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Chapter 7 Diego went back to his room and found the new phone. It was a brand new iPhone and had all of the girls' numbers along with Oscar's and Kyle's numbers listed. He smiled as he read Polly's entry, simply, "Girlfriend" but her picture. He looked through the phone and found a bunch of pictures that startled him. He liked Polly a lot but what she did was too much. He fought back tears, they were not what he wanted from her. He rang her number and Dorothy answered it. He asked for Polly but was told she was already asleep. He sighed and told her firmly, "Can you please tell her not to send me any more of her special pictures? I don't want to get in trouble because of them. I don't want her to get in trouble or worse, get shamed because someone found pictures of her on my phone." He was nearly in tears as he said that. Dorothy asked what he meant, to which he tearfully told her, "She sent me pictures of her boobs and of her vagina. I'm sorry, Ms. Vega, I didn't ask for them. I only just found out I had a phone a couple of minutes ago and found them on it. Please don't be mad at me." She calmly explained, "I'll have a long talk with her. That was unexcusable and could have been illegal. She is trying too hard to be your girlfriend and at the rate, she is going she will drive you away. It's not your fault, I don't blame you. Just try to give her a little bit of leeway, she is trying to overcompensate for what she lacked for so long that any positive male attention is making her act that way. She really does like you, she just needs to have us tell her what she can't do." He clicked off and deleted the pictures. He liked what he saw but he didn't want that kind of thing on his phone. He knew what happened to people who dealt with those kinds of pictures and what could happen to her if they were connected to her by the boys in his class. Eric caught the conversation and added a hearty, "Jessica did the same thing to me but dad caught the texts before me. She and I weren't allowed together for a while. Scott almost strangled me for it. It means she really likes you, but she doesn't know that it's stupid and could be humiliating and leave herself open to exploitation and blackmail. Let Aunt Dorothy handle it, she needs to talk with her." Dorothy spent the night thinking about how to bridge the subject with Polly. She finally went out and asked her, "Why did you take pictures of yourself and leave them on Diego's phone? I told you there were boundaries and restrictions to you dating and you just crossed a big one." Polly tried to think up a quick excuse but Dorothy explained, "He tried to call you last night, he was upset that you did that. He wasn't concerned about himself, it was that you were trying too hard to prove you were girly enough for him. You don't have to be, he likes you enough to tell me what you did and why he didn't want them. He could have kept them for himself or showed other boys in the class them. But he didn't. That is a boy who likes you enough to do the right thing. So please, calm yourself with him. He is going to push away from you and you will lose him if you do." Polly tearfully apologized. Dorothy authoritatively told her, "No dates for two months. No unsupervised time with Diego either. You are also going to wash the laundry and mop the floors as well as babysit for Mr. and Mrs. Herman without pay." Polly wasn't happy but understood fully why she was being punished and why she shouldn't have done it in the first place. She tearfully hugged and kissed Dorothy for not giving her a worse punishment as most mothers would do. She could handle babysitting the energetic Benny Herman, it was the fact that why she was watching him that concerned her. Dorothy sent a text to Gabby Bollinger, Olivia Samuels, and Margo Phillips to let them know what Polly did and ask that they check Amy, Al, and Trina's phones. Alice would be over shortly so she'd tell her in person. Stephanie wasn't one to do things like that but she had to ask her anyway. Immediately Gabby called to say that Amy had done the same thing with Oscar texting back, "Don't do that again." Trina had done the same with Stephanie joking about it being unnecessary. Al surprised her by doing the same as the girls, but Olivia added, "She tried to say the other girls told her she should. I suspect Amy, Polly, and Trina were really behind all of this." Alex and Ricardo were called with both not happy at the girls' actions but understanding that it was a huge learning moment for the tweens. The plan for Polly to watch Benny evolved into the four girls watching the four toddlers with Billy Pena being assigned Polly and Nigel Smith Jr. getting Amy. The two rambunctious toddlers were assigned to them as Amy knew Benny through her brother dating his sister and she was Jack Bollinger's cousin thus too close to both for it to be real punishment. Benny was assigned Al and Jack Bollinger was assigned to Trina as the girls were less at fault for what happened. Diego, Kyle, and Oscar were gathered together to explain what was going on and why. The boys tried to apologize to the adults but were told firmly, "You did the right thing and deleted the texts. Gabby and Olivia are proud of you for doing the right thing and we are proud of you for realizing that it was a mistake and told the girls not to do it again. The lack of dates isn't your fault and isn't a punishment for you, it's for the girls and they learned a hard lesson about doing that kind of thing." Eric took the three boys out for a run, with the duo reluctantly joining Diego so it didn't appear that he was doing something better than them. Eric had to grin as the boys tried their hardest to complain but were actually liking the talks they were having as Reed, Donald, Michael, George, and Miles joined them. They had forgotten how much more insightful and interesting the older boys were, making the running easier and giving them a sense of missing out on a lot of bonding with the guys. The guys asked the two about the pictures. Kyle immediately shot back, "We didn't ask for them and we didn't want them. I already know what a girl looks like from Margaret's laziness, I don't need to see Al!" Oscar added a terse, "We didn't do anything, we didn't want them, and we don't want Donald or Thomas or Rick going after us." The five just grinned at them. The three older brothers were told about it by Eric the night before and were hoping that it wasn't something the boys had actively taken part in. Rick understood all too well why they did it while Francesca got caught trying to put Donald's hand up her blouse and Thomas simply told Rebecca, "I'm not touching you until we are both in college" when she tried it. The boys ran for several miles then rested on the park's pier overlooking the Mystic River. The guys took this time to hit the bathrooms with Diego being the first to go in while they waited. Diego whined, "What I wouldn't give to not have to sit to pee." The others kept quiet as they knew exactly why Diego complained, it wasn't exactly the best bathroom let alone one you would want to sit down in! They could barely stomach it in the fall and winter let along the hot spring and summer months. As the guys were enjoying themselves the girls were starting their punishments. Polly was assigned to watch Billy Pena while Kennedy Pena, Chloe Miller, and Willie Pena worked on the investigation into the developer, a man by the name of Duane Todwell, who was the mastermind behind the whole assault on girls in Diego's former school. Polly was unaware who the Eve was that they were discussing, only knowing that it was important to them and Billy was interested in keeping her away from his parents. Billy kept to himself and knew that when his parents were talking they were talking about things he shouldn't hear. Polly though listened in and heard a lot of disturbing things about what the boys had done to girls and why they were doing it. She felt horrible for the girl named Eve, which was purposely being used by Kennedy, Chloe, and Willie because of Polly's presence. She listened quietly as Willie talked about Eve being used by both Masters and Todwell. The ADA, Burke, was getting a nice sum of money in his wife's account. They already knew he had a personal connection through his son to the boys so an indirect link became a direct link now. After talking with parents and teachers as well as a couple of neighbors they found police reports for break-ins at businesses that coincided with Pablo Rodriguez supposedly being, "Out of town" but being seen in the area. When Pablo wasn't breaking into businesses, he was openly serving as a bouncer at Todwell's strip club making that his, "Real" job. This was confirmed by claims on tax records, which opened Pablo up to tax evasion charges now since he never declared income from his second job. Discreet talks with parents revealed that Sierra Ramirez and Masters had been in a relationship for some time while Pablo worked for Todwell. Eve was in school whenever they met, with the whole investigation into Sierra and Pablo by the state being given a glance over and written up to blame Eve and ignore the actions of Pablo and Sierra. Masters was then shown to be getting paid to look into any kid whose parents complained about the boys' treatment of their daughters and was going to do the same to Eve when their encounter with his last two cases caused him to go to prison. The name Pablo and Sierra caught Polly by surprise. She recognized the names but didn't directly know where she heard them. Billy told her in a whisper, "Eve is Diego, mommy said he was born a girl." It finally clicked. She heard the names from Stephanie! Pablo is Stephanie's father, the man who hated Diego's father with a passion. The more she heard about the man, the less she liked him and the more she wanted him hurt badly. Diego's reaction to the pictures she sent made all the more sense. He was afraid of what would happen to him because of all of what his supposed father had done to others in the past. She realized just how much of a mistake she had made and hoped to be able to rectify it in the future. She had unintentionally caused trouble for the boys because she wanted to show she liked Diego and got the other girls involved. The thought that why he was so cautious with her never popped into her mind. It made sense, his gender change wasn't the real reason it: it was because he didn't want anything bad to happen to her because of the bastards who were manipulating the system. Billy laughed and ran off, yelling, "She knows! She knows!" Willie and Kennedy looked at Polly who tried to look away from them but had tears in her eyes. She told them tearfully, "I'm sorry but I have to go" then ran home, leaving the two to look at the laughing Billy who didn't know just hat he had done. Polly ran right home and went up to her room to cry. Dorothy was home and demanded to know why she was already back. All Polly could do was cry and mumble almost incoherently, "They tried to rape him" over and over again. Dorothy tried to comfort her but she was inconsolable at that time. She just sighed and went downstairs to call Kennedy and explain, "Polly heard about the assault on Diego. I don't know how but she found out. She is taking it hard, she did something yesterday that she regrets and now realizes could have had a bigger impact on Diego than she could have anticipated." Kennedy just sighed and added, "Billy told her. He didn't know why we were using Diego's deadname, only that we were talking about him. He thought he was being funny but I think he now sees that she was hurt by what he said." Dorothy asked, "What are you doing about it? For Willie to be working with you there is more going on." Kennedy added a solemn, "I can't tell you more because I don't think it's wise to tell anyone else. We are investigating the real mastermind, the boys were just pawns and the real man behind the man responsible is as sleazy and shady as they come. But he is also well connected and has a lot of money and power, so we need to be careful and have everything in order first. SO we can't reveal much now." Dorothy clicked off and went up to see Polly, who had now fallen asleep. It pained her to do it but she called Diego and told him the bad news directly:, "Polly accidentally found out about what happened to you in Worcester. She is taking it hard ,but it's because she cares about you. Try to give her some slack for being clingy the next few days, she's afraid for you and understands why you reacted so badly." The guys asked what was wrong to which Diego explained. They were in agreement that she would be that way but she did care about him and only wanted assurances that he was alright. Eric added, "If this was only sex she wouldn't have run off like she did, she does like you a lot and it's eating at her." Kennedy's #2 Angela Victor was working equally hard out in Worcester. She had gotten discrete search warrants for all emails and financial records of the Burke, Rice, Todwell, and two cops. She just needed a hook to reel them in, she hadn't been able to find it yet. She called Kennedy who had found just what Angela needed by connecting Masters to Sierra and Pablo. With Masters already under scrutiny, they now had the grounds to dig deeper into his personal life and find just what they needed. It came as a bit of a surprise but he happened to be the real father of the fourth boy involved in the assaults in school, rather than the second officer; Masters and had been the major force behind some of the girls recanting and later lying about making up their stories. Masters was already in prison thanks to his plea bargain with the state but he could be brought up on new charges that would ensure a longer sentence. It also meant that the state was going to have to gut the Worcester office to ensure that there were no other corrupt social workers there. Chloe would have to move to the Boston area to save her skin because Angela could tell right away that she was being primed to take the fall for the whole lot once their own foul-ups and misbehavior was blown. She sent an email off to Anne Connors asking her to transfer Chloe as a preventative strike against retaliation. Chloe had earned the spot and working with Mark Sylvester was her ticket to Boston and the chance for better advancement. Angela had seen her profile and her work with kids in tight situations was near legendary, second only to her new coworker Mark and third to Anne herself. Anne emailed back that she would do it but had to make it look like a promotion. Angela just grinned, explaining, "She has more than enough cause for you to transfer her east to alleviate the backlog and the tough cases in the Boston area. Your department