Date: Thu, 17 May 2012 20:25:34 -0400
From: preecherdave@gmail.com
Subject: What a Difference a Year Makes 3

A reminder from Nifty that it needs your donations to keep these stories
being published. Any donation will help.

This document contains homosexual themes and acts. If you are underage or
don't like the subject, then don't read it.

The story is not autobiographical and is a product of the writer's fertile
imagination.

Comments welcomed                    preecherdave@gmail.com


On the way home from the great evening with the kids, Paul broached a topic
that he had been thinking about for a while. "Brian, I like living with you
but I don't like two home bases." He stopped and looked at Brian with a
look of innocence.

Brian as usual surprised him. "Good. My place is bigger. If it has too many
ghosts for you, we can find something else. But we do need a place for
family and the kids. That sort of sums up our options." He paused, smirking
at Paul. "Of course, I have thought about it."

After they stopped laughing at each other, it was settled quickly. They
would stay in Brian's house. It was good for the kids and Paul really liked
the place. They would use some of Paul's art works which were quite good to
add his touch to their home. Redecorate as needed. Paul would rent out his
place and keep it as an investment. They would share expenses and Paul
would use his rent money as part of his investment in his condo.

Paul insisted on some very definite legal arrangements that would protect
Brian's money for the kids. Paul was concerned about his relatives trying
to get a share of the estate if something happened to Brian and him and
there was question of common law inheritance. It was agreed that they would
see the firm that dealt with these issues in the city and arrange for the
appropriate legal documents.

As they pulled into the driveway. Paul's final comment was that it had been
a momentous drive home. They sealed the deal with a kiss and ... later in
the evening.

Their agreement led to their meeting with John, their new lawyer, a
partner, in charge of the division that looked after matters for same sex
and common law relationships. He understood exactly what they wanted. They
really enjoyed dealing with him again. While there was an age difference,
they ended up becoming very close friends with him and his partner Mark
Johnston.

They started to move Paul's belongings over immediately in small
batches. Almost as a tradition, they spent that week at Paul's condo
packing and getting ready for the move.  Friday night was to be Paul's
official moving day. Brian had had an idea. Susan had taken a really good
picture of him and Paul together and he decided to enlarge it and frame
it. It would match the picture of Brian and Margie that was still in the
living room on the mantel over the fireplace. Brian had it wrapped and
after a special dinner out that night, he presented it to Paul as a house
warming gift.

Paul understood the significance of the gift, an official recognition of
their being together, for anyone coming into their home. But it meant ever
more. It was clearly a replica of the picture of Brian and Margie.

"Brian, I want to leave the other picture exactly where it is. It is
important to Robbie and Susan and to me. I owe a lot to Margie. Could we
put our picture here?" He placed it on the mantel at the other end so that
it was a mirror image of the photo of Brian and Margie.

"Are you sure?"

Paul sealed the deal with a kiss. Which led to Brian grabbing Paul and
dragging him to the bedroom.

It became a joyous romp. Brian, "This night, we have to celebrate
properly. Our first night officially in our new home. I need a shower."

"You just want the mirrors."

"Well now that you mention it, not a bad idea."

"It was your suggestion .... Yeah I like the shower and the mirrors."

They undressed in the bedroom. Both started to fill out on the walk to the
bathroom with arms around each other.

They arrived in the bathroom facing the mirror. "Brian, you really are a
lusty bugger. You are already half way up!"

"You are almost further! What would happen if we just stood here and looked
at each other."

"Can we talk?" Brian shrugged his shoulders, yes. "Brian, I love seeing you
getting bigger and erect. You know how I love to flick it with my tongue
and then lick it lightly. There you go, bigger and bigger. You are so
goddamn sexy." Brian loved the talk; he was growing and his cock continued
to expand and rise. Paul was fascinated and turned on by the sight and he
started to rise as well. They watched in fascination as each grew and rose
higher and higher. In a minute just looking at each other, both were fully
erect and pulsing. Brian whacked Paul on the ass.  Paul laughed as he
yelled ouch. After Paul pulled Brian's balls hard, saying that was pay
back, Paul put his hand on Brian's rear and caressed it and slid a finger
up and down his crack. That led to a kiss from Brian and a light flick
under the head of Paul's cock. Paul moaned that they had better get in the
shower.

They decided that they needed a thorough cleaning from head to toe. They
cleaned feet, quite erotic. Under arms, very erotic. They cleaned chests,
even more erotic. When they got to the balls and cock, wow. Paul made Brian
bend over and he cleaned his butt very thoroughly inside and out. There
were a lot of moans. Brian used his fingers over Paul's prostate saying
that it needed a real cleaning. Paul was mumbling when he finished. They
turned off the shower. In the mirror, their skin was highly coloured as
were their cheeks. Their cocks were huge and Paul, taking credit for how
turned on Brian was, actually hung a face cloth on Brian's erection. He was
called a pervert for that little demonstration. Secretly, Brian was proud
that he had not flagged one bit. They laughed a lot. They were acting like
goofy kids and it felt good. They were very turned on.

On their bed, Paul took the lead and had them in a 69 which both
loved. There were hands all over each other. They had done this before but
tonight everything seemed more passionate. The shower had made them so
sensitive that even the lightest touch was like fire. They stopped several
times to relax and whisper compliments or just tell the other how much he
meant in his life. When they resumed for the final time, both were almost
incoherent with passion. Paul allowed his teeth to just slide over the head
of Brian's cock. Brian's whole body had shuddered and he had cried
out. Brian had his fingers in Paul as took him all the way down into his
throat. Paul had moaned and cursed. When they finally climaxed, it was very
powerful and each could feel the jets into their mouth and the taste. They
kissed. They hugged and caressed each other until they slept.

