Parker

Chapter 1

Parker Sheraton was thirteen and the only child of Robert and Jan Sheraton. Dad was a retired Navy SEAL and now writes action /adventure books. Mom helps him with research and editing. They met in high school, fell in love, and Parker was the result of the senior prom night celebration.

Robert enlisted in the Navy upon high school graduation and married Mom when they found out she was pregnant. Both their parents disapproved of their choice and disowned them. Jan got a secretary job at a law firm while Robert went through boot camp and took evening courses at the community College.

When he was born, Jan took a week off, then returned to work, and they let her bring Parker to work. Once Robert graduated boot camp, he got a week’s leave and saw Parker for the first time in person. Then he was sent to advanced training in computers and electronics. It was a six-month course, and they decided it was best if Jan stayed here.

Robert graduated, and his commanding officer put his name in for the SEALs. He got a two-week leave; Robert trained every day to get into the best shape possible. He would take Parker to the gym and the high school track. When his leave ended, Robert was notified to report to Coronado for SEAL training. Robert told Jan the training was challenging and that the dropout rate was high. So, Jan decided to stay and would move when he completed the training or got his next posting.

Robert completed the training and finished third in the class. His first posting was in Japan, and Jan and Parker moved with him. They were assigned a two-bedroom house on base, and Jan got a job as a legal secretary at the JAG office. Parker was two, and he went to daycare. He was a bright boy and learned to speak, read, and write Japanese from his favorite daycare worker, Kim.

Robert’s team was selected to participate in an experimental program to enhance their performance, and Dr. Ben Rhodes directed the program. After their physicals, Robert brought Parker with him, and Dr. Rhodes saw an opportunity he couldn’t pass up. Unknown to Robert or Jan, Dr. Rhodes included Parker in the program. Dr. Rhodes adjusted the dosage for his weight and gave Parker the treatments with the team. When Parker wasn’t with Robert for treatment, Dr. Rhodes gave it to him at daycare under the guise of a vitamin booster.

The team showed improvements in physical performance, mental aptitude, and reflexes. After three months, the team went on a mission and performed beyond expectations, and the treatments were deemed a success. But Dr. Rhodes found out continued treatments were necessary, or the enhancements would disappear. That was a no-go for the military, and the program was canceled, and Dr. Rhodes was transferred back to the States.

Unknown to Dr. Rhodes, the formula worked differently in Parker. It altered his DNA and changed his brain and body. If Dr. Rhodes had evaluated Parker before leaving, he would have known the formula was a success, but only in adolescence.

Robert’s team was transferred to Germany, and they moved with him. After six months, they moved to Saudi Arabia, then to South Korea. Parker was growing like a weed, as Dad said, and learned the languages at each posting. Not only speaking but writing too. They were posted in England, France, Spain, Germany, then back to San Diego. Mom said they would stay there for a while because Dad’s team was assigned to a quick-response group.

They were assigned a two-bedroom house on base, and Mom went back to work in the JAG office. Parker was eight years old, and they were tired of the constant moving. Issues came up with Parker’s education. He was far more advanced than his third-grade classmates and also taller. Dad and Mom discussed it with the school and decided Parker would attend his normal classes, and they would set up a special program for him.

Parker would be issued a laptop and would work on his advanced assignments at a computer in the back of the classroom so he wouldn’t disturb his classmates. Dad and Mom agreed because they wanted him to stay with his age group for social reasons. The school was happy because they got credit for his attendance. Parker didn’t mind, but listening to subjects he already knew was boring.

So, Parker’s schedule was set, and he went to school. Afterward, he trained at a martial arts dojo with Sensei three days a week. The other two days, he hung around his Dad’s team and trained with them. Weekends were a toss-up depending on everyone’s schedule. Sometimes Parker would play basketball or football with the team. But Sundays were always family time.

Dad was promoted to Commander and led his team. The SEAL team was sent on a mission, but the intelligence was wrong. Dad was injured along with several team members, and two were killed. Dad spent several months in the hospital and in rehabilitation. Finally, he was discharged with a 100% disability rating.

Sensi recommended acupuncture for Dad, and that was a lifesaver. It got him off the pain medication and helped heal the muscles, nerves, and spinal column. He kept going to the VA for checkups until his total disability was finalized. He was pissed that intelligence assholes didn’t verify their Intel, causing death and injury to his team.

Dad took college courses online at Mom’s insistence and earned bachelor’s degrees in English and creative writing. Mom earned a legal secretary degree online while they traveled around the world. They moved off base to a small three-bedroom ranch house near the base. It was a dump, but that’s all they could afford. Mom continued working for JAG and Dad honed his writing skills. He’d written short stories while deployed and had dozens of stories to reference.

Robert’s first book: he couldn’t find a publisher. But the second one drew interest from three publishers, and Dad signed for a small advance and a higher percentage of sales. The book made the New York Times bestseller list. The publisher begged Dad to sign a three-book deal, write another book about the character, and make it a series.

They moved into a five-bedroom house with a pool and three-car garage. It was in a gated community with guards at the gate and roving patrols. Dad received a movie offer for his book, and he had final script approval. Mom quit JAG and helped Dad with research and editing.

Parker was 10 years old and in fifth grade when the death threats started. They continued for several years until Dad got an email first, then a note on his windshield. Robert called Navy Intelligence and reported the threats. They told him to forward the threats to them and stay on guard. Dad hung up, saying this was bullshit, and began calling the remaining members of his team. He found out two had died under suspicious circumstances and the third he couldn’t reach.

