Date: Mon, 19 Sep 2005 01:10:09 -0700 From: Jim Cook Subject: my life story in as "FEW WORDS" as possible, Chapter #5, Brandenguger Tor--part 2 My Life Story,in as Few Words as Possible By Jim Cook THIS STORY IS COPYRIGHTED, AND IS NOT TO BE COPIED, REPRINTED,OR OTHERWISE DISPERSED WITHOUT EXPRESS WRITTEN PERMISSION DISCLAIMER: THIS STORY IS TRUE, AND ONLY A FEW OF THE LAST NAMES ARE MADE UP. (AS I HAVE FORGOTTEN THEM) IF YOU ARE UNDER AGE (18) PLEASE LEAVE NOW CHAPTER 5 BRANDENBUGER TOR (BRANDENBURG GATE) (*BERLIN*) PART # 2 Knowing I had to wait until all the passengers had disembarked, I lit a cigarette and tried being patient. Leaning against the clock post watching the last of the passengers go past, I was taken by surprise when an arm slipped around my neck and I received a moist kiss on the cheek. Turning I gazed into those sparkling eyes, I had missed. The grin on Heinz's face was ear to ear. "Du hast auf mich gewartet, (You waited for me)" Heinz almost jumping up and down shouted. This time it was my turn to have misty eyes. Slipping my arms around him I squeezed in a mighty bear hug, saying "Oh, I missed you, Heinz". I almost shouted. Shocking the hell out of me, Heinz gave me a quick peck on the lips....ON THE LIPS, In Public, Damn. As he pulled back I saw his eyes were a little misty too. "Ich habe dich, zu viel verpasst (I have missed you, so much),...I missed you, so much, Jim". A little embarrassed, I quickly looked around to see if anyone saw the kiss. With a smile and a chuckle Heinz said, "Oh Jim, you worry too much, here it's alright...people do it all the time". "Come to my hotel tonight, we can get you to your place tomorrow Please, Heinz please?" I asked, my eyes begging. "Yes, yes after the last two days apart from you, I need you near me" Heinz added, grabbing his bag with one hand and me with the other. All the way back to the hotel, I felt as if I were dancing on air. Entering the lobby, Helmut looked up saying "Ah....Herr Cook, I see you have found your friend"? "We were worried he wouldn't recognize you in your new clothes, you looking so German..." Manny chimed in (tongue in cheek), giggling. "What, you bought new clothes...?" Heinz asked, stepping back a bit. Holding my arms up I did a half turn, then blushed, realizing what I'd just done. Scooping me up in his arms lifted me off the floor and spun us both around, saying "Meine kleine deutsche, du.....(My little German, you)" All of us broke up laughing. "I would know YOU....anywhere" Heinz winked, lightly smacking me on the butt. "Ok, Ok, upstairs with that stuff", Manny chided. Heinz picked up his bag, as we headed towards the elevator. "Haben sie spass.....(Have fun)" Helmut called after us. I no sooner had opened my room door, than Heinz dropped his bag and took my breath away with deep tongue kiss. This was the first REAL kiss we've ever shared. As my toes curled, I returned his kiss. We tongue wrestled a few minutes, before coming up for air. Taking him by the hand, I led Heinz over to the bed. As I sat down, I pulled him down next to me. This time I kissed him... Passionately. Pushing me back on the bed, Heinz began to kiss and nibble my neck. Moving his right hand to my chest, his finger manipulated my nipple through my shirt, while his left worked its way to the inside of my thigh, gently moving his fingers in small circles. My breathing came in short gasps; I could feel my body trembling slightly. "Wait, slowly, slowly..."I begged, trying to sit up and catch my breath. "Easy, fella, easy", I added, sliding my hand across his chest, as he laid looking up smiling. "Time out, how about a cigarette?" I asked, offering him one. Rising, Heinz went over to his bag on the floor, and fished out a bottle. "How about a brandy" he asked, coming out of the bathroom carrying two glasses. Offering one to me, he sat back down. Moving the ashtray over to the bed, I placed it between us, resting my cigarette in it before taking a sip of the brandy. My eyes wandered over Heinz's body, ending with his beautiful blue-green eyes. "You, like?" Heinz smiled. At being caught admiring him, I turned a couple of shades of red. Placing my hand on his leg, and slowly moving up, I answered "Oh, Yes" Leaning in close Heinz's tongue sensuously circled my lips, tasting the brandy that lingered there. If I were made of chocolate, I would have melted. Slowly, seductively, Heinz's fingers moved over my chest lingering on my nipples. Ahhhh... a low moan, almost inaudible, escaped me. Imperceptibly, at first, my body began to writhe under his touch. As my hand moved onto his family jewels, Heinz's tongue gently entered my ear, along with his warm breath. Heinz is as, I thought, very well endowed. Even through the fabric his size was astonishing. I consider my self rather well hung, having eight and a quarter inches, but; Heinz's bulge, when reveled, I'm sure will put me to shame. Easing Heinz over onto his back, my mouth covered his, as my hands discovered his well firm formed chest. Undoing the buttons on his shirt one by one, I slipped my hand inside. His nipples were standing hard and firm. The short gasps escaping his lips, as my tongue flicked his nipple, told me he was at my mercy. My hands holding his arms above his head, allowed me to tongue bathe Heinz's smooth hairless chest paying special attention to his hard nipples. Working my way down his treasure trail to the waistband of his briefs, I released one arm enabling me to lower the zipper and undo the button on his slacks. Once freed his bulge twitched and expanded even more. I nibbled at the huge hunk of meat through the fabric of his blue bikini briefs. The wet spot at the end of his cock continued to dampen an ever widening area in his bikinis. Lowering the waistband and wedging it under his rather heavy balls, his cock sprang to attention. Before I could catch myself, I gasp "Oh...Damn...." I was right, his well over nine plus inches and so fat my fingers wouldn't close around it, out did mine. Any foreskin, was gone, stretched taught. His ivory tower stood tall leaking precum, the flow spreading down to those magnificent balls of his. As I ever so slowly lowered my mouth over the head of his cock, I savored his taste. The undulating of his hips was accompanied by moans of pleasure. Pressure from his palm on the back of my neck, caused his cock to lodge in the back of my throat. Even though he was embedded deep in my throat, I was still unable to take all of him. I felt as though his fist were down my throat. As I surfaced for air, Heinz drew me up onto his chest, and covered my lips with his. "Oh Jim, this is better than I thought, or hoped it would