At Oscar’s house Frank sneaked passed the security guard then let himself in the front door. No one was home, so he decided to wait. He knew better than to return to Rick empty-handed

At the OSI Oscar dropped the twins off with Rudy, “If you get done early Steve and Jaime said they will take them off your hands.” He took the check out of his safe and he and Steve took it to the bank.”

After the errand Oscar and Danny went on their shopping spree and Steve went home to help Jaime with Joey.

Oscar and Danny met Dan’s friend Bryce and his dad. Dan got all of his shopping he bought something for everyone.

“It was after five when they arrived back home. “I better hurry and get dinner started. The gang will be bringing the kids home at any minute. How does my world famous chili sound?”

“That sounds great dad. Maybe everyone can just stay for dinner.” Dan pointed out.

“Great, then I’ll make enough for everyone.” The pulled into the drive and headed into the kitchen.

“I’m going to take this stuff on up to my room. I’ll be right back down.”

“Ok Dan. I’ll go turn on the news and get things started out here. You can join me in the kitchen. I want to here about this time machine you plan on building.”

Danny turned around. “Rudy told you huh?”

He sure did. He’s quite concerned about you. He’s afraid for as smart as you are, your going to do something stupid.”

“I would never do anything like that dad. So don’t worry.” He started up the stairs.

Oscar grabbed the hamburger out of the frig and set it on the counter. He thought he should change before he started He decided to go in the living room and turn on the TV so he could listen to the news.

The man named Frank was sitting in the living room waiting. “It’s about time you got home, Mr. Goldman. Now, my request is very simple, I want your son Marc. Just hand him over and there will be no bloodshed.”

Oscar turned to run, but the man known as Frank grabbed him “Don’t make this hard on yourself Mr. Goldman. Just hand the kid over.”

Danny hearing the commotion in his room came down to investigate

“Dad what going on?” He called as he stepped into the living room.

Frank turned to him his gun pointed at Oscar. “Danny run!!!” He cried

Danny made a run for the front door. He opened it and ran out.

The man tried to go after Danny but Oscar knocked the gun out of his hand and kicked it across the room. Oscar lunged for the gun; But the Man punched Oscar in the stomach knocking him backward then retrieved the gun.

“How did you get through the security I have set up?” Oscar demanded. Still doubled over He wanted to stall him to give Danny enough time to get away from the house.

“Let’s just say I have my ways.” Frank told him as he held the gun on him. He seemed to have forgotten all about Danny. “Even the best security has its flaws. Now as for your son Marc…”

Danny crept around to the window that looked into the living room He peaked inside. The man was still holding a gun on Oscar.

“What makes you think I’d turn him over to you?” Oscar seethed, as he stood upright.

“You will change your mind by the end of the night, I assure you. You see cause if you don’t, I’ll just have to shoot the rest of your kids. Now wouldn’t that be a lovely Christmas present?”

Oscar knew at least Steve and Jaime and possibly even Rudy were on their way with the younger kids. If he could just hold this mad man off until then, He also knew Danny was smart enough to wait for Steve and Jaime and wouldn’t get the security guard down by the gate.

“What do you want my son for anyway?” Oscar asked knowing full well what the answer was.

“I want him to work for me. I could use a kid like that. I tell you what, my partner is willing to pay a very handsome price for him.”

“He’s not for sale!!” Oscar thundered

‘Every man has his price.” The man said.

Oscar glanced down at the end table sitting by the chair. Danny’s asthma inhaler lay on the table.

Frank saw where Oscar’s eyes went he grabbed it off the table. “Now who do you suppose this belongs to?” He read the name on the label “Aw it belongs to the kid that just left. I heard you call him Danny. I sure hope the kid won’t need it” he cackled a very evil sounding laugh. It made Oscar cringe. Even though Dan hadn’t had any trouble for some time, Oscar knew he was helpless without it.

Danny ran down the lane that led to their house. He got to the end of the lane and he knew he was in trouble he reached in his pocket ‘oh know it’s in the house.’ He looked at his watch. ‘Steve and Jaime should be here in just a moment. They have an inhaler in their car. Rudy insisted they all carry one, just in case.’ He thought to himself. ‘Wait, what if he hears the car, I better stop them before the get to the house.’

Danny knew what direction they would be coming from. Keeping an eye on the house he made his way down the road a ways.

He stood along the side of the road waiting for Steve’s car to come by. The wheezing was getting worse he could hardly breathe. At just about 6:00 on the dot Dan saw headlights coming up the road. “It has to be them.” He said to himself. He began frantically waving his arms.

Jaime saw Danny first. “Steve stop!” She cried.

Steve pulled the car to a stop. “What is it? What’s wrong Dan?” He questioned.

“Steve I don’t think he can breathe.” She looked at Danny “Is it your asthma?”

Danny nodded. “Dan is Oscar in trouble?” Steve asked. Again Dan nodded. “Jaime there is an inhaler in the glove compartment…”

Jaime held it up. “I’m one step ahead of you,” she proclaimed.