The telephone rang on Sunday evening. Paul picked up. "Yes this is
Paul. Yes, Mrs. Kent, I shall get Brian and I'll remind him that you want
to talk to me later."

Brian's mind was turning over very fast, not knowing exactly what to say
and how this call was going to go. It was one that he had really dreaded.
"Barbara, good to hear your voice."

"When had you planned on telling me? I'll answer that for you. Probably,
eventually, in your own good time. You do know that your mother and I talk
quite often. It appears that my grandson knows all about it, as do your
parents. Well?"

"Barbara, I am sorry. I just didn't know how to do it."

"Probably scared to death at our reaction. Maybe, you don't realize that my
daughter and I had very frank talks before she left us. I know how good
your marriage was and I saw many times how much you honoured her. I do live
in the 21st century and am quite liberal in my views. I"ll admit that I am
surprised but there is still a lot in the world that can still surprise me,
not a bad thing. Your son tells me very good things about Paul. I shall be
expecting you all, and I do mean all, for Christmas, as usual. Now that
wasn't so hard. Brian you know how we feel about you."

"Barbara, I am humbled and can only apologize."

"Enough! I shall expect a very good bottle of scotch for Christmas and now
I want to get to know the man who answered the phone on a Sunday night in
your home. Brian if you are happy, I am genuinely happy for you but I still
want the scotch."

"I had better make a further confession. It is our home as of this
weekend." He paused to let that sink in. "If I remember, you like
Langavulin. Your tastes are always bold."

"See, confession is good for the soul. Oh, Langavulin, that would heal the
wounds magnificently."

By the time she was finished with Paul, she knew almost everything but his
SIN number (Social Insurance Number). Paul was flabbergasted. His new
family was so different from his own. His parents saw him at Christmas with
his sister and her family. They treated him as if they were doing him a
favour inviting him. All the conversation revolved around his sister, her
children and her husband's latest business deals. Then, there were his
parents trips and their this and that.

They would have been surprised at his standing in his firm in which he now
had a substantial ownership position, the business acumen that he had
developed and the significant contributions he made to his company. They
would be shocked at the investments that he had made and the value that
they had reached. But he had never flaunted his money as he had a fairly
simple lifestyle. They never asked and appeared not to care. He suspected
that he could buy his sister and husband out many times over. His father
had made it clear what he felt about his abnormal relations with men. It
was just too distasteful to even talk about. Now, a complete stranger, the
mother of Brian's wife for god's sake, had made it very clear that he would
turn up for Christmas or else. He was going to like Barbara Kent very much.

No sooner had they put the telephone down, it rang again. It was Robbie. He
needed his father's big car to help in his move later in the week but he
could not get up to the city to pick it up and he could use the extra
hands. Brian was busy at work with a deal and could not get away. Paul
listened to the conversation. Quickly looking at his schedule on his
laptop, he discovered that he was free. He picked up the extension. He
would go down with the car and stay over night and help with the
move. Brian was pleased; Robbie could not stop thanking him. Paul could
only think that it would be fun and it was the least he could do. It turned
out to be a very special bonding with Robbie. Robbie just introduced him as
one of his fathers buddies. He took all the guys out for supper and had a
great time. He got one of Robbie's hugs as he left.

Thanksgiving was like no experience Paul had had in a long time, perhaps
ever. The atmosphere was filled with jokes, intelligent conversation and
fun with Jane's children. They took to Paul as everyone had.

Surprisingly, even Brian's father, Stan, had to sit back and admit to
himself that he had been wrong. He had been forced into inviting Paul by
his grandson and especially by his unusually forceful wife. He had been
determined not enjoy this experience. But Paul really added a lot to the
weekend. He had watched the welcome that both Robbie and Susan had given to
both Paul and Brian. It had been joyous and spontaneous. He had seen how
Maria, Robbie's girlfriend and John, Susan's boyfriend had welcomed Paul
with kisses and a hug. Paul and Brian had played with the kids who
obviously took to Paul and Paul had organized a soccer game outside with
kids and adults. He admitted that it had been one of the best Thanksgivings
in memory. He decided that Brian was a very lucky guy and he had been a
stodgy fool. He never imagined this in a thousand years. He was not one for
big apologies but he made it clear that he would appreciate a call when
they were in town and he wanted to arrange for supper with them. Isabelle
made it clear that they were to visit anytime they were in town. They had a
place for them to stay.

The rest of the Autumn passed quickly and smoothly for everyone. Christmas
was filled with parties and they had gone to several mixed and gay
parties. As far they could see, there were no problems as their
relationship became obvious to everyone.  There was the odd question or
look but the invitations kept coming.

They decided to go to Toronto a day early and meet the kids at the Kent's
home on Christmas Eve day and do some shopping and see a show. There would
be church and then a huge Christmas dinner with the Kents and Brian's
family.

It was the first Christmas in a long time that Paul was not at his parent's
place. He didn't miss it one bit. On his phone call to his mother,
explaining the situation, he had suggested that he and Brian could come
over for supper some evening but it was clear that Brian would not be a
welcome guest. That was the final straw for Paul. He realized after the
call that his mother didn't seem the least upset that he would not be there
for Christmas.