needs more compassionate people who Both have the experienced with unique situations and kids with special needs as well as the keen mind to spot trouble before it starts. No other justification needed than that." The stage was set. They had their path into getting at Todwell, Rice, the cops, and Burke. All they needed was a trick to get Masters to confess. That was easy enough, Angela simply booked a visit with him and would lay out the truth and how much extra time he was looking at for more rights violations. Masters and his lawyer were available that day and she eagerly had Chloe and another ADA join them at the prison complex in Lancaster. Chloe didn't beat around the bush, explaining, "We have you nailed for accepting bribes from a man under suspicion for fraud, racketeering, and extortion. We have you nailed for additional civil rights violations against children who should have never been investigated while ignoring legitimate cases of assault against minors." Masters was going to say something but his lawyer stepped in and asked, "My client would like to deal. If you are here you are here for a reason. You need him more than he needs you." Angela countered with, "Considering that the money is being funneled through offshore bank accounts, was never declared to the state or federal governments, and was done with the intent of causing harm to children- we don't need him as we have everyone already. They are all going away for at least a decade each. He has everything to lose, we walk out of here, the US Attorney will crucify you for repeatedly violating the rights of children. At the bare minimum you are now up to at least five, plus two adults that you are already charged with. He already hates your guts for what you did in September, he is just itching to send you away for the rest of your life and imprison your remains afterward." Masters' attorney nodded, she was right and he knew it. Masters agreed to testify against everyone in exchange for a lighter sentence on the new charges. Angela reiterated that she had no say in the USA's decision to go after the whole group on federal charges but she would give a good word to him about it. For the next three hours, Masters sang like a canary. Every deal that was made with the family to shut their mouths about the assaults started to make the picture clearer. He didn't notice that he was being used by them, he thought the girls were exaggerating until he was shown just what happened to the boys who Diego fought back against and saw the marks on Diego's body from the assault, ones that were too old to be from Pablo's and Sierra's assault the previous Saturday. Masters saw the boys' x-rays and was told firmly, "The girl who did that to them was fighting against four boys who were older, stronger, and determined. She fought back and was almost arrested until she saw just who was trying to arrest her. She got away but had to flee from police until we intervened. So you see, this wasn't a case of love gone wrong- this was an attempted rape." Kennedy called and confirmed just what was going on. As she explained to Angela her mistake, Angela growled and explained to Masters and his attorney, "Well this sucks for you. You weren't telling me the whole truth. You had a relationship with Sierra Ramirez that you neglected to mention. You blocked an attempt to take away Eve Rodriguez from Sierra and her boyfriend for negligence and child abuse that was witnessed by the vice principal. Further, your own son is one of the boys involved in the assaults- of which we have no record of you ever mentioning to the department in any of the reports!" The two tried to claim that they couldn't do that to him. Angela shouted back, "You violated the terms of the deal that both of you signed in good faith. You agreed to tell us everything about your actions that were against the department's rules, regulations, and in violation of the law. Your refusing to intervene to protect then sleeping with the mother of a child whom you are supposed to be investigating is part of it. Your neglecting to mention your own son's involvement in any of the multiple suspected assaults and is another. Your deal is hereby revoked." Angela and Chloe got up to leave as his lawyer was in an argument with Masters over his stupidity. Masters knew the jig was up and there was no way out of his predicament now. Masters was going to go to prison for another two decades because he thought he was smarter than everyone else yet again. Chloe received a phone call from Anne once she had her phone turned back on outside the prison. Anne made her an offer which Chloe accepted. Chloe was no fool, she told Anne, "If it's as bad as I think this means I'll be the one to get blamed because I'm the most expendable and have no political backers." Anne countered with, "You are the most valuable, which is why I'm pulling you out and informing your immediate supervisor personally. It's a lateral transfer with advancement. You were stagnant there, in Boston you are going to be a key player." Angela had to make plans for what to do next. Kennedy called her back and told her, "We think the next move now that Masters is out of play and talking is the attempt on the Rodriguez family. Stephanie is vulnerable but Raul is too heavily entrenched with legal people and officers at the high school for any attempted meeting to work." Angela added, "Get your husband and his people to get some additional bodies at the school and ensure that they know that nobody from Worcester is to contact the school or are allowed to speak with her without one of us there." Kennedy relayed that to Willie who added a hard, "Diego will need to be on his toes as well. He can't show any emotion at seeing them there. If they connect Diego to Eve they could go after Diego through Alex and Ricardo." Reed was told to bring Diego over while Willie called Alex and Ricardo. Dorothy was added in which brought Polly along for the needed talk with Diego. Diego reluctantly went with Reed as Eric and the others tried to figure out what was going on. Miles and Michael had to tell them what Diego couldn't, including how they suspected Diego would soon be targeted by the scumbags if they found out who he used to be which would make things dangerous for all of them. Mark and Anne were alerted to be on the lookout for suspicious requests regarding Diego, particularly from the Worcester office. Anne just grinned and shot back, "I am putting an immediate demand for all information from the Worcester office to be funneled through the Boston office. This should filter out any requests. As long as that ADA was removed from being able to order removals and the court don't ignore our involvement we should have them." At the Pena home, Diego got to experience Billy at his worst as the toddler ran through the house trying to annoy Reed and get a rise out of his parents. Diego ignored him which only caused Billy to get angry causing him to be disciplined for his actions. Reed had to hold back laughter as Billy normally forced whoever was there to pay attention to him but Diego ignored him making him fume and want to get back at him causing more trouble. Billy finally gave up and went to play in his room. Reed was all smiles as were Willie and Kennedy. Diego just shrugged, he was used to people acting foolishly to get a rise out of him so a toddler doing it was not that much different than a tween boy doing it. Reed finally sat Diego down and had his parents explain what was going on. Diego listened intently then added, "You know who they are going to send and you can guess when- tomorrow morning, just after court opens. They aren't bright, they will go to the school and try to bully their way into meeting with Stephanie no matter what. If Ms. Vega doesn't let them they will threaten her with arrest. It's how they always do it." Willie smirked and told her firmly, "If they try that, they will get arrested. They have no authority in this city." Diego countered with, "They will use the ADA again, they always do." Kennedy just grinned, explaining, "That won't happen. He was suspended and is going to prison soon. They can try to use someone else but they will have to lie to get it done but we already know they are coming and why and have a counter to them. Simply put, if they try they will get themselves arrested." She grinned and added, "They are actually helping us strengthen the case against the real man who was behind what happened to you and the girls at your former school. They would give us probable cause for looking into their involvement and why they are going after Stephanie because they have no reason to question your cousin at all, we know she has committed no crimes and we know that they are really working for someone who only wants to get at your former home." Reed added, "It's really his home since the morons put it in his former name after selling it to Sierra!" Kennedy shook her head at her son's bit of arrogance but had to added, "Sometimes I can't believe you are my son then you go and do something like this. Thank you, Beverly, for doing that for Diego, the bastards are going to be harassing a girl who has no knowledge of things and who doesn't even own the property she is accused of owning!" Alex and Ricardo showed up next and were filled in on what they found out. Ricardo's anger brewed while Alex calmly asked, "Can we counterattack? If they do come there has to be something we can do to get back at them immediately. This is clearly a conspiracy to commit fraud and witness intimidation no matter how we slice it." Willie grinned as Kennedy sighed and gave in. If they were going to come all the way to Winnisimmet to get at Stephanie they were going to do worse next. Taking them into custody was needed to keep her safe and if they were in custody they were easier to turn state's evidence if only to save their own hides. The big thing was keeping an ADA from filing any warrants. This would require Angela to coordinate with a judge. Ricardo grinned and admitted, "The Johnsons know exactly who to talk to to get things done right. If we are lucky, she'll be willing to hear the case." Kennedy let her handle things in Worcester while she handled things at the middle school. She hated having to explain to her boss just what was happening but given the nature of things, her boss was fine with taking down multiple corrupt people especially ones who hurt children. She would also work with the governor to mitigate any fallout from the man's cronies and in the city government, who would surely show themselves for what they are once their friend and benefactor was in trouble. Alice would not be told until the last minute but Dorothy was told immediately. Diego went out back with Reed to get away from Polly's affection and to keep from being the center of attention leaving Polly alone to look after Billy while the adults talked. She reluctantly agreed but demanded to be told everything when it was finished. She watched Diego and Reed lounge in the back while everyone else was talking below her. She felt horrible that things were rough between them because she couldn't control herself. He was a good person and she liked that bout him, but she kept screwing up. Eventually, the adults finished and Dorothy sought Polly out. She silently walked back home while the others kept quiet about her mood. Kennedy eventually said, "She has a bad case of puppy love coupled with pressure to be on the same level with her friends. I don't think we have seen that since Jessie and Reed two years ago." Things were quiet for the rest of the evening as the adults prepared themselves for their encounters. The Johnsons set off for Worcester early with Judge Olsen being told via email and voicemail that the state needed a meeting ASAP. En-route she called them back and gave them the first time slot, getting the court officers to let them and Angela inside early. The court officers ushered them in quickly, keeping the doors locked to the judge's chambers. They were more than happy to help out, Judge Olsen realized just how bad things could be if the fabled Johnsons were back in her court asking for her help. Whatever was cooking she happy to help, there was something about the Johnsons that made you feel better after encountering them that she didn't get from other lawyers- especially ones who deal with children. Angela got right down to it and presented the facts by saying, "Your honor, we believe that an ADA will bring forth this morning an arrest warrant for Stephanie Rodriguez for obstruction of justice. This warrant is based on her refusing to speak with Worcester police. This wouldn't be a problem except the young lady hasn't even been spoken with yet and we know for a fact that the reason for her refusing to speak is because she knows nothing about what the officers are trying to get out of her." Judge Olsen grinned and asked, "Just what is that?" Angela showed the deed to Diego's former home, in the name of Eve Rodriguez, and showing the bill of sale to her dated several months before. Judge Olsen asked, "What is their connection to each other?" Joseph answered, "Stephanie is the former Eve's cousin. Eve Rodriguez no longer exists as the name has been changed to Diego Vincent. Diego was the child who was sexually assaulted a week and a half ago that started this whole investigation by DCF into the George Bancroft Middle School." Judge Olsen got what they were saying, asking, "Is it all legal?" Evelyn stated, "Suffolk County heard the case. Diego's name was changed and he was adopted by his stepfather and saw his biological father declared his legal father and guardian, Mr. Ricardo Ramirez." She nodded and asked for the whole story. Angela stated, "A member of the DA's office, the principal of his school, and two police officers are involved in a plot with a developer and a disgraced DCF social worker named Randolph Masters. The sons of Masters, the ADA, the principal, and one of the officers have been allowed to sexually assault multiple girls over the last two years while degrading the school's integrity and moral standing within the school system. At the same time land around the school has been bought up by a development company to the point that only a few houses remain. Mr. Vincent's former home is one of them and he has been targeted directly by this cabal of individuals." Judge Olsen asked why to which Angela stated, "They initiated an investigation into the family by Mr. Masters. He was supposed to get their daughter removed but he decided to instead hold off while he enjoyed a fling with Mrs. Ramirez. When Masters was incarcerated for various crimes in September that he committed in Winnisimmet the cabal went directly at Mr. Vincent by continuously performing lewd acts while simultaneously continuing their