Date: Sat, 22 Jul 2023 02:59:44 +0000 From: JD in SFO Subject: Making New Memories - Chapter Eleven Making New Memories Thank you, Gentle Reader, for opening this story, a series about a man who confronts his past to find a new future. Dave, Jim, and the rest of the cast of characters are fictional, and do not represent any person living or dead. The story is fantasy and exists in that realm, Elements in this story include sex between men, some racier elements might include some kinky sex, but for the most part just good old-fashioned cocksucking and fucking. If you enjoy this story, and others like it, please consider making a donation to keep the Nifty archive free and accessible! http://donate.nifty.org/donate.html Chapter Eleven My boss was a good friend. In the many years I'd worked with him, we had become closer than supervisor and employee, and we had grown up in the organization together. He was now the CEO, and I was his Vice President of Operations. It was a couple of weeks after Jim left, and it was the last day of work for the year. We were closing down and giving everyone a couple of weeks off. We'd start back in January. Dan and I were having a glass of bourbon from his special stash in his wood-paneled office. "So, I have a proposal for you," Dan began, as he took a sip from his glass. I had given him these crystal rocks glasses on the day he was named CEO as a celebration. "Is this another one of your new ideas to take the company into the future?" I laughed. Over the years, many conversations with Dan had started this way. I held up my glass, and we clinked. "Hah hah. Sort of," he got more comfortable in his chair. "Ellen and I are ready to start a new chapter. She wants to travel more, I want to do other things besides work. I am going to announce my retirement when we come back in January." "Wow, holy shit! That's great news, Dan! Congratulations." Dan was ten years older than I, and I had always seen him as a mentor. "I am going to miss you," I said, earnestly. "Well, now we can finally grab lunch together," he laughed - our inside joke was that we worked together and never had eaten a personal lunch together - corporate work lunches, plenty, but we had never, in more than twenty years, been free for lunch at the same time. "But, what I really want to say," he set down his glass and leaned forward a bit, "is that the board and I agree that the best choice for CEO is you, Dave. You know every aspect of the business, you've seen it all, and you've been a part of every decision that's led to growth." He stopped and let that sink in for a moment before he continued, "I hope that you'll say yes, so that I can begin training you and get the fuck out of here," he picked up his glass and took a long sip. I was stunned, although not entirely surprised. I had been thinking for a while that this might happen, and, well, there wasn't any other promotion available except the top job, and so this was the moment. For quite a while now, after I decided to stick with the company despite some offers over the years to jump ship, I had wondered if I would ever lead it. "I hope your silence is a good sign," Dan said, a little nervously, but he knew me well, he knew I seldom made quick professional decisions, in fact, my cool-headedness had saved us a time or two from some risky situations. "Dan, you know my answer is yes, although I can't imagine filling your shoes," I answered honestly. We poured another drink and spent the next hour planning and strategizing about the timing. "Let's come back in January, hash out an offer, and we'll figure out a transition plan," Dan said, as we concluded the evening. It was late on a Friday evening, and San Francisco's financial district was clearing out for the weekend. The rain spattered the windows of our twentieth floor office suite. "I hope you and Ellen have a Merry Christmas, Dan. Thank you for this opportunity." I stepped forward and we shook hands and did a bro-side hug. We walked to the elevator together. He went to the garage, I got out at the lobby. He'd drive back to his home in the East Bay and I would take the streetcar up Market Street to my stop. I saw a missed text from Jim, and looked at the time. It was past seven which meant it was past ten in Michigan. I thumbed, "Still awake? I was meeting with Dan at work." I didn't get a reply, which was not unusual. Jim was an early-to-bed kinda guy. I made my way home, and heated up some leftover pasta while I slipped out of my clothes. Ever since Jim had been in my house, I'd taken to lounging on the love seat naked in front of the Christmas tree. That evening had been such a beautiful one, that I felt close to him and to that moment when I sat there. Christmas in San Francisco was usually a rainy time, and I laid a fire in the fireplace and enjoyed the warming of the room with the wind-gusts of rain against the window and the light of the tree. A perfect evening. The smell of my coffee from the kitchen woke me, and I was grateful I'd managed to set the timer on the pot last night. There was a text from Jim. "Morning, sleepyhead." I smiled, grabbed my phone off the charger, threw on my flannel bathrobe, and padded to the kitchen. It was still raining and the low dark sky gave an evening feel even though it was nearly seven in the morning. I took a selfie of me drinking coffee and sent it to Jim. He called back. "Hey!" I said, as I connected the call. "Good morning, handsome," he replied. "Sorry I fell asleep early last night." "I'm glad you got a good night's sleep. I sat by