Engaging Dimitri

[Dimitri Demetropolous]

Chapter One

“Ha ha. That is too funny man! I never knew this crap was actually good.” Jason said, grabbing another handful of popcorn.

“I told you. Carol Burnett is the best!” Dimitri replied.

This was their second date and Dimitri was more than excited. He’d know Jason DiBiaso only four weeks and they seemed to click on every level.

Dimitri spent his time at Saint Joseph School, usually walking the halls alone. It wasn’t until he’d met Alice, and was introduced to several other students that he finally started to make friends. Alice opened up doors for him that were both new and surreal. She brought out a confidence that he didn’t know he had. So one day after shopping with Rocco Ritchie, Dimitri bumped into a handsome young man named Jason.

Jason, was the son of a musician. He had long crimson hair, and green eyes. He was raised on Mercy Island and had been brought up to be bad. He didn’t choose it. Then at some point in his life, he decided he didn’t like being bad. So he chose t work for the good and moved to Paragon. It took him a long time to earn the trust of his fellow heroes. Miss Liberty stated on his behalf,

“A hero is only human. To admit they have made mistakes, to admit fault, is the true character of a hero. Judge not his past, but what he works for towards the future.”

After the Invasion, Jason became a valuable asset in the War Zone. No one knew that he had swapped sides so he could easily infiltrate enemy territory and provide valuable information. In the Isles he was known as Enraged. But the heroes had come to call him Engager. Not only for his unique abilities to engage the enemy head on, but to engage them in the most perplexing of conversations. That was one of the first things that Dimitri found attractive about him.

Jason was around six feet four inches tall. He was broad shouldered and well defined. His body was solid. The day he and Dimitri met he was wearing slacks and a V neck T Shirt. When Dimitri fell to the ground, his glasses were knocked off. When he found them, he looked up and saw a large hand extended down to him.

“Sorry about that mate.”

Jason insisted on buying Dimitri lunch for knocking him down, so they went to visit Nova Daystar in Overbrook. They had noodles and talked for hours.

Now four weeks later, Dimitri was at Jason’s flat, and they were watching syndicated episodes of Carol Burnett. Dimitri’s passion for film and the classics intrigued Jason. He’d opened him to a plethora of new and exciting genres of music, film, and literature.

“So, they were making fun of an old movie?” Jason asked.

Dimitri looked offended.

“What?”

“It wasn’t just an old movie ya silly goose. It’s Gone With The Wind. Probably one of the greatest pieces of American Cinema and literature.”

“Right right. And this Rhett character that Korman played was in love with the bitchy debutante.” Jason said.

“Scarlett. Her name was Scarlett. And yeah, they were in love. Well, he was in love with her. But she wasn’t with him. She was in love with Ashley. Who was married to his cousin, Melanie.”
“That’s sick.”

“That’s the way it was done in the South back then.” Dimitri said.

“So, which cousin have you been married to?” Jason asked grinning broadly.

Dimitri scoffed and went to stand up, but Jason pulled him back down into his lap. Dimitri struggled a bit.

“Let me go!” he said.

“Uh uh!”

“Jason, I said let me go!”

“Nope. Not till you say it.”

Dimitri stopped struggling and turned around to face Jason.

“Say what.”

“That you like me. I know you do. So say it.”

“I don’t like you. You’re too tall.” Dimitri said brushing some of Jason’s hair out of his face. “You’re a lot bigger than me. You’re hair is grungy.”

Jason pulled him close. “You like me.”

Dimitri looked into Jason’s emerald eyes, they were alive with excitement and curiosity.

“Yeah, a little.” He finally said.

“I thought so.” Jason said rolling over on top of Dimitri. He looked down at Dimitri and removed his glasses, he leaned in closer and closer…

[Dimitri Demetropolous]

Chapter Two

I awoke bright and early the next morning. I looked over to his left and could see that Jason had already gone. On the nightstand was a note that read:

Sorry, I couldn't stay for breakfast. Business as usual. Same time, same place tonight?

Think of me thinking of you,

J.

I giggled like a school girl. He'd even left extra paper for me to leave my reply. I jotted down that I would meet him in the exact same place at the exact same time.

My days at St. Joe's were finally growing brighter. With Aunt Ruby's passing, I really had no one I could turn to. I made friends easily of course. I suppose that it was my Southern Charm that drew people to me. Or it could have been something else. I had been seen in the company of Rocco Ritchie lately, in and out of ICON for my new, as he called them, "Reinventions." I swear the boy reinvents himself hourly. But still it was good to have common companions. But since Jason had entered my life things began to look a bit brighter.

