Neverwood
Title: Neverwood, Conclusion, Author's Notes & Soundtrack
Pairing: ja/jp, former ja/jdm
Rating: R for language and violence
Warning: Genuine horror here. I hope.
Word Count: ~51k
Summary: Aiden Thomas Padalecki is violently and mysteriously kidnapped, leaving behind distraught parents who have no idea why their only child was taken. After months of futile investigation, the frantic father witnesses the slow but inevitable decline in the search of his only child. Half mad with grief, Jared goes to an island off the coast of Washington, holding the last clue that may help him find his son. But it is all a trap, and there’s someone crouching, waiting for him to pay back for sins not of his making.
Notes: Adapted from Peter Pan, written for j2_everafter.
Disclaimer: 127.5% fiction.
All the emergency workers were conscripted into putting out the fire so the deputies had to drive their injured sheriff to the island's only internist. Steve took the rest of the team in his truck with Jared holding onto Aiden. He had tried to separate them in order to stash Aiden with the deputies but found the grip the father and son shared to be unbreakable.
Mercifully, the island had three doctors: two retired surgeons, Dr. Kimmels, who were married to each other, and one general practitioner, Dr. Leigh, who had opened his practice not four months ago. They had congregated in Leigh’s office since his had the necessary equipment and the space to maneuver multiple patients.
The two surgeons descended on Jensen while Dr. Leigh looked in on Aiden. Jared had to sit on the examination table, holding onto the child because Aiden refused to let go of his father.
Dr. Leigh did a cursory examination. The initial shock on his face wore down to a practical frown while he checked Aiden.
“When is the medevac coming?” Dr. Leigh asked. “This boy’s got a host of health problems.”
“How bad?” Jared asked, peeking up from his son’s matted head.
“Malnutrition, dehydration, and he’s severely traumatized,” Dr. Leigh answered, his fingers gingerly dancing over the boy's papier-mâché skin, noting how easily it slid over the skull visible beneath the flesh. “But, as far as I can see no broken bones or hemorrhaging, though that diagnosis is iffy at best.”
“The choppers are on their way now,” Gabe answered. “We should get them to the landing pad as soon as we can.”
Dr. Michael Kimmel slowly peeled off Jensen’s undershirt and gave a sigh of relief. “The skin damage is minimal on the back.”
“But not the neck,” Dr. Johanna Kimmel added.
Gabe took a glance and had to bite his tongue in order to not empty his stomach in the examination room.
“Jesus,” Jared whispered when he got a glance of the red, soupy, bubbling mess that was Jensen's nape.
“It’s okay,” Jensen drawled. “The drugs you gave me are some damn good shit, doc.”
Dr. Johanna Kimmel politely coughed in order to hide her laughter. Her husband gave a dirty look at the doped-up sheriff but said nothing. “Mike, why don’t you check on Kane? I believe he’s got a concussion," she said.
Dr. Michael Kimmel gave a grimace and left the room. His wife rolled her eyes and shook her head. “I swear, he’s never going to forgive Chris for throwing him out of the tavern.”
In spite of his roiling emotions, Jared managed a dry chuckle. “Is that his job? A bouncer?”
“Oh, no,” Dr. Kimmel answered. “Mr. Kane was doing a favor for a friend.”
Jared’s chuckle grew. “I see.”
She turned to the deputies in the room and said briskly, “It's safe to move your boss.”
Jared couldn’t relinquish his son and didn’t need to. Steve and Chris joined them soon enough, and with their help, they moved the injured sheriff to the landing pad next to town hall.
Jared looked up when he felt a wave of heat wash over his head. The cataclysmic sight that greeted him almost loosened his grip on Aiden.
The Spencer mansion wasn’t burning much as there were only bones left standing. However, the forest behind it was on fire. Huge plumes of ashes rose along with flames so high, they made the noon sky resemble dusk.
“Let the fucker burn,” Steve hissed between his clenched teeth.
Jared turned to see tears stream down the non-descript face as flames flickered in Steve’s blue eyes.
“Amen,” Chris agreed.
They looked up in unison as two choppers circled the parking lot that doubled as a helio pad. Steve waved his arms, motioning for them to land. It took less than two minutes for them to get into the medevacs.
From the air, Jared realized the fire had spread astonishingly fast. What he also noticed was how narrow it was. Its destructive path was almost shaped like an arrow, pointing northeast of Robbin where the sanatorium lay in crouch.
Nobody had to tell Jared this fire was identical to the one that caused so much tragedy a hundred years ago. And nobody had to point out this fire would cleanse the meanness, the lies, and the hidden sins that was begotten from the one born by greed, lust, and mindless devotion.
Nobody had to tell the father anything, for Jared knew all as he held the truth in his arms, trembling and exhausted.
Harborview Medical Center, Seattle
Jared was forced to relinquish his son’s care to the platoon of medical personnel waiting for them at the hospital.
After being forcibly shoved out of the examination room, Jared wandered off to get cup of coffee. He was returning to Aiden when Chris found him. “There you are,” he said. “Jensen wants to talk to you.”
“How is he?” Jared asked. “Is he going to be okay?”
“As soon as you talk to him,” Chris said, rushing through a battery of doors. “He won’t take any more pain meds until he sees you.”
Jared’s trot graduated into a full run when he’d heard that. They arrived in a small room with Jensen resting on a contraption Jared had never seen. The injured man was faced down and completely suspended from the waist up, which forced the body in a slight incline.
“Is that you?” Jensen asked, his voice muffled by his position.
“Yes,” Jared replied. He stood next to Jensen, afraid to come closer. “I heard you wanted to talk to me.”
“Lean down,” Jensen ordered, his voice muzzy from exhaustion and pain.
Jared did as asked. “What is it?”
“I want you to listen to me,” Jensen said hoarsely. “There isn’t much time. When the authorities get here, you have to lie. Do you understand?
“Do not tell them about the ghosts or the bodies found in the mine. As far as you’re concerned, you came here because Tuohy told you something before he committed suicide.”
“I wasn’t planning on telling them about the ghosts,” Jared protested weakly. “But why not the bodies?”
“Because if you want to keep your son, you have to make them think you were a victim, completely. By the time they put out the fire and start the investigation, I’ll be back. So, leave that part up to me. If Spencer was half as smart as I think he was, he hired a private investigator in San Francisco to follow you around. Once we find that son of a bitch, the case is going to crack wide open.”
Jared suddenly realized why Jensen was doing this. “What’s wrong?” he asked, hating how weak and petulant he sounded. “You’re afraid something’s going to happen to Aiden, aren’t you?”
“Yes, because if Aiden suffers from the same symptoms that others like him did, he won’t have any memory of what he’d done. And, Jared, that is a mercy, do you understand? If he remembers, he won’t be able to process his actions, no matter what anybody tells him.
“So, fucking lie. You hear me? Protect your son, so he'll never remember. That’s the way they wanted it to be. That’s why anybody who wondered out of the woods couldn’t remember a damn thing about what happened to them in there.”
“But then why did they do that to my son?”
“Because they were just kids, Jared, and they were scared and tired. They wanted peace, and the only way they could get it is by trying to find someone who could understand them. And that someone turned out to be your son: a direct heir of the tragedy.”