Christmas Eve turned out to be a very special evening. Neither he nor Brian
were church goers but the special Christmas Eve service and the candle
light precession and atmosphere put both of them into a wonderful
reflective mood on the changes in both their lives. During the Peace*
towards the end of the service, both had held hands and had whispered peace
and love to each other. It did not escape Barbara's very sharp eyes. She
had a tear in her eye as she thought of Margie but the tear was also in
happiness for Brian.

It has ofter been said that the brain is the most important erogenous zone
in the body. The feelings from the church service and the warmth of the
spirit in the Kent household had an amazing effect on the two lovers. They
undressed each other slowly, admiring quietly what they saw before
them. They put there arms around each other and moved slowly to the
bed. Breaking the mood only for a second, Brian pushed Paul onto the bed
and quickly climbed astride his legs. After slowly kissing his face and
chest, he moved them onto their sides and they kissed and caressed each
other, taking their time interspersing touching with intimate kisses. Each
could feel the others very hard cock, touching the other. They spent
minutes just letting their erections rub together. It was an amazing
sensation that had both of them asking for more.

This was sensuous love making and neither could get enough. Brian finally
had himself behind Paul rubbing his erection up and down his crack while he
caressed his chest with his fingers. He had the lube and slowly used his
fingers to put it in Paul. Paul moaned softly as Brian used his fingers in
and out. He finally had his very lubricated cock at his entrance and slowly
just put the head in. Not going in any deeper, he moved it in and out and
around just a fraction. Paul had his fingers lightly stroking Brian's cock
and occasionally able to just touch the bottom of the head as he came out
that fraction. Paul almost pleaded with Brian to go in all the way but he
kept up his rhythm for minutes.

Finally, Paul used his hands to slowly pull Brian in. When he was all the
way in, Brian stayed still, telling Paul how hot he felt and described the
wonderful pressure on his sensitive erection. Brian reached around and
slowly fondled Paul's very hard cock. As Brian started to slowly stroke in
and out, Paul kept describing all the wonderful sensations that he was
feeling. This just turned Brian on more. They established a rhythm with
Brian's hand stroking Paul and Brian stroking long and slowly in and out of
Paul. They talked to each other and Brian told Paul that he wanted to
finish him with his mouth. Paul got his fingers between them and was
fondling Brian's balls when Brian started to speed up and suddenly started
to cry out in pleasure. Paul could feel the change in rhythm and could tell
that Brian was exploding in him. Brian had never felt such a rush of
pleasure, pain; his whole body was alive.

His hand was working on Paul who was obviously getting bigger. Brian came
out quickly and turned Paul onto his back and took him in his mouth. It
only took a few strokes with his mouth and tongue sucking strongly that
Brian felt the jets of liquid filling his mouth. He loved the feel and the
taste. When he was finished, Paul begged for Brian to kiss him. They fell
asleep in each others arms and awoke in the middle of the night to make
love again, this time with Paul in Brian.

When they woke, they could only look at each other in wonder at the night
before.

Christmas Day was just chaos. Food and drinks flowed with presents and
later, fun with the gifts. They had bought really neat presents for Jane's
children. Brian and Paul had both pulled out all the stops for Brian's two
and their friends. They had also given each other a special gift of a
handsome ring. Neither had consulted the other but had come up with the
same idea. Both had looked at the other and put it on their left hand, ring
finger. It was wonderful but they became the butt of jokes and comments for
minutes at a time. Robbie had everyone laughing. Barbara was impressed with
Paul's and Brian's bottles of scotch, each different but very good. Lionel
Kent was given some premier Cuban cigars and a very good bottle of Port to
go with them. Brian's parents could not say enough about their gifts. The
dinner late in the afternoon was spectacular and the fun and camaraderie
continued. It was an amazing day, especially for Paul.

The kids left the next day in the late morning. Paul took Robbie aside.

"Hey big guy, it is snowing. Would you give me a call about half way home
just to let me know how it is going. Here is a credit card; if it gets bad,
please take a room."

Robbie was dumbstruck. "Paul, this is not necessary."

"I'll feel better. Promise me that you'll phone half way and when you
arrive safely."

"OK, Pops." He gave Paul a mischievous smile.

"You can be a smartass all you want but please call."

"Pops, anything for you." There was a big Robbie hug for Paul.

Barbara had watched the greeting to Paul by Robbie and Susan when they had
arrived and it left no doubt about their feelings. She had watched and
heard the interplay between Paul and Robbie as they left. She said a silent
thank you and shed another tear for her daughter but also for joy in what
she saw developing. Pops got his two calls. The snow had stopped;
everything was OK. Paul relaxed.

New Years Eve was a blast. They had been invited to John and Mark's for a
buffet and party. The crowd was a mix of straight and gay couples and some
singles from work. There was dancing and they danced together. The midnight
kiss was the first time that they had done anything like that in mixed
company.  It made the evening even more special. They met Marthe and
Mathieu again and discovered how much they enjoyed the spirited Marthe and
the very urbane and intelligent Mathieu. They both tucked away an idea for
a dinner party in January. The January party was a great success and
started a whole new social life for them as partners.

