This story may occasionally include explicit depictions of sexual acts between consenting adult males. If you are underage or it is illegal to view this for any reason, consider yourself warned. If you find this material offensive, please leave.
This story is a work of fiction, and any resemblance to people, living or dead, is entire a coincidence. As the author, I retain all rights to this story, and it cannot be reproduced or published without explicit consent from me. This work is copyright © 2015 by Steven Wells.
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Sam and Chris
Previously
"Relationships and I really don't mix well. My last boyfriend only wanted me for my body. Of course, I got back at him. I was only interested in him for his money."
"Who got the better deal?" I asked.
"He did," Daniel replied. "He really didn't have as much money as he claimed. My body is way more valuable than what he had."
"Do I hear some conceit in your voice?" I asked.
"Me conceited?" Daniel replied. "Tell me you jest, Sam."
"When do you have time to talk about this project?" I asked.
"I am free most afternoons," Daniel explained. "You?"
"This is my last class," I replied. "I usually try to get home before Donny gets out of school."
"Donny?" Daniel asked.
"Our son," I replied. "He's five. We also have two twin boys, five dogs, and two cats. Our house can be a little frantic at times."
"And you are what? A junior?" Daniel asked.
"Yes," I replied. "Why?"
"I don't handle chaos well," Daniel replied with a smile. "Actually, I have never really been around five-year-old boys. So, maybe I could handle chaos. I'd be willing to try sometime. What does your husband do?"
"He's in grad school getting his Masters in composition," I replied.
"How do music majors and computer science geeks get along?" Daniel asked.
"We get along splendidly," I replied. "We are polar opposites in some instances. Which makes for some excellent events."
"I'll bet," Daniel added.
"I will give you a call later. I will see if I can put Chris in charge of the kids tomorrow afternoon."
Chapter 65: Change Is in the Air
"So, Chris, you won't mind if I asked Daniel to come over so we can work on the class project?" I asked as we were sitting at the kitchen island before school. It was Friday. We were all looking forward to the weekend.
"Nope," Chris replied. "If I get home in time, I can serve milk and cookies to you and your new friend."
"It won't be necessary, Chris," I said. "But, thanks for the offer. I'm certain Daniel will appreciate your thoughtfulness."
"What should I expect when he shows up?" Chris asked. "Typical computer geek with a pocket protector, big black glasses, and wrinkled loose fitting clothing."
"Nope," I replied. "Daniel is probably 6 feet tall, with wavy black hair combed back. He looks sort of Middle Eastern and probably Hispanic. His jeans are well-fitted as is his extra tight turtleneck shirt. Before I knew his name, I mentally called him Mr. Somber."
"And, I suppose he is drop-dead gorgeous," Chris asked with a smile across his face.
"He isn't bad looking," I replied. "He is quite handsome. But, he's not my type."
"Why isn't he your type?" Chris asked.
"He isn't a six-foot-tall African American who has a body to die for," I replied as I kissed him on the cheek. "Now, if you don't mind, I need to get going or I will be late for my first class."
"I'll remember what you said when I am serving you milk and cookies," Chris replied with a smile.
"Are you meeting Rupert and me for lunch?" I asked as I was about to walk out the door.
"Unless I meet the man of my dreams before lunch," Chris said with a smile. "Of course, YOU are the only man of my dreams. I'll see you at lunch in the student union."
"Great," I replied as I left the house for my 15-minute walk to my first class.
Once I arrived, I saw Tom, Harrison, and Glen occupying our normal front row seats. "Hello, men!" I said as I took a seat next to Glen.
"Good morning, Sammy," Harrison responded. "Are you excited about the weekend?"
"I'm not certain," I replied. "Am I supposed to be excited?"
"Of course," Tom explained. "It's national kiss your cat day on Sunday."
"Kiss your cat day?" I said in mock disbelief. "What if you don't have a cat?"
"Borrow one," Glen suggested. "It could also be transformed into kiss your cat and share it with someone who is catless day."
"I don't think the marketing team will be able to get the point across," I replied. "It's a little complicated. Besides, who came up with kiss your cat day?"
"Some guy in New Jersey," Harrison responded. "He's a cat hoarder."
"A cat hoarder?" I asked. "Have you three been drinking?"
"No!" Harrison replied. "I've given up my love affair with vodka. I found it on the Internet."
"Oh! Well!" I began. "If it was found on the Internet, it must be true. Should we announce the historic day in the quad at noon in front of the student union?"