“It wasn’t Spencer who took Aiden, was it?”
“No, I don’t think so. I think Spencer planned to but the children beat him to it, somehow.”
“The statue?”
“Maybe, probably,” Jensen muttered. “But that doesn’t matter. And I want you to leave that statue behind. Don’t take it with you, understand?”
“Yes, I understand,” Jared agreed, the strength returning to his voice.
“Those kids … they did the best they could to protect Aiden from Spencer. But they were children … and they could do only so much. But what they did kept Aiden alive. Yeah, maybe a part of it was for revenge, but most of it? I think they were looking out for your son in their own twisted way.”
“What’s going to happen to Aiden?”
“He’ll be in a bad shape for couple of weeks. But then he’ll recover, and during that time you are going to be slammed by the authorities. So, you’re going to have to convince them you were just a traumatized, scared father who had nothing to lose.
“Play that card, Jared. And if you do it right - when Aiden gets out of the hospital, you’ll be there to take him home.”
Jared wiped tears from his face and asked, “What about you?”
“Me? I’m a genuine bona-fide hero, buddy. I pulled a boy out of a burning building and rescued your sorry ass from a man who’s so far from sane that he’s orbiting another planet. I can shit on the governor and nobody’s gonna say a word.”
Jared choked on his laughter. Jensen grabbed his hand and squeezed hard enough for Jared to look at him again.
“There, that sounds so much better than the weird, tight thing you were jerking out of your mouth earlier.”
Jared stared at the man who’d risked everything for a stranger out of kindness and a good heart. “You are the most beautiful man I’ve ever known. And will ever know.”
“I feel sorry for you already.”
Jared stood up, not daring to speak any further. The last thing the injured man needed was for Jared to dump his heart out while he was strapped to an unidentifiable piece of machinery and hopped up on pain meds.
I’ve done enough to fuck up his world. Leave him be. Probably the best thing for him.
“Thank you,” Jared said and left before Jensen could respond.
The weary father returned to his son’s room and found two strangers guarding the door besides the three cops assigned to protective detail on the floor.
“Mr. Padalecki?” the woman asked. “My name is Sera Gamble. I’m with the U.S. Marshals. This is Special Agent Misha Collins from the FBI. We would like to talk to you.”
Jared nodded. He saw their looks of disbelief and pity, and knew the reason. He'd gotten a glimpse of his reflection earlier: it told only too well of the hardship he’d endured the last three days.
“Could we talk somewhere private?” Jared asked. “I don’t want Aiden to hear anything.”
“We have a private room set up,” Gamble said. “If that’s all right.”
“Thank you,” Jared said. Then, expelling a weary sigh throttled with unspoken emotions, the exhausted man put on the performance of a lifetime.
Dallas, Texas
Dr. Alan Ackles was finishing up with his operating schedule for tomorrow when his wife’s thin, near-hysterical voice reached him.
“Alan! Alan! Come here!”
He ran out of his office and found Donna standing in the den. Her face was moon-like, glowing with shock.
“What? What’s happened?” For a moment Alan thought Donna had some kind of seizure.
She pointed to the television wordlessly. Alan looked at it and crumpled to his knees.
On the screen was a photo of his son, Jensen. A son he’d not seen for nearly fifteen years.
“Oh my God,” Alan said. “Oh my God…”
He crawled to the television and touched the cold, staticky screen with trembling fingers.
My boy, my beautiful boy.
Without warning the volume came on. Alan startled and fell back, but his gaze never wavered.
“…Sheriff Jensen Ackles is still in guarded condition, though sources have told us he is stable in spite of his injuries. As far as we know Aiden Padalecki is under sedation but his condition is also stable. This is Amy Chang reporting live from Seattle.”
“Thank you. We will be monitoring this amazing story throughout the night. The situation in Afghanistan has taken a drastic turn for the worse…”
Five Days Later
Jensen moved about his home with shuffling, ungainly steps. He was still feeling the side effects of the medications the doctors had pumped into him right before discharge. Jensen was debating whether to fall asleep or call his deputies when his cell rang.
“Oh man, what now?” He didn’t recognize the number but he was all too familiar with the area code. Whatever effects the drugs had just flaked off of Jensen as he pressed the ‘talk’ button.
“Hello?”
“Jensen? Oh my God, is that you?”
Jensen bit his lip but couldn’t stop crying out, “Mom? Mom?”
“Oh thank God, thank God, are you okay?”
Another voice came on the phone. “Jensen? Jensen?”
“Dad?”
“We had to call your office to find your number,” Alan said. “Are you really okay?”
“Yes, sir. I’m fine. The burn hurts like hell but that’s about it.”
“Why? Why didn’t you tell us where you were?” Donna asked without rancor.
Jensen closed his eyes. Because I knew what you thought of me. I knew what you’d hoped for when I got out of that place, thinking I was cured. But I wasn’t, and I couldn’t live your lie. And I sure as hell didn’t want to go back to that camp.
“Because I’m still gay, Mom.” Jensen gathered up what little courage he had left and added, “And I’ll always be gay.”
“Okay … okay, then,” Alan said hesitantly. “So, is that why you left us?”
“I knew you hoped that I was cured but the truth was I was never sick, Dad.” Jensen sat down as all his strength drained from him. “And I couldn’t go through that again. So, I decided to live my life elsewhere without shaming you.”
“Having a son who happens to be a sheriff, and who saved a child from a madman is nothing to be ashamed about,” Donna said. “And for the rest … you’re my baby, Jensen. So, no, if that’s what you are - then we’ll take it.”
“Dad?” Jensen asked; the man in him fearing the worst; the little boy, hoping for the best.
“I missed you so much,” Alan’s voice was peppered with tears and a thousand regrets. “Can we see you? Would you mind if we dropped by? I know coming back to Texas would be too much for you right now, but we need to see you, Son. Just to make sure you're okay.”
“I’d love it if you came by,” Jensen said, sounding like the little boy who’d won betting on hope. “But I gotta tell you it’s going to be a zoo here. At least for a while.”
“I don’t give a flying damn,” Donna said firmly. “We’ll be there tomorrow!”
“Mom, could you call Mac and Josh?” Jensen asked. “I don’t think I’ve got enough strength left to tell them.”
“Not a problem, sweetheart,” Donna said.
“Get some rest,” Alan added. “We’ll call you tomorrow.”
“Okay. Good night mom and dad.”
“Good night son,” his parents said in unison.
Jensen fell asleep, clutching his cell.
Dear Jared,
Thank you for the news clippings. And I am even more grateful for your portrayal of our help in finding Aiden. It’s good to know the child is recovering from an ordeal that would end a grown man’s sanity.
Children are such wonders - the combination of fragility and strength is unfathomable. Probably one of the reasons why we consider them so precious.
I thought you’d want to hear from me before reading it in the papers.
The total body count from the mines was twenty-seven. All thirteen children from the sanatorium were discovered and were buried with full services on hallowed ground. A lot of people attended, including Steve, Chris, and myself. The services, though a century late, were beautiful.
I was shocked by how small the coffins were. That, as much as anything else we’ve experienced, told me the suffering they’ve must endured in those mines, waiting for a rescue that never came.
