Date: Thu, 26 Jan 2023 22:13:17 -0600
From: William Marshal <williammarshal5301@gmail.com>
Subject: Quarterback Keeper 37

Quarterback Keeper 37

After prom, the end of the year was a blur of activity. The first weekend
in May was the State Baseball Tournament. The Salt Hawks were 15-5 on the
season and barely squeaked through Districts to make it to the State
Tournament. For most schools and most coaches, a .750 season and a District
Championship would be a good year, but expectations in Salt Fork were high
for the Rattlesnakes. Few realistically thought the team would actually win
the State Tournament, but that didn't stop them from hoping.

Joe got up early Monday morning to check his email. The tournament
committee was blasting out the State brackets at 5:30 a.m. He'd grabbed a
cup of coffee and a bagel with cream cheese, but he was too nervous to eat,
so he just stared at his inbox. Joe was so focused on the computer screen
that he didn't notice the sexy, new head coach of the Rattlesnake football
team standing buck naked in the doorway.

Ding, the computer announced the arrival of an email. Joe opened it,
scrolled to the bottom where the smaller school brackets were listed, then
yelled, "Fuck!"

"What's the matter?" Tyler asked.

"We drew Ft. Cobb-Braxton in the first round. Everyone expected them to be
seeded first, which means the committee seeded us last." Joe wasn't
surprised that Salt Fork was in the bottom of the seeding, but he'd hoped
not to be last.

"Coach," Tyler said, "Remember what you told me was the first rule of
coaching."

"Yeah, don't get your ass handed to you in the first round of the State
Tournament."

Tyler laughed, "You said, `Love the game, love your players, fuck the
rest."

"I think you got that wrong. The rule is, `Love the game, love your
players, fuck the assistant coach." Then Joe jumped out of his chair and
chased Tyler into the shower for a tension relieving, start the week, ass
pounding of his assistant coach."

When Joe and Tyler finally walked into the kitchen, Ian was finishing up
making breakfast burritos. "Hey look who's up early," Tyler said.

"Check your time," Ian said. Tyler looked at his watch and said, "Oops, I
guess we overslept."

"You are such a lame liar, " Ian said, "The next time Michael is around, we
are playing poker and taking your ass, or what is left of it, for all its
worth. The only person who has a worse poker face than you is Kevin."

"Hey, I'm not that bad." Tyler said in protest.

"Yes you are," Joe said, and gave Tyler a kiss on the cheek.

During the day, Joe noticed that the baseball team seemed a bit down,
obviously the news of who they faced in the first round was having an
effect on them. So when practice started Joe called the team together for a
little heart-to-heart.

"I realize we got the short end of the draw in tournament seeding; however,
we always knew we would have to play Ft, Cobb, sometime, whether it was in
the first round or the championship game. Besides, it will make a better
story in the paper's when the 8th seed sends the 1st seed home in the first
round." There were a few smiles starting to show.

"Look, we knew this tournament, hell this season, wasn't going to be
peaches and cream. But you know what, we are in the top eight teams of a
class that has 116 teams. We're in the 93rd percentile of our
class. Imagine if that were your ACT score. Some of you would give your
right nut for that kind of college admissions score." The team began to
laugh.

"Actually, I wouldn't trade places with Ft. Cobb. Just think about it,
everyone expects them to win, but when we win, they're going to be the
biggest losers in the tournament. Yes, we are the underdogs, but just
remember David was a 40 point underdog to Goliath, and we all know the
outcome of that game. Moreover, that is the kind of story people like, that
people remember. Don't you want to be remembered?" "Yes sir," came the
response.

Joe continued, "This morning I was reminded by a certain goofy assistant,
who will remain nameless, of something I once said."  Kent shook his hands
and mouthed "It wasn't me", Tyler blushed, and the team chuckled. "I will
give your the PG version of the quote, which goes something like this: Love
the game, love your teammates, chuck the rest."

Zach was standing with the rest of the seniors and yelled, "Love the game!"

The seniors then yelled, "Love your teammates!"

"Chuck the rest!" the entire team yelled in unison.

"Great," Joe said, "Now let's practice like Rattlesnakes! Like champions."
The guys ran onto the field and started warming up.

Tyler whispered to Joe, "Damn Coach, will you ghostwrite my pregame pep
talks next Fall?"

Monday's practice was the best practice all year, and each day after seemed
to get better. Any doubts Joe or the other coaches might have had about
their chances were buried so deep none of the players ever caught a glimpse
of them.

The night before the team traveled to Central Oklahoma State in Edmond for
the first game, Tyler was a ball of nervous energy. In contrast, Joe was
remarkably calm. When Ian got back from taking Sunshine over to Mary's, he
saw Tyler's bouncing off the walls was beginning to annoy Joe, so he walked
over to Tyler and said, "Here, let me help Joe finish packing, and you go
grab a beer or something."

"You don't know what needs to packed," Tyler protested.

"Let me see," Ian said, "Shirts, pants, underwear, socks, shoes, butt
plugs, cock rings, rubber suit... did I miss anything?"

"Smart ass, leprechaun!"

Ian fired back, "How many times do I have to tell you, leprechauns are
Irish. Our magical people are fairies."

Joe said, "Tyler, just go grab a beer and relax. If we forget anything,
there is a Walmart around every corner in Oklahoma."

"Okay, okay," Tyler said, "I know when I'm not wanted."

Joe grabbed Tyler and gave him a big kiss, then said, "Oh babe, you're
wanted, and the soon I get this shit packed, the sooner you'll find out
just how much."

Ian put his hands over his ears and started singing the Scottish National
Anthem. Joe and Tyler laughed.

When Tyler was gone, Ian asked, "What's up with him?"

"He's young and in transition from a player to a coach. When you're a
player, you have control of your part of the game, but no real
responsibility for the team's performance. However, when you're the coach
you can't control how the players perform, but you will take the blame for
how the team played. He still takes every loss personally, like he
failed. It also makes it worse because he is my assistant, because he feels
like he failed me if he does something like send a runner who gets thrown
out trying to grab an extra base."

"Is he like this during a game?"

