Fireman By the Skin Docktor Studs BBS, San Francisco Every boy has a dream, Ben's dream was to be a fireman. Although common among kids, Ben was almost 21. Even though he had been born in the city, the only life he had known was the farm. His dad had left the farm when he was Ben's age, married a city girl and had a fairly good job. Ben came along shortly after. When Ben was six, his dad received word that his father had a stroke. Reluctantly, the family moved back to the farm so that Ben's dad could keep the farm going until grandpa got better. But he died within a year, leaving a farm marginally in debt and a son that blamed himself for his father's early death. Even at six Ben had been assigned chores and his dad made sure that he knew the value of hard work and the importance of staying on the farm, reminding him often of the guilt he felt for his own father's death. As the only boy, Ben always had his share of work before and after school, leaving little time for extra-curricular activities. But being city-bred, his mother encouraged his schooling and took him to town to movies, Grange activities and 4-H. She also insisted that Ben be allowed some time to watch the TV that his dad had reluctantly bought. It was the TV that fanned Ben's dream of being a fireman - programs of paramedics and firemen in daring rescues, fighting fires and saving lives and property. But it wasn't just the excitement that appealed to Ben. It was the comraderie of the firemen at the firestation, men working together in demanding situations, bonds of friendship, and esteem in the community. All of these were lacking in Ben's isolation on the farm. Even in high school Ben had little social contact, aside from the kids on the bus and in class. And even in these limited situations, Ben was not totally accepted by the others. He was the "city boy" and his dream of being a fireman seemed to alienate him more. Being born in the city also caused another problem for Ben. For two generations all the babies in this rural county had been delivered by Doc Hanlon, who was a stickler for circumcision. In a community where spaying, gelding, docking, dehorning and castration were a part of everyday farmlife, parents had universally accepted the doctor's recommendation. Ben on the other hand had been born in a hospital where males were not automatically circumcised. This became a source of embarrassment at school and a few teachers and classmates accused him of being unclean and vermin infested. Some of his teachers and the Doc even met with his parents and insisted that circumcision was a social responsibility. But his mother, suffering from her own non-acceptance in the community, was defiant and insisted that everyone need not bend to social pressure to be a good person. So Ben suffered one more degree of solitude, but because the hard work on the farm had developed Ben into a finely muscled young man, he was not physically challenged by the other boys. When Ben was old enough to drive, he took every opportunity to go to town when errands needed to be run. It was not just the thrill of driving one of the two old pickups, but the chance to get away and sometimes stop at the park and see if anyone was at the old Firehouse. The old firetruck was often in need of repair giving him the opportunity to go in and help when someone was working on it. This small community depended on a volunteer fire department and Mr. Hill, who owned the general store, was the fire chief. He was concerned that the farmers in the area did not contribute much to their fire department even though most of the fires occurred on farms. When their corn crib caught fire several years back Ben thrilled as the firemen attempted to put out the blaze. Ben's dad had grumbled that they got there too late to save the corn crib and shared the farmers' opinion that it was best not to depend on the fire department. Mr. Hill had heard of Ben's interest in firefighting, and often suggested that Ben get his dad to join and encourage other farmers to do the same. When Ben turned 18 he could have joined as a volunteer, but he had to tell Mr. Hill that he couldn't because his dad would not spare him from the farm for the training sessions. He didn't tell Mr. Hill his dad was convinced these were just social events anyway. Two things happened to change Ben's life. First his twenty-first birthday approached. Second, there had been a rash of fires in the community during a very dry year. Several fires had been disastrous, and the fire truck broke down on the way to one of them. This sobered townsfolk and farmers alike, and reluctantly they agreed to fund a plan Mr. Hill outlined: to find a good used fire engine and to hire someone full-time to man the firehouse. They lucked out in both instances. A neighboring city was wanting to upgrade their equipment and agreed to sell one of their pumpers that was still in pretty good shape. Ben had found an excuse to go to town the day it arrived. Although not the sleek modern truck he had admired on TV, it had a look of efficiency and power that thrilled Ben as he watched it paraded around the park. He made up his mind right then that he would confront his dad as soon as he was twenty-one and insist on being able to join the volunteers. Mr. Hill's other lucky break came in the form of Luke Afton. They were not