Dad sat Mom and Parker down and explained the situation. He said no one goes anywhere alone and to be aware of your surroundings. We have a credible threat and should err on the side of caution. Dad told Mom, “Don’t leave the house without your Glock.” Robert told Parker to carry his Palomar throwing knives and stars at all times.

Parker played sports on Sensi’s and his dad’s recommendation. Football was ending, and they had another losing season. Parker’s position was quarterback, and he did well. But they had no running game, and the defense sucked. So, defenses blitzed often, and he had to scramble to survive. Coach Nadar told Parker that he had to stay late to watch game film of the next opponent. That was strange because he already watched it this morning.

Walking into Coach Nadar’s office, he tried to jab him with a syringe. Parker dodged the assault, grabbed Coach’s arm, and jabbed into his leg. Leaving the gym by the side door, Parker saw two Arab or Afghan men entering the main gym entrance. He took a picture of them and ran home, avoiding his normal route. When he arrived, Parker told Dad what Coach Nadar did, then showed him the pictures.

Dad told Mom and Parker to pack a go bag and be ready to leave immediately. Then Robert called his contact in Naval Intelligence and reported Parker’s attempted abduction. He said the names of the men involved, and I’ve got pictures. Tell those assholes in charge that if my family’s hurt or killed, I’m coming after them, and hung up. They loaded up the F250 4x4 and headed to grandfather’s cabin in Yucca Tree above Palm Springs.

It was Mom’s Dad’s cabin, and when he passed away, Mom was shocked that she inherited it along with his estate. The estate attorney said that her father regretted disowning her, but her Mother held a grudge so that he couldn’t do anything about it. After your mother passed, he moved to the cabin and hired PIs to keep an eye on you and Parker. Mom kept it under her maiden name so they had a chance to stay safe.

Dad stopped outside of Riverside, and they stocked up on supplies. When they arrived, everyone was shocked to see the property. It was built like a fortress with a 10-foot fence and entry gate. It was miles from the closest neighbors and backed up to the national forest. When they opened the cabin door, Dad said shit it’s 4 inches thick.

They were also surprised that the cabin had power, water, and internet. Everyone put the groceries away, then their gear, and got settled. The cabin had three bedrooms, and Dad took one for his writing. After checking out the house, they toured the property. Grandfather had a security system with point-to-point beams and cameras. There was also a shooting range for rifles and handguns.

They returned to the cabin and ate lunch. Dad said Wait a minute, where are the monitors for the cameras. After lunch, the hunt began from a hidden room or passageway. Parker found it in the second bedroom closet. It was a stairway to a room beneath the cabin. The room was 20 feet by 20 feet and had a bank of monitors on one wall. A rifle rack on the next wall held rifles for every purpose. Next to it was a pistol rack set up the same way. Next to it was the ammo cabinet, filled with every caliber. Mom said, “ My God, there’s enough to start a war.

At one end of the room was a tunnel, and they followed it to a barn that was hidden and they hadn’t discovered yet. Inside was a used Chevy 4x4 Silverado with a battery minder attached. They exited the barn and found it was hidden in the hillside. Dad parked his F250 4x4 in the barn, and they returned to the cabin. Mom said that we had enough food for 2 or 3 days at most. So, if we’re going to stay longer, we should get more supplies.

Dad said we’d get them early tomorrow morning and be back before sunup. Hopefully we’ll only be here a week, and things will settle down. Mom went to organize the kitchen, and Parker went with Dad to the rifle range. They had been to gun ranges before, on and off base. Dad told Parker killing a man is different than shooting at a target. Envision them killing your Mom, and don’t hesitate to shoot to kill, or they will kill you. I’ve seen what they do to prisoners, so don’t allow yourself to be captured.

They shot the AR-15 and the Barrett .338 Lapua MRAD sniper rifle. After practicing with the Glock 19, they looked for a sniper’s perch. It was close to the barn, and they staged supplies there. Dad told Parker, if we’re attacked, exit the cabin through the tunnel and set up in the perch. Don’t fire indiscriminately. Wait for a kill shot and take it.

Returning to the cabin, Mom had dinner ready, and they sat and ate. After dinner, Dad told Parker to test the point-to-point beams. We need to know if they work and what the warning sounds like. Everyone was deep in thought and didn’t talk for the rest of the meal. Parker left after dinner, and Jan asked Robert if it was wise to get Parker involved. Robert said the boy was ready, and we were in a bind. He’ll do the job, but we’ll need to give him support afterward.

Parker tripped the point-to-point beams in two sections and returned to the cabin. Dad told him, “Great job,” and the alarm sounded in every room. Robert walked Parker to his bedroom with the Barrett .338 Lapua and a Glock 19. He told Parker to remember: when the alarm sounds, dress quickly and go to the perch through the tunnel. Wait until they are in the open so there’s no escape. Also, body shots only. Head shots are next to impossible on a moving target. One last thing: never get close to a downed man or animal without confirming it’s dead with a follow-up shot.

Everyone went to sleep, and the alarm rang at 1 a.m. Parker dressed, grabbed his weapons, and went through the tunnel to the perch. Looking through the night vision scope, he saw two men walking towards the cabin from the national forest. A spotter was also in a tree. Parker’s first shot hit the spotter, and he fell out of the tree. His second shot killed the lead man, and his last shot killed the retreating man.