the tree last night, thinking about you," I replied, with a sappy smile. "Mmmm. I loved being there with you. Is that rain I hear?" I was seated close to the kitchen window and the wind was blowing the rain against the glass. "Yep, we're in day two of a big storm - an atmospheric river, they call it," the media had come up with this term in recent years to describe these low pressure rain storms that San Francisco would get during the winter. They could last for days. "It's snowing up here. Real cold this week, I think the lake might even freeze. I am glad that I have been working inside this week!" Jim stated. "But I think I'm done for the rest of the year now, because I need the plumber and the electrician to come before I finish the walls, and they're done for Christmas now." "Yeah, last night was my last night of work for the year," I echoed. We had a pause of silence, in which we were probably thinking the same thing. Jim and I both started to speak at the same time. "You go," he said, giving me the space. I chuckled. "Well, why are we spending Christmas alone, if we're both off for a couple of weeks?" "That's a damn good question, Dave," Jim agreed. "Want a houseguest for the holidays?" I invited myself. "If he looks like you, yep! I do!" Jim replied quickly. "Well, let me look at flights, and I'll get back with you in a little bit?" I suggested, suddenly excited about the next two weeks. "I'm really excited about this," Jim enthused. A quick check online showed that I could get a morning flight tomorrow and be in Traverse City by five PM with a quick layover and plane change in Chicago. I checked the weather forecast, and except for rain here, and light snow there, it seemed like it would be possible. I showered, and made my bed, then called Jim. He picked up on the first ring, "Hey stranger," I heard him exhale and knew he was smoking a cigarette. It seemed odd to say, but I missed even that about him. The way the house smelled of his spicy tobacco smoke, and how his kisses tasted dark and damp, like the forest. "So, how would you feel about driving to TC at five tomorrow evening?" I asked, merriment in my voice. "I'll be there at 4:59!" I gave him my flight info, and we chatted for another few minutes. We were both animated, excited about the plan to see each other again sooner than we had planned. I spent the rest of the day packing, got a haircut and a beard trim, cleaned out my fridge and took out the trash, and cleaned up the house. I'd picked up a few gifts for Jim and they were wrapped. I was going to ship them this coming week, but now I put them in my luggage. We were delayed an hour in Chicago, and I texted Jim. He was following, and already knew, so he had not yet left for the airport. He would leave as soon as my flight left - it was only an hour up to Traverse City from Chicago, and it would take him about the same amount of time to drive. At 6:15 the plane touched down, and a few minutes later we'd taxied to the gate. I stepped through the secure area, and Jim was right there, filling out his jeans and his jacket perfectly. My mouth actually watered, and I licked my lips. I walked up to him, and he opened his arms in a hug. Then he surprised me with a full on kiss. Jim had been reserved before, and Northern Michigan was pretty conservative, but I wasn't going to complain. I was kissing Jim again! It didn't take long for my bag to come out on the belt in this small airport, and within five more minutes we were up in Jim's truck, on the way home. Jim lit a cigarette as soon as we got in his truck, and I put my arm over the back of his seat and rubbed his neck. We talked softly and enjoyed being together again. "Are you hungry?" Jim asked, "Starving," I replied quickly. "Good. I took out some steaks this afternoon. We can cook `em up when we get home," Jim looked over at me and winked. We listened to the country station and the snow started picking up more as we turned onto East Torch Lake Drive and headed toward Jim's house. By the time we turned onto Jim's road, the snow was really coming down, and the truck made tracks as it pulled into the driveway. "Looks like we're in for a big storm. This wasn't predicted at all." "Lake Effect!" we both said at the same time. "I made it just in time," I agreed. "Glad it held off until I arrived." We made it into the house, and I put my bag down. Before I could sit down to take off my boots, Jim's arms were around me, his belly pressed against mine, his lips searching mine out. "That was about as long as I want to go without seeing you," Jim admitted. "I'm so glad you're here." As Jim whipped up some dinner, I took a shower, washing the smell and sweat of travel off me. It was nice to be back in Michigan. This thought hit me as strange - I had not thought of my home state as a place that would feel good upon return in many, many years. I let that emotion wash over me with the warm water. Our meal was simple, and delicious, and after the dishes were done, Jim cracked open another beer, put a couple more logs on the fire, and turned down the lights almost all the way. We sat in his couch, cuddling each other. I loved feeling Jim's body behind me, as he held my chest, our legs woven together. "You don't put up a Christmas tree?" I tried not to sound judgmental. "Oh, you're not the only one with fancy light contraptions," he said with a smirk. Grabbing his phone, he pushed a button on an app, and out in his backyard, covered in new snow, a beautiful spruce tree was suddenly lit by plain white Christmas lights. "I