Date: Tue, 14 Oct 2008 20:18:13 -0400 From: chris james Subject: Gene, Chapters 13 & 14 Dear Reader: this story is adult fiction, the contents are not meant to be read by persons under the age of 18. This story has prompted so many wonderful e-mails. It's good to know that a character of my imagination can touch so many of you out there. It inspires me, and for that you will reap the reward over the coming months as I post more often. I share the joy of bringing a character to life with you the readers. For each of us has a place in our hearts for someone like Gene...if only. As always, your comments are most valuable. I shall respond to all. drmeta4@gmail.com Gene (M/B) Chapter 13 Gene sat by the window as the American Airlines jet took them out over the ocean. He had held Ben's hand during the takeoff, squeezing hard enough to show how nervous he really was. But things were fine now and they would be landing shortly. Mom and Dad had delivered them to the Miami terminal only hours before, time enough to get through the Customs check and board on schedule. The sincerity of Gene's farewell to his new Mom and Dad had a wonderful effect on Ben. Just to know that his parents had accepted the boy was gratifying, but Gene's affection for them had been exceptional. It was as if the boy knew what he needed to do, and he had done everything right. Mom had slipped the boy some pocket money; of course...she always used to do that for Ben. But the moment Ben remembered most was the gleam in his father's eye, were those tears? His Dad had hugged Gene with sincere affection and Gene had even kissed the man on the cheek. These were things Ben had never felt capable of doing at eighteen, but Gene had managed them all. And now he was once again alone with his boy...and headed towards the place of dreams. It had been shortly after Thanksgiving when Ben had that second conversation with Simon Hanover. The man had gushed over the improvement Gene was showing at school. That was when the idea formed and Simon had been brought into his confidence. "I love him, Simon...there's no way around it, he means the world to me," Ben had admitted. "It shows...he's a changed person thanks to you," Simon said. There had been a pause, and Ben knew it was coming. "So how do you plan to express that love?" "I don't know....well I do. He wants something and I can't help but give it, can you understand my position?" "More than you know...I was only sixteen when I met my first man. Ah, the feelings were all there, but he wouldn't sleep with me either. I was devastated...it was like having a wall between us, it must feel like that for you too." "Yes...and no, but Gene seems to understand. We'll wait until his eighteenth birthday. But even then, I want it to be special." "I'm sure the waiting doesn't make it any easier. You can't be equal, that's the hard part. He can only give you so much and then there is this line drawn in the sand and all because you want to be responsible. I don't think any boy can really understand why he isn't allowed to show his love. But I have a suggestion, if I might?" And Ben had listened. He felt guilty about not being honest with Simon. What he and Gene had been doing in bed shattered any moral and legal convictions he might have had. But it met their needs. There was no longer any doubt; Gene was Ben's partner in and out of bed and they both wanted it that way. The plane screeched down on the tarmac in the bright Aruba sunshine and Gene seemed more excited than ever. "Wow...look at all the palm trees....did you see the water as we flew over...awesome." It was forty degrees at home and ninety-three on the beaches of Oranjestad. Ben led the boy through the lines, paid a fee, had their passports stamped and collected their bags. Then they were whisked away by the hotel bus. The both of them were taken by the mix of people, strange architecture and the shear size of the capital city. Ben explained that the culture here was influenced by Dutch colonialism and the African heritage of so many in the native population. But the look on Gene's face told him the boy wasn't listening; he was too overwhelmed at the adventure. Their hotel room was on the sixth floor overlooking Palm Beach, and crowded it was. All those tanned bodies swimming and lying in the sun soon urged them into their bathing suits, down the elevator and out onto the terrace fronting the ocean. Ben felt like he was in a daze as Gene dragged him down onto the sand. Five days, he told himself...time enough to show the boy everything he would ever want to know about love. They frolicked in the warm water, drank fruit beverages from the terrace bar and ate lunch on the patio. Gene's energy didn't dissipate one bit until the sun began to set, and then it only flagged a little until Ben said they would be going out to sample the nightlife around town. Standing in the shower together, he saw the beginnings of mild sunburn on the boy's shoulders. "We have to keep applying that sunscreen, sweetie, or you're gonna be toast," Ben said. "Your face is red too," Gene replied, and then he smiled. "Why are we here?" Ben knew he couldn't hold back, Gene was much too in tune with his thoughts for him to hide anything from the boy. "I brought you here because I love you and...and I wanted someplace special to show you what that means." Gene's eyes grew wide. "You mean we can...?" And Ben nodded. "Yes...we can." Gene screamed with delight, grabbed Ben's arm and dragged him out of the shower. "Now....I want it...now," he squealed. Ever since that first encounter in the tub they had been exploring the possibilities of the male body and finding answers that made them both aware of the pleasures two lovers can share. Ben had used their exploration as a means of holding off the inevitable, while Gene found that he could give of himself and still reap the rewards he so desired. It was time well spent, making them both aware of the needs of the other and fine tuning their responses. Gene's body was ready for this next level of involvement, it was almost begging for it now and Ben knew the boy could handle him without concern. And so they sprawled across the bed, bodies entwined, and with great love and caring Ben began the dance. There was no need to heat the boy up and allow passion to relax his body; Ben could almost feel the heat pouring off him already. Gene gazed up into his eyes with sublime satisfaction as Ben raised the boy's legs and knelt between them. And as he pressed forward, Gene's body seemed to relax. The boy opened up at his touch and Ben slid inside. There was that moment of awe they both felt. Gene felt the discomfort of that first intrusion, but they had planned for this and he seemed to embrace the fullness. For Ben it was