Date: Mon, 2 Sep 2019 10:35:10 -0500 From: Eric Murphey Subject: transitions Chapter 21 Gay Adult youth I hope this chapter finds everyone doing well. I dont know how many times I have said this. I love writing this story as well as Accidental Paradise. They are fun to write. But the real joy is talking to all the people who read my stories. I have been talking to a nice guy who is an incredible artist. He has sent me some of his work. It is really great. I am dedicating this chapter to him So here you go Pete. I tried to figure out a way to work in what you like but, as we agreed it cant be forced. but, I think I have an idea for next chapter of AP for just that. Still working on it in my head to see if its believable. Anyway, I hope you all enjoy this installment. Someone asked me if I thought I can keep up with two stories. I dont seem to be having an issue other then I try to put Benji instead of Alejandro or Alejandro instead of Benji. So if you see that oops I try to catch it. I hope everyone had a splendid weekend and soon its back to the grindstone to earn the money to help us survive. Speaking of survival isnt it nice that Nifty survives just on donations. That they dont charge us anything and its a free service. Maybe you can make a donation this week to nifty. They make it really easy. As Always I wish you all peace love and happiness. Eric Transitions Chapter 21 Eric wakes up and looks down at his little buddy, he is sponning with. His son, his friend, and lover. He smiles and thinks of the past few weeks they have been together. Its like they have always been together. Its truly a wonderful feeling. Alejandro stirs and opens his eyes. He turns to look at Eric. "Poppi we need to go see Rich." "Buddy I am sure he is out of the hospital by now." "No I don't think so. I feel like there is a problem and he needs some help." "OK we will go up there later after we have breakfast hows that?" With that Alejandro hops out of the bed and looks at Eric. "Get cracking Poppi. Our friend needs us." "Get cracking is it?" Eric laughs and climbs out of bed. "Make sure you put a robe on in the mornings now. Miss Julia doesn't want to see you naked." "Yeah but you do." Alejandro says smiling. "Your awful cheeky this morning." Eric says. "I got four of em." Alejandro says blowing out his cheeks then turning and lightly smacking his bum cheeks, then rushes out the door. "My goodness." Eric says and grabs his robe, slips it on and heads downstairs. Alejandro is already in the kitchen. "Poppi whats say we just have cereal this morning ok?" "You are really worried about Rich aren't you buddy?" Eric asks concerned a bit. "Yeah I had a dream he was in a wheel chair and was all alone in some place. He was crying. It was so sad Poppi. We cant let that happen to him." "Buddy I am sure he has family or something to help." "Then why did I have the dream?" "Buddy dreams aren't real. Its just your mind playing tricks on you." "Nuh uh. Sometimes my dreams come real. Not a lot but sometimes. A long time ago I dreamed I would meet a nice man and live in a big house." Alejandro says extending out his hands as in tada. "OK some people can see things sometimes. Maybe." "Lets get to cracking then huh?" "Your silly Poppi." "I know but, I love you so much. I am so happy that you are so caring about other people." "Why shouldn't I be. Hes a person and he needs love just like everyone else." "That my son is wisdom beyond your years." Alejandro sits in a chair at the table. Eric pours out some raisin bran. Eric is a big softy but, when Alejandro wanted sugar cereal he said no absolutely not. Hes not a health food nut. But starting the day with a bowl of sugar is not going to happen. "You want toast?" Eric asks as he sits the bowl in front of Alejandro. "No time we have to go soon." "OK Buddy." They eat quickly and Eric texts Julia they are going to visit a friend in the hospital and will be back later. He knows she is going to inspect the house and decide exactly how to go about keeping this white elephant clean. There sure is enough of it. They go to the garage and Eric makes sure Alejandro is strapped in safely in the back of the XTS. He gets in opens the garage door and they go to the hospital. Once they arrive they go up the elevator to the correct floor. Eric stops at the nurse station to see if Rich is indeed still there. He is in the same room the nurse says. Seeming kind of miffed. Apparently Rich is back to his old tricks being an ass to the staff. As they get near the door they hear Rich demeaning a person on the cleaning staff. "You probably cant clean shit off your ass the way you clean." They hear Rich say. Alejandro looks up at Eric with a well back to the drawing board look. They walk in the room and Richs demeanor changes instantly. His scowl turns to a smile in a