Date: Tue, 15 Aug 2000 14:05:04 -0500 From: WebWorm Subject: Why Me? Chapter 8 Author's note: This is my first attempt so please be gentle with me. The story is part fact and part fiction. There's not a lot of gratuitous sex in it because it's a love story. I'll suggest the sex and let your imagination do the rest. I would love to get comments, both pro and con. Replies can be sent to: webworm@nex.net Dedication: To the loving memory of Marcus Aaron, sweet little sixteen. I still miss you sweetie even after 4 hard years. There's a hole in my heart that will never be replaced but the fond memories of our time in the sun and the love we showered each other with warm me continually. I love you, MAC. Peace and love to your Mom and Aunt Wilma. This story is protected by copyright. And if you don't know what that means go see your Lawyer `cause if you break the laws my Lawyer will be wanting to meet with yours. NOTE: SORRY ABOUT TAKING SO LONG ON THIS CHAPTER AND NOT MAILING ADVANCE NOTICES ON THE LAST CHAPTER OR THIS ONE BUT I LOST OUTLOOK EXPRESS WITH ALL MY ADDRESSES IN IT. I'M NOT GONNA SCREW WITH ANYTHING ELSE TILL MY NEW COMPUTER COMPLETE WITH DSL IS INSTALLED AT THE END OF THE MONTH. I'LL JUST PLUG ALONG ON THIS OLD DINOSAUR UNTIL THEN. THANKS GUYS, Why Me? Chapter 8 While Richard lay asleep in one part of town, Zack rolled over in the bed and looked at Brent. Here was the man that he had dreamed of the last 2 years of college in the same bed, naked beside him. "Pinch me someone. Wake me up. Is it really a dream?" Zack thought to himself. No, it wasn't a dream. He propped himself up on his elbow and bathed in the beauty of this wonderful man sleeping at his side. He looked at the alarm clock and saw that is was thirty minutes till the alarm would go off and they would have to get ready to go to work. So, why not? Why not tease him awake and get a few soft caresses or even better yet, some loving. Even if it had only been about six hours Zack was literally up for another round of hot, sensuous, passionate love making. He put his face next to Brent's and gently brushed his lips across the forehead, eyebrows and lips of his bedmate. He glanced down and from the vision he saw in the furry patch where Brent's strong legs met his torso, Zack surmised that someone was playing possum so he rolled over and started from the bed. "Shit, looks like lover boy is too tired this morning." Zack said with a sly grin on his mouth. "Hey, what'd you stop for?" Brent asked. "Well, looks like Brer Possum has finally come back from the dead." Zack replied. Zack crawled back beside Brent and Brent pulled him close and planted a fiery kiss on his lips. Mouths spread and tongues began to do battle. Zack broke the kiss and looked deep into Brent's hazel eyes and said "A few months back I only dreamed of waking up beside you looking at your beautiful face. Now, it still seems like a dream, a sweet dream. Brent, I have loved you for a long time now and sometimes I have to really slap myself to realize that this dream has come true.". "I know. I can't imagine being so stupid as to not realize there was something deeper than `best buds'. Be quiet and let's make up for lost time." Brent said as he pulled Zack's lip back to his. They groped, changed positioned, rimmed, performed orally and then Brent `assumed the position' on his back with his heels pulled behind his head and Zack mounted him. "Who would have guessed that this big, macho, big dicked football player would have helium heels?" Zack teased. "Go figure." Brent replied and he pulled Zack in for some more deep tonsil cleaning. They finished making love and Zach reached for his cigarette pack on the bedside table. It was a new pack so he held it in one hand and slammed it, butt end, on the palm of his other hand to tamp the tobacco down. "Don't do that, please." Brent asked. Zack looked at Brent and noticed tears streaming from his eyes. He laid the package on the table and said "I'm sorry. I know smoking is bad but I only smoke about5 a day, once in the morning, after meals and after ..." and he grinned. Brent smiled at Zach's comment and said "It's not your smoking. It's packing the cigarettes. It brings up some really bad memories.". "I'm sorry. I didn't know. You wanna tell me about it?" Zach said as he put his arm around Brents shoulders and held him tightly. "When I was in Junior High School I already had it figured out that I was gay. I begged Coach to let me be the towel boy for the Football team and he did let me. I would sneak around to get peeks at the players and one afternoon I was there later than usual and Tyler Bland, the most gorgeous man you have ever seen was still in the shower room. He was 6'3"'s tall, had blonde hair and blue eyes, a thick growth of blonde hair all over his chest that trailed down to this gorgeous uncut cock, low hangers and nice hairy legs. He was SO MACHO looking. I got in the towel cage and hid watching him and got so horny that I puled my cock out and started stroking. I didn't hear Coach come up behind me and he tapped me on the shoulder. I looked around and saw him and turned so white I blended in with the towels. He crooked his finger at me indicating I was to follow him. I admired this man so much and now he had caught me in the most embarrassing act. Anyway, I followed him and we went to his office. He sat me down and said to `Stay there.'