like sliding into liquid heat and he was amazed, there was no resistance. It was a defining moment, an almost holy window of time where the world around them ceased to exist. Gene moaned with the feelings and grasped Ben's waist with his legs, pulling their bodies together. So enraptured were they that only their eyes aglow with passion and the sound of their breathing gave evidence to the physical act they were performing. This had been the missing piece, the singular moment that would give meaning to all the rest. The heat of Gene's body seemed to flow around him as Ben began a slow stroking motion. He knew Gene's impatience wanted them to give into the lust they both felt, but Ben knew better. Slow and easy he took the boy's virginity, the last vestige of his youthful obsession. Ben could feel his passion building very quickly, his body totally absorbed by the new and wondrous feelings. There was no way this first time could last forever, it was just as well, there would be so many such moments to remember. Ben could hold back no longer and after several minutes the shattering climax hit him. Gene felt the flood released inside of him and it pushed him over the top in a mere heartbeat. He had been in awe of the feelings until that moment of release. He had wanted to scream with joy and yet the silence they shared had overwhelmed him. It had allowed him to focus completely on Ben and the power that seemed to emanate from his very being. And as Ben lay forward, rubbing against him, Gene let out a long hard stream of cum that pulsed between them. Nothing in his life had ever touched him in this way, and he felt the tears flow down his cheeks, swept away by the joy of discovering what this man meant to him. Ben had known the boy would cry, for most things that brought out profound emotion in Gene made him cry. It was a reaction that he had come to understand as a necessary part of the boy expressing himself. So the tears flowed as Ben lowered his lips to Gene's and he gave meaning to the joy that they shared. It was the first time and not the last they shared that night. And to keep the boy aware of how equal their love should be, Ben encouraged Gene to switch places. He knew that they would have to be flexible in their lovemaking. It was an important lesson in giving that Gene took to heart. He had been looking for a means of giving back to his man. It was like a honeymoon, Ben decided. They arose each morning and made love, showered, ate breakfast and went straight back to bed. Short hours on the beach gave them both a much needed tan, but they always returned to the bedroom several times a day. Ben was surprised at his own level of achievement during those loving moments. He could understand Gene's response; the boy was insatiable and had a constant desire. By the third day things slowed down and they spent more time being in love then acting on the feelings. Those hours spent in cuddling allowed them time to talk. And Ben had some pretty serious things on his mind. "You know, now that you're eighteen you can live anywhere you want," Ben said. "I want to live with you...always," Gene replied. "You want that...don't you?" "More than anything, this is the most incredible feeling I've ever had for someone else. I'm sure glad you called Hanover a fag." Gene punched him for that. "That's not fair, I made a mistake." "I might have gone my whole life without meeting you, sweetie. Now that wouldn't have been fair, look at what we'd be missing." Gene gazed at him a moment. "You ever worry about growing old?" Ben smiled. "Not now...not with you in my life. Growing old doesn't bother me, doing it alone would. What are you thinking about?" "I was just wondering what life will be like when I'm your age," Gene said. "Hmm, you'll be thirty-two and I'll be forty-six," Ben said. "Have you given any thought about the future? You'll graduate, but high school is only the first step. What do you want to do after that?" "You mean like college? I don't know, am I smart enough for that?" "You can be anything you want, sweetie. College would be the next step if you have a career in mind." "Yeah, they ask us at school what we want to do after graduation...what we want for a career, but I haven't any ideas. How did you decide to be a counselor?" Bens smiled. "I saw a need, knew there was an opportunity there and decided to start the business. I have an interest in keeping kids out of trouble. Sometimes all it takes is someone who cares...that's me." "You think I would be any good in your business?" Gene asked. "Sure, all you need is the right training. Would you like to work with me?" Ben asked. It was Gene's turn to smile. "I think so...are you a good boss?" "For you I'd be the best. But we'd have to start planning a place for you right away. I spent a couple of summers as a camp counselor working with handicapped kids. That taught me a lot about the needs of others. Do you think you could handle that?" "What would I have to do for kids like that?" Gene asked. "Kids with special needs just need someone to watch out for them. It would mean you have to help them decide what clothes to wear for certain activities, and just make sure they have a good time. I had to walk the kids to meals and help them learn how to swim. I had great fun with the other counselors, those were wonderful experiences." "I could do that...don't you think?" "I'd miss having you around for about six weeks, but I think we have a plan," Ben said. "But I haven't told you the best part, guess who runs the camp?" Gene gave him a blank look. "You'll have to tell me, I can't guess." "Tom...your big buddy Tom. He's been working with the handicapped since his first child was born. You haven't heard about Eddie; he was born with Down syndrome." "Oh...that's terrible," Gene said. "It's heartbreaking, but Tom did the right thing, he got involved. Eddie passed away about ten years ago, but Tom still works with those kids. He started the camp with a group of lawyers, I'll talk to him when we get back...or you can." "I feel so sad for him; he never said anything about his son dying. But you don't work with handicapped kids, do you?" "No, I don't have to. Kids like that don't get into trouble; they have to be watched all the time. I work with kids who have entirely too much time on their hands and no supervision, which always leads to trouble," Ben said. "Or kids with a big mouth like me, huh?" Ben laughed. "Yeah, sometimes...but in your case it was perfectly understandable considering your environment. You just reacted poorly to something you didn't understand at the time, but now you know better. We all make mistakes, the point is you learned from yours." "Now I'm the fag," Gene said. "And why would you say it like that?" "Cause