Around midday I slipped quietly into the rectory of Saint Luke's Episcopal Church and opened the door to the confessional.

"Bless me Father for I have sinned."

"Yes my son." Came the familiar voice of Father McNally.

"Father, I have had carnal knowledge of my body. And in the process nearly lost that about me which is so pure. I know that it is a sin. And I try not to indulge but I find it difficult."

"Dimitri, I understand you are Catholic, but I hear your confessions just the same. And I can assure you there is no more severe a punishment or penance I can give that what I already have. Yes, you have suffered sins of the flesh. It is only natural. You tell me of this person who makes you feel so wonderful. You speak if this person as a kindred spirit."

"He kissed me last night Father. For the first time. I wasn't expecting it. It just happened." I said, my voice shaking.

"And how did it make you feel?"

"I felt alive! For the first time in two years I felt alive! I felt like I had a reason to live again!" I said loudly.

"Hush hush now, I can understand you wanting to tell the whole world but surely not literally?" Father said chuckling.

"You remember I told you how I met someone just so randomly. We had coffee and found a common ground. We've grown closer."

"I do remember. I believe that it happened by pure chance. That you were literally knocked over by him. So now we are at the heart of it. This other is a boy."

"Yes Father."

"Apparently he makes you feel good about yourself.

"Yes. In more ways than one. Our relationship hasn't reached a physical level yet, but it's growing closer. I do my best to hold out, and he respects that! Most guys would just throw me to the side. Wouldn't even give a second glance. But he respects me. He understands. And for the past month, things have been beautiful"

Father laughed. He laughed a laugh of familiarity.

"I can understand that feeling. I am sure it is glorious. I was young and in love once too. But you must remember, what is most important is that only you can make Dimitri happy. Not Jason. He can only do so much. In the end it comes down to you. Do not depend on him for emotional support, when you have the Lord always at your side. Do not look to him for happiness when all you need do is see the creation of life, whether it be a flower blossoming, or a litter of kittens being born. The miracle of life should make all of us happy for we are not here by a simple roll of the dice you know."

"I understand Father. But it's just been so long since I've felt this way. I don't think I've ever felt this way about anyone. And I will admit that the temptations have been strong. So very strong. But I resisted!" I added quickly.

"Thanks be to God! That sets you aside from most people your age. You must remain commited to your convictions. You and I have discussed the Roman Church's stance on physical relationships outside the bonds of marriage. You know where my church stands, and where I personally stand. Now, you know where your Church also stands in regards to homosexuality. No doubt Father Montoya would completely chastise you, if it where he hearing this. But Dimitri I can only adivse you to be careful from this point on. I caution you to take great care in whom you choose to confide. Remain true to yourself, keep tight in those convictions that have made you the wonderful person that you are. Don't submit to temptation, no matter how great it may be." Father said.

"Aside from missing mass twice in a row, I suppose those are my sins." I finally said.

"Dimitri, it is not a sin to be in love. A wise man once said, "I leave you now, so go...love one another." Do you know who said it?" Father asked.

"I do. He was right. He designed us to love. He designed us to be loved. And now I know that feeling and it brings me closer to Him Father."

"Then for your penance I simply tell you, be at peace. Know that the Lord loves you and Forgives you. Just be at peace with life, and yourself. Above all else, be at peace with yourself. Can you do that for me?"

"I can." I said making the Sign of the Cross.

"God, the Father of mercies, through the death and resurrection of his Son has reconciled the world to himself and sent the Holy Spirit among us for the forgiveness of sins; through the ministry of the Church may God give you pardon and peace, and I absolve you from your sins in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

I left the confessional feeling whole and new again. I thought of only Jason. I could only think of tonight and the rest of my life...

[Dimitri Demetropolous]

Chapter Three

"Stay there." he whispered through the Comm.

"Not much of a choice. If I come out, they're going to attack us both. Rocco you're insane!"

I just knew that if I had been facing him, Rocco Ritchie would have been smiling at my last statement. The cave was very cold, an eerie light leaked through the frozen walls. The slow dripping of melting ice mirrored my pulse. I had wanted to get alone with Rocco so that I could find out exactly what happened at the party.

I had only made a brief appearance at Rocco's Rocking Christmas Bash because I had chosen to go see a movie with Jason instead. We stopped off at Pocket D and had drinks for a while. He got an urgent call from Agent G and had to jet. Therefore, I didn't see the harm in stopping by to show Rocco some moral support. The party itself was a blur. I remember showing up. I remember Rocco running around in his underwear. I laughed with everyone. However, he was going nuts. It was so not like the Rocco I knew. It was if he had lost all sense of reality. Still I laughed and had a good time.

