Date: Tue, 4 Aug 2009 18:24:55 -0700 (PDT)
From: firehose Joe <firehosejoe@yahoo.com>
Subject: Chapter 44 To Thine Own Self Be True

This above all: to thine own self be true,
And it must follow, as the night the day,
Thou canst not then be false to any man.
Shakespeare (Hamlet)

Thanks to Chael for assistance in editing and proofing the story. This
is wholly fictional with no reference intended to persons alive or dead.

Please do not distribute to other sites without permission of the
author. Comments can be sent to firehosejoe@yahoo.com

From the previous chapter:

Alejandro had given Zach a timetable to work with, penciling out the dates
on his calendar. Several days later Zach called and outlined the trip, what
they'd do and see and encouraged Alejandro to come as early as
possible. Zach's enthusiasm gave Alejandro his first inkling of the
entanglement he'd have to deal with before he returned home.

Chapter 44

"You're overreacting," Alejandro muttered to himself as he hung up the
phone. Zach's enthusiasm combined with an escape from the cold of Chicago
and the absence of Charles, provided all the impetus Alejandro needed to
begin making plans. His secretary arranged for the plane and preparations
for the condo. He'd leave the following week.

Deciding not to let Zach make all the plans and wrest control of the
process, Alejandro called Winston and told him of their itinerary and the
time frame. Winston insisted that he host another intimate dinner so
Alejandro could expand the circle of acquaintances from his grandparents'
generation. He promised to give Zach a call and firm up a date within the
next two days. Next Alejandro placed a call to Trevor and asked if he and
Will were available to get together for a visit and maybe have a match.

"Damn, it's good to hear your voice, Alex." Trevor's welcome was warm and
enthusiastic. "Can't tell you how many times I've boned imagining that
submission match you described. I'd love to see just how long I can last
with you."

"Hey, don't underestimate yourself, Stud. You've got height and reach on
me, along with being strong." Alejandro's affirming nature came to the
fore. "It'll be a hot, sweaty, fun match. You think you could get the
Grotto for Saturday morning next? I'll be glad to pay Rex for rental for an
hour or so, and longer if need be," Alejandro laughed.

With tentative arrangements made, Alejandro called Zach to tell him of the
conversation with Trevor.

"Yeah, it all sounds like fun. To me getting out of the office for a trip
over to the building site is a big treat these days," Zach said with a
sense of frustration. "I've got dates booked at three of my favorite hotels
in the valley. Winston is working on a Friday night dinner party."

"Looks like we're set then. I'll call you from the condo when I get in
mid-day Monday," Alejandro said, making clear he'd have his own base of
operations.

"Why don't you let me play host, Alejandro? We spent so much time at your
place last time, I feel it's the least I can do," Zach said.

Assuring Zach that he was the host, Alejandro gently insisted he'd stay at
the condo. Without making too much of his disappointment, Zach demurred to
Alejandro's decision.

The flight west was sped along by spending time reviewing reports from the
partners in the housing project. Matt's reports were the most thorough and
interesting. Propositions for heat exchange, water capture, and roof
gardening all intrigued Alejandro. The proposed greenhouse configurations
for all buildings being considered included capturing passive solar energy
and waste heat. Matt had taken the ideas gleaned from the San Francisco
project to another level. Alejandro wondered if this sort of thing were
being done anywhere else.

The condo was ready with limited foods, as requested, since much of the
time would be spent eating out. Alejandro considered a drink but decided
against it. Taking a bottle of Perrier to the bedroom, he shucked his suit
and showered.

Sipping the water, he relaxed on the bed, his towel wrapped around his
waist. He lazily scratched the damp hair on his chest and absentmindedly
rubbed his nubs. He smiled as he felt his cock begin to swell. This place
seemed to bring out a bit of hedonism in him. Alejandro reached down and
rubbed the swelling member through the terrycloth. Knowing he didn't want
to shoot a load, he let his hand fall to the mattress as he upended the
bottle of water.

After the few idle moments, Alejandro called Zach's office. Zach was in and
said he had some things that had to be cared for before he left. They
agreed to meet at the same restaurant as before.

