Date: Mon, 7 Sep 2015 23:49:29 -0400 From: Eff Del Subject: Green Grow the Rushes O- Chapter 20 Green Grow the Rushes O-Chapter 20 By Eff Del Nolitimere156@gmail.com We are tested in this life constantly; in many ways and at many different times. At some moments, absolutely nothing happens at all. That is a test. At other moments, it seems that everything happens at the same time. That is most certainly also a test. The strongest people are not the ones who win the contests we watch. The strongest people are the ones who quietly pass the tests and struggles that the rest of us don't even see. We would not have been given our lives if we weren't strong enough to live them. The two boys were sitting with me in the library talking. "At dinner, you are both allowed to accept a glass of wine but before dinner, you'll have nothing but soft drinks." "Root beer is always OK with me Dad you know that." Sean chimed in. Brian nodded. "When I take the Raymonds for a walking tour of the house, I'd like for you to come with me just be appropriate and cautious in what you say." I looked hard at both of them and they got the message. Just then, the formidable figure of Daniel filled the doorway. "Sir, Doctor and Mrs. Raymond..." he stepped aside and ushered the very handsome couple into the room. Sam was wearing a well-made grey suit that fit his imposing Marine's figure perfectly. He was smiling but obviously a bit overwhelmed. Mrs. Raymond was a stunningly lovely middle-aged woman who obviously lived an active life and was in perfect shape. Though I am completely gay, I have a very real appreciation for female beauty and this was a woman that should certainly be appreciated. The boys and I were on our feet instantly and I extended my hand. "Welcome Sam, welcome to my home. This young man is my younger son Sean, and this fine young fellow is my Ward Brian. Jack hopes to be feeling well enough to at least join us for dessert later." "Thank you Eric. May I present my wife Andrea?" I took her proffered hand, gently turned it downward and kissed it continental style. "I'm delighted to meet you Andrea and you are very welcome here. I owe your husband a debt that I fear I will never be able to repay." She smiled and it was a genuine and warm smile. "Mr. Tucker, I'm certain that Sam was merely doing his job." "If I'm going to call you Andrea...and I am, then you've got to call me `Eric'." She smiled again. "Of course, thank you Eric." "Have a seat and please let Daniel take your cocktail order. You'll find we have a very adequate bar here so don't be shy." "What are you drinking Eric?" Doctor Sam asked. "Well Sam, I'm afraid I'm partial to single malt scotch on the rocks." His eyes lit up and he broke into a smile and said to Daniel; "I'll have what he's having." I was beginning to like this man more and more. Andrea shook her head and pretended to roll her eyes to heaven. "Well, I already know that I'm driving home tonight." We all laughed. She looked up at Daniel and asked; "Do you make a good dry martini Daniel?" He stiffened and replied; "Why Madame, I am probably the best in the world. I used to be the second best but the grand master died some few months ago." I knew he was referring to Walter. He moved to the bar and performed all of the mysterious dramatics that master martini mixers go through before carefully straining the concoction into the proper glass over the olive that was waiting for it. He brought the glass to Andrea who took a sip and smiled up at him. "Daniel, you very well MAY be the best in the world." He smiled and bowed his head in acknowledgement of her compliment. "This is certainly the most magnificent house I've ever been in Eric." Andrea said as she took another sip from her drink. "Thank you Andrea. The original section of the house was built at the turn of the century by my great grandfather; Herbert Tucker after he moved the family from Chicago. He was apparently a bit of a romantic and so he named it `Joyous Gaurde' that was by tradition the name of Sir Launcelot's castle in the King Arthur stories. Professor Swaim, who you will meet later, insists my great grandfather spelled it wrong...'guard' having no `e' on the end but I suspect that my great grandfather found it spelled that way in some book or poem about Sir Launcelot and chose to spell it that way on purpose...great grandfather was no fool and certainly no illiterate. Pa-Pop...pardon me; my grandfather expanded on the building extensively during his lifetime adding both the north and the south wings. He used the north wing for conducting family business choosing to eschew having an office outside of the property. His old office in the north wing is now the classroom where the boys are tutored by Professor Swaim. I use the upper floors for conducting business...keeping the family tradition going so to speak. My father added several smaller `winglets' if you will which to a certain extent makes parts of the building initially seem like a maze but there is purpose to everything. My father also added the gymnasium as well as the in-door and outdoor pools...two additions for which the boys are forever grateful." I smiled. "Besides modernizing the north wing so that more up to date technology can be utilized, my major contribution since inheriting the estate has been expanding the property. When I came into control, the estate was slightly over 200 acres. It now exceeds 350 acres and I've got plans in motion that within two years should expand the property to somewhere between 650 and 700 acres. Thankfully, there is a vast amount of privately owned land to the north and west of the current grounds that have been left in a more or less natural state and I am in the process of buying it from the individual owners and I assure you I am doing so at above market price. I'm building some luxury condos for key personnel at the current northeast of the property and there will eventually be more housing at the far east but the rest of the newly acquired property will remain more or less in its natural state. Instead of talking about it, let's have Daniel freshen up our drinks and take the `ten cent tour'. Boys, why don't you walk with us and you can tell the Raymonds about your favorite things. We strolled casually down the main hall past the elevator. I knew everything was above board up there so I invited them up to view the bedroom suites. "This is Sean's room although he's currently sharing it with Brian. If Brian's residence here becomes more permanent, then we'll make other arraignments for him. I think it's comfortable and a typical active boy's room." Sam laughed. "Eric, your `typical active boy's room is bigger than my