hate the idea of living in the forest and chopping down a tree every year, so I decorate that one." I craned my neck to find his lips with mine, and kissed him. "That's beautiful, and so is the thought." We went back to looking out the window. The sound of the crackling fire, Jim's arms around me, the warmth of an old quilt covering us, and the storm outside put me to sleep, and I felt myself slump into Jim's arms. We must have stayed like that for a while until finally I felt Jim's lips on my ear. "Ok, sleepyhead, let's get you in bed," I opened my eyes, and felt ashamed for having fallen asleep. "I'm sorry. A long day of travel, and you are just so comfortable..." I trailed off. Jim chuckled, and squeezed my shoulder. I slowly sat up, then stood, and reached down to grasp Jim's hand and pull him up. He kept my hand in his, and we walked to the door to the back porch. We pulled the quilt around us, and stepped out into the snowy night. The fresh smell of new snow, the clean breeze, the pine, it was wonderful. We looked at the dark night and the Christmas tree shining through the snow, and exchanged a deep, sweet kiss. "Welcome home," Jim said in a low voice. "Mmmm," I murmured, echoing the sentiment, and then we went in to bed. I fell immediately asleep on his chest, the last thing I remembered was Jim's hand rubbing my head and neck. The next morning I awoke to a still-darkened sky. My phone said 7:03, and Jim was still curled up against me, gently snoring. I slipped out of bed to respond to nature's call, and then, padding back into the bedroom I contemplated getting back into bed, but then I thought it would be nice to make Jim a nice breakfast instead, so I found my slippers and a bathrobe and went downstairs. It was still snowing, and last night's accumulation must have been over a foot. The wind had drifted the snow against the back door. I laid a new fire -- the embers had gone completely cold -- and then sorted out coffee. As the coffee was percolating the room started to warm up. I found bacon, eggs, milk in the fridge, and flour and sugar in the cupboards. A blizzard snowbound breakfast of bacon and pancakes sounded good! I whipped up a quick batter and set it aside. I filled up my mug and took it to the couch to look out at the snow. Thayer Lake was frozen over, and covered in snow. The fir trees and oaks and maples were sleeved in fluffy white, their branches heaped high. The wind had died down sometime after making its drifts, but the snow had continued. It was mounded on everything that could hold it. I was so glad I'd come. I had missed snow like this. I didn't even hear Jim walk up behind me, I was so relaxed and looking out at the wintry scene. I almost jumped when I felt his hands on my shoulders, but then relaxed and sunk into his touch. He kissed the crown of my head and then padded off to the kitchen to pour himself some coffee. He rejoined me on the couch with a quick kiss, then he lit a cigarette and leaned back. I knew that Jim appreciated his first couple of cigarettes of the day, and liked to be quiet. I sat next to him and rubbed his neck gently while he let himself wake up. The silence was not awkward. Neither of us felt the need or impulse to fill this moment with anything other than being close, and feeling safe. I snuggled into Jim, and he put his arm around my chest and held me close while he smoked and drank his coffee. I loved feeling the rise and fall of his chest. We stayed that way for a while until I heard his belly rumble. "Sounds like it's time for pancakes, eh?" I chuckled, rubbing his belly. "Mmmm! Pancakes! Yes, please." I leaned forward and sat up, easing myself off the couch. Jim followed me to the kitchen, pulling up a stool at the peninsula / breakfast bar. I refilled his mug. "How'd you sleep?" I asked. "Like I always do when I share a bed with you. Content," he smiled, lighting another cigarette. "Mmm. I am sorry I was so sleepy last night, but I agree, it felt great to snuggle up with you," I concurred. "Let's just stay in our pajamas all day," Jim suggested. "Snow day!" I shouted, remembering my youth, and the exuberance of having a day of no school. I put the bacon in the oven and started heating a skillet, and set out to make a mountain of pancakes. I was glad to see a container of real maple syrup in Jim's fridge - it meant I wouldn't have to have the conversation with him about that gross artificial syrup that some people love. I poured some in a little pan and slowly heated it on the back burner. In a few minutes we had breakfast in front of us. Jim kept our coffee mugs filled and we tucked in. Later, in the shower, I soaped Jim up, running my hands over his nipples and chest as I washed him. I cleaned out his pits and traced down his sides before squatting in front of him to wash his legs and feet. Then, conveniently, at face level, Jim's cock and balls presented themselves. I washed them as well, gliding the sudsy washcloth along his cock and feeling it harden and lengthen in my hand, and then washing his balls. After his dick was rinsed, I finished the job with my mouth, swirling my tongue on his glans then feeding him into my throat. I had him to the root in a few seconds, my throat had been so trained by now to open up to Jim. Immediately, I felt his hands on my head, holding me in place. His cock expanded as I swallowed around him, focusing on breathing through my nose. He pulled me off him and pushed me again. It was so erotic having Jim use my mouth to fuck himself in me. I moaned, and he thrust more