Date: Mon, 23 Oct 2023 19:23:50 -0400 From: D Dragi Subject: The Courage to Care. Chapter 6 Please donate to Nifty and support this super site. Every little bit helps. I'd love to hear your comments and suggestions. Email me at tughill1383@yahoo.com I'd love to talk with you Chapter 6: Holiday Heartache Matt and I went upstairs to set up the stereo. Brad went into the kitchen saying he would get the Christmas tree bread ready. Brad made round balls of bread stuffed with chopped walnuts cinnamon and nutmeg. Then he put the balls to form a Christmas tree. At the base was a square tree holder. The smell of the bread tree filled the house. Matt and I came downstairs and took that tree apart. Brad said I love seeing my men enjoying my baking. Matt went over to Brad gave him a big kiss and said "You spoil me babe." Brad responded Merry Christmas sweetheart. "I love you and kissed him back. The guests from Thanksgiving would also be here for Christmas. I was looking forward to seeing them. After they all arrived Brad went in to living room and said "Matt and I have an announcement to make." "Matt and I are going to be parents." There was a stunned look on their faces and Brad said we are adopting Jake. One of the men named Trey said "if I'd known I would have brought cigars." All the guests congratulated Brad and Matt and they shook my hand. Brad as usual went all out for dinner. Caesar salad, a rack of lamb, baby potatoes and asparagus with hollandaise sauce. For desert Brad baked two cheesecakes. One was a turtle cheesecake and the other chocolate raspberry. When the guests left I helped Brad clean up. After that big meal I was sleepy. I also wanted to head upstairs and play my new stereo. I went up to both Matt and Brad and kissed each of them on the cheek. I said I love you two guys. You made this day the best one of my life. Brad was starting to tear up and Matt said "Now see what you've done." Matt said I love you Jake and Brad said I love you son. " I love you son." Those words resonated with me and I had this deep down feeling that I'm home. "Me." "Redneck runaway from Kentucky who was living in a homeless shelter had a home and a family." I made plans with Connor, Ashley and Melanie to hang out at the mall. We went to the arcade room and played games. Melanie and I crowded into one of those photo booths and had our picture taken. We went to the McDonalds for lunch. We were sitting there joking and talking. Melanie was feeding me French fries when this guy showed up and said "What the fuck do you think you're doing with my girl?" I didn't know who he was and I stood up and said back off man. This is my girl. Then without warning a fist landed on the right side of my face. I fell back and hit my head on the table behind me and hit the floor. Connor got up an jumped the guy saying get the fuck out of here Allen. Allen? Who the hell is Allen. Melanie came rushing over to me and said "are you alright baby?" I shook my head and said I was fine. I got up and went after Allen and we started going at each other. Three mall security guards rushed over and pulled us apart. Allen said I'll kill you faggot." I said " bring it asshole" The guards brought all five of us to the guards office. The guards took down all our information and since the four of us were minors they called our parents. Allen who was 19 and was told he could go. I looked at Melanie and said who the hell is that guy? Melanie said that's my boyfriend Allen. When she said that I said I thought you two were not together anymore. She said when Allen went off to college we agreed that we could see other people but would remain friends. I said he thinks you're more then friends. I was confused and pissed off. What the hell was this. Melanie saw the look on my face and said it's complicated. At that moment Mrs Albridge arrived and asked what happened. Melanie said Allen hit Jake and a fight broke out. Mrs Albridge said Allen your old boyfriend? Melanie said yes. Before Melanie and her mom left she said she'd call me tonight. Matt showed up and said What the hell happened to you? I said I was in a fight. Matt said we need to get you home and put some ice on that face. Ashley's mom and Connors mom arrived as we were leaving. I said to Connor thanks for your help. He said I'm your best bud and I got your back. When we got home Brad said who did this to you. Are you alright. Should we go to the hospital. Matt sarcastically said he'll live. He just needs some ice. Matt filled an ice bag and told me to put it on my face. I went to the living room and sat on the couch with an icebag on my face. Matt came over and said you want to tell me what happened. Brad came over and sat next to me on the couch. I told them that Melanie's old boyfriend was home from college and when he saw us together he punched me. I got up and started fighting back. The security guards came and took us to their office. Matt said that's some shiner you're going to have. Brad asked why would this Allen come over and think he was still Melanie's boyfriend. Did Melanie say they were still dating. I told Brad that Melanie said they were just friends. Brad said I think this Allen