Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Nick sat staring at the clock hanging on the wall. His leg bounced with building anxiety that only grew more as time went on. It had been almost 20 minutes since he had been called to the office and he’s starting to think they either forgotten about him or that they want him to stew in his ever growing anxiety.

The office didn’t have much to entertain the eye or make the place interesting in anyway shape or form. Olive green walls, brown desk, identical gray filing cabinets in each corner behind the desk, a big window in the back that shows a wonderful view of a brick wall and a plan black chair on the other side. No photos or paintings on the walls, no trinkets of any kind on the desk, just a name plate and some papers.

The floor doesn’t offer any kind of entertainment either. No rugs to brake up the old and scratched up wooden floor. Just the scruff marks on the floor from people being harsh with the fold up metal chair he’s sitting in.

Oh, and of course the clock.

That horrible old clock is the only thing that makes any sound in the dungeon he’s sitting in. It doesn’t bother him so much when he’s only here for a few minutes or if he can focus on something else. But right now?

It’s deafening.

It sounded like it was right next to his ear. Tick, tick, tick, tick over and over again pounding in his head, it was making him twitch and twist in his seat. So he tried stretching his hearing outside of the room he was confined in. He could hear the creaking of the wooden floor as people outside the office walked, the other kids messing around upstairs and what he thinks are mice under the floor boards beneath him.

He let his ears travel through the building, picking up on different conversations but never staying for too long. It’s a game he’s played often, whether it be to help pass the time or to help him escape.

Ever since he became a Grimm things started changing about him. His hearing increased almost ten times over what it used to be. It wasn’t an easy thing to get used to, it still isn’t. His reflexes and movements became sharper over night, one day someone could throw a ball at the back of his head and it would hit him dead on. Now? Now he could catch it without turning around.

He could also turn almost anything into a weapon. Put a real weapon in his hands, he’ll have it down in just a few seconds. He’s also constantly on alert, noticing details about people that most pay no mind to. He could tell the man who he walked past on his way in here was most likely going through a divorce or cheating, because of the ring shaped tan on his finger plus a few other things. It all makes him fidgety, all the energy built up under his skin, desperate to be used and put to work. Doctors say it’s because he has ADHD, maybe he does, maybe Grimms have their own version of ADHD meant to help them hunt and keep them alive.

His body wants to move, his mind wants something to challenge it. But all it has is school and all the challenges of the foster system to deal with. That’s probably why he tends to be a bit ‘snappy’ at times.

Plus he has that other thing going on. That thing that scares Truble every time she see it or talks about it. He knows why it scares her, he looks dead when he does it. But it’s saved his life many times before, sure his heart might slow down a lot and his skin might turn gray and his eyes become blood shot. But it keeps them alive, and that’s the most important thing.

He rubs his face with his hands then shakes his head trying to get the sounds to quiet down. He rubs his palms on his jeans and sits up a bit straighter and pushes his ever growing hair out of his face. With his head a bit clearer he took a deep breath and tried to focus his hearing on Mrs. Harper, his social worker and where she might be.

After a few moments he managed to find her voice. She was talking to Amber Colin’s, the foster parent in charge of the group home. And the owner of the office he’s in. She’s an older woman with brown hair turning gray. She also can be a bit testy at times, especially with him and Truble.

“I just need to have a few words with Nick and then I’ll take them to their new placement.”

“Are you sure about keeping them together? Don’t get me wrong Julie, Nicks a good kid, and so is Theresa. It’s just that- “

And that’s where Nicks listening in ends. He knew exactly where that conversation was going to go and he didn’t want to hear anything about it. Mrs. Harper has had that conversation with him before about them staying together.

A lot of siblings don’t get to stay together. But Nick would fight all the wesen in Portland before he let anyone try and separate them. He told Mrs. Harper before that he wouldn’t let that happen, but he’s not sure she truly understands how much he’s willing to sacrifice to keep them together.

Grimms can’t truly trust anyone other than family, and she’s the only family he’s got.

If he and Truble have to go on the run so be it. He could take better care of them himself anyways. Besides, he basically does it already.

The door to his left opened and Mrs. Harper walked through and smiled at him. “Sorry for the wait Nick. Ms. Colin’s had me trapped in a conversation and I couldn’t get out of it.” She gently closed the door behind her and walked to the other side of the desk. Her brown hair was down today instead of being put up. Her skin was tan and her eyes were dark brown, she wore a dark green sweater and held some files in her arms.

She grabbed the chair and rolled to his side of the desk. Nick scooted his chair back some and moved it to face her. She sat down in the chair now across from him and gently smiled.

He met her eyes but didn’t return the smile. Her eyes grew a little sad but like always she kept a smile on her face. “I know I told you yesterday about the family that agreed to foster you guys. So obviously that’s not what I wanted to talk with you about.”

Nick felt a sudden burst of anger run through him, he had a feeling about what this would be about. Apparently he didn’t do a good at hiding it.

“Nick please hear me out first.”

He wasn’t angry at her, she knew that. It would be so easy for him to blame her for all the problems in his life. But that wouldn’t be fair to her. It wasn’t her fault that his parents died in a car crash. It’s not her fault that he and Truble are Grimms. It wasn’t her fault that his aunt was killed by a Reaper. It’s not her fault that some of the foster families she puts them with are Wesen and try to either kill them, or kick them out within minutes of them being there.

