Aunt Olivia thinks like a nurse, Aunt Leslie thinks like a victim. She is one, her brother used to do a lot of the same things your parents did to you until Uncle John stood up to him and got him banished from their home for good." Shedding tears Rachel asked how many others were, "Victims of abuse like that" as she said. Christina smiled and told her, "Uncle John, Aunt Karen, Aunt Leslie, Aunt Kennedy, Aunt Tanya, Michael, Miles, Jaimie, Reed, Kylie, Will, and Scott. Dr. Dane knows all about us and he is going to suggest we talk so I'm taking the first step. Give it time to sink in but you aren't alone and we aren't going to let you suffer alone." Christina gave Leslie a hug then left. Iris smiled and admitted, "When you are back in school the four of us are going to be by your side. I don't care if Rebecca and Jessie are upset, we are our own people and you need our help. We barely have enough in common with them as it is, if being good people to someone who needs our help is too much for them then they aren't the friends we thought they were." She looked at Iris in shock. She tried to say something but only got a soft, "Sam understands why you did what you did and if you give her a chance you might become friends. She is more open than we give her credit for." Iris added,, "Claire is hosting a sleepover on Friday, I'll ask if you can go." Rachel declined but Leslie told her, "I think you should go. They won't like leaving you out of it." Iris added, "It's her date night" prompting Rachel to blush then say, "I don't have a choice, I don't want to keep you from your date." Things settled down after that. Rachel was much calmer with Leslie and Iris than with the Samuels. Richard continued to complain about Rachel being around them which prompted Christina and Scott to walk off followed by Miles and Stacy. Jenna and George followed behind, telling him to grow up and stop bullying someone who can't fight back. The next two days Rachel handled her schoolwork under the watchful eye of Valerie, JD, and Cat. Cat had a field day playing with Rachel during breaks, loving the fact that she could manipulate a new person. JD felt that there was more to Rachel and showed more affection towards her than he had Iris and the other girls. Rachel was good with him and got him to behave when Valerie had problems getting him to listen. Friday afternoon the girls gathered at Leslie's house before heading to the Peterson home. Daisy was there and expected the bunch but was eager to meet Iris and Rachel. She took an immediate liking to Rachel, getting her attention and keeping it the whole night. Rachel actually enjoyed her company, she was reluctant to join the girls in their games and talking. Daisy insisted on her watching her new favorite show, a Japanese show Kylie Pena got her hooked on during the Spring. Her brother bought the DVD thinking it was like the other shows by the creator but it turned out to be something entirely different, more like a kids show than the other series he owned. The show was called, "Frills" and was about a quiet loner who was bullied and ignored by everyone until something terrible happened and forced things to change for the better. Over the course of the first couple of episodes with the help of his new friends the boy starts to realize that deep inside he was really a girl and sets in motion events that lead to a new life for him and his newfound friends. Rachel could easily relate to the characters and cried at times seeing the bullying that the main character, Larry/Lana endured. Daisy picked up on her feelings and asked what was wrong, getting a quiet, "It's hard seeing bullying from the other side." Daisy asked her again what she meant and was told:, "I used to be a bully like the people who hurt Lana." Daisy shook her head and told her sweetly, "If you really were like that mom would not have let you come and Aunt Leslie would not have let you become her foster daughter. Mom said your parents were bad people and did some bad things to you without hitting you, if you were bad too you would not cry and you would not tell me." Rachel started crying again and hugged Daisy, kissing her forehead. Daisy smiled and told her, "Mom told me you might need to be told that, Kylie told me to show you this show. Reed talked about you and she said you were like them and needed someone to help you like everyone helped her and Reed. She knows you aren't a bad person. You just need people to tell you that you are a good person." Rachel was set up. She looked at Daisy, whose smile warmed her, and accepted that they weren't trying to do something wrong and they really wanted to help her. Daisy opened up to Rachel by telling her, "Dad was worse than your parents. He hurt people and tried to hurt Miles. He wanted to use me to get money from mom and Claire." Rachel asked her what she was talking about. Daisy told her, "You deserve to know the truth. Claire's and my real dad is Uncle John, Aunt Karen, and Aunt Leslie's brother. He is a bad man who hurts a lot of people and does things with drugs. He tried to kidnap and hurt Miles then he wanted to use me to get money from Uncle John. I'm telling you because you need to know. Aunt Leslie said you had bad parents but you needed to know we have bad parents too., " Rachel asked her softly, "Are you really only six?" Daisy laughed and said yes to which Rachel smiled and told her, "You act like you are 18 or older." This got her laughing again and telling her, "Mom said I'm too mature for my own good and I take after Hannah. I just like to help people and know what to say to people at the right time." Daisy and she watched the rest of the first DVD with smiles and went downstairs to the basement entertainment room where Claire and the others were talking. Claire asked if everything was alright to which Daisy smiled and nodded. Claire signaled to Rachel to sit with them and put on a movie on the TV. Daisy fell asleep halfway through the movie so Rachel carried her up to her room and put her to bed. Daisy was awake enough to hug her and kiss her cheek, telling her that she was a good cousin. Rachel didn't know what to say except, "You are a good cousin too." Back downstairs the girls wanted to know what happened. Rachel told them and was given big grins. Rachel didn't know what they were getting on about until Claire started to giggle and laugh, telling her, "She is trying to tell you that you aren't going anywhere anytime soon. The little squirt must know something we don't." Iris looked at Jaimie who then told them, "I think she has her heart set on Rachel staying with Aunt Leslie for good. She doesn't want her to go to another family." Stacy shook her head at all of it which caused the others to look at her closely. Stacy admitted,, "Rebecca and Jessie aren't going to be happy and you know Richard hates her." Jaimie blurted out, "If he can't accept her then too bad. I love him but I won't choose him over someone who needs help. Besides what is he going to do if Leslie tries to adopt Rachel? If it comes down to it I will choose family over boyfriend any day." Rachel shot back a loud, "Don't!" The girls looked at her to which she pleaded, "You two have been together for three and a half years and clearly love one another. I'm not worth throwing that away." Jaimie turned to her and looked her in the eyes as she said, "Yes you are. Family comes first. You are Leslie's foster daughter and therefore family and you come first no matter what." Rachel