Date: Fri, 30 Jan 2015 09:40:35 -0500 From: Eff Del Subject: Flights of Angels -Chapter 29 In this life, we've met unhappy people who bemoan their fate and cast blame against others. Some people exclaim that cruel fate has turned their life to dross. In a manner of speaking, they are partially right. Everything happens for a reason Sometimes, though, the reason is that you've made very bad decisions. There was a major controversy going on and I wasn't supposed to know about it. Sean, being a little boy and not having been raised in the `no snitch' culture of normal American kids, had come to me because he was concerned that it was a real problem. I seemed that John had gotten it into his head that he wanted to deep-fry our Thanksgiving turkey. He'd heard it was quick, tasty, and juicy. He'd even gone out and purchased the equipment. Martha on the other hand had insisted this was the silliest idea she'd ever heard of and continued by stating that; even if John's frying method produced a tasty bird, there would be no drippings that would be fit for creating the gravy that was so essential for a real turkey dinner. `People who don't know what they're doing simply use the giblets and other detritus' she'd apparently exclaimed, " but a truly rich perfect turkey gravy requires drippings from the roasting pan.' "Dad, nobody knows more about cookin' than Mrs. Edwards but Jack says we should let John try that fryin' machine `cause John's so smart about stuff like that." "What does Jenny say about this situation Sean?" I asked trying hard to hide my amusement. "Well, she keeps saying that we should get two smaller turkeys and try both ways an' that if John's way messes up, then him and Jack will wind up eatin' lots of mashed potatoes on Thanksgiving." I just had to grin. "Well Sean, I think that Jenny is a very wise young lady and she's going to make a wonderful wife for John. I think we should take her advice. Let's go call a peace conference." It turned out that they were all in the kitchen when Sean and I walked down. "I've heard that we have a small controversy going on about the turkey." They all turned to look at me and both Martha and John looked at Sean in a slightly adverse manner. "Now hold your horses you two. Sean wasn't snitching, he was concerned and he loves you all such a bunch and he was afraid there was true anger going on. I know that's not happening between you so, here's what I think ought to happen; Martha, you should get an extra-large turkey because even if the fried bird turns out to be magnificent, we'll still want gallons of your famous gravy. John, you should get a nice big bird and try out your new method. I've read about it and I'm certainly curious. Sean, you're assigned to help Martha and Jenny in the kitchen and Jack, you'll help John out on the patio with his frying apparatus. Is that OK with everybody?" Martha smiled. "A Perfect solution Eric". I'll admit to being curious about this fried turkey thing as well but, my darling boss; if it works out and I cook a larger than normal bird, there is certainly going to be a lot of turkey left over." I bent down and kissed her cheek. "Martha Thanksgiving wouldn't be a very worthwhile holiday if it weren't for the left-overs. Besides, I forgot to tell you that there would be a few extra guests. Ricky and Mandy are flying up to be with us. Doctor Scott is staying in Houston to oversee the celebration at the Academy. He intends to dedicate the rest of his life to the boys and the curriculum there. He's so saddened and I think horrified at what his educational theories were corrupted into. The Commodore declined my invitation. He's flying back to Florida and says he doesn't want a thing to do with me until camp opens next summer. I guess I don't blame him. I placed a lot upon him this year though I truly wish he would have joined us and enjoyed this meal. This Summer we'll get him to Long Bear for a fish fry...maybe we'll finally get you to come up there with us Martha. Also, Gary and Bobby will be celebrating their first Thanksgiving as Father and son and they've happily accepted my invitation to spend it with us." Everyone greeted this news with happy reactions and so, I headed back down the hall to my study. I was going over several reports when there was a soft knock on my door. I looked up and Sean was standing there. "D-dad, could we talk about somethin'?" "Of course Son, I told you I'm always here to talk about anything you're interested in. Come sit down." I indicated a chair in what I thought of as the `conversation corner' of my study and I quickly got up and took a facing seat. "Dad, you're prolly not gonna like this cause it's about sex stuff." I surprised myself by stiffening in my chair. "Sean, anything that's on your mind is important to me, and I'll never get mad or angry over honest conversation. What's on your mind son?" "Fucking Dad." I couldn't hide my surprise and I'm afraid I frightened him for a moment. "Yes?" "Fucking. I want to try it an' I'm ready to try it an..." "Sean...WAIT. I really need Jack to be a part of this conversation for reasons you don't understand right now. I have got a very important meeting with Richard in about an hour so let's say that you, Jack and I meet here after dinner? I promise we'll have a very adult conversation then for as long as it takes. Is that fair?" He grinned and got up from his seat and hugged my neck. "You're always fair Dad. I'll go tell Jack." His adorable little ass was out of the door in an