if anyone at school finds out that's what they'll call me," Gene said. "Not like I'm about to tell anyone, but I don't care anymore if they do find out." "Are there other gay boys at Southeast you know about?" "Some...maybe two or three, but I don't actually know if they're gay. They act a little girly sometimes and they get picked on." "Does Simon know about this?" Ben asked. "Probably, he runs the club...that gay and straight thing." "The GSA, that's an important outreach program," Ben said. "Think I ought to join?" Gene asked. "Only if you felt comfortable doing so. Don't join just to out yourself to the school. Do those kids get a lot of crap for being in the club?" "Sometimes, everyone knows who's in it. They get hassled, you know, the usual stuff." "Usual stuff...like what?" Ben asked. "Oh someone writes 'fag' on their locker or they get pushed against the wall during change of classes. It gets reported but nothing ever happens about it. Some kids are just mean." "Well if it happened to you I'd be pretty upset," Ben said. "I don't like the idea of gay bashing one bit." "Then I won't join the club," Gene said. "If I did someone might pick on me and I would have to fight back." "It's not wrong to fight back, Gene...its how you chose to do it that makes it right or wrong. Punching somebody won't solve the problem." "Well I don't need that club to learn about being gay, I have you." And like all good things, their little honeymoon was soon over. The flight back to Florida was uneventful; Gene actually enjoyed the trip this time. Mom and Dad met them at the airport and commented on how much better Gene looked with a tan. They celebrated the New Year with dozens of others at the country club and Gene got his first taste of champagne. Ben couldn't take his eyes off the boy all dressed up in a suit and tie, Gene looked positively radiant. It was the first day of the New Year when Ben went down for morning coffee in his mom's kitchen. Mary had been sitting at the table waiting for him and she greeted Ben with a smile. "Your father is still asleep. He's not used to these late night events anymore," she said. "And what about you?" Ben asked. "You haven't changed a bit in twenty years." His mother laughed. "I get by. Did Gene sleep well after all the excitement?" "I envy the way a teenager can sleep for hours and not feel the effects." "You love him very much and I'm glad. From what I see the feeling is mutual. I just worry that he's a little young for such a serious relationship," Mary said. "And you know what kind of relationship I'm talking about, so let's put aside the pretense." He should have known his mother would see everything so clearly. It was uncomfortable, yet at the same time it was a relief. "How long have you known?" Ben asked. "About you or the two of you together?" "Let's start with me," Ben said. "I'd say probably since you were in high school, that's the first time I realized you were special and not at all like the other boys you brought home. But when you brought Joseph home for spring vacation I knew there was something between you two. Mothers usually sense these things, but your father is still blissfully unaware." "I'm sorry, Mom, I should have told you a long time ago," Ben said. She smiled. "And what child is ever comfortable talking about his sexual preferences with his mother? But Gene is so young; do you think this is the right thing for the both of you?" "I've been asking myself that question for months. Being in a loving relationship seems to work for both of us, it meets a need. Without going into details, Gene has harbored these feelings for a long time without resolution. He needs someone like me to feel whole again. "As for me, just being different all these years was hard enough. I couldn't tell anyone, I didn't want you and Dad to be worried about me. My time with Gene has brought out some wonderful feelings and resolved a lot of issues. I wouldn't feel comfortable evaluating myself in all this except to say he brings me joy and happiness. What else can I hope for?" Mary smiled. "Love does that to a person. And if you're in this for the long haul then I can't worry about it. Just the look in his eyes when he sees you walk in a room tells me everything I need to know." Ben reached across the table and took her hand. "Well I learned about love from the best teacher in the world. Love is more than a feeling, it's a compulsion to act, to bring the best out in others, and you taught me that." "Then you already know that love isn't easy," she said. "I imagine raising a teenager and having him as a partner will try your patience quite a bit. You were a blessing as a child and I've never felt disappointed by the things you've accomplished. Maybe this is what the both of you need, I sure hope so." "I'm going to give it my best shot," Ben said. "His future is wide open and we've already begun making plans. I'm going to get Tom to find him a place at the camp this summer. It will tell me a lot about how his past will affect his career path." "So he wants to be like you I gather. Does he have the aptitude do you think?" "He's a smart boy, Mom, something his former environment didn't allow him to pursue. He's made some changes since last fall, and best of all he now feels those changes as a positive force in his life. I think we're moving past the infatuation stage into realizing how good the relationship can be." "Then remember...I'll do what I can to help," Mary said. "Your father and I have been married forty years and not all of that was smooth sailing. You have to expect a few bumps now and then; it makes the whole thing worthwhile. Now let's go get those guys out of bed, I want to get breakfast over with before noon." But it wasn't until after they were driving back north that Ben told Gene about that conversation. Gene blushed at the knowledge of Mom knowing what she did. "Are we that obvious?" he asked. "To her...yes. Mother's are like that sometimes," Ben laughed. "But she didn't say anything to me...does it make her uncomfortable?" "Maybe a little. I'm sure she doesn't want to know the details of our love, but she accepts it because we're both involved. She trusts us to make the right decision, that's the best part," Ben said. "Our Mom is so cool," Gene said. And Ben understood that he was implying that his own mother wasn't. "Dad still doesn't know, and I bet he never will unless she tells him. My father is a complicated man, Gene. But he never failed to support me in anything I did. So I suppose if he finds out about us this won't make any difference." "I'm sorry. From what you said I gave it away, didn't I?" Gene asked. "Don't be sorry, sweetie. I want the whole world to know how much I love you. But that just isn't realistic; we