quickly, pushing deep in and pulling back out. Finally he stepped back, picked me up, turned me against the wall, and told me to put my foot up on the ledge. Jim was inside me in a few seconds, and he was fucking me hard. He was randy this morning, and I had set him off, apparently. "Ungh, babe, yeah, so good, you are fucking me so hard today!" I moaned. "You wanted it, and I needed it. I wanted to be inside you so bad last night, but you fell asleep. This morning I am taking what I want," Jim huffed as he thrust and parried. I loved how aggressive he was being. He did not usually do this, but today, rough trade. I was ready. Fuck he felt so good. I squeezed my ass every time he pushed in, milking his cock, driving him wild. He grabbed me and pulled us together, and began playing with my chest, biting my shoulder, licking the back of my neck all while he fucked me. "Yeah, Jim, take me, have your way. Fucking fill me up," I begged. "Gonna make you mine," he was getting breathless, so I knew he must be close. Finally he shouted. "Fuck yeah, Dave!" and I knew he was blasting inside me, I could feel the pulses from his big dick. Finally, he slumped against me, grinding his cock into me slowly as he regained his composure. I looked down at the tile, and I had cum from Jim hitting my prostate over and over. We were both spent. I washed him all over again, gently caressing him. We kissed sweetly as the water washed the soap and sweat and cum off us, and when we were finished, stepping out, I dried Jim with a fluffy towel and then he returned the favor. We put back on flannel bathrobes, and stayed true to our snow day attire. Clean, freshened, and with Jim's nut safely stored inside me, we returned to the couch, threw some more logs on the fire, and watched the wind blow the snow against the big windows. We spent the day chatting, we played some checkers, and just enjoying each other. It was the shortest day of the year, the Winter Solstice. The Sun was sinking behind the trees already, and Jim turned on his outdoor tree and lit some candles to bring the light in on the darkest night. I fixed us some manhattans and we toasted to the return of the light. "This next year is going to bring great things," Jim was certain in his statement. "I've never felt more optimistic about a new year than I do now. It would have been impossible to imagine where this year would have led as it unfolded, but I would not change a thing. I am glad the year is drawing to a close in your arms, with us, together," I was feeling romantic and warm. "I did not know that I could meet someone like you, and have a relationship with him. I thought I would have to be alone or settle," Jim had a moment of vulnerability. "Ian was a nice guy, but I was with him because I did not want to be alone, not because he made me feel alive and wanted and more." Jim was opening a door to a conversation I wasn't sure I wanted to have. "It seemed to me like Ian felt more for you, though. Do you think that's right? I mean, granted, my memory of that particular conversation is pretty traumatic, but when he was telling me about you and him there was an excitement and sparkle in his eyes. He loved you." As I was speaking, I saw Jim's face fall, and he looked panicked and sad. "I am not trying to make you feel guilty - we've dealt with that and with us," I tried to reassure him. Jim lit up a cigarette, a classic move which bought him a little time, relaxed him, gave him some time to think. "I know Ian loved me. He wanted me. And I feel like a shitty person for letting him think he had me, but I did not want the feeling of being wanted to end," Jim confessed, letting out a lungful of smoke toward the ceiling. Then he looked at me and made eye contact. I saw a lingering fear in him. "I feel so much more for you than I did for him, Dave. I love you." "I know you do, I believe you. I love you, too, Jim," I responded. "I am here, with you." I reached out to rub his shoulder. "It's hard here in the sticks," Jim continued, "especially being gay. There aren't a lot of options, and years can go by..." I cut him off. "It's no easier in the city, Jim. Even in San Francisco. The number of guys doesn't seem to increase the chance of meeting the right one." It was true. San Francisco has a high gay population, fully visible, but that did not make meeting a good guy any easier. "Before meeting you, I was single for years, going on only a few first and second dates. It's tough out there." "I get that, and I don't know really what I am trying to express here, fully, other than to say, I had no business staying with Ian as long as I did. And when I was going to end things with him, I just felt incredibly sad for him, for what I would put him through, knowing he'd be single again, and lonely. I chickened out, in the worst way, and I'm still pissed at myself," Jim rationed, his voice becoming a bit emotional. "Jim, you're definitely opening up some recently-healed wounds here. I don't mean to drag you over the coals, or shut you down, but you do realize that how you handled that situation made it way worse for me, for Ian, and for you, right?" I didn't really want to lecture him, but couldn't help myself. "Yeah," Jim took a deep drag and a slow exhale. "After I went back into Sleder's it was clear to Ian that I had formed a relationship with you, and that he had just walked into a mess. He felt bad for you, he was pissed at me, so pissed, and hurt," Jim recounted. "But he also knew, he could see, it was over, and that I was in love with you." I was silent. I