millisecond. Alejandro who had been holding Erics hand crawled up in bed next to Rich and is very careful and gives him a hug and a kiss on the cheek. Rich wraps his arm around him to hug him. "Mr. Rich why are you being mean to that person. You are nicer then that." Alejandro asks with his big brown eyes staring him straight into his. "I just got bad news little guy." "Oh so because you got bad news its OK to be mean to other people?" Alejandro asks. Rich looks at him for a second. "No it wasn't nice of me at all was it?" "No sir. I think you owe that man an apology." Rich smiles. "Yes I suppose you are right about that. From the mouths of babes." Rich says. "What was the bad news Rich?" Eric asks. "That idiot doctor told me I cant go home because I need more physical therapy to recover. So because I got no one to go to I have to go to an assisted living home." "I can understand why you would be upset about that. But, I think Alejandro is right. You do owe that man an apology. Because sometimes things happen when you aren't expecting them. That's no reason to be mean." "I know you are right. Its just I feel so helpless. I used to be a big strong man that didn't need anyone's help. Now I'm old and it seems like I cant do anything for myself anymore. You cant imagine how frustrating that is." "I can imagine it. I know its got to be very hard. Especially you being independent your whole life. But, things generally have a way of working themselves out. If we are calm and rational about it. Think things through and not just lash out." "Dammit I know you are right. Its just since I have gotten old I just don't have the patience i used to. I just snap at nothing. I don't like it and I don't understand it. Its frustrating to me getting old. Why don't you see if you can go find that man so I can apologize." "I will go find him real fast." Alejandro says and slips off the bed and out the door. "Did you have a good vacation young man?" Rich asks. "It was wonderful." Eric tells him how they met Julius and his mother. He says the bought their dream house and how everything worked out so they could move in when they got back and last night was their first night in the house. They chat back and forth for about five minutes when Alejandro comes back in with a man that looks like he is less then pleased to be here. Alejandro has his hand it seems as if he is more pulling him back into the room. "This boy said you wanted to speak to me sir." The cleaning guy says meekly. Certain he is going to get another tongue lashing from this grumpy, mean old fart. "Yes, as a matter of fact I did want to see you. It was brought very quickly to my attention by that young man that found you that my treatment of you was completely unfair and uncalled for. I was frustrated and I took it out on you. For that I am deeply sorry. You didn't deserve that. I give you my sincerest apology. I do hope you can forgive me for my rude behavior." A smile spreads a crossed his face. "Of course I do. Thank you for the apology. It means a lot to me." "I do mean it and you have been nothing but nice to me. I'm just an old fool anymore. Lashing out at anyone that comes near me. But, I am going to work on it. With these two in my life now. I know that it wont be allowed near them without a tongue lashing for me." Rich says and chuckles. Alejandro has let go of the mans hand and he slips up next to Rich and takes his hand in his and starts just rubbing the fingers massaging his hand. Silently showing support of what he is saying. After a few comments back and forth the cleaning man goes back to work with a smile on his face now. "Rich I have been thinking. How long did the doctor say you needed to have help." "He said about 8 weeks of assisted living. I guess its not so bad. But, its so dam frustrating to have to depend on strangers." "I can understand that. We have six bedrooms in our house. Four are being unused. Would you consider staying with us for that time. I am sure that between Alejandro and myself we can help you recover quickly. I am certain the they have home care for the therapists. If not we can certainly take you to all your appointments." Rich is shocked by the kind offer and the tears start slipping down his cheeks. "I dont know if I could impose on you like that. I will be huge burden to you two." "We would really like it Rich. I don't have a grandpa and you could be my grandpa Rich from now on." Alejandro says. "I would be honored to be your grandpa Alejandro. You are such a special boy. Not many boys your age care about anything but, video games and what they can do and get. Not about other people." Rich says wrapping his arm over Alejandro's shoulders. "So its settled then. Grandpa Rich is moving in with us so we can make him better." Alejandro says smiling. "When do you think yo will be