. He left the room and I heard him and Tyler joking around. I felt about 6 inches tall because I knew that he was out there ratting on me to Tyler, my hero. I was ready to run home and kill myself. He stayed gone for about thirty minutes and I heard him bid Tyler say their good byes and then he came back in the office." Brent related to Zach. "And once he was back in the office he started chiding me about `hiding and watching' the stud's get naked, called me a fag boy and threatened to report me to the office and my parents. I was so scared I was shaking. Then he made an agreement with me to keep quiet if I would be his little slut whore. The price for his silence was to let him fuck me when he got horny for a piece of fag boy ass. Anything was better than being exposed so I agreed. He made me get naked and lean up against his desk. He finger fucked me with his rough hands until I could feel blood running down the side of my legs. Then he held my cheeks apart and put that ugly little dick of his against me and he rammed it home without any lube. I almost passed out from the pain. He had no sooner gotten in when he shot his load. He told me to get dressed and get my ass out of his office until he needed me again. He then opened the top drawer of his desk and pulled out a new pack of cigarettes and began furiously packing them. Hearing you pack yours, or anyone else as a matter of fact, brings back terrible memories." Brent relayed the story and then began weeping and drew in tight to Zack's chest. "Now, now. You don't have to worry about that anymore. No one is going to rape you anymore." Zack said, himself weeping now. Zack didn't ask any questions because it seemed like a tender subject. They held each other tightly for several minutes and Zack reminded Brent that they needed to get ready for work and they got up and went in and showered each other with warm soapy water and lots of loving caresses. On the way to work Brent had composed himself enough to finish the story about how he finally got tired of being abused by Coach and confided in a rookie cop, Mac. Brent told how Mac went to the school and reported the abuse to the School authorities and told them if they didn't get rid of Coach he would file a formal complaint. Brent had only agreed to it when Mac promised him that he would remain anonymous since he was a minor. They got rid of Coach and instructed him that he must find a new line of work because if any other school ever asked for references for him that it would go public. Coach pulled up his family and moved and no on has ever heard from him since then. Back at the Dean household, Richard got up and checked his E-mail to see if there were any messages from Tony or Dave. No new mail showed which put Richard on a downer. He had such high hopes that his search was finally over. Then his thoughts turned to the cute boy of his dreams, Chad, and he got on a natural high. He floated down the stairs whistling the melody to "Somewhere" from West Side Story. "Morning parental units." Richard shouted. "Good morning son." His Dad replied. "My, but you're on cloud nine this morning." His Mom replied. "Son, I have to go on a business trip this Thursday and your Mother would like to go with me. Do you think you can manage by yourself for four days?" his Dad asked. "No problemo, Dad. Four days, huh?" Richard replied. "Yeah, I have to be in Cleveland Friday morning and we're going to drive out Thursday. Then when the meeting is over we're going to spend the entire weekend at the Ritz Hotel and do Cleveland Saturday and drive back on Sunday. I'll have the cell phone with me so if you need me for anything you can reach me." his Dad answered. "I'll be fine. You know I can get up and get to work all by myself. The house may get a little lonesome. Any problem if Chad stays over? " Richard asked. "None whatsoever. No wild parties though." his Dad instructed him. "I promise that won't happen. At most a couple of the guys may come over Saturday night but feel free to call and check up on us at any time." Richard responded. Richard was off to work on an even higher plane now. He had felt uncomfortable having Chad over ever since their relationship had changed gears. He wasn't sure if `sex' would occur but if it did, he would feel more comfortable doing it at home instead of out in the woods or in the back seat of a car. He walked in Uncle Bob's and yelled a morning greeting to his friend. "Well, if you don't act like the cat that ate the canary this morning." Uncle Bob said. "It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood." Richard sang imitating Mr. Rogers. Bob just smiled. He was so pleased that Richard seemed to be back on the right track and seemed so much happier these days. The change was noticeable to everyone. Richard had come out of his shell and was a true joy to be around. They spent the day soldering this, disassembling that, doing all the things that made electronic gadgets well again and, as with everyday, candid conversation aimed at building Richard's self esteem. Richard returned home that afternoon and picked up the phone to tell Chad the good news. Not only was he going to get to spend the better part of four days with him but the next weekend they had plans to go to Saugatuck, Michigan and meet up with his `puter friend and his new buddy. "The computer!" he thought and ran to turn it on. Allright, there's a new E-mail message. Richard pulled down the new message and it was from Tony. It read: "Hey Richard- I got a message from Dave in Taos that someone was trying to get in touch with me with a message. From the information he gave me it sounds like I am the Tony Jenkins that you are looking for. I hope it is not bad news. I've had enough of that lately. My E-mail account is here at the Library in Denver - can't afford one of my own - you know how starving artist's are. ;-) so it may take a day or two to respond. I'll wait for your reply. Tony" Richard was ecstatic. His mission of finding Tony was accomplished. Now how was he going to tell Tony all the news he had for him especially the fact that his Mother had died. He decided to skip that unless directly asked. He began: "Tony, I am pleased that I