instant. *************************************************************** Richard and I had become very comfortable with each other and he'd had no problem accepting my offer of a drink as he sat in my study. "You know Richard; you don't have to drink scotch just because I do. Walter, like Phil always drank Crown Royal and soda which was what my father drank." "Thanks Eric, but my late Uncle Thomas told me once that successful men drink scotch and I'm acquiring the taste. Unfortunately for me, you pour very expensive scotch but then, I don't drink much" "Yeah, single malt is expensive but it's also the best. As for `unfortunately' Richard, I guess you haven't paid attention to your raise in salary since you've assumed your new position. You can certainly afford to stand me to a few drinks now and then." He blinked a few times and I realized that money wasn't really a major concern for Richard. He lived for his work and his honor and though we had dealt out justice, he still felt like he'd failed because Walter was dead. I also knew that time would heal that wound and work would allow that healing process to evolve. I would allow time to do that healing and not attempt to interfere with his very complex personality. I liked him. Walter had trusted him. I felt comfortable with him in his current position. That was all that I really needed right now. I smiled at him and sat down. We both took a slow slip and then I said; "So?" "Well, Eric, as you already know, the NEST people who were against our reform are pretty much neutralized. Our two `cone setters' are already in the South pacific. The've been put to work but, their work will not be hard. If they behave, their lives will pretty much be a long tropical vacation. They will want for nothing except for little boys of course. Most people work hard all their lives and get a great deal less. Despite that, the attack on this property was a wakeup call for all of us. While I know I have to keep up the personae as your butler, I truly think that I need to devote much more of my time to Skuggor activities. Finding my `assistant' is really a priority for this property. I know that Terry was in line for that job but that was Walter's decision, and Walter (God bless him) had a weakness when it came to people he wanted to trust. I think that's why he needed Barry and me. We kept his perspective for him. Eric, I never had any faith in Terry. He was weak and ridiculously ambitious. I of course have some hindsight to draw upon and I believe a Skuggor trained man would suit our needs better." "So, do you have someone in mind?" "I do and I've taken the liberty to have him waiting outside to talk to you." I raised an eyebrow in surprise. This was a bit audacious on Richards's part and it somehow made me like him even more. I realized that Walter had left me in very good hands. "He has a general understanding of what this position would entail. Like most of us who've pledged to Skuggor Grey, he has no family and he's already dedicated his life to the service of Skuggor, which of course ultimately means to you. This would be a gigantic and unanticipated promotion for him but I believe he's up to the job. Daniel is everything Terry was not. >From a Skuggor point of view, he is skilled in three martial arts regimes...in fact, to say `black belt' would be insulting. He is an expert marksman with rifle, pistol and (unlike most military trained men), shotgun, though I daresay Andy and Doctor Swaim would still embarrass him in that regard... Those two are amazing. He would answer directly to you, and then to me as his second in command...we'd all be joined at the hip for better or worse." He actually giggled for a moment. "As for the household part, Eric, he's FAR more qualified than me and frankly, far more qualified than Walter was. This guy is actually a graduate of the British Butler Institute and served as butler to some British Earl of "some such"...I'll show you his resume if you want but he's been completely vetted and... he has a degree in economics. He'll probably save you tons of money on the estate budget...not that you ever really pay much attention to that. He can manage the entire staff efficiently and professionally. The household management would be his primary concern but, being a fully trained Skuggor, he could come in handy in a pinch. Besides all that Eric, he's a really great guy, plays the flute...not that that matters, but the boys might enjoy that, and, he loves the idea of this job." "OK Richard" I smiled as I said it. "Let's meet this guy" He rose from his chair and walked to the door. Shortly, he returned with a giant. Daniel from my seated perspective must have stood six feet five inches tall. He was stocky as a bull but seemed to have not an ounce of excess fat on him. Nothing jiggled as he walked confidently into the room. He was clad in traditional Skuggor greys, which set off his red/gold hair. I suppose, it should be called `auburn' but it was striking. He had light blue eyes and a neatly trimmed goatee. He also had the most joyful smile I'd ever seen in my life except for Sean's and the most joyful smile in the world. I indicated a seat that he should take and it groaned as he took his place. "My God, I've finally met a man who could make Doc Swaim seem small" I grinned as I said it. Daniel was confused and so I waved off his concern telling him he'd understand it all if everything worked out as we hoped. I offered him a drink of his choice and I was pleased when he told me; "Truly civilized men only drink scotch." His