They had a surprise call from Kevin. They had had several BBQs in the
fall. They really liked him and David. He was back from University for a
couple of days. David had not been able to come with him as he had some
assignments that he had to work on. Paul and Brian invited him for lunch
and a workout at the health club. He was very happy and had taken their
advice to get used to his orientation and was feeling more secure. His
father had made a few comments which led him to believe that he had
suspected something but Kevin had decided to leave it for the moment. He
felt so good talking to them and relaxing. They had a really good time with
him; he was obviously a smart, inquisitive, savvy, young man. Kevin thought
that he would let Robbie know at his first chance. They had a young person
to add to their growing collection of friends and family.

In the middle of March, after a good supper and an excellent wine. Paul
looked at Brian with a smile and look of excitement. "Brian there are some
things happening at work and I think you and I had better sit down and
talk." He saw the look on Brian's face. "No need to panic, my name is not
Luke." Brian looked less tense. They took a little bourbon with them.

"Brian, we shall possibly be able to buy a lot of this, taking a sip of the
expensive bourbon. We have had an offer to buy the company from a firm in
Calgary. I have never had to talk to you a lot about the firm but I now
have about 30% ownership. It just crept up as I bought out small
investors. It almost took me by surprise. The opening offer is 30 million
cash and some stock in the parent company. We think that we are worth more
than that figure. Job security for all partners for 5 years. We can
negotiate our positions and where we work from. It may mean some out of
town travel, especially at first. Care for some travel?"

It took a minute to digest all the implications. "You did tell me once that
you didn't need my money. You weren't kidding. Paul, all I care about is
you. "

"Same here and as I said I am not a Luke. We received the offer just a few
days ago at the beginning of the week and we have decided to look at
it. The other owners were quite forthright in wanting to look at a sale;
they are significantly older than me. I am looking at the legal
ramifications for my estate. I would like to make our relationship formal
and legal."

His statement sunk in. Brian looked at him strangely. "Make our
relationship formal and legal?" He paused giving Paul a look almost of
mockery. He paused, his eyes fixed steadily on Paul's. "Say it." He paused
dramatically looking intently at him. "I have done it once." His look
became a big grin. "It worked out well for me." He raised his eyebrows.

With a roll of his eyes and an attempt to look pained, Paul went down on
one knee. "Whether this sale goes through or not, Brian will you marry me?
I would be honoured." The look turned into Paul's soft, intent look. "That
does sound a little better, doesn't it?"

"A bit more romantic. I am the master of understatement." He paused looking
at Paul. "So this is what it feels like." He paused again. "Yes!"  Paul's
soft, intent look blossomed into a look of happiness, then joy and then
love. The kiss was emotional.

"Sorry, we have more to discuss. I guarantee we shall continue this later."
He paused. "This next suggestion, request will need a lot of discussion. I
would like to adopt the kids to safeguard their inheritance and my estate."

Brian truly was lost for words. So Paul continued. "Brian, I feel so close
to them. Your brat of a son calls me Pops all the time in front of company,
even with his friends now. I feel that Susan is just as close; she has
started with the Pops as well. I would feel honoured to introduce them as
my son and daughter."

Speaking with tears in his eyes and a cracking voice, "Let's go see them
and ask them their thoughts. We do discuss things in this family. That
didn't take long. Do you want to fill in the details now or ...."

"Lots of time for the detail. But I want to do this even if the deal
doesn't go through." He stood up and pulled Brian up with him. They headed
for their bedroom. It was another romp with fun and laughter.

 They waited for three, long, tension filled weeks and a tentative
agreement of sale was worked out. It would probably start to hit some of
the business news organizations very soon. They sale price was considerably
higher than the opening figures. Paul was going to be a very rich man.

They drove to the University on a Sunday afternoon to have dinner with
Robbie and Susan. They chose one of the best restaurants in town. They had
told them that they wanted to talk to them alone. They had a great dinner
with the kids.

Susan couldn't contain her curiosity any longer. "You take us to a fabulous
restaurant. You wanted us alone, for a discussion. Something is up."

Paul took the lead but he looked at Brian. Brian looked at his kids. "I now
know how it feels. This guy proposed to me."

Almost together, Robbie and Susan, "Well?"

"Yes."

Neither Robbie or Susan were particularly surprised and there were whoops
of congratulations and questions about dates. "So Pops, you are going to
finally make an honest man of my father."

All Paul could do was shake his head and laugh. "You just don't know your
father very well." That got lots of comments and laughs.

Paul took over. "Now to the different part. There is quite a bit more."
They looked perplexed at him. He explained the pending sale and his part in
it. Even before the price was mentioned, eyes were very big. Then he
explained in detail his family and his relationship to them. Robbie true to
form could not help muttering that they must be stupid or crazy. Brian
nodded in agreement. "I don't trust them and I want to secure your
inheritance. I want to officially adopt you." To the astonished two, he
explained his reasoning. "Finally, I would be proud to call you daughter
and son. You are my family and this has been the greatest year of my life."
There were no dry eyes at the table.

Susan got a look on her face. "I'm OK with it as long as I get to call you
Pops too."

"If it is that simple, done deal?" Robbie just smiled and the two got up to
hug Dad and Pops in turn. There were lots of questions and discussion but
in the end, Susan and Robbie were very comfortable with the idea. They did
decide that the adoption would be kept quiet until the day of the wedding
or as a need to know situation. They had also set the wedding date for the
first Saturday in August as long as there were no major conflicts with
family. They phoned John on Monday and started the proceedings.

