Date: Wed, 18 Jun 2003 19:42:17 -0700
From: luvyngcks@hotmail.com
Subject: Lil Dude  Chapter 9

Legal Notice:
The following story may contain descriptions of graphic sexual acts.  These
acts may be between boys, men or between a man and a boy. Just a reminder
to all readers, this is a work of pure fiction with no basis in reality, and
is
intended for reading by mature readers of the age of majority in the
governing jurisdiction of your residence.

The author, or his designee, retains copyright to this story.  There may be
no reproducing or distribution of this story without expressed written
consent.


Lil Dude   Chapter 9

James was returning from dropping the boys off at school.  He walked in the
kitchen and gave me a big hug as I rinsed off the last of this morning's
breakfast dishes and put them into the dishwasher.

"They were both anxious to get to their first class this morning.  It was
all I could do to get a goodbye kiss from both of them before they left the
car."  James reported.

I don't exactly know what it was, but there was a difference in his facial
appearance that was saying something wasn't quite right. I was getting this
feeling that his mind was definitely someplace else.

"Sweetheart, I have today free.  Can I hang with you if that's okay?"  He
asked me.

"Sure you can Babe, I'd love that.  I don't have a lot planned for today,
but you are more than welcome to share it."  I wanted him to know I
welcomed his company today or anytime.  "Can I ask?  Is there anything
bothering you today?  You don't seem to be quite yourself, kinda
preoccupied about something."

"Yeah, there is something.  Can we sit down and talk?"  His voice had a
tone of caution to it now that I hadn't detected in it before.

We sat down next to each other on one of the chaises out on the terrace.

"I haven't told anyone anything about this.  You're the first one I can
talk with about it and I'm kind of scared."  He started in, and I was
feeling my heart take a dive for unknown depths.  "I started having really
bad headaches a couple of months ago and was noticing my left hand and arm
seemed to feel weak at times and sometimes even a little numb.  The
transfer to this office was already in motion and it is very important to
my career. I knew if this condition turned out to be anything serious I
could always transfer back to San Francisco.  So I went ahead with the
move.  I thought if anything ever happened to me Danny's grandparents would
HAVE to take him in and raise him regardless of the circumstances.  But I
don't want to carry with me the uncertainty of if they really will or not,
and how they may treat him if they did."  He paused and looked over at me.

"Derrick, I know this is asking an awful lot of you, and you can take your
time to think about it, but I was wondering if you would consider allowing
me to name you as Danny's legal guardian if anything should ever happen to
me.  I know he loves you and Jorge, and I know you guys love him.  I also
know that he would be raised in a loving home that really cared about only
the best for him if something did happen to me.  Babe, I am so sorry to hit
you with this, this way, but I don't know what to do and I'm scared."  His
voice didn't waver but the tears showed the depth of his concern for Danny,
and his fears for his own destiny.

All I could do at that moment was hold him in my arms.  I thought my heart
was tearing in half I hurt so bad inside for this man that I was already
too quickly in love with.  He never made a sound but I could feel his heavy
world of fears were held in my arms.  I just held him tightly.

Now I had to be strong and keep my emotions under control.  I couldn't let
them get the best of me in front of him when he needed me to be his
strength.  I held it together for him and me both.

"Babe, I don't need to think about it.  There is nothing to think about.
Yes, I would be honored to be named Danny's legal guardian if anything was
to ever happen to you. But Babe, nothing is going to happen to you.  We are
going to find out what is causing this condition for you and take care of
it, and you're going to be just fine.  I will be right by your side all the
way and we will beat it whatever it is.  We will ALL be there for you, you
have my solemnest pledge."  I tried to calm him.

He turned his face to me and kissed me gently on the lips. "I love you Babe
and I do NEED you, AND Danny will need you.  Thank you for loving us and
being here for us."  He said this as he was regaining his composure.

"I need to ask if you will take care of Danny for me on Thursday, I have to
go into Memorial Hospital for tests in the morning and then the doctor will
tell me what is up.  Could you watch him for me?"  He was now coming
around.

"I'll take care of the boys getting them off to school, and then I'll be
with you until it's time to pick them up from school."  I assured him.

"You don't need to be with me Babe, it's just tests and I don't know how
long they will take or anything else.  You're probably right, it's probably
nothing serious but we will see."  He was now trying to console my
thoughts.

"I know I don't have to be with you, but I'd like to if you'd let me."  I
really wanted to be there if they discovered what it was and be with him
when they told him.  "James, everything is going to work out fine Babe, it
has to."  I was trying to convince myself as much as him.

My gawd, James had been carrying this around on his shoulders not being
able to share it with anyone, and all the time worrying about Danny's
future care and what the outcome of these tests were to bring.  I don't
know that I would have been able to bear this burden for as long as he had
without sharing it with someone or having broken down in some way.  This
man showed strength and courage like I had never seen in anyone before.

"I need to find an attorney today to have the papers drawn up.  Do you know
of any you could recommend?"  He asked.

"I do know of someone.  He is a fantastic lawyer and has handled all my
legal business for me and my company.  His office has many partners and
they take care of everything from business law, family law, and criminal
law, to you name it.  Just so happens he is the senior partner and has a
great reputation here in Southern California.  We dated a couple of times
but knew we weren't cut out for each other, but have remained very good
friends over the years though. Let me give him a call now for you if you'd
like."  I offered.