Looking at his watch, Alejandro realized that he had time for a run. He
pulled on gym gear, smiling at the sensation of the mesh strap holding his
cock and balls. Tightening his runners, he was out the door and down the
steps, too impatient for the elevator.

Dripping with sweat an hour later he did some stretches and cooled down. He
realized his gym gear would need to be augmented if they were going to be
traveling to a different hotel every night. The alternative would be to
fumigate the rooms where he stayed.

After a quick shower, he called a few shops until he found what he was
looking for. Securing a promise from the manager du jour that all would be
ready for pickup at the desk, he called a cab and headed out. The clothing
purchased, he made a beeline for the condo telling the cabbie to wait. He
changed and was soon sitting at the bar of the restaurant awaiting Zach.

Arriving on time, Zach joined him for a glass of wine while they caught
up. Without intending to, Alejandro dominated the dinner conversation as
Zach asked about Charles, Charlotte's death, Charles' new job at the Met,
and the building project. Zach was genuinely pleased with Alejandro's
commitment to move forward. Alejandro wasn't sure but he sensed Zach was
glad that Charles was out of the day-to-day picture.

Before Zach could suggest a nightcap and a shared bed, Alejandro asked if
Zach wanted to join him for a workout. Protesting his affinity for good
food and drink, along with his consistent attention to working off the
calories, he convinced Zach that before several days of wine bibbing and
general gluttony they'd both be well advised to press metal and sweat.

After their workout they enjoyed steam and sauna. The time in the tub was
relaxing. As Alejandro had anticipated, Zach began to come on to him.

Softly Alejandro chided, "We've got the rest of the week, Stud. I'm a
little tired." He couldn't believe he was using that line and grimaced to
himself.

"Yeah and I'm looking forward to all of that, but you know I can't get
enough of you, Alex," Zach said with a leer.

Reaching over and giving Zach's cock a gentle squeeze, Alejandro said,
"It'll keep for one night. Don't go wasting it." Alejandro grinned at Zach.

With that he stood and sheeted the water off with his hands as he stepped
out of the pool and began to dry off. Zach didn't say anymore. He was
upbeat as he described the hotels, their sleeping arrangements –
adjoining rooms so there would be no unnecessary tales coming back to his
parents. "Hope you understand," Zach said, a bit embarrassed.

As they headed for the locker room to change, Alejandro said with
understanding, "I don't know how I'd deal with the same situation. I told
Isabella years ago. She said she had expected it and hugged me, assuring me
all would be well and I was still loved," Alejandro said.

"Well I've got to tell them one day," Zach said with chagrin.

"My bet is that they have guessed long ago. Don't pressure yourself unless
telling them would relieve any guilt or anything," Alejandro offered.

"Call me a coward, but my trust fund doesn't activate for ten more
years. I'm living off my salary and the largess of my parents which is the
same thing, in reality. It's kind of an allowance. Shit that sounds so
juvenile, but that's the way it is. I can charge nearly anything I want,
and the condo is owned by my Dad. It all could disappear within thirty days
if he so decided," Zach said in a rush. "Hell and double damn!" he said to
himself.

"I shouldn't have dumped that on you. I feel two inches tall right now."
Zach turned away as he continued dressing - Alejandro guessed it was to
save face.

"Zach, I'd have been in the exact same place. The only difference would
have been having Isabella in my corner – no small thing, mind you. I
don't judge you in the least and certainly don't envy the balancing
act. Don't worry, we'll continue to be discrete," Alejandro said hoping to
salve the pain.

"Your place is close. You have any of that spectacular cognac you shared
with me?" Alejandro needed to end the evening on a positive note.

"Yeah, you liked that, huh? Let's go back for a nightcap. Maybe I can get
you drunk and take advantage of you," Zach said with a twinkle in his eye.

Alejandro smiled but thought `Careful Zach. You seem to be pushing kind of
hard'.

Alejandro was relieved that Zach didn't push the issue when they'd finished
their drink. Plans were made and Zach outlined the next three-plus days.