As he suspected, the news started to hit the business sections of the paper
that week. Paul had predicted his families reaction. His mother would call
and start to lay guilt on him for not being told in advance. Then she would
start to question his relationship with that man. His sister would call
telling him how he had upset his parent and start another layer of quilt,
probably questioning how that man fit into it all.

It took a day longer than he predicted. The phone rang on Wednesday
night. Brian picked up. "Hello, yes, Paul Steadman lives here. Oh how are
you Mrs. Steadman? Oh, you would like to talk to your son." Paul was in
trouble; his attempt at pleasantries had been cut short, curtly. "Paul
you're Mother is on the phone." Paul could tell from the tone in Brian's
voice that he should compose himself and organize his thoughts.

"Hello, Mother." He was cut short.

"How could you do this to your father and me. We have had phone calls and
have had to plead ignorance."

"The first reason was confidentiality with the negotiations in progress and
frankly, I didn't think that you would be interested. This is the first
time in ten years or more that you asked me about my job."

"Of course we would be interested in this. It is big news."

"Mom a question. What exactly do I do for a living?"

"I am sure that your father knows."

"Ask him. I am sure that he is there." She tried to stall him. "No, Mother,
ask him." There was steel in his voice. He could hear his father's
bluster. "You see Mother he doesn't know either. The reason for that is
that you never ask and this, by the way, is the first phone call you have
made to me in five or six years. Strange coincidence, that."

"Who is the man that answered the phone." He thought to himself, right,
shift the talk to his relationship.

"Brian is my partner who I wanted you to meet at Christmas. You were quite
definite that he would not be welcome." His mother blustered about Paul
trying to change the topic. "Actually Mother it was you who changed the
topic when you asked me who the man was that answered the phone. Maybe
since we are talking, I should let you know that, if you want, you can keep
the first Saturday in August open; you could attend our wedding."

"Your what?"

"Mother is that rhetorical or do you actually want an answer? It is legal
in Canada." He knew that he should not enjoy the last comments but he could
not help but get a bit of pleasure. All he could hear was his mother saying
to his Father that they were getting married. He was certain that he heard
the word 'disgusting' from his father. "I guess from Father's comment you
won't be attending the wedding. We'll send an invitation just in case. I
guess Mother for once I was hoping for congratulations on a successful deal
or a call from Father saying well done."

There was silence at the other end. Finally his mother found her voice. "I
just don't know how you can say things like that after what you have done
to us."

"And that is? I would be interested in knowing what I have done to you."

"I don't think that I want to talk about this any more if you are going to
be like this." He just let the conversation lapse. "Are you still there?"

"Yes I am."

"Well if you are not going to speak ...."

"There doesn't appear to be much more to say. Does there?" He paused; then
said a couple more things, and finally, "I'll say goodbye then."

He got the timing of his sister's call wrong too. It came forty minutes
after his mother's. The conversation went exactly as he had
predicted. Except that in her increasing 'outrage' at his 'behaviour' to
their parents and his marriage, she let slip that, that man had ensnared
him for his money. He told her that she had overstepped herself. After
letting her know how long he and Brian had been together, he broke off the
call quickly.  He actually felt free for the first time in years. He had
finally broken out of the constraints of his family.

The contrast with the Kents and Brian's family was so different. From them,
he got enthusiastic congratulations about his business deal and excitement
about the August wedding when they had called after the first articles
started to appear earlier in the week. They understood the concept of
confidentiality in a big business deal.

They opened the cottage in late April and had a large crowd on the May 24h
weekend. Kevin and David had been invited after Kevin had met Robbie and
told him his news. It was fun and there was lots of talk and plans made for
the wedding. Both, Dad by Kevin and Pops by Robbie, were accidentally
pushed into the very cold lake after they had put the dock in. After a lot
of threats and chases, Robbie and Kevin met the same the same fate at the
hands of Dad and Pops. David, who had been laughing enjoying himself at the
expense of the others, was dragged kicking and yelling by all four of the
men to his experience of the May waters in an Ontario lake, an experience
no one forgets. Susan told them where John was hiding. He went in and then
John dragged Susan in for giving him up. Maria who was laughing
uncontrollably ran to the lake, stuck out her tongue at Robbie and jumped
in to the applause of everyone. Supper was raucous and very funny with
raunchy shrinkage references.

Paul and Brian made several trips to Calgary as the final date for the sale
got closer. Brian with his knowledge was able to give some ideas for the
reorganization and integration of the two firms. It was confirmed that Paul
would work from his present office and would not need a lot of time
travelling.

They had had a very good July 1st party at the cottage with family and
friends from the city. There had to be at least 20 people there for the
fireworks. It included family, Mark and John, Marthe and Mathieu, Alan and
a friend and others from the city. Again, Kevin and Dave made a really nice
addition. Robbie had no problems with their relationship. It looked as if a
good friendship was going to be reestablished. Both Brian and Paul were
pleased because they had come to feel that Kevin was very close to them.

Surprises seem to come at the strangest times. They were sitting one
evening at home in early July when the phone rang. Paul picked up. Brian
had looked up at the tone in Paul's voice. There was a look of total
surprise and then he heard, "Luke, how are you?" Paul's tone was business
like and civil. Brian could tell that he was making polite
conversation. Brian asked in gestures if he wanted privacy. Paul was
definitive with gestures, no. It was clear that Luke had read the business
columns. Brian's ears perked up when he heard, "You are thinking of what?
Oh, you are thinking of moving back to the city to look for a job."

