Date: Fri, 29 Mar 2002 17:06:36 -0500 From: Lee Mariner Subject: Mark - Series Part #49 MARK By Lee Mariner MARCH 2002 DISCLAIMER: This is a gay fantasy involving homosexual relations between young men and boys. If you are not of LEGAL AGE TO BE READING THIS MATERIAL OR YOU DO NOT APPROVE OF SUCH MATERIAL, PLEASE LEAVE. All characters depicted are fictional and in now related to any persons living or deceased. ENGAGING IN UNPROTECTED SEX MAY LEAD TO LIFE THREATENING CONSEQUENCES. This work is copyrighted by the author and may not be reproduced without the specific written consent of the author. It is assigned to the Nifty Archives under the guidelines of their submission agreement but it may not be archived or copied on any other site without the written authorization of the author. Copyright: 2002 -- Author: Lee Mariner -- All Rights are Reserved. Mariner23502@hotmail.com * * * * * * Chapter #49 William sat with his hand on the telephone receiver reflecting on the conversation with Lee not noticing Mark and Calvin standing next to him. Both boys were excited but Mark was like a drop of water on a hot skillet, he couldn't stand still. Charles stood in a doorway hovering as he usually did watching and smiling at the excitement. As much as he loved both boys, Mark had fast become his unspoken favorite. His youthful exuberance and zest for life reminded him so much of the sons he had lost and he had vowed that no harm would come too Mark or Calvin. He had only spoken with Lee for a brief moment but in that moment he detected that unspoken events had taken place and they would affect Mark. From where he stood, his eyes locked with Williams and an almost imperceptible nod of his head told him he would talk with him later and he melted into the shadows waiting and watching not wanting to intrude but available as always. Waiting impatiently Mark could restrain himself no longer. "Uncle Bill, Uncle Bill, when is Uncle Lee coming home? Did he tell you, what did he say?" "First, let's sit down and calm down. I would like some coffee and maybe hot chocolate for you two and then we will talk." Looking up William saw the doorway was empty and knew Charles would appear shortly with the requested coffee and chocolate. Charles was always close and now even closer when it involved the boys and Lee. It was uncanny how he always seemed to know things as if he was reading their minds. Closing his eyes for a moment as he sat down across from the boys he quickly gave thought to how he was going to get by not telling Mark that Lee would be home in just a few days. He was lost in thought when he heard Mark. "Uncle Bill, do you think something is wrong with Uncle Lee? He didn't sound like he usually does when he talks to me and he sort of cut me off when I asked him if he was coming home." "No Mark, I don't think anything is wrong or he would have said so. Your uncle is one of the most resilient persons I know and even though he keeps his own counsel it's not like him to be deceptive. He had a business matter he wanted to discuss with me and that is probably why you feel he cut you off and I am sure he would never do that." "You're right, I shouldn't feel like that but I miss him and I was hoping he was coming back home. I know he was afraid of some trouble when he got back to work." "Whatever problems he has at work, I'm sure he can handle satisfactorily. Besides, he just left us so you can't really expect him to almost turn around for another visit with you and your family now can you." Calvin had been sitting quietly beside Mark and reached over taking his hand in his said softly, "He'll be home soon Mark." "Oh I know he will Calvin, I just miss him. Do you want to take a walk after we finish our chocolate? It's nice out." Calvin's eyes lit up, "I'd like that." He said his soft eyes looking at Mark almost like a doe. He didn't hide his feelings and it made William a little sad watching him. Charles returned with the three cups and a decanter of coffee and chocolate sitting them on the coffee table. Pouring for each of them he sat the decanters down and moved silently away as he always did. "What are the both of you planning for tomorrow while I'm engaged with the developers? Another horseback ride maybe? It's good they get some exercise after being stalled so long and only having the paddock to run in." "We could do that Uncle Bill if Calvin wants too. There are some parts of the farm I'd like to see before we leave on Monday. You want to do that?" "If you want to Mark, of course I would." William sat sipping his coffee watching the boys chattering between each other with Mark leading the conversation. "Charles, would you put that new CD of Biset's Carmen on to play? I'd like to hear some of it before I retire." Almost instantly the strains of the opera floated through the room and he closed his eyes enjoying the music while Mark and Calvin finished their chocolate leaving the room for their walk. As he is enjoying the music, he hears the cups rattle and opening his eyes sees Charles removing the dirty dishes. "Those could have waited until the morning Charles." "Yes William they could but I would rather clean up now. Will there be anything else? I won't go to bed until the boys are back." "I already knew you wouldn't. There are two things if you wouldn't mind. Let me have the CD's, I want