released?" "The doctor was going to transfer me tomorrow morning. So I guess it will be tomorrow." "Perfect we will have time to get everything you will need to make life easier for you in the house. Like a shower chair I know will be helpful. We will also have to see about the therapist if they do home visits. So tomorrow is perfect then." They visit for an hour or so before Rich says he is getting sleepy and needs a nap. Alejandro gives him another hug and kiss and they leave. "Poppi, I think it will be lots of fun having Rich stay with us. I think hes neat." "I think hes neat too." Eric says. When they get back to the car Eric tells Alejandro that he has to make a few phone calls so he needs to be quiet for a bit whil he is on the phone. He calls a medical supply place and tells them everything he needs. They say they can do it no problem and that they can deliver it later today. Eric says that's great and they end the call. Eric sees the YMCA ahead and decides to stop to see if Alex is working. He asks at teh desk and they say he is off today but will be in to work in three days. He is only part time after summer and goes to college in the spring and fall. Alejandro is kind of upset he wanted to see Alex and tell him about everything that's happened. Eric leaves his cell number and asks the lady to have him call him when he gets a free moment. He would really appreciate it. They head back to the house and pull into the garage. They walk in and see Julia and Julius sitting at the kitchen table. Julius jumps up when he sees them and gives Alejandro and Eric a hug. "Is your friend OK?" Julius asks. "He is doing just fine." Eric says as he goes and sits at teh table. "Julia I should have asked you before I did this but, our friend has broken his hip and he needs somewhere to stay for a while. I asked him to stay with us. I don't want to burden you with more work. Would you like me to hire someone to come in and help you take care of things?" "No sir. I got this. I used to clean this much every day at the hotel. So its actually going to be less work then I am used to. But, you are so kind to ask. Which room are you going to put him in?" "I figured the one down here. Because I don't want to put in a stair life or an elevator for him. It just makes sense because it has a big bathroom in that room so he can maneuver around easily enough. I think its the best choice." "Yes I do believe you are right." She says. Julius and Alejandro have scampered off somewhere to play. Eric goes to teh living room and turns on the tv to watch a bit of news. Its nearly time for lunch and he is pondering what to make. A few minutes later Julia shows up with a tray with a sandwich chips and carrot sticks on it. As well as a can of Coke. "Well thank you so much. I was just trying to think what to make me and Alejandro for lunch." "Its not a problem. I was making Julius and my lunch so a little more isnt so much. Why dont I just start making lunch too. I am worried I wont have enough to do and will be bored all the time." "I am ok with that if that's what you want." "Yeah I think I do." She says and heads back to what she was doing before. Once Eric is done with his lunch he turns off the news. Its all opinions anymore anyway. They barely report the news anymore. He misses the days when there were real journalists on tv like Tom Brokaw and Dan Rather. Not just talking heads. Its like the news turned into MTV. Just pathetic. AS he is taking his plate and empty can to the kitchen the door bell rings. He puts his plate in the sink and tosses the can into recycling then heads to the door. He sees Julia talking to two men and is directing them to where to put the hospital bed and the other rented equipment to make Richs stay easier on him. They get it all moved and set up without a glitch. Eric gives them both a ten for delivering the stuff so quickly. They thank him and take off. At around 5 Eric decides to make dinner for him and Alejandro. He grabs two boneless skinless chicken breasts from the fridge. He coats them with a bit of olive oil and puts them in the oven for 55 minutes at 350. When the times goes off he pulls them out and pours a can of Italian seasoned tomatoes over the top and puts them back in for 10 minutes. Once that is complete he pulls them back out and lays a slice of provolone cheese over the top and puts them back in for 5 minutes. After the cheese is melted Eric gets on the intercom and calls Alejandro to dinner. Julius and Julia left about 15 minutes previously. Alejandro is in his room playing. He rushes down to dinner and they sit down to it. Alejandro Is having a hard time cutting up his chicken so Eric helps him. Eric also buttered a couple slices of bread for each of them. If he had thought about it he would have made some garlic bread. But cest la vie. Alejandro