Date: Fri, 16 Dec 2016 19:13:25 -0700 From: h.schreiber@hushmail.com Subject: Come Christmas Steve Chapter 43 Come Christmas Steve Chapter 43 Conclusion A Future as Bright as the Christmas Star The following week flew by. We did, in fact, secure the sale on two of our three appointments in Columbus. Dad was ecstatic. Combining those with our other orders, we were now as busy as his small shop would allow. The business, under Whittaker's management, was already surpassing anything Dad had imagined for it. Plans were coming along for the production facility, and Whittaker was now focusing his attention on the construction and on securing future orders to fill the additional capacity that the new facility would allow. We worked together in arranging meetings and sales pitches. Whittaker secured a meeting in late January with John Deere. That could be a total game changer. I helped as much as I could with the wedding preparations. Mom even let Billy and me pitch in and help with baking miniature pies and freezing them. I got really good at rolling out the dough and scalloping the edges of the crust around the small foil pans. I was in charge of the cherry pies, and Billy did the apple. Todd pitched in, too, when the ranch chores were done each day, as long as he didn't have a job interview. He was working hard at finding a job and getting out on his own. On the Saturday before the big event, everyone pitched in, gathering up decorations that were being borrowed, washing and ironing tablecloths and runners in the chosen colors. Todd was in charge of tying ribbons around the thank-you notes. "Why are we making so many of these?" he asked. "I thought it was going to be a small group." "Have you even read one of them?" Whittaker asked. "No," he replied. "Oh, my God!" Todd looked up. "How did I not know about this?" "You haven't been around much. You've been out looking for jobs as soon as you finish chores most days, and you go to bed early." "Well, I get up early. For my last meal here when I'm able to move out, I want to have fried rooster. That stupid bird goes off so freaking early. I'll take care of the strangling for it." "That's ranch life," I told him with a laugh. "So, this is going to be a double ceremony?" Todd asked rhetorically. "That's right," Mom said. "So, we'll have quite a crowd. Many of the family are coming and quite a few from the congregation. This is turning into quite the affair." She was always excited to put on an event, but I wasn't too sure how excited she was about the second ceremony. Outwardly, she never said or implied anything; but I could see beneath the surface, and I knew she was worried about it. I think I know Mom better than any of my brothers. None of my siblings, however, was surprised to know that there would be two ceremonies instead of one. Naturally, Cheyenne and her son, Steven, were there helping, and so was Jaime. Shawna wasn't arriving until the morning of the ceremony. I was glad of that. She was no longer a threat, but I still felt better about her not hanging around for several days. I'd done all my Christmas shopping. I'd bought wedding presents, and I'd spent lots of time thinking about what I'd say at the breakfast on the morning of the ceremony. I was going to have to speak in front of the extended family who would be in attendance. It would be uncomfortable for me. I wanted to make sure I didn't say anything that might be interpreted wrong. I'd run my speech past Whittaker, and he had given me numerous good suggestions. At last, the big day arrived. I was both excited and nervous. I dressed in my rented black tuxedo with the gold vest and maroon tie. Those were the chosen colors. We had been up late the night before decorating the rented clubhouse where the event would take place. The ceremony would have been held in the church if the chapel had been finished, but the clubhouse was a better venue than the Elks Lodge. We had rows of chairs with maroon chair-back covers laid over the backrests. A table in the back of the room had two sign-in books, one for each couple. They were set on a maroon tablecloth with a vase full of beautiful flowers and sprigs of decorative items spray painted in gold. A picture of each happy couple was next to the appropriate book. The family and closest friends gathered at ten o'clock for breakfast. Dad and I gave our speeches, and I have to say that I did a pretty good job with it. We had the obligatory toasts, and Tom and Karl both led one of those. We all looked pretty sharp in our matching tuxedos. It was turning out to be quite a beautiful affair - one that everyone would be able to look back on with great satisfaction. At noon, we headed to the clubhouse and took lots of pictures. People started to arrive, and we took our places. Little Steven had already warmed up to big Steve and was tugging at Steve's pant leg to be picked