be", Heinz whispered between kisses. "I'm so glad we waited" Heinz sighed. Sitting up next to each other, I gently slipped his shirt down off his shoulders, as he removed his arms from the sleeves. Naked from the waist up, his skin seemed aglow, he was even more handsome than I remembered, and better built than I could have imagined. After disrobing each other in a very sensuous way, one piece of clothing at a time, we fell naked onto the bed rapped in each others arms. Even though I was sure Heinz must be exhausted, having just finished his shift aboard the TEE, you would never have known it. We wrestled and played with each other until the wee hours of the morning. Finally falling asleep spooned up against one another. With him snuggled up to me and his gentle nibbling on my neck, I drifted off contented. Failing once again to remember to close the thick drapes, all too early, sunlight spread across the bed warming our sleeping bodies. Having reversed our positions sometime during the night I awoke cuddled to Heinz's sexy backside. Ever so softly kissing the back of Heinz's neck, not intending to awaken him, I reminisced about our passion filled night. Lost in thought, Heinz's gentle stirrings went unnoticed until he slipped his fingers around my erect penis. "Guten morgen, meine liebe" (good morning my love) Heinz whispered. "Go back to sleep, Heinz, it's too early for you to get up" I whispered back, kissing his neck. Untangling myself from him, I got out of bed and drew the drapes. Then quietly, I returned to cuddle. "Thank you, liebe" He said. As he gently nestled his cute bare butt against my manhood, he slipped back into the Land of Nod. The breakfast chimes went unheard, as we slept peacefully. Hearing a siren outside the window, I slowly and carefully withdrew my arm from under Heinz's head and looked at my watch. Oh Damn, it's two forty five in the afternoon. Getting up quietly I made my way to the bathroom for a healthy pee. Drained but satisfied, I stepped into the shower. Even though I really felt like singing, after last night, I tried my best to keep the noise to a minimum. Eyes closed as I shampooed, I was taken by surprise as two hands found my soapy nipples. Startled I dropped the bottle of shampoo, good thing it's in a plastic bottle. "Why didn't you wake me, I wanted to shower with you" Heinz playfully pouted. Eyes still closed, due to the soap, I felt my way to... and grabbed Heinz's balls giving a gentle squeeze. "Oooo...Ouch" he laughed, wiggling his hips. As the warm spray rinsed the soap off, I opened m eyes to see Heinz's cock standing at attention. "Good morning Big Boy" I said, giving his cock a couple of strokes. Taking turns lathering each other, we washed and played. After dressing Heinz offered me a cigarette as we sat on the bed. "Maybe I shouldn't say this, Heinz, but; I missed you". "I know that we just met, and you were only gone two days, although; it seemed sooo much longer", I said, then added, "And yet I feel as though I've known you already for a long time". With the end of my "True Confession", I grabbed a glass from last night still containing some cognac and took a sip. "No Please, Jim, I've wanted to tell you same thing, but; I didn't know what to say, or how to say it... without turning you off, or...scaring you off", Heinz blushed. Leaning over I pushed him back on the bed, as our lips met in a very sensual kiss. "Ok guy, time to get you home" I sighed. "Will you be gone long, please say no" I begged. "Ah, no you don't, you are coming with...no excuses" Heinz scowled, as if I was trying to get out of going with him. Really, I was just making sure he wanted me to tag along, and not just being polite. As if to emphasize his point, he grabbed my hand pulling me up from the bed towing me toward the door. "Ok, ok, I'm coming" I laughed, as he opened the door to leave pulling me along. Downstairs standing behind the front desk, both Manny and Helmut had what I can only describe as "Shit Eating Grins" spread across their faces. "Guten Tag" (Good day) they chimed together. Chuckling I turned to Heinz who was beet red. Seeing this, the 'Twin Queens' broke up giggling. Heinz of course was not amused. He said a few choice German words to them, which I didn't understand. Causing both Manny and Helmut to halt the giggling and straighten up. Witnessing all this I broke out laughing. As I continued laughing, Heinz gave a broad grin and began to laugh too. We were soon joined by Helmut and Manny. "Yes we had a very, very good time last night" I stated, causing even more laughter. "OK, enough guys" I chuckled, grabbing Heinz by the arm, tugging him toward the door. "Wiedersehen" (See you again) Helmut and Manny chorused. Outside on the street Heinz said, "We'll go over to the train station and get taxi to my place; it's across town, too far to walk". Thinking to myself, as I watched Heinz walking up the street carrying his bag, day after tomorrow he'll be getting ready to go off again. Feeling a little sorry for myself, I was brought back to reality by Heinz yelling, "Come on slow poke, and catch up". Scooting up beside him, I slipped my arm around his waist. Smiling he mouthed a quick kiss, asking "What you thinking, Jim, you seem kind of down?" "Oh, nothing just...you're going to be leaving again" I sighed. "Hey, I still have some time off, and when I get back the next time I'll have a lot of time free. And it's only a two day trip next time. Won't be so bad Jim, but; ....I'm glad you'll miss me", he smiled, trying to cheer me up. Giving him a slight squeeze, I smiled back, deciding to make the best of the time we had left. Sitting in the taxi's back seat watching the city go by out the window, my hand on the seat, I felt his hand slide over and cover mine. "What are we going to do tonight?" turning to him I asked. "Well...hmmm, what would you like to do, Jim, after all this is your first time in Berlin" he questioned, patting my hand. Quietly thinking a moment it came to me, yeah, "I want to take you out to dinner, the place I have in mind is nice, and romantic. I hope you haven't been there before. Well, even if you have, I enjoyed it, and it seemed very romantic to me". "Oh, where is it, what's the name of it?" Heinz pried. "I think I'll surprise you, but; You've probably been there, after all you live here in Berlin" I determined. Before Heinz could question me further the cab pulled to the curb and stopped. The building, at least on the outside, looked new and appeared to have quiet a few floors. A set of double glass doors were flanked on both sides by slot mailboxes complete with access buzzers. Taking out his keys about