able to offer very much in the way of salary, and he was surprised his ad was answered by someone that had graduated from a fire academy. Luke had driven down for an interview and was hired on the spot with a commitment to stay at least one year. The agreement called for the firehouse to be outfitted with a small living quarters for Luke, which consisted of one unpartitioned room upstairs in the storage area. As soon as this was finished, Luke moved down and took up his responsibilities. Everyone talked about how quickly Luke had the truck, firestation and even the grounds cleaned and straightened. Luke had also handled himself well during the first training meeting and the volunteers were impressed with his experience. Mr. Hill had to turn down many of Luke's requests for additional equipment, but his visits to the firestation confirmed that Luke always found some way to improvise. He had even put a slide pole from his living quarters to the main floor. Now that there was a fulltime fireman, the volunteers were not required to be on call so often. In fact, only one man had to be on call each day and he usually only had to cover in case Luke had to leave the station for some reason. Ben's confrontation with his dad was not as bad as he had feared. He didn't even have to bring up his legal age. His dad did lecture about the importance of the farm, and Ben's responsibility to the family, and rehearsed his own regrets for leaving the farm. But he agreed to let Ben have one day a week for himself if he kept his chores up. That very afternoon Ben was in Mr. Hill's store joining the fire department. "You are aware of the monthly training seminars you need to attend?" "Yes." "You know how to respond to calls?" "Yep." "You have access to a vehicle?" "Yes." "Well, I guess everything's set then. You can stop by the firehouse and have Luke issue you some gear. I'll call and let him know you're coming." When Ben didn't leave for a minute, Mr. Hill asked if there was anything else he didn't understand. "I just wanted to know which day I was on call so I can arrange it with my dad." "We have so few farmers involved in the department that we haven't dared asked them to stand call for fear of discouraging their participation. It's also too far from the station for the farmers to stand call so I have always arranged the towns people to cover. I am short handed, so maybe you can come in some afternoon and relieve Luke for a couple of hours if you want though." This was not exactly what Ben had visualized. He wanted to be able to spend time at the firehouse and learn and be part of things. So he was a little despondent as he drove to the firehouse. He had seen Luke a couple of times whenever he had driven past the station during the past month. He was surprised that Mr. Hill had been able to find someone so capable. As Ben walked up to the overhead door and saw Luke reloading hoses in the truck, he realized that he was much younger than he had first supposed, probably only five or six years older than himself. Evidently Luke hadn't had time to visit the barber, since his blonde hair was a little longer than Ben thought was the requirement of fire departments. But everything else about Luke was exactly what Ben had visualized a fireman to be. The well-muscled arms, broad shoulders, firm strong torso, big hands, strong legs, muscular thighs and trim waist. Here was the idol he had visualized in his dreams so many times. A strong emotion gripped Ben as he observed every action of Luke, soaking in every detail of his idol. His heart jumped when he realized that Luke had discovered him standing there and had dropped the hose and straightened up. An easy smile replaced the look of concentration as he said "Hi, you must be Ben." Ben was a little uneasy, but shook Luke's proferred hand and affirmed his name, unsure what else to say. "I understand that you will be joining us. Mr. Hill said you would be needing a few things to get started." Ben mumbled a reply and followed Luke inside. Luke had not associated with many farmers in his life, but this quiet and seemingly awkward boy seemed to fit his general impression of farm kids. He was impressed at Ben's muscular build requiring the largest size slicker and coveralls. And something about Ben's eyes convinced Luke that perhaps his first impression was incorrect, for those eyes reflected intelligence and quick observation. "It's not often you see young men join rural fire departments" Luke observed. "I hope that we can make arrangements to work around your farm responsibilities to give you some training." This reminded Ben of Mr. Hill's remarks earlier and the euphoria he felt began to fade. "Mr. Hill said that I could stand call for you if you needed to go to the store, get a haircut or other errands." He immediately turned red when he realized he mentioned haircut. Luke might keep his hair that long, and here he is insulting him right away. But Luke didn't seem to take offense, although he did wonder why Ben was suddenly so embarrassed. Maybe his first impression was correct after all. "I'd really appreciate that, Ben. Let me know when it is convenient and you can arrange it." "I can stay for a couple of hours right now if you like." Luke was taken aback at first, but had put off some things, so he accepted the offer. Mr. Hill had said Ben