Date: Wed, 14 Apr 2021 20:41:00 -0400
From: Just Forfun <jst4fun2nyt@gmail.com>
Subject: New Reality 2

This is my first story, so your input is extremely welcome. Email me at
jst4fun2nyt@gmail.com and tell me what you like, what you don't like, and
even where I mess up continuity or details. There will be sex, but it will
be tame compared to some stories. The story is fiction, and any
similarities to people, living or dead, is purely coincidence. STDs and
Corona don't exist in my fantasy world, so they don't use protection. You
should use protection, always!!!

Many of my characters are underage, and they will be having sex. If that
offends you, find another story. If reading this is illegal where you live,
don't break the law!

DONATE to NIFTY so you can continue to hate me for any cliffhangers.

**************************************************************************

I must have been having a wild dream. One minute I'm seeing Scott, my
Scotty, with red eyes and claws and... the next he's kneeling over me back
to himself. Then he's running faster than I could imagine, carrying me
through the woods crying, begging me to hold on. Next thing I know we're in
his living room and I hear him begging his dad to save me, to 'do it'. I
couldn't understand what he meant, his dad isn't a doctor. Then the dream
came back as I saw James leaning down over me with glowing red eyes.

I woke to the morning sun coming in the windows. I was on Scott's bed in
just my underwear. He was sitting there on the floor, holding my hand, with
his face laying on the bedside. "Hey?" I tried to say, but it came out as a
whisper. My mouth was dry and I felt weak.

"Hey" he said and looked into my face "Rough night huh?"

"Yeah. I um... I don't know. The sun must have played tricks on me in the
tree house. I thought I saw... anyway I must have hit my head when I
fell. I had the weirdest dreams. I guess the fall wasn't that bad huh? I'm
here, not a hospital."

"It wasn't a dream Greg."

"Dude, it had to be. Your eyes were... your hands...dude, you had fangs. It
was the sun, then my brain got scrambled when I fell, right?"

"Greg, just listen, and please don't hate me for what I made Dad do, OK?"

I got a weird feeling in my stomach like my world was about to be turned
upside down "I could never hate you. Nothing will change that, nothing! Now
just tell me."

Scott took a deep breath and said "The fall was bad Greg, as bad as you
thought, even worse. When I got you back here you were barely
breathing. It's my fault you fell. I shouldn't have shocked you like that
and you fell and..."

"And what Scotty? I've been asleep for months? I'm healed, it can't have
been that bad."

"You were almost dead babe. You would have died if Dad hadn't... hadn't
changed you."

"Changed me? Into..." it was starting to make sense but it couldn't
be. They were stories, awesome stories for movies and to scare kids. The
red eyes, his hands, he had...fangs... I just stared at him.

"Into what I am Greg, into a vampire."

"But we rode our bikes in the sun. I saw you eating cheeseburgers."

"Don't believe all the stuff in the movies."

"So now what?"

"That depends on if you meant it when you said you could never hate me."

I pulled him towards me and into a kiss. "I could never hate you. So I'll
ask again, now what?"

"Now you need to learn how to live as we do Greg." James said, walking into
the room with a cup in his hand. "We have to teach you how to summon and
control your beast and how to survive. Right now is lesson one, sit up."

I sat up and he handed me the cup as he went on "Unlike the movies you've
seen, we don't live exclusively off of blood, human or otherwise. It heals
us when we're injured, it can nourish us when we need to skip a meal, and
when we're old... well, I won't overload you yet. But right now, lesson one
is simple, you need healing, you're still weak, so drink up."

I looked down at the cup in my hand then back up at James. I looked at
Scott and he just shrugged so I lifted the cup to my lips and tilted it
back slowly. When I felt the warm liquid I tested it with my tongue. I had
tasted blood before when I got a bloody nose or busted lip and it was
strong and salty. This was neither, in fact it tasted almost like hot
chocolate. I tipped the cup back and drank it down then held the cup in
both hands and reached out towards James "Please sir, may I have some
more?"

"Yeah, I'll get you a little more, but don't over do it. We just want you
to heal for now. I'm confused though, how is it you're not freaking out? My
son just told you that you had died, been turned into a vampire, that we're
vampires, and you just drank blood and you're sitting there like 'Oliver'
asking for more gruel."

"It might be harder if I didn't love your son like I do, but you remember
the conversation the other day? Scott and I were arguing about ghosts and
such?" When he nodded I continued "I neither believed or didn't believe, I
just didn't know.  You didn't have to overcome my disbelief, I was given
evidence that couldn't be argued with, so I accept it. That's how I deal
with everything."

"You have amazed me from the first time I talked to you young man, my son
couldn't have found a better mate. I'm happy for you both. Now, I'll go get
you a bit more, Scotty will answer your questions."

"Dad, it's not Scotty, PLEASE?" he whined.

"What? I've heard Greg say it and you don't get upset with him?"

"It's different Dad, please? It makes me feel like a baby when you and Mom
use it."

James looked at me, rolled his eyes and laughed, then left. I turned to
Scott "OK teach, what do I need to know?"

"I'm gonna need strength for this, I'll be right back." and he ran out of
the room and I heard him shouting to his dad "Warm me a cup too. I'll bring
it back up."

He came back in and sat two cups on the nightstand then pulled a pile of
pillows out of the closet. He stacked them against the headboard, handed me
my cup, pulled off the sweatpants he was wearing, and climbed in bed beside
me. He snuggled in beside me, grabbed his cup and took a sip.

He sighed, "There is so much to tell you I don't know where to start."

"Start with what I need to know today. Tomorrow we deal with tomorrow, and
as we go you can fill in little random details that will make things
easier."

"Straight to the point huh? OK, well, like Dad said, we don't live off of
just blood. Babies nurse on mostly blood with a little milk, then food and
blood until we're adults, it helps us grow faster. Once we hit puberty it's
mostly food with a little blood, like humans take vitamins. Adults only
drink blood to heal or if they want to skip a meal they can survive on just
blood, that's frowned upon long term though."

"So... I should eat, and have some blood for a few days, to heal from the
fall, right?"

"Actually more blood for a few days, then blood with a few meals a week
until we're adults."

"OK. And all the stuff I thought I knew about you, er, us... are any of the
other things true? Sunlight doesn't bother you at all, garlic? Stake
through the heart? Crosses?"

"I love a nice sunny day, garlic gives me bad breath, my uncle was a
Catholic priest, and a stake through the heart will kill anyone. Keep
trying, and if you ask if I sparkle I'm punching you in the mouth."

"You said babies... in the movies vampires are made, not born. I was made
so...?"

"There's both, a human can be turned, or two vampires can have a baby. I
was born a vampire."

"And the differences?"

"None other than birth. You'll age the same as me."

"I thought you... we didn't age?"

"We age um... differently. When's your birthday?"

"Jan 30, why?"

"What year?"

"2003... WHY?"

"I was born Feb 7, 2012."

"OK, so you're... EIGHT??"

"I tell you that you've died and become a vampire, and you freak out over
my age?"

"Well yeah, I mean... the shower and..."

"I hit puberty last October, our brains mature at the same rate as our
bodies, and we absorb education like a sponge. I'm 16 in mind and body, and
more mature than most adults. I just happen to be 8 years since my
birth. You didn't molest a child. Get over it!"

"OK, does that mean I'll look 20 in a year or two?"

"Yeah, then as adults we age just like humans."

"So the thing about eternal life is just bull?"

"Yes, and no, it's complicated. After puberty the teen hormones really
confuse things, we need less blood than kids but more than adults, but we
still age almost twice as fast as humans. As adults, in small portions,
blood of any type heals and keeps us immune to disease. In large volumes,
human blood reverses aging. You remember in the Dracula movie from the
'90's? How he started as an old man but reverse aged? Sometimes they get
things right."

"So I need to drink human blood?"

"Human gives the most benefit, but most of us hunt animals. Personally I
prefer whitetail deer, male."

"When can I start hunting then?"

"That can wait. We have enough to last you boys a few days, but we do need
to teach you to hunt Greg," James said as he came back in. "Donna has
sandwiches and we have a guest, why don't you two get dressed and come
downstairs so we can talk."

