TORNADO WARNING PT 2

 

By

Barry

pueresamo@yahoo.com

 

Disclaimer: This work is one of fiction. Any resemblance of persons or places mentioned in this story to actual persons or places is only slightly more than coincidence.

--------------------------------- All Rights Reserved ------------------------------------------

 

Danny's cute butt took Trey and me back to the warmth of the fire. It was particularly comforting to Danny and me, as we were still naked.

We resumed our previous positions, in front of the fire, Danny sitting on my lap.

Danny was still clutching his belt, like he was afraid of losing it.

"You can put that back on the table if you wish." I suggested.

Danny did as I suggested. His penis bobbing as he walked.

"You have a nice physique, Danny. It's quite well developed." I remarked.

"Thanks, Barry. I feel better about it, now that I know my balls are a decent size." Danny replied.

"You can quit worrying about that, Danny. Your balls are just fine." Trey assured him.

"What about my dick?" Is it OK, too?" Danny asked, as he lifted his penis for us to get a better look.

"Remember what I told you earlier, Danny. Like me, you're a grow-er, not a show-er."

"Oh Yeah, that's right. My dick grows much bigger when I'm hard. So, when I'm hard, is it big enough?" Danny asked.

"It sure is, Danny. You must be at least 5 ½ inches hard...so you'll probably see at least another inch of growth over the next year or so. I'd say you've already got more than most boys your age. Don't worry about it. Besides, the thing works as well as most men's. You can blow cum for feet when you shoot. You're, no doubt, ahead of all your peers, and many men in that regard." I said.

"Yeah, that's true, I really can blow cum all over the place...better than any of my brothers." Danny revealed.

"So, where were we?" I asked

David had run down the hall to prepare breakfast for Travis and you, Barry." Trey reminded me.

"Right." I remember that it was a great breakfast, too. David is quite a cook. I guess he learned it from working for you, Trey, during his college years."

Trey nodded.

Anyway, Travis and I both made pigs of ourselves on the wonderful crepes that David had prepared for us.

Thank you, David. It was very kind of you to cook for us. Travis and I will take care of the clean up. I said.

You know I love to cook, especially for persons I love and whom I know will appreciate it. David responded.

Well, that would certainly describe Travis and me. I suggested.

David smiled and nodded, looking at me with those loving Hazel eyes. David has always been such a gentle soul. I thought. I always feared that the buffeting this cruel world would serve up for him would, ultimately, destroy that angelic attribute. I'm so glad he remains the same David I've always known and loved. I thought.

I'll put on a fresh pot of coffee, while you two are loading the dishwasher and slaving over the pots I dirtied up. David said.

Sounds Wonderful, David. I responded.

When Travis and I finished our cleaning chores, we joined David at the table, where he was reading the paper...The Herald, of course.

I really worry about this country and its destiny. David said. I know you do, as well, Barry, from some of the articles you have written.

You're quite right to be concerned, sweetheart. These are perilous times for the U.S.A.

From what I see coming over the next generation or two. I don't know I can protect myself, much less the two of you. Ganymede help us! I declared.

MERRY CHRISTMAS! David exclaimed with a smile, hoping to break my spell.

Sorry, sorry, I repeated. This is not the day for this discussion.

MERRY CHRISTMAS, My sweet angels! I exclaimed.

I turned to Travis and said:

Travis, David has a chore to perform, if you recall.

Travis rose from the table and took David by the hand and led him to the Christmas Tree. He removed a box from under the tree and handed it to David.

David opened it with a smile; his eyes began to well up,

My Ornaments! He said. Thanks, you two, for waiting for me to place these on the tree.

Travis kissed the tear from David's cheek and said:

We love you, David. Of course we waited for you. We know it's a special treat for you.

Barry explained the tradition to me, Travis concluded.

David kissed Travis' forehead and said:

Thank you Travis, you're very sweet. I love you too.

David showed the ornaments to Travis, saying:

See Travis, there is one here for each year I've been here with my wonderful Barry. Each has the year, and the names Barry & David painted on it.

They're beautiful! Travis exclaimed.

They are indeed, David agreed. They're custom made for us by this little craftsman at the Always Christmas store.

Oh, Travis said, we were just there a few weeks ago.

David looked at me, but responded to Travis, saying:

Why I am not surprised.

Travis smiled.

You ready? I asked.

You know it! David exclaimed.

David handed me the first ornament. I kissed it and returned it to him. He, in turn, kissed it and placed it on the tree.

David paused and said:

Travis, would you like to help?

What do I do? Travis asked.

Well, now that you are here too, the ornaments won't be happy to hang on the tree unless you impart your kiss as well.

Really? Travis asked.

Of course! Travis we're a family now. That includes you.

Ornament by ornament we went, the three of us, lovingly kissing each ornament and, now, Travis placing each upon the tree.

David and I had maintained a constant, loving eye contact during this ritual. God, he still loves me as he always has. I thought. It was so reassuring.

Finally, I interjected:

Travis, I think there's still another ornament awaiting our affection.

Right, he said, retrieving another small box from under the tree.

Travis removed the ornament from the box and showed it to David. Like all the others, each being a different color, this one was gold in color. It too, was printed with this year, but the names were three: Travis, David, Barry.

David smiled and said:

It's beautiful!

Welcome to our Christmas tradition, Travis. I'm so happy we're all together. David declared.

Travis, David continued, I'm sure Barry has explained to you that our Christmas isn't about presents and parties. It's a celebration of the love we share and the God Who is its source.

David went on:

We stand at the tree like this each year and reaffirm that love, even as we are at this moment. The experience is all the more beautiful with your participation, now, Travis.

So, with all that said, David continued, here comes the next part of our tradition.

David turned to me and positioned Travis as the third point in a circumscribing ring.

Barry, Travis, David said, I love you with all my being. I always will.

I went next:

David, Travis, I love you with all my being. I always will.

Travis jumped right in:

Barry, David, I love you with all my being. I always will, I swear it! He added.

We closed the ring to form a mutual hug.

We remained in our hug for some time.

Finally, David broke our silence:

And now we are Three!

Forever forward, David continued, we will share this undying bond of love. It makes me so happy.

Me too, Travis injected, squeezing us tightly.

Me Three! I declared. I love you two angels beyond words.

Travis, David said, we always close this little ritual with a kiss. I'll go first.

David turned to me and kissed me, sweetly, on the lips. He then turned to Travis and started to kiss him on the forehead. Travis stopped him, tilted back his head and kissed David, square on the lips, saying:

All our being, remember?

I could have burst with joy at this acceptance of David by Travis. Indeed, we were three.

I completed the ritual by kissing David, then Travis with the most warm and loving kisses I hold in my heart.

Travis looked at me with that special grin to cue me. David wasn't sure what the cue was, but he followed Travis' lead.

Thank You Ganymede. We all chimed.

Travis, I still want to sing something with you. What do you say? David suggested.

I'm not very good. Travis replied.

We'll have fun. David said. Even Barry sings with me sometimes. We all make our flubs and enjoy laughing at them. That's part of the fun...I make flubs too, you know.

You do? Travis asked.

Sure Do! David answered.

Well...OK. Travis concluded.

There is one song I've learned that I wanted to sing for you and Barry; it's not a Christmas song though. Travis said.

Great! David exclaimed. Please!

I looked at David and gave him an eyebrow-shrug, indicating that I didn't know what was coming.

Travis placed David and I back into our ring of love formation with him. He looked into my eyes, then David's, then mine again.

It's OK, Travis, Please go ahead. David said.

Travis nodded and started:

Now that we love

Now that the lonely nights are over

How do we make love stay...

Travis so shocked both mine and David's hearts that David moved immediately to Travis, startling him as David pressed Travis' cheek to his chest.

I was dumbfounded, I was paralyzed. My heart was about to explode.

Was I that bad? Travis asked.

On the contrary, Travis, it was so beautiful that my heart demanded I hug you immediately.

Do you know the entire set of lyrics by heart, Travis? David asked.

Sure. Travis answered.

But you've only heard it once, Travis. I said.

That's all I usually need. Travis said. I knew it was a special song for both of you, so...

It's the most beautiful thing ever, Travis! David declared.

Dear God, you truly are an angel, David insisted.

Now it's a special song for the three of us. I said.

I was already crying, I couldn't help it.

Forgive me for interrupting you, Travis. David apologized.

Please finish the song. Please. David begged.

Travis continued:

Elusive as dreams, barely remembered in the morning

Love like a phantom flies...

David and I both were crying now.

...Moments fleet taste sweet within the rapture

When precious flesh is greedily consumed...

 

That wonderful angel had caught me and, apparently, David completely off guard and we were both crying like babies.

But mystery's a thing not easily captured

And, once deceased, not easily exhumed...

 

He really knows the whole thing, lyrics and music. I thought. He's remarkable.

...Look at the moonless night and tell me

How do we make love stay.

Travis concluded the song.

David and I looked, once more at each other. We closed our circle of love to hug Travis tightly in our love for him.

Thank You, Travis. I said lovingly. That was beautiful. Absolutely beautiful.

It was, Travis. David agreed. Barry's right, it truly was beautiful.

When we finally disengaged from our embrace, David asked Travis:

Do you really learn a piece of music from a single hearing?

Usually, Travis said. Unless it's really long and complicated. My teacher says it's a gift.

A gift indeed. David replied, glancing up at me.

Well, Travis, I promised we'd sing one together, remember? David asked.

Yep. Travis responded.

Let's go over to the piano. David suggested.