first apartment." As we approached Jack's door I peeked in to see if he was awake. He was sitting up propped up by his pillows reading the Nate Mentor novel so I poked my head in and asked; "Would you mind saying hello to some visitors Jack?" "Sure Dad...err I mean `no' Dad, I wouldn't mind." I ushered everyone inside and Jack broke into a huge smile. "Hi Doctor Sam! I heard you were coming by tonight. I might be eating my dinner up here but I'm planning on joining you all for dessert later." "We'll look forward to that. Jack, may I introduce my wife Andrea?" "Pleased to meet you Mrs. Raymond. Doctor Sam sure saved my bacon." "From what my husband tells me, the gentleman who armored your automobile did just as much. In any event, I'm very happy to meet you Jack and I do hope you'll join us downstairs for a bit later on." "As you can see, Jack's room is pretty much a mirror image of Sean's though it is furnished and decorated quite differently to reflect their individual tastes and preferences which of course also is accounted for by the age difference. How's the book Jack? I see you've gotten further into it than I have." He grinned. "You're going to love it Dad but I promise not to give anything away." "Nate Mentor is my favorite novelist and Jack caught the `bug' from me. This is his latest book. I was just beginning to read it, but since Jack is kind of bed-bound, I took pity on him so he gets to read it first." "I must confess that I've only read one of his books but I did enjoy it. Perhaps I need to try a few others. I don't seem to do enough recreational reading." "You should Sam. It's good for the imagination which makes it good for the mind and a healthy mind leads to a healthy soul. Jack, I'll send Arlen up to check on you just before dessert is served. If you feel up to it please feel comfortable coming down in your pajamas and robe. Everyone understands your situation." "Thanks Dad. Very nice to meet you Mrs. Raymond." We walked down the hall into my bedroom and I made no bones about it. "I'll admit that this is truly over the top but when I had this floor redesigned, it was shortly after my father, mother and little brother had been killed and I was frankly probably a little bit insane. I had a bedroom suite designed so that I never needed to leave it if I chose not to. As you can see, it has a small kitchen and eating area and yes, I realize there are families right here in America who live in smaller spaces than my bedroom but...it is what it is. In here is my pride and joy, the most sybaritic spot on the entire estate. It too was designed while I was crazy but I must admit that I love it." I led them into my bathroom and Andrea released an audible gasp as she looked around. "This is the most incredibly wonderful thing I've ever seen Eric! Aside from the fact that the colors fixtures and décor are decidedly masculine, I would die for a space like this. I don't think I'd ever leave. I'd take my meals in here. I'd use this outrageous shower every morning and every night and then I'd spend the rest of the day in that glorious tub. I'd eventually turn into a prune but I be happy as I did so." I laughed. "Andrea I think that was kind of my crazy idea when I had it designed." I led them out and down the hall until I opened the next door on the right. "This is our massage room. I had it designed to resemble a cave or a grotto. The lighting and sounds can be controlled in an almost infinite manner and this switch turns that wall over there into a peaceful waterfall." "Brian hasn't had a massage here yet but he will soon huh Dad?" Sean said. "That's right Sean. With everything that's gone on, there hasn't been time but we'll take care of that." I indicated further down the hall. "There are four more rooms on this floor similar to Sean and Jack's. One of them may very well become Brian's depending upon circumstances. They are presently unoccupied and are never used as guest rooms. This floor is private and for family only." I noticed a hopeful look in Brian's eyes as I spoke those last words and I silently wished I'd held my tongue until all my plans were in place. We took the elevator back down and walked down the main hallway. We passed `Father's Alter' and I pointed out with pride all of the trophies and medals Kyle and I had earned and then directed their attention to Sean and Jack's alcove. They were suitably impressed. "These are very athletic boys who love to compete Sam. I'm proud of them. This room tucked away here is my study and although I have a large office on the top floor of the south wing, this is where I tend to conduct a lot of business. This large glass walled room here at the end of the hall was my grandfather's pride and joy. It's our solarium and it's a wonderful place to sit and read or talk or just do nothing. It looks out over our wonderful wildflower garden. We just recently had our first wedding take place there and the nervous groom with his best man ...me waited out the final moments here in the solarium. For the past couple of years this place has also served as a makeshift `campground' when Sean has had groups of his friends and team mates here for overnight parties. The lighting can be adjusted to completely change the ambience of the room." As we were looking around, the supremely efficient Daniel walked into the room carrying a tray with fresh drinks for everyone. "T-Thank you Daniel." A surprised Doctor Sam almost sputtered. "A pleasure Sir." The big man replied as he left with the empty glasses. We walked down the hall to the left and I guided them into the theater. "This was put in by my father he took a great deal of pleasure watching movies. I've had it brought up to state of the art but I must admit we don't use it much. The boys and I tend to enjoy physical activity and when we do slow down, we're either reading or doing other things. Back in the library when you first came in, you probably didn't notice the chess corner. Since he first came into my life, Sean and I have had an ongoing chess tournament. I used to think I was pretty good but this little guy is more than a match for me. We're currently tied aren't we Sean?" "Actually Dad, I'm two games up on you." "You don't always have to be so truthful Son." We all laughed. "We do spend a lot of time in this next room especially on rainy days. This is the game room. My grandfather had it built and my father improved it. The card table over there is never used though I can't tell you why. It seems we're always too busy doing something else or I just forget about it. It seems to me I'm being derelict in my parental duties. Every young man should know how to hold his own in a game of poker eh? I'll