iv

Jo laughed happily and waved at the people standing by the railway crossing. The sun was shining brightly, though it was still cool, as Steve had predicted. They were all enjoying the train ride. Steve’s niece, Jane, had accepted Jo’s silence after Kate had given her a simple explanation. She was only marginally older than Jo, but dwarfed him in size. She thought of Jo as her own living doll and treated him as such. Jo didn’t seem to mind, he was enjoying the train ride too much to be bothered by anything much. He was sitting in the window, his legs and arms waving in the cool air. His cheeks were flushed scarlet and he was grinning joyfully. Kate wondered if he had ever experienced anything like this. She was so glad that he was enjoying it, and relieved too. He had lost a little of his fragility as he had gained in weight and confidence. He was a healthy, happy boy these days. Kate was content, she had never considered herself lonely, but being with Jo had made her wonder if she had been after all. She pondered how long their happiness together could last….

iii

The week wore on peacefully, Kate and Jo had settled into a daily rhythm – breakfast and cartoons, reading lesson, a walk and/or a play in the park, lunch and then their afternoons varied. On Tuesday they had gone to get their haircut. On Wednesday they’d had a picnic in the hills with Steve and Josh, Kate’s younger brother, Jo had warmed up and relaxed a bit with Steve. Perhaps he was learning that not all men would hurt him. They had romped around the gardens happily while Kate had read a book. Jo had even been happy to include Josh; he was gaining confidence daily. On Thursday they had another reading lesson after lunch, Jo was making slow progress and Kate could see that he became easily frustrated, so she tried to keep the lessons short and fun. Bess had dropped by after work and stayed for dinner. Jo had proudly showed off his books and gave Bess one of his pictures. They had organised to catch up for a drink on Friday night.

They were enjoying the park on Friday afternoon with Kate’s brother when Kate spotted the man she’d seen on Sunday. He was standing in the trees, apparently studying the bird life, but Kate knew that there was nothing special about the birds in Fairfield Park. Not in the upper part of the park where they were, anyway. “Josh!” she called, “come here a sec’.” He jogged the short distance over to where Kate was sitting on the picnic rug and dropped down beside her. Jo was less than 3 metres away playing on the jungle gym. “Take a look at that man over there, Josh, I first noticed him on Sunday. What do you think?” Kate asked with tightness in her voice. Josh patted her on the shoulder as he looked over at the trees, “he looks pretty harmless to me, Kate, probably nothing to worry about,” he commented cheerfully, attempting to reassure her. Kate shivered, the tightness remained in her voice despite her brother’s cheerful demeanour, “I’m not so sure Josh, he creeps me out, and maybe we’d better go.” She got up, “Jo!” he ran over to them as Josh folded up the blanket. “Let’s go for a walk,” Kate suggested, “I want to show you something.”

By the time they’d returned home Kate had relaxed significantly, walking always helped. She’d taken the boys down the river path beside the Guide Dogs association and had stopped to watch the puppies being put through their paces. Jo’s eyes had sparkled as they watched. Kate’s mother arrived as they finished dinner, “I’ll do the dishes, Kate, you kids go out and have fun, give my love to Bess and Steve,” she said as she virtually pushed them out the door. “I’ll only be an hour or so, Mum, Jo will pick out a book for you to read to him,” Kate said as she pulled on her jacket. The evenings were still cool, “No rush dear, and don’t worry, we’ll be fine.”

Kate virtually forgot her worries of the afternoon as she unwound with her friends. Josh’s new girlfriend, Sarah, was a charmer; she was studying Arts/Law at Melbourne Uni and had met Josh in a law tutorial. She was sipping on pale ale as she talked to Kate about her family. She had grown up on a dairy farm in South Gippsland and her father was still dairy farming outside her hometown. “It’s beautiful down there,” she enthused, “I miss it sometimes, Dad has had to diversify a bit over the last few years. My younger brother is developing a small goat farm, you should taste the cheese, delicious!” Josh swung over and put his arm around Sarah, “Maybe we should visit sometime?” he suggested. “Yes!” Sarah’s eyes lit up, “We could put you all up in the old milking shed, it’s pretty cosy in there…” They made a plan to go down there for the long weekend in November. It was getting late by the time Kate returned home. Her mum was dozing lightly with a book on the couch but woke as the front door opened. “Sorry I’m so late Mum,” Kate said as she bent down and kissed her on the cheek, “any problems?” “None whatsoever, dear,” her mother replied matter-of-factly and rose, “I’d better get going, your dad will be wondering where I’ve got to.” Kate farewelled her mother at the top of the stairs and read another chapter of her book before going to bed. She dreamed of cows and goats in the countryside. She was excited about next month’s trip.

