Wednesday May 8th, 2019 Pt. 4

Wednesday May 8th, 2019 Pt. 4
I linger at the dining table longer than it takes me to eat the small plate I fixed from the leftovers in the fridge. One of the first things I learned when trying to overcome my fears of traveling was that I have severe motion sickness which delayed my ability to travel for a few weeks until Dr. Pierce was able to find a medication that didn’t knock me out. Once we figured that out, Parker started taking me and Dr. Richards on short trips just outside the territory. We have increased the distance over time until I was able to travel the full hour, take a short break, and make the trip back without going into a full panic attack. Some adjustments have been made as it’s still not completely smooth sailing but I’ve come far enough along that Dr. Richards no longer needs to tag along.
I’m lost in my own thoughts long enough that the sound of the front door opening startles me. I look up from my phone in time to see mom followed closely by Jeremy and Lucas. 
“Damian!”
Jeremy shouts excitedly when he spots me. He breaks out into a run resulting in a synchronized chorus of “walk” to occur. He manages to slow down just enough that he doesn’t run into me but achieves his desire to receive a hug from me.
“How was school?”
I ask, genuinely looking forward to his reply.
“We learned about insects today in science. Ms. Hadley took all of us outside to look for butterfly eggs. I was the first one to spot them. We took several leaves back to the classroom where she had special butterfly homes. We are going to watch them hatch into caterpillars, spin themselves into cocoons then come out as butterflies.”
I smile as Jeremy excitedly continues telling me all about his classroom’s science project, something mom and Lucas are enjoying as well. 
“Do you mind if I take Jeremy to the playground?” Lucas asks.
“I think that should be fine. I’m not certain if your father will be eating tonight or not. Just check in with Molly first. They all might enjoy a bit of fresh air.” Mom replies, quietly bringing back the elephant in the room.
“Can you let me know what the plans are for dinner when you find out?”
Mom nods before Jeremy leaves me for Lucas still talking excitedly about all the different types of butterflies that frequent our area of Virginia.
“I’m going to head back out. Maddie and Lynnie should be arriving at their stop soon. Have you thought about speaking to your dad?” She asks.
“Yes, actually. I think I’m going to invite him to come out to the rage room with Parker and I. Last night has me itching for a safe outlet and I think he needs it too.”
I explain my plans before I even know what has dad so upset.
“I think that’s a good idea.”
She nods calmly with a slight smile before making her way back to the door she just came through.
I hang out at the table a little while longer, thinking about the last six months and the changes that have occurred in that time. Jeremy and Lucas have both transformed from angry and out of control to the more natural state of calm and cooperative. Lucas seems to have gotten his uncontrollable lust for underaged virgins under control with the help of medication and therapy. He has become more involved with the family and has even volunteered to help Jeremy transition back to living with his mother and sisters as they continue to wait for their father and brother to make the journey to their new home. 
I sigh as thoughts of Jamie change to the even tougher realization that Cole was dragged back to Red Fang in the worst way possible. I stand from the table, making my way slowly out of the dining room headed toward his office knowing that whatever news Dr. Moore has given dad could not have been good if dad’s reaction was to isolate himself.
                                                                                     
I knock softly on his office door. I can hear his pacing on the short pile carpet slowly come to a stop. I open his door slowly not knowing how well I will be received. 
“Dad?” My voice comes out soft and nervous. 
“It’s okay to come in.” He reassures me before turning to look out the large bay window behind his desk.
“Mom wanted me to let you know she’s home with Luke and Jerry. Since it’s a nice day, she let Luke take Jerry to the playground. She said you’ve been very angry all day and requested to be left alone.” 
He nods silently. 
“Is there anything I can do to help?” 
“You sound nervous. Are you afraid of me?” 
It takes me a moment to answer him. 
“Yes.” 
“Thank you.” He whispers. 
“For what?” I ask as I slowly shut his door. 
“Being honest.” He keeps it simple. “You are the only one right now that I felt could handle the rage within me.” He pauses again.
“We lost Cole, again. He got spooked before they could place a tracker on him.” 
“Any ideas on what spooked him? What do you mean they were going to place a tracker on him?” I blurt out my questions carelessly. 
“Dr. Moore diagnosed him with dissociative amnesia. It’s the only form that causes the person to forget who they are. In the case of werewolves, what they are. Anytime a werewolf is diagnosed with any type of amnesia, doctors or the alpha of the pack, can order a GPS device be fitted to their ankle or wrist when they are a flight risk. It’s very dangerous for a werewolf to have amnesia. Even more when their wolf is in a coma. He will seek out other werewolves without understanding why he wants to be near them or how to act with them. If he encounters the wrong ones they could kill him. Why are you afraid of me? Have you done something wrong?” 
“I don’t think I’ve done anything. It just reminds me of the quiet rage you had when I wrecked the car. Immediately after taking me from the wing you brought me here to beat my behind. You’re more than angry, dad. You really care about Cole and losing him like this is terrifying to say the least.” 
I pause before introducing my idea to him.
“Are you familiar with rage rooms?” 
He shakes his head. I didn’t think he had.