After James left, we got up, got dressed and went down to the
kitchen. There was a stocky man sitting at the table in a suit with papers
spread around him. When we walked in he stood and James said "Greg, this is
our family attorney Kevin Spencer. Kevin, meet my newest son Greg."

"Son?"

"Scott hasn't explained everything I see. Sit down and we can explain that
along with the rest of what we wanted to go over."

"James tells me you plan on being an attorney and have been doing some
reading?"

"Yes sir."

"Then I'm going to talk legalities. I'll deal with you being his son
shortly. First you need to know that James risked his life and the lives of
his family when he changed you. Our laws are based on one prime objective,
that being to keep our existence secret. All the laws trace themselves to
this primary goal, and changing a human into one of us is restricted to
certain circumstances, and only with consent. James and Donna have both
sworn that there was a mate bond formed between you and Scott, so the first
requirement was met, but you had no chance to consent. James will have to
face an inquiry for that."

"Wait, you're saying James is in trouble for saving my life so I could have
a life with Scotty. How can that be wrong? You said he could change me for
my mate."

"That's part of their defense Greg, but James and Donna have confirmed that
no one asked you if you agreed. That is an issue."

"There were no witnesses, it can't be proven, so they're fine, right?"

"Maybe in the human world, but lying to the Council is a capital crime. I
know it seems harsh, but our very lives depend on our remaining undetected,
so we have a short list of capital offenses. If anyone were to lie and say
James had consent, they're risking death. We will go to the Council and
argue he was willing to risk his family's lives on the fact that you would
have consented, had you been given the choice."

"Well of course I'll say that, anything to save James and Donna!"

"It's nice that you say that Greg but you are now held to our laws. If
that's not true, you all could be put to death."

"How will they know?"

"A Council member feeds from you. When we feed directly from a living
being, we can read their thoughts and feelings, there is no way to lie to
the Council. I know this all sounds bad but there is an upside. A mated
vampire is considered an adult. You and Scott can live your own lives,
although with you both looking the ages you do, it would be unwise at this
point."

I looked from Kevin to Scott to his parents then back to Scott as he
squeezed my hand. "I feel certain that, if I were given the choice between
a life without him, or having this life, I would choose Scott. As to us
moving out, we would all have to discuss it. Anything else you are going to
stress me with just hours after I died?" I asked, trying to lighten the
mood.

"Actually Greg, Donna and I discussed this and we have a mating gift for
you and Scott. We've been planning for Scott to eventually take a mate,
just not so soon. We own a house on a small lake just north of Pittsburgh,
we'd like to give to you."

"You want us to move?"

"No honey, we want you to have a place to use when you teach Greg to hunt,
and when you do move out, it will be a place that you're comfortable with,
to make your start."

"Them giving you a house reinforces that he was saving his son's mate. And
financially it's a wise move for everyone involved."

"I do love the lake house babe, I think you will too. If you hate it we can
sell it."

"I agree. I don't know how to thank the two of you."

"You can continue to make our son as happy as he is now."

"I don't like to drag things out. When can we meet with this Council
person?"

"We have two choices Greg, and I can't advise you because I'm somewhat
involved. I'm a newly elected Council representative and I can do the
reading, but due to the fact that I'm close to James, someone could object
and you'd have to go through it again. The upside is, if they do accept my
reading, it's settled."

"My new life started last night when I died, and I have to start dealing
with that and what it means. I never look back and I need this behind me. I
still have to figure out what this life means for me and my Dad. We haven't
talked about him at all yet."

"Let's take things one at a time Greg, your dad's away a few more days so
we have time for that."

I looked at Scott, who said "I'm with you whatever you say babe."

I took a deep breath and said "OK Kevin, when can we do your reading? How
is it done?"

"I just need to feed from you Greg. The closer to your heart the better, so
usually the jugular is used. Sorry, it can be rather intimate."

"And will you see all my thoughts and feelings?"

"The more I have to search for what I need, the more I'll see. If you
concentrate on the issue it will be foremost in your mind and will be
quick, but remember that secrets are big with us. I am honor bound not to
reveal anything more than I need of what I find. James saw all your
thoughts when he drained you to change you and he's also bound to secrecy."

I stood and walked over to Kevin, pulling my shirt collar down "I'm ready."

He stood and looked around before leaning down and biting into my
neck. Weird, it didn't hurt. In my mind I could feel him looking at me, at
Scott, at my feelings, and then it was over. I felt his tongue lick the
wound as he pulled away and looked into my eyes.

"It is obvious to me that Greg and Scott have indeed completed a mating
bond. Their souls are intertwined stronger than any I've seen for
centuries. That said, I can confirm that if he had been given the choice,
Greg would have agreed to being changed. I'll inform the Council of my
finding, but like I said, they could still send one of the Princes to
confirm."

"We've done all we can, right Kevin?" when he nodded I went on "Scott, I'd
like to see our house. I need some space to sort all this out."

"There's more than the house Greg. Here's a list of what we're giving you."
James said as he handed me a stack of papers with a list of stocks and bank
accounts and businesses.

"James, I don't mean to sound ungrateful but this is too much. I haven't
done anything to earn any of this. And Scott mentioned an older brother,
what about his future?"

James smiled "I suppose I should tell you all about your new family
son. Our oldest, Joseph, lived in London with his wife until they died in
the bombings in 1940. They had a son, Jack, who still lives there. Our
middle son Matthew was born in my ancestral home in Germany in 1910. He and
his wife just restarted their lives and will be students at Yale this
fall. When each of our sons took a mate, we gave them property and funds
just like we've given you, except that you are getting a double share
because you're both our sons."

"But how can you afford to be this generous? What will you live on?"

"I've had over 500 years to create my financial holdings Greg, along with
being the only son of an old German noble family. Donna and I have more
than enough for ourselves."

"But the businesses, you mean you're planning on giving them to us in the
future, right? We can't run a business, who's going to listen to a couple
of teenagers?"

"If you're serious about not looking back then no, I'm not planning on it,
I'm doing it. There are vampires running all of them, you just need to
consult and guide. From what I've seen of you so far, you and Scott will do
just fine. You can always ask for my input, I don't plan on going away
yet."

"I took the liberty of contacting a friend of mine in Pittsburgh. I can't
represent both your interests and James during a transfer, and it might be
best if you develop your own relationships with an attorney other than
me. I'm thinking of retiring in the next ten years or so anyway." Kevin
said as he handed me a page "That's Robert's reply to my email, he's an
attorney and his mate is a banker with JP Morgan Private bank. They'd be
good advisors for you, I do hope you like them."

I looked from Kevin to James, then to Donna, they were talking like there
was nothing unusual. I looked to Scott and he just smiled and
shrugged. Like I had told them, I'm one to accept and move forward without
looking back, so I said "OK, I think we should still go to the lake
house. Dad won't be back until Monday. Before then we can figure a story to
explain me being away for the rest of the summer. After that, well, I don't
know enough to say what we'll do after that."

"I think that shows wisdom Greg. Donna and I will pack while you boys get
your things from your house. We can be at the lake before dark, I'll call
Mrs. White to have dinner ready."

I sent Robert an email introducing myself and asked him if I could call
later, then Scott and I went to my house. We packed all my jeans, socks,
underwear and shirts into an old duffle bag Dad had. I grabbed the two
suits I had and put them in one of those dry cleaners plastic bag hanging
things. We put my dress shoes, hiking boots and extra tennis shoes in a box
and, walking his bike headed, back to his house. We loaded my stuff into
James' truck then put his bike in the garage, and went in to help carry
bags.

We were on the road by 3:30 and Scott and I were looking over the papers
listing what James had given us. We talked for about an hour then I put my
phone on speaker and called Robert. He added his mate, David, to the call
and we told them how we wanted to deal with things. They agreed with most
of what we wanted, and the things they didn't like, they offered
options. It took us another hour to sort everything out. They both said
they could meet us at the house in the morning with paperwork to get things
going. David said he'd have debit and credit cards for us in hand when he
saw us.

We had just exited the turnpike when my phone rang, it was Dad. I didn't
have a story ready yet, what was I going to say? Should I ignore it and
call back? Scott saw my worry and grabbed my phone and hit answer "Hello Mr
Fowler, it's Scott, we met the other day... he's helping my Mom cook and
his hands are wet...OK, sure I'll tell him... I'll ask my Dad if that's
OK?... I'll have him call you, thanks Mr Fowler."

