Andrew's Trust

Chapter 15 - Foam Party

This is fantasy fiction. Say Hi, I love to chat. Email me: AndrewMThomas@proton.me WickrMe: andrewmthomas

DO NOT EVER HURT A CHILD

Say hi to us authors (not just me, anyone you read and like). We don't like hearing crickets when we post. Your messages make me want to continue to post.

Fill my inbox and I'll keep posting for your reading pleasure.

This story is an original work of fiction ©Copyright 2023 Andrew M. Thomas.

Chapter 15 - Foam Party

The End of Grizzly Valley Days: The Rodeo

Andrew

During the rodeo, Ethan takes on the role of a medic. We have a medical helicopter on standby at the Prescott Estates helipad. Two ambulances are on standby as well, and the hospital is on high alert. Ethan and his partner use a modified golf cart equipped with red lights and a gurney. It may not look the safest, but Ethan assures us that it is. As long as you're securely strapped onto the gurney and they remember to latch it, everything should be fine. The main goal is to get the injured riders out of the arena and onto the street, where they can be transferred by ambulance to either the hospital or the waiting helicopter.

To make it easier for people to enjoy the week-long events without having to take the long drive around, the Hossengers have set up a trail from the back of their property to the fairgrounds. There's ample parking available at the fairgrounds.

While we're walking over to the rodeo, I hear the helicopter spinning up. It's over a mile away, but I can definitely hear it spin up from anywhere in the valley. That can only mean that someone has been injured, and it's a bad injury. Just then, I see the golf cart that Ethan is driving come out of the arena and head to the street. A man about my age is strapped on the gurney with a lot of blood on the bandages around his leg. The ambulance doors are open, and as Ethan approaches, they run to help move the man into the ambulance for the short ride to the helipad.

Ethan and his partner transfer the empty gurney from the ambulance onto their cart and head back toward where I am, while the ambulance continues down the road. As they approach, Ethan spots me and comes to a stop. I rush over and embrace him. "What happened?"

"The rider took a tumble off his horse and landed on the fence. It spun him down and resulted in a compound fracture in his leg. Surgery is definitely in the cards for him. He might never walk again, and I'm pretty certain he'll always trigger the metal detectors at the airport."

It's heartening to witness Ethan maintaining his sense of humor even in tough situations. I'm certain that's how he has managed to thrive in this line of work for so many years. I've got the entourage here with me, and we go into the stands to watch the remaining competitions. Since we were delayed getting into the stands, the only event left was the awards, and the boys aren't interested, so we turn around and head to the fair.

The Concert

Grayson

We get to the fair and head toward the concert venue. Once we arrive, they take us to the very front of the seating area. It turns out, my new dads are kind of famous here, so we get to be right up front, where the mosh pit usually is. Joey stands beside me, and we watch as the stagehands start filling up the empty stage with instruments and microphones. They put cases of water around the monitor speakers. The big video wall at the back of the stage lights up with the band's name, and a song begins playing from the huge speakers hanging on each side and across the top of the stage. Bright lights come on, pointing and moving around while changing colors. A guy who takes care of the guitars walks around, checking each one, and the sound and light team seems to be having a blast testing the sound and lights.

The stage lights all go back to where they belong, and a line of colorful LEDs surrounding the stage begin to chase each other. Screens on both sides and behind the stage light up, displaying a picture of a steam locomotive. You can hear the chugging sound, as if the engine is getting closer. The video of the engine shows steam puffing out, and the noise grows louder and louder. Suddenly, smoke fills the stage, as if it came from the train itself. The whistle blows, creating a deafening sound, and then the screens go dark, and the sound stops. Spotlights shine on the band, who somehow managed to sneak onto the stage without anyone noticing. The drummer is up on a raised platform with fog swirling around him.

I'm really fascinated by the technical aspects of the stage and how they make these amazing shows happen. It's been so much fun having Joey explain things to me that I don't understand. Dad told me that he uses a similar technical crew to create special effects for his landscape projects in Las Vegas. I've never been to Las Vegas, but he mentioned that we might go there sometime to see one of his projects. He wants me to meet one of the technicians who worked on his latest project at a new hotel.