Paul's eyes got big and a look of confusion passed over his face as he
listened in silence. Paul could not believe what he was hearing and for the
first time in three years, he decided to take pity on Luke. "Luke, I think
before you say any more, I had better tell you about my personal
situation. We have been apart for three years." He paused and Brian's
interest perked up with a little smile on his face as he recognized how
uncomfortable Paul looked. Again he gestured a leaving motion. Again a
shake of the head, no. "Well yes, it is not a long time but a lot has
happened. I am with a man now ... please let me finish. We gave each other
rings at Christmas and they have become our engagement rings. Yes, in
August with all his family present." There was another pause. "No Luke I
don't live there any more. It is rented to a long term tenant. Yes, maybe
we shall see each other around. Good luck in the job search."

Brian looked at him innocently. "Any ghosts from the past?"

"Smartass, again, I realize where my soon to be son gets it from. He
actually thought that we might be able to pick up where we had left
off. Well, he asked if could stay at my place while he looked for a job and
we could see what might happen. Shit, do I look that stupid and needy? He
told me to move on. I did."

"So you still haven't answered my question."

"You want to know about ghosts?" He stood up with his eyes narrowed and
moved on Brian with determination. Brian got up and started to retreat
towards the kitchen, feigning fear. Their pace sped up and Paul grabbed him
in the kitchen. "I'll show you how many ghosts he brings up."

He had Brian's clothes off in just about a minute. He pressed him up
against a counter kissing him with force, invading his mouth with his
tongue. His hands were all over Brian's body as he kissed him. It became
urgent and Brian could feel the hardness pressing against his
hardness. Paul stepped back and looked at him. "Don't move!" He loved
seeing Brian hard and dripping; there was something so sexy about him and
his body. Paul slowly did a striptease in front of Brian. Paul could see
Brian's erection pulsing with anticipation. When he had stripped himself
naked, he knelt down and licked Brian's thighs, then his balls and then the
head of his cock. Brian was gripping the edge of the counter tightly. Paul
stood up, reached up and took out the cooking oil and uncapped it. For a
moment there was small grin on Brian's face. Paul turned Brian toward the
counter, knelt and used his tongue all over his ass and crack.

Then with exaggerated movements, Paul took the oil bottle and put a lot on
his fingers which were quickly inserted. He did not spend a lot of time
opening him. He came out and applied it to himself. He put Brian's hand on
his cock and let him guide him. He pushed the head in; Brian took a quick
gulp of air as his body contracted around the head. Paul loved that
feeling. It was so intimate. Paul's fingers reached around and flicked
Brian's nipples and then as he was squeezing them, he pushed forcefully in
steadily until he was all the way in.

"Paul, love, take me hard. I believe you; there are no ghosts."

As he began to stroke in and out, his hands were all over Brian's
chest. Then Paul put more oil on his hands and started to stroke Brian hard
and fast. Paul himself was moving very fast and hard in out of Brian.

"Paul harder and faster with both your hand and that big fat cock." Only a
few minutes later, he turned to get a kiss to see the almost glazed look of
passion on Paul's face. They kissed as if it were the first time and was
going to be the last time. "Oh Paul I am there. Come with me. I want to be
in the same place, at the same time as you." Paul answered by almost
pounding him into the counter. Brian could feel the energy and pulse
starting deep down in his groin and he could actually feel the semen
surging up, up and out. It was total pleasure and sensation that infused
his whole body. He yelled his pleasure. Either his contractions or Paul's
pounding caused Paul to take one final thrust in and he yelled. "No ghosts,
no ghosts. You are mine alone. Brian, Brian, Brian." They had many
passionate times together but this was one of the most intense. Paul had
his arms around him and gently kissing him until he slipped out.

"Brian, let's turn out the lights and go to bed. I just want to hold you."

They cuddled. Paul commented that he liked it when Brian talked like he had
in the kitchen. They got quite explicit about what had just happened.. It
had been fast, urgent, short and incredible.  A while later, Paul entered
Brian again from behind on their sides and they made love slowly for a long
time. Their finish was excruciating, they were so sensitive. For the first
time, Paul fell asleep still inside Brian.

Brian and Paul had flown to Toronto for business meetings they both had on
Friday. The next evening they were at a country club in a suburb of Toronto
as the guests of the Kents with Brian's parents. They had some final
details and arrangements that had to be arranged for the wedding. They had
just had their drinks served and their dinner order taken when Paul
muttered, "Oh shit." He had been looking around the club and he had not
only spotted but had been seen by his parents at a table a little ways from
them. He quickly apologized to the raucous laugh from Barbara. She laughed,
commenting that he was allowed a few impolite expressions. She had looked
in the direction of Paul's gaze and she understood immediately. Paul had
given a very short, relatively unbiased explanation of his relationship
with his family. Paul cringed as he saw Barbara wave at his mother. They
all knew that his mother had replied to the invitation saying that they
would love to attend the wedding but they had a prior engagement. His
sister had not returned a reply at this time.

Paul's mother was in motion. When she arrived, she was all
solicitude. "Barbara how good to see you. Paul, I didn't know that you were
in town." That of course was his fault, her tone of voice said.

"No, Mother, Brian and I were in town on business. By the way, I would like
to introduce Brian Campbell and Brian's parents." Rather stiff
introductions were made. It was obvious to everyone that his father sat
ensconced at his table, looking pained.