have finally found you. I work for your Father in his Electronics Repair Shop. He is doing fine and is a wonderful friend of mine. I owe him a lot for what he has done for me and feel that finding you may be a small repayment. I have heard a lot about you and the circumstances under which you left. I will also tell you that I am gay so you know where I am coming from and, yes, he knows that I am gay and has no problem with it. He has no problem with your being gay either, Tony. He misses you so much and wants to see you again. I know that you may not have much money to travel here with so please do not let that be a factor in your decision of to come or not to come. I will see to it that you will have a way back here from Denver. If you want to talk, please feel free to call me collect at my home. The phone number is xxx-xxx-xxxx. If you have access to ICQ at the library my ICQ number is 16000587.Just E- mail me with the time and date you want to talk. Sincerely, Richard" and he hit the send button on the computer. Now the decision of whether or not to tell Bob that he had located Tony. He decided that it was pretty early and Tony might elect to not come at all. Richard picked up the phone and dialed Chad. Chad answered the phone and Richard shouted "I found him. I found him." Into the mouthpiece. "Easy there sport. Would you like to talk to Chad?" Chad's Father asked. "Ooops, sorry Mr. T." Richard replied apologetically. "Hello Bud." Chad said when he came on the line. Again Richard shouted "I found him. I found him." ecstatically. "All right. Where was he?" Chad asked. "In Denver. We are having to communicate by E-mail so we've only just made the first round of talks so it's too soon to see if he will come back to visit his Dad." Richard said. "Oh, before I forget it, what are you doing this Thursday?" Richard asked. "Nothing important. Why?" Chad asked. "How would you like to come stay with me from Thursday till Sunday? The parents are going away and leaving me alone till Sunday." Richard asked. Wheels started turning in Chad's head and he said "Damn right. That would be awesome. I'll have to clear it with the `rents but we've done it before and they had no problems. Err I mean we've done sleepovers, not `it'." Chad said laughingly. "I'll be over after dinner, if that's okay, and we can watch TV or play on the `Station'." Chad said. "Sounds like a plan, Stan." Richard replied and he went downstairs to help his Mom with dinner. "Mom, I need to ask something. You guys seem to have more trust in me now that I have my stuff together. I want to do everything I can to keep that trust. I promise you that I will be okay and not do anything that is wrong when you guys go off this Thursday. I've got a favor to ask though, actually I have two favors to ask now that I think of it." Richard said. "Well, you've certainly turned things around 180 degrees since the first of the summer and your Dad and I are real proud of that. Yes, we do trust you and you will have our trust until you do something to show us that we shouldn't. Just remember, Hon, your Father and I will always love you, no matter what. Never lie to us and always come to us if you have a problem. That's all we ask. And we are proud of you. You can't imagine how proud." His Mom said and she hugged him and gave him a peck on the forehead. "Okay, the first thing is would it be okay if Chad and I went over to a beach in Michigan Sunday after next with two of our friends?" Richard asked. "Well, it'll probably be okay. How far away is it?" his Mom asked. "Probably two to three hours away." Richard answered. "I'll talk to your Dad. These are responsible kids, aren't they?" she asked. "Sure are. The guy driving is Mr. McMillin that owns Sports Break's son, Brent." He replied. "Next favor?" she asked. "Okay, this is a toughie. Uncle Bob's son ran away from home 20 years ago and it has really been tough on both of them. Uncle Bob doesn't know where he is but I have located him on the Internet. He is in Denver and destitute. If it all works out could we somehow pay to bring him back here and surprise Uncle Bob? Sort of to show my appreciation for what he has done for me. I'll chip in what I can." Richard asked. "If you feel that strongly Richard, you can tell him that his air fare will be taken care of." his Mom said. "All right!!! Mom, that's great. Thanks." Richard said. Richard's Father arrived home and the family sat around the table discussing their days, normal family meal talk. Richard's Mom asked his Dad about the trip and he agreed to let him go to Michigan with his friends. They finished up and Richard and his Dad did the dishes and then went into the Den. The doorbell rang shortly thereafter. The two guys went to Richard's room and upon closing the door, you guessed it. They locked lips. Richard led Chad over to his bed and they sat down on the edge of it. Chad started rubbing Richard's back in large circular motions. They sat and talked excitedly about the upcoming weekend together and the trip to Michigan the following Sunday. This had been a very busy week and it was only Tuesday. Richard started up his computer and they sat on the bed leaning back against the headboard and watched TV for a while. Holding hands and keeping a safe distance in case a parent might drop in. Richard's parents always respected his privacy but they could take no chances so any loving they did had to be superficial so that they could recover quickly should the unexpected happen. They heard the phone ring and Richard's Mom announced that he had a call. Richard went to the hall and got the phone and brought it back in the bedroom. "Hello" Richard answered. "Hey Richard. Eric here. What are you up to?" Eric asked. "Oh, Chad and I are just passing time watching TV and playing on the