This band we're watching is actually from the 1980s, even though their name makes it sound like they're from Europe. Dad told me they're from Orange County, and apparently a lot of great 80s bands started out there. He mentioned some of them, but I'm not familiar with who they are. Dad is really passionate about music because he uses it in his water shows, and the hotels choose the era and type of music. Our house has speakers everywhere, and you can just ask Alexa to play any song, and it starts playing.

The band tonight is really amazing, especially considering they were only contacted a week ago. The original band that was supposed to perform had to cancel because their lead singer got hospitalized.

As the band is playing, all of us boys are dancing and singing along. Surprisingly we know most of the words. The lead singer looks at us and comes over at the end of one of the songs. She points at us, and speaks to the audience, "Ladies and Gentlemen, we have a fun group of kids here up front. Should we have them join us on stage?"

The crowd responds with a very loud "Yes!" So we are guided to some steps when the lead singer notices and recognizes Joey.

Very dramatically and slowly she says, "Oh, my, God! Are you? No, you can't be, Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome Mr. Joey Murphy to the stage!"

Joey is just standing there pulling his cap down to cover his face. He was shaking his head no, but he still got called out. I see Max turn to him and overhear him say, "Come on Joey, you got this!" and he grabs Joey by the hand and we all climb up onto the stage. I see Peter quickly make his way to the side of the stage and face the audience. His dark sunglasses make it hard to tell where he's looking.

Joey's personality changes instantly as the lead singer hands him the mic and says to him, "Please, would you sing?" Joey pushes his hat back in place, struts to the edge of the stage as if someone put new batteries in him, "Grizzly Valley, are you ready to go on an adventure with me?" The crowd just roars. The band starts playing the intro to Coldplay's Adventure of a Lifetime. This is one of Joey's cover songs that I really like. Once the chorus starts, Joey transforms from the angry boy he's been into the the star he really is. He really seems to be enjoying himself and forgetting the fear he has been hiding behind. He sings and then he holds the mic out to the crowd so they can sing the "Woo Hoo's". Its amazing to see Joey's stage presence. Alejandro is just dancing and wiggling around with his brother, while the rest of us are trying to look cool and dance. When the song is over, we all file off the stage after about four rounds of applause from the audience.

I wish Joey could have performed the entire concert. I don't think the crowd wanted it to end after just one song, however, the music that the band played was still really great, with a fun and lively beat. It actually reminded me a bit of the sampled music in modern pop songs. Dancing with everyone was incredibly fun. I'm enjoying having all these new friends. It's not just our circle; Brian, Jamie, Sebastian, and Haydon are all here too. I hope the Murphys and Colters stick around so we can form the Grizzly Valley Gang.

Max

I love the music at this concert. It's old, but it has a great beat. Joey and I are dancing and having a blast. He has so much more life in him since he got pulled on stage. This is the Joey I expected when we first met him. I glance at Grayson, who seems more interested in the lighting and sound crew. Joey and I face the stage, while Grayson faces us. The technicians are sitting behind us in the middle of the small concert venue. I think Grayson and I would make an awesome team for production work. He's into the technical side, and I'm into the musical and artistic aspects. They say opposites attract, right?

Suddenly, I get an idea to make Grayson's day. I grab Joey and lean in to whisper in his ear. "Can I ask you a favor?"

Joey looks at me with a puzzled expression. "Sure?"

"You know all about the stage crew. Do you think you could take Grayson over to the guys working the sound and lights and introduce him?"

"But I don't know any of them."

"That doesn't matter. They all know who you are. If Joey Murphy wanted to see their setup, they would be happy to show it to Grayson. I'll owe you big time."

"It's worth a try. I should let Peter know so he doesn't freak out."

Joey walks over to Peter, and I see him pointing and nodding before he comes back. Peter is making his way to the sound and lighting guys. Joey grabs Grayson's hand and leads him away. Grayson gives me a puzzled look, and I just smile. They weave through the crowd, and sure enough, I see the men at the booth light up when they spot Joey. I'm willing to bet they even missed a cue or two while talking to him.