The other bodies are being identified. The most recent deaths being the easiest, as we’ve kept records of missing children's DNA whenever it was possible. Three were identified already and their families have been notified.
Needless to say, after all this is over, I’m going on a vacation. Both Jake and Gabe had their rude awakenings about what it means to wear the badge when they realized the bulk of notifying the family members of their children's deaths fell on them.
There are moments I want to dig up Spencer’s body out of the cemetery and throw his remains over a cliff. The fucker did not deserve such grace. But I know better than to do that, thanks to those thirteen children who had to wait a century for the world to discover what had happened to them.
A forensic expert from Smithsonian spent over a week poring over Spencer’s notes. She believes his family had been practicing ritual human sacrifice ever since the fire. I think Ms. Clennon realized the consequences of her actions and tried to escape the fate that had befallen on her and her unborn child. How she got her hands on such horrific information is still a mystery.
Onto better news. I am happy to report the damage from the fire is minimal with the single main destruction being the mansion. The Black Woods is black once again, but we’re not exactly grieving over the loss. I’m sure none of this doesn’t come as a surprise to you.
Now for something that will blow your mind away: Adam Spencer did not have leprosy.
The medical examiner did extensive testing and discovered the man suffered from a combination of skin diseases and nerve degeneration, some still to be identified. However, leprosy was not one of them.
No wonder the drugs didn’t work.
The question is did he believe he was cursed with leprosy to such a degree that it became true in a way? Or was there an actual curse?
I don’t think there really is a difference. I’ve been around people long enough to know that belief holds fifty percent of one's fate.
In spite of what the doctors say, I hope Aiden never remembers. Forgetting can be a gift. So, if this means that you can never return to Robbin, I understand. However, if Aiden asks, tell him Harley and Sadie are fine.
Yes, I’ve named the two mongrels, which means I will, in all likelihood, adopt them. Nobody knows where these two came from, so as soon as the vet gives them the all-clear, they’re coming home with me.
If you need anything from us, don’t hesitate to contact me. After all your family had endured, a little peace isn’t too much to ask for.
Sincerely,
Jensen
July, 2010
San Francisco, California
Jared heard the familiar beep and checked his Blackberry. There was a message from Sandy. He opened it and smiled when he read the short but telling missive.
Thks for wknd. Bud nds it mr tn Adn! Lv S.
And how true that was. Jared knew Buddy suffered from huge emotional turmoil when Aiden was rescued not by him, but by Jared. So, when Sandy cautiously asked him to let Aiden spend a weekend with Buddy and his folks, Jared readily agreed. He and Sandy weren't the only parents who needed healing, and there was also the fact that Buddy managed to keep Sandy alive during the ordeal.
That superhuman effort earned him Jared's gratitude, respect, and the desire to have Buddy around even if it meant Jared had to share the honors of being a father to Aiden.
“So, what’s up with you?” Jared asked as he turned off his Blackberry.
“I sold my company,” Chad answered with a knowing grin.
“What?” Justin looked at his friend with unabated shock. “Are you serious?”
“Yep, an offer came and I decided to take it.”
Tom froze in the midst of pouring drinks for everyone. “But why?”
“I have another plan; a better one, actually.”
“Stop sounding so fucking smug and tell us!” Jared roared, taking a glass from Tom.
“The Fournet Development fell through,” Chad announced with a flourish.
Jared paled. “What happened? I thought that deal was done!”
“Turns out the good mayor of Robbin Island didn’t tell the developers what the sanatorium was really built for. And when they found out about the entire leper colony thing, they bolted.”
“You’re kidding, right?” Justin said. “Everyone on Planet Earth knows that!”
“Not in France, they didn’t,” Chad said. “It really is amazing how deep prejudices go. It’s been a century and people still turn tail when they hear about what went on there.”
“So, where do you come in?” Jared leaned forward.
“I bought the entire parcel,” Chad said. He jumped in his seat as if goosed then pulled out a packet of papers from his jacket pocket. “Here, this should explain things.”
He unfolded and laid out the papers on the glass table. “This entire stretch isn’t mine, but a good portion of it is.”
Jared tapped a bunch of markers. “And the sanatorium?”
“Included,” Chad said. He saw Jared’s rising tide of anger and quickly added, “Me and the State are going to turn it into a memorial of sorts. We’re going to have to clean up the place, of course. But there’s going to be a small museum built on the grounds.”
“You’ve been back?” Jared looked at his friend with wide eyes.
“Couple of times,” Chad confessed. “And the town’s pretty keen on the idea.”
“What about the rest?” Justin traced the coastline with his finger. “That’s at least a mile's worth of oceanfront property.”
“I’ve got this idea of building an inn,” Chad said.
The table went dead silent.
“Look, I’m not going to run the place, but I’ve seen a model in Maine that’s doing pretty damn good even in this business climate. Anyway, I’m planning to build small cottages, catering mainly to summer people and visiting artists. That way most of the land can remain pristine.”
“Burned, you mean,” Justin corrected. “I’ve seen pictures and the fire’s done a thorough job.”
“Yeah, but with some landscaping and right roadwork, within ten years I think my idea can work.”
“And if you stick to the coastline, it’ll be viable,” Jared concluded.
“Especially since Robbin attracts boaters,” Chad said. “I studied the numbers, and they don’t lie.”
Jared’s face morphed from one of confusion to gratitude. He understood what Chad was really doing: protecting Robbin. For months the island had been the focus of mass media, and it stood to reason that sooner or later, greed would overcome revulsion. Then, inevitably, progress would come to Robbin with its tractors, bulldozers, and dismissive attitude towards the locals and their concerns.
What can’t be bribed will be ignored, Jared concluded. And then destroyed or bought out.
“It definitely has potential,” Jared said, forcing his voice to remain normal. He knew how much Chad hated it when he got teary-eyed.
“Seriously?” Justin looked at the two men.
“Seriously,” Jared answered.
“Well, okay, then.” Justin raised his glass. “To crazy ideas.”
“Amen!” both Jared and Chad said before draining their glasses.
Chad looked askance at Tom. “I’m expecting you to pay back some favors you owe me.”
Tom blushed and cringed deeper into his chair. “What?”
“Free advertisement,” Chad said with a smirk. “I’m sure you can chart our progress on your blog.”
“Okay,” Tom said reluctantly. “But that might mean I’m going to drop by unannounced.”
“Fine with me,” Chad said. He looked at Jared with a questioning gaze.
“Why not?” Jared said. “There’s bound to be some interest, might as well be yours.”
“So, what are your plans, Jared?” Tom asked.
“Sandy’s got a new story, and I’ve drawn up plans for the book. It’s definitely going to be one of those saccharine happy-ending stories.”
“How complicated?” Chad asked.
“Not very,” Jared answered. “But it’s going to be a beaut, I can tell.”
Tom smiled. “Better than Humbold?”
“Not as complex, but probably more beautiful.” Jared relaxed into his chair. “It’ll definitely wow the kids.”
“Okay, enough about work,” Justin said. “Let’s sit back and enjoy the weekend.”
“I’ll drink to that!” Chad roared.