was quiet after that. She couldn't say or do anything further. Jaimie was choosing her over the love of her life, Iris was trying to be the friend she always wanted her to be, and Stacy and Claire were acting like she was already part of the family. It was a bit much for her. The next morning Rachel and Iris walked with the girls back to their home. Daisy was holding Rachel's hand tight, almost dragging her along much to the amusement of the other girls. Daisy and Claire's mother Lilly kept her distance from the girls allowing them a lot of leeway during the night and that morning so Rachel didn't have a chance to say anything to her about setting her up but Daisy made it clear that she wanted her to enjoy her night with the girls. As they approached their house Iris and Rachel said their goodbyes and grilled Leslie about her night. The girls saw her glowing and happy, Iris asked her sharply, "Did he treat you right?" Leslie told them all about the date and Mark's actions. She was smiling as she told them, Iris shook her head and blurted out, "You are in love!" Rachel started to snicker which got Iris going as well. Both girls started to enjoy teasing Leslie, trading quick jokes to one another. Leslie took the joking in stride, happy that Rachel was feeling much better after Daisy's magic. Lilly smartly declined Kylie's offer to have her go with them that night hoping she would help Rachel, which she clearly did. Eventually, the girls settled down and Leslie had a chance to talk with Rachel. Her suspension was up on Monday, she was going back to school and would be facing the students on her own. Iris assured her she, Francesca, and Reyna would be by her side but Rachel told her, "I do this alone, I don't want you three upsetting the rest of the class just because of me." Before Iris could say anything Rachel left the room and went to her room. Leslie came in and asked if she was alright, Rachel told her honestly, "It's alright. I don't need other people fighting my battles over my mistakes. I did wrong, I have to live up to it. Iris and the others didn't do anything wrong, they shouldn't have to feel that they have to protect me. I'm alright, I can take the reactions, I'm used to it." Leslie leaned in and hugged her, not saying anything more. She knew as well as Iris that Rachel had her heart set on putting things right and in her mind taking whatever her classmates had to throw at her was part of doing just that. Leslie softly told her, "No matter what you tell them those three are going to do what is right. I trust Sam, Jessie, and Rebecca to do the same, if not then I don't think they are the upstanding young ladies I was led to believe they were." Rachel asked her bluntly, "They have good reason to not do anything." Leslie shook her head, reminding her, "These girls know the difference between a bully and a victim. You never actually hurt anyone, you were parroting what your parents told you to say. What you did to Rebecca was over two years ago and you were punished for it. You did something to Jessie that she will have to endure countless times in school and again you paid the price for it. For either of them to have a problem with you now that the truth out is both unjustified and beyond reason." Iris came in and told her, "Sam is fine with you. She wants to talk with you directly. She won't choose any side in this except her own." Rachel told her, "What I said to her is unforgivable though." Iris shook her head and stated bluntly, "Words don't mean anything, action does. You had a year and a half to say something to Sam but you didn't until your parents made you and it was only because of me. Sam believes in second chances, just hear her out." The doorbell rang and Rachel was told to answer it. Sam greeted her and gave her a big hug. Rachel didn't know how to react, so she hugged her back. Sam looked over to Iris and said softly, "That settles things." Rachel looked up and saw Sam smiling then kissed Iris. Rachel didn't react, only slinking away with Leslie while the two lovebirds talked in the living room. Expecting her to say something Rachel cut Leslie off and admitted to her, "It's hard seeing the two together." Leslie asked why to which Rachel looked down and admitted, "She found someone she loves and it's her best friend. Mom and dad had me believing that friends were just minions who were there to help you get what you wanted but those two really seem to love one another." Leslie leaned down and jokingly told her, "Part of love is getting someone you care about to do what you don't want to do." Rachel's eyes got wide to which Leslie started laughing then told her, "It's a fringe benefit. You do things for one another despite not liking it." Rachel asked her, "So what is Mark doing for you" prompting Leslie's eyes to open wide in shock as she giggled at her reaction. After a bit, Sam and Rachel started talking. Sam told her all about herself which caused tears to well up in Rachel's eyes. Sam just shook her head and tell her, "Those so-called parents did a number on you. Just about everyone knows what my grandmother did to me when my mom was sick." Rachel softly told her, "I was out sick that week" which caused Sam to slap her own head for that. Rachel asked her, "Are you happier as a girl?" Sam smiled and proudly proclaimed, "When mom and dad told me they loved me no matter what it was the best moment of my life and I have never been happier." Rachel saw the twinkle in her eye and saw the Sam that everyone else saw, not the person her parents saw. Rachel liked what she saw and told Sam, "I am happy for you. You had more guts doing that than anyone else in school." Sam countered with, "No, you had bigger guts. You went against your own parents and saved Iris and Leslie knowing you were going to be taken away from them. You sacrificed your family life for a person who at the time hated you." Leslie started dinner and told the girls to get ready. After dinner Sam left, giving Iris a big kiss and hugging Rachel. No sooner had the door closed than the doorbell rang and Rebecca and Jessie came in. Both looked at Iris and Rachel like they were in trouble which prompted Leslie to all but shout at them, "If you are going to cause trouble girls then please leave. Rachel has settled whatever was going on with Sam, Iris, Reyna, and Francesca and doesn't need you two acting up." Rebecca tried to protest but was told off by Iris, "You know what happened already. Your sister told you what happened last night and you know where the other two stand. Either talk with Rachel or leave." Jessie sat down and told Rebecca to do the same. Jessie grabbed her and forced her to sit down. She then told Rachel, "Our sisters already told us if we left here without talking to you then we were on our own in school." Rebecca glared at her which Leslie told her bluntly, "I think you should leave. I am severely disappointed in you, Rebecca. I thought you of all people would try to help but it's clear my belief was misplaced." Rebecca left in a huff. Jessie signaled to Rachel to sit then started asking her, "Tell me everything. Don't leave out anything and don't try to lie." Iris and Leslie got up telling Jessie, "We have heard this story many times already, just give her a chance to tell it all first." 