knew what to do in case of emergency, so Luke made his directions short and drove off. Ben took advantage of the time to walk through the firehouse. He had been inside many times, but this time he was a fireman and was at least temporarily in charge of this station. He ventured up the spiral stair leading to Luke's living quarters. This was new and even though he felt like he was invading Luke's privacy, he looked around for a moment. There was a single bed, a bureau, a chest of drawers and an armoire. Ben recognized these as odds and ends from Mr. Hill's store. There had been no attempt to build a separate room for a bath. A toilet, sink and shower stall were arranged in the left corner of the room. On the bureau was a framed picture of Luke and several other firemen in front of a modern new firestation with three modern trucks. He wondered why Luke would ever give that up to come down to this backwater community. When Luke returned a couple hours later, Ben was polishing the truck. He knew this was something Ben really wanted to do so didn't mention it didn't need it. "Get all your errands run?" Ben inquired, a little embarrassed to note that a haircut had been included. "Yeah, I sure appreciate the time. Sorry to be gone so long." "No problem, I can stay a bit longer if you need anything else." "I don't need to run any more errands, but you're welcome to stay awhile if you like." "Good, I'd like to get this finished anyway." "I had to stop by the general store for a minute. Mr. Hill mentioned that you had volunteered to take a turn standing call once in a while. He wished there was a way to take you up on the offer, I told him I wouldn't mind if you wanted to stay with me when you took a turn." Ben's smile was a little too quick and he knew he appeared over-eager, but he replied that this would be fine with him. "Thursday night is really hard because Ted Simons' wife is about 8 months along and he hates to be on call two nights." "I think Thursday would be fine. I could come after my morning work and return for my chores Friday afternoon. Would that be alright?" Luke found Ben's eagerness refreshing and smiled in spite of himself. Thursday didn't come any too soon for Ben. This would be the first night he could ever remember spending away from home, and the thrill of it caused his blood to race. He finished his chores and sped to town. Upon arriving at the firehouse, he pulled his fire gear from the seat and carried it inside. Luke was writing in the log when he entered. The smile Ben had waited for all week greeted him and Ben felt great. "Hang your gear over by the truck next to mine" Luke directed. "Mr. Hill was so anxious to get you signed up, he forgot to have you fill out these forms. Would you please do that while I make a few phone calls?" So Ben sat down and filled out the usual medical and personal history information. When he was finished, he handed them to Luke who perused them thoughtfully. "I've arranged for Doc Hanlon to give you the physical and then you'll be all set." "Do I have to?" Luke sensed the tension in Ben's voice and wondered why such an obviously fit man would react this way. He remembered Ben's awkwardness the other day and thought that this was the cause of his reluctance. "A general statement of medical suitability from the doctor will be enough. You are obviously in great shape and I'm sure the doctor will sign the form. We don't have to do it today." But the hesitancy was still there. Ben knew he had to answer, Luke must think he was hiding some terrible ailment. "Doc Hanlon and I don't get along too well." Doc Hanlon seemed rather abrasive the couple times Luke had seen him, so he could understand that could be a problem. So he suggested "Perhaps the doctor will fill out the form based on your last visit, then." "I sincerely doubt that. It has been a few years since I went to see him. Let's just say the Doc and I have a difference of opinion on the necessity of some surgical procedures." "Maybe he will have forgotten about that by now." Ben's consternation was obvious so Luke decided to drop it for now and said "Well, come on, we'll get some training time in this afternoon," and turned and headed for the equipment lockers. Behind his back he heard Ben mumble "He'd remember alright. As soon as he got a look at me." A faint smile of discernment came over Luke's face as Ben followed him to the lockers. After several hours of instruction on the use of various pieces of equipment, Ben had regained the euphoria of his adventure. Luke was surprised how much Ben already knew and how quick and eager he was to learn anything new. His enthusiasm was contagious and Luke found himself explaining things with that same enthusiasm he himself had lost not so long ago. Ben was awed with Luke's experience and knowledge and at one point absent mindedly said "I can't believe that with your valuable experience you ended up down here." He immediately regretted his observation as the enthusiasm seem to drain from Luke's face. Ben felt crestfallen as he realized he had pained the person he respected most. From Ben's eagerness it was obvious that he idolized Luke. For a few hours Ben had brought out in Luke the emotions and ideals from his own days as a new fireman - feelings that had since been overshadowed by the sadness of the past few years. He