Parker got out of the perch, jacked with adrenaline, and walked to the downed men. He pulled out his Glock 19 and fired a shot into each man. Dad and Mom ran to him and embraced Parker. He was in a daze, and Dad told Parker there were three rifle shots. Did he miss one shot? Parker said no; a spotter was in the trees. He was my first shot, and he fell but was not confirmed killed yet.

Dad told Mom to take Parker inside and get him a soda. He’s coming down from the adrenaline rush and needs caffeine and sugar to prevent crashing. They went into the cabin, and Dad took care of the bodies. He came back with plastic trash bags, a hatchet, and a saw. Parker started feeling better, and Dad returned and put three trash bags in the freezer. He said we’re heading home in the morning, so let’s get some rest, and everyone headed to bed.

The next morning, they loaded the F250 4x4 and headed home. Dad stopped at the market and bought a large cooler and dry ice. He arranged something in the back and then drove home. When they arrived, Dad asked Parker how he felt and if he had any nightmares. Parker said he felt fine and didn’t have any nightmares. Dad said the first kill affects people differently. Tell yourself it was them or me, and you won’t feel guilty.

They unloaded the F250 4x4, and it felt good to be home. Dad said he had an errand to run and would be back in an hour. Robert drove to Naval Intelligence and had his friend let him in through the members’ entrance. He went to the briefing room, entered, and apologized for interrupting the meeting. Robert addressed the admiral, saying, “Remember, I asked for help after receiving death threats. Or maybe you remember I asked again when an attempt was made to kidnap my son, Parker. I sent pictures of two men, and you said they were in Iraq per your Intel.”

Well, your Intel was shit, and Robert put the heads of the three terrorists on the table, shocking everyone. Parker, my twelve-year-old son, had to kill them because you refused to help. Now they found us at a remote cabin that no one knew about but Naval Intelligence. So even a civilian could figure out there’s a leak, and my bet is it’s you, Admiral. Your Intel was shit on our last three missions, and now this.

If you’re wondering where their bodies are, they’re providing food for the wild animals, minus their cocks and balls. Jan, my wife, cut them off so they couldn’t enjoy any virgins. The Seals across the table busted up laughing. Robert told the admiral that their balls were on the mantle and one pair was missing, yours. So, remember my promise: if you escape punishment. Also, my son Parker gets the reward for terrorists, and don’t think about cheating him out of it.

Robert turned to leave and said, “Seals, watch your six with the Admiral,” then he saw Rear Admiral Collins sitting in the corner. Robert said, “It’s good to see you again, sir,” and left the building. Rear Admiral Collins asked Admiral Jenkins if what Commander Sheraton said was true. The Admiral said no, and that he’s a liar about my Intel on his missions. Rear Admiral Collins said we’ll need to investigate that, along with your responses to his calls for help.

Effective immediately, you’re off mission planning and intelligence gathering until the investigation is done. By the way, I’ve known Commander Sheraton for over ten years, so calling him a liar raises red flags. Rear Admiral Collins then addressed the SEAL team sitting at the table. He said it was up to them to proceed with the mission. SEAL Commander Holland said, “We’ll go, but make our own incursion plans after verifying the intelligence.”

Robert returned home and said it was over for now, but to keep a watchful eye out for trouble. Everyone goes out armed and with someone if possible. I’ve informed Naval Intelligence and turned in the evidence of the terrorists at the cabin. A reward should be coming for Parker, and when it does, we’ll set up a trust for you. But it’s far from over until Naval Intelligence puts a lid on it. Also, I’ve outed Admiral Jenkins, so he’s a threat too.

Parker returned to school with a note for his unexcused absence. They gave him a business card for Detective Tom Monroe, who wanted to speak with him. Parker called home, told Dad about the detective, and gave him the information. Dad said he would call and find out what it was about, but not to discuss what happened at school with anyone. If the detective shows up at school, say you want a parent or lawyer present before answering questions.

The school day was normal until gym and football practice. There was a new coach named Jones replacing Coach Nadar. Practice went fine, and as they left the gym, Parker noticed an unmarked police car with a man inside. He returned to the gym and exited through the locker room, avoiding the parking lot. When he got home, he told Dad about the detective waiting in front of school.

Dad said he called Detective Monroe, and he wanted to talk to you about Coach Nadar’s disappearance. I told him you knew nothing about Coach Nadar’s disappearance but would consider an interview with our lawyer present. He cussed me out and hung up. So, I called Police Chief Robert Davis and explained the situation. He said he would take care of it and not to worry. Well, Detective Monroe must be doing an unauthorized investigation, so use whatever means necessary to avoid capture.

Robert called Rear Admiral Collins and told him a rogue detective named Tom Monroe showed up at Parker’s school wanting to question him about Coach Nadar’s disappearance. There were only two people who knew Parker met with the coach before photographing the two terrorists at school: me and Admiral Jenkins. Please check his phone and emails to see if he contacted Detective Monroe.

Rear Admiral Collins said he would investigate it immediately and let him know his findings. He also told Robert to tell Parker to use his skills to avoid capture, and they said goodbye. Robert thought about what Rear Admiral Collins said and wondered if he knew Parker trained with his team.

The next day, Parker was in class when someone called him to the office. He peeked around the corner and saw Detective Monroe waiting in the office. Parker called Dad and told him what was happening. He told Parker to go to the nurse’s office and wait for him to arrive. Parker did as Dad asked, and ten minutes later it was a shit show with police vehicles everywhere. Detective Monroe tried to arrest Dad, and he ended up on the ground, unconscious and handcuffed.

