The Little Runaway

"Well good morning, sleepy head, did you sleep okay?"

"I think so."

"Come over here... good boy," as David took a seat. "I know I was a little hard on you yesterday; but David, you may see a child who has been abused by the people he loves the most. I know you want to help, and that's great; but it's something you have to think about, not do it because you think you owe somebody. Going in with a smile and comforting words won't work. I know what has happened to you is bad, but if you talk to someone as if you know what they are going through, then David, any hopes you had of helping would be gone. I know this may sound selfish, but you need to help them ... not yourself. However, if in the meantime, you get them to talking, then you are helping one another? Do you understand? David, I don't want to see you get hurt again, neither does your Nan."

"I didn't think about it like that."

"I have no doubt that you were up most of the night thinking of nothing else. You need to help, and that's commendable; but remember, there are two sides to every story. I know you are strong, even determined, but every type of abuse has its own repercussions. Right....? Now that we've sorted that out, tell me what you have planned for the rest of the day?"

"Morning, Edna, did you sleep well?"

"Thank you, yes I did."

"I was just asking David what he had planned for the day."

"Well if I may, I would like David to take me on a tour of the grounds?"
David had no hesitation in his reply.

"Yes ma'am."

David was the perfect guide, taking Edna everywhere - bar the lake, which he knew was off bounds when not with Edward.

"Thank you, David. What do you say we see what's for lunch, or at least an after-lunch snack?"

"So how was your tour?"

"If I were you, I would employ David to guide tourists when the weather gets warm."

"That good...? I see."

"May I go to the study to read?"

"I'll come and get you for a snack."

"Thanks, Father," everyone noticed him walking a little slower than usual.

"David, can we talk?" as he followed him into the study. "David, why didn't you tell me you were hurting? I thought we had an agreement that you would tell me when something was wrong?" David hung his head.

"Father, please I know I'm wrong, but I wanted the lady to see me, not what's wrong with me!"

"I doubt she would think any less of you? David, not everyone sees a disabled child - they see who you are, not what you are. You are David Timothy Ward, a beautiful child with a fantastic personality. Why David ... why can't you see that? If I tanned your backside, would that make you see what everyone sees." David looked in horror at the suggestion.

"David, settle down. I would never ever lay a hand on you. What I need are some new ideas. David, you are more than you give yourself credit for, but until you realise that, you are going to keep tormenting yourself."

"David, Edward is right."

"Grandfather..."

"David, you are you, however different you might think you are. A disability is an external part of you... inside is who you are. If you don't see that, then you will never grow, despite all your knowledge. David, at Briarcroft the residents pushed you away, but now it seems that you are doing the exact same thing to people who are trying very hard to help you; do you think that is fair?"

David hung his head, more in sorrow than shame. "Grandfather, I don't mean too."

"David, do you know the saying 'actions have consequences'? If you do, please think about it; if not, go look it up. That's something you have to learn and understand on your own."

David's posture never changed, as if deep in thought.

"David, can you tell me when Edward last told you to do something?" David gazed off into space.

Then with his head again going down, and in little more than a whisper, "Never, sir."

"Do you know why that is?" David shook his head. "David, after Edward learned the full truth of what was happening in B4, your house; and even more so after learning what had been happening to you. Edward was angry, and I mean angry! Then when you moved here, which to Edward was to all intents and purposes a small concession from social services, he was mad at them; not for abuse, but because someone in authority had to give them little choice. That someone was who you call Uncle Sam." George saw a smile, giving no doubt of what he thought of the man.

"Your father, I say Father as I now want you to see it from a son's point of view, saw something about you, or within you, that made him put everything he knew into practice; which David, I can assure you was actually very little. There were times I'm sure that he thought what was happening was well above what you could call his credentials. I, at times, saw how he dealt with each situation, and to say I was upset was no exaggeration. But as he dealt with each situation, his method was gaining results. I know we're not talking about a day at the office, but what your father did in retrospect was, and remember David, I can only voice it the way I see it ... but imagine trying to do the opposite of what you've done your whole life? To go from being a prosecutor to a defender, would be as if you have to learn a new career starting yesterday." George could feel the wheels turning as David's expression became more intense in thought.

"Edward, at times, got a kick in the pants or a tanned backside; but believe me, that was few and far in between. Your father saw something that needed to be nurtured ... and to a point, saw a scared little boy coming out of his shell. But there was still a part of this young man he couldn't reach no matter how hard he tried. So, tell me David, what would you have done?" David, for the first time, looked directly at George as guided lasers went straight into George's head trying to find an answer.