As easy as it could be to let his frustrations and anger go at her. He couldn’t, not with everything that she has done for them. Besides, the best way to let his anger out is by helping the police take down criminals, even if they don’t know he’s helping them.

He took a deep breath to calm himself down. He pushed what he was feeling deep down, now wasn’t the time to get upset.

Mrs. Harper sighed. “Look Nick, I promised that I would always be straight with you and I like to think I’ve done a good job at that.” She clasped her hands together and leaned forward as she spoke.

“So I’m going to be straightforward with you on this because you need to understand how important this new placement is.”

Nick took a deep breath and braced himself. He knew where this was going.

“I’m running out of options, of places that’s willing to take the both of you. I’ve done everything I can up to this point to keep you both together but this placement is your last chance.”

Nick gripped his pants tightly causing his fists to turn white. He needs to stay calm.

“If this placement doesn’t work I’ll have to separate you two.”

His fists started to shake, he couldn’t look at her anymore and closed his eyes. “Don’t loose it Burkhardt.”

“I don’t want to, I really don’t, but if separating you both will help you guys get into a good home then that’s what I’ll do.” She looked at Nicks hands and moved closer and placed her hands on his.

“Nick, look at me please.” Slowly he lifted his eyes to meet hers.

“I know what you’re going through, you know I do. I know it’s been hard and that you’re angry. And you have every right to be angry and mad at everything that’s happened. But I need you to try your best here. You love your sister I don’t doubt that for a second but if you want to stay with her you need to try and make this work.”

“I do try.” He said. “It’s them who’s the problem.”

“Nick.” She said letting go of his hands.

“No!” He snapped standing up so quickly he caused the chair to fall down behind him. “I do try! I try harder and harder every, Single, Time! I get the best grades, I take care of all my chores, I make sure me and Truble get to school on time, I make sure her homework gets done on time! I do everything they ask and I don’t complain!”

“Nick.” She tried but he didn’t care to listen.

He didn’t mean to snap. Not at her, but he couldn’t help it. His anger was out and it wasn’t going back in till he had said what he wanted to say.

“I’m sorry that I get into a few fights here and there at school! I’m sorry that some of the families take one look at me and decide that they don’t want us anymore!”

“Nick. You’ve been kicked out of three different schools. You sneak out in the middle of the night and come back covered in bruises and cuts. I know that’s it’s not your fault that some families for some reason won’t take you in. And I don’t know why some of them treated you and your sister the way they did.” She stood up.

She was taller than Nick, especially when she wears her heels. But she didn’t tower over him. She crossed her arms and her face was stern but her eyes were kind.

“Nick.” She said. “I know you try. I’m not saying you don’t. You’re an amazing kid and anyone with half a mind can see that.”

Slowly the anger started to leave his shoulders. And exhaustion started to settle in.

“But, as great of a kid you are you have some things you need help with. And maybe, just maybe this family can help. So please, I really need you to try.”

Try. She says. He wants to desperately to tell her he’s not causing fights because he’s angry at the world. He wants to tell her that the kids he’s gotten into fights with had tired to kill him. He wants to say that the families who kicked them out did so because they found out what he was.

He has tried.

Wesen hate him for the things his ancestors did what others of his kind do. Humans don’t understand that he has a job, a duty to do. He could try for the rest of his life, he could do everything a family asks of him, but it’ll never work out.

“I’ll try. I will.” Is what he says instead.

She smiles. “That’s all I ask. Now go head up stairs and make sure you have everything you and your sister need.”

Nick nodded and started to walk out of the room before stopping. “Sorry, I shouldn’t have gone off at you like that. I know you-.” She put a hand on his shoulder.

“Thanks Nick, but you don’t have to apologize. I yelled at my social worker almost every other day when I was in the system. I get it. And I’m sorry if what I said upset you I should have worded it better.”

“You’re good.” Nick smiled slightly and went out the door trying desperately to ignore the people around him.

——————————————————————————

Nick opened the door to his room and fell face first on his bed. The stiff mattress caused him to bounce slightly and the springs protested at his wight. The conversation left him exhausted, the last thing he wanted to do was pack.

A bag hit his back right where a bruise was healing from a fight the night before.

“Ouch.” He groaned and looked to his right at the bed on the other side of the room. Truble was sitting on the bed with her legs crossed and scrolling on a phone. His phone precisely.

“I packed your stuff for you while you were talking with Julie.” She said not looking at him.

“Thanks…. Wh-why do you have my phone?” He asked still lying down not wanting to move with his cheek smushed against his pillow.

“Just thought I’d go through your notes.” Nick jumped up off his bed and snatched his phone from her grasp.

“Truble! Don’t-“ he looked at the screen and instead of the notes app he was met with Trubles face sticking her tongue out. Truble started laughing with her head thrown back hitting the wall behind her.

“Seriously.” He went through his photos and saw hundreds of pictures of Truble. He turned to his sister and waved the phone in the air. “You seriously took a hundred pictures of yourself? It’s going to take me forever to delete all of these.”

Truble just shrugged her shoulders her laughter now turned into giggles. “I was board. And don’t delete all of them! Some are pretty good.”