"No, during a game he's in the moment and doing his job, it's just before
the game that he gets this way. However, the worst is if he thinks he did
something to cost us a run, or an out, or heaven forbid the game. Then he's
in a total funk of self-blame."

"How do you deal with that?"

"First, I remember he's like that because he is new to coaching, and hasn't
developed his coach persona yet. Someone once described a coach like a duck
on a pond; above the water calm and in control; below the water paddling
like the devil is nipping at his ass."

"Second, I know he wants success primarily for the kids, but also for
me. He is crazy for the right reasons."

"But doesn't it drive you crazy?" Ian asked.

"Oh yeah, so I appreciate you sending him to chill with a beer."

"I can't imagine you were ever like that?"

Joe chuckled, "Oh I was much worse. I had a chip on my shoulder; I thought
I had something to prove to the family since I decided to go into teaching,
and not to accept a position at Sinclair Oil. Charles and David thought I
was an idiot, my uncle thought I was trying to make some kind of political
statement, and my parents were worried."

"So when did you become Joe Bartlett, Zen coach, Master teacher, and
superhero?"

Joe laughed, "You are giving me too much credit, but what changed me was
the year after I coached my first State Championship team. In one year we
went from State Champs to a 5-14 season and lost our first game in District
play. We had graduated seven seniors, and just didn't have the
talent. However, I found I loved the boys on the team with a losing record
as much, maybe more, than my championship team. They were good sports and
worked hard. They supported each other, and they were kind and selfless. If
there was a hall of fame for sportsmanship, they would be in it."

"Every high school coach will say, `it's all about the kids,' but for too
many that is just a cliche they use when talking to the media or asking the
BOE for money. I was that kind of coach until that year, with that team. I
wanted to win in the worst possible way, and I wanted to rub it in the
faces of my cousins and anyone else who gave me grief for deciding to be a
high school teacher and coach. I was in it for me."

"The irony is that my worst season as a coach is when I became a real
teacher and coach. I don't know if you've ever noticed the speech hanging
on my office wall titled `Luckiest man on the face of this Earth," it was
given by a famous player by the name of Lou Gehrig who played for the New
York Yankees. He gave that speech after being diagnosed with ALS, a career
and life ending disease. In the speech, he didn't talk about his stats or
accomplishments. He talked about the fans, the players, and the coaches he
got to know because of baseball. That's what I learned that year; it's not
the wins that matter, it's the people."

Ian thought for a moment then said, "I wish every parent and every adult
who coached kids sports felt that way. It would make playing sports so much
better."

"Yeah," Joe said with a laugh, "the adults just fuck up everything."

"I guess that's why you and Tyler are great coaches and teachers; in
reality you're just big kids."

"I heard that," Tyler said as he walked into the room.

"Heard what?" Ian asked.

"You think I'm a great coach and teacher."

"I think you are imagining things." Ian said.

"Nope I heard it, and you can't take it back."

"Okay Tyler," Joe said, "what do you want?"

"How long is it going to take?" Tyler asked impatiently.

"We're about finished," Joe said.

"Yeah," Ian said, "I'm just checking to make sure I packed everything you
will need.... Now where was I? Oh yes: leather harness, fishnet stockings,
ball gag...."

Tyler tackled Ian onto the bed and began tickling while interrogating him
"What kind of kinky shit are you and Michael into? How do you know about
all of that stuff?"

Ian tried making smart comebacks in between giggles. Finally Joe said,
"Tyler stop. You're going to make him pee, and you two are wrestling on my
side of the bed."

Tyler let Ian up, and said, "It doesn't matter; I know you said it."

Ian replied, "And I meant every word." Then he threw his arms around Tyler
and gave him a hug. Tyler was caught off guard and his only response was to
return the hug.

"Careful you two, you're going to get all emotional."

Tyler and Ian looked at each other, then both grabbed Joe and gave him a
big hug. Finally Joe had to call timeout so they could finish packing and
have a short family meeting. Recently family meetings featured ice cream
sundaes, and Joe liked loading them with toppings. In addition to chocolate
and caramel syrup, there were various kinds of candy and nuts, cherries,
bananas, and whipped cream.

When the meeting started, Joe said, "Ian, I hope you don't think Tyler and
I are ignoring you. We have become pretty focused on baseball."

"Absolutely not, all year you guys have been the best. I love my family and
Scotland, but you have given me something I never imagined possible. This
year has absolutely opened me up to so many opportunities that I didn't
even know existed. I'm the one who should be apologizing for butting into
your new life together."

Normally Joe would be the one to reassure Ian he was welcome, but this time
it was Tyler. "Look buddy, this has been an amazing year for me, and you
are an important part of that. I can't imagine you not being part of it."

Joe simply said, "Ditto," then continued, "Tomorrow, Tyler and I will be
traveling with the team to Edmond in the morning. Our game is at 7:00 in
the evening. Cooper and 2Coop will pick you up around 11 to go to the
game. Plan on staying through Saturday. Charles and Mindy have rooms at the
Omni for the family, and of course you and Michael will be staying
together."

Ian couldn't help smiling on hearing Michael's name. Tyler said, "Look he
doesn't really care that we're playing for the State Championship. All he
cares about is seeing Michael."

Ian said defensively, "Oh, how would you feel if you hadn't seen Joe in
three weeks?"

Tyler mussed Ian's hair and said, "I'm just messing with you. It's hard
enough just getting through the day..."

"Oh, please don't tell me you two....no you didn't....not at school," Ian
said with wide eyes.

"Only once," Joe said, " it wasn't during the day, and don't you dare say
anything to anyone."

"I won't," Ian promised, "but I have to know, where?"

"Promise you won't say anything?" Tyler said.

"I promise, cross my heart, hope to die, etc., etc."

"The coaches box at the football stadium," Tyler said. "The night we
clinched the League Championship. Everyone was saying that my offensive
game plan was brilliant, Avery asked the team if I deserved a game ball,
the team all yelled yes, and Jerry gave me one along with a big hug. It all
went to my head. So, after everyone had gone home, I told Joe I forgot my
playbook in the box, and we needed to go get it. Well when we got up there
one thing led to another. I'm sure, if I had been wearing a cheerleader
uniform, l would have gotten pregnant that night."

Ian looked at Joe, and Joe just shrugged his shoulders and smiled.