have to make a note to do something about that. Now that Jack is recuperating might be a good time. Those two pinball machines over there are from my father's day. He was raised in the pinball generation and he could spend hours at those machines. I remember that the `bluest' language I ever heard come out of his mouth was when he `tilted' one of them during a game. Here is where we spend most of our time in this room and I indicated the beautiful old pool table. John, my transportation manager, is somewhat of an expert at this game and he's been instructing Sean whose main problem right now is that he still needs to use a step stool to make some shots. Jack came into our family already considered a bit of a hustler so John had to take him down a peg or two and now Jack happily takes instruction from John as well. To make matters even more complicated, John's parents have recently come to live on the estate and it turns out that John's father can whip him at will...so we have some interesting times inside this room. I have not introduced the boys into the fine but dying art of billiards (I indicated the other table) but that will happen eventually. Every gentleman should know how to get around a billiards table." "Well then Eric, I'm no gentleman because I wouldn't have the slightest idea how to play that game." Sam said with a grin. "I certainly know my way around a pool table though I suspect I'm out of my league in this entire household." "This hall leads to the east wing which consists primarily of guest bedrooms although half of the second floor is occupied by a state of the art infirmary with a doctor on duty at all times. That's where I recuperated from my recent automobile accident. The room at the end here was my great grandfather's pride and joy." I opened the door and guided them into the music room. They looked in awe at the Steinway grand in the center of the room and the display of instruments in the sealed glass cases along the far wall. "My Great Grandfather besides being a very successful man of business was a world acclaimed violinist. He hired some of the finest acoustic engineers of his day to equip this room so that it is as acoustically perfect as possible. Engineers hired by my grandfather and later by my father embellished their work. Sound heard in this room is as close to perfect as any sound you'll ever hear." Sean took my hand and pulled me to the piano. "Show them Dad." He said with a smile. I grinned a bit sheepishly and then sat down and ran my hands along the keys almost instinctively my fingers began Bach's `Goldberg Variations'. I played for about two minutes and stopped with a smile. "You play very well Eric and you're right the acoustics in here are astonishing," Andrea said. "I can't never get him to play enough." Sean told them. "We often have small `family' concerts in here. Sean is a classically trained guitarist, Jack is an extraordinary violinist. Bobby, who you will meet at dinner, plays the piano wonderfully and occasionally, we convince Daniel to break out his flute." "Don't forget Chris an his banjo Dad." Sean added. "Oh yes, Chris, who you will also meet later is actually an accomplished banjo player. Since Jack is currently out of commission, we'll be entertained after dinner by Sean and his guitar and I expect that you'll find that quite satisfactory. They glanced at Sean and he blushed cutely although there wasn't a shy bone in his little body. We left the music room and I pointed down another corridor. "This leads to the west wing which is mostly used for utility although there are several guest bedrooms on the top floor." "How many bedrooms are there in this house Eric?" Sam asked. "I don't actually know Sam. Certainly in excess of eighty and they all have private bathrooms of course. We're going to head down to the parlor so I can introduce you to our other guests. I should tell you that for some reason, this house has three formal parlors though I only use one. There is also a large formal ballroom, which I don't believe has ever been used in my lifetime. I keep telling the boys that one of these days I'm going to turn it into a laser-tag arena. Well, of course there are other smaller rooms in the house and some important facilities out on the property. Among our favorites are our skeet/trap shooting range and our little fishing lake. The lake has a little two-bedroom cabin built on its shore and that is currently occupied by Doctor Swaim. I'm actually pretty certain he's going to claim squatter's rights on it any day now. So that's the ten-cent tour, I hope it was interesting." "It was astonishing. I can't imagine what it must be like to live in a place like this." Andrea exclaimed. "Well, actually Andrea, it's fun. It's a lot of fun and we certainly never get bored." "I'd imagine not." Doctor Sam put in. "Here we are and I suspect the other guests are waiting to meet you. Andrea, you're going to find yourself pretty outnumbered I'm afraid. Here on the estate we are a primarily male population that's because of the nature of a lot of our business which I promise you will not be discussed this evening." We entered the parlor and everyone stood up anticipating introductions. "Gentlemen and my dear Martha, I have the distinct pleasure of presenting Doctor Sam Raymond and his wonderful wife Andrea" I introduced each of the other guests individually and shortly, Daniel appeared to freshen our drinks. "Oh no, I'd better not." Andrea said. "I know Sam is going to enjoy himself tonight so I'm going to have to drive home so..." "Nonsense Andrea, You've got just as much right to enjoy yourself as your husband. I've already made arraignments for John, my transportation Manager to drive you both home when the evening is over and Arlen; my House Steward will follow with your car. As a matter of fact Sam, why don't you give Daniel your car keys right now?" He smiled and fished them from his pocket. This was a diverse enough group that I knew conversation would prove to be no problem and both my guests were soon surrounded by their own little groups until Daniel's voice rose over the din; "Ladies and gentlemen, the hours d'oeuvres stations are now open around the room. Kindly attend them at your pleasure." I glanced around the room and was pleased to note several tables manned by formally dressed staff. The first table was beautifully filled with several wonderful looking cheeses and an assortment of crackers. The next was an ice filled silver bowl overflowing with shrimp. Another table bore raw vegetables such as celery, radishes, sliced carrots and cauliflower with several varieties of dipping sauce. The next to last table offered crostini; small