Steve got out of the car, and Danny slid inside between Steve and Jaime. After using his inhaler Dan could breathe much easier.

“What’s going on Dan?” Steve asked.

“I don’t know someone broke into the house. They must have been there when we got home. I heard them talking in the living room so I went down to see what was going on.

Some guy I’ve never seen before was there with dad they were arguing about Marc. When I tried to see what was going on, dad told me to get out I knew you were coming so I waited for you here.”

Steve started to pull into the drive. “Maybe you shouldn’t do that.” Danny suggested. “What if he hears the car and gets scared, he might hurt dad.”

“He’s right Steve. “ Jaime agreed.

“You stay here with the kids…” Steve told Jaime.

“I’m going with you.” She started to get out of the car.

“Jaime, I don’t want these kids left alone. What if he comes out here?” Steve pointed out.

“Ok you’re right. I’ll stay with the kids.” She got back in the car and quietly closed the door.

“Dan were they still in the living room when you left them?” Steve asked before he left.

Danny hadn’t worn his coat when he left the house so Jaime was trying to get him warmed up. Dan nodded in response to Steve’s question.

Steve made his way back up the lane. Leaving Jaime and the kids in the car. Which was still on the road.

“He worked his way up to the house he could see in the living room Oscar was sitting on the couch the man, someone he too had never seen before stood on the other side of the room with a gun pointed at Oscar.

“Jaime” Steve whispered Oscar seems ok, I’m going in.”

In the car Jaime held her breath.

Steve went around to the other side of the house. He jumped up onto the deck rather than taking the steps, first they were covered with snow, and second they creaked something awful. He slowly opened the door, hoping no one would hear him.

He could hear the man talking to Oscar ‘good, he didn’t hear me.’ Steve thought to himself. He crept through the dining room and down the hall to the living room.

He was afraid that if he moved in on him he would make a move toward Oscar and make matters worse. He looked down ‘perfect’ he picked up one of the kids match box cars and threw is straight at the man’s hand that held the gun.

Gripping his hand in pain. He dropped the gun. Oscar grabbed for it. Steve came into the living room. “You ok Oscar?”

“Yea I’m fine.”

In the car Jaime breathed a sigh of relief. She continued to drive the car up the lane toward the house.”

“It’s ok Jaime come on in, “ Steve whispered not knowing she was already on her way.

While Steve sat the man down Oscar continued to hold the gun He went to the phone and dialed OSI security. He then handed the gun to Steve.

Jaime and the kids came in “What’s going on?” Marc wanted to know.

“Nothing Marc “ Steve lied. “It’s over now.”

Within a few moments Russ and the OSI security force were at Oscar’s house. They took Frank in to custody and left.

“Are you sure you’re alright.” Jaime asked again.

“Yea I’m fine.” He walked over to Danny. “You did great son. I was hoping you would wait for Steve and Jaime to get here.”

“I kept watching the clock I was hoping you wouldn’t be late. It would have been just my luck the twins would have wanted to stop someplace and the way you two spoil these kids I’m sure you would have.” Oscar chided, laughing. “

“Dad, what happened? Was it because of me?” Marc asked. Dan said you and the man were fighting about me.”

“No Marc it had nothing to do with you. Dan was mistaken. Weren’t you son?”

Dan caught the hint. “Yea I was mistaken diaper breath.” Danny ruffled Marc’s dark curly hair. “So don’t worry about it ok?”

Marc giggled, “Ok I won’t toilet breath.” The twins started laughing. They had always called each other names before, but this was the first since they had come to live with their uncle.

“Well I think it’s to late for my world famous chili but we need something for dinner.” Oscar commented. “I was going to have it all ready for everybody.”

“I’ll just whip up some hamburgers, “ He continued.

“Are you sure your alright?” Jaime asked again as they sat with him in the kitchen.

“Yea, I’m fine. Listen, I don’t want Marc to know anything about this. The kid has it hard enough without thinking he was the reason for everything that happened here tonight.”

”Our lips are sealed.” Steve said.

“Good keep it that way.” Oscar expressed

After making sure the kids were upstairs playing Jaime turned to Oscar. “So what did he want?”

“He wanted Marc. Lord only knows what for? Believe it or not, he actually wanted to buy him.”

“I have a pretty good idea. And it doesn’t surprise me that he offered money for him.” Steve guessed.

“Yea I have a feeling I know too. I don’t think I’ll ever let the kid out of my sight. I’m so glad you agreed to tutor the boys full time. I wasn’t going to have you teach Joey, just the twins. Because I felt he should have the social interaction. But in view of all that’s happened here tonight, I think the kids are safer here.”

”I’m not so sure about the Oscar, this is twice someone has ‘gone over the fence’ so to speak broken your security and gotten into your house.’ Steve pointed out.

“I guess your right. Maybe I’ll beef up the security around here. Hire more guards that sort of thing. That might help.

“That might be a good idea.” Jaime agreed.

“I suppose you and the kids could move into the OSI building, that’s pretty safe” Steve joked.

