ALPHA ZULU 69 MEMOIRES

 

Chapter 066 – Lightning Strikes Again

 

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This story is an original work of fiction.  Names, characters, businesses, places, events, locales and incidents are either the products of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner.  Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental. This is a free electronic story. No part of this electronic story may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from the author.  If you are not of legal age in your location to view and read adult material, please close out of this story and delete any material you have downloaded or copied to your computer

 

PRIMARY CHARACTERS:

 

 

*Adam Mann:  Four Star General, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69

Aiden McIntyre-Worthington:  Son of Liam McIntyre and Adopted son of Luke Worthington

Alex Meat-Goodman:  Adopted Son of Doug Meat and Steven Goodman

Alexander Malinois:  Master Sergeant, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69 War Dog

Andrew & Jeremy Allen:  Adopted sons of Mason Allen and Jason Vance

*Anthony Caruso:  Four Star General, U.S. Army (Base Commander of Fort Connor)

Ariel "Ari" Rebel:  Captain, Israel Defense Force (Mossad Kidon)

Beauty Malinois:  Master Sergeant, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69 War Dog

Billy Bob Vance:  Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69 War Dog Handler

Bob Jones:  Four Star General, U.S. Army (Base Commander Fort Connor)

Connor Best-Mann:  Adopted son of Randy Best and Adam Mann

*Connor Williams:  Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69 (Deceased lover of Doug Meat)

Danny Henry:  Four Star Brigadier U.S. Army (Base Commander Fort Connor)

Dillion Dwight:  Colonel, U.S. Army – Medical Director of Fort Connor

*Doug Meat:  Six Star General of the Armies U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69

Duke Stone III:  Captain, U.S. Army – Protector of Dale Gordon Longdick-Allman

Frazer Sullivan:  One Star Brigadier General, U.S. Army  (Human Resources for Fort Connor Alpha Zulu 69)

*Gloria Worthington:  aka "Mama Bear" Board Chair of Worthington Industries (a major multi-national defense contractor)

Hank Henry-Jones:  Adopted Son of Bob Jones & Danny Henry

Hayao Kinugasa, Captain: U.S. Army (Aide to General Meat and General Goodman)

Jacob, David & Uri Leib:  Wards of Luke & John Worthington (Israeli Nationals)

Jamie Bob Vance:  Love of Aiden McIntyre

Jamison Miller:  One Star Brigadier General, U.S. Army  (Human Resources for Worthington Executive Security)

Jason Allman:  Four Star General, U.S. Army – Base Commander of Fort Connor

Jason Bob Vance:  (Brother of Billy Bob Vance and partner of Mason Allen)

John Worthington:  COO R&D of Worthington Industries

Juaquin "Jay" de Vázquez:  Son of Manual de Vázquez

*Liam McIntyre:  CFO Worthington Industries & Partner of Luke Worthington

Logan Worthington:  Biological Son of Luke Worthington

Luke Worthington:  CEO of Worthington Industries

*Magnus Savage:  Colonel, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69 Medical Trauma Surgon

Manuel de Vázquez:  Physicist/Engineer - Worthington Industries

*Mason Allen:  Six Star General of the Armies, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69

Matt Longdick:  Four Star General, U.S. Army – Base Commander of Fort Connor

Maximillian (Max) Malinois:  Master Sergeant, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69 War Dog

Noah Meat-Goodman:  Adopted Son of Doug Meat and Steven Goodman

*Randy Adam "RA" Worthington:  Adopted son of Connor Best-Mann & John Worthington

*Randy Best:  Four Star General, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69

*Robert Allen Gregory, Four Star General, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69

*Robert Manning, Captain: U.S. Army (Aide to General Meat and General Goodman)

*Robert Masters:  Major General, U.S. Army Alpha Zulu Security

Rod LittleFeather:  Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69 War Dog Handler

Steven Douglas Worthington:  (aka S.D.) (Adopted sons of Robert Allen Gregory and R.A. Worthington)

*Steven Goodman:  Six Star General of the Armies, U.S. Army – Alpha Zulu 69

Taylor and Tyler Worthington:  (aka T&T) (Adopted sons of Logan Worthington and Alex Meat-Goodman)

Yuuto Meat-Goodman Kinugasa:  Adopted Son of Noah Meat-Goodman and Hayao Kinugasa

 

"Angus" (Name Classified):  (Son of a domestic terrorist in protective custody at Fort Connor)

"Biff" Jones (Name Classified):  (Son of POTUS and guest in residence at Fort Connor)

 

*=Gone but not forgotten

 

 

 

It is never a good day when OPS wakes us from a dead sleep and tells us we have an Emergency Video Conference being requested by POTUS.  "Send it through to my office, I'm on my way!"  (I could kiss the man or woman that created Velcro.)  As the call was connected I could see POTUS got about as much sleep as I did last night.  "Jason, an hour ago the Vatican Secretary of State notified our Secretary of State that the Pope was near death.  It is  unknown how long he will last."  "His Holiness is requesting DALE for a private audience."  "No one has any idea of why, but I sure don't want to be the one to face the international media and admit we denied this man a last request."