"David, that would have been exactly how your father felt, but you see your father unwittingly knew the answer. From the beginning, he allowed you to make your own decisions. Yes, Edward was the adult, and I'm sure little would have been said if he'd told you what to do and when. But your father knew that you needed to be in control, to a certain degree, in your own decisions. Knowing well that seeing things were different, you would eventually, in some small way, become stronger; allowing what had happened at Briarcroft make you stronger.

David, I know you aren't wallowing in self-pity; but tell me, is it your father you don't trust or is it David himself? David, Edward, your father, as you refer to him is doing everything within his power to make you safe, even to the point of doing the same for children who have been abused like yourself; which in itself is no easy task. But David, everything he is doing now began because he saw a child who, to put no finer point, was so distraught that he could not care if he lived or died, and your father could do nothing less than step in. Tell me David, who is he trying to help, himself or you? David, this is not a case of you feeling sorry for yourself, it's more a case of you getting off your backside and helping yourself a little. David, do you know the best part? He'll still love you anyway!"

George, though he had gone outside the possibilities of what David was doing, or not doing, he hoped that it would be a spearhead into looking at his fears and turning them around.

"David, please believe me when I say that you are not being selfish. Remember when it was said 'settling in your own skin'? Well that has nothing at all to do with you being selfish, it's a case of you having built a wall around yourself where it's safe and secure; and as things become difficult, you have a place to hide, but until you can do something outside that boundary you will always be on a merry-go-round. Never knowing, though good and bad, is all a big part of life where people become friends; and of course family. Though you give happiness, and at times smile at a compliment, accepting what is yours by right and offered so freely is difficult for you. But because of this invisible barrier, you are afraid to take on faith ... that isn't a life David, that is doing no more than existing.

David, as was normal, stared to the heavens, seeing nothing, his face contorted in deep thought.

"Grandfather, may I go for a walk in the gardens?"

"Of course, you may; but David, being scared does not make you weak. It will in time make you stronger, remember that piece of wisdom, okay?" He watched David walk from the study in hope that finally a mutual compromise had been reached between seemingly the two sides of David.

"It seems like David has something he needs to think out," as they watched him walk out the main door, not taking mind to anyone or anything. His Nan, as mothers do, gave concern to Edward without uttering a word. "I wouldn't worry, Mother, I should think that by now, we should be used to this side of David."

"Nan, what's for lunch?"

"I'll make you a salad sandwich, but I don't want you to overdo it, there's chicken in the oven - and for dinner, were having veal. Will you help me get things from the refrigerator?"

"David, there's something worrying you! You've been making your trip outside a little more than usual."

"I'm okay, Nan, I just have to get my actions right."

"Is there something worrying you? If there is, you know you can talk to me and your father."

"Everything is alright, Nan, honestly."

"David, we do worry about you ... okay, now where is that lettuce?"

"Miss Robinson, Mister Grant, we meet again. I hope circumstances will be more attune to respect within my court, which was not evident in conversations over the phone? Despite my misgivings, it's good to see you again. Now with all the pleasantries out of the way, I wish to see you both in my chambers."

("Don't stand there making a draught, please take a seat."

As requested they entered chambers taking the seat that was indicated to them.

A short distance from them, seated was a middle-aged gentleman who rose actuating the usual pleasantries as he smiled warmly with a handshake to the two colleagues.)
 
"Mister Grant, during our conversations on the telephone, I made the comment as to where this disciplinary enquiry was going, which as of yet, has not been put forward. So, I will put the suggestion forward again. Mister Whitmore is even more determined than I personally have ever seen him before. Be assured Mister Grant, if Mister Whitmore decides to make a case from this, he has the backing of his peers. Miss Robinson, I have read the full transcript regarding Timothy David Ward, and I am appalled at not just his treatment, but the total disregard of this child. Mister Heard will most certainly be put before a criminal court, and be assured that many in your department will also be facing charges of neglect - including yourself, Miss Robinson. And again, be assured that the prosecution, though they will stay within the bounds of their profession, will no doubt prosecute with the full force of the law ... and that is a fact, not a threat, Miss Robinson."

"Your honour, the suggestion is not feasible within the present circumstances. And with Mister Whitmore being a male, I can see no progress with him gaining adoption, which would make your suggestion immaterial."