to play them in my rooms and would you stop in after the boys retire?" "Of course William, is there a problem?" "No there isn't but I have something on my mind that I would like to discuss with you." Charles handed the CD's to William and picked up the tray going into the kitchen. He would wait on the porch watching for Mark and Calvin after he put things away. * * * * * * The evening was warm for early September and the stars twinkled in the blackness of the sky, the moon had not yet risen. The stark whiteness of the fence was almost like a guide as Mark and Calvin descended the steps from the porch walking beside it. They were both lost in their own thoughts as Calvin took Mark's in his holding it tight. The moon was just starting to peep over the horizon its silver glow slowly illuminating the trees in the distance. "There is a bench over here Mark if you'd like to sit down." They both sat on the bench and still Mark had said nothing since leaving the house. The moon continued rising bathing them in its silver glow. Their T-shirts reflected the silver glow as they sat next to each other. Calvin could see Mark's eyes shining as he looked into the moon and he reached over taking his hand again sliding closer. "Mark, what are you thinking about? You haven't said a word since we left the house." "I'm sorry Calvin, I was thinking about Uncle Lee and how much I miss him. I was thinking about the time we made love and it was on a night like this with the moon shining bright making it almost like daylight. We slept outside until almost dawn and we rushed inside before my parents woke up. We made love again in our bedroom before he left." "You really do love him don't you Mark? Is there anyplace for someone else?" "A place for someone else? Calvin I love you but I've loved Uncle Lee since I can remember and since we have learned what we are, I love him more then my life. You mean a lot to me and I don't want anything to happen between us that would change that." Mark fell silent while Calvin looked at him his mind methodically digesting what he had said. He felt sadness deep inside of him but his feelings remained. He loved Mark but he knew that no one would ever really replace Lee. Calvin ran his arms around Marks chest and behind his neck embracing him as their lips met in a soft gentle kiss. Mark's strong arms encircled him pulling him tighter as the kiss became more passionate. Charles was standing on the porch as he said he would and seeing them embracing he went into the living room pulling a large lap robe off the back of Williams chair. Moving quietly, he took the robe to where they were sitting and draped it over their shoulders. Mark lifted his head at the feel of the robe and saw Charles slipping quietly into the shadows. The robe was warm and Calvin sat next too Mark his head resting on his shoulder as he moved his hand over his hard muscled chest feeling the outline of each muscle. He breathed deeply looking into his eyes. "Will you make love to me here in the moonlight Mark? Will you take me and make me a part of you tonight?" No words were needed as Mark reached down and slowly pulled Calvin's T-shirt over his head his gorgeous chest glowing in the moonlight the perfect definition of his muscled torso accentuated by the light of the moon. Lowering his head he ran the tip of his tongue over his hard nipples feeling his body tighten and then slowly exhale a low sigh escaping from his lips. Calvin sees Mark's eyes flashing as he stands before him slowly removing his shirt, the sculpted perfection of his chest illuminated by the silver light surrounding them. He sits transfixed by his absolute beauty, the beauty that few men would ever possess but strove for with limited success. Mark had the beauty that had caused the downfall of empires and men had fought wars for. Charles turns and walks into the house not wanting to invade their privacy. Smiling, he remembers the beauty of his sons Mark and Clark seeing the same beauty now that he had seen when they loved each other and remembered the joy they had shared and Mark and Calvin were sharing. With his eyes focused on Calvin, Mark unsnapped his shorts letting them drop to the ground and he steps out of them the brilliance of his white jockeys and the thickness of his manhood accentuated by the soft silver aura that surrounded him. With a slow deliberate movement he pushed his jockeys down exposing the dark hair in his groin covering his pelvis. It was almost as if he was being controlled by an unseen force as he slowly removed his jockeys. The thick base of his cock was revealed and then its full length suddenly swung free waving before Calvin's eyes and Mark stood completely naked with the silver light of the moon wrapping his body in a soft brilliance. Calvin does not move as he feels his the top snap of his shorts being undone and his zipper pulled down. He does not resist as Mark takes his hands pulling him up off the bench, his shorts drop around his ankles and his jockeys being pushed down freeing his aching cock. He leans forward slightly resting his head on the broad chest before him feeling his heartbeat quickening. He feels the warmth radiating from Mark and the soft warm breeze of the night washing over him. Looking into Mark's eyes he sees a gentle softness shining in their depths. "I love you Mark." "And