 

"Your behemoth is being fueled and your diplomatic credentials will be waiting for you at Andrews (Including a diplomatic passport for Captain Strong.)  You may want to have Dale video conference with the Chaplain during your flight so he has some idea of protocol when he meets with the Pope."

 

"You can always refuse as a father but I urge you to encourage Dale to accept."  "Go do what you do best and make me and this country proud."  "I know Dale's abilities and I trust his judgment.  I hope you do as well."  Tell your pilots to kick that behemoth in the ass and get your team to Rome.  I'll bring our Italian Ambassador up-to-date as I'm certain he is going to have his nose belt out of shape by your young son."  "Get moving and thank you!"

 

I immediately hit my com and asked Matt to wake both Captain Strong and Dale.  Have them in our common room when I return.  I brought up Bob and Danny asking them to have my jet fueled and ready for an immediate take-off and then to join us in our quarters.

 

Right now I'd kill for a pot of hot black coffee.  As I returned to our quarters the requested individuals were assembled but not totally functional at the moment.  The shock of my first comment brought their adrenalin level high enough to understand the gravity of what was happening.  "Gentlemen, the Pope is dying!"  "Dale, his Holiness is requesting you for a private audience and no one has any idea of why."  "POTUS is asking you to fulfill his dying request."  "It is your decision and your fathers will defend it regardless of any ramifications!"  I was certain I knew Dale's answer.  "We don't have a choice, when do we leave?"

 

Bob, Danny... I need a small security detail... suit, tie, shoulder and leg holsters plus extra ammo clips and at the runway as fast as they can pack.  Have both jets fueled and ready for departure in 30 minutes.  Captain Strong, the same for you and please make certain Dale has everything suitably packed for this meeting.  Casual clothes for the trip and we'll change once we get into Italian air space.  Someone get the Chaplain out of bed and tell him we need Dale to have a "Cliff Notes" protocol on procedures for a private audience with the Pope.  We'll video conference once we are in the air.  If anyone can think of anything else let us know and make it happen.  You have your assignments.  DISMISSED!

 

A few hours over the Atlantic I brought up Luke and John on a video conference and filled them in on what we knew.  They were both shocked.  There had been rumors the Pope was in poor health but nothing to this extent.  As to why Dale... it was as much of a mystery to them as it was to POTUS.  Luke could only advise to "trust the kid"...  He has always made us proud!  Luke and John assured us they were available 24/7 if we needed any assistance. 

 

I also had a private discussion with Captain Strong.  I don't know if staff made you aware of our policy change as it pertains to the use of Lethal Force.  If you have to discharge your sidearm at a "hostile" the first shot should be a lethal kill shot to the head.  The bad guys seem to be wearing too much high tech body armor.  Make the first shot count!

 

Finally, the rejuvenating aroma of Fresh COFFEE wafted through the plane and I knew someone in the Air Force who maintains this plane deserved a major award.  A surge of caffeine raced through our bodies and I could see Matt start to accept the reality of the past few hours.

 

The US Ambassador in Rome came on the video screen advising he would meet us when we landed and we would be immediately transported to the Vatican.  Time was crucial and there wasn't much left.  I told the pilots to max out this plane and notify our escort planes of our acceleration.  "Minutes" are now crucial!!!

 

Our plane turned into a college locker room as we all started to change when we entered Italian air space.  I made one addition to Dale's suit, the Breast Staff Badge of a Six Star General of the Armies.  POTUS didn't have a 100% monopoly on our son.  We were given immediate clearance to land and the Ambassador was waiting with a full police escort.  We were asked to have our security detail wait in the vehicles as the Vatican Guards escorted us to the Pope's private residence.  His secretary asked Dale to enter the Pope's private quarters and for us to be comfortable in an Ante room. 