He'd hired a car and driver so neither would have to worry about
driving. The hotels were not names Alejandro had heard of. Zach assured him
they were four-star. The wineries along the way were mapped. Zach provided
brief write-ups on each. At the major wineries, Zach had arranged to have a
private tour by one of the assistant winemakers as well as
tasting. Restaurant reviews had been compiled. All in all, Zach had put
much thought into the trip and Alejandro was excited.

The next day they were on the road. Since Napa was close to San Francisco
they were in no rush. They took the scenic Route 1 and then east on Route
37 before heading north. Zach was both an informed and experienced tour
guide in this situation. Alejandro found himself relaxing with each passing
field of vines.

"I didn't see or hear anyone refer to a wine cellar in your penthouse. Do
you have appropriate wine storage space?" Zach asked.

"Innocent abroad here, Zach. My knowledge of the finer elements of culinary
distinction is still in formation. Why do you ask? I'm presuming I should
have made some arrangements in the design when I finished the space. What
provision should I have for wine?" Alejandro asked candidly.

Zach launched into the proper temperature and the limitation of light to
store fine wines for periods of time. He went into detail about letting
wines breathe prior to serving, and storing whites after opening, presuming
that reds would be consumed forthwith.

"If you plan to buy any cases to be sent home, transportation details can
be worked out by the winery but you must have proper storage facilities to
maintain the various prized vintages we'll taste."

The conversation continued, interrupted with occasional stops to enjoy the
views and stretch their legs. Alejandro was not absolutely convinced that
he needed storage space but was leaning that way. Their first official stop
pushed him over the edge. The winemaster directing their tasting talked
extensively about the life of the wine, storage recommendations and
shipping requirements to ensure the wine's arrival in peak condition.

By the end of the day, Zach and Alejandro had, with the help of one of the
vineyard masters, sketched out a rudimentary cellar for wine storage. Alex
had ordered numerous cases and taken copious notes as to storage, pairings
and breathing times.

Their final tour was scheduled in conjunction with their check-in at the
hotel. It included an on-site restaurant with a Michelin rating that paired
the wines with the selected menu of the individual dining guest. Alejandro,
the natural student, wasn't in awe but he was impressed. Often he sought
Zach's guidance regarding how best to appreciate the wine and its
particular pairing.

The hotel wasn't beautiful or posh. It was naturally rustic in both
materials and design. It didn't try to impress; it just was. A converted
monastery, the site had been deconsecrated decades prior and put to
wonderful use. The vines had been planted by the monks as a cash source and
were from old French stock sent to the New World by brothers from France.

There was a heated swimming pool and a Jacuzzi that both men enjoyed. It
seemed natural that they shower together and take pleasure in each other
sharing a bed.

The next two days were variations on the theme. Alejandro continued to
amass knowledge and increased appreciation for the fruit of the vine along
with cases to be held until an adequate cellar could be constructed. Zach
commented pleasantly on the timing of the trip. They seldom saw anyone else
at tastings. They walked the vineyards, enjoying the spare and elemental
feel of the place, devoid of leaves and hanging fruit. It was elegant in
its simplicity.

One of the winemakers had a book describing cellar constructions above
ground. It was a second copy and after the substantial purchases both men
made he was glad to pass it along. For Alejandro, Friday morning came all
too soon. Zach had insisted on the first day that they buy a bound journal
to record notes and purchases. Alejandro was amazed at the quantity of wine
he'd ordered. Laughingly he said, "I may need to buy another floor of the
building."

When they got closer to San Francisco, Zach became quiet. Alejandro guessed
that he wanted to spend the evening with him. Their time together had been
easy both on the road and in the bed. For whatever reason, Zach was still
unable to take Alejandro's cock. It would be problematic in any long-term
relationship but this was just for two more nights. Silently, Alejandro
shrugged.

"Zach, will it put you out too much if we stay at my place this evening,"
Alejandro asked?

Zach's face lit up. Alejandro didn't know what to think about it.

"Not a problem for me at all, Stud. I need to drop off these clothes and
get some clean ones if that's alright," he responded quickly.

At his condo, Zach called their restaurant and ordered two entrees for
takeout while he dumped his dirty clothes and grabbed some things for the
next day.