Nick rolled his eyes. “You all packed?” He asked going over to his duffel bag and opened it checking to make sure all his things were accounted for.

Truble hopped off the bed and pulled her own bag out from under the bed and set it down on the mattress. She padded the black bag and smiled. “All set! All I need to do is put my shoes on.”

Nick nodded, his head still in his bag. “Get them on then, Mrs. Harper will be up here soon.”

“Why do you call her Mrs. Harper? Her name is Julie.” She asked while sitting on the floor pulling on her tennis shoes.

“Because, it’s polite.” He said. He closed up his bag satisfied that everything was there then grabbed his backpack from the corner.

“You mean because you’re a weirdo.” Truble mumbled under her breath.

“I heard that.” He said opening his bag double and triple checking all the pockets.

“Good.” She said pulling her laces tight.

Nick chuckled at her but kept his main attention on his backpack. His sketch book and notebook were both there and all the pages looked fine. Emergency snacks, water bottles and money were in the right places. There was still the correct amount of snacks and money so he didn’t worry about that. Pencils, phone charger, rope, flashlight, knife, medical supplies, lighter and the keys to his aunts trailer.

Everything checked and accounted for.

There was a knock at the door and Nick instantly grabbed Truble and pulled her behind him. She went without a complaint.

“Nick, Truble. Two more minutes guys then you need to be downstairs so we can go.” Mrs. Harper called from the other side of the door.

Nick relaxed and letted Truble go. He grabbed his brown leather jacket that hung on his bed frame and put it on. He quickly tightened his shoe laces and threw his backpack on and grabbed his and Trubles duffel bags.

“You all set sis?” He asked looking at her.

“Ready as ever.” She answered pulling her own backpack on.

Nick smiled and looked at his sister while she straightened her backpack. Her hair was shoulder length and jet black. Her jeans were ripped at the knees and at the cuffs like his own, her shoes where in much better condition then his. They were blue and about two sizes too big. Her dark purple hoodie had seen better days, but she loved it far too much to get rid of it. She had a scar on her left cheek that she got when she was six, a moment he’d rather forget.

She’s already grown so much in just two years.

Nick walked over and ruffled her hair. Her head only came up to his stomach so she didn’t quite hit her mark when she smacked him away. Her fist landed on his chest instead of his head like she would have liked.

She glared at him with brown eyes as she fixed her hair and Nick couldn’t help but laugh.

——————————————————————————

The car ride was silent except for the radio playing some new popular song that Nicks never heard of before. Truble was playing a version of flappy bird that she was getting increasingly frustrated with. Nick had given her his phone after the fourth time she proclaimed that she was “ so bored that she might actually die.” He made her promise not to mess with his notes app or to take a bunch of pictures, which she accepted with a roll of her eyes.

Nick didn’t pay much mind to the things going on around him in the car, but instead kept his gaze focused on the world outside. His blue eyes kept track of all the different landmarks and roads signs they passed on the way to their destination. He wrote them down in his notebook with each street name they were on. He took note of each turn and counted the minutes it took to get to each stop light and a different street.

He noted all the alley ways and all the different buildings and businesses they passed. He made sure to mark those of them that were hiring, just it case.

“Mapping out this part of town?” Mrs. Harper asked, a small smile on her face. “I think you probably know every inch of Portland better than the people who’ve lived here their whole life.”

Nick glanced away from the notebook in his lap for a second to meet her eyes. “I guess.” He said shrugging his shoulders and going back to work.

“It’s impressive.” She said keeping her eyes on the road. “You’ve got a bright future ahead of you. You know that? Knowing the city will help you a lot if you still want to be a cop.”

Nick tried not to blush at the comment but he could feel the heat rising to his face. “Thanks.” He didn’t look at her, didn’t want her to see the  blush that he was sure was already there.

“Awww Nick, don’t be embarrassed.” Truble teased from the back seat with a massive grin on her face.

“I’m not embarrassed.” He grunted still refusing to look at them. He folded in on himself trying to be a bit smaller as though he could sink into the chair.

“Truble stop teasing your bother.” Julie said looking at the girl in the mirror but was smiling. “And Nick you don’t need to be embarrassed. You have a talent you should be proud of it.”

“I’m not embarrassed.” He said for the third time as if, if he said it enough they’d leave him alone.

“You should see his drawings! He’s amazing.” Truble practically sang the last part. Nick turned around and glared at her as she smiled smugly at him.

“Oh I’ve seen some. They are amazing. I saw that one you drew of that dog when we were at the diner that one time. It was so realistic.”

Nick pulled his legs onto the chair and pulled his hood from his shirt over his head. He was done listening to them talk about him. “Just tell me when we’re there.” He said.

He ignored his sister and their social worker as they continued to their destination. He kept up his note taking as they drove, he couldn’t afford to miss something that might be important later.

Soon they came to a street that screamed rich. Nick could feel his skin crawl as the car slowed down on the street. He unfolded himself and started to pay much more attention to each house they passed. Truble too went quiet, her chatter with Mrs. Harper ended and Nick could almost feel her anxiety growing.

They pulled up into a driveway and Mrs. Harper put the car in park. The house was big but not massive. It was white with a brown porch with a porch swing. The yard was well trimmed with flower patches in the front.