I love you Calvin and I always will." They stand holding each other feeling the desire flowing over them and through them. "Take me Mark, please. I need to feel you filling me. Take me here now under the stars." Pulling the thick robe from the back of the bench Mark spreads it over the grass and they kneel on it their lips meeting in a deep passionate kiss as they lower their bodies onto it softness. Kissing and caressing each other their fingers tease as their tongues twist in an erotic exploring of their already familiar mouths. Hard aching cocks engaged in a dance of the ecstasy being felt by both. Pre-cum flows as they slip deeper into a fog of intense desire. Mark slides over Calvin and his cock falls into the depths of his warm crotch. He slowly presses himself tighter against the thickness of Calvin's cock as he brushes the head of his cock over the entrance that will surrender to the gentle probing assault of his throbbing cock. Kissing the soft flesh of Calvin's neck he whispers, "Are you sure you want me to take you Calvin? We don't have anything that will help ease me going in." "I don't want anything Mark, just you." Pulling his knees closer, Mark lifts Calvin's legs onto his shoulders leaning forward pushing down on his chest. Guiding his cock with his hand he feels the soft quivering flesh of his anus and slowly presses in watching his face for the pain of his entry. Letting the weight of his hips push his cock deeper he feels a sudden gripping around his girth as the sphincter muscle snaps tight behind the head of his cock and a grimace on Calvin's face. Holding himself there he waits for a few moments before allowing his weight to continue his entry. Slowly, inch-by-inch he enters feeling the intense heat of Calvin's rectum engulfing the length of his cock sending the pain of pleasure shooting through him. Lust consumes him as he pushes the full length of his cock deep inside Calvin feeling his pubic hair pressing against his flesh under his balls. Inhaling deeply he sighs feeling the tightness that holds him as if in a cocoon. He lowers Calvin's legs feeling him clasp them tightly around his waist as he pulls him tighter against his groin. Leaning forward he places his hands on either side of Calvin's smooth muscled chest supporting his weight as he hovers over him. Lowering his body as if doing a pushup he kisses him gently their eyes locked. No words are needed as he starts a slow piston like movement his cock sliding in and out of the tight warmth of Calvin's ass. Slowly the intensity of their passions increase as the muscles of Marks body controls him, driving him deeper into the all consuming need to reach the climax he seeks. Twisting his hips he brushes Calvin's prostate and sees the intensity of his desire expressed on his face. He feels the muscles of their bodies tighten as Calvin lifts his hips to meet each thrust of his swelling hardening cock as he watches Calvin's cock matching his own in thickness. With a sudden mind numbing flash his tightening balls deliver hot molten streams of his life giving fluids deep within the depths of Calvin's rectum in surge after surge. His waist is gripped in the reflex of tightening muscles and a deep groan escapes from within Calvin's chest as he releases great thick streams from within the depths of his body over his chest. Thick milky white semen covers Calvin's chest as Mark's cock fills him in a last thrusting surge. Calvin's legs fall from Mark's waist as he collapses on top of him gasping for air, their hearts beating rapidly as the return from the heights of erotic rapture they had reached. Calvin holds him tight feeling his slow softening cock slipping from within him as their muscles relax and the beating of their hearts slows. Almost as if the moon had finished illuminating the lovers, it descended below the trees the shadows lengthening into darkness with only the stars twinkling on a raven black backdrop and a coolness settled over their nakedness. Lifting his body, Mark reaches for his shirt and wipes the semen from Calvin and himself. Lying beside him he pulls the warm robe over them as they press closer holding each other. Slipping his arm under Calvin's head he kisses him softly before dozing off. Under the light of the twinkling stars, Calvin looks at the face he loves. He feels the warmth of Mark's body and his gentle breathing. Not a word had been said while they made love, it wasn't needed. He loved Mark and he knew Mark loved him but his heart ached knowing it. Tears welled up in his eyes as he looked at him sleeping his heart aching with the love he felt. He realized that he would never have Mark for his own. Mark would only belong to one person and no one would ever take his place. Tears streamed from his eyes as he kisses his forehead and whispers softly "I love you Mark, I always will." Charles walks back out on the porch looking to where Mark and Calvin had been and sees them wrapped in the blanket on the ground. Returning inside he goes to their bedroom and gets their robes and another blanket returning to where they are sleeping in each other's arms. Moving quietly he spreads the blanket over them and places their robes on the bench with their clothes. Sure that they would be safe; he returns to the house and walks up to Williams rooms. * * * * * * The opera is playing inside