SATURDAY, AUGUST 8

Mason's eyes fluttered open. He couldn't remember a morning when he felt so wonderful. The morning sun lit the room allowing Mason to watch his handsome boyfriend continue to sleep. He was relieved they weren't going to the gym this morning. He'd gotten a workout the previous night before he and Alejandro dropped off to sleep sometime after midnight.

This was the first time Mason really got to look at Alejandro naked. Other times it was too dark to really see him. Carefully, he leaned up on an elbow and slid the covers down to Alejandro's hips. He admired the teen's fit body. His light brown skin with large dark brown nipples. It was evidence that Alejandro's body was maturing a bit faster than other boys Mason's age.

Mason traced his index finger down Alejandro's sternum, across his abs, down to the bed's covers bunched below his waist. Lifting the covers, Mason got a good look at what filled his bottom so wonderfully much of the night. Mason wondered if Alejandro had been hard all night, or if it was just the boy's morning wood. He gripped it gently and gave it a good feel all over. Alejandro shifted his position and moaned but didn't wake.

'Michael's not here,' thought Mason, 'and we aren't going to the gym...' He gave Alejandro's manhood another squeeze causing the teen to moan in his sleep. Mason moved slowly. Without waking Alejandro, he straddled the boy's hips and lowered himself. When the sleeping boy's cock rubbed ever so nicely across Mason's prostate, Mason's dick went from 1 to 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. Rocking his hips and rising and falling above his boyfriend, Mason pleasured his prostate and on the reverse side, he played five-on-one.

Alejandro started having the most amazing sex dream. He was plugging Mason again. His balls ached after the last time they'd made love. Somehow, he'd quickly recovered. All he wanted to do was make Mason happy. It seemed like the only thing of importance to Alejandro. Mason seemed very happy while Alejandro made love to him, and Alejandro was very happy to make Mason happy.

Mason reached critical mass much faster than he expected. Though his brain warned him to hold off, his body didn't listen. Plunging down fully, Mason gave a grunt and fired away.

The weight landing on his hips and the drops of boy cum splattering on his face and chest woke Alejandro from his pleasant dream to an even more pleasant reality.

"Good morning, mi ángel. Or should I call you mi pequeño diablo (my little devil)."

Mason panted. That orgasm hit him so hard, he saw stars and almost passed out. Instead of answering, he just smiled.

Alejandro thought Mason looked so sexy with his flushed chest and cheeks and his post-orgasm smile of satisfaction. He reached his arms towards Mason who leaned forward and lowered himself into his lover's arms. "Gawd, you are so sexy. I could spend the entire day in bed with you."

Mason rose to his elbows so he could look into Alejandro's eyes. That's when he noticed the mess he'd made on his boyfriend's face. Like a little kitten, Mason made quick work of lapping up the little, nearly clear, drops of boy's cream he'd shot. It made Alejandro giggle.

Mason flexed his anal muscles getting Alejandro's attention back on the boy's hard cock still embedded in the little blonde's bottom. "I need you to cum in me. I want it in me, part of you in me, when I go on stage."

Neither boy considered how impractical that really was. They were too in love to care about things like facts and biology. For Alejandro, Mason's wish was his command. Alejandro slipped out from beneath the boy and got behind him. Grabbing Mason by the hips he pulled the blond up onto his hands and knees. Being manhandled by Alejandro returned Mason to a 10 on the Mohs scale. The slapping of hips to thighs was matched by the pounding of the headboard against the wall.

Jacob and Carol looked upstairs from the kitchen island while they enjoyed their morning coffee. "Oh, to be a young lad again," sighed Jacob.

"I don't think they ever get over it," said Carol with an eye roll. "I'm surrounded by boys who seem to fuck like rabbits."

Jacob almost shot coffee out his nose. He never expected Carol to drop an f-bomb, especially not this early in the morning. "Well, those two were at it most of the night too."

"Don't let them go too much longer. They'll be late getting to the theater for the trip to LA for the day."

Anyone close to the Novak house would have heard the growl Alejandro gave as he slammed himself into Mason and unleashed a powerful orgasm. He didn't know if his balls had anything left to deposit, but his body was putting on a terrific performance in any case. Mason, in his excitement, sprayed a load onto the sheets.

The boys collapsed onto the bed and cuddled, ready to take another nap.

"That's my cue," announced Jacob. He headed up the stairs to get the day started.

----------------------     

"Good morning, Joshie," said Grandma Mary. She and Jim gave Josh a kiss and did the best they could to manage a hug.

"How are you this morning, my boy," asked Grandpa Jim.

"I'm happy to see you. It's boring when you aren't here."

"Well, we're sorry we didn't get here sooner today," said Jim, "but we met up with Agent Parker and had to do some shopping."

Josh's mood darkened. "Did they find dad yet? I hope they shoot first and ask questions later." He didn't know where he'd heard that, but it seemed like an appropriate time to drop that line.

"No word on that, son," said Grandpa Jim, "but Agent Parker did say we needed to be careful and keep you safe."

Josh's mood turned serious. "Is that why there's a cop in the hallway?" He saw the surprise on the adults' faces. "Once in a while I see one when someone opens the door."

Grandma Mary sat on the edge of the bed and took Josh's good hand in hers. "He did a number on you the last time. We want to make sure that NEVER happens again."

Brow furrowed; Josh asked the question he was afraid to have answered. "Since mom isn't going to be better anytime soon and dad's house isn't a safe place to me, the only place you can take me when I get out of here is to the farm. I have to move to Kansas, don't I?"

"Don't worry about that, Josh," stated Jim. "Your mother could wake any day now. Keep your spirits up and keep sending get well thoughts to you mother."

That didn't melt the sour look on Josh's face. "I'm not leaving Alex."

"Speaking of Alex," Grandma Mary interjected, "you'll need this to talk to him." She reached into her carry-all bag and pulled out a white plastic retail shopping bag.

Josh opened the bag and cried out, "THANK YOU!!" He pulled out a new case and cellphone from the bag.