eyes grew brighter as he watched me reach for the bottle of Glen Fiddich. His smile increased, and his left eyebrow arched and he said in the happiest voice I'd ever heard from a grown man; "Only the truly high born, cultivated, civilized and cultured drink single malt `uskebeaghe'; the water of life. I salute you Mr. Tucker though I must say that my own personal favorite is Glenlivet...as if I could ever afford more than a bottle a year." I smiled at him and raised my glass in salute. "Well, Daniel, I can assure you that if we agree upon this relationship, you'll not only be able to afford your drink of choice, most of the time it will simply be provided as part of your `job well done' package. Hell, I'll bring in a couple of cases and I may discover I've been drinking the wrong whisky." Much to my surprise, our conversation went on for just short of three hours. We covered the mundane duties of running the household, the importance of careful staffing and many other seemingly ordinary things that somehow Daniel turned into fascinating subjects. His conversation was intelligent and intriguing. I then touched upon my homosexuality and the questionable orientation of my boys. I carefully explained without any revealing details, the unusual relationship that we shared. I also mentioned the frequent nudity that would occur especially now that we'd shut down the outdoor swimming pool for the season. One of his responses surprised and delighted me; "Aside from a sunset over the ocean, there is no grander sight than a boy's bum romping along in happy pursuit of his own imagination. If it's naked, it is all the more competition to the glory of the poor sinking sol." Finally, I told him that the person who assumed this position would be expected to become like family." Daniel nodded his head and then broke into a big grin. "So if I'm going to be family, I can ask for another drink right?" Richard and I smiled at each other. "I'll do the refills." Richard said as he gathered our glasses. After we'd sipped from our refreshed drinks, I turned to Richard. "You know, I was going to ask you to move into Walter's apartment here in the big house but now, I suspect that you should stay in your condo and that Daniel needs to move in here. Welcome to the family Daniel. Richard will show you to your suite Walter's things have been moved out and stored in a far corner of the house. I'll go through them soon but I just can't do it now. The suite has been entirely cleaned and is ready for you to move in and make it your home if that should be your choice. It is more than comfortable I can assure you. I'll expect you to move in immediately if not sooner. I'll need you to hit the ground not running, but flying." "That won't be a problem Mr. Tucker." "Daniel, it's `Mr. Tucker' for formal occasions. Otherwise it's `Eric' OK?" He stood up and so did I expecting to take his hand in agreement, but he wrapped me into a bear hug lifting my feet off the floor. When he'd returned me to the ground, his face got completely serious. "Mr. Tucker...Eric, that's the last unprofessional thing you'll ever see me do and, I promise that you'll never be sorry that you've offered me this opportunity." After I'd gained my composure, I said; "Daniel, Richard will get you acquainted with your staff. Take over at once. Richard will help you with that. You and Martha are in complete control of the household, though I know she tends to concentrate on her kitchen and she always counted on Walter to oversee the rest of the staff. I suspect she'll `let' you take on more of those duties and that's fine with me. Now, my first instructions; We'll be using the formal dining room on Thanksgiving and I insist that next to Jack's place, there will be an empty place setting. That will be Walter's place and we won't have this meal without him. Most of my senior staff will be at the table for the meal, you will not be because, you will oversee the service. After the meal has been prepared, Mrs. Edwards will be joining us at table and she will be treated as the lady of the house. I assure you that Mrs.' Edwards will make certain that you and your serving staff will have a wonderful feast as well." Richard remained stone faced just as I would have expected. Daniel got teary eyed and said; "I knew Walter too Mr. Tucker. He hired me and... It will be just as you say." ************* They walked into my study more timid and quiet then I'd ever known them to be. I pointed to two chairs and I sat down just as they did and we looked at each other and for the first time I sensed they were uncomfortable with me. I decided that I needed to diffuse that situation at once. I turned around to the little refrigerator, took out a root beer and two Heinekens, and distributed them appropriately. With a smile, I asked Sean; "Unless you're ready to have a real beer little man?" He shook his head. "Not for me right now Dad.' "OK. I have a sense of what we're going to talk about this evening Sean, and, you'll understand why I wanted Jack here before we're through. We're a family Son but in many ways, Jack has been family to you far longer than I have. There should be no secrets and no unspoken words between us...certainly not regarding something this serious. So, go ahead my little love bug and feel safe in what you say." "Could I...would it be alright if I sat with you Dad?" I smiled and opened my arms and he came across and sat on my lap. I wrapped my arms around him. He was still a bit small for his age. "I really like the sex stuff