Max's Freudian Slip #34

Max’s Freudian Slip #34

Author’s Notes:

In the last Chapter, Craig got Max home after they had an unexpected encounter with Chad at the pizza parlor. Craig’s story continues the next morning….

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Chapter 34

I woke a little after six, Max still nestled tight against me. I probably could have used more sleep, but the warmth of his beautiful body pressed against mine - along with remembering he was completely naked under the duvet - snapped me into full consciousness almost immediately.

I managed to defy the temptation to look (or touch), and carefully extricated myself out of bed without stirring my boy. I started the coffee and retrieved my phone. I had just sat down with my mug when I received a text from Bob requesting I call.

Not wanting to disturb Max, I stepped onto the deck.

“Morning,” Bob answered almost immediately.

“You’re up early,” I commented.

“Always am. I was surprised you’re awake already,” Bob explained. “How’s Max? Cam was up half the night worried about him. He crawled into my bed about two in the morning and finally crashed,” he added with genuine concern.

“Better, I think. He was out of it for a while, but calmed down once we were back at the house. I’ll know for sure when he gets up. He stayed here last night because I just couldn’t send him home so distraught with something he can’t talk about with his mother,” I responded.

“Good call. I didn’t even think about Stacy being in the dark,” Bob answered approvingly.

“He practically begged to sleep with me, too. I sure don’t remember being so affectionate with or needing reassurance from my father when I was their age, but I’m happy to be there for them.”

Bob sighed. “I’m not sure if boys these days are too soft or if they’ve just been through traumatic shit we didn’t have to deal with. Max sure as hell has good reason to have some issues.”

“Yeah, that’s true. Between his father, coming out, navigating puberty, and now being assaulted, Max’s life the last few years has been like a damn gothic novel. It’s amazing he’s as well-adjusted as he is,” I agreed. I wasn’t about to broach how our relationship threw a wrench into things, as well.

Bob, now pissed, launched into a tirade against Chad. “Can you believe how that sadistic motherfucker kept grinning at Max, taking twisted pleasure in his obvious discomfort? It took an incredible amount of self-restraint not to beat his ass in the parking lot.”

“I know the feeling,” I commented. I’d have paid good money to watch that.

“I know where he lives. We followed him home.”

I was taken aback. “You did what?”

“Yeah, I know. Don’t worry, I was careful. Cam and I sat in the lot for a while after you left. He needed to process through the entire situation. By the time we were ready to go, Chad and his entourage were getting into their vehicle and Cam pleaded that we do something.”

“So, you followed them?”

“Yep. But we stayed back a good distance and they never had a clue. It’s been a while, but I’ve never forgotten my combat training. It was like I was back in Afghanistan, stalking Taliban, all over again.” I knew Bob was ex-military, but this is the first time he’s ever mentioned any detail. It made me curious what stories he might have, but now wasn’t the time to ask. I seem to recall keeping boys as lovers is more culturally accepted there. I wonder if he ever encountered that.

“What did you find out?”

“His address, of course. Nice house, well kept. His neighbors probably think he’s a stand-up guy. They always do,” Bob sounded like he was on a mission. “Anyway, I stayed up late poking around on the Internet. His last name is Marlow. Chad Marlow. His wife is Angela. They have just one kid, Brett. He’s a real estate agent. Wife works for Medtronics. Not sure what she does.”

“Jesus! You figured that all out from their address?”

“Sure, property tax records are public and online. They built their house in 2011. Original owners. And once I had their names, Facebook and LinkedIn are full of info, especially when people don’t lock down their profiles. He uses social media to promote his business. Even uses Brett as a prop.”

“That’s amazing. But, I’m not sure how useful any of those details actually are.” Still, I was impressed by Bob’s tech-savvy and sleuthing abilities.

“Yeah, I had a similar thought. But, knowledge is power, and who knows if this information might give us more options. We can email him at work or threaten to tell his wife about his adultery, homosexuality, or child molestation. The more we know, the more leverage we have.”

Bob was ruthless, which was a little arousing. “So, what are you thinking?”

He listed off numerous possibilities. His best idea, I thought, was an anonymous letter or email, telling him how much we knew and discussing how we would tell his wife or authorities if he ever victimized another boy, especially Brett.

“We could tell him we are monitoring his behavior, watching to make sure he behaves,” I suggested.

“Right,” Bob answered. “He needs to believe it in order for his cage to be truly rattled. We need evidence to demonstrate our seriousness. Maybe I should hire a PI to tail him and take pictures. Then he might actually believe us when we say that we are tracking him.”