take a bite. "Wow Poppi this is really good." He says as his eyes light up with the first bite. "I am glad you like it buddy." "Poppi I am kind of excited that Rich is going to come stay with us." "I am looking forward to it to buddy. What would you like to do tonight?" "Earlier Jullius and I were playing bowling. I wasnt very good at it. But, he wasn't either. It seems like a lot of fun can you teach me how to be better at it." "Sure buddy. I used to be a pretty good bowler ages ago." "Cool." So after they finished dinner and they enjoyed a bit of Spumoni ice cream for desert they went to the basement to bowl. Eric thought it was hilarious watching Alejandro try to use a 10 pound ball. He was giving it a good effort. Eric found a 8 pound ball for Alejandro and explained the difference to him. The lanes don't have bumpers on them but, that's OK Eric always thought that was stupid because it doesn't promote the child or new bowler to do better. It just gives them false confidence. So as he thought about getting bumpers he quickly nixed the idea almost as fast. They have fun for a couple of hours Eric giving instructions and showing him how to do things properly. When Alejandro got his first strike, he started whooping and hollering so loud Eric was sure he would raise the dead. But, he was so proud of him for doing it. So he got up and started dancing and whooping with him. Afterwards they went up to shower and settle down for the evening. They decided on a movie. Eric chose the Never Ending Story. Alejandro has never seen it and they enjoy it together. Afterwards they head off to bed for a good nights rest. Alejandro snuggles in and lays his head on his chest and Eric wraps his arm around his boy and they are in la la land in no time. They wake up feeling refreshed and happy. Eric tickles Alejandro and he giggles and squirms. Eric thinks there is no greater joy then hearing his son so happy and giggling. "Lets go pee buddy and get some breakfast. We need to go get Rich from the hospital today." "Poppi how long is Rich going to stay with us?" "I dont know buddy. He may stay just a little while or he may stay forever. I think we should leave that up to him and see what he wants to do." "I hope he stays forever." "We will see buddy." They go take care of their morning callings and head to the kitchen both sporting a robe instead of nude out of respect for Julia. Sure enough she is in the kitchen already with Julius. He is at the table having some cereal. Julia is singing a song and he is bobbing his head to it. She has a lovely voice. "Well, good morning Mr Eric. So good to see you two this mornin." She says as she notices them. "Good morning to both of you." Eric says. Alejandro doesn't say good morning he just goes and hugs her. "Aww aint you a sweet boy." "You sing real pretty Miss Julia. What was the song you were singing?" He asks as they finish the hug. "Oh it just an old song my mom used to sing when I was little. I dont know the name of it but, I know all the words to it." Eric fixes himself and Alejandro a bowl of cereal and some toast with jelly on it. One of Alejandro's new favorite things. Eric has gotten used to allowing Alejandro to choose the jelly for the toast. Today he chose peach preserves. Yum Eric thinks as he layers it on thick and makes a couple slices for Julius as well. After they eat, Eric and Alejandro head to the hospital to get Rich. Once they arrive they see Dr Ross in the room examining Rich. They wait outside until he is done and invites them in. "Well, Dr Ross are there any special things we need to know to make Rich more comfortable and to help him recover more quickly?" "Just don't let the old codger lay in bed all day. He needs to get up and move around. Not too much just a bit at first. Then a bit more as they days go on. I have set him up with a therapists to get the physical therapy taken care of. Its 3 days a week to start. He already knows what he needs to do so its just a matter of him doing it." "That's great. I will get the information from the nurse as to when and where the appointments are. So when can we take the old fart home?" "Hey you guys first I'm an old codger now an old fart. I don't like you two. But this little guy I like best of all of you meanies. He just cuddles up to me and treats me nice and doesn't call me names." Rich says joking. "Well, its better then old bastard like some of the nurses call you." Dr Ross says. "Yeah I deserve that. I haven't been very nice to them. I owe them all an apology and some gratitude for all they have done for me and putting up with an old sour puss like me." "Yeah I think you do Grand Poppi." Alejandro says very serious. "You cant treat people mean anymore. That's a rule." "Oh that's a rule is it?" Eric asks. "Yes. In our house everyone is treated nice. Poppi