He hit disconnect and grinned at me "I think fate is on your side
babe. Your dad said when he was done in Texas he needs to go to Los Angeles
for two weeks. He wanted you to see if you could stay with someone, or if
you wanted to come to LA with him."

"Well that's cool, so now we have two and a half weeks. That'll give us
time for me to learn to hunt, get all the financial and business stuff
sorted out, and come up with a plan."

We pulled up in front of a massive stone manor house and parked by the
three car garage. I grabbed my bag and followed Scott in through the hall,
past the pantry and kitchen then up the stairs. He showed me to our room at
the end of the hall and we unpacked. I sat and called my Dad and told him
that Scott and his parents were going to their lake house for three weeks
and if he was OK with it, I wanted to go with them. He thought it was a
great solution because if I went to LA I'd just be sitting around the hotel
with nothing to do. He told me about his trip so far and then asked if I
needed any money. I resisted the urge to laugh and said I was fine for now
and promised to call on Sunday.

Scott showed me the other 4 bedrooms on the second floor. Like ours, they
all had an attached bathroom. We went downstairs and he showed me the main
floor. The front stairs came down into an open foyer that split on one side
to the formal living room, and on the other, a large formal dining room
with a table that would seat 12. Down the hall was an office James used
with a big mahogany desk and tall leather chair, a library with a
conference style table in the middle with chairs for 10 around it, and
several arm chairs and lamps for reading. There was a family room with a TV
and two big sofas and a fireplace, and a master suite that he just pointed
at as James and Donna were using it. He then took me through the kitchen we
had walked past coming in with a family eating area that had a table for 6
and a counter with stools for 4.  From the back hall, we went downstairs to
the rec room with a pool table, dart board, ice hockey table and TV with
reclining sofa. There was also an exercise room with a shower room
attached, and three unfinished rooms.

As we were walking through the basement I looked at Scott "What are we
supposed to do with all of this space? It's cool but we don't have kids,
and unless there's something you didn't tell me about being a vampire, I
don't think we will?"

"Don't look at me! I'd love kids but I don't plan on getting pregnant."

We laughed and went up to the kitchen to find James and Donna talking with
a small woman with steel gray hair. "Greg, this is Mrs. White, she's been
part of the family for a very long time. We were just telling her that you
boys now owned this house. She and her grandson Billy live in a small house
on the grounds."

She nodded her head at us one at a time saying "Master Warnick, I'm happy
to see you doing well. Master Fowler, it's nice to meet you sir."

"Master Warnick? Since when do you call me anything but Scott?"

"I didn't know if you'd be changing things Sir, with you and Master Fowler
being in charge now."

"My name is Greg, please keep doing things exactly as you have. If
something needs adjusting, I'm sure we can do it, but let's not rock the
boat for now. Is there any other household staff?"

"We've always just hired out the landscaping and we drive ourselves. Never
saw a need to do otherwise."

"We might consider getting a driver Greg. Depending on how much we'll need
to travel, I don't want to bother Dad or Mom all the time, and I've just
got my permit."

"We'll see what Robert and David say tomorrow. Are you joining us for
dinner Mrs. White?"

"I usually take some home and eat with Billy."

"Please, call him and both of you join us. That's one change I want to
make. I don't want servants, I want friends that work with us."

"Thank you Greg, I think we'd like that." and she sent a text then started
putting the food on the table. Scott and I went to the fridge and asked for
drink orders. We had just set the last of the drinks on the table when a
thin pale boy that looked about 14 came in and stood by Mrs. White. "This
is my grandson Billy."

I was the only one who hadn't met him, so I smiled and offered my hand. He
took it and smiled. We all sat and enjoyed dinner, talking back and forth
with Mrs. White and I getting to know each other. James and Donna telling
her about their plans to help us a few years. Scott and I were asking James
about his businesses and what he thought we should do to start stepping
in. I don't think Billy said three words the whole meal. He just kept
looking at me and Scott and James and working on his tablet. I assumed he
was gaming or chatting.

Dinner finished, I asked Billy if he played pool. He said he liked to but
didn't get to often so Scott and I asked if he wanted to join us downstairs
for a while. His Grandma said it was fine so we headed downstairs and spent
an hour playing and getting to know him a bit better. I found out his
parents had died in a car crash and his only family was his grandma. He had
his seventh birthday in January and was enrolled at SNHU taking online
classes in business management. I still couldn't get my mind wrapped around
the education of young vampires.

Scott asked me what time Robert was coming and Billy spoke up "You said
he's coming at 10 but if I were you guys I'd change that and meet him at
David's. Then you can go get some proper suits."

We both looked at him, surprised he had paid attention to the conversation,
and more surprised at his comment about suits. "Explain." I said.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to overstep."

"You're fine, just go on, explain."

"You're 17, you might pass for 18 if you try. Scott's 8 and looks 16. Even
dealing with vampires you're going to have an uphill battle convincing them
that you belong in control of these companies. You probably have basic off
the rack suits and that's going to reinforce the image of you being out of
your league. You need tailored suits and top quality shoes to make a
statement when you first meet these adults that are going to look to you
for leadership."

Scott and I looked at each other for just a second and I saw him nod, "You
make a good point Billy, but we don't meet with them for a few weeks so it
doesn't have to be done tomorrow. Find us a tailor and make an appointment
for Monday. Also, be in the library at 9, ready for work."

"Work?"

"You just started your job as our personal assistant, if you want it?
Better than an adult who will talk down to us."

"Um, really? OK, let me make sure Grandma's OK with it. But I'll warn you,
I won't hold my tongue."

"If you hold your tongue you can find someone else to work for. We want to
hear your thoughts, we might not always agree with them, but we will
listen. Now, we have things to do in the morning, as do you, I think we
should be off to bed. Billy, have a great night and we'll see you
tomorrow."

We headed up and said goodnight to everyone, then on up to our room. 'Our
room', that seems so cool. Scott led me in to the bathroom and slowly
undressed me, saying "I want a shower and want to share it with my mate."

"I'd love that" and we took a long hot shower that was very similar to our
last. When we were drying off I said "We both want to go slow, but I don't
want to dress for bed. I want to feel all of you, holding you while we
sleep."

"I wouldn't have it any other way." and we climbed in the king bed,
snuggled up tight with him in my arms, and fell asleep.

My phone alarm woke me at 7:30 Friday morning and it took me a few minutes
to believe that I was really laying there with Scotty in my arms. He was
laying with his back up against my front and I started to nuzzle his
neck. It didn't take long for him to start giggling and turn over and we
kissed until the alarm sounded again. We both growled but knew we had to
get moving so we got up, got dressed, and headed down to find James, Donna,
and Mrs. White just sitting down to breakfast.

When she started to get up I said "No, we can serve ourselves, just relax."
as I got plates for the two of us and Scott warmed up some whitetail blood
for us both. We had just sat down when Billy came in wearing dress slacks,
an oxford shirt, a tie, and a pullover sweater. He looked at the two of us
in jeans and just shook his head "I guess I was wasting my breath last
night?"

"We planned on a quick shower and changing before they get here, so shut
up, sit down, and eat. You like whitetail?"

"Sheep, but I'll get it." as he opened the fridge and poured a glass. "I
took the liberty of asking Mr. W about the computers here and I have a list
of things we should get. You both need business phones, tablets, either
laptops and docks or desktops, and a printer/scanner. Mr. W has all the
files on his computer in his office and we can transfer them once we have
the new hardware. He suggests you take over his office and he can handle
his things from the library. That's for the future, today we'll set up in
the library. I'll take notes and can access the internet if we need to look
at anything."

As we were eating, Mrs. White said she needed to do a grocery run so James
pulled out his wallet and gave her some cash as Billy messed with his
tablet. Scott and I glanced at each other but stayed quiet. Donna asked
James to drive her to the airport. She wanted to go visit Matthew and Liz
to help them set up their new house in Connecticut and would be back
Monday. Billy pulled out his tablet.

We finished breakfast and said goodbye to Donna as she would be gone before
we came back down. James said he should be back before Robert and David
left. Scott and I went up to change while Billy headed for the office to
double check the IT hardware. James had logged him into the office computer
so we met with him there.