I awoke the next morning in the infirmary. I had a dreadful headache and my stomach felt as if it were doing flip-flops.

"Oh you're awake dear. Good. You poor thing." Said a voice. I looked up and saw Sister Rossellini, the Matron, approaching with a scanner.

"What happened to me? The last thing I can remember is being at Rocco's Christmas party." I said.

"You've got alcohol poisoning. Apparently, that Ritchie boy decided to "spice" his party up a bit by getting several students drunk. He will probably be expelled by now. I don't know what he was thinking."

"What?!" I exclaimed sitting up. "Rocco said that he wasn't getting any booze. He told me he wasn't. Father McNally told him he couldn't have it at his party."

"He got it elsewhere and didn't tell anyone. When nobody wanted to take part in his revelry, he decided to start spiking drinks. Apparently, you got the brunt of it. But you'll be fine now."

I didn't even let her finish. I got up and dressed as quickly as I could. I ran through the halls and couldn't find Rocco anywhere. Nevertheless, it didn't matter. I was too late. He'd already faced the firing squad. Someone told me he confessed everything. He was suspended.

Now here I was with him. In a dark, damp, cold cave, trying to make sense of everything. I didn't see his logic. He was reluctant to discuss it but insisted that I help him rescue Baby New Year from Snaptooth.

"Ok, there's the little brat. And oh hell...DIMITRI NOW!!!"

I didn't hesitate I jumped from behind the wall and blasted the first thing in sight; it was an enormous yeti charging on Rocco. I focused with all my might and lightning shot from my fingers and wrapped around Snaptooth. He moved back a step. He was dazed, and then I saw Rocco firing at him with a focuses energy beam. We'd been at this nearly all day. Father Time was asking the impossible but we had to save the Baby. I could see him locked up. With Snaptooth stunned, Rocco was able to pick off a few Hooligans that started showering us with arrows. Luck seemed to be on our side though and neither of us was hit. I then closed my eyes summoned with all my might a thunderous blast knocked them all out.

"Good move. Now fry this bastard!"

He didn't have to ask me twice. Snaptooth was raging towards me. I targeted for his heart and then shot another bolt of lightning that hit him square in the chest. He rose for a moment, almost suspended in air then fell to the cave floor with a hard thud.

Rocco used the key to get Baby New Year. We made our way out of the cave and back across the lake in Croatoa. Father Time was more than relieved when we returned with the baby. He rewarded us both. But none of that seemed to matter to me. I wanted to find the underlying cause of Rocco's suspension.

He and I went to the bar at the Chalet and had a coffee.

"Rocco what are you going to do?" I asked.

"I don't know. I'll figure something out." He said looking away. He had something on his mind. I could tell.

"Rocco, I tried to tell them that you didn't spike my drinks. Why would you take the fall like that? I mean you could write your Mother couldn't you. She's got some pull doesn't she?"

"Look, Dimitri, I'm not worried about it ok. It's a three-month suspension. I'll be back next term. Can we not talk about it?"

"All right. It's just; I'm going to miss you. You're a great person. Rocco, you didn't do this on purpose did you?" I asked fearfully.

Rocco looked at me. His eyes alive with excitement.

"Maybe. Maybe not."

"Everyone's saying that you're going to join those BVA baddies."

"And so what if I am?" Rocco said.

"That's just not you. You're not a bad guy. You're...hell, you're Rocco Ritchie! You're the Famous Fashion Police! You're a star! Everyone adores you!"

"Well, they'll just have to do without me around here for a while. I need go now." He said standing up.

"Rocco. Wait. Let me walk with you. I wanna talk to you about something else."

We walked down from the lodge and I told Rocco some things I'd overheard one night in Pocket D.

"I met this Toviel Drix, he's bad news. I'm telling you. Gabe and he were talking. It just doesn't set well with me."

"What does it matter to you? Why don't you just stay out of it ok? I've made up my mind. There's nothing you can say or do that's going to change it ok. So go back to school Dimi! Go be a hero! Go save the world! I'm tired of it all!" Rocco shouted at me.

I was doing my best to hold back tears. For the first time he called me "Dimi."

"If this is where we part then so be it. But Rocco, you know where I stand."

"And you know where I stand my friend."

"You look after yourself."

"And you do the same."

And with that, Rocco lifted up into the air and disappeared in a blur...

[Dimitri Demetropolous]

(with Persiflage)

Chapter Four

The incessant droning was putting him to sleep. He'd heard Mrs. Williams go over the rules of the road until he was sick. Dimitri was relieved with a voice over the intercom called his name and asked him to report to the front office. He rubbed his blearing eyes, counting tiles as he walked, almost bumping into Gemini as he reached the administrative wing. She greeted him with an uncertain look, twinning off, ushering him into the conference room.