computer." Richard answered. "Oh, sorry. I didn't mean to be disturbing you." Eric replied. "You're not interrupting a thing. In fact, if you're not busy and have time, why don't you come on over." Richard said. "You're sure I wouldn't be interrupting anything. It would be nice to get away from this madhouse." Eric replied. "I wouldn't invite you if I wasn't serious so get your butt up and move it." Richard jokingly replied. "That's me you see running out the door." Eric replied and he hung up the phone and in a short while Richard and Chad heard his noisy beater pull up in the drive. Richard went downstairs to greet Eric and then introduced him to Richard's parents. Then they retired to Richard's room. "Man, it's good to get out of that house. My older brother and a couple of his friends are smoking and getting crazy. When they get high something disastrous usually happens like me and him getting in a fight, either verbally or physically." Eric said. Eric was sitting at Richard's desk and he nonchalantly picked up Richard's History book. Instantly Chad broke out laughing followed by Richard. "What's so funny, guys? Did I fart or something?" Eric asked. Richard got up off the bed and took the book from Eric and peeled the tape of the incised pocket he had made and pulled the picture out and handed it to Eric. "For your scrapbook. Or the fireplace, whatever." Richard said. Eric's face turned seven shades of crimson. "Too bad that nice piece of meat is already taken." He joked. "What do you mean?" Chad asked. "I've figured it out. You two guys are an `item' as they say." Eric stated matter-of-factly. "If you weren't already taken Richard I'd be chasing at your heels." And Eric pulled the trash can out from under the desk, picked up a pair of scissors and began to began to make confetti of the `evidence'. Chad and Richard looked at each other and smiled. Richard asked Eric "Are you gay or bi, Eric?" "I'd have to say that I am probably gay, maybe bi. I've had sex with girls before and I had no problems performing. I have no problems getting dates with girls but somehow the quest to make out with guys is much greater than trying to get it on with some chick. I don't know if it's the excitement of the quest that makes it so much more appealing or if I truly am attracted to guys that makes it more attractive. The `forbidden fruit' theory? Eric replied. "Are there other gay's or bi's in school that you know about?" Chad asked. "Only a couple that I am absolutely sure of, several I wonder about. You know Wade Carter?" Eric replied. "Wade Carter? Wade Carter? No way." Chad replied amazed. "Way, buddy. You know he's on the Football Team and the Basketball Team? Well, from what he's told me he has had sex with just about every dude that is on either team. He has access to lot's of smoke so they get high and the rest is history. I think the guys do it just to grab a bag of weed from him. That's just the ones he brags about, who knows who else in the school he's had. He's blown me many times and I've fucked him on several occasions. " Eric confessed. "I always suspected that Jon Fox was. Never had any reason to suspect him other than just catching him watching me undress in gym. He's a cutie and he seems like a nice guy." Richard said. "Yeah, I know him but have never heard of him being active or out. Hmm, you've given me an idea." Eric said as he sported an evil grin. The three boys all talked about guys that they thought were good looking or had knowledge of being out. Richard looked at his watch and reminded everyone that it was getting late and he had to work tomorrow. Eric excused himself while Chad held back to get one more kiss from his lover boy. The lips broke apart and Chad looked into Richard's eyes and said "Only two more days, Sugar Booger. Only two more days." "I know. Just promise me one thing Chad. We have promised to go slow so if either one of us feels uncomfortable, the other has to override their hormones and stop with no hard feelings. And I don't mean those kind of hard feelings." Richard said as he reached down and tweaked Chad's stiff pole. "You get yourself adjusted since my folks may still be downstairs and get out of here. I have to get to bed." Chad did as he was told and walked out to his car. As he opened the door he glanced up at Richard's window. Their stood his lover boy waving at him and as he closed the curtain he blew him a kiss. Chad went over to the computer to turn it off just as he heard the glass breaking sound that announced that someone had added him to their list. He clicked on it and added them to his list. Who was this person? `dali_yummi'? Pretty soon the familiar `uh oh' announced a message from dali yummi. "Hey Richard - Tony here. R U still on line?" the screen announced. "Hey Tony - yep, I am still up" Richard replied. "If your offer to cover my airfare is still good, I'd like to take you up on it. I need to set things straight with Dad. I'd been dreading it but your last e-mail made my decision much easier." Tony messaged. "My offer is still good. Search around for a plane reservation and then let me know what the flight number and departure and arrival cities are and I will have the tickets waiting at the counter for you." Richard messaged back. "I promise to repay you somehow. I don't like accepting charity." Tony messaged. "Like I told you before, this is MY repayment to your Dad. You owe me nothing. I might not be here today if it were not for him and some of the people he has helped in the past and my parents." Richard messaged back to Tony. "He always was one of the good guys in my book. I had to leave because I could not stick around and tarnish his image or mar his perception of me in any way." Tony messaged. "I know. I've had to face those same challenges. I'm not out to many