to open the door, a short stout grey haired lady, coming out, opened the door and spoke to Heinz in German. Giving the lady a hug and a kiss on the cheek, Heinz continued the brief conversation as he held open the door for me, and waved goodbye to her. "Aufwiedersehen", he called after her. "That's Frau Meier; she lives across the hall from me and my dad. She kind of watches the place while we're not there. Stepping from the elevator on the fifth floor, Heinz led the way down the corridor to his apartment. Once inside my jaw dropped, seeing the spaciousness of the handsomely furnished living room. If I had to pick a style I would say "Danish Modern". Glass topped tables, chrome floor lamps, oriental rugs of different sizes scattered around the room. "Oh Wow, Heinz, this place looks fantastic. Blushing a little, but; grinning ear to ear, "You like it Jim?" Heinz beamed. "Very, very, cool Heinz, this place is great. After this, (waving my arm around) I Can't wait to see your room." Crossing the living room, I caught sight of the kitchen and dining area off to the left. Down a short hallway was the bathroom, and next to it Heinz opened the door to his room. Although much, much, smaller the room was just as nicely done. Danish modern styled, yet warm and inviting. Soft pastel yellows with brown and beige's mixed throughout the room, chrome accents finished things off. Tossing his bag on the bed, he turned and gave me peck on the lips, asking "Well, this is my sanctuary. What do you think?" "Trade you my hotel room, but; you'll owe me for the breakfasts" I jokingly offered. "How long have you and your dad had this apartment? Everything seems so new", I asked admiring his room. "A little over a year ago, we moved here, leaving behind a very small one bedroom apartment. I was really happy to get out of that place, I had to sleep on the couch." His smile fading to a frown. "Your dad is he around, or is he out of town?" I questioned. "Nah, he's gone till the end of next week. I'm almost sure, let me check" Heinz said getting up. Returning from the room across the hall... "He's gone, suitcases too, I'm pretty sure until Saturday after next". Heinz continued giving me the grand tour ending up in the kitchen. "Can I get you something to eat or maybe a cold drink", Heinz asked playing the good host. "No, no thanks, hmmm well, maybe a beer would taste good, have any?" "Let me check, should be...here?" "Ah, yes, a whole case" with that Heinz grabbed a couple and set them on the table. Going to the cupboard, he returned with two beer glasses. After opening a bottle, he poured us each some. "Prost" he added, clinking our glasses together. "Heinz, I don't like asking, but; I need to. Will you stay with me at the hotel? I know you haven't been home in awhile, and it's Ok if you don't want to It's, it's just that I don't want to be away from you, that's all." I pleaded, trying to show him my best puppy-dog eyes. "You could stay here, with me", he questioned. "All my stuff is at the hotel, and day after tomorrow you'll be leaving again, Damn it" trying to offer my best excuse for staying at the hotel, although I wouldn't really mind staying here at his great place. "But; all my things are here," he whined, chuckling. His attempt at whining, broke us both up laughing. "Ah, but; your bag is already packed", I offered. "Ok, Ok, I give up" Heinz playfully pouted. "And besides I'm taking you to dinner, and the restaurant is near my hotel", I retorted. "Alright just let me repack my bag, with clean clothes, and I'll call us a taxi", he kissed my cheek, and headed for his bedroom. While watching his firm cute butt move away from me, I finished my beer. Wearing fresh clothes, and looking very handsome I might add, plus having repacked his bag. Heinz called a taxi. Gathering his gear, we took our time going downstairs to wait for the cab. Darkness was descending as we reached the hotel. After a quick trip upstairs to change my clothes and drop off Heinz's bag we were on our way to dinner. Trying to throw him off the track, in case he knew the restaurant I was headed for. I walked him the opposite way around the block, instead of going straight to the club and up the street to the HoffBrau Haus. As we walked I could tell Heinz was totally confused as to our destination. Thinking little mean thoughts, I pondered the idea of even going up and around another block before heading to the restaurant, thinking it would put him way, way off our true destination. Nah, that would be just a little bit too mean I thought to myself, chuckling I decided against doing it. "What's so funny, what are you thinking about, Jim?" he asked, looking puzzled. "Oh nothing really, just wondering if I've thrown you off track as to where I'm taking you?" I snickered. "I'd say yes, I'm at a loss as to where you're taking me" Heinz said, coming up and slipping his arm around my waist. Up and around the next corner found us standing in front of the HoffBrau Haus. "Heinz, Please tell me you haven't been here before?" I begged. "Well now, I...I'd like to say that Jim, but;" his eyes teasing me. "No, I haven't been here Jim, But; I've wanted to come here, does that count?" he laughingly chided me. "You little shit," I laughed, while trying to grab and tickle him. Quickly pulling open the door and dashing inside, he stayed just out of reach. As luck would have it, the same table I had before was available, so I asked to be seated there. Once we were seated, Heinz reached under the table and gave my knee a gentle squeeze, saying "Very, very nice Jim and you're right it is romantic". "I think so too, that's why I so much wanted to bring you here", I whispered across to Heinz. Instead of ordering my usual beer, even though I love German beer, I asked Heinz to order a nice wine. He ordered a light white wine he said would go great with our meal. Having really enjoyed what I had before, I ordered the Jagerschnitzel. Heinz had Sauerbratten, with a side of Kartoffelsalat (German Potato salad). Taking our time we both enjoyed the meal. Almost two hours later we were finishing our coffee and cigarettes. With a cognac and very pleasant conversation, plus a little hand holding under the table, we tried to think of what we wanted to do later. Way too full to even consider going dancing, yet. We decided to go for a nice walk, in the warm evening air. Our stroll ended up on Ku-Damm strasse. Stopping at an outdoor Caf‚ we had an ice cream and an espresso. We sat watching the street full of people, wandering to and fro. We even saw a lot of same sex couples holding hands, gay? We could only guess. Being as, straight same sex couples here hold