thinks they are more then just friends. Did Melanie tell you anything else. No. Her mom came and she said she would call me tonight. The hours passed and there was no phone call from Melanie. I had to be up early for basketball practice so I went upstairs to bed. When I woke up the next morning I had a black eye over my right eye. It was still a little sore and my face puffy on my right side. When I came downstairs, Brad looked at me and said Oh my God. Does that hurt. I told him just a little. Brad said I made you a big breakfast, so eat up and then get ready to go. I woofed down breakfast, got ready and Brad drove me to practice. When I got to practice I saw Connor and he said "Jesus man that is some nasty black eye you got. I said I want to kill that Allen. I asked Connor if he could fill me in on this guy. Connor told me that Melanie and Allen dated for two years and were real popular. With Melanie being a Watson and Allen being a Coleman those are the two oldest families round here so they were seen as the perfect couple. Local royalty. When Allen went off to college I don't know what the situation was between them. I thought that since Melanie was going out with you it was over between her and Allen. I said I don't think Allen thinks it's over. I don't know man. Did you hear from Melanie. I said she said she would call me last night and it didn't happen. Connor said I should call her after I got home from practice and straighten this out. Coach blew the whistle and we started practice. When I got home I ran upstairs anxiously wanting to call Melanie. I picked up the phone and dialed the number. Melanie's mother answered the phone and I asked if I could speak with Melanie. Her mother said she was out and she didn't know when she would be back. I asked If you could ask to call me when she gets back. Mrs. Albridge said she would give Melanie the message. I was hanging out listening to the stereo waiting impatiently for the phone to ring. Brad called up and said dinner was ready. I went downstairs and Brad noticed the worried look on my face and asked are you ok. What's going on. I said nothing. Brad said you can't hide from me. What's going on. Matt said don't pester him if he wanted to talk he would. Matt then said you know that you can talk to us about anything at anytime. I said I know. I ate dinner quietly as Brad and Matt were talking about their day. Brad said the car ran great and he loved it. Matt smiled and said nothing but the best for my man. Brad responded I love you Matt. Matt said I know. I got up when I finished dinner and said I was going upstairs. I went upstairs and listened to the stereo still waiting for the phone to ring. I went to bed and no phone call. I got up in the morning, got ready, had breakfast and went to practice. The big game with Emerson was coming up. Our archrivals. Connor told me that there is bad blood between Watson and Emerson that goes back years. The conference championship usually came down to the two schools and the competition is fierce. I don't know the exact year but sometime back in the 1960s a fight broke out in the stands spilling on to the court and the game was called off. It's simple. We hate them and they hate us. Both teams were undefeated and tied for first place in the conference. The local paper played up the game calling it the Battle for Supremacy. Coach was pushing us hard getting us ready for the game. When I got home I ran upstairs and called Melanie. Melanie's mom answered and said that Melanie went to her grandparents for the rest of the holiday and wouldn't be home until Sunday. I said could you please tell her I called. She said she would. Who was on the phone? Asked Melanie. Her mom told her it was Jake. Why didn't you let me speak to him. Sit down Melanie we need to talk. You know Allen wants to get back together with you. Melanie said I know but I'm with Jake now. Are you really going to choose Jake over Allen? Not that Jake isn't a nice guy but Allen can give you so much more then Jake. But what am I to do with Allen away at school and me here still in high school. I'm sure that your father and I can take you down to visit Allen on some weekends and the college school year is shorter than high school. Allen will be back in May. Plenty of time for the two of you to spend together. But mom, I don't know if I still like Allen? Melanie what is not to like? You and Allen belong together. You need to be among your own kind. She said why not go visit your grandparents for a while and think it over. No distractions from either Allen or Jake. Give you plenty of time to think and I believe that when you do give it some serious choice you'll know that I'm right about Allen. When I came down to dinner I was pissed off. Brad asked if I would set the table. I snapped at him and said I don't want to be bothered with this shit. Brad looked at me and said that is no way to talk to me. What is wrong with you. I said life sucks and I hate it. Matt heard us arguing and came into the kitchen. What's going on here? Brad said I don't know ask him. I just asked him to set the table for dinner and got all of this attitude. Matt said come with