It was a late dinner, but everyone enjoyed it.

“Well we better get going, I want to see how Russ is coming with the integration. I might be able to help some way. I’ll keep you informed,” He turned to Jaime “Are you coming?”

“Right behind you.” They stood to leave.

“Oscar if you have any more trouble just use that panic button that rings in the guard house.” Steve told him

“I will I’ll see you guys tomorrow. Thanks for everything.”

“So do you guys want to watch a little TV while I put Joey to bed?” Oscar suggested after Steve and Jaime left.

“Yea “ The three of them shouted. ‘D dad thanks “

“For what Matt?”

“L letting J Jaime g go on t teaching us. I r really d didn’t w want t to g go b back t to school.”

A look of concern came over Oscar. “Matt, I thought that stutter was getting better?”

“M me t to.” Matt said.

“Well maybe you need a little more speech. I’ll arrange it.”

Oscar let the twins stay up way past their bedtime. “So are you guys excited about Santa paying a visit tomorrow night.”

“You bet!!” Marc exclaimed.

“I just hope he got that change of address card I sent him saying you guys live here. I’d hate to see him go to your old house instead.” Oscar teased.

“He wouldn’t would he?” Marc sounded almost scared.

Sitting on a chair in the living room, Danny smiled to himself.

“I don’t think you have to worry.” Oscar assured them.

Later Oscar was getting ready to read the twins their bedtime story. When a knock came to the door.

“Who is it?” Oscar asked.

“It’s me.” Steve said through the door. “Can I see you a minute?”

Oscar laid the book down. He went out into the hall.

“Oscar The guy who broke into your house is named Frank. He was working for a man named Rick we can’t find him. From what Frank told us, he spilled his guts by the way. He said that this Rick would stop at nothing to get Marc. Jaime and Rudy are downstairs we are staying here tonight. I don’t want him to show up…

December 23-24

“Steve are you sure he will come here tonight?” Oscar stood motionless.

“Only if Russ doesn’t catch him. They are staking the place out. Everyone is on guard. I’m not letting Marc out of my sight not even for a second.”

“You’re going to sleep in with the twins? I have to warn you they both snore.”

“Well then I guess I won’t fall asleep will I?” Steve added.

“Ok but not one word to the twins as to why you are really here.” Oscar ordered.

“No problem in that. I won’t breathe a word.” Steve promised.

“Ok then come on in.” He opened the door to the twin’s room “Hey guys look who showed up to read you your bedtime story.” He turned to Steve “They love the night before Christmas. That’s what I was going to read them.”

“Ok then shall we?” Steve said picking up the book. Matt had climbed into Marc’s bed so they could listen to the story.

“Steve?” Marc asked after Oscar left. “Why did you really come by? Does it have anything to do with what happened earlier?”

“No, it’s like Oscar said. I wanted to read to you guys, this happens to be my favorite story. So just lie back and relax.”

Before Steve could finish calling ‘now dasher now Dancer…’ the twins were fast asleep.

Steve closed the book and set it on the bookcase. After he moved Matt back to his own bed, he sat back down in the chair, and kicked off his shoes. He sat with his back up against the window and kept a constant watch on the door. No one was getting into this room tonight.

At 3:00 in the morning Steve could hardly stay awake, he stood up and paced the floor in the room. He stepped back over to the bookcase and grabbed a pile of books. He set them on the floor in front of him and started reading.

15 minutes later there was a light tap on the door. Steve got up and walked over to the door. “Yea?”

“Steve it’s Russ, we got him. He’s in custody. Marc is safe.”

Steve breathed a sigh of relief. He moved Matt back over to Marc’s bed and then lay down on Matt’s bed. Oscar was right they snored something awful. ‘Maybe Rudy needs to remove their adenoids or something’ Steve thought and was soon sleeping too.

December 24, 1975 (morning)

Oscar and Jaime sat in the kitchen. The rest were still asleep. “Are they sure they got him?” Oscar wanted to know.

“Yea, Russ caught him sneaking around the twin’s window at about 3:00 in the morning.” Jaime told him. “I heard him tell Steve they got him. I went to talk to Steve but he was fast asleep in Matt’s bed.”

Oscar looked up from his cup of coffee. “Where was Matt?” He grilled

“In with Marc.” Steve was so tired he fell asleep with his clothes on.” Jaime explained.

“Well if he stayed up that late I can see where he would be.” Oscar agreed.

“Do I smell coffee?” Rudy asked coming into the kitchen.

“You sure do. I’ll get you some.” Jaime got up and poured him a cup “They caught him late last night.” Jaime informed Rudy.

“That’s good is everyone still asleep?”

“Yea. By the way Oscar tells me your little lab assistant wants to build a time machine?”

“Yea, and you want to know the really scary part. I think he can do it. He showed me on the computer how he has it all mapped out. Makes me want to reconsider the Christmas present I built for him.”

“Rudy!! You didn’t a computer. Where are we going to put it the basement?” Oscar wondered.