as Charles taps quietly on the door before entering. William is resting in the large lounge chair by the fireplace as he listens but sees Charles entering from the corner of his eye. "The boys all tucked in Charles?" "Yes they are William, they will be sleeping outside tonight. I checked on them before coming up." "Sleeping outside, it's a little cool at this time of the year for that. Are you sure they will be okay?" "Yes William. I placed another blanket over them and their robes are on the bench under the elm tree." "Ahhhhhh now I understand Charles. Would you like to join me in a brandy before you retire?" "I would, thank you." He knows William will tell him what is on his mind without him asking and he pours the brandies. Carrying the glasses he hands William his and then sits in another chair close by waiting. "Charles, the reason I asked you here was I'm a little worried and I would like your opinion since you are as close to the boys as I am." "Yes William, what is worrying you?" "It's not what but whom. I'm concerned about Calvin, about his well being. Calvin is deeply in love with Mark and I'm afraid he is going too be hurt by it. Mark is not going to intentionally hurt him but he will without realizing it. I don't think Mark would hurt anyone intentionally unless they were threatening Lee." "You may be underestimating Calvin William. I believe he has more resilience then you are giving him credit for. He has just learned his mother has only a short time left and yet he is here and not running home to be with her. That shows fortitude and intelligence. There is little he can do for her except comfort her and he knows that. Among my people in Croatia we accept that death is a part of life. We comfort and aid our old and ill but our lives continue as Calvin's will. He will comfort and care for his mother and when her time comes he will grieve and we will comfort him but life continues. His love for Mark is a part of his life but he knows there is only one person for Mark and he will accept that and enjoy the moments he may have with him. He knows that Mark loves him and in that he will take comfort." They sit for a few minutes sipping their brandy listening to the music. William glances at Charles sipping his brandy, no expression on his face. "Charles, you never cease to amaze me. In all the years we have known each other I have never known you to become as devoted to anyone as are you are too Mark and Calvin." "You forget my sons William. I see much in Mark and Calvin as there was in them. Clark was the strong one and Calvin has the same strengths. I only wish I had been stronger for my sons as you and Mr. Lee have been. Had they been taught more, I might still have them with me. I loved them too much and God took them from me. That is his punishment of me for lacking the strength and influence I should have had." "You have never told me how you felt before Charles. It must be difficult carrying that burden with you?" "It has been William until God took mercy on me and Calvin and Mark came into my life and yours. We both take joy in their growing and becoming men, you as well as I. Mark has Mr. Lee and you have Calvin. I believe he will someday show you the love you need as you grow older and nurture him." "And what about you Charles? Don't you need love?" "I have you the boys and Mr. Lee. While they may not say it I can see and feel their love for me. Among my people, we are not as emotional about loving each other as yours are. We are a passionate people but our loving each other is inside to be shown in the privacy of our moments together." "Would you object if I were to show you how much you mean to me Charles? It has been a long time since we were alone together." "William, I have loved you since the day you rescued me from the depths of my grief. I try and show how much you mean too me by my service to you. I have slept with and loved no man except you and will never be with any man but you. I take my joy in the feelings I know you have for me." Finishing their brandy, they both stand facing each other. In each other they see and feel their youth again as they embrace and then slowly remove their clothing revealing still hard bodies and rigid manhood. Moving closer together their hard bodies press tightly within the embrace of one another. "Once again we are young William" Charles says as they move too the large bed. * * * * * * The morning chill and dampness rouse Mark slightly and he pulls the blankets closer around him before realizing fully that Calvin was snuggling closer from the chill that had awakened him. Lifting the blanket slightly he looks at the still sleeping face nestled against his chest and smiles. "Calvin, Calvin. I think we better get up and go inside, the sun is coming up." Groggily Calvin raises his head looking around, sleep still fogging his mind. "We slept outside all night. Where did the blankets come from? Look our robes are on the bench with our clothes." Grinning, Mark leans down and kisses Calvin's forehead. "You know Charles brought them out, he must have. Good old Charles, he's always around somewhere. We had better get inside though, I have to piss something terrible." "Oh, is that what I feel so hard pressing against me?" "Yes and it will start emptying my bladder if we don't get a move on. I wonder what time it is?" "I