"Would you Babe?  I'd appreciate it."

"I'll call him right now."  I went to the phone and dialed Paul.

Paul's familiar sunny voice answered after the receptionist put me through
to him.  After explaining the situation to Paul, he told me he had some
time this afternoon right after lunch when he could meet with us.  He
assured me they could take care of it all today and he told me what James
would need to bring with him to the office, Danny's birth certificate and a
few other documents would be required.  I thanked Paul and told him we
would see him at one o'clock sharp, bid my good bye and hung up.

"He said we can come by the office today at one; and they will take care of
it all today for you.  He is already taking care of things on my end for me
to be able to legally adopt Jorge when the time is ready.  You'll like Paul
when you meet him; he's a really nice guy and he's tops in his profession."

I told James what he needed to gather documentation wise from his apartment
to take with us and we went next door so he could retrieve all of it.  He
checked his phone messages and returned a couple of calls then we returned
to my apartment.

I fixed us both a makeshift chef's salad with some things I had in the
refrigerator, and poured us some iced teas.  We sat down to the kitchen
table and ate slowly.  We discussed the boys, Danny's swimming progress,
Dustin and Jared and then he hit me with a question that I now had to
answer for him.

"You know Babe, when you were talking to me about Paul; you said he handled
all your legal affairs for you and for your company.  I know you said you
were in real estate investment, but I don't remember you saying anything
about it being your company.  Just what is your company, are you the
owner?"  He was inquiring of me.

"I guess I did leave a few details out. I do own it, and we are into real
estate development and management.  We have several apartment complexes
much like this one that we have constructed, own and manage, and several
shopping centers around the area that we have built, own and manage.  In
college Max and I both worked as construction laborers for part time work
to get us through school.  After I got my degree I continued on with the
company I had been working for, but moved into the office.  Through some
very frugal living arrangements on my part for several years, some
fortunate investments and being in the right place at the right time, I
wound up being able to buy the company when it was falling on bad times and
then managed to turn it around.  We've been very successful and with some
further very good diversified investments we are quite stable; and set for
life I guess you could say."  I hoped he wouldn't be pissed at me for
withholding this information from him before, but I didn't want it to scare
him off with it...it had scared off several guys before when I told them.

"I guess you did leave out a few details.  I had no idea. Wow!  So you are
what, the CEO, President, what?"  He didn't seem pissed the way his voice
sounded.

I laughed, "Both, but they are just titles.  I have a great team that works
with me and they can run the company without me even being there, they are
so damned good.  They are the best around.  And I know it and I take good
care of them to make sure it stays that way.  I don't have Bill Gates' bank
account, but I can afford to do whatever I like from now to the grave and
do it comfortably and I can see that my loved ones are taken care of and
still give some back to the community.  That's more than plenty for me."

"But you live so modestly. I mean this place is nice and all, but you could
be living in a mansion somewhre, driving a luxury imported sedan, have
servants waiting on you hand and foot, travel the world."  It was like he
was amazed I was here instead of in that world.

"As I said, through college and afterwards I lived very frugally for so
long and was able to be comfortable with what I had.  I guess it has just
carried over.  I can't see myself living that other life style.  This is
me."  It was my best defense to offer for living life as I do.

"Wow.  You have it, you don't flaunt it, and you are such a regular guy.
You're a great looking guy, but it's just you come off as the guy next
door.  Damn, you are grounded."

"Thanks Babe.  I'm glad you can see me that way; because that is the way I
want to be and to remain.  There is only way I can say that money has
changed me and that is, that I don't have to worry about paying my bills,
if I see something I like I can go ahead and get it if I want, and if a
financial emergency arises I don't have the worry of, 'what am I going to
do?'  And believe me from all the hard years financially I went through,
that is my greatest appreciation of money.  And what I can do for others to
help them out when the need arises."  There was no other defense I could
offer on my view of having what I have and living the way I do.

"Question...do you own this complex?"  He smiled.  "Are you my landlord?"

"That's two questions."  I laughed.  "But the answer to both is, yes."
Again I laughed.  I knew this had to appear comical now that it was said.

He joined me in the laughter so I guess he was cool with it, but I had to
find out for sure.

"But don't worry; there isn't any rent increase in it for you on the
horizon."  I still had to lighten things up a bit.  "Does this change how
you see me or feel about me...knowing this about me now?"  I had to ask.

"No, should it?"  He was direct and sincere in his answer I could see it in
his eyes.

"I was hoping it wouldn't.  I was pretty sure it wouldn't matter to you,
but I had to ask. In the past it has been a problem with some people when
they found out.  Right now the only ones that really know this are Paul,
the attorney you will be meeting, Max and now you.  Not even my family
members know the extent of my financial success."  I concluded this part of
the conversation.

I got up from the table and picked up our plates and glasses and rinsed
them all and put them into the dishwasher and turned it on.

"Babe, let's go see Paul so we can put your mind to ease over Danny."  I
was going to drive him today; with emotions where they had been I didn't
want to add any more stress to my guy than he was already carrying on his
shoulders.