After drinks, they compared notes extensively and recalled memories of the
trip. They enjoyed the delicious takeout. Their conversation was easy, as
it had been all week. Finally Alejandro stifled a yawn and suggested a
shower. They stripped and washed each other, enjoying the sensual pleasure
of rubbing and exploring each other's bodies.

As in the past three nights they'd saved their orgasms for the bed. This
night, Alejandro decided to be much more assertive. Zach's preliminary
overtures were welcomed. Alejandro became more aroused, however, as he
rolled Zach easily to his back and began an assault that left no body part
unexplored. The desired effect was achieved as Zach began to beg for
Alejandro to let Zach fuck him.

`Nothing doing,' thought Alejandro. He reached for some lube he'd put in
the nightstand drawer earlier. Zach's eyes widened when he saw it. A flash
of irritation flew through Alejandro but was tamped down by his lust.

"I know. Don't worry. I'm not forcing anything. It will be like before -
remember, in the shower. You enjoyed it then. Trust me," Alejandro said
soothingly.

He lubed his finger and gently probed the ring for entry. He was
patient. He was slow. Zach began to relax. As before, he responded with
groans of pleasure when Alejandro touched his prostate. He brought Zach
near the edge of his control then lubed both their cocks and began to frot
Zach `til they both came.

Alejandro cleaned them up and Zach didn't ask or say anything about the
change from the past three nights. It was just as well. They fell asleep
easily.

The next morning they went sight-seeing around the northern bay area. They
shopped and went to the building site. Zach was proud of the
accomplishments and the near completion.

Zach talked Alejandro into getting his dress clothes and bringing them
downtown. It would be much more convenient to Winston's place.  They had a
glass of wine and discussed the day and wondered aloud about the dinner
party.

"One thing I can guarantee is that the stories will be great. In this town,
gossip is the stick that stirs the drink. The only oneupmanship is knowing
people and the inside stories. I'm sure Winston understood what you were
looking for and has made his guest list accordingly," Zach said as he
stripped off his clothes for a shower.

With a wink he added, "Join me?"

"I forget which one of us accused the other of being a horny Minotaur, but
right now, hands down, it's you!" Alejandro laughed as he stripped and
smacked Zach on the butt as they walked into the bathroom.

Later, after dinner, Alejandro begged off on Zach's invitation to stay the
night.

"I've got a match in the morning. I know you didn't forget. Need to be at
my peak!" Zach relented and Alejandro taxied home alone.

The next morning Zach arrived at the appointed hour, came up and had a cup
of San Francisco's finest. As they drove to the Grapple Grotto they
discussed the last visit.

When they arrived, Rex was there, had unlocked the building and turned on
the lights. Trevor and Will arrived a moment after Zach parked. After they
went in, Alejandro and Trevor disappeared in the back to change and
stretch. Rex brought water over and set a six-pack on the floor on the mat
side. Turning to Zach and Will he asked, "You want something to drink?"

They both replied they were fine like they were. Rex joined them at the
railing separating mats from the seating area. Rex asked who would win.

"Well, Trev would be pissed at me if he knew I'd said this, but he's pretty
sure he's in for an ass whippin'. Just from their last matchup, he knows
Alex is fast and has lots more experience. But he's been looking forward to
this since we heard Alex was coming for a visit and wanted to have a match.

"I've messed with his mind something fierce. Several times I've reminded
him of how thoroughly he was whipped last time. Each time I goad him with
what is likely to happen, describing pins and holds Alex might use. Sure
has made our love life more interesting lately. Not that Trev isn't a stud
in bed. This is a real hot button," Will said.

He and Rex told Zach of some of the antics of regulars, some of the mishaps
when suits were either lost or stripped off. There were the occasional
grudge matches and the usual ongoing challenges that kept the place
interesting.

In the changing area, Trevor and Alejandro had stripped and suited
up. Trevor grinned as he pulled up a very snug, low-cut pair of Speedos.

"I warned you, I'm as much exhibitionist as wrestler. Will bought these for
me not long after your last visit. He's been looking forward to this as
much as I have." He reached in and pulled his cock to the side then cupped
his balls for a better fit.

