Caught red handed ( hoot)

[Aladdin Baba]

Al wasn't a fan of stealing but it was a necessity for him. He entered the thrift store his boxers showing from a small hole in his jeans and his shirt lightly stained. He had tried to clean them out in a bathroom sink but after they didn't come out he decided it was time for some "new" clothes so to speak. If he was stealing peoples old clothes it wasn't so bad right?

That logic seemed coherent enough so he proceeded looking through the racks. The tshirts from the 90's weren't so bad. He could careless what they said all he needed was for them to be in good condition. Al looked around and finally grabbed a shirt quickly and looked around to see if no eyes were on him he showed some ab and replaced his stained tee with one of the stores clean inform tshirts. Now what to do about the jeans. He skimmed around and found his size they were a bit faded but it was better than showing butt. After changing in the dressing room he made his way casually towards the exit. 

But his decision to switch off shirts in the middle of the store had caught the cashiers attention. Caught red handed he didn't no where to go. He considered fleeing the scene but one of the coworkers looked beastly and Al just stood there. They sat him in a corner still unsure what to do with the teen. Calling the cops for a little more than five dollars in clothes seemed idiotic but they couldn't let him get off empty handed. The coworkers and an on duty security guard from across the street badgered the boy for a parents number but Al remands silent. So they sat him there handcuffed to a chair till he spoke. 

[Professor Erroneous Hootford]

Professor Hootford had entered the thrift store looking for a new over coat or trench coat. He had several but many of them were beginning to become to worn for daily use. Also, who could resist a good overcoat for such a steal of a price. And so Hootford happened to walk in and see a boy he recognized from school. His name was Aladdin and Hootford had him two periods a day. He was a cheerful enough boy but he always seemed to be wearing the same clothes. Hootford had meant to talk to this boy and ask him if he was having a problem with the washing machines on campus, they could be problematic, but he had never gotten around to it.

Hootford decided now would be as good a time as ever to see if they boy needed help but as he was about to approach the boy he saw something that made his heart sink. The boy had stolen a shirt right off of the rack and replaced his shirt with it. Hootford decided to stay back and watch this boy to see if this was a prank or something worse. Hootford watched as the boy walked over to another rack and after a few seconds slipped on a new pair of jeans as well. Hootford's heart sank a bit more as his concern grew. And just as he thought the boy would leave he watched as the boy got arrested on the spot as handcuffed to the chair to wait for proper action to be taken.

Hootford knew that they would eventually grow tired of waiting for the boy to reply and would have to call the school. He couldn't dare to see such a hard working student get suspended or kicked out for something he seemed to feel guilty for. And so Hootford walked over to the police and began talking. Hello. I am Professor Erroneous Oxford Hootford the Third. I work at the Academy in town. This boy is a student of mine. How much does he owe for the clothes. I will pay for him. No doubt this was a prank a friend of his asked him to play and it will not happen again I assure you. I will notify his parents as well as the headmaster when we get back to school and he will be punished accordingly. I apologize for any problems this may have caused you.

Hootford than placed a twenty on the counter to pay for Alladin's clothes and looked at the boy, winking and smiling at him before returning his attention, and somber face, to the officers holding him. Hootford had no plans to get this boy into trouble so long as he explained why he had acted in such a way. Hootford hated formal punishment and knew that nine times out of ten those who did such childish things had a reason behind it and just needed a talk and a mentor to guide them in the right direction. Hootford hoped he could be Aladdins mentor. He was bright and Hootford didn't want to see this boy fall through the cracks. Hootford waited patiently and was prepared to talk with Aladdin and listen no mater how long it would take. Besides he was a good listener and he would be all ears as soon as they were out of the thrift shop.

After a minute or so, the officers let Aladdin go, seeming satisfied. Thank you gentlemen for your service to this community and thank you kind sir for not pressing charges. Young man, come with me. I'll take you back to school. Hootford opened the door to the thrift shop for Aladdin to leave and bent down to whisper in his ear, The headmaster and your parents never need to know but we need to talk and you need to tell me what happened. Than he straightened himself up as much as an elderly man could and followed Aladdin out of the store and led him to a Rolls- Royce that could easily be as old as Hootford himself. Hootford opened the door and motioned for the boy to get in and slide over. He than got in and closed the door before turning to Aladdin and stating Shall we begin the discussion Aladdin? Or shall we go see the Headmaster on this matter. and falling silent, smiling but never faltering in his stare. The boy could decide but Hootford had an idea as to what he would choose. Nonetheless he would wait for Aladdin to reply. He had patience. He could wait all day.

[Aladdin Baba]

Al wasn't quite sure how he'd talk his way out of this one but before he got the chance to string a web of lies somebody else did the talking for him. Al sat there wondering what was going on in everyone elses head. The probably thought the worse of him. Al wasn't a bad kid and he knew that. He didn't want to steal but he had no choice things weren't handed to him on a sikver platter like other people. At first Al didn't know who was helping him out but he soon put a name to the face. The old guy was Professor Hootford usually he'd be grateful but Hootford was Yensid faculty and all Al could think of was being expelled. Damn how he'd miss that bed. But there was no use crying over spilt milk so after being uncuffed he slowly walked behind Hootford wondering what would become of him,

Al didn't know much about hootford just that he seemed very enthusiastic about teaching and science. As he followed Hootford to the car Al couldn't help but notice that the old man looked more concerned than angry. This was the first time any one had shown this type of concern since his mother passed away. Al wasn't used to people caring for his best interest. 