We arrived and after introductions, Paul was very compassionate and
understanding of the circumstances and the urgency of this matter in regard
to James well being.  He and his staff got all the paperwork taken care of
and he assured James if there was ever anything he or his office could do
for him to not hesitate, but call and they would take care of it.  Paul and
I shared updates on each other's lives, commented on some local politics
and he wished James well with his tests on Thursday.  We bid our thanks and
farewells and then left the office.

James and I were out of there and on our way to the school to pick up the
boys in plenty of time.  We talked some more on the drive to the school.

"Sweetheart, I know you said that you lost touch with your family many
years ago due to a falling out over the gay thing.  But don't you think
maybe you should look them up now and talk with them?  It's none of my
business, but I just thought maybe you would want to."  I was concerned
that his family should be there for him also at this time.  He could use
all the support that he could get right now.

"Derrick, my mom and dad were born and raised in Mexico with very
traditional Latino values and beliefs.  Gay does not exist for them.  To
them I am now dead and have been since I came out to them.  Their
restaurant business up in the bay area has been very successful for them
and my brother and sister have aligned themselves with my mom and dad on
this issue because they don't want to jeopardize their inheritance of the
business.  And I think my siblings have been jealous of my success in the
computer business and making it on my own as well as I have.  Nothing would
change their feelings, even a medical crisis...that's just the way they
are.  I came to terms with the family issue when Danny was born.  I'm not
being stubborn on this Babe, I just know that NOTHING would make a
difference there is all."  He answered so calmly that I could see he knew
what he was saying was true.

It made no difference, he had all of us for family now; we would all be
there for whatever was required.  He would know love like he had never
known before, and I would make sure he felt it at every opportunity
available so there would never be a doubt or question in his mind or heart.

I pulled the car into the pupil car pool lane and we waited our turn to get
to the head of the line.  The boys jumped in the car, buckled their seat
belts and started their non stop chat as we headed home. After we arrived
home, I noticed Jorge lean into James and hold onto him as we walked to the
apartment.  This kid was blessed with an intuition and never hesitated to
act upon it.  I was glad that he was going to be there for James now also.

We got into the apartment, the phone was ringing and I went to answer it.
James set some cookies and two glasses of milk out on the kitchen table for
the boys to enjoy while doing their homework.  They sat down and started
right in on their homework. Swimming lessons and practice when homework was
finished were on the mind of Danny. Jorge had something else on his mind
for after homework.

The phone call was from Jared.  He said that he had something personal to
talk over with me and could he come over tonight to talk with me.  I told
him sure, come on over for dinner with us and we could talk.  He said
thanks and he would be there when he got off work.

I told the gang Jared was coming for dinner tonight and he wanted to talk
with me later about something.  The boys were excited, and James looked as
though he knew what it was going to be about.  I was going to order pizza
and antipasto salad to be delivered from Luigi's for dinner anyway.  One
more mouth to feed was definitely not a problem.

We were all in the pool working with Danny on his swimming when Jared
arrived poolside with a towel.  He stood there and shucked his shorts and
wearing his speedos he jumped in and joined us. It was now fun time before
heading in for dinner. Danny's swimming was coming along great; he would be
a strong swimmer by the weekend at this rate.  The kid must be part dolphin
the way he loved swimming.

We finished the pizza and James took the boys into the living room to watch
some TV. James and Jorge settled on a cable movie.  Danny wanted to play a
computer game and he was off to Jorge's room to win another battle of the
galaxy on the computer.  Jared and I could have some time alone to talk.
We took the leftovers into the kitchen and put everything away into the
refrigerator and I grabbed a couple of beers for us and we went out onto
the terrace to talk.

"Pops, I told you that I really don't have any family.  There thing is, my
mom and dad are both dead and I am an only kid, none of my relatives will
have anything to do with me because I am gay.  Dustin is all I have in the
way of family now.  Well after meeting you and all the guys I would like it
if I could be a member of your family too, if I could that is?  If you'd
let me?"  Jared was getting right to the meat of the matter.

"I have something to ask of you and hope you will agree to it.  I know I
will be asking a lot of you by doing this, but I trust you more than anyone
with what it is I am about to ask of you.  I was going to ask Dustin to do
it, but he is the same age as me and in some areas Dustin isn't that strong
inside.  I think I would be asking too much of him if I did.  It would
probably scare him to death.  I know he would do it, but he'd probably be
upset doing it."  He was continuing.

"I have always been scared that if something ever happened to me there
would be no one there to make decisions for me if I was unable to.  Yeah, I
know I am young and chances are the situation may never come up, but I need
to know that someone cares and would be there if I needed it.  What I am
asking Pops is, would you consider being my next of kin?  You know like
making medical decisions for me if I was unable to or taking care of things
if I died.  I know I am asking a lot, that you have Jorge and all, but
would you consider it for me please?"  Jared took a deep breath now that he
got it all out.

"Jared are you sure you want to ask this of me?  I have no problem with it,
and yes, I would do that for you if you wanted me to."  I couldn't refuse
his request.  He had become like a son to me already.

"I'm sure Pops.  Thank you.  I love you."  He took a deep breath, relaxed
and hugged me.  "You don't know what a relief that is to me."  He was
relaxing now that he had got his request out and I had given him the answer
he was hoping for.