The guys finished up their meeting and headed off to bed. Joe was the last
one in the kitchen and was putting away the sundae-makings when a smile
crossed his lips. Before he turned out the lights, he grabbed the bottle of
chocolate syrup and the can of whipped cream.

Tyler was in the master bath brushing his teeth when Joe walked into the
bedroom, so he quickly undressed and lay down on the bed with the chocolate
and whipped cream between his legs. When Tyler walked out of the bathroom,
Joe grabbed onto his ankles, and pulled his legs back to expose his tight
pucker to Tyler.

"Wow, what have we here?" Tyler said.

"We have the makings for a Hot Daddy Sundae, but you'd better get to it
because this old man can't hold this position all night."

It didn't take Tyler long to drizzle chocolate syrup in Joe's hole and then
add some whipped cream. Tyler took one final look at his special dessert
then dove in like a starving man. Soon Joe was moaning and flexing his
pucker as Tyler's tongue worked its magic. Finally, Joe rolled over onto
all fours and said, "Enough with the foreplay, it's time you show me what
your cock is really made for."

It didn't take long for Tyler to lube up and slide into Joe. "Oh fuuuuck,
that is soooo goooood," Joe said as Tyler slid in balls deep, and began
slowly stroking in and out. "What the hell is that?" Joe said. "Boy you
need to burn off some energy before tomorrow, now get to fucking my ass, or
do I have to show you how it's done."

"Sir, yes sir," Tyler said, and began driving his cock into Joe like a
locomotive running at full steam.

"Yes, yes," Joe said, "That's it.... Who's in charge?"

"I'm in charge," Tyler said breathlessly, as his sweat dripped onto Joe's
back. Then, in a sudden overwhelming moment, Tyler was caught up in a
mind-blowing, total body orgasm. Joe began rocking back and forth on
Tyler's cock to milk it of every last drop of cum. Only when Tyler was
completely spent, did Joe roll him onto his back, straddle his chest, and
cover Tyler's face with a thick cum glaze. Tyler licked his lips to taste
Joe's offering, smiled, and purred with satisfaction.

Joe looked down at Tyler and said, "Boy we're a spunky mess. Let's go rinse
off before going to sleep."  When finally back in bed Tyler cuddled up next
to Joe and was instantly asleep. Joe held him close and as he listened to
his husband and best friend sleep, Joe thought, `How did I ever live
without you.'

The next morning, the baseball team gathered at Matty's for a sendoff
breakfast from the booster club. Matty had set up a buffet for the team
loaded with sausage, bacon, hash browns, scrambled eggs, biscuits & gravy,
pancakes, and various rolls, pastries, and fruit.

"Eat up boys," Matty said, "We can make more."

Joe gave Matty a kiss on the cheek and said "Matty, you're the best."

"Well Coach, it's things like sending a team off to State that makes
running a small town cafe fun. Now grab yourself a plate. We can't have the
coach running low on energy when he has to look after this lively lot."
Then Matty gave Joe's ass a slap. Tyler and Matty were the only two that
noticed Joe jump a bit when his ass was spanked. When Joe sat down next to
Tyler, he whispered, "Just remember, payback is a bitch."

Tyler winked and replied, "I'm holding you to that promise."

When the boys were done eating. and after a couple of speeches, the team
loaded the bus, and headed out. As they got close to their destination, Joe
grabbed the bus P.A. and said, "Listen up. When we get checked into the
hotel, I want you all to head to your rooms and relax. We have a big game
tonight and you need to save your energy. However, I don't want you
spending the afternoon dwelling on the game and psyching yourselves
out. Enjoy the experience. At two o'clock, we will have a light lunch in
the hotel, then you'll dress and we will head off to the field."

About twenty minutes after checking in and getting to their rooms, there
was a knock on Joe's and Tyler's door. Tyler opened the door and found Zach
and Avery standing there. "Hey, what's up," Tyler asked.

"Zach is a bit uptight," Avery said, "and we were wondering if we could
just hang out with to you guys for a bit?"

Tyler looked over his shoulder to Joe, and Joe said, "Sure come on in."

"I hope we're not bothering you, or being pests," Zach said.

"Absolutely not," Joe said. "The only rule is no baseball talk."

Zach and Avery both nodded. For the next hour, the four just talked about
anything and everything except baseball. Tyler had the boys in stitches
with stories about college life. Tyler was a great storyteller and loved an
appreciative audience. Finally, Zach said, "We'll leave you guys alone
now. I feel so much more relaxed and ready. I guess I just needed to spend
some time laughing and joking around."

Joe said, "Anytime you need to lighten up, just stop by. If he's good nor
nothing else, Tyler is certainly good for a few laughs."

"So is that why you keep me around" Tyler asked, faking having his feelings
hurt, "because I'm good for a few laughs?"

"That's not the only reason," Joe said. "You're also pretty good at making
sure there are no leftovers in the fridge."

"You'd better be careful Coach T," Avery said, "It sounds like you could
easily be replaced by a puppy."

Avery and Zach both laughed as they jumped out of Tyler's reach and headed
back to their room. When Tyler turned around he saw Joe trying not to
laugh.

"I swear," Tyler said, "These kids just don't have any respect."

Joe jumped on the bed and gave it a pat as he said, "Poor Tyler, come here
and let me rub your tummy."

Tyler smiled and said, "Okay, I have to admit I do like that." Then he gave
a couple of woofs and jumped on the bed next to Joe. Soon Joe was rubbing
more than Tyler's tummy.

"Oh babe, you're making me hard," Tyler said with a note of pleading.

Joe gave Tyler's cock a squeeze and said, "So what are we going to do about
that?"

"Do we have time for...?"

"Time to what?"

"For you to fuck me?"

"We've got an hour, so it won't be anything special."

Tyler turned to face Joe and said, "Every time with you is special." Then
Tyler gave Joe a deep kiss that could only be described as pure lust. Soon
both men were naked and grinding their hard muscular bodies together. "Your
body is so amazing," Tyler said as he grabbed hold of Joe's large, hairy
pecs.