“No. This is something new. Everything is compacted into a box about so big. Dan kind of gave me the idea when he suggested Marc’s new limbs be compact and grow with him.”

“Can we see it?” Jaime asked.

“First thing tomorrow morning.” Rudy teased, “Danny might come down at any minute we better wait.”

“I can’t wait to see it.” Oscar said.

“Same here.” Jaime added.

“Can’t wait to see what?” Steve asked joining them.

“The present Rudy made for Danny, it’s a…” Jaime looked around. “It’s a computer.” She whispered to him.

“I’m with you I’m anxious to see it. But where is Oscar supposed to put ii? In the garage?”

“No Rudy made it small the whole thing fits in those two boxes we brought in.”

“No kidding?” Steve was astonished.

“That’s right” Rudy said. “I can hardly believe it myself. But I tested it and it actually works better than the one in my lab.”

“Really?” The three of them looked at him.

Rudy nodded and took another sip of coffee. “Anyway Oscar you really need to talk to Danny though, he intends to go through this.”

“Go through with what, why do I feel like I came into the movie after intermission. Steve wondered.

Rudy turned to Steve, “Danny intends to build a time machine for a school science project.”

“No fooling, I’m sure he’ll get the job done. I don’t know if I ever met a kid as smart as Danny.” Steve finished.

“That’s what we’re afraid of.” Oscar told him. He looked at the quizzical look on Steve’s face “Pal I really don’t want my 12 year old son traveling trough time all by himself.” Oscar informed him.

“I see your point. I just think the idea is amazing. Suppose he did accomplish it. Think of the possibilities Maybe we could go back and stop the assignation of Kennedy or change the outcome of other historical events.” Steve was quick to point out.

“And what if something goes wrong, and he’s trapped in the past or even the future. No we really need to discourage it and have him work on something else.” Rudy contemplated.

“What else could he work on?” Oscar wondered.

“What if he builds a computer like Rudy did?” Jaime suggested.

“That sounds like a great idea. Rudy stated. “I would love one for the lab, maybe after he sees the one I built it might peak his interest.” Rudy continued.

“I certainly hope so” Oscar mused.

Matt and Marc came down to breakfast first. They were surprised to see the kitchen full of people. “Morning guys Jaime is making something good for breakfast it will be ready in just a little bit. Why don’t you go watch TV or something?”

They headed for the living room. Then came right back in, “Can we go back to bed?” Marc asked.

“Why?” Oscar wanted to know.

“Cause then when we wake up we can open our presents.” They announced

“It doesn’t work that way guys. You have to make it through the day first. Now go watch TV for a while.”

After they left for the living room Steve told Oscar about the night before.

“Marc wondered what I was really doing here?” He told him

“What did you tell him?” Oscar gave him a sharp look.

“I didn’t say a word. I told them that it is my favorite story. I don’t think he bought it though.”

“I was afraid of that I just don’t want him to think this had anything to do with him, I’m afraid of what it could do to him.” Oscar said.

“Me too.” Rudy interjected.

“Me too. What?” Danny wondered as he walked in to he kitchen.

“We were just talking about what happened last night Dan.” Oscar explained. “I don’t want your brothers to know what went on here.”

“I understand. What smells so good?” Dan asked.

Jaime made a quiche for breakfast; just don’t tell your brothers that’s what it’s called or they will never eat it.”

“I understand that too.” Dan laughed. Then he continued, “What’s going on today?”

“I thought we would just take it easy today. Just sit around and maybe I’ll make my world famous chili tonight. Sound good?”

“Sounds great to me.” Dan left to join the twins watching TV.

“Sometime I wonder about that boy.” Oscar commented

“What do you mean Oscar?” Rudy asked

“He is so smart, but he still likes cartoons.” Oscar reminded

“Oscar he is only 12. I have said it before we can’t forget that.” Rudy continued.

“I would sure like it if you were to test him sometime Rudy. I would like to see just how smart he actually is.” Oscar went on.

“I would love to Oscar, I’m just afraid the results might scare us.” He looked around the group. “Maybe after the first of the year.”

“What do you mean ‘scare us’?” Oscar asked.

“I’m just saying that I think Danny is one heck of a smart kid. I told you earlier Oscar I’m sure he’s off the charts. What does the school measure his intelligence at?”

“They never really said, they just said he made it into the school” Oscar explained.

Marc and Matt came into the kitchen stopping the flow of conversation. “Where are the cookies?” Marc asked

“We don’t have any boys.” Oscar told them

The twins looked at each other. “W we have t to have c cookies.” Matt stressed.

“We’ll be eating breakfast in just a few minute, something better than cookies. Oscar noted.

“Dad, the cookies aren’t for us, they are for Santa Claus. He comes tonight…”

“Yea Oscar.” Steve finished. “Don’t you know you leave cookies and milk out for Santa?”

“Oh I plum forgot. Well we’ll come up with something, ok guys?”

“I’ll bake some this afternoon.” Jaime assured them. “That way they will be nice and fresh for Santa. You guys can help.”