His mother was a little lost for words. "Paul, I had no idea that you knew
the Kents." He wanted to say that there were at lot of things she didn't
know about him but he explained his connection through Brian and his
wife. His mother was truly nonplussed at even the possibility of such a
connection.

Paul decided to do something that he had not done in a long time. He
excused himself, got up and went over to his father's table. "Hello,
Father. How are you doing?"

His father looked at him intently. "What brings you to Toronto?"

"Brian and I both had business meetings. I have some organizational work to
do concerning the merger. It looks as if all the kinks are worked out. The
Kents invited us and Brian's parents for dinner to discuss arrangements for
the wedding." His father stiffened a little.

"You know the Kents?"

"Yes, we spent last Christmas with them and Brian's family." His father
looked as if nothing added up. Then Paul explained the connection.

"They have accepted you into their family?"

"They are very wonderful people. I feel very fortunate." The conversation
lapsed. "Father sometime I would really like you to meet Brian and our
family. You have never accepted my sexuality. It will never change. He and
his family have brought me only joy over the last year. It is entirely up
to you. I would like you and Mother to join us as a part of our family. We
would like you at our wedding."  He looked at his father and having no
response, "Father, I am glad we have had a chance to talk. I guess I should
get back. I think that I see our food coming." He shook his father's
hand. Paul could only feel sadness for his father. But he felt freed, yet
again, from the expectations that he could never meet. Nothing that he
could ever do would change his father. He accepted that any change would
have to come from within his father. He could only control what he could
control.

His mother said good bye and joined his father. He could see them talking
animatedly. Barbara smiled at him and whispered, "We understand. You have
us." The rest of evening was wonderful. Brian and he decided not to dance
together. Barbara would probably have enjoyed the spectacle completely but
....

The day came. They had arranged for a retired minister to officiate. They
had set up a room in a local hotel and there was a party after in the same
hotel. The surprise was the arrival of Paul's parents on the day before the
wedding. They had phoned a few days before saying that they were trying to
get their prior arrangement cancelled. Paul made no negative comment to the
face saving statement.

They had helped select the service and add some things to their vows. As a
wedding should be especially for two men in their forties, it was upbeat
and reflective at the same time. Susan had stood with Brian and Robbie with
Paul. There was an open bar and beautifully prepared buffet with seating
arranged by the two. There were no planned speeches and so there was no
head table. It was a party and a celebration. Both had decided to say
something just before the tables were cleared.. Both, unknown to other, had
made arrangements for a portable microphone. It was Brian who acted first.

He talked openly about Margie and her words to him. He joked that she might
be surprised at his choice but he was sure that she would approve.  Then he
talked about how his children had accepted his decisions, not begrudgingly
but with love and humour. He talked of the surprise of his life, Paul. It
became obvious to all the depth of his feelings.

When he was finished, Paul stood up and looked at his notes. He put them
down and spoke from his heart. He talked of his growing attachment to Brian
and how they had become friends first. He recounted the slow revelation of
their love to those who meant so much to them.

He said that was so pleased to have his parents here to celebrate with
him. He ended by saying that he now had an additional family, Brian and his
parents and he was now privileged to call Robbie and Susan, his son and
daughter. Finally, he was very thankful to add Margie's parents to this
family as well.

The first part of the honeymoon was in New York by themselves. They had a
spectacular time at shows, gay clubs, excellent restaurants and
galleries. They fitted that in between robust bouts of love making at all
times of the day and night.

Paul had raised the idea that he wanted a different honeymoon, a
celebration with all of his new family. He pointed out to Brian that he
made a lot of money already, just from the investments made from the first
payments from the buyout and he really wanted to do this as a family. They
met Robbie, Susan and friends, the Campbells and Kents in Paris. He rented
a large apartment on the Isle Saint Louis. From there they fanned out
together, alone or as couples to see Paris. It was glorious. Then they went
to a house near the ocean in the south of France where they roamed around
the small villages and ate in some of the best restaurants. It gave Paul
more pleasure than he could have imagined.

There were still surprises for them. About a year and a half after their
marriage, in late March, the door bell rang one Friday evening. They looked
at each other; neither was expecting anyone. Paul answered the door. He
looked twice at the young man standing there who was trying to look
confident and upbeat.

"Hello, Uncle Paul."

"Jamie?" The young man gave him a weak smile and a nod of yes.  This was
his sister's oldest child. He had not seen him for several years but had
kept up on some of the family news. "I thought that you were at university?
Damn, I'm sorry. Come on in. Welcome to our home."

Introductions were made to Brian. After coffee and some food, they finally
eased the story out of him. He was living at home to save money; his
parents could not afford to send him out of town. He had been unsure of his
sexuality and had had some same sex encounters. They eventually convinced
him that he was gay. He had not been dating women for almost a year when
his mother started asking pointed questions. He gave the usual reasons:
nobody yet, lots of time, pressure of studies, living off campus. Somehow
about four weeks ago, she over heard a telephone conversation with a guy he
had been going out with. It had been fairly explicit. There were threats
about his continued funding for his studies at university and calls from
Grampa explaining the economic facts of life to him.

Life had become hell for him. He had been told that this was an aberrant
choice that he was making and that it had to stop. There were constant
questions about where he had been, what he was doing and lectures about the
consequences of his actions. He felt under constant stress and his sleeping
was totally disturbed. He knew that he was heading for depression and
physical and mental problems. Today, he had left after figuring out Paul's
address from a contacts book his mother had. He was prepared to find work
and give up his year. Could they help him find a job?