When Hootford said The headmaster and your parents never need to know but we need to talk and you need to tell me what happened Al quickly raised his eyebrow. Headmaster doesn't have to know? Relief filled the boy who had been worried about being expelled. The other part of Hootfords statement had no affect on him it wasn't like Hoot could get the word to them anyways. 

When they arrived to the car Al slid in and sat quietly. He didn't want to admit the truth because he knew that he'd probably be sent to an orphanage or foster home but Hootford deserved it. He looked up and towards his astronomy and chemistry teacher. " It wasnt a prank... I really needed the clothes.  I'm not like the other students sir. I don't come from a privileged home or any kind of home. I... Remember when I told you that I'm used to sleeping under the stars? It wasn't by choice... I've been homeless since I was 12. " He didn't bother explaing where his parents were and why he had run away from the orphanage but he was sure that would come up later. 

Aladdin wasn't looking for sympathy he just wanted Hootford to understand he wouldn't have stolen if it weren't necessary.  He honestly felt guilty about the whole situation and wished it hadn't happened. 

[Professor Erroneous Hootford]

Professor Hootford listened intently to this boy and his heart bled for him a bit. Hootford stretched across the seat to the boy, a bit of a feat for an old man, and wrapped his arms around him in an embrace. After a long moment of silence, Hootford let go and faced Aladdin to speak. Young man, I noticed something was unusual with your attire from the day you arrived but I thought it was some new hoop fad or... something like that. I was going to ask but was waiting for the right moment. You, young man are in no trouble but you will never have to steal again. I will make certain of that. And, if you would like an old man for a father of sorts, I will become your guardian so that I can keep my promise. A strong young man such as yourself deserves dreams and a future, not fears and worries. Do you accept?

Hootford knew this was an unusual suggestion but when someone was in need, he had been taught to reach for the stars and soar trying to help make everything better. Now was no different. Hootford had more than enough money so that was no problem and he and his late wife had always wanted children but had just never gotten around to it before she passed. He was alone now and he would love to have a young one to truly take care of and not just teach. He loved teaching but nothing matched being able to show one young one just how much you could care.

Hootford held out his hand for the boy to shake if he agreed and than pulled it back just long enough to say, I will make you my legal 'child' of sorts on one condition, your pants can never be low enough for the world to see your skinnies. I don't care how old I am, that is rude to the world no matter what age the people are who suffer through seeing that. So, deal, Mr. Baba, or no deal?

[Aladdin Baba]

The hug was unexpected and Aladdin sat stiffly as the man embraced him. He wasn't used to this kind of human interaction. He awkwardly patted Hootford on his frail little back until he let go. Hootford started to talk and just when he was about to tune him out Al heard the offer. His haw dropped and he couldn't believe what he was hearing. 

Why? That's all Al could think of...why? Al hadn't done anything to earn this man's respect yet Hootford was offering the unbelievable. Al didn't have to lie or steal anymore? It seemed to great to be true.  

Al lowered his head than looked at Hootford. " I've had so many people let me down and heard so many false promises..I just.." By know Al was chocking up. He turned around and faced the window. He was stronger than this but Al couldn't help but tear up. The floodgate of memories open, Al wiped his eyes with his shirt. 

Something about Hootfords presence made Al feel like he could trust him. "Thankyou." Al didn't need him he'd been getting by on his own, but that was just it he'd been getting by. He was tired of just getting by while all his classmates got to dream.Even those that took everything for granted and were content with C's and B's still had a future while Al lived day by day in stolen clothes and speaking lie after lie.  

He then sincerely hugged the old man. Where hat came from Al had no idea. But the question was still bouncing around in his head. " Wait...why would you do this? You don't even know me or anything about me." 

[Professor Erroneous Hootford]

Hootford could sense the boy's hesitation but he held his tongue and waited patiently, giving the boy time to decide. When Al finally spoke, Hootford couldn't help but feel bad for the boy. He couldn't even imagine everything that this young man had been through. Well I may not be strong enough to physically lift you up but I promise I won't be going anywhere anytime soon- i'm not that fast- and I have no one left to take me from here anyway. I won't let you down.

Hootford's face lit up when the boy thanked him but fell once more when the boy asked the question he had been waiting for- why. Hootford's face grew a bit saddened and every line on his face seemed to sink in deeper, making him look much older and frailer as his past hit him and all the emotions that came with it battered him at once. He took a moment before speaking and once he began, his voice was soft and slow, almost distant at moments but still understood.
I may just seem like an old man to you but I was once young just like you. I was married once. Her name was Alexandra. I loved her dearly and we were always a happy couple. You see... she died a few years ago and left me alone. We tried to do everything for each other but there was one thing that we could never get to come true, we could never have kids. Alexandra's body just couldn't handle it I guess. All i know is we both always wished to become parents but nothing ever worked out, adopting or conceiving. I watched her go without having fulfilled her greatest wish. But even though she's gone I know she is still watching me and I know that I would be giving her the child she always wanted and remembering her wish by taking you in.