“Smart. It would be good to know if he is hooking up with any other boys, or men. If we can capture that, we’ll have him by the balls.”

Bob and I discussed additional options, many of which were just fantasy. Bob wouldn’t have minded having him castrated, or strung up from the oak tree in their front yard. He mentioned he’d ‘fucked up’ a few Taliban during his tour. I had no doubt he could lay waste to Chad in a blink of an eye. Bob is not a guy you want to get on the bad side of. It made me shudder how he might perceive me if he found out about Max and I.

I had to remind him that whatever we did couldn’t result in more collateral damage. Chad does have a wife and child, and they’re innocent.

Cam walked into their kitchen as we were talking. He realized immediately who Bob was talking to and asked for an update on Max. “Doing better,” Bob told him. “He stayed with Craig last night.”

“Good,” I heard Cam reply. “Are you guys talking about Chad? What are we going to do?” he asked.

“Working on it,” Bob told him. “And what is this ‘we’ business? You’re 13, Cameron. Chad is as big of a risk to you as he was Max.”

“I want to help!” Cam replied adamantly. It was the most forceful I’ve ever heard him speak to Bob. “I want to see the look on his face when he realizes he’s going to get fu— in deep trouble.” It amused me Cam stopped himself from saying “fuck” in front of his father.

Bob didn’t immediately respond, but I know him well enough by now that I can just see his lip curling with amusement at Cam’s passion. It is endearing.

“We’ll see,” Bob placated. I was pretty sure I heard him ruffle his son’s hair. “I better go,” he said, speaking to me. “Cam and I are going to have a father-son day before my flight. You’ll be over to get him for dinner, right?”

“Yes, does sixish work? Kim will be home about 4:00 and I want to catch up with her before heading over.” It wasn’t lost on me, after being gone, she would probably insist on a quickie before we have a kid staying with us for the rest of the week.

“Sure. I have to leave for the airport by 5:15 at the latest, but Cam can manage until you arrive. I’ll make sure he’s packed and ready to go.”

“Sounds good. I’m sure he’ll be as responsible and charming as ever,” I assured Bob.

“He better be on his best behavior. If he gives you any trouble, you have full license to tan his hide,” Bob explained. “Understood, Cam?” I heard a faint “yes sir” in the background.

“I’m sure that won’t happen. Cam is always respectful and well-mannered,” I assured him. “I’ll let you go. I’m going to whip up some waffles for breakfast. Safe travels.”

***

I decided to surprise Max by making spectacular waffles and delivering them. I wondered if anyone had ever served him breakfast in bed. I’m not sure it’s something a 14-year-old boy would enjoy, but thought I would give it a shot. I love spoiling him, and he’s always so genuinely appreciative that I'm sure he’ll pretend to like it even if he thinks it’s lame.

I make a fantastic waffle - with a slice of bacon embedded, so I decided that would be the menu for the day. If Max doesn’t like them, I can always scramble some eggs.

I slipped on my ‘Best Dad Ever’ apron (it was a Fathers’ Day gift a few years ago) and started frying the bacon. While it was cooking, I kept hearing a faint buzz. Finally, I turned down the skillet and went in search of the source. Max’s phone was on the living room floor. Like most middle schoolers, he was getting notifications almost constantly. Do these kids ever sleep?

I noticed it was almost dead, so I plugged it into the charger and returned to my culinary tasks. I finished the bacon and mixed the batter (my secret is a splash of vanilla, a few pinches of cinnamon sugar, and some orange zest) - before settling into my office to catch up on the news while I waited for Max to stir.

***

“Craiiig,” I heard him calling about 30 minutes later. Hearing his groggy, high-pitched voice summon me first thing in the morning was like music to my ears. I hopped up to greet him, stopping on the way to grab his phone.

“Good morning, sunshine,” I said as I sat next to him on the bed, gently squeezing his leg. “I’m making waffles. Hungry?”

“Yes sir, that sounds awesome,” he answered excitedly, sitting up. “Do you have any bacon or sausage?” he asked before pausing. “I can help if you want.”

“I'm sure I can find something,” I assured him. “And I’m always happy to have your assistance, but I kind of wanted to serve you breakfast in bed. Here,” I said, reaching into my pocket for his phone. “It was on the living room floor and it’s been buzzing constantly for the last hour,” I said with a smirk. “If only I had been so popular when I was in junior high.”

***

I returned to the kitchen and quickly found sausage to go with the waffles. I wasn’t sure if he preferred link or patty, so I made both. Why not? I could hear Max’s voice on the other side of the wall. Even though their conversation was muffled, I could tell by his tone exactly who he was talking to: Cam. They really are in love. It’s palpable when they’re together.