had not wanted to deflate Ben's dreams and enthusiasm by burdening him with his past. Ben thought Luke's silence was out of anger at his prying remark, and feeling deep remorse saying "I'm sorry, I didn't mean it to sound that way. I think we are extremely lucky that you are here." The sincerity of Ben's words added to Luke's painful musings. With an unconscious shrug of his shoulders, Luke finally looked up and smiled at Ben. But Ben could see that his eyes did not share the smile of his face, so averted his eyes to the floor. "Ben, you have demonstrated your intelligence in these lessons this afternoon. I would be fooling myself to think that you would not be equally observant and curious as to why I chose to come here. I wish I could tell you that it was because of an overwhelming desire to serve a community in need. But the truth is, my reasons are selfish. Ben seemed uncomfortable and started to protest that Luke didn't need to say anything, but Luke continued. "Like you, I wanted to be a fireman as long as I can remember. (Ben wondered how he knew.) I worked hard to get in to the academy. I had to work harder to stay in. But finally, I graduated and was accepted by the city fire department. I really enjoyed the life in the firestation. I made friends and gained the experience I needed to be a qualified fireman. Then I was transferred to a brand new station. Among those stationed there was Bob, the son of the Fire Chief. The others all warned me to steer clear of him because he was only there because of his father. They made it clear they wanted nothing to do with someone that had a position because of politics. But Bob and I were the same age and got along right from the start. It became obvious that he was not as experienced as he should be but he tried very hard. The others were glad I was his partner because they felt he was bad luck. "In the course of one fire Bob and I were trapped in a building. Bob panicked and for a moment forgot his training and ran to get out and injured his leg. Somehow I managed to carry him out. We both were awarded medals for bravery, but Bob knew that he didn't deserve the medal, but that his father had made such a fuss about his brave son that Bob and I kept that secret. He went on to conquer that fear and is a fine fireman. Bob insisted that I come to his house often and encouraged me to go out with his sister. Everyone encouraged us and eventually we were married, accompanied with all the pomp and fanfare befitting her father's position. "But we soon discovered that we had gotten married by default more than love and passion. Her father had an office job and came home every night, and she couldn't understand why I loved the stationhouse and the long shifts. She begged me to apply for every office position that came open. But I did not want to have a position that everyone would think I had "sucked up" to get, besides I liked where I was. Behind my back she arranged for her father to get me put in a vacancy far higher than I merited. At first I refused the promotion, but it started to make the chief look very bad so I accepted. My friends in the stations resented me because they thought I used my influence to get this job. Her father resented me for embarrassing him and I hated myself for getting in this damn mess in the first place. I no longer could use the long shifts as an escape from going home, yet home became a hell of arguments, resentment and fights and I yearned to be back in a stationhouse. The day after one especially heated argument, I was served divorce papers citing mental cruelty. The day the divorce was final a budget cut eliminated my position with the department. I reapplied for a station position, but was informed by a nervous personnel director that there were no positions available in the foreseeable future. I found the same to be true in all the neighboring cities in the weeks that followed. That is when I learned about this position, and that is why I am here." Ben listened quietly, aware of feelings of anger, injustice and betrayal as Luke's story unfolded. But far from feeling the sense of having his idol knocked from a pedestal as Luke had feared, he respected Luke far more than he did before, perhaps because of his own feeling of entrapment at home. It was getting dark outside, so they roused themselves, and put away all the equipment. Ben went upstairs to take a leak while Luke went to get dinner. When Ben topped the stairs, he immediately noticed the room had been rearranged. Luke had added another bed making the room a little crowded. In the narrow space between the beds were two pair of boots with pants neatly arranged on top, just like the firehouses he had seen on TV. When Luke returned, Ben commented on the arrangements upstairs. "I didn't quite finish yet though," Luke responded. "We'll have to finish after dinner." After dinner, they locked up the firehouse and went upstairs. "Those boots and clothes are arranged for quick response should we be called out tonight." Luke could see that Ben had already figured that out, but continued "If the alarm should ring while we're sleeping, we would swing out of bed and step through the pantlegs into the boots and be half-dressed in a moment. Now, those boots and pants might not fit you, so you should replace them with the ones you have on and then