Truble unbuckled and leaned over Nicks chair. “What do thing?” She asked him.

“Probably white in their 30s to early 40s. Two kids a girl possibly around 6 to 8 and a boy around 12 to 15. One of them probably makes most of the money, my guess they do something in law enforcement or something like it, the other’s job probably pays well too.” He answered looking at the house in front of them.

“Nick. Don’t profile your foster parents. We’ve been over this.” Mrs. Harper said after finishing getting her files in order.

“Is he wrong?” Truble asked.

Mrs. Harper sighed. “He’s right mostly. They have two kids of their own. A boy who’s 16 and a girl who’s 7. Mr. Woods is a lawyer he’s 42 and Mrs. Woods works for a company she’s 38, and yes they’re both white.”

“So he was right.” Truble said with a satisfied smile on her face.

“Just because he was right doesn’t mean you should profile them. It’s rude.” Mrs. Harper pulled her brown hair into a bun and stepped out of the car. “Come on guys.”

“How’d you figure out the gender of their kids?” Truble asked getting out of the car.

“There’s a red bike and a smaller purple one in front of the garage. Most girls have either light blue, purple, pink or green for their bike. It mostly likely belonged to a boy close to my age.” He answered following her to the trunk.

“Dang.” She said. “That’s both creepy and impressive.”

“Come on guys!” Mrs. Harper called from the drive way.

Nick and Truble shared a look and grabbed their bags. As they walked to the door Nick grabbed Truble’s hand. “Don’t worry. We got this.” He gave her a small smile and she returned it.

As they stood on the porch Nick could feel his heart pounding in his chest. He didn’t know who was on the other side of the door. He just hoped that no matter who it was he could keep Truble safe.

Chapter Text

They weren’t waiting long after Mrs. Harper knocked on the front door, but to Nick it could have been an eternity. An eternity of standing outside on the porch listening to the movement inside the house. This had to be one of the worst parts about meeting new placements.

“Just a second!” A deep voice called from the other side of the door.

Truble squeezed Nicks hand tighter at the sound of the man’s voice. She moved closer to him and grabbed his arm with her other hand. Nick pulled her closer to comfort her, it gave him comfort as well keeping her close. It was easier to protect her especially when there about to enter unknown territory, his anxiety was skyrocketing.

A tall man with light skin and short dirty blonde hair opened the door. The man immediately put Nick on edge, he was muscular and looked like he could snap Nick in half without even using a sliver of his strength. He had a well groomed beard and his eyes were a hazel brown. He wore a white dress shirt and black dress pants and not a wrinkle in sight, with expensive looking shoes.

He looked like a lawyer, and not the one that made you feel like everything is going to be okay. More like he’s going to win because of something shady he’s done. Or let you lose if it meant getting a better check.

Nick squinted at him, watching the man closely.

The man, Mr. Woods, smiled at them but didn’t talk to them, instead he only talked to Mrs. Harper. But his smile didn’t seem to fit his face. Nick watched the way the lines on his face moved, if you knew how and where to look it was easy to tell when someone smiled a lot.

It was easy to tell that smiling didn’t come naturally to Mr. Woods.

Nick moved ever so slightly to be in front of Truble more. He didn’t trust the man in front of him, maybe he was being paranoid, maybe he was judging the guy to much because of past experiences, but his gut was screaming at him that this man wasn’t safe.

One of the main things his aunt told him was to trust his instincts, and so far they haven’t steered him wrong.

“It’s nice to meet you Mrs. Harper. Why don’t you all come on in.” Mr. Woods voice was kind as he moved to the side, using his body to hold the door open.

“Thank you Mr. Woods but please, call me Julie. Come on guys.” Mrs. Harper stepped aside to let them go in first. She gently placed her hand on Nick’s back guiding him inside.

Nick kept his eyes on the man as he and Truble entered the house. He knew Mrs. Harper would get onto him about staring at the man but he didn’t care. He didn’t trust the man to take his eyes off him. He kept Truble away from the man’s reach and sight, Truble didn’t make a sound and didn’t reject to Nick manhandling her all over the place.

“Of course. And very well, just Neil then no need to be formal, it wouldn’t be right to have you guys standing out there with the fall weather coming in.” Mr. Woods laughed politely stepping into the house and closing the door behind them.

When he turned around his eyes met Nicks. The mans confident smile fell slightly and Nick watched as an odd expression took over the man face. Nick has been told many times over the years that his gaze made people uncomfortable. Maybe it was a Grimm thing, or maybe it’s because his eyes are a very light shade of blue, and people tend to say that people with light blue eyes have an uncomfortable stare. Either way, Nick finds his unusual power very effective.

“Nicholas!” Mrs. Harper chastised him quietly when she noticed. And reluctantly Nick looked away and started taking in the house around him.

Ignoring Mrs. Harper’s pleasantries with their new foster “father”. Heavy on the quotation marks on father, he didn’t think that word fitted most of the men he and Truble had stayed with. And so far Mr. Woods hadn’t given Nick a reason to think otherwise.

The entrance lead into a big living room with two big black leather couches and a love seat that matched. A glass coffee table sat in the middle on top of rug with an odd design of white, gray and black in squiggly lines. A big window with a seating area showed the front yard and a massive brick Fire place was the main focus point of the room. A huge flat screen tv was above the mantle, it was probably the biggest tv he had ever seen.