Mary explained, "We couldn't get your old number switched to our plan. Besides, Agent Parker said that wouldn't be a good idea. Here's your new number. The lady at the store said if you log in with your old Apple ID, you'll be able to download all your contacts and apps."

Jim added, "Now don't go telling Alex you might be moving. You won't want to ruin his vacation and things like that are best said in person."

Josh wasn't paying much attention to his grandparents at this point. As any teen would do with a new device, he went right to work setting up his credentials and downloading everything under the sun.

Jim chuckled. "We'll go visit your mom while you are busy."

Josh managed an "okay" while his thumbs were tapping away.

Once he got his contacts downloaded, he pulled up Messages and sent a message to Alex.

JOSH: Hey, it's Josh
JOSH: New phone n number
JOSH: Hope you are having fun
JOSH: Tell everyone I said hey
JOSH: Love you

Josh breathed a sigh of relief. He had his lifeline back -- a phone. He felt like the distance between Mayfield and East Harbor dramatically shrank.

----------------------     

Mason hurried over to Alejandro and gave his boyfriend a hug. "We're all packed up. Are we riding with Jacob?"

Alejandro gave Mason a kiss. "Jacob and I have to run to the house in Laguna Beach to make sure things are ready for our visit. Don't worry, you'll be too busy with sound checks and rehearsal to notice I'm not there. But I'll be there in plenty of time before the show." Then he leaned in and whispered in Mason's ear. "And I've got something special for you tonight..."

Mason felt his heartrate soar as Alejandro's smile made him melt inside. He and Alejandro shared a tight hug. Mason didn't want to be separated from Alejandro, especially after the kiss they shared before they went their separate ways.

"Mason!" called Michael, waving his hand to get the little blonde to follow him. Mason climbed in the rear seat of Lars' Yukon for the ride to LA. He found Michael slumped in the seat with his knees on the back of the seat in front of him. Mason giggled and quickly joined Michael hidden away in the back.

"I thought we were gonna have to wait for you guys to do it again before we could leave," laughed Michael.

"I was hoping so," stated Mason with a huge grin.

"I knew you guys would do it last night."

"Yeah, we did," confessed Mason. "And again, and again and this morning..." The boys giggled like two schoolgirls in the back seat.

Simon raised his voice, "Keep it down back there." He put his ear buds back in and returned his attention to his phone.

Michael kicked the back of the seat, "Mind your own business!" Then broke out into laughter.

Turning his attention back to Mason, "It looks like you had a good time."

"Yeah," said Mason looking dreamy-eyed.

"Over the last few months," confessed Michael, "Alejandro has gotten more mature and sexier."

"OMG," admitted Mason, "Alejandro is sooooo sexy."

"I'm really excited for you two," said Michael. He put his arm around Mason's shoulder and pulled him close. "Alejandro is my best friend in the world, and I don't think he could have found a better boyfriend."

"Thanks," said Mason, resting his head on Michael's shoulder.

"Did you send your mom and the guys up in Mayfield the code to see the livestream tonight?"

"Yeah, and Aiden and Nolan. I hope they are somewhere with Internet access so they can watch."

Michael knew how much Aiden seeing the show tonight meant to Mason. Michael hoped that tonight, Mason would move out from under Aiden's shadow and realize his own greatness. He hoped that Mason would realize that he has as much to offer the others, to offer the world, as Aiden. He hugged Mason tightly.

----------------------     

"Jarrod, great to see you. We've got Panic! Setting up off stage right," instructed the concert's production manager. "At the Majestic's equipment will remain on stage. During the performances in between the acts, we'll move the other acts on and off stage as best we can to minimize downtime."

Mason watched the men walk off the stage as he waited for someone to tell him what to do. He looked around and saw Lukas talking to Tony, his drum tech, Zach working with some of the roadies to set up his keyboards and other devices while the other guys were setting up their instruments.

Wandering around and watching everyone, he found himself center stage at the Hollywood Bowl. Mason turned and faced the empty seats. He was in awe and fear simultaneously. The venue was beautiful. He was amazed how the outdoor seating climbed the hillside yet sat nestled among the greenery and trees. Mason imagined the millions of people who'd attended concerts over the last century and the movie stars and recording artists who'd sat in those seats or graced the stage. Then he thought of all those seats filled with people watching...expecting him to perform. The thought made his stomach flip-flop. An amplifier brought Mason back from his thoughts when it sang notes from a guitar being tuned.

"Mason," called one of the sound guys. He called Mason over and crouched down to speak to the boy. "These are your in-ear monitors for tonight. Keep these with you and someone will check to make sure they are on and working before you come on stage throughout the evening. Don't lose them. Now let's see how they fit."

By the time he'd finished getting Mason fitted, At the Majestic was ready to practice. They ran through their first few numbers just to warm up and get a feel for the space. The stage was wide, giving them plenty of room to move around while performing.

"You ready?" asked Matthew. Mason looked up at the oldest of the boys with a bit of a blank look on his face. "It's just like we're back in the theater. Com'on."

Mason turned to Lars and Jacob and handed the men his phone to be kept with the others, then walked out and grabbed a microphone. Once the music started, all he'd practiced kicked in. Before the first song ended, he was having the time of his life. He pictured the seats filled to capacity. This time he didn't feel scared. He felt empowered. He sang to the imaginary crowd with confidence in the power his singing had to make people happy. He sang with the thought of making Aiden and his mother proud.

The boys vacated the stage to allow others to do what they needed to prepare. Heading to the parking lot behind the stage, they saw Alejandro talking to a truck driver.

"What's up?" said Michael. Mason sidled up next to Alejandro and took his hand.

"I realized you guys didn't get a chance to get new outfits for tonight, so I arranged for our stylists to put together an assortment of things you guys can wear tonight if you want." He watched the truck pull in next to the trailer that was reserved for the boys to use when off stage. When the driver got out, he raised the rear door and lowered the ramp so they boys could make their way into the truck.

"You didn't have to do this," said Matthew. "We brought the things we wore on tour. But we really appreciate it."