There were two people he didn't know--a dickish looking guy in his forties, and an older Asian woman--and one he did, Father McNally. Curious, but not startled, Gemini's doubled hands pressed him into a chair near the Father, who gave him a reassuring smile. "Hello, Father McNally. What are you doing here?" Dimitri asked, wondering why his priest was present with the two cops.

"Detectives Daniels and Hwong would like to ask you a few questions, Mr. Demetreopolis," said Gemini, speaking in unison with herself, and taking up a position near the door. Dimitri tried to relax but the first thread of worry seeped into his belly.

"Just answer honestly," said the Father, "and everything will be all right."

"What kind of questions?" he asked. He wondered if this was about Rocco's binge party. Detective Daniels pursed his mouth, looking at Dimitri in an attempt to seem fatherly and kind, but his vague distaste for this situation seemed obvious. Detective Hwong seemed calmer, more kindly.

"Tell us about your relationship with Mr. Jason DiBiaso, Dimitri," said Detective Daniels.

The worm inside him turned. "He's a friend," he says, a slight shake in his voice. What was this?

Detective Hwong broke in and said kindly, "It's all right, Dimitri, you aren't in any trouble."

"I don't see how it's any of your business. He's a friend." Dimitri said, voice defensive. "So what? There are no laws against friendship, right?"

"Seems a little older than you. Did you know he is twenty-five? Not a lot of twenty-five year olds have sixteen year old friends." Detective Daniels said.

"No he's not. He's twenty." Dimitri said quickly.

Detective Hwong broke in. Her voice was coaxing without being unctuous. She looked at Dimitri like a person, an adult, and she seemed to really listen. "Dimitri, we need to know if the two of you were involved sexually. Because if so, Jason's committed a crime."

Dimitri sighed, "We're just friends. I'm not ready for that. What exactly are you implying? Father?" Dimi said looking to Father McNally, needing reassurance.

McNally looked at Dimitri with compassion. "They're worried about you, Dimitri, just as I am. When I realized you were talking about a ... romantic attachment, to a grown man, Dimi, I had to speak out-- on your behalf."

"You can't do that! You're bound by God! I told you there's nothing like that happening! What are you trying to do? Jason's a nice guy!" Dimitri said standing up backing away from McNally.

"Whoa, whoa there," said the Det. Daniels. Gemini gave Dimitri a look, then Det. Hwong gently asked him to sit down.

Father McNally had the grace to look slightly ashamed. "Dimitri, you are alone in this world. Someone has to look after you. I know you may never forgive me, but ... if you came to harm because of my inaction, I'd never forgive myself."

"No no. You can't do this. Father, that was confession. You even told me I was doing right but not giving into temptations! You said you were proud of me!" Dimitri said, suddenly realizing his mistake. Dimitri slowly sat back down, putting his head in his hands.

Det. Daniels lifted a photo out of a slim manila envelope and slid it over the table to Dimitri. It was connected to a rap sheet. It was a mug shot of Jason. Dimitri looked away. He couldn't believe what was happening. "I don't want to see that. Why are you doing this to me?" he demanded.

"Your boyfriend's a scumbag, kid," said Det. Daniels. Morbid curiosity got the best of Dimitri. He looked at the photo. It was Jason. He looked younger. His hair wasn't long. He looked angry and his face was covered with stubble. "This is bullshit!" Dimitri yelled. "Jason's in Longbow. They do background checks. He works for Agent G!" The lights began to flicker a little. The skies outside began to darken. The worm looked for a burying place, and found it in his adrenal glands. He felt a film of sweat form on his palms, under his arms. "What has he done?" Dimitri asked in a hollow voice.

Det. Hwongn's gentle voice cut through his anger like chocolate through vinegar. "Mr. Demetropolous, Jason DiBiaso was arrested three years ago for criminal solicitation of a minor and statutory rape. He took a plea for probation. Has he been bothering you?"

Dimitri sniffled a little. "It wasn't anything like that. He said he cared about me. I told him I wasn't ready for...that. He said he respected it. He said it's one of the things he liked about me." His wrists trembled. A rolling thunder could be heard outside.

"Now, you say, and Father McNally confirms, that the two of you were not sexually involved, but what he's done ... although it doesn't break the letter of the law, he's been grooming you." Det. Jenson said putting a hand on Dimitri's shoulder.

"For what?"

"For rape, you dumb kid."

"He didn't do anything to me. We just kissed that's all."

"Stringin you on, kid. Playin’ you like a fiddle." Det. Daniels said.