Jared desperately wanted to share his friends' good mood, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't pull together anything resembling enthusiasm for the night ahead. The music was interesting, the drinks were great, and the company was lively as ever, but to Jared it all seemed anemic.
He examined the club and admitted that the people were even more beautiful. And since he’d become a local celebrity, he was the catch of the night. But the truth was Jared wanted none of the offerings.
He heard Chad’s bark of laughter and looked at his friend. It was then he understood why Chad had made such a drastic change.
He feels the same, Jared realized. But he’s going at it a lot more gracefully than I am.
Jared excused himself and went outside to get a breath of fresh air. Feeling mutinous against the partying crowd inside, Jared examined his blackberry. With tremulous fingers, he scrolled down his contact list.
He didn’t have to go far: Ackles was fourth.
“Fuck it,” Jared whispered and dialed before he lost his courage.
Jensen answered on the second ring. “Hello?”
“Hi, it’s me,” Jared said.
“Oh, hey, how are you?” Jensen said. “And thanks for the books. I haven’t started yet on the account of my trying to do home improvements.”
“Again?” Jared teased. “I thought you gave that up after the bathroom debacle.”
“Shut up,” Jensen groused. “Not my fault the septic tank wasn’t where it was supposed to be.”
“So, did Chris and Steve help you clean up?”
“Yeah, because they’re real friends, not like some people who laughed at me like a braying donkey.”
“Dude, didn’t anybody tell you that Time Life Books aren’t the best resources for home improvement?”
“Did you call me up to mock at me? Or was there something else?”
Jared panicked for a moment, as he didn’t have anything of importance. Then he remembered a passing remark of Aiden's. “How are the dogs?”
“The dogs?”
“Yeah, Aiden mentioned them.”
“Wait a minute,” Jensen said, his tone no longer teasing. “Is he remembering?”
“No,” Jared said hurriedly. “He read about them in the papers and wondered what happened to them.”
“Oh, good,” Jensen said, relaxing. “They’re doing fine. Steve built them a house in the yard so they can stay outside as long as they want.”
“So, they’re behaving?”
“If you’d see them now, you would never have known they were feral.” Jensen sounded amazed even as he spoke.
“I had dogs growing up,” Jared said. “They were great.”
“Why don’t you adopt one? I’m sure Aiden would love that.”
Jared wondered why not. Heaven knows he had enough space for one dog, if not three. “I think he wants Sadie and Harley specifically.”
The silence was ominous enough for Jared to scramble, “Hey, you still there?”
“I wonder,” Jensen said. “Are you sure he doesn’t remember?”
“I’m sure,” Jared answered. “And he doesn’t want to, either.”
“Really?”
“Really. He doesn’t care at all. As far as he’s concerned, what happened on Robbin has nothing to do with his homework, his birthday plans, or what he wants for Christmas.”
“Do you think he’s over it, then?”
Jared noticed the slight eagerness in Jensen’s voice and knew what he was really asking. “Aiden hasn’t compartmentalized his experiences in Robbin because there’s nothing left to compartmentalize.
“All he knows is what he’s read and that’s it.”
"What about you, Jared? Do you remember?"
"No," Jared said, relieved and happy. "I did a little while I was at Robbin but it faded away. I mean there's a blank space in my head and I know it has to do with what happened to me as a child, but it's gone, Jensen. All of it. I don't even have nightmares about it like I used to do sometimes."
“So … it’s over and done with, finally.”
“How about the others? Have you contacted any of the others who came stumbling out of those woods?” Jared closed his eyes and prayed for the answer he wanted.
“I’ve contacted all of them, and they remember nothing.” Jensen followed that up with a huge sigh. “So, I saw no reason to ask Aiden.”
“How’s Alliance Bay doing?”
“Summer people are streaming in by the boatloads,” Jensen said. “Business is definitely booming.”
“I’m not asking about them.”
“We’re doing good, actually,” Jensen said. “It’s like the island’s waking up from hibernation. Of course, petty crimes are up but otherwise, we’re doing okay.”
Jared heard the doors open and watched as a well-dressed crowd entered the club. Jensen must have heard the music slipping out and asked:
“Do you need to go somewhere? It sounds like you’re busy and I don’t want to keep you waiting.”
Jared’s grasp on his phone tightened. “No, there’s nothing here. So … tell me, what is Robbin like during summertime?”
Jensen’s laughter was as sweet and warm as June rain.
August, 2010
After discovering Steve wasn't captaining the ferry, Jared and Aiden took a stroll around the decks before going topside. They had found an empty bench on the ferry's top deck, and though the wind was fierce, the sun was warm enough to seduce them to stay.
Jared leaned back on the wooden seats and basked in the sun like Aiden who seemed to have sprouted two full inches since March just by absorbing sunshine.
When Jensen got the phone call, he sounded genuinely pleased to find out they were coming to the island to spend a few weeks, pleased but not surprised.
Jared wondered if the man knew. That they would return to Robbin Island. That the place held no surprise or horror for either him or Aiden.
Jared grinned and gave a sideway glance towards his child. He'd witnessed his son's expert wheedling as Aiden convinced Sandy to change her mind over the course of Sunday brunch. That and the child psychologist assurance of the visit's benefits for Aiden. And now that they were on their way, Jared felt anticipation humming in his mind. It would be beautiful and with Jensen by his side, Jared knew he’d find that rare balance of peace and frisson of desire.
Jared studied the sea, brilliantly lit by the sun. And the darkness that coated underneath the shimmering blue. The contrast didn’t frighten him anymore. He’d realized after his ordeal that human nature was just that: a war between its darker and better self. And that the war, as long as human being had a conscience, will rage on.
“Dad! Is Jensen gonna bring Harley and Sadie to meet us?”
“He promised he would, and Jensen is a man who keeps his word.”
Jared looked down with great fondness at Aiden’s shaggy head (and alarmed to note how similar his was getting to his father’s).
“Look, dad!” Aiden stood up, pointing excitedly to a landmass looming to their left. “That’s it, isn’t it?!”
“Yes, it is,” Jared answered, excitement thrumming in his voice.
They may not have been born on Robbin, but Jared suspected that the island had adopted them. After all, the dead, along with the living, knew what they owed. And unlike their more lively counterparts - they did not hesitate to pay back their debts. If that meant Jared and Aiden would find peace again, then the payment was more than enough.
The End
Author's Notes:
So, I took a decidedly charming children's tale and turned it into a horror story, but I honestly think Peter Pan can be read as one, especially if you are a parent. After all, George and Mary lost all their children under mysterious circumstances. And Mary believed herself mad, especially when she saw John, Wendy, and Michael in front of her. Only when she was able to embrace them, did Mrs. Darling realize that no, she wasn't crazy: her beloved three were back, with additions.
Just in case if anyone's curious: Jensen's Peter Pan, as he was the only member in the entire group who honestly believed his parents didn't want him back. Of course, it ended up not being true.
I might love horror to an unhealthy degree but I'm not a complete sadist!
I had a rocking good time writing this for j2_everafter, and my thanks to the mods for putting in a huge effort to making this challenge happen!
As usual, because I can't reply to all the posts, here's my way of saying 'thank you' for reading this ginormous work.
