Date: Mon, 21 Jan 2002 15:25:08 -0800 (PST) From: eagle 42 Subject: Chapter 8, Tanner & Robert Disclaimer: This story is a fantasy of my own creation. The characters are not real; they were born of my imagination. If a consensual relationship between two of-age males bothers you, then do not read further. If you are under the legal age in your area, stop reading now. Any similarities between a character and a real person, living or dead, are purely coincidental. Any actions the reader takes as a result of reading this story are not the responsibility of the author. You may not reproduce, post, or distribute this story in any way without the author's expressed written permission. You may print out one copy or save one copy of this story for your own viewing and entertainment. By reading further, you implicitly are agreeing to the above guidelines. Many thanks go to Hal, Jason & Cody for volunteering their time and expertise to edit this story. E-mails from readers are truly encouraged. I appreciate your constructive criticism and comments. Enjoy -- Tanner and Robert Deja vu Dr. Worthington As we were unloading the van at Jason's townhouse, I turned to Tanner and said, "Tanner, there's something I'd like to talk with you about today. Why don't we get our things put away, and freshen up; then, let's you and I make some time for a serious family discussion about your future and your relationship with us, your prodigal family." He responded, "Okay, dad. I would like that -- just the two of us, father and son." Chapter Eight Dr. Worthington "Jason, if you've got a few minute I would like to discuss something with you," I commented. "How's right now, Bob? Let's put our stuff in the rooms, meet in the kitchen, and make us a drink. We can sit out on the balcony and have our conversation," Jason responded. Soon we were comfortably ensconced in our lounge chairs on the balcony. I began, "Jason, I know that Tanner's efforts to establish a relationship with me, at whatever level, was and remains his primary goal. Dorothy and I are also convinced that there is no hidden agenda behind his motives, and that he wasn't there to become a member of the family or move in with us, or whatever. However, we feel that that's just what we want to offer him -- a home, another brother, a mom, a dad -- to become a true family member -- - that is, if he's interested and agreeable. I know he's nineteen -- and what nineteen-year-old doesn't feel like he or she's an adult -- He must make this decision on his own. But we want your blessing also. This move also includes Kyle. We would legally adopt him. "Another factor, Jason, Dorothy and I both make more money than we could ever need or use. Our house is big enough for two more teenagers; the two guest rooms are really quite large and can easily be converted into their space. In fact, each has it's own private bath. "Moreover, we've been discussing building a guest cottage out by the pool so this will just put that project on the fast track. And more importantly, we're willing to provide a college education for both of them -- and graduate degrees if the needs should arise. At least, consider our proposal." Jason responded graciously, "Bob, without a second thought, you and Dorothy have my blessing. I know I can't provide a home environment like you two can. I'm on the road so much of the time because of the firm. I love both the boys like they were my own. But, I think your proposal, if the boys are agreeable, is the way to go." "However, Bob, the money thing -- college, living expenses, clothes, etc -- that's another matter. I'm sure Tanner hasn't said anything to you about what I'm going to tell you, but I feel you and Dorothy need to know. "Tanner's parents were killed by an 18-wheeler driven by a drunk driver. As a result of the police investigation, it was found out that the driver had two DUIs on his record and yet the trucking company continued to employ him even though they were aware of the fact. Come to find out that the driver was the brother-in-law of the company's owner. Jason continued, "I decided to sue on grounds of negligence on behalf of the boys. The suit never went to court because the insurance company saw they could never win it. They settled early on. The boys received close to six million dollars in the settlement. There were no legal fees since I handled the case. That money, plus what they received from their parent's estate and their parent's insurance, totaled out at ten million. In other words, Tanner and Kyle each have a trust fund set up that I administer totaling about five million. "Each takes control of his fund upon reaching the age of 25," Jason continued. "However, they are presently provided a monthly sum for living expenses. Naturally, their education is covered -- - for as long as they want to continue in school. If the boys move in with you and Dorothy -- after a year's time -- I'll make you two the trust fund administrators, that