“Ok “ The said and ran back to the living room to watch TV.

Oscar turned to Rudy and pointed to Steve. “You know, I think he still believes in Santa.”

Rudy looked over at Steve then back to Oscar “You mean you don’t?”

“Well I guess I better start.” Oscar laughed

When the quiche finished baking everyone sat at the dining room table to eat. Joey sat playing with his food more than eating it. “What ‘s the Matter Joey?” Oscar asked. “Don’t you like your eggs?”

“They’re good,” Joey stated his voice barely audible.

“Well something is wrong. What’s bothering you?”

“Daddy is Santa really coming here tonight, like Marc said?”

“He sure is.” Oscar assured.

“Why is he coming?” Joey wanted to know.

“Well he’s coming to leave you presents.” Oscar explained.

“Ok,” Then under his breath he added ‘I guess.’

“After I get the breakfast dishes cleaned up I’m going to need some help baking cookies, anybody interested?”

“Me” Marc said.

“W we’ll h help with the d dishes t too.” Matt added.

“While you’re doing that, I think I’ll run to the house and pick up some things.” Steve said.

“Why don’t you guys just plan to stay again tonight I’m sure these guys will want to get started early on things in the morning, that way we won’t have to wait for everyone to get here.” Oscar suggested.

“Then I better ride with Steve. I need some things too.” Rudy added

“We’ll be back in about an hour. Do you have everything you need for you chili?” Steve asked.

“Everything is here.” Oscar said.

“Great Let’s go Rudy. We’ll see you guys in about an hour. I expect those cookies to be ready.”

“They are for Santa.” Marc said.

“HO, HO, HO “ Steve said as he went out the door…

December 24 afternoon/evening

“So what kind of cookies should we make?” Jaime asked after the breakfast dishes were washed a put away. Chocolate chip or sugar?”

Matt and Marc looked at one another. “Better make it both. Just to be on the safe side.” They stated.

“Ok then, are you three going to help me?” she asked

“Yea” Marc and Matt said.

“Not me.” Joey said. ‘I don’t want Santa to come here.’ He muttered to himself. “I think I will go watch TV.”

“I’d rather you not watch anymore TV for a while Joey.” Oscar pointed out. “You have watched quite a bit already this morning. Why don’t you color or look at a book.”

He noticed the look Jaime gave him. “I read an article that said kids watch way to much TV, far more than when we were kids.”

“Oscar, did you even have a TV when you were Joey’s age?” Jaime wondered

“Well no.” Oscar said.

“Well that’s why they watch more. But I do agree that they should find other things to do.” She agreed. “By the way, where did you read this article?” She want to know.

After a long pause Oscar answered. “Well, uh I read it in uh ‘parents’ magazine.” Oscar explained.

Jaime gave him a loving smile. “That’s a good magazine Oscar, you shouldn’t be ashamed to read it.

“Can I practice writing my name?” He asked in a very quiet voice.

“You sure can.” Jaime exclaimed. “You can use the practice.”

So Joey sat writing his name and the twins helped make the cookies.

Danny had been reading in the living room when he came into the kitchen. “Dad I’m going up to my room for a while.”

”Is anything wrong.”

“No, I think I’m catching a cold or something.”

“Ok just so long as I know where you are. We still have to talk about what we were going to discuss last night.”

"You mean about the time machine, dad, if you would just see the way I have it figured out…”

“Dan, we’ll talk about it later. Ok?”

“Yea I’ll be in my room.”

Oscar sat talking to Jaime while the cookies baked. “Have you noticed anything different about Joey today?” He wondered

“No, well what do you mean?”

“I don’t know he just seems more withdrawn than usual I mean not as bad as before, but more so than recently.” Oscar tried to explain.’

“No I really haven’t. He seems fine to me.” Jaime said.

Oscar walked up behind his youngest son. “Hey Joey, how are you doing?”

Joey didn’t answer. He just sat writing his name. Oscar looked over to where Jaime stood with a pan full of cookies ready to go into the oven.

“See what I mean?” Oscar again called his name. Still Joey didn’t respond. By now the twins looked up from frosting the cookies that were cool enough to frost.

Oscar called his name louder this time. Joey finally looked up from his work. He looked at Oscar and smiled. Then he went right back to his writing.

“He spent the day with you yesterday. Did you guys give him peanut butter by any chance? I don’t have it in the house. Do you?”

‘We have it in the house, but Oscar we would never give it to him.” Jaime assured him

“He couldn’t have gotten into it by accident could he?” Oscar probed.

“We watched him pretty close, I don’t think he even touched it.” Jaime continued.

“Well something is wrong. He has hardly talked all morning, you saw him at breakfast?”

“I did notice he seemed a little distant, but never put two and two together.”

Oscar reached over and pulled the writing book away form Joey. “Hey dad why did you do that?” Joey asked.

“I just wanted to see how well you are doing.” Oscar lied. He handed the tablet back to Joey. “Here. Jaime is right, you do need the practice.”