pieces of toast with a crude sauce of chopped tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese. The final table was the caviar. This was the first time I'd served caviar to my young new staff members and I was curious as what their reaction would be. Uncle Phil of course zeroed right in on it and soon was smiling as he bit into a thin cracker loaded with the blue/black goodness. I believe caviar is an acquired taste and for me at the beginning, it was the texture that was hardest to overcome. A mouthful of micro-sized little pellets can initially seem strange...even unpleasant. It is also has a blast of saltiness that can be off-putting. Even today, while I enjoy it, I wouldn't miss it if I were never served it again. I noticed the three boys; Sean, Brian and Bobby standing aside looking at the caviar table obviously trying to figure out what it was all about. It was Sean who obviously got `elected' to go try the stuff. The server smiled and smeared a generous layer onto two thin crackers, placed them on a small plate and handed it to Sean who walked over to the other two boys still not certain. Always adventurous, Sean finally bit into one of his crackers I was curious and walked over. He was swallowing the second half of his cracker when I approached him smiling. "What did you think of your first caviar Sean?" "It's kina salty an it feels funny in your mouth a little." "Try the other one. Take a good big bite." He did and that's when I said; "Not bad for a mouthful of fish eggs eh?" His eyes got wide as saucers and his lips were clamped shut and he stared at me in disbelief. I clapped him on his back which surprised him forcing him to swallow what was in his mouth. I chuckled and walked away. I noticed Andrea was perusing the various tables and I approached her with I plate that I'd just picked up. "I hope you'll try the crostini Andrea. We bake our own bread here, the tomatoes are from our own organic gardens and we make our own mozzarella cheese fresh twice a week." She took one from my plate and bit into it. "It's wonderful Eric." I pointed to the shrimp table. Please let me get you some of those as well. We have our own shrimp boats in Georgia their catch is only for our consumption. Those little guys were swimming in the Atlantic Ocean only about six hours ago. The `cocktail reception' lasted about thirty minutes before Daniel called us into the dining room. I watched Sam and Andrea as they entered the room. The grandness of the space had the expected effect. At the door, Daniel came forward and offered his arm to Andrea. "I hope you don't mind you two, but we like to break couples up at table. It makes the conversation more interesting" Daniel escorted her down the table and sat her in a spot that would put her between Uncle Phil and Richard. Sam was escorted to the other side of the table and was sat so that he would be between Professor Swaim and Gary. The rest of the group moved to their designated places I noticed that Richard had contrived to sit in a position so that there was no one to his right. I realized that this was where Jack would sit when he came down for desert. The first course was the traditional salad course. Daniel formally announced it. It was a simple salad of mixed greens with small tomatoes and offered to each diner were relish trays of chopped onion, pickles, grated hard cheese, herbed croutons and black olives. These could be added to the simple salad as per each person's preference. A selection of two dressings was available to choose from; Martha's secret thick divine dressing as well as a simple vinegeratte. The server's waited at the sides of the table while Daniel presented to me at my place at the head of the table, the salad wine. It was a relatively young Austrian Gruner Veltilner and even before taking the tradition test sip, I knew he'd made a perfect choice. With a nod from me, the servers moved swiftly down the table filling everyone's glass including the three boys. I rose to my feet glass in hand. "Tonight, I am happy that we have at our table Sam and Andrea. I also wish to express my eternal gratitude to Sam for everything he has done for our Jack. Incidentally, Jack is planning on joining us for desert so maybe then, we'll give him a little toast of his own but for now, to Sam and Andrea!" Everyone but the Raymonds rose to their feet and shouted; "To Sam and Andrea" while the couple being toasted smiled and blushed. When the salad was finished, Daniel announced the soup course; "Ladies and gentlemen, for your pleasure, you will now be presented with Mrs. Edwards' special cream of three mushroom soup. The combined meat of shiitake, Portobello and porcini mushrooms have been lightly sautéed in sherry before being combined with onions, garlic, vegetable stock, sherry and rich dairy cream to create this culinary delight. the servers silently and efficiently removed the plates and the wine glasses replacing the wine glasses with new ones and placing a bowl of Martha's magnificent cream of three mushroom soup before each guest. Daniel presented me with a bottle of California Pinot Noir from a vintner I was very familiar with. I knew before tasting that it would be perfect for this course in fact, I might have chosen this very wine myself. After everyone had been served, and the the soup was consumed, the table was rather silent and that's when Daniel signaled the string quartet that had set up in a niche in the corner of the room. I was later learn from Daniel (who else?) that little `cubby' was traditional in grand dining rooms and the area was specifically designed to accommodate stringed quartets. They played very well and the lovely music stimulated light conversation around the table. Everyone was smiling and the Raymonds seemed to indeed be having a wonderful time. The music continued as the soup bowls were removed as well as the wine glasses. These were replaced and Daniel announced the course; "Ladies and gentlemen, for you pleasure, chateaubriand with a red wine and mushroom sauce, asparagus ala Martha, chateau potatoes and a slice of broiled tomato with herbed bread crumbs." He presented for my approval a wonderful bottle of Medoc' Rouge from the Bordeaux region of France. I took the proffered sip and my taste buds sang a hallelujah. Nothing is quite as exquisite as a fine Bordeaux and an aged Medoc' Rouge was at the top of the list. As the guests were served I noticed that every slice of meat was the perfect color a testament to Martha's careful planning but also to Jenny's execution because she was in charge of the kitchen while Martha sat at the opposite end of the table from me. Doc Swaim rose to his feet glass