.zip file
Pairing: ja/jp, former ja/jdm
Rating: R for language and violence
Warning: Genuine horror here. I hope.
Word Count: ~51k
Summary: Aiden Thomas Padalecki is violently and mysteriously kidnapped, leaving behind distraught parents who have no idea why their only child was taken. After months of futile investigation, the frantic father witnesses the slow but inevitable decline in the search of his only child. Half mad with grief, Jared goes to an island off the coast of Washington, holding the last clue that may help him find his son. But it is all a trap, and there’s someone crouching, waiting for him to pay back for sins not of his making.
Notes: Adapted from Peter Pan, written for j2_everafter.
Disclaimer: 127.5% fiction.
All the emergency workers were conscripted into putting out the fire so the deputies had to drive their injured sheriff to the island's only internist. Steve took the rest of the team in his truck with Jared holding onto Aiden. He had tried to separate them in order to stash Aiden with the deputies but found the grip the father and son shared to be unbreakable.
Mercifully, the island had three doctors: two retired surgeons, Dr. Kimmels, who were married to each other, and one general practitioner, Dr. Leigh, who had opened his practice not four months ago. They had congregated in Leigh’s office since his had the necessary equipment and the space to maneuver multiple patients.
The two surgeons descended on Jensen while Dr. Leigh looked in on Aiden. Jared had to sit on the examination table, holding onto the child because Aiden refused to let go of his father.
Dr. Leigh did a cursory examination. The initial shock on his face wore down to a practical frown while he checked Aiden.
“When is the medevac coming?” Dr. Leigh asked. “This boy’s got a host of health problems.”
“How bad?” Jared asked, peeking up from his son’s matted head.
“Malnutrition, dehydration, and he’s severely traumatized,” Dr. Leigh answered, his fingers gingerly dancing over the boy's papier-mâché skin, noting how easily it slid over the skull visible beneath the flesh. “But, as far as I can see no broken bones or hemorrhaging, though that diagnosis is iffy at best.”
“The choppers are on their way now,” Gabe answered. “We should get them to the landing pad as soon as we can.”
Dr. Michael Kimmel slowly peeled off Jensen’s undershirt and gave a sigh of relief. “The skin damage is minimal on the back.”
“But not the neck,” Dr. Johanna Kimmel added.
Gabe took a glance and had to bite his tongue in order to not empty his stomach in the examination room.
“Jesus,” Jared whispered when he got a glance of the red, soupy, bubbling mess that was Jensen's nape.
“It’s okay,” Jensen drawled. “The drugs you gave me are some damn good shit, doc.”
Dr. Johanna Kimmel politely coughed in order to hide her laughter. Her husband gave a dirty look at the doped-up sheriff but said nothing. “Mike, why don’t you check on Kane? I believe he’s got a concussion," she said.
Dr. Michael Kimmel gave a grimace and left the room. His wife rolled her eyes and shook her head. “I swear, he’s never going to forgive Chris for throwing him out of the tavern.”
In spite of his roiling emotions, Jared managed a dry chuckle. “Is that his job? A bouncer?”
“Oh, no,” Dr. Kimmel answered. “Mr. Kane was doing a favor for a friend.”
Jared’s chuckle grew. “I see.”
She turned to the deputies in the room and said briskly, “It's safe to move your boss.”
Jared couldn’t relinquish his son and didn’t need to. Steve and Chris joined them soon enough, and with their help, they moved the injured sheriff to the landing pad next to town hall.
Jared looked up when he felt a wave of heat wash over his head. The cataclysmic sight that greeted him almost loosened his grip on Aiden.
The Spencer mansion wasn’t burning much as there were only bones left standing. However, the forest behind it was on fire. Huge plumes of ashes rose along with flames so high, they made the noon sky resemble dusk.
“Let the fucker burn,” Steve hissed between his clenched teeth.
Jared turned to see tears stream down the non-descript face as flames flickered in Steve’s blue eyes.
“Amen,” Chris agreed.
They looked up in unison as two choppers circled the parking lot that doubled as a helio pad. Steve waved his arms, motioning for them to land. It took less than two minutes for them to get into the medevacs.
From the air, Jared realized the fire had spread astonishingly fast. What he also noticed was how narrow it was. Its destructive path was almost shaped like an arrow, pointing northeast of Robbin where the sanatorium lay in crouch.
Nobody had to tell Jared this fire was identical to the one that caused so much tragedy a hundred years ago. And nobody had to point out this fire would cleanse the meanness, the lies, and the hidden sins that was begotten from the one born by greed, lust, and mindless devotion.
Nobody had to tell the father anything, for Jared knew all as he held the truth in his arms, trembling and exhausted.
Harborview Medical Center, Seattle
Jared was forced to relinquish his son’s care to the platoon of medical personnel waiting for them at the hospital.
After being forcibly shoved out of the examination room, Jared wandered off to get cup of coffee. He was returning to Aiden when Chris found him. “There you are,” he said. “Jensen wants to talk to you.”
“How is he?” Jared asked. “Is he going to be okay?”
“As soon as you talk to him,” Chris said, rushing through a battery of doors. “He won’t take any more pain meds until he sees you.”
Jared’s trot graduated into a full run when he’d heard that. They arrived in a small room with Jensen resting on a contraption Jared had never seen. The injured man was faced down and completely suspended from the waist up, which forced the body in a slight incline.
“Is that you?” Jensen asked, his voice muffled by his position.
“Yes,” Jared replied. He stood next to Jensen, afraid to come closer. “I heard you wanted to talk to me.”
“Lean down,” Jensen ordered, his voice muzzy from exhaustion and pain.
Jared did as asked. “What is it?”
“I want you to listen to me,” Jensen said hoarsely. “There isn’t much time. When the authorities get here, you have to lie. Do you understand?
“Do not tell them about the ghosts or the bodies found in the mine. As far as you’re concerned, you came here because Tuohy told you something before he committed suicide.”
“I wasn’t planning on telling them about the ghosts,” Jared protested weakly. “But why not the bodies?”
“Because if you want to keep your son, you have to make them think you were a victim, completely. By the time they put out the fire and start the investigation, I’ll be back. So, leave that part up to me. If Spencer was half as smart as I think he was, he hired a private investigator in San Francisco to follow you around. Once we find that son of a bitch, the case is going to crack wide open.”
Jared suddenly realized why Jensen was doing this. “What’s wrong?” he asked, hating how weak and petulant he sounded. “You’re afraid something’s going to happen to Aiden, aren’t you?”
“Yes, because if Aiden suffers from the same symptoms that others like him did, he won’t have any memory of what he’d done. And, Jared, that is a mercy, do you understand? If he remembers, he won’t be able to process his actions, no matter what anybody tells him.
“So, fucking lie. You hear me? Protect your son, so he'll never remember. That’s the way they wanted it to be. That’s why anybody who wondered out of the woods couldn’t remember a damn thing about what happened to them in there.”
“But then why did they do that to my son?”
“Because they were just kids, Jared, and they were scared and tired. They wanted peace, and the only way they could get it is by trying to find someone who could understand them. And that someone turned out to be your son: a direct heir of the tragedy.”