“Well that’s a good sign.” Oscar noted

Jaime placed the pan in the oven for the next batch to bake. “He’ll be fine. Maybe he is just concentrating on what he is doing.” Jaime suggested.

“Yea you’re probably right. I just don’t want him to go back to the way he was when he first moved here. How is he doing with his schoolwork by the way? When I went for conferences back in November they told me he was reading at a second grade level?”

“Well he has stayed right there. We are working more with numbers. He knows all of his letters and was reading but not comprehending anyway we are working on it.”

“Well that’s good. So he is working right where a four year old should be?” Oscar drilled.

“Maybe slightly above.” Jaime explained.

“Well that’s good. I’d rather have him a little above than a little below.” Oscar continued.

Steve and Rudy came through the back door. Well that’s what they called it. It was the door that came into the kitchen from the garage. They had their arms full “I still have another load in the car.” Steve said as he laid the grocery sacks on the table. “I bought some snack stuff, cheese and crackers and all that sort of stuff.” He took the bags from Rudy and set them down on the table too.

“I’ll be right back.” He continued as he went back out to the car.

“Dan?" Oscar said when he came back into the kitchen. “Are you feeling any better?”

“No not really I have a cold. I don’t feel so hot.” Danny sat down at the table.

“Want a cookie?” Marc asked holding one out for him. “They are pretty good."

“No thanks. Dad do we have any cold medicine?” He asked

“I don’t know son. I don’t think we do.” Oscar reached over “Dan you have a fever.”

“I think I’ll go back up to my room and rest I’m so tired.” Danny said.

“Well it has been a very hectic time.” Oscar said.

“That’s the understatement of the year.” Rudy said. He too reached over and felt Dan’s forehead. “You are warm. Listen Dan; I’ll see what I can do. You just go rest.”

Danny went back upstairs. “What do you think Rudy?” Oscar wondered.

“I think that he was out to long yesterday without his coat. And now he has a cold. But some cold medicines don’t interact well with the medicine he takes for his asthma. We’ll just have to wait it out. See how bad the cold gets. And keep an eye on his fever. Right now he really doesn’t need to take much, we’ll give him some aspirin and see how that goes.”

“Ok I’ll watch him.” Oscar said. “In fact I think I’ll go see how he’s doing.”

Oscar walked up to Danny’s room. “How do you feel?” Oscar asked.

“Ok I guess, I’ve had colds before and I’m sure I’ll have many more before I’m finished” Danny stated as he sat on the edge of the bed. “I heard you taking on my way down. Is Joey alright?”

“I don’t know something is bothering him I was afraid he had eaten peanut butter or something like that.

Down in the kitchen Steve and Jaime were talking. “Steve, did you notice Joey eat anything with peanut butter yesterday? Oscar was wanting to know”

“No but we did have that plate of stuff the Anderson’s brought over. I know it had candy on it, including peanut butter cups. He could have eaten one without us seeing.”

‘What was that?” Oscar said as he came back into the kitchen.

“I was telling Jaime that the neighbors brought over a plate of goodies the other day it had peanut butter cups on it, maybe Joey ate one.”

“That could be it then.” Oscar speculated.

“How was Danny?” Rudy asked.

“I took his temperature. It was 99.3 nothing to get to alarmed about.”

“Not at all. Just give it time. We’ll all be here tonight so if anything goes wrong…”

“Why don’t we set up the stuff Steve and Rudy brought? I could go for some cheese and crackers I’m tired of the cookies. She turned to the twins. “You guys did a great job decorating them she exclaimed.

“Why don’t you guys take Joey and go play a game or something. I better get my chili started. It takes most to the day to cook.” Oscar said.

They spent the rest of the afternoon in the kitchen talking while Oscar’s chili cooked on the stove.

When it was time to eat Rudy said he’d go get the kids. He wanted to see how Danny was doing. He sent the kids downstairs and then went into Danny’s room. “How are you feeling Dan?”

“A little better I think. I’m just really tired.”

“Do you want to come down and eat dinner?” Rudy asked

“Not really I just want to sleep.” Dan told him

“Ok if you need anything just holler someone will hear you.” Rudy gave him a little wink. Before he left he felt Dan’s forehead. ‘Fever’s gone.” He said. “That’s good.”

He went back downstairs. “Is Danny coming?” Oscar asked.

“He says he wants to rest. I am a little worried he shouldn’t be that tired.” Rudy pointed out. Some kids do get tired with colds, but that’s after they take cold medicine.”

“I’ll keep an eye on him tonight. “I’m sure it’s nothing and the Dan will be his old self in the morning.”

“Oscar, the chili is wonderful.” Jaime said.

“It is good,” Steve agreed.

After dinner Danny came downstairs. “Would you like some chili?” Oscar asked.

“If it’s not to much trouble. Boy, I think I fell asleep. I feel better though.” Danny announced.

“I’m glad. I was getting worried about you.” Oscar sounded concerned

“I guess I should have told you, when I catch a cold, I usually go all out. All I want to do is sleep.”