“Your breakfast is served, Master Coleman,” I announced in what I am sure was a horrible impression of a British butler. “I wasn’t sure if you’d prefer butter, peanut butter, whipped cream, strawberries, or just maple syrup on your waffle, so I brought a sampling.” Yes, I was spoiling him rotten, but Max deserves it. He deserves everything.

“Holy shit! It smells amazing, but… I better relieve my morning wood and use the bathroom first.”

He began climbing out of bed, but quickly stopped. Whether it was just needing to pee having just woken up, or if talking with Cam had a particular effect on him, he was fully erect.

I’m not going to lie. Seeing him hard again was appealing, but I didn’t react.

“I’ll leave this for when you return. I didn’t have room for my coffee, and without it, I’ll get cranky,” I replied. “I know you were just on the phone with Cam, but you don’t have time to jerk off. If your food gets cold and needs to be nuked, it’ll ruin my hard work and I’ll have to spank your bottom again,” I teased.

He paused momentarily, looking up at me. I think he initially wondered if I was serious, but noticed my grin and immediately relaxed. “You wish, old man,” he shot back, snorting.

God help me, I love this boy. Totally and completely. He really is about perfect in almost every way. Honestly, Max may well be the love of my life, but since that isn’t an option, I’ll settle for being the father he deserves.

I immediately lurched across the bed and wrapped my arm around his bare chest, inadvertently rubbing his small pert nipple, and gave him a hug with one hand and a noogie with the other.

“Don’t be insolent, little boy,” I cracked. “I have other ways of dealing with you.” I began tickling his belly, lightly at first, then more intensely.

He began giggling maniacally and squirming. “Daddy, I’m going to… pee all over… if you don’t stop,” he managed to say.

I stopped. ‘Daddy’. Jesus, it came out of his mouth so naturally. My heart melted. I realized I was almost staring at him as my eyes began to well.

“Okay, okay, go drain your hose,” I said before giving Max a playful swat on his perfect little bare rump. “Hurry up.”

Having his small butt in my hands again reminded me of Mexico. I knew I could take him once more, right then and there, and he would love it. Hell, Cam might even be cool with it. But, our dynamic has changed. Max would willingly give himself to me - of that I am certain - but he isn’t mine to take. What we have now is so much more.

I scurried from the room before he realized I was getting emotional.

***

I put the dishes in the sink to soak before returning with my coffee, crawling into bed beside Max. He immediately shifted closer to me. I put my arm around him and rubbed his flat, smooth stomach, tapping his navel. It made a funny thump sound.

“You seem to be in better spirits,” I commented. He really had done a complete 180 since last night.

“Thanks to you. And Noah and Cam,” he replied appreciatively.

“Good,” I replied, ruffling his blonde mop. He smiled. “You’ll need a haircut soon.”

Max ignored my comment. He was focused. “I hear you and Mr. Rice have been talking. Any ideas?” Cam must have told him about our earlier conversation.

“About what to do about Chad?” I asked.

“Yeah. I know Cam and Bob followed him home.”

I sighed. We didn’t really have a plan yet, only a sparse list of possibilities. “Well, we both have numerous ideas. But most of them involve hurting other people, or putting you at risk. We don’t really want to do either. Bob knows a couple people who he thinks might help.”

“‘People’?”

“Yeah. A private investigator. And another guy or two. Don’t worry about it. Let us work on things. Maybe we can talk more next weekend at the cabin. In the meantime, let the grown-ups worry about it. Please?” I wasn’t sure he would acquiesce to me playing the adult card. The whole Chad experience has really thrown him, and he might not take kindly to me trying to minimize his role.

“Yes sir,” he cheerfully replied, apparently accepting my request. It’s best he not dwell on his experience or possible retribution. “I can’t believe you cooked the bacon inside the waffle. And made two types of sausage. It’s like you love me or something.”

That’s the understatement of the century. He has no idea the intensity of emotion I feel toward him. It really is hard to remember what things were like before Max became such an important fixture in my life.

“More than you’ll ever know,” I answered. I couldn’t resist kissing my boy atop his head.

***

Max took a quick shower and helped me finish cleaning up the kitchen. He snuck up quietly behind me while I was at the sink and gently hugged me from behind.

“Thanks,” he whispered.

I dried my hands on a towel and patted his hands before turning toward him. He was smiling, his face almost glowing. I wasn’t sure exactly what he was thanking me for, but it didn’t matter. “You’re welcome. What are dads for?”