did not really want to hear about this, but I was listening just the same. I knew we had to get through this conversation at one point or another if we were going to move forward. Going on, Jim said, "After the accident, I called him, and he came to visit me, and helped me back to my house. He was a gentleman, and brought some clothes that I'd left at his place. He said he hoped we could be friends eventually, but that he needed some time away from me." "He is a decent guy, isn't he?" I said, amazed that Ian had such a kind manner. I might have been more spiteful in that situation, but, well, love makes us act differently. "I needed time away from you, as well, but it was like you kept pulling on me. As much as I wanted to burn down the entire state of Michigan, I also wanted us to find a way back. I did not think I could do it, really, given my history of being able to shut down bad relationships," Jim winced at this, knowing I was comparing his betrayal to that of my family, "but I did it. We did it. "I am a little worried, though," I continued. "What if you feel unfulfilled and lonely when I am back in California? Is there a risk of Ian or another guy?" Jim crushed out his cigarette and held my hand. His eyes looked sad, and I knew my question, my doubt, hurt him on some level. "I really don't think I could so casually be with another guy after sharing what we've shared, Dave. I couldn't, and will not step out on you." Jim knew it was hard to make believable promises about an unclear future, but we also both knew that relationships are about trust, and, that has to be in place for them to work. "I guess, on some level, I hope that there aren't 2000 miles between us, at some point," Jim expressed. I let that wash over me. I was not ready to discuss ways to eliminate the distance or plans to move closer. I felt like we needed more time. I just squeezed his hand and nodded. It was non-committal, I know that, but I did not have other words at that moment. I leaned over and kissed Jim sweetly, hoping to convey my affirmation. "I believe you." Eventually, we got up again and took our cocktails to the kitchen. I made a little pasta with chicken and veggies, and, after eating, we returned to the couch to enjoy the darkness of the longest night of the year. That night, Jim pulled me on top of him when we got into bed, and held me close. We made out, and I loved kissing him. Jim is a great kisser, his lips are strong - insistent - but he knows how to slow them down again just as the heat is getting intense, and give little quiet butterfly kisses. His tongue tasted every part of my mouth, then gently retreated to lick and tickle my lips. When he kissed my earlobes, or my neck, it was fiery, instantly turning me on, making me grind against him in lust. Hooking his legs around mine, he flipped us over so that I was on my back, and began making his way down my body with his beard and lips and tongue. He spent uncounted time on my nipples and chest, making my nubs hard and sensitive, almost to the point of pain, then cooling them down with his moist breath again. When he got to my cock, he swallowed it, suctioning and twisting his head so that the head of my cock was deeply buried in him. He ministered to my dick, getting it achingly hard and slick with his spit. Finally, when I was hard and wet enough, he stopped, and he rose up over me, straddling my hips, and positioning my cock straight. His beautiful grey eyes met mine, and he lowered himself onto me. I watched his face as my steel-hard cock breached his first ring. He showed no signs of pain, and kept going. When I felt his balls settle on my body I knew I was buried fully. I gave a little thrust and contracted my cock within his walls, letting him know I appreciated him. Finally, he began to move, riding me slowly. I grabbed his masculine love handles and caressed him, our eyes never leaving each other's. I pulled him onto me. "Ooof, you feel so big inside me," he exclaimed. I chuckled. "You're bigger than I am, think how I feel when you are in me," I fondled his cock, paying attention to his sensitive head with my palm. I knew this drove him mad. He shuddered in response, and lifted, slamming again onto me. I met his thrust this time with my own, and we continued that new rhythm. "So, good, Jim, you feel so good. I love being in you!" I shouted. Jim arched back, and I knew I was hitting his prostate. His cock was leaking on my belly. "Ungh, yeah, I am not gonna last much longer with you fucking me like that." I increased my speed and force. Suddenly he shot, "Ohh, Fuck, you made me cum!" he shouted. The first rope of cum hit my beard and the rest came on my belly and chest. His ass was gripping my cock so tightly as he rode his orgasm, that I couldn't help but fire off as well. "Yeah, Jim, fuck that load out of me. I love unloading into you!" I did, too. It was rare with us, as usually I was on the bottom. I appreciated these moments of switching. Our orgasms lasted another few seconds, and then with a shudder, Jim collapsed on top of me, my cock slipping out of his ass. We rolled over onto our sides, our bellies touching. He started laughing and swiped his finger across my beard, showing me the cum that was on it. I opened my mouth and he fed it to me. "Mmm. my favorite!" I said, with a giggle. I caressed his beard, and pet his head, and rubbed his neck and shoulders. The cum dried against us and it became chilly. "Should we shower?" he asked. "Uh huh. Or it will be murder trying to get the cum out of your fur tomorrow. Your