Once there, David opened the piano seat and rummaged through some sheet music until he found what he was looking for.

Ah, here it is! David declared.

This is another one that Barry and I are fond of. We sing it to each other sometimes.

Showing the title to Travis...Annie's Song...

David asked: Do you already know this one?

No. Travis said. Never heard of it.

Well, take a few minutes to look it over. David suggested.

Do you read music? David asked.

Yes. Travis responded.

OK. David said. Look at it for a few moments. When you're ready, I'll play it and we'll sing it to Barry together. OK? David asked.

While Travis was reading the sheet music, David looked at me and smiled with a wink.

It's Pretty. Travis said, as he continued to the final page.

OK. Travis said. I'm ready.

David placed his hands on the keyboard.

Travis looked into my eyes.

David began to play.

Travis began singing alone:

You fill up my senses

Like night in a forest

Like the mountains in spring time

Like a walk in the rain

Like a storm in the desert...

 

David joined in:

Come Let me love you

Let me give my life to you

Let me drown in your laughter

Let me die in your arms...

 

When they finished, I shouted:

Bravo! ...Bravo!

David turned to Travis and said:

Travis, you have a very pleasant voice. You also have excellent range. I'm really quite impressed.

Aw! Travis replied. My voice is still changing. I crack sometimes.

That will pass. David instructed.

Travis, David asked, have you ever been tested for photographic memory?

Never heard of it. Travis responded.

David looked up at me and nodded.

What a dolt I am. I thought. I should have picked up on this before now. God, how I have let this angel down. He has a rare gift and I have failed to recognize it.

Let's try another. David suggested.

OK. Travis replied.

This is another one that is special to me. I began singing it to Barry when I had to move to Europe. David explained.

Do you know this one? David asked.

If, Travis replied. No, I don't know it.

Look it over. David said.

Do you like this one, Barry? Travis asked me.

Yes, I replied. David sings it to me sometimes.

After a moment, Travis said:

OK.

David began to play.

Travis stopped him.

Don't you need this? Travis inquired as he handed the sheet music back to David.

It's OK, Travis, I don't need it. David replied. Just place it here on the piano seat so it doesn't distract you.

OK. Travis replied.

David began again.

Travis looked into my eyes and began on cue:

If a picture paints a thousand words

Then why can't I paint you?

The words will never show

The you I've come to know...

David looked at Travis and, then, at me.

David nodded, once more, and winked at me.

David joined in harmony with Travis:

If a man could be two places at one time

I'd be with you

Tomorrow and today, beside you all the way...

I was in utter amazement. I was also ashamed of myself for having failed to recognize this gift in Travis.

...If the world should stop revolving, spinning slowly down to die

I'd spend the end with you

And when the world was through

Then one by one the stars would all go out

Then you and I would simply fly away

Neither Travis' nor David's eyes left mine, as the song came to an end.

Don't cry, Barry. Travis said. It's Christmas!

Tears of joy, sweet angels. God how I love you two. I said.

" I can't sing anything, Barry. Guess I'd never fit in with you guys." Danny said.

"Don't be silly, Danny, there's only one prerequisite to fitting in with us, as you put it." I stated.

"What's that?" Danny asked.

"You must have a heart full of love...just like the one you have, Danny." I said.

"Really?" Danny said with a big smile.

"Really." I replied.

Danny widened his, already big smile. His eyes sparkled as well.

"Barry?" Danny asked.

"Yes, sweet boy." I said.

"Can I say something to you and you won't get mad?" Danny asked.

"I suppose so, Danny. I can't imagine what it could be such that I would get angry." I answered.

Danny looked into my eyes with his sparkling green eyes and said: "I love you, Barry."

I was taken aback by Danny's expression of love for me. I was entirely sure how to answer him. I placed a hand on each of his cheeks and kissed him, as before, on the lips. He closed his eyes as I did so. After we shared the kiss I spoke to him:

"Danny, my sweet boy, isn't it perhaps a bit premature to tell me you love me having only just met me a few hours ago?"

He replied without hesitation:

"I'm not saying I'm IN LOVE with you, Barry. I know I don't have a place with you like David or Travis...but I feel I'd like to, and that my love for you would grow into that sort of love...I was listening when you spoke of the kind of love you share with David and Travis...Hell, I'd love to be part of that."

"Well, my new young friend, I must say that my heart is drawn to you very much, even at this early state...so if you don't misunderstand what I'm about to say: "I love you too, Danny".

Danny lit up like a light.

"Really?" He said, gleefully.

"As you said, Danny, I'm not IN LOVE with you, but yes you do compel me to love you. I like what I see in you, not just your physical beauty, which is considerable, but what I see in your heart...so, YES! I love you, Danny. We'll see how things develop over time as it goes to becoming involved in a deeper love as friends. My relationship with David and Travis is unique. We're not looking for...shall we say...new members to join us. Still we have many friends whom we love very dearly. Perhaps you may become one of them. That's all I encourage you with right now. I don't want to give you any false hopes of anything more...OK?"

Danny remained resolute:

"OK...but I'll keep trying till you guys accept me." He replied.

I looked at Trey and we smiled at each other.

"Sounds like he's determined, Barry." Trey said.

"I damn sure am!" Danny chimed in.

"Let's just start with at the beginning, Danny. We'll see where things go from there, OK?" I said, hoping to satisfy him for the time being.

OK...will you tell more of the story...PLEASE?" Danny asked.

"I want to hear the rest as well, Barry." Trey added.

"OK, OK, already..." I said.

"David and Travis had just finished singing some song for me..."

Well, David asked, did we do justice to John Denver and to Bread?

Indeed, you did. I replied. And Travis did a very fine job with Make Love Stay.

Travis, David began, when you read sheet music, you actually hear the music in your head as you memorize the lyrics, don't you?

Sure, doesn't everyone? Travis responded.

You have a gift, Travis. We must nurture it. David said.

Do you play an instrument? David asked.

No, I've never learned. Travis responded.

Would you like to? David asked.

I don't know, I've never thought about it. Travis replied.

OK. David said. We can talk about it another time, then.

OK. Travis replied.

David turned to me and said:

This morning, while I watched Travis sleeping on your breast, a song came to mind, which might right for us to celebrate Travis.

Great! What is it? I inquired.

Yeah! Travis injected. What is it?

It's a surprise! David declared. Besides, I don't have the lyrics for it here. I'll have to go onto the Internet... Letssingit.com...or one of those sites and pull them up.

Aw! Travis exclaimed. How about a hint.

OK. David replied. The underlying rhythm is a heartbeat. That's all I'm saying.

Hmmmmm. Travis puzzled.

You'll just have to wait. David said with a smile.

The phone rang to interrupt us. It was Trey.

After hanging up with Trey, I said:

OK, you two, Trey closes at 3:00 and he'd like us there about 3:30PM.

Sounds Great! David said. By then we should be starve...

Starvicating! Travis injected, with a grin.

For sure. David added, grinning back at Travis.

In the meantime, Travis, let's go look up those lyrics. David suggested.

ALLRIGHT! Travis replied.

Barry, no peeking now! David exclaimed.

OK! I'm going to the kitchen, then, and call Sam and Brian and wish them a Merry Christmas. I'll tell them we'd like to drop by later, if it's OK.

OK! David shouted from the other end of the house.

The time for us to leave for Trey came quickly.

David came through the front door, having started to car so it might warm up, singing: I'm dreaming of a White Christmas.

Really? I asked with a smile.

If we'd have opened the curtains, we'd have seen it already.

Wonderful! I exclaimed.

Don't get too excited, Barry, it's little more than a dusting, but I'd say it qualifies.

Travis injected: I don't know if I'll ever be happy about snow or sleet or ice ever again.

I understand, sweetie. I replied.

It continued to snow, albeit lightly, during our drive to Trey.

I turned to Trey, as I continued...Trey was waiting for us just inside the door. He ushered us in and locked the door behind us.

Merry Christmas, My Dear Friends! Welcome! Trey exclaimed. I'm so glad you could join me.

We're honored you asked. David replied.

You're such a sweetheart, David. Trey declared.

Trey led us to the celebrity table next to the piano bar and near the kitchen.

Travis, you're the guest of honor. You sit here, please.

OK. Travis replied.

The rest of us took our seats, according to the placement of our napkin rings.

Before Travis, upon the table in front of him, was a glittering little box labeled, simply, To: Travis... From: Trey.

Travis looked at it briefly and looked over to Trey saying:

Oh Trey, you didn't need to get me anything, really.

Oh yes I did, Trey said. Ganymede suggested it personally. I wouldn't want him to be upset with me.

Travis smiled. His eyes sparkled in the Christmas lights.

Thanks Trey. Thanks a lot. Travis said.

Please open it, Travis. Trey said... Before I have to leave for the kitchen. I want to be sure you like it.

Travis wasted no time ripping the wrapping paper from the box, much to Trey's amusement. David and I, too, were watching with big smiles.

Removing it from the tissue paper, Travis held up a shining new 10K gold napkin ring. He saw that his name was engraved on it.

Oh Trey! Travis exclaimed. It's beautiful. My very own napkin ring. Real Gold and everything! With my name on it. Thank you Trey, It's beautiful

Travis rose from his seat and approached Trey, and kissed him on the cheek.

Thank you, Trey. I love it. Thank you very much.

Merry Christmas, Travis. Trey said.

Now, Trey continued, you're a set. Barry and David have rings exactly like yours.

Also gifts from Trey. I injected.

The gold glittered and was reflecting in Travis' sparkling eyes as Trey rose and said:

Well, then, it's off to the kitchen with me.