"Call me kid one more time and I'll make Katrina look like a cold shower."His eyes went flat and white, covering everything in his view with a scrim of mist.

Gemini's voice slashed down in chorus. "Detective, that's quite enough. Mr. Demetriopolus, mind your powers. If it rains in here, you'll be regrouting floor tile with your bare hands. Ease down."

Dimitri clenched his fists until he could feel the bite of fingernails in his palms. Slowly, slowly, the advancing humidity retreated from the room.

"Was there anything else but kissing?" asked Det. Hwong, gently.

"He took me on dates. He bought me this," Dimitri said holding up a silver locket. The detectives exchanged dark looks. "It wasn't like that! He said he loved me. He said he loved me! He said we could wait as long as I wanted, but I couldn't tell anyone about us or he could lose his job. He's doing good work! He's a real hero!" Even as he said it it felt like a lie. He felt dirty, guilty, bad. "I don't understand," he said. His eyes burned, his nose felt drippy. He tried to wipe his face surruptitiously with his sleeve. Gemini handed him a tissue.

He told you the truth there, Dimitri," said Det. Hwong gently. "He does work for Longbow."

"But ... they're the elite! Don't they ... they wouldn't let criminals join! This is a mistake. He didn't do anything"

Daniels tapped the mugshot, the rapsheet. Jason was twenty-five. Jason had lied about his age. Maybe he'd lied about other things.

"He didn't have the CHANCE to do anything," said Detective Daniels.

"You're making him out to be some predator. He was so gentle. He held me. He went with me to my Aunt Ruby's funeral. He let me cry on his shoulder. Bad people don't do that!" Dimitri yelled. Father McNally took his hand gently. "You were wronged," he said gently, face full of paternal concern. "It isn't your fault, son."

Dimitri whipped his hand out of McNally's, tears streaming down his face. "Don't you ever touch me again!"

"Why did he lie to you about his age if he had no agenda, kid? If he really loved you, he'da waited a year for you to turn seventeen." Det. Daniels said.

"Stop calling me that! I'm not some stupid kid! I've been through more in my life than you can imagine. No one understood me. He was the only one who got it!"

"You're not going to see him again," said Det. Daniels. "Unless you want to change your story and file criminal charges."

"You can't stop me from seeing him. You're not my father! Gemini--Ms. Sinclair, tell them they can't do that!"

"You're right, Mr. Demetropolous, there is absolutely nothing the police can do to keep you from seeing him. They're overtaxed with keeping up with crime in Paragon City. But ..." Gemini gave him an icy look that brooked no disagreement.
"You are on six weeks of sudden death probation, Dimitri. Your are to be present on school grounds from four PM to nine AM, and will check in with me personally. You will wear your COMM at all times off-campus. You will write up nightly reports of your activities off-campus in detail and account for your time. And you will not meet privately with Mr. DiBiaso." Gemini said.

Dimitri stiffened. "And if I refuse?"

Gemini raised her hands, offering a perilous balance. "You will forfeit your Hero Security Clearance."

"Why am I being punished if I didn't do anything wrong?"

"Oh, Dimitri," said Gemini, the compassion in her voice underscoring her use of his first name, "You aren't being punished; we're trying to protect you!"

He turned to the detectives, hoping for any sort of reprieve. "Detective, please you have to believe me. We didn't do anything. All we did was kiss. I spent Christmas with him. I had permission from Mrs. Fewel. I was supposed to spend New Year's with him. He said he was going to make it really special." Dimitri sniffed. Gemini offered him a Kleenex. He took it and blew his nose. So many things were running through his mind. He didn't know what to think. A week ago, he was happy. Now everything seemed to be crashing down around him again. Outside thunder could be heard again. A light sprinkle began to hit the windows. Hearing it, his tears fell down, escaping his eyes. He shrugged off Father McNally, staring down into Jason's face. "Why did you do it?" he said, not sure if he was talking to the Father or to Jason. But McNally replied.

"I had to, Dimitri. You are young, and there are people in this world who will abuse your trust. I hope ... I hope someday you will be able to forgive me for abusing yours. Until then, my prayers will be with you." Father McNally touched his shoulder gently, in benediction, and left the room, escorted by two of Gemini's doubles.

He lay his head down on the table. It was pleasantly cool under his forehead. He heard Gemini sigh with sympathy. "You've had a rough day. Would you like a soda?"

"Yes, please. Irish?"

He could have sworn he heard Gemini snort. The soda arrived, cold and in a can, virgin as Dimitri. The rain outside increased. There was a bright flash of lightning followed by the rumble of thunder. He cracked the can, took a sip, and felt the bubbles tickle his nose, gurgle in his gut. He felt hollow. Gnawed out.