 

The Pontiff rallied seeing Dale and extended his hand in a warm greeting.  Dale, the ultimate diplomat and also out of respect knelt on one knee, took his hand and kissed his ring.  (Chalk one up for the Chaplain!)

 

The Pope spoke candidly that he had little time left in this life and our Father in heaven was calling him for his eternal rest.  God has come to me in a vision and asked me to tell you how important you will be to the future of mankind.  You will face many challenges in your life and know God will never desert you.  When you are challenged he will give you the strength to meet every challenge.  I am but a humble servant and the messenger of God.  God has chosen you and will always be at your side.  Please remember me in your prayers.

 

At that point the monitors sounded a single tone and the doctors calmly entered and advised Dale the Pontiff had gone to be with God.  Dale was in shock as he left the room and we (his fathers) held him tight and told him no matter what we were always there to support him.

 

The US Ambassador wanted to know every word spoken in the room.  Dale was livid telling him what was discussed was private and confidential between two friends.  We fulfilled the dying request of a great man and that is all the world needs to know.

 

We stayed in Rome as the "guest" of a very pissed off US Ambassador.  We gave each other a wide berth and we were all happy when our plane was air born and headed into international air space.  I had already conference with POTUS and told him Dale considered his conversation with the Pope personal, private and confidential.  He wasn't about to discuss it with anyone and I asked POTUS to respect his decision.  As far as any media comment... We were just fulfilling the dying request of a great man and a good friend.

 

Finally, somewhere over the Atlantic Dale collapsed in sleep just from the exhaustion of the events in his life.  I held my son and gave him the tactile assure he required.  Matt and I loved him even if the thoughts of his future scared the hell out of us at times.  Bringing Captain Strong on board now became a necessity and not a luxury.

 

POTUS contacted us in flight and asked us to spend the night in Washington before returning to Fort Connor.  The White House Press was demanding access to Dale and frankly this isn't going away until they get their "news byte".  It is Dale's choice but we both know his talent and can work the press as well as I can.  Tell him, the "Lincoln Bedroom" is his for the night if he'll do this for me.  Of course, Captain Strong is welcome also as are the two of you.

 

Dale woke during the last part of the conversation and asked what he should do.  I told him the Press is going to hound us till they get something.  I don't know what happened between you and the Pope and I don't need to know.  POTUS is asking not ordering you.  Dale smiled at me and said he'd do it but his fathers had to wear their dress uniforms including Sabers.  (Damn, where does he learn these negotiating skills?)

 

Dale was fully awake and alert when he requested permission to ask a personal question.  (Damn, he has been hanging around too many soldiers!)  You are my son, you can ask me anything.  "Why didn't you change my name when you adopted me?"  Matt and I felt after the sacrifice your father made you had every right to be proud of him and retain his last name.  Please send off a secure Email to SD and ask him to file the paperwork to change my name to Dale Gordon LongDick-Allman and try to make it happen before I have to face the White House Press.

 

The tears were streaming down my face as I sent the Email.  Matt finally stirred and seeing my tears wanted to know what had happened.  "You need to read what our `18 year old son' just asked me to do."  Matt's tears joined mine as he read my Email to SD.  SD emailed me back almost immediately commenting it isn't nice to make him cry so early in the morning.  He had a few judges that owed him some favors.  He should be able to make it happen by close of business today.  I sent a copy onto POTUS who immediately comment he was looking forward to introducing Dale v2.0 to the White House Press.  POTUS knew they had met their match!

 

Finally, we landed at Andrews and the security of our "Beast" as we drove to the White House.  Captain Strong was uncomfortable turning in his side arms as required by the Secret Service but even we Generals had to relinquish our ankle Berettas.  POTUS greeted us and offered us the time to freshen up.  Dale thanked POTUS and commented he didn't need the Lincoln Bedroom, Biff's room would be fine for Captain Strong and himself.  POTUS looked at us fathers and acquiesced when we nodded our approval.  (We explained the circumstances to POTUS later and Dale's residual PTSD from his being shot.)  As for Matt and me, any bedroom that has a hot shower so we can relax and get a few winks of sleep before dinner.  Is dinner casual or formal?  Dinner is casual in the residence.  Hamburgers and Fries in honor of Dale and a shrimp salad if you aren't into burgers.  "Just so there is plenty of hot black coffee!"