sexual assault streak. When Mr. Vincent finally struck back they went after him legally, as you recall, you helped stop. Now that Mr. Rodriguez and Mrs. Ramirez are in jail facing prison sentences they believe that the house reverted to Mr. Rodriguez's next of kin but are unaware that it's actually owned outright by Mr. Vincent." Judge Olsen grinned. It was convoluted and far over the line of being criminal that it's almost comical at the sheer tenacity of it. She pointed out, "I'll instruct the ADA assigned to the case to show me cause for the arrest, I believe I saw at least one outside on my way in and I don't believe for a second it was getting an early start on the day. With the previous one on suspension, the one present could be his plant doing it on his orders." She signaled she was ready to which she was told that there was a request from one of the ADAs for an arrest warrant. The judge looked at the request and nodded her head, it was exactly what she was told would happen. She showed it to Angela who nodded that it was indeed what they expected. The judge looked at the Johnsons who made a quick phone call to Ian Bailey and to Kennedy. Both said there had been no visit. The judge asked Angela who the two were on the phone with, getting a quick, "School resource officer and my boss who are on scene awaiting the officers' arrival. They would have called the three of us had they been there so your honor this is a bogus request." The judge grinned and asked the ADA to come inside. To her surprise, it was Burke- the ADA involved in the case. Judge Olsen smirked and stated, "I guess my having to fill in for my sick colleague for two months was a stroke of luck. I know for a fact that you are on suspension pending termination and have no right to be here representing the Commonwealth for any kind of legal issues." Turning to the court officers she stated, "Arrest this man for filing a false report, attempted kidnapping, and conspiracy to commit extortion. This just jumped from state crimes into federal crimes with civil rights violations having just been committed. I believe the feds are going to love knocking you down a few pegs. They aren't as lenient as I am." She then called the DA personally and told him, "I have placed Clarke Burke under arrest again. He was supposed to be suspended pending termination by your office! This case has been handed over to the AG's office and will be handled by them. If I hear that you have attempted to intervene on behalf of Burke I will have you before the Supreme Judicial Court seeking your immediate removal for trying to interfere with active state investigations." The DA gave in and told her, "I know exactly whom you are speaking of and expect a call from a few of associates later. My hands are tied no matter what I do, I would have had to recuse myself as I know the person whom you are really seeking. If the AG is involved she knows as well. Just tell her I had no part in this, I'd like to be able to finish out my term without having the SJC on my back." Burke was taken away with multiple photos taken of the action. Reporters there on an unrelated case caught the scene and started asking questions. It was completely coincidental but it was perfect timing. Angela had to explain to them, "This ADA was arrested on charges of filing a false report while under suspension for illicit conduct. The state has taken over the case and will handle further investigations into his activities and the cases that he impacted. We can't explain any further due to the nature of the investigation. More will come out at a later time." Judge Olsen asked to speak with Kennedy and Ian. She told both, "I have quashed the requests for arrest warrants. When the officers show up place them under arrest for attempted kidnapping and conspiracy to commit extortion. I have declined the arrest warrant so they have no right to be there and the copies of the arrest warrant are fake. Document any threats they make and any attempts to lie to gain access to Ms. Rodriguez. I am also issuing bench warrants for their arrest for contempt of court for interfering in an active case before the court so keep them there until deputies arrive. This should prevent them from receiving visitors involved in the case." Judge Olsen wrote the warrant and had it put into the system. Both officers were now wanted men. Angela spoke with the sergeant assigned to prisoner transport at the courthouse for Worcester County Sheriff's Office and got him to send a transport van to Winnisimmet as part of their daily run to Boston. The transport would be over in Boston anyway so it was a simple diversion, one that would be both humiliating and educational for the officers as they experienced the other side of wearing handcuffs. Over in Winnisimmet, the stage was set. As soon he got out of the car Diego spotted the two officers observing the school from a discrete distance. He texted Dorothy to alert her then told Stephanie to go inside, giving her little chance to talk with the others but going inside without a fight after seeing the concern on her cousin's face. Kennedy was in the office with Dorothy when Stephanie came in with a concerned expression. Alice asked what was going on, only to be told:, "Less you know, the better." Ian came in and added, "We have them in our sights. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson said the warrants were ready." Stephanie went to class with Ian as her personal guard, just in case they tried a snatch and grab with helpers. In class, she demanded to know what was going on from Diego who was forced to confess, "Your dad and my mom got involved with some people who want to redo my old neighborhood. They are after my house and think it's in your name but it's really in my old name. They are coming here to try to get you to hand over the house or go to jail. Mrs. Pena and Officer Bailey are here to stop them." Stephanie grew scared. Al just grinned and pointed out, "They are making a huge mistake. They don't have reason to do that, and if they try to they will end up in jail. Aunt Kennedy knows exactly what she is doing, she wouldn't be here if she wasn't here to take them down hard." Mrs. Eagleson asked what their discussion was about. Diego told her everything and got a soft, "I don't know much about Mrs. Pena but if Dorothy and Alice are letting it happen in school then it's important. We have important work to do so let's try to focus on something else." Kennedy and Ian had a half hour wait before the men struck. They simply walked into the main office, flashed their badges, and demanded to speak with Stephanie Rodriguez. The secretary asked why only to get, "Sorry, official business" from them. Dorothy entered and asked for their reason for being there. The men tried to ignore her and demanded to speak with Stephanie only to get the same request again. The men ignored her, this time threatening to have the secretary arrested if they weren't allowed to speak with Stephanie. Ian entered and asked what the problem was. The men grinned and showed their badges and demanded to speak with Stephanie. Ian strung them along, stating that he couldn't take them to Stephanie without reason and thus far they hadn't given him any. The ploy worked. The man in charge bluntly told him, "We are here to arrest her for obstruction of justice. She is wanted for questioning in regards to the vandalism of her father's home." Kennedy then immediately texted Angela and got her to get any copies of any police reports regarding vandalism and the former Rodriguez home. Ian caught this motion and stated, "She is in class right now taking a test, we will have her sent down shortly. Please take a seat and I'll alert her mother that you are wishing to speak with her daughter." The two tried to refuse and demanded to see Stephanie right away, stating her mother didn't need to be there. Ian looked at Kennedy who nodded, Ian just grinned and told them, "I have to follow proper procedure or I get my ass handed to me for putting kids in danger. She will be down shortly." Dorothy called Mrs. Eagleson to have Stephanie come down. Kennedy added that Diego should escort her which Dorothy reluctantly agreed to. Diego was busy texting Ricardo who in turn was texting Anne to head off any retaliation from within DCF against Diego or Alice. Downstairs in the office, Diego showed Stephanie in. Diego waited and listened as the officers told Stephanie she had to come with them. Alice asked why to which the junior officer angrily told her, "Shut your mouth, this doesn't concern you." The officers tried to move closer to Stephanie but she backed away, asking, "Is Uncle Ricardo coming?" Dorothy grinned and told the officers, "She has invoked her right to counsel, as you have not shown a warrant so you can't take her." The officers ignored her and put handcuffs on Stephanie, dragging her outside of the office and out onto the street. That was all Ian needed as he shouted into his radio, "Code black." Two cruisers rushed in with officers exiting with their guns, drawn aimed at the two would-be kidnappers. Ian stated firmly, "You were told to wait until her uncle showed up, but you just had to make this hard on yourselves." Ian asked their names. The officers refused, claiming they had every right to remove her as they had an arrest warrant. Ian happily told them, "You are officers in the City of Worcester, 50 miles away in the county of Worcester. This is the City of Winnisimmet in the county of Suffolk. So far you have made no attempt to contact our department nor the State Police to make an arrest in our city. Therefore, you have committed a felony kidnapping in removing Stephanie Rodriguez from school without any kind of authorization, against her will, under duress, and in the presence of a local police officer." The two were relieved of their guns and badges as their names were checked. The dispatcher happily told Ian that both had outstanding warrants issued by Worcester District Court that morning. He then asked if there was a warrant out for Stephanie, getting a quick, "Nothing in the system except a notation that when warrant check on the juvenile is requested to immediately contact a judge in Worcester." Ian told his colleagues, "Both have outstanding warrants." His fellow officers grinned and dragged the two away, with both yelling at Ian that they would get him back and he'd get a bullet in the head for messing with them. The officers happily told them, "We will be sure to tell the DA just what you said, you better hope more charges aren't filed against you for threatening an officer of the law." Diego happily told Dorothy and Alice, "They didn't recognize me! They used to try to get me to go out with their sons last year and over the summer. They didn't recognize me one bit!" Turning to Kennedy, he asked, "Why did they want Stephanie?" She grinned and told him, "They said it was because she vandalized your old house." Diego laughed and told her, "They didn't know about the cameras. Sierra put them in just in case someone broke in when we were out. Pablo was afraid that the guys he worked for would go after him. They were too cheap to get internet but put those in!" Kennedy hugged him and asked, "Do you know where they data is stored?" He nodded, then gave the location and how to access the video feeds. As she did they watched as the two officers broke in o the house. They were trying to arrest Stephanie for a crime they had actually committed! Chapter 8 Diego and Stephanie were let go. In class, Mrs. Eagleson asked them what happened, to which Diego admitted, "A developer is trying to get at my old home and thought he could get it through Stephanie. It's not hers, though, it's mine. He used two officers sons used to grope me and the other girls before I hurt them by fighting back. They walked into a trap that Mrs. Pena and Officer Bailey laid for them. They are going to jail now and if we are lucky the boys will be joining them soon." The kids caught his unintentional slip-up. He cringed but Mrs. Eagleson whispered, "The genie is out of the bottle, we have to go forward." There was no turning back, his story had to be told now. Diego sighed and explained, "I guess that I can't hide it anymore. Until a week and a half ago I went to school as a girl. I used to play basketball with four boys who I thought were trying to be friends with me but only wanted to get in my pants. They terrorized the girls in our school by groping them, trying to show them their penises, grabbing their breasts, and snapping their bras. I thought they were being nice to me but they grabbed me and fondled me then tried to strip me. The principal let them do it, he let them get away with doing a lot of things like that for two years. I fought back and hurt them by my breaking a jaw and noses and gouging their arms. I got away and when I tried to go back the next day I fled because their dads wanted to arrest me." He took a deep breath. Mrs. Eagleson encouraged him to continue so he explained, "I stayed home the next day then got found out by the guy claiming to be my father looking at girls on the computer. He beat me then got drunk. I fled to where my real father lived and ended up staying with him. He let me be the boy I really am and his husband is how I always wanted a dad to be. Yes, I have two dads. I also have a brother who is the guy I always wanted to be like. Yes, I was born a girl but I am not a girl. I never was and I never will be." He had to leave. He got up and left, taking his bag with him. He was downstairs and out the door when Ricardo grabbed him in a hug. Diego couldn't hold back anymore, his whole world had come crashing down as he knew he wouldn't last any longer as a student in the school with the kids knowing that he wasn't a real boy. Dorothy signed him out while Ricardo drove him home. Ricardo called Alison Eliza and booked him an emergency appointment for that evening with the provision that the seven eat together. Diego just nodded and passed out, exhausted from the anxiety that had built up since the previous afternoon. Kennedy was fueled by Diego's revelation. She had Angela go with a forensics team to examine his former home. She obtained written permission from Ricardo and the Johnsons, all of whom were acting on Diego's behalf. Just to top things off she got a search warrant as well as any copy of police reports regarding the break-in. To her fleeting surprise, there was no police report. In fact, there had been no record of any responses to the home in years except for the previous Monday. The place was trashed but the technicians noted that nothing was stolen. It was simply vandalism, or so it appeared. Taking a closer look at a wall, Angela pointed out, "Someone pried open a safe in the wall. It looks like documents were