up and held as often as possible. It warmed my heart to see the comfortable bond between them. Life was falling into place. I knew when I saw father and son together, that things were as they were intended to be. I felt better about everything that was happening once the paternity results confirmed that Steve really was the father. I had little question, though, since the resemblance is there when you know to look for it. As for me, I just had to trust in God and accept that things didn't always turn out as you expect them to. I was nervous about the decision I'd made about Whittaker. Even though it was certain to be a life- altering decision for me and for him, I felt like it was the right thing to do. Finally, everyone who had been invited was in place for the ceremony. Pastor Nichols was smiling and jovial. He was excited to perform the ceremonies. The wedding march was played while both couples made their way up the aisle, for which everyone stood. It was decided that no one would give anyone away, considering the dynamics of the two couples. Each couple just walked in together, hand in hand. Once in place, Pastor Nichols addressed the assembly and asked everyone to be seated. Then, he shared some marriage advice. "I've heard it said that couples should never go to bed angry with each other. That sounds like a sure recipe for sleep deprivation, if you ask me." Everyone laughed. He continued, "I have found that when my wife and I disagree, it is best to take a break from the discussion at some point to allow it to simmer down, much like a boiling pot when the heat is turned down. Otherwise, you risk matters boiling over and saying things you can't easily put back into the pot. Even if that time out lasts an entire day, when you come back to address the issue again, make sure that you used your timeout period to evaluate and understand your companion's perspective. Share your feelings with each other; ask for help to understand your partner's feelings, and then come to a fair and inclusive solution together. And if the issue isn't that big of a deal, just concede it. You don't have to be right at the expense of hurt feelings between you and your life partner." I thought that was grand advice. He went on to share other good advice and I absorbed every word. I had such great respect for him. In closing, he made the remark, "Remember that however much you think you love your partner today, it is but a small measure of how much you will truly love them decades from now. Love is not an event, it is a journey." I was startled. It was the same thing the old man in the hospital had said. I wondered if Steve had told that to the Pastor, yet somehow, I doubted it. I felt like that was a solid truth which emboldened me in my decision about Whittaker. "All right, enough advice that you'll mostly forget anyway. Let's get on with what we all showed up here for today." I felt the excitement rise. There was a shuffling noise toward the back and for whatever reason, I turned to look. A world-worn woman had come in late, and several people in one of the back rows slid over to make room for her to sit. She had mousy brown hair. Her face was worn and ruddy. The roughness of her life was etched in her face, and she looked prematurely aged. Pastor Nichols brought my attention back. Turning to Steve and Cheyenne, he said, "Steven Fahrenheit, do you take Cheyenne to be your lawful wedded wife?" Cheyenne had opted not to use a last name. "To have and to hold, in sickness and in health? Will you give your sacred bond to stand with her through times of joy and times of sorrow? To protect and honor her and to devote yourself fully to her throughout your natural lives?" Steve smiled at Cheyenne and said, "I do!" Turning to Cheyenne, he administered the same oath to her. She smiled and said, "I do!" Pastor Nichols then pronounced them man and wife and invited them to kiss. When the clapping and cheering died down, he turned away from the newlyweds and smiled. Whittaker slipped his hand into mine and whispered, "Are you doing okay?" I nodded that I was doing fine. Then, Pastor Nichols began again, "William Steele, do you take Jaime Mathers to be your lawfully wedded wife?" I phased out the rest of the oath and reflected back on the day I'd found the menstrual cycle research on Billy's phone. Once it was announced that Billy and Jaime would be joining Steve and Cheyenne for a double wedding ceremony, I'd pinned him down to find out how it had happened. He'd forgotten to get condoms one week and talked Jaime into doing it anyway - just once. I wondered how many times that little two word phrase had irreversibly altered human lives. I'll go without a helmet. I'll just try heroin. I'll cheat on my partner. JUST ONCE. At least they were truly in love with each other, and they had our family for support. I felt pretty sure the marriage would