"No prob," said Alejandro, taking Mason's hand and led Mason to the clothing rack deepest into the truck. "This rack is for you. I know the other guys had stuff, but I didn't think you did. You deserve to have the best tonight." Alejandro unzipped the cover and pulled it off the rack to reveal designer pants, shirts, jackets of all different styles and colors.

Mason had never seen such nice clothing. He flipped through the rack admiring the different items. He turned to Alejandro and asked, "Why?"

"You need to look like the star you are." He went to the other end of the rack to find something. "It's hot and you'll be on and off stage a lot, so you'll need to change a few times tonight anyway. But when you're doing your set, maybe you should wear this." Alejandro pulled out a sparkling, white evening jacket over a black satin dress shirt. He watched Mason's eyes grow wide when he saw what Alejandro was holding. Then Alejandro added, "For you to look like an angel on stage. Mi ángel."

----------------------     

Lars' phone buzzed. Retrieving it from his pocket, he saw that security alerted him that the band's guest arrived and was parking now. He headed to the parking lot behind the stage and spotted George Richards right away. (It helped that Carol texted him a photo she pulled down from the man's LinkedIn profile.)

"George, welcome to southern California," greeted Lars. He walked up to the man and shook his hand.

George smiled and returned the firm handshake of Dr. Meijer. "I can hardly believe I'm here," replied George. "Thank you to you and Carol for helping me attend this event. I'm so excited. I can't believe this is all happening so quickly."

"I can imagine. I still feel the same way about the boys' success. They only started playing together last September." He motioned for George to join him on a walk to find the boys.

"Lars, may I call you Lars?" asked George.

"Please do."

"Lars, how is Mason doing?"

"I think most of the time he is so busy doing what he loves that he doesn't think about what's going on in the rest of the world."

George nodded in understanding. "I see that in him during his lessons."

"But I do think, at times, he misses his friends and mother. I would surmise he misses you, too. How long have you be Mason's vocal coach?"

"For a few years now," answered George. He fondly remembered his time with Mason as it flashed through his memory. "I knew he was something special from our first lesson."

"I can see how you felt that way," added Lars. He saw the talent and spark the little blonde baseball player possessed. "I think the boys are in the trailer." As they approached, they could hear their voices and the tapping of Lukas' drumsticks.

Lars popped his head into the trailer to make sure the boys were suitable for company. Seeing some were only half dressed in preparation for the start of the concert, Lars said, "Mason, before you change, you have a guest." He motioned for Mason to come outside. Alejandro buttoned his shirt and followed.

"MR. RICHARDS!" Mason hugged the man in his excitement, something that was very uncharacteristic of their relationship.

George couldn't help but hug Mason back. "Hello, Mason."

Keeping his teacher in the hug, Mason tilted his head back and looked up at the man. "What are you doing here?"

"I came to see one of my favorite students perform."

Mason hugged him tightly again before letting go. "I'm so happy you're here!" George understood that Mason was just happy someone from back home was there to see him perform. "How long are you staying? Do you have to go home after the show? Can you come to the Majestic and help me in the studio?"

"Slow down, Mason." George was used to Mason when he was excited and when he gave Mason "the look," Mason calmed down and focused.

"Who's out there?" asked Lukas tapping out his warm ups on a practice pad.

"I think it's Mason's vocal coach," stated Michael. He and Christian had turned to kneel on the sofa to look out the window to watch and listen as best they could to what was going on outside.

"Whoever it is," stated Christian, "Mason sure is happy to see him."

"I'll be down here for a few days. I have former students to visit and things to do, but I'd be honored to see you in action in the studio, too."

Mason's grin must have hurt.

----------------------     

Madeline Johnson flitted around the house. Too nervous thinking about Mason's upcoming performance, she tried to clean and find projects to keep her busy. She finally decided enough was enough. She put dinner in the oven, made a cup of tea, and retreated to the sofa to wait for the benefit concert to begin. Using her SmartTV, she pulled up the system's browser and logged into YouTube and entered the code to see the event live on her TV. While she waited, she used her laptop to find the BaseBrawl tournament concert to watch Mason's performance.

Scrubbing through the show, she found the spot where Mason joined the band on stage then dragged back on the play bar to see the band introduce Mason. She didn't know what to think about some boys in southern California knowing her son from his social media activity. They seemed like nice boys, but they were into rock music and in her mind, that carried some concerns.

She smiled as she watched Mason on stage singing and having a good time. The boys in the band welcomed her son as if they'd known him their entire lives, especially the youngest one. When Mason's part ended and he and Cal exited the stage, Madeline noticed she still had 45 minutes before the show would start. Setting her tea aside, she pulled up Google and searched "at the majestic band."

She learned the boys' names and their relationships to one another. Articles about their tour in Europe and the controversy in London about Michael and Matthew's father. That led her down a rabbit hole where she learned Michael's story. Her doubt that the story was true vanished when she watched Michael's press conference after the capture of Yanni and the take down of the child sex trafficking ring. She then stumbled upon an article about the boys helping their friend, a boy named Trey, find his family. Following that trail, Madeline realized Trey was actually Alejandro Mateo Diaz III, the boy that came to pick up Mason for the trip to East Harbor.

The timer on the oven woke Madeline from her concentration. Pulling the casserole from the oven, she continued to mull over what she'd learned about her son's new friends. She had mixed feelings about having let her son travel so far away on his own. Despite how nice the other boys seemed, being nice didn't keep them safe from predators. East Harbor wasn't as safe as she perceived Mayfield to be and her concerns about Mason's safety grew. Then she remembered Jacob's promise. Mason was under Jacob's watchful eye. If that man was trusted to protect the children of one of the richest families in the world, then he certainly was capable of protecting Mason.

The casserole cooled and her anticipation to see Mason heated. She'd been hungry when she put it in the oven, but after the articles and videos she'd watched, worry had replaced her appetite. The livestream of the concert started and the sudden jump in volume startled her. Madeline hurried into the living room to watch the show.