me. We went to the living room and sat down on the couch. Matt said you've been a real pain in the ass these past couple of days you want to tell me what's going on. I said I hadn't heard a word from Melanie and I think her mom is trying to prevent me from talking to her. I called her several times and each time her mother said she was not available. Why won't she talk to me. I don't understand. What did I do wrong? Her mom said she was going to her grandparents for the rest of the holiday. She never mentioned to me she was going to her grandparents. Matt listened closely to what I had to say. When I was finished he said you just need to give it some time. Maybe with all the excitement with the holidays Melanie just forgot to tell you about her going to her grandparents. But why won't her mother let me talk to her and why doesn't she call me. Matt said I don't know. It's killing me that I can't talk to her. I know Jake and I wish there was something I could tell you to help. Just try to put it out of your mind. You got the big game with Emerson coming up and I would hate for you to be distracted. I told her I loved her and she said she loved me. Why won't she talk to me. Matt came over to me and gave me a hug and held me close. You just have to believe that it will all work out and not let your mind get carried away thinking the worst. Now come on let's go have some dinner and say your sorry to Brad. I went back to the kitchen and I told Brad I'm sorry for yelling at him. Brad gave me a hug and said I think I understand. It's Melanie isn't it. I just shook my head. We had dinner and I helped clean up afterwards then went up to my room. Brad asked so what did he tell you out there. Matt said "It seems Melanie won't talk to him and her mother keeps telling Jake that Melanie can't come to the phone." "He told me that they said they both loved one another and couldn't understand why she won't talk to him." "Something's not right but I don't know what it is." Brad blurted out, "That bitch." "I know what it is our Jake is not good enough for that girl." "That woman does not want our son near that girl." "It's obvious." " I like to go over there and tell her a few things or two. "I am so pissed off." Matt went on to say,"That's not going to do any good. I think I might go over there tomorrow and have a word with that woman. I'd like to hear what she has to say. Brad questioned "You think that's a good idea." "I've got to do something to help Jake. I can't just let him twisting in the wind. I'm doing this for Jake. Do you want me to come with you. I don't think so I'm afraid you may not be able to control yourself. You're right. But wouldn't I like to take a swing at that snobby bitch. When I came down for breakfast Brad made waffles. There were fresh cut strawberries and whipped cream. He told me to eat up because we had to get going soon. I told him he didn't have to do all this. Do all what. This breakfast. The waffles, fresh cut strawberries, whipped cream. I'll be ok. You don't need to go out of your way for me. Jake, if I want to spoil you a little then that's my choice and you're just going to have to deal with it. I said alright. Thanks. This is real nice of you. Nothing is too good for my son and you better never forget that. Brad drove me to practice and another grueling session with Coach awaited. At around 10 Matt decided to go over to see Melanie's mom. He was apprehensive because he didn't know what to expect. But he knew he had to find out. Brad walked in to Matt's office and poured him another cup of coffee. You up for this Brad asked. Not really. But it's something I've go to do. Be careful going up against that tiger lady. She's a vicious bitch. I know Alexa Albridge. Remember we went to Watson High together. I know what I'm dealing with. Matt got up from his chair and got in his car. As he was driving over he was formulating in his head what he was going to say. Different scenarios played through his mind and he decided the best approach would be the direct approach. Ask the questions. But he feared what he might hear as the answers. When he pulled into the Albridge driveway he took a deep breath and stepped out of the car. He went up to the door and rang the bell. Alexa answered the door and said Matt what a pleasant surprise what can I do for you. Could we talk for a few minutes. Sure. Come on in. Let me take your coat. Can I get you a cup of coffee. No thanks. Lets go in here. They went in to the living room and the two of them sat at opposite ends of the couch. Matt got straight to the point and said Jake is a bit upset because he hasn't heard from Melanie and said every time he called you said she could not come to phone. Alexa cleared her throat and said well you know Melanie is really busy and just hasn't had the time. Come on Alexa what gives. Out with it. Whatever do you mean. Ever since that fight with Allen Melanie and Jake haven't spoken to one another. I just want to know why. There was a long pause and then Alexa said you know I think Jake is a great kid. You and Brad are doing a great job. But Melaine and Allen were going together for two years and it seems he wants her