20 minutes later Rachel was finished. Jessie didn't show any emotion until she finished then rushed over and hugged her. She told Rachel, "You are a fool. You should have tried to get help." Rachel quietly muttered,, "And if I did Iris would have died." Jessie shook her head in disbelief but Rachel was right. Rebecca knocked on the door again and this time was accompanied by her mother and sister. She held her tongue as she asked Rachel, "Can I talk with you?" Rachel looked up at Melanie and Stacy who were furious, whose faces softened as the saw Jessie and Rachel next to one another. Jessie got up and went to where Iris and Leslie were, Rebecca was directed to sit down and talk to her as her mother and sister waited for her outside. Another 20 minutes and countless questions from Rebecca and Rachel was finished with her third interrogation of the day. For the first time in a long time Rebecca was speechless. Iris and Jessie came in and asked her, "Are you satisfied now?" Rebecca nodded as a few tears were running down her cheek. Jessie told Rachel, "Monday we go to school and all of us are together no matter what. Don't react to anything anyone says, we will be by your side and anyone who says anything is going to have to explain to us why they are saying it." Rachel asked them, "What about your reputations? You are tarnishing yourselves by being beside me." The girls all laughed at that, with Rebecca telling her, "Do you really think any of them are stupid enough to cross us? We may not be like our sisters and cousins but we are still a large group. We will be alright." Outside Stacy and Melanie could heard the girls laugh which Stacy told her mom, "It's settled now. Only Richard is acting up." Melanie countered with, "He's acting out, there's a difference. Your aunts all saw right through his whining, he didn't want to give up being an only child yet. His parents got a taste of having another child and aren't going to let this go." Stacy asked what she meant only to be told, "Rachel is going to be staying with Leslie but she isn't the last kid to have a home with the Samuels family. Some lucky kid will be placed with them in the future no matter what Richard says." Jessie and Rebecca left with Rachel receiving hugs from both. Leslie asked Rachel if she was alright now, getting a smile and silent nod. Leslie then asked her, "Are you alright with me pulling adoption forms for you?" Rachel acted as if it was no big deal to which Iris told her, "Stop trying to act indifferent and tell her the truth." Rachel hugged Leslie and told her, "I'd love this more than anything." Leslie just hugged her back, then told her, "Daisy said you were going to do that." Iris whined, "Is there anything she doesn't know?" Leslie shot her back a quick, "How to tie her shoes. She still struggles with that simple task. That's why she prefers those Velcro laces." Iris thought for a second then said:, "When did you learn to do it right?" Leslie blushed then tried to change the subject which Iris then added:, "I thought so, she's following the family trend." The girls both laughed at her joke which warmed Leslie's heart. Sunday was quiet as word spread that the girls had settled their differences and Rachel was left to calm herself before the storm on Monday. Leslie brought the girls next door for a Sunday dinner with John, Valerie, and the five kids. She informed them it wasn't a request, it was a demand from Valerie. Jaimie and Richard were just finishing up some homework when he saw Rachel and Iris coming through the door. Richard had a snide remark exit his lips when Cat punched him in the groin yelling "you leave her alone you big meanie!" That was quickly followed by JD throwing toys at him. Jaimie told him in no uncertain terms "I think you better leave." He tried to protest but Jaimie told him harshly "this is the last time I am going to say this, but leave Rachel alone. No more remarks. No more jokes. No more complaints. If you can't stop complaining about her then we are through. I am serious, stop or we are done." Richard walked home with a limp and red face, looking close to vomiting from the pain in his groin. Cat glared at him as he left, ready to throw her toys at him if he said anything else. Jaimie picked her up and hugged her, showing she was proud of her for doing that for Rachel. Cat wiggled and got away and grabbed Rachel's waist, hugging it tightly. Iris whispered to Rachel "just let her do it, it means a lot to her." Rachel picked her up and hugged her, getting a giggle from the little girl and making her rush off. Jaimie asked what she did to her, Rachel smiled and said "she wanted me to return the favor." Jaimie and Iris looked at each other like she was joking then burst into laughter. JD grabbed Rachel but demanded to be held rather than hugged, giving Cat a big smile as he got the same attention. The girls hung out in the living room as Miles and Michael ignored them. The two boys only said a few words as they got prepared for their dates that afternoon. Miles offered Rachel a simple hello then went as if there was nothing odd about her being there. Jaimie sensed her unease and told her "they are alight with you being here and are acting normal, you get used to them leaving us alone. They don't want to say or do anything that will get back to Christina and Courtney." Both said "that's not true" to which Iris added "you are right, add Claire, Daisy, Stacy, Rebecca, and Jessie to the mix as well" sending Jaimie into a laugh riot as the two turned deep red and rushed out. Valerie returned from her shopping with Leslie and John and had a talk with Rachel about the next day. She was available to take her home if need be but hoped things didn't get that bad. John offered to put in a few good words with her teachers but Rachel shot this down, telling him she would do this on her own. John didn't tell her that he had already spoken with them and given his blessing which smoothed a lot of ruffled feathers especially with Mr. Taylor and Zeke Williams. Monday morning Rachel and Iris were at school early. Iris wouldn't let her face the teachers alone and Leslie wasn't about to tell her daughter no. Dorothy Vega met them at her office and asked about their week which Rachel told her "Dr. and Mrs. Samuels are no longer my foster parents, I'm staying with Iris and her mom." Dorothy asked them to come inside the office and explain so she had an idea what was going on. Rachel explained what happened and why. Iris then added "my cousins are saying he is acting out because he is jealous of the attention on her." Dorothy could smell Jaimie's fingerprints all over that which prompted her to say "Jaimie is right." Iris corrected her telling her "that was actually Aunt Melanie who said that." Dorothy chuckled at the correction and nodded, telling Rachel "the Samuels are good people but Richard is so used to being all alone that having to split attention with someone who needs it more is a huge shock. He will come around. He may need someone to force him to see that it's being selfish to only want his parents to himself." Rachel looked pensive and shot back "he is going to lose Jaimie and his friends. They are all supporting me." Dorothy beamed a hug smile and told him "I expect nothing less from them. Now go along, you have to print off dozens of pages and an apology to make." Alice Rodriguez beckoned Rachel to enter her office. Rachel offered and immediate and tearful apology for what she did and begged for forgiveness. Alice remained stoic then told her to stop. She got what she needed, a heartfelt apology. She told Rachel "you did some terrible things but when it mattered most you cast off your