Kate was just about to give up on the morning’s reading lesson when the doorbell rang, she had a bit of a headache, it was P.C. Smith again and he was with another officer. P.C. smith introduced Constable Moore, “we thought we’d drop by and let you know that we’ve made some developments in our search.” Kate directed them to the chairs around the table and they all sat down, “what have you discovered?” “Well,” began P.C. Smith, “He’s definitely not from Melbourne, we think he might be from the Sunraysia area in the North West of the State. A woman reported a domestic just outside Mildura about six weeks ago. Shots were fired and a woman and child were seen fleeing the scene. The woman and child have not been seen in the area since. The woman was a local known as Mrs Johnstone.” At the mention of the name Jo dropped his book and rushed to Kate’s side, he was obviously frightened. Kate hugged him and lifted him onto her lap, while P.C. Smith continued. “No injuries were reported and the woman and child have not been reported missing, that’s why it has taken us so long to discover this,” he explained, “we still don’t know anything about the boy, the neighbour who reported the domestic said he rarely left the house.” P.C Moore continued, “We’ve begun a search of the births register for 1992 to 1998, but it’s difficult. He may not have been born in the Sunraysia area. We believe that Mrs Johnstone moved to the town about four years ago.” “Of course we’ll let you know as soon as we make any further developments,” P.C Smith finished. “Thank you,” Kate said and then proceeded to tell them about her second sighting of the man in the park on the previous afternoon, “I just feel uncomfortable, he gives me the spooks.” The officers took a description and promised to check their database, “It might help to put you at ease,” P.C. Smith suggested. They rose to depart, “leave it with us,” P.C. Smith said, “We’ll get back to you as soon as we know anything.” Kate thanked them again as she farewelled them. She felt a bit better now the police had a description of the strange man in the park.

The message indicator button was flashing on Kate’s answering machine when they returned from the park. Kate was out of breath; they had been playing chasey in the park. She pressed the button, at first she couldn’t hear anything, but then there was heavy breathing, a chill went down her spine, she shivered and pressed the delete button, she hoped it was just a wrong number, but it had given her the creeps. The next message was from Steve, “Hi Kate, just wondering if you wanted to come with me to Belgrave with me tomorrow. I’m taking my niece on Puffing Billy and I thought that Jo might enjoy it too. Give me a call at home before nine, I’m catching up with the boys tonight.” Kate smiled, “would you like to go on a special train ride tomorrow?” she asked Jo, he smiled, “I’ll take that as a yes then.” She dialled Steve’s number; she knew it off by heart. “Steve? I got your message. Jo and I would love to join you tomorrow,” she laughed, “I haven’t ridden Puffing Billy since I was a kid! Do you know what the weather is going to be like?” she inquired. “Um, I think it’s going to be fine, but I imagine it will be pretty cool up there,” Steve replied. “Always be prepared for anything, I guess,” mused Kate. “I don’t recall you being a girl scout,” teased Steve. “That’s cause I wasn’t!” she taunted back, “Scout’s honour!” “Doesn’t apply if you weren’t a Scout!” he said with a tinge of scorn, though he was just teasing. Kate knew it and laughed happily. Steve asked how they’d been. Kate told them about the cop’s visits, “but otherwise uneventful,” she finished. “That’s good to hear,” Steve responded, “I’d better go, I’ve got to grab a bite to eat before I meet the guys.” “Is Josh joining you tonight?” Kate asked. “Not this time, I expect that he has a more important engagement,” Steve jibed. Kate giggled, “I forgot, Sarah’s brother is in town this weekend, dairy show or something. Well, have fun Steve, say hi to the boys from me.” “Sure, pick you up at ten tomorrow?” he asked. “Sounds great, we’re really looking forward to it,” Kate hung up, “pizza for tea?” she inquired of Jo. He nodded, Kate couldn’t be bothered cooking tonight, it had been a busy week. It would be nice to finish it off in the hills tomorrow. She picked up the receiver again and dialled the familiar number of the local pizza place. She was a Guiseppe’s regular.

They had an early night; tomorrow would be a big day. Guiseppe’s Special had been up to its usual standard and they had finished off their meal with Neapolitan ice cream, Kate favoured vanilla but Jo obviously enjoyed chocolate the most. Kate read Jo his favourite story, she was sure he almost knew it off by heart by now. She had gotten used to his silence and they understood each other now. Kate wondered if he had ever spoken. She watched him sleeping for a while; he slept through most nights now. Kate was relieved, she hoped that the happy times he was experiencing with her were helping to heal the pain of his past. He was too young to feel pain, Kate though as she drifted off to sleep, far too young….

ii

They were enjoying the playground in the part on Sunday afternoon when Kate noticed a man lingering by the trees. She shivered despite the warm sun, the man made her feel a little uneasy. She kept a close eye on Jo, he was enjoying the swing as usual, and he had learnt how to propel himself now. “Jo!” Kate called, “Time to go.” She picked him up from the swing seat and put him on her back, “How about a horsey ride home?” She inquired playfully. Jo giggled and she skipped off towards home. She walked around the block before returning to the apartment. The man had made her feel very uneasy. He didn’t follow them, but she could feel his eyes upon them as they left the playground. ‘Creepy,’ she thought as she let them into the apartment. She considered calling P.C. Smith, but dismissed the idea, ‘I’m probably just being silly.’ She had become very protective of Jo; he seemed so vulnerable, though he was obviously a fighter to have come this far….

Kate’s mother had spoken to the principal at Ivanhoe Primary. He had suggested that they enquire at Abbotsford Primary. Their enrolments were down this year so they’d probably welcome another student. Kate would visit the school with her mum and Jo on Tuesday morning; it was her mother’s only free morning. Kate marvelled at how her mother could keep so busy, ‘where does she get the energy?’ Kate wondered as she handed Jo his usual Strasburg and sauce sandwich and cordial. She had just sat down when the doorbell rang. Kate answered the door, it was P.C. Smith again, and his Monday visits were becoming a regular fixture. “Hello P.C. Smith, come in, we were just having lunch, and can I get you anything?” Kate asked as she ushered him into the living room. “No thanks Kate, I’m due for my lunchbreak, just thought I’d drop by, still no news I’m afraid,” he said, he didn’t sit down. “I didn’t expect any,” Kate replied. She told him about how she’d been spooked in the park the day before. “You were right to be cautious,” P.C. Smith commended her, “though it was probably nothing to worry about.” Kate was reassured by his calm response, “You’re probably right, I guess I’m just a bit overprotective.” “That’s completely understandable,” he responded, “I’d better get going, don’t want to keep you from your lunch. Remember that you can call us anytime.” P.C Smith headed for the door, “Thanks again, Goodbye,” Kate farewelled the officer from the top of the stairs. “I just wanted to check in,” he said as he disappeared down the stairs.