"Jared, I love you son, and there is nothing I wouldn't do for you and I
told you before I will always be here for you.  I mean that and I want you
to always believe that and remember that.  It makes me feel so good that
you trust me with something so important to you.  Thank you sweetheart, for
making Jorge and me such an important part of your life and considering us
family.  We are all proud and honored to have you in our family."  I spoke
my heart to this wonderful young man.

He got up from his chair and came over and gave me one of the biggest hugs
I have ever had.  I reached up with my hand and wiped away the tear that
was falling down his cheek and kissed him. He handed me a large legal sized
manila envelope and said all the paperwork was in there. If we could just
fill out the remaining blanks on the forms and then I could keep them with
me, just in case the need ever arose.  I looked them over and noticed they
required witness's signatures so I suggested that I bring them with me over
to Max's tomorrow night and Max and James could sign them as witnesses.  He
said that would be fine.

He told me he had discussed this with James last night, and with Max at
work the other day.  Max and James had both advised him to go ahead and ask
me; not to be afraid. They thought I would have no problem with it.

"Where's that brother of yours tonight."  I was asking him about Dustin.

"He is having dinner with friends and then going to a movie with them."
Jared answered.

"Well let's go join the rest of the family, okay?"

"Okay."  His relief was obvious now.

We walked into the living room to join the gang.  James was seated with
Jorge right next to him on the sofa.  He had his arm around Jorge and Jorge
was leaning into him. They had been talking about something serious when we
walked in, and James had finished it by planting a kiss on Jorge's
forehead.  Jared sat down on the sofa next to Jorge and gave him a little
tickle to the ribs.  Jorge twisted in his seat and squealed with delight.

Danny hearing commotion in the living room left his computer game and came
in to join all the rest of us.  He plopped himself down on Jared's lap.  He
was now the recipient of a tickle to the ribs also and giggled with glee at
Jared's teasing.

"Okay, who's ready for some of Luigi's famous Spumoni?"  I asked the room
full of beautiful males.

Their answer was a unanimous "I AM!"

I went into the kitchen and scooped out a generous portion into bowls for
everyone.  I felt a little hand on my butt cheek trough the speedos and
turned.  Danny was standing there smiling his gorgeous smile up at me.

"Can I help you carry them into the guys, Derrick?"  He volunteered.

"Sure you can sweetheart.  Thank you."  I handed him two bowls, carefully
carrying one in each hand he took them into the living room.

I carried the rest in and passed out the remaining bowls and sat down
myself.  We enjoyed the creamy cold Spumoni while watching a popular sitcom
on the TV.  Family life was setting in for us all.  And it was an easy
adjustment, so easy that it seemed it had been this way forever.

The sitcom was now over and ice cream finished, I stood to collect the
empty bowls to take into the kitchen. Jared stood up too and announced he
was going to have to get going.  He made the rounds hugging and kissing
everyone.  He then came into the kitchen and gave me a big hug.

"Pops, thank you for everything. I love you."  He told me as I set the
bowls and spoons into the sink.

I turned to him kissed him and hugged him.

"Jared, I love you son and you are always most welcome.  And thank you for
your trust and love."

He headed for the door and was joined by both the younger guys.  He had to
tear himself away from them to open the door.  Then he bent down and hugged
each one again planting a kiss on their cheeks.

"Good night guys."  He said as he started through the door.

"Good night Jared."  Their chorus met his farewell.

"Good night son, drive careful, see ya tomorrow night at Max's."  I said.

He smiled, waved and closed the door behind him.

"Okay you two hit the showers, its bedtime."  James made the unpopular
announcement; it was met with no objections.

They both ran to the bathroom and you could hear the shower water turned
on, and more giggling.

Sleeping arrangements tonight had not been discussed, but it appeared that
Danny was going to be sleeping with Jorge again and James would be sharing
my bed with me again.  I would hope the latter could become a permanent
arrangement.

"I have to go next door and get some clothes for Danny and I for tomorrow
and I'll be right back."  James said and he left for his apartment.

When he returned I had something else that I had been thinking about all
day and wanted to run by him to get his feelings on.  I was hoping it would
give us all something else to set our minds on looking forward to.  And
maybe take our minds off all the other cares a little bit. It would be a
real family project.

I went in to check on the boys.  They had just turned off the water and I
lifted them one by one out of the tub.  I dried each one off and of course
they both got stiff as I gently dried their genitals.  I allowed myself the
indulgence of planting a light kiss to the tip of each beautiful little
stiff cock, the cut and the uncut.  No comments were made and no giggling
or inhibitions were demonstrated.  It was just a natural occurrence to all
at this point. I hoisted both naked squirming kids under my arms and hauled
their little asses into Jorge's room and set them down on the bed when we
reached it.  Jorge pulled back the top sheet and comforter and Danny
crawled into the center of the bed and Jorge crawled in right behind him.
I pulled the sheet back up over them and lightly tucked them in.  I was
bending over and giving each a hug and kiss good night when James walked
into the room.  He placed Danny's clothes on the seat of the chair and went
over to kiss each boy good night.  First he kissed Danny then he went
around the bed and kissed Jorge.  As he started to stand back up Jorge
reached up his arms and pulled James back down to him in a hug that he
wouldn't let go of.  I was standing near enough to over hear what was said.