hands as well, and think nothing of it. With another cigarette we finished our coffee and continued to wander Berlin by night. As our evening walk took me further and further from any landmarks I recognized, I had to admit I was lost. Good thing Heinz knew Berlin like the back of his hand, for both our sakes. Thirty minutes and quite a few blocks later Heinz stopped in front of a rather inconspicuous doorway. Not knowing what was up, I was taken by surprise when he opened the door and pulled me inside. Even before my eyes became accustomed to the dim surroundings, the music told me we must be in some sort of a club. "Where are we, what club is this?" I quizzed. Slipping his arm in mine, "Come" he whispered, leading me toward the music. The end of darkened hall opened into a small but cozy lounge with a curved bar at the other end of the room. The club was without a dance floor, only a lone juke box in the corner played softly. Even as subdued as this place was, I found it warm and relaxing. "What's the name of this place? I like it", I asked, walking toward the bar, with Heinz in tow. "Chez Mann, I know it's kind of small, but; intimate, I think". A smiling Heinz quipped. A slightly older woman, maybe late forties, with shoulder length blond hair came toward us, arms out stretched. "Heinz, Heinz, Liebschen" the woman yelled, as she hugged Heinz. "Ah, Nina, Du bist meine Liebschen", (You are my lover one) Heinz spoke, as he returned the warm embrace. "Nina, this is my friend Jim", Heinz said turning to me. "Jim, sprechen sie Deutsch?" (Do you speak German?) Nina asked, extending her hand. "Nur einige, aber ich lerne" (Only some, but I'm learning) I replied in German. "Heinz, your friend speaks very good German, did you teach him?" Nina asked, putting her arm around Heinz. "Well I have tried, but; we seem to spend most of our time learning French....." Laughing Heinz, wiggled his tongue at me. Nina chuckled, and I blushed as Heinz slipped an arm around Nina and me, herding us toward the bar. After the bartender placed our two beers in font of us, and before Heinz could retrieve his money. Nina nodded to the barman, and he withdrew with out accepting any money. "Enjoy, enjoy boy's" Nina said, patting us on the shoulder, as she left to greet another incoming patron. "Danke (thanks), Nina" we replied, almost in unison. "She seems very nice, Heinz" I said, nodding in Nina's direction. "Nina is like a second mother to me" Heinz said, squeezing my knee. "She's like a mother hen, and I'm one of her favorite chicks" he added. The time seemed to pass quickly, too quickly. Before we knew it, the bartender was calling last call. "Rufen sie mich ein taxi, bitte(Call me a taxi, please)" Heinz asked the bartender. Unable to let it pass, "Du, bist ein Taxi.....(You're... a Taxi)" I smirked, tapping Heinz on the chest with my finger. Looking into the eyes of utter bewilderment, I was sure my attempt at humor had gone over Heinz's head. Ah, but then at last moment, a gleam in his eye along with a grin, told me he had picked up on my little joke. "Don't forget to put money in my meter, when we get home" he snickered, with a gentle smack on my ass. We did not have to wait very long before a taxi pulled up, just in front of the door. As Heinz held the door open, I slipped inside. Even at this late hour, you could see people still milling about on the streets. After I flipped on the lights, Heinz closed the drapes. As I bounced down on the bed, Heinz began removing his clothes. Propping myself up with a pillow, I watched as he performed a slow sensual strip. I indulged my ever hardening penis, by gently sliding my hand over it through my pants. Bending over to remove his slacks, one leg at a time, he made sure to wiggle his cute firm bottom in my direction. Quickly before he turned, I withdrew a five mark bill and stuffed it into the back of his underwear. "Is that enough money for your meter?" I teased. Wiggling that cute ass, he turned his head and grinned. Pulling the bill out, he curled his lips into a pout. "Only five marks, not more" he whined. Moving fast I pulled down his briefs, and smacked his taught behind. "Ouch..." he yelped, flopping back down on the bed. He finished removing his clothes, tossing them on the floor. On his back, spread eagle he smiled a devilish grin. Rubbing his thumb and fingers against each other rapidly, "Ich bin teuer, viel mehr als funf markierungen (I am expensive, much more than five marks)", he stated wiggling his eye brows. Tossing my whole wallet at him, I worked my way up between his out stretched legs. Holding up my wallet, and jiggling it in the air, "Besser (better)..." he snickered, giggling. Reaching his cock, I sensually slipped my lips over the head, and slowly went down until my nose was buried in his pubic hair. With a mouth full of cock, I chomped down....hard, but not too hard. "Ow...Ow Frei, frei... kostet kein geld... (Free, free...costs no money)" Heinz yelling, grabbed my head. We both broke up in a fit of laughter. I kissed my way up his torso, giving each nipple a soft tongue bath. With a low moan, we ground our lips together. My tongue slipped easily into Heinz's willing mouth, as his hand found my stiff dick. Taking my cue I fondled his wet and leaking meat. The palm of my hand, coated with precum, circled the head of his cock. His squirming and groaning, told me he was enjoying my ministrations. Switching around, we fell into a perfect sixty-nine. There was a concert of sucking noises. With my finger, I gently probed Heinz's tightly closed pucker. The more I fingered, the more relaxed he became. Slowly, little by little I introduced my finger to Heinz. With the insertion of the last knuckle, I hit his love button. After only a couple of strokes of the prostate, Heinz shook, moaned, and filled my hungry mouth with his nectar. Sliding his cock into my throat, he continued pumping cum down my gullet. Feeling his manhood expand as each surge of cum shot from his cock, I accompanied each with a low moan. Lost in the throws of his climax, I realized I had forgotten to breathe. Coming up off his cock, his last couple squirts fill my mouth to over flowing. Being able to breathe, I was also able to taste. Savoring his salty- sweet fluid, I released my own onto Heinz's waiting tongue. Holding him firmly, I rabbit fucked his mouth as my cum flowed from me into him. Slurping from the tip of my dick, Heinz drank all I offered. His relentless suckling on the head of my dick drove me wild. Settling slowly back down to earth, we both regretted having climaxed so quickly. Our intention, well at least mine, was to take our time before getting