Dad. With you an' Jack and even some of the other guys. I really like it an' I want to learn even more about it. I know what fucking is...you told me yourself an' I want to do it. Do you unerstan' that Dad?" "I think I do Sean. I didn't understand my needs and feelings for male/male sex until I was older than Jack is but you guys were raised in the NEST...well the old NEST and things were very different for you. The problem is, I took you away before that part of YOUR education had even begun. If the truth be told, you learned about and experienced sex sooner than you would have if you'd stayed at the NEST." "Yeah, but Dad...on that first day we were together, when you first picked me up and when we were on the jet, I asked you if you were gonna' fuck me and you said yes. I've asked about it since then an you always tell me `NO'. I don't unnerstan' what's goin' on?" "Sean, you don't know the real truth about the NEST or what you would have been forced to do if I hadn't seen you on video and fallen in love with you. I'm going to ask Jack to explain what would have happened if you'd stayed there and I hadn't taken you into my life." Slowly, lovingly but with no holds barred, Jack related his story as Sean sat there wide-eyed. "So, you see, that `special Training' you were looking forward to Sean was just a way of getting you ready to let strange men do things to you that they had no right to. I'm guilty of many things...I'm guilty of getting you started with sex earlier than you would have had you remained at the NEST. I won't apologize for that Sean...I was learning about you just as you were learning about me and I simply came to love you so much. However, I'm true to my original promise little man; I will not violate you, hurt you, or compromise you while you're so young. What we've done has been mutual pleasure and pure and wonderful love. I would never abuse that love or your trust in me...not even if you begged me to. If you'd stayed at the NEST, in two years or so, Jack, who, as your Lead Senior, been assigned to take your little cherry and fuck you for the first time. After that, as Jack has told you, you'd be passed around among the older boys to be fucked rather energetically before you turned fifteen and were sent out on contract to be used like a whore by men who didn't even care who you were. Jack knows all about this and so does Bobby. By the grace of God, you don't Sean. I'm guilty of many terrible things, but I've never raped a little boy...Despite contracting for him, I've only fucked Jack very recently and I suspect he's told you about that.' I stared at both of them and they exchanged guilty looks. "If you're determined to know about fucking, I suggest that you follow what would have been your natural course had you both still been at the old NEST. You both love each other and Jack would be gentle and caring. It would also be age appropriate. Sex doesn't always have to be about love Sean although it's much more wonderful that way. Sex DOES have to be about mutual consent and mutual caring. Now that you're my Son, I promise that you'll never be forced by anyone to do anything you don't want to do and you'll never be anyone's whore, but, if you want to try fucking Sean, I sincerely suggest that you try it with Jack. He's your brother by the law but your best friend by the kindness of heaven. I wish my first time had been with someone like that. The fact is Sean, you may not even like it...Jack certainly doesn't." "I like it with you a lot Dad." The redhead who had been silent until then said. "Well, be that as it may, Jack, you're four years older than Sean and I thought you were too young just nine months or so ago for me to take that way. You both have to recognize and respect my point of view in this regard. Boys, this conversation would horrify and disgust 99% of the people in the world out there. This isn't the way our relationships should be in the eyes of proper society. In their eyes, I would be a disgusting monster and you, would either be poor little victims or deprived little wantons. However, we are not a normal family in any way shape or form. We have the benefit of being VERY rich and we don't have to really worry about that crap. Having said that, we love each other as much as any other family in this world...perhaps a great deal more than many." Sean was nuzzling against my shoulder and I was rubbing his arm without even thinking about it. "So Sean, if you came to me earlier to ask me to fuck you, the answer is still NO... for now and for several more years and by then, it will probably be the last thing on your mind. If you came to ask about fucking in general, you now have more information than most kids your age should have. What you choose to do with it is up to you." He got up off my lap and looked me in the eyes. "Thanks' Eric...you're the best Dad there could be in the world." He kissed me. Jack walked over and kissed me too. His green eyes were moist with unshed tears and he didn't try to say anything. I understood. Much later, as I was on my way to bed, the door to Jack's room was open slightly. A warm soft orange light spilled out through the opening and painted a lovely line across the carpet and up the opposite wall. I'm not a voyeur by nature but I was curious so I stopped just at the threshold. The noises made by even a very expensive and well-made bed while being used as a playground were unmistakable and they were only slightly dampened by the moans, grunts and sighs of young voices obviously engaged in