“You’re the best,” he replied, rubbing the stubble on my cheek. “I can’t wait until I can grow facial hair like you.”

Like every 14-year-old, Max is so eager to grow up. Meanwhile, I wish I could freeze time and keep him the sweet, amazing boy he is forever. I know youth is wasted on the young, but as a boy lover, I know this is a pinnacle of life in many ways and want him to savor this time. One of my great regrets is not getting to know Max better when he was younger. I can’t even imagine how adorable he was at 11 or 12.

“Don't tell Noah or Cam, but you’re my favorite,” I declared before kissing the top of his damp head. I could have breathed in his sweet scent all day. “I don’t want you obsessing over Chad, understood?” I stated. “You’re going to be fine. You have so many people in your corner who love you.”

“Yes sir,” he responded. “I feel really good again, thanks to you. And don’t worry, I know I can call if I start getting upset.”

I was relieved. I’ve been worried about taking him home, not sure he was ready to resume his normal routine with no way to explain to Stacy if he was still out of sorts.

***

Speaking of Stacy, she was almost giddy when I dropped off Max. I am too after being reunited with him after a few days, but she had two dates with James over the weekend and it was obvious they are… getting along well. As pleased as she was, I wondered if they had sex. I’m sure it’s been a while since she’s gotten any. Max greeted her with a hug and kiss before waving goodbye and starting to head upstairs.

“Excuse me, young man,” Stacy interjected in a sharp tone. Max stopped, taken aback. “Aren’t you going to tell Craig thank you for hosting you all weekend?”

“Sorry,” he mumbled, ambling towards me. “Thanks for everything, Mr. Peters.” I swear the little shit winked at me as he laid it on thick for her benefit.

“It’s fine,” I said, trying to downplay it. “Max has thanked me several times already.” Stacy had no idea how appreciative Max always is. But, I never mind an additional hug from my boy.

Stacy inquired about the painting project and I was sure to reiterate what wonderful assistance Max provided. I didn’t bring up Chad or Max’s meltdown.

As an adult - and a parent - part of me wonders if Stacy should be informed. Still, Max is adamant, and I understand why. I know it would lead to a lot of unpleasantness, but if he withheld that information from me, I would be hurt, and I know how I’d feel if my daughters were assaulted, especially when they were so young. If she realized how desperate Max was for sex and intimacy, she might soften about Cam, realizing it’s better he be with another boy than seek out a man.

***

It didn’t take long to put the finishing touches on the bedroom. Damn, it looks great. Kim will be pleased. As I admired our work, I realized the new paint color was very similar to the shade of Max’s room. That amused me, because it wasn’t intentional but obviously our subconscious was working overtime. At this point, he really is the only person who stays here with any regularity.

I wonder, with her dating, if Stacy would let Max spend an occasional weekend here. I bet Kim would eat up helping him decorate to make it more his space.

***

Kim was euphoric. She was joyfully replaying her girl’s weekend in Chicago as I drove. It sounded horrible. Shopping, crowded bars, shopping, brunch, shopping, and all sorts of cackling. Blech. I thought about how I’d definitely had a better weekend. Even with the drama of seeing Chad, concentrated boy time just cannot be matched.

“We need milk,” she commented when she opened the fridge to get a bottle of water.

“No problem,” I answered. “I’ll grab some when I go to pick up Cam.”

“Cam!” she exclaimed, clearly alarmed. “I totally forgot he was coming. Craig, did you even clean the guest room?”

“Kim, relax! He’s a teenage boy. I’m sure the room looks fine.”

“Craig Peters. I will not have a guest stay in a messy room!” she chided me with mild disgust. “When are you going to get him? I should wash the bedding.”

I looked at my watch and smirked. What a perfect setup for her to discover the newly painted room. “Uh… I’m supposed to get him in about an hour.”

“Just enough time,” she announced as she marched upstairs, almost fuming.

I quietly followed behind so I could gauge her reaction. “Wow!” she practically yelled before coming back down the stairs. “It looks amazing! I can’t believe you were so coy. You’ve been much busier than you led on, Mr. Peters!” She planted a soft kiss on my cheek.

I briefly explained how it wasn’t all my doing and how the boys helped, a lot.

“Oh honey, that makes it even better. The room is basically Max’s, anyway. It’s perfect he helped paint it,” she gushed.

I grinned. “We should have him add some personal touches, let him decorate a little,” I suggested. She nodded. “You could take him shopping sometime to pick out a few things.”