teachings and acted like the mature, responsible person you actually are. You have served your penance and deserve a chance to show who you really are even if it is only for a few weeks. You have detention until the end of the year but that is a small price to pay for the chance to advance with your classmates. I'll keep an eye on you but I hope that it is only precautionary. Enjoy the rest of your year." In class her teachers were less than enthusiastic to see her. She passed in her long overdue work and took her seat without saying a word. The students were warned about the bullying guidelines and any infractions now until the end of the year would result in being barred from the graduation ceremony. Glares were directed at Rachel who didn't react to them, deciding to just focus on her work and do what needed to be done. Rachel was active in class, taking most of the focus from the other students. She surprised most of the teachers with her answers and even showed she was brighter than most had thought. After class her science and math teachers both asked her why she held back. Rachel told them sharply "my parents wouldn't allow me to show I knew how to do the work." The answer was exactly what they had heard and shot back "then don't hold back again, you are far smarter than you believe yourself to be and will go far in school if you try. You would have been a top student if those people had allowed you to be yourself." These were the first words of encouragement from any of her teachers. Iris whispered in her ear "they mean it." Rachel thanked them for the kind words and moved on. At lunch Rachel sat with the seven others. Thomas was apprehensive about her being there but was put in place by Rebecca. There were heavy glances at their table as whispers started flowing about Rachel and the group being with one another. Rachel told Rebecca to just tell the truth, lying or deflecting was going to do more damage and spread further rumors. Rebecca stood up for Rachel and admitted that she was staying with a Finn stopped the stares from most of the students but the whispering still lingered. It was expected, they were entitled to their opinions. The girls expected nothing less from everyone else especially given Rachel annoyed, angered, or confronted so many of them before. After school Rachel served her detention by washing the whiteboards and dusting the tables with Iris sitting close by doing her homework. Rachel was silent unless being asked questions about homework by Iris. After an hour Rachel was released with Iris telling her "you did more than you were supposed to". Rachel just shrugged and left, it didn't matter to her. She wasn't leaving anything to chance and get accused of slacking off. Once the novelty of Rachel being back and acting different wore off the week went by smoothly. There were some complaints from parents but the school was standing by an abused student. The few who complained the loudest were doing so for reasons other than any animosity towards Rachel, their children were failing and they saw her being allowed to graduate and advance as favoring Rachel despite her having just below failing grades while their kids outright failed. Dr. Dane and Rachel talked about her week and he was pleased that she had adjusted much better to Leslie's care. Rachel accepted that she was likely going to have to endure a lot worse when the truth came out about her family but it was worth it to her. Dr. Dane said he'd prepare her, she nodded blankly but not entirely believing it and knowing that it would be something nobody could actually help her with. Nobody could take away the humiliation nor the knowledge that her family tried to kill the girl who would be her sister and the woman who would be her mother.. He focused on Leslie and the possibility of adoption to which she smiled and admitted "I love staying with her. She is honest and actually cares about us." Dr. Dane smiled and shared with her "I recommended that you stay with her permanently with the intent towards adoption. It might take a few months but it'll be worth it in my view. You need stability and love, she gives you that." That weekend Leslie had another date with Mark and this time the girls were going to stay home instead of heading out to a friend's house. The girls planned to spend the evening with Miles, Michael, and Jaimie watching the twins for John and Valerie while they enjoyed their own date night. Richard tried to complain when he stopped by but seeing Miles and Michael ready to say something he left without saying a word. Rachel's evening was ruined by Richard's appearance. She apologized to Jaimie for ruining her evening and walked back to her house. As soon as she came outside Kylie Pena called out to her, asking her to come over. Kylie's mother and father met her at the door and asked if she could do them a huge favor and watch Kylie for the evening so they could go out. She was reluctant to do so, giving them the excuse that she has no experience with kids. Kylie butted in and told her "that's not what Daisy and her mom said." She tried to say no but Kylie insisted, after a couple of minutes she gave in. Across the street she could see Iris and Jaimie smiling at her. It was a setup. She confronted Kennedy about it but was shot down with a grin and "we actually have plans tonight and Reed is out with Jessie, Thomas, and Rebecca. You came recommended by Lilly so it was either you or we drop her off with Jorge and Victoria, Kylie demanded you." Kylie pulled her inside and forced her to watch a DVD with her. Rachel gave in and watched, thankful that she at least have a calm night. Kylie insisted on showing her the rest of the "Frills" episodes particularly the ones where Lana steps out from the shadows and proclaims she is who she is and people had to deal with it. Rachel looked down at a smiling Kylie, telling her "you did this on purpose again." She gave her an innocent smile but couldn't help but smile back. Kylie felt a strong urge and asked her "are you alright with Sam becoming a girl?" Rachel drew a deep breath and admitted to her "she is who she is, I can't see her as anything else. Iris loves her and she is what I always wanted a friend to be even if she isn't my friend." Kylie asked if she knew anyone else like Sam which prompted Rachel to shoot a quick "Jaimie". Kylie asked if she knew anything about her which Rachel sensed was leading somewhere. Rachel told her honestly "you are Reed's younger sister, your mom and dad adopted you after your parents were terrible to you and tried to do something terrible to Jaimie." Kylie nodded at all of those things then told her softly "I'm like Sam." Rachel looked into her eyes and saw tears welling up. She hugged Kylie, offering her a quiet "no, you are your own person." She tried to say she was a girl like Sam to which Rachel stopped her, insisting "just because you were both born as boys doesn't make you the same. You are different, you are you and she is she. Neither of you are Jaimie." Kylie hugged her and cried. When she stopped she told Rachel "why did you say that?" Rachel dug deep and freely admitted "you enjoy different things, act differently, and have different kind of friends. Just because you both were born with something between your legs that you want removed doesn't make you the same. It doesn't make you the same, it just means you have a common issue. Our parents are criminals but you and I are different- you have a loving home but I