“It wasn’t Spencer who took Aiden, was it?”
“No, I don’t think so. I think Spencer planned to but the children beat him to it, somehow.”
“The statue?”
“Maybe, probably,” Jensen muttered. “But that doesn’t matter. And I want you to leave that statue behind. Don’t take it with you, understand?”
“Yes, I understand,” Jared agreed, the strength returning to his voice.
“Those kids … they did the best they could to protect Aiden from Spencer. But they were children … and they could do only so much. But what they did kept Aiden alive. Yeah, maybe a part of it was for revenge, but most of it? I think they were looking out for your son in their own twisted way.”
“What’s going to happen to Aiden?”
“He’ll be in a bad shape for couple of weeks. But then he’ll recover, and during that time you are going to be slammed by the authorities. So, you’re going to have to convince them you were just a traumatized, scared father who had nothing to lose.
“Play that card, Jared. And if you do it right - when Aiden gets out of the hospital, you’ll be there to take him home.”
Jared wiped tears from his face and asked, “What about you?”
“Me? I’m a genuine bona-fide hero, buddy. I pulled a boy out of a burning building and rescued your sorry ass from a man who’s so far from sane that he’s orbiting another planet. I can shit on the governor and nobody’s gonna say a word.”
Jared choked on his laughter. Jensen grabbed his hand and squeezed hard enough for Jared to look at him again.
“There, that sounds so much better than the weird, tight thing you were jerking out of your mouth earlier.”
Jared stared at the man who’d risked everything for a stranger out of kindness and a good heart. “You are the most beautiful man I’ve ever known. And will ever know.”
“I feel sorry for you already.”
Jared stood up, not daring to speak any further. The last thing the injured man needed was for Jared to dump his heart out while he was strapped to an unidentifiable piece of machinery and hopped up on pain meds.
I’ve done enough to fuck up his world. Leave him be. Probably the best thing for him.
“Thank you,” Jared said and left before Jensen could respond.
The weary father returned to his son’s room and found two strangers guarding the door besides the three cops assigned to protective detail on the floor.
“Mr. Padalecki?” the woman asked. “My name is Sera Gamble. I’m with the U.S. Marshals. This is Special Agent Misha Collins from the FBI. We would like to talk to you.”
Jared nodded. He saw their looks of disbelief and pity, and knew the reason. He'd gotten a glimpse of his reflection earlier: it told only too well of the hardship he’d endured the last three days.
“Could we talk somewhere private?” Jared asked. “I don’t want Aiden to hear anything.”
“We have a private room set up,” Gamble said. “If that’s all right.”
“Thank you,” Jared said. Then, expelling a weary sigh throttled with unspoken emotions, the exhausted man put on the performance of a lifetime.
Dallas, Texas
Dr. Alan Ackles was finishing up with his operating schedule for tomorrow when his wife’s thin, near-hysterical voice reached him.
“Alan! Alan! Come here!”
He ran out of his office and found Donna standing in the den. Her face was moon-like, glowing with shock.
“What? What’s happened?” For a moment Alan thought Donna had some kind of seizure.
She pointed to the television wordlessly. Alan looked at it and crumpled to his knees.
On the screen was a photo of his son, Jensen. A son he’d not seen for nearly fifteen years.
“Oh my God,” Alan said. “Oh my God…”
He crawled to the television and touched the cold, staticky screen with trembling fingers.
My boy, my beautiful boy.
Without warning the volume came on. Alan startled and fell back, but his gaze never wavered.
“…Sheriff Jensen Ackles is still in guarded condition, though sources have told us he is stable in spite of his injuries. As far as we know Aiden Padalecki is under sedation but his condition is also stable. This is Amy Chang reporting live from Seattle.”
“Thank you. We will be monitoring this amazing story throughout the night. The situation in Afghanistan has taken a drastic turn for the worse…”
Five Days Later
Jensen moved about his home with shuffling, ungainly steps. He was still feeling the side effects of the medications the doctors had pumped into him right before discharge. Jensen was debating whether to fall asleep or call his deputies when his cell rang.
“Oh man, what now?” He didn’t recognize the number but he was all too familiar with the area code. Whatever effects the drugs had just flaked off of Jensen as he pressed the ‘talk’ button.
“Hello?”
“Jensen? Oh my God, is that you?”
Jensen bit his lip but couldn’t stop crying out, “Mom? Mom?”
“Oh thank God, thank God, are you okay?”
Another voice came on the phone. “Jensen? Jensen?”
“Dad?”
“We had to call your office to find your number,” Alan said. “Are you really okay?”
“Yes, sir. I’m fine. The burn hurts like hell but that’s about it.”
“Why? Why didn’t you tell us where you were?” Donna asked without rancor.
Jensen closed his eyes. Because I knew what you thought of me. I knew what you’d hoped for when I got out of that place, thinking I was cured. But I wasn’t, and I couldn’t live your lie. And I sure as hell didn’t want to go back to that camp.
“Because I’m still gay, Mom.” Jensen gathered up what little courage he had left and added, “And I’ll always be gay.”
“Okay … okay, then,” Alan said hesitantly. “So, is that why you left us?”
“I knew you hoped that I was cured but the truth was I was never sick, Dad.” Jensen sat down as all his strength drained from him. “And I couldn’t go through that again. So, I decided to live my life elsewhere without shaming you.”
“Having a son who happens to be a sheriff, and who saved a child from a madman is nothing to be ashamed about,” Donna said. “And for the rest … you’re my baby, Jensen. So, no, if that’s what you are - then we’ll take it.”
“Dad?” Jensen asked; the man in him fearing the worst; the little boy, hoping for the best.
“I missed you so much,” Alan’s voice was peppered with tears and a thousand regrets. “Can we see you? Would you mind if we dropped by? I know coming back to Texas would be too much for you right now, but we need to see you, Son. Just to make sure you're okay.”
“I’d love it if you came by,” Jensen said, sounding like the little boy who’d won betting on hope. “But I gotta tell you it’s going to be a zoo here. At least for a while.”
“I don’t give a flying damn,” Donna said firmly. “We’ll be there tomorrow!”
“Mom, could you call Mac and Josh?” Jensen asked. “I don’t think I’ve got enough strength left to tell them.”
“Not a problem, sweetheart,” Donna said.
“Get some rest,” Alan added. “We’ll call you tomorrow.”
“Okay. Good night mom and dad.”
“Good night son,” his parents said in unison.
Jensen fell asleep, clutching his cell.
Dear Jared,
Thank you for the news clippings. And I am even more grateful for your portrayal of our help in finding Aiden. It’s good to know the child is recovering from an ordeal that would end a grown man’s sanity.
Children are such wonders - the combination of fragility and strength is unfathomable. Probably one of the reasons why we consider them so precious.
I thought you’d want to hear from me before reading it in the papers.
The total body count from the mines was twenty-seven. All thirteen children from the sanatorium were discovered and were buried with full services on hallowed ground. A lot of people attended, including Steve, Chris, and myself. The services, though a century late, were beautiful.
I was shocked by how small the coffins were. That, as much as anything else we’ve experienced, told me the suffering they’ve must endured in those mines, waiting for a rescue that never came.