“Craig, are you actually encouraging me to spend money?” Kim asked, smirking. “We could make a whole day of it. Scope out the sales, get brunch, head to the outlets, maybe an afternoon movie.”

I shook my head. I may have awakened a monster. The woman loves to buy crap that collects dust, but Max wasn’t going to enjoy an all-day shopping binge. He just isn’t that kind of gay. Plus, he’s my boy. God, am I going to get jealous over spending time with an eighth grader?

“For Max? Absolutely, get him whatever he wants. Just remember, he’s a boy and will get overwhelmed and bored if you overdo it,” I warned. With her enthusiasm, I saw an opportunity, and wasn’t going to squander it. “Stacy has started dating again, and it seems to be going pretty well. I was thinking Max should start staying here more regularly, like a weekend or two a month.”

I realized I may be pushing it, and probably should have phrased it as a question asking her opinion or for permission rather than making a statement, but I rolled the dice.

“Oh, that’s so nice. She deserves to find someone who makes her happy. I hope Max is okay with her putting herself out there. I know that can be weird for kids,” Kim responded. “I think it’s sexy how devoted you are to him. You just aren’t ready to be an empty nester, are you?”

I may have blushed a little. If she had any idea the breadth of my feelings for Max, she wouldn’t be so complimentary. Still, my desire to spend time with him wasn’t out of desire, at least not sexually, and I knew he would jump at the opportunity.

“He’s a damn good boy, and for whatever reason, he likes to spend time here, so why not?”

Kim laughed. “He likes to spend time with you, Craig. If I didn’t know about Cam, I would wonder if he has a little crush.”

Oh shit. That was not what I expected her to say. Don’t react or look guilty.

“Max is like the son we never had. It just feels right having him around, and he fits in so well,” I mustered before taking a breath. “He, Noah, and Cam really are great kids and we're lucky to have them in our lives.”

Fuck. That did it. What was I thinking, being all gooey? She reached for my groin.

Well, let’s get this over with. I didn’t want to defile Max’s space with straight sex, so I maneuvered her to our room. I’ll spare you the details, other than to say it was as mediocre for me as it always is.

***

Having recovered from my few moments of forced intimacy, I made my way to Cam’s. I waited on the stoop after ringing the bell and had to knock loudly before he finally appeared.

“Sorry, Mr. Peters,” he said as he opened the door. “I was downstairs working on my history project and I didn’t hear you.” He looked as cute as usual. He was wearing shorts and a hoodie, which seemed out of place considering it was still late summer. It was a brand I’d never seen before: “Off-White”

“Nice hoodie,” I commented. “Busting out the fall clothes already?”

“Yeah, compared to Texas, this is already cool. It’s new!” he excitedly informed me as he tugged on his sweatshirt. “Dad bought it for me when we were shopping. You like it? Daddy says it's some high-end designer label. He couldn’t believe it was on the rack at TJ Maxx.”

“Yeah?”

“He said the guy who started the brand used to do shoes for some big fashion icon. Like Versace or something.”

“Oh, yeah… right,” I said, trying not to sound ill-informed of the fashion world. Kim would know all about it, but me? I know Nike, Adidas, Columbia, and North Face. Anything else was over my head. I was actually surprised Cam was drawn to such things. He was almost always sporting athletic clothing of some sort.

“I’ve got a little more work to do on my project,” Cam informed me. “It’s taking longer than I expected. Sorry sir, Daddy told me to be ready to leave whenever you arrived. If it’s okay, I’d like to finish before we go. I can get you a beer or something if you’re willing to wait.”

Ever diligent, Cam played host well. I’m sure Kim will understand. “Don’t sweat it. Maybe I can help. What is it?”

“It’s a diorama of the Battle of Gettysburg. Want to see?”

I followed Cam to the basement where a large cardboard box and numerous supplies were scattered across the ping pong table. Inside the box was a depiction of the Gettysburg Battlefield, complete with blue and gray Army Men, cannons, and horses. They looked more like WWII soldiers than those from the Civil War, but I know how it goes. You make do with whatever you can get a hold of. No parent is going to overspend on a school project.

Cam walked me through his display. It was obvious he’s interested in the subject, because the small details he included were far better than I would expect for a middle school assignment. He even emblazoned some famous passages from Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address on the box sides.

“I just need to add some trees and battle flags, and then it will be finished.”

“It's so detailed. How long have you been working on it?”

“It was assigned the first week of school, but it’s due the Tuesday after Labor Day. But, we’ll be at the cabin next weekend and I don’t want to clutter your house with messy supplies, so I’m trying to finish,” Cam explained.

“Can I help?” I offered.