have to live with being a horrible person for years. You are you, nobody can be you." Rachel started to feel like a big weight was lifted off her. She helped Kylie in some way and indirectly paid some respect to Sam. Kylie smiled and whispered "mom said you needed to know what you really felt about us." Rachel asked her sharply "us?" Kylie nodded, admitting "mom was born like me, Jaimie, and Sam. She was born a boy but had the operation done a long time ago." Hearing the news Rachel sat down and laughed. Kylie asked what was funny to which she told her "my mom and dad used to rant about Jaimie and complained about Sam but they liked Kennedy a lot. They said she was someone I should be like, she was a good influence on kids where Sam and Jaimie were bad ones!" Kylie burst into laughter as Rachel lost herself laughing. The two settled down and finished watching the rest of the episodes before it was time to put Kylie to bed. Kylie didn't fight her over the bedtime, happy that Rachel enjoyed herself and learned some good things about herself. Downstairs Rachel waited silently for Willie and Kennedy to return, content that her mother and father's teachings were finally exorcised from her life for good. When the couple returned Rachel didn't mention what happened while they were gone, only saying Kylie was an angel. Kennedy gave her a sly smile and walked her across the street to her home and asked her if Kylie talked with her. Rachel just nodded and admitted "she told me about you too." Kennedy asked her if she was alright with her to which Rachel smiled and retold her about what her parents said getting a laugh and hug as Kennedy left. Leslie was home late and had a big smile on her face which the girls didn't ask her about. In the morning they kept quiet while Leslie slept in. Iris was told about Kylie's manipulations and their talk and was given a big hug for being a good listener. Iris shrugged it off telling her "that's what sisters do" causing Rachel to shed a tear and hug her tightly. It was Memorial Day weekend so the group of girls decided to hit the beach. Iris and Leslie had to coax Rachel into a bikini but after some prodding she gave in. Kylie and her friends as well as Daisy were going too giving Rachel some hope that it would go without a problem as the girls were eager to get her attention. The only ones not going were Hannah, Bryan, and their fianc?s. Iris explained why they weren't coming which caused Rachel to blush deeply to which Leslie shot back "they aren't doing that! The four are just spending time together. Besides if Pete thought he was going to get that Hannah would ensure he was sent off to basic training limping and singing soprano, that is if she didn't send him off without two very important pieces of flesh." The group descended on the beach and enjoyed the sun and warm weather. Iris and Rachel kept close to one another until Daisy, Kylie, Nichole, and Margaret dragged Rachel away to play with them. The younger kids got her full attention and she enjoyed playing with them. The elder girls saw a different side of Rachel, one that they had not seen or heard about before. Rachel was reliving some of her lost childhood with them while also enjoying the chance to unwind and be herself. Rachel actually enjoyed helping the girls splash and run through the waves then searching for things like hermit crabs and shells. Jessica and Jenna made it a point to check on Iris and as the three talked they were left speechless at seeing Rachel being so different. Jenna softly asked Iris "has she ever acted like that?" Iris somberly told her "she doesn't have any reason to hold back, what we see is the real Rachel. No parental interference, no unnatural filters, no fear of retribution for showing true emotion. It's pure Rachel and it's the person she was meant to be." From a distance Richard watched the girls swimming together. He tried to enjoy the day out but kept looking over at Rachel and felt anger rising in him. Will, Scott, and Miles had to pull him out of the water and go for a walk before he did anything he would regret. Reed, Michael, Eric, and George had already told him that he was done with them if he said anything to Rachel to cause her any sort of duress. This was backed up by the girls who told him he was finished with them as well with Jaimie handing him back her promise ring to hold until he stopped acting like a spoiled child. A half mile away away from the others, Scott forced him to sit at a bench and talk. No more beating a round the bush, it was time to get to the bottom of things. Miles asked him bluntly what his actual problem with Rachel was, there was no reason for him to act like a total jerk towards her and what he was doing to her was exactly what she was doing to others before. Richard tried to claim she wasn't changed but Scott told him it was a lie, citing Daisy and Kylie as just two examples. Miles asked him again to which Richard tried to evade the question. Will finally thought of something and asked him "are you seriously mad that they wanted to bring in another kid without telling you first?" Richard nodded. Will shook his head in disbelief and asked him "so all of this was over your parents wanting to expand your family? You are mad at them and take it out on a girl who needed their help. You are on the verge of losing everyone who cares about you including family and friends and more importantly the woman who loves you unconditionally. All because you didn't want to give up being an only child?" Richard mumbled a quiet "they didn't even ask me." Scott told him sharply "they didn't have the chance, she needed help right away and they were the only ones available that Mark could think of to call. Your parents have been working behind the scenes to become foster parents for months and were going to tell you soon but Rachel's parents forced them to be needed right away before they had the chance to tell you. She didn't want to go with them, she didn't want to be anywhere near any of us but that's where she was placed." Will then told him "do you think I like having to share mom with dad and now my baby brother? No. But I want mom and dad to be happy and you should too. You are better than that, you almost caused her to kill herself because of your greed. This is no joke, she wanted to die because of what you did. Try to grow up and see that it's not just about you anymore, there are people who need your parents as much as you do. Aunt Olivia and Uncle Richard taught you better than that. This isn't the same Richard who stood up to bullies to show he loved Jaimie, this is the Richard who stole my toys and threw temper tantrums because he couldn't get a puppy." The trio walked away to leave Richard with his thoughts. He walked back to where the girls were and asked to talk with Rachel alone. Scott signaled that it's alright so Rachel went with him and sat at a table. Richard told her what was really bothering him and why he acted the way he did. He kept trying to apologize but Rachel gave up listening. When he finally stopped she asked him "did you actually believe I hadn't changed?" Richard drew a deep breath and admitted "no. I just wanted you gone so I would have mom and dad to myself. I didn't want you to hurt yourself or lose my friends and Jaimie but once I started I couldn't stop the act. I was embarrassed that it backfired and couldn't admit the truth. I never thought you would try to kill yourself, I didn't want you to hurt yourself