The living room flowed into the dining room that Nick could see from where he was standing by the stairs. Most of it was blocked by a wall, but from what he could see the table looked to be hand carved and very well done, as did the chairs. He really wanted to get a closer look at the set, wanted to see what kind of details were in the wood, he wondered for a brief moment if he’d have to wipe it down after the family ate, and if there was a specific way he was supposed to clean it.

He wouldn’t be mad if he did. That was a pretty common chore of his, cleaning up after the family members of the house. If he had to wipe down the table and chairs he could get a much better look at how they were made. Maybe even figure out what type of wood they were made from.

He couldn’t see the kitchen but he guessed it was past the corner around the stairs and possibly a small bathroom or an office, maybe even both. This house also seemed like one to have an extra living room for no reason, it certainly looked big enough from the outside to have two living rooms.

All of the walls were painted a light gray with white trims, some walls had pictures of the family at different times in their lives. A family portrait on the mantle had a boy about his age with blonde hair and green eyes, a young girl with long dirty blonde hair and hazel eyes and a woman with really short blonde hair and green eyes.

They’re definitely Mr. Woods family considering he was also in the picture.

The stairs were carpeted with light gray carpet that made Nick curse on the inside. Carpet was really hard to keep clean, especially

When it came to blood. He could already see himself having to stay up late cleaning the blood he’ll eventually get on it.

Whether it’s his or someone else’s.

He hopes wherever he and Truble sleep will have quick access to a window, and the roof. It would be extremely inconvenient to leave a blood trail all the way up the stairs. He’s done that before once with broken ribs and a concussion, it wasn’t fun cleaning that up.

There was also a balcony looking over the living room. But luckily the balcony was directly over one of the couches, if need be he could jump over the railing and onto the couch. He’s done that before too.

Well kind of, he’s never done it in a house before. But he has jumped off a balcony onto an old couch in a landfill before. They were kind on the same.

“Clara! Kids! Come say hello!” Mr. Woods shouted making Nick flinch and Truble tense at the unexpected shout.

He shook his head trying to calm his quickly beating heart, and stop the ringing in his ears.

Mrs. Harper placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. While Truble tried to disappear into his side and ease the tension out of her shoulders.

Mrs. Woods walked into the room and Nick had to do a double take. She wore a one piece baby blue dress that went just above her knees with short sleeves and a thin white belt around her waist. She had on white heels and a big white purl necklace around her neck. But her skin was so tanned it was nearly orange, her teeth looked unnaturally white and her hair...

It was very short, just like in that one picture he saw on the mantle. But this time it was in that Karen hair style that everybody thought of when they think of that name. It looked like she had just stepped out of a Karen meme.

Nick could feel Truble shaking against him and he knew it was because she desperately trying not to laugh. He pinched her a little. Now would be a horrible time for her to break the poor shy little foster kid persona that they’ve worked so hard to create for her.

All families, well most fall for it instantly. A poor shy eight year old girl who clings to her big brother for comfort and safety. Of course there has been times when Truble has broken the act.

Like that time she pulled a knife out on that one foster father who suggested they adopt her and not Nick. She was this close to actually attacking that man, if Nick hadn’t come home just then she might have. Safe to say they were out of that house by the end of the week.

Truble hated it, but it also worked. Nick was older, so naturally he was expected to take care of almost everything. It also made him more of a target, easier to get mad at.

Truble was safe when she wasn’t herself. She was safe when she hunched in on herself and acted small, like she didn’t exist. She was safe being quiet and not talking or speaking out.

Nick didn’t care how much Truble hated it, it kept her safe. And not just from foster parents. There had been a few times when Nick and her would get separated or Nick would have to take Truble with him on his “outings” and her “skill” really came in handy.

Being quiet is a good way to hide from Wesen to.

Mrs. Woods stood next to her husband and he wrapped his arm around her waist. “Hello! My name is Clara. It’s so nice to meet you all!” She said smiling at them.

Nick cringed at her tone of voice. She was talking to them like they were three, not fifteen and eight.

Not too far behind her was the two children that Nick saw in the picture as well.

The boy was taller than him and wore a red sweater with black plants and white socks. He looked like he wanted to be anywhere but here. The girl was taller than Truble (not a hard thing to do) her hair was pulled back in a braid and she wore a long sleeve white shirt with a kitten in a princess dress on it and a purple skirt covered with sparkles. The girl waved at them enthusiastically smiling ear to ear.

Well at least someone here was actually happy that they were there.

“These are our kids, Justin and Abbey. They’re both so happy to have you guys staying with us.” Mrs. Woods said placing a hand on her son’s shoulder. Who rolled his eyes so hard that Nick wouldn’t be surprised if they fell out of his head.

“Yeah real happy.” Justin said under his breath, voice thick with sarcasm. Nick however heard it perfectly. As did Mrs. Woods apparently who discreetly flicked Justin in the back of his head.

“It’s wonderful to meet you all.” Mrs. Harper said with her usual good toned voice. “How about Justine and Abbey take Nick and Truble to their rooms? I’m sure they would like a chance to unpack and decompress. That way we can discuss some things.” Mrs. Harper suggested.