He looked unsure. “Sure. Just don’t tell Dad, please. He thinks it builds character to do things on your own.” I wasn’t positive, but I thought I saw a slight eye roll. As deferential as Cam is with his father, that paired with his forcefulness this morning on the phone made me wonder if he won’t rebel sometime soon.

“Don’t worry. I’ll just hand you things and leave the real work to you.”

***

“You seem to be into history. Is it your favorite subject?”

Cam nodded. “History is awesome, but I like all parts of social studies. Geography, econ, civics, whatever. It’s just always clicked,” Cam explained. “Daddy thinks I should consider majoring in political science when I get to college, if I stay interested.”

“That’s cool. I only took one poli-sci class, but it was interesting. I was always better with numbers, though,” I replied. “I can’t believe you’re already thinking about college. When I was your age, I was just trying to survive puberty.”

Cam laughed. “I know it seems silly, but my school is big on college prep, and they make us do intensives and mentorships in things we have a passion for. It’s the Widmer Way.” I definitely saw an eye roll that time.

“You don’t like your school?” I asked.

Cam sighed. “No, it’s not that. I know I get a good education and the teachers are great, but sometimes it’s… a little extra. The school tries so hard to seem ‘socially conscious’ but it’s annoying and phony,” he complained. “Some of the students are stuck up assholes always trying to one up each other. Public school would be chiller.”

I was taken aback by his frankness. I’m sure the appeal of being at the same school as Max and Noah was appealing. Still, my Boy Antenna was up, and no, that isn’t a euphemism for being aroused. Was Cam unhappy? Could he tell his parents? I just patted his back and told him he could vent anytime.

I assisted for about 20 minutes and the scene was nearing completion. “Where do you think this tree should go?” Cam asked.

I was happy to give my opinion. I leaned over the edge of the box and peered in. Just as I looked down, a jolt shot through my neck. It had been stiff all day. I’m not sure if it was from looking up most of yesterday while we painted or sleeping with Max across my chest. “Ow! Fuck!” I winced.

“You okay?” he asked, concerned.

“Yeah, I’m just a little sore from painting yesterday. I think I cranked my neck, edging the ceiling. And my legs are sore from going up and down the ladder.” I didn’t want to bring up sleeping with Max. It isn’t like he wasn’t already aware, but it felt a little uncomfortable. It was a little too close to discussing what happened in Mexico and I did not want to go there.

“You need a soak in the hot tub!” Cam exclaimed. “That’ll loosen you up, and if you need it, Daddy says I have magic fingers and can always get knots out. I’m pretty good at popping backs, too.”

The sharp pain subsided, but he wasn’t wrong. A jacuzzi session would help. Just one problem: I didn’t bring any trunks and, for whatever reason, after sex with Kim I just slipped on some shorts and didn’t bother with any underwear.

“That sounds like a great idea, but I don’t have anything to wear,” I explained. Not that I’ve ever worn anything in their hot tub, but I thought it best to pretend I wasn’t used to going au naturale. It was just two days ago Bob and I were nude and getting frisky, but as far as I knew, the boys weren’t aware of that.

Cam shrugged. “House rules are shower first and jump in nude. We’re both guys, it doesn’t matter. It’s not like any girls are around, with Mom gone. I’ll take the cover off for you.”

He didn’t have to convince me. “I mean, if those are the rules…”

I texted Kim that Cam needed to finish a project and suggested the hot tub when I mentioned being sore. I offered to bring home dinner. I was worried she might be annoyed, but I think she was enjoying some alone time after such a social weekend and impending week with a house guest.

***

The water felt amazing. The jets were giving my legs new life and slowly easing the pain in my neck. I sunk deep, so just my face remained above water. I’m not sure if I was lost in the bliss of a good soak, or if I had actually fallen asleep, but Cam startled me when he tapped me on the shoulder and announced he brought me a beer. I could get used to this!

I sat up, turned, and almost gasped. Cam was there, completely nude - holding a can of beer.

I tried not to stare, but it was hard to miss. His hair was wet, obviously from just showering. The hair on his head, I mean. He was almost bald down below, only a couple days' growth of blondish pubes above his soft, cut cock. I managed to sneak a peek at his goods when I took the boys swimming a couple months ago, but this time it was practically poking me in the face. He was a little longer than Max, but still pretty slender. His balls weren’t particularly large (although they looked big, hanging below his flaccid penis), and were totally smooth. I’m no expert, but I’d say he was a solid Tanner III.

He was gorgeous, and I could feel myself hardening. I was stunned by his beauty.