"Now you are being facetious, Sam," Glen scolded me. "We need to take these holidays serious. It would be un-American if we didn't recognize all of the good cats do for us on a daily basis."
"Now class," the instructor began. "I have decided today's session will be a question and answer session for our big data project. Who wants to start?"
The class continued for what seemed an eternity. I practically nodded off near the end.
"See you around, guys," I said to the gang as I headed to the student union to meet Chris and Rupert. I spotted Rupert in the corner of the student union café. He seemed engrossed in his laptop.
"Hello, Rupert," I said as I stood almost next to him.
"Hi, Sam," Rupert replied. "Thanks for meeting me."
I settled at the table across from Rupert, "I asked my husband, Chris, to join us. I hope you don't mind."
"Not at all," Rupert replied. "Was he the one with you at the Gay-Straight Alliance meeting?"
"Yes," I replied. Rupert sat quietly after our initial introductions. Rupert's shaggy, straight, blond hair hung over his forehead in an almost not combed way. His milky white skin looked as though he had never been outside in the sun. Rupert's blue eyes stood out.
"I think your husband has arrived," Rupert said as he nodded toward the entrance of the cafeteria.
I stood up and pulled Chris toward me for a hug and a kiss.
"Chris, this is Rupert," I said. "Rupert, this is my husband, Chris."
After introductions finished, Chris sat beside me. Rupert turned silent again.
"Rupert, why don't you tell us a little about you," I suggested.
"I'm totally unremarkable, but here goes," Rupert replied sheepishly. "I was born in a small town outside of Peoria. My father owned a car dealership until about two years ago. It went south after some economic problems in the area. One of the main employers in the area also folded, leaving thousands of people out of work. So, my father's customers weren't buying cars. He's become a groupie for the Republican nominee for President. My mother works at a day care center near where we live. I'm an only child. And, if my ex-friend does what she has threatened to do, I will probably be homeless around Thanksgiving."
"So, your parents are very conservative?" I asked.
"Very," Rupert replied.
"I should explain something about me, Rupert," Chris began. "I, too, started out in the Peoria area. My father was an executive at Caterpillar. Somehow, my parents found out I was gay in my sophomore year in high school. I went to live with my Grandparents in Chicago. So, I understand what you might be going through emotionally."
"What makes you certain your parents will not understand you were just born the way you are?" I asked.
"My father uses a lot of four letter words when he is talking about gay people," Rupert replied. "It is a given they will not be accepting."
"When do you plan on coming out to your parents?" Chris asked.
"I am going home next weekend," Rupert replied. "I thought about telling them at breakfast on Sunday morning. I plan to have my bags packed and loaded in my car. When they go bonkers, I will just dash out the back door, get into my car, and flee!"
"Nice defensive plan," Chris added. "What will you say to them? Hey, Mom and Dad, you have a gay son."
"I have no clue," Rupert replied. "Something short and sweet. But, as I see it, my real problem will be with school. My parents are paying my tuition and board. I suspect I will not only be homeless, but I will also be out of college almost before I begin."
"Don't worry about the money right now," Chris suggested. "Sam and I could help you find a scholarship to pay tuition and board, right Sam?"
"Yes," I said as I smiled at Chris. "And, please don't think you are alone with this. Lean on the people around you for support. We also want to hear about how your parents accept the news they have a gay son. We can't help you if we don't know how this plays out.""
"I'll keep you informed," Rupert agreed. "I do appreciate talking with you. I may not win with my parents, but I am grateful I saw the two of you at the Gay-Straight Alliance meeting."
"What's your major, Rupert?" I asked.
"I'm a political science major," Rupert explained. "At least, I think I am. I am hoping to go to law school after I graduate. Maybe I should say if I still have enough money to graduate."
"Look, Rupert," Chris continued. "Keep focused on your goal of getting through college. Don't let your other worries get in the way of your main goal right now."
"Thanks, guys," Rupert replied. "I appreciate your time this afternoon. It helps to know someone at least understands what I am going through right now."
"We are available to talk whenever you need some advice or a shoulder to cry on," I said to Rupert. "Don't think you are going through this phase of your life alone."
"I'll keep you posted," Rupert said as he gathered up his backpack. "Have a great afternoon. Shit! I'll be late for class. See you soon."
Rupert hurried off. Chris and I looked at each other. Chris spoke up first, "It's still happening!"
"What is still happening?" I asked.