“I was wondering?” Rudy said. “Most people don’t get that tired with a cold. We were a little worried.”

“Well I’m fine believe me. I usually have it really bad for a couple of days, then it’s gone.”

“Well that’s good to know. Anything else we need to know about.” Oscar wondered.

“No that’s about it.” Danny assured them.

“Good. What are your brothers doing?” Oscar asked

“Playing checkers.” Danny told him.

“I have a lot of work tonight. Those presents under the tree are from me. I have a store room in the basement that has more stuff that’s from Santa.”

Jaime turned to Steve “Wasn’t he accusing us of spoiling them just a little while ago.”

“I do believe he was.” Steve laughed.

Later that night after the twins and Joey had gone to bed Oscar and Steve slipped down the basement and brought up the rest of the gifts.

“Now I need a little help putting all this stuff together.” He looked at Steve. “You want to help ‘Santa’?”

“I thought you would never ask.”

They worked most of the night putting the toys together. “I don’t think General Motors could have kept up with us.” Steve said when they finished.

“Well I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to call it a night. These past few weeks have been so stressful. All I want is to get through Christmas without any more problems.” Oscar said.

“Here, here.” They all agreed.

Before turning in Oscar made his usual rounds checking on the kids one last time before turning in.

He started in Danny’s room. Danny was fast asleep. He had kicked the sheets off so Oscar went over to him and covered him up. One more time he touched Dan’s forehead. Nothing.

The twins were next. Matt had again fallen asleep with Marc. ‘Aw let it go.’ Oscar thought to himself. He threw an extra blanket on the two of them.

Lastly he opened Joey’s door. Joey’s ‘snoopy’ night light lit up one side of the room. Oscar stepped inside. At first he thought he was seeing things but as he got closer to Joey’s bed, it was obvious. Joey’s bed was empty…

Oscar; not believing what he was seeing ripped the covers off of Joey’s bed hoping the small blonde haired blue-eyed boy would be at the foot of the bed. He rushed back to the door and flipped on the overhead light. Frantically Oscar searched the room. Joey was gone.

“Jaime, Steve Rudy” he called. They all came running.

“What is it Oscar?” Steve asked as he made his way down the hall.

“It’s Joey, he’s not in his room.” Oscar told them

“He could not have gotten to far.” Rudy said. “He’s only four. Four year olds only move so fast.”

“Yea, only as fast as greased lightning” Jaime mumbled.

“I’ll look around outside.” Steve said. “I’ll see if anything has been disturbed.”

Oscar agreed that would be a good idea. They headed down stairs “I can’t believe this just what have I done wrong?” Oscar asked.

“You haven’t done anything wrong “ Jaime told him. “You are doing a wonderful job with the boys.”

“I’m beginning to wonder.” Oscar surmised

Steve started to put on his coat. “Be careful out there.” Rudy told him. “It’s very cold.”

“I’ll only be out for a minute.” Steve stepped out on to the porch. He scanned the area, and then walked around the whole house. Nothing. He went back inside. “I don’t think he went outside. There are no fresh footprints in the snow. We got a fresh layer today. I mean it snowed all day. He must still be in the house.”

Jaime listened. “Wait I do hear something. Come with me.”

They followed her back upstairs, and into Joey’s room. Jaime opened Joey’s closet. There he was on the floor hiding under a blanket.

Oscar bent over and picked him up. “Joey, you scared me. Why aren’t you in bed?”

“I don’t want Santa to come! I don’t want Santa to come!” Joey cried.

“Why not?” Steve asked sounding surprised.

“Santa is bad. Just like the others.” Joey told them.

Oscar carried Joey over to his bed and sat him down. “I don’t understand son, what others.”

“The other people who came into our house.” He told them

Oscar looked at Steve and Jaime then back to Joey. “Son Santa is good. He brings you presents. That’s why your brothers are so happy about him coming. Do you think I would let someone in who would hurt you?”

“You let the others in.” Joey looked up at him.

Oscar shook his head. “No Joey I didn’t let them in. They broke in. I didn’t want them to come in. But Santa is fine.”

“Joey looked puzzled. “Listen Joey; those other people who came into our house weren’t invited. I told Santa it was ok. Do you understand?”

“I think so.” Joey was starting to fall asleep on Oscar’s lap. Oscar stood up and lay him down in his bed; he pulled the covers up around his chin.

“Let’s go downstairs for just a minute.” Oscar suggested.

“Can you imagine what was going through that kid’s mind? I should have figured it out.”

“None of us knew what was going on with him, but at least that explains what was wrong with him earlier today.”

“Yea, I have to be very honest, I thought he was regressing, he was actually scared. I think the poor kid was scared to death.” Oscar added. He looked at clock on the wall. “We better try and get some sleep, I’m sure the twins will be up early. Julie said they used to get up at 6:00 in the morning.”

“Well we better go to bed then” Jaime said it’s 3:00 now.”