have no idea but I'll join you if you don't mind." Pulling their robes from the bench, they put them on under the blankets. Gathering their clothes and the blankets they dash for the front door hoping it is open and it is. Racing inside they come to a sudden stop seeing William on the steps leading up to their bedroom. "I see you decided to camp outside last night. I hope you slept well?" William said grinning ear to ear. "Uncle Bill, please. Right now we are both about to have an accident if we don't get upstairs to the bathroom." Mark says looking at Calvin who has started squirming. William stands aside watching as they run upstairs dragging blankets and clothing behind them. Laughing at the sight, he continues toward the kitchen where Charles is in the process of preparing breakfast. "Good morning William, you seem to be in good spirits today." "And why should I not be Charles? Last night was wonderful and this morning I wish I had a camera when the boys ran in from outside trailing blankets and clothing holding their crotches." "You shouldn't tease them like you do William. What time do you expect your guests to arrive this morning?" "Probably around 11:30 but don't fix anything elaborate Charles. Something simple will do." "I will William. You have decided on splitting your farm up then?" "All but 100 acres around the main house and out buildings. I've decided I want too keep the horses for now. Both Mark and Calvin like riding and that should give them plenty of riding room. The developers are supposed to have a proposal that will only cause minimal damage when they start building new homes. I had the property surveyed to be sure of the boundaries and then I intend having the new deeds made in Lee's name." "Excuse me Uncle Bill." Mark says as he and Calvin enter the room. "What are you putting in Uncle Lee's name?" "I'm selling off most of the farm and the remainder will be re-drawn with your uncles name on the deed. I told him he would eventually get the farm so this is a good time to have it done and at the same time avoid some unnecessary taxes later. Charles has breakfast ready, why don't we eat and we can discuss this at another time. Nothing is done yet since it's only in the preliminary negotiations." "Good idea Uncle Bill, I'm starved. Mark and I still want to take a ride while you're busy." "I guess sleeping under the stars has an effect on one's appetite doesn't it Charles?" "William let the boys eat their breakfast." "We enjoyed it Uncle Bill. Mark and I haven't done that and it was fun but it did get a little cold this morning. Thanks for bringing out the extra blanket and our robes last night Charles." With a nod, Charles places platters of hotcakes, bacon and ham on the table after pouring their orange juice and milk. "Just juice a bagel and cream cheese for me Charles. I'm really not that hungry this morning." While William and Charles discuss what he will prepare for when the developers are there later, Mark and Calvin finish and excusing themselves rush upstairs too change for their ride. "I'm stuffed Calvin, lets ride to the knoll if you want. This is probably the last chance we will have too ride for awhile since we are leaving tomorrow and I start school next Wednesday." "Mark, do me a favor please. Stand there like you are for a minute and take off your jockeys." "Why Calvin? You've seen me naked before." "I just want to look at you again. You don't really know how beautiful you are do you Mark? I never get tired of looking at you and I'm going to miss you after today." "Stop saying that Calvin. Look at yourself; you are just as good-looking as me. Besides you make it sound like we aren't going to see each other again, we will." Moving closer Mark takes Calvin his arms and kisses him lightly pressing their almost perfect bodies together feeling the passion starting to rise within them. "I love you Calvin Masters, I always will. Lets get dressed before Uncle Bill's people get here and ride out to the grassy knoll by the pond. We can take the lap robe with us if you want." Dressing quickly Calvin folds the lap robe as they walk out of their bedroom. . . . . * * * * * * The rustling of the newspaper as Carl and Dalton were looking through it was the only sound in the room. Carl glances up and sees Lee sitting with his hand resting on the receiver. His eyes had a faraway look as if he was somewhere else as he stared off into space. Looking at Dalton who was watching Lee also he calls softly "Lee". Snapping back from where his mind had drifted, Lee pulled a chair over in front of the cocktail table where Carl and Dalton had been highlighting various ads for furnished rentals. "I'm sorry fellas, I sort of drifted off there for a few minutes. How many have you got that we can check out tomorrow?" "Only three Lee that look like they would be what we can afford. Dalton knows a little more about it then I do but he seems to think they would be okay. We might be able to check on two that are on 19th St. this afternoon. Is Mark okay Lee?" "What, oh yes he is. William says they are having a blast. Lets give the ones you have selected a call and see if we can get in today, it's still early. Let me take a leak and I'll be right back." "Who's Mark Carl?" "Don't you remember Dalton? I told you about him earlier. He is one of the coolest guys you will ever