"Parent-led gay bashing," Chris replied. "I will walk you to your next class. Maybe I can get a glimpse of Mr. Somber."
"What if he turns out to be a prick?" I asked.
"You will suck it up for the next two weeks until you have your project finished," Chris said as he took my hand for our walk to my next class. "Then, you will never talk with him again. Besides, you didn't think he was a prick when you to hooked up for this project."
"No, I didn't," I replied. "There he is. Daniel!"
Daniel looked in our direction. When he recognized me, he walked toward us. "Good afternoon, Sam!"
"Good afternoon, Daniel," I said. "Daniel, this is my husband Chris. Chris, Daniel."
"Nice to meet you, Daniel," Chris replied. "I need to be on my way to an appointment with my advisor. I'll see you two at your home."
I kissed Chris goodbye. Daniel and I walked into the building and found seats next to one another before either one of us said anything else.
"Chris is one fucking hot man!" Daniel finally said. "Does he have any brothers?"
"A half-brother," I replied. "They look alike. In the market?"
"Maybe!" Daniel replied.
"I'll speak with Chris about his brother," I replied. "I'll let Chris do the match making."
"Thanks," Daniel replied as the instructor began the class.
When class ended, Daniel and I walked home. "I hope you don't get too nervous around Donny and the dogs. Donny has more energy than most five-year-old boys."
"I can adapt to most situations," Daniel replied. "You mentioned dogs. How many dogs are you talking about?"
"Five," I replied. "Chris and I adopted Livingston and Roosevelt when they were puppies. Simon arrived in our lives because his humans needed to go to assisted living. They couldn't take Simon. Simon is actually an older brother to Lincoln and Roosevelt. We adopted Winthrop and Wallaby shortly after the twins were born. Donny decided we all needed a dog."
"And the cats?" Daniel asked.
"Matilda showed up on our back yard one afternoon," I explained. "A few weeks ago, Chris heard about a cat in the cat rescue center. When we saw her, we both thought she was Matilda's sister. We took Rascal home."
"How do you transport your tribe?" Daniel asked.
"We had to buy an SUV," I replied. "It still seems crowded when we add a few pieces of luggage."
We arrived at the house. "Take a deep breath, Daniel," I said. "You are about to meet our tribe as you called it."
"We're home," I yelled. "Breathe."
"Daddy! Daddy! Daddy!" Donny shouted as he and the five dogs descended the stairs in a flash of energy. He and the five dogs slid to a halt when they saw Daniel.
"Who's he?" Donny asked.
"This is Daniel. He and I will be studying together for a little while this afternoon," I replied. "Daniel, please meet our son, Donny."
Daniel kneeled to be on Donny's level. "Nice to meet you, Donny! Do you want to introduce me to your dogs?"
Donny turned and pointed at the dogs as he introduced them to Daniel. "Livingston is on the left. Roosevelt is next to him. They sleep with my daddies. This is Simon. He sleeps with me. The other two are Winthrop and Wallaby. The cats are Matilda and Rascal."
Mrs. Graham came downstairs with Mathew and Joshua. I took both boys from Mrs. Graham.
"Mrs. Graham, this is Daniel," I said. "Daniel and I are working on a class project together. Daniel, these two sleepy heads are Mathew and Joshua."
"They are so little," Daniel said as he stood transfixed on the twins. "How old are they?"
"They were born on the fourth of July," I replied. "So, they are four-months old. They already have a mind of their own."
Mathew and Joshua woke up at the same time and began smiling and wiggling.
"I just changed them and was bringing them down to feed them," Mrs. Graham explained.
"I can feed them Mrs. Graham," I said. "You don't mind a minor delay, Daniel?"
"No, of course not," Daniel replied.
"Good," I said as I handed Joshua to him.
"I don't know how to hold him!" Daniel replied.
"They don't break easily," I replied. "Sit. It will be easier. Support his head; otherwise, he will get pissed off."
I handed off Joshua, and I gave Daniel a bottle for his twin.
"See!" I said as Mathew began to eat. "It's not too bad, is it?"
"No," Daniel replied. "It is amazing. He's a little person. Do you ever just sit and look at them?"
"Yea," I replied. "They can always cheer me up if I've had a bad day. Do you want kids some day?"
"I think I do, but I first need to find a boyfriend who can stand to live with me," Daniel replied.
Chris walked into the house to find five dogs, two cats, and one five-year-old boy waiting for his return.