Joe began to lick his way down Tyler's torso until he reached his lover's
throbbing cock. Joe wasted no time swallowing it and driving Tyler
crazy. Tyler grabbed two fists full of sheets and tried not to scream as
Joe nursed him ever closer to orgasm. Joe could sense how close Tyler was
and stopped at the very last moment and reached for the lube.

Joe put the tip of his cock on Tyler's tight pucker and gently
pushed. Tyler took a deep breath and nodded for Joe to enter. With one
powerful push, Joe was in. Tyler released a deep moan that seemed to come
from the depths of his being, then he wrapped his legs around Joe's waist
to pull him deeper inside.

After months of sex that ranged from sensual love making to aggressive
fucking Joe knew just how to pound on Tyler's prostate to induce a
hands-free climax. Joe grabbed Tyler's hands and pinned them above his head
and growled, "Are you ready for me to fuck the cum out of you."

Tyler nodded, and Joe began to pound Tyler's P-spot like a drum. Suddenly
Tyler was spewing cum everywhere. Cum landed on his forehead and lips; some
covered his left nipple and Joe couldn't resist licking it. Then it was Joe
who lost control. The sight of his husband in mid-orgasm, the taste of his
husband's cum, and the incredible feel of his own cock repeatedly plunging
into a tight man cunt, triggered a much needed release of cum and tension.

When the last wave was gone and the last volley of cum was shot, Joe lay
down on Tyler and gently kissed him. "That was amazing," Joe said.

Tyler smiled and said, "Just remember that if you ever start seriously
thinking you can replace me, there is no way a puppy dog can do that."

Joe laughed and said, "Nothing and nobody is ever replacing you. We are
stuck together for eternity."

Tyler kissed him and said, "I can live with that."

**************************

After a shower Tyler and Joe headed down to a hotel banquet room where Joe
had arranged for a team lunch. After the large breakfast, and before a
game, the lunch was just sandwiches, chips, a couple of sides and
cookies. They would eat a good supper after the game.

While the boys ate, Joe, Tyler, Kent, and Bill went over final instructions
for the game and Joe announced the batting line up. He wasn't making any
serious changes at this stage in the game. Following one last bit of
instruction, he sent the boys back to their rooms to change into their
uniforms, then get loaded onto the bus.

The Rattlesnakes arrived in time to watch the final two innings of the game
between the second and seventh seeds. As they were watching Wister, the
second seed, easily win to advance in the tournament, Joe motioned for
Avery.

"What's up coach," Avery asked.

"How is Zach's head?"

"He's pretty good, but he could use a bit more tongue."

Joe choked on the Coke he was drinking. "Damn you Avery Anders," Joe said
while both choking and laughing, "I'm going to have to tell your daddy you
need your smart ass whooped."

"Sorry coach, I just couldn't resist. But seriously, talking and joking
with you and Tyler seems to have cleared his head. Zach is more focused
than I've ever seen him. It's like nothing is going to bother him. I think
all the shit he's gone through this year has given him a mission and kevlar
emotional armor."

Joe nodded, and then added, "I think you are his armor." Avery smiled and
went back to sit with Zach. Joe looked at Tyler and said, "I will be glad
when this class of Seniors graduates."

Tyler gave Joe a strange look and asked, "Really, why?"

"Between the stuff with Zach and Avery, and having Ian living with us,
we've gotten too comfortable with them and they've become too comfortable
with us. It is hard to keep that clear line between teacher and students,
coach and players with some of them. I blame this all on you."

"Me? What the hell did I do?"

"Made me fall in love with my student teacher. It compromised my
principles."

Tyler just smiled.

Once the game started it was clear that Zach was on fire. He had complete
command of his pitches, and the Ft. Cobb batters were
frustrated. Unfortunately, the Salt Fork batters weren't having any better
luck facing the Pirate's pitchers. The game had turned into a pitching dual
and Joe knew Ft. Cobb had a much deeper bullpen.

Going into the top of the last regulation inning the game was
scoreless. Joe called the team together and said, "This is it, we're going
for broke if we get the chance. I want no hesitation or second guessing. We
just execute. Got it."

"Yes sir," the team yelled.

The first batter up was Zach. So far, he seemed to be the only Salt Fork
player seeing the ball well enough to hit the Pirate pitchers. Zach would
be the first batter to face a new pitcher, Fort Cobb's closer, Brady
Gibson. Gibson was a tall pitcher with an overwhelming fastball who just
reared back threw strikes.

Gibson threw two pitches that caught the edge of the plate for
strikes. Then Zach fouled off the next two. With the count 0-2 Zach stepped
out of the box and looked down to Joe coaching third base. Joe just tipped
the bill if his cap and pointed to the outfield. The message was clear
without being said, "You're the leader of this team. Just execute."

This time when Zach stepped into the box, he wore a look of confident
determination. The pitch was a fastball down and away. Zach picked up the
location and rotation of the pitch and drove a ball down the first base
line. Immediately Tyler was waving Zach to second. Tyler rounded the base
at full speed and beat the throw with a head first slide. The Rattlesnake
fans came to life with hope standing on second base. The next batter
sacrificed to right field and now the go ahead run was standing on
third. Unfortunately, the Rattlesnakes were in the weakest part of their
batting order.

Jerod Baker was up to bat. Jerod was a Junior and a great outfielder, but
to say he was in a slump would be like calling the Grand Canyon just a
ditch. From the third base coaching box, Joe could see the dread and
self-doubt in Jerod's eyes. Joe responded with two messages, the first was
a look of confidence that reassured the young man, the second was the bunt
sign.

Joe had noticed the pitcher fell to the third base side of the mound on his
follow through. Assuming the Pirates weren't expecting a bunt, there would
be no one in position to field a bunt toward first base. Joe knew the play
was risky. If Jerod didn't get the bunt down, or if the Pirates picked up
on the play, Zach would be hung out to dry. Moreover, there would be only
one chance to catch the offense by surprise. If Jerod fouled the ball on a
bunt attempt, the infield would make adjustments before the next pitch.

Joe checked Jerod to see that he got the signal. Jerod nodded. Then Joe
looked at Zach, and Zach winked to indicate he knew what he had to do. The
pitcher stared at Zach for the longest time, and Joe began to worry that he
was on to the play, but then he started his motion to home and Zach was
half-way down the line before the ball left the pitcher's hand. Jerrod laid
down a perfect bunt that caught Ft. Cobb's defense completely
flat-footed. Zach slid across home for the score, and Jerod beat out the
play at first.