"James I love you very much.  I hope you will be my daddy too someday.  And
I know whatever is wrong now will be okay, don't worry, please." Jorge
shared his smile and his heart to James.

"Jorge, I love you too sweetheart.  And I hope I will be one of your
daddies also.  Thank you son." James softly spoke his answer back to Jorge
with another tight hug of joy and love.

I looked over to Danny and he was smiling as broad a smile as I had ever
seen on his angelic face.  He and I both knew that this moment belonged to
James and Jorge.  And watched them keep hugging on for dear life.  I caught
what Jorge had said at the end of his declaration to James and only hoped
James had too.  Jorge was blessed with a gift I was convinced.  His saying
what he did just took a load of worry off my shoulders.

Their embrace eased up and James stood back up.  He walked over to me and I
hugged my arm around his waist.

"Good night guys, sweet dreams."  Saying that, I turned off the light and
James and I left their room for the living room.

We sat down on the sofa and I could see that James was still over come with
emotion.  Jorge had known when to say what he said and why he said it.  It
could never have been at a better moment.  I sat at the end of the sofa and
James was right next to me.  I took his hand in mine and lightly rubbed it
with my other one.  He leaned into me and I started to tell him what was on
my mind.

"You know sweetheart, things have happened so quickly for us, I can't speak
for you of course, but I feel like it is all meant to be. Everything has
just been coming together so comfortably and I am ready to make a
commitment at this point regarding the two of us."  He started to interrupt
and I asked him to hear me out first.  "I cannot imagine there being anyone
else out there that I would rather share the rest of my life with.  I know
this is soon and maybe you aren't ready for anything of the magnitude of
this just yet.  I can understand that.  I just want you to know how I feel
and see if we are on the same wave length maybe."  I got that much out.

"Babe, I love you very much.  And I feel like we are a family also.  I
agree it has all happened so quickly and yet it all feels so right.  But, I
am afraid to make any commitment to you until we find out what's going on
with my health first.  If it turns out to be serious I don't want you
encumbered with my care on top of you taking care of the boys and your job.
It wouldn't be fair to you.  YOU ARE the guy I have been looking for all my
life.  Since meeting you, getting to know you and being so close to you;
there could be no one else out there that I could even dream of sharing
life with.  But that is the key phrase, 'sharing life'.  I can't ask you to
commit your life to me when I don't know what kind of life I have to offer
in return, or if I will even have one.  I love you too much to do that to
you."  He cautiously replied.

"Dammit James," I wasn't mad, but felt a little frustrated...not with
James, but with the circumstance we were facing.  "Would you please give me
the option of whether or not I want to go through all this with you?  I've
walked this earth for almost forty-three years now and I think I know how
much I am capable of handling.  I know what I want and need, and I know
what could be involved with your health, Jorge's health, Danny's or my own
even. I want to be with you through EVERYTING.  Baby please, let me be here
for you.  I want to more than anything.  And you aren't asking me to do
anything.  I am letting you know that I want to.  I won't beg you, but I am
asking you.  Please let me be there and please be there for me?"  This
became the start of my proposal.

We sat there for a while; I wanted to give him time to mull it over. I
continued stroking the back of his hand as I held it.

"Sweetheart, I don't want to be selfish."  He started his answer.  "I would
love to share everything with you as you have offered to share all with me.
I just don't want to be unfair to you.  I'm really scared right now.  I
want to be with you and I want you with me.  I just don't want to hurt
you."  He maintained his calm.

"Baby, you won't hurt me and anything that goes along with you I accept in
its entirety.  What do you say?  I'd be so honored if you'd be my life
partner and give me the honor to be yours."  I proposed.

"Boy, you sure drive a hard bargain."  He laughed.  "I can see why you have
been so successful with your career."  He laughed again.  "Yes, I will be
your life partner and want you to be mine.  I love you so much Babe."  He
gave me his answer.

We hugged and kissed and sat there smiling our faces off.

James then added, "Let's make the announcement tomorrow night at the dinner
and ask the guys to be our best men at the commitment ceremony."  He was
laughing and I joined him.

"Commitment ceremony?  Wow, you'd like to have one too?"  I was thrilled.

"Of course I want one.  I want everyone to see me pledge my life and love
to you as I accept yours.  I want them all to be happy for us and share in
the love we share together.  And I want it for the boys...all four of them.
It will be THEIR time to see and feel that they too are an important
binding part of the core of our new nuclear family."  He responded.

We would talk of this more later.  This was more than enough for now.

The rest of the evening we just cuddled there on the sofa, and shared some
small talk.  We watched the evening news before turning in just like a
married couple.  When the news broadcast was finished we walked to the
bathroom shared another shower and crawled into OUR bed for the night.
There was no sex that night, instead we made love with a lot of cuddling,
some kissing and then the best night's sleep that we both had for several
days.

I was still on a high from last night's discussion so I launched out this
morning first thing to finalize my special project for the family.  I had
returned from buying the surfboards, I purchased one each for all the guys,
the boys including the two older ones and James. They would be ready to
pick up on Friday and I was really excited looking forward to surprising
all the guys at dinner Friday night with their gifts.  Their boards were
the best available on the West coast and made by one of the foremost
surfers of all time, his reputation was world wide and his boards were the
dreams of most surfers, professional and amateur.