“Mind if I join you?” Cam asked as he climbed in, not really waiting for my response. It was his house, after all.

“You finished quickly,” I commented. I was doing my best to think of anything other than the perfect boy cock that was just staring me down, begging to be yanked on or tongued. The way it curves out over his balls was a hard image to forget. It might be near perfection, as penises go.

“Yeah. There wasn’t much left, and once you came out, the thought of a sesh sounded really nice,” he replied. “Dad and I come out here a lot. Since Mom can’t handle our heathen nakedness,” he said with a grin, “it is a good place to escape.”

“Yeah, a lot of women are weird about male nudity, so it’s understandable you come out here,” I agreed. I wasn’t sure whether to broach it, but it sure felt like it was lingering in the air. “Have you heard anything from your mother?”

Cam bristled and looked down. Clearly, my question made him uncomfortable.

“No. Daddy says it's fine she’s taking a while to gather herself, that she has believed something her whole life and needs some time to digest and come to grips with her son being gay. He says she’s grieving in some ways.”

“And what do YOU think?” Cam is a smart boy with his own opinions, and it has to hurt that his mother has basically abandoned him. Bob isn’t wrong, and I know he’s on Cam’s side, but still. It might help if he talks about the situation with an adult who isn’t his father.

He shrugged. “I’m not sure she’ll ever accept me being gay. She’s my mom and I love her, but that’s kind of a big hurdle to get past, huh?” He sounded defeated, resigned to her inevitable, permanent rejection. I guess that’s an appropriate defense mechanism, but it hurts my heart. His happy facade was waning.

I nodded. “Thankfully, your father is more accepting. There are kids who have two homophobic parents. She’ll come around eventually.” I wasn’t sure I believed it, but knew he needed the boost.

“I hope,” Cam croaked. I could see his eyes watering, and he averted my gaze. He was definitely trying to keep it together, and I knew I needed to back off - for now.

Before I could say anything else, Cam changed the subject. “Is your neck feeling any better?”

“Some.”

“Let me rub it for you,” he offered, shifting next to me.

My neck did hurt, and if a sweet, beautiful boy wants to hang out with me naked and then give me a massage, who am I to argue? No, I would never try anything sexual with him, but I’m not a monk.

I leaned forward slightly so he could access my neck. He leaned closer, his hands massaging my muscle knots. He was right: his hands do feel like magic. Bob clearly taught him well. Or maybe I’m preprogrammed to enjoy the touch from any cute, young boy.

After a few moments, I realized he had sidled up next to me, and his bare butt was rubbing against mine. I glanced over and could see his cock swaying in the swirl of the pool.

Oh God! I couldn’t help but think of playing with that cock as I fucked his adorable, narrow, perky little ass. Seriously, at that moment, I wanted to spread his cheeks and eat out what I can only imagine is a tender, smooth, perfect pink cunt. I was quickly hard as a rock. I could only hope he wouldn’t notice. How would he feel to find out I was turned on, given what I had done with his boyfriend in Mexico?

Or, maybe he’ll see, be intrigued, and immediately swallow me like Max did. “Jesus Craig!” I admonished myself. “Stop thinking like a total perv.”

“Better?” Cam asked in that sweet, still high-pitched tone. His voice is a little raspier than Max’s, but still hasn’t started to change like Noah.

“Yeah, lots,” I answered.

“Let me work on the other side,” he announced, rolling and shifting across my lap in one fluid motion. I felt his soft bottom scrape the head of my erection. Fuck!

“You’re boned?” he commented nonchalantly as he settled on my opposite side. Damn, he noticed, but is he upset?

“Um, yeah… sorry,” I mumbled. “The bubbles, I guess.”

“Uh huh,” he said sarcastically. “You’re attracted to me, aren’t you?” He put his hand on my chest and started rubbing. “Max says your chest hair is fun to pet. Not sure I see the appeal, but then, I know you’re more into smooth torsos,” he stated before adding “like mine,” with a hint of judgement.

What the fuck? I still couldn't read him. Was he hitting on me? Was this just curiosity? Testing the boundaries? Anger or resentment finally billowing? I decided the only path out was to be honest. Honesty is what’s gotten us all through the past rough weeks.

“Cam, listen…”

“Yeah?” Cam managed to say. He stopped his massage but kept his hands on my neck and chest.

“You’re right. I can’t help it. You’re an incredibly attractive boy, physically and personality-wise, and I care about you. Being this close to you, naked, was just too much,” I admitted, scooting away from him. “Sorry. Some things are just hardwired for me. My dick has a mind of its own. I don’t want you to worry or be uncomfortable.”