our nut off. A bit disappointed that we were not going to fuck, at least not just now. We cuddled up and kissed a little, before letting sleep over take us. "Wake up....come on cutie...wake up, and have some coffee" I spoke softly, kissing his ear. I had already decided to be as up beat as possible. In less than four hours Heinz would be aboard his T E E, speeding his way toward Paris. The last, almost two days, had flown by. Until last night, neither of us had brought up the subject of his upcoming trip, then only briefly. None the less it had loomed in my mind, as our time together grew shorter and shorter. We spent our days sightseeing and the nights, Ah...the nights, (I chuckled to myself) in bed having unbridled sex. My dick was even sore, and that has never happened before. I guess there are some things that even a strapping eighteen year old can't help. My body trying to tell me to take a break, or at the very least slow down some, made me think that our separation may not be such an adverse thing after all. Although, ...damn I'll miss him. "Morgen, Liebling (morning darling)" Heinz whispered, his groggy eyes slowly opening. Even first thing in the morning, he was still very handsome. His blonde hair askew, even needing a shave, in no way diminished his good looks. "Hey handsome" I smiled. "Want some coffee" offering him a cup. With a sleepy smile, he accepted the coffee. Propping himself up on his elbow, he took a sip. I was thankful now that he had shown me how to operate the coffeemaker, before going to bed. This morning, while waiting for the coffee to finish. I wandered about his apartment. He and his father's place was not only very nicely done, but; also had an air of modern masculinity about it. Chrome, glass, and burnished bronze, all coordinated, helped emphasize the manliness of the d‚cor. Having only spent last night here, I was sorry now that I hadn't let Heinz talk me into staying here back when he first tried. Dumb ass me, I really missed out. And now he was leaving. "Want to share a shower?" he asked, gently pinching my nipple, adding "Then I'll whip together a little fruhstuck (breakfast), Ok?" Leaning up he licked the nipple he had been toying with. How could I refuse such an offer? Although feeling refreshed and awake from the shower, we sat in silence as we ate. Maybe a better description would be, we sat quietly, using our forks to push food around on our plates. Neither he nor I were really hungry, knowing that at two this afternoon we would be parted. I knew that sometime between now and two this afternoon, he would ask the one question. The one we had both been avoiding. What about "Us", what's going to happen, or not happen, as far as we're concerned? I knew from the occasional soft smiled glance, what worried his mind, our minds. This is where he lives, day to day. Berlin is where he works and even plays. Unlike Heinz, my time here is limited, all too limited. At some point in time I will be returning home, to California. For what was to be simply good time in Europe, suddenly things had become very involved and complicated. Yes, I do have strong feelings for Heinz. More or stronger than I had for Hans, in Frankfurt? And even if I do, where...where is all this headed? Gawd...what have I gotten myself into? I'm not here to set up housekeeping, I'm on vacation. I'm here to see Europe. "You know...I'll be gone quite awhile, this time" he said, snapping me back to the here and now. Adding, "Well...ten days, anyway". Almost afraid to look in his eyes, I kept my gaze fixed on my plate. The silence was deafening. I know I needed to say something, anything, but what? Do I say what I knew he wanted to hear. Or tell him what I must, what we both knew to be the truth. Care for him, maybe even love him, I did. However, I'm here to see Europe, and see it I will. Even though it may be with a heavy heart, for awhile. As yet unable to say anything, taking my hand I lifted his chin and softly kissed his lips. Gazing into his eyes, "You know I care...maybe even love you, and if you were able to come with me....maybe then...maybe we..." he cut me off before I could finish. "No...no, you must go...travel, see...and do...maybe then...?" he paused. With a longing, maybe even hope, he met my gaze, continuing "I knew, you knew...this time would come..., Just say...you won't forget me" he sighed, eyes red, and damp. "I...I promise... (I'll see you again)..." I started to say, but; he placed his fingers to my lips, and hushed me. "Shhh...No don't ...don't make a promise....a promise you might not be able to keep" he said quietly, a faint week smile crossed his face, before he averted his eyes. A sad stillness permeated the room. We finished picking at our food, not a word being spoken. After what seemed like an eternity, Heinz rose from the table. Smiling, he picked up our plates, and moved toward the sink. Pausing and turning back to me, he asked, "Would you mind cleaning these up, while I go and start packing? ......You will remember me, won't you?" a single tear, slipped down his cheek. With a slight smile, I nodded slowly, in the affirmative. Even with a few attempts being made at humor, the morning passed in relative quiet. When I finished cleaning up the kitchen, I moved into the living room and sat on the couch. Picking up a magazine to peruse through, I waited for Heinz to return from his bedroom, after he completed his packing. I took note of the time, ten after one, less than an hour before he must be on board. Sure that he must have over looked the time, I walked to his partially closed bedroom door. With my hand I slowly pushed the door open, revealing what appeared to be an already packed suitcase sitting on the bed. As the door swung fully open, I glimpsed Heinz calmly sitting, gazing from an open window. Crossing the room, I placed my hand lightly on his shoulder. He tilted his head, resting his cheek on my hand. Taking a slow deep breath, he looked up. "I guess it's getting to be that time, huh ?" making a frail attempt at a grin. Deciding that the best way to have a bit more time together, we left earlier than necessary. Affording us time to sit and say our farewells over coffee in the terminal. Although the T E E to Paris didn't leave until three fifteen, Heinz needed to be aboard an hour before the train's departure. After two coffees, and smoking a few cigarettes, we made our way over to his train's platform, track # nine. The T E E looked so majestic, long, clean and sleek. Off white, almost a cream color, with the red strip running the entire length of the train, gave it a classic appearance. Needing a minute to go on board and stow his