Kate rejoined Jo at the table. He had finished his sandwich and was looking at his favourite picture book. Kate studied him; he didn’t seem to be reading, just looking at the pictures. ‘I wonder if he can read?’ Kate thought as she munched on her sandwich. She would have to investigate; perhaps he had never been to school. After she had cleared up their lunch things she called Jo and sat beside him on her lap with a simple Mr Men book. She tried to get him to read but it soon became clear to her that he couldn’t. She read him the story and then allowed him to watch TV; Looney Tunes was on. She called her mother, “Mum, I don’t think that he can read,” she explained, “Can you bring over some of your readers?” “Sure, they’re pretty old, but they’d be a good start. Are you sure?” she responded. “I’m fairly certain,” Kate, said, “I tried him with a Mr Men book after lunch and he had no idea.” “Well, I can bring them tomorrow when we visit the school.” Mrs McBride ended. Kate hung up and turned to Jo, “You are a mystery,” she mused quietly. He didn’t look up; his favourite cartoon was on, wyle-e-cyote.

Tuesday dawned fine and warm, it would be a nice day. Kate hoped that Jo would like the school; he could do with something normal and the opportunity to make a few friends. She met her mother outside the school gate and they made their way to the principal’s office. The school looked a smallish one, which was appealing to Kate. The principal gave a simple description of the school and its philosophy of education as he showed them around. “We’d probably put him in the prep class as it would be most appropriate for him,” he explained. “I think that would be best,” Kate’s mother agreed, “We don’t think he can read.” They returned to the principal’s office, it was almost recess. The bell rang and the prep teacher knocked at the door. The principal let her in, “this is Miss Brown,” the principal said by way of introduction, “and this is Jo.” Miss Brown knelt beside Jo’s chair and smiled at him, “Hello Jo, pleased to meet you.” Kate explained that Jo was mute and asked if it would be problem. “It will single him out a little,” Miss Brown responded, “But it shouldn’t be too much of a problem.” Kate was relieved; she was so keen for Jo to be successful and to make friends. She had noticed that the class was fairly small and this reassured her. “We’d love to welcome Jo,” the principal said, “though there’s only six weeks left of the school year, so it’s probably a good idea for him to start next year.” Kate agreed, they all shook hands and left the office. Mrs McBride accompanied Kate and Jo home for lunch. “What shall I do with him in the meantime?” Kate asked her mum, “I have to go back to work next week.” “Your dad and I can look after him,” Mrs McBride offered, “I can continue his reading lessons.” “Are you sure Mum? You’re so busy,” Kate responded. “I can drop a few commitments for a while, we’ll manage,” she said reassuringly. Kate was relieved; it was a great idea.

Two - i

The doorbell rang as Kate was doing the dishes on Monday morning. She wiped her hands on a tea towel as she went to answer it. “P.C. Smith,” she said as he held up his badge, “Um, come in,” she let him in and followed him into the living room. Jo dropped his pencil and hid under the table. “It’s okay Jo,” Kate reassured him, “Its P.C. Smith from the police, he won’t hurt you.” Jo peeked out warily and emerged slowly; he clung tightly to his toy monkey and appeared at Kate’s side. She rubbed him on the back, “so have you made any developments?” P.C Smith coughed, “Well it’s been slow going I’m afraid Mc McBride. Though we’re fairly certain that he’s not from Melbourne. No one fitting his description has been reported missing within the state. How are things going for you?” he asked. “Call me Kate,” she answered, “We’re fine. Jo’s a little afraid of men and doesn’t like crowds or bright light, but he’s sleeping better. He hasn’t woken with a nightmare the last couple of nights.” “That’s good; I just wanted to check in. I was in the area,” P.C. Smith responded, “if there’s anything that we can do to help please let us know Kate. Just ask for me.” “Thanks a lot P.C. Smith, I’ll keep that in mind,” Kate said as they walked back to the door, “Thanks for everything.” He smiled, “all in the line of duty,” he said as Kate saw him off, “remember, anything al all,” and he gave her his card. “Thanks again,” Kate said, “Goodbye P.C. Smith.” “No problem. Goodbye Kate,” he waved at the bottom of the stairwell. Kate watched him get into his squad car. Another officer had been waiting for him.

The week progressed without major incident, and Jo only experienced one nightmare. He was becoming a little more adventurous in the park where he felt comfortable, though he withdrew rapidly if anyone approached him or if men or crowds were around. He always stuck close to Kate when they went to places he’d never been before. He had started to show preferences for his favourite foods and drinks and TV programs. Kate was reading him his favourite book when the doorbell rang; it was her friends, Bess and Steve. Kate let them in and put the kettle on, she hadn’t been expecting them, but she knew she had a packet of Tim tams. Jo had followed her into the kitchen, he was still wary of strangers, particularly men. “I took the liberty of sharing your story with Steve and he wanted to meet Jo, so did I,” Bess said by way of explanation. “He’s still a little wary of strangers,” Kate said as she returned to the living room with the tea and coffee, she knew how her friends like their drinks. Jo lingered behind in the kitchen, cautiously peering into the living room. “It’s okay Jo,” Kate said, “These are my friends, Bess and Steve, they want to meet you.” Jo ventured warily from the kitchen and was soon at Kate’s side. He didn’t let her go for the entire visit. Steve stayed after Bess left. She was going to Tennis. Kate usually went too, but she’d lost her racquet. Bess would give Kate’s apologies to the club. Steve suggested an excursion, “It’s a beautiful day, why don’t we go to St Kilda?” Kate thought it was a great idea, “We’ll just get our shoes on,” and they were soon out the door.