Wow! Travis exclaimed, as Trey left the room, That was very nice of him. I didn't bring him anything.

Oh, but you did. I insisted.

You brought him the joy of watching you open his gift and relish in it. Furthermore, you gave him the kiss of an angel. I continued: You gave him something far more precious than gold, sweet Travis. Believe me, Trey knows it.

It's true Travis, David inserted, you gave Trey the gift of your friendship. Gold could never measure up to that.

Trey stuck his head, briefly, back out of the kitchen door and said:

David, could you please play the bartender?

Sure, Trey. David responded.

Soon, Trey returned with our salads and placed them before us.

Please don't wait on me. Trey said. I'll join you for the entrée in a bit.

Travis was first to taste his salad.

It's delicious! Travis declared. I've never tasted anything like it. What does he put in the dressing? It's wonderful.

It's a closely guarded secret, David responded. You'll never get him to tell you. Trade Secret! David said with a smile. He won't even prepare it in the presence of the other chefs.

Trey has been a true friend for many years, Travis, and we're blessed to have him as our friend. I said. I continued:

True friends are few and far between, sweet Travis.

It has been famously said that a true friend is someone who knows everything there is to know about you, but loves you anyway. We're very blessed, in that we have several friends who satisfy that definition. You'll be lucky, if, in your lifetime, you can count such friends on one hand.

Travis nodded, still working on his salad.

Save some room now, sweetheart. I suggested.

Trey emerged from the kitchen and placed our entrees in front of us. Prime Rib, and all the fixings.

Wow! Travis exclaimed in a protracted fashion.

Trey brought a fresh carafe of coffee and placed it on a little candle- warmer on the table next to us.

Trey took his seat next to Travis.

Merry Christmas, my dear friends, ENJOY! Trey exclaimed.

Trey continued:

I thought a little departure from the usual Christmas fare might be a welcome change. I've had enough ham, turkey, potatoes, and pumpkin pie for this season.

As Travis reached for his knife, I said:

Travis, I think you'll appreciate the special seasoning Trey marinates the prime rib with.

Travis placed the first bite into his precious mouth. His eyes lit up and he looked at Trey as he chewed and swallowed it.

Travis, finally able to speak, said:

My tongue is having an orgasm!

We all broke into laughter.

That's a good, succinct, way of putting it, Travis, I agree with your assessment. I said.

Thanks for the high compliment, Travis. Trey said. No one has ever put it into quite the superlative as you just did. I'm glad you're enjoying everything. I'm enjoying having you all.

Seriously, Trey, Travis said, I've never tasted anything so delicious...and the salad is like it was personally delivered by Ganymede from heaven.

You're the "food- angel", Trey. That's my new name for you. Travis declared. The Food Angel.

Travis, that's the sweetest thing anyone has ever said to me. Thank you very much. Trey responded.

Trey turned to me and exclaimed:

He's an angel! God, you're lucky.

I am, indeed. I agreed. I have, not one, but two angels entrusted to me. I'm truly blessed.

Travis, would you like more wine? Trey asked.

I'm OK for now. Thanks, Food Angel. Travis responded.

Trey smiled and said:

Anyone else?

We're fine, Trey, everything is just super. Thank you. I said.

As we finished, Trey rose from the table and said:

I'll get the dessert.

Whoa! Travis exclaimed, as Trey set the dessert in front of him.

It's Death by Chocolate. Trey said. I think you'll like it. Ganymede recommended it as perfect for an angel.

Travis smiled.

Travis ate as much as he could and turned to Trey and said:

Would Ganymede understand if I take most of this home? I'm stuffed, Food Angel.

Of Course, Travis. As you wish, Trey advised.

Coffee all around? Trey asked.

Great! I responded.

After Trey had served the coffee, David turned to Trey and said:

Trey, if it's OK to use your piano...Travis and I have a special present for Barry. We'd like you to be here for it too.

I'm honored. Thanks, David.

I had a pretty good idea what was about to happen, and tried to prepare myself so as not to begin crying, still again.

Are you ready, Travis? David asked.

Yes. Travis replied.

Travis rose from his seat and came over to me and motioned for me to turn my seat sideways. I complied.

Travis stood somewhat wedged between my legs, which I spread to accommodate him. He reached and took my hands into his own and looked lovingly into my eyes.

David began, low on the keyboard, simulating a heartbeat.

Travis came in on cue, still gazing into my unworthy eyes.

The first time, ever I saw your face

I thought the sun rose in your eyes

And the moon and the stars

Were the gifts you gave...

 

God! I thought. My heart will surely burst. I love these two angels. Only God could love them more.

And the first time, ever I kissed your mouth
I felt the earth move in my hands
Like the trembling heart
Of a captive bird
That was there, at my command
My Love. 
 
 

I wanted to kiss him right there and then...

And the first time, ever I lay with you
I felt your heart so close to mine
And I knew our joy
Would fill the earth
And last, til the end of time
My Love.
And last, 'til the end of time.
My love.

I wasn't sure I could make it through to the end without blubbering like a baby...

The first time, ever I saw
Your face
Your face
Your fa-ace
Your face...

 

Travis ended the song, but not his loving eye contact with me. He bent to kiss tears from my cheeks and, then, pressed a loving kiss to my awaiting lips.

Trey, standing off to my side, watching this exchange, had tears of his own. He was busy wiping them from his eyes with a napkin.

God, Barry! Trey exclaimed, You ARE truly blessed.

Travis is more than an angel, he's a god. Had he lived in ancient Greece, the place would be replete with statues of him.

David, too, Trey continued. It's not fair. You have the two most precious angels of all. What is left for the rest of us?

Rest assured, Trey. There are many other angels out there, right now, starving for someone to love them. I did get the two best of them though, didn't I? I asked, as I winked at Travis.

Yes, you did, indeed! Trey exclaimed with a smile.

Trey, I said, I can't thank you enough for all you've done to make our Christmas so special. You're a true friend. You've always been. We love you Trey.

I second that! David declared.

Me too! Travis injected. Everything was wonderful.

I love you guys too, Trey replied. Thank you for joining me. It's been equally special for me that you would allow me to share in such an intimate moment as Travis' song. You three have something very special. I'm so happy for you. I'm blessed to be your friend.

Thank you Trey. You have a special place in our hearts, you always will. I stated.

I only wish Michael could have been here with us. He'd be next to me crying, like I am. Trey suggested.

I know it's been crushingly difficult for you to be without him after all those years together. I said. No one, of course, can ever replace him in your heart, Trey. You know that. I hope the place you have made in your heart for the three of us, might, somehow serve up a little consolation. You are loved very much, Trey. Never doubt it. I said.

Oh, I know! Trey exclaimed and I'm blessed to be able to welcome you into my tired old heart, you are most welcome there. Trey said with a smile.

Travis was looking at me with questioning eyes.

Travis, Trey's lover of many years, Michael, died in an auto accident a few years ago. It's been very difficult for Trey. I instructed.

Travis said nothing. He went immediately to Trey and delivered a sweet hug. Trey responded with his own hug.

Travis kissed Trey on the cheek and said:

I'm really sorry, Trey. It would kill me if anything happened to Barry or to David.

Thank you, Travis. That you understand my pain, at your age, is further evidence of just how special you are. Trey instructed.

Trey turned to me and said:

He's an angel. Ganymede brought you another angel You ARE really blessed.

I know! I agreed.

How about if we help you clean up before we go to see Sam and Bryan? I suggested.

Naw! Trey replied. I'll take care of it. It'll only take a few minutes.

Let me prepare a couple of plates for you to take to them. Please tell them Merry Christmas for me and that I hope they enjoy the food. Trey said.

Trey looked, very seriously, at me and said:

Have you prepared Travis for what he is about to see and experience?

I was going to do so in the car. I replied. However, I continued, perhaps I should do that now, while you prepare the plates.

Trey nodded, then, began to walk toward the kitchen. David came to my side to help.

Travis, I have explained to you that Bryan has HIV / AIDS. He has also contracted a couple of opportunistic diseases. Those are diseases that become possible, or even easy to contract, once your immune system is devastated by the HIV virus itself. I'll explain it all to you in much more detail at home, later.

Bryan has Kaposi Sarcoma. It's a type of cancer. It produces lesions, or open sores, that are very unpleasant to look at. Furthermore, those lesions tend to necrotize. That means that the flesh, itself, dies, so it behaves in the same manner as when a body has died.

You mean parts of him are already dead...but most of him is still alive? Travis inquired.

That's an apt way to put it, I'm sad to say. I replied.

One more thing. David added. When tissue or skin necrotizes, it...well...it putrefies...it...well, it smells very badly.

Travis, sweetheart, if you'd rather wait here with Trey or wait in the car while David and I go in to see Sam and Bryan, We'd all understand. This will be difficult, even for David and me.

Sam and Bryan are our friends, right? Travis asked.

They are, yes, sweetheart. I replied.

Then I should go to meet them and show them that I'm their friend too. Travis said.

OK. I said. If you change your mind on the way, it's OK. Really! It's OK.

Sam had been watching for us and met us at the door. Sam opened the door and smiled, happy to see us.

Welcome, my friends! Sam said.

Turning to Travis, Sam said.

Travis, thank you for coming, I've heard so many wonderful things about you.

Travis nodded and held up the plastic bag with the plates Trey had prepared.

Travis said: Trey sent these and asked me to tell you Merry Christmas and he hopes you like the food.

Sam took the bag from Travis and sat it on a small table near the door saying:

I must call Trey in the morning and thank him. That's very sweet of him.