always treats me nice and he treats everyone nice. That's why I want to be just like him when I grow up." "That's because you got a really good Poppi now little guy." Rich says and ruffles his hair. "I will let the nurses know you guys are ready to go." One thing Eric learned is if your an old prick to nurses they are very, very quick to get the paper work done so they can get you out of their hair. It wasn't five minutes and they are wheeling Rich down to Eric's car. He rushed to get it with Alejandro and they wait a moment before Rich appears with the volunteer pushing him. Eric gets out and helps Rich get in the front seat. Its a tricky thing to do but, they manage. Once in they head back to home. Once they arrive Eric parks in front of the house instead of in the garage. He figures it will be easier for Rich to get in the front door then the door fron the garage. Eric rushes in and grabs the walker from Rich's room and back out. Alejandro is standing next to the door talking to Rich. Julia and Julius also came to the front door to greet Rich and welcome him home. They are both standing next to the door and greet him as he walks up the two steps. They arent high but its a struggle for Rich to do it. Eric has hold of his elbow to help steady him even with the walker its a difficult task. "Good Mornin Mr Rich welcome home." Julia says as he makes it to the door. "Thank you so much, and who might this little cutie be?" Rich asks tweaking Julius' cheek. "Good Morning Mr Rich. I be Julius. Alejandro has told me all about you. He says you be a really nice man. But, sometimes you be a little grumpy." "Yes from the mouth of babes. I am very pleased to meet you Julius, and your mother as well." "I be Julia Mr Rich." "OK that's good to know. I hope I am not too much trouble for you." "You be too much trouble I take you over my knee." She says with a smile. They all laugh at the thought and head in and show Rich his room and a bit of the downstairs. After all of this Rich is feeling pretty worn out and decides he needs to rest for a bit. They take him into his room and help him get his shoes off and help him into the bed. He lies down and is asleep before they leave the room. The boys scamper off to play and Eric goes to his new office to catch up on emails and business correspondence. He finds out that indeed his purchase of the new stores went through without a hitch. He is also informed that a dozen stores are available in south Florida and approves the action to try to purchase them as well. His real estate agent has also found a great complex in Wyoming at a really good price and Eric approves the offer for it as well. He really has great people in place to take care of his business for him. He knows if it wasn't for them he wouldnt have nearly as much as he does. He pays them very well for what they do. Well above the average salary people in their position make, and they earn every penny of it. After about two hours he is all caught up and the boys come rushing in to let Eric know that Julius just got a strike at bowling. Alejandro has taught Julius what Eric taught him yesterday and they are both thrilled. "Poppi can you come play bowling with us too?" "I think I can do that. Let me just check in on Rich first though." "Sure Poppi can we check on him too?" "If you promise not to make any noise. He may still be asleep." "Of course Mr Eric. We want him to get better so he can play with us too." Julius says.Eric opens the door slowly to peek in on Rich and he is sitting up in bed and watching tv. "Well Hi there guys." He says as he sees the door open. "Hi Mr Rich. We are going to play bowling you want to come watch?" "Oh I don't know if I feel like going out just yet." "Grand Poppi Rich its down stairs." Alejandro says. "You got a bowling alley in this house." Rich says astonished. "I didn't put it there. It was there when I bought the house. But, yes we have two lanes downstairs would you like to come watch the boys play?" "I would but, I don't know if I can make it up and down the stairs." "You are a little guy I can help either carry you down or we can help you down the stairs." "Yeah I think i would like that. I used to bowl a lot with my partner over the years. I used to be pretty good. If I do say so myself." So that's how they spent the next few hours until Julia says its time for lunch. She made a nice vegetable soup and grilled cheese sandwiches. They all sit at the kitchen table and enjoy the food. It wasnt super hard for Rich to get up and down the stairs. It just took a long time. But, the boys were very patient with him and helped him the whole way not allowing Eric to help at all. Looks like Rich has two new nurses to help him in his recovery. Im Sneaky here. If you liked this chapter maybe make a donation to Nifty ericmurphey1971@gmail.com