“That sounds perfect. We can show them around later after they’ve settled in. Justin?” Mrs. Woods nudged her son a little to get him moving.

Justin rolled his eyes and uncrossed his arms. “Follow me.” He said after sighing, like what he was doing was too much of a chore.

Abbey happily followed her brother up the stairs. Nick quickly glance at Mrs. Harper and she gave him an encouraging smile with a small nod. He didn’t like the idea of leaving her alone with Mr. Woods.

Now logically he knew that if Mr. Woods was Wesen or not, that the chances of him and his wife hurting Mrs. Harper in anyway shape or form was extremely low. And that she would definitely be completely fine. However, something in Nicks brain was screaming at him, begging him not to turn his back to that man.

Which he did, against his better judgement as he and Truble followed Justin and Abbey up the stairs.

——————————————————————————

The stairs didn’t creak as they walked, which was both a relief and concerning. On one hand it would make sneaking around a lot easier, easier to get in and out of the house without waking anyone up if the stairs don’t make sounds when you walk on them. However on the other hand, it means it’ll be harder to tell if someone is coming up the stairs.

He’d prefer to know if someone was trying to sneak up on them. Super hearing or not, it makes things a tad bit easier when the stairs make noise. It makes him feel a little safer.

His anxiety only grew.

They walked passed the banister looking over the living room and Nick could see Mrs. Harper and the Woods couple heading to the dining room. They were going to go over all the stuff in their files, nothing better than having a detailed book thats filled with everything little thing you’ve ever done.

Especially one that highlights all the bad things you’ve done.

The upstairs looked just like the downstairs. Light gray walls with white trims, pictures of the family, some framed awards done by the children of the house. It was pretty plan it Nicks opinion, not that he’s a professional designer.

The banister lead to an open room that was much brighter and more alive than the rest of the house. There was a nook across from where they stood at the entrance of the room that had a massive window on its back wall facing them and a huge flat screen Tv on the other, and couches and beanbags that faced it. Under the tv was a stand that seemed to have multiple different gaming consoles on it. None that Nick nor Truble has ever played before.

On the wall adjacent to the TV was a shelf full of collectibles and games. Some Nick recognized, like the statue of Sonic, Mario and that guy from Halo. Others he was completely clueless. All the games looked to be organized, red cases with red, blue with blue and green with green. And there was a tone of them.

On another wall was a shelf filled with toys and bored gamers. And a chest in the corner that Nick guessed also had toys inside.

On the other walls were posters of a few different games and even some of movies. The Woods must really like to spoil there kids.

“This is our “play” room.” Justin said walking in the room. “All the gaming stuff is mine. You are NOT, aloud to touch or use any of it.” He said gesturing to the one side. “And this is Abbeys stuff.” He gesturing to the other side of the room.

“You can play with it! I don’t mine sharing!” Abbey said smiling wide at them. “Maybe me and Theresa can play together later.” She asked tentatively.

“Yeah, maybe later.” Nick Answered giving the little girl a soft smile.

In return he got a sweet but hopeful grin. The older boy walked around as if showing them around was far below him. Nick was slowly growing to his profile of the family in his mind as he watch how the children acted.

You can tell quite a bit about parents by their children, how they think and act around others can tell a lot.

Justin stood in the middle of the room and pointed to the left. “Down that hall is mom and dad’s room, a guest room and my dad’s office. No one is aloud to go in without his permission or disturb him while he’s working.” Then he waved for them to follow him down the other hall.

“The first room on the right is mine, the next one is Abbeys. The bathroom is right across from your guys room.” They walked down the hall and turned left. At the end was two doors, one on the left and one on the right, in the middle on the wall in between the doors was a window and under it was a small table with a vase filled with flowers.

“This room is for you.” Justin opened the door to the left and walked inside with Abbey at his heels.

“The lady said you’d guys rather share a room. Which is like weird, but that means I don’t have to share my room with some orphan kid then I don’t really care. Anyways, that’s upstairs. A few more things I guess, don’t go in my room, you can use the bathroom as much as you like. It’s all yours. Abbey and I have our own in our rooms so… ya that’s pretty much it. Mom and dad will talk to guys about rules and stuff later after the lady leaves.” Without saying anything else Justin walked out of the room.

“See you guys later. I’ll leave you alone to unpack!” Abbey waved at them before she to left, running down the hall.

Nick walked over and closed the door. There was a lock on the outside but not the inside. That will be a problem in the future.

The room was actually a decent size. It had the same light gray carpet as the rest of the upstairs but the walls were a nice soft shade of blue. There was a dark brown dresser that looked store bought and not as detailed as the dining table down stairs. The bed was a king or maybe a queen, with dark blue covers and white pillows. The frame was the same dark brown wood as the dresser but this definitely looked hand made. The bed was against the left side of the room and the dresser was across from it back against the other wall.

On the left side of the bed by the door was a small closet with white sliding doors and a bed side table. On the right side, was another table and a decent sized window that was covered with thin white curtains.

Definitely not the worst room they’ve ever had, actually besides the rooms they had when they lived with their aunt and parents. This was probably the best.

Nick walked over to the dresser and placed their duffel bags on top. “Not bad huh?” He looked over to his sister who was now sitting on the bed staring angrily at the door.