As they began to stretch Alejandro said "We've talked only briefly about
the match. My understanding of a submission match is that there is no time
limit, with the possibility of multiple submissions. We break when the
other gives. We don't aim to injure but to exhaust each other. Right?"

Trevor was listening carefully now. He added, "We've not talked about level
of pain and how long to maintain a hold `til we break."

Alejandro didn't want to scare Trevor, so he thought for a bit before
answering. "A certain amount of pain is part of wearing down an
opponent. Otherwise it becomes an exhibition match. The rule of thumb I
follow, and learned early on, is that when, let's say, you've got me in a
good tight punishing hold, work it a bit. I'm not going to wimp out on
you. But when I realize there's no escape, I'm going to slap the mat and
say something to let you know you won that submission. How does that sound
for basic guidelines," Alejandro asked?

Trevor smiled his agreement and asked, "So, Stud, how long do you think you
can last?"

"As long as you, that's for damned sure," Alejandro responded and quickly
raised his hands as if he were going to tackle Trevor right there.

Trevor didn't startle as Alejandro had expected. He simply raised his hands
and gestured that if Alejandro wanted it right there, to bring it on.

Alejandro felt a little embarrassed at his stunt and covered it with a
compliment, "You don't scare easy do you, Trevor? Come on; let's do this
thing," he added with a smile.

When the guys came through the curtain separating the locker area from the
mats, they were met with whistles, catcalls and applause. They both laughed
at the cheering section who continued the verbal insults, encouragement and
all the general mayhem that three enthusiastic men can generate.

Alejandro extended his hand and Trevor shook it. They backed away and began
to circle. Alejandro decided to let Trevor take the lead. It would let
Alejandro see what his typical moves and strengths were.

For the next few minutes they tied up and escaped. Both were fresh, strong
and anxious to get their hands all over each other. At one point, Trevor
had rolled atop Alejandro. Their cocks were mashed together.

"Feel that, Stud. It's all for you," Trevor whispered lustily in
Alejandro's ear. Alejandro bridged and humped to increase the friction.

"Get a room!" Rex shouted and laughed.

Both were sweating. Alejandro noticed Trevor's breathing was harder. They
circled and Alejandro rushed Trevor. This time Trevor did respond with some
surprise, wondering what Alejandro would pull.

Alejandro executed a classic takedown. He scissored Trevor's legs and tied
up his hands with a combo headlock. It gave Trevor a chance to catch his
breath as Alejandro made a show of cranking on Trevor's neck while holding
his body immobile.

Trevor knew almost at once what Alejandro was about and added his own
histrionics to the show. Alternately he slapped the mat with a free hand,
grabbed at Alejandro's chin and caught it pulling Alejandro's head back. As
if strained and in pain, Alejandro yelled, "Let go, Fucker!"

He loosened the scissors and pushed Trevor away. They both backed away and
stood grinning at the show they were putting on. Trevor knew how it would
end; he just hoped his stamina would hold out.

Alejandro decided to begin his assault. Trevor must have noticed a change
in demeanor because Alejandro saw his eyes tighten and his muscles
flex. Alejandro let Trevor take them down. Quickly he maneuvered Trevor
into a groin stretch that put a heavy strain on the tendons at the
thigh. Trevor's yelling was genuine, as he reared up trying to get free
only to find that it increased the stretching.

With his free hand, Alejandro reached inside Trevor's suit and squeezed on
his prick. The men watching laughed and jeered.

Alejandro released Trevor before he could submit. Rolling free they both
stood. Trevor was game; he rushed Alejandro and took them to the mat
again. Alejandro left himself open for Trevor to find some punishing
holds. He soon found himself in a full nelson scissors combination. In real
pain, Alejandro grabbed at Trevor's arms to no avail. He shoved his
powerful arms forward and felt the grasp behind his neck begin to slip. He
quickly repeated the move `til Trevor's sweaty hands slipped apart.