cum is like quikrete!" For the second time that day, we had a sensual shower, this time lit only by the flickering light of candles. We caressed each other and declared our love, and took care of each other. The morning brought sunlight. The storm had passed. When I padded back to the bed with two mugs of coffee, Jim was sitting up, the blankets across his legs. His furry chest and belly were exposed. Jim is such a masculine man. He is strong, but comfortable. His tummy, round and soft, is spread over abs that have been strengthened with honest work. His chest is furry and while his pecs are cushiony, I've witnessed and felt his upper body strength. He is just so naturally a man, and it has its own kind of sex appeal. He was smoking, and he smiled when he saw me and the coffee I was carrying. I sat next to him, and we drank our coffee quietly while Jim finished his cigarette and lit another. "I thought we'd attach the plow up to my truck and plow out the drive and a couple of the year-rounders up here, and then maybe go down to your place and plow it out, as well," Jim said, having come up with a plan. A morning spent digging the neighbors out might not have been my first thought, but this was country life, and Jim was a country man. "Sure thing! I can grab a shovel, and dig out the stuff you can't reach with the plow," I offered. I saw the smile on Jim's face, and knew I had made him happy and proud. "That would be perfect. Digging off the walkways to the doors, the porches, the mailbox, always takes so much more time," he admitted. "I might need to borrow some better boots and gloves," I suggested. "I've got you covered, cityboy," he chuckled. I leaned in for a kiss and he returned it. The spicy taste of tobacco and the earthy bitterness of coffee were an intoxicating combination. I loved Jim's taste. After showers, quick ones, I made up a couple of breakfast burritos from eggs, onion, and leftover bacon and cheese, and filled up a thermos of coffee, and we were off. Jim's boots fit pretty well. We started with his driveway, of course, and I had never attached a plow to a truck before, but I learned quickly. I shoveled off the porch and the back deck, and a walkway around the house, and then a path to the shed, and made sure the door could open, before shoveling out the mailbox. I hopped in the truck and we plowed a path down Jim's road around the lake to a house three doors down. I jumped out and started my work while Jim tackled the long driveway. As I got up to the porch to shovel it, the door opened, and a kind-looking woman in a Christmas sweater and gray hair smiled. "Thanks! You didn't have to do all the way up to the door," she said. "It's no problem at all!" I answered enthusiastically. The morning air, the fresh snowfall, and doing a nice thing had me feeling the Christmas spirit. "Wait right there," she instructed, turning back into her house. In a few moments she brought back a tin. "Jim loves this. You look like someone familiar," she said, trying to place me. "I'm Kirk Bishop's son," I offered. "Ah! Of course, you are. I was sorry to hear about your parents," she said with sympathy. "I am Kelly, and I knew your mom pretty well." I did not show my dismissive attitude, rather I just thanked her for her kindness. "And you're hanging around with Jim," she observed, then after a moment's contemplation, she added, "Good for both of you!" She beamed a big smile. "Well, Merry Christmas!" she offered. "Merry Christmas, Kelly." I held up the tin, which was heavy, and thanked her again. I jogged back to the truck, and hopped in. "Kelly says Merry Christmas," I gave Jim the tin. "Oooh, I hope this is what I think it is!" he exclaimed, opening the tin. "Yep! Fruitcake!" "What? Seriously, she gave you a fruitcake?" "You have no idea how good these are. She starts them in the fall, and she soaks them in brandy. You'll get drunk on one slice," he promised. "I'll have to be drunk to eat fruitcake," I scoffed, but I knew that I'd be trying some later. "Hmpf, suit yourself. More for me," and Jim set it on the floor in back of his seat. And we were off to the next house. There were three year-round families on Thayer Lake, and we did a few more as we turned toward the Torch Lake cabin. At each one, we were greeted, and most of them gave us something. As we turned into the driveway of the cabin, I counted a fruitcake, a loaf of stollen, a loaf of walnut pumpkin bread, a tin of cookies, a tin of fudge, and, from the last house, a fifth of really nice bourbon. "We won't have to make any dessert `til the summer!" I observed. Jim patted his belly, and we laughed. We did our same routine, only this time, when Jim finished the drive, he turned off the truck and came up to the porch. I was just shoveling off the last of it, and looking out at the lake, icy and cold, when he walked behind me and put his arms around me. "Thanks for being my helper today. I should keep you around all winter!" he laughed. I sighed. The idea of being in Michigan in the Winter did not disturb me as it might have before. "Want to see what's been done? Although, to prepare you, it won't look like much since I can't put the walls up `til the electrician and the plumber come after the New Year," Jim said by way of explanation. "Lead on," and we turned toward the door. Jim was right, it looked like a construction project, but Jim guided me through it. Imagine a wall here, see how this might look, we're going to run cabinets along here. I was interested, but I'll admit I had a hard time imagining it. I had