 

Dale was in burger overload as he stuffed himself at dinner.  I swear that kid has two hollow legs when it comes to burgers and fries.  (And he topped it off with chocolate malt for desert!)  POTUS ask Dale if he would mind if the adults had some time to talk among themselves.  Dale whispered in Captain Strong's ear as he walked by:  "POTUS is a puppy dog, don't let him scare you."  Walking past POTUS, Dale wrapped his arms around his neck, kissed him and talked loud enough for every to hear:  "Captain Strong is a `KEEPER', don't you dare scare him away!"

 

POTUS was the first to speak as we settled into comfortable chairs in the residence.  "Captain Strong, as I reviewed your file I must say Jason and Matt were indeed fortunate to "borrow" a man of your talents to join their team.  I'm certain after you accepted, they put the fear of God into you regarding the safety of Dale.  Let me only add if anything happens to that young man Jason and Matt are the least of your worries.  I hope you never will feel the wraith of a pissed off President!"  "Do we understand each other?"  "Yes, Mr. President!"  Finishing his brandy Captain Strong requested permission to be excused.  GRANTED!

 

Joining Dale in Biff's old room, Dale asked him to take a quick shower and then join him in bed.  He needed to be held and cuddled to relax and prepare his mind to face the White House Press.  They are without mercy just to get a sound byte and probably a salary raise or promotion!  I may hold my own but they are really taxing.  As Captain Strong returned from his shower he slipped into running shorts and slid under the sheets only to find Dale ala natural.  Seeing the shocked look on the Captain's face Dale commented:  "Get with the program, if Biff can have an orgy in the Lincoln Bedroom we can sleep naked in a third floor bedroom!" 

 

Dale enjoyed being able to sleep on our Captain's chest, nibble at his nipple, nuzzle his cheek, gently chew on his ear lobes and trace his tongue over the Captain's lips as he proceeded to give his tongue and tonsils a battle which he frankly didn't care which of them won.  Numerous times before sunrise our Captain would be gasping in pleasure as he filled Dale's talented mouth with copious amounts of prime Army baby batter and couldn't believe how wonderful it felt to be pleasured by this young man. 

 

About 0700 hours I stuck my head in their bedroom and warned our two lovebirds to shower and dress.  Breakfast in 15 and then we have to get ready to face the "sharks".  We were in the hallway as the White House Press Secretary set the ground rules that no question regarding what the Pontiff discussed with Dale would be addressed or answered regardless of how anyone worded the question.  We knew it was "show time" when we heard:  "Ladies and Gentlemen, the President of the United States".  The President fielded a few political questions and then as the correspondence started down the list of questions regarding Dale's trip to the Vatican POTUS asked the questions be directed to Dale.  He introduced Dale Gordon LongDick-Allman to the White House Press and the viewing audience.

 

FIRST QUESTION:  What caused you to change your name.  My adopted fathers decided not to change my name to honor my biological father and the sacrifice he made for our great nation.  I requested my name to be changed to honor the two men who adopted me, gave me a family, gave me love and are giving me a future I never dreamed possible.  NEXT QUESTION PLEASE...

 

What did you discuss with the Pope:  (After giving the reporter a STERN look...)  NEXT QUESTION PLEASE!!!

 

What was the purpose of your trip:  I went to the Vatican to meet with a good friend and to comfort him in his final hours on this earth.  Regardless of any religious consideration, the world lost a fantastic man who has given his life to make this a better world for all people not just Catholics.

 

When will you meet with the new Pope:  If and when I'm invited I would be honored to meet with him.

 

What is your role with the President:  I am the dependent of Military Officers.  As with everyone in the Military, the President is our Commander-in-Chief, we serve at the pleasure of the President.  Only he knows what talents he wants to utilize and how I may serve this great nation.

 

After over an hour of questions POTUS thanked the media and we quickly exited "stage left".

 

Finally, we relaxed in the Beast as we headed to Andrews and back to Fort Connor.  Without warning our motorcade moved into high gear and police started blocking intersections as we speed toward Andrews.  MP gave us an escort to our Jet and had snipers on every rooftop as we boarded.  My stomach knew what to expect as we made a fast and steep ascent only to find a squadron of F15 jets waiting to escort us to Fort Connor.

 

Finally, I had time to ask OPS "WHAT HAPPENED?"  Someone tried to assassinate SD.  His condition was unknown.  Worthington security eliminated the threat but SD is in surgery. 

 

I turned to Captain Strong and no words were needed.  He now had a real time experience of the threat we in the Alpha Zulu program face every minute of every day.  We tried to liven the mood complimenting Dale on the fantastic job he did with the White House Press.  SD being shot brought back the traumatic memories of his being shot and Dale was clutching Captain Strong in a death grip.  I sent an immediate Email to the Chaplain advising him of the setback giving him as much advanced notice as possible to prepare to help our son. 