"Before I offer my opinions on this office, tell me what the two of you
think about it."

"It's always been my Dad's office and I love this big desk and chair. Dad
ran his businesses on his own, but we'll be working together so I don't
know if we can share it."

"I love the old school executive feel of everything but Scott's right, this
is going to be the both of us and we can't both work here at the same
time."

"I don't know the businesses or how things are set up, so until you meet
with Robert, we really can't say much about this office. I don't know how
well it will work if you plan to stick to your 'we' attitude. In theory it
works fine but someone has to be in charge. What happens if the two of you
can't agree on something? One of you has to have the final say. You can ask
Robert, but I think he'll agree with me. From what you both said about your
interests, I'd suggest Greg take the role of CEO or COO or President with
Scott as CFO or Treasurer. You can still discuss things and decide
together, but people need to feel that one person is at the top, not two
that can be divided."

"I agree with him Greg. My interest is in the financial end of things. I
want to work with David and manage our investments and leave the businesses
to you."

"I still want you by my side, but you're right, we do need someone with
final say if there are disagreements."

"We also need to find room for you to work Billy."

"I'm fine working wherever."

The doorbell rang as he said this, so we all went to answer it. When I
opened the door there was a tall slim man who looked to be in his mid
eighties with a shorter, muscular man who looked like he was still in
college. The older man reached out to shake my hand and said "I'm Robert
Barnes, the sexy one is my mate David Jackson."

"Nice to meet you Robert. I'm Greg, my mate Scott, and our assistant
Billy. Let's go into the library. Would either of you like a drink? Wine,
soft drink, water, blood?"

They both asked for soft drinks, and while Scott and Billy went to get the
drinks, I led them into the library. Once we all had our drinks Robert said
"I should start by saying I'm almost done setting up my new life, so if you
like, it might be easier to start using my new name, Mike. When it's just
us I'll answer to either but if we're in mixed company I'll remind you that
Robert was my grandfather. I know you're new to this life and I hope my
coming back next week as a 25 year old isn't going to bother you Greg." and
he smiled and winked.

"I'm sure I'll adjust Mike. I suppose it's good timing. I'll probably use
your name often today, just to get it set in my mind."

"I just settled my grandfather's estate, so you're getting me already
settled in my new life." David said with a grin.

Mike suggested Scott and I sit on one side of the table with he and David
on the other. Billy looked to me and I pointed to the head of the table for
him to take his notes. Mike opened his laptop and asked for the WiFi
password, then pulled out a stack of paperwork and handed Scott and I
copies. David was doing the same as I changed my mind and motioned for
Billy to sit beside me.

Once we were all settled in, Mike began "The first page lists the companies
you now own. I won't waste time listing them individually, you can see each
on the second and third pages, but you have a group of auto dealerships in
the greater Pittsburgh area covering all of the domestic brands, as well as
most of the major imports. All of these are incorporated and the two of you
own 95% of the stock. To be more correct, you own 100% of the stock in the
holding company Warnick Enterprises, which owns the stock. This is how all
your business are held, at various percentages. The holding company also
owns 95% of several fast food franchises spread throughout western PA. You
have real estate in NYC and Pittsburgh that is managed for you by your
management companies in those cities. You also own Regent Limos in
Pittsburgh."

We told Mike of our earlier conversation about running things as a team,
and he confirmed that Billy was right. Someone needed to have the final
say, and he agreed that our idea of me as CEO with Scott as CFO would
work. He said the titles of President, COO, Treasurer, and others were
reserved for more complicated business structures and we didn't need
that. One or the other of us would serve on the board of the various
companies.

We looked over the pages as he was talking and when we looked up he
continued "The minor investors in all of these act as the CEO of each
company and handle the daily operations of them. These are all vampires so
you can meet with them without worrying about giving up that secret. Their
boards are also made up of vampires. As you can see, based on last years
numbers, you can expect to see an income of $35m from the dealerships, $25m
from the real estate, $25m from the fast food, and $500k from Regent."

David picked up here "If you go to pages 4 and 5, you'll see the various
stocks that were transferred to the two of you individually. Combined, they
had a value at the closing bell last night of $456m. Dividend income last
year was $22.75m and I expect that to continue this year. I've made some
notes on some I think you should consider selling with others I'd like to
invest that money in. The money is mostly in safe, low risk, medium return
stocks. I'd recommend we stick with that part of the market. I'm not big on
risks, but if you want to be more aggressive, I'll do whatever you decide."

"I like all of these and honestly I agree with the changes you want
David. I've played with Robin Hood and have about $100k on it. I'll get you
that information later today."

"I think we'll work together well Scott. Your father also authorized cash
transfers in the amount of $2m and I took the liberty of opening individual
accounts for $500k for you both as well as $1m in a joint account.  If that
doesn't fit your needs we can certainly adjust things, but I wanted you to
have access to your cash and needed the accounts set up to give you these."
as he handed two debit cards and a black AMEX to each of us.

"If you like how it's set up, I have signature cards for you both. If we
need to make changes it will be Monday before I can have things in your
hands."

"I think this will do fine David." I said as Scott nodded his agreement. I
think Billy has some ideas though?"

Billy looked up surprised but said "I think you should set up a household
account so you don't have to give Grandma cash for groceries and
things. Also, considering you couldn't get to town right now if you needed,
you should get a vehicle and driver. Or just another person to work here
and drive when needed."

Mike pulled two large envelopes from his case and said "Actually your dad
had Kevin ask me to do this, in these you'll find new birth certificates
and driver's licenses for you both. Greg, you turned 19 in February, Scott
is 17 now. I kept the same birthdays to save confusion. I think you can
both pass for those ages, with that in your hands. While vampires will
accept your signatures, the humans require that you're 18 to sign
contracts."

"Then I can't sign until January?"

"No Scott, you also have an emancipated minor declaration. It gives you the
rights of an adult to manage your own affairs. We went with the assumption
that you two would want to be married and that makes it easier."

"We haven't discussed that so we will figure that one out later. For now, I
agree with Billy on the household account. Mrs. White will be back shortly
and you can get her information. We can fund it from the joint account and
set up a budget from her suggestions. As to a vehicle and driver, I have my
license, and Scott has his permit, but if we're headed to a meeting
somewhere we'll be distracted and having a driver might be safest. You said
we own Regent? The manager is a vampire I assume?"

"Yes, and they do employ several so if you're thinking of getting your
driver from them, that might work."

"How soon will these various managers know our names?"

"Most received an email this morning explaining the changes at the higher
levels, so if you were to call any of the auto dealerships and ask for the
GM, they'll know you, as well as Regent and the property managers in NY and
here in town. What all do you have in mind?"

"Billy? What's your mom driving for groceries?"

"Her Honda."

"Are there any vehicles here? Or just whatever James and Donna bring when
they come?"

"James has his classic cars in the lower garage. The upper one's
empty. When they're here it's whatever they came in, usually James' Ram and
the Suburban."

"Is there a vehicle type or style your mom wouldn't feel comfortable
driving?"

"I'd prefer a midsize SUV that's not super expensive." Mrs. White said as
she came in. "Forgive my intruding, I came to see if you needed anything
and I overheard the last few minutes."

We assured her it was fine and after getting requests for drink refills and
some snacks, she headed to the kitchen. Scott and I looked over the list
and had a short conversation then we both made phone calls. While Scott was
calling our Chevrolet dealer to get an Equinox, I called Mercedes.

"Greg Fowler speaking, is Mr. ..." I had to look at the list, "Mr. Morris
in please?... Yes, I'll hold... Mr. Morris, this is Greg Fowler, have you
received an email this morning that you know my name?... Good, you're
showing a GLS 580 in stock on your website, is that vehicle
available?... Yes, black... Good, please set that aside. We'll arrange to
pick it up either today or tomorrow.... Thank you, have a great weekend."

Mrs. White returned with our drinks as Scott asked someone on his phone to
hold on a moment "Pearl White all wheel drive Equinox sound good to you?"

"Sounds fine to me. I'll just be using it for the house."

"No, we're buying it for your full use. You can sell them your Honda, or
sell it outright, or keep it, but the Equinox will be totally yours to use
at any time. No point you paying insurance on your Honda, that's just my
thoughts."