people but from talking with my parents, I feel that they will still love me, just like your Dad still loves you, even after I come out to them. And Tony, don't you ever doubt that your Dad doesn't love you still. I can attest to that." Richard typed and sent the message. There was a little lapse of time before the screen `uh oh'ed' again. "I still love them also. Very much. They are constantly in my thoughts and prayers. Well, I'd better let you get to sleep. You're an hour later than us here in Denver. I'll e-mail you my itinerary and make it far enough out to allow you time to react. Goodnight, dear friend. I look forward to meeting you and thank you in person for what you are doing. Love ya'" the screen replied. "Good night Tony. Oh, I'm keeping this a secret from your Dad. I want it to be a surprise." Richard messaged. "K. I won't spill the beans. G'night." Tony messaged back. Richard went to bed and fell asleep right away. This had been a busy day - and a fruitful day. He awoke the next morning and told his parents of Tony's acceptance of their offer for free travel at the breakfast table. His Dad, who traveled extensively, told Richard to go upstairs and e-mail Tony and tell him to call his local travel agent on the 800 number and they will take care of everything. While Richard was upstairs, his Dad picked up the kitchen phone and called the owner of the agency and authorized the entire transaction. Richard arrived at work even more enthusiastic than the last couple of days when really good things had started to happen. "Hello Bob." He shouted when he came in the door. "I'm in the kitchen. Come on back and have some coffee before we start." Bob called back. They sat at the kitchen table drinking coffee and the phone rang. Bob picked up the receiver and said the normal "Bob's Electronics Repair, Bob speaking....Oh, sure, he's right here...Here Richard, it's your Mom.". "Hey Moms. What up?" Richard asked. "I know that you want to keep this trip of Tony's a secret so be careful of what you say if Bob is still around." His Mom said. "K, I understand." Richard responded. "Okay, the agency called and he is set to come in to O'hare at 3:40 P.M. Can you beg off work to go and pick him up or should we get a car to pick him up? He's going to check his e-mail at 9 this morning for a reply so we need to make a decision fairly soon." his Mom said. "Go for the latter and I'll pay for it when it arrives." Richard replied. "So have a car pick him up, right?" his Mom asked. "That's right. I'll take care of the e-mail from here and tell.. Uh, hold on a minute." While he went out into the shop where he could talk a little more freely. He had almost let the cat out of the bag, possibly. Tell the agency that they will be the point man for any problems. I'll tell the interested party in the e-mail to keep in contact with agency. And call me if there are any complications." Richard responded. And the plan was set. Richard had already figured that if the plane came in at 3:30 P.M. it would take at least 30 minutes to get his luggage and then 30 to 45 minutes for them to drive here. He might have to bullshit with Bob to explain his staying past 5 but there was no way in Hell he wasn't going to be here for this sweet homecoming. Time seemed to drag on, as it always does, waiting on the appointed hour. His Mom had called just before 4 P.M. to let him know that the plane had arrived and that he was on the plane. Five P.M. arrived and Bob announced to Richard that it was time to call it a day. "Hey Bob. Can I borrow the power screw driver for a few minutes? I've got to replace the headlight in my car and there are a thousand screws holding it in place. I've got the bulb in my car and will do it right here." Richard asked. "You can take it home with you if you like." Bob responded. "Nah. I'd rather do it now and that way I won't have to remember to bring it back. I've been having `Senior Moments' these days." Richard said as he chuckled. That gave him an excuse to be outside when Tony came up. He took the power driver out and acted as if he was working on the car when he heard the car pull up. Richard watched as an extremely handsome man in his late 30's early 40's got out from behind the steering wheel of the car and went to the rear door to open it. The only picture he had seen of Tony was the one taken when he was 15 that Bob had in the gold frame on his dresser. But he could see the resemblance. Tony was a ruggedly handsome man. About 6 inches taller than his Dad and with sandy colored hair that had silver highlights, slender but not skinny and a smile from ear to ear. Richard went over to the driver, pulled out his wallet and asked "Sir, how much do I owe you?" "Son, I should pay you. This ride is on the house. Tony and I are old friends and you don't know how happy I was to find out that he was my fare this afternoon. We're a few minutes late because I had to have just a little more time with him. Convince him to stay if you possible can." The driver said as he winked at Richard. "You've got my number, Tony. Please call me when you have a free minute. We've got a lot to catch up on." the driver called to Tony. Tony walked over to the driver and embraced him and patted him on the back. "So you're Richard?" Tony said. "And I reckon you're Tony?" Richard said both men smiling at each other with tears streaming from their eyes. At that moment the door to the shop opened and the screen door flew open. Richard had never seen Bob run before but at this moment in time, he sped like an Olympian toward Tony. Tony dropped his bags and grabbed Bob in his outstretched arms and literally swung him around. By this time both men were audibly crying and the tears were flowing like a river. When the men regained their composure the three walked toward