meet. Mark is in Ohio. His father is Lee's brother." "Yeah, I remember now but what does that mean to Lee except he is his nephew? I was watching him on the telephone and he kept calling someone Sport is that Mark? He sounded like he was in love with him whoever it was." "They are in love Dalton. Sport is what he calls Mark when they talk with each other. Kind of like a nickname they have between them." "You mean he and his nephew are lovers? You didn't tell me that or I don't think you did. Lee doesn't look old enough to have a nephew he could be in love with like that. How old is his nephew?" "Mark is 17 now and they are more then just in love with each other. It's a long story, I'll tell you about it some other time. Shhhhhh, here he comes." "Nothing like a good piss to make you feel better. What are you two jabbering about, the apartments?" "Yeah, lets call this one and see if we can go see it. We'll have to use Dalton's car since it might be a tight squeeze in your Mustang." "The Mustang is on it's way back too Ohio. What's the number?" Carl thought for just a second about the Mustang before he gave Lee the listed number "838-0010, Cooke- Neff Realty." Dialing the number Carl had given him he leans back in his chair waiting for someone to answer. "Cooke-Neff Realty Sales and Rentals. May I help you?" "You may, my name is Lee Michaels. I see where you have a couple of apartments listed on 19th St. could you tell me if they are still available and a little about them?" "Just a moment Mr. Michaels. Yes, they are still available. We have had several inquiries and our agent is over in one of them right now. The one located at 1900-19th is a single bedroom with small living room but a nice eat in kitchen. Fully furnished, it is renting for $475 including water and heat. You would pay the electric and telephone plus the cable TV connection. The other is at 1914 just up the street. It is basically the same floor plan except it has a very small second bedroom. The previous tenant used it as an office/TV room. That room is not furnished but the rest of the apartment is. The corner unit has windows on the front and side but the other only has windows in the front opening into the kitchen. Mr. Neff had thought about installing a skylight in the living room but the rent would increase from $425 if we did that. They both are third floor walkups if that is no problem. Would you like to look at them this afternoon? I can call our Agent Mrs. Waring if you would like for me to." "Would you please? Tell her my nephew and his roommate will be with me. The apartment is for them; they both are in college together. We should be there in under 20 minutes." "Yes Mr. Michaels. I'll tell Mrs. Waring you will meet her at the 1900 address. Thanks for calling Cooke- Neff, I hope like the apartments. Mr. Cooke and Mr. Neff try and help students whenever they can." "That's good too hear, thank you very much." The drive was shorter then Lee had thought taking Chestnut only 6 blocks west and then 2 blocks north. The location was convenient too just about everything including the 30th St. station that would give them easy access to the trains that would take them out to the University. There was a young lady in her 30's standing at the bottom of the stairway leading up to the front doors of the building. All of the buildings on both sides of the street were almost identical in appearance. They all had the same uniform windows facing the street with the same 6 steps and all brownstone construction. Parking was on one side of the street only but there was a parking garage located across a narrow alleyway from the corner unit they had been told about. Dalton pulled up almost in front of the lady who was watching them as they drove up. Leaning down she looked into the car and sees an older man sitting in the front with a good-looking younger man. In the back seat she noticed another nice looking young man. "Mr. Michaels?" "Yes, Mrs. Waring is it?" Lee said as he stepped up on the curb. "Yes, my office called and said you were coming over with your nephew and his roommate to look at the apartments. Is your nephew and his friend 21 or maybe one of them is?" "They both are 19 Mrs. Waring. Is there a problem with them leasing one of the apartments? Your receptionist mentioned something about your company trying to help students out." "Oh we do Mr. Michaels, we do. I might as well get this out of the way before we start looking at the place. As much as we try and help students, there is often the problem of the rent. Students usually only have part-time jobs what with their class schedules. The nasty part is should they fall behind, well I think you understand the problems. As a matter of routine, we run background and financial checks before renting and a great many do not qualify. Those that do sometimes have problems." "Mrs. Waring, could we go on in and while the boys are looking around I think we can work something out if they like this place or the other you have." An electric lock controlled the entry doors with an intercom from the front into the apartments. Mrs. Waring opened the doors with her passkey. Inside it was clean and well lit. Looking up the stair well you could see a large skylight in the roof. The steps leading upwards were wide and had non-skid runners to avoid anyone slipping. You could