“I hate him already.” She said. “Like I really hate him.”

Nick huffed and shook his head. “Yeah. He’s definitely something.”

“An annoying something. I hope he’s Wesen.”

“Why?” Nick asked confused walking over to the bed to start looking at the frame.

Truble looked at him with a massive grin. Her eyes gleaming. “Then I’d get to see the look of fear wash over him! I normally hate seeing that look on people, but it would soooo satisfying to see his reaction.”

“Okay psycho calm down. You’d better start hoping that they’re just human. I don’t think I can deal with another foster family being Wesen, especially with how that last one turned out.”

Truble sighed and flopped down on the bed. “With our luck they probably are. Maybe something we haven’t seen yet, like one that’s eats kids.”

“Comforting thought.” He said looking up at her while still kneeling on the floor. “Thank you for that mental image.”

“Just trying to be realistic.” She said smiling. “Why are you staring at the bed frame?”

“Looks hand made. I wish I know how they did it. I mean look at how smooth this is.” He said running his hand down it. “How do people do this?”

“Please don’t make out with the wood Nick. I know you struggle with dating being a Grimm and all, but this isn’t the answer.”  She was laying on her stomach now with her head in her hands looking down at Nick from over the end of the bed.

Nick just glared at her making her smile even more kicking her feet in the air.

“You’re so stupid.” He said going back to what he was doing.

“So are you. Aunt Marie used to say it ran in the family. “A family of idiots.” She used to say.”

Nick rolled his eyes. “Not the only thing that ran in our family.”

“True. Anyways, I think your wood work is way better than this.” She said smacking the frame to make her point.

“Ya right. All I do is carve small things. Nothing this impressive.”

“But still impressive.” She said poking him in the head.

“Thanks.” He laughed. Just as someone knocked on the door.

___________________________________________

Nick was standing by the bottom of the stairs leaning against railing putting himself between Mrs. Harper and Truble who were hugging goodbye and their new foster parents standing in the living room watching them.

“Call me on Nicks phone if you need anything okay?” Mrs. Harper said squeezing Truble close and rubbing her back.

“I will.” Truble said, her face pressed in Mrs. Harper’s sweater.

The two of them pulled back and Mrs. Harper stepped towards him as Truble stepped back trying to hide as she wiped her eyes. Mrs. Harper grabbed him by his shoulder and pulled him into a strong hug.

“Stay safe, and don’t be afraid to let them see how amazing you are. They’re good people Nick.” She said before pulling away.

Nick gave her the best smile he could. “I’ll try. Be safe.” he balled the cuff of his jacket sleeve in his left hand trying to claim some of his anxiety that hasn’t settled once since getting here.

She nodded and stepped towards the door. “Alright. You both know that you can call me anytime, I’ll be back in a few weeks to check in.” She gave them one last smile before turning towards the Woods couple.

“It was wonderful to meet you both. I’ll stay in touch, if you have any questions at all please don’t hesitate to call.” She stuck out her hand and shook both of their hands.

“It was wonderful to meet you also Julie, please drive safe.” Mrs. Woods said giving her a smile that made Nicks hair stand on the back of his neck.

“I will thank you. Enjoy the rest of your day.” The last part was said as she exited the door.

Once Mrs. Harper’s car drove off Mrs. Wood walked towards them and knelt down in front of Truble to match her hight. “Why don’t you go head upstairs and play with Abbey? Me and Neil haft to talk with Nick alone for a little while.” She moved some of Trubles hair behind her ear. It made Truble go stiff and Nick wanted to grab his sister and keep her far away from this woman. “Okay sweetheart? Go on.”

Truble looked at Nick. He could see the conflict in her eyes. She knew that she had to listen to Mrs. Woods, she knew what the possibilities could be, what they could be for both of them. But he understands, they didn’t know them, didn’t know what they might do. It was always a gamble, a slow game when it came to new families.

You have to be careful and play it safe in the beginning. Learn their habits, learn who’s the most dangerous and who’s the safest. Figure out how the home works, who makes the rules, who gives the punishments and what they are.

It’s a process, one that Nick and Truble knew well. So that’s why Truble just nodded her head and didn’t talk, slowly she made her way up the stairs. Deciding to disobey on the first day would be idiotic and a quick way to find out how thin a families patience is.

“Come here Nick.” Mr. Woods said walking towards the dining with Mrs. Woods right behind him.

He took a deep breath then followed.

He sat across from the couple at the dining table keeping his gaze on them. Nicks eyes looked over them trying to read what their plan was. Mr. Woods was sitting straight but he was relaxed, his hands were clasped together in front of him on the table. Mrs. Woods was leaning back in her chair with one leg across the other and her hands laid in her lap.

He felt like pray being watched by two dangerous predators.

“Your file has a lot to say about you Nick. Most of it however isn’t good things.” Mr. Woods said sounding every bit like the lawyer he is.

He grabbed Nicks file that was laying on the end of the table. “Kicked out of multiple schools for getting into fights with classmates and teachers.” He said while looking in the now open file.

Nicks leg started to bounce under the table.

Mr. Woods shook his head and clicked his tongue a few times. “Sneaking out, getting back past crew few, coming home covered in cuts and bruises.” He shook his head again before closing the file making Nick flinch just a little. “This kind of behavior will not be acceptable here.”