is, if you're willing to take on that responsibility." "My God," I responded, "I had no idea. What a rotten way to get that money; but, at least they're provided for if the funds are invested and spent wisely. I'm not a financial expert, but my wife's brother is one of the best financial planners in the business --- honest as the day is long. If need be, we'll ask for his assistance and guidance." "Then it's settled," Jason said. "If the boys want to join your family then we'll make the necessary legal arrangements, have Kyle enrolled in high school, get Tanner transferred to college there -- You know, he's on full scholarship out here and presently maintains a 4.0 GPA. He's also was a National Merit Finalist scholar. Any chance that scholarship can be transferred with him back in Virginia?" I answered, "Well, since I'm on the medical faculty and have good connections, I think something similar can be arranged. We'll look into that immediately. In fact, when I update Dorothy on this situation, and if Tanner and Kyle are interested, she can begin inquires immediately." "Bob, another factor that might work in Tanner's favor regarding transferring his merit scholarship, his mother's father was at one time dean of the graduate school there at the university. You know, family connections never hurt." "How true," I responded. "I'm sure that'll help also. Now, Jason, I have to have this little discussion with Robert. He's clueless regarding what we've talked about." "OK, Bob, I'll leave that to you. I'm going to catch a shower myself and maybe check with the hospital afterwards. Want another drink?" Tanner Uncle Jason uses this townhouse sometimes for business purposes. Since his "original" home is located about an hour's drive from his office, he often sleeps in town rather than bothering with the commute. Sometimes important out-of-town clients are offered the hospitality of the townhouse rather than having to stay in a local hotel or motel. There was plenty of room for Robert, Uncle Jason, Dr. Worthington and me -- It still seems strange calling him "Dad" -- since the condo has three spacious bedrooms. It was decided that Robert and I would share one of the bedrooms while dad and Uncle Jason each had their own room. "Little bro, here's our room. Each bedroom has it's own bath, and there's plenty of hot water. Even with my long showers, I've never run out." Pointing at the kingsize bed I continued, "Sorry about the single bed -- guess you and I will have to share one again. Just promise to be on your best behavior. Wouldn't want that little thing to get out of control," I quipped as I pointed at Robert's crotch. "Little thing? Little thing! You better look again, big brother," Robert retorted as we both laughed. "Not a problem, little bro, I think Uncle Jason has a microscope around somewhere," I replied. Robert grabbed a pillow from the bed and hit me over the head with it. With my not being one to back down in the face of such physical dangers, there immediately ensued an energetic pillow fight. However, our antics were soon interrupted by the intercom. We heard Dad's voice say, "Robert, before you start your shower, would you please come down to my room. There's something we need to discuss." "Ok, Dad. Be right there," Robert responded. I commented that I thought I would mosey down to the kitchen to find something to munch on and drink, and put my stuff away while Robert was talking with dad. "Must be important for dad to want you to come right now. Hope nothin's wrong," I commented and continued. "Come to think of it, he and I are up for a session after I finish in here. Something's in the air, bro. Got my curiosity up now. You'd better head on for the father-son thing. Later." Dr. Worthington "Have a seat, son -- I just got off the phone with your mom -- the third conversation today. She and I have come to a decision but want your input and reaction before we act upon that decision." "Something's not wrong, is it, Dad? You're so serious right now -- kinda scary, if you want to know the truth," Robert interjected. "No, son. In fact, things are just great, or will be when Kyle rejoins us in the world of the "conscious". We're a "touchy/feely" family so I moved over the sofa and sat down next to Robert. I took one of his hands in mine and continued, "Robert, we know that Tanner came to us with the intent of establishing a relationship with me and our family, not necessarily to become a member of it. However, under the circumstances, and with your blessing, your mom and I intend to ask him to join the family -- Kyle also -- to move in with us and go to college back home, probably the university." I continued, "I've just finished discussing this with Jason, and he's totally supportive of our intentions. What do you think?" Robert's face lit up like a 3-year-old kid spotting the presents under the tree on Christmas morning and blurted out, "Dad, there's no thinking about it. You