have to choose our friends and allies carefully." They returned north to a breath of cold air, but it only excited them. The shared experience of their bedroom activity in the warm Caribbean gave new meaning to sleeping together in Ben's king sized bed when they got home. And all too soon the boy was back in school, forging ahead with his studies and showing great promise. They managed to work on several of Gene's school projects together over the course of the winter, allowing the boy to garnish another good grade in his science class. The report card's came out, and this time Ben couldn't find a single C...progress had been made. With wrestling season over, Dean became a more frequent visitor in their home. And the sly smiles he gave Ben certainly meant that Gene was sharing information with his brother yet again. But Ben only smiled back; Gene had every right to be happy. It was in February that Ben decided Gene needed driving lessons. It would mean the boy could gain some independence and Ben needed to reward that improved academic behavior. But the thought of Gene behind the wheel of his precious Vette, or that huge truck didn't seem right. He chose a Saturday morning to take the boy car shopping. "Where we going?" Gene asked. "Its surprise," Ben laughed, enjoying the boy's moment of doubt. "But I think you need something and I know just the place to find it." "I don't need anything...you give me way too much stuff," Gene replied. But his eyes got wide when they pulled into the used car lot. "I'm going to buy you a car and teach you how to drive it." Ben said. "Wow...really?" "Really." Barry Stevens showed them some nice cars, but Gene fell in love with a cute little Honda right off the bat. It was red and shiny, had nice chrome wheels and only about eighty-thousand on the odometer. Ben smiled and gave the boy a nod. Gene whooped with joy and slid into the driver's seat as Ben turned to talk with Barry. "How much?" Ben asked. "List is nine thousand, you may have it for seventy-two hundred," Barry said. Barry was grateful; Ben had pulled his son out of a serious drug charge two years ago. The judge only gave the boy three months in rehab; Barry had made sure the kid stayed straight. Straight into the Navy to be exact, he was off in the Mediterranean at the moment. "I'll take it," Ben said, and wrote out a check. Barry promised to have it delivered to the house by the end of the day. He drove Gene over to the Motor Vehicle office and picked up a driver's handbook. "You need to study this a few days so we can get you the learner's permit," Ben said. And all the way home Gene flipped through the pages of the booklet. By Sunday night Ben quizzed the boy and was astounded at the results, it seems Gene had memorized the booklet cover to cover. Birth certificate and passport in hand they went back to the MVA on Tuesday after school, it was a done deal. Gene had grinned in his photo and kept running his fingers over the little card. "This is so awesome," Gene laughed. "I'll teach you how to drive responsibly, the rest is up to you," Ben said. "But the insurance rates will only go up if you aren't careful, that's where I have to depend on you." "I'll be very careful, you'll see," Gene replied. There was a point behind Ben's desire to have the boy drive. With a license Gene could take himself to school, but then summer was coming. Tom had agreed to take the boy on at the camp, and that was a hundred miles away from home. If he ever expected to see much of Gene this summer then the boy needed a way to get home between camp sessions. Like a good manager, Tom had developed a training manual for his staff of young counselors. He presented one to Gene the first week in March, along with a book about disabled kids. It was Gene that got right to the point. "Ben told me about your son, Tom. Hearing about that made me so sad, I'm sorry," Gene said. Tom got a far away look in his eyes, but then he smiled. "Eddie was a delight, even with his mental disorder. I wouldn't have missed those years we had together for anything, I just wish there had been more time to love him." "You started the camp because of him, that shows you really loved him," Gene said. Tom smiled. "Yes, it gives me great pleasure to see all those kids being so happy despite the problems they face. I see a lot of Eddie in many of them; all disabled kids deserve the chance to be happy." "I'm really going to enjoy being there. Ben thinks it will be a good experience for me." Ben knew where this was going; Gene had broached the subject several days before. "Uh, Tom...do you worry about having a gay boy as one of your counselors?" Gene asked. Tom laughed. "No way. To my way of thinking gay people experience the same fear and prejudice in society just like my disabled kids do. You all have something in common, so where's the problem? No, I think it will be good for you because of your feelings, Gene." It had been the week after they returned from Florida. Tom had come over to give Gene a late Christmas present and ask about their trip. It was Gene who had brought up his newly discovered identity. "I think Mom and Dad are the nicest people in the world," Gene said. Tom had laughed, immediately recognizing who the boy was speaking about. "Yes, they are...very nice people," He agreed. "And Mom, she knows I'm gay and it doesn't matter to her one bit," Gene said. Only then did he realize Tom wasn't in on that little secret. Tom gazed at the boy, appraising and finally smiling. "So you're happy with the discovery, that's good. I'm sure Ben's happy too." "I love him, Tom; he helped me discover the truth about myself. All those years wondering about what I felt, what I was thinking and now I know." "I always knew there was something special about you, Gene. I'm glad you finally got a handle on it." And that was Tom's final pronouncement on the subject, he was totally accepting. And even now it was as if he'd always known Gene was someone special, someone to be cherished. "We're going to have a camp staff meeting in a few weeks, you'll need to be there," Tom said. "It will give you the chance to meet everyone. Some have been with me a few years; others will be new like you." "Are any of them gay?" Gene asked. "I won't tell you, you'll just have to find that out yourself," Tom said. "Ben will tell you what camp life is like. The counselors work pretty hard, but they get to socialize a lot after hours. We try to make sure everyone has a good time there." "I'm really looking forward to this, thank you so much," Gene said. "I'm a pretty good judge of character and I think you'll do just fine. So how's about we go eat? I'm starved," Tom said. Chapter 14 The birds began building their nests in the eves of the back porch, a sure sign