The other bodies are being identified. The most recent deaths being the easiest, as we’ve kept records of missing children's DNA whenever it was possible. Three were identified already and their families have been notified.
Needless to say, after all this is over, I’m going on a vacation. Both Jake and Gabe had their rude awakenings about what it means to wear the badge when they realized the bulk of notifying the family members of their children's deaths fell on them.
There are moments I want to dig up Spencer’s body out of the cemetery and throw his remains over a cliff. The fucker did not deserve such grace. But I know better than to do that, thanks to those thirteen children who had to wait a century for the world to discover what had happened to them.
A forensic expert from Smithsonian spent over a week poring over Spencer’s notes. She believes his family had been practicing ritual human sacrifice ever since the fire. I think Ms. Clennon realized the consequences of her actions and tried to escape the fate that had befallen on her and her unborn child. How she got her hands on such horrific information is still a mystery.
Onto better news. I am happy to report the damage from the fire is minimal with the single main destruction being the mansion. The Black Woods is black once again, but we’re not exactly grieving over the loss. I’m sure none of this doesn’t come as a surprise to you.
Now for something that will blow your mind away: Adam Spencer did not have leprosy.
The medical examiner did extensive testing and discovered the man suffered from a combination of skin diseases and nerve degeneration, some still to be identified. However, leprosy was not one of them.
No wonder the drugs didn’t work.
The question is did he believe he was cursed with leprosy to such a degree that it became true in a way? Or was there an actual curse?
I don’t think there really is a difference. I’ve been around people long enough to know that belief holds fifty percent of one's fate.
In spite of what the doctors say, I hope Aiden never remembers. Forgetting can be a gift. So, if this means that you can never return to Robbin, I understand. However, if Aiden asks, tell him Harley and Sadie are fine.
Yes, I’ve named the two mongrels, which means I will, in all likelihood, adopt them. Nobody knows where these two came from, so as soon as the vet gives them the all-clear, they’re coming home with me.
If you need anything from us, don’t hesitate to contact me. After all your family had endured, a little peace isn’t too much to ask for.
Sincerely,
Jensen
July, 2010
San Francisco, California
Jared heard the familiar beep and checked his Blackberry. There was a message from Sandy. He opened it and smiled when he read the short but telling missive.
Thks for wknd. Bud nds it mr tn Adn! Lv S.
And how true that was. Jared knew Buddy suffered from huge emotional turmoil when Aiden was rescued not by him, but by Jared. So, when Sandy cautiously asked him to let Aiden spend a weekend with Buddy and his folks, Jared readily agreed. He and Sandy weren't the only parents who needed healing, and there was also the fact that Buddy managed to keep Sandy alive during the ordeal.
That superhuman effort earned him Jared's gratitude, respect, and the desire to have Buddy around even if it meant Jared had to share the honors of being a father to Aiden.
“So, what’s up with you?” Jared asked as he turned off his Blackberry.
“I sold my company,” Chad answered with a knowing grin.
“What?” Justin looked at his friend with unabated shock. “Are you serious?”
“Yep, an offer came and I decided to take it.”
Tom froze in the midst of pouring drinks for everyone. “But why?”
“I have another plan; a better one, actually.”
“Stop sounding so fucking smug and tell us!” Jared roared, taking a glass from Tom.
“The Fournet Development fell through,” Chad announced with a flourish.
Jared paled. “What happened? I thought that deal was done!”
“Turns out the good mayor of Robbin Island didn’t tell the developers what the sanatorium was really built for. And when they found out about the entire leper colony thing, they bolted.”
“You’re kidding, right?” Justin said. “Everyone on Planet Earth knows that!”
“Not in France, they didn’t,” Chad said. “It really is amazing how deep prejudices go. It’s been a century and people still turn tail when they hear about what went on there.”
“So, where do you come in?” Jared leaned forward.
“I bought the entire parcel,” Chad said. He jumped in his seat as if goosed then pulled out a packet of papers from his jacket pocket. “Here, this should explain things.”
He unfolded and laid out the papers on the glass table. “This entire stretch isn’t mine, but a good portion of it is.”
Jared tapped a bunch of markers. “And the sanatorium?”
“Included,” Chad said. He saw Jared’s rising tide of anger and quickly added, “Me and the State are going to turn it into a memorial of sorts. We’re going to have to clean up the place, of course. But there’s going to be a small museum built on the grounds.”
“You’ve been back?” Jared looked at his friend with wide eyes.
“Couple of times,” Chad confessed. “And the town’s pretty keen on the idea.”
“What about the rest?” Justin traced the coastline with his finger. “That’s at least a mile's worth of oceanfront property.”
“I’ve got this idea of building an inn,” Chad said.
The table went dead silent.
“Look, I’m not going to run the place, but I’ve seen a model in Maine that’s doing pretty damn good even in this business climate. Anyway, I’m planning to build small cottages, catering mainly to summer people and visiting artists. That way most of the land can remain pristine.”
“Burned, you mean,” Justin corrected. “I’ve seen pictures and the fire’s done a thorough job.”
“Yeah, but with some landscaping and right roadwork, within ten years I think my idea can work.”
“And if you stick to the coastline, it’ll be viable,” Jared concluded.
“Especially since Robbin attracts boaters,” Chad said. “I studied the numbers, and they don’t lie.”
Jared’s face morphed from one of confusion to gratitude. He understood what Chad was really doing: protecting Robbin. For months the island had been the focus of mass media, and it stood to reason that sooner or later, greed would overcome revulsion. Then, inevitably, progress would come to Robbin with its tractors, bulldozers, and dismissive attitude towards the locals and their concerns.
What can’t be bribed will be ignored, Jared concluded. And then destroyed or bought out.
“It definitely has potential,” Jared said, forcing his voice to remain normal. He knew how much Chad hated it when he got teary-eyed.
“Seriously?” Justin looked at the two men.
“Seriously,” Jared answered.
“Well, okay, then.” Justin raised his glass. “To crazy ideas.”
“Amen!” both Jared and Chad said before draining their glasses.
Chad looked askance at Tom. “I’m expecting you to pay back some favors you owe me.”
Tom blushed and cringed deeper into his chair. “What?”
“Free advertisement,” Chad said with a smirk. “I’m sure you can chart our progress on your blog.”
“Okay,” Tom said reluctantly. “But that might mean I’m going to drop by unannounced.”
“Fine with me,” Chad said. He looked at Jared with a questioning gaze.
“Why not?” Jared said. “There’s bound to be some interest, might as well be yours.”
“So, what are your plans, Jared?” Tom asked.
“Sandy’s got a new story, and I’ve drawn up plans for the book. It’s definitely going to be one of those saccharine happy-ending stories.”
“How complicated?” Chad asked.
“Not very,” Jared answered. “But it’s going to be a beaut, I can tell.”
Tom smiled. “Better than Humbold?”
“Not as complex, but probably more beautiful.” Jared relaxed into his chair. “It’ll definitely wow the kids.”
“Okay, enough about work,” Justin said. “Let’s sit back and enjoy the weekend.”
“I’ll drink to that!” Chad roared.