Alejandro quickly spun in the scissors `til he was facing Trevor. Alejandro
jammed a palm up against Trevor's chin while he pushed himself up with his
feet. Soon Trevor, though still maintaining the scissor, was shoved
backward onto his shoulders with his gut doubled under him. Alejandro let
his weight fall forward `til he was supporting himself on his hands. Trevor
couldn't take the pressure and released the scissors.

Alejandro reached back and hooked his arms behind Trevor's knees letting
his hands slide to Trevor's ankles. Alejandro quickly lifted them
reapplying the same kind of pressure as in the previous hold. Alejandro
slid to Trevor's side. Pressing one of Trevor's legs to the mat, Alejandro
placed his knee at the joint just above Trevor's knee and began to lean
until his crotch covered Trevor's face. Alejandro flexed his lower back as
he rubbed his encased muscle and balls against Trevor's mouth and nose.

Sliding off Trevor's knee, Alejandro grabbed Trevor's legs and quickly
flipped him face down on the mat. Alejandro fell forward, sliding his arms
under Trevor's shoulders and cinched a tight full nelson. Slowly he began
to lean back pulling Trevor's spine up, effectively reversing the pressure
of the previous hold. Trevor yelled out in pain and slapped his leg loudly
against the mat. Alejandro continued to tug until Trevor shouted his
submission.

Alejandro released the nelson and slid down Trevor's body stopping just
long enough to hump his ass a few times. Jeers and catcalls resulted and
Alejandro looked up and grinned.

Trevor stood slowly, his hand rubbing his lower back. Though Alejandro
liked Trevor, he realized he was more show than go. He circled slowly
waiting for Trevor to respond.

Trevor moved toward him. Alejandro posed, offering his hands for a test of
strength. When Trevor lifted his hands in response, Alejandro rushed
forward. Throwing an arm between Trevor's legs and one across his shoulder,
Alejandro lifted him. Soon Trevor was upside down and Alejandro slammed
them both on the mat.

Lying atop Trevor, Alejandro quickly tied Trevor's arms behind his
neck. Forcing Trevor's legs apart, Alejandro captured them with his ankles
and began rubbing Trevor's cock.

"Had enough? Or are you ready for more?" Alejandro said threateningly.

Trevor was gasping for breath. "I'm done. You win."

With that, Alejandro released the grapevine on Trevor's legs and slid up to
straddle the man's chest. Grabbing the back of Trevor's head Alejandro
lifted Trevor's face to his crotch. Rubbing it against Trevor's mouth and
nose he said, "You like that don't you, Boy."

Will's jeering made Alejandro smile. He knew Will would get soundly and
thoroughly fucked this night.

Releasing Trevor's head, Alejandro lifted his weight onto his knees. "You
okay?"

Trevor grinned looking at Alejandro. "Wish I could give you more of a
match, Stud. You're lots better than I ever was. It was fun though and
anytime you want to work up a sweat, call me."

Alejandro stood and offered his hand to Trevor who took it and stood
slowly.

The guys followed Zach and Alejandro back to Zach's condo. The combatants
showered and changed and the four of them enjoyed the day walking, talking
and getting to know each other better. Zach insisted on buying lunch,
protesting that all three were his guests.

As the afternoon sun began to sink, the four parted company with promises
of getting together when Alejandro visited next. Zach had made Alejandro
promise him an opportunity to host him at dinner with no questions
asked. His excuse to Alejandro was that they had split expenses all
week. He bragged about one of the older dining establishments they were
going to. Zach knew Alejandro liked Italian cuisine and the service at the
place was impeccable.

The Fior d'Italia in the North Beach section had been serving patrons since
1886. The Northern Italian cuisine was a favorite of Alejandro's. They were
seated at a relatively private table in one of the older sections. The
glossy, white pressed-tin ceiling and salmon-colored walls were a beautiful
backdrop to spectacular food.

Zach was a perfect host, full of conversation, recounting the history of
the restaurant and city as only an insider could and generally fulfilling
the role of fun dinner companion. Alejandro relaxed and enjoyed the
evening. As they enjoyed a Fra Angelico with their coffee Zach seemed to
grow quiet.

Alejandro smiled at him and with a wink whispered sotto voce, "Your place
or mine?"