see that each floor had two apartments, one front and one rear. The walk up was not that bad but an elderly person would probably have a little trouble reaching the third floor. "Does Cooke-Neff take care of the hallways Mrs. Waring?" "Yes we do. Tenants are responsible for their own trash and there are large dumpsters in the rear of the building. The inside buildings have a chute at the rear of the first floor for trash but in this building you must walk around to the rear. The hallways are cleaned on Monday and Thursday." They reached the third floor and the door for the one that was being rented was directly across from the head of the stairs. Mrs. Waring opened the door and it led directly into a small living room containing a used but serviceable couch with two chairs and end tables. Dalton and Carl saw the door leading into the bedroom and headed that way while Lee and the agent went into the kitchen. It had up-to-date appliances except for a washing machine and dryer. The refrigerator was not large but it was adequate for an apartment. The stove was electric with four burners but very little working space. A small maple table with two chairs was provided for meals. There were three fairly large windows, two on the front and one in the wall that would be looking over the alleyway. "Where do tenants do their laundry Mrs. Waring?" "Please Mr. Michaels, call me Beth. I'm sorry but there is a Laundromat on the corner of 20th St. We don't provide those appliances above the first floor because of possible water overflows. The Laundromat is just a short walk though. I don't think it would be too much for your nephew and his friend." Lee noticed the change from roommate to friend as he turned walking back into the living room. Carl and Dalton were coming out of the bedroom. "Check the kitchen fellas. Where is the bathroom, I didn't ask about that? "It's off of the bedroom Uncle Lee, you'll see it when you go in the bedroom." Carl was right and Lee saw the door leading into a small but well equipped bathroom. The bedroom was larger then a normal bedroom usually is in an apartment. A double bed, large double dresser and a 5- drawer highboy with two more chairs were the furnishings. "If you are wondering about the bedding Mr. Michaels, we replace the mattress and box spring each time a tenant leaves. They aren't new but we have a company that cleans and reconditions the bedding bringing it up to the acceptable health standards for used bedding." Lee grinned at her, "You read my mind Beth, and I was going to ask you about that. Another question though. What if the boys wanted to replace any of the furniture? Would there be allowances made?" "If you wanted to replace an item, we would make a note of that on the lease which by the way is for one year and renewable with 90 days written notice. There wouldn't be a reduction in the rent unless you wanted to replace all of the furnishings. In that case we would rent as unfurnished at $425 a month." "That sounds reasonable Beth. I think the boys would want their own beds. A double can be small for guys their size. There is a lack of closet space though isn't there? This room only has one but it's fairly large. I noticed another door in the living room so that must be another closet?" "It is a small closet. I'm afraid when these buildings were built they didn't think about closet space. Most older homes are that way as if they didn't think people had many clothes for some reason." Carl and Dalton had rejoined them as they were talking. "Well fellas what do you think?" "We like it Uncle Lee but the rent is a bit steep don't you think? We both like the size of this room but would we be able to get twin beds instead of that double?" "Way ahead of you on that Carl. Lets go into the kitchen where Mrs. Waring and I can talk at the table." The apartment was clean and while only furnished with what was needed to qualify as a furnished apartment, he liked it. Lee had already decided to replace the furniture if things could be worked out about the lease. He and the agent sat at the table while the boys stood in the doorway looking puzzled. The rent was more then they could afford even with Dalton working. Carl did not have a job yet but probably would be able to get one at the Holiday Inn with Dalton. Even then the rent would be stiff. "Carl, why don't you and Dalton wait in the car while Mrs. Waring and I try and work things out? You like this place right?" "Yes sir but." Both Carl and Dalton said together before Lee cut them off. "Wait in the car for me, okay?" Beth Waring watched and listened to the exchange between the three of them. She didn't know what was going to be said but you could see that the older young man was not used to being questioned. She was not going to underestimate him any longer. At first she had thought it was going to be another boring walk through but no lease and she had other apartment appointments a little later. They both waited as the two left the apartment before speaking. "Now then Beth. If I give you a check drawn on the Philadelphia National Bank for $6,000 would you be able to draw the lease in both Carl's and Dalton's names? I thing that will cover the lease for 1 year with about $900 left that you would put into escrow but refundable at the end of the leases first year. Think we could do that and you can