seen the plans, and the drawings, but it was a long way from finished. Going upstairs, I was excited to see what the new bathroom would look like - much bigger with a nice shower. Having a second bathroom would make it so much nicer. "It's going to be amazing. You told me to trust you, and I do. I can't wait to see it come together!" I squeezed his hand, then continued. "You have a very good eye." Jim blushed. Jim's humility was one of those things that made him special to me. It showed a little vulnerability and also a pride in who and how he was. "Do you want to head out to the boathouse?" Jim asked, hopeful. "Let's do it!" I went for the door. We trudged through the snow, and I was glad for the high boots that Jim had loaned me - this snow would have been way over my boots. We got to the boathouse, and it was stunning. Jim had made the outside match the same wood siding as the cottage, but that's where the similarity ended. Where the cottage had some original fixtures and architecture that was of a certain boxy, cozy style, this boathouse was modern, beautiful, and full of light. It had been built on top of a dock and hoist for the boat, a water garage of sorts, and was one main level with a loft. Right off the door leading from the yard was what would be a small but well-designed bathroom. I could see by the framing where the shower would go, and it would be a nice one! To the other side of the entryway was a storage closet and a small utility room. The rest of the downstairs space opened into what would be a kitchen with a breakfast bar and a seating area all focused on views of the lake. Floor to ceiling windows pointed in a swiss chalet style, gave an interesting architectural look to the space. A small sliding glass door opened onto a verandah that reached over the lake with space enough for a nice table and chairs, if someone wanted. Stairs from there led right down onto a small dock for easy swimming and diving into the water. Back inside, at the rear above the two enclosed spaces, there was a small spiral staircase and a loft where a bed and some other furniture might fit. It was a gorgeous open space, perfect for a visiting guest. I was stunned. "Jim, this is, well, this should be in a magazine!" "Well, we might want to wait for the walls to finish, and the kitchen and bath to be completed. I rolled my eyes at him. I turned to face him, and embraced him. I simply did not know what else to do, because the work was so unexpectedly beautiful. We kissed. "I don't have words. It's perfect," I stammered. That blush again. "I'm glad you like it," he said, softly. The rest of the evening was peaceful. We were beat from a long day of pushing snow. A night in front of the fire with some whiskey, and a meal of grilled cheese sandwiches and a salad made it an easy night. We cuddled up on the couch and enjoyed the heat from the fireplace. Eventually we dozed off, and when I came to, it was after midnight. I whispered to Jim, and we groggily made it upstairs and fell into bed. It was a good day. The next few days were wonderful with Jim. Other than making a trip into Traverse City to pick up some groceries for Christmas dinner, and a couple of gentle walks outside, we mostly stayed in. We talked, played cards, watched movies, and had really good sex. The chemistry with Jim was intense - everytime we fucked there was deep connection and mindblowing orgasms. At one point we laughed at ourselves, wondering if we'd ever get bored of each other. Over Christmas dinner - a ham, scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, and some of the goodies we'd picked up on shoveling day - we toasted to the future. Sitting across from Jim at his small table, our plates loaded with good comfort food, the candles, and the fire, it was serene. "So, what are your wishes for the new year?" Jim asked, as we pushed our empty plates aside. "Before I left, Dan asked me to think about stepping into his role, as he is ready to retire. I've been with him for many years now, and he felt like I should be the next CEO," I replied. As soon as the words hit the air between us, I saw a quick look of deflation on Jim's otherwise cheerful face, then he corrected, and reached out his hand to squeeze mine. He refilled our wine glasses and lit a cigarette. "Wow, that's big news," he replied. I could tell he was a little shocked. "Yeah, I told him I would give it thought and that when I returned in January, we could talk about it more. I am uncertain about it," I admitted. "Why wouldn't you take the role? You've been prepared for it, it's a great opportunity. Do you feel like you could do it?" Jim was a good cheerleader. "Yeah, I feel prepared, as prepared as I could be, but, well, there's us," I let it trail off. Jim took a deep drag and held it for a second before slowly exhaling through his nose - a sign that he was carefully considering his next words. "I don't want to stand in the way of your success, honey. We can figure out a way, as you said the other day, there's no rush," I knew Jim did want things to move forward. Ever since our conversation the other evening about our relationship, I could feel that he wanted us to be closer, but he was trying not to talk about it. "I appreciate you letting me have some time to work through this, but if there's something that you want to say, I want you to know that your opinion matters to me, too," I rubbed my thumb along the side of his left hand. "I've wanted love for a long time - probably my whole life. I am glad that we've found it together, and it's