"I agree Grandma, sell the Honda. I won't be driving for two or three years
so I can't use it."

"Well thank you boys, I'll sell them the Honda then."

"This afternoon?"

"I can do that, yes. While I'm in here, who's staying for lunch?"

"She'll be down this afternoon, please have it ready."

Mike and David said they needed to be in town so it was just us for lunch.

Billy spoke up "I hope it's OK, I called Regent and they're sending a
vampire named Tommy with a sedan until you can pick up the GLS. They figure
you can meet Tommy and see if he'll fit your needs."

"It's more than OK Billy, that's what we expect from you, keep it up."

"Good, because I have two more things you need Mike to advise you
on. First, your dad. Second, how soon do you need to meet the heads of
these companies, or look at properties, or do anything else outside of this
house?"

Mike looked at me so I explained about my Dad being on a business trip for
the next two weeks and we needed to figure out how to deal with my change
with him. Mike talked about the three main solutions he could see. One
being the obvious, faking my death and never seeing him again, and the
second being telling him the truth. This second literally put lives in
danger because if Dad couldn't deal with it and the secret was at risk, the
Council would have him killed, as well as killing me for risking
discovery. The third was to simply try to go home and live the next year as
his son, graduating high school. Then I could go away to college and have
my own life. This option seemed the simplest, but with the financial
responsibilities of our businesses I didn't think I could pull off going to
school. Mike said he'd get back to me on Monday after talking to some
friends.

As to meetings, Mike assured us that there was no rush as the businesses
all ran themselves and suggested we set aside a week in July to travel and
meet people. While Mike was telling us this, David was talking with
Mrs. White and she was going to drop by his office after getting the
Equinox and get her debit card this afternoon.

Everything settled, we walked Mike and David to the door and said
goodbye. Mike reminded us that when we saw him Monday, he'd be much
younger, and they left. We went and enjoyed a nice lunch with Mrs. White
and Billy. She kept thanking us for the vehicle and for hiring Billy. I
think she finally realized we were the lucky ones when Billy told us he had
us scheduled with a tailor downtown at 3pm, had called Mr. Morris and set
up for us to pick up the GLS at 1:30, and for Regent to pick up their car
there.

We were just finishing lunch when the doorbell rang. Assuming it was Tommy,
Scott and I headed for the door. Billy didn't move until I said "You're
with us."

I opened the door and was greeted by a tall slim blond man in his twenties
in a black suit. "Tommy I assume?"

"Yes Sir, are you ready now or shall I wait?"

"My name is Greg and this is my mate Scott and our assistant Billy. Please
don't call us 'Sir'. We're headed to Mercedes in Wexford, then to a tailor
downtown, Billy has the address."

"Yes Sir, the office called me just now. I'll leave the car for servicing
and they'll pick it up Monday. This way please." and he headed for the S550
sedan in the driveway. He opened the rear door before we got there and
Scott and I got in. Billy got in the front as Tommy walked around to drive.

"Forgive me Sir, but if I may be so bold, if I'm to drive you gentlemen to
business meetings I need to keep using 'Sir'. Familiarity with your driver
will affect how people see you and with your age, you need to maintain an
image."

I started to argue but was over ruled by Billy and Scott. "Fine, but at
home it's just Greg, and I can open my own door."

"Of course Sir." Tommy said with a grin.

The drive to Wexford took half an hour, and in that time we got to know
more about Tommy. He was a taxi driver in London during Queen Victoria's
early years, then moved to New York and had two lives there. He and his
mate Leonard had moved to Pittsburgh 4 years ago to start his fifth life
because they wanted to be in a smaller city. Leonard did remodeling work
and they had rented an apartment in Squirrel Hill and just never bothered
to find anything else.

We pulled in and parked in front of North Hills Motorcars and when I
reached for the door Scott squeezed my hand and shook his head. I sighed,
and waited for Tommy to open the door. We got out and walked inside while
Tommy took the car around to the service dept. An older gentleman came over
and asked "What can I do for you boys? Meeting your dad here?"

"No, we'd like to see the Black GLS 580."

"Well now son, you look like you just got your license. That's a lot of
vehicle to be starting with, and it's a lot of money. Maybe you'd like to
look at a used BMW?"

"Thank you, no. I want the GLS please."

"Well you boys have a seat over there and I'll see what I can do." and he
walked away. My hearing had always been good and after changing it was very
good, so I had no problems hearing him say to another salesman "Smart ass
punks in here sight seeing, wasting my time. I doubt their parents can
afford that GLS, did you see those cheap suits?"

I walked over to the receptionist and asked for Mr. Morris. She smiled and
politely asked who to tell him was here for him, and I gave her my
name. After a short call, she said he'd be right out. Less than a minute
later, an older gentleman came to greet us saying Mr. Morris was on a call
but if we'd follow him he'd show us the GLS and answer any questions until
he could join us. As we walked out through the side door, the first guy
just shook his head. When we got outside our guide opened the GLS and
showed us the interior and all the features. Tommy came up and I asked him
to get in and see how he liked the driver's controls. The man, I assumed he
was a salesman, was showing Tommy where the different controls were when a
tall older African American man came out and greeted us.

"I'm Mr. Morris, sorry I couldn't come right out, I was on a call with the
factory about a delay on a special order. I hope Bob has been taking care
of you?"

"He has Sir, and thank you for putting customers ahead of us. If our driver
is happy, please put a plate on this and we will have the funds transferred
within the hour. Right now I'd like you to come with me to handle an issue
with another salesman."

Mr. Morris asked Bob to take care of things and followed me inside. I
walked up to the first guy and politely said "I think you're in the wrong
career, or at least, you're at the wrong dealership."

"What makes you think that son?"

"I expect exceptional customer service at my dealerships, especially at the
level of cars such as Mercedes Benz. You've shown nothing but contempt for
my party, while knowing nothing about us. You judged us based on our age
and dress with no information, and no attempt at getting the information
you needed to assist us. A grave mistake in a commission based job. I do
not directly hire or fire, but I am letting Mr. Morris know of my
displeasure and am asking him to handle this as he sees fit."

"Dave, this young man is the new owner, as of this morning. I think it's
best we accept your notice. Please clean out your desk and consider this a
lesson. You've always had great customer reviews, so I'll give you an
average reference, but I can't lie and if asked, I'll have to tell anyone
about this incident."

We turned and went back out to the GLS. Bob was putting a paper tag on it
and Mr. Morris said he would email us the purchase order. The title would
come in the mail with the permanent tags in a few weeks. I shook his hand
and thanked him for his time saying I hoped to see him again. After
thanking Bob, we got in and Tommy headed downtown.

As we pulled up in front of Tyler Daniels at 2:45 I told Tommy to find
parking and join us inside. He looked confused so I explained "I accept
your view about calling us 'Sir' in public, and using that same line of
thinking, your clothing reflects on us. Your suit, while nice, isn't on the
same level as what we're about to get. We just saw that we're judged on our
clothing, and you need to look the part. Same for you Billy, you're getting
some new suits, so let's go."

We got out and headed for the entrance, the doorman opened the door and
greeted us. Inside we found a receptionist and Billy said "Mr. Fowler and
Mr. Warnick have a 3:00 appointment."

"Yes sir, Ms. Daniels will be right with you."

Tommy was just walking in when a tall woman with waist length hair came out
of the office smiling at us "Good afternoon. I am Tyler Daniels."

"Good afternoon Ms. Daniels, I'm Greg Fowler. This my husband Scott, our
assistants William, and Thomas. We had originally arranged for just the two
of us, but if it's not too inconvenient, could you also assist William and
Thomas? If not today, they can return when you can work them in."

"I'm sure we can work them in Mr. Fowler, will you all follow me to our
showroom? I'll have Casey show you the options while we discuss your needs,
then we can advise you on what the best choices are, unless you already
know what you need?" She led us into a large room with hundreds of fabrics
and examples of different pockets, lapels, sleeves, and jackets.

"Please, call me Greg, and we have no idea what we need. Scott and I
recently, well, to be blunt, we have been thrown into a position of control
over some large companies, and we need to dress the part. We're at your
mercy."

"I'll call you Greg only if you call me Tyler." she said with a smile "And
in order for me to give you my best advice, I need to know the roles of
those wearing the clothing."