"Ms. Sinclair. What's going to happen to Jason?"

"I don't know," she said, spreading out her fingertips on the table. "Probably nothing. You were telling the truth, yes? He won't be charged."

Dimitri looked outside. He closed his eyes. "I can't make it stop. It always rains when I am sad. I can't make it stop. It hurts so much!" He said bending low clutching his chest. Gemini looked like she didn't know what foot to stand on, then gently, awkwardly, patted Dimitri on the shoulder. "There there. There there." Shes wasn't the motherly type, but her half-assed attempt at giving comfort succeeded.

"Ms. Sinclair, do I have to go back to class? I'd really like to just lie down. I'm sorry about the mess." Dimitri said pointing out the window at the raging storm.

Gemini sighed. "I know you can't help it. Anyway, I've always been fond of rain. Reminds me of my childhood in Oregon. Go on. You can take the soda with you. I'll write you a dismissal slip."

Dimitri stood up and hugged Gemini. He didn't know why he did it. He just knew that it seemed like the only thing to do. She was awkward for a moment, and then hugged back. And although Dimitri wasn't psychic, he felt for a moment that she really did understand.

"I guess this is what a broken heart feels like." he said.

[Dimitri Demetropolous]

Chapter Five

"Shit!" Dimitri said as he dropped his phone. "Sorry, Ty are you still there?"

"Yeah, it's ok. So two weeks huh? Sucks to be you." Ty replied.

"Well, I'm not worried about it. I haven't been feeling well anyway. Just do me a favor if you will?"

"Dimi, I told you, I'm not going down that road. We've been over this."

"You ass!" Dimitri yelled. He could hear Ty cracking up with laughter. As annoying as his roommate was, Dimitri enjoyed Ty's company, the charm made up for it ten fold.

"Actually, Ty, keep your grades up. You've got high C's in every subject. I want you to pass this term with at least an average B. So do try your best to study. And take notes! And pay attention! And for God's sake...stop laughing at me. Stop it right now! Ty this is serious ok. I've spent too much of my time trying to help you."

"Ok. I'll try all right. So I'll see you in two weeks?" Ty said.

"Yeah. Rocco is pulling up now. Take care babe." Dimitri said hanging up his phone as a bright green Mini pulled up to the curb. Rocco got out and took Dimitri's bag. He was still handsome, though unshaven. He looked like he hadn't slept well the night before.

"You look like shit." Dimitri said.

Rocco gave him the finger.

"Still not talking?"

Rocco made a gesture to his mouth, which answered Dimitri's question. Dimitri sat in the car and fastened his seatbelt. The radio station was playing Toxic by Britney Spears. How fitting. The ride was as Dimitri expected it to be; a quiet one. They arrived at the Lola Building in less than forty-five minutes. Rocco took great care however, in parking. It was as if he didn't want to be seen. Dimitri got out of the car and could see a few people gathered on the corner, smoking cigarettes and drinking coffee. They had cameras around their necks.

"And we're on what floor?" Dimitri asked looking up the enormous skyscraper.

Rocco pointed all the way up.

"Roof?"

Rocco nodded. Then he got a look of terror on his face. At least two dozen photographers started running towards them!

“ROCCO!” They yelled! A stream of flashbulbs went off nearly blinding Dimitri.

A slew of questions ripped across the torrent.

“Rocco! Throwing any new parties?”

“Rocco! He’s hot! Is he replacing the Cat Boy?”

“Rocco! Are you bringing your new beau to meet mom?”

They entered the building, as quickly as they could. The guard simply smiled at Rocco. A few flashes popped off here and there. Dimitri could see now why Rocco wanted to avoid the main entrance. Outside four guards were holding back over a dozen photographers. All of them seemed to want a shot of Rocco.

Dimitri could hear them yelling questions, some were even jeering.

"They've been out there all day Mr. Ritchie. They heard your mother is coming in tonight. I guess they wanted to get here early."

Rocco said nothing. He walked up to the desk and signed his name on a ledger. He handed the pen to Dimitri; he put his name under a column marked, GUEST.

"Thank you." Dimitri said as they walked away from the guard and towards the elevator.

"Rocco! Who's the new guy?" Someone yelled and then a stream of flashes ripped across the lobby. Apparently Rocco had been prepared for this. He held out a small notebook and handed it to Dimitri while he waited for the elevator doors to open.

"Ignore them." was all the note said. Dimitri had planned on doing just that.