Then, Sam hugged me, then David, saying:

David it's so good of you...

David interrupted him and said:

Of course you know we love you guys and want to see you.

Of course, Sam said. We love you guys too.

Bryan is anxious to see you. Sam said.

He picked up a small jar of camphor and said:

You might want to put a little under your nostrils. I'm used to it by now, but most visitors...well you might want to...his eyes fell to look at the floor.

Sam, I'm so sorry. I said. I wish I knew what to say.

It's OK. Sam said. There's nothing to be said.

I love him; I'll be with him to the end and hope he'll be waiting for me when my time comes. Sam said.

As we removed our coats and placed them on the coat rack, Sam saw Travis in the full light. He turned to me and said:

He's strikingly beautiful; Barry. He's at high risk, you know?

I've explained that to him repeatedly. I said.

Sam turned to Travis and said:

Travis; learn well from what you are about to see and experience here tonight. If you make even one bad decision, you could find yourself in the same situation as Bryan is now. Do you understand? Sam asked.

Travis nodded and said: I'm all Barry's, I don't have to worry.

We decided that it was wise to take Sam's advice and use the camphor, embarrassing as it was for us.

I turned to Travis, once more, and said:

Sweetie; are you sure you want to see this?

Travis nodded.

When we entered Bryan's room, what we beheld was a shock, even for David and me. I hadn't realized that Bryan's condition had deteriorated so quickly.

Travis squeezed my hand and stood a half step behind me. None of us were truly prepared for this horror.

Bryan was completely nude, lying on a hospital bed, brought in by the Hospice people. His legs were spread to keep the lesions on his thighs from rubbing.

Sam saw that we weren't expecting this and promptly said:

His lesions are now too sensitive to tolerate being covered, plus they constantly ooze, due to the necrosis, so I move from one to another wiping away the puss.

Dear God! Sam. You're a saint...a saint.

Bryan was not very lucid; he was on a morphine drip...usually a sign that death was only a matter of hours, at most a few days away.

You'll have to get a little closer for him to hear you. Sam advised.

As we moved to his bedside, Bryan, who had been facing away from us and toward the window, responded to my "Hello Bryan, it's David and Travis and I", by turning to face us.

As he did, Travis was shocked and drew in a deep gasp. David and I were equally taken aback. Bryan's face was covered with reddish-purple lesions and, as Sam had warned, they were oozing green puss onto his face, even as we looked on.

When Sam saw this, he said:

Oh My! I'm sorry Bryan. I'll tend to them right away.

Bryan, so sedated he could barely speak, turned to me and slowly formed a smile for us.

Don't try to speak, if you find it difficult, Bryan. We understand I assured him.

Sam's dabbing at the putrefying flesh of Bryan's lesions caused their odor to be amplified into the air.

It was indescribable! Overwhelming even the camphor.

Travis was, by now, squeezing my hand so tightly that I feared he had cut off its circulation.

I turned to Travis and asked:

You OK, sweetie?

Travis nodded.

I turned back to Bryan and said:

This is Travis. I'm sure Sam has mentioned him to you.

Bryan mustered up a weak and raspy one-word response, as he looked at Travis:

Beautiful. Bryan said.

Yes, he is. I agreed.

Bryan still looking at Travis, but speaking to me, said:

Protect him.

I will Bryan, you know I will.

Bryan nodded slowly. He turned to David and said:

David, sweet David, Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas to you, Bryan. David said. I'm so glad I was able to be here.

Bryan nodded and said to David:

Take care...Barry...Travis...OK?

Of course, Bryan. Travis and Barry are why I live. I will always take care of them. David replied.

Bryan turned to me and said, in that same weak raspy voice:

Merry Christmas, Barry.

Merry Christmas, Bryan. I responded.

Look after Sam once I'm gone, OK? Bryan asked.

Of course, Bryan, you can take it to...

TO THE BANK! Travis concluded for me.

Bryan nodded and smiled at Travis.

Sam had stayed busy during our conversation dabbing away the putrefication from Bryan's lesions. Bryan's legs, arms, torso, even his penis were disfigured by these disgusting open sores.

I could sense that Travis was trying to cope with something even most grown men couldn't palate.

Bryan, I said, I don't want to add to your stress. Besides, it's getting late and we'd better be getting along now. I said.

We love you very much, and will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. I assured him.

Love you too. Bryan said.

Finally, he turned again to me once more saying:

Protect Travis.

I promise, Bryan. I will. David will too. I promise. I assured him.

He turned back to Travis and smiled and said:

Love...Barry...David...trust...them... his voice tapering off to a whisper.

I love them with all my being, Travis said. Don't worry.

Bryan smiled and nodded slowly. Then he turned to face the window once more. It was our cue to take our leave.

Thank you for having us, Sam. I said.

Thank you for being here. Sam replied. It means a great deal to us that you would share your Christmas with us this way.

Sam followed us to the door and offered us moistened wipes to remove the camphor.

Try to eat something, Sam. Trey sent it as his Christmas gift. Besides, you've got to keep your strength up. OK? I suggested.

Sam nodded and smiled.

He kissed each of us on the forehead and said:

Thank you for coming. Merry Christmas.

Thank you, Sam. If you need us, please don't hesitate, seriously, Sam, we'll be here in a flash. I assured him.

He nodded and turned to Travis.

Travis, I hope this visit helped you to understand the risk you take if you...

I know, I understand, don't worry. Travis interrupted.

None of us spoke during the entire ride home.

I felt something warm on my chest and looked down at Danny...he was crying this time. His tears were falling on my breast.

"What is it, Sweet Boy?!?" I asked.

"Poor Bryan...all those sores and everything. I don't think I could have seen it, the way Travis did. It's so sad." Danny remarked.

I tilted his face toward me and kissed the tears from his cheeks:

"It's OK, sweetheart, don't be sad. Bryan's at peace now. So is Sam...but that's another story. I'm quite impressed with you, Danny; you demonstrate a level of sensitivity that few allow to be seen by others. No wonder I feel compelled to love you." I observed.

"Poor Bryan!" Danny repeated.

"Maybe I'd better not go on with my storytelling. I don't want to upset you further, sweet boy." I suggested.

"No, please tell the rest...PLEASE?" Danny asked.

"Yes, Barry, please...I am ashamed I didn't visit Bryan more often, but I was too weak...I couldn't bear it...I should have..."

I interrupted:

"I know Bryan would understand, Trey. He knew full well the condition he was in. Don't worry, Trey...no need to feel ashamed. Bryan would be upset if he knew you felt ashamed."

Trey nodded, and tried to smile.

"The rest of the story involves the remaining time David was here to visit. There was a lot of intimacy and some pretty heavy lovemaking. I don't know if you really want to hear all that stuff. We may all be in need of another visit to the bathroom, if you know what I mean, before I could finish the story." I said.

"Whoa...then I want to hear it for sure!" Danny said with a big smile and a wink.

"I dunno..." I said.

"Look!...I'm getting a boner, just thinking about it.

Sure enough, Danny's young, pink penis was standing at attention awaiting the rest of the story.

"OK, then." I resigned myself to relating the rest of the story.

"We had returned in silence to the house, after our solemn visit to Bryan and Sam...that's where I left off...right?" I queried.

"Yeah...Poor Bryan..." Danny said.

Well; Although none of the three of us spoke during our ride home, our minds were certainly NOT idle. I'm sure we were all trying to absorb and digest what we had just experienced at Sam and Bryan's. It was horrific, it was heartbreaking, and none of us could do anything to make it better. I felt so completely powerless and utterly useless.

I suppose, however, that the impression it left with Travis constituted a lesson which I could never have achieved, no matter how many hours I expended...no matter how many sentences I formulated to try to achieve that same lesson for my sweet Travis. Those fifteen minutes was worth a full semester and will never be diminished in Travis' precious mind. There was poor Bryan, dying before our eyes, and at the same time, putting me, finally, into his debt by teaching my sweet, sweet Travis about the Horror that is HIV / AIDS.

I could use a drink! David exclaimed, as he brought the car to a stop in front of the house.

Me too! Said Travis.

Me Three! I added.

Once more, we were greeted by the delightful scent of pine as we entered the foyer.

David said: I'll play the bartender...the usual...all around? He asked.

Yes, please, said Travis and I in unison.

I'll start a fire for us. Travis added, as he started for the garage to fetch some wood.

GREAT! I exclaimed. That will really feel good. Thank You, Travis.

As Travis gathered the wood from the garage, I went to watch over David's shoulder and hug him from behind as he prepared our drinks. David stopped and turned around in my arms to face me. He placed his hands, one on each of my cheeks, then moved his face to mine and pressed his lips to mine.

Just then, Travis came back through the garage door to observe our passionate kiss.

That is so beautiful! Travis declared. Can I have just a little taste? He asked, as he smiled at us.

Come here and find out! David suggested.

Travis wasted no time joining us. He gave David, then me, a sweet kiss on the lips.

David smiled at Travis and pulled him to himself and kissed Travis on the lips in a more loving, though not passionate fashion.

I, then, took my turn and did the same, except my kiss was quite passionate.

Wow! Travis exclaimed when I finally finished sucking the breath out of him.

You didn't think we'd leave you out, did you? David asked, smiling at Travis.

Of course not! Travis exclaimed. I know better than that. Although, I haven't let the two of you have a minute alone all this time, and that's not fair to you, David. I'm sorry.

So, Travis continued, I thought I'd watch that movie that David mentioned this morning...Maurice... And let the two of you spend some time alone.