the act of ultimate physical pleasure. A very significant event was going on in Sean's life and this was as close as I could come to being a part of it. While my darker side quietly wished it could have been me doing it, I also knew I'd never feel right if it had been me. What was happening was just as it should be. In the end, the partnership between Sean and Jack had reached its ordained destination. I smiled and walked into my room. Sleep had no problem finding me. ************************************* It was still quite dark when I sensed him slipping under my comforter and into my bed. His smooth warm body snuggled up against my back and he wiggled several times sort or burrowing into and against my back... mostly my butt. I smiled at his not so subtle attempts to wake me without seeming to be TRY to wake me. "Do you want to talk about something Sean?" I said softly without moving. "Yeah." It was almost a sigh as he answered. I turned over and around so that we were face to face, wrapped my arms around his wonderful torso, and pulled him tightly against me. He responded by reaching up and grasping my neck in a tight hug. We stayed that way for about fifteen minutes and I guessed that I'd better break the ice. "So, little man, what's up?" "Jack fucked me tonight." "Was it terrible?" He nuzzled against my chest. "N-no, it was really nice. Jack was so cool...he `splained to me everything that was goin' on and said this was just like we'd of done it when I was fourteen but this was better `cause we were doin' it `cause we wanted to and not cause I was getting' ready to be some slut for rich guys." "So, it was nice then?" "Yeah, it was nice. It hurt a little bit the first time but mostly, it felt wonderful. Jack says I'm lucky `cause it only feels wonderful for him when you do it. `Course I don't know `cause you won't do it with me." He began to squeak like a little mouse and I knew he was crying but trying hard to hide it. I stoked his back in long soft rubbing motions as I held him tight in my other arm. This was a very emotional and life changing night for him and I understood his jangled emotions. "Sean...you are my son. You are the son of my heart and my soul. I cannot put into words that you would understand how much you've changed my life and how much you mean to me." "B-but you won't fuck me like you fuck Jack. W-why not Dad?" I sighed and pulled him tightly against me. "Sean, I've never lied to you have I?" "N-no." "OK then, I'll make you a firm promise...when you turn fourteen, if you still want to, we'll go up to the cabin at Long Bear and I'll fuck you until you scream `Uncle' and then I'll fuck you one more time. How about that?" "Is that a real promise? Would we be like just `Sean an Eric'...that kinda thing?" "Yep. If you still want it, it would be that kind of thing. I truly promise Sean. Are you happy that Jack fucked you?" "Oh yeah. It was great...so much more than I thought it would be that's why I want to do it with you. Jack says that tomorrow night he's going to let me fuck him. He says I'll like that a lot." I smiled in the darkness and thought to myself; `little man, you have no idea. Your life is just beginning.' "Yeah Sean, I think you'll like it a lot." I rolled over onto my back and he soon threw an arm and a leg across my body. In this familiar position, we both fell quickly asleep. ************* John drove up with Gary and Bobby and the boys were waiting at the front door jumping up and down. We'd barely had time to say hello before all three boys disappeared into the house leaving Gary and me smiling and shaking hands. "So Gary, how's fatherhood?" I smiled at him. "Well it's certainly not what I expected Eric. After our last conversation, I took up your suggestion and we've become very ...uhhm...physically close. Life is wonderful and I love him so much that it drives me crazy. This is not how I once envisioned my life to be but it's better than perfect. I'll always be grateful for what you've done for us." We were still standing there while the staff unloaded the limo and Gary suddenly stopped one of the guys. "These two boxes need to go straight to the library Eric. They're presents just for you." I nodded and Daniel, who was right there, pulled one of the men aside and softly gave him instructions." Later, Gary and I were seated in the library. Their cases had been brought up to their rooms. I'd smiled at that because they were in two separate bedrooms but I suspected that only one would be used this visit. I`d made certain they were in two rooms with adjoining doors. What they did at night was strictly their business Gary smiled broadly and my heart warmed as I realized how much I liked this man. "Before you offer a drink Eric, you and I have similar tastes, and so, for our Thanksgiving celebration, I've brought a case of Bowmore 25 for our enjoyment. Daniel, if you would, open that crate and pour us a dram...only thing Eric, the first drink is without ice...agreed?" I of course, had some bottles of Bowmore 25 in my stock but at approximately $425 a bottle, it was ridiculously too expensive to drink... the way I drank at least. "Pour one for yourself please Daniel." The big man looked to me for guidance and I smiled and said; "Remember Dan, you're family." Gary raised his glass of pure amber liquid. "I hardly knew him at all, bur here's to Walter." I took a slow sip and it was glorious. I smiled at Gary and Daniel. "Skoal! Walter used to say and this Thanksgiving is all about what he helped to happen so...Skoal