The police wanted to arrest Dad, but the Chief of Police arrived, and they arrested Detective Monroe instead. Before they took Detective Monroe away, Parker entered the office and gave his statement while taking a picture of the detective. Dad signed Parker out of school, and on the way home he asked Parker why he took Detective Monroe’s picture. He said something was off with his last name. He looked Middle Eastern, and Monroe is a British English name. Dad told Parker, “Good catch,” and said he’d forward the picture to Rear Admiral Collins.

Dad sent the photo of Detective Tom Monroe and asked Rear Admiral Collins to run a background check. Dad also asked him to search for any communication between Monroe and Admiral Jenkins. Dad told everyone it isn’t over, and Detective Monroe could be out on bail by tonight.

Although they had a fence with an electric gate, it wasn’t enough protection. So, they went to the army surplus store and were greeted by a rusty old dog Dad called Henry. Henry knew Dad by name and asked what he needed. Dad told Henry the problem, and they went into the back room. They got three point-to-point beams, a tranquilizer pistol, and a rifle with 100 darts. Dad introduced Parker to Henry and told him he popped his cherry on three terrorists with one-shot kills. Henry told Parker to watch his Dad, and they returned home.

Dad and Parker set up the point-to-point beams, then tested them. The alarm annunciator was loud enough to be heard throughout the house. Then Dad gave Parker instructions on the tranquilizer rifle and pistol. He said it was like real weapons, except you had to reload after every shot. Also, like hunting, confirm the man is down with a follow-up shot. He could be faking it and attack you. Dad told Parker he would be the rifleman, and reminded him not to shoot beyond 25 yards. The accuracy beyond that isn’t good.

They ate dinner early and went to bed knowing there might be a visitor. At 11:45 p.m., the alarm rang, and Parker quickly dressed and went out on the balcony. He saw a man approaching the house and shot him in the leg with a tranquilizer dart. He followed up with another in the arm and yelled, “All clear.” Dad went to check the man while Parker provided overwatch.

Dad waved, and Parker went into the front yard. Dad said, “Good shooting,” and pulled out the darts. They looked at the man’s face, and it was Detective Monroe. He told Parker to do his pressure point thing to put Detective Monroe into a deep sleep. Parker did it, then added two kicks to his balls. Dad asked him why, and he said the asshole tried to kidnap me. Parker said, “You know, if we turn him over to the police, he’ll be out of jail by morning.”

Dad said he knew, and we’d make sure he wasn’t a threat anymore. They loaded Detective Monroe into the F250 4x4 and drove East to the national forest. Dad turned off the highway, drove 10 miles, and stopped. They stripped Detective Monroe and beat him severely. They took his clothes and returned to the highway. On the way home, they threw his clothes into several dumpsters and went back to bed when they arrived.

During breakfast, Rear Admiral Collins called and told Dad that Admiral Jenkins had contact with Detective Tom Monroe. He’s in lockdown without communication until he’s formally charged with espionage and aiding the enemy. But Detective Monroe is out of jail, so keep your eyes open. Dad thanked him for the heads up, and they said goodbye.

Life returned to normal, but everyone was on guard. Football finished, and we were in last place, so no playoffs. I wasn’t upset, since we had a temporary coach and the team was terrible. Dad got a call from the movie production company; they were in pre-production and needed help with the script. Dad called a family meeting and told Parker and Mom about the situation. He said splitting up the family wasn’t safe, and everyone agreed.

So, Mom notified the school that Parker was taking a leave of absence, and they packed for the trip. Dad told Parker to bring his weapons and laptop so he could keep up with his studies. Dad chose to drive because we were carrying firearms, and he didn’t want to deal with the TSA and the airline.

Chapter 2

The day before they left, Naval Intelligence called Dad in, and he met with Rear Admiral Collins. He said the security breach was more extensive than we thought. All the current and former SEAL teams are on alert. So Rear Admiral Collins gave Dad an NCIS (Naval Criminal Investigative Service) ID and said to use it if necessary. Right now, the threats are against retired SEALs and their families. Dad told Rear Admiral Collins the family was traveling to a movie set, and Rear Admiral Collins said, “We’ll keep an eye on your house and keep you informed.”

They shook hands goodbye, and Dad returned home. They loaded the F250 4x4, locked up the house, set the alarm, and took off. They stopped for the night outside of Tucson, Arizona. The next stop was east of Dallas, Texas. The trip to Maryland took four days, and they were glad it was over. When they arrived, they were assigned two trailers side by side, and Parker got his own living space.

Dad had a family meeting and said there are threats here too, but hopefully not terrorists. Check for hidden cameras and listening devices every day. He showed them how to set traps to tell if they had visitors. We’ll go to town and pick up some supplies and non-lethal traps. After searching the trailers, Dad and Parker set traps on the doors and went to the canteen for lunch. The director, Bill Stanley, entered and welcomed them. Robert introduced his wife, Jan, and son, Parker.

Bill told Robert to get settled, and they would meet at 9 a.m. the next day. He asked Parker how old he was, and he said fourteen. Bill told Robert he might have a part for Parker if they approved. Robert told him they were open to the idea depending on the circumstances. Bill left. Mom said, “You’re not fourteen yet, Parker.” He said, “I know, but it sounds better than thirteen,” and they laughed.

After lunch, they drove to town and got snacks and drinks. Then they went to the hardware store and got some rat traps, nails, and entry mats. Mom said, “How about nanny cameras?” and Robert said, “That’s an excellent idea.” They found a store that carried them and bought two. Returning to the trailers, Dad and Parker put nails in the entry mats and rat traps in select dresser drawers. Then they set up the nanny cams.