Travis winked at David and me and said:

I'm sure you two can think of a good use of the time. He winked again.

Really? David asked. You don't mind if I show my love to Barry as I always have?

Of course NOT! Travis replied. It would be wrong for you not to show Barry your love. You were here, showing Barry your love, and Barry showing you his love, long before Ganymede brought me here to become one with you two. It's only right. I'm happy you can be here at Christmas, especially to share your love. Barry taught me how love works. So the more you give to each other, the more it multiplies in each of you. That gives each of you more to share with me too.

Dear God! David interjected. Travis, you understand things well beyond your years...you are truly exceptional. I love you, Travis.

I do understand. NOW THEN...off to the bedroom with you two. Travis said with a smile.

OK. David asserted. You won't have to say that twice. Let me finish our drinks.

No! I'll finish them, Travis insisted. NOW...off with the two of you...time is short, you know. David has to leave tomorrow.

Don't remind me. David said.

Then GET GOING! Travis demanded.

David and I smiled. David took me by the hand and began to lead me toward the bedroom saying, you heard him, we'd better do as he says.

I think you're right. I agreed.

Travis, start the spa heater in a little while, OK? I asked, as we left the room.

OK! Travis replied.

When we reached the bedroom, David and I began to undress each other, all the while deeply engaged in our most loving and intense eye contact.

David and I stood there naked for each other, David, on his knees, pressed his cheek to my genitals as he placed his arms around my butt.

Just then, Travis entered with our drinks.

OOPS! Travis declared, I'll just put these on the table here.

You two are so beautiful together, Travis said, like you were meant to be together this way... It's beautiful.

Thank you for this, Travis! David said.

It's only right! Travis replied. It's good!

Travis left the room. Soon I could hear the TV come to life and the theme music from Maurice began.

David positioned my penis with his hand and began slowly licking it up and down, concentrating on my frenulum. I was seeing fireworks.

David stopped, stood up, and gently led me by my penis to the bed and had me to lie down, as was our custom.

We assumed the 69 position, and began our customary ritual. I held David's extremely erect penis still in my mouth, while he worked his magic on me. Slowly, so slowly, he continued to lick the shaft of my penis, and as his tongue would reach my glans, he would kiss its tip, partially inserting it into his mouth all the way to its corona ring.

My penis was throbbing so strongly, David had to hold it tightly to control its unruly behavior.

David held my penis still and moved to my balls. He licked them till they were nearly dripping with his saliva. He sucked them, one at a time, into his mouth and caressed them with his tongue. He, then, sucked them both into his mouth and kneaded them together with contractions of his mouth and tongue.

David returned to my penis and, placing it into his precious mouth, began to slowly move his head up and down on it, while generously lubricating it with his saliva.

The fireworks were spectacular as I reached the point of no return.

OK, Baby! I whispered.

David knew this cue, and allowed me to roll onto my back while he held my penis tightly in his hand directing my glans onto my abdomen.

I exploded, shooting cum all over my belly and abdomen. Six or seven spasms later, I finally finished with the remaining semen dripping slowly from my glans onto my abdomen.

David traced his finger from my anus to my glans kissing the remaining semen from its tip.

Beautiful, David whispered...beautiful, as it has always been.

David then placed his head next to my abdomen, lying on his side.

He used his index finger to squeegee my semen from my belly and abdomen to gather it into a pool in and around my belly button.

He raised his head to look directly down at my new semen pool. With his tongue, he stirred it and tasted it, drop by drop.

David's entire body was red with passion, as he continued to sip from the semen pool. I had long since departed for heaven...surely that's where I was.

His tongue wicked my navel nearly dry, but he stopped and said:

Let's leave a little as an appetizer for Travis. I'll add some of my own and he'll have both our essences inside him...if he wants.

I'm sure he will, sweetheart. I replied.

David, then, as was our custom, propped me up with pillows till my mouth was positioned to accept his, now pulsating penis, now glistening with pre-cum which began to string its way down from his glans to my chest as he moved to straddle me close enough that I could take him into me, which I did eagerly. The taste of him was the same delicious experience it had been since he was a kid. I could taste the pre cum oozing from him onto my awaiting tongue. It was Glorious!

He placed his hands on the headboard above me and began slowly stroking his penis in and out of my anxious mouth.

OH GOD! He exclaimed; how I have longed for this.

He moved his hands to the sides of my head and said:

As I have always been totally yours, I beg you to take my essence into you once more, that we may always be one.

He exploded into me, in what seemed, not like spurts, but a constant, non-stop stream of his exquisite semen.

As this, seemingly boundless, stream of David's essence finally began to subside; he gently withdrew his penis and allowed the final portion of its stream to fall to my chest.

He, once more, moved to my side and using his finger, moved that semen to the pool already waiting in my navel.

David used his tongue, once more, to stir the two together and then cupped it onto his tongue and painted it onto my lips.

Oh God! Barry, David finally said, I don't ever want to be without you again. To Hell with Europe, he said, as he began to cry.

I know, sweetheart, I replied, as I pulled him into a snuggle, I know. I repeated.

I don't think I can take it for another year, I HATE IT! He declared.

Like I said before, sweetheart, you're not imprisoned there. I'll bet they work out something more palatable for you. If not, kiss them goodbye and get your gorgeous butt back home to be with Travis and me.

Yes! That's what I'll insist upon, when I get back there. I may be home sooner than you think, David said.

Either way, sweetheart... You'll be in charge of the situation.

As I began wiping the tears from his eyes, he said:

God, I love you so much, Barry!

And I you, sweet David...ALWAYS! I replied.

Whoa...we heard emanating from the den. David's spell was broken and he began to chuckle...want to bet which scene just came up on Maurice?

I have a pretty good idea, I replied, but I wouldn't put it to the bet.

David retrieved his drink from the table, where Travis had placed it, also handing me mine.

No, I said; Leave mine on the table for now, till I place this special kiss on Travis' sweet lips, as I pointed to our mixed essences still on my lips.

Right! David said.

I'll send him to you and meet you in the spa a little later. David concluded.

Soon, Travis appeared and said:

Scudder is so cute, really cute...but I wouldn't trust him.

Yes, Scudder is played by Rupert Graves; he did a very convincing job with his role as Scudder.

I can't believe they showed those two guys naked from the front in a regular movie. Travis said.

It was a somewhat bold move. I responded.

David said you have something special for me. Travis queried.

Yes, I do. I replied.

OK. Travis said.

It's a special kiss, sweet Travis. On my lips, is a special mixture of David's and my own essence just for you.

Travis moved to me immediately and, after using his tongue to re-moisten my lips, kissed me passionately. When he had, finally, transferred it all to his own tongue, he licked his lips and then mine and said:

I love it that David was willing to let me have his essence.

He wants us to be truly one, even in essence. I replied.

It's different, but good. Travis said. I know the taste of Barry's berries...it's different when David's is mixed in. It's good though. Travis concluded.

You want the rest? I asked.

Sure, Travis replied.

The last of it is pooled up in my belly button. I suggested.

Travis wasted no time kissing the rest of it from me. When he finished he said:

Now, I have to give David a taste of me.

We'll think of something, I'm sure. I suggested.

Ready for the spa? I asked.

Yeah! Travis exclaimed.

We joined David in the spa, after Travis had disrobed in the anteroom. Travis was already erect from our special kiss. As we lowered ourselves into the water with David, Travis and I both let out the usual sigh.

Ahhhhh, this is so wonderful. I proclaimed.

After we acclimated to the experience, Travis turned to David and said:

Thank you, David, for sharing a taste of your essence with me. I love you.

I love you too, Travis. David responded, now we're one in an even more special way.

But I haven't shared my essence with you, David. Travis said.

Well, next time you and Barry share your essences, save me a taste and it will be complete. David suggested.

Can I do it now? Travis asked.

Do you want some privacy? David inquired. I can go into the house for a while, he offered.

We're becoming one aren't we? Travis replied.

We are. David responded.

Then, I don't mind if you're here. Travis said.

OK. David said.

Travis stood up, exposing his erect, and, thanks to the hot water, very red, very hot penis.

He approached me to stand directly in front of me. David was sitting next to me.

Travis, David said, you have the most beautiful physique and perfectly formed genitals I've ever seen. I'm really envious.

Thank you, David. They belong to Barry. Travis replied.

I know, David replied, and it's very beautiful.

Barry, Travis said to me, please take me into you now and save a taste of my essence for David.

Of course, sweet Travis, of course. I replied.

The design of the spa made it an awkward position for Travis. He placed his hands on the deck on either side of me to gain the proper angle for his penis to enter my mouth. I steadied him by placing my hands on his butt to hold him in place.

David, will you help guide me? Travis asked.

David looked at me. I nodded.

I'd be happy to help, Travis. David replied.

David gently took Travis' throbbing penis into his hand and positioned it for me. I eagerly took Travis' delicious penis into me.

The Jacuzzi jets were blowing bubbles across Travis' balls and penis as he slowly stroked back and forth, as I held his butt.

David moved his guiding hand back against to Travis' abdomen so as not to impede Travis' stroke. Only David's thumb and index finger remained in place to ensure Travis's penis remained in the proper position.

Travis' strokes grew faster and his scrotum began to contract, elevating his huge balls out of the hot water.

Travis pushed that wonderful penis deep into me and the usual powerful ejaculatory spasms began. Eight of them left his cum dribbling down my chin and into the water.

Travis slowly withdrew from me. David still holding his throbbing penis.