"Daddy!" Donny said as he did a full-fledged leap into Chris's arms.
"Hello," Chris said as he carried him over to the island where Daniel and I were feeding the twins. "We need to rethink you leaping into people's arms, Donny. You're getting to be a big boy and not all of us are able to catch you."
Chris let Donny wiggle out of his arms and onto the top of the kitchen island.
"I see Sam has put you to work," Chris said to Daniel. "Watch out. He is a slave driver."
"I am enjoying myself," Daniel said. He turned his attention to Joshua "Aren't I little guy?"
Joshua let go of the bottle, smiled broadly, and wiggled his legs and arms.
"Phase two," Chris explained as he put a towel over Daniel's shoulder. "It's his burp time. It follows immediately after bottle time."
Daniel followed Chris's instructions. Mathew and Joshua burped almost in unison.
"It's nap time," I said as I put Mathew back into his carrier. Chris took Joshua from Daniel and put him in his carrier.
"Now, we can get started with our project," I said as Chris carried the twins back upstairs. "Where do we start?"
"At the beginning?" Daniel asked with a smile.
"An excellent idea!" I replied.
We continued to work on our project for almost two hours. "All work and no play will make the computer science geeks bored," Chris said as a dropped a laundry basket on the floor.
"How about some coffee?" I asked Daniel.
"Sure," Daniel replied. "Coffee is always a good idea. While we are taking a break, would you mind explaining how two college students have three kids, five dog, two cats, and a two story newly renovated house?"
"The kids are easy," I replied. "We arrived in their lives at a time when they were alone and needed a family. The dogs and cats just happened. The house became a necessity when we realized we would have three kids with us until they are in college."
"So you are planning on staying in Champaign Urbana after you graduate?" Daniel asked.
"No," I replied. "We will move back to Chicago and sell the house."
"So, when you sell this house, will you buy one in Chicago?" Daniel asked.
"We have a condo in Chicago which is fairly big," I explained. "However, we may consider a house if we can find the right place."
"So, what about you?" I asked.
"Nothing special," Daniel replied. "I grew up in Arlington, Virginia. My father and mother both work for the US Government. I'm an only child. And, I haven't seen my parents since I left for college after I graduated from high school."
"Why?" I asked.
"I disgraced my family," Daniel replied.
"How?" I asked.
"I refused to accept an arranged marriage," Daniel replied. "My parents knew I was gay. They wanted me to live a lie. I couldn't live a lie. I am who I am: a gay, ex-Muslim guy who doesn't want to live under the cloud of an arranged marriage with no prospect of enjoyment. They kicked me out of the house with whatever was in my college fund. I have been living on fumes for two fucking years. I don't mean to be a downer for you. I should go."
"No, Daniel," I replied. "You will not go. Are we friends?"
"I had hoped we could be friends," Daniel replied. "But, I don't want to complicate your life."
"Daniel," Chris said as he joined us in the seat next to Daniel. "Look around you. We have three sons whom we adore primarily because they needed us to be part of their lives. We have five dogs who run the household. And, we recently added two cats. Nothing could complicate our lives any further. Besides, if you are around Sam long enough, you will realize he always wins. I don't know how. But, he always wins. So, stop feeling sorry for yourself, and let us get to know you."
"You probably don't want to get to know me," Daniel replied. "I'm sort of fucked up now. I haven't even gone to the gym in like three months."
"What's on your schedule from 10 am until 12 noon on Tuesday and Thursday?" I asked.
"I'm free on Tuesday and Thursday until 1 pm," Daniel replied. "Why?"
"Meet us at the gym next Tuesday morning at 10 am," I replied. "You need some socialization and some gym time. Will you come with us?"
"Sure," Daniel replied.
"And you are staying for dinner," Chris explained.
"I don't want to be a bother," Daniel replied.
"You're not a bother unless you don't agree to stay for dinner," Chris added.
"Then, dinner it is," Daniel replied.
We ate dinner. Donny contributed significantly to the dinner conversation which centered around him talking to Simon, Matilda, and Mabel the cow.
After dinner was finished and we had cleaned up the kitchen, Chris volunteered to get Donny ready for bed.
"I'm going to give Daniel a lift to his apartment," I said to Chris. "I won't be long."
"You don't need to drive me home, you know," Daniel said as we were on our way to the garage.
"My pleasure," I replied as I flipped on the lights.
"Holy shit!" Daniel exclaimed.