you can practice a time or two." Ben began removing his boots while Luke took away the other pile. Ben placed his boots by the bed and began unbuckling his pants self-consciously. Luke noted his hesitancy and said "sometimes a fireman needs to get out of clothes as fast as he gets into them," and with that quickly removed his boots, socks, pants and shirt while Ben still fumbled with his pants. Clad only in shorts, Luke demonstrated to Ben how to arrange the pants on top of the boots. Then demonstrated how to get in them quickly. They participated in several drills of this until Luke was satisfied, not so much on Ben's speed but on his easing self-consciousness. "While I take my shower, why don't you practice a bit. By the way, I think I might be able to help you with your problem with Doc Hanlon." Ben noted the twinkle in Luke's eye and couldn't understand why he was teasing him. Luke took off his shorts and threw them in a bag in the corner, then turned and walked to the shower. The bewildered look on Ben's face turned to a slight smile as he watched Luke get in the shower. Between Luke's legs swung a well-hung uncut cock! Although there were no calls to respond to that night, Ben awoke the next morning with a sense of deep fulfillment. As he lay in bed he basked in the warmth of his euphoria. This might not be everyone's idea of excitement, but to Ben he couldn't think of anywhere else he'd rather be at that moment. He looked over at Luke sleeping just a couple feet away, and a sense of belonging surged over him, adding to the intense euphoria he already felt. He took in every detail of Luke's face and he was sure that he had never seen anyone with such handsome features. His eyes wandered down to Luke's broad, muscular shoulders and he memorized every inch of his arms and hands. Ben had always been aware of his own powerful physique, but had not considered it particularly beautiful. But even though Luke was not as powerfully built as he was, Ben nonetheless looked upon Luke's body as perfection. And, as an image from the night before crossed his mind, to think that this Adonis had an uncut cock just like he did. Again an intense feeling of belonging enveloped him, and he thought to himself that Bob's sister had to be the craziest person in the world to kick Luke out. But then, Ben was ever so glad that she had. Ben hated to do anything to dispel the pleasant feelings he was enjoying, but he had been too self-conscious to take a leak before going to bed and his need was too great to ignore and it would be easier to do before Luke woke up. Quietly he got out of bed, walked around Luke's bed to the commode which was only a couple of feet from Luke's bed. A quick glance assured him that Luke was still asleep, so he pulled his dick out of the fly of his shorts and aiming for the edge of the water to make as little noise as possible, let go with a golden river. For some reason even this natural function filled Ben with pleasure this morning and he closed his eyes as he pissed. It seemed like he would go on for ever, but as he finished he opened his eyes as he milked out the last drops. At this point he noticed that Luke's eyes were now open and observing him. Ben hurriedly stuffed his cock back in his shorts and flushed the toilet. He stepped to the basin in the corner and washed his hands, and just turned toward the beds when he noticed that in his haste he had not completed his "milking" and now a large wet circle appeared on his shorts where the head of his dick was. Although the morning light was not yet bright, he knew Luke probably noticed as he was watching him when he turned, so Ben was utterly embarrassed. He thought of putting his hand over the offensive spot, but that would be too obvious, so he turned back toward the sink and started brushing his teeth hoping the spot would dry out. He heard Luke get out of bed and walk over next to him and step up to the toilet. As Ben leaned over the sink to rinse his mouth, his eyes roved to his right and watched as Luke took out his cock and commenced his morning piss. As Luke finished, he gave his dick a few quick pumps and stuffed it back in his shorts. As Luke turned toward the sink to wait to wash his hands, Ben noted a wet circle growing on Luke's shorts, too. Ben stepped back so Luke could rinse his hands, and Luke looked at Ben's image in the mirror and said "Good morning." After rinsing his hands, Luke went and laid on top of his bed and stared at the ceiling. Ben finished his oral hygiene, and hesitantly walked back to his bed and sat down on the edge, contemplating whether he should get dressed. It was still early, but he was used to being up and working by this time every morning. His eyes strayed to Luke's shorts and noticed that the wet spot made the material almost transparent, revealing the head of his reposing cock. For some reason the sight brought back a degree of the warmth he had felt before. "I was thinking last night that it has been a year since I had my annual physical. Maybe I can ring up Doc Hanlon and he could drop by here and give both our physicals at the same time." Ben's warm feeling went away in a hurry. Luke continued "I could go first and he could give me his lecture on surgical procedures so that by the time he got to you I would have worn him down and you'd breeze through. There is