Story 08 – Part 4 – Living in a Forest

“How are you doing?” Nero asked Jordan.

“Still shocked that my old parents have decided to go live in a forest,” Jordan admitted. “I have no idea what they discussed with Carmine, but apparently they’ve decided it would be a good vacation and a chance to help some under privileged.”

“Still, they get their dream of being grandparents for a bunch of little children,” Nero said. “Though, technically I suppose they’re godparents.”

“They’re still living in the middle of nowhere.”

“Something you’ve done many times.”

“I’m military.”

Both men started laughing as they watched the children happily pack their things. The kids looked just as excited to have the Thompsons coming as the Thompsons looked going. Nero and Wilanna had agreed to be host parents for two of the children next school year. The youngest of the children without a family was going to be adopted by the Fabers. The rest had decided to go with the Kenti tribe for at least the year.

“I think Lisa likes her new sister,” Boomer said.

Nero and Jordan looked over as four-year-old Izzy held Lisa. Because of how young Izzy was, the other children decided that she should be adopted when the option was presented. Though several had expressed a desire for adoption, they had decided to wait for a while because they did not want to feel like a burden. They were told they were not, but they were insistent on at least waiting before they chose to come back.

Carmine came in and started talking to the children. After a while, the children started stacking their small bags in a pile. With all of the commotion it seemed almost like Christmas again. Nero did wish that he could understand what was being said, but when the children started giving everyone hugs it was obvious that it was time to go.

“So, when am I going to see my parents again after you leave them in the middle of nowhere?” Jordan asked Carmine.

“They’ll be well taken care of,” Carmine assured. “Depending on how they behave, you could probably come and visit in two summers.”

“What’s in two summers?”

“Oh, Tech and I are going on an extreme road trip after his senior year of high school,” Carmine explained. “You’re welcome to come with us. Vire’s still debating, but currently this trip can have several more travelers.”

“I’ll have to think about it,” Jordan admitted.

“He’ll go if Vire goes,” Nero inputted.

“Nero,” Jordan growled.

“Would it make a difference if I told you the reverse is also true?” Carmine asked.

Nero started laughing at the surprised look on Jordan’s face. He had actually asked Carmine if Jordan had a chance with Vire, since he did not want to tease his friend if it was never going to work out. Nero had been pleasantly surprised to learn that Vire was willing to give a relationship a try.

“I thought she didn’t like camping,” Jordan said. “Junk yards, yes; forests, no.”

“Please don’t tell me you’re really that dense,” Nero grumbled.

“Um, do you really want me to answer that?”

“Cautious,” Carmine said. “But don’t worry, the family would approve of you.”