"What?" I asked.
"You and Chris have a Mercedes SUV and a Mustang Cobra," Daniel continued.
"The car was my graduation present from high school," I explained. "We traded Chris's BMW for the SUV when we realized we had three kids and five dogs to transport. We didn't fit into Chris's car. And, the Mustang is useless unless there is only one or two of you."
Once we were in the Mustang and I was backing out, Daniel said somewhat softly, "You know, Sam. I hope you know how lucky you and Chris are. You found each other. It's obvious you love one another deeply. You've managed to start a family together. And, you're happy. Some people never get to step one let alone the whole trail?"
"Thank you, Daniel," I said as we sped down the street. "Chris and I are extremely aware how lucky we have been. We try to spread the luck around as much as possible. And, one last thing. If you need to talk—about anything—let us know. We don't judge. We listen very carefully. And, we will be around to offer support when you need it."
"Thanks, Sam," Daniel replied. "I don't have many friends. I know a few people. But, I can't really call any of them friends."
"You can now," I said. "If you have any brilliant ideas about the project, please let me know."
"I will," Daniel replied as he stepped out of the car and into the front door of a modest apartment building.
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Chris and I arrived early for our 10 am morning workout with the gang. Daniel waited in the foyer when we walked in.
"Hey, Daniel!" I said as I pulled him in for a hug. "Good to see you again."
"Thanks for asking me to join you," Daniel replied. "I realized going to the gym on a regular basis can help with mental functions as well. I feel this will be the kick in the pants I need to get myself into a new energy cycle. How was your weekend?"
"Terrific," Chris replied. "We took Donny clothes shopping. He's grown out of almost everything he owns. The kid has good tastes. Everything was made by Levi or had a designer name attached to it."
"He learned all of his shopping prowess by watching you, Chris," I replied. "Look in your closet. What isn't a designer name...? Nothing!"
"Hey guys," we heard from the doorway. It was Sawyer and Glen. "You made it early!"
"We do manage to arrive on time some of the time, Sawyer," I replied. "Daniel, this is Sawyer and his boyfriend Glen. This is Daniel. We met in one of our classes. We are working on a class project together."
"Nice to meet you, Daniel," Sawyer said as he extended his hand. "Welcome to the workout gang. You will learn one fact very quickly, Daniel. No one in this group is completely sane!"
"Thanks, Sawyer," Daniel replied as he turned his attention to Glen. "You look very familiar, Glen. Have we met before?"
"I'm a computer science major," Glen replied. "You?"
"Same," Daniel relied. "I will remember eventually. In the meantime, it's good to meet you."
"And, here are out other team members!" I announced as Harrison and Tom arrived. Once introductions were made, we headed to the locker room.
We grabbed lockers together and began to change. I looked over at Sawyer and saw him blankly starring at Daniel. I turned to look at Daniel and I knew why. His slightly hair covered chest rippled with muscles, and his six pack abs were so tight looking they could break. Arms with bulging biceps. Legs like tree trunks. `Fuck he is hot!' I thought to myself.
"Sawyer, are we doing chest and arms today?" I asked to get Sawyer's attention before we made Daniel uncomfortable.
"Sure," Sawyer replied. "Anything you want, Sammie!"
We did 30 minutes of cardio and 60 minutes in the weight room. We quickly showered and headed to the pasta place. Once we had our food and, once seated, the conversation began.
"So, Daniel," Tom asked. "I hope you enjoyed the workout today."
"I did," Daniel replied. "I haven't worked out for a long time, so this was a definite happy moment for me. I've always been a loner during workouts. I enjoyed today a lot more because of the company."
"Then we will expect you every Tuesday and Thursday morning," Harrison suggested. "Otherwise, we will have Sam and Chris's dogs find you and bring you to the gym."
"The dogs herd cows, sheep, and horses," I added. "I don't believe they would be adept at herding a human."
"Where are you from, Daniel?" Glen asked.
"I grew up in Arlington, Virginia," Daniel replied.
"Why did you choose UIUC since you were from the DC area?" Harrison asked.
"I applied to MIT and here," Daniel explained. "I was accepted to both. I decided MIT wasn't far enough away from Arlington, Virginia. So, here I am enjoying the Midwest."
"Do you go back to Arlington regularly?" Tom asked.
"No," Daniel replied. "The distance has been good for me. I've grown up rather quickly since I started here. I believe I am a better person for not going home often. If I may be so bold, Tom and Harrison are a couple as well as Sawyer and Glen, correct?"