Grayson

I'm so surprised when Joey takes my hand and leads me away from Max. I have no idea what's going on, but Max has this huge grin on his face as he nods at me, like he's telling me to follow Joey.

We make our way through the crowd, and before I know it, we're standing at the tech booth for the concert. The men there look up, and at first, they seem annoyed that some kids are trying to squeeze in. But then they spot Joey, and everything changes. They all stop what they're doing and warmly greet Joey. They invite us in, and Joey has a quick chat with them. Then one of the men comes over and has me sit between his legs at the concert.

He leans against my shoulder, gently takes my hands, and places them on the controls. His mouth is in my hear as he calls out instructions to me. As the song approaches its end, they have me fade the lights out and press some buttons to set up the next scene. When the next song starts, he has me operate the controls, and it's absolutely amazing. The show comes alive with the lights and effects that I'm controlling.

Throughout this song, the tech, who I learn is named Judd, wraps his arms around me and gives instructions to me. About halfway through, he lets go of my hands and lets me run the buttons and sliders by myself.

After the song ends, I make my way to the soundboard. Garth, the guy working there, isn't as friendly, but he still allows me to move sliders and press buttons. The sound is much simpler since it doesn't change much during the song.

Joey and I stay in the booth for one more song, expressing our gratitude before returning to the group up front. Having Peter with us is a blessing, as he helps clear a path for us to reach our family.

Once we're back with the group, I walk over to Max and give him a big hug. "Thank you! That was incredible."

He playfully tells me to thank Joey and his good looks for making it happen. I simply kiss Max and hold him tight as we attempt to dance during our make out session through the next song.

Andrew

I love the interactions of concerts, stage shows, and, of course, any live entertainment. In my business, these interactions have been instrumental in securing contracts that most designers would spend their entire career striving for. I find myself at least twenty years ahead of my peers when it comes to the projects I acquire, and quite frankly, the financial rewards are substantial.

During my days of being a rent boy, I made decent money, but my current situation is far superior. I now have resorts clamoring for my services, rather than creepy old men. They beg me to create their next awe-inspiring experience, surpassing anything their competitors have to offer. Competition in Vegas is fierce, especially when it comes to securing top chefs for restaurant openings and renowned acts for their stages. It's not uncommon for resorts to construct venues specifically to entice artists into residency. I understand the appeal of having all their concerts in one location, avoiding the need for constant travel. However, I also recognize the monotony involved in performing the same show multiple times a week for a year before starting over. For the chefs, it's relatively simple: hire exceptional talent to manage the restaurant while putting their own name on it. Driving down the strip, you can't miss the familiar faces appearing on numerous marquees and purpose-built establishments, like Gordon Ramsay's Hell's Kitchen.

Unfortunately, I don't receive the same level of recognition. You won't find "Landscaping by Andrew Thomas" or "Pool and Resort by Andrew Thomas" signs. Nonetheless, craftsmanship and artistry are evident in every project I undertake. Similar to the chefs, I assemble a team of exceptional individuals to help me bring these visions to life, ensuring I have complete control over who is trained to oversee and maintain them.

My "aha" moment occurred approximately nine years ago when I encountered Tiesto at the company responsible for creating the Bellagio fountains. He was thrilled that his music was being utilized for a show, and the designers were pushing boundaries by incorporating EDM music. I had the opportunity to spend a week with the team, learning and observing. It was because I had collaborated with some of these talented individuals on a few of my own projects that they invited me to see their creative process in hopes that I would bring more business to them.

My fascination with water shows traces back to my school days, when Ethan introduced me to how water flows through fire hoses and fountains when Zach and I were doing our science project. I have immense admiration for him, and now I can repay his kindness. Don't get me wrong, he is content with his job and doing well, but with the financial success I have achieved, we funnel resources into the foundation to help prevent any more tragedies like Ricky's or, worse, Justin's.