have no idea how happy that would make me. Wow, a real big brother plus another one my own age right there at home. Go for it!" Robert gave me a big hug and then asked, "Is this what you're going to talk to Tanner about? "Yes, son, as soon as he's finished his shower. Please don't say anything to him until I've talked with him. Now changing the subject, we want to be ready in case the hospital calls so let's get cleaned up and our stuff put away ASAP. OK?" Tanner My little bro came back to our room with shit-eatin' grin on his face. When I asked him what was up, he just clamed up and would tell me nothing. "Robert, you go ahead and take your shower while I put my clothes away, I don't think I can live out of a suitcase since we're probably going to be here several days at least." "Okay, then I'll do the same while you're in the shower. The suitcase bit doesn't excite me, either," responded Robert. Since we both were already comfortable being naked around each other, Robert stripped down immediately, stepped into the bathroom and began his shower. Thanks goodness he didn't look back at me because the sight of that beautiful teen body was starting to give me that uplifted feeling, if you get my drift. How I wanted to join him under that hot water and get my hands on that hot bod! Robert I was still giddy from the discussion that dad and I just had. To say I was happy would be an understatement. Then it struck me. My thoughts ran amuck. "How will Tanner react to his finding out that I'm gay? Maybe he won't want to become a part of my family then. Yet, it wouldn't be fair if I do not to come out to Tanner before he makes his decision. Damn, I could lose him as a brother and as a friend. And what about Kyle? SHIT, SHIT, SHIT!! What the hell do I do?" At Tanner's suggestion I began my shower first. I only wish he were in here with me. That thought brought about a distinct physical change in me as the blood from my brain migrated to my mid-section. The blue-veined flute began to rise to the occasion, and I slowly began to jack off right there in the shower with Tanner right in the next room. Was I crazy or just teenage-horny? It didn't take long for that familiar feeling to rise from my balls as they migrated upward in my nut sack signaling my impending orgasm. As the first volley of my hot cum squirted onto the shower walls, I involuntarily groaned and gasped loudly as my knees somewhat buckled. Leaning against the opposite shower wall to prevent my falling on my ass, I continued jacking off, thus producing several more strong ejaculations of my teen seed. After regaining my composure and finishing my bodily oblations, I stepped out of the shower and dried myself off -- hoping that Tanner would not come in and see the evidence of my recent sexual release -- my somewhat red-flushed dick in a still half-hard state. But then again, maybe I wished he would ... Tanner When I finished putting my clothes away and organizing my "stuff", I opened the door to the bathroom with the intent of going to take a pee. However, as the door opened I heard some noise emanating from the shower -- a loud gasp and perhaps a groan or two of what I interpreted as sexual passion. I immediately realized that Robert was jacking off. Even though the glass door to the shower was semi- transparent and wet with steam, I could still see the outline of his body and the motions of his hand as he brought himself to that organismic moment. Being torn between continuing to intrude upon his private moments or respecting his privacy, I quickly decided that my respect for him required that I slowly remove myself from this potentially embarrassing situation. However, I fleetingly hoped that eventually we could share such moments. But, if he's straight, I don't want to lose him by making what he might consider improper advances. Settling for being a brother and close friend may be only what our relationship will be in the future; but then again, that's enough for me if that's my only choice. I completed my bathroom chores without resorting to finding release myself, but I was sorely tempted. However, at that moment the phone rang and I answered it out of habit. "Hello... No, this is not Mr. Kingston; this is his nephew, Tanner... What? Please repeat that... He's awake? ... And asking for me? ... Hell yeah! I'll tell my uncle; I'm sure we'll be there soon. Thanks again for calling. Goodbye." "Robert," I yelled. "That was the hospital. Kyle has come out of the coma and is asking for me and Uncle Jason. He's gonna make it, bro. He's gonna make it! Damn, that great news!" As my eyes teared up, I ran over and hugged Robert. He returned the hug with enthusiasm and said, "Go tell Dad and your Uncle Jason. I'll be ready to go shortly." Kyle I still had a slight headache and felt somewhat out of touch with reality, but I knew where I was and that I wanted to see Tanner and Uncle Jason. My thoughts were soon interrupted by a knock at