When they were done, Robert said, “Let’s check out the staging site,” and they found the laundry, gym, wardrobe, meeting rooms, and small convenience store. Parker asked if they were going to check out the thirty other trailers, and everyone laughed. He noticed something new: he could tell if they were occupied, how many people were inside, and where they were.

Parker didn’t say anything about it, or he’d be taken to a doctor or shrink. It was dinner time, so they went to the canteen. While eating, Robert told them that after his meeting tomorrow, he’d know more about the schedule and the process. Jan said to get an idea of how long we’d be here. Parker said, “Yeah, Mom and I may rent a car to check out DC.” Visit Langley and get kicked out of a few federal buildings.

Dad and Mom laughed, and he said, “Mom will be helping me.” You might have a part in the film, so we’ll see how much free time we have. They finished dinner and returned to the trailers. Dad told Parker to inspect the bedroom and bathroom again thoroughly before going to bed, and we’ll do the same. They said goodnight and went into their separate trailers. Parker did as Dad asked and found a camera in the bathroom vent.

He called Dad and told him where he found a camera. Dad said he’d check theirs and come over to help remove it. When he arrived, Dad said there was one in their bathroom too. Being taller, Dad unscrewed the vent and removed the camera. He told Parker that if someone was actively monitoring them, they would try to replace it, and then left.

Parker was confused because he knew the camera was there, even though he hadn’t seen it. He undressed and got into bed, wondering why this was happening. He finally gave up and fell asleep. Then the headache started and got progressively worse until it started to wake him up. It suddenly stopped, and he fell into a deep sleep.

After eating breakfast at the canteen, Dad went to his meeting, and Mom and Parker returned to the trailers. He started studying his online college courses and knew all the answers. It took him only an hour to complete the work. Then he practiced computer programming and was in the zone until Mom knocked on his door for lunch. They went to the canteen, and Dad joined them. He said the scriptwriter screwed up the story by trying to condense it into a two-hour movie.

Parker said, “Why don’t they shorten it on purpose and add flashbacks to earlier times to support the story?” Then, if it’s a success, complete it with a sequel. Dad said that’s a great idea and he’ll run it by the director, Bill Stanley. If he agrees, they won’t butcher the story. As it stands now, it’s a total rewrite. Parker said to be sure I get credited with a percentage of the film, and everyone laughed.

Dad returned to his meeting, and Parker told Mom we should ditch this joint and have some fun. Mom laughed and said, “Let’s wait until Dad has some answers.” If he’s going to be busy, we’ll go sightseeing. Parker said, “Great-you wear something sexy and be the eye candy while I enter the restricted areas,” and they laughed again. They returned to the trailers and looked at the traps on the doors. Parker said someone had been in their trailers, and they entered his first.

The camera in the bathroom vent had been replaced in his trailer, and there was blood on the entry mat. Parker and Mom inspected her trailer; there was blood on the entry mat, but no camera in the bathroom vent. Parker said there had to be two people, and he checked the nanny cams. They showed a man and a woman entering the trailers, and he copied the footage to his laptop and returned the memory cards to the nanny cams.

Parker told Mom he was going for a walk and went through the rows of trailers looking at each one. He was confused by how many people were inside and where they were. Parker stopped at a trailer and knew it was the one monitoring their trailers. He peeked inside and saw the same man and woman who were in their trailers. Parker read their minds, and they were paparazzi selling their photos and videos to the highest bidder.

Then the man left the trailer, went to the back, and put something in the crawl space underneath it. Back in the trailer, Parker thought about what to do with them and wondered what was underneath it. He decided to wait until Dad saw the videos and then make his move.

Dad returned from his meeting and said they bought your idea, Parker. The script was a total rewrite anyway, so it wouldn’t add any additional time. Also, the director, Bill Stanley, wants Parker for some of the flashback scenes. So we need to get you registered with SAG (the Screen Actors Guild) so you can work on the film. Robert told Jan we’ll be rewriting the script while Parker practices his scenes.

Parker asked what he’d be paid, and Mom and Dad laughed and said scale per the union-negotiated rate. Mom told Dad about finding another camera in Parker’s bathroom vent. The nanny cams caught a man and a woman inside our trailers. Dad called Bill and told him what we discovered. He called the police, and the shit show started. The police arrived, arrested the man and woman, then seized the items in their trailer.

After the police left and they had dinner, everyone said goodnight and went to their trailers. Parker waited thirty minutes, then went to the paparazzi’s trailer and looked in the crawl hatch. He found a medium-sized black duffel bag, grabbed it, reset the hatch, and returned to his trailer. Once inside, Parker opened the duffel bag and said, “Holy shit.” It was filled with cash, and Parker wondered what the couple was into besides taking illegal videos. Drugs came to mind, and he stashed the duffel bag under his dresser, then went to sleep.

The next morning, Mom and Dad met Parker at the canteen for breakfast. Dad said he and Mom would be working on the script, and he needed to go to the wardrobe department. When Parker asked why, Dad said he needed to measure him and fit him with clothing for the movie. After breakfast, Parker went to the wardrobe department and met three seamstresses. They measured him from head to toe, then the fun started: trying on clothes and marking them up for alterations.

They finished around four p.m., and Parker asked if it was as good for them as it was for him, which made them laugh. He passed the gym and saw the stunt coordinator watching two men. One man was trying to do a takedown move on the other. Frustrated, the coordinator asked if anyone knew how to do it. Parker walked onto the mat, grabbed the man, and threw him to the mat while spinning him.