in hand and said; "We would all be callous clods if we did not pay homage to the wonderful woman who so carefully planned and crafted this feast we've been enjoying. Her expertise is beyond my understanding. To Martha!" We all jumped to our feet while she sat blushing red as an apple. "To Martha!" To my surprise, Sam stood up holding his glass. "We must not forget the man who provided all of this for us. The man who so graciously invited my wife and I to share this evening with you...our gracious host. To Eric!" I sat smiling as they jumped to their feet and repeated; "To Eric!" I looked down the table, the boys were enjoying the hell out of this. They were all three red faced and I suspected more than a bit snokered from all that wine. It was then that I remembered I'd promised Brian he could come to my bed tonight...well, that should prove interesting. I noticed Sam giggling about something with Gary and I thought to myself that I was glad I'd taken his keys early. I motioned Daniel over and asked softly; "Has food been sent up to Jack?" "Arlen is on his way up right now with a full tray. When he's finished, Arlen will bring him down here in a wheelchair so that he doesn't have to exert himself." "Daniel, why do I ever bother asking you about things? You're always at least two steps ahead of me." "That is what you pay me for Eric. Now eat your dinner." I giggled. Everything had been good tonight but the main course was outrageous. "Martha, you've out done yourself!" I yelled down the long table. "Well a good deal of the credit belongs to Jenny whose been supervising all the work in the kitchen while I've been sitting out here like Lady Jane. You should get her out here and toast her." I signaled Daniel over. "Would you ask Jenny to step in here for a moment?" He smiled and left the room returning with a confused looking Jenny. Martha stood up glass in hand. "To the finest, most competent and prettiest assistant anyone ever had; to Jenny!" We all stood up and shouted; "To Jenny!" The boys at the end of the table got carried away and began to chant; "Jenny! Jenny! Jenny!" I figured there would be very little schoolwork done in Doc's classroom tomorrow and as I smiled at Martha, I figured she'd be good for shit as well. Oh well, despite what the Raymonds think right now, we don't party like this often. Jenny giggled and said; "Finish your dinner all of you. Dessert is coming." With that she returned to the kitchen. As the dinner plates were being removed and the wine glasses replaced one last time, I noticed movement out of the corner of my eye. Turning my head I realized it was Arlen with Jack in a wheelchair. I was getting up from my seat but Richard was faster than me. He'd obviously been watching out for this. He walked over and spoke softly but urgently to Jack who nodded his head vigorously. Richard reached out his hand and Jack took it, he helped Jack stand up and placed his arm around Jacks waist while Jack put his arm on Richard's shoulder. Together they walked into the room and towards the end of the table that Richard had obviously reserved for him. I suddenly realized I was crying. With no signal from anyone, everyone at the table stood up and began clapping as the red haired boy bravely made his way down to his chair. I saw Andrea lean over Richard and say something to Jack and he smiled at her and nodded though I didn't hear the conversation. One of the servers moved to pour him a glass of wine. Jack stopped him. "I'm a blown up kid. I really need a beer." He said it loud enough for everyone to hear. Most around the table chuckled. Daniel looked at me I looked at Sam. He nodded to me so I nodded to Daniel who returned in seconds with Jack's favorite; a Stone IPA. Daniel announced the course; "Ladies and gentlemen, for your delight we have coming to you each, an individual white chocolate mousse garnished with strawberry accompanied by thin sugar wafers. You will also each receive a pear poached in vanilla in an apricot sauce. As it is placed before you, your server will add Cognac and light it so that you will enjoy it flambéed." He offered me a bottle of moscato from a winery in Napa Valley that I knew well. I was surprised, I expected him to suggest a much sweeter dessert wine but after taking the taster's sip, I realized that once again Daniel was spot on. Everyone `oohed' and `ahhed' as the cognac was poured over their pears and then set ablaze. What a stroke of brilliance on Martha's part. Both the pears and the mousse were delicious and they were so different that they complimented each other into a perfect desert. Daniel's wine choice was spectacular. I smiled around the table and was very glad that nobody had to drive themselves home. We finally all gathered in the living room for coffee and after dinner drinks while Sean opened up his guitar case. He began by getting everyone singing along with the Beatles `Yellow Submarine' and then sang a sweet old English love song; `Down by the Sally Waters' (Where the hell does this kid learn these songs?) He played and sang for about twenty minutes often taking requests surprising people with his extensive repertoire. Finally, he smiled and said; "One more tonight and this one is for my Dad." He began a complicated fingerpicking pattern that gave no clue of what was to come and then, his still pure little boy voice sang; " When you're weary, feeling small When tears are in your eyes, I'll dry them all I'm on your side, oh, when times get rough And friends just can't be found Like a bridge over troubled water I will lay me down Like a bridge over troubled water I will lay me down" He picked a bit of the melody and then sang the second verse. Simon and Garfunkle's `Bridge over Troubled Water' and he was singing it for me. My eyes glazed over and I tried not to cry. He picked more melody before looking me right in the eye as he sang; "Sail on silver Dad Sail on by Your time has come to shine All your dreams are on their way See how they shine Oh, if you need a friend I'm sailing right behind Like a bridge over troubled water I will ease your mind Like a bridge over troubled water I will ease your mind" He put his guitar into its case, locked it up, walked over and kissed me and then with a big Sean smile, wished everyone goodnight and he walked down to the elevator. Andrea grabbed my hand and said; "That's the most extraordinary boy I've ever seen! What a remarkable young man Eric. That was so beautiful it almost broke my heart. Thank you for what has probably been the most exquisite night of my life." She kissed me on the cheek. "You have a beautiful home Eric but more importantly, you have a wonderful family. You are a very