The bunt shook the pitcher, and his first pitch to the next batter was wild
and to the backstop, allowing Jerrod to advance to second. A visit to the
mound from the Pirate coach seemed to settle down his pitcher, and he
struck out the next batter. It looked like the inning would be over, but
then an unexpected bloop to right field on 3-2 allowed Jerod, who was
running on the crack of the back, to score from second. The Pirate pitcher
was now so shake, his coach signaled for another reliever to get the last
out.

Going into the Pirates' final at bat, the Rattlesnakes held a 2-0 lead. Joe
called the team together one more time. "Okay Rattlesnakes, what's our
mantra?"

"Execute!" yelled the team and they took the field.

The first batter hit a hard line drive to the shortstop for the first
out. Then the second batter reached on a ball hit up the middle, and the
third batter reached on an error. Zach had two men on base and only one
out. However, the worst was the heart of the Pirate lineup was coming to
the plate.

The next batter hit the ball deep, to right and the ball was caught at the
fence, the runners tagged took off. The runner on second beat the throw to
home and score. The Rattlesnake lead was cut to 2-1, with two outs, the
tying run on second, and the winning run at bat. To add drama, the batter
at the plate, Jackson Bower, was battling for the Class B batting title,
and was heavily recruited by D1 schools before finally signing to play
baseball at Oklahoma State.

"What do you want to do, Coach," Kent asked.

"Trust my ace and team captain."

Zach looked to the dugout and Joe just pointed at him and home plate.  Zach
nodded knowing that the coach was putting the game in his hands. Zach led
off with a nasty curve that Bower looked foolish chasing, and now he was
mad. Zach knew he could use the emotions of the moment against Bower, and
he came back with a low ball just off the plate that was fouled off. Zach
was ahead 0-2 in the count. His next pitch was a wicked slider that just
missed the outside corner. Zach noticed before the next pitch Bower took a
small step forward to cover the outside of the plate. Zach knew he had him,
and smiled. The next pitch was a hard fastball waist high that just nipped
the inside edge of the plate to handcuff the batter for a call third
strike, and the win.

The Pirates' coach ran out of the dugout to argue the call, but the umps
were already headed to the locker room. The Rattlesnake fans were going
wild, and the team was mobbing Zach in celebration. Zach found Avery and
gave him a big kiss. After shaking hands and talking to their parents, the
team showered and boarded the bus to go eat.

Just down the road from Edmond was Arcadia, the home of Pops 66 Soda
Ranch. Pops was an iconic landmark on old Route 66, and Joe had made
arrangements for the team to eat there after the game. When they were
seated the manager and staff came over to greet the team and congratulate
them on the win.

Joe said, "That was a great game, and I know you are all hungry, so I will
make this short. Tonight savor the win. Don't turn your attention to
tomorrow until you have enjoyed tonight. However, in the morning wake up
prepared to take on the next challenge, to play the next team. Now order
whatever you want, and don't forget the desserts. Coach Tyler is picking up
the tab."

The boys all cheered.

When Joe sat down, Tyler leaned over and said, "You know, the football team
is going to expect the same thing next year."

Joe smiled and said, "I think you can afford it."

After eating the team loaded back on the bus to head back to the
hotel. When he sat down next to Joe, Tyler said, "Damn, the bill and tip
came out to nearly $700. I was afraid the limit on my card wasn't high
enough to cover it all."

Joe leaned over and said, "Tyler, your card doesn't have a limit."

Tyler's eyes got big, and he said, "What if I lose it, or go crazy and try
to buy the Dallas Cowboys."

Joe laughed, "There are obviously safeguards, but the point is you are just
as rich as I am. So are you ready to stop teaching and coaching and travel
the world?"

Tyler looked back at the laughing boys and said, "It's tempting, but I
don't think money can buy that. I don't think I'm ready to give it up just
yet."

Joe smiled, and said, "Neither am I, but I hope in a few years we will both
be ready." Tyler nodded.

Before getting off the bus, Joe announced the next day's schedule and said
no one was to be out of their rooms between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., and that
everyone was expected for breakfast at 8 a.m.

After a quick shower, Tyler and Joe crawled into bed. It wasn't long before
Tyler was fast asleep. Joe smiled and made sure Tyler was covered and
comfortable before falling asleep as well. The next morning Joe was coming
out of the shower when Tyler woke up. "Oh babe," Tyler said, "I'm so
sorry."

"Sorry for what?"

"I fell asleep last night."

"Yes, sleep is good. You needed it."

"But you needed me," Tyler said.

Joe laughed and jumped on top of Tyler, and said, "Don't be ridiculous, we
can certainly go one night without sex. Besides, if I were so desperate I
couldn't wait until my husband got the sleep he obviously needed, I know
how to take care of that myself. I was doing that long before I met you."

Tyler smiled and said. "Thanks, I really needed that sleep."

"Well, it's time for you to shower. We have thirty minutes before
breakfast, and we can't be late. The last thing we need is that smart ass
Avery Anders making some sexual innuendo about why we're late."

Tyler got out of bed and was heading to the bathroom when Joe said, "By the
way, I didn't."

"Didn't what?"

"Take care of myself last night. I'm saving up for you tonight."

Tyler smiled.

On the way down to breakfast Joe picked up a copy of the Daily Oklahoman
and looked at the coverage of the Class A & B baseball tournaments. He
frowned a bit. When Zach and Avery came in, Joe motioned them over and
opened the paper to the coverage of the game to show the picture of them
kissing after the win. "Are you two okay with this?"

Zach said, "Yeah, we're good. It was shared with us on our Insta this
morning and we already have 450+ likes to only 26 haters. That feels pretty
good."

"Absolutely," Avery said, "and the story really highlights Zach and the
team's performance. They're calling Salt Fork the Cinderella team of the
postseason."

As they were reading the story, Bill walked in with an armload of papers,
and said to the team, "It isn't everyday that Salt Fork makes the sport's
pages of the State's largest newspaper. Make sure each of you get a copy
for your scrapbooks. In 40 years, you will look back fondly on this."