Still holding onto Travis, David leaned over to kiss Travis' essence from my chin and mouth. When he finished, I said:

I think you should have the rest. I'll push it up for you.

Travis stood back up. David relinquished Travis' penis to my grip. I began at Travis' anus and gently pushed the rest of his cum to a glistening pool at Travis' meatus.

David took the cue and kissed Travis' essence from the tip of his penis, rubbing his lips back and forth across Travis' glans to get it all.

David sat up again and looked lovingly at Travis and said:

Thank You, Travis. It is complete. We have all three tasted and shared each other's essence. We are now one forever.

Yes! Travis replied; We are one...ALWAYS!

We ARE one! I added. I love you two beyond words.

It doesn't matter where you are now, David. Here, or in Europe, you have Barry and me in you. We're always together. Travis instructed.

David turned to me and said:

God! He's amazing. He really understands all this, at his age.

Travis you are extraordinary. David declared.

Thank you David, so are you. Travis responded.

The three of us slept like the proverbial log.

Too soon came the next day, when David had to leave.

We awoke in our customary positions, Travis's cheek on my breast, David cuddled up to my other side.

God! David said, when he realized Travis and I were both awake, I don't want this to end.

David reached over and stroked Travis' shimmering hair.

Travis smiled back at him.

Well, David said, there's no putting it off. Guess I'd better start getting ready to go.

I'll make us some breakfast. I said.

Something light for me, Please. David requested. I don't like to fly on a full stomach. It just adds to the discomfort of a long flight.

How about some fruit and toast? I asked.

Perfect! David responded.

After breakfast, Travis helped David carry his bags to the car and place them in the trunk.

The moment we had all dreaded had arrived.

David, I said, when Travis is out of school for the summer, assuming you're still in Italy, perhaps we can come for a visit. Would that be OK?

Oh God! David exclaimed. That would be marvelous. There's so much to see and do. So much history. We could drive over to Rome and see the Vatican and all the old Roman ruins and, most of all be together for a few days.

I'll see what I can do then. I added.

Would you like that, Travis? I inquired.

Whoa! Travis exclaimed. It would be GREAT! I don't know anything about Europe.

David moved to me and kissed me deeply, and passionately his goodbyes kiss. I reciprocated. David reached out an arm to bid Travis to join our hug. Travis wasted no time in doing so. David kissed Travis briefly, but passionately, one hand on each of Travis' cheeks.

I love you David, as I always have. I said. I shall miss you by the time you are out of sight.

Me too, Travis added. We are now one, remember, so with you gone, a hole is left for me and Barry.

You are a remarkable person, Travis. Barry is right. Your soul is even more beautiful than your perfect body. Don't ever change, Travis. David said.

I won't! Travis insisted.

David nodded.

Well, David continued, I must get going. I have to return the rental car and meet the other guys at the gate, so I must not tarry.

We understand. I said.

Yeah, Travis added.

Travis and I watched from the porch until David's car disappeared down the street and around a corner.

Travis and I returned to the warmth of the fireplace and stood side by side, an arm around each other.

I miss him already! Travis exclaimed.

Me too! I added.

"God I envy you, Barry." Trey said.

"Me too." Danny added.

"I'm the most fortunate man in the whole damned world." I insisted.

"You really are, Barry. David and Travis are such treasures. Ganymede has been at your side for a long time now and sent you not one, but two perfect angels." Trey observed.

-----------------Addendum--------------------

I have received many responses regarding my story Ice Storm / Visit from David.

Many have questioned about the characters and which, if any, were real. So here are some answers:

  1. Travis is a real person. His name, of course, is NOT Travis. He's fully grown now. He and David are the reason I live. I love them beyond words.
  2. David is a real person. He really is a conductor / composer. His name is not David.
  3. Trey is a real person. He really is a chef. His restaurant does NOT bear his name.
  4. Sam and Bryan are long dead from the ravages of AIDS. Still, they were real persons and their names really were Sam and Bryan My depiction of how Bryan died is all too accurate.
  5. Barry...well, is me. My name is not really Barry, but the story is essentially true and based on my life's experience.

Thanks to the many of you who wrote. I'm humbled that so many of you had kind things to say about my work. I have other stories in the concept stage and will submit them as they are completed.

Best Regards

"Barry"

CONCLUSION:VISIT FROM DAVID (PT IX)

By

Barry

pueresamo@yahoo.com

Disclaimer: This work is one of fiction. Any resemblance of persons or places mentioned in this story to actual persons or places is only slightly more than coincidence.

--------------------------------- All Rights Reserved ------------------------------------------

Although none of the three of us spoke during our ride home, our minds were certainly NOT idle. I'm sure we were all trying to absorb and digest what we had just experienced at Sam and Bryan's. It was horrific, it was heartbreaking, and none of us could do anything to make it better. I felt so completely powerless and utterly useless.

I suppose, however, that the impression it left with Travis constituted a lesson which I could never have achieved, no matter how many hours I expended...no matter how many sentences I formulated to try to achieve that same lesson for my sweet Travis. Those fifteen minutes was worth a full semester and will never be diminished in Travis' precious mind. There was poor Bryan, dying before our eyes, and at the same time, putting me finally into his debt by teaching my sweet, sweet Travis about the Horror that is HIV / AIDS.

I could use a drink! David exclaimed, as he brought the car to a stop in front of the house.

Me too! said Travis.

Me Three! I added.

Once more, we were greeted by the delightful scent of pine as we entered the foyer.

David said: I'll play the bartender...the usual...all around? He asked.

Yes, please, said Travis and I in unison.

I'll start a fire for us. Travis added, as he started for the garage to fetch some wood.

GREAT! I exclaimed. That will really feel good. Thank You, Travis.

As Travis gathered the wood from the garage, I went to watch over David's shoulder and hug him from behind as he prepared our drinks. David stopped and turned around in my arms to face me. He placed his hands, one on each of my cheeks, then moved his face to mine and pressed his lips to mine.

Just then, Travis came back through the garage door to observe our passionate kiss.

That is so beautiful! Travis declared. Can I have just a little taste? He asked, as he smiled at us.

Come here and find out! David suggested.

Travis wasted no time joining us. He gave David, then me, a sweet kiss on the lips.

David smiled at Travis and pulled him to himself and kissed Travis on the lips in a more loving, though not passionate fashion.

I, then, took my turn and did the same, except my kiss was quite passionate.

Wow! Travis exclaimed when I finally finished sucking the breath out of him.

You didn't think we'd leave you out, did you? David asked, smiling at Travis.

Of course not! Travis exclaimed. I know better than that. Although, I haven't let the two of you have a minute alone all this time, and that's not fair to you, David. I'm sorry.

So, Travis continued, I thought I'd watch that movie that David mentioned this morning...Maurice... And let the two of you spend some time alone.

Travis winked at David and me and said:

I'm sure you two can think of a good use of the time. He winked again.

Really? David asked. You don't mind if I show my love to Barry as I always have?

Of course NOT! Travis replied. It would be wrong for you not to show Barry your love. You were here, showing Barry your love, and Barry showing you his love, long before Ganymede brought me here to become one with you two. It's only right. I'm happy you can be here at Christmas, especially to share your love. Barry taught me how love works. So the more you give to each other, the more it multiplies in each of you. That gives each of you more to share with me too.

Dear God! David interjected. Travis, you understand things well beyond your years...you are truly exceptional. I love you, Travis.

I do understand. NOW THEN...off to the bedroom with you two. Travis said with a smile.

OK. David asserted. You won't have to say that twice. Let me finish our drinks.

No! I'll finish them, Travis insisted. NOW...off with the two of you...time is short, you know. David has to leave tomorrow.

Don't remind me. David said.

Then GET GOING! Travis demanded.

David and I smiled. David took me by the hand and began to lead me toward the bedroom saying, you heard him, we'd better do as he says.

I think you're right. I agreed.

Travis, start the spa heater in a little while, OK? I asked, as we left the room.

OK! Travis replied.

When we reached the bedroom, David and I began to undress each other, all the while deeply engaged in our most loving and intense eye contact.

David and I stood there naked for each other, David, on his knees, pressed his cheek to my genitals as he placed his arms around my butt.

Just then, Travis entered with our drinks.

OOPS! Travis declared, I'll just put these on the table here.

You two are so beautiful together, Travis said, like you were meant to be together this way... It's beautiful.

Thank you for this, Travis! David said.

It's only right! Travis replied. It's good!

Travis left the room. Soon I could hear the TV come to life and the theme music from Maurice began.

David positioned my penis with his hand and began slowly licking it up and down, concentrating on my frenulum. I was seeing fireworks.

David stopped, stood up, and gently led me by my penis to the bed and had me to lie down, as was our custom.

We assumed the 69 position, and began our customary ritual. I held David's extremely erect penis still in my mouth, while he worked his magic on me. Slowly, so slowly, he continued to lick the shaft of my penis, and as his tongue would reach my glans, he would kiss its tip, partially inserting it into his mouth all the way to its corona ring.

My penis was throbbing so strongly, David had to hold it tightly to control its unruly behavior.

David held my penis still and moved to my balls. He licked them till they were nearly dripping with his saliva. He sucked them, one at a time, into his mouth and caressed them with his tongue. He, then, sucked them both into his mouth and kneaded them together with contractions of his mouth and tongue.

David returned to my penis and, placing it into his precious mouth, began to slowly move his head up and down on it, while generously lubricating it with his saliva.

The fireworks were spectacular as I reached the point of no return.

OK, Baby! I whispered.