"Welcome to the Majestic!"

She immediately recognized the Stevie Wonder cover and couldn't help but move to the music. When the song ended, the boys dove right into a much harder number. It wasn't Madeline's taste, but she found Michael to be a little showman and grew to enjoy "Hate to Say I Told You So." Simon followed that up with his cover of "Come on Over." Madeline wondered what she could expect from Mason's performance if the boys around Mason were into such hard rock.

----------------------     

"I told you this was gonna be cool," proclaimed Jimmy as he, Dante, and the rest of the bus load of street kids were escorted to reserved seats close to the front of the stage.

Dante had been through some rough shit on the streets and was less convinced about the whole thing. "Don't know, Jimmy. This still seems sus to me."

When they were told to be at the Hollywood Rec Center Saturday for a special event, most of the kids thought it was just another lame attempt to occupy their time, so they weren't out making their living. But rumors circulated about food, a safe place to spend the night, and even cash for just being there, it seemed like it was worth the risk for two busses full of street kids.

When they entered, they were given wristbands associated with their seats and were told food trucks would be parked at the entrance where they came in and the food would be free during the show.

"This better not be some lame-ass show," complained Dante.

Jimmy, the younger of the two, rolled his eyes. "I'd rather be here than giving some gross dude head. I wonder what the food trucks are gonna serve."

"Welcome to the Majestic!"

The boys turned their attention to the stage.

"Hey! Isn't that those dudes that came up and made that video?" asked Jimmy. He thought back to the night they helped some kid band make a music video for their cover of the Weezer song "Hash Pipe." It was also the night their friend Trey disappeared. Convinced it was the same band, Jimmy was excited that they were performing on a big stage like the Hollywood Bowl.

"What the fuck?" said Dante. His suspicion that there was a catch to all this was heightened.

After the third song, Michael took his mic and moved to center stage. "Welcome to the Hollywood Bowl! I can't believe how beautiful this place is. We're At the Majestic." Michael looked out at the crowd and noticed two familiar faces.

"Hey Jimmy! Hi Dante!" he said excitedly into his microphone waving at the boys. "Glad you guys made it!" The teens were stunned that Michael would even remember them.

After a few more words, the band roused the crowd by performing their biggest hit, "Lost and Found."

"We've got a great show for you tonight and we'll have a lot of special guests tonight," stated Michael after the crowd quieted down after "Lost and Found." "The next artist tonight is a newbie to the industry. He's been down in East Harbor with us recording his debut album. We're really excited he could be here tonight. Please welcome, Mason Johnson!"

----------------------     

"That's their last song before me," said Mason. He turned to Alejandro, "Do I look alright?"

Alejandro looked his boyfriend over once again. The solid white Louis Vuitton Run Away Sneakers, tight black skinny jeans that showed off Mason's package when the boy stood up straight, a black satin button up shirt, and the white, sequin jacket. Though Mason was wearing thousands of dollars' worth of designer clothing, the unmistakable smile on the boy's face and the twinkle in his eyes was all Mason. "I think you are missing something," said Alejandro. He took off this silver chain with a cross pendant and put it around Mason's neck. Then he kissed Mason on the lips.

Someone cleared their voice to get the attention of the boys. Mr. Richards wasn't surprised to see Mason kissing a boy, but Mason and this Alejandro seemed to be more into each other than he thought 13-year-old boys could be.

Mason turned to Mr. Richards expecting last minute instructions before taking the stage, just like his other performances. Instead, the man smiled and said, "I'm so proud of you, Mason. Go out there and give it all you've got."

The little singer just responded with his trademark smile.

The sound tech approached. "We need to check your monitors, Mason."

"Oh, yeah." He put the ear monitors in place, and they checked to make sure he could hear the band and it wasn't too loud. He gave a thumbs up and he was ready to go on stage. He and Alejandro held hands until the moment arrived.

Michael stood at the mic and said, "Please welcome, Mason Johnson!"

Mason and Alejandro squeezed hands before letting go as Mason ran out onto the stage. The band started the intro to "Levitating" before he reached the microphone. The thought was to not give Mason time to think about the crowd and to get right into singing.

Christian took photos of Mason and Alejandro silhouetted against the sky and stage lights right before taking the stage. He immediately posted it to Mason's Instagram account.

Madeline gasped when she saw her son run out onto the stage. He looked so mature and handsome. Mason was growing up and spreading his wings.

The sun was still up, an hour or so before sunset, and Mason could see the entire audience. Nearly 18,000 people were waiting for him to sing. And sing, he did.

Taking the microphone off the stand, Mason approached the front of the stage so he could sing to the audience. He nailed his entrance and articulated the rapid delivery of the lyrics. Dancing and singing, he got the crowd on their feet and singing along.

On the third time into the chorus, he was walking across the stage and he looked off stage and saw Alejandro beaming with pride and dancing to the song. Mason pointed at Alejandro and sang:

You want me, I want you, baby
My sugarboo, I'm levitating
The Milky Way, we're renegading
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah

The song segued right into another upbeat song, "Call Me Maybe." Mason's personality was shown brightly as he let his flirtatious side out and engaged the audience. He also began to engage the audience at home when he would sing to the camera and wave or point to those watching from home. Mason also took an opportunity to look at Alejandro and Mr. Richards now and again.

Despite how much the audience was into Mason's performance, Madeline felt the folks down south were doing Mason a disservice by not featuring his voice with more with ballads. She wanted Mason to sing the songs he was known for at church, through deep down, she knew that wasn't what Mason wanted, nor was that the music where he could make his career.

For the third song, Mason returned the microphone to the stand and adjusted it to the height he preferred. This time, the audience wouldn't know the song. It would be entirely on Mason to sell them on "Cool 4 Me" and to test its potential as a single. Mason stood behind the microphone and sang the ballad. The song is about a boy in love with someone he felt was out of his league, something Mason could relate to with all his being.