I walked in the apartment and I could hear James' voice out on the terrace,
it sounded like he was on the phone. I hid all of the surfing accessories I
had purchased for them.  Then went out to join him.


"Gracias Tia, te amo mucho.  Adios. (Thanks Auntie, I love you very much.
Goodbye.)"  I heard him conclude his conversation with a big smile.

"I was talking to my Aunt Lucia.  I thought about what you said yesterday,
about talking with my family. So, I called her to tell her what was going
on.  She is worried but said she will go to Mass and pray for me and she
said she will tell my family.  She has always been my favorite aunt and she
has never stopped loving me.  She loves me for who I am, what I am makes no
difference to her.  She is the only one I still feel really close to.  I
feel better now after talking with her.  She asked about Danny, her
'mijito' (pronounced 'meeheetoe' in Spanish...her 'little loved one').  I
told her all about our new family.  She said she would really like to meet
you and Jorge. Babe, she is such a wonderful lady.  She has had such a hard
life and yet she is so faithful to her beliefs and so loving to everyone.
I really want you guys to meet her someday."  He was smiling brightly while
telling me of this beautiful lady.

This was the first time I had ever seen him glow when speaking of one of
his family's members. I was so glad he made that phone call.

He came over and gave me a kiss and told me he was treating me to lunch
today.  I told him that would be great. He asked me about someplace really
special to go to; to celebrate life, love and family and us.  I told him of
a place I knew that had been recently renovated and had reopened.  It was
an old time favorite in Long Beach since the 1930's that had deteriorated
over the years, but now refurbished was thriving again.  It was one of the
few locations that was located on the top floor of a downtown building that
provided a spectacular view of the city, harbor and beach. He thought that
sounded great.  So off we went.

Getting off of the elevator we were both blown away by the amazing d‚cor
and atmosphere of the restaurant.  The art deco theme throughout and the
views were fantastic.  We were seated and promptly approached by our waiter
for our orders.  Our meals arrived quickly and were delicious.  We sat
admiring the tranquility of the view from our table.

James' mood had improved so much since his conversation with his aunt.  I
had to meet her now, to see the wonderful lady that could have such an
affect on him this way.

"Babe, today while I was out I was doing some more thinking.  It kind of
ties in with what we were talking about last night."  I started in with the
revelation of my latest brainstorm.  "How would you feel about us combining
our households and a remodeling of the two apartments into one real home?"

"Wow, I like that; I think that would be terrific."  He looked pleased and
anxious with his quick reply.

"Great, I was hoping you would like it. Here is what I was thinking.  I
will have some of the guys at the office do some renderings on the remodel.
They have all the plans on file already from the construction of the
apartment complex. I was thinking we could turn the study into Danny's
bedroom, knock the wall out between the two kitchens and make one large
kitchen out of it, turn the two dining rooms into one large one.  Then move
the study over to your apartment's side and create a large family room over
there and then have two bedrooms enlarged into suites with their own baths
for Jared and Dustin to live in on that side also. We can turn the terraces
into one large one and add a large Jacuzzi spa with some accent
landscaping.  What do you think?"  I was hoping he liked the plans I just
detailed.

"Can we do all of that?"  His facial expression was one of amazement.

"Of course we can, it's my building and I have just the team that can do
it."  I was convincing him.  "I thought that since we have the same tastes
in furnishings, we could combine what we want to of the furniture, get rid
of what we don't want and buy new where we need it.  Really making it OUR
place then. And by living here the two older boys could save their rent
money to set up their futures with. They would still be able to come and go
as they pleased, but they too would have a home with us as long as they
wanted.  So?"  I had finished my spiel and now was awaiting his thoughts.

"Babe, I love it!  I know the boys will too, all of them."  He was
confident in his reply.

"Good, then when we are finished here let's stop by my office so I can
introduce you to everyone.  We can meet with my design staff there and give
them our requirements and ideas and then we can pick up the boys from
school."

Driving from the restaurant to my office I was still doing some thinking.
I was thinking how drastically my life had changed for the better in the
last week and a half.  I now had more responsibilities than I had ever had
in my life.  For the first time in my life I had others that I was directly
responsible for in one way or another outside of myself and my work.  And
how complete I felt and so comfortable.  Everything just seemed like it had
always been this way and was just so right.

Inside the office I was met by hugs and kisses from all the staff, female
and male. James looked on in awe almost, until when introduced he received
the same welcome.  I knew they would all like him and they didn't
disappoint me.  I gathered my design team and we all sat down in the
conference room.  They rapidly took notes of what we were saying and
assured us they could handle it all.  I asked how long they thought the
project would take if we put all of our available resources to it and they
said it could all be done in less than a month's time.  That was just the
answer I was hoping to hear.  And I knew THEY could and would do it.  James
was impressed by it all.  I thanked them all and promised a nice bonus for
completion of the project.  I knew it would be a labor of love on their
part as they saw it but I wanted them to know that they and their work were
very appreciated by me and my new family.  James and I said our goodbyes
and left the office.