because of me. I just wanted mom and dad to know I was mad." Rachel got up and told him "OK. Leslie said your mom and dad may have had their hearts in the right place but they weren't the right people for me. I think they will find a better fit but you need to accept that they need to share their love. You are their son and always will be, but they need to help others and to them that includes bringing in someone to stay with them who needs a home." Richard nodded silently as she walked off, allowing him to gather his thoughts. As Rachel joined the others she told them "it's over. He told me what was really bothering him and he knows what he has to do." Iris and the girls dragged her into the water and splashed about while the guys shared a simple nod as Richard joined them. Over on the sand Leslie and Olivia talked about Richard and Rachel with Leslie telling her "he should come to you soon to talk about this." Olivia looked at Richard who was still thinking things through and agreed, adding "Richard and I will sit him down for a long discussion; he needs to be on-board before we do anything further. I don't like the idea that someone might be in danger or put in the wrong home because of our need to delay but he needs to air his problems first." Leslie agreed fully, adding "as long as he knows your heart is intent on helping he will come around. Richard is too good of a person not to. H will try to make it up to you, he needs some time though." The rest of the weekend was much of the same as the girls tried to get as much sun as possible before going back to school. The youngest kids kept Rachel busy, making her play in the sand and run through the waves with them. Cat, JD, and DJ Lopez all fought for her attention with Cat winning out each time. Tuesday brought news that Rachel and Iris were to appear before a grand jury to testify about the reverend and his people. They would have to miss school but their teachers couldn't do anything about that. Iris was scared to death about testifying but Leslie and Rachel comforted her. Wednesday morning they were in the preparation room talking with the assistant attorney general assigned to the case with Leslie and Valerie close by. Iris was shown pictures of several key people to which she identified as people who were the reverend and key church personnel. She was there to verify the roles and testify about the attempted abductions as well as the abuse by her parents. Rachel asked to see the picture of the reverend again and announced "did you ever find out his real name?" She received a quick "no" to which Rachel announced "he's my uncle Jackson Murphy. You wouldn't find anything about him because whatever names he gave you are fake. He was defrocked and run out of his first church because he tried to convert a gay kid and his lover back to being normal. Both committed suicide after he kidnapped them after their parents refused his 'help'. Mom and dad have been helping him since. Dad paid a lot of money to officers to fake the basic information and fingerprints and replace them with fakes that they bought online. His real name was used then but everything in the database is fake with the note that it was altered and the originals destroyed. The only way to connect him is to have an eyewitness like me connect him to the crimes. I bet they probably used my name on some accounts but were always accessed by him." This news caused a stir among the staff as the detective who was to testify after Iris was sent to check out the information. He returned 20 minutes later with a positive ID and a warrant for his arrest for kidnapping and attempted murder but the identifying information altered. Rachel was hailed as a hero to which she complained that it was not going to help bring the boys back. During the mayhem Iris was called in to testify and her story was put to the test by the grand jury. Their questions were borderline offensive but she kept her cool and explained everything in depth and without bias. Valerie had to step in at times to get the questions on track as the jurors asked some difficult questions but overall she painted a damning picture of the church, the reverend, and her parents. Rachel's testimony was fraught with challenges as she was grilled over her indirect involvement. She told the truth and didn't waver from it, accepting that she holds some blame for not acting sooner but when it became clear that she was acting under duress the mood changed and her testimony damning. The fact that she knew the ins and outs of the financial records and showed who and what was paid for by the church's funds particularly the thugs hired to harm Iris set her over the top. After a break she was called back in and testified about the true identity of the reverend. She openly admitted the truth about his sordid past and what her parents had done to protect him. When she correlated money from her parents' account into the unknown account the bombshell that the account was in her name came as a shock to the jurors but which Rachel admitted "in my name, but not my account. If you look at where the transactions occurred and the fact that I have lived in Winnisimmet all my life it's clear that it was created by my uncle, the reverend, to hide his financial dealings." After a token testimony verifying the true identity of the reverend indictments were handed down against six senior church officials, the Donaldsons, the Murphys, and the reverend. Further Rachel and Iris were asked to give the same testimony to a federal grand jury in an hour, with US Marshals transporting the foursome to the federal courthouse and their own grand jury. Iris was only asked about the abduction attempts to which she retold the events. Rachel on the other hand was asked in depth about the money flowing in and out. She showed exactly what money actually got used by the church and what wasn't. The more she explained, the more she was asked to show examples. She pointed to multiple purchases made at hotels and restaurants and several withdrawals from ATMs. She then showed payments to someone each month that she declared was the actual lease holder for the church. When asked who it was, she proclaimed "my parents." She asked the deputy US Attorney "did you check with the state regarding the documents they found? Inside it was the lease for the church. It's in my name. Most of the properties are in my name. My uncle and parents put a lot of things in my name to try to cover my uncle's tracks. That was one of the few things I could see before my father tried to hide them. What the rest contained you would have to ask the state investigators." She was told they had no idea then moved on. Questions were asked about her uncle's involvement in the church itself. She shook her head and told them "mom and dad kept us away from it. My uncle gave them half the profits form the church. Dad said it was hush money for keeping him safe." She was asked what that meant, Rachel freely admitted "he is wanted for kidnapping and attempted murder in two states. You are lucky that he's in Nashua Street Jail because he has enough stashed in his bank account to hide out for years. He has had so much plastic surgery that they wouldn't recognize him and he paid off people to changed his arrest records to make it look like someone else did it but he made a huge mistake- he came to Massachusetts and tried to set up a church here and got the wrong people involved." Rachel was released with thanks as