friends." We tossed down our glasses and Gary reached over and touched my arm. "Promise me that you'll never pollute this with ice Eric." I smiled and hugged his neck. "Promise me that you'll never let Bobby down." He turned abruptly obviously thinking I was serious, but when he saw the smile on my face, he began giggling. "I suspect that a boy is worth more than an expensive bottle of whisky yes?" We calmed down and slowly sipped our exquisite scotch. "Am I to assume this carton is to stay stored here?" Daniel asked. "Absolutely" Gary responded. "Before I leave, me and this wonderful young man who is your boss, will have drank...oops...drunk it all. Now, that other case is six bottles of Beaujolais from a vintner in France that I own shares in. It's really very good and I thought it would go well with our Thanksgiving dinner." As I sipped my tumbler of exquisite liquor, I once again thought about what a beautiful man he was. ********* We found all three boys just as I'd suspected swimming and horsing around in the indoor pool. The howls of young boy fun echoed against the tiled walls and Gary and I were forewarned of their mischief before we'd walked into the chamber. "Pop! Get out of those clothes quick and you guys come play with us!" Bobby called from the far end of the pool as we walked in. Sean and Jack waved at us with big goofy grins. I turned to Gary and shrugged. With a large smile, he pulled his polo shirt over his head. Quite quickly, naked as the three boys, except for my cast and the plastic I'd wrapped around it, we were in the water and the melee had begun. Gary was older than the rest of us and after about thirty minutes of horseplay, I could see that he was tiring. I called for a `formal swim'...making things up as I went along, I had the boys swim lengths of the pool using different strokes while Gary and I sat up on the deck in lounge chairs. Bobby was quite good and I wondered if all NEST boys were such super athletes. My mind wandered back to Jack's interview with Doc Swaim and it occurred to me that they probably were. Growing up in an environment of mutual support and encouragement would bring out the best in anyone. **** Chris joined us for dinner that night and over the entire cross conversation, I noticed that he was giving me the LOOK. An impromptu pool tournament occurred in the game room after dinner, and we played in ragged teams...the three boys against Gary Chris and me. We played for about three hours laughing constantly and to my surprise, the boys beat us by one game. In the end, as they all wandered off to bed, Chris was still in the game room. His eyes said everything that was needed. We'd not reached the complete peace between us that would have allowed him to just assume that we'd go upstairs together, and so, I hung my cue stick on the rack and turning to him I softly said; "It's far too late for you to cart back to the condos alone Chris, Why don't you spend the night here?" He smiled lovingly and gratefully and I moved across the room and threw an arm across his shoulder. I pulled him to me and pressed my lips against his. Our mouths opened and our tongues dueled for entrance and possession. Briefly, the thought passed through my mind that Chris just might be the best kisser I've ever known. As we walked hand in hand down to the elevator, my mind played over an imaginary scenario. If things were going as planned, Sean was fucking Jack right about now. Thanksgiving morning would dawn upon a very different little boy. I sighed silently. Doc Swaim had prepared me for this many months ago and to my surprise, I was happy and content. As we entered my bedroom, Chris silently began to remove my clothes. As he pulled down my pants, the huge bulge in my boxer briefs let him know that he was very welcome in my room. Soon, we both stood naked in the dim light and I once again marveled at the beauty of his youthful trim body. I took his hand and let him to my bed. ************ It was Thanksgiving morning, the entire `real' part of the house was bustling as Chris, and I walked down for breakfast. Martha greeted us with a large smile. She was entirely non-judgmental. All she wanted was for people to be happy. "Well, you slugabeds! The boys and Gary have been way ahead of you and are already out about on useful business. You're barely in time for some sort of breakfast...sit down, sit down...it'll have to be eggs and toast and `make do'. You can't expect more than that." I smiled as I quietly squeezed Chris' ass and thought to myself that there was something wonderful about being the richest man in the world humbly allowing his cook to scold him for sleeping in." I loved my life and I loved Martha. As we sat down, I reflected upon the past. I realized that in many ways I loved Martha as much or perhaps even more than I loved my own mother. I'd always been much closer to my father than my mother. She was certainly loving and caring but it was my father who had been cuddling, nurturing, and always interested in my day. My mother certainly loved me. I never had a doubt about that my entire life and, we'd certainly had moments of intense closeness, but she was never capable of providing the physical contact that a child needs as he grows. My father on the other hand, was quick with a hug, a kiss, and an unexpected tickle. My father was a fun father...someone I loved and wanted to be like. Except for my sexual orientation, I had begun to think that he'd be proud of me. He wasn't appalled by my sexuality when I `came out'; he'd been