They had found their way to Luna Park. Kate hadn’t been there for years, bit it was still the same. They were in the line for the roller coaster. Kate could tell Jo was excited, she wondered if he’d ever been somewhere like this before. Later they were eating hotdogs on a bench and watching people enjoy the rides. Jo was really enjoying himself; he didn’t even seem too worried by the crowds. “Are you up for a ride on the dodgems?” Steve asked playfully. He knew that Kate had a weakness for dodgems. She wiped her hands on her jeans, “I’m game if you are!” she grinned. They soon joined the dodgem queue. Jo looked intrigued but a little wary. Kate squeezed his hand, “Ok mate?” she asked him. He smiled weakly by way of reply. They clambered into a car and Kate ensured that they were securely strapped in. a short horn indicated that it was time to start and Kate put her foot down hard as the car chugged to life. She squealed with delight as they rammed Steve’s car, he grinned and bumped them right back. A rather large young man bumped them roughly on the other side and Jo screamed. “It’s ok Jo,” Kate tried to reassure him, but she could see that he was upset. She made for the edge where it was a bit quieter; it would be over soon.

Jo had clung to Kate tightly for the rest of the time they spent in the park. Even the fairy floss didn’t coax him off her, though he obviously liked it. “Let’s get out of here,” Kate suggested, “I think we’ve had enough.” They wandered down Carlisle Street and stopped for gelato at 7 apples. Jo had a small choc-chip cone. They were continuing their stroll when Kate recognised P.C. Smith, “P.C. Smith,” she called, “Kate McBride, you remember Jo? This is my friend Steve,” she introduced the two men. “Kate, hi, how are you?” Nice day isn’t it?” He was off duty; St Kilda was out of his area. They talked for about five minutes, Kate sensed a bit of tension between the two men. ‘Strange,’ she thought to herself as the discussion moved to football. It was still fresh from the season. The Eagles had won the flag in a rematch of last year’s final, though with a different outcome. Kate looked at her watch and the men too the hint. “I’d better get going,” P.C. Smith, said as he made to turn away, “It was nice to see you, enjoy the rest of your weekend.” “Thanks,” Kate said, “we will.” The sun would set soon. Steve suggested fish and chips on the beach; it was going to be a balmy evening.

Jo was asleep in Kate’s lap as the last of the sun’s rays dipped below the horizon. She put her head on Steve’s shoulder. The afternoon’s adventures had worn them all out. “Looks like I’d better get you guys home,” Steve said softly and made to get up. “No, it’s nice, let’s stay a little longer. I’m enjoying the sound of the sea,” Kate replied. Steve settled back down, “Ok, whatever you like,” he responded. The tide was slowly coming in; it was still quite warm though a cool breeze had begun to pick up. They sat in silence, each lost in their own thoughts. Kate shivered, “Time to go?” Steve tentatively enquired; he was beginning to feel a bit stiff. “Yeah, I guess,” Kate, replied. Steve picked Jo up off Kate’s lap; he barely stirred. Kate picked up her bag and followed them to the tram stop. It had been a very pleasant afternoon, though she was still curious about what had occurred between P.C. Smith and Steve. She wanted to ask but thought it was best to hold her tongue. Maybe she had just imagined it; she was tired. She was dozing lightly as the train pulled into Fairfield Station; they had changed to the train at Flinders St Station. Kate realised it had been a long day. It was only 8.30, but they both went straight to bed. Jo had barely woken up as Kate had assisted him to brush his teeth and get into his PJs.

iv

It had been almost a week. The boy had relaxed a little, and he seemed more at ease with Kate. He hadn’t wandered off again and he had begun to sleep through the night, though she could see he was still experiencing the bad dreams. “I guess its time to call family services,” she said to herself. “What will become of you?” she wondered aloud as they bundled out the door. Family services had requested that they come in right away.

The place was packed, and confusing, but Kate found her way to the right counter and explained why she was there. “Taike a number and ‘avva seat,” the receptionist drawled. There were people everywhere, children yelling and crying, phones ringing, and televisions whirring. Kate looked down at the ticket stub, 183, then she looked up at the blinking sign indicating the current number, 118; they were in for a long wait…. “I hate these places,” she muttered under her breath as they found a seat. The boy was sticking close, Kate gathered him up onto her lap. There wasn’t another seat near by. She was playing a simple finger game with him when a voice called out, “One-eighty-three!” Kate looked up at the severe woman calling out her number. She gulped and they got up and followed her to the available booth. ‘Here we go…’ she thought to herself as the questions flowed thick and fast.

The DHS had allowed her to keep the boy. He was now officially her foster child. She had to visit Berry Street Family Services and then the local Police station. No one had any idea who the child was or where he had come from. He was looking tired. “Not too long now little man,” and she gave him one of the cookies she’d brought along in her bag. He brightened up a little and munched contentedly. “So you haven’t fostered before then?” the counsellor inquired. “No, I’ve never even considered it. It’s been a while since I looked after any kids, though I used to baby sit a lot,” she replied. “Sure, well, its not all that different really and he seems comfortable with you,” he responded. “Yeah, I guess we’ve grown accustomed to one another,” she said. The boy was looking at the counsellor warily, she wondered if he was afraid of men….