stolen." The technicians agreed, adding, "They left money and jewelry inside but took something else." Angela now had grounds to search the officers' homes. She wasted no time, telling Kennedy, "It's gone past a simple vandalism, this is a pure burglary. They have something at their houses and I'll need to get it." Kennedy agreed, this time telling her, "Take the troopers. The locals are useless now. The chief can scream bloody murder but it's his people who are going to be held responsible." Angela contacted the the barrack in Holden to get some help while detectives from her office were en-route. The team assembled and went in. The troopers happily joined the hunt for what was stolen once they found out it was stolen from the son of a federal agent. The first house had several legal documents in the name of Pablo and Sierra that gave them shares in a company owned by Duane Todwell. The second had the deed to the Rodriguez home along with the bill of sale and amended tax information, all in Diego's deadname. There was no denying that the men had burglarized the home, the evidence was there. As they were trying to leave the second home, the group encountered several marked Worcester Police cruisers with guns drawn. The sergeant in charge of the detail unit radioed directly to the Worcester Police dispatcher on the interagency radio network and demanded a cease to their officers' attempts to stop them before someone got hurt. Angela was on the phone with the dispatcher and identified every trooper there and stated why they were there. It was a tense few minutes but the officers were forced to back down or face being arrested. One of the troopers whispered to Angela, "No call went out over the Worcester frequency" prompting Angela to request a check of the call logs into and out of the police dispatch center. She then added, "I believe we have just caught our bird red handed. The only thing better is if he tried to use his other contacts." Sure enough, Anne called Angela stating, "Contact was made with someone in our Worcester office. They have the call recorded and the phone number is for whom was suspected." Angela countered with, "We have a review of a call into the Worcester Police regarding a break-in a suspect's home. I feel this may be the same guy. You just ensured that he's nailed for criminal conspiracy charges." Angela had a lot to sift through. Things were happening fast and the noose tightening around the target. She expected visits from prominent Worcester politicians and businessmen demanding that she back off of Todwell. All she cared about was getting the man taken down hard, her career be damned. At the middle school, Diego's abrupt departure sent shockwaves through the school. Another transgender kid wasn't that interesting, but a girl who wanted to become a guy was. There were rumors about why Diego wanted to be a guy, the least of which were claims that it was to get into the pants of girls who didn't want to look like lesbians. Kyle and Oscar endured a lot of ribbing about them hanging out with a girl. The two ignored them, letting them look like fools around the girls. It worked as the boys got several complaints about them making fun of girls and suffered the humiliation of girls rejecting them for being immature and sexist. Kyle and Oscar talked with the girls, telling them firmly, "Diego is a boy. He is more of a boy than us. He may have periods and breasts but he is all boy inside. Don't you dare call any girl who likes him or dates him a lesbian because he acted better with his girlfriend than either of us did when we went out on Saturday." They retold what happened and got swoons from some of the most trusted girls. They tried to play it off as no big deal but their girlfriends snickered and added in details they didn't say. There were some whispers and a few, "You didn't!" from the girls which both knew to mean what the girls did to them with the pictures. Neither dared say anything which the girls took to mean it was true and they were being gentlemen about it. Zeke Bollinger had a long talk with the offending boys and made them know full well where the school stood regarding Diego. He added something the boys immediately shuddered at hearing, explaining, "Do you remember the very frank talk the lawyer for Al Samuels gave in Mrs. Shriner's class last year? That man is Diego Vincent's father. He's also Ms. Rodriguez's brother making Diego her nephew." Zeke's crooked grin caused the boys to cringe. Alice was stricter than Dorothy and not afraid to make students work hard to pay for their disruptions. Her being Diego's aunt would mean she would be even harsher on them especially as they were making fun of Diego's becoming a boy. Polly was quieter than usual throughout the day. On the way home, she didn't say a word to Dorothy, instead just staring outside at the cars and houses. At home, her cousins Juanita and Carmen hugged her while she wept into their shoulders. The girls looked at Dorothy who explained what happened. The cousins realized she needed time so gave her some space and let her cry herself out before starting to cook dinner. Polly was still miserable but endured the meal for her cousins' sake and knowing that she would be told what was going on in due course. Diego slept through much of the afternoon then was coaxed down for dinner. Trinity Eliza was going to say something but her mother Katie quieted her while her other mother Alison observed Diego. After dinner, she took Diego up to his room and had him explain what happened and why he felt the way he did and more importantly what he thought was going to happen the next day. Diego tried to dodge the questions. Alison calmly told him, "This was a big day for you. The truth is out now. You told the truth instead of lying to your classmates. You know who your real friends are, you know who cares about you and who doesn't. You know you can rely on them for help and support." He sighed and explained, "I came out to a friend before. She ran off and told me never to speak to her again. I never had real friends, any I got close to were run off by that girl. It was terrible and lonely, I don't want to go through that again but I know that when things get too difficult they will abandon me." Alison looked him in the eyes and told him firmly, "That's a lie and you know it. Your cousin will never abandon you. Neither will Al. She would be abandoning someone who was similar to herself. Amy, Trina, Kyle, and Oscar were the first to know and the ones who are your biggest supporters. And Polly is her own person, she has endured being all alone and would rather be alone than with a bunch of people who can't handle the truth about someone she loves. Just trust them, you will surprise yourself." She asked what he was going to do next. He sighed and told her, "I can't go back now, I will be the laughing stock and humiliated by everyone. It's my old school all over again." She just grinned and told him firmly, "That isn't true. Dorothy and Alice will clamp down on the ones to cause trouble, that is if Zeke hasn't done so already. If you leave you will let the jerks win. They will know that they can get away with driving away people who are different. Isn't that what happened at your old school, boys getting away with everything?" That stung him deep but it was right. She knew he would see things her way. She added a soft, "You are stronger than you think, you endured years of mental torment and finally stood up for yourself when the time was right. You are a good person and people will see it no matter what your exterior is." Alison went downstairs and told Ricardo and Alex, "He is doing better but he still has a lot of lingering doubts. I think a show of force is needed, one that shows he is going to be protected. If it doesn't work you might have to look into sending him to a new school." Diego did his homework thanks to Ricardo but went to bed early. He was in no mood to talk, instead just getting a drink and taking his puberty stopper pills. He was no better in the morning, simply eating and preparing for the worst that was going to come at school. Ricardo drove him to school in silence, letting Diego think to himself. At the school, he had trouble keeping the seven away from the car as Diego got out, with Polly not even waiting for him to fully exit before enveloping him in a hug followed by a big kiss on the lips. Diego tried to pull away but Polly held him close, kissing him again then telling, "Fuck them. They don't matter to you, we do. If they can't see past what isn't in your pants they have serious issues." The eight walked to class while Polly hung tightly ton Diego's side. Oscar happily told the usual jerks, "She's finally taken." One of the boys made the mistake of saying, "So Polly really is gay, she's dating a girl" in front of Zeke which prompted a swift, "You were warned. Head right to the main office and expect two weeks of in-school suspension." The boys tried to protest but Zeke held firm, adding, "You were told yesterday your behavior wouldn't be tolerated. You violated the rules twice in one statement. It isn't the first time you have harassed her either, or did you forget your snide comments to Polly two and a half months ago?" The boys were led out while the eight walked up to Mrs. Eagleson's room. She was waiting for the group and sat them down, asking them all, "Are you alright after yesterday?" All seven looked at one another with Kyle saying, "He doesn't have anything to worry about. Mr. Bollinger took care of the worst boys and the girls can be handled by Al and Stephanie." Diego sighed and told her, "It doesn't matter. I've been through this before and it's just going to be more girls laughing at me, more boys fighting me, more teachers getting mad at me for causing trouble. No matter who helps it'll happen again. Just watch." Diego steeled himself for class to begin and as soon as the first boys came into the classroom whispers started and laughing followed. It didn't matter that Mrs. Eagleson had words with the boys doing it, they continued throughout class. By lunchtime Diego couldn't focus at all and asked to go home, he was being a distraction and no matter how many threats were levied or how many times Mrs. Eagleson stopped and admonished the boys they continued on. Diego was about to go to the bathroom before leaving when three boys from his class cornered him and pulled him inside. They were upset that they had gotten in trouble and wanted revenge. The self-appointed leader told him just how they'd get it, from Diego. They grabbed Diego's arms and started to take off his shirt while the leader grabbed Diego's legs and stripped his pants. They successfully removed his boxers and compression vest and started ogling his breasts and vagina, caught up in the moment of seeing both on a real, live person for the first time. The leader finally grabbed hold of Diego and fondled him, while the other two fondled his breasts. Diego was too afraid to say anything, he was backed against a wall and his legs were unable to move much due to his pants and boxers keeping his legs from moving around. Polly caught sight of the boys and yelled for Zeke who ran after them. The boys locked the door so he had to break the door down by battering it with his shoulder. The boys were literally caught with their pants down as all three had their pants around their knees getting ready for their chance at sex. Zeke was going to harm them but Dorothy held him back. Ian and Alice held the boys to one side while Dorothy dressed the silently sobbing Diego. He walked out with Polly, heading right for the office where Ricardo was waiting. In words, barely above a whisper Diego told him, "No more. I can't do this anymore. I told her this would happen." The boys were taken into custody by officers while Alice called their parents. Dorothy started to get the paperwork to expel them then regretfully told Mrs. Eagleson, "That is likely the last time Diego Vincent attends school here." Mrs. Eagleson nodded in disappointment, she hated to lose a student who just wanted to be a normal person but people just wouldn't let him. Polly gave her statement to the assigned detective who tried to make it seem that Diego had caused the assault. Polly countered with, "How exactly did he cause it? By being born a girl? By rejecting boys? He didn't do anything except try to go to the bathroom and was dragged inside- how is that causing them to assault him?" The detective was about to say something but Willie loudly told him, "Excuse this former detective, he was just about to leave. A new one will take your statement while this one explains to internal affairs why he is badgering a witness and laying blame on the victim of an assault witnessed by an officer, two school officials, and another student." Willie stood tall over the detective who tried to act like he wasn't at fault and wasn't going to let Willie intimidate him. Ian harshly told him, "Good luck trying to go to the union on this, the victim is the son of a federal agent and one of the toughest lawyers around. And I already gave my statement so don't think you can go around my back or threaten me." The detective shouted back, "That girl wanted it! How else would three boys get her into a bathroom! She is trying to blame them for getting caught!" Willie just sighed and calmly told him, "That will be all. Turn in your badge and gun, you are suspended pending termination. You just admitted that you could not care any less about the facts and witness statements, you had already made up your mind and were not going to properly investigate. Further, you just called the victim 'she' and blamed him for being overpowered by three boys. Ian, escort him to headquarters while I start the termination paperwork. If you are lucky his fathers won't press charges against you for violating his civil rights." Ian held firmly to the detective's arm, causing him to be dragged along. Willie sat with Polly and took her statement as well as Zeke's. It was clear cut, the boys were at fault and were caught in the act. They would not be able to get out of it, not with so many seeing it. Polly returned to class silently. She listened to the whispers and rumors for as long as possible. Kyle and Oscar tried to keep her focused but her head wasn't in it. Finally, after dismissal, she was asked what happened. She told the class, "The assholes tried to rape him! They stripped Diego and were fondling him. They were going to have sex with him against his will until Mr. Bollinger broke the door open. They had their hands on the dicks and everything, they were laughing at him, keeping him from leaving while trying to rape him!" She was near hysterical now. Mrs. Eagleson shouted at the class, "Are you all satisfied? One of your classmates just