Hootford looked up as he fell silent and looked at Al before he chuckled a bit, the light having returned to his face and the sparkle to his eyes. He let the whole story sink in a bit before adding. Also, you remind me of myself at your age, a boy longing for adventure and trying to find himself. I have a feeling you will go many places Mr. Baba, but I won't get to watch those things happen if I let you end up on the street or fall through the cracks in foster care or homeless shelters. It just wouldn't do, especially after all you've gone through to get yourself here in the first place. You have... what do they say... you have gates... you have hoofs pie... well you get the point. So... what do you say? If you won't take my offer for the good it will do you, do it for the sake of an old man wishing to fulfill a lifelong dream and the last wish of his life long sweetheart. Even in this day and age, love and a promise count for something... right?

Hootford looked at Al, waiting for the answer but anxiety and anxiousness written all over his face. This meant the world to him and all he had said was true. As he waited he thought, I told you Alexi. I promised you I'd give you a child. You didn't believe me but I kept my promise sweety. I love you. He knew he seemed like a nutty old man (which truthfully he slightly was) but he didn't care and as long as he didn't say it out loud for everyone to hear, no one was harmed.

[Aladdin Baba]

It seemed that everyone had a sad story to tell. The world just wasn't fair. There were so many good people out there who were dealt cruddy cards. But it was what you did with those cards that mattered most. You could fold and give in to defeat or you could make the most of what you got. As he heard Hoot's story he couldn't help but feel that he was passed on the responsibility to make Alexandria proud. 

This wasn't about helping out a poor boy, it was about finding the missing chain to the broken link. It seemed to Al that this was something Hoot wanted. He wanted a son not a charity case. Al knew what it was like to carry on a promise even after the person had passed away. Al carried a promise of his own. The gunshot that killed his mother wasn't fatal on impact. It bled out and allowed for his mother to mutter Praise Allah to her son. At the age of 6 Aladdin didn't know what she meant by that but at 17 he knew. For years Al had cursed the heavens and Allah for leaving him. But that wasn't what his mother wanted, his mother wanted the boy to praise Allah to still believe even though religion had been the cause of the boys despair. 

"Professor Hootford, I have longed for a home. To be like the other kids who didn't have to worry where they'd sleep tonight and how they would get their hands on some food. But, I managed so I don't need your charity. I can work for anything you give me but I do need you to have some sort of human connection to me."  Al avoided saying I need you to love me in order to not sound so desperate and sad. What Al really wanted was someone who would say that's my boy to a crowd of people when Al did something worth being proud of. He needed someone who'd say hey so you didn't do so great this time around I know you can do better. Al just wanted to know that he didn't have to do everything alone anymore. 

So basically Al was saying yes. " Well, I've never worn my pants low on purpose. So that shouldn't be a problem. What I'm trying to say is that I agree to your terms and conditions but I have some of my own." Al bit his lip a little nervously. He knew this was a controversial topic but Al had promised his mother that he would praise Allah. " I'd like to continue practicing in the Muslim faith. That means I want practice Ramadan, read the Quran, and pray to Allah." Al hoped that Hoot wouldn't be a close-minded Christian. He hoped that he wouldn't see the Muslim religion as a gate towards terrorism as some did.  

[Professor Erroneous Hootford]

Hootford heard the boy out and got a bit excited when the boy said he would accept but instantly got nervous when he heard the boy had conditions of his own. Several ideas, both good and bad, went through Hootford's head in the second it took the boy to announce what his condition was.

Hootford couldn't help but chuckle. He had imagined drugs, alcohol... many bad things. Being allowed to practice one's faith hadn't even crossed Hootford's mind. After a moment he realized that the laughing might be taken in an offensive way and so Hootford collected himself as he stated, I apologize for laughing young man. An old fool like me hears that someone, especially a young one such as yourself, has a condition and instantly fears the worst. Your condition is a relief in my mind. I did not mean to offend by laughing. It was just a wave of relief released in... not the most professional manner, I have to admit. I welcome your religion and have no objections to you practicing your faith freely. May I ask that I be allowed to ask questions on occasion and when appropriate to do so? I may be an old man but learning new things still fascinates me and your religion is not one I know quite well. I know there are many scholars who know of it but I've always believed that it is much better to learn from one who lives a religion rather than one who studies it only. Would you mind? I understand if you do and I will not be offended if you say no. But I wish to learn... and maybe pass on what I have learned to those who fear your kind.

Hootford had a large smile and knew he sounded silly but he was an educator. What better way to educate others than to become more educated. He didn't care how many people said an old dog could never learn a new trick. He'd been learning new tricks all his life and had been an old dog for many years. He knew in his heart he would never stop yearning to learn until the day he died. And, who knew, maybe even after death he would continue to learn. Anything could happen and anything was possible.