 

Doc and the Chaplain met us at the air strip and after taking one look at Dale, Doc sedated him and ordered him to bed.  Captain Strong made it clear Dale would not be left alone.  This wasn't because of his job description it was because he cared about Dale and would never let any harm befall him.

 

Shawn, Matt and I returned from morning flag raising as "Captain Duke" and Dale managed to stumble into the shower.  I ordered breakfast for five in our quarters and the entire base knew why we were absent from the mess hall.  The Chaplain and Doc assured us every man on base would volunteer to do anything to help Dale.  Right now, no one had an answer about what was best for our son.

 

Dale sat there with us picking at his food barely eating anything.  Duke simply looked him in the eyes and told him to eat or he would pick Dale up, carry him to medical and Doc would feed him through an IV.  The choice was his to make.  You will eat one way or the other.  (Damn, Dale wasn't the only one to impress us of late.  Even Shawn tightened his grip on my hand hearing the tone of Duke's words.)

 

Finishing their meals, Duke turned to Dale and said:  "We are late for PE, go change!"  Five minutes later they were out the door and heading to PE for the day.  After PE, Duke sat patiently in the Chapel as Dale talked with the Chaplain. 

 

Ø  SD was his friend

Ø  SD made his new family possible

Ø  SD didn't deserve to be shot. 

 

He lives to help kids and why would anyone want to kill him?

 

This Chaplain had a lot of tough questions to face and few great answers.  Some people just have medical problems that won't let them behave rationally.  You are learning this lesson far too early in life.  If someone wants to sacrifice themselves anyone can be assassinated.  We have no control over how long God allows us to walk upon this Earth, we can only make the best use of the time we are given.

 

You my young friend have been given an opportunity few men in history have shared.  You have the opportunity to impact the lives of people throughout the world.  Being a sedated zombie won't help anyone.  Now go thank Captain Strong for protecting you and get back to school.  I'll make certain your dads let you know everything about SD as soon as they know it. 

 

T&T are as terrified and concerned as you are.  They need a strong leader in you to help them through this crisis.  The words of the Pope could be heard in Dale's head:  "God will give you the strength to meet every challenge"!

 

Between Dale and Shawn, Captain Strong didn't need an extra blanket to stay warm at night.  I had to smile when I walked in to kiss them goodnight.  Dale was starting to feel secure again and with SD being released from the hospital the entire Worthington Clan was breathing easier.  (They were definitely taking ALERTS with a much higher degree of importance.)

 

It wasn't surprising when a few weeks later POTUS contacted me and advised the new Pontiff had extended an invitation for Dale and his fathers to visit him at the Vatican.  I asked Dale for his permission to accept and he agreed so long as Captain Strong was included in the delegation.  (How I wish we got frequent flier miles!)

 

The meeting with the new Pope was quite uneventful other than establishing lines of communication.  As we started to leave, he asked us to stay a moment longer.  The papal will bequeathed a gift to Dale and it was his honor to present it on behalf of his departed good friend.  Opening a beautiful hand carved rosewood box was a jeweled desk crucifix.  "This was on the nightstand of my friend for all the years I knew him.  It was the first thing he saw every morning and the last thing every night.  He hoped it would give you the same strength and guidance it had given him."

 

Dale said thank you and then our son was at a loss for words.  As we left, Dale turned and addressed the new pontiff.  "Whatever I can do to assist you in the future you only need ask."  "Thank you for the opportunity of meeting you."

 

Yes, POTUS was getting his money worth out of Dale.  Where most kids are spending summer break at the beach or a resort POTUS has Dale and his fathers on a trip to Russia or China for a start.  The international press mobbed Dale for comments and photo ops of Dale with their government leaders.  These are political connections that will be invaluable to Dale as he matures and accepts his role as a leader of this great country.  I've already decided if our son gets too cocky with all the attention he gets I'll make certain he enjoys a junket to the Artic Survival Training Program in Alaska.  I just need to remind Captain Strong they are a team for better or worse.  (Make sure to pack your thermal underwear!)

 

Finally, a semi-normal day at Fort Connor finds me behind my desk catching up on all the paperwork that had accumulated of late.  A knock at my door and Captain Strong requested permission to enter.  Offering him a seat he quietly asked permission to speak freely?  GRANTED!  He was concerned Dale was becoming too sexually attached to him and even though it was normal for most boys to go through some type of homosexual bonding he felt it should be with someone his age. 