witnessed another being brutalized by three boys who are all going to spend the next decade behind bars. All because he isn't what they want a girl to be. No person deserves what happened to Diego to happen to them, nobody!" The class walked out in shame while the seven remained. Mrs. Eagleson calmed herself and explained, "Diego isn't likely to come back to school. This is now the second time this has happened to him and happened in front of someone that he cares about. His father is going to find him a private school or home school him but this is likely the last day for him as a student here." The seven walked away disappointed and upset. Polly hadn't said a word since her frustrated outburst against her classmates, instead focusing on schoolwork. When Dorothy drove them home she finally spoke, telling her, "He's not coming back is he?" Dorothy shook her head, explaining, "He has been through so much in such a short period of time that he needs to get away. He is trying but it's tough when everybody is working against you, reminding you that you aren't normal and you aren't what you should be. He cares about you, but he is too emotionally exhausted. He wants to be there but simply can't be there anymore." Polly kept silent as they drove on, not wanting to say more. Dorothy could see she was upset but there was only so much that she could do. Diego needed space and needed to feel like he wasn't going to cause trouble. He had a right to an education, but he cared too much about the others to let them suffer because of his being there. Alison stopped by to talk with Diego once she got home. She understood his troubles and explained why he was doing the right thing in removing himself from a place where he didn't feel safe. She didn't try to dissuade him, it was better for all to let him go elsewhere so he would get a chance at an education without forcing others to endure his drama. The next morning, the boys were arraigned by Judge Matthews in Winnisimmet District Court. He looked over the charges and the circumstances leading up to them and opted set a high bail of $100,000 each. Their parents were outraged but the judge explained, "This was a coordinated attack on a student who was already targeted earlier by them. They purposely went after the victim and tried to sexually assault him. They expressed no remorse in what they did, only regret that they were caught. I would remand them but they have no prior records. Bail will stand." None of the boys were bailed out. They were heard to curse and swear revenge against Diego and Polly ratting on them, prompting the guards to send notice to the ADA that they were a danger to the victim. Judge Matthews just nodded and had them put on watch with intent to segregate them from the general population for their own safety as he didn't believe they would last long with others. Kennedy's heart went out to Diego prompting her to double-down on her efforts to go after the true mastermind behind Diego's troubles, Duane Todwell. She hit pay dirt thanks to Angela's searches that day. They found just what they needed to go after the man, including details on who to rough up, when those events happened, who would be involved, and how much they were paid. Phone records showed that the calls to both DCF and the Worcester Police were placed from Todwell's office with the actual extension being his personal office line. They actually had him recorded thanks to the requirement that all phone calls to 911 be recorded. The voice was played to Mark Sylvester who confirmed that he was the man who called the office to report wrongdoing. Kennedy had finally had enough waiting and called for a full search warrant for both Todwell's house and office. She wasn't fooling around either, she had it done simultaneously with Angela leading the raid on the home and Kennedy leading the raid on the office. Chloe Miller was called to go in with the State Police as they made the arrest on Rice and the boys for criminal conspiracy, conspiracy to commit sexual assault, accessory to sexual assault, accessory after the fact, extortion, accepting bribes, and perjury. Kennedy was going for everything possible to ensure the man would not see the light of day for decades. She needed Chloe to deal with the aftermath of the arrests. The kids would start to coming forward to explain previous assaults and parents would be concerned about what was going on, all looking for answers that only she could give. She was the point person for the investigation into the school as it was through her that the whole investigation started. Kennedy drove to Worcester early, leading a team of troopers who went directly up to the top floor of a downtown skyscraper. The man at the security desk was held in place by troopers, preventing him from alerting the target. The same happened outside the office suite, nobody would be able to alert Todwell. The secretary was about to alert him when Kennedy loudly told her, "Raise the phone and you go to jail. He isn't worth your freedom, he will blame you for everything in a heartbeat." She quickly gave in. She was escorted out to the reception area while the trooper watching the security guard observed her as well, albeit with less of a keen interest than the security guard. Both had their phones confiscated until the all clear was given by both teams. She realized that this was serious and asked to speak with a lawyer which the trooper explained, "You aren't under arrest, you are just detained for the security of the operation. If you still need to not be here, we will remove you from the office and take you down to the cruisers to await clearance for you to make your phone call. Until then you can sit there and not answer questions. I advise you to also not speak either as we don't want to have to fight with your lawyer for no reason. Your lawyer would advise you of the same, so please don't speak." Kennedy didn't bother knocking, she just opened the door and entered with the team behind them. She loudly told the man, "Duane Todwell? Massachusetts Attorney General's office with a search warrant and arrest warrant. Keep your hands where we can see them." She produced both, dropping them on the table while one trooper handcuffed him and read his Miranda Rights. He shouted for the secretary to call his lawyer to which a trooper informed him, "She has been removed from the office so we can search. You can contact your lawyer via one of our cell phones but you are still under arrest." Todwell shouted back, "Do you know who I am? I'll have your badges for that! I will have all of your asses beaten to an inch of your life for daring to question me!" The troopers grinned then one pointed out, "You were read your rights and have chosen to waive them. Every threat has been recorded and will be used against you in a court of law." They dragged the still complaining Todwell down to an awaiting cruiser which drove him to the Holden State Police barracks. The secretary was eager to talk once Todwell was removed to a cruiser. The security guard rushing to her and punching her several times as the troopers grabbed him, put him in handcuffs and announced, "You are under arrest for assault and witness intimidation. Thank you for giving us reason to investigate you. We suspected there was more to you and your partner downstairs." Criminal checks were run on both with both being wanted felons. Todwell was gong to have to explain how he was employing wanted felons but Kennedy already knew how as she showed them employment records with names altered. She then found payments to Burke, the ADA, with emails showing that they had hired the men in lieu of prosecuting them with court records being altered to show the men were released on bail. She didn't find the things she was looking for at the office, which was the main plans for development or the plans to pay off Sierra and Pablo or the cops. Those had to be over in Todwell's home. She hoped Angela found the records to connect everything completely. Angela had a field day as the staff at Todwell's home gave her and the troopers free reign. Troopers kept the staff close and away from phones while multiple employees were happy to tell them anything they wanted to know. The supposed butler who was overseeing the house tried to shut them up by punching a groundskeeper and maid but one of the troopers happily yanked his arms back and cuffed him and arrested him for two counts of assault and witness intimidation. Once he was removed the staff happily told the troopers, "He is just a thug who does what the boss wants. He isn't a butler, he's our jailer. We can't complain or he beats us. The boss won't let us leave, he says we are under contract but we never signed any kind of contract!" Sensing there was a lot more to the story they held off and told them, "We have some folks who will help you nail the bastard. We will find out who that fake butler really is. You will also get your proper pay, the lady in charge here will see to it." Angela's team opened up every drawer and file, obtaining plans for the school, the neighborhood, the buildings' owners, who were easy victims and who would require strong-arming. It was a gold mine as she found the financial details stored on the office computer as well as a laptop in the bedroom. He had stored everything an offsite server but troopers were able to do a quick download of the entire server. The computer forensics team would have a lot of work to do but it was worth it. Angela found the payment transactions to Sierra, Pablo, the officers, Rice, Burke, Masters, and even for his supposed bodyguards who were listed as security in the employee database but shown to be bodyguards in the financial records. Chloe had the toughest job. The troopers assigned to her forced their way into the school against the protests of the local police officer. As he tried to call for help one of the troopers called the Worcester Police dispatcher and identified the situation and canceled the response, instead of getting a superior officer to relieve the angry officer. Three cruisers did show up, but the troopers outside stood their ground and told them to leave or face arrest for hindering an active criminal investigation. He radioed for more help which caused several Worcester Police cruisers to rush to the scene and leave the three officers fighting for words to explain why they were there without authorization from dispatch. Their lieutenant had them taken into custody under suspicion of criminal conspiracy with apologies to the troopers for their rogue officers. Sitting inside watching the whole incident outside was Rice. He thought he was safe from arrest until Chloe and three troopers were led inside by his secretary. Chloe didn't bother trying to say anything, the troopers simply stated:, "Nate Rice, you are under arrest for criminal conspiracy, conspiracy to commit sexual assault, accessory to sexual assault, accepting bribes, negligence, child abuse, and perjury." Rice proudly told them, "I'll have everything dropped in the hour and you will be looking for new jobs." Chloe just grinned and blurted out, "Hard to do that when your buddy Burke is in jail as well. In fact, all but you are now in custody." A trooper led Rice out while Chloe talked with the vice principal. Chloe told her firmly, "All students will be told that Rice is under arrest for allowing girls to be sexually assaulted and failing to report the abuse to the proper authorities. The boys who committed the crimes are about to be placed under arrest. Any victims are to speak with me and other members of my staff. This is going to be investigated in-depth and every incident documented for the prosecution of all involved." The woman went to work, addressing the whole school via PA system and calling the four boys who were responsible to the office. The boys tried to make a break for it but were stopped by troopers waiting outside the doors. They were taken into custody, read their rights, and placed into cruisers. The boldest stated, "We can do whatever the hell we want! Those girls asked for it! We should have screwed that bitch Eve Rodriguez when we had the chance! She is lucky we only got to second and third base with her before she ran away!" The others started saying similar things about other girls. The boys had been read their rights and troopers repeatedly told them they didn't have to speak but they kept talking, giving them multiple victims of their assaults. Chloe just grinned, she had a slam dunk case against them for Diego's assault ensuring none of the boys would be out of jail before they turned 21 and likely not getting out until 25. The toughest job came next as the bell rang and Chloe addressed the concerned parents outside. She steeled herself and announced, "The Massachusetts Attorney General's Office and the Massachusetts State Police in conjunction with the Department of Children and Families has conducted an operation to remove four boys accused of multiple sexual assaults on school grounds over the past two years. The four boys are in custody as is the principal, Mr. Rice, who was an active participant in conspiring to allow the boys free reign to abuse and intimidate females at the school." She paused then added, "Due to the seriousness of the accusations we removed all five today with each being placed into custody. Further, an additional five conspirators were arrested over the past three days. We are still investigating and ask that you speak with your children and have them come forward if they experienced any sort of assault by the boys. They are being fully charged with one assault but we will not stop at just one. Every claim will be investigated and we will try to ensure that all crimes are prosecuted as best we can." There was stunned silence as parents comprehended what had just happened. One parent finally asked about the school itself to which Chloe added, "It will remain open as all indications are that it was solely the work of the four boys and Mr. Rice. We have reason to believe that staff at the school were thwarted in their attempts to obtain help for students and the vice principal was completely unaware or purposely kept away from all incidents. She is now in charge while our office investigates. We trust that she will ensure all students feel safe and things can return to normal now that the threats to the well-being of the children have been removed." Chloe left with her hands shaking. This was the hardest thing she had done yet for the DCF and one she hated to do. She left to file her report in Boston, glad to finally get away from the drama in Worcester. The media didn't cover the boys' attempted rape. They were too busy trying to cover the events out in Worcester which nobody had connected as being related. There was one mention on the