Joe told the team to settle down so he could have a word with them. "Today
we have Calumet, they're seeded third in the tournament, so they won't be a
pushover. Yes, we knocked the number one seed out of the tournament, but
that doesn't change the fact that we came in with the last seed in the
tournament. After last night, it actually is getting harder, because no one
will be looking past us anymore. We have the 1:30 game today. If we win, we
play in the championship game at 5:00. So boy's, eat up because I am
planning on this being a very long day."

The team eagerly hit the breakfast line.

Joe, Tyler, Kent, and Bill ate breakfast at a table in the corner to talk
about the next game.

"So, is Kenny ready," Joe asked Kent.

"Talent wise he's ready," Kent said, "His fastball is really lively, and,
while his curveball isn't as wicked a Zach's, it will get the job done."

Joe looked at Kent and said, "I sense a `but' in there."

"He's still just a Freshman, and this is a big game. You never know how
he'll respond."

"Now for the big question," Joe said, "how will Kenny Sr. respond? He's
been a model parent all season, but these situations can bring out the
worst. I don't need him getting his son all shook up."

Kent smiled and said, "You don't need to worry about Kenny Sr. He and I
established and understand during Summer baseball, and he's really come a
long way. Moreover Coach, he's a bit scared of you."

"That's good," Joe said with a smile.

Kent added, "Kenny Jr. has really bonded with my boys and 2Coop. They are
really excited to play together this Summer and next year. I've told those
three their job is positive chatter if Kenny gets into trouble."

Joe looked around the table and said, "I know what you all are thinking:
"What if we get past Calumet? The answer is: `Hell if I know,' but it's a
problem I sure would like to have." Tyler, Kent, and Bill all smiled and
nodded their agreement.

As it turned out Joe and the rest of the coaches didn't need to worry about
Kenny. He pitched his game, threw pitches that turned into grounders and
held Calumet to only three runs. But the real game changer was that the
Rattlesnakes finally found their bats. Zach led the breakout with three
hits in four at bats, including a three run homer. Even Jerod ended his
slump with two base hits. In the end, Salt Fork put up 15 runs and ended
the game with a run rule in the fifth inning."

After the game and the celebration, the team gathered in the shade of some
cottonwood trees for a lunch the parents had organized. Joe had finished
eating and was laying on the grass when Tyler asked, "Now what?"

"It's pretty simple really, the rules say Kenny can pitch three more
innings and Zach two more. After that, we go to our relievers, and hope for
a rain delay until Tuesday."

Tyler looked up into the clear blue, cloudless sky and said, "Ouch."

In the Championship Game Salt Fork faced the number two seed, the Wister
Tigers. When the game started, Kenny picked up where he left off the
previous game and allowed only one run. Next Zach was on fire; he faced six
batters and struck out all six. At the end of five innings the Rattlesnakes
led 5-1.

However, in the bottom of the sixth, the game changed. The Rattlesnake
bullpen was young and not ready to face batters at the level they now found
themselves. In the sixth, the Tigers tied the game with four runs. Then in
their half of the seventh the Rattlesnakes kept hope alive with two runs,
but then the wheels came off for Salt Fork. In the bottom of the seventh,
Wister put up three and won the Oklahoma State Class B Baseball
Championship. Salt Fork was runner up.

After the awards ceremony and pictures with the trophy, Joe led the team
out to center field for a private meeting. Once everyone had gathered and
taken a knee, Joe was ready to start, but Zach raised his hand.

"Yes Zach?"

"Coach, can I say something first?"

Joe smiled, took a knee, and Zach stood up.

"I know I should be disappointed not to have won the Championship, but I'm
not. Don't get me wrong, I would have loved to have won it, I worked hard
to win it, but coming up short of winning it is not how I will define this
season. If someone said to me, you could win the championship if you
transfer to another school, I would say fuck off." The team laughed.

"I say that because I wouldn't give up this season with you guys for
anything..." Then someone asked, "Even Avery?" The team laughed again, and
Zach said, "Okay, almost anything."

Zach continued, "I particularly want to thank Coach Bartlett for taking
back the team. The last few years have been a shit show, and I was
seriously wondering if it was worth even playing this year, but he came
back, put together a great staff, and saved baseball at Salt Fork." The
team let out a loud cheer for the coaches.

"I am particularly grateful that Coach Bartlett and Coach T, helped me come
to grips with who I am, who I love, and what I want in life. I know they
have helped many of you with finding direction, getting help with your
classes, dealing with personal problems, and getting into college. We will
never forget that."

"Finally, I love this team. You have been such good friends and
teammates. I couldn't have asked for a better Senior year. I haven't told
anyone this, except the coaches, and of course Avery, but I have signed to
play baseball at NOSU next year. So I will be close by and will keep an eye
on this team. Again thanks to the you guys and thanks to the coaches for a
truly great Senior baseball season." The rest of the Seniors stood up and
locked arms with Avery to show they felt the same about the team, coaches,
and season.

Joe stood up and simply said, "Amen. Now hit the showers and then we'll get
something to eat, before we head back to Salt Fork." The team cheered and
ran to the locker room.

Tyler looked at Joe, and Joe just said, "I couldn't add anything to that."

When the team finally got back to Salt Fork it was getting late, but Main
St. was lined with parents, students, and fans to welcome the team
home. Principal Mayfield congratulated the team on a great season and
announced that there would be a special assembly Monday morning to honor
the team. By the time the welcome home was over, Joe felt he's shook enough
hands to be elected Senator. Then as he and Tyler were saying goodby to the
last of the parents, Mayfield found Joe. "Hey Coach, I need you and Tyler
to be our golf coaches for the State tournament. Mary's baby decided to
come a couple of weeks early." Mary Betts was a new English teacher and the
golf coach.

"Since It's just Ian who qualified, I figured you wouldn't mind taking him
up after the assembly on Monday for practice rounds. You and Tyler were
going on Tuesday for the tournament anyway, so it's just one more day."

"Not a problem," Joe said, "but go ahead and cancel the motel
reservations. We've got places to stay in Tulsa."