the door. Tanner entered wearing a smile as wide as the door. A sense of love swept over me as he approached the bed. We're about as close as two brothers can be -- even though we're only half-brothers. He's gay and I'm straight as an arrow, but we've always been very demonstrative about our love for each other -- hugging, arms around the shoulders, a kiss on the cheek occasionally, and a ruffling of each other's hair. Sometimes he resorts to "goosing" me just to get me riled, but I usually get him back by thumping him in the nuts when he's least expecting it -- all in all, good-natured fun. "Welcome back to the land of the living, little bro. You really gave us a scare," Tanner said as he leaned over and gave me a gentle hug, being careful not to undo any of the medical stuff attached to me. "How they hanging?" He grinned mischievously as he lifted the covers. I laughed gingerly so as not to disturb my slightly aching head and quickly retorted, "Get away from me, you pervert! Just like you to check out my family jewels right after my having head surgery." Tanner responded, "Oh, it was that head! Well, I thought that while the surgeon had you under, they just might add some length to that scrawny little dick of yours. I can see the operation was definitely not a success. Maybe additional surgery is called for." "I would say 'up yours' but you'd probably enjoy it too much, big brother," I shot right back at Tanner. He grinned and quipped, "Hell, little brother, if that was you poking that micro-dick in me, I'd have to ask if it was in yet. Like I said, the surgery was obviously not successful." We continued the banter just a bit longer. Then Tanner's face turned serious, his mood changed significantly, and he said softly, "Little brother, I'm so glad you're OK. Damn, I don't know what I would have done if something really bad had happened to you." With tears in his eyes, Tanner continued, "I love you, little brother. Now don't go doing something stupid like that again, you hear? I just couldn't handle it." Tanner pulled himself together, wiped his eyes with his shirt sleeve and continued, "there's someone outside I want you to meet. Let me get him." My big hunk of a brother walked to the door and motioned for whoever was out in the hall to come in. I knew from reading the detective reports several months ago that Robert and Tanner strongly resembled each other but I was not prepared at the extent of that resemblance. I blurted out, "My god, Tanner. Those reports were right; he's your clone!" Robert walked over to me, grasped my right hand firmly and said, "Hey there, Kyle. Boy, am I glad to finally meet you in spite of the circumstances." He looked back at Tanner, grinned and returning his gaze to me, continued, "But I can see that your vision has not fully recovered. I'm obviously a lot better looking than this mug-face of a brother." "Oh, shit! He's got your sense of humor too," I quipped. With that we all laughed and the tension in the room disappeared. About that time Uncle Jason walked in accompanied by a distinguished looking gentleman. I spoke first, "Hey, Uncle Jason. And don't tell me, this has got to be Dr. Worthington. Hello, sir. Thanks for being here and bringing Tanner and Robert. Wow, what a way to be welcomed back to the land of the living, as my brother so eloquently put it." Dr. Worthington I walked over to the bed, shook his hand gingerly and said, "Kyle, it's nice to finally get to meet you; however, you won't remember this, but I was in the operating room during your procedure. Dr. Gamac invited me to observe. He obviously did a good job on you." "Yes, sir. I've got a bit of a headache but other than that I feel okay. Any idea how long I'll be here?" Kyle asked. "No, that's left to Dr. Gamac, but you're young, strong, and healthy so the chances are you'll be fully minded very soon. They'll be running some neuro-tests just to make sure that your nervous system is functioning properly and that will most likely take a couple of days." Jason "Well, Kyle, if I can get a word in here -- remember me, Uncle Jason?" We all laughed and Kyle blushed slightly. "I'm sorry, Uncle Jason. I was just so excited to see Tanner and to finally meet Robert and Dr. Worthington. You know I wasn't slighting you. Come here." I walked over to Kyle's bed, gave him a gentle hug and said, "I know. I know. Just having a little fun at your expense. Damn, I'm glad you're awake and feeling ok. (pause) You hungry? Your lunch is waiting just outside --- jell-o and some other hospital mystery foods." "You know, I could use a hamburger, but I supposed that's too much to wish for right now, isn't it?" Kyle responded. "Let's hold off on the heavy foods for a while, young man," I answered. "Your stomach's got to get used to having food in it after a couple of days intravenous feeding. I don't think Dr. Gamac will torture you much longer with this hospital food, but we've got to be cautious." The head