The song ended and the audience erupted with applause and cheers. Mason was shocked by the response. He smiled and waved to the audience while the boys in the band stayed in the background to allow Mason to have his moment.

"Thank you! Thank you!" said Mason. He held his hands together and bowed to the audience. "This next song is planned to be my first single. It's by the Jackson 5 and called, 'Never Can Say Goodbye.'"

Again, Mason stood at the microphone and sang his heart out. The crowd responded. People held up lighters or lit up their mobile phones and held them over their heads.

Back in Mayfield, Madeline pulled another tissue from the box and wiped her tears away. She'd never heard Mason sing more beautifully. Frankly, she didn't know he had it in him. She'd never imagined him singing pop music or singing songs with such emotion. Her little boy was really growing up, too fast for her liking.

The final song of Mason's set was "Shake It Off". He took his jacket off and hung it on the mic stand while he danced around the stage and enjoyed himself. He loved this song as an anthem against bullies and haters and he felt that this moment was his to put them in their place.

He bowed at the end of his set. The standing ovation was more than he'd expected, but everyone else knew it was the least he deserved for his performance. Rising to wave to the crowd again, Mason felt himself lifted into the air. He turned and found Alejandro hugging him tightly. Mason put his arms around Alejandro's neck and the boys shared a kiss.

Not realizing the microphone in Mason's hand was now right next to his face, Alejandro whispered, "I love you so much. You were incredible." The boys were embarrassed when the crowd cheered at the proclamation of love.

Mason didn't care. He smiled and said, "I love you too." Then leaned in for another kiss.

Madeline's tears fell faster. She'd suspected that her son had more in common with Aiden and Nolan than just baseball. Now that was confirmed. And apparently Mason had a boyfriend to boot. "Well," she said to herself as she watched Mason and Alejandro standing on stage holding hands, "I'm not surprised by Mason being gay. But I never imagined this." She was referring to Mason finding such a handsome and wealthy boy.

Alejandro looked his finest. Since meeting Michael, puberty had fully kicked in for the young teen. Spending time working out and biking around Segovia, Alejandro lost his baby fat and gained muscle definition. Tonight, he was representing his family and the brands they owned. He was decked out in the finest Louis Vuitton jacket and slacks with a starched, white dress shirt and black dress shoes. He looked like a million dollars. With Mason at his side, the young couple looked to be on top of the world.

"Is that Trey?" asked Jimmy.

"You've got to be shitting me," mumbled Dante.

Alejandro took the microphone from Mason. "Good evening. I'm Alejandro Mateo Diaz, III. Thank you for coming tonight." He waved Michael over. Michael put his guitar down and joined Alejandro. Sandwiched between his two favorite people in the world (other than his family), Alejandro beamed with pride. He looked at Michael and then to Mason before continuing. The boys beside him calmed his nerves and provided him the confidence he needed.

"Some of you," he said looking to his old acquaintances in front of the stage, "know me as Trey. It's a long story, but being the third of my name, the nickname Trey seemed appropriate and that was the only name I knew. After my mom died, Michael and the guys in the band helped me find the rest of my family."

"I don't want to bore you all with my story, but the long and short of it is, for a brief time, I was homeless and alone on the streets of Hollywood. I was blessed to meet Michael and to find refuge and eventually find my family. Tonight, we're here as a fundraiser for my new foundation to help the homeless youth of the greater Los Angeles area. I want to give back and help those who are not as lucky as I have been."

"The Trey and Michael Foundation will fund housing, medical, mental health, and educational support for at-risk youth as well as counseling, scholarships, and vocational training." Directing his comments to the teens that were bussed in, he added, "We're only getting started, but, if you'd like, tonight can be your first night off the streets. Enjoy the show. I heard the food trucks will be ready in a few minutes for you to have dinner. Tonight, after the show, you are free to head back to the rec center and go about your weekend, or you can choose to leave that behind. We have beds and a safe place for you to stay."

The audience applauded and Michael tugged on Alejandro's sleeve. "You didn't tell me," stated Michael away from the live mic.

"I wanted it to be a surprise. You made all this possible. You're my best friend. And you share experiences like many of the kids out there. It's the least we can do, the least I could do, to honor you and your past." The gesture brought Michael to tears. He hugged Alejandro and Mason joined in hugging both his friends.

No one paid much attention to the roadies moving equipment onto the stage for the next act. Alejandro thanked everyone for coming again and the three boys walked off the stage as the MC introduced the next act, Incubus.

Incubus performed a handful of songs and invited Matthew on stage to perform "Pardon Me" with them to end their set. At the Majestic joined Matthew on stage for a short set of songs with Matthew singing lead vocals.

Madeline had lost interest in the show during the other acts. Mason wasn't on stage, and it really wasn't the type of music she would ever listen to. She did notice when the Los Angeles arts community representatives presented a donation to the foundation and noted they were hosting the concert free of charge so all proceeds would go directly to the Foundation.

"Also, as part of the contribution of the Los Angeles arts community, the cast of 'Finding Neverland,' are joined by Mason Johnson to perform, 'We're All Made of Stars.'"

Madeline's attention focused on the TV as Mason, in costume, sat on a small wooden crate with three other boys from the show. She couldn't tell you about the performance of the other boys, but she watched every moment of Mason's performance. He was in character and the little bit of acting was top-notch. (What else would a mother think?) He sang like an angel and his harmonies were spot on. It was a fantastic performance and the patrons at the show never suspected that Mason wasn't a seasoned professional.

When the boys left the stage, Mason ran over to Mr. Richards. "How did I do?"

"Mason," said Mr. Richards fighting back a bit of emotion, "you were absolutely brilliant. More importantly, how did you feel during that performance?"

He started to tell the truth but stopped himself. He didn't know how Mr. Richards would take it if he told the man he felt wonderful almost like having great sex. "It was the best feeling in the world." (It was only a little stretch of the truth.)