They went up the elevator to the top floor. Dimitri found himself surrounded by the most elegant home he’d ever seen. Art and sculptures were everywhere. He was so unfamiliar with his surroundings. It was like stepping into a museum. He now knew what it truly felt like to stand in Rocco’s shadow. Because the next room he entered, was a shrine. There were photos of all sorts, some small, others poster size. Rocco’s mother must have really cared for him. Dimitri wished he could feel that loved. To be adored by all. To be invited to the parties of the elite. To be able to sit and bask in glory. To be included. That’s all he wanted, at least once in his life was to feel included. To feel like people wanted him around. He didn’t know how exactly to respond to the press that was waiting outside. But he knew it felt good. It felt good to have someone take notice of him. For the first time in a while, Dimitri felt important. But still that was not enough. He needed to feel included. His patience had worn thin. It was time that he was recognized for his talents. He was growing tired of being known as Rocco’s best friend.

He turned and saw Rocco scribbling on a pad.

“Your room is down the hall to the left.”

“Rocco, this is getting old you know. You can talk to me. I’m now like you, an outcast from SJS. So will you please talk to me?” Dimitri said. He was pleading at this point.

Rocco shook his head. He pointed down the hall. He also scribbled another note.

“Mother will be here soon. Change clothes. I bought you something to wear to dinner. Be in the dining room by seven.”

And with that Rocco walked away. Dimitri turned but then turned back.

“You’re better than he is!” He yelled. Tears were forming in his eyes.

Rocco stopped but only for a moment and then turned around the corner.

[Dimitri Demetropolous]

Chapter Six

The laboratory was empty. The naked walls stood out waiting to be clothed. There were no instruments, no computers, or maps. It was nothing more than an empty room.

"This was where I lose my humanity." He thought.

"Doctor, I trust this will be large enough to accommodate you?" Said a voice.

Doctor James Blythe jumped a little. Startled by the shattering echo within the silence. He turned around sharply and saw the base commander, Colonel William Broussard standing in the doorway with two other men. One he only knew as "The General." The other, a tall slim man with no hair. James had always been on friendly terms with William. The two of them grew up together. One chose the Army, the other chose school. The General stood beaming. He was always polite and cordial. But the other man, he was polite as well. Sometimes a little too polite. Too cordial. He always seemed so concerned.

James snapped out of his trance as William cleared his throat.

"Jimbo?"

The General stepped into the room. His Class A's were such a contrast to the sterile surroundings. He extended his hand.

"On behalf of my entire department, and my superiors, I express our gratitude. You are doing your country a great service." He said shaking James' hand.

"I only want to do what I can." James replied. His eyes shifted from William to the bald man and back again. James was not what you would really call patriotic. He had his own motives with this project. National Security was not a priority at all. However, with funding from the Department of Defense, and an addition grant from Cowan Industrial and Technological Enterprises, he could afford to not only take care of his family, but also finally devote all his time to research and testing. He knew though that there was a price to be paid.

When James presented his theories before Columbia University, he drew some critical acclaim. His ideas were both unorthodox and absolutely genius. No one had received this much attention since Stephen Hawking presented his findings. However, four months after getting his first grant, he was called to a Top Secret meeting with Top Brass in Washington. He learned there, that he would not be permitted to patient his ideas or invention. He was informed that any attempt do so would be viewed as an act of treason.

"We are willing to compromise with you Dr. Blythe." The General said. "We want the first look. That is all. We'll supply you with all the funding available."

They made him an offer he could not refuse. Unlimited funding, access to the most sophisticated advanced equipment on earth. They even offered him a full staff. They would provide a lab, housing, everything.

"How long do you estimate before you have results?" The General asked briskly. His tone became less cordial and more business like.

"I'm not sure General. Months, possibly years. What I'm proposing is only in theory. What I'm attempting to do has never been done before."

"Well, Colonel Broussard and Mr. Quick will take good care of you. The General said exiting the room, followed by Mr. Quick.

“You did it Jimbo! You dazzled them as always! You now got more money than God!” William said slapping James’ back.

“I guess so Billy. Hell, I don’t even know if it’ll work. The possibilities are endless but the chances are so…

“Look, don’t think about that. This is what you’ve always wanted to do. Remember when were were kids? You tried to be Ben Franklin during thunderstorms. Now you’ve got the means to follow your passions!”

William was right in James’s opinion. James had indeed always been fascinated by the weather. Thunderstorms, lightning, rain, wind, it was all so magical to him. As a boy, he rode out hurricanes like everyone else. But they never scared him. They only increased his wonder. He went to college and studied meteorology. He still had questions, though he knew the terms, he memorized them. He knew what caused a storm. Be it a small shower or a tornado. He knew it was all a matter of pressures, fronts, temperatures, and patterns. Nevertheless, James secretly felt there was more to it than that. His ideas and theories were scoffed upon by so many. After graduation he came back home. He returned to Backbay and accepted a job at Channel 13 as a weatherman. Now he could leave all that behind him. Now he could focus on what really mattered.