nurse walked in about that time and shooed us out, saying that Kyle needed his rest. We could come back in a couple of hours she assured us. All of Kyle's talk about food reminded us that we had not eaten any real food since our arrival earlier this morning. I suggested a place where we might find an excellent lunch that wasn't too far from the hospital. Everyone was hungry by this time so to lunch we went. Upon our arrival at the restaurant, Bob reminded me that he wanted some private conversation time with Tanner. He suggested that he and Tanner find a table a bit isolated from us and the other guests so they could talk uninterrupted. I agreed and asked the manager if that could be arranged. He quickly prepared a table away from other guests, especially since I slipped him a "twenty". Dr. Worthington Tanner and I took out seats, perused the menu and ordered. When the server left I began. "Tanner, I realize that it's only been a short time since you entered our lives back there in Virginia, but Dorothy and I want you to know that we're so gratified that you made the effort to find us. She and I talked a bit while you all went to get Tanner checked out of the hotel and again during the flight out here. Those air-to-ground phones are something, aren't they? And, we've had several more discussions that have burned up the phone lines since our arriving here." Tanner's hands were sitting on the table directly in front of him so I reached across and placed mine hands on his. Looking straight into that handsome, youthful face I continued, "Anyway -- I know this is kinda short notice, but we would like for you to consider joining our family back home. And, that includes Kyle also." "I know you said your original intent was to just establish a relationship with us, that you were not looking for a new family to take the place of your mom and dad. However, Dorothy and I really want to offer you and Kyle all that we have, and ourselves, to be your mom and dad." "You don't have to give me answer right now," I continued. "I want you and Kyle to have time to consider our offer. Take all the time you need. But please know, we love the both of you and want you to be a part of our lives. By the way, Jason has given me his blessing to our offer. Just wanted you to know." Tanner My dad held my hands across the table as he spoke softly, inviting Kyle and me to become a part of his family. As tears ever so slowly swelled up in my eyes, I felt waves of love flow from him to me. Moments of silence passed. Kyle and I had been on an emotional roller coaster since our parent's death six months ago, and Kyle's accident and resulting hospitalization and surgery just added to my emotional bankruptcy. Thus, Dad's invitation to become a part of a real family again took me over the top. Without realizing it, my emotional damn burst, and I became a sobbing mass of uncontrollable crying. I'm just glad our table was isolated from the rest of the patrons in the establishment. I couldn't speak; the only sounds emanating from my mouth were intermediate gasps for breath and soft wales of anguish. Dad sat silently, continuing to hold my hands, letting me purge myself of months of pent-up feelings. Finally I pulled my self together enough to utter, "Thank you for being here, for being my dad, and for wanting us to be a part of your family. My heart tells me to accept your offer right here, right now; but, I know that Kyle has to make his decision also. He and I are a package deal. When can you talk with him?" "Son, maybe as soon as tomorrow, depending on how his physical condition and emotional state are progressing. I want to wait until Dr. Gamac gives his approval. After all, he is Kyle's doctor, not me." "Dad, I need to go the men's room to wash my face and regroup a bit. If you don't mind, just order for the both of us. I'll be right back; please, excuse me." I said. No one was in the men's room when I entered. Feeling the need to sit down again, I opened one of the stalls and plopped down on the toilet set without dropping my pants. I just sat! Then it hit me! "Oh, God!" I thought. "I can't accept Dad's offer and not be honest about my being gay. He has to know up front. Fuck! What if he's a homophobe! What if he and Dorothy don't want me then! ... And Robert, I have to come out to him too ... just can't mislead them, not the people I love." "Love ...Did I mean that? After such a short time?" I asked myself. I thought about it. "Hell, yes, I meant it! I do love all three of them. Shit, shit, damn it! Why the hell could I not just be 'normal'? What a fucking cross to bear!!!!" About that time I heard voices approaching the door to the men's room; several patrons entered and went about their business. From their conversation I gathered that they knew each other. By the time they left I had regained my composure enough to leave the stall and wash my face and hands. Now to face dad and share my horrible secret with him!