"Great," Mayfield said. "Oh and tell Tyler it's official, he has a new
assistant coach, we offered Mike Burris the teaching and coaching
positions, and he accepted."

"That's fantastic. Tyler will be very happy."

When they got home, Joe called a family meeting. "Well, I have some news
for each of you. First Tyler, you have your new assistant coach. They've
hired Mike."

"Yes," Tyler said with a fist pump.

"Does this mean you can come to Scotland for an extra week?" Ian asked.

"Yeah," Tyler said, "I trust Mike to run conditioning and I don't have to
worry about defense. So, it's all good."

"As for you Ian, your golf coach had her baby early, so Ian and I are
filling in. We will leave after the assembly Monday so you can get there in
time for practice rounds. Not that you haven't played that course several
times." The State Golf Championships were played on the same course that
the Sinclair Labor Day tournament was held, and Charles had taken Ian and
Michael there several times since.

"So are we staying at the apartment?" Ian asked.

"I guess we could," Joe teased, "but wouldn't you rather stay in a motel
closer to the course."

"No!" Tyler said, and then realized he was being over eager. "I will sleep
better at the apartment."

Joe and Tyler could barely keep from laughing.

*********************

"Fuuuuuuucccck," Joe moaned as he dumped his second load of the night into
Tyler then collapsed onto his lover's sweaty chest to catch his
breath. After a few minutes to recover he kissed Tyler and asked, "Are you
ready to cum again?"

Tyler grabbed Joe and said, "Hell no! I've already cum three times, are you
seriously trying to give me brain damage?"

Joe laughed, and said, "You're the one who said you couldn't get enough of
my cock."

"Yeah, but that was when I thought you were human and not a fucking sex
machine."

Joe kissed Tyler, then said, "It's your fault, you're just too sexy."

"Well right now, your sexy boy needs some shut eye," and then snuggled up
close. Joe wrapped an arm around Tyler, and the two drifted off to sleep.

************************

Monday morning, the day at Salt Fork High School began in the gym with an
assembly to celebrate the baseball team taking 2nd at State. Joe thanked
the students and fans for their support, then said, "I am so proud of these
young men. They have poured their hearts into this season; but more
importantly they have been there for each other on and off the field." Joe
then turned over the microphone to the seniors to share their feelings
about their last season as Rattlesnakes.

After the baseball team presented their trophy to Principal Mayfield,
Mayfield called for Ian to join him. Mayfield said, "We also have another
Rattlesnake competing for a State title. Ian Ramsay will be competing in
the Class B State Golf Tournament tomorrow and let's give him a Salt Fork
send off. The student body stood up and gave the Rattlesnake cheer. Ian was
grinning from ear to ear and the baseball players all gave Ian a fist bump.

Once in the pickup Ian was soon asleep and didn't wake up until they were a
couple of miles outside of Tulsa. "It's 12:30, your practice tee time is at
two. Do you want to stop for a burger?" Joe asked.

"That would be great," when it came to burgers and fries, Ian was as
American as any kid in Salt Fork. Ian had even switched from eating his
fries, or as he still called them--chips, to ketchup rather than `brown
sauce.'

"I suppose you want to eat at Whataburger," Tyler said.

"Of course," Ian an Joe said together.

Northwest Oklahoma, where Tyler had grown up, wasn't Whataburger country,
so he didn't see anything special about the chain. However, Tulsa was part
of the Whataburger nation and Joe and Michael had brainwashed Ian into
joining the cult.  Ian ordered his and Michael's usual, a Double Bacon
Whataburger with fried onions, french fries, and a Dr. Pepper.

While they were waiting for their orders Joe said they would be eating
supper at the Country Club with Charles, Mindy, and Michael after the
practice rounds and pre-tournament meeting were over.

While Ian played his practice round, Joe met with the tournament officials
to explain the change of coaches; then he and Tyler went to hangout in the
clubhouse. Since it was still the school day, and he was representing Salt
Fork, Joe ordered iced tea for himself and Tyler.

Joe and Tyler hadn't been sitting for long when they heard someone bellow,
"Well as I live and breathe, if it isn't Joe Bartlett!"

Joe turned, and said `shit' under his breath. The person who'd made the
statement was Nelson Clevinger, real estate developer, Chair of the Tulsa
County Republican Committee, and State Senator.

"Hello Nelson," Joe said with a plastic smile, "let me introduce you to my
husband, Tyler Simmons Bartlett."

"I heard you got yourself married, and I was disappointed that I and Eddy
didn't get an invite to your wedding reception. I hear it was quite the
social occasion."

"Well Nelson, I figured that since you decided to decry same-sex marriage
as an abomination on the floor of the Senate, you wouldn't be comfortable
toasting two gay men celebrating their abominable union."

"Whoa there Joe, that was just politics. You know, a little red meat for
the bubba voters. You don't think Eddy and I care about who you shack up
with, do ya?"

Joe was beginning to get hot and stood up. Nelson was a short, pudgy man
and very much dwarfed by Joe's taller, muscular body. Joe said, "I am not
sure why you thought talking to me today would be a good idea, but let me
make a few things clear: First, Tyler and I are not shacking up. We are in
love and in a committed, legal marriage. Second, LBGTQ persons are caring,
loving human beings, not red meat for your political base. Third, I have
nothing against Eddy, I think she is a fine woman, but you are a little
turd, and Fourth, you can shove whatever plan, deal, or arrangement you are
trying to sell me today up your ass."

Clevinger took a step back, then smiled and said, "I seem to have caught
you on a bad day. We can talk some other time." He then looked at Tyler and
said, "Nice meeting you, and congratulations on your marriage." Joe was
just about to deck Clevinger when the diminutive asshole turned and walked
away as if nothing awkward or unpleasant had just happened.

"Fucking toad," Joe muttered as he sat down.

Joe was still fuming when Charles and Mindy arrived.  Charles looked at Joe
and asked, "So what's got you all worked up?"

Joe nodded in the direction of the bar, where Clevinger was holding court
with his buddies. Charles said, "He's probably worried you're going to
challenge him for his Senate seat."

"Huh?"