luggage away, I was left standing once again under the clock. Maybe a different clock on a different post, but; none the less a clock, I had to chuckle. Watching him emerge from the train, he looked so handsome in his uniform. That blonde hair peeking out from under his hat, with those blue green eyes, only added to his rugged good looks. The sadness his face had carried the last few hours seemed almost gone. Yes, keeping busy would be the best thing for him. A shame I had nothing to occupy my time, at least for awhile. "Are you still going on to Rome, then?" he asked, forcing a bit of a smile. "Couldn't get you to go to Paris instead, could I? (He chuckled)" "No...no, wouldn't work, I'm only there a few hours. Verdammt (Damn)...Jim, I'm going to miss you" he said, pulling me into a firm hug. "Heinz, this is not forever. I'll be back, we'll meet again..." I tried explaining. "I know..., I know, I believe.... I need... to believe you will come back to Berlin." He whispered in my ear, before breaking the embrace. Stepping back, he retrieved an envelope from his jacket pocket. "Here Jim," he said, "Read this please,....but later, after I'm gone". He added, placing the sealed letter in my hand. And for the first time in hours he smiled, really smiled. "I'm glad to see you smile, you're much better looking when you do." I tried teasing. "Well, it's time to go back on board, I need to set up and get ready for dinner, before we pull out." Heinz stated, with a wink. Taking my hands in his, he kissed my cheek, giving my hands a gentle squeeze. Then he turned, and was gone. From the open dinning car doorway, he waved. I returned the wave, before turning to leave. Knowing it would be an hour before the T E E left, I debated whether to stay and see him pull out, or just leave him to his work, and go back to the hotel. Deep down I knew there was no question, I would wait. With his letter in hand, I decided to go and have another cup of coffee, maybe read his letter. Although the little caf‚ area in the station appeared almost full, I managed to find a small table off by itself. A young Italian looking guy took my order and left me alone with my letter. Even though Heinz asked me to wait to read it, until he had departed. My mental struggle ended with me unsealing the envelope. Mein Liebling Jim (My Darling Jim), You told me; you thought 'Maybe', you loved me. Well you see, I Know.... Ich Liebe Dich (I Love You). I think I knew when I saw you waiting for me on the platform when I returned. Oh I know it's only been a few days that we have shared, but; never in my life have I felt this way about anyone.... "Kaffee, mein Herr (coffee, Sir)" the waiter said, placing the cup down. "Bitte (Please)" I replied, Handing him a five Mark piece. "Gut, Danke (Good, Thanks)" letting him know to keep the change. After stirring in a little sugar, and taking a sip, the letter continued. ......Oh, I will not say that there have not been other guys in my life, but; NEVER... did one of them make me feel, or even come close, to the way I feel about you. I realize this all sounds crazy, it even seems crazy to me, Jim. Last night after you were asleep, I woke up. Why, I don't know. After watching you sleep for awhile, I came to realize that tomorrow we would be parted. For just how long, I do not know. I can only hope. I decided to put down on paper, what my heart feels. Jim, I need for you to know, I do love you. I do not mean to weigh you down with all this. That's why I'll wait to give this to you until I am leaving. I have now only half a soul, I gave the other half to you. Please don't forget me, I Love You....Heinz I sat quietly lost in the note, having read it a several times. My moist eyes, made checking my watch difficult. Three o'clock straight up. Taking a last swig of my coffee, I headed back for track nine. With a ten minute stroll, I arrived with minutes to spare. Nearing the dinning car, I could see Heinz moving about inside. This time instead of placing vases of flowers on the tables, it appeared he was setting a fancily folded napkin on each plate. His back to me, he was engaged in a conversation. With what might be his supervisor, I of course didn't know for sure. It seemed like an hour, but; in reality only minutes, before their little chat ended and the person left. Stepping up to a window near Heinz, I tapped lightly with my finger. Damn, he can't hear it. Then using my knuckle, I rap a bit harder. Looking in the direction the sound my knuckles were making on the glass, he flashed me a wide grin. He motioned for me to move down to the still partially open service door of the dining car. Peering up into the opening, Heinz moved into view. "My heart thanks you, Jim, for waiting" he said, leaning down to me. "I'm very happy to be able to see you again in these last minutes" he added, coming so close I could feel his breath. It was as if I willed it to happen, I leaned in. He quickly glanced around, before giving me a hurried peck on the lips. As if on cue, the god of trains having been appeased by a single kiss, the T E E began moving. Standing up, Heinz mouthed the words "Ich Liebe Dich (I Love You)" before pulling his head back from the doorway. Down the track I glimpsed a hand waving, before the service door slid closed. I found myself waving long after the track was empty. I stopped only when I remembered my still moving hand in the air. That hand still clutching the letter from Heinz. In quiet solace, feeling I'd lost my best friend, I made my way out of the station. Walking back to the hotel, my mind replayed the events of the last few days. By the time I entered the lobby, I came to the only conclusion I could. Nothing could've been done to change things. My Rail pass having already been stamped, would expire in a little over two months. These passes are only available outside of Europe, like in the US, and are only for tourists. I could ill afford to pay my living expenses and buy train tickets to travel. The question was really very simple, was I going to fulfill my dream of touring Europe, or not. And he and I both knew and understood the answer. Feeling lucky, because; the hotel lobby was deserted, I went up to my room. I wasn't in the mood to engage in any conversations, especially where Manny or Helmut were concerned. Anyway at least not right now. Although only a little before four, I felt exhausted. Stretching out on the bed, I closed my eyes, hoping to descend into the darkness of asleep. I awoke in a pitch black room, with no idea of the time. Rolling over I turned on the bedside lamp. It was eight thirty five, and if I wanted dinner I needed to get a move on. Taking