back. What does Melanie want. Well that's why I wouldn't let her speak with Jake. She needed time to think things over. But doesn't Jake need at least some sort of explanation instead of just being left wondering what's wrong. Matt let me be honest with you and please don't take this the wrong way. Melanie and Allen were meant for each other. Since when. Since forever. Are you kidding me. Ok Matt get this through your head, Melanie and Allen are getting back together. I'm sorry but that's the way things should be. Allen can offer so much more then Jake could ever give Melanie. You know now that you are a parent that a parent must look out and do what's best for their child. I just don't think that Jake is what Melanie needs. Shouldn't the two of them decide that. No. Because our children do not always know what's best for them. Oh so mother knows best. Yes she does. I think there is much more to this then just doing what's best for Melanie. Whatever do you mean. You don't want your child to be with a boy from a homeless shelter and has two gay men for his parents. That just wouldn't fit with your idyllic world view that since Allen is a Coleman and Melanie is a Watson they are naturally made for each other that's just how it works in this town. I never said anything of the sort. You didn't have to. I know you Alexa and I know you would do anything to make sure that the social order is maintained at all costs. I think, that's enough Matt. I'm going to ask you to leave before this goes any further. Matt said don't worry I'm leaving. I got all of my questions answered. Matt grabbed his coat and headed to the door. Have a Happy New Year Alexa. Same to you Matt. Matt was furious. Brad was right. She is a snobby bitch. To think that Jake was not good enough for her precious daughter. I could just strangle her. What do I tell Jake. How do I explain to him what was happening. When Matt walked in the house he was immediately met by Brad. "So tell me everything." "You were right." Alexa does not want her daughter dating Jake because he does not have the right social standing." "That fucking bitch." Oh, our poor son. I feel so sorry for him. What a blow it is going to be to him. What do we do. We tell him the truth and meet it head on. We will be here to support and help him That's all we can do. I am so furious and at the same time so sad. So am I babe. We can talk to him tonight after dinner. I'll make his favorite meal of Sothern Fried Chicken and biscuits. I'll bake him my ultimate chocolate cake. I hope that will help. Matt turned to Brad and kissed him and said you are the best Mr. Mom ever. I just love that boy so much. I would do anything for him. I know. I feel the same way. Jake came home from practice tired and the Coach continued to press the team in preparation for the big game against Emerson. Jake went in to the kitchen and saw Brad frosting his ultimate chocolate cake. He stuck his finger in the bowl to get a taste. That's enough you. Go get ready for dinner. It's Southern Fired Chicken and biscuits. On his way upstairs he passed Matt and said hi Dad. He liked calling Matt and Brad dad. And he knew they liked hearing it. Matt responded Hi son. How was your day. Brutal. Coach is riding us for the Emerson game. Hurry up and come back down. Dinner is almost ready. Brad nervously asked Matt "so how do we break the news to him?" After dinner we'll go in the living room and break it to him gently." "He's going to be heartbroken." Said Brad. I could just wring the neck of that bitch. Dinner was delicious and as I woofed down dinner Brad said slow down Jake you'll choke." I just kept putting chicken and biscuits on my plate and covered them in gravy. I chugged down glasses of milk to wash it all down. I said to Brad "this is the best." "I needed a meal like this after that grueling practice." Brad said "save room for some cake." I looked at Brad and said no problem there dad." I finished dinner and Brad brought the cake in and he cut me a big slice. He went to cut Matt a piece and he said "just a small one." We ate dessert and talked about the upcoming game. When we were done Matt said let's go into the living room we need to talk. The ominous tone in Matt's voice made me nervous. We sat down on the couch and Brad handed Matt a cup of coffee. I looked at Matt and said "What's up." "I'm just going to come out and say it." I went over today and spoke with Mrs Albridge today." I wanted to find out what was going on regarding Melanie." I anxiously asked "What did you find out?" "Mrs. Albridge told me that Melanie is back with Allen." I yelled "What!" "I don't believe this." " Why didn't she tell me herself." " This is bullshit." I was getting angry and Brad asked me to calm down. "I don't want to calm down." "Melanie is my girl and I'm not giving up this easy." Matt looked at me and said "I know this is hard to take but Melanie is back with Allen. Mrs Albridge sent her away to her grandparents to keep her away from you. In an excited and agitated voice I said "What"? " I don't believe it." "Melanie loves me." " She wouldn't do this tto me." " Why didn't Melanie tell me." " I went to see Mrs. Albridge