"I'm the CEO, Scott is CFO. William is our personal assistant, and Thomas
is our driver and security."

"Are you armed Thomas?"

"I am Ma'am, I hope that's alright in your business?"

"Of course it's alright. I we just need to know so we tailor to allow room
for it." A young blond lady had been standing there listening and Tyler
said "This is Casey, our fashion consultant. Do we have a budget in mind?"

"What are the options and your advice? We'll pay what things are worth but
I don't want to just throw money away."

"I can appreciate that Greg, and I want your business in the future, so
I'll be honest. We can put you and Scott in $4000 Zenga suits but you'll be
back in three months to have them adjusted, and in three more to replace
them. I'm thinking you're still growing, so I'd advise we go with
Vitale. That will put you at $1500 to $2000 per suit, still make a
statement, and save your budget. Go with the higher end in a year or two,
or even three."

"For William I'd say the same, with us settling into a $3000 suit once he's
grown. As for Thomas, his work means he'll put more wear out his suits more
often, so I'd suggest we stick with our $2000 range for him regardless."

Scott and I looked at each other and nodded "With the way things are run,
we won't be in a suit more than one day a week most weeks, though we'll
have occasional weeks where we wear one daily. Suggestions?"

"Six pair of pants, two each for three different jackets. Jackets take less
wear. Daily wear you can do trousers, shirt and tie. I'm assuming William's
needs are similar, and Thomas needs a larger inventory, eight trousers,
four jackets and two vests."

"So far I agree with your thinking. Let's talk style."

Here, she took us around the room to show us what she meant when she said
'barchetta pocket' or 'double breasted vest'. I never knew there was so
much involved in buying a darn suit. Billy was right though, my suit would
never impress the people we had to deal with. As we were looking at styles,
a man came in and started measuring Billy and Tommy. When we had looked at
all the differences, Tyler had us stand to be measured as she told us what
she had in mind.

"For you Greg, you're tall and slim, so I want you in a 3 button single
breasted notch lapel with barchetta pockets, slanted and piped. 3 buttons
on the sleeve with a center vent. Double out-pleated trousers, piped button
back pockets and ½ notch slant fronts. Scott is more athletic and not as
tall so we'll do the same except with 2 buttons. William I think we'll do
the same as Scott and we might do fewer jackets for him because he's going
to out grow them so fast. I'll leave some extra fabric in the trouser cuffs
too."

"For Thomas I think a double breasted 6 button, rolled to the second, piped
flap, 4 button sleeve with a side vent with strap. He carries his weapon
inside the waist and that will give him better access. Vests double
breasted, 6 button, no lapel, no upper pocket. Flat trousers, seam
pockets. Any questions?"

"Colors? Fabrics?"

"For now let's stay simple, for yourself, Scott, and William I think navy
and charcoal, no stripes. For Thomas I'd say either navy or black. Maybe
one in charcoal. All of this is my recommendations. I won't be offended if
you ignore it all and do something totally different."

Scott and I talked a bit and I turned to her "For Scott and myself, three
jackets, one each navy, charcoal, and this navy with the light blue pin
stripes. Two pair of pants matching each jacket. Ten shirts each, we'll
look at colors and fabrics with ties. And a vest for each of us in the
navy/light blue, no lapels. For William, two jackets, navy and charcoal,
three pants matching each, a navy vest. Same as us for shirts. And for
Thomas two jackets in navy, two black, two charcoal. Three pair of pants to
match each. A vest for each and a dozen white shirts, sorry Tom, plain
white works best in the role I think." Tommy nodded "He can pick a dozen
ties but I'd like to see his choices before we're done."

We spent another two hours looking at shirt styles, fabrics, collars, cuffs
and ties. When we were happy with these I asked Tyler "How soon might all
this be ready?"

"I'm thinking we can have everything ready for final fitting two weeks from
Monday? And finalized that Friday."

"I appreciate it's a large order but is there anyway you can get one suit
for each of us completed sooner? You see what we came in with. That's our
entire business wardrobe."

"Oh dear, give me a moment. Casey, Ernie what's the schedule look like. Can
we rush all of this?"

They talked things over and looked at their commitments then Tyler came
back to me "We'll have a suit for you three and two for Thomas for a final
fitting Monday morning. You can have those by noon and we'll have the
entire order by Friday afternoon."

"Wow, you came highly recommended, but this is downright incredible."

"Thanks. Casey, Ernie, please get started." and once they had walked away
"Greg, I'll be honest with you. I've been making suits for Robert Barnes
for 15 years. I just made David's new wardrobe, and Robert's grandson Mike
has an appointment with me Monday. When Billy, er William called, I called
Robert and he confirmed your nature. I hope my grandchildren will be making
suits for you and Scott. You can count on me for my best service, and
discretion."

I smiled at her as I handed her the Amex "Please add 20% for your people,
with my thanks. Now I suppose we need shoes."

As she processed the card she said "That you do. I'll call Freddy and see
if he has time this evening, if that's convenient for you. If not I'd
suggest Monday while you're waiting, but you won't get them back until
Tuesday or Wednesday if you wait."

I looked at my phone, it was almost 7:15. Billy was already on his phone
telling his grandma we'd eat in town and Tommy was looking at the card in
Tyler's hand for the address. "Please call your friend Tyler, and we do
appreciate it. Does this Freddy also know our nature?"

She nodded as she spoke into her phone, then gave me his card saying "He's
expecting you. Here are fabric swatches for all the suits. I'll see you
Monday. I'd offer to come to you, but you'll need to come for a final fit
on the shoes anyway. Have a great evening gentlemen."

Freddy's store was only a block and was actually near where Tommy had
parked, so we walked down and were initially disappointed. It was a little
shop no bigger than most barber shops with a small sign in the window. A
short man in his seventies met us outside the door and led us in. After
measuring us he took the fabric samples then pulled out a stack of leathers
to show colors and textures. We left an hour later having ordered two pair
each, with Tommy getting a short boot rather than shoes. I never had
someone measure my feet so many different ways and I left feeling confident
these would be the most comfortable shoes I've ever owned.

We stopped at an Outback Steakhouse on the way and enjoyed a nice
meal. While we ate, I asked Tommy what he usually did to get home from
Regent and he said he took the car home and asked if he should arrange a
ride and return with his car tomorrow. I decided he should take the GLS and
asked if he'd bring his mate when he returned around 10am. He made a call
and said that he'd have him come get him tonight as he didn't feel safe
with our car in his neighborhood. He said he'd be at the house when we got
there and we could meet him tonight if we liked, so we planned on that.

On the ride home I asked Billy about the house he lived in with his
grandmother. He told me it was one of six older homes that had been on the
land when James bought it. Two were removed to make room for the main
house, the other four were still there and three were empty. Scott told me
two of those were too far gone and we should remove them. The other needed
some upgrades but could be used, and Billy's had all new wiring, kitchen
and bath done when the main house was built in 2003. I told Scott we'd talk
more once we were alone.

When we pulled up at home there was an old Ford pickup there with a
muscular man about Tommy's age sitting on the tailgate. When we got out,
Tommy introduced us to his mate, Leonard. We invited them in for a drink
and to get to know Leonard a bit more. Billy knew he was needed, so he
texted his grandma what he was doing.

I headed straight for the kitchen and pointing them to the table, asked
Tommy and Leonard what they'd like to drink. Everyone wanted a Coke Zero,
so it was easy to keep track and after we all sat I asked Leonard "Do you
mind if I ask what you're doing for work? Tom says you do remodeling, are
you an employee or do you own a business?"

"Both. I work days for a contractor but I also have my license and I take
smaller jobs on the side. He knows about it and as long as the jobs I'm
taking are too small for him, he's fine with it. What I mean is he likes to
do a whole house, or a kitchen. The jobs I do are replacing a window or
renovating a closet or something, so I'm not in competition with him."

"If Tommy takes a job driving for us, how will that affect the two of you?
If you're not comfortable taking the GLS home, that'll put a lot of stress
on you, won't it?"

"We've been talking about moving since we moved in, we just never got
around to it. As long as I'm not too far, it won't affect my job. Most of
our work is east of downtown, or in the South Hills."

"Do you like your job?"