"Mason, I'm your second biggest fan next to your mother." And maybe that Alejandro boy, he thought. "But as talented I as know you are, I think I may have underestimated you. You shined on that stage and frankly, you showed the other boys up. If you want to be a pop singer, you've proven tonight that you have what it takes. If you want to do musical theater, tonight I believe you've proven you are more than capable of performing in professional productions. You, my boy, are the most talented student I've ever had and I couldn't be more proud of you."

Alejandro beamed. He was so happy his boyfriend was getting the recognition he deserved.

The At the Majestic performance was followed by a series of videos of personal stories and pledged donations from movie stars and musicians from around the globe. The videos were followed by Panic! At the Disco with a short set of their own.

Mason stood off stage transfixed by Brendon Urie's vocal performance. He recognized that Brendon was not a typical pop vocalist. There was something different about him and the way he sang. His vocal control. The precision of his notes. His vocal range. His theatrics on stage. Brendon was a performer and Mason quickly became a huge fan.

Panic! ended their set like they did on tour with At the Majestic joining them on stage for a mashup of "High Hopes" and "Hey Look Ma, I Made It."

Mason wanted to run up and talk to Brendon but felt embarrassed. He didn't want to act like a groupie and frankly, he didn't know what he would say to the man. The Panic! band members were talking amongst themselves and discussing their performance, so Mason turned his attention back to the stage. He leaned up against Alejandro and felt his boyfriend's arm around his waist.

At the Majestic had stayed on stage for another set featuring Matthew and Simon on vocals. As they kicked into "Rock and Roll" by Led Zepplin, Mason noticed someone approach from his left.

"You're Mason Johnson, right?"

Mason turned and his eyes lit up. "Yeah. And your Brendon Urie."

"Yes, I am. I heard that tonight was your first stage performance. Is that right?"

"No, I perform a lot at church and stuff like that. I've sung the National Anthem at some events. But that's the first time I got to sing those songs, my songs."

"Well done," said Brendon. "And you were a natural with the cast of 'Finding Neverland.' Have you done musical theater before?"

"No. My vocal teacher, Mr. Richards, has me sing some songs from musicals, but that's the first time I've ever performed anything like that. That's Mr. Richards over there." He pointed out the man standing with Lars and Jacob.

"If you're interested, I can set up a meeting with my stage agent."

"Stage agent?" asked Mason.

"Yeah, I have an agent in New York for Broadway."

"You've been on Broadway?"

"Yeah, little man. I starred as Charlie Prince in Kinky Boots."

Mason was quickly making mental notes. Brendon was the first person he'd met that had done both rock music and Broadway musicals. That's what Mason envisioned for his career and wanted to know everything about. Jacob was listening in and led the boys, Mr. Richards, Lars, and Brendon to a quieter area where they could chat.

"We'd better head back up to the stage," said Jacob, effectively ending the conversation. The boys nodded and rose to head out.

Brendon looked at Lars and added, "I'm hoping At the Majestic will come to Las Vegas to play my fund raiser for GLSEN and GLAAD." Then he turned to Mason and said, "I hope you'll come perform too."

"Really?" asked Mason.

"Absolutely. Head back up there. I'll see you guys in a little while."

When Mason made it back to the stage, the boys were finishing up their original "iwannapieceofthat" and they were getting ready to do what they said was the hardest number they'd ever performed. Simon planned to sing lead vocals and play bass while Zach and Michael played guitars. Matthew stood next to Simon and would sing the challenging backup vocals. The boys knew one thing. If they nailed this, it would be epic.

Michael set the right pedals before Lukas clicked off the count and Michael started the song. "Gimme Shelter" was one of the songs Simon and Matthew had been wanting to sing together and tonight they were doing just that. It was their best performance of the song yet.

The crowd cheered, not paying much attention to the adult male that walked out on stage and congratulated each of the boys with fist bumps and hugs. When a guitar tech ran out on stage and handed David Grohl his Pelham Blue Gibson DG-335, the crowd recognized the rock star.

Dave sang three Foo Fighters' songs with At the Majestic backing him up. They started out with "All My Life." Next, they dedicated "Learn to Fly" to Mason. Mason listened carefully to the lyrics and one line struck home.

Make my way back home when I learn to fly high

Mason felt that one line summed up this trip. Then he experienced a flood of homesickness.

Madeline was enjoying the show while continuing her research on the boys, especially Alejandro and this new foundation. Her phone dinged with a new text message. She picked it up to see who texted and saw it was Mason. She quickly opened the phone to read the text.

Mason: I love you mom

Madeline texted back.

Mom: I love you too, pumpkin

After "Everlong," David and the band walked off stage and Mason returned. The crowd cheered his appearance, washing away the homesickness and reminding him why he was in California. He joined Michael center stage. When Michael finished tuning his acoustic guitar, the boys shared a microphone and sang "Sounds of Silence." The audience held their breath as the boys' voices echoed off the canyon walls.

Mason bowed and thanked the audience while Michael put his guitar on the stand and took his seat at the piano. He accompanied Mason who sang "Easy on Me" by Adele.

The show ended with the boys singing "My Blood" joined on stage by their fellow performers, including Mason. Michael put his arm around Mason and held him tightly. While one of his brothers was singing, he leaned over and said to Mason, "I'm so happy you're here with us."

----------------------     

The Livestream ended. Madeline sat in her living room to the empty TV screen. She had a lot on her mind and didn't know where to begin to untangle her thoughts and emotions. A thread finally emerged when she remembered Larry and Phil's advice. "Let Mason tell you when he's ready." As much as she wanted Mason home so they could have a nice, long, mother/son talk, she was happy for her son to be able to celebrate his success on his own with his friends.

She jumped when her mobile rang. She grabbed the phone. It was a Facetime call from Mason. She was elated that Mason chose to call her as part of his celebratory evening.

The backstage chaos was evident from the moment she answered the call. "Good evening, sweetheart!" she said cheerfully.

"Sweetheart?" called out Simon from off screen.

"MMMMOOOOOMMMM!" whined Mason.

Christian's face appeared over Mason's shoulder. "Hey Mrs. Johnson!" He waved briefly before Lukas pushed him out of the way.