At least the visit to the Police had been hassle free. They collapsed together onto the couch, “what an afternoon! Let’s hope we don’t have to do that again anytime soon.” She helped the boy take off his shoes and socks and gave his feet a rub. He smiled weakly up at her. “Perhaps an early tea and a bath,” she said and wandered into the kitchen. The police had been helpful, explaining how they would try to find the boy’s identity and origin. ‘It would be great to know his name at least,’ she thought. She’d continued calling him Jo since the doctor visit. He looked up when she called now days, though he still hadn’t spoken a word. He was a curious child. Kate was sure now that he was afraid of men; the visit to the Police Station had confirmed that. “Jo, dinner’s ready,” she called out as she carried the bowls to the table. He was already seated in his usual place and looking up expectantly. She guessed he was hungry; it had been a long time since lunch, with only a few cookies in between.

Kate was just tucking Jo into bed when the phone rang – it was 8.30. Kate picked up the phone, “Oh, hi Mum, yes everything’s fine, I’m sleeping again… Sure I’m not doing anything on Saturday. I’d love to see you. Actually there’s something I should show you… No it can wait until Saturday, about one? Sure thing, the kettle will be on, how’s Dad?” Kate nodded and smiled; her mum sure knew how to talk! Kate now knew that her dad had started on blood pressure meds and was still going into work most days, even though he had officially retired. Colin had just started a new rotation at the hospital in oncology, and Josh was putting the final touches on his assignments for uni. He was in his final year of a commerce/law degree and he had a new girlfriend, though Mum hadn’t met her yet. Kate made a mental note to give her brothers a call; they lived together in Kew. Mum reminded her that the local flower show was on next weekend and Kate promised that she’d try and make it. “Mum, I’ve got to go, it’s been a long day and I was hoping for and early night,” Kate finally told her. “Oh, sure honey, you work too hard,” her mother replied a little surprised. “Yeah, I probably do. Love you Mum, say hi to Dad from me,” and she rang off. It was a quarter to ten. She brushed her teeth and looked in on Jo, he was sleeping peacefully. She sighed as she eased under the covers, “Who are you?” she whispered quietly. She wondered if she’d ever find out as she drifted off to sleep. “Aagh!” the boy was sitting up, drenched in sweat and shivering. Kate looked at the clock, 2.30am, it was quiet outside. She reached out for the boy and held him in a close embrace. “Its okay, no one can hurt you here,” she murmured, stroking his head and back. He soon quietened down. Kate softly sang a song her mother had used to sing to her when she couldn’t sleep and the boy was soon asleep again. Kate wondered what could have happened to him as she drifted off to sleep again too.

Saturday dawned bright and clear, spring was beginning to thaw out the winter. Jo was still asleep while Kate showered and dressed. She would take him down to the local shops after breakfast; she needed a few things for her mother’s visit. He woke cheerful, he didn’t seem to recollect his dream from the night before. They were walking down the street and passed a small toyshop, Kate noticed him looking at the soft toys and spied a cute little monkey. They went into the shop, and Kate bought the monkey and some colouring books and bright coloured pencils. Then they went to the bakery and deli. Kate saw a couple of people that she knew, and they asked about the boy. Kate told them that she was looking after him while her cousin recuperated from illness; the story was becoming more elaborate. Kate hoped that she wouldn’t make a mistake and slip up. An unknown foster child was difficult to explain, she knew this from her visits to the family services on Wednesday. She bought the weekend paper and they strolled home, Jo picked a few flowers, which he presented to Kate on the doorstep. Kate smiled; he really was a sweet little kid. She set him up with the colouring books while she tidied up a bit and got the place in order for her mother’s impending arrival. Five to one, she put the kettle on and warmed the teapot.

The doorbell rand, Jo raised his head in alarm, he hadn’t heard it before. “Its okay,” Kate said, “Mum’s here.” She opened the door and her mother breezed in, she was a graceful woman, the same average height as Kate and with now dyed auburn haircut into a cute bob. She looked younger than her late 50s. Kate had inherited her sparkling green eyes and playful smile. She saw Jo as she embraced Kate, “Oh! You have a visitor Kate. Who is this handsome young man?” Kate steered her to a chair and went into the kitchen, “I call him Jo, Mum, and it’s a bit of a complicated story, how about I explain over a cup of tea?” “Sounds good to me dear” Mrs McBride replied as she collected the teacups and saucers. She was of the opinion that tea could only be enjoyed in a fine bone china teacup with all the trimmings. Kate appeared from the kitchen with the teapot and a plate of buttered fruit bun. Jo scaped off the icing before he ate the rest of the bun, and Kate smiled, she remembered doing that herself when she was a kid. She filled the teacups and they settled back for Jo’s story….

“My goodness Kate, perhaps it was just a well that you couldn’t sleep, and you still have no idea who he is?” Her mother asked as the story came to an end. Kate shook her head and went to refill the teapot. “None whatsoever, Mum, it remains a mystery, though the police are involved now. I’m officially his foster Mum, as of last week.” She returned from the kitchen with a tray and laid out steaming bowls of soup and a basket of buttered, fresh, wholemeal bread. She gave Jo a cordial and refilled the teacups. “What will you do with him?” her mother queried. “I don’t know yet Mum. I have another week or so off work. I suppose I’ll have to think of something soon. Maybe he can go to school?” “Yes, I suppose so, though it’s difficult to get in mid-term. I’ll speak to principal Glover at Ivanhoe Primary if you like.” He mother replied. “That would be great Mum,” Kate enthused, “He needs to do something, I can’t stay home indefinitely.