that spring was here to stay. Ben smiled at the chattering creatures as he stood with his coffee mug and breathed in the cool morning air. His dad would have tried to chase the birds away, but he never felt like molesting them. Nature would take its course, just as it had with the boy. Gene was growing taller and broader. His reed thin body filling out from the nourishment and exercise they shared. But the body belied the adolescent that still lived on in Gene's mind. Emotional maturity was still a distant goal, something Ben worked on every day. In just a few weeks school would be out and the boy would have time on his hands before the camp season opened. Ben was glad Gene would have a summer of work and social activity ahead; he needed to develop those skills as well. Their driving sessions had been an ordeal, but Gene had finally accomplished the skills to Ben's satisfaction and passed the driving test. By regulation he was under a mandatory six month probationary period and that meant he couldn't run around with a car full of kids, not that he had that many friends to tote around. They had been together for eight months now, and yet every day seemed like the first time he had laid eyes upon the boy. Each day gave him another reason to feel wonder at the relationship, and Ben felt like the honeymoon would never end. Some mornings they jogged, other days they worked out with the weights. Gene enjoyed the excercise and it never failed to excite his passions. A hot sweaty workout always seem to incite the riot in his pants. It made for an exciting shower after each workout, although sometimes they didn't make it that far. Love found them on the kitchen floor, the laundry room and even the staircase. Gene was insatiable, and Ben felt helpless to resist. Coming from such a bad environment, Gene appreciated every nuance of his new life. Every thing he now owned received such exacting care. His clothes were always folded and put away, his school books looked immaculate and the car, well the little Honda was his greatest possession at the moment. Gene had grinned when he applied the school parking permit to the rear window, he was ready to show off his new baby. And Ben had laughed as the boy backed carefully out into the street, waving his goodbye and driving off to school that morning. Yes, the boy was growing up, it made him sigh. Tom had thrown his spring barbeque for the camp staff, allowing Ben and Gene to help him set up for the event he hosted every year. The counselors came from miles around to enjoy Tom's hospitality and meet the people they would be working with for most of their summer. Ben took over the grill, constantly turning a massive amount of chicken and ribs for the gathering. There would be twenty-two staffers at the camp this summer and over fifty kids in each one week session from all over the state. Camp Stillwater was a privately owned, tax free enterprise laid out on four hundred wooded acres near the central part of the state. Hundreds of young men and women applied for the jobs, Tom only chose the best. Ben recalled his days there, and the work they'd endured developing the place in those early years. Now the facilities were modernized, the cabins bright and roomy, the showers fed by a decent plumbing system. Not so those first few years, Ben still remembered how they often ended up taking cold showers and patching leaks in the roof, but that had been the charm...the campers were still the main focus. Gene sat and listened as Tom went over the objectives, the guidelines and the state regulations. It was all in the manual, but Tom liked to put his own twist on things. His little lecture gave him the opportunity to watch the new guys and judge their reactions; it also gave Ben a chance to evaluate them as well. Gene's question about anyone else on the staff being gay had made Ben wonder as well, now he had the chance to look them over. The experienced staffers had spread themselves out as the crew sat down for the meeting. They were there to take a look at the new guys and spot any weaknesses in their fellow staffers. Ben had remembered doing the same thing, it was a tradition. Just as every staffer wore the orange shirts proudly at camp, they stood out here for the way they carried themselves. Each had been chosen for their leadership ability, Tom was an able commander. Each counselor would receive a letter of commendation for services rendered. Many of those went straight to the college of their choice as part of the application process. Tom knew how well that spoke to the character in each person he hired; he made sure each of their schools received a phone call to follow up. It must have been an impressive message. Ben remembered the Dean of his university calling this young freshman into his office after talking to Tom. The man had gushed with warmth, congratulating Ben personally on his character and welcoming him to the school. Tom made all that happen. And amidst the staff Ben saw a few who might fit the criteria in answer to Gene's question. He was sure Gene would have no idea what to look for without asking each of them personally. The sixteen to twenty-two year old young men and women gathered here today were as diverse as the kids they served, Gene would learn so much about life from these bright people. The meeting broke up and the eating began. Tom had a large back yard; the fields surrounding his home handled half a dozen horses. Gentle beasts, some of them retired from camp service. Here to enjoy the rest of their natural lives on the sweet grasses in Tom's pastures. Stillwater had horses, a petting zoo with goats, piglets and lambs, while ducks swam about the lake, everything a child might find attractive. These were special children, their physical and mental handicaps constrained normal development, but their minds were inquisitive, trusting and the camp experience did wonders for their self esteem. It would do the same for Gene. He would discover how affectionate the kids were, how needy, and with the slightest bit of attention they blossomed...the boy would love that. For if anything, Gene was the most loving person Ben had ever met. He had so much to give and his desire to please seemed to drive his spirit. Yes, Stillwater was just the place for Gene. But there was another surprise in store for the boy, and he received it in the last week of school. The exams had gone well with Gene garnishing more A's than B's this time around. He seemed surprised when he got out of his last period of the day and found Ben standing in the hallway. "Hey...what brings you here?" Gene asked. "Hanover called me, said we had a meeting with your principal this afternoon," Ben replied. Of course he knew why but had decided to let the principal