"Hey Mrs. Johnson!" greeted Lukas.

Madeline realized she'd embarrassed Mason in front of his friends. "Sorry, honey!"

"MMMOOOOMMMM!!!"

She laughed.

Lukas added, "Thanks for letting Mason come down!" Lukas looked off camera and gave up his spot.

"Mrs. Johnson," greeted Brendon Urie. Mason was shocked that his favorite rock singer (next to Matthew) had gone out of his way again to talk to him. "If you don't mind, I'd like to get you and Mason in contact with my New York agent. If and when Mason is ready to audition for Broadway, my agent is the guy who can get you a foot in the door."

Madeline was also surprised the man was taking an interest in Mason's career.

"Mom! Brendon is not only a rock singer, but he also starred on Broadway in Kinky Boots! Isn't that awesome! Did you see me perform 'We're All Made of Stars'? That was so much fun!"

"Thank you," said Madeline. "Please contact us. You can get our information through Majestic Records."

"Will do. Thank you," said Brendon. He put an arm around Mason and gave the boy a squeeze. "Mason, you were awesome tonight. You should be really proud of yourself."

"Thank you!" said Mason. His face hurt from grinning so broadly.

Another arm was flung around Mason's shoulder. "Hi Mason's mom!" Michael popped onto the screen and smooched Mason's cheek. "Wasn't Mason incredible tonight?"

"Yes, he was." Her research earlier was allowing her to put names to faces and connect relationships between the boys. She knew Michael and Christian were a couple and a gay boy kissing Mason's cheek shouldn't be surprising, so she filed it away and didn't say anything about it.

What was funny was Mason being oblivious about it all. Mason was the only person in California that didn't assume he was already out to his mother. With that assumption, no one tried to hide anything from Madeline. Also, it didn't occur to him that everything that went down on stage, including the kiss he shared with Alejandro and their declaration of love for each other, his mom had witnessed.

The top of someone's head entered the screen from the other direction. Mason turned his head. Though she couldn't see it, she was certain Mason was kissed on the lips.

"Te amo mi ángel.."

Madeline studied Spanish in high school and remembered enough to figure out what Alejandro said.

The boy turned his attention to the camera. "Good evening, Mrs. Johnson. Mason was so awesome tonight, we got tons of pledges during his performance. I really appreciate his service to our fundraising efforts for the Foundation. I'm really proud of him." He smashed the side of his face against Mason's. Mason just smiled and ate up the attention.

"It's a noble endeavor for you to create a Foundation to serve others. Your family must be very proud of you Alejandro."

Alejandro blushed and smiled. He was trying to impress his boyfriend's mother, but her compliment made him feel gooey on the inside. He hoped his family was proud of him. At least his abuela and his cousin Carlos. For now, the rest of the family could go to hell for not accepting him.

"Thank you, Mrs. Johnson."

"Mom," interjected Mason, "we're heading down to Laguna Beach tonight to stay at Alejandro's family home. We're gonna go swimming and tomorrow we're gonna go surfing! And then Alejandro asked me to be his d... to go with him to the Foundations launch dinner. We're gonna wear tuxes and everything."

Madeline didn't miss Mason's near miss. She tried to suppress her smile as she replied, "Oh, really?"

"Did you watch the entire show?" asked Mason.

A disembodied voice came across the call. "Great show tonight boys! Great job Mason!"

Mason waved and Michael said, "Thanks Dave! Hope we can play again soon!"

The phone jostled a bit as the boys continued their walk to the parking lot.

"Mr. Richards is here somewhere," said Mason. Madeline could see him scanning the area to find his teacher. Looking back at the screen he asked, "Are you okay, mom?" Her faraway look had her son concerned.

"I'm just thinking about all the incredible moments from your performances, tonight." And about you're having a boyfriend and growing up too fast, but she didn't say that part.

"I know, right, Mrs. Johnson?" Michael interjected. "Mason was incredible! Much better than we were the first time we played live. You killed it, bro."

Another disembodied voice was clearly heard over the Facetime call yelling for Michael.

"Oops! I've got to go," said Michael. "We're tearing down and loading up. Nice to meet you, Mrs. Johnson." Michael waved and was off before she could reply.

"Mason? Are you doing okay?" asked Madeline.

"Yeah, mom. The only thing that could make life any better is if you were here with me."

"You're getting your sleep? Eating well? Taking time to have fun?"

Mason's face turned ruby red at the last question as he thought back to the fun he and Alejandro had the previous night...and morning...and would again tonight,

"Yeah, but I do miss you sometimes. But then I'm so busy, I don't get a chance to think about it much."

"Is Alejandro helping?" she asked.

"Yeah," Mason said with a smile. He hugged Alejandro closer. "He's been great. Alejandro's grandma bought a house in East Harbor so he can go to school down there. Is it okay if I spend the night with Alejandro at his house? Jacob will be there. And maybe some of the other guys. He was telling me about this really cool school he's going to be going to. I'm really excited for him. I think he's going to really like it there. And what he was telling me about the house is really cool too. And that's not the house we're staying in tonight. Tonight we're staying..."

Madeline didn't catch everything Mason said, but she knew he was beyond happy. Despite the twinge of loss she felt as her son was growing up and gaining his independence, she was filled with joy. It wasn't that long ago that Mason didn't have any friends and she feared what all the bullying would do to his mind and heart. She couldn't believe the turnaround. That's why Aiden had such a special place in her heart.

"Did Aiden see the show?"

"I don't know. Aiden and Nolan's families are on vacation and I don't know if they are somewhere they can get Internet. He might have, I just have so many text messages, it's going to take me a hour to get through them all. I didn't know so many people had my phone number!"

'God bless, Aiden Miller,' thought Madeline.

"We'd better go help," said Mason. "I miss you, mom."

"Don't worry, Mrs. Johnson," said Alejandro. "Jacob and I will take real good care of Mason."

"I love you too, Mason. You and Aiden and Alejandro and all your friends. Be good and we'll talk again soon."