the grand jury refocused on adding kidnapping, fugitive from justice, RICO, and other serious charges to the existing tax fraud charges that were already being considered. Outside the office the US Attorney asked to speak with Rachel and informed her that as the bank accounts were in her name and the funds were legally laundered to her she had a right to the funds. She told her sharply "I only want it if it's actually clean. Freeze the money in all accounts in my name. Cut him off from his money so he can't use it to get away again." Before she could react Valerie informed her "Rachel has two additional accounts that were started by my husband and both of those are tightly monitored and controlled. Those are not to be touched under any circumstances and we will fight any attempts to seize the money. We have done this dance before with the government and the money is being given as a gift to family with the full consent of relevant agencies." She was challenged on this to which Valerie proclaimed "this is money my husband gave to her in the form of a trust fund intended for school and setting up a new life for herself with a second as a basic needs spending account. He has done this for all members of our family and close friends. It's legitimate money coming directly from my husband's personal account. To access it you need a court order and will be fought by our legal team. We have the exact account numbers and any action taken to freeze these accounts will result in court action taken against your office." Valerie's warning was seen as a challenge but she cautioned them that they were playing with fire and they would get burned. Back at home Rachel demanded to know what that was about which Valerie sat her down and told her "John is concerned with all of you kids and sets up trust funds to pay for school. All of your friends and family have them. Some of them have their own money from settlements for various nasty things that have happened to them or from coming into money through inheritance and other means. As you are to be part of the family fully John set it up for a larger amount, the same he gave Iris, Bryan, Hannah, Claire, Daisy, Stacy, DJ, Rebecca, Patrick, David, Nichole, and Nigel, Reed, and Kylie." Leslie told her softly "do you want to know the exact amount?" She nodded to which Leslie smiled and said "$250,000 to start with. Richard and all of the others received $125,000 trust funds with their parents' blessings. The way Greta and James work their magic it'll be more than double if not triple that amount when you come of age." Rachel headed to her room to let the information sink in. Iris sat on her bed and told her "it's a shock but Uncle John wants us to be the best we can be and it's small money to him. He gives money to everyone, giving it to family means more to him than giving it to charity especially when it's handled by people he knows, trusts, and loves." The next day in school Iris and Rachel were peppered with questions about where they were the day before. Neither could answer because the grand juries were still sitting and they didn't want to upset the impending indictments. Strong words from Rebecca killed any further talk as the two were left alone from then on. Rachel's revelations led to a fury of investigations into the banking done in her name and showed that the reverend's accounts were all in her name and that her parents put almost all of their assets in her name. Further she was the one on record as owning their house, car, and business. Her name had been forged on deeds and tax records making her the sole owner of not one but two houses, the second one being the resident of the reverend. Kennedy's team had a field day connecting the dots and finding hidden cash throughout the state in various banks, all accounts in Rachel's name. The more they dug into the accounts the more they found and the more it became clear that the reverend was skimming millions from the church. The IRS tried to step in and seize the money as back taxes but were called off by Valerie who informed them that as a minor she was not entitled to pay taxes especially as she had not actually earned any of the money. As it was claimed by the reverend to be "gifts" and was not earned working they had not right to collect taxes from her. As more money was found more witnesses came forward regarding the reverend's actions. They found at least four more people threatened by the reverend and his hired goons, all with similar stories as Iris and all of which had been forced to contribute money to make the reverend go away. One even captured a kidnapping on camera with the reverend leading the attack. The beauty of it was he kidnapped and transported the girl across state lines to New Hampshire getting the US Attorney to coordinate additional charges leading to a new set of indictments. It took three days but the state issued their final indictments. Arrest warrants for multiple people along who were involved with the church in various functions who were involved in the extortion and kidnapping attempts joining those already in custody including the Donaldsons, Murphys, and the reverend. Within an hour 16 people were before a superior court judge in Boston being arraigned on multiple felony charges. The reverend was further humiliated as the feds added their own indictments to the mix specifically against him and the church. The superior court judge denied him bail as he was hauled off to face kidnapping charges in another state with all federal charges eventually being merged together into one larger, more stable court case. Rachel's troubles were finally over. Iris was free of threats from the church. The two hugged tightly as they cried over seeing the five people who changed their lives so dramatically reduced to quivering masses of tears while the judge denied them bail. As the official owner of the church's property Rachel closed the church and sold off the contents, giving the money to charities who needed the money. The groups she donated to appreciated what she was doing but Leslie had to explain that it wasn't out of the goodness of her heart, it was to heal wounds and was an act of penance. There were complaints from church parishioners but Rachel told the gathered churchgoers that the church was a sham and they were fools to follow her uncle's teachings. Under strong supervision by Beverly Bollinger as well as a few friends high up in the IRS who were on good terms with Valerie the feds checked the validity of Rachel's claims to any money in the accounts in her name and found that she could withdraw it all and close out the accounts without penalty. She legitimately owned all of the money in all of the accounts as well as her parents' accounts. All of the money was placed into a trust that she would not access by any means until she was 21. Rachel gave part of the money to victims of her uncle's abuse as she returned all of the money extorted from the families of the victims with instructions that it be used to pay for schooling for the victims. The money was needed by several of the families and was appreciated. Rachel refused to accept any praise, she was angry that they had been forced to pay off her uncle in the first place. The rest of the money Rachel split with Iris. Iris tried to protest but Rachel insisted. Her exact words were "you were put through hell thanks to my uncle, you deserve this as much as I do. Besides, I need to help my sister as much as I can." The