have the honor of telling the boy. Gene looked concerned. "Have I done something?" "No, nothing wrong...but you have done something," Ben smiled. "OK, you're messing with me," Gene laughed. "What is it?" "Let's go find out," Ben said. Mr. De Witt, the principal, was standing in the outer office talking with Simon Hanover when they walked through the door. Both men gave the boy big smiles as he approached. DeWitt stuck out his hand and shook Ben's, and then he turned to Gene. "Congratulations, young man...you've been promoted." It was obvious from his puzzled look that the boy had no idea what that meant so Hanover stepped up. "Gene, that means you'll be a senior next year...congratulations." The look on Gene's face was one of awe, but Ben saw his jaw tighten and knew what was coming. Quickly he threw his arms around the boy and gave him a hug, whispering for the boy not to cry. Gene sniffed back the tears and grinned. And it was Hanover that gave Gene the biggest compliment of the day. "My boy, you certainly earned it. Every time I saw your grades go up I knew you had been held back unfairly, we should have given you a better chance, and now we can." "Thank...thank you," Gene stammered. Ben and Hanover had discussed this the previous week. The boy would be given a chance at the end of summer to take the junior level English and Math exams. Neither of them felt he couldn't accomplish the work over the summer, and then he would be cleared to begin his senior studies. It would put him back on track with kids his age, put him back in line with his brother and make Gene feel like he had really accomplished something. He was in shock for hours, even after sharing the news with Dean over the phone. And as Ben was rinsing out their dinner dishes he felt a pair of arms surround his waist. "You did it...I owe it all to you," Gene said. Ben sighed. "I did very little, sweetie. You were the one who spent all those hours in study and wrote all those wonderful papers, your grades earned you a place in the senior class." He felt Gene's kisses on his neck and a nibble to his earlobe. "I did it for you, Ben," Gene whispered in his ear. "Because you said the only way I could pay you back was to graduate. I did it to make you happy." Ben turned around and kissed the boy, feeling the emotions rising in his mind and trying to stave off any tears he felt like shedding. He knew Gene had worked hard to please him, it was never a secret. But to have him say that in his moment of triumph...it seemed like the most wonderful expression of love he'd ever heard. For Gene it was a validation, and he arose every morning for the last week of school with a huge smile. The Southeast graduating class had their moment of glory, and then were gone from the campus. The rising seniors were feted at a final assembly the day before school let out. Ben attended because he knew what was about to happen, and he wanted to be there for Gene. All schools had traditions and this was one of Southeast's finest. The new senior class was to be recognized for their achievement in front of the whole school. Many students would already have heard of Gene's new status, now they would all be shown what lot of hard work could accomplish. The new seniors were paraded down the aisle of the gymnasium and Ben joined in the applause as Gene walked in. One hundred and forty-two kids made an entrance; Ben saw only one as they took their seats at the front. There were the usual announcements and then DeWitt began to read off the academic honor roll, a long list that would include Eugene Carr. The applause as each student stepped forward to receive a certificate grew louder as many of the popular kids were also good students. Ben rubbed his hand nervously as they began to come closer to the end of the list. The boy had to be wondering why they had skipped right over him, but DeWitt was saving him for last. And when Gene's name was finally called out the applause was average, so many kids barely knew him. But as Gene received his certificate DeWitt held up his hands for silence and the gym full of kids obeyed. "Some of you may not know him, but Gene Carr is the most academically progressive student in our school today," DeWitt began. "But we pause here in honoring all of you to give Mr. Hanover a chance to say something." Simon stepped up to the microphone and gave Gene a smile. "Some of you may remember that Gene and I have had our differences this past year." A smattering of laughter from the kids, now they remembered Gene, his incident with Hanover had been one of the big events last fall. "But I stepped up here today to tell you how proud of him I am. Not only did he apologize to me for that...um, moment of bad behavior, but he became one of my best students. His achievement in the last six months has been exceptional and has earned him a place in next year's senior class. "If any of you ever need proof that hard work can change a person and give them greater standing in our academic world...here it is. I congratulate Gene for his outstanding achievement. You are all asked to perform at your best here and for many of you that means never seeing your name on the honor roll. But that's fine too, just as long as you are doing your very best. "The road to success is taken one step at a time, and sometimes you even have to crawl. But each of you knows what success feels like because we have role models like Gene here. I hope each of you have a happy and enjoyable summer." Hanover turned to shake Gene's hand and slowly the applause began to swell, and as Gene resumed his seat Ben could see the boy was blushing from all the attention. But many of the new seniors stood to shake his hand or pat him on the back. He was a made man and Ben was so very proud of him. Gene was totally stunned at all the other students who wanted to congratulate him after the assembly was over. Ben stood to one side and watched him attempt to thank every one of them until the last person walked away. Gene looked up and Ben saw that grin before the boy threw his arms up for a hug. They held one another until Dean came over and wanted to hug his brother too. Brad was not far behind and the two men stood watching their boys in animated conversation. "Wow, I've never seen anything like it," Brad said, patting Ben on the shoulder. "You must work magic." "It's easy when the boy is so self inspired, he just needed the right environment," Ben said. "Oh, somehow I think it's a little more complicated than that, you were his inspiration, at least that's what he's been telling Dean." "Well, maybe I helped a little," Ben said. "I was surprised at Hanover's little speech, their relationship has certainly changed." "Did you know he's retiring? Seems he and the hubby are