When Mason ended the call, he slipped the phone in his pocket and turned to Alejandro. He took Alejandro's hands in his and asked, "What's next, Sugarboo?"

"Sugarboo?" laughed Alejandro. Then he got it. "I like it. Well, you are still levitating from the show, aren't you?" He pushed Mason's arms behind the little blonde's back then pulled their bodies together. Alejandro leaned down and the two shared a kiss that nearly burned the paint off the amphitheater.

----------------------     

Seeing how rambunctious the boys were when the caravan was prepared to leave the Hollywood Bowl, Jacob's prickly side was just below the surface. He was looking forward to a quiet ride to Laguna Beach and he feared quiet would be the last word to describe the 90-minute drive.

Luckily, only Michael, Alejandro, and Mason climbed in his vehicle before he headed out, leading the way to the compound. He relaxed with the assurance the cleaning service would have the bedrooms prepared and a kitchen full of snacks with breakfast and lunch requested from the kitchen staff.

Mason read and answered text messages from his friends from baseball and school. He was happy to see messages from both Aiden and Nolan even if they were simply to wish him well because they wouldn't be able to watch the show. Cal sent a dozen or more, he apparently had been blown away by the show and texted throughout. While Mason went through his texts and shared funny messages and passed on greetings to Michael from the other Yard Goats, Michael and Alejandro caught up on matters.

"Thanks," said Michael, leaning his head on Alejandro's shoulder.

"Thanks for what?"

"For including me in on the name of the Foundation. It was all your idea."

"But if it wasn't for you, I'd still be on the streets doing who knows what and probably taking the same shit the other guys are taking when they aren't turning tricks. I can never repay you for what you've done for me."

Michael thought for a moment. "Your friendship is enough. If you want to show your gratitude to me, direct it to Mason. I never imagined you two getting together, but I couldn't think of a better guy for you. Honestly, everything about you as a person is exactly what Mason needs. In a lot of ways, I think you are a lot like Aiden. Maybe a blend between Aiden and Nolan." Alejandro jumped when Michael punctuated his comment with a squeeze of Alejandro's family jewels.

"Do you think they will like me?"

"If I had to bet, I'd say Nolan will accept you before Aiden will. Aiden will be super protective of Mason and you will have to prove yourself worthy of Mason." Michael pulled his phone out. He woke and unlocked it. "Get your phone out." Michael found his contacts, and then with a couple of taps, he touched it to Alejandro's phone, then tapped the screen a couple more times and tapped the phones together. Alejandro looked at the screen and saw Michael had shared Aiden and Nolan's contact information with him.

"Thanks. I think I need to make first contact."

Michael nodded, "I agree."

They finally pulled into the compound in Laguna Beach, and everyone piled out of the vehicles. The drive hadn't quieted the boys down much. In no time flat, the boys were all in the pool naked, splashing and having a great time. Mason was on sensory overload. Naked bodies and boy parts made incidental (and not so incidental) contact with his body. He even managed to get a handful of Matthew's manhood in the fray. Half the time he wasn't sure whose hands were grabbing his parts. But as much as Mason wouldn't have minded all the boys messing around right there at poolside, he really longed to be one-on-one with Alejandro. It wasn't too much later that the boys in the pool noticed two of the boys had stolen away to find a private place to continue their celebration.

Alejandro led Mason by hand through the house and up the stairs to one of the bedrooms. The far wall was glass facing the ocean. Alejandro opened the sliding door and Mason followed him onto the balcony. The ocean breeze caused the naked boys to shiver as the remaining pool water evaporated from their skin. Concerned Mason might be cold, Alejandro wrapped himself around the other boy.

"I love coming out here at night and listening to the waves crash onto the shore."

Mason listened and felt the power of the Pacific Ocean as it continued the work of pounding and etching the coastline as it pleased.

"What are those lights out there? Ships?"

"No. Those lights are from Santa Catalina Island. It's almost 40 miles away."

The stars were bright, and the ocean drowned out the sounds of traffic and the boys playing in the pool. It felt like they were alone in the world enjoying this magnificent moment.

Alejandro's body pressing against Mason's from behind felt wonderful, but Mason wanted something more. Twisting around, he kissed Alejandro's neck, then collar bone. He spent more time on the teen's dark manly nipples and defined pecs before moving lower.

"Oh gawd, your body is perfect," groaned Mason before digging his tongue into the boy's navel.

All Alejandro could do was grab the balcony's railing as he moaned and shivered with pleasure. "OH!" grunted Alejandro when Mason got to his goal. The blond hadn't wasted a second taking Alejandro's growing manhood all the way to his small, but thick bush.

Mason's talent and Alejandro's excitement combined to bring things to a climax faster than either wanted, but it didn't make it any less pleasurable. Mason stood and the boys kissed. Alejandro didn't mind tasting his cum at all. Turning Mason to face the railing, Alejandro made his own descent, starting with Mason's neck. Mason arched his back to offer better access to Alejandro's destination.

After ample preparation since he didn't have any lube handy, Alejandro stood and entered. The boys thrust in unison creating a beat. Mason rested his head on his forearms and Alejandro used his hands to explore Mason's body.

Even after feeding Mason minutes earlier, Alejandro was already climbing to detonation. "Damn, you are so sexy," groaned Alejandro. "I'm gonna shoot again."

"Wait for me," moaned Mason. He reached for his boner, but Alejandro beat him to it. Alejandro stroked Mason in rhythm with his hips. The tempo increased again and again. Both boys grunted and groaned in delight through their coupling.

"Ugh! I'm close!" cried Mason. "Harder!"

Both boys screeched as they erupted together.

"Oh...Yes...Ungh!" grunted an utterance in time with each thrust and shot he fired deep into Mason.

Mason danced on his toes. Alejandro released his boner to grip his hips allowing Mason's shooting dick to flop around and spray boy's cream everywhere. The orgasm made Mason feel lightheaded and weak.

"You might want these towels for some modesty."

The boys nearly jumped out of their skins.

"Abuela!"