Paul's first remarks were simple, as he muttered under his breath, "Stupid
bitch." That brought the first real smile from Jamie.

It was Brian that took over the situation. He told Jamie that he had a
place to stay for the weekend. Then he insisted that he and Jamie call his
parents to let them know where he was. Brian did not want police reports or
involvement, even though, he was 22 years of age.  With some prodding, they
established that Jamie wanted to finish his year at University. His fees
were paid but he had been staying at home. Luckily there was only a month
and half left in the academic year. With foresight, he had brought some
clothes, his laptop, books and notes with him. That explained the luggage.

They established what they would say to his parents. Brian kept stressing
not to alienate them. He had an invitation from the guy he was dating to
stay with him for a week to sort out his life. Brian made the call to his
family. It was a very unpleasant call. Brian experienced first hand what
Paul had been up against most of his life. Brian had to do his broken
record routine with Paul's sister, asking again and again Jamey's age after
her repeated threats of police action and the courts. He finally made his
point for calling, that Jamie was 22 and that he was safe and in capable
hands. He had made his own lawful decisions. He decided not to encourage
Jamie to talk to his mother.

There were calls from Paul's parents. Both Brian and Paul tried as hard as
possible to explain the situation and calm the hysteria. It only partly
worked. They had made some visits to Paul's parents and kept in contact
with them since the wedding. There had even been a weekend at the
cottage. They never felt that any real connection was established. His
parents treated their kids politely but like outsiders, not family and they
never tried to warm to Brian. Paul accepted that this situation might drive
a wedge between any relationship that they had built but Jamie's welfare
was the most important consideration. He cared nothing for what his sister
felt or thought.

Paul drove him to Toronto on Sunday and stayed Monday to set up a bank
account with enough funds to let him finish the year. They found him
accommodation which Paul paid for. He finished successfully. Then he came
back to their place for the summer and a job that Brian managed to get for
him through his contacts.  He was a pleasure to have around that summer
after the house rules and expectations were established. Somehow Jamie had
managed to come through the situation, as a well adjusted and motivated
young man and quickly became part of the family. He became almost a second
son to Paul and to Brian as well. Between jobs and Paul's monetary help,
Jamie made it through university and law school. He became a very
successful lawyer in John's law firm. Connections and his own abilities had
helped.

The years passed too quickly. Brian and Paul never missed a graduation, a
marriage or a birth. Paul and Brian gave Susan away together at her
wedding. Paul sat proudly with Brian at Robbie's marriage to Maria. He
beamed with joy and pride when Robbie thanked both Dad and Pops for all the
support and love they had given him. Paul in particular picked up each of
his newly born grandchildren and shed a tear and felt joy in his
heart. They went to school concerts, kid's birthday parties, hockey games,
soccer tournaments, dance performances; they loved taking the grand kids on
weeks at the cottage in the summer giving their 'kids' a chance for time
alone. They enlarged the cottage and had almost a family compound that was
used by all. They celebrated Kevin's successes. Jamie was a fixture at all
family events and became a favourite uncle. They had a wide circle of
friends that they entertained and enjoyed. They retired early and travelled
extensively. Later Paul would reflect that he was so glad that they did.

Brian was diagnosed with cancer in his mid sixties and recovered, only to
have it recur two years later in a virulent form. It was the saddest day of
his life, with Robbie's arm over his shoulder and his hand held by Susan
that Paul left the chapel, glad that Brian's suffering was over but feeling
totally bereft and internally almost inconsolable. But he too put on a
strong front for the grandchildren who really mourned the passing of
Grandad. It was Jason, Robbie's oldest, who almost broke his enforced,
calm, front and almost moved him to tears when he came over to him at the
reception. He put his arm over Grandpops shoulder and whispered to him that
he knew how much Grandad meant to him but he still had them. But it was
Robbie and Susan that came and just sat with him later, reminiscing about
the crazy, wonderful experiences they had had together. That, and seeing
all his family around him, gave him the courage to follow Brian's last
words to him. Celebrate our wonderful time together and get on with your
life; you have so much to offer. No ghosts my love.  He would always
remember that kiss.


*

The Peace is a part of the Anglican service when the minister invites the
congregation to share the Peace of God with those around them. People hold
the hands of loved ones or shake hands with other members of the
congregation wishing them Peace. It can be quite moving.

Comments: preecherdave@gmail.com

Author's note:

Obviously the end of this story. Not sure what is next. Probably summer
holidays in Canadian cottage country. I want to thank all who have
responded to this story. The number of your responses was unexpected and
really appreciated.


If you liked this story, you might want to read the others that I have
published on Nifty. In particular, Unexpected Change has had the most
positive comments; one of my favourites is Getting My Act Together.

Unexpected Change, Nifty, College, April 16, 2011
Friendship, Nifty, Adult Friends, May 20, 2011
Surprising Last Year at University, Nifty, College, June 9, 2011
Murder Changed My Life, Nifty, Beginnings, July 8, 2011
What is Love?, Nifty, Beginnings, August 31, 2011
Getting My Act Together, Nifty, Adult-Friends, November 10, 2011
Surprised, Nifty, Adult-Friends, January 14, 2012
Surprised Eric and Dave, Beginnings, February 10, 2012
Surprised Graham and Robert, Nifty, Adult-Friends, March 22, 2012
What a Difference a Year Makes, Nifty, Adult-Friends, May 18, 2012