"Yup," Sawyer replied. "Sam managed to throw Glen and me together. One thing led to another. Harrison and Tom were already coupled. Do you have a boyfriend, Daniel?"
"Not anymore," Daniel replied. "We had some compatibility issues."
"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have asked," Sawyer added.
"We are better off apart," Daniel replied with a smile. "We were like oil and water."
"Like Tom and I were until I gave up the vodka," Harrison said with a smile.
"I hate to break up this gathering, but I need to be in class shortly," Daniel said to the group. "I'm really glad I decided to work out with you guys today. The experience has boosted my morale. I'll see you in class later, Sam."
"Take care, Daniel," Sawyer said. "Same time Thursday. Be there!"
"Yes, Sir," Daniel replied as he shoved his trash into the barrel and headed out.
"He's a nice guy," Sawyer said to the remaining group. "Smoking hot body, too!"
"You can look, but don't touch," Glen said. "Otherwise, you will be ballless."
"Ouch!" Tom added. "Just the thought of getting balls cut off makes me squeamish."
"I'll just torture them tonight," Harrison replied. "It should help keep your mind off being castrated."
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We met the gang at the gym again on Thursday. Daniel joined us again. As we were changing, I saw Sawyer gazing at Daniel's back. I looked over and saw the marks. Red vertical lines of red skin. Several marks covered much of Daniel's back. `A discussion topic for a later time,' I thought to myself.
During our workout, Daniel seemed a little tired and not as energetic as the last time. We completed our workout and headed to the pasta place for lunch. After we retrieved our food, we settled at a table. Daniel sat across from me.
"You look a little tired, Daniel," I said. "Late night last night?"
"I didn't get much sleep," Daniel replied. "I should perk up after a catch-up night."
"What's happening over the weekend?" Sawyer asked the group.
"It will be a normal weekend for us," Chris began. "The kids wake us at 6 am. They will demand to be fed. Then, we will take the dogs for a walk, come home, and have lunch. Then, we will entertain our three sons, have dinner, go to sleep and repeat again on Sunday."
"We might add a little excitement by taking the kids to the grocery store," I added.
"Sounds perfect to me," Daniel replied.
"Sounds like you need a boyfriend, Daniel," Harrison added. "Tom keeps me in check. He tells me what to do and when to do it. Of course, I can always say no. But, then, I would be banned from the bed."
"And sex," Tom said. "He does what he is told to do or he doesn't get any facetime."
"You use sex for punishment?" Glen asked.
"You'd be surprised at how quickly things get done around our place," Tim explained. "Harrison is a horny bastard all of the time."
"I've replaced vodka with sex," Harrison explained. "It's a fair trade, don't you think, Tom?"
"Yes," Tom replied as he leaned over and kissed Harrison. "It's a fair trade. I prefer you groveling at my feet instead of yelling and screaming at me."
"I hate to cut this short, guys," Daniel said. "I need to get to class so I can review my notes for a quiz."
"I'll see you in class tomorrow, Daniel," I said as he cleaned up his trash.
"Yes," Daniel replied. "Then, no more school for two days! Thanks for the workout guys. I really enjoy working out with you."
"Same here, Daniel," Sawyer replied.
After Daniel left, Sawyer scooted the seat Daniel vacated. "So, Sammie," Sawyer began. "You saw the marks on his back?"
"Yea," I replied.
"Is he into kinky sex?" Sawyer asked.
"I have no idea," I replied. "He looked tired, too."
"Maybe he got lucky," Harrison added.
"Maybe," I replied. I tried not to stick with the subject. "We are taking Donny for his six-month checkup. So, we need to move on."
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Chris and I were on autopilot Saturday morning. Mathew and Joshua changed and fed. Donny up and fed. Dogs doing what dogs do. We haven't seen Matilda and Rascal yet.
Chris and I finally sat at the kitchen island with coffee. "What real issue plagues Daniel?" Chris asked.
"I don't know," I replied. "He seems lonely. He's bright. He's personable. He's good looking. But, something other than his family haunts him. We shouldn't pry though. When he is ready, he will tell us."
"He seemed grateful for our invitation for him to workout with us," Chris added.
"He also enjoyed the twins," I explained. "Speaking of twins: Have you noticed they seem to talk with one another?"
"Yes," Chris replied. "Sometimes I think one of them is telling a joke to make the other twin laugh."