blessed man. Thank you for this wonderful evening." "Thank you for my son Sam. We're not even close to being even. We'll have to do this again sometime." "We'd love to. Oh, by the way, I was just thinking...there's no reason I can't drive home tonight. No reason to put your people out." I smiled and patted his shoulder. "We're not put out at all Sam. You might as well end the night with a ride in my limo." I walked them to the door and John and Arlen were waiting. I bid them goodnight while John held the limo door open. I walked back into the parlor. "Oooh lardy! We all did some drinking tonight didn't we? Did you all have fun?" I was greeted by a chorus of agreement. "Good night to you all. See you in the fuzzy morning." I took the handles of Jack's wheelchair and said; "Come my `blown up kid' let's get you back to bed." He giggled. "I was going to try to wheedle another beer out of you, but to tell you the truth, I really am tired." I looked over my shoulder and smiled. "Come along Brian, you don't want to fall asleep in the parlor. The cleaning girls might try to have their way with you in the morning." He got up from the couch and walked a very sketchy line behind us as we made our way to the elevator. In his room, I helped Jack out of the chair and into the bed. I tucked him in and kissed him tenderly. "Goodnight Jack. Don't despair. You're going to find that you'll be getting a little stronger every day." "I know Dad it's just so upsetting." "You're strong enough to handle it Son. Feeling sorry for yourself has never been your style." He smiled up at me. "I know that Dad. I'm just tired; honest. Dad...?" "Yes Jack." "Are you going to adopt Spider? He really needs to be here. He needs us to be his brothers and he REALLY needs you to be his Dad. Have you noticed he calls you `dad' every chance he gets? He's so lonely outside. No family no father no real love...I think that why he's such a great soccer goalie; defending his net is all he's got in the world but here, he's happy, he's funny...he's a whole different kid. You really should adopt him Dad." "It's not that easy Jack and you're certainly old enough to understand that." He flashed me one of his evil smiles. "Yeah, but you're a clever guy Dad. You'll figure something out." "Good night Jack." `Nite." Brian was sprawled across my bed fully clothed. Actually, that's not true. He'd managed to remove his left shoe and sock before passing out So much for his anticipated night of sex and love alone in my bed with me. I was pretty certain that the poor kid had never consumed that much alcohol in his entire life. I sat down next to him and pulled off his other shoe followed by his sock. I unbuckled his belt and unsnapped and unzipped his trousers and worked them past his butt and down his legs and off. I folded them and placed them over an arm chair. I undid his tie and placed it on the same chair and then I sat him up and with a great deal of difficulty got his blazer off. I folded that and put it across the chair as well. I unbuttoned his shirt before sitting him up and working it off him. I noticed that he was wearing blue boxer briefs. He must be borrowing some from either Sean or these were perhaps old pairs that Jack had given him. His own personal wardrobe consisted of old fashioned `tighty whiteys'. I was deciding what to do about them and decided that he always slept naked when he slept in my bed. Why make him feel something was different. I eased the blue garment past his hips, down his legs and off. I swiveled his body lengthways on the bed and pulled the covers down on one side. I looked down at the brown haired boy in his naked beauty and took advantage of his condition to really drink him in. He was truly beautiful. Not as beautiful as Sean who remained the most beautiful boy in the world but he was very attractive his body was lovely. He had beautiful arms with the beginning of muscular development and his legs were long and athletic. Physically, he was just a jump ahead of Sean although as far as sexual development was concerned, they seemed to be on a par with each other. I smiled and slid him over and pulled the covers over him. I hopped into bed on the other side I leaned over and kissed him. "Good night Brian." I whispered. "Thanks for the ice cream Dad." He was dreaming and in his current condition he instinctively moved over and snuggled against me. "I pitched good today didn't I Dad? Did I make you proud of me? I really want you to always be proud of me. Sean Jack and me...three sons a Dad can be proud of all the time. The Tucker brothers that's what everybody says...'you can count on the Tucker Brothers'." I rubbed his shoulder and he sighed and fell into a deep sleep. He snored like a little motor boat all night. I was not surprised when I woke in the morning and he was still sound asleep. I suspected that down the hall in his own bed, Sean was in much the same condition. I got out of bed and decided to shave before jumping into the shower just in case one of them awoke and wanted to join me. I was just washing the excess lather off my face when I saw him enter the bathroom. He paused in the doorway and stared at me wild-eyed. "I-I...I d-don't feel so good." With that, he made a beeline for the toilet and barely made it before he began vomiting. He sounded pitiful so I walked up to him and wrapped my arm around his waist to support him and rubbed his back gently as his system purged itself into the bowl. Tears were streaming down his face and snot was pouring from his nose and he finally reached that horrible point known as the `dry heaves' where his body was trying to still purge itself but there was actually nothing left to purge, He was crying miserably and he certainly was a sight. He finally stopped heaving...at least for the time being so I flushed the bowl admiring the fact that he'd gotten nothing on the floor and I led him to the big tub and began to fill it with water. I took a washcloth and washed his face clean and he looked up at me with forlorn unhappy eyes. "Ooooh I feel awful. I've never felt so bad in my whole life." "Does your head hurt honey?" "I don't know. Yeah I think so." He wailed. I walked over to the cabinet and got two aspirin and a tumbler of water. I made him swallow them down. "I think you drank a lot of wine last night Brian." "Yeah I did. I drank every glass that guy poured me and then Sean didn't want all of his so I drank a bunch of his too. Am I gonna die?" I smiled down at him. "No Brian, you're not going to die but I'll bet you almost wish you were huh? You soak in this nice hot tub while I take my shower, then I'll get a robe for you to put on and we'll put you right back