setting up house in the Caribbean next fall. He'll be missed, I felt like I had an ally in the teacher's lounge." Ben smiled. "He hinted that might happen last time we spoke, I didn't know he'd made the final decision. He didn't say anything to the kids." "Not his style. Says now he can write that great novel he's been planning for years. I wish him all the luck, someday it will be my turn," Brad said. He looked over at the boys and sighed. "We never know if they'll be there when the time comes. I try not to think about it, Dean means the world to me, but I never know if that will last forever." Ben understood the feeling. The attachment Gene had to him wasn't about to end any time soon, but the future was something he couldn't dwell on. The boy's life was more secure now, but he didn't see any signs of curiosity towards other men. Finally the boys were ready to go home and Gene gave Ben his honor roll certificate to hold. It was a proud achievement but the boy seemed more taken with the parking sticker each new senior had been given. Ben remembered receiving his all those years before. It was a status symbol, Gene's ticket to the senior parking lot. The blue school's coat of arms surrounded with the gold ring, a symbol denoting senior status. The boy couldn't wait to apply it to his windshield. And tomorrow he would park in the senior lot on the final day of school, a long standing tradition. Of course the last day was also a traditional day for the new seniors to skip school if they chose. Ben had, their work was done, and their lockers already cleared out...why go? But Ben knew Gene would be there, and now he had a good reason to go. He had followed the boy home, smiling every time Gene used his turn signals or came to a full stop for a yellow light. They had been home maybe five minutes when he shared the news. "Gene, did you know Hanover is retiring...he won't be back next fall." "No...He never said anything. Aww, that sucks, I'll miss him," Gene said. "So say goodbye when you drop by school tomorrow. I know you and Dean will end up skipping and spending time with your friends at the mall," Ben said. "Skip...me?" Gene said with such innocence. Ben laughed. "Yes...you. Go on, we all did it. Just don't be out there drinking beer and driving mister. That would piss me off." "No way, I wanna keep my license, besides beer tastes like crap." "I trust you, Gene. I really mean that. I was so proud of you today." Gene laughed. "I was so embarrassed, all those kids looking at me. But it felt kinda good too; at least now everyone knows who I am." "Yes they do. You're the most handsome boy in that school, and one of the smartest I ever met. Is it any wonder that I love you so much?" That statement made Gene take his hand and drag him upstairs to return the compliment. There was never a time when Ben felt he could say no to Gene's advances. It just meant they would take time out of whatever plans they had to be lovers. They'd had five months to perfect making love, and Gene excelled in that discipline as well. It just proved that once committed, Gene could be the best at anything he chose. And this afternoon he chose to be on the bottom. It was the nuances Ben decided that made Gene such a good partner in bed. The boy had been wide open to anything when they first began and he studied each step of the process. He knew the best positions, the moment when he should relax and allow Ben to invade his body and the power he had to give Ben the greatest thrills. There was no doubt that the boy was gay because he had achieved that most important of understandings; he needed to please Ben. Focusing on the pleasure he could give his partner meant he knew what he was doing during the act of making love. For no longer was it the boy seeking to find an orgasm for his own benefit, it was the commitment of a young man to make their joining a thing of awe, the ultimate commitment to pleasure them both. Ben stared down into those beautiful eyes and felt himself being swept away by the emotions and feelings of their love. Gene's eyes were a reflection of that feeling, revealing his total immersion in their act of passion. And as their gentle caresses became more insistent, their kisses more demanding, it was all focused on that singular moment of release. They had become adept at understanding one another, of knowing when the feelings were reaching a climax. And Gene would arch his back, pushing his body closer, allowing Ben to achieve the greatest depth in his thrusts. And the orgasm would always sweep them both away, shattering any illusions that this had been just another fuck, when in fact it was something that defined their love. Those were thoughts which caused Ben to pause as he worked at his desk, the mindless drivel of his clients quickly forgotten as he leaned back in his chair and remembered the best of those moments with Gene. It was good he had those memories; the boy had been gone to work at the camp almost four days now. They had decided Gene would work two full sessions before coming home for the weekend. He needed time to become accustomed to camp life, to become a part of the social life with the other counselors. Ben would hear all about it the following week when Gene came home. And Ben understood the basic psychology of allowing the boy to venture off on his own. It would validate his home life and the trust Ben gave him to be independent. For nothing is so dear as something missed, Ben felt that now. He stood at the door to his old bedroom...Gene's room now. The room was so orderly, as if the occupant had made sure to leave it that way. The clothes hung neatly in the closet, the pennant for his high school tacked on the wall above the desk. And the books he was going to study before school started again, all were neat and tidy. Ben sat on the bed and looked around the room. These walls had seen him grow up and had heard the gasps of his adolescent desire. He gazed at the books on the shelf and saw that one of them had been turned around backwards. Ben stood up and reached for the book, pulling it from the shelf...and the paper fluttered out, hitting the carpet. "Ben," the note said. "I will miss you when I am gone and nothing could ever take the place you have in my heart. Love was just an absent feeling in my life before you came along. And I feel silly now because all I could ask was, why are you being so nice to me? But now I know, something made you want to love me and that is the best thing that could have ever happened. No matter how many days I am away from you, nothing will ever bring me greater joy than coming home to you. All my love. Gene." Ben's tears fell on the page as he sobbed. God, the boy knew he would find this. The words meant everything. He had been