 

I looked at Captain Strong and simply said:  "POTUS called me a FUCKED UP IDIOT...  I see you have joined the club."  You should have learned by now Dale is his own man.  If you can look me in the eyes and tell me you aren't enjoying what you two share then tell him you aren't interested and other than breaking his heart he won't approach you again.  Don't you enjoy what the two of you are sharing?  "Hell, Dale's mouth is better than a $1,000.00 USD a night hooker!"  Unless it interferes with your ability to protect him it is a mute subject and one his parents need not know any more details."  DISMISSED!

 

Finally, some R&R... a quick day trip to Washington.  I needed to meet with some Pentagon accountants to go over budget issues and Matt wanted to do some early birthday shopping for Dale and Shawn.  Suddenly, out of nowhere armed Pentagon security brandishing guns surround me and force me into a secure room.  There had been an assassination attempt on Matt.  The assassin had been neutralized with extreme prejudice but his last words were "GIVE US ANGUS"!   SecDef Limo was brought to the staff entrance and security was tight as we raced to the hospital.  Matt was conscious and I had to chide him:  "We have to quit meeting like this!"  Matt quickly commented get on the com to the Chaplain and make sure Dale and Shawn knows I'm OK before they hear rumors through the grapevine.

 

Matt was in a lot of pain and wouldn't be doing much exertion for a few weeks but we both have been down that road before.  Captain Strong and an armed security detail brought Dale and Shawn to the hospital to assure them their father wasn't seriously injured.  (Just a few broken ribs and a bruised liver.)  Minor injuries, but plenty of pain. 

 

Dale and Shawn spent the night with Luke and John in the Penthouse and then returned to Fort Connor in the morning.  Dale asked to be taken to medical, he needed to talk with Doc.  After he requested permission to enter, he closed the door behind him.  Apparently, this was to be a private conversation.

 

Being formal and in his most mature manners he told Doc he was concerned about his fathers.  They had so many injuries these past two years and seemed like constantly on pain killer.  With all the media attention on prescription opioid addiction will you please make certain this doesn't happen to either of my fathers.  Doc assured Dale that he would draw blood and monitor drug levels but the results are privileged and would only be given to his fathers.  You'll need to ask them if you want the results.

 

Thanking Doc for his understanding and cooperation he commented he had a lot of schoolwork to catch up on so please forgive me for leaving abruptly.  Dale stood, offered Doc his hand and thanked him again as he left.  Doc walked out of the office with Dale, turning to Captain Strong simply commented:  "Take care of this young man" to which he received the reply:  "WITH MY LIFE!"

 

The hospital kept Matt for a few days and then released him provided he agreed to BED REST until our base doctor determined he was able to ambulate without inducing further injury.  A broken rib by itself can lacerate your liver and we don't need any further injury.

 

The first night Matt was back at Fort Connor Dale officially announced for him to get comfortable in one of our plush chairs because tonight was a family movie night and everyone was put on notice to be present and ready to enjoy the evening together at 1930 hours.  Dale would make the arrangements with the mess and anyone who isn't in attendance better have the excuse of the century.  Before Captain Strong could even think of a rational excuse Dale wrapped his arms around his neck, kissed his cheek and whispered in his ear:  "YOUR FAMILY!"

 

I figured we would be enduring another showing of "Lady and the Tramp" until Dale announced Matt could choose the movie for family night.  (Score one for the good guys, now if we can get through family night without an ALERT.)

 

I managed to survive Family Night and actually got a good night of rest considering all the tossing and turning Matt did to find a comfortable position in which to sleep.  Making it to my office desk I was shocked to find a THICK secure messenger packet from Logan asking me for final approval so he can start to order materials.  It was obvious from the plans the Chaplain was getting a major renovation to the Chapel and he was well deserving of it being done.  Unfortunately, until now, no one had consulted me and after all IT IS MY BASE!  I asked OPS to have the Chaplain report to my office as soon as his schedule would permit.  His counseling sessions take priority. 

 

By late morning the Chaplain was knocking at my door and I asked him to enter and have a seat.  "When were you going to tell me about the expansion of the Chapel?"  The Chaplain apologized profusely stating he was only asked for suggestions, the decision on the expansion was totally Luke, John & Logan Worthington.  If you feel it is inappropriate at this time I can live with our current facilities.  (Talk about shooting me down without even trying.)