news that three boys had assaulted a student but it was a stock video of the school's exterior with voice-over regarding the little information that was known and released by Willie and the school department. Over in Boston Kennedy got visitors from the Worcester City Council. She had detectives assigned to the AG's office with her as she took the meeting. The men were blunt and to the point, demanding that she halt the investigation and threatening to go public with her private information. They threatened her career, telling her that they'd ensure the governor got rid of her immediately. She just grinned at them and pointed to a picture on her desk, turning it over and proudly telling the men, "I know for a fact that Christian will do no such thing, He knows all about what has happened and why and was told about it all this morning before it occurred. In fact, I doubt he would even give you five minutes let alone his ear so he could not care any less what you have to say. As for exposing me, I could not care less. Better men than you have tried and failed. You have nothing to threaten me with that I haven't faced already." One went over the line and told her, "It would be a shame if something should happen to that freak you claim is a daughter." One trooper asked, "Why is that?" The man shot back, "Because unless you rescind the arrest she and her friends will meet an unfortunate accident." Kennedy nodded to which the troopers flashed their badges and read the three their Miranda Rights. Kennedy then told the men, "Criminal threats, attempted extortion, threatening the welfare of minors, racketeering, I think we just found our other backers. Thank you for making yourselves known, it makes our investigation a whole lot easier. And for a bunch of wannabe bigwigs, you have little idea just who you are dealing with. I'll be sure to tell the federal agent, the state trooper, the deputy sheriff, and the chief of police that their children and sister were threatened. I'll leave out telling the three reserve officers that their nieces and nephews were threatened, but word gets around fast." The men looked as if she was joking. A second trooper grinned and pointed out, "You folks sure are stupid. For all the money you have, you have no idea just who the hell you were threatening. The son, daughter, and niece of an ATF agent, the daughter of a deputy sheriff, the sister and cousins of a state police trooper, and the niece, nephew, and daughter of the chief of police, her own daughter, were just threatened. And don't even think of trying to go to the press as you also threatened the son of a columnist for one of the largest newspapers in the region. No reporter will run that story." Kennedy grinned as the three were brought out in handcuffs. She had the honor of telling the Worcester City Manager, "Your city council will need three new people, and we will be reviewing any deals with the Todwell Development Company. If you try to impede us you leave yourself open for investigation for involvement. This is a scorched earth investigation now, that's the only warning I will give you." Kennedy's crew got to work looking into the three men while Angela went to work investigating their offices for documents. She knew exactly what she'd find and as expected, they were arrogant enough to leave incriminating evidence hanging around- literally hanging. There was a deed to an office building near city hall that served as the conference center for the development group with just about everything needed to show collusion between the four developers and the six pawns. Diego's picture was hanging on a wall a target on it. He was the one they wanted most, his actions thwarted them at every turn so far. They had their plans to nab him in school in Worcester, then to nab Stephanie to get at Diego, finally, they had the backup plan to harm Alice, Raul, and Stephanie to get Ricardo to convince Diego to give in and cough over his house. Kennedy celebrated with her office. Angela had just ensured that all 10 were going to prison for years. Diego would not have to testify, within the plans were details of the assault and when and where it would happen. They even included everything that happened to Diego up to him fleeing, their own words on paper made anything Diego would say unnecessary as he'd only verify what they had done. He would simply have to show up in court and identify the boys and leave, with the jury simply knowing that he existed. The defense would have little to counter as his gender change was irrelevant to what happened and bringing it up would cost the boys and their defense attorney dearly as it would turn a sexual assault case into a hate crime. He didn't even have to appear in the gallery, the court would be closed and nobody except Ricardo and Alex, the court officers, stenographer, prosecutor and defense, and the judge would be allowed in. Chapter 9 The media was in a frenzy at the district court when Angela got there after conducting the searches. The fact that a prominent businessman and a principal were being arraigned was big news. The fact that both carried similar charges was bigger. They were arraigned separately but both would be covered. The first up was Rice who pleaded innocent and denounced the girl for getting him into trouble. He swore he'd get back at her for lying about what the boys did. He swore they were being led on and she cried foul at what happened to her. Judge Olsen simply told the court reporter to read back all statements then instructed the defense to quiet his client before he said anything else damaging to his already losing case. Rice ignored her, telling her, "No woman will ever tell me what to do! I don't care what that bitch said, that girl deserved to be raped! She is lucky that the boys are too young to knock her up! I'll be damned if my son is going to prison because some slut wouldn't take it like a woman should take it!" Judge Olsen just shook her head and fined him for his actions towards her. She then angrily told him, "Everything that you have stated will be used against you at your trial. You were given your Miranda warnings and you are fully aware that this is an open court and all statements are on the record and recorded. You spoke without prompting and you did so to threaten the alleged victim." His attorney entered a not guilty plea to which Judge Olsen grinned and replied, "Due to the nature of the crimes and your own behavior I believe that you are a danger to the public and in particular the victim of the alleged crimes. Thus you will be held without bail. And you do have to listen to me as I am the judge and you are in my courtroom. You obey my rules or you are held in contempt, the same as everyone else who appears before me." He was led away fighting the court officers. Duane Todwell was brought in next to which Judge Olsen shook her head at seeing. She recognized him immediately and expected a war of words from the notorious hothead and elitist jerk. Todwell didn't disappoint, telling her firmly, "I'll have your robe for this. I raised enough money for people in this city to have earned my freedom. I don't care what some hussy from Boston says, this is my city and I'll do as I damn well please!" Judge Olsen just shook her head and asked for the charges to be read, all of the charges. Angela read over every charge with the charges of conspiracy to commit sexual assault, accessory to sexual assault, perjury, and bribery getting gasps while Todwell simply grinned at her. Judge Olsen grinned back and stated, "Due to the severity of the charges and your access to funds I am setting bail at $1 million cash. Further, you are to surrender all of your passports as I know you have citizenship in Canada and the United Kingdom. Further, as a condition of your release, you are to wear an ankle monitor at all times. And for your information: I serve the entire county of Worcester and the Commonwealth, not just the City of Worcester. You are no different than any other person brought before me for arraignment no matter who you know or how much you fundraised or how much you have in your bank account." He just smirked and stated, "I'll have that within 10 minutes." Angela countered with, "Your honor, the defendant has no access to any money as all of his accounts have been frozen by the FBI and IRS due to suspicion of criminal activities. His bank account shows only $15,000 which his lawyer will demand to be used to pay his services first." Judge Olsen grinned and added, "Defense counsel is hereby advised to ensure payment as funds are set at what is currently in the defendant's bank account." His lawyer scowled and stated, "My retainer is that amount and will be withdrawn immediately. My client is hereby advising you that he needs new counsel as he is unable to pay for private counsel due to the freezing of his assets." Todwell went after his lawyer, shouting, "Coward! I paid you good money to get me out!" Court officers removed him, as the true face of the man who was held as a hero to the community was shown. The boys were arraigned next. They looked pitiful as they had lost all of their swaggers, having learned that their fathers couldn't get them out of their situation. All four had their advocates enter not guilty pleas and were escorted out to the secure juvenile detention center to await trial. In the back of the courtroom, Diego and Ricardo watched silently. Ricardo was impressed by Angela's actions and could see her going far in the Attorney General's office. Diego was more concerned that one of them might get off and go after him. Ricardo grinned and pointed out, "I have something that will prevent that", pointing to a stack of papers in his hand. Diego didn't react, simply sitting in silence as he made his way over to Todwell's lawyer and presented him with the fresh lawsuit on Diego's behalf. Ricardo whispered, "Better tell him that his assets were just seized by the state as ill-gotten gains and he has no collateral anymore. He has nothing to borrow against and will have to sell to ensure that he can cover the lawsuit as well as the ones from the other people that he bilked out of money to pay for his development. We both know he will lose as well, so no use fighting it." Todwell was furious as he was told, with the lawyer walking away. Todwell had nothing left as the few supporters he had left in disgrace while the media was in a furor outside. He started to realize that his world had come crashing down thanks to the kid who got away from them. Judge Olsen noticed Diego and Ricardo and asked about them. The court officers had no clue who they were, only noting that they were paying particular attention to the proceedings and seemed to have a vested interest in it based on Ricardo's lawsuit. She realized something was up and asked that they are brought into her chambers for discussion. Ricardo led the fearful Diego into the chambers while the clerk closed the door behind them. Judge Olsen immediately asked, "Why are you here today? You two took an awfully keen interest in the three cases presented, this was not normal interest so please explain why you were really here." Diego refused to lie or dodge the question, so he admitted:, "They are here because of me." Judge Olsen asked for an explanation to which Diego mumbled, "They went after me. I'm the one who got them all arrested for what the boys tried to do to me and what they tried to do to my cousin and former parents." Judge Olsen gasped then said, "You are the girl the Johnsons were here regarding. You are the one that got all of this chaos going." Diego nodded silently, looking glum about being called a girl. She asked why he wasn't in school. Ricardo explained, "He was assaulted in his new school by three boys. He has been granted a leave of absence from school to either transfer or be home schooled if he chooses not to return." She gave them an odd look and asked:, "What happened to the boys who attacked you?" Ricardo had to carefully explain, "They are all remanded pending trial. They were literally caught with their pants down in the bathroom in the act of trying to rape Diego by a teacher, both principals, and a police officer. They were witnessed by his girlfriend dragging him away which was why they were able to be caught so quickly. Everything documented with all attacks being noted for the marks left on his body." She asked about that, getting a solid, "Dr. Sarah Jones, the initial person who made the assessment of abuse by Sierra Ramirez and Pablo Rodriguez, made note of the additional bruises and scratch marks on his arms, legs, and near his vagina. These were clearly different from the later marks and matched up with a struggle rather than impact blows. Her report was noted with a caution that she believed he had been the victim or another assault but he never made mention of it until it was accidentally revealed by his friends just how much of an assault had been done to him." She understood and left it unsaid that she wasn't happy about that. She started to ask about it to which Ricardo firmly stated, "He is transgender and is receiving treatment. This was an act of three jealous boys who wouldn't take no for an answer as they had been pursuing his girlfriend since the start of the year. And yes his girlfriend knows about his change, her friend is transgender and several of their siblings' friends are transgender so it is no real issue for her. It was simply pure jealousy and anger that prompted them to sexually assault him." They were let go with a promise to ensure that all involved were brought to justice. In the car, on the way back home Ricardo admitted, "You will be able to do your school work and take tests but eventually you will need to go to school. I know it's rough but you need to attend a school, even if it's a private school." Diego sighed and admitted, "I don't want to leave my friends. But I need them to be able to learn and if I'm just going to be a distraction to everyone and bring problems then I can't be there. I'm sorry but I can't go there anymore." Ricardo smiled told Diego, "Do you know what happened yesterday while you were with Valerie? Your friends did something outstanding that shocked your class. They walked out, along with half of the class. All because the few jerks who had an issue with you being a student wouldn't shut up. You caused them to take action and they did. Each is at home today because they stood by you." Ricardo wasn't entirely telling the truth. He wasn't lying, though. The seven had been sent home but only because they had gotten into a fight with their classmates. They weren't at fault but they were too worked up to continue for the day. The seven walked into school angry at Diego being too upset to remain. They didn't wait long before the first jerks started