into bed. We'll skip breakfast for you this morning I suspect you couldn't hold it down and I'll square it with Professor Swaim that you won't be in school this morning. OK?" "O-Ok." After I'd showered and dressed, I helped him out of the tub, dried him off and wrapped him in one of my terry cloth robes. I picked him up and carried him tenderly back into the bedroom. I tucked him back into bed. I walked over to the big window and closed the blinds and then pulled the drapes closed making the room comfortably dark. "I'll make certain that the housekeepers don't come in here and disturb you. Try to sleep. That's the best thing for you right now. I'll check with you around lunch time and maybe by then you'll feel like eating a sandwich or something." He was crying again so I retrieved a hand towel and dried his face. "I'm s-sooo s-sorry." I smiled and ruffled his dark brown hair. "Don't be sorry sweetie every boy does this a few times. It's part of growing up. Besides, you're getting the bad part of it not me." Sean was sluggish at breakfast but nothing like poor Brian. Having learned that Brian had drunk all of his own wine and half of Sean's explained that. I wasn't surprised that Jenny had the breakfast duty and Martha was nowhere to be seen. It turned out that Bobby was not in the best condition either so Doc Swaim planned a day of independent study for the two of them. I smiled to myself thinking that occasional blowouts like last night are good for comradery, good for the soul and good for the just plain fun of it. I was walking across the car park when John waved me over. "Great news Eric. We've got the exact blue BMW for Jack. We found it almost immediately after you told me to start looking. It's identical to his old car and... it's already in the process of being armored right now. I'll probably have it here tomorrow afternoon." "So fast John?" "Eric, when I put through an order in your name, it becomes an around the clock project. The objective is to have it done yesterday. Two teams have been working on Jack's car non-stop since three o'clock yesterday when we physically got the car." "So there's a good chance we can give it to him tomorrow then?" "You bet." He was smiling. "That's just sensational news John. He's beginning to feel a little sorry for himself. This will be just what he needs. Thanks! Let's try and sneak it onto the car park while he's with me watching the boys' baseball game so it will be waiting for him when we get back. I'll have Arlen drive us to the game so that you can supervise that. He's still too weak to drive but maybe you can take him for a little drive in around the hills and stuff?" "I'd love to do that Eric." "Then, I guess that's our plan. Keep me informed." Up in the command center, Richard was keeping a low profile and Barry and Wolfman were giving him a mildly hard time. He looked up with a serious face and protested; "I'd have been fine if I'd stuck to scotch... it's the wine. I don't handle wine very well and we drank four different types. Never again! I'll tell you that." I laughed "Don't say that Richard. Last night wasn't the last formal dinner you're ever going to attend if you work for me. Fortunately, we don't do it very often. Anything to report guys?" Barry patted Richard's shoulder and shook his head. "Nope, last night while you guys were playing Roman Orgy, the world turned peacefully...at least as far as the concerns of Magnus Venatus are concerned." I nodded and finished my cup of coffee. "See you later. Go easy on him. It was the wine." I giggled as I left. Only Uncle Phil was waiting for me in my study. I arched an eyebrow as I indicated Chris' empty chair. "Young Christopher had a VERY good time at last night's dinner. He deposited most of it this morning in the Bank of the Porcelain Bowl. I've got him swimming slow laps in the pool by our condos...don't worry, one of Daniel's people are there acting as life guard. We don't have much to cover this morning actually; I just need your signature on a few documents." "Uncle Phil, do you think you could free up an hour or so this afternoon to meet with me and Doc Swaim here in my study? Say about three o'clock? I've got something I'd like to use you both as a sounding board for." "You know I'm always available for you Eric. Here, sign these documents and then I'll see you this afternoon." After he'd left, I called up to the class room and asked Doc Swaim to free up the same time to meet with me and he readily agreed. It was almost lunchtime so I stopped by the kitchen and asked Jenny to make me a ham and cheese sandwich for Brian. I put it on a covered tray with a glass of milk and some big oatmeal cookies and walked down to the elevator. He was sitting up in bed watching something on television. My bedroom had a 55 inch flat screen that dropped automatically down from the ceiling. I hardly ever used it. I put the covered tray on the bedside table nearest him and sat down and pulled him into a hug. "How are you feeling Brian?" "A lot better. About an hour after you left me, I puked again and then an hour later I felt like I had to puke again but that time I puked but nothin' came out it was horrible. After that, I began to feel a lot better." "Good, sounds like you purged all the toxins from your stomach and what was in your system will work its way out quickly." I lifted the cover from his tray. "Now try and eat this sandwich and drink this milk to fill your now very empty belly with good food." He picked up half the sandwich and took a big bite of it; chewed and then swallowed cautiously. It stayed down to both of our relief and he quickly ate the entire sandwich like the very hungry boy that he was. Smiling at me, he turned his attention to his glass of milk and cookies and very soon, I was looking at an empty plate and glass. I hugged him again. "That's better, you'll be in fine shape for dinner tonight and by tomorrow morning, you'll be good as new." "D-Dad." "Yes, Son?" "Since I was drunk last night and didn't get to ...do stuff with you, can I come into your bed tonight?" "Absolutely not. You're pitching tomorrow afternoon. You've already put your body through too much. You need to get to bed early and sleep well. Don't worry, we'll find another time." "OK." He said very quietly as I hugged him. "Besides, I want you at a hundred percent tip top shape if I'm going to bed with you little boy. I'm going to give you a workout. See you at dinner...remember to put some clothes on." He giggled. I bent down, kissed him, and left. ************************************* We were sitting on the grassy hill overlooking the ballfield. Jack had chosen to take his walker rather than the wheel