 

"Please accept my apology Chaplain, I thought this was something you requested.  No one is more deserving at Fort Connor than you are for all your long hours of dedicated work.  This is your last chance to make any changes to the proposed drawings.  I approved and signed the blueprints with one might happy Chaplain thanking me.  (After all he does for the men of Fort Connor including me and my family we collectively owe him more than can ever be done for him.)

 

Now Chaplain, you need to give me options as to where you can have your counseling sessions and where you can hold church services during the construction.  I'd appreciate your recommendation within the next 10 days so staff can review and approve your recommendations.  DISMISSED!

 

The Chaplain had a spring in his step as he returned to the Chapel.  Knowing Luke, John and Logan and the high esteem in which they held the Chaplain this Chapel will be the envy of every base commander and Chaplain in every branch of the military.  I can think of no one more deserving than our Chaplain.

 

The Chapel was the only major construction project of the summer and the balance of work was minor upgrades to our defensive capabilities.  Of course, the imps wanted a bigger flat screen which I nixed and I told Logan and Alex they could blame it on me when their sons appealed to their fathers.  It isn't like 65" they currently have is miniscule.  If they wanted to enjoy porn they always had their laptops.

 

It was a quiet summer and we managed to complete all our projects without any missile or mortar attacks.  Yes, MIRACLES do happen occasionally even in the Army and at Fort Connor.  I couldn't believe it when I got served with a congressional subpoena demanding Dale appear in front of a Senate committee to divulge the conversation he had with the Pope.  POTUS was livid and informed everyone he was invoking EXECUTIVE PRIVILAGE and the conversation would not be divulged.  This only fueled the fire and every major media reporter in the world was asking for an interview with Dale.  POTUS finally contacted us and told us this subject had to have a quick death and the only way was for Dale to hold a press conference. 

 

We agreed provided it was with one pool reporter and the interview was released to all the media unedited.  We knew Dale could hold his own and frankly I would be disappointed if at this point Dale had any comment about what he had discussed with the dying Pope.  It was a personal conversation and Dale had no official standing in the United States Government.  He only accompanied his fathers on a trip to the Vatican.

 

The interview was done early in the afternoon and would be broadcast at 2100 hours that evening in prime time.  We asked Luke and John if we could use their penthouse for the interview as I wanted to keep it as far away from anything governmental as possible.  Matt and I sat on either side of Dale as he answered questions for over two hours and not budging one inch or hinting anything about what was discussed.  He did admit receiving a personal gift in the will of the Pontiff, a crucifix which he would cherish until the day he died.  Dale continued to emphasize he accompanied his fathers on a diplomatic trip to the Vatican, met the Pope as the son of the American Ambassadors at Large and became a personal friend.  Dale did not represent the Government or any agency of the Government.  The discussion was personal and private and regardless of how you ask the question you'll get the same answer:  "NEXT QUESTION PLEASE!!!"

 

As soon as the media cleared out of the Penthouse, Dale rushed into the arms of Captain Strong and begged him to take him to bed and protect him.  Luke and John looked at Matt and me and we all four knew Dale was developing a strong attachment to Captain Strong.  When our son and his protector returned from their rest, Luke ordered dinner to be served in the penthouse.  I told Dale even if we succeeded in putting all of this to rest with this interview if you ever decide to run for a political office higher than a "dog catcher" you'll have the press right back at it asking what you discussed with the Pope.  The best we can hope from this afternoon is to give you some breathing space and let you grow up as a normal a child as possible.

 

Dale's interview had a 90% market share when it was televised that evening.  Even POTUS was shocked but then how often does a young boy have a death bed conversation with the head of the largest religion in the world.  No, we may have a breather but this wasn't going away.

 

As soon as the TV special was finished the Penthouse phone rang and the operator announced it is the President of the United States for Dale Gordon LongDick-Allman.  Dale, with much apprehension answered the phone and breathed a big sign as POTUS complimented him on such professionalism.  You are as good as any member of Congress and most of my cabinet.  I doubt if I could have done any better.  Thanks for putting your ass on the line for me... Oops...  I apologize for my language in that comment.  "NO APOLOGY NECESSARY, THANK YOU MR. PRESIDENT!"

 

Dale turned to me and asked if we could spend the night and fly back in the morning.  He was exhausted.  Ask your Uncle Luke, it is his home.  Wrapping his arms around Luke's neck and smothering him in kisses, Luke kept commenting:  "I yield, I yield!!! You can spend the night!"  To which we all roared. 