"You are correct, Miss Robinson, as of now it is not a foregone conclusion, but Miss Robinson, Edward Whitmore is a member of the Bar Association, and a QC with respect from all at the 'Old Bailey'. Also, Miss Robinson, Mister Grant, Mister Whitmore is covering all expenses. As for the adoption of Timothy David Ward, Mister Whitmore will receive my full support of gaining custody of the child. In retrospect, it is a pity that the same concern was never shown by you, being he is your responsibility."

"That is not the case ... he was transferred to Briarcroft to achieve his full potential."

"Other than his potential, please show me once in his time at Briarcroft when Social Services were involved in his care?"

"That in itself was the responsibility of Briarcroft; where if needed, we would intervene.

"NO MISS ROBINSON, NO MATTER WHERE THE CHILD WAS PLACED, HE WAS STILL YOUR RESPONSIBILITY."

Calming herself, she looked sternly at the bureaucrat and the department lawyer, not hiding her contempt.

"Mister Grant, Miss Robinson, I want Miss Armstrong and the head of your department in my courtroom today; if not, you are both in contempt - do I make myself clear? I have tried to be reasonable, but your arrogance ... I suggest you respond to the request, NOW!" Not hiding her frustration.

("Sam, I want you to take charge of a case that will soon be coming your way; that is, if you will adjudicate?"

Sam Fenton was a man of modest means who lived for his children and his grandchildren ... which Edna had counted on. A few days after he had spoken to Edna, he was in his office checking the transcripts, and at times shaking his head in certain disbelief. Taking a sip of his coffee, his view went over to the photos on the wall and he smiled warmly at his own modest family.

"My... Edna, you must be desperate?"

"Sam, please. I am not asking you to break any laws; I just want to break some heads."

"Mine not included I hope?"

She went on to tell her counterpart of the case she wished him to officiate on. "This case may seem trivial; but Sam, before you judge, read the transcripts. Whatever you decide, I will not go against you, but there is more to this than meets the eye. I am too involved for what would be classed impartial.

"Can you tell me in what context do you mean 'meets the eye'?"

"Please read all transcripts, reading between the lines! I could advise what has happened to date, but I'm not sure the spoken word would tell the whole story of the case Personally the significance is wholly worse. If I get involved further it would be said I was leading you. No, I need to stay impartial."

"I understand. Do you want to set a date?"

"No, it's your case now, my involvement ended the second you agreed to take the case.")

David ate what he was given, but even as quiet as he was, there was no doubt that he was far from alright. David stood and offered to clean away the crockery when he fell to the floor with a thud. "David! Edward get here now!"

He ran to the breakfast table turning David as he examined him. "David, what happened?"

"I'm alright, I just slipped."

"David!" Was his Nan's reaction to what she felt was far from what really happened.

"I'm sorry Nan; it's my leg - it hurts."

"Where, David?"

"My leg," pointing to his hip.

"What are we going to do with you, David? Why didn't you tell us?"

"I don't know. I'm sorry ... I'm sorry."

"Should I ring the hospital?"

"Nan, no, please!"

"Yes, David! No arguments! A doctor is going to see you."
 
"He's on his way."

"I'll give him fifteen minutes, and I'll and open the gate. Mother, will you make a drink, please; and bring this little faker a drink as well."

"I'm sorry!"

"Never mind that, let's get you off this floor. After all that's been said, David, how are we ever going to get through to you? David, listen to me, social services, even the courts could send you away - is that what you want? They will think that its fear being the reason you are acting like you are."

"Here you are, David."

"I'm sorry, Nan."

"Never mind that for now, but I'm disappointed David!" David hung his head.

"I'm sorry, Nan." Edward wrapped his arms around him with concern.

"Let him have a minute," leaving David on the couch with his own thoughts.

"Mother, that was not the best thing to say, He's already depressed, and that comment will only make things a lot worse."

"I know, but I'd said it before I realised."

"I'd better go and open the gate."

"David, I'm a silly old woman; I'm sorry, I know you are a brave boy; but David, we worry about you so much."

"I'm sorry, Nan, I'm the silly one, but I don't want to be a burden."

"David, a lot of things you may be, but a burden ... never! God take me if I say anything untrue. David, if I had one wish, you would be it."

"David, this is Doctor Walters."

"Hello David, so your leg hurts, let me take a look, I promise I'll be gentle."

"It's okay, sir."

"How is he doctor?"