“Thanks for all the help you guys have given me since the kids have come to live with me.” Oscar said as they started up the stairs.

“Don’t mention it.” Steve said.

“We want to help all we can.” Jaime added.

“Oscar they are our kids now too.” Rudy finished.

“I really appreciate that guys.”

December 25, 1975

“Dad, dad” Oscar heard the small voices from a distance at first, then they grew louder. “Dad, dad” he rolled over there were Marc and Matt standing beside him. Oscar looked at the clock. ‘6:00 on the dot’ he thought to himself.

“What is it guys?” He asked.

“It’s time to get up. We have to see what Santa left us.” Marc said.

“Ok, Listen we had a little trouble last night. When I went to check on Joey he wasn’t in bed.”

“Is he alright?” Marc asked.

“Yea we found him hiding in the closet. We only got to bed a couple of hours ago, why don’t you guys go play a game, or go back to bed. I’ll come and get you when we get up.”

Dejected the twins left and went back to their own room. “I’ll never go back to sleep.” Marc said closing the door.

“S same h here.” Matt agreed.

The crawled back into Marc’s bed and within minutes were soon snoring again.

They were still snoring two hours later at 8:00 when Oscar went to get them. He decided to just let them sleep.

“Jaime, Steve and Rudy were already in the kitchen when he got downstairs. “Where are the twins?” Jaime asked as Oscar came into the kitchen.

“They are still sleeping, they were up a 6:00, but I told them to go back to bed. They must have been tired “

“I’m sure they won’t sleep to much longer. Maybe we better sit in the living room so we are there when they come down.” Steve suggested.

“Good idea.” Rudy said. They all got up and headed into the living room.

And not a moment to soon, they no more got sat down when Marc, Matt and Dan came bursting down stairs. Joey was a little timid He took it more slowly than his older brothers. The older three dashed into the living room. Joey was close behind. He quietly looked into the living room. “Come on in son. “ Oscar encouraged. “See what Santa left you.”

Slowly Joey made his way into the living room. His face broke into a huge smile when he saw all the toys under the tree.

Dan gave Oscar a quizzical look. “What’s going on dad?” he asked.

“Joey was a little scared last night, we found him hiding in the closet. “

“What? When?” Dan asked.

“We went to check on you kids last night and he wasn’t in bed. I of course thought some thing dreadful had happened. We found him hiding in the closet. He said he was afraid of Santa.”

“I can believe that. Dad he has never known what Christmas was. In fact he always seemed to be worse at Christmas.”

“What do you mean.”

“Well Grandma Jenkins always made these peanut butter cookie things they were Joey’s favorite.”

“Sometimes I wonder how he ever came out of that at all.” Oscar muttered more to himself.

Then he turned to the kids. “Well gang shall we get started. Joey do you want to help pass out presents?” Oscar said.

“Yea, I can be Santa Claus.” Joey smiled.

“That’s right. Let’s start with this, we all anxious to see this one right over here its to Dan from Rudy, can you help me push it over to him?”

Joey nodded and they shoved the two large boxes over by Danny.

Danny looked at the boxes “I didn’t know this was for me.” He started to rip the paper off and opened the box.

“WOW!!” He exclaimed. It’s a computer.” He looked at Rudy, “Where’s the rest of it though?”

“Here.” Rudy said. “I’ll show you. It’s all inside this box “

‘No way! That’s not possible.”

“Come on let’s take it upstairs I’ll hook it up for you.”

“Hey you two you have to wait till the rest of the presents are opened. “ Marc cried.

“H he’s r right.” Matt finished.

“Ok let’s just set it over here then. I’ll help you with it later.”

“Thanks Rudy.”

“Hey I enjoyed building it.”

“That’s what you were working on!”

“Rudy blushed yea that’s what I was working on Dan.”

“Here Rudy you’re next this one if from me.” Oscar handed Rudy the gift Steve had bought just a couple of days before. “I want to get one for myself.” He noted.

Rudy opened the box. It was a watch the same one the twins had picked out when they went shopping with Steve. The twins laughed so hard Oscar had to open his watch.

“Well thanks boys. Did you pick this you pick this out yourselves?”

“Yea we picked it out, and Steve bought it.” Marc said.

Oscar turned to his friend. “Thanks Steve.”

“I told them they can pay me back when the become rich and famous.” Steve teased.

The rest of the present opening went well everyone got what they wanted. Oscar and Steve started picking up the wrapping paper while Rudy and Danny went up to his room to hook up the computer.

“I tried it out myself.” Rudy told him as he plugged it in. “It works better than the one in my office. I wouldn’t mind one for myself.”

“Maybe I’ll build you one for my science project.” Danny told him.

“I was hoping you would want to do that.” Rudy explained. “You can work on it in the lab if you want.”

“Thanks. I think I will.”

Downstairs Steve and Oscar continued to clean up the mess in the living room. “This has been quite December.” Oscar noted.

“December isn’t over yet.” Steve observed.

Oscar stood and looked at him “Don’t say that Steve.”