Jared desperately wanted to share his friends' good mood, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't pull together anything resembling enthusiasm for the night ahead. The music was interesting, the drinks were great, and the company was lively as ever, but to Jared it all seemed anemic.
He examined the club and admitted that the people were even more beautiful. And since he’d become a local celebrity, he was the catch of the night. But the truth was Jared wanted none of the offerings.
He heard Chad’s bark of laughter and looked at his friend. It was then he understood why Chad had made such a drastic change.
He feels the same, Jared realized. But he’s going at it a lot more gracefully than I am.
Jared excused himself and went outside to get a breath of fresh air. Feeling mutinous against the partying crowd inside, Jared examined his blackberry. With tremulous fingers, he scrolled down his contact list.
He didn’t have to go far: Ackles was fourth.
“Fuck it,” Jared whispered and dialed before he lost his courage.
Jensen answered on the second ring. “Hello?”
“Hi, it’s me,” Jared said.
“Oh, hey, how are you?” Jensen said. “And thanks for the books. I haven’t started yet on the account of my trying to do home improvements.”
“Again?” Jared teased. “I thought you gave that up after the bathroom debacle.”
“Shut up,” Jensen groused. “Not my fault the septic tank wasn’t where it was supposed to be.”
“So, did Chris and Steve help you clean up?”
“Yeah, because they’re real friends, not like some people who laughed at me like a braying donkey.”
“Dude, didn’t anybody tell you that Time Life Books aren’t the best resources for home improvement?”
“Did you call me up to mock at me? Or was there something else?”
Jared panicked for a moment, as he didn’t have anything of importance. Then he remembered a passing remark of Aiden's. “How are the dogs?”
“The dogs?”
“Yeah, Aiden mentioned them.”
“Wait a minute,” Jensen said, his tone no longer teasing. “Is he remembering?”
“No,” Jared said hurriedly. “He read about them in the papers and wondered what happened to them.”
“Oh, good,” Jensen said, relaxing. “They’re doing fine. Steve built them a house in the yard so they can stay outside as long as they want.”
“So, they’re behaving?”
“If you’d see them now, you would never have known they were feral.” Jensen sounded amazed even as he spoke.
“I had dogs growing up,” Jared said. “They were great.”
“Why don’t you adopt one? I’m sure Aiden would love that.”
Jared wondered why not. Heaven knows he had enough space for one dog, if not three. “I think he wants Sadie and Harley specifically.”
The silence was ominous enough for Jared to scramble, “Hey, you still there?”
“I wonder,” Jensen said. “Are you sure he doesn’t remember?”
“I’m sure,” Jared answered. “And he doesn’t want to, either.”
“Really?”
“Really. He doesn’t care at all. As far as he’s concerned, what happened on Robbin has nothing to do with his homework, his birthday plans, or what he wants for Christmas.”
“Do you think he’s over it, then?”
Jared noticed the slight eagerness in Jensen’s voice and knew what he was really asking. “Aiden hasn’t compartmentalized his experiences in Robbin because there’s nothing left to compartmentalize.
“All he knows is what he’s read and that’s it.”
"What about you, Jared? Do you remember?"
"No," Jared said, relieved and happy. "I did a little while I was at Robbin but it faded away. I mean there's a blank space in my head and I know it has to do with what happened to me as a child, but it's gone, Jensen. All of it. I don't even have nightmares about it like I used to do sometimes."
“So … it’s over and done with, finally.”
“How about the others? Have you contacted any of the others who came stumbling out of those woods?” Jared closed his eyes and prayed for the answer he wanted.
“I’ve contacted all of them, and they remember nothing.” Jensen followed that up with a huge sigh. “So, I saw no reason to ask Aiden.”
“How’s Alliance Bay doing?”
“Summer people are streaming in by the boatloads,” Jensen said. “Business is definitely booming.”
“I’m not asking about them.”
“We’re doing good, actually,” Jensen said. “It’s like the island’s waking up from hibernation. Of course, petty crimes are up but otherwise, we’re doing okay.”
Jared heard the doors open and watched as a well-dressed crowd entered the club. Jensen must have heard the music slipping out and asked:
“Do you need to go somewhere? It sounds like you’re busy and I don’t want to keep you waiting.”
Jared’s grasp on his phone tightened. “No, there’s nothing here. So … tell me, what is Robbin like during summertime?”
Jensen’s laughter was as sweet and warm as June rain.
August, 2010
After discovering Steve wasn't captaining the ferry, Jared and Aiden took a stroll around the decks before going topside. They had found an empty bench on the ferry's top deck, and though the wind was fierce, the sun was warm enough to seduce them to stay.
Jared leaned back on the wooden seats and basked in the sun like Aiden who seemed to have sprouted two full inches since March just by absorbing sunshine.
When Jensen got the phone call, he sounded genuinely pleased to find out they were coming to the island to spend a few weeks, pleased but not surprised.
Jared wondered if the man knew. That they would return to Robbin Island. That the place held no surprise or horror for either him or Aiden.
Jared grinned and gave a sideway glance towards his child. He'd witnessed his son's expert wheedling as Aiden convinced Sandy to change her mind over the course of Sunday brunch. That and the child psychologist assurance of the visit's benefits for Aiden. And now that they were on their way, Jared felt anticipation humming in his mind. It would be beautiful and with Jensen by his side, Jared knew he’d find that rare balance of peace and frisson of desire.
Jared studied the sea, brilliantly lit by the sun. And the darkness that coated underneath the shimmering blue. The contrast didn’t frighten him anymore. He’d realized after his ordeal that human nature was just that: a war between its darker and better self. And that the war, as long as human being had a conscience, will rage on.
“Dad! Is Jensen gonna bring Harley and Sadie to meet us?”
“He promised he would, and Jensen is a man who keeps his word.”
Jared looked down with great fondness at Aiden’s shaggy head (and alarmed to note how similar his was getting to his father’s).
“Look, dad!” Aiden stood up, pointing excitedly to a landmass looming to their left. “That’s it, isn’t it?!”
“Yes, it is,” Jared answered, excitement thrumming in his voice.
They may not have been born on Robbin, but Jared suspected that the island had adopted them. After all, the dead, along with the living, knew what they owed. And unlike their more lively counterparts - they did not hesitate to pay back their debts. If that meant Jared and Aiden would find peace again, then the payment was more than enough.
The End
Author's Notes:
So, I took a decidedly charming children's tale and turned it into a horror story, but I honestly think Peter Pan can be read as one, especially if you are a parent. After all, George and Mary lost all their children under mysterious circumstances. And Mary believed herself mad, especially when she saw John, Wendy, and Michael in front of her. Only when she was able to embrace them, did Mrs. Darling realize that no, she wasn't crazy: her beloved three were back, with additions.
Just in case if anyone's curious: Jensen's Peter Pan, as he was the only member in the entire group who honestly believed his parents didn't want him back. Of course, it ended up not being true.
I might love horror to an unhealthy degree but I'm not a complete sadist!
I had a rocking good time writing this for j2_everafter, and my thanks to the mods for putting in a huge effort to making this challenge happen!
As usual, because I can't reply to all the posts, here's my way of saying 'thank you' for reading this ginormous work.
.zip file