Mrs. Woods nodded her head. “We don’t allow that kind of disrespectful behavior.” She said while leaning forward.

“I’m not sure if this behavior has always been a problem for you. It must have been, a lack of discipline from your aunt no doubt. Probably coddled you too much, but believe me that won’t be a problem here.”

Nick squeezed his hands into fists as tightly as possible under the table, his blunt finger nails digging into his palms. He’s heard this type of talk before, how his “behavior” is from him being spoiled. Many people have said that good old discipline will sort him out.

However Nick always seemed to find that the more “discipline” that they try and put him through makes him act out more.

“Since you and your sister just got here we’ve decided to allow you to have this weekend off.” Mrs. Woods grabbed a white board next to her on floor and placed it on the table.

“This is our family chore chart. Me and Neil will work on it tonight to add your chores, you’ll start it Monday when you and Truble start school.”

“This Monday?” Nick asked before he could stop himself. He wanted to smack himself in the head after he realized what he said.

“Way to go Burkhardt.” He thought slowly starting to panic. “Your only job is to keep your mouth shut! You’re not supposed to ask them questions! Especially not questions like that!” He’d be lucky if they let him eat after asking something like that.

“We’d thought it be best to get you back in school as soon as possible so you don’t fall behind. Despite all your problems you have nothing but wonderful grades, which we expect to continue to see.” Mr. Woods said.

Well, that’s probably the greatest compliment Nicks gotten from a foster parent in a while.

He didn’t sound angry or upset about Nicks question and neither did Mrs. Woods. His panic slowly faded but his anxiety didn’t go away. He wanted this to be over as soon as possible, he didn’t like feeling so vulnerable.

“Do you have any other questions?” Mrs. Woods asked.

Nick knew better than that. “No ma’am.” He answered looking at her.

She smiled at him. “Alright. Please don’t think that we’re doing this to hurt you Nick. We just want to help you become a better person, and if we all work together I know we can help you.” Her smile was sweet and comforting but her words made him nauseous.

A better person she says, to help him she says. He’s heard this before, houses like these are horrible. But, he told Mrs. Harper he’ll try, even though staying here and knowing what’s most likely going to come is making him feel ill.

He doesn’t have a choice though, if this house doesn’t work out they’ll separate him and Truble. No matter how much he thinks they’ll be fine on their own, the streets aren’t safe for an eight year old girl, even if she’s a Grimm.

“Go on upstairs, we’ll call you kids down for dinner in a little bit.” Mrs. Harper said dragging him out of his own head.

Slowly Nick stood from the chair and nodded once at them with a small smile. He didn’t trust himself to speak, he was still coming to terms with the situation he was going face here. As he climbed the stairs he froze.

He felt something, something in the back of his mind, that same thing that told him not to turn his back on the father of this house. Slowly Nick turned to look at them and for a second the world stopped.

Mr. Woods shook his head and his whole face shifted.

Wesen.

They’re Wesen!

Instinct kicked in at that moment and Nick hurriedly went up the stairs praying that they didn’t notice. His whole body shook as he walked into the play room completely ignoring Justin who was yelling at the screen.

He used the walls of the hall way to help keep stay standing as the world seemed to spin as he walked towards the bathroom.

“Please no. Oh lord please not again, not this time.”

He managed to open the bathroom door and shakily lock it behind him. He was breathing heavily as he braced himself on the counter of the sink, staring at the drain.

“This has to be a sick joke.” He said, his voice cracking in a whisper. His legs shook, barely keeping him standing.

He braced his elbows against the counter and gripped his hair pressing his forehead against the faucet. “I can’t. We can’t.”

How was this fair. He needed this house to work! No house with Wesen ever worked! (Except for that one time) no, no he’s not thinking about them.

They find out and they get thrown out into the snow, locked in the basement, attacked, or, or locked in a very, very small closet.

Nicks shoulders shook at the last thought. And he swallowed down his lunch that wanted to come up.

He shuddered out a breath trying to clam down, as tears started to fall. He couldn’t let Truble see him like this.

“Crap!” He said smacking his palm against the counter and began running his hands hurriedly through his hair. He has to tell her.

“Clam down Nick. You can’t do this right now.” He told himself meeting his eyes in the mirror above the sink.

“Clam down and come up with a plan. You need a plan.” He took a deep breath and held it for a moment counting to 10 before letting it go.

“Okay.” He said looking at the sink again before looking back at himself. “Okay, they’re Wesen. Well at least the guy is. He’s some kind of cat or lion. Probably a lion.”

He brushed his hair out of his face and bit his lip. “I’ve never dealt with a lion Wesen before.” He muttered.

“Okay!” He flapped his hands a little trying to get rid of the anxiety coursing through him. “First we tell Truble, she needs to know. I tell her later when we’re going to bed so she can compose herself tonight and be ready for tomorrow. Then I’ll sneak out tonight and head to the trailer to find information on lion Wesen, or whatever they’re called.” He nodded to himself.

“Okay. I’ve got a plan.” He met his eyes again. “You have to make this work.” He pointed to himself. “Make it work.”

With a deep breath he opened the door to that bathroom.

“You got this.” He wasn’t sure he entirely believed that, but it didn’t matter.

He went out the door anyways.