Kate’s mother hadn’t left until early evening and Kate could see that Jo was tired. She cleared away the dishes and put him into the bath, he seemed to enjoy the nightly ritual of preparing for bed. There was gentle jazz music playing softly in the background and Kate read Jo a story from her collection of picture books. Jo fell asleep cuddling his new toy monkey. Kate smiled and watched him sleeping for a moment, then went softly into the living room, leaving the bedroom door slightly ajar. Kate wanted to call her best friend Bess, they hadn’t seen each other in nearly two weeks and she wanted to tell her about Jo.

“That’s amazing Kate,” Bess commented as Kate finished the story. It was becoming easier to tell now that she had done it several times. “ What will you do with him when you have to go back to work?” Bess asked. “I’m not really sure yet,” Kate replied, “I might enrol him at the local school. Mum is going to talk to the principal.” “That’s a good idea. Do you think he will cope with something like that? It sounds like he sticks really close to you when you’re around strangers.” Bess said. “I don’t know, I guess we’ll just have to wait and see,” Kate answered, “What else can I do with him though?” They spoke for another hour or so; there was a new man on the scene for Bess. They organised to catch up at the local pub the following Thursday evening. Kate yawned, “Mum can probably look after Jo. I don’t think he’d like the pub. You know Bess; I’ve noticed that he is afraid of men. What do you think could have happened to him?” “It must have been terrible whatever it was. He’s obviously run away and with all those bad dreams…” Bess broke off. “The police are investigating his identity and origin. I haven’t heard anything from them yet.” Kate said. “ Well, you’ll probably find out soon enough, no doubt. The police seem to be able to find these things out pretty easily,” Bess replied. “Yes, at least, I hope so, it would be good to have a few answers….”

It was late when Kate hung up the phone but she wasn’t sleepy. She read the paper she’d bought down the street earlier. She’d hardly sat down all day. She decided to have a hot bath; perhaps it would put her to sleep. Her skin was still sweating as she dried herself off and dressed in her pyjamas. She realised she was sleepy as she brushed her teeth methodically. She couldn’t sleep with furry teeth. She was asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow.

It was getting late by the time Kate woke. Jo wasn’t in the bed beside her. She got out of bed and put on her robe. She could hear the television as she put on her slippers. It sounded familiar, what was it? She padded into the living room. Jo didn’t even turn around as she approached. He was still cuddling his new toy monkey and he was glued to the TV, Looney Tunes. ‘So he likes Bugs Bunny’ Kate smiled, she had been a fan when she was his age and it could still make her laugh. Kate wondered how old he was. She figured that he was small for his age; he had obviously been undernourished for some time. He barely looked six years old, but Kate guessed that he was older than that. She directed him to the couch; she didn’t want him to get headaches from sitting too close to the television. She brought him a bowl of cornflakes and sat down beside him on the couch. He laughed out loud as wyle-e-cyote was blown up once again. Kate had never heard him laugh before.

iii

She woke with a start; it was dark, the only illumination come from the alarm clock beside her bed and the street light outside her bedroom window. Something was wrong, Kate rolled out of bed and stepped into the living room. The boy was on the couch, rocking back and forth with his knees drawn up and his head between his hands. He was moaning. “What’s wrong,” she asked quietly as she sat down on the couch beside him. He clung to her tightly and as she gently stroked his back he ceased moaning and quietened to a soft whimper, similar to the one she had heard when she first found him. ‘Perhaps he was dreaming about the dogs,’ she thought. She remembered what had woken her now, the boy had screamed. She hoped that it hadn’t woken the neighbours, “its okay,” she soothed, and reached for the lamp. She switched it on and the boy nestled into her. She sighed, ‘what on earth happened to you?’ she pondered. Soon, the child was asleep again and Kate gently lifted him up and carried him to her bed. Perhaps he would sleep more soundly with someone beside him. She left the lamp on in the lounge, as it was reassuring. After she had laid the boy on the far side of the bed and tucked him in she drew the blinds and changed into her pyjamas. ‘At least I’m sleeping again,’ she thought to herself as she drifted back to sleep….

As the dawn light began to filter though the closed blinds and the birds began their morning calls, Kate stirred. For the first time in weeks she felt refreshed. She smiled and turned over, “Oh!” she exclaimed softly, careful not to wake the still sleeping child beside her. She had momentarily forgotten about him. ‘What on earth am I going to do with him?’ she considered as she studied his sleeping form. He looked so peaceful now, completely at odds with his alert countenance. It was Thursday, she was meant to see the doctor this afternoon, but felt she didn’t really need to now. She decided to call work and request the rest of the week off. She hadn’t had a break in months so she was fairly sure they wouldn’t mind. As she thought about it she realised that she hadn’t even taken her holidays for almost two years. Perhaps she should ask for a few weeks off, they’d been pushing for people to take their leave lately so they’d probably just assume that Kate had been paying attention. She gently eased out of bed so as not to disturb the boy; he was obviously still exhausted. She wondered what had brought him to her as she stepped into the shower.

