A Cowboy's Claim

“Alex’s birthday is September twenty-seventh, which is past the cutoff date to enroll him in kindergarten for the fall. He’ll need to wait one more year before he goes to school. There are lots of pre-K programs he could attend and we can help you find one. It’s important that he socialize with other kids.”

Renee had no clue what Vic’s life was like or that he was too busy chasing a title to socialize himself. Maybe the woman thought rodeo was Vic’s hobby.

“These are Alex’s medical records.” She handed Vic the paperwork. “A list of his immunizations. He had a checkup with a pediatrician two days ago and the doctor said there’s no physical reason for Alex not to be speaking.” Renee picked up a kid’s backpack from the floor by her chair and handed it to Vic. “Some clothes, a few books and parenting pamphlets that might be of help.”

The only thing of use to Vic right now was finding a home for his nephew.

Renee texted on her phone and a moment later another woman walked into her office. “Martha,” Renee said. “This is Alex’s uncle, Victor Vicario. Victor, Martha is in charge of the group home Alex was placed in.”

Vic caught the wince Martha tried to conceal when she saw his scar. “I’m sure Renee told you that Alex hasn’t said a word since he was brought to the group home. Several of the children have tried to engage him in conversation, but he ignores them.”

Poor kid.

“He doesn’t eat a lot and he’s underweight for his age, so be sure to offer him snacks between meals. He may not tell you he’s hungry, but you should encourage him to eat.”

“How has he been sleeping?” Renee asked.

“He hasn’t woken with nightmares. But if he does, just reassure him the best you can. He’s not combative and he doesn’t pick fights with the other kids but...” Martha rubbed her brow.

“What?” Vic asked.

“He stares out the window all day yet refuses to go outside and join the other kids in the yard.”

Was Alex waiting for his grandmother to come get him? Vic began to sweat. He wanted to help his nephew, but the kid deserved better than an uncle he’d never met and spending most of his day in a pickup. Alex needed specialized help—help Vic wasn’t qualified to give him. He looked at Renee. “How long did you say it will take to find him a permanent foster home?”

“Foster homes are never permanent. We have good people who sign up to take children in, but life is full of unexpected surprises and sometimes they have to send the child back to us. We’re hoping that this won’t be the case for Alex. He needs stability in his life right now, but we can’t guarantee him that.”