the shop. "This is some fine helper you have working for you Dad." Tony remarked. "I wondered if he had some part in it when he pulled his wallet out to pay for the car. Was that Curly Brown's boy that drove you in?" Bob asked Tony. "Sure was. He told me a little about the little `hospital for homo's that you run here." Tony said. Richard overheard this comment but thought noting of it at the time. He followed Bob and Tony carrying the luggage. Once inside the house Tony yelled "Mom, I'm home.". Bob dropped his head and looked at Tony and the look in Bob's eyes told it all. "Oh, Dad. I am so sorry." And they embraced each other and sobbed silently on each others shoulder. Richard left as quietly as he could allowing the two men to share their grief in private and to begin catching up on events in their lives. He drove home and when he walked in the house he went to his Mother and embraced her and said "I love you Mom.", the sweetest words any mother can hear from her children. "And I love you also Richard. What brought this on?" his Mom asked. "I guess it's better to tell you when you can appreciate the fact that I love you and Dad than wait till I don't have the opportunity." Richard said recalling the earlier incident when Tony found out that his Mother had died while he was away. "Oh, Son, that's nice of you to say. Your Father and I both know that you love us and you know that we love you also BUT it's extra special to hear you express it." his Mom said teary eyed. Her little boy was growing up, she knew that, into a fine young man. "Did Tony's arrival go OK?" she asked. "Much better than expected. The guy that picked Tony up at the airport was an old friend of his that was as glad to see him as his Dad was, I think. He wouldn't accept payment and `Thanked' me for finding Tony." Richard had a strong feeling that Tony's chauffeur was going to play a bigger roll in this reunion than expected. He just smiled and sat back in the chair. That evening after dinner the phone rang and Richard answered it. "Hello" Richard said. "Richard, this is Bob. Just wanted to let you know that the shop will be closed the rest of the week but you'll get paid just like you were at work. Tony and I have lot's of catching up to do. I also want you to know that I will be forever in your debt for bringing my Son back home to me. I think this is perhaps one of the best surprises I have ever had in my life. Hold on, Tony want's to talk to you." Bob said. "Hey Pal" Tony said. "Hello Tony." Richard responded. "Richard, I don't think I could have said what Pop said to you any better but I have to tell you how grateful that I am also. You can never realize how much your kindness means to us and if there's any way I can repay you, you just say the word." Tony said tearfully. "I understand Tony. But, honestly, seeing the two of you reunited is all the payment I could ever expect. Like I said to you, your Dad, err Pop, is like a second Father to me and seeing him happy and the two of you together again means a lot to me." Richard said equally teary eyed. "What do you say if we buy you and your friend dinner tomorrow night?" Tony asked. "Could we get a rain check on that until Thursday night?" Richard asked remembering that tomorrow night was his parents last night at home before they left for Cleveland. "No problem, Buddy. Oh, would it be okay if I brought my friend Kurt Brown along also? He's kinda thankful that you found me also. He was the guy that picked me up at the airport in the limo." Tony asked. "The more the merrier. I felt that he was as glad to see you as your Dad was." Richard said. "You're right about that last one. But that's another story for another time. If you get lonesome for the shop feel free to drop by even if we're closed and if not, we'll pick you up at 7 Thursday night. Bye" Tony said. Richard said his goodbyes, hung up the phone and went back into the den with his family. "Dad, I know it's not macho to do this but." and Richard sat in his Fathers lap just as he had done when he was a toddler. He couldn't remember the last time he had felt this close to his parents. He put his arms around his Dad and said "I love you and don't you ever stop loving me." "Richard, I could never stop loving you. You know that. You are my child, you and your Mother are my very reason for living. And don't you ever stop loving us either. We wouldn't do anything to jeopardize that and nothing you could do would ever stop us from loving you." his Dad said. Richard got up and said "Can I ask you something?" "Sure Son. Anything." his Dad replied. "What's the meaning of life and can I borrow the car tonight to go over to Chad's? he said as he grinned. They all chuckled and his Dad took a rain check on the `meaning of life' question but gave permission for him to go over to Chad's. Richard was walking on air when he got to Chad's. He was greeted by Mrs. Tomzak and she told him to go on up, that Chad was in his room watching MTV. Richard walked in, closed the door and sat on the bed next to Chad. He pulled Chad's face to his and they kissed. It was soft, tender, and passionate. They lay side by side for the longest and then Richard said "Chad, I think I am one of the luckiest people on earth." "How's that Sugar Booger?" Chad asked. "Well, to start with, Tony got in today and he and his Dad are back together. I wish you could have seen them, it was awesome. It's a crying shame that because of unseated fears they have been apart for as long as they have. Secondly, I think that I have the best parents in the world. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that my sexual orientation will not affect our relationship at all and thirdly, I am hopelessly, futilely, foreverelastingly in love with the most wonderful man in the world." Richard. "I understand the first two but who is this Mr. Wonderful that you are in love with? I'll kick his butt because you are my man and I am in love with you." Chad said with the dimples on his face outlining his broad smile." Chad said. "You goofball. Come here to me." Richard said and he pulled Chad to him and lips met and mouths opened and tongues started searching. The two lovers did some serious petting and Richard finally broke free. "Hey, guess what?" Richard asked. "What?" Chad asked. "I've got the rest of the week off, with pay, no less. AND Bob, Tony and an old friend of his, Kurt Brown have asked us out to dinner Thursday night. I've got a few extra dollars in my pocket so what if we went into Chicago in the morning and do some shopping?" Richard asked. "Sounds good to me. I'll see if my Mom will give me some money to shop for clothes for school." Chad answered. "Be by and pick you up at 8 sharp?" Richard asked. "Call me at 7 and wake me up and I'll be ready." Chad answered and he saw Richard out to his car. On his way home Richard saw Eric's car sitting in front of Wade Carter's house. He grinned to himself `cause he knew what those two horn dogs were up to. Wade will probably be walking bow legged tomorrow. But with a smile on his face. Richard and Chad went on their shopping expedition into the City. Chad's Mom wouldn't give him any money for clothes, instead she gave him her credit card for Marshall Field's. Instant poor house she had thought when she reminded him to be frugal and he asked what frugal meant with a smile on his face. Chad was careful with his purchases, though, and bought mostly store brand clothes. He did, however, buy one Tommy outfit and he slipped off from Richard once and picked up a bottle of Obsession Cologne, his favorite. Richard, when Chad slipped off, took the opportunity to pick up this pair of silk boxers that had `Absolutely' on one cheek side and `Fabulous' on the other. They spent most of the day down town having lunch at Gino's East and window shopping at all the better stores along the plush shopping district. They drove home that evening exhausted. Thursday morning came and Richard arose from his sound sleep to the sound of a loud crashing noise. He bolted from the bed and ran to the hall. It was only his Dad getting their suitcases from the hall closet and they had tumbled out on top of him. He doubled up in laughter at the sight of his Dad clawing to get out from under the luggage and Richard went over and helped his Dad up. By this time his Mom had come to see what the ruckus was all about. They had a group laugh at the expense of Mr. Dean. Richard helped his Dad carry the bags to his bedroom. When they were alone his Dad opened his wallet and took out one of his credit cards and a hundred dollar bill and gave it to Richard. "I don't think that you will need these but just in case something major comes up. Now, you have my cell phone number so don't hesitate to cal me should you need something. We'll check in on you every evening around 10 to 11. If you're not going to be here just call us earlier and let us know where you are going to be. Even though we trust you, we do still worry about you." his Dad said placing a firm hand on Richard's shoulder and squeezing it. "Not a problem, Dad. And I won't spend the money unless it's a real emergency. I have enough of my own money to cover anything we have in mind." Richard responded. "Oh, you probably didn't notice but that credit card has your name on it so no need to give it back to me." his Dad said. Richard grinned and reassured his Dad that he would be responsible with it's use. His parents completed their packing and left shortly before noon. He called Chad and told him that he would be over in 30 minutes to pick him up. Richard arrived promptly at the time he had stated and was admitted to the Tomzak house by Mrs. Tomzak who told him to go on up and that Chad was in the shower and should be through any minute. Richard went in Chad's room and closed the door. He had the silk boxers in the pocket of his cargo shorts. Chad walked in wearing a towel wrapped around his waist. He closed the door behind him and walked to Richard pulling his head to him for a welcoming kiss. "I'm so happy right now, Chad Tomzak. Speaking of happy, why don't you stick your hand in my pocket and see how happy I am." Richard said. Chad furrowed his brow in a questioning look and reached his hand toward the pocket. "Not that pocket - the other one." Richard said. Chad reached in and pulled out the silk boxers and smiled real big. "Thank you Richard. Would it be okay for me to wear them today?" Chad asked. "That's why I brought them over. Put them on." Richard replied. With that Chad dropped his towel right in front of Richard and stepped in the boxers. "Turn around and let me see the back side." Richard instructed. And as Chad rotated for Richard, he gave a loud Wolf whistle. "Man, these feel sexy. So soft, so clingy. Thank you Baby." Chad said. Chad finished dressing and they went to Mickey D's and ate. After lunch Richard drove out to Uncle Bob's for a visit. Richard had a key but he rang the bell anyway. "Hey guys, come on in. Chad you haven't met my son Tony. Tony Jenkins, this is Chad Tomzak." Bob said. "Pleased to meet you Tony. And welcome home. We're all glad you're here." Chad said. "And I'm real happy to be here Chad. And I'm pleased to meet you also. Is this..???" Tony asked in a way gesturing in a way at Richard. "Yeah, this is the guy I'm in love with Tony." Richard responded and he blushed as he said it. "Chad, my man, let me tell you in case you aren't aware of it. You have one helluva fine man here. Don't let him slip away from you." Tony said. "Dittoes from me also." Bob chimed in. Chad reached for Richards hand and drew him in closer to