words were out faster than she realized as Leslie and Iris stared at her with shock. Iris hugged her deeply then wept, telling her between sobs "thank you, sister." Leslie held herself together but had a big smile on her face as the two hugged for several minutes while they cried themselves out. Seeing no way out of their dilemma the Donaldsons pleaded out and agreed to testify against the reverend in exchange for only 15 years in prison. They refused to acknowledge their daughter existed and were adamant that she was dead to them. Iris didn't care, they were done and would never bother her again. Her father was terminated from the State Police when he pleaded guilty, her father breaking down hearing the colonel telling him exactly what the department felt about his actions and his beliefs. Their home had to be sold to pay for their legal fees but it wasn't able to be sold, it was in the name of the church or rather they thought it was- it was in Rachel's name. She killed the sale as soon as it was discovered and, informing the Donaldsons that she was holding onto it until it was fixed up and all money would go to her new sister- Iris. The Murphys were in deep. When the news that Rachel was responsible for their being in jail reached them they took the news hard. Mrs. Murphy was in disbelief and kept insisting that Rachel would never do that, insisting that it was just a lie and their princess would get them out. Mr. Murphy claimed she lied and they were innocent but her lawyer told him that their indictments by the feds were a harbinger of bad times ahead legally. The feds wouldn't indict unless they had a slam dunk case and the star witness was their own daughter. He refused to believe it no matter how much his lawyer tried to convince him, Rachel was raised to listen to them and never question what they were doing and would never turn her back on them, he forbid her from doing that. The two were indicted on dozens of federal and state charges with both guaranteed to receive at least 30 years in prison. They were on their own as well, they had no money to pay a decent lawyer and had to make due with a court appointed lawyer who was unable to sway a jury. They were both convicted of all charges and were sentenced to 25 years to life in prison with sentences running consecutively. As for the reverend, he fared little better. With no money he had to beg parishioners for money. When the truth about his past came out the number of those who supported him dwindled and those who remained were dirt poor and could do little to help. He was convicted and sentenced to 25 years to life on federal charges and additional 50 years on various state charges in Massachusetts and another 60 years in other states. The court cases died down quickly. Iris and Rachel settled into a quiet existence with their new mom and extended family. Victoria and Jorge were frequent visitors as Leslie and Mark started going out on more dates. By mid-June the two were an item and the girls were eagerly waiting for the night she returned with a ring on her finger. During the awards night at the high school Rachel was treated to the star treatment as her new teachers kept introducing themselves as John worked his way through the crowd. She was surprised to see that three teachers lived across the street. Well two for the next year, as Mrs. Herman pointed out her bulging womb. John jokingly asked if she needed babysitters to which Rachel asked "are you volunteering yourself?" The reaction from the other teachers was universal laughter with Rachel getting a lot of praise for her wit. John was pleased that she handled herself well, even if she ensured he would be the butt of several jokes for the next few weeks. Four days later at the high school graduation Rachel and Iris met Bryan, Hannah, Pete, and Paige. Hannah gave both deep hugs and told them they came highly praised by Nichole. Paige added Christina and Jenna were proud of them, even if they didn't directly say it. Rachel fawned over Bryan getting a snicker from Iris who pointed out he was taken. Rachel blushed and admitted "I can't help it, he's just so handsome" getting a quick "that's the first time I heard that one" from Hannah and a quicker "I tell him that all the time" getting the two sisters-in-law joking back and forth easing Rachel's embarrassment. The next week at the 8th grade graduation Rachel received a lot of unwanted attention. Seeing her with the Finns then hearing that she was on track to be adopted by Leslie shut up all whispers. The Finns were a family that was respected and admired and not to be gossiped about. Rachel received polite applause as she received her diploma, with the Finns giving her the loudest support. She received a big hug from both principals and from Jake Bollinger as she crossed the stage. Iris received the same, as did the rest of their friends. Jake made a joke about having a couple of years to get used to not having any Finns in the school with Dorothy pointing out "don't joke, you have at least one in your school for at least the next 18 years!" The crowd laughed as Jake turned red and he looked over at Daisy, Virgil, Nichole, Nigel jr., DJ, Cat, and JD and smiled at knowing the high school would have at least one Finn until he was ready to put in for retirement. After the ceremony Jessie, Reed, Rebecca, Thomas, Sam, and Iris shared deep kisses that made them all nearly fall down. Rachel, Reyna, and Francesca all swore that they'd find their own counterparts but were pleased with their friends finding love. Their parents warned them not to rush into things too soon which got the girls laughing and smiling especially as Lupe and her brother Miguel blushed at the idea of Reyna dating someone. Letting the girls get calmed down from the excitement Leslie was by herself off to the side, quietly watching the teens gather together for their pictures. Mark came up to her and asked if she was alright, getting a quick "I'm fine, I'm just happy for the girls." Mark put his arms around her and kissed her cheek, telling her that she deserved this happiness. He pulled out a box and showed her what was inside. She gasped at seeing her grandmother's engagement ring and asked where she got it. Mark smiled and told her "your brother. Prying it away from your brother took a lot of effort but your uncle and sisters got him to release it." He got down on one knee and asked for her hand in marriage which she quickly accepted, getting a big kiss from her. John and Valerie gathered Iris and Rachel and let the couple go on their own. The two didn't need to be around for what happened next, and neither were going to say one word about it to Leslie. The two teens just smiled and told John "mom has never been so happy" to which he smile and admitted "true, this is the happiest she has ever been." The two girls were happy for her and Iris proudly proclaimed "did we hit pay dirt or what?" Rachel proclaimed "all four of us did. Mom, dad, you, and I. It doesn't matter that mom is a Finn, she's the best mom in the world and she is in love with a man who loves her back." Before she realized she had said it the words were out of her mouth. Iris blushed and admitted "we can't call him Mark anymore, and he is going to be our dad so we might as well get used to it." Rachel hugged her and told her sharply "a sister, real friends, a loving mom, and a dad. We definitely hit the jackpot." Iris countered with "it sure beats being the outsider looking in." The End.