off my clothes, which I had fallen asleep in, I jumped in the bath. Having taken less than an hour to bathe and change, I headed out even though my hair was still a little damp. Down stairs I cornered Manny long enough to ring up for a Taxi. The huge bright red neon letters took up the whole front of the building, CHINA HAUS. The restaurant appeared very up scale. After paying the Taxi, I slipped the little paper that Jorge had giving me in Amsterdam, with Andy's address and phone number on it back in my wallet. Opening the front door, I noticed that they served until ten. I had been worried that I might have been too late for dinner. "Gutten Abend, mein Herr (Good Evening, sir)" a Chinese man looking to be in his early thirties stated smiling. "Yes, Good evening, I hope it's not too late for dinner" I asked, returning his smile. "No...not at all, we don't stop serving until ten, would you care for dinner then?" he replied in perfect English, and I mean British-English, which took me totally by surprise. "Yes, thank you, I would." I told him, following him to a small table off to one side. Pulling out my chair, he handed me a menu after I was seated. "I'll give you a few minutes then. If you have any questions, I'll be more than happy to explain anything on the menu you don't understand" he said, before leaving. For an older guy, he looked pretty good. The menu was good sized, and when opened almost filled the top of the table. I must have used up all my 'Pondering Time', for I noticed the guy had come up and was looking over my shoulder. "I guess I'll have the number #2 dinner. I said, handing back the menu. "Ah, the Duck, one of my favorites, and it's especially good tonight I think" he said, apparently approving of my choice. Quite the salesman, I chuckled to myself, watching him disappear through the kitchen doors. Was this guy Andy, the owner, or just the head waiter? After what Jorge told me about Andy, I could see where this could possibly be him. It was just a little before ten, and only two other tables were occupied. This fairly good size restaurant, with its many tables was almost deserted. As I put out my cigarette, he reappeared carrying a tray. Holding the tray with one hand he flipped out the legs of a tray stand, and placed the tray on it. The tray was filled with a variety of dishes of great smelling things. "Oh, wow...all of this for one person" I asked a bit bewildered, as he began filling the table with enough food for an army, albeit a small one. He began serving the cornucopia of fantastic aromas. The European style of serving, where one holds a large spoon and a fork together all in a single hand, reminded me a little of using chop sticks. It all had to do with dexterity. "Bon Appetit" the guy smiled, before turning to leave. Before I had even eaten half of what was on my plate, I became aware I was the only patron left in the restaurant. Glancing over my shoulder, I caught sight of my waiter sitting at a table by the kitchen door smoking a cigarette. I'm sure he was waiting for me to finish and leave as all the others had done, so he could close up. Even though I was able to eat less than a third of what was presented, I still considered declining taking any of the leftovers back to the hotel, as I really had no way of storing it. My only option was if I planned on eating it straight away when I got back to the hotel. But; as I was way to full now to even considering eating again, I decided to pass on taking any back. Lighting a cigarette after I finished, I had barely taken two puffs before he was once standing beside me. "Will that be all sir, or would you care for coffee?" he offered, beginning to remove some of the plates. "Do you know 'Andy', I believe he's the owner, or so I was told?" I inquired, of the now puzzled waiter. "Yes I do, I'm Andy" he stated, asking "Should I know you?" "No...no, but I do think we have a mutual friend, Jorge, Jorge Vandermeer, he tends bar at the D.O.K. in Amsterdam" I smiled, looking for some reaction. "Jorge, yes...yes Jorge, how is the old horny devil, anyway?" he almost snickered. "I met him in the D.O.K., he and a friend took it upon themselves to give me the grand tour of the city, including the bathhouses of course" I almost blushed, because by mentioning the bathhouses, I had given away my sexual preference. "Ah...the bathhouses, though we do have a few here in Berlin, I however much prefer Amsterdam's" Andy explained with a light squeeze of my knee, and a bit of a grin. "So...you're gay then, I would never have thought...huh...I'll be" he stated, before adding "Well you know that I'm...Andy, and your name...?" "Oh I'm sorry Andy, it's Jim...Jim Cook" I replied sheepishly, offering my hand. "Well Jim, why don't I lock up...then I'll pour us a drink; you can tell me what that scoundrel Jorge has been up to. Do you have time to stay around awhile, or would I be holding you up? If not, I really would like to hear what...or whom... Jorge... has been doing" he chuckled, as we finished shaking hands. "Sure Andy, sounds fine, I have nothing I planned tonight" I agreed, wondering if that was all he had in mind. Andy turned off the main bank of lights, before locking the front doors. After removing the cash drawer from the register and taking it into his office, located off the kitchen, he returned carrying three bottles of different liquors. It was then I realized I hadn't paid for my dinner. Retrieving a twenty Mark bill, I laid it down on the table as he approached. Unloading his arms of the bottles he was carrying, I tried explaining that I had forgotten to pay my check. Actually he had never given me my bill. "No need to worry, there wasn't going to be a charge, when I found Jorge had sent you. Besides any friend of Jorge's gets dinner on the house" Andy chuckled. "What would you care for?" he asked, holding up a couple of the bottles. I noticed one was Brandy and the other Johnny Walker scotch. The remaining bottle looked to be Vodka of some kind. "A little Johnny sounds fine" I said. "Soda, a little water, or straight?" he offered. "Some water and ice would be great" I replied. "Ah yes, you Americans and your 'Ice'" he chided, getting up and heading to the kitchen, returning shortly with a pitcher and an ice bucket. Unlike Americans, Europeans use little or no ice in their drinks. Even beer is not kept as cold, just very cool. While we sat drinking, I told Andy how I'd met Jorge and of our times at the "Tubs". Andy explained how when he was just a small boy his parents left Hong Kong, and moved to London, where he was brought up. It still seemed so odd to hear someone of Chinese descent, speaking