 

Dale and Captain Strong were getting ready for bed and Dale took the lead taking the Captain's hand and leading him into the shower.  "Please hold me and just let the water run over our bodies.  I need to be held in your strong arms, PLEASE!"  Dale started to cry and mumble all that wonderful man did was... which was immediately cut off by a full face kiss from Captain Strong.  "Dale, please don't tell me.  It isn't that I don't want to know but I'm an Army officer and I can be compelled to disclose the information if I knew it.  This has to remain your secret unless you are ready to tell the world."

 

Enjoying the luxury of the Marriott plush towels Dale and "Duke" made it to bed with Duke standing at full mast after that powerful kiss.  Dale loved this man and he had no intention of allowing Duke to spend the night with "blue balls".  No more dashing under the covers, the covers were thrown back and Dale was like a mongoose attacking a serpent.  Right up to the explosive climax which left both of them exhausted and in need of a night of rest and sleep.

 

As Matt and I entered Dale's bedroom the aroma present made it all too clear that Dale had indulged in his own Stress Management program and Captain Strong was very happy with his security assignment.  Matt and I kissed Dale goodnight and smiled at Captain Strong as he barely opened his eyes and saw his commanding officers.  As we mouthed:  "AS YOU WERE", we quietly slipped out of Dale's bedroom.

 

Luke, John, Matt and I talked to the early hours of the morning about Dale, his maturity, his ability and what the future held for him.  I keep coming back to my concern agreeing he had much to give to this country and to the people of the world but at the cost of giving up his youth.  That isn't a fair trade-off!

 

If Matt and I knew what POTUS and the power brokers of Washington had in their long range plans we would have resigned our commissioned and immigrated to the most isolated region of New Zeeland (A country Matt and I feel is the most beautiful and underappreciated in the world.)  Think I'll hint to POTUS to send us on a junket to New Zeeland as soon as school is out in the spring.  I know Shawn and Dale will love it as much as Matt and I do.  I doubt if Captain Strong will object so long as Dale is happy.

 

With the new Security Entrance to the Marriott we feel pretty safe exiting the hotel and boarding our "Beast".  Security at Andrews is overkill when we arrive and depart and our pilots are top of the line even if my stomach and I are in disagreement. 

 

Finally, Fort Connor is before us, Matt can continue his recovery and I can tackle the mountain of paperwork stacked on my desk.  As for Dale, he has schoolwork to catch up from all the recent events and his teachers have little consideration if it isn't submitted on time.  (Good for them.)

 

Dale knocked at the door of my office and asked if I had time to talk with him... "ALWAYS"!  I want to go to Washington and do some incognito shopping for Christmas.  Not everything can be found online or in catalogs and I'd like to surprise a few people.  Just for a night or two and I know Uncle Luke will let us stay with him in the Penthouse.  And, you can send a small security detail "just so my fathers can feel secure".  PLEASE!!!

 

Talk with your Uncle Luke and if he approves I'll work out the security arrangements with Captain Strong.  Damn, did I have a happy son when he left my office.  Luke was happy to have Dale anytime for any reason... you never have to ask.  Guess that put me between a rock and a hard place.  I asked OPS to have Captain Strong join me in my office.  Explaining to him Dale's request and my security concerns I told him Dale's is in your hands, please don't fail him.  Handing Captain Strong $500.00 USD out of my wallet I commented just in case Dale runs out of money.  He doesn't have to know it is from his dad.

 

After a fun day of shopping and returning to the Penthouse with almost as many boxes as would have returned with Mama Bear, Dale was having a wonderful day and happier than any of us had seen him in months.  Knocking at the door of Uncle Luke's study he asked permission to enter.  Luke rebuked him reminding Dale he was always welcome.  Jumping into Luke's lap he was asking a big favor and a confidential one.  Could Luke get him the Honeymoon Suite for the night?  A shocked Luke sat there with his mouth open which made Dale laugh.  "Remember when you were my age?"  ENOUGH SAID!

 

A few hours later the Manager of the Marriott knocked at the Penthouse door and candidly gave Luke a keycard for the Honeymoon Suite.  After dinner, Luke slipped the card to Dale.  Dale took Captain Strong's hand and led him out of the Penthouse.  Slipping the keycard in the door lock of the Honeymoon Suite a very shocked Captain Strong entered to find fragrant flowers, romantic music, erotic finger food and a very large smile on Dale's face.

 

Jumping into the arms of Captain Strong, Dale hugged him, kissed him and whispered in his ear...  Tonight you are getting your present early... My Virginity!

 

 

TO BE CONTINUED...

 

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