When she emerged from the shower the boy was standing outside the open door. “Oh!” she exclaimed in surprise, “Good morning little feller, feeling better?” She wrapped her towel around her still warm body and began filling the bath. The kid could do with a good soak. She realised he was still in his clothes from yesterday. She hadn’t anticipated sleeping all afternoon and well into the night. She helped the boy undress and lifted him into the bath. He didn’t want to sit down at first. ‘Perhaps he doesn’t understand,’ Kate thought, but as soon as the thought was completed he sat down and sank into the steaming water. For a moment he closed his eyes, then looked up in alarm, “Its okay,” she said simply, “how about we wash your hair, eh?” She grabbed her shampoo and conditioner from the shower and lathered up his hair. It was matted in places and extremely dirty. She shampooed it three times and then left the conditioner to soak in. She wondered how long it had been since his last wash. As she dried him off she hummed a tune that she remembered from her own childhood.

They ate cornflakes together in silence; only the monotonous crunching sound accompanied their breakfast. They both had juice, though Kate was also enjoying her obligatory pot of Lady Grey tea. She always began her day with a pot of tea. It was almost 8.30, time to call work. They were surprised that Kate was requesting time off, but her boss sounded pleased. “Take as much time as you need Kate, I know that these family things can get complicated. Let me know if you need more time, I can see that you’ve got plenty of hours of leave banked up, take care,” he said and rang off. Kate took a deep breath, had she been holding her breath all that time? She laughed and turned on the radio, the morning news would be on soon.

The morning passed without incident. Kate tried to coax the kid out a bit but he remained silent. He seemed a little more at ease though. They munched on sandwiches accompanied by U2’s greatest hits. The silence was getting to her, “let’s go for a walk,” she suggested as she finished tidying up their lunch. As she peered out of the kitchen the boy was attempting to tie up his laces. “So you do understand,” she said quietly as she helped him. “Well, do you think we can manage the park?” she inquired as she put on his jacket. She put on her own and they were out the door. Kate ensured that they didn’t wander into the area where she had found him and they ventured towards the playground. The boy preferred the swing and he broke into a smile as Kate gave him a gentle push. Her mobile rang and she turned away to answer it….

It had not been a long conversation but when she turned back to the swing the boy was gone. ‘Wherever can he have got to?’ she mused as she investigated the playground and amenities nearby. There was no one around this part of the park. She began searching further from the playground and was soon jogging. She couldn’t even call out, as she didn’t know his name! “Damn my stupid phone!” she exclaimed. There was and old man sitting on a bench, “have you seen a small boy in a blue jacket and pants?’ she asked him. He shook his head, “sorry miss, I haven’t seen no one round her, just me and the birds.” “Thanks,” she replied, and jogged on. ‘Where on earth is he? How’d he get away so quick? I was only on the phone a minute, two at the most…. She returned to her apartment but he wasn’t there either. “Damn!” she muttered as she unlocked the door and let herself in. She wondered if she should call the police but decided again ti. “Perhaps he’ll return when he’s hungry,’ she though. She hoped it too….

The afternoon had drifted into evening and Kate’s hopes were ebbing away with the daylight. ‘Why would he run off like that?’ she wondered as she prepared a simple dinner. She put extra on a plate and covered it with cling film. She hoped he would return to eat it as she placed it in the fridge. Dinner was a glum affair and her evening didn’t improve. She switched off the telly, there was nothing on anyway and she couldn’t concentrate. She left the lamp on in the living room and prepared for bed. The worry had tired her out, she was beat, but she couldn’t sleep. She lay awake in her darkened room; the only sounds she could discern in the apartment were the low hum of the fridge and the ticking clock in the living room. Then there was a thump outside her door. She practically leapt out of bed and was at the door in an instant. The boy was there, leaning on the doorframe. He was soaked through and shivering. One shoe was missing. “Where on earth did you get to?” She chided as she guided him to the bathroom and helped him out of his sodden clothes. She put him in the shower ad he soon thawed out. He was practically asleep by the time she’d pulled on his PJs and had steered him to her bed.

ii

‘What should I do now?’ she considered as she watched over the now sleeping child curled up under her patchwork quilt on the couch. It was still early and peace had returned to the park. She went into the bathroom, leaving the door open and the fan off so that she would hear if the child stirred. She doubted that it would, it was obviously exhausted. As soon as she had cleaned the child up a bit and slipped one of her old, smallish t-shirts over its emaciated form it had curled up on the couch and promptly fallen asleep. It had barely uttered a sound and she still wasn’t quite sure if the child was male or female. It was so thin and its clothes were so dirty. She wondered where it had come from, perhaps it didn’t speak English, ‘why hadn’t it tried to talk?’ She puzzled over a thousand questions as she stepped out of the shower and wrapped her towel around her steaming skin. She peeped at the still dozing child on the couch. She had decided to call in sick, she was exhausted anyway, no on would miss her, but what should she do about the kid? “I should at least get it checked out by the doc,” she said to herself softly as she reached for the phone. She’d have to concoct a story about the child, ‘how to explain…?’

“Hi, Kate McBride, I’m here with Jo, we have an appointment with Dr Evette, sorry we’re a bit late,” she said as she presented herself and “Jo” at the front desk. “No problem Ms McBride, have a seat, it’s been a busy morning and all the doctors are running about ten minutes behind anyhow. You were lucky to get an appointment today,” the receptionist replied. “Yeah, I guess,” Kate replied as she made her way to the kid’s corner with the child, “Thanks.” She sat down with the child; it showed no inclination for the toys or books. It was looking a little wary and afraid. ‘Whatever could have happened to you?’ she wondered as she ensured it was comfortable and thought over what she was going to tell the doctor. “Ms McBride and Jo,” the doctor called as he stepped out of his room. ‘Time’s up,’ Kate thought to herself as she grabbed her bag and directed Jo towards the now open door.