adrift for these four days and now he had joy. Gene had left to find himself and had left this to anchor his feelings about coming home. And he slept with a smile on his face that night. Because somewhere, a hundred miles away, Gene slept with Ben's love in his heart. ..........Gene, The Epilogue The boy looked so handsome in his cap and gown. Ben smiled and acknowledged Gene's wave as the graduating seniors from Southeast walked down the aisle of the auditorium. He felt his mother clutch at his arm for support as the audience of parents and friends stood to applaud. Gene and Dean couldn't wipe the grins off their faces as they took their seats facing the crowd. There was no doubt in Ben's mind that the twins were the handsomest young men on that stage. He looked over at Brad who gave him a thumbs up. Yes, they had both accomplished something, the boys were graduating. Dean was off to State on a wrestling scholarship, and Gene...Gene was still undecided. School had meant a lot of stress and hard work the past two years, he wasn't in any hurry to return to that come fall. Ben had been comfortable with the decision; he understood the underlying issues better than anyone. The previous summer at Camp Stillwater had forged a compassionate and caring person; Gene had come home a different person. Ben recognized the symptoms, he'd been through the very same feelings, and it was now his career. He had waited up that Friday night, Gene's first weekend home in two weeks. He'd made all sorts of plans for their first night together; it would be a weekend of love. But the door had opened and Gene threw his arms around Ben, kissing and hugging like they had been apart for years. Then Gene turned around and introduced Ben to Lee. Tom had not said there were any other gay members of the counseling staff, but Gene had found the one and only besides himself. Her name was Leslie, but she preferred to be called Lee. Gene's first new gay friend was a lesbian. Ben could have been upset, but he wasn't. Plans were made to be changed and they were. If Gene thought enough of the girl to bring her home there had to be a reason...and there was. Lee was a smart kid, just turned nineteen this year and Ben might even say she was pretty...or would she prefer handsome? Ben was aware from the start that Lee knew everything about his relationship with Gene, and that was fine. But from the moment she opened her mouth Ben understood that trust was implicit in the relationship she wanted with him. Gene had fostered that and as they sat down to get comfortable the boy slid into his lap as if to say there would be nothing hidden from anyone. Lee had been a foster kid for most of her life and that meant years of moving around from home to home, more than a little physical abuse and entirely too much sexual abuse. Ben knew the profile only too well. What was less surprising was Gene's reaction; he felt the need to help the girl. It was something Ben had wanted to see. The whole camp experience had been geared to help Gene find a calling in life...and here it was. The boy had natural empathy for the feelings of others, and better yet, he was determined to make positive changes where needed. Lee was working her way through community college and studying to be a nurse. It was the only way she could think of helping people in need. Ben could see why Gene had cultivated the friendship, she had a plan. The girl would make a good role model. Ben looked down the row of auditorium seats at his father and Tom. This reunion of old friends had made them all happy, especially Gene. He was so pleased that Mom and Dad had come up for the graduation, but then they wouldn't have missed it for the world, and neither would Tom. Sitting beside his mother was Lee who had taken a day off of her classes to attend. That first summer and every weekend thereafter, Ben had welcomed her into their home. They had amazing discussions around the kitchen table on every subject imaginable. These were moments that inspired Gene and Ben discovered why the boy had become such close friends with the girl. His school work took on a new tone. The papers he wrote for English class became great works about social injustice and the need for reform. His grades shot through the roof and just before graduation he became third highest on the honor roll. But he was still the same loving Gene when he rushed into Ben's arms at night. Lee felt perfectly comfortable down the hall in their guest room, even though she knew what was happening in Ben's room. She told them she envied that love, but she wasn't ready yet, her career came first. The graduation program began with prayers, speeches and admonishments to the graduates who were about to take their place in the world. But finally the words were over and the diplomas were wheeled on stage. Ben felt his mother take his hand as the roll call began. He had looked in the program; Gene was number thirty-two, right after his brother. And finally the moment was upon them as Principal DeWitt announced, "Dean Andrew Carr." And the boy stepped up to receive his degree. Ben and the family stood to applaud, but Brad was beaming. "Eugene Michael Carr," DeWitt announced and they all clapped as Gene took his diploma and then gave DeWitt a huge hug of thanks. The audience loved it and the applause was filled with laughter as DeWitt hugged back. Dean had not left and the brothers fell into one another's arms and flashed the victory sign before leaving the stage. Ben's mother smiled and gave him a kiss. "You did good, he looks so proud." They filed out into the lobby to wait amidst the crowd. But then the boys were both there, appearing through the crowd and acknowledging the well wishers along the way. Gene handed Ben his diploma and his hat before throwing his arms around Mom for a kiss. Lee got hers and they danced around a bit before it all dissolved in laughter. But finally Gene stood before Ben, his eyes filled with love. "You did this, you made it happen," He said. Ben smiled. "I just got you started; it isn't over yet, sweetie." Gene grinned. "It never ends, does it?" Ben hugged the boy, feeling so proud, so in love. And he whispered in Gene's ear. "This is just another beginning." And they walked off to the parking lot arm in arm, surrounded by family and friends...for that is where life begins. * * * * * Author's Note: The story of Gene ends here, but stories like this never really end, they just go to sleep. The characters are still fresh in my mind, the details still surround my thoughts, but I have to put them away. Too many other characters abound, some of them already working their way into my heart, as I hope they will into yours. So onwards, another fine tale to tell: The Bridge to Anywhere begins now.