He landed face down, and Parker bent his leg forward, sat on it, and twisted his foot, demanding his left arm behind his back. He gave it to Parker willingly, begging him not to break his ankle. The coordinator said, “Now that’s how you do it.” Parker got up and quickly left without saying anything. He didn’t know if Dad had filled out and sent his SAG application.

Returning to his trailer, Parker checked the time, and it was past 5 p.m. Not hearing from Dad or Mom, he went to the canteen and got dinner. While he ate, his parents came in and got their food. Mom asked how the fitting was, and he said it was great. Being felt up by three women for six hours has been his dream for a long time. Mom and Dad laughed and said, “We filled out your SAG application online and paid the fee.”

So you’re set to act in the film. Parker said, “ Great, “ because I went by the gym after the molestation, and the stunt coordinator was practicing takedowns. They couldn’t get it right, so he asked if anyone could do it right. So, I walked over, put him down, and left. Dad laughed and said they would be looking for you soon. Stunts have to be perfect and look real on film. They finished dinner, said goodnight, went to their trailers, and went to bed.

Early the next morning, Parker went to the gym and worked out. He noticed he was quicker and stronger, and his punches and kicks landed with authority. Back at his trailer, Parker showered, dressed, and thought about all the changes that had taken place recently. His senses improved, so he could tell if people were around, even inside structures. He went from reading people’s surface thoughts to digging deeper into their minds if he concentrated.

Dad knocking on his door disturbed his thoughts, and they went to the canteen for breakfast. While eating, Dad told Parker to keep his phone handy because the director might have something for you to do. Otherwise, enjoy your free time before it gets crazy with filming. Parker asked Dad to write some scenes with him in a hot tub with one or two topless girls. Maybe they were fighting over me, and his parents laughed.

After breakfast, his parents left, and he returned to his trailer. He did the homework for his online college courses, then hacked into the staging-site Wi-Fi. He adjusted the bandwidth for himself, since the site limited users’ speeds. Then he hacked into the mainframe and installed a back door. Exiting the mainframe, he shut off his laptop and left the trailer.

Parker saw a man go behind the trailers, so he followed him. The man stopped behind the paparazzi’s trailer, opened the crawl hatch, and was pissed that nothing was there. Parker read his mind, and he was a drug dealer, and the money was for his last delivery. He had a backpack full of drugs to resupply his sales team. Parker snuck up behind the man and beat him up until he was unconscious. Then he removed the backpack, shoved the man under the trailer, closed the crawl hatch, and left.

He went behind the canteen, buried the backpack in the dumpster, and went inside for lunch. While he ate, Mom and Dad entered, got their food, and sat at his table. Mom asked Parker how his morning was, and he said it was so exciting he had to take a nap. They laughed and said it would change soon. We’re almost halfway done with the script rewrite, so it shouldn’t be much longer. Mom said maybe we can get the director, Bill Stanley, to have an acting coach work with you on your lines.

Parker said, “Great-make it a cute female who can coach me how to kiss.” They laughed, and Mom said, “You’re dreaming,” and Parker said, “Maybe, but it’s better than watching dust grow,” which made them laugh even more. Otherwise, let me go hiking and explore the area. I’m bored stiff sitting around doing nothing. Mom said maybe we should sign you up for the YMCA so you can exercise and play sports.

Parker said, “Great, and I can do yoga or Pilates with the women.” I’m sure it will be educational, and Dad said, “That’s my boy.” Mom called them perverts, and everyone laughed. They left to resume script editing, and Parker decided to check out the town. He grabbed some cash and ordered a Lyft ride.

He got dropped off downtown and went to the YMCA first. They wouldn’t let him join until he told them his parents were working on a film here. Parker got a brochure with the hours of operation, exercise classes, and activities offered. Then he went to the sporting goods store and bought gym clothes and a swimsuit. Then he went to the Goodwill and bought two backpacks. One was for hiking, and the other was to carry his things. He also got shoes for basketball, hiking, and running.

Parker ordered a Lyft back to the staging site and went to his trailer. He emptied the hiking backpack and was surprised to find a Bowie knife in a compartment inside. It had a water bottle, survival pack, first aid kit, and cooking utensils. Parker gathered his new, dirty clothes, then went to the laundry. No one was there, so he loaded two washers, got change, bought soap and fabric softener, and started the machines.

While it ran, Parker looked up hiking trails in the area. One was a few miles away and looked like a good place to start. He doubted his parents would approve, but what they don’t know won’t hurt them. They were working, and his activities weren’t their top priority. Oh, they’d try to find something for him to do, but that’s it. When the laundry was done, he returned to the trailer and put everything away.

It was dinner time, so he went to the canteen and got dinner. While he ate, Dad and Mom entered, got their food, and sat at his table. Mom asked what he did today, and Parker said a nice lady hired him to be her pool boy. It’s three days a week, and she supplies my swimsuit and food. They laughed, and Mom asked what he really did. Parker said he joined the YMCA and picked up some exercise gear.

Dad apologized, saying they hadn’t planned for him to idle with nothing to do. Parker said, “Yeah, but he’ll make do.”

After breakfast the next morning, Parker ordered a Lyft ride to the hiking trail. He stocked up on snacks and bottles of water so he was prepared. Parker started at the trailhead and went about a mile when he saw an old man lying off the trail in a ravine. He yelled and got no response, so he climbed down carefully to avoid falling.