no physical reason he could refuse to pass either one of us, you know." "You don't know Doc Hanlon. He'll make a big fuss about it, he won't like having anyone around to undermine his crusade." "But if we are both there, he couldn't single us out. Since Mr. Hill requires the physical, you are going to face Doc Hanlon if you really want to stay on." Ben was silent a minute before answering. "I want to be here more than anything I have ever wanted to do. This has been the best day of my life and I guess I can face Doc Hanlon if that what it takes. I would like you there like you say." "Ben, even though you say that, you have been very embarrassed and self- conscious around me. Yet like you I am uncut and your friend not your critic. How will you act in front of the Doc when the time comes to pull down your shorts when you can't even feel comfortable here?" "I know you are right, I just can't seem to help myself." "I don't think you are really ready for the Doc then." Ben thought for a moment, then stood up and slowly slid his shorts off, then laid back on the bed. He concentrated his thoughts on his earlier images of lying in bed watching Luke until the glow returned to dispel his embarrassment. He lay with his eyes closed for a few minutes before he heard Luke get off his bed and go down the stairs. About ten minutes went by before he heard him climbing back up the stairs. Ben opened his eyes and saw Luke approaching with a cup of coffee in each hand. Somewhere he had shed his shorts and approached Ben naked and unashamed. Ben sat up and took one of the cups and sipped while Luke sat on the edge of his own bed, seemingly unaware that his leg rested against Ben's in the narrow space between the beds. "It's 7:00, what time do you have to get back for your chores?" "I can probably get them done if I get back by 12:00." "Good, that will give us some time." Luke got up and picked up a couple of charts from a shelf and sat on the end of his bed, patted the mattress next to him and said "Time to review your lessons." Ben got up and came and sat down next to Luke. Luke put the charts on their adjoining knees and began pointing out pieces of equipment for Ben to name and describe their use. After a couple of pages Luke picked up the charts and lay back on bed. "How about this?" Ben had to lay back too to see the charts Luke held above him, conscious of the contact of their naked skin from ankle to shoulder. Somehow, far from being embarrassed Ben now felt a wonderful bond, thrilling at the warmth of Luke's skin against his own. A feeling only someone who had truly idolized someone could ever understand. He was a little slow in responding to one of Luke's questions as he basked in the warmth of the moment, so Luke propped himself up on one elbow and nudged him in the ribs with the charts. "You fallin' asleep?" Ben twitched at the prod, looked in Luke's eyes and responded "Not asleep, just content. I'm sorry to let my mind drift like that." "I guess you don't need to learn all these charts today, let's practice some knots." Luke got off the bed and went down the stairs, returning with length of cotton rope. Ben had sat up, and Luke sat down beside him once more. They reviewed several knots that Ben was familiar with, but he was stumped by the bow-line knot. "That is about the most important knot to fireman. Stand up and wrap the rope around your waist." Ben stood up and put the rope around himself and tried several times to tie it properly. Luke stood in front of him and tried to show him how to do it, but Ben kept getting it backwards. "Turn around and I'll see if I can help from another angle." Ben turned his back to Luke and Luke reached around Ben's waist to demonstrate the knot. As Luke pulled up the loop of rope, it briefly caught under Ben's cock, causing Ben to jerk backward into Luke. Luke apologized, and continued his demonstration of the knot. Ben found it a little hard to concentrate as he could feel Luke's cock against his butt and was experiencing a new emotion. Finally, however he renewed his attention to the rope and completed the knot. As he turned toward Luke to have him check it, his cock brushed against Luke's before Luke stepped back to pull the rope to check the knot. But the knot slipped as Luke pulled the rope. "Maybe if we reversed positions I could see what you were doing better. Besides, you need to be able to tie this knot in the dark," Luke encouraged. So Luke looped the rope around his waist and Ben stepped up and put his arms around him taking the rope from Luke's hands. To tie the knot he had to step closer, and as Luke's hands guided his on the ropes, he was aware of his cock nestled in the crack of Luke's butt. Luke was giving instructions, but Ben could scarcely respond as he felt his cock begin to lengthen and stiffen. He was afraid that Luke would notice and be angry for his lack of self-control. His fingers finally fumbled the rope in the proper sequence and Luke turned to show him his success. Ben's cock was freed from its confinement and stood parallel to the floor, Ben was petrified and looked away. But Luke didn't get angry and insisted that he look at how the knot looked when tied properly. As he glanced down at the rope in Luke's hand, his eyes focused a little farther down, at Luke's cock which was sticking out at the same angle