"Derrick, I have never seen an office like yours.  Everyone was so happy,
looked like they really liked their jobs and liked working with each other
and with you.  They all hold you in such high esteem. And the way they all
treated me I was almost at a loss to comprehend it all.  And when they said
one month or less for all of that work, with such confidence...WOW, is all
I can say."  He was impressed more than I knew.

"They are a great group of people and we have all worked so closely for so
long we are like family.  That has a lot to do with it.  I am proud to work
with each one of them.  We all know how much the jobs depend on each one of
us giving our all that no one wants to let anyone down, so the best job
gets done and everyone is happy doing it.  It's all very simple really."  I
wasn't being modest, but just giving him the way we did things there.

"Well, I think it's more than that Derrick.  I think a lot of it comes from
you and the way you set things into motion and your leadership skills.  And
I am under the impression that they do too."  His compliment was sincere.

"Thanks Babe, maybe you are correct in your observation, I can't be
objective about it.  But it works."  Was all I could answer.

The car pulled into the pupil carpool lane almost as if on auto-pilot by
now.  Two rambunctious boys jumped into the car.  Their conversation was
about everything that went on in each class and on the playground.  They
certainly had a full day.  They had no idea as to all the surprises still
awaiting them later in the evening when we planned on sharing all the news
with them and everyone else.

Homework finished and swimming practice over everyone cleaned up and we
headed over to Max and Mary's house for the BIG evening.  When we pulled up
in front of their house I saw Jared's truck already parked along the curb
in front so I knew the older boys were already here.

Max greeted all of us at the door with a big hug and led us inside.  I saw
Mary and gave her a big hug and kiss that were returned very sisterly and
warmly.
  I then introduced all my guys.  Mary and Max were very warm and gracious
in their welcomes to the guys and to their family.  All of the kids were
introduced and we all headed out back to their patio for some beverages
while waiting on dinner.  On the patio our two older sons came over and
hugged and kissed all of us when they saw us enter.  Dinner was ready and
we were all seated at a couple of tables on the patio grouped together as
one big family.

Mary had prepared a big genuine Italian style spaghetti dinner with all the
fixings. Her Italian heritage and love went into the preparation; you could
taste it with each mouthful.  She was making sure all of us had more than
enough to eat until we were all blissfully stuffed to capacity.

After the meal was finished the kids enjoyed playing some board games
together and were all hitting it off terrific.  The adults, Max and Mary,
Jared and Dustin and James and I; all sat getting better acquainted.  Mary
was sharing her pleasure with having all of them as additions to the family
and Max was sharing his delight also.

The subject came up that James and I would need to find a sitter to help
out with caring for the boys on occasion.  Mary said that with school about
out Max Jr.  would be available anytime if we needed him.  He had a lot of
experience with caring for all his younger siblings and could use the extra
spending money.  He was wanting to find a part time job somewhere to start
saving up for the purchase of a car.  Mary called Max Jr. over to the table
and told him what we had been discussing.  She asked him if he would be
interested and his response was a quick yes.  He looked very happy at the
offer.  I told him we would discuss details later and thanked him.  Max
Jr. was a terrific kid, at sixteen years old he was very responsible and
mature for his age; I would have no problem with him being responsible for
the boys' care in James and my absence.  I had been there when he was born
and had watched him grow up into the super kid that he was now.  He went
back and joined the younger kids.

I then pulled Max aside and told him what James and I had planned on
announcing; he hugged me so tightly and started to tear up with joy for all
of us.  He kissed my cheek and told me how happy he was for me and for all
the guys.  He wished us all the best and said he would like to make a toast
as soon as we made the announcement.  Then we went back to the rest of the
group.  He and Mary excused themselves to go get dessert ready and I could
see him talking rapidly and excitedly with Mary.  She hugged him and made a
shout of joy, then came running over to me and gave me a big kiss and hug
and then did the same with James.  Everyone took notice of her action and
had a questioned look on their faces except for James.  She was animated
and beaming and then went to rejoin Max.

Everyone sat back down to enjoy Mary's home made cheesecake. And I took the
initiative to stand and make our announcement.

"Everyone, I know Mary's cheesecake is pure heaven on earth, but if I could
have your attention for just a moment please."  I had to clear my throat;
my vocal chords were tightening up on me.  "James and I have something we
would like to share with all of you."  I reached over and pulled James up
out of his chair to stand by my side.  "Yesterday, James and I made the big
decision to commit our lives to one another as life partners.  We want to
take this moment to share it with you, our family."  The words were met
with exclamations of joy.  "Jorge, Danny, Jared and Dustin...we would be
honored if you would stand next to us during the commitment ceremony as our
best men."  At this point I was now choking up with emotion and looked to
James to finish for me.

He took the floor and continued.  "We would like all of you to share in our
happiness and love for each other.  You are all important to us and we love
you very much.  Our lives are full and complete because of you and your
love for us, and our love for you.  And this would not be complete without
you sharing it with us."  He finished and Max stood up from his seat.

Max raised his glass of iced tea into the air and said, "I would like to
propose a toast."

Everyone else, adults and children, stood up from their chairs and raised
their beverage glasses also.