David knew this cue, and allowed me to roll onto my back while he held my penis tightly in his hand directing my glans onto my abdomen.

I exploded, shooting cum all over my belly and abdomen. Six or seven spasms later, I finally finished with the remaining semen dripping slowly from my glans onto my abdomen.

David traced his finger from my anus to my glans kissing the remaining semen from its tip.

Beautiful, David whispered...beautiful, as it has always been.

David then placed his head next to my abdomen, lying on his side.

He used his index finger to squeegee my semen from my belly and abdomen to gather it into a pool in and around my belly button.

He raised his head to look directly down at my new semen pool. With his tongue, he stirred it and tasted it, drop by drop.

David's entire body was red with passion, as he continued to sip from the semen pool. I had long since departed for heaven...surely that's where I was.

His tongue wicked my navel nearly dry, but he stopped and said:

Let's leave a little as an appetizer for Travis. I'll add some of my own and he'll have both our essences inside him...if he wants.

I'm sure he will, sweetheart. I replied.

David, then, as was our custom, propped me up with pillows till my mouth was positioned to accept his, now pulsating penis, now glistening with pre-cum which began to string its way down from his glans to my chest as he moved to straddle me close enough that I could take him into me, which I did eagerly. The taste of him was the same delicious experience it had been since he was a kid. I could taste the pre cum oozing from him onto my awaiting tongue. It was Glorious!

He placed his hands on the headboard above me and began slowly stroking his penis in and out of my anxious mouth.

OH GOD! He exclaimed; how I have longed for this.

He moved his hands to the sides of my head and said:

As I have always been totally yours, I beg you to take my essence into you once more, that we may always be one.

He exploded into me, in what seemed, not like spurts, but a constant, non-stop stream of his exquisite semen.

As this, seemingly boundless, stream of David's essence finally began to subside; he gently withdrew his penis and allowed the final portion of its stream to fall to my chest.

He, once more, moved to my side and using his finger, moved that semen to the pool already waiting in my navel.

David used his tongue, once more, to stir the two together and then cupped it onto his tongue and painted it onto my lips.

Oh God! Barry, David finally said, I don't ever want to be without you again. To Hell with Europe, he said, as he began to cry.

I know, sweetheart, I replied, as I pulled him into a snuggle, I know. I repeated.

I don't think I can take it for another year, I HATE IT! He declared.

Like I said before, sweetheart, you're not imprisoned there. I'll bet they work out something more palatable for you. If not, kiss them goodbye and get your gorgeous butt back home to be with Travis and me.

Yes! That's what I'll insist upon, when I get back there. I may be home sooner than you think, David said.

Either way, sweetheart... You'll be in charge of the situation.

As I began wiping the tears from his eyes, he said:

God, I love you so much, Barry!

And I you, sweet David...ALWAYS! I replied.

Whoa...we heard emanating from the den. David's spell was broken and he began to chuckle...want to bet which scene just came up on Maurice?

I have a pretty good idea, I replied, but I wouldn't put it to the bet.

David retrieved his drink from the table, where Travis had placed it, also handing me mine.

No, I said; Leave mine on the table for now, till I place this special kiss on Travis' sweet lips, as I pointed to our mixed essences still on my lips.

Right! David said.

I'll send him to you and meet you in the spa a little later. David concluded.

Soon, Travis appeared and said:

Scudder is so cute, really cute...but I wouldn't trust him.

Yes, Scudder is played by Rupert Graves; he did a very convincing job with his role as Scudder.

I can't believe they showed those two guys naked from the front in a regular movie. Travis said.

It was a somewhat bold move. I responded.

David said you have something special for me. Travis queried.

Yes, I do. I replied.

OK. Travis said.

It's a special kiss, sweet Travis. On my lips, is a special mixture of David's and my own essence just for you.

Travis moved to me immediately and, after using his tongue to re-moisten my lips, kissed me passionately. When he had, finally, transferred it all to his own tongue, he licked his lips and then mine and said:

I love it that David was willing to let me have his essence.

He wants us to be truly one, even in essence. I replied.

It's different, but good. Travis said. I know the taste of Barry's berries...it's different when David's is mixed in. It's good though. Travis concluded.

You want the rest? I asked.

Sure, Travis replied.

The last of it is pooled up in my belly button. I suggested.

Travis wasted no time kissing the rest of it from me. When he finished he said:

Now, I have to give David a taste of me.

We'll think of something, I'm sure. I suggested.

Ready for the spa? I asked.

Yeah! Travis exclaimed.

We joined David in the spa, after Travis had disrobed in the anteroom. Travis was already erect from our special kiss. As we lowered ourselves into the water with David, Travis and I both let out the usual sigh.

Ahhhhh, this is so wonderful. I proclaimed.

After we acclimated to the experience, Travis turned to David and said:

Thank you, David, for sharing a taste of your essence with me. I love you.

I love you too, Travis. David responded, now we're one in an even more special way.

But I haven't shared my essence with you, David. Travis said.

Well, next time you and Barry share your essences, save me a taste and it will be complete. David suggested.

Can I do it now? Travis asked.

Do you want some privacy? David inquired. I can go into the house for a while, he offered.

We're becoming one aren't we? Travis replied.

We are. David responded.

Then, I don't mind if you're here. Travis said.

OK. David said.

Travis stood up, exposing his erect, and, thanks to the hot water, very red, very hot penis.

He approached me to stand directly in front of me. David was sitting next to me.

Travis, David said, you have the most beautiful physique and perfectly formed genitals I've ever seen. I'm really envious.

Thank you, David. They belong to Barry. Travis replied.

I know, David replied, and it's very beautiful.

Barry, Travis said to me, please take me into you now and save a taste of my essence for David.

Of course, sweet Travis, of course. I replied.

The design of the spa made it an awkward position for Travis. He placed his hands on the deck on either side of me to gain the proper angle for his penis to enter my mouth. I steadied him by placing my hands on his butt to hold him in place.

David, will you help guide me? Travis asked.

David looked at me. I nodded.

I'd be happy to help, Travis. David replied.

David gently took Travis' throbbing penis into his hand and positioned it for me. I eagerly took Travis' delicious penis into me.

The Jacuzzi jets were blowing bubbles across Travis' balls and penis as he slowly stroked back and forth, as I held his butt.

David moved his guiding hand back against to Travis' abdomen so as not to impede Travis' stroke. Only David's thumb and index finger remained in place to ensure Travis's penis remained in the proper position.

Travis' strokes grew faster and his scrotum began to contract, elevating his huge balls out of the hot water.

Travis pushed that wonderful penis deep into me and the usual powerful ejaculatory spasms began. Eight of them left his cum dribbling down my chin and into the water.

Travis slowly withdrew from me. David still holding his throbbing penis.

Still holding onto Travis, David leaned over to kiss Travis' essence from my chin and mouth. When he finished, I said:

I think you should have the rest. I'll push it up for you.

Travis stood back up. David relinquished Travis' penis to my grip. I began at Travis' anus and gently pushed the rest of his cum to a glistening pool at Travis' meatus.

David took the cue and kissed Travis' essence from the tip of his penis, rubbing his lips back and forth across Travis' glans to get it all.

David sat up again and looked lovingly at Travis and said:

Thank You, Travis. It is complete. We have all three tasted and shared each other's essence. We are now one forever.

Yes! Travis replied; We are one...ALWAYS!

We are one! I added. I love you two beyond words.

It doesn't matter where you are now, David. Here, or in Europe, you have Barry and me in you. We're always together. Travis instructed.

David turned to me and said:

God! He's amazing. He really understands all this, at his age.

Travis you are extraordinary. David declared.

Thank you David, so are you. Travis responded.

The three of us slept like the proverbial log.

Too soon came the next day, when David had to leave.

We awoke in our customary positions, Travis's cheek on my breast, David cuddled up to my other side.

God! David said, when he realized Travis and I were both awake, I don't want this to end.

David reached over and stroked Travis' shimmering hair.

Travis smiled back at him.

Well, David said, there's no putting it off. Guess I'd better start getting ready to go.

I'll make us some breakfast. I said.

Something light for me, Please. David requested. I don't like to fly on a full stomach. It just adds to the discomfort of a long flight.

How about some fruit and toast? I asked.

Perfect! David responded.

After breakfast, Travis helped David carry his bags to the car and place them in the trunk.

The moment we had all dreaded had arrived.

David, I said, when Travis is out of school for the summer, assuming you're still in Italy, perhaps we can come for a visit. Would that be OK?

Oh God! David exclaimed. That would be marvelous. There's so much to see and do. So much history. We could drive over to Rome and see the Vatican and all the old Roman ruins and, most of all, be together for a few days.

I'll see what I can do then. I added.

Would you like that, Travis? I inquired.

Whoa! Travis exclaimed. It would be GREAT! I don't know anything about Europe.

David moved to me and kissed me deeply, and passionately his goodbyes kiss. I reciprocated. David reached out an arm to bid Travis to join our hug. Travis wasted no time in doing so. David kissed Travis briefly, but passionately, one hand on each of Travis' cheeks.

I love you David, as I always have. I said. I shall miss you by the time you are out of sight.

Me too, Travis added. We are now one, remember, so with you gone, a hole is left for me and Barry.

You are a remarkable person, Travis. Barry is right. Your soul is even more beautiful than your perfect body. Don't ever change, Travis. David said.

I won't! Travis insisted.

David nodded.

Well, David continued, I must get going. I have to return the rental car and meet the other guys at the gate, so I must not tarry.

We understand. I said.

Yeah, Travis added.