I find myself observing Max and Grayson during the concert, realizing that these two would likely be intrigued by the creative process I undergo for my projects. Max possesses a deep passion for music, while Grayson is a tech enthusiast. I know Grayson and Jamie thoroughly enjoy their time at Tech Tribe and the school established by Mark. When I noticed Joey accompanying Grayson, I initially worried that he might be making advances toward Max's boyfriend. However, once I saw where they were headed, it became apparent that Max was orchestrating it all. This group of boys is truly exceptional, and together, they will undoubtedly achieve great things. I wonder if Eric is contemplating a move to this area. We've discussed it briefly, and I sincerely hope he seriously considers it. With Chandler managing Joey's career, life would undoubtedly become easier, and living in Grizzly Valley offers simplicity while remaining conveniently close to both Las Vegas and Los Angeles.

As the concert draws to a close, I find myself observing a lively conversation between Max, Grayson, Joey, and Jamie. I stand on one side of the group, while Peter stands on the other, guiding them out of the venue and leading them towards the parking lot for our journey back home. As we reach the point where Mark, Jamie, and Sebastian need to part ways, Max turns to me and asks if the boys can spend the night at our place. I glance at Mark, and he simply shrugs, so I give them the green light. We're accustomed to boys coming and going, so it's not a big deal for us. Mark heads off, pulling out his phone, most likely to inform Sebastian's parents of his whereabouts. We all climb into our vehicles and form a convoy, with some vehicles breaking off to head to the Prescott Estate while we make our way towards our ranch.

Once we arrive at the house, the boys promptly begin to undress, as if it's an unwritten rule in our home. They excitedly run down the hallway and enter the primary bedroom, making a beeline for the bathroom. I hear the sound of showerheads coming to life and decide to follow them, curious about the commotion. It's no surprise that I discover that my three boys, plus Jamie and Sebastian, are all having a blast in the shower. Suds and foam are everywhere, as if someone managed to find a bottle of bubble bath. The entire shower area has transformed into a lively foam party.

Josh is the first to exit, probably because the foam is over his head. He asks me if he can go see Tran across the way, so I tell him to make sure he dresses properly before heading out and to do what they say and come home when they tell him to. He runs out of the room, jumping and skipping leaving a trail of foam out the door.

When the water stops, all of the boys grab giant towels and leave the room naked as jaybirds. There's a big pile of stinky clothes left at the door, but I'll let it slide tonight. I think the boys are up to something as they all pile into their bedroom. It's a good thing we bought them a ton of pillows, but I doubt there will be much sleeping going on tonight. I stand quietly outside their door. I know it's not right of me to eavesdrop on them, but it's fun hearing them all chatty and giggling. I can't make out what they are saying. Suddenly my phone beeps and the sound behind the door stops. I look at the message and it's Eric explaining that Josh has arrived and is stark naked. I let him know he can send Josh home at anytime and he assures me he will be fine and is going to stay the night. I think my cover is blown, but I listen at the door again and I can't help but know what those sounds are. There's a lot of slurping and moaning going on. I'd better go before I shoot a load in my pants.

Ethan should be getting home soon, and I need to show him how much I love him tonight. It's my turn to shower so I can be ready and waiting for my hero to arrive and take his boy. Yes, I'm still his boy.

I dim the lights, creating a cozy atmosphere, and scatter a few candles around the room. The soft, warm glow from the candlelight bathes the room, casting an intimate ambiance on everything it touches. The log walls diffuse the light, making it appear as if it dances across the room. I light the large baltic amber scented Vauspa candle on the dresser, and its faint fragrance adds a touch of tranquility to the air. Pulling back the sheets, I realize they aren't anything extravagant, considering we have three boys who often join us and things can get a little wild, but they will suffice for now.

In case Ethan needs to shower, I have all of his toiletries set out in the bathroom. Usually, he takes care of that at the station, but just in case, I want him to join me in bed quickly. I open my tablet, planning to read some stories before he arrives. His shift ended half an hour ago, so he should be here any moment. Suddenly, I hear the alert from the gate, signaling his arrival. I swiftly shut down my tablet and place it on the nightstand alongside the bottle of lube. Settling back against the headboard, I wait eagerly for my lover to enter the room.

End of Andrew's Trust - Chapter 15 - Andrew Thomas