As they entered the room and the doctor closed the door the child was cowering behind Kate. “Shy little mite you have there Kate, what’s up?’ Kate liked Dr Evette’s casual approach to medicine, it assisted most patients to feel at ease, and she made her way to the seat nearest the doctor’s desk. The child stood awkwardly beside her, “My cousin dropped Jo off at my place last night. We had an uneventful night, but Jo was out-of-sorts this morning, so I thought I’d best come for a check-up at least,” Kate began. “I see, well, let’s have a look then,” Dr Evette replied, “You’d best stick close Kate, don’t want to frighten little Jo, do we now?” The doctor smiled at Jo as he placed the stethoscope into his ears, “Can you just raise Jo’s shirt for me?”

The doctor’s visit had been uneventful, the child was healthy, just a little underweight and with a few cuts and bruises. It was a boy; they were now shopping for some appropriate clothes. Although the days were still fairly cool the weather would warm up soon…. They stopped by the supermarket on their way home. The boy had his new cap pulled tightly over his head, he seemed a little sensitive to light. ‘He still hasn’t uttered a sound,’ Kate thought as they ambled up and down the supermarket aisles. Suddenly the boy became animated, he grabbed Kate’s shirtsleeve and gesticulated towards the choc-chip cookies on the shelf. “So, you like cookies,” Kate remarked, “these one’s?” she inquired, holding up the packet for the boy’s inspection. He grabbed the pack and grinned. “Easy to please,” Kate smiled and continued down the aisle with the trolley.

A car squealed past as they exited the supermarket and the boy gasped and ducked behind Kate’s legs. “Hey there,” she soothed, “Don’t panic, just a silly driver. Let’s get home, I feel the worms biting, time for lunch.” They were at the car and Kate belted up the small boy. “There, home soon,” she said as she eased the car into reverse and they entered the traffic. She adjusted the radio to an easy listening station and they were home in ten minutes. Kate whistled the last tune that had been playing on the radio, “Gonna catch that plane and fly…” she sang. The boy was happily munching on a Strasburg and tomato sauce sandwich, ‘always sure to please,’ she thought as she joined the boy at the table with her own sandwich and cup of tea. “I’m tired, how about you? Been a busy morning,” she looked at the boy curiously. Again, he hadn’t made a sound since he had gasped at the supermarket. “You are a mystery,” she said aloud, passing the boy a few cookies and a glass of milk. “Time for a nap, I think,” and she gently eased him back to the couch. She knelt down and pulled off his socks and shoes. Then she tucked the quilt under his chin and smoothed his hair, “I’ll just be in the next room, ok?” He looked like he understood, but Kate wasn’t quite sure, ‘why doesn’t he speak?’ she wondered as she took off her shoes and flopped down on the bed. She didn’t bother with the quilt and she was asleep by the time her head hit the pillow.

Chapter One - i

All she wanted was some sleep, but it continued to elude her. Night after night she lay awake. She wasn’t stressed or worried about anything and this was what puzzled her the most. What on earth was keeping her awake? She was scheduled to visit her doctor on Thursday after work and her psychologist on Friday night. ‘Perhaps they will shed some light on this,’ she thought, she hoped they could at least. If she didn’t get some sleep soon she knew what would happen and she wanted to avoid that at all costs. Nothing she tried worked – warm baths and warm milk, aromatherapy and relaxation music. Even her Yoga Nidra routine wasn’t working, and it never failed, until now. She was loathed to use the pills, they gave her horrid dreams and she knew she would only wake in a terrified, cold sweat. The dreams always contained her worst-case scenarios, no, she could hold on till tomorrow’s visit to the doctor. If only….

Well, nothing she could do about it now. The dawn light was beginning to seep through the blinds and the birds were chirruping a cacophony. ‘That’s strange,’ she thought, as she rolled out of bed and her feet touched the cold floorboards beneath the bed, ‘they’re usually quite peaceful, I wonder if something is amiss?’ She wrapped her robe around her tightly, it was still crisp in the early mornings, and she went to the window. Drawing open the blinds, she looked out over the street to the park opposite her apartment. A pack of stray dogs were encircling something that she couldn’t quite make out. ‘That’s what all the noise is about, whatever could it be?’ She hurriedly slipped into her jeans and sweater and pulled on her boots, no time for socks or hairbrush, those dogs could attack at any moment!

She grabbed her tennis racquet as she raced out the door and down the two flights of stairs. Thankfully there wasn’t much traffic at this time of the morning and she was able to cross the road straight over to the park. “Hey!” she called out; “Hey!” the dogs ignored her. One of the larger ones growled and barred its teeth. She shivered, she still could not make it out, but she could hear a faint whimpering. “Hey!” she yelled again and began swinging the racquet close to the ground, it hit one of the smaller dogs and it scampered away to a safe distance. The larger dogs continued to growl and bear their ferocious teeth, but Kate had now managed to beat a path through them and she could make out what they had encircled. It was a small child; she couldn’t tell if it was a boy or girl. “Hey!” she called, “It’s all right, just hang on, I’m going to pick you up.” She threw the racquet hard at the largest of the dogs and bent to gather up the child, keeping her head up and her eyes on the dogs all the while. The racquet had hit the largest of the dogs square on its snout and it had cowered, backing away a little. It was obviously the leader, for as soon as it did this the other dogs also backed away and ceased growling. She gathered the small child in close and whispered softly, “Its okay now, you’re safe.”