in on Diego. The girls were the worst offenders, openly mocking Diego for being a freak and deserving what she got. It took all of Trina's and Amy's might to hold back Polly but Al went at them, telling them firmly, "Is that your view? That he deserved to be nearly raped because he didn't try to be what he wasn't?" The girls laughed and shot back, "Of course the tranny freak would defend the other tranny freak. She got what she deserved, she shouldn't have led the boys on. There is no reason for them to have touched her except if she led them on." Mr. Taylor, the 8th-grade history teacher, shook his head and sent the girls to the main office with a note stating exactly what they said and why. They were just the first ones to be suspended or receive long stays in detention. In class, more made jokes to the point Al, Kyle, Oscar, Polly, Amy, Stephanie, and Trina were the only ones not joking about or insulting Diego. Dorothy sent the seven home since it was clear that no work would be done that day while the rest of the class were told, "Due to your actions all of you will have one month of detention and are barred from school events for the rest of the year. That means none of you are going on the Boston field trip, none of you are allowed to attend the dances or semi-formal, none of you are allowed to participate in any after school activities. Some of you may think this is overkill but Mrs. Eagleson made note of who was causing trouble and participated willingly. All of you broke serious school rules today and for that, you have to pay the penalty." There were complaints about Diego causing all of it to which Dorothy countered, "How is he causing you to insult him, claim he deserved to be sexually assaulted, how he quote ?got what he deserved'? He isn't even here, you spoke those things on your own free will and it is truly disgusting. I am just glad that his friends held back and didn't retaliate but that was something that took great strength and I can guarantee would have dissipated by lunchtime. So they had to go home, where they will meet with their friend and try to convince him to return and based on how you all acted today that may not happen until after Christmas vacation. But he will return, with open arms from this school, no matter what any of you may say. He has a right to a free education and we will ensure it. You don't have to like him being here but you have no right to prevent him from being here either." Dorothy's angry speech caused several to grow visibly upset but most were upset at being barred from all activities. Mrs. Eagleson noted who was moved for the right reasons and who was apprehensive and apathetic. She had an initial list of names and would add more to it, weeding out the worst offenders while the rest started to let it sink in that they were in trouble. When she calmed down Dorothy added, "Based on your reactions to what I have told you many of you will either be transferred to another class or moved to Ms. Rodriguez's school. There are several good students there just itching to get a chance to move to a class taught by one of if not the best teacher in this school. They will replace you and this class will be made all the better because of it." Class went on with little being done and parents notified about their children's actions. They weren't happy at the unilateral action but when it was explained that every one of those who was being punished actively participated in mocking, bullying, and outright gossiping about a student who was in no condition to defend himself they started to see the issue and gave their blessing for the punishment. The seven were sent to the Bollinger home where Margo Phillips and Gabby Bollinger watched them. They were purposely sent there to keep them away from Diego as he was busy helping with Louis York and Sophia Peterson. He needed more time and after what they did for him that day he would need the alone time to let the feelings sink in. Diego was dropped off at the Finn home with Emma Peterson happily greeting him as he entered. She didn't ask what happened. All she did was hand him a bottle so he could feed Sophia. Sophia recognized him and cooed at him, causing him to smile at her cute little face. He fed her then put her to bed, settling in for the next two hours as he read his history and language arts assignments and wrote out his writing assignment. He was quiet until Louis made his presence known and required a diaper change which Diego had to do as Tanya was cooking lunch for the four and Emma was busy changing Sophia's diaper. Diego cringed at doing it, but it wasn't one of his smelly gifts. He changed, wiped, and dressed him as fast as possible while the two ladies looked on. He didn't say anything else, just washing his hands and going back to work. Lunch was eaten in silence as neither of the three ladies wanted to say something to upset Diego. Diego went back to work and continued to keep himself occupied until Ricardo picked him up, carefully avoiding the street the Bollingers lived on as they drove to Ricardo?s office to pick up some needed files. Diego was too far in thought to say anything, instead staring out the window thinking about how he was going to tell the others he wasn't returning when they came for their inevitable confrontation. The group noticed Ricardo's car drive by down the street and figured it was Diego going home. Gabby had to tell them that they weren't to disturb him but they barely paid attention. Polly was dead set on confronting him while Al had to keep Stephanie from going over and demanding Diego return. Gabby ushered them back inside and sat all seven down, proclaiming, "The last thing you can do is confront him. He needs time and space away from everyone. He just wants to be left alone and that means all of you leaving him alone as well. Stephanie is the only one who is going to be the one to talk with him for all of you, she will be with him Thursday for Thanksgiving. The rest of you are to stay away from him at the game, let him come to you but likely he will be kept busy by the younger kids. I know you want to be with him but he needs to do this on his own. Please, leave him be." The next day was a repeat of the same once they drove back to Winnisimmet. Diego helped Valerie do some prep work for the Finns' dinner, getting an earful as the ladies all explained just what they were doing and why. He smiled at John being unconventional and breaking all of the usual father stereotypes and a Valerie following family tradition by kicking John out of the kitchen to cook. Diego felt better that day. He missed his friends but he felt like a load was off him now that he didn't have to fight his feelings or keep quiet because of who he was. Over lunch, Valerie confided in him, "They miss you too. They haven't been the same without you. They stood up for you against the class and got several moved to other classes while giving more students a chance to do better. All because they care about you. Give them a chance, you don't have to return to the school but they just want to be your friends if you let them." After lunch Valerie had him focus on himself. He was caught up in school and needed time to do something on his own. Diego was told to go downstairs and play on the video games system until it was time to go home. He lost track of time and didn't notice three hours had passed and he was being observed by four adults until one of them sneezed. He flinched as he saw them, unsure what they were going to do. One of them blurted out, "Nice going moron, you startled him." He was frightened as the four sat down near him and turned on the system to play. Diego got up to leave, not wanting to say anything to the strangers. He was just about upstairs when Valerie called out, "Don't mind those four, they are so used to you kids that they forgot that you hadn't met them yet." Valerie explained, "That was my nieces and nephews Hannah and her husband Pete and Bryan and his wife Paige. Before you ask they know all about you as Emma, Al, Kylie, and Margaret told them. Al lives two houses down from Paige and Bryan and Margaret, Kyle's sister, and Kylie, Reed's sister, are friends with their Bryan, Emma, and Hannah's sister Nichole. Emma didn't tell them everything but it got back to them anyway." Valerie grinned and added, "With them here your friends won't disturb you. All of them know not to go against Hannah's rulings and she won't let any harm come to you that she can prevent. Go back downstairs, they won't disturb you. Not if they know what's good for them, that is." He reluctantly went back downstairs and was handed a controller by Bryan. None of the four said anything as the three guys battled against one another in the fighting game. Hannah snickered then full on laughed as Bryan lost badly to Diego while Pete barely edged out a win. Paige managed to get him see them as non-threatening enough to talk with him. He told her that he didn't believe what the others had said about the four of them which caused Hannah to laugh hard. Paige shook her head and asked that Diego excuse the idiot for her actions as she had no filter and he was the first who didn't take what the others said at face value. She smiled and started to show him pictures, ones that she had on her phone of the four of them with her grandparents-in-law. Diego recognized a few places to which Paige added:, "It's a little odd but it's true." She then showed him the photo album, one they kept downstairs that showed the family all together at the estate, with two couples showing the family's coat of arms as well as Bryan's and Pete's newly approved coats of arms She then showed a copy of a special letter, one that congratulated the four on their marriage. Diego asked what the, "ER" meant to which Paige smiled and said, "Elizabeth Regina, also known as Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second. We didn't meet her, it's just that our grandfather is a marquess and Bryan and Hannah are related to the ambassador so it's a bit of protocol to send congratulations." Alex finally arrived to take Diego home, allowing Diego to get some relief from the overwhelming realization that one of the things he thought was a lie was the truth. Ricardo was working overtime on his case and ensuring that the house in Worcester was sold to people who could use a home so Alex had the honors of picking up Diego. Alex didn't ask about his day, only telling him, "We are going to the football game tomorrow but you don't have to do much and if you need to you can stand with us on the sidelines. Your friends aren?t likely to go so you?ll be alright and not have to endure questioning." At home, the four ate in silence as Eric focused on texting Jessica while Ricardo started cooking some of the meal for the next day. Alex asked Diego if he still wanted to go, getting a nod and quick, "I can't hide out forever. If they are there then so be it, but I can't hide from them." In the morning, Diego ate with Eric and Alex while Ricardo slept in. All three drove to the high school where Diego had to wait outside with coaches and other officials while the players changed. Alex was too busy inside help prepare the team for the game so John Finn was selected to look after Diego while the guys finished inside. John didn't say anything about Diego being there and didn't ask how he was doing, he could read from Diego's posture and it was clear the boy didn't want to talk. He did introduce Diego to several people including Jake Bollinger, Juan Alvarez, and to his shock: the fabled Miguel Toro. All three gave him a nod and just hung out waiting for the team to come back out for their warm-ups. Diego had to hold himself back from showing emotion but the shock was big. He was told that Miguel knew the various people he'd met already but it was another thing entirely to meet him in person. Diego was at a loss for words but was saved by Kyle and Oscar calling out for him. He turned and asked, "What you are two doing here?" Kyle pointed to a man in uniform and said:, "My dad is working the detail today, plus we knew you'd be here too." Oscar added, "Al and Amy are with their parents watching their brothers and sister. Polly is at home, she didn?t want to come in case you came. She doesn?t want to disturb you any more." Diego felt horrible. The boys saw the look and hid their smiles. The two led him over to where Kyle's father Paul was and introduced him formally, with Paul giving him a handshake and hug as well as quick, "Don't let them press you. You don't have to do anything you don't want to even if the girls want you to do it. They were told to not bug you and they gave their word." The boys nodded and walked over the sideline and helped Junior Kelly, Ethan Smith, and Neil Jones set up the water bottles and yard markers. Diego felt good helping out and worked well with the three younger boys as they got everything ready to go. Kyle and Oscar didn't say anything as the three younger boys kept looking at Diego but it was more of a look of respect than gawking. If they knew his past, they weren't saying anything; and if they didn't, the two weren't telling them. The team came out to warm up and did their stretches allowing Diego to join Alex. One of the players caught sight of the two together and asked who he was. Eric happily said, "He's my little brother" while Raul Rodriguez said, "And my cousin." Eric's words were enough to end all discussion as Alex was not one to anger and gossiping about Diego would mean that player wouldn't play the final game. There was a special ceremony before the game honoring the seniors with their families taking to the field alongside them. Diego joined Alex as Eric's family getting a lot of odd looks and whispers from those who knew the players. Diego didn't care, he loved being acknowledged as Eric's younger brother and Alex as his dad. Valerie had a hard time quelling the gossipers as people kept asking her who that was with Eric and Alex. Finally, she told them, "He is Alex's son, by adoption if you must know, through his husband. If you didn't know he was married to a man then that is your own fault because his husband has been at multiple games and openly acknowledged adopting Eric as his son. Alex did the same with Ricardo's son and all four a happy family. Now if you will excuse me I would prefer not to be pestered for gossip as my son plays his last game for the school." Diego kept close to Alex throughout the game and asked him several poignant questions that led Alex to think and make adjustments. Mike Daniels, Alex's partner and fellow coach, joked that Diego was going to be the new Miles if he kept it up. Diego happily smiled at that, it was a great compliment to be considered for that as he had heard all about just how good Miles was at both finding