him saying "Guys, you may just now be realizing it but I've know that for years. Once I admitted my true orientation to myself I set my sights on this dude. AND I don't plan on letting him out of my sights." . Chad leaned into Richard and pecked him on his cheek. "Right, Sugar Booger?" "You're not so bad yourself." Richard said imitating Mae West line from that old black and white movie with W. C. Fields. "Come on in the living room and have a seat." Bob said. The four guys walked into the living room. They visited for about an hour and Tony told them all about his adventures and trials and tribulations of the past 20 years, condensed version. When he left home he worked as a street hooker in Chicago for several years just to survive. While hooking he met an older gentleman who was an artist and he had taken Tony under his wing and into his home. He tutored Tony in his art studies and prepared him for an alternate profession. After several years the old artists' health began to fail and they moved out west. This old gentleman passed away and his brother, who was the administrator of his estate, broke the will which had left everything to Tony leaving Tony broke and homeless. He took his personal belongings from the house and lived back on the streets again or in rooming houses, wherever he could find a place to rest his head. Since charcoal and pastels were cheap, he began to do charcoal and pastel sketches in the major tourist areas. He had eked out a meager living to say the least. "And that's my brief history, in a nutshell, as they say. But I think that my future history is going to be a lot brighter and I owe most of it to you Richard." Chad said. "You owe it to that man you call Pop, Tony. If he hadn't come into my life and literally saved me, showed me that people like Chad and I, and you also, can live useful lives, can be happy, and last but not least, we are not nearly as alone as I once thought we were." Richard said. He announced that they should be leaving but that they would be ready for pick up at 7 P.M. and marched to the door. Just before they put there hand on the door knob the bell rang and Tony answered the door. It was Kurt and Tony motioned him inside and after kissing him on the cheek, made the proper introductions and Chad and Richard left for the Dean home. Once inside Richard asked "Want something to drink, Sug?". "Yeah, YOU." Chad said as he grinned showing off those cute dimples again. "Not quite so fast, Dale Earnhart. A soft drink is what I was offering." Richard retorted. "Okay, then I'll take a Dr. Pepper." Chad answered. "I knew that, why did I even bother asking?" Richard said. They took their drinks and went to the living room and sat on the sofa. And as usual with horny teens, soon they were jousting with their tongues. Richard kissed Chad on the forehead and then on the eyebrows then the cheek and then went for the ear. He knew how this turned Chad on and he tongued it and sucked on it. All the time Chad was massaging Richard's chest through his shirt, then he took Richard's shirt off and fondled his nipples. He couldn't get his head away from Richard to nibble on his nips but he was enjoying the action he was getting in his earlobe. With his other hand he was massaging Richard's crotch through his cargo shorts. Then he would run his hand gently up the leg of Richard's shorts stopping just short of the promised land. All the time Richard could not pull himself away from Chad's ears. He was amazed a the way it turned this boy on. Chad opened his mouth and very gutturally announced "I'm cumming." And this brought a sympathetic reaction from Richard and he unloaded also, almost simultaneously. The boys laid back on the sofa holding each other close. "Jeez, that was fantastic." Richard said. "Hell yes, man. If that was that good just imaging what it's going to be like when we get around to the real stuff. Anyway, I can't stand staying in these stick clothes, let's go get cleaned up." Chad said and he reached for Richard's hand and pulled him up and they ascended the stairs to the bathroom. "I know what. Let's use the master bathroom. The walk in shower is big enough for both of us." Richard suggested. "Okay, you twisted my arm." Chad replied. They went into the master bedroom and disrobed and Richard went in the bathroom and got the water warming up. Chad walked in and joined Richard. You know the old rule about one hand washing the other? Well, it was very apropos this afternoon. Richard and Chad washed and kissed and caressed and kissed. Finally their energy was sapped from the heat in the shower and they got out and dried off, walked into the bedroom and collapsed on the master bedrooms king size bed. "Can we sleep in here?" Chad asked. "I see no reason why not. What time is it? 4 P.M., huh. Let's set the alarm and take a nap. I'm beat." Richard replied and he set the alarm for 5:30. That would give them ample time to get ready for their dinner appointment. The curled up beside each other, both naked as the day they were born. "Richard, I love you." Chad whispered to Richard. "Love you more." Richard said back to Chad. Richard lay with Chad at his back. Chad kissed the back of Richard's neck and then wrapped his arms around his lover and they both drifted off to sleep. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- WOW!!!! That's all for now folks. One comment I received was that the chapters were too short so I stretched this one out. Please comment as to whether or not it was too long. Next Chapter - the dinner date, the Saugatuck trip, Eric's got a boyfriend, and more. Got a direction you'd like to see the story take? I greatly appreciate all the positive comments I have gotten. Haven't gotten a negative one yet. BUT all are welcome and you can E-mail me at webworm@nex.net