kind and good-natured...understanding and caring. I loved my father only slightly less than I loved Kyle. My mother was not cold, but she wasn't warm. Something about her life seemed to surprise and annoy her yet, I know to a certainty that my father and mother loved each other intensely. It was obvious just by watching them. In retrospect, I think she loved her husband more than she loved her children...it was rather convoluted because she was always there for me and she always hugged and kissed me but, I simply felt closer to and more loved by my father. As those thoughts raced through my mind, Martha with an obligatory huff placed plates of scrambled eggs, toast and fruit before us. Just as I was going to teasingly protest her error, she arrived with two mugs and a steaming hot carafe of coffee. ************** We tracked down Gary and the boys. They were out on the lawn tossing a football around. Very quickly, we broke into teams..."Geezers against the Guys". Those were Bobby's names and I kept thinking that I really liked this kid. I really liked his Dad. I liked everybody around me. It was three on three touch football but, without a modicum of shame, we adults blatantly took advantage of our superior size and strength. This really was fair in a way, because the kids certainly took advantage of their youthful agility and speed. The ultimate breech in standard rules occurred when Bobby handed the ball off to Jack and Jack passed it to Sean who made a dash for the goal line. Chris caught him just just in time and instead of just tagging him, picked him up and ran towards the other goal. Sean was howling with laughter, kicking, and thrashing but couldn't escape Chris' strong grip. The other two boys tried desperately to either stop him or tackle him but Chris was the youngest of us `Geezers'. He crossed the line and planted Sean (who was still clutching the football) ass first onto the grass. We didn't keep track of the score but eventually the boys admitted that we'd kicked their butts. It was a glorious autumn day. Not cold but just crisp enough to make you enjoy a sweater and physical exercise. It was a perfect day to spend with three teenaged boys. Dinner wouldn't be until around four o'clock. I'd alerted Andy that we would be shooting and by mutual consent, we were walking out to the gun shed. Doc Swaim was going to meet us there. ******** Andy was waiting for us. He had guns laid out for each of us. Sean and I had our own of course though Andy commented that Sean would soon be outgrowing the stock on his Beretta and that he'd need him to come down so that he could take measurements to refit it. Jack had only used guns from our stock...not that there was a bad one in the group and I made a mental note that a personal one might make a dandy Christmas present. Doc Swaim smiled and greeted us each with a slap on the back. "This is almost like a gentlemen's sporting club gathering!" We all took positions and Andy launched the clays at our individual cries of `Pull'. I noted with pride that Sean and Jack did very well and to my surprise, Gary matched me shot for shot. "Now, you lot go o're thare and take a braeck while I have a bit o time with these two." Andy shushed us away while he kept Chris and Bobby at the points. He hunkered down and moved his arms like some ancient Gaelic snake. I smiled...'He's working his Andy magic' I thought. In just a few moments, they're going to be better than some people who've been shooting clays for years. I was right and shortly, Bobby was breaking eight out of ten. We'd shot for about an hour and I noticed Doc and Andy looking at each other. "Damnit you guys! OK...a hundred shots between you and not another one. We have dinner at four o'clock. Sean, get up there and take the button from Andy." Andy walked into the shed and returned carrying his double-barreled shotgun of unknown origin. We'd not really spoken since the invasion about how he'd protected the boys and how he had undoubtedly saved my life by killing Martin Longstreet. I wanted so much to express my gratitude but Andy was a difficult man to deal with. We all watched in awe as Sean launched a hundred clays and neither of the two missed one. "Enough you two." I called out and drew them both to me. "Andy won't you please come down to the big house and join us for dinner?" "Nay, me daughter is commin' oop and we'll be jest be fine Eric." "Your daughter? I didn't even know you had a daughter Andy. I now have to insist. You and your daughter are expected for dinner. About four o'clock yes?" "Shure Eric. It's been a long time since I've been in the big house. I'll be prout t' come." ****** We arrived back at the house in two Golf carts. Doc Swaim and Bobby arrived in a third and I sensed that Doc really liked that boy and probably wanted him as a student. There was a great deal of interest out on the driveway. John had erected a metal tri-pod and below in the center a large pot rested upon a stand that contained a propane burner. The flames were burning brightly and John was walking around the apparatus like a nervous nelly. The boys were fascinated by this contraption and I had to caution them that the pot was filled with scalding hot oil and that accidents could happen easily. "Well, just like we agreed, Jack, you stay here and help John and Sean, you scoot off to the kitchen to help Mrs. Edwards and Jenny." Sean was obviously drawn to the wonderment of John's turkey fryer contraption but he never uttered a word. He scooted off to the kitchen. "Bobby, you