“You’re right Billy. I know I’m right. And maybe one day my work will be able to save lives.”

That’s the ticket Jimbo! Hey, how’s Mitra handling all this? She still gonna stay with Belle Chaise?”

“There ain’t a storm in the world that could take her away from her job. She’s been with them since they opened.” James said.

His common law wife, Dimitra, worked for the Belle Chaise Casino and Resort. She was their event coordinator and V.I.P. Liaison.

“Well, what are ya’ll doing tonight? Why don’t we ride over to Biloxi and check out that new place?”

“That sounds good Billy. We’ll celebrate.”

James and William left the room and headed down the corridor towards the elevator.

“Doctor Blythe?” Said a cold almost metallic voice.

James turned around and saw Mr. Quick standing behind them.

“Mr. Quick. Can I help you?” James asked.

Mr. Quick’s face widened into an eerie smile. He looked to William.

“That will be all Colonel.” He said curtly.

“Yes sir. I’ll see ya tonight Jimbo.” William said and turned around the corner.

“Walk with me Doctor.” Mr. Quick said and began to head in the opposite direction. He was wearing a tailored black suit. His baldhead gleamed as the florescent lights overhead reflected off it. He carried a cane and walked with a slight limp. However, James doubted if the man really needed the cane. There was a gracefulness about Mr. Quick that put James off. Mr. Quick had always given James the impression of a weasel. His pointed nose and squinty eyes seemed always alert and waiting.

“Yes sir.” James said; escort Mr. Quick down the hall.

“I do hope the house we provided is adequate?” Mr. Quick asked. James was not fooled; he knew that Mr. Quick knew damned well the house was more than adequate.

“Yes sir. It’s wonderful. Mitra was delighted when she saw it.”

“We like to keep a close watch on all of our employees. Cowan Industries expects nothing but the very best from those in its employ, therefore we provide nothing but the best to those most loyal. It has always been our mission to put the well-being of our employees above all else. We want you to be comfortable. We want you to be happy.” Mr. Quick said looking ahead.

“Well, we’re quite all right sir. Thank you.”

“Tell me, Doctor. Do you really believe your theory is correct? Do you really believe that you will one day be able to control the weather?”

James stopped walking. Mr. Quick sensed it and turned back to look at him.

“With all due respect, Mr. Quick, it’s not about control. I don’t believe Mother Nature is a force to be controlled by man. I don’t think she would let us be so bold. My work is to get a better understanding of it.”

“But the device, it will have the capability to manipulate the weather?”

“In theory. If my research is right, we will have the technology to alter the course of storms. Possibly weaken them. We will also have a more advanced warning system as well. I hope to one day be able to completely dissipate the deadly storms, before they do too much damage.” James said.

“Yes, yes. I was reading that. Your device could also be used to strengthen such storms as well.” Mr. Quick said now staring at James with a look of eagerness in his eyes. James looked back at him, for a brief moment, he thought he saw a slight glimmer streak across Mr. Quick’s eyes.

“In theory yes. But, why would anyone want to do that?” James asked.

“No matter Doctor. It is my job to ask questions. We are after all spending quite a penny on this venture of yours. We need to know how it’s being spent, and furthermore, if it is worth it. I expect full reports from you, weekly. Spare me nothing. I want every detail. Do I make myself plain Doctor?” Mr. Quick said.

Yes sir. I am just as curious as you.”

“Good. That’s settled then. You are a very interesting man, Dr. Blythe. I noticed in your file that you are not married but you have been involved with same woman for nearly ten years. Why do you not marry?”

“I don’t know. It just never seemed that important. After all, it’s only a piece of paper. Dimitra’s brother is gay. And she promised him that she would not marry until he could. She’s funny like that.”

James really didn’t see the relevance of the question.

“Oh I understand completely. Family is very important. They are bonds that cannot be broken. I noticed that your son carries her name as well. I keep reminding myself that the laws here in the Provinces are quite strict regarding children out of wedlock.”

“Yes sir. Because we weren’t married, they wouldn’t allow her to give him my last name. So she gave him hers instead.”

“And your boy is five years old?”

“Six on Halloween.”

“How delightful! Do take good care of him Doctor! I bid you good day.”

With that, Mr. Quick turned on the spot and exited into a stairwell to his left. James didn’t understand his methods. He didn’t know why he was so curious about Mitra. Mr. Quick seemed most curious about his son though. About Dimitri…