British-English. Three hours had passed before either of us noticed. After inviting me to lunch there tomorrow, we called it a night. I went back to the hotel, way too tired to even consider stopping off at the bar. The events of last night, like meeting Andy and talking about Jorge, had taken my mind off Heinz. Only after awakening in this big empty bed, did I begin missing him again. Over breakfast Manny and I discussed Heinz and how his leaving was affecting me. When I mentioned the China Haus and Andy, Manny told me he and Helmut have gone there many times to eat. Walking into the China Haus, I was immediately met by a smiling Andy. "Jim, glad to see you again, thought I might have scared you off last night" he spoke a bit chagrinned. "Why don't you sit over there" he added, pointing to the same table near the kitchen doors that we occupied last night. "I have my hands full right now, my dishwasher didn't show. I going crazy trying to find someone to fill in" Andy's serious tone told me he really needed help. "Hey Andy, let me fill in...Damn, I can wash dishes... just show how you guys do it...I'd be happy too help" I spoke as sincerely as I could, hoping Andy would take me up on my offer. Having something to do would defiantly keep me from wondering about Heinz, and that was to my liking. Narrowing his eye brows, in thought, "Jim, are you sure about this, I mean really sure? If you're sure you're willing...it would really be a blessing, a great blessing...that I won't forget" Andy stated, with a curious gaze, trying to figure out if I was serious. "Yeah Andy, if you can use me, I would like to lend a hand. Come on...show me what to do" I said, pulling him by the arm toward the kitchen. Well needless to say my "Wish" (chuckle, chuckle) was granted. Scraping, rinsing, and loading the machine took no time at all to master. By nine forty-five, we were done, I was thankful it was a slow night. As it turned out, the guy that did the dishwashing was really quite ill. He would be home for a week, at least. Making a long story, short...I 'Filled' in for the week, as Andy had still not heard when the guy would be back. Andy paid me a hundred Marks a day ($25.00, remember this is 1964), I'm sure he gave me more than the other guy really would have earned. But after the first couple of days of me being too exhausted to accept, I acquiesced, and gave into Andy's nightly invitations to take me out on the town. After a quick shower and a change of clothes back at the hotel, we were off. Of course Andy absolutely refused to allow me to pay for a single thing. From then on we managed to go out almost every night. Six days later, and unbeknownst to me when I arrived for work, the dishwasher had returned. "I rang up the hotel, but you had already left" Andy apologized, with a sheepish smile. "Please don't worry about it, Andy. I've enjoyed this, well as much as one enjoys work." I snickered. But I'm a few days late leaving for Rome, as you know I should already be there" I added. I had told Andy about Heinz, and my itinerary to see Europe. Andy and I had become friends, good friends. "Well come on and sit down, the least I can do is give you a grand lunch, the best in the house" he gestured toward our usual table. After seating me he slipped into the kitchen. In a few minutes he returned with a chilled bottle of wine. Uncorking it he poured me a glass. This afternoon the restaurant was fairly busy, only a few empty tables. A small group of young people, maybe early twenties, came in and were seated at the table next to mine. During their meal, I couldn't help but hear that some were Americans, the other three were English. Because they sounded like tourists, at least to me, I summoned up the courage to speak to them. "Excuse me, I don't mean to be rude..., you're Americans right" I hesitatingly inquired, while scanning their faces for a response. I truly did not want to interrupt their meal, but my curiosity made me ask. One of the guys spoke up "We are, and they're English" he said, pointing first to his side of the table, then to the three across from him. "Where are you from?" he asked. "I'm from Los Angles, well...Palos Verdes actually." I answered. "Really...great, I'm from the San Fernando Valley, we're almost neighbors" he grinned. One of the girls chimed in that she was from San Francisco. The third American, a guy, was from Florida. Introductions were made all around. The English kids were from different parts of England. Some of the English towns I hadn't heard of, except London of course. "You all traveling together, how long have you been over here....Where are you going after Berlin?" I grilled the poor guy. Only because it was so nice to meet and talk to other Americans, the first ones I'd run across. "You wouldn't be headed in direction of Rome, possibly?" I hurriedly added, even before the guy could answer the first question. "Yes..., about a year, for me..., and Lausanne Switzerland". He laughingly answered, holding up a finger for each answer. This brought a chuckle from his table, and caused me to blush a bit. "Sorry guys, just that you're the first Americans I've met since I've been over here" I offered, my face color returning to normal. "We are with 'Holiday On Ice' we close here in Berlin tonight, and move on to Lausanne Switzerland" said the other American guy, who hadn't said anything yet. "Holiday On Ice is that like "Ice Capades" I asked, having never before heard of Holiday on Ice. This question caused the table to bristle a bit, almost like I'd insulted someone. "He hasn't heard of Holiday on Ice, because it's not out on the west coast yet" spoke up, the guy from the San Fernando Valley. "It's only on the east coast now" he added. "Ice Capades, has only two shows traveling around just in the US. Holiday on Ice has eight shows all around the world. That's why I left Ice Capades to work for Holiday on Ice" the girl from San Francisco added a little snippily. George, the guy from the San Fernando Valley, asked if I'd like to see the last show tonight, as they would all be leaving in the morning. "Could I bring Andy, he's the owner of restaurant?" I inquired, pointing to Andy standing up by the register. "Of course, we'll leave some tickets at the will call window for you and Andy" George smiled happily. The rest of them nodded in agreement. CHAPTER 6 "HOLIDAY ON ICE" Will be posted soon THIS STORY(Autobiography) is my first attempt at writing, all comments are welcome PLEASE ADDRESS ALL COMMENTS TO: Jim_Cook7@msn.com (Cap-J) small-im _ (Cap-C) small-ook 7@msn.com BY GIVING A FEW DOLLARS TO NIFTY, YOU HELP KEEP THIS SITE *FREE* TO READERS LIKE ME AND YOU