Travis and I watched from the porch until David's car disappeared down the street and around a corner.

Travis and I returned to the warmth of the fireplace and stood side by side, an arm around each other.

I miss him already! Travis exclaimed.

Me too! I added.

The memory of that scene caused me to well up with tears.

"Barry, are you crying?" Danny asked.

"I'm sorry, sweet boy, ask Trey, he'll tell you I'm a crier...Right Trey?"

"You always have been, Barry, I'm the same way...you know that." Trey answered.

Danny used both thumbs to wipe the tears from below my eyes, looked deeply into my eyes and said:

"Don't be sad, Barry, remember David and Travis will be home tonight. You can't be sad once they are home. I guess I can be...I sure wish I knew them and I was part of your relationship."

Don't worry, Danny, I promised that you'd meet them at dinner tomorrow night. I'm sure they will become fond of you and welcome you as a friend. I can't promise anything more than that. Like I said earlier, our relationship is not some sort of club, where we open it up periodically for new members...Do you understand, sweetie?" I remarked.

Danny nodded, but said nothing.

Trey chimed in:

Don't worry, Danny, David and Travis were both sent to Barry by Ganymede...so were you, weren't you? That's why you instinctively ran to Barry to escape the storm...Right?"

Danny smiled widely and said:

"Yeah...that's right. It must have been Ganymede...whoever that is."

Trey and I both smiled at Danny's response.

The ALL CLEAR had sounded earlier, but the hail and rain raged on, so we continued to warm ourselves at the fire.

"Danny, you were telling me you had brothers, earlier. How many do you have, are they all older, or are some younger? I asked to change the subject.

Well. The oldest one is Beau; he's the gay brother I told you about. He's really good looking. Then there are Cody and Connor, they are the twins..."

I interrupted:

"Identical Twins?"

"Yeah, then there's me. I'm the most wonderful one..." Danny smiled and winked.

There would have been another one, but he's the one who died along with my Mom during delivery. My Dad has been a complete Bastard since.

"He blames your Mom's death on the baby?" I asked.

"I guess...Hell...he hates all of us boys now that Mom is dead." Danny remarked.

"So by extension, you're all at fault cause your Mom died." I suggested.

"I guess so...what ever that means." Danny answered.

I was real little when Mom died; I really don't remember her. We have her picture on the fireplace, that's the only way I even know what she looked like.

"So there are four of you, then...four brothers. How unique." I remarked.

"Yeah, Beau looks out for the rest of us...he's the oldest. I run to him when Dad starts acting like he's going to whip me or anything." Danny bragged on his brother.

"Your Dad beats you, Danny?" I asked.

Hell YES...he beats us all, not so much anymore. Except for me, my brothers are big enough to beat the shit out of him when he tries anything, and one time they did too. So he doesn't try that kind of crap anymore.

"Well, you've got a very expensive bike and nice clothes. It looks like your Dad must, at least be a good provider." I suggested.

"Yeah, he does give us stuff. What makes us feel guilty about taking anything from him is that he resents everything he has to give us. He bitches and complains constantly about how we boys are why he can't buy things for himself. So we know that if he had his way he wouldn't give us shit. At least that's what Beau says." Danny explained.

"That's a real shame, Danny. I'm sorry to hear that." I said.

"Yeah...now that Beau works, he buys us stuff and that's where my bike came from too." Danny said.

"I see. Sounds like your brother loves you guys a lot." I suggested.

"God Yes, I don't know what we'd do without Beau." Danny said.

"I would like to meet him sometime, Danny." I said.

"I don't know about that, he's gay...you and Travis and David might like him better." Danny said.

"Don't worry...I would just like to see what sort of guy has won such admiration from you. Do your brothers Cody and Connor feel the same way? I asked.

"Yeah...I guess...Beau isn't that much older than the twins, so they fight and argue about stuff a lot...but I know they'd run to Beau, like I do, if anything bad happened." Danny said.

"So, Beau is gay, you haven't made up your mind yet, and the twins?" I asked

"Well, like I told you, we've always had jerk off sessions with each other and really like it. Beau was first to admit he is gay. The twins haven't really said...but I think they're gay too. I probably will decide I'm gay, too. Girls don't attract me at all...but not too many boys do either, so I don't know. I'll probably be gay." Danny explained.

"Well don't rush it, let it develop naturally." I suggested.

"Yeah, I haven't decided." Danny repeated.

"Well, sweet boy, my experience is that it's not really a matter of decision so much as it is a matter of resignation to the fact. Does that make sense?" I asked.

"Well..." Danny stammered.

"It means that one doesn't typically decide to be gay, it's just something that develops in your mind in a way, that even if you try to resist it, sooner or later you have to admit to yourself that that is what you are." I tried to explain in more simple terms.

"Oh, I get it. Well it's in my mind a lot...being straight is NEVER in my mind."

"Time will tell, sweet boy, be patient." I said.

I went on:

"Back to what you said earlier...if you were listening to me earlier you know that love amplifies as you dispense it. Even if your brother were someone I eventually cared for as a friend...it would have no bearing whatever on how I or Travis or David might feel about you...OK?" I insisted.

Danny smiled and said: "OK"

The sound of the rain on Trey's canopy had begun to subside, at last. I looked at Danny and said:

"My young friend, I suppose we've taken up enough of Trey's time. How about if we put your bike in the trunk of my car and I'll drop you off at home?" I suggested.

"Please stay as long as you like Barry...you too Danny." Trey said.

He continued: After all this story telling, I'll be lonely once you're gone."

"Thanks, Trey, but I thought I'd better get our new friend home before they put out an amber alert on him." I said.

"Don't worry about me...my brothers now I can take care of myself. I've been doing it for a long time. They won't be worried about me, and like I said Dad is at the armory till tomorrow night. He doesn't care where I am anyway. The OLD BASTARD!" Danny concluded.

We got dressed slowly. Danny was checking out my balls as we dressed...I must admit I was doing likewise with his young but substantial balls. He was quite a specimen.

"I notice that neither of us wear underwear, Danny." I said.

"Hell NO. I can't stand underwear. My Dad used to give me a load of crap about it and called me a pervert cause I won't wear underwear. He used to say `What if you get hit by a car and they take you to the emergency room and remove your pants only to see you don't have on underwear?' ...I always thought that I wouldn't give a damn what they saw if I were in the emergency room. Don't you think the doctors have seen lots of naked boys?" Danny explained.

Trey and I both laughed.

"I suppose so, Danny, I suppose so." I remarked.

Anyway, you're not alone. It used to drive my Mother crazy that she couldn't keep underwear or pajamas on me. Even when I was very little, as my mother tells it, she would put these nice, warm PJs on me and tuck me in. When she'd check on me the next morning, the PJs would be crumpled on the floor and I'd be spread eagle naked on the bed. She finally gave up...and I've always slept naked since I was just a little boy. I determined that I'd as soon go to bed in a three-piece suit as in PJs or anything else. Guess I'm just a nudist, at heart. I said.

Danny smiled and said:

"Me and my brothers ALL sleep naked...WOW, Barry we're like you, huh?" Danny observed.

"Maybe, I suppose, Maybe." I said.

I went over to Trey and delivered a nice goodbye kiss. To my surprise, Danny followed suit. Trey was surprised, but took Danny into his arms and gave him a nice hug and kiss to the forehead.

"Be careful out there, now. We'll see you both tomorrow evening. Tell Travis and David I look forward to seeing them, as well, Barry." Trey said.

"I will, Trey. I know they'll be anxious to see you as well." I said, as I opened the front door and ushered Danny out to the canopy with myself.

As I drove Danny home, I realized he was a good five miles or so away, and that's from Trey.

"Wow, Danny I thought you lived closer...you must really put some miles on your bike." I mused.

"I love my bike, I ride it miles and miles everyday. Keeps me away from the Old Bastard, too." Danny replied.

"That explains why you're in such good shape, Danny. Your muscle tone is excellent and your physique is very fetching." I said.

"Fetching?" Danny queried

"Yes, it means attractive...even sexually attractive." I explained.

"You think I', sexy?" Danny asked.

"I sure do. You ARE sexy, Danny, very sexy." I assured him.

"Thanks, Barry. I think you're sexy too." Danny complimented.

"Thank you, Danny. I try to stay in shape." I said.

When I dropped Danny off at his house, he retrieved his bike from the trunk, hatchback, really, of my Camaro and as I closed the hatchback, Danny rubbed his hand across the front of his belt and smiled at me saying:

"It's really OK to call you if I need you."

"Sure, Danny, even if you just want to talk. Please be courteous...I do need my sleep." I said with a chuckle.

"Don't worry, I won't call you late at night or anything like that...OK?" Danny said.

"OK, then. I'm so glad I got to meet you, Danny. We'll see you at Trey. Tomorrow evening for dinner. I look forward to it. Should I pick you up here? It's a hell of a long way for you to ride your bike. Besides, It'll be dark by the time we've eaten. I don't want you on the streets that late " I suggested.

"Wow, Barry, you really care about me already...huh?" Danny observed

"Of course I do, Danny." I assured him.

"I'll call you in the morning, and we'll decide if you need to pick me up, or if I can get a ride to Trey...OK?" Danny said.

"OK, Danny. Sleep tight...see you tomorrow." I said as I started the car and drove off.

I watched in the rear-view mirror as I drove away to see Danny continuing to stand there and watch me leave...almost as if he were truly sad to see me depart.

What a remarkable boy. I thought to myself.

-----------------------END OF PT 2 TORNADO WARNING----------------------