When he reached the old man, Parker asked him if he needed help. He said he needed some water, and Parker gave it to him. Parker said, “Let me call for help,” and the old man said, “It’s his time.” He grabbed Parker’s hand, and they were locked together. The old man began chanting something in a foreign language. Then a surge of energy transferred through their hands, and Parker passed out. When he came to, the old man was gone, but his clothes remained. Parker called off the rest of the hike and ordered a Lyft back to the staging site.

Parker noticed changes in his senses right away. He was aware of his surroundings before, but now they were supercharged. He could see inside structures now and see who was there and what they were doing. It freaked him out at first, but then he spent an hour learning to ignore it unless he needed to. The last thing he wanted was to invade someone’s privacy, especially his parents’.

His hearing and smell improved dramatically, and his eyesight was excellent before he noticed an improvement and wanted to check it out at night. Then came the physical changes: he felt stronger, lighter on his feet, and centered all the time. Whatever the old man gave him was something else. Parker wondered what more was in store for him.

It was dinner time, so he went to the canteen and got his food from the serving line. He found a table in the rear with a good view of the entrance. Parker somehow knew it was the safest place in the canteen. Dad and Mom arrived, got their food, and sat at his table. Mom asked why he chose that table, and Parker said it was the best defensive position. Dad said shit you’re right. I’ve been ignoring my training.

Mom said they arranged for your acting tutor, and it starts tomorrow morning. Parker said shit that’s the time for my yoga class and everyone laughed. Dad said Holly will coach you on the delivery and timing of your lines. Parker asked how old Holly was and whether her coaching included kissing. Dad laughed and said Holly was married and off limits for that kind of coaching. Parker asked if she had a daughter or sister around his age, and Mom said no, giggling. When they were done, they said goodnight and went to their trailers. Parker stayed up thinking about what happened and finally fell asleep.

Rising early the next morning, Parker put on sweats and went for a run. Passing by the paparazzi’s trailer, he smelled a rotten odor, then looked through the trailer and saw the drug dealer under it. He continued and wondered when someone would report it. He stayed far away from it so he wouldn’t be connected to it in any way. Returning to his trailer, Parker showered, got dressed, and went to the canteen.

While eating, Dad and Mom entered and joined him. During breakfast, Dad told Parker to report to the classrooms for tutoring when done. Holly will be there and have fun. Parker said, “Yeah, it sounds like a blast,” which made them laugh even more. After breakfast, Parker went to the classrooms, and Holly greeted him. She explained the difference between reading his lines and becoming the character. She gave him a few samples, and they began.

At lunchtime, they took a break and went to the canteen. While eating, Holly told Parker about actors spending time with their subject or the work to learn the speech and mannerisms they use when interacting with others. Learning the slang terms makes your character more believable on film. Becoming your character in speaking and body movements will help you with your lines. Dad and Mom entered and joined them at the table.

Parker asked Robert who the babe was and to wrap it up quickly. Remember, we have a job to do, which made everyone laugh. Holly explained that Parker was trying to fully inhabit his character for the part. This afternoon we’re going for a walk and practicing his delivery while moving. Dad asked Holly how Parker was doing, and she said he was doing very well, considering he has no acting experience. He’s memorized the script, and now we’re working on the rest.

After lunch, Parker and Holly walked through the staging site, rehearsing his lines. Holly showed him how to alter his voice to stress certain things. When they finished, she told Parker they would practice his lines at the gym tomorrow. He would deliver his lines while doing the activities in the script. They said goodbye, and Parker returned to his trailer, and the shit storm started.

Someone complained about the smell coming from the paparazzi’s old trailer. The police arrived with crime scene investigators and detectives. People watched while they removed the decomposed remains. Parker overheard one of the detectives say We’ll be lucky to get an ID, let alone a cause of death. He left the shit show and went to the canteen for dinner. Parker chose his normal table in the back corner.

Mom and Dad arrived and joined him. Mom asked what the police were doing here. Parker said he killed a man, but don’t worry, there weren’t any witnesses. They laughed, and Parker told them about the police finding a dead body under the paparazzi’s old trailer. He told Mom you would have loved it when they pulled it out, and it fell apart. It was a gooey mess, and they had to use shovels to pick up the remains.

There were insects and maggots, and Mom said that was gross, and Dad laughed. Parker said one of the detectives said they would be lucky to get an ID, let alone a cause of death. Parker told Dad that he had an idea for one of his stories. The killer or assassin puts his victims in junkyard vehicle trunks. By the time they discovered the remains, it would be difficult to ID them. Mom said that was sick, and Dad told Parker it was a good idea.

They finished dinner, returned to their trailers, and went to bed. Parker dreamed about the old man going to a warehouse and entering a code to open the door. Inside, dozens of storage racks were filled with items. He saw expensive items, artwork, and antiques. When he exited, Parker recognized the area; it was a few miles from their house. The dream ended, and he fell into a deep sleep.

Parker woke up early the next morning, put on sweats, and went to the gym. It was vacant, so he did his martial arts workout on the heavy bag, then finished on the speed bag. Back in his trailer, Parker showered and thought about how much power and speed he had gained since meeting the old man. The tattoo on his ring finger lit up, and he wondered what it was all about.

When he was dressed, he went to the canteen and got his usual table. Mom and Dad entered, got their food, and joined him for breakfast. Dad said they were almost finished with the script, and then they’d do a final review. But the good news is that your part starts shooting tomorrow morning. There might be script revisions, but they will be minor. Parker asked how long they’d be here, and Dad said hopefully less than 3 weeks, hopefully.