"It could be a muscle strain, his pain seems to be around the hip, there's nothing broken, but I would advise getting him an X-ray. If it gets too uncomfortable, give him Paracetamol if the pain continues."

He let the good doctor out, thanking him for his quick response.

As he got through the door, he saw David with tears in his eyes. "David, are you in pain?"

"No, sir. I'm sorry, sir."

"Sir? I see. So, I'm just 'sir' now?"

"No si... No Father."

"Then are you scared of me? I hope not ... God, I hope not. David, do you not know how much it hurts to see you like this? We'll say no more about it, but David, you need to tell us if something is wrong, okay?"

 Time for bed, he picked him up gently. "Don't complain, David" as he carried him to his room, laying him down as gently as humanly possible. Never mind your clothes, we'll deal with them tomorrow as he tucked him in, kissing the top of his head. "Goodnight, Son."

"I knew this was going to happen. I saw this before Christmas; how slow he was getting at times. That's the reason I was trying to get him the prosthesis. I knew something had to give, but not so soon. I'm sure it wouldn't have made any difference if he'd said anything. To be honest, I've been guilty of the same thing a time or two. Damn social services. I'm sorry, Mother."

"I worried too, but as long as they dig their heels in, what can we do? The only thing I ask Edward is you don't swear in front of David."

"It's too late to do anything right now ... but tomorrow, there will be hell to pay. They don't give a damn; all they are interested in right now is covering their a..."

"Edward! Calm down; I've never seen you so worked up! You're usually so composed."

The following morning when Edward went to get David, what he saw worried him. David, come on, I'll take you down for breakfast."

David raised his head to answer, but only get upset. I'm sorry ... I told you I'm stupid." Picking him up, he sat him on his knee.

"Now stop this, David, stupid - you know very well you are not. Come on, let's go down for breakfast."

After they had eaten, Edward carried David into the study, got the book he asked for, then left to get a drink. "This thing with David won't change until his future is sorted. He's close, but refuses to get as close as he'd like to. The poor kid hasn't got a clue where he belongs ... let alone live. Damn social services!" he said low enough not to let David hear. "I have a call to make."

"Edna ... David, how long before his future is settled," he explained the previous day's happenings. "David is getting depressed again, and I don't know how I can help, this has got serious, Edna. Please understand, my priority is David, above anything else, but I feel so helpless. He's twelve years old for god's sake. Check if I can sue social services. I mean it, Edna. I ask you to not take me lightly. They have screwed up constantly with his care and his well being. If they are trying to bury him to cover their cock-ups, they are sadly mistaken. You do something, or I will ... and that's a promise."

"Edward, calm down, it can't be as bad as you think."

"Edna, I mean it, you do something - or I will," slamming the receiver down.

"Sam, I need your help, NOW!" was the hard tone he gave his old friend.

"Calm down Edward, I'll help if I can."

He explained the previous day's events, leaving nothing important out. "You know me, Sam, I don't get worked up that easy, but I'm really worried about David's health. He's slipping into a depression; I've seen too many to know the signs. His future needs to be stable; otherwise it's going to kill him. If anything happens to David, all had better stay alert; because believe me, there will be no where they will be safe."

"Edward, go and see to David. I'll make my presence known, okay? "

"Thanks, Sam."

"David, can I join you? How is your leg?"

"It's not as bad as last night. Who were you shouting at?"

"Just your friendly social services(?), you know what they are like?"

"Don't get cross, but if I hadn't come here, you wouldn't get angry."

"David, please don't say things like that ... don't even think it - do you understand?" verbally kicking himself for his tone. "David, let me tell you something, I would live everyday again if I could, I've enjoyed every single minute of time you've been here. I wouldn't give or sell the memories ... not any of them, not even for a king's ransom. If there was anything I would change, it would be the number of days that you've been here, I'd double ... no, triple them. I love you Timothy David Whitmore, more than you will ever know," he stopped, concerned as he saw a tear run down David's cheek."

"You called me Whitmore?" Relief was so evident.

"That's because you are - and always will be."

"Father, I love you."

"David, I'm so glad, but please remember that when you get low, okay? I know you get depressed at times, but just remember what I have just said. David, this world would be at a loss, but believe me when I say that would be no comparison to what this house, this family would lose. This world is a better place with you in it, David ... never forget that. Come on, give your old duff a hug," no further encouragement was needed.

"I love you, Father."

"I love you too, little one."

"Nan!"