"Oh, you haven't heard, Clevinger's district was redrawn and your apartment
is now in his district. He also knows that there are a lot of people pissed
about that stupid speech he made last session about gay marriage. He should
have looked at the demographics of downtown Tulsa before opening his
mouth. He now represents two of Tulsa's most heavily gay neighborhoods and
his district has many more African-American voters. His once safe district
is suddenly competitive."

"But why would he think I might challenge him for the seat."

"You've got David to thank for that. He and Carrie were at some social
function and Clevinger was shooting his mouth off about how he wasn't
afraid of the gay and African-American voters. He was bragging about how he
had the money to bury any challenger, so David just dropped that you were
thinking of retiring and that your apartment was in his district. David
said you could see the color drain from his face. So then when he called up
to solicit campaign contributions for the Republican Party, David had his
call transferred to Carrie who said Sinclair Oil hadn't yet decided on
which candidates or party to support in the next election."

Joe just laughed. He knew that as long as Charles and David had the
controlling votes on the Board of Directors, Sinclair Energy would vote
Republican with its political contributions. However, both Charles and
David didn't trust the grown populist wing of the Republican Party. They
knew that populism was born in the Democratic Party, and it was not a
natural ally of Big Business Republicans.

"You know Charles," Joe said, "the person Clevinger ought to be afraid of
is Michael. I think he would make a hell of a politician."

Charles smiled, and said, "So do I and his mother." Clevinger had the good
sense to steer clear of Joe and Charles the rest of the evening.

Ian' finished his practice round at 5:30 and immediately headed for the
clubhouse. When he arrived, his first question was, "Where's Michael?"

Tyler burst into laughter.

Mindy smiled, and said, "He had a late tennis practice. He is on his
way. Why don't we go ahead and order, I'm sure he will be here soon."

 When Michael finally arrived, the waiter brought out his food. Mindy said,
"We had Ian order for you. So if you don't like it, blame your father, but
if you do like it, thank Ian."

After dinner, it was back to the apartment. Joe had some work for Sinclair
Energy he had been putting off, mostly signing his name to a stack of
papers. Tyler finished off some assignment for his classes at NOSU, and the
boys watched TV.

Just after nine, Joe finished working and grabbed a beer from the fridge
and sat down next to Tyler on the couch to watch some TV. Tyler had a bowl
of popcorn on his lap and Joe grabbed a handful. Ian and Michael were
curled up on the other end of the couch with their own bowl of popcorn and
a couple of Cokes. They looked like a Norman Rockwell painting,
well... except the Saturday Evening Post wasn't putting a gay family on
it's cover in the 1950s.

During a commercial Joe said, The Class A tournament is in the morning, and
the Class B tournament is in the afternoon. Tee off is at 1:00. Ian, you're
in the final group, so you should actually tee off around two. I figure we
will grab breakfast at Tally's around 10. That gives us plenty of time to
sit down and eat then get to the Country Club so Ian can hit a few range
balls.  Does that sound like a plan?"

Ian and Michael both nodded.

"Do we need to wake you, or are you going to set an alarm?"

Ian looked at Michael and then said, "We'll set an alarm, but if you don't
see us by nine, wake us up."

Michael added, "But Tyler, this time remember to knock." Tyler stuck out
his tongue in reply.

****************************

It was a little after two when Ian's group tee'd off. Ian was relaxed and
drove the ball down the middle of the fairway. The reality was Ian had been
playing better players in bigger tournaments all season and Class B State
was actually a step backward in competition. The only real question was how
many strokes he would win by. However, Ian was a good sport and a
gentleman. He joked and carried on casual conversation with his playing
partners. He also didn't show up the field. Several times, he laid up when
he had the opportunity to go for it and improve his score, but he
didn't. At the end of the Tournament, Ian was three under par and his
nearest competitor finished two over par.

After receiving his individual first place medal, everyone headed to
Charles' and Mindy's for a celebration. Mindy had ordered BBQ and a cake
that said `Congratulations Champ!' Ian looked at the cake and asked, "What
if I hadn't won?"

"There's a cake in the pantry with some silly crap about giving it your
best shot written on it." Charles said. "I'll be taking that to the office
on Monday. That is unless we need to save it for Michael's post-tournament
party next Saturday."

Michael looked at his father and said, "You think you're funny, but you're
not!"

Charles just said, "Oops!" and Michael glared before breaking into a
laugh. However, the truth was that Michael was not going to have as easy of
a time at his State Tournament as Ian did at his.

Joe said, "Ian will be coming with Cooper and 2Coop Thursday after school,
and will be here for the tournament. Is it still okay for him to stay with
you?"

"You bet," Charles said, and gave Ian a hug.

Eventually, Joe looked at his watch and said, "We need to hit the road
because there is actually still school to finish up."

Once in the pickup, Ian was soon asleep, and remained zoned out until they
turned on to their street in Salt Fork. Tyler said, "Wake up sleepy head,
your fans are waiting to see you." Ian was totally surprised to find Avery,
Zach, Kevin, and most of the senior class standing in their front yard
holding up a sign that said "Welcome Home Champ." Mary and Claudia were
circulating in the crowd with refreshments, and 2Coop was there with
Sunshine.

Ian was overwhelmed and had to wipe away a couple of tears. When he decided
to spend his Senior year in the U.S., it was to be closer to Michael, but
it had turned into much more, and he now had an entirely new group of
friends.

Once out the truck, Ian was mobbed with everyone wanting to see the State
Medal and take a selfie with Ian.

It took an hour for the welcome crew to clear out, but eventually only Ian,
Avery, Zach, and Kevin were left in the yard. The four linked arms in a
circle, but left an empty space for Michael. The five had become a tight
group, and they were already looking ahead to college at NOSU.

Joe and Tyler watched the boys from the front porch. Tyler said, "Our boys
are going to be leaving us soon."

Joe kissed Tyler and said, "Don't worry Daddy Tyler, I think we will see
plenty of them over the next four years."

*****************************

This is the end of Quarterback Keeper. I plan to take a break from this
story line, but eventually come back to it with a sequel that focuses on
Ian and Michael in college.

Meanwhile, I will work on some of my other stories. If you have enjoyed
reading Quarterback Keep, I hope you contribute to keeping Nifty.Org a
place where I and other authors can share our
stories. https://donate.nifty.org/