Max continued, "To my beloved brother Dare and his wonderful partner James.
May your lives be full, long and filled with love and happiness until
eternity.  To their preciously treasured sons...all four of you; may you
know and always feel the love, strength and joy that being a close family
brings to all.  Mary and I wish all of you the best, with God's richest
blessings and love always." He toasted with his glass and was joined by the
clinking of everyone else's' glasses.

James and I hugged and kissed and stood there smiling as two little guys
came running up and jumped into our arms, Jorge into James' and Danny into
mine.

"Now you WILL BE my daddy TOO!"  Jorge shouted to James with all the love
and joy he knew.

Danny repeated the same to me as he kissed my cheek.

Both older boys came over and hugged and kissed us all.  Laughing and
giggling was uncontrolled.  Max, Mary and all their kids joined in with the
hugs and kisses and laughter.

The excitement of the evening appeared to go on forever.  But tomorrow was
a school day and we needed to get ready to head home.  Hugs kisses, thank
yous and laughter went all around. Max walked us out to the car.  We were
followed by the two older boys also.

Max hugged me again and told me how happy he was for me, that he felt I had
found what I had been looking so long for.  He hugged James, then hugged
both younger boys and started returning to the house.  When he met up with
the two older boys he hugged them both also.  He continued on to the door,
turned and waved before going inside.

"You guys going to come on over to the apartment now?"  I asked Dustin and
Jared.

"Yeah, we'll meet you there Pops."  Jared answered for them both as they
were wearing their broadest smiles and getting into Jared's truck.

Upon a noisy arrival at the apartment we all entered; and the younger boys
showered in preparation for bed.  Jared and Dustin followed James and I
onto the terrace.  They both came over and hugged and kissed us both again
saying how happy they were for us.  We sat down on the chaises and I told
them we had something else to share with them that we were hoping they
would be just as happy about.

I told them what James and I had discussed this afternoon and what we had
done to set things into motion.  I then asked how they would feel about
moving in here upon completion of the construction.

"You mean that Pops?"  Jared was first to answer.

"Of course we do.  What do you think?"

"Oh my gawd Pops.  That would be great."  Was Dustin's answer.

"Pops, you are the greatest. I love you."  Jared continued his answer.

"Wait a minute though guys.  It's not just me, but us.  James and I both
want this."  I clarified the situation.

"Thanks 'evil step Pop', I love you too."  Dustin chided James.

James laughed, "One condition though guys, no more of this 'evil step Pop'
crap.  >From now on it's Dad, okay?"

We all busted a gut laughing on that one.

"It's a deal, DAD."  Dustin giggled in response to James' terms.

"You got it, DAD."  Jared agreed.

About that time a naked as a jaybird Jorge appeared and jumped into
Dustin's lap and an equally naked Danny jumped into Jared's lap.  We shared
the latest news with them and they were beside themselves with excitement
over the plans.

A lot of discussion went on regarding the plans for the new home, the
living together as a big family; and the commitment ceremony plans were
even touched upon lightly.

James announced bedtime for the two younger guys and they got off their
older brothers' laps and ran to Jorge's bedroom.  The four of us got up and
followed them.  Jorge and Danny were already in bed when we arrived at the
room. We all went in, hugged and kissed them good night and turned to
leave.

Danny spoke up first before we reached the door.  "Daddy and Pops, we love
you and we're glad you're our dads."  He proudly called to us.

"Jared and Dustin, we're glad you're our brothers now, and we love you
too."  Jorge finished their communal thought.

Dustin and Jared turned around and made a beeline for the bed.  They each
grabbed a little brother and held on for dear life.  James and I remained
where we were letting 'our boys' share this moment of brotherly acceptance,
adoption and love.  James and I turned and left the room in silence for the
terrace.

On the terrace I hugged James and told him how much I loved him and how he
made my life so worthwhile for me now, like I had never known before.  He
shared how his feelings were the same and how happy he was with Jorge and I
and the two older boys now sharing in his life.  All we had to look forward
to now was sharing everything with each other.

The older boys entered the terrace and joined us.  They both had tears
running down their cheeks and smiles a mile wide across their faces.  James
went over to them both, wiped their tears and kissed each one on the
cheek. They returned his kiss.

I then sprung another surprise on all of them.  This one James didn't even
have a suspicion of.  I told them of my plans for Saturday and they met
this one with mutual excitement.

When they all calmed down, I told them James and I had a big day in store
for us tomorrow and that we really needed to get to bed.  I knew it would
be an early morning getting the boys off to school and then meeting up with
James at the hospital for his tests.  I didn't tell the boys about the
later, not wanting to unduly upset them until we knew what was going on.
They said they needed to be getting back to their places also and that they
would see us tomorrow.  We saw them to the door.  With more hugs and kisses
they were on their way down the walkway toward the street where they had
the truck parked.


To be continued . . .

If you liked my story or have any remarks, please email me at
luvyngcks@hotmail.com.  Thanks, D.

Personal Note: I would like to sincerely and appreciatively thank the
readers for their comments and compliments they have taken the time to
email to me.  Please keep sending them. Due to the large quantity received
I am sorry that I can no longer respond to each of them and still have the
time to write the story's continuation. Thank you for understanding, and I
do hope you will continue to enjoy this work of fiction. Thank you for your
kind encouragements also.  Wishing all of you enjoyable reading and
happiness, health and kindness to all. - D.