chair reasoning that he needed to start to get some exercise. He was sitting between Richard and me and was sipping upon a well camouflaged beer. We were tense. This had proved to be a close and well-played game. It was the top of the fifth. We were tied 2-2 but the other team had a man on first and only one out. Brian had pitched well but so had his counterpart on the other team. Brian currently had one ball and one strike on the batter. I heard Arlen muttering; "The slider Brian, the slider...give him your filthy slider." It was as if the boy on the mound had heard him (though that was impossible) because that's just what he threw. The batter managed to get a piece of it and drove it straight into Charlie's glove. The little short stop controlled it quickly and shot it to Sean at first base and suddenly the top half to the inning was over and we were at bat. Rico swung on the first pitch and dropped it into shallow centerfield. He beat out the throw and was safe on first. Charlie was up next and true to form, took the first two pitches without moving. They were both called balls. The third pitch was more to his liking and he smashed it into left field. The coach held Rico at third and Charlie was safe at second. I quietly thought to myself that swift Rico could have easily made it home but I also considered that Coach Lopez knew his job so I kept my opinion to myself. Kelly was up next and struck out swinging. He was followed by Aaron who took a called third strike looking. "Here comes our boy!" Arlen shouted. "He's had five innings to study this pitcher and he knows what to do." Sean always looked so old and so professional to me whenever he competed athletically. He transformed from a little boy to something else...something competitive and dominant and awe inspiring. It was almost a mystical metamorphosis. He took three strong chops with the bat before stepping into the box. Just as Arlen had taught him, he crowded the inside and widened his hips he stood there defying the boy on the mound to come and get him. I guess the pitcher thought he was being clever by throwing Sean something he wouldn't be expecting on a first pitch, but that was a big mistake. Sean saw it at once and so did Arlen who howled with glee. Sean's swing was pure poetry and the ball made perfect contact with the sweet spot on the bat. You didn't even have to look; you just had to listen to the contact to know it was gone. It sailed over the centerfield fence finally landing just feet from the parking lot for the other field in the complex. Danny followed Sean at bat and popped out but at the end of five innings Deer Run was up 5-2. Brian took the mound and he had that look on his face that I was coming to recognize. He was no longer Brian, he was `Spider' and he meant real business. As I watched the boy I thought about the long conversation I'd had with Uncle Phil and Doc Swaim yesterday afternoon. Uncle Phil was getting all of the paperwork ready but I wouldn't make a move until Brian's Grandmother passed away. Then...well we would see. The first batter was out in three pitches. The second batter popped up straight to Sean. `Spider'was dealing this inning. The third batter worked Spider into a full count before another filthy slider flew right by him and the game was over. The Deer run boys mobbed each other on the field and collapsed into a gleeful mound of happy little boys before they regained their composure and lined up to formally congratulate the other team on a good game. Sean and Brian ran into the clubhouse to shower with the rest of their team and we all popped another beer and celebrated before heading to the van. We celebrated with gooey concoctions at Mirrelli's. As we were walking back to the van, Brian sidled up next to me. "Thanks for the ice cream Dad. I pitched good today didn't I?" "Yes Son, you certainly did." Somehow, I just knew it was important right now to call him `Son' not `Brian'. "Were you proud of me? I always want you to be proud of me." I was shocked as I realized that this was the exact conversation he'd recited in his drunken dream as I'd put him to bed the night of the party. Had he been dreaming about this exact situation? I smiled and smacked his little ass affectionately. "I am always proud of you son." The smile he gave me would have warmed a winter's Day in the Arctic. As we pulled onto the car park, I saw it at once. John had actually pulled it off. The late afternoon sun gleamed off it and it shone like a brand new penny. There was no red bow this time...he'd know it was his. Arlen turned the van sharply so that Jack; sitting in the middle row of seats wouldn't see it until he got out. John was standing on the drive grinning from ear to ear. The boys were still chatting about the game as they exited the van and then they saw it and suddenly, there was silence. Jack was shaking as he stood there. "N-no!" I gripped his shoulder. "Yes Jack. Go see." Using his walker, he made his way quickly to the blue Beemer and circled it. He looked up at John wordlessly. "It's exactly the same Jack except for one tiny thing... look here." The big man opened the driver's door and pointed to the dash. There in the spot he`d indicated was a tiny brass plate and inscribed upon it was; `Bony Blue II' My wonderful red head lost it then and burst into sobs. He buried his face into John's massive chest and cried like a baby for about two full minutes before he recovered. John silently folded up the walker and stashed it in the back. He helped Jack into the passenger seat and misty eyed I watched the sleek blue car glide down the driveway. It was beginning to seem like all was slowly but surely becoming well with the world. (to be continued) My well-loved readers...this is our anniversary! As I send this chapter off to NIFTY, it is September 7, 2015. The very first chapter of `Young but Daily Growing' was published on NIFTY on September 7, 2013. Can you believe it? I certainly can't. When I published that first chapter it was supposed to be part of a little five or six chapter story. I didn't know what I was doing and I didn't know what I was getting myself in for but it's certainly been a fun ride and having you all along to share it has made it a labor of love. I had originally hoped this chapter posted on this date would have been about Sean's Birthday while that would have been appropriate, it would have rushed the story and I refuse to do that. We'll celebrate Sean's birthday next chapter but today let's celebrate Sean's REAL birthday as well as Eric's and every other denizen of Joyous Gaurde's. This could never have happened without your support and encouragement. I cherish you all. Eff