can amuse yourself out here with Jack or in the kitchen with Sean but, your Dad and doc Swaim are going to join me in the library for some big boy time." Bobby smiled and said he'd stay with Jack, The lure of John's contraption was too much to resist. I kneaded my brow and turned to John; "That actually looks like something devised by Torquemada for the Spanish Inquisition." He looked up at me and grinned. "Yeah, but you're gonna love it!" ********** "This is John's turkey and I think that you'll all be pleasantly surprised." Jenny walked in carrying a platter of perfectly carved bird. She placed it amidst the bounty already on the table and took her seat next to John. I glanced around the table and my heart was full as I noticed those people that I regarded as family. I froze for a moment as I took in the empty place between Jack and Chris . Uncle Phil had noticed it before me and there were tears welling in his eyes. I raised my wine glass and I noticed that Sean's glass was filled with wine rather than water. "We toast our happiness and our sadness today and we give great thanks for all that we've received..." suddenly I couldn't go on. It was like my throat was closed. I stammered and then at the far end of the table a stunning lady of about forty rose up and said; "We toast to the past because that is what made us what we are. We toast to the future because that is what we hope to be. We mourn those we have lost because we miss them so. We Toast those we have lost because we love them so and finally, We toast all that we love who are with us today. We toast to the future which is our hope and joy" It was Andy's daughter and I was stunned. Dinner was so wonderful that it almost should be against the law. John's fried turkey was astonishingly good. Everyone, Martha included, agreed we should do it again. John smiled and said that the secret was the peanut oil he'd used. Barry grasped his throat and exclaimed "Oh gawd! I'm dying! I have a severe peanut allergy!" He followed this with a few dramatics before smiling across the table to assure everyone he was all right. When the entire meal was over, the boys invited us down to the music room. They had become a quartet because Daniel had joined with his flute. They entranced us with a fabulous demonstration of classical, pop and uniquely reinterpreted rock and roll. Suddenly Sean was at my side pulling at my arm. "You're turn Dad. It's been a long time since I've heard you play." I hugged him to me and walked to the magnificent piano. I recalled my favorite piece as a very young man. It was sensual and quite romantic...Chopin's sonata 2. It had been so long and my fingers flew like little birds across the keys. I felt a charge of energy rush through me. As I played, it was like being transcended. I forgot where I was and I was oblivious of everyone around me. The music poured through me and out of me and I felt at perfect peace. As I came to the finish, I realized that Sean had been standing behind me. His hands softly rubbing my shoulders as I played . He leaned down and kissed my cheek. "You play so well Dad, you just don't do it enough, Thanks, I love you." I almost lost it but I recovered in time to catch him and pull him around and kiss him properly. "I love you too my little bug. Thank you for being yourself." ******* As the boys ran off to get ready for bed, Gary, Chris, Doc Swaim and I sat in the library. Gary and I were sipping his exquisite single malt while Chris and the professor drank their jack and waters. It was actually Doc that brought it up. "Gary, that boy of yours has a fine mind and it should be properly guided. You need to be meticulously careful and ensure his search for knowledge is properly nurtured." "I understand that Doctor Swaim and I'm actively looking for school for Bobby. The thing is, I need to find one close enough that he can come home every day. I've been alone so long that I need him with me all of the time." "Well, I might have a solution." I stood up and gathered everyone's glass for an easy refill. "Since your business doesn't tie you down to one location, there is a three acre plot of land adjoining this property near where I'm building condos for future staff. You could out bid me on it Gary and build a proper home for you and Bobby. Doc Swaim could control his education...I think that was what Doc was hinting at." "Would you be willing to do that Doc?" Gary was almost out of his seat with excitement. "The idea of working with three bright young minds in an exclusive atmosphere is wonderful." So, then tomorrow , you make a bid on the lot and I'll make one lower. That will get the land owner off his ass quickly. You'll get an architect and build your dream home. In the meantime, you'll live here and Bobby will be tutored by Doc Swaim until he and Jack are off to the University. We stood and clinked gasses. Slowly, we all headed off to bed. Chris lingered behind not sure of what he should do. I smiled and told him `not tonight'. I wanted to be alone and happy. As I moved into bed naked and relaxed, I thought about Christmas. Last Christmas I was drunk, alone and devastated. This year would find me happy and surrounded with love. Sleep overtook me rapidly. (to be continued) I cannot express my gratitude to those of you who've send your comments, critiques and encouragement. Your input is all that we receive when we throw our little stories before you. You should also know how important even the smallest donation to NIFTY is. Simply put...it keeps it free. Got it?