as his own. "Let's make sure you really got it down," Luke was saying as he undid the knot and turned away from Ben. Ben was really apprehensive as he reached around Luke to take the rope. He tried to stand well back, but could not get his arms around to make the knot and had to shuffle forward. His semi-hard dick slipped between Luke's thighs. As he reached down to put the rope through the loop in his right hand, his left hand encountered Luke's cock instead of the rope. He fumbled around a second before disentangling the cock from his rope, but entangling his own hands. Luke fidgeted a little, trapping Ben's cock between his thighs in a firm embrace. Ben's cock responded by jerking spontaneously as it swelled to full erection. Ben began feeling very warm, and he wasn't sure if it was embarrassment or pleasure. Luke's hands were on his as he untangled the rope that had wrapped around Ben's wrists. When Ben's right hand was free, Luke placed it against his lower abdomen while he released the left from the snarls. Ben could feel the springy pubic hairs against his fingers and intuitively his hand brushed through the bush. When Luke freed Ben's left hand, he placed it on his thigh, while he began coiling up the rope. Ben was unsure of himself, but the pleasure of contact with Luke's body made his body tingle with excitement. Luke had to be aware of his erection pulsing between his thighs. Ben's left hand moved down with the intent of feeling if his own cock was extending past Luke's thighs. He encountered his cock nestled against Luke's balls. He had never touched another man's balls before, and a quiver surged through his fingers, up his arm and to his heart. His fingers lingered there, marveling at the texture and folds of the scrotum. He probed the testicles gently, cautiously, comparing them in his mind with his own large orbs. Luke had not responded verbally or physically to Ben's explorations, and suddenly Ben feared that despite the feelings he had felt, Luke might not approve of this situation, although Ben wanted him too. So Ben slowly removed his arms from around Luke, relinquishing his contact with Luke's sex. But Luke made no effort to release Ben's cock from between his thighs until Ben placed his hands on Luke's waist and gently pushed him away. Ben felt awkward and embarrassed. Whatever he did around Luke seemed to embarrass him, and he felt miserable because he felt stronger feelings toward Luke than he had any other person before. Slowly he sat on the end of his bed, his penis standing straight up in ponderous defiance of the remorse he was feeling. He took Luke's ominous silence as an indication that he was so angry he couldn't or wouldn't speak. He glanced up at him, still standing, head down. It seemed like an eternity before Luke, turned and sat down on his own bed. The movement attracted Ben's eyes and he was grieved to catch a glimpse of a tear in Luke's eye and noted his clenched fists. Ben decided anything he said or did would be wrong and his agony caused a shudder to pass through his great frame. His penis had not only lost its rigor now, but seemed to share his shame as it shriveled between his legs like it did on cold days on the farm. He thought of getting dressed and going home, but then this moment would haunt him forever. It was Luke that recovered first. He got up from his bed and sat down next to Ben. Ben searched his face with his eyes and noted Luke had seemed to age far beyond his years. His eyes no longer held the gleam that Ben had seen returning there. He was sure this was the most miserable moment of his life and he wished he was somewhere alone, far away. Luke noted Ben's white knuckles as his fingers dug into the palm of his hand. Luke would have avoided Ben's eyes, but he knew he couldn't. He put his hand lightly on Ben's shoulder and said "My friend, I have never owed anyone an apology like I owe you." Ben was confused. He was struck by the intensity and sincerity of Luke's voice. But the use of the word "friend" caused tears to come to his eyes and an intense empathy to envelop his body. Luke had paused to choose his words, and the tears that suddenly welled up in Ben's eyes caused a silent groan to wrack his body. He had to look away to continue speaking. "I can't explain even to myself what just happened. I guess I wanted so badly for you rise up and conquer your inhibitions that I allowed my guard to drop and I imposed myself on you. I would never want to hurt you, and now that I have, I realize I have offended one of the finest friends I've ever had. Someday I hope you can forgive me." Ben mulled over Luke's words. Their meaning was clear to Ben now, and he got up and stood in front of Luke. "Please stand up, my friend." He chose Luke's phrase, and hearing it from his own mouth rekindled the empathy -- no love, he felt before. Luke stood up hesitating to look in Ben's eyes. Ben stepped closer and wrapped his arms around Luke and held him in a firm embrace. Luke was startled at first, but slowly raised his arms behind Ben's back and returned the embrace. Gradually Ben loosened his grip on Luke and they disentangled. Ben pushed Luke's shoulders until Luke sat on the inside edge of his bed. Then Ben sat across from him on his own bed, determined to set the stage for a speech of his own. He picked up Luke's right hand