"I'm not certain of joke telling, but I see them laugh after one of them make's a certain sound," I replied. "If Donny can talk to cows, cats, and dogs, then I'm sure Mathew and Joshua can talk to each other."
As if on cue, Joshua and Mathew began wailing. Winthrop and Wallaby broke from the pack and began sniffing their respective twin.
"We are being summoned," Chris added as we both looked in on the boys.
As we picked them up from their blanket on the floor of the television area, they began smiling and kicking.
"You wanted attention, huh, guys?" I asked.
Mathew and Joshua smiled and kicked more. The dogs circled. Donny joined us.
"One big happy family, Sam," Chris said with a smile plastered across his face. "How does a walk sound?"
"Sure," I replied. "With or without dogs?"
All five of the dogs looked at me. Their tails stopped wagging. They stood transfixed on me.
"Okay! Okay! I get it," I said to the dogs. "You can come too."
We put Mathew and Joshua in their carriers which fit on the stroller side-by-side. Donny attached leashes to the five dogs. The cats appeared in the window with the sun beating down on them. They were not going anywhere.
"Lazy cats!" Chris said. Matilda looked at Chris. She was not a happy cat. "Sorry. I didn't really mean what I said."
Matilda put her head down again. We bundled up. We went out the door. Chris pushed the stroller. I held the dog's leash. Donny led the way.
"Nice sunny day," I said to Chris as we began our walk. "A little cool, but not bone numbing cold."
We continued our walk. Donny talked about the birds he saw. We stepped into the quad on campus and picked out a bench to sit and enjoy the sights. We were not the only ones who were out walking. The campus was abuzz with students.
I spotted Daniel walking with another guy. "Daniel!" I cried out.
Daniel turned in our direction and stood in the middle of the sidewalk. He seemed uncertain if he should talk with us. Finally, he and his friend moved in our direction.
"Hello, Daniel," I said. "Enjoying the day?"
"Yea," Daniel replied. "Nice fall day."
"Hi," Chris said to Daniel's friend. "I'm Chris and this is my husband, Sam."
"Hello," the guy replied. "I'm Frank. Nice to meet you both."
The situation felt awkward.
"We need to be on our way," Daniel replied. "I'll see you on Monday, Sam."
"For sure," I added. "Will you have time on Monday to finish our project?"
"Absolutely," Daniel replied. "I'm busy this weekend, but next week is concentrated on classes."
"Terrific," I said.
"Plan on having dinner with us, too," Chris added. "Donny will have cow, dog, and cat conversations to explain, I am sure."
"Looking forward to it," Daniel replied. He smiled for the first time since we saw him.
After Daniel and his friend Frank were out of earshot, I turned to Chris. "Something was bothering Daniel. He seemed so uneasy."
"His friend seemed older," Chris added. "A lot older. I think you need to put on your detective hat when you are with Daniel next."
"Why?" I asked.
"Marks on his back," Chris began. "Daniel's friend had a black leather motorcycle jacket. Extremely distressed jeans with a black handkerchief in his left rear pocket."
"Meaning?" I asked.
"Black handkerchief in the left rear pocket is synonymous with an S&M top," Chris replied.
"Oh!" I responded. "Do you think Daniel is into kink?"
"I don't know," Chris replied. "Detective hat. Monday afternoon."
"Got it," I replied. "I suddenly feel extremely lucky I found you, Chris. Daniel looked... He looked broken today."
"Detective Williamson," Chris began. "Your job, should you decide to take it, is to find the straw which broke the camel's back."
"Do you feel okay, Chris," I responded. "You seem a little flaky this morning."
"Watch it, Sam," Chris replied. "I'll withhold you know what!"
"Won't happened, Chris," I said. "You'd be the one going nuts."
To be continued...
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. I hope you liked the direction that `Sam and Chris' is taking. I've heard from many people and would like to hear from even more. I would enjoy hearing your comments about this story. You can write to me at MaWriterBoy@yahoo.com.
This is my 6th posting of my first story on Nifty.org.
I also have three other stories on Nifty
John's Journey Forward in the `Beginnings' section
Jeffery Comes Home in the `Beginnings' section
Life With Tim in the authoritarian section (Please note, this story is not for everyone because there are several scenes depicting Master/slave and BDSM relationships. So, if you are not interested in this activity, please, please do not read this story.)
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Daniel
Rupert
Trying to write a character to fit him.