and solving little problems with their gameplay. The game ended with the Winnisimmet Infernos winning a tight one. Eric scored a couple of difficult touchdowns which made Diego extremely happy to have seen his brother play. Kyle and Oscar had left him alone and helped with the water and equipment letting Alex and Diego bond more and enjoying that Diego was being himself for once and not trying to fit in or act differently around the girls. Al and Amy texted Polly that Diego had gone but had stayed away from them. Al explained, "He's with the boys and helping his father. He knows we are here and you aren't. You don't have to beat yourself up, he knows and just wanted alone time." Polly relayed what was going on to Dorothy, who softly explained, "He wants to find himself. He hasn't had a chance to really unwind and be a boy yet, things happened so fast for him. The guys are good with him but this meant a lot to him as a son as well as brother. He knows that you care about him. He is coming over to Alice's later so you will see him then, give him space and let him come to you.? Dorothy was doing some light cooking as her nieces and daughter decided to spend the holiday with their significant others. Her daughter Deborah was eating with her in-laws, her niece Carmen and her girlfriend Addison Carter didn't think it was right to spoil the already large gathering even if Alice insisted that they come over. Her niece Juanita was going up to Endicott with her girlfriend Zoe James leaving Dorothy and Polly to join the Vincents and Roriguezes at Alice's house. If it wasn't sweet and true it would look like it was a coordinated plan by the four Vega relatives. Polly got dressed up for the dinner. Dorothy figured she might as well and texted Alice to get her and Stephanie to do the same. Raul was reluctant to do it but figured if he didn't his sister and girlfriend Avery wold never let him live it down. Eric was texted and told his parents to dress up. Both nodded in agreement and had Diego do the same. All four looked like they were going to a fancy restaurant instead of a relative's house but it was the thought that counted. The four drove over to Alice's with Diego keeping his mind occupied by thoughts of what to say to Polly when they got there. The drive was short but it seemed like forever to him as he zoned out immediately. He felt a looming sense of dread as he saw Dorothy's car parked in the driveway but he steeled himself for whatever may happen when they opened the door. Alice met them at the door and hugged Diego tight. Eric tried to slip inside but she grabbed him next. She was all smiles as she led them inside while Ricardo went to the kitchen with the turkey. Polly was with Stephanie in her room. Diego wisely stayed downstairs, not wanting to get caught with his girlfriend alone in a girl's room. Eric grinned at him as he realized what Diego was thinking, then had to snicker that all it would be was groping, but Diego to back away at the thought. Stephanie came downstairs and went right for Diego, ignoring Eric who had to lean out of the way of her hug. Polly followed behind and was reluctant to go near Diego for fear of scaring him off. Diego hugged her and kissed her cheek, causing her to blush. The two went to the basement for privacy with Eric and Stephanie close by to ensure that nothing was going to happen between the couple. Diego sat her down on the couch to which Polly asked, "Are you still leaving school? We miss you and all the kids are in trouble now so they won't bug you." Diego shed a tear. He confessed, "I don't want to leave. I don't want to keep causing trouble. You have a right to go to school in peace, not deal with a freak like me every day." Eric grumbled, "Damn hormones" which Polly smiled at. He needed assurances, not confrontation. He had been so used to people pushing him away, that he needed friends now more than ever. Polly happily told him, "Mom got right of the worst students. I mean they are really gone from the class. On Monday we get kids who are known to be good, ones who want to be in Mrs. Eagleson's class and who don't care about you. We know them, Mrs. Eagleson told mom just who she wanted and mom gave her the blessing to move them. So you don't have to worry, the worst are gone and the ones who remain will be on their best behavior or they are getting suspended and even expelled." Eric grinned then added, "Aunt Valerie cleared it with Pop, it's the best thing for you as the kids who were selected know about you and simply don't care. Their class sucked and they got stuck with their teacher because there was no room in Mrs. Eagleson's class. You would have been in it had there not been an opening because one kid got expelled a couple of days before you came." Diego could only say, "I'll think about it. I don't want to rush into this. Dad and Pop have been great letting me miss school but I just want to be normal." Alex, Alice, and Dorothy looked at one another and smiled. Diego was going back to school, the two had just given him full assurances that he needed. He knew deep down that his friends would support him, but he needed to feel comfortable that the class would improve. Stephanie snapped at them, "Am I the only one not getting manipulated around here?" Raul popped in and countered, "Usually you are the one doing the manipulating. Wasn?t it your idea to have Addison, Juanita, Zoe, and Carmen eat as couples after all." Alice and Dorothy glared at her but hugged her for doing that. Stephanie added a soft, "They needed time alone anyway. Addison and Carmen work too hard and Zoe and Juanita are now so focused on school to do much of anything. Plus, you were going to do something this weekend anyway." Stephanie blushed as they kissed her forehead, letting her go back with the others while the adults finished prepping dinner. She offered Diego a soft hug which he ignored but didn't tense at receiving. The five kept themselves occupied until it was time to eat with Raul and Eric reluctantly ending their game after the next victory for Diego. Dinner was quiet as the nine ate without much talking. They all knew what was going to happen the next few days and there being little schoolwork to do, they didn't have to say much to one another. Eric told him that he probably should do some self-defense lessons with Reed and Jorge Castillo which prompted all of the adults to laugh while Stephanie, Polly, and Raul groaned at his sneaky trick. Diego asked what the big deal was, getting a solemn, "You are being called before the two elders" from Raul. Eric nodded, adding, "He is trying to ensure that you are alright in case someone tries to do that to you again. He knows you can handle yourself against one, maybe two. Well, he wants to teach you how to put the hurt on someone just in case so they back away before they can regroup. He did it for Reed and it proved to be important, he just wants to make sure you are going to be safe." Ricardo added, "It's a stop-gap measure. If you don't like it he won't make you do it. Willie and he just want you to be safe." Alex added, "Plus a little leak that you are training with him will end most of the harassment from kids in your school. Jorge won't train anyone unless he was close to them and training you means you are under his protection and to go after you brings his wrath which nobody in this city wants to happen." Diego reluctantly agreed to do it. Polly gave him a tight hug which he started to smile at getting. He did like to think that he knew boxing and if he wanted he could learn martial arts like his brother. The rest of the evening was spent resting while Alice and Dorothy slept for the following day's bargain hunting. Polly wasn't happy to have to go to Addison and Carmen's house for the night while Ricardo took Raul and Stephanie home but it was easier on Dorothy and Alice and kept the lovebirds apart. She didn't realize through her complaints that Diego was going over there the next day anyway so she wasn't missing much time with him. The next morning, Stephanie and Diego showered before the others. Stephanie was taking too long and he knocked on the door to the bathroom, finding her doing the washing and scrubbing that he himself had done two weeks before. He sighed and told her, "Blue bag has what you need, take a few for later. There should be some PMS pills the cabinet and a few chocolate bars in the freezer. I'll take these to the laundry for you so they?ll be done by the time we get back." Diego texted his aunt to alert her then put the pajamas and sheets in the dryer while Stephanie finished. He hated that he had experience with what Stephanie was going through but he was the only one up and he didn't want to disturb his brother, fathers, or cousin. She came down and hugged him for what he had done, getting a soft, "It sucks but it'll pass" from him. Once breakfast was eaten, Ricardo drove Diego, Stephanie, Raul, and Eric to the Castillo home and endured the awkward introduction to Jorge and Victoria Castillo. Polly came down and immediately hugged Diego getting an odd reaction from Jorge while Victoria shook her head at him not realizing that they were already a couple. He slowly realized what their relationship was and let the questioning go, not wanting to upset the two. Diego whispered something to Polly who nodded then dragged Stephanie upstairs allowing Diego to go with Jorge while Ricardo and Victoria were left to talk. Jorge just grinned as he looked between father and son with Raul shaking his head at everyone doing that. It was clear to all who was his father, Jorge was pleased that Ricardo had a piece of himself living on in Diego like Alex had in Eric. Victoria grinned as Ricardo was on edge at Diego learning something that could potentially hurt him or someone. She finally broke the silence, offering a soft, "He will be alright. Don't ever let anyone say you aren't his father because only a father could be so concerned about his child doing something that could potentially hurt him let alone hurt someone else. Plus, Jorge goes easy on them. He is more likely to get a workout from him than learn how to punch and dodge. That's tomorrow and Sunday's lessons." Upstairs, Stephanie was put through the wringer about her unexpected, "Visit". She hated that the others knew and wanted to run and hide from them. Polly just smiled and offered a happy, "He loves you, you know. He had something he hated happen to him and from that, he helped you so you didn't have to endure the embarrassment of your brother, uncles, and cousin knowing." Carmen gave her a tight hug then gave her the talk that she was dreading. Polly nodded, adding in what she knew while Addison smiled at her girlfriend being motherly. Carmen hugged Addison and offered a soft, "It's what you do for your family, at least that's what I hope Aunt Dorothy would want me to do." Polly shot back a fast, "She'd be more upset if you didn't and teased her." Addison nodded in agreement, adding a happy, "You really are nothing like your parents. You and Juanita are going to be great moms and make those so-called family members regret being horrible to you two." The four went to the back windows and watched as Diego and Raul were run around the yard by Jorge with both getting a big sweat built up as he had them add in various calisthenics in addition to jumping and stretches. It was almost comical but it was also very serious to them as Diego's face focused on what Jorge was saying and trying to follow the orders. Polly's fondness for Diego was evident as she smiled at watching him. Stephanie had to tell her the bad news, "He's working inside tomorrow. The equipment he needs is in the basement so he will be down there. I don't think Uncle Jorge will let us watch either, it'll just get too distracting which could cause him to get hurt or worse- he might break his nose. Raul could break his but I doubt you want Diego to break his." That got laughs from the others as Polly smiled at the little dig. She had to admit that he was getting more and more handsome as he stopped being so anxious and uptight. Even Stephanie had to admit that he was handsome, although she was a bit of a narcissist since Diego and she looked so similar. Diego enjoyed getting his aggression out and had fun running, jumping, stretching, and moving around at Jorge's command. Raul wasn't into it but had to put up with it to save face in the eyes of the ladies. Jorge himself saw a spark in Diego that wasn't there earlier and started to push them more than he had expected to but kept from going too far too fast lest Raul bow out or Diego hurt himself trying to impress the elderly man. The two cleaned up, wiping off the sweat before being told to sit down and eat. Diego tried to go, not knowing the tradition. Ricardo tried to bow out as well but was dragged back by Eric who shook his head muttering, "Every single time." Eric was about to slip away himself but the stern, "Sit" from Victoria caused him to rush to the table, remove his jacket, and look down in shame. The four ate while Stephanie and Polly were sent for getting both to groan but giving in without a fight. Both had endured the meals before and neither were willing to say or do something to earn either Victoria's or Jorge's anger. Diego just finished when the two entered. He smiled at Polly which she smiled back at, while Stephanie groaned and told them to get a room. Diego calmly told her, "For that, I'm taking all of my chocolate back. You owe me three bars already." Stephanie's face went white as Raul rolled his eyes and Ricardo cringed. Victoria burst into laughter, telling the nearly fainting Stephanie, "Don't snap at him because you haven't learned to keep those hormones in check. They have more restraint than you and Trina had last time you came by." The group left once Stephanie finished eating. Diego gave Polly a hug and kiss on the cheek which she returned with a quick peck on the lips. He didn't react to it, he felt better at receiving it than he had felt in a long while. Alice was home when they arrived causing Stephanie to rush inside in embarrassment. Alice asked what was going on, getting a laugh from Eric and Raul and terse, "She didn't appreciate being put in her place by Mrs. Castillo for complaining about Polly and me" from Diego. Alice looked at Diego for the real answer to which a subtle nod confirmed that it really was something feminine related that the other three didn't need to hear about. Ricardo remained oblivious to what the spat was about while Eric carefully avoided it out of respect for Diego's feelings. Ricardo was a smart guy but seriously missed the obvious reference there. Alice grinned while Eric added, "And she owes Diego a few chocolate bars. You might need to get a lot because the way she is going she will inhale them."