today and she told me everything." " I'm so sorry Jake. My anger increased and I said this is bullshit." " Melanie wouldn't do this to me." "I just can't believe it." I won't believe it." "Jake. Think about it." Melanie has not spoken to you in days." I know it's hard to take." It started to sink in and my anger turned to sadness and I said "why would she do this to me"? I was crest fallen and just couldn't believe this could happen to me. I just couldn't understand it. Then it dawned on me. I said "it's because of who I am and where I come from? Isn't it? I yelled at Matt and Brad "isn't it." Matt looked at me and said "I'm afraid so." "But let me tell you something. There is nothing you can do about your past. You can only control the present and your future and if people can't see how great you are that's there loss." "Don't let anyone and I mean anyone think they are better then you. You hold your head up high and carry yourself with dignity at all times." And I speak from personal experience. I don't give a shit if people hate me because of who I am. That's there problem. All I can do is live my life my way and if the rest of the world doesn't like it that's their damn problem. You can't change where you came from but you can control where your going. Never forget that. I was sitting there feeling dejected and defeated trying to let Matt's words sink in. I got up and said I'm going to my room. I need to be alone. I got off the couch and headed upstairs I went to my room turned on the stereo and put on my headphones. I laid in bed stewing in my juices trying to make sense of everything. "Well that was intense." Said Brad. Matt said " we just need to give him time and tread lightly. " He's got a lot on his plate." "I just wish there was something more I can do" said Brad."The only thing we can do is be there for him." Matt got up and said "I need a drink you want one?" Yeah that sounds good. I need one. Matt went and poured two glasses of Scotch with ice and handed one to Brad. " To better days." Said Matt. "I'll drink to that." I was in my room listening to my stereo trying to make sense of everything. I was running everything through my mind and I didn't understand. I heard a knock on my door and said come in. It was Brad he had a bowl of chocolate ice cream with chocolate syrup. My favorite. Brad said "I thought this might help." He said to me you know Matt and I love you and would do anything for you" I said "I know." Brad went on " I know you're hurting now and I wish there was something I can do." "All I can do is say I'm here for you if you need to talk." "Now go eat that ice cream before it melts." I went over and gave Brad a hug. I said "thanks dad." "You're the best." He kissed me on the forehead and he said I love you. Now hurry up and finish your ice cream and get to sleep. I ate the ice cream and tried to get some sleep. I was tossing and turning with so many thoughts running through my head. I finally dozed off and the alarm rang to early. I rushed to get showered and changed. I went downstairs and wolfed down a bowl of cereal. It was New Years Eve and when Brad dropped me off he said it would just be the three of us tonight. Brad said he would pick me up after practice. II'll admit I'd like being in that Mercedes. When I got to the gym before I got to the locker room Connor came over to me. He said I'm sorry to hear about you and Melanie." "That sucks man." I said "does everyone know." News like that spreads like wild fire." Don't worry the girls are already lining up for you man. Ashley is not talking to Melanie and is getting her girls ready to make a play for you. Face it man. You're a chick magnet." I told him I didn't know what I was going to do." Connor said " you got to let Melanie see what's she's missing when you're draped around a hot babe." Practice was rough and when it was over I was dripping with sweat. I got in the shower and was just letting the warm water flow over my body. Connor came in to the shower and he had his back to me. I was looking at his bubble butt. When he turned around I was looking at his smooth chest, tight abs and flowing sandy blond hair. He also had a nice size cock hanging between his legs. I quickly focused on my shower and grabbed my towel. I noticed my dick was getting hard and I quickly got dressed to cover it up. What the hell I thought. Connor is my best friend and I shouldn't be checking him out. As I left the school Brad was waiting. I got in the car and when I got home I went upstairs and said I was going to lie down. Brad said he would call me when dinner was ready. I closed my eyes and fell asleep. I woke up when I heard Brad say dinner is ready. I went downstairs and we had dinner then went inside to watch a college bowl game. After the game ended it was a little after 11:30. Matt went and got the champagne and three glasses. He popped open the bottle and filled the glasses. We were watching the revelers in Time Squares as the New Year was approaching. We counted down the last seconds and the New Year was upon us. We clInked our glasses and hugged one another. Welcome 1979. A year that would be full of triumph and turmoil.