show me as being the responsible party." "That's a little unusual Mr. Michaels, I'd have to call the office first." "Fine Beth, lets do it then. As part of the lease though, all furnishings are to be removed by this Monday. I'm leaving town and the boys don't really have a place other then the University dorm. Think that could be arranged also?" "That's moving kind of fast but I think it can be done. What about furniture though?" "I'll take care of that as long as yours can be removed before the afternoon on Monday." Beth stared at Lee for a few seconds as she reached for her cell phone. She had a feeling that she was not in control of the interview and was following directions. Without knowing how she knew, she felt that what he said would be done. Lee Michaels had an air of a man with absolute confidence and she could tell that he had control of what he wanted and didn't doubt it would be done. His eyes held her as she dialed her office number. "Debbie, Beth Waring. I've just leased 1900-19th St., are Mr. Cooke or Mr. Neff there? I need to speak with one of them." "Mr. Neff is here Beth, just a second and I'll get him." "Hello Beth, Douglas here. Debbie tells me you've leased 1900 on 19th St. congratulations. Is there something I can help you with?" After Beth had told Neff about the requested leasing arrangements and the conditions Lee has asked for she hands the phone to him. "Mr. Neff would like to speak with you." "Lee Michaels here Mr. Neff, how are you? Do you think your firm can arrange what I have asked for?" "I like that, a man that gets right to the meat of the subject. I'd like to meet with you someday for a drink. I can use men like you with Cooke & Neff. I see no problems with it at all. Would you furnish the necessary information for background and financial checks? "I can and will. It might be a little sketchy though, I just returned from Saudi Arabia after a long assignment on government business. I was with the MegaData Corp. on Chestnut St." "I know them Michaels, they have done some work for us. Do you know Melvin McKay? We played golf together a couple of times." "I do but he has merged the firm and is only the President now not the CEO. I think he is on a long cruise. The Human Resources office could give you whatever you might want. I'm not with them any longer though." "That's interesting Michaels but maybe all the better if your looking for a position here in Philadelphia. I'd really like to talk with you. George Cooke and I could have lunch maybe next Monday or Tuesday and work something out with you." "I am sorry Mr. Neff, I'm leaving town on Tuesday for Louisville for a few days and then I'll be in Cincinnati for an undetermined period. I have several lose ends that I must get tied up since I've left MegaData." "Sorry to hear that Michaels but maybe you will call us when you get back into Philadelphia? Go ahead and tell Beth its okay to work the lease up with your specifications. No need for the background information, I'll take care of that. You won't forget to call us will you?" "I'd rather you told her Mr. Neff and thanks for your help. I might just give you a call later." "Good, have a safe trip." Handing the phone to Beth, Lee stands up stretching and moves to the window looking out. Carl and Dalton are leaning against the car looking up at the windows as they are talking and wave. He stands there for a few minutes looking down at them wishing Mark was with them. He daydreams for an instant wanting Mark when he hears Beth calling him. "That Mr. Michaels was the fastest and most unusual lease I have ever written. Mr. Neff said everything was to be done just as you asked and the apartment will be cleaned thoroughly by Monday noontime. I can only write up a rough lease but it will be binding after you and I sign it. I'll give you a receipt for your deposit and rental. Do you mind if I ask if you always work that fast?" "No Beth, not always unless I have too. You don't have to give me a receipt. My check will do that. Just indicate the terms as we discussed. Will the boys have to sign the lease?" "They can come into the office and sign the finished copy. We can either let them have your copy of send it where you want." Sitting back at the table, Lee watches as she writes the information she needs as he gives it to her. He lists his address as 23 Crestmont Dr., Cincinnati, Ohio with John's telephone number. Finishing the document and signing she hands him a set of keys. "There is only one set, they can have another set made. We will use our master and have everything done before they move in on Monday." "Thanks for your help Beth, I really appreciate it. The boys will be tickled." Shaking hands briefly he turns and leaves Beth Waring standing in the living room, her head swimming as if she had been in the vortex of a tempest. Lee had gotten everything exactly as he wanted with little effort. Strange how businessmen think when money and people with contacts work together. Carl and Dalton almost hugged him when he told them the apartment was theirs and then the questions started. Their excitement almost matched Mark's and that tinge of regret at his absence flitted through his head. It won't be long and there would be no absence he was thinking as he told Dalton to drive to Macy's on Market St. * * * * * * It won't be that much longer. . . . .