and held it like they were going to arm wrestle. He looked intently at Luke before he started. "I've always thought I destined to be just a farmer. Being a fireman was just a dream to escape from my fate. When I first met you, you were everything I wanted to be. I wished that I wouldn't have go home, but could stay here. I thrilled at your stories and examples yesterday. When you told me about your reasons for coming here, I felt like rallying to your defense. When I discovered that you were uncut, and discussed standing up to Doc Hanlon I felt a special kinship with you. The friendship I had always hoped to find as a fireman I tasted here as we sat together studying. Then as we practiced the bowline, I felt an emotion I've never experienced. It surpassed the kinship and friendship I felt before. Our close contact caused my heart and my flesh to stir. I was so afraid that you would be angry and misunderstand, so I sought to mask it. When I tangled us up in the rope, I thrilled at your touch on my hands and my penis that intruded between your legs. My hands sought my flesh between your legs, but instead encountered yours. I have never touched anyone else before, and after the first rush of sensations, I thought your sudden quiet was anger with my actions. Now I know that you felt you had abused the circumstance. "No one has ever called me friend like you just did. And even though it was meant as an apology, I will remember it always. There is no other place I'd rather be then right here, right now, with you, my friend." Luke tightened his grasp on Ben's hand and there was a lump in his throat. But he smiled at Ben, and that same smile that had stirred Ben's heart twice before struck deep again. Luke released Ben's hand, got up and sat beside him, putting his arm over his shoulders. Ben looked down and saw Luke lightly scratch his balls. He looked up at Luke's face and saw the smile again. Ben reached over and gently touched Luke's balls. Luke spread his legs apart until his balls rested on the bed. Ben hefted them in his hand, again relishing their texture and weight. Luke moved his hand off Ben's shoulder and reached over and groped Ben gently. Ben had never been touched by anyone else, and his cock sprang to life immediately. Luke firmly forced the foreskin back exposing Ben's large mushroom cockhead. Ben moved his hand up and grasped Luke's cock. It felt smaller than his own, but the skin worked over the head the same as his and he aped Luke's motions in his own lap. Luke suddenly stood up and turned away from Ben at the same time pulling Ben up by the arm. Luke reached back and caressed Ben's cock for a moment, then took Ben's hands and pulled them around his waist to his throbbing cock. Ben's cock once again was trapped between Luke's thighs. Ben began humping back and forth, alternately peeling back his skin when he thrust, and pulling the head back in on the rebound. Luke reached down and massaged Ben's glans each time it was thrust out of the foreskin. Ben's hands moved faster on Luke's cock as his tempo quickened. Then Luke's hand felt a warm wetness forcefully spurt against it. The cum dripped down his hands and dribbled down his thighs and legs. Soon his own orgasm commenced. Ben pinched Luke's foreskin shut, trapping the surging gism until the skin ballooned around his cockhead. Not releasing his hold on the skin, Ben moved around facing Luke. Ben took his own subsiding cock and put its underside against the underside of Luke's. Then he held them together with one hand, and released Luke's foreskin with the other. Luke's cum breached the opening and streamed down both their cocks, past Ben's fist and dripped off their balls. As the passion of the moment passed, Luke looked at Ben and inquired "I thought you said you had never done this before, yet that felt really great." "Just because I haven't done it, doesn't mean I haven't dreamed about it many times. But this is far better than my dreams ever were!" "What other dreams have you had?" "I'd show you if I had the time." "Well, I figure if there are two of us doing your chores this afternoon, you wouldn't have to leave so early." Ben's face lit up. Not just from the prospect of spending more time here with Luke, but also at having him on the farm, too. Luke sat on the bed and picked up the phone and dialed. "Hello Ron, this is Luke down at the station. Do you think you could stand in for a few hours this afternoon? Great, see you about 2:30." Luke handed Ben the phone "Why don't you call home and tell them you'll be there about 3:00." Ben dialed the number and lay back on the bed. He was having a hard time trying to explain to his dad about the delay, when he felt Luke lean down and take his cock in his mouth. Even with this pole sticking in Luke managed a reassuring smile, and Ben's resolve strengthened and he told his dad he'd be home when he was through. He hung up and said "I thought I was going to share my dreams with you?" Luke mumbled "I figured this was one of them," and winked at Ben. Ben smiled and replied, "You're only half right." He moved around to where he could take Luke's cock in his mouth. It tasted different in the flesh than in his dreams, but it was with great contentment that Ben looked forward to spending the day with his new friend. Life was full of possibilities for Ben that day.