Cam didn’t immediately respond, staring at me as if he was expecting whatever answer he was looking for would magically appear in a bubble above my head.

“Is this how it started with Max?”

Oh shit, we're going there.

“Not exactly. Though, I guess being around each other nude broke down some barriers that let it go where it shouldn’t have.”

He looked on, rapt.

“About Mexico, I know I apologized to you after the sleepover blow-up at Noah’s, but I feel like I need to apologize again to you directly, now that we're alone and you’re not upset,” I began. “In a way, what I allowed to happen was just as unfair to you as it was Max. I love you both, and I can’t believe I allowed something like that to ever happen. Neither of you deserved the stress my weakness and lack of self-control caused.”

He shifted back across the water, right next to me.

“Are you sure? Max says it was awesome. We could have a lot of fun this week, and I could see what the big deal was,” he suggested as he touched my arm. “I haven’t seen many man dicks, but you aren’t as big as Dad. I’m sure one his size would hurt, but Max says yours felt really good.”

Jesus Christ. I wasn’t sure whether to feel honored, insulted, confused, or turned on.

He stood, now hard himself. It looked so nice, so warm, so inviting. I’d guess a little over 5 inches and skinny. “You can touch it.”

This was totally surreal. How did we go from a Civil War diorama to THIS?

I took a deep breath. Max woke me up in Mexico with a BJ, and then said it was okay for me to suck him, too. I couldn’t resist, and it led to the best week and sex of my life, bringing us undoubtedly closer.

However, it also led to a tremendous amount of angst for everyone and a slew of unintended consequences. I can’t make the same mistake.

“Cam, I’m sure it would be great, but no,” I replied adamantly as I shifted away from him, again. “I wouldn’t want to do anything to cause problems for you, hurt Max, or break your father's trust. It’s just an all-around terrible idea, as good as it might feel.”

Cam’s facial expression changed. His serious, seductive expression faded into a smile.

“Max says you wouldn’t let something happen again.”

“And he’s right, despite what my dick might want. I went my whole adult life not succumbing to temptation, only to spoil it in Mexico. Most foolish thing I’ve ever done.”

“I was like 98% sure you wouldn’t try anything sexual, but you know that tiny part that makes you wonder? I just wanted to be positive,” he explained. “And now I know, for absolutely certain. You passed.”

I ‘passed’? This kid just put me through that as a test? Honestly, I guess I can’t blame him, but I might need to… make an impression, just to even things.

“You conniving little shit, you about gave me a heart attack!” I bellowed. “Your father gave me permission to whoop your ass if you gave me a hard time. What the hell would you call this?”

His smile evaporated. A look of dread took over his face.

“Cr— Mr. Peters, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean —”

“I don’t want to hear it. That was cruel and disrespectful and you were raised better,” I added, laying it on thick. “Assume the position.”

Cam immediately complied, turning around and bending over the side of the tub. It was a weird angle, and I avoided looking. Nothing good would come from seeing his pucker.

“Y-yes sir. I’m sorry for taking it too far.” His voice was starting to quiver. “Please don’t tell Daddy I was bad. He’s already upset about the stuff with Mom and I don’t want to stress him more.”

Ack. Now it was me who was taking it too far. Time to course correct.

“Cam, relax, I’m just messing with you! Turn around and look at me,” I instructed. “Sex is out of the question, and I’m not going to spank you, but I can still tickle you to death!” I launched myself towards him, my hands digging into his rigid sides. He squirmed as my fingers hit the mother lode of his ticklish spots.

Soon, we were both laughing hysterically. It was just what we needed, or at least what I needed, after such a tense few minutes. I stopped my assault and lay back as the timer ran out on the jets.

Cam rushed me. For a moment I thought he was going to try to tickle me, but that wasn’t what he had in mind at all. Instead, he lay across my chest and hugged me. I wrapped my arms around him and patted him on the back. His junk pressed into my leg, but it was nothing erotic. At least for the time being, I was beyond my own lust.

“I forgive you, Craig. Totally and completely,” he declared, absolving my guilt and shame. I could feel a weight lift. “You’re too important to Max for me to hold a grudge. Plus… you’re cool to hang with.”

Aww. That’s high praise for a bl.

“You’re not so bad yourself,” I responded. “Thanks for always being there for Max. He needs you more than you know.”

Cam beamed. “I was just thinking the exact same thing about you.”

*** End of Chapter 34 ***

Author’s Notes:

As usual, feedback and comments are always appreciated: craigpnifty@protonmail.com

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