"I love the work, the guy I'm working for now can be a pain but I don't
have the resources to go on my own. Well, honestly I do, but it would look
funny. I have to age another ten years to really sell it, ya know?"

"Yeah, I do." I looked at Scott and he nodded "Would you consider working
for us?"

"I'm listening."

"Let's walk as we talk," I said, standing and heading towards the office
"There are four houses here, in addition to this one. We need to remove two
of them, and either remodel the third or remove and replace it. I don't
know about the fourth until I speak with Mrs. White. We also need to
renovate this office, enlarge it. Maybe steal some space from the
library. We'd need to find an architect."

Billy was going nuts on his tablet to keep up with me so I slowed a bit
with "You said you have your license, what's it good for? Just remodeling
or new builds as well? Is it tied to an area?"

"I'm licensed for both, anywhere in PA."

"Then we can help each other. You do this work for us, that might take you
up to a year I'd think? Then having done all this, you've aged a bit, and
you got a lucky break to help your business get started. Another option is
we invest in you and your license, and you run the business for us. With
our finances behind it, using our names, no one questions where a 23 year
old got the money."

"My new ID says I'm 24 but yeah, you're right. This could work, but we'd
have to find a place to rent up this way."

"The home you're remodeling, or replacing, would be yours to use for a
lifetime. One lifetime that is."

"And until it's done?"

"We have 4 empty bedrooms upstairs, if you don't mind living with us."

"You just met us, you'd trust us under your roof?"

"You're both vampires. I trust you. If I didn't, I'd be calling a human
contractor."

"Damn Tom, I thought you said he'd only been changed a few days ago?"

"He's impressed the hell out of me already today. I'm up for it Len, are
you?"

"I'd like to sleep on it Greg. I have to bring Tom back and I'll have your
answer in the morning, is that OK?"

"We'll be here. We'll be eating at 8, you're welcome to join us. Tom, we'll
be going downtown at 10."

I walked them out and after Tommy put the GLS in the garage, they left. I
turned to Billy and he said "I know, a vampire architect, tomorrow
afternoon if possible."

"There's that, also tell me how to handle your grandma please."

"Handle her for what?"

"Well, it involves you also, so here it is. I'd like you to be
closer. Right now is a good example of why. It's 10pm and you have to walk
half a mile home. If you lived here, you'd walk upstairs, or downstairs,
and go to bed. We'd like that, and we want to know how she'll take that, or
should we offer to make an apartment over the garage? Or what other option
is there?"

"You could let me drive the GLS home." he said with a grin.

"Yeah, that's a great idea...NOT! But before you go, tomorrow we're going
to buy your IT hardware, and hitting the Verizon store."

"I do enjoy spending your money but I don't want to waste it. If you're
going to actually move walls, I think we get the two of you laptops for now
and move James' computer and printer somewhere safe. Once the remodeling is
done we can get a desktop or two and whatever else you decide on. At
Verizon, tablets for you two, phones for you two as well as Tommy and I."

"You're getting a tablet."

"This one's brand new."

"That one is yours, at least let us pay it off and take over the bill."

"Fine, I'll allow that. As to my moving in, I'd be up for it. I would bring
it up to Grandma just like you did me. Give her your reasons and the
options."

"One last thing, find our Ram dealership and find me a pickup. 1500, top
trim, longer bed. I want to pick it up tomorrow."

"Crew with 6' or standard with 8'?"

"Crew and 6', like James has. If Leonard does what I'm betting he'll do,
we'll buy a 2500 with an 8' bed for him to use. Oh, and find out who
handles our insurance and make sure Tom is insured for the GLS, along with
the two of us, James and Donna. That's it for tonight, get to bed, see you
at 8. Thanks for everything today."

"You do realize you spent $200k today and you just told me to plan on
spending about $100k tomorrow, right?"

"I know, do you think we wasted anything?"

"Not really, image counts and the suits and the GLS are the image you
need. Tomorrow it's all practical items, so no, you're not wasting."

"Sunday I need to learn to hunt. You're welcome to join us. I planned on
inviting Tom and Leonard also."

"I don't hunt yet, Grandma is looking for someone to teach me. Goodnight
guys." and Billy headed down the back drive towards his house.

As we headed upstairs, "What about you hon? Do you think I wasted money
today?"

"Not at all babe, I agree with Billy. Today was about image, and tomorrow
it's all tools. Add in the fact that the market was up today about 5%, so
our net worth increased by roughly $19m. Not that it won't go down another
day by the same, but the point is, you spent less than we made. We're not
hurting financially and we helped Tyler's business."

"Oh, remind me to call Mr. Morris and make sure that Bob gets a commission
on the GLS, even if we have to pay it ourselves, he was great."

"I agree, now let's get to bed, I want to cuddle!"

Saturday I woke before the alarm with my handsome man once again in my
arms. I gently rubbed my hands over his chest and slowly worked my hands
down until I was running my fingers through his pubic hair. His body was
reacting to my attention so I continued and wrapped my hand around him and
slowly brought him to the edge. He was fully awake by this point and with
his sighs and moans to encourage me, I brought him over the edge. As he was
catching his breath he looked into my eyes and said "I could wake up like
that for the next hundred years."

"Only a hundred?"

"Yeah, it'll get old by then and we'll have to find a new way." he laughed
and kissed me. "For now, I'm going to shower. If you join me I'll return
the favor."

I did, and he did, and we dressed in jeans and went down to find James
sitting with Mrs. White. "Good morning boys. Sorry I wasn't home when you
went to bed. I ran back down and got some things we had left at the other
house."

"It's fine. I'd like to run our plans by you for your input, but first I'd
like to hear what Mrs. White has to say about something."

I spelled out my reasoning for wanting her in the house as well as having
Billy here, then gave her the options. I was just finishing when Billy came
in. "Morning guys."

"Good morning, did you enjoy your walk home?"

"Yeah... no. Grandma I agree with Greg, we don't need to live in that
house. If it's just up to me, I'd take a bedroom upstairs, but if you want
us to have our own space they can do an apartment over the garage really
easily."

"I won't insist that we share a space honey, you're going to be starting
your own life soon enough anyway. I just don't want to be up where family
belongs, and I hate to waste all that money to build an apartment. Why not
just finish one of those rooms in the basement and put me down there?"

"Not a chance. We're not hiding you in some hole in the basement. You're
family and if you want your own space, it will be an apartment. If not, you
go with family, upstairs."

Mrs. White looked at James and he said "Oh no you don't Mary, don't get me
involved in this one. And I'm with them. The only reason I didn't suggest
this years ago is you had Billy and I knew you felt he needed space."

"Let's let Mrs. White think about this a bit. I want to catch you up on
everything else James." and I went on to tell him of our GLS purchase, our
time at the tailors, the cobblers, and finally our talks with Leonard and
Tommy. When I got to talk of buying a pickup he suggested we buy his. He
was considering trading for a car and it was only two years old with low
miles. We felt he might still have a need for it, and if anything he could
trade the Suburban for a car. When he said he didn't plan on moving out for
another year or two and we could use his truck anytime we needed we agreed
that buying a truck wasn't something we had to do, at least not this
weekend.

"Good thing you got that settled before they opened. I was ready to call
them at 9:00."

"You're just all over things Billy."

"One thing I missed was today's dress code, I'm overdressed!"

"Well eat up and go change."

"Another reason to live here."

"William White, you behave."

"Sorry Grandma. I'm going to run down to the house and change."

"I'll run you down if you want."

"And I'll join you James. I'd like to see this house myself."

"Well I've thought about it Greg, and I'll move upstairs, so when you're
looking at it be thinking about what you want to do with it."

"Thanks Mrs. White, I'll do that. You coming hon?"

"I'll stay in case Tommy and Leonard show up." and as if on cue, the
doorbell rang. "You go on, I'll host them to breakfast"

"Actually James, you and Billy go on. I need to talk with Leonard and if he
says what I expect, we'll be down shortly."

Scott and I went to answer the door and led Tommy and Leonard to the
kitchen as Scott said "Tom, you have a key to the garage. You don't need to
ring the bell, you come in, anytime, got it?"

"Yes Sir." Tommy said with a grin.

We just rolled our eyes and laughed as they helped themselves to
breakfast. Mrs. White asked what they wanted to drink and brought it to
them.