unlocked in me a ..." he paused, taking a deep drag, "a desire for more. I thought I was content before meeting you, and satisfied, but now I know that there's something beautiful in loving and being loved, and I want more of it." His eyes met mine. "And more, is it about living together? Or near each other? I mean, Jim, we've only known each other for four months," the rational side of my brain was in control for the moment. "I am not exactly sure, but it's not going months without you, or being squeezed into a small timeslot when we're both free," Jim's passion was coming out, but he reined it in. "But I also don't want to push or rush, either, I know that our love is new." He said this with a conviction that his body language and eyes did not seem to share, but I also knew that we should probably let this conversation rest for now. "Here's to more," I offered, lifting my glass. Jim clinked me, and there was love and hope in his eyes. We took the dishes to the sink and put away the dinner, and opened a second bottle of red wine. It had started gently snowing, and the low lights and the fire made for a cozy evening. Jim put Frank Sinatra on, "I love those J I N G L E Bells," came the chorus. I popped into the washroom quickly, and when I came out, Jim was naked, wearing nothing but a Santa hat. "Well, Santa, that was a quick change. I feel overdressed," I giggled, I walked over and stood in front of Jim. He reached up and popped the button on my jeans, and slid them down my thighs and legs. I worked on my shirt, tossing it over my head. "Come sit on Santa's lap," Jim coaxed, seductively. I straddled his lap and laid a big kiss on him. "Ho, Ho, Ho!" I exclaimed. "Hey, that's my line," he nipped my lip gently with his front teeth. "Now, tell me, have you been a good boy?" I giggled. "Define good." "If you have to ask, the answer is no," "I can be better, I promise," I said, staying in this role for a bit longer. I bent my head down and kissed his earlobe, then traced with my tongue down his neck and throat. I felt his hands on my back and sides as he caressed me. "What do you want for Christmas, little boy?" Jim whispered into my ear, his lips against my ear tickling and buzzing. It sent a shiver down my spine which made my ass twitch right against Jim's enlarging cock. Rather than answer with words, I answered with action, and I lifted up, lined my ass with Jim's dick, and slid down. Once I was riding Jim's cock, I said, "You! I want you!" Jim bucked into me, thrusting his cock deeper yet. I raised and lowered myself on him, keeping a steady pace. "Ungh, Jim, er, Santa, yeah, fuck me like that," I growled. "Gonna make you mine for Christmas," Jim huffed back. Keeping one hand on his shoulder, using it for leverage in my pistoning, I moved my other hand to his chest and began to stroke his nipple. I heard the sharp intake of his gasp, and felt his cock expand in my ass, knowing that I was pressing his buttons. I drove relentlessly on, impaling myself on Jim's hard dick. Our mouths met and with breathless, frenzied kisses, our tongues and lips danced. "Mmmph, You feel so good, you're gonna make me cum," I murmured into his mouth. "Cum for me. Blast all over my chest, babe," Jim coaxed. As if to spur me on, Jim twisted his dick as he thrust against me, hitting my prostate with a thudding pound. He repeated this move a few times until I spilled right over the edge. "Damn! Yeah, Santa, I am coming all over you!" I shouted as my orgasm blasted out of my balls and soaked Jim's fuzzy belly. Still I drove on, caressing his cock in my tender ass, feeling him lengthen and his cock head expand even more. My man was about to nut in me, and I was ready for it. "Ungh, Fuck! Yeah, babe, I can't stop!" Jim's orgasm slammed into him, and his body convulsed with pleasure. I kissed his neck and throat and rubbed his neck and shoulders as he unloaded deep into me. Jim's orgasm lasted a few more seconds, and then we came to rest. I stayed straddling him, enjoying the feeling of being so full. We kissed and cooed and cuddled. Eventually, knowing Jim's needs, I sat back a bit, and reached for his cigarettes and lighter. He looked grateful, as I knew he liked a post-fuck cigarette. After his second inhale, I bent my lips to his and opened my mouth to suck the smoke from his lungs. "Mmm, now that is so much smoother, I could enjoy that," I said, exhaling into the room. Jim smiled and looked surprised. "I haven't shotgunned since high school, and that was with pot!" he laughed. We caressed and murmured sweetly to each other while Jim finished smoking, and then I gradually stood up, as my legs were beginning to cramp. I clamped tight on my ass, wanting to keep Jim's seed inside me. Frank was still playing, the tree was still lit, Christmas was beautiful. On the second day of January Jim drove me back to the airport. We were in a really good place. We'd had an amazing visit, and there was no doubt in my mind that Jim and I were solid. It had been the best Christmas I had spent in my whole life, I had felt loved, warm, safe, happy. We both knew that the winter and spring would be busy, and we pledged to text all day every day, talk whenever we wanted, and we reserved Sundays for a long video chat. That was how our relationship would be maintained until we could see each other again. End Chapter Eleven Just when our boys get close, something happens to keep them apart. Jim was really surprised by Dave's job offer. Will they have the strength and bond to keep things going as they were separated again?