After breakfast, Parker met Holly at the gym, and she had a man with her. They went through the action scenes while refining his dialogue. The stunt coordinator entered and said, “There you are.” I’ve been looking all over for you to show us the takedown maneuver again. Parker showed him again, and he asked where he learned it. Parker said practicing with the teams with my Dad. I was smaller then, so a punch to the stomach or a kick to the balls helped, and everyone laughed.

They finished around noon, and he went to the canteen for lunch. Dad and Mom were a no-show, so he ordered a Lyft ride to town. Parker checked out the Goodwill store again and found a walking stick almost his height for $5.00, so he bought it. Outside, he found the top separated, and a sword inside. The handle was part of the walking stick, and the sword was extremely sharp. It was a great self-defense weapon that would come in handy.

Then he stopped at a used bookstore and was drawn to a rack in the back. There were several leather-bound books that had seen better days. The leather was worn, but still intact, so he bought all five for $10 and ordered a Lyft back to the staging site. When he arrived at his trailer, Parker opened the first book, and it was in Japanese. He browsed the pages, and they showed drawings of martial arts movements and striking points. Then a surge ran through him, and he suddenly could read and understand Japanese.

Reading the text and looking at the drawings made him realize he was looking at an ancient form of martial arts. Parker realized it was getting late, so he hid the books and went to the canteen for dinner. He got dinner, sat at his normal table, and began eating. He had almost finished when Mom and Dad entered. They joined him and said they had worked through lunch, wrapping up the script.

Mom asked how the training was, and Parker said it was alright; they worked on the lines while performing movements in the gym. They finished dinner, said goodnight, and went to their trailers. Parker got out the Japanese book, read a chapter, then fell asleep.

The next morning was a whirlwind of activities after breakfast. Parker went to the wardrobe department, then to makeup, and finally to the set. They shot the scenes out of sequence, so they didn’t make any sense to him. The director, Bill Stanley, said it was confusing, but it’s necessary to shoot all the scenes at one location, then move on to the next. We’ll do the editing and splice in the proper scenes where needed. He told Parker to ask him if he got confused.

Filming ended at 6 p.m., and by the time he got out of wardrobe and makeup, it was almost 7. Parker went to the canteen for dinner and sat at his normal table, then Mom and Dad entered. Dad said Director Bill Stanley said Parker was so natural doing the action scenes that he was considering using him for the older part too. Parker said he was dressed for the younger scenes and asked how he could do the older part. Mom said they could do makeup and make you look 70 if necessary.

Parker said you can do that. I’m okay staying younger, and everyone laughed. He asked Dad how that affects his pay, and Dad said if they use you for both parts, we’ll renegotiate your contract. Our stay will be extended if you get it. Parker said, “Then the answer was easy: tell them no.” Dad and Mom laughed and said, “That’s not an option.” My compensation has a performance clause, so if the movie does well, I get a bonus.

Parker said we don’t want you to miss out on that, and everyone laughed. Dad said playing both roles will get you recognized and possibly land you more parts. Parker said the girls would be after my clothes and body, and that made them laugh even more. They finished dinner and returned to their trailers. Parker did his college homework and went to bed.

Chapter 3

He woke up early the next morning and went to the gym. Parker had the place to himself, so he got a full martial arts workout. Returning to his trailer, he showered, dressed, and went to the canteen for breakfast. Mom and Dad joined him, and they told him, “We’ll be watching you act the older part today.” Mom said, “Break a leg,” and Parker asked if that meant the audition was over. Everyone laughed, and Mom told him that was a saying meaning good luck.

The next 9 hours were a nightmare. Learning a new script, measuring wardrobe and changing, makeup, and filming scenes. Then the retakes, and by the end, Parker was exhausted. Mom and Dad joined him at the canteen for dinner. While eating, Dad said the retakes were mostly on the supporting cast. The director, Bill Stanley, entered and said they’d use Parker for both parts. He said, “Rest up because tomorrow we’ll be busy.”

When Bill left, Parker asked, “Isn’t there a working-hour restriction for minors?” This 9-hour crap doesn’t work for me. Only once in a while, not all the time. Also, do I work without a revised contract? Dad said he’d work through the issues with Bill and be sure you’re not overworked. The contract might take a few days, but that will give us more leverage, given how much shooting has already taken place. They finished dinner and returned to their trailers. Parker was tired, went to bed, and crashed.

Parker woke up early, felt refreshed, and put on sweats. He ran around the staging site, scanning the area for danger. It was new to him to notice hazards in the dark. Returning to his trailer, Parker showered, dressed, and went to the canteen. While eating breakfast, Dad and Mom entered and joined him at his table. Dad said he’d discuss the contract with Bill Stanley and the producer, Karl Monarch, today.

Parker asked if they needed to get an agent or check with SAG for the pay ranges before negotiations. You know they will try to get me as cheaply as possible. I’ve saved them from hiring an experienced actor, or worse, letting one go. Dad said he’d call a few friends in the business and get an idea of the pay ranges. Hiring an agent now isn’t prudent. If this film does well, then we’ll search for an agent.

It was another day of confusion with makeup, wardrobe changes, learning the script, and performing the scenes. At least he had a chance to read ahead during breaks and lunch. It was the same long day, and they finished after 6 p.m. Thirty minutes later, he was in the canteen eating dinner. Dad and Mom came