"Sorry we ate a bit early, we woke up and forgot to wait for you."

"It's your home Greg, we just appreciate the meal. Did you find out about
that fourth house?"

"I did and was about to go look at it when you came to the door. We can go
together after you eat. I take it you've decided to work with me in some
form or another?"

"Yes. I'll be brief. Tom and I would like to take advantage of one of those
bedrooms upstairs. What we do after that depends on what you do with the
houses, but for now we'd like to move by July 1. Tom will probably stay
here more than our place until we move."

"That's fine, it'll make our travel plans more flexible with him here. How
do you want to do the business side of things?"

"To be honest I didn't dwell on that Greg. At best we're probably two weeks
from that being an issue and I'd like to talk to an attorney about what's
best for me, I hope you understand."

"I totally understand and it's fine. If I may be personal, do you need to
keep your other job for financial reasons until you get going with us?"

"Not at all, Tom and I have been together since Vicki was Queen, we've set
aside enough. Most of it is tied up but we're fine for the day to day
stuff. We both work because we enjoy what we do."

"Is that old Ford yours or your employer's?"

"Mine. It's about time to replace her, she's done her job."

"If you don't mind, I'm going to call our Ram dealership and you go pick
what you want. We'll sort out the money when we sort out your business. If
you don't work directly for me you can buy the truck as used and save a
bit."

"I'll never argue with saving money. Let's go look at these houses?"

"Sure thing, we'll be back in a bit hon."

"We'll all be asleep in the family room."

"Let's go Leonard, before I decide that's a good idea and join them."

We went out through the front door and I climbed into his old Ford. Neither
of us knew exactly where the houses were, but I knew they were down the
back drive, so we headed that direction. We had only gone over the first
little rise when I saw them, four small 1920's era houses spaced about 100
yards apart on the uphill side of the drive. James was standing by his
truck parked at the first one, so I assumed this was Mrs. White's. We
pulled up and I introduced Leonard to James and they held a short
discussion on whether they had met in London 100 years ago.

Leonard then asked me as we approached the house "Can we see inside this
one? I hate to ask, I know it's Mrs. White's, but it's also in the best
shape, isn't it?"

"It is, we had it rewired and the kitchen and bath done about 18 years
ago."

Leonard was walking along the side of the house, looking at the foundation,
the roof, taking in clues to help decide how worthwhile a renovation would
be. "Then we can save time by looking at this one, if it's not worth saving
the other isn't. If this one's good then we'll have to check the
other. Greg said two of them are done for?"

"Yeah, I'd be surprised if we could save them. The one had a tree fall
through the roof and it was never repaired. The other had several leaks the
last time we were in them and I'm assuming the water damage is
substantial. They might be saved but it's probably not cost effective."

"Well, we don't need to go inside. See this?" he said as he pointed to
crack in the foundation. "There are enough stress cracks, we'd need to
rebuild the foundation and that alone would be $10-15,000. These houses
aren't historic. To remodel them just isn't the best use of your money
Greg. If it were up to me, I'd level all four and do something else. I'm
guessing they're on wells and septic tanks. There are just too many things
in the negative column."

"I know nothing about building so I'll trust your judgment. Plan on taking
them down. We can discuss the next move once they're gone. What about the
wells?"

"There's no hard rule. Personally I'd mark and cap them for possible future
use of some type. I would dig up the septic tanks, empty them, and either
remove them or fill them with soil to prevent collapse in the future. And
mark the drain fields so we don't build on them or drop a well through them
for a hundred years or so."

"Like I said, I'll lean on your judgment but I'd like to be involved and
learn when I can, if you don't mind."

"I don't mind at all. I'm here on your dime regardless of how we do
it. I'll buy the gloves if you want?" Leonard said with a laugh.

"Yeah, thanks but no. I don't think I need to lift weights anymore, do I?"

"You're stronger than you were Greg, but your body will respond the same as
a humans would. Work out you'll tone it, sit and eat too much you'll get
fat. It's up to you." James said as we met Billy coming out of the front
door in jeans and a polo shirt.

"I think we're done here for now. Billy, ride with Leonard please? Give him
the address of the nearest Ram dealership of ours, then call that GM and
have him take care of things for us. We're buying whatever truck he wants
and we'll sort it out afterwards if something needs to change."

"OK Greg, see you at the house." and he got in the Ford and they took off.

As I got in his truck I said "Am I doing too much too fast James?"

"Have you done anything to the businesses themselves? Have you made major
changes in the investments?"

"No, David had some adjustments he wanted to make in the balance of certain
stocks, and Scott had already come up with those same changes, so we did
that. The only thing I've done with any of the businesses, other than spend
money at them, was to have a salesman with a bad attitude removed."

"Did you do it like a bully or did he hang himself?"

"He talked down to us because of our age and our clothing. I brought it to
the attention of the GM and asked him to deal with it properly. I didn't
tell him how to deal with it, just to do it."

"And you paid retail for the vehicles? Someone got a commission?"

"Why would I do anything else? Those people count on that profit as part of
their pay."

"Word will get around Greg. Word will get to the other dealerships that you
care about the people getting paid, that you care about customers, and that
you care about them. Managers talk to each other, and I bet all of the
dealerships, if not some of the other stores, have heard that you didn't
step in and take over, you let them handle their own issues. You're not
doing good Greg, you're doing GREAT son, you really are."

"We spent $155k on two SUVs and $50k on clothing yesterday. Are we wasting
your money?"

"It's your money now, but again, why did you buy a $115k Mercedes rather
than a $70k Suburban? Why a $2000 suit rather than a $500 suit?"

"Image. We're young and we have to look the part to help counter the age. I
didn't buy the $180k Mercedes and the $3500 suit. I got what I felt fit the
need."

"Exactly, and you'll only know if you wasted it sometime next year, when
you evaluate your relationships with your business associates. You're
running a multi-million dollar business. You don't look right doing that in
a suit from Sears. I think you made the right choices."

I was nodding my understanding and agreement when he went on "I have a
question for you now Greg. When you're talking business, you sound like
you're a 30 year old Harvard graduate. You speak clearly and use larger
words and fewer contractions. When we're relaxing at home, I hear 'ain't'
and 'dude' and all other sorts of slang."

"Your point?"

"My point, or my question is, which one's the act? Are you being fake in
either situation?"

"Again, the answer is image. I have to overcome the age issue when I'm
talking business. Even with my own attorney, I was meeting him for the
first time. I have to sound like I know what I'm doing, even if I
don't. One 'dude' in front of the wrong person could cost us money, and
more important, cost people their jobs due to lost business. Yeah, it's an
act. So is the 'dude' and other slang when I'm with other teens, it's an
act to fit in. Doesn't everyone do it every day? Adjust their speech to fit
the audience so what they say will be heard? That's basic politics."

"You amaze me more every day Gregory, you really do. I'm so proud you're my
son and son-in-law wrapped in one."

"Aw shucks Paw, ain't nuthin but a thang." I said trying my best not to
break up laughing.

James just laughed and rolled his eyes as we pulled in to the garage. We
went inside and I remembered "James I almost forgot, Scott's taking me
hunting tomorrow, would you like to join us? Tommy and Leonard are coming."

"As much as I'd love an outing with my sons, I think it's best if Scott
takes you. I need to talk to an old friend about some things, then I think
you and I will be having another heart to heart."

"OK, so we're off to where today? Billy?"

"Verizon and the computer store downtown."

"Do we own either?"

"The Verizon is ours, an authorized retailer, the computer store is a well
respected locally owned store."

"Billy, I want all our purchases to be at retail, from our own stores, or
from stores like that. Nothing from the big retail chains if it can be
avoided."

"Will do Greg. Scott will be back down in a minute."

"No rush today, relax" and my phone rang.

I looked at it and it said "Dad" so I answered "Hey Dad... Yes, this is
Greg, who's this and why do you have my Dad's phone?..."

Billy and Tommy caught me as I fell and James grabbed my phone from the
floor where I had dropped it. "Who is this?... I'm James Warnick, Greg's
staying with us while his dad's on a trip...Yes sir, I understand... yes,
we're on our way."

Scott came down and when he saw me passed out he ran to me yelling "What's
wrong? What's happened? Dad? What's going on?"