Zach beamed a smile toward Alejandro. "Let's go to my place. I'll get you
back to your condo whatever time you say tomorrow."

Zach was in the mood be the `Big Dog'. Alejandro made him earn the position
with some pushback early in their sexual dance but eventually let Zach take
the lead. When they finished, Alejandro had stringers of his own cum across
his chest hair. The men were sweaty, breathing hard and thoroughly sated.

The next morning, sun streamed through the glazed windows of the high-rise
condo. Alejandro stretched, pissed and cleaned his mouth with the
toothbrush Zach had given him the night before. Soon Zach was up, they both
showered and dressed. A diner close by offered a sumptuous breakfast of
sourdough pancakes.

Soon, it was back to the condo to pack and head home. Zach insisted on
providing transport to the airport. It was easier that way and Alejandro
let him. Just under an hour later, Alejandro was taxing down the runway in
his plane.

After the mild, albeit occasionally rainy, California weather, the cold of
Chicago penetrated every layer of clothing Alejandro put on. When he got to
his office he was missing the warmth already. `You're spoiled,' he said to
himself, with irritation. He busied himself with the tasks at hand. When he
went out for lunch, the wind was whipping off the lake and causing gusts
between the skyscrapers.

`Okay, when do I get to leave again?' he thought laughingly and checked his
calendar. He saw an invitation to attend the board meeting of the Dallas
Museum of Art. Though not a board member, as a contributing donor at or
above a specified level, he was included. Normally an acknowledgement of
the invitation would be sent and nothing more thought of it.

Texas brought to mind not only warmth but Stan Harrison. At a previous
meeting of the board, Harrison was a `stand-in' for one of the partners at
the law firm for which Stan worked. Alejandro was there representing the
family for the first time. As the other `young man' in a sea of elegantly
coiffed gray hair, they'd hit if off and quickly found that they shared
various interests. Soon after the event they shared a vigorous round of sex
in Stan's apartment. They began to meet each other occasionally for lunch
and exercise until Stan was transferred to Austin, Texas.

Before responding to the invitation from Dallas for the dinner and board
meeting, Alejandro called Stan's office. Luckily he was in and
available. He explained he'd be close by and wondered if a visit would be
appropriate in three weeks, giving Stan the sketchy details of his plans.

"Give me 10 minutes to check something and I'll call you right back. Will
that be alright? Damn, I hope this works out. Missed you bad, Stud." Stan's
enthusiasm made Alejandro smile. Assuring Stan he'd be available, Alejandro
hung up.

It was nearly 30 minutes later when the phone rang. He'd all but given up.

"God, Alex, I'm so sorry. One of the partners needed his ass wiped and tied
me up," Stan said. "Yes, please come. Plan to stay for a long weekend. I've
put in for the following Monday off. That can be cancelled if you can't
stay but it would be so cool to just hang out."

Alejandro's call caught Stan by surprise. Stan wanted to see Alejandro
again, they'd become friends when Stan lived in Chicago. As he drove home
Stan realized that he really should have told Alejandro about Tony, his
partner of two years. He just didn't want Alejandro to feel like he was
intruding. `That's stupid, Stan' he chastised himself. `We'd have worked it
out'.

That evening, Stan's roommate and partner said firmly in his grown-up
voice, "Stanford, you can't just spring this on him when he arrives. It's
not fair. You know he's welcome and if he's as you remember, he'd be fun to
play with if he likes to do three-ways. But you have to let him know and
make his own decisions. Damn, you beat me up about surprise closing
arguments to sway juries and you pull this shit. Two-faced or
chicken. That's what you are."

Stan tried to meet Tony's hard stare, but couldn't. Stan knew he was
right. In situations like this he always was. He loved the man more than he
could begin to describe.

Tony didn't break his gaze when Stan finally met his stare. "I know you're
right, Tony. It just happened so fast - you know his call and the visit and
everything. I was afraid he'd say, "No" if he knew we were together. Oh
shit! I'm sorry, Tony. That came out badly."

"Don't worry, Bud. I know exactly what you mean. That doesn't get you off
the hook though. You still have to tell him," Tony said firmly.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

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