make it in spite of their young age. Whittaker and I continued to hold hands throughout the ceremony sitting beside each other in the second row, which was reserved for family. Whittaker was like family. I was growing more and more nervous over the conversation I was planning on having with him after everything was over with. I'd purposely driven separately so that I could hang back with him and be the last ones to leave. I didn't want anyone else around when I spoke to him. Even though I felt like what I was planning was the right thing to do, I still had anxiety over it. I just kept coming back to that ominous word, "Trust." Whenever I thought about what I had planned for that evening, I felt the same peace I'd felt in the jail as I made my difficult decision there. After the ceremonies, we moved the chairs around to the outside walls for the party. We converted the room to a reception hall, setting up tables and roping off a dance floor area. I saw the ragged woman, who had arrived late, slip away. I made my way through the chattering crowd to the guest book. I looked at the last entry, All it said was, "Mary." I angled my way back upstream to reach Steve and told him that he needed to come see it. He pulled himself away and followed in my wake. "Do you think?" he asked. "Could it really have been?" "Who else?" I asked. "Why would she leave?" he painfully asked. "Look," I said. I bet that card in the basket is from her. Look at the handwriting." Steve pulled the card out and paused a moment. He handed little Steven over to me and tore it open. It was a simple card wishing a life full of happiness to the newlyweds. Steve opened the card and read it. "My deer sweet boy, I am rilly happy for you. I hope you have a wonder full life with lots of love. You are the only good thing I ever done. My life is wurth it now. I want you to know I only let you go becuz I had to. I wanted you to have a safe life. I know you had it hard like me, but now you can do better. I luv you. Be a good dad. I dont want to embrass you or coz you trubles so I wont bother you. I just had to see your weding. I luv you Your Mom" Steve was crying. He stuffed the card in my hand and rushed outside in hopes of finding her. Shortly afterward, he rushed back in and borrowed my truck keys. Cheyenne saw him leave and came over to me, gravely concerned. "What's going on?" she asked uncertainly. I showed her the card, and she breathed a sigh of relief. Everything was ready for the party, and many guests were already there. Cheyenne gave assurances that Steve would be back soon, although she had no idea how long he'd be gone. As the food began being served, Steve paraded back into the reception hall, escorting his mother, Mary. She shrank backwards from the crowd. He took her directly to Cheyenne and introduced her; then he introduced his mother to her grandson, Little Steven. I wondered if this would be one of the first tests of their brand new marriage, having this obviously troubled woman interrupt their lives. Sometimes, it seemed to me, a better thing to let some people slip out of your life for a greater good. The party was great. We ate and danced. Relatives and neighbors and church members chatted and reminisced. The newlyweds looked radiant and truly happy. During a slow dance, I tapped Whittaker's arm. "Do me a favor," I requested. "What?" "Go cut in on Steve and Cheyenne." "Why?" "Just do it, all right?" "All right. You have something devious in mind; I can tell by the look in your eye," Whittaker suggested. "Maybe. Do it." Whittaker did what I asked, and I was right behind him. As Whittaker tapped Steve on the shoulder, I acted like I was about to do the same thing. Steve relented and passed Cheyenne over to Whittaker. That left Steve and I standing awkwardly on the dance floor, just like I planned it. I shrugged and offered my hands to him. He laughed and took me in his arms and we began to dance together. Everyone laughed. We both blushed, but I didn't really care. "I'm so happy for you, Steve," I told him. "That means everything to me," he responded. "I have something I want to tell you," I said. Then I laid out what I was planning on telling Whittaker later that night. I wanted to know his reaction to it. He stopped mid-step and looked in awed surprise at me. He started dancing again and responded, "I have learned not to question your intuition. If you're sure that's what you want, then do it. I just hope you're not making a rash decision, because of all that's happened recently." "I feel like it's the right thing to do, even though it's impossible to be sure that I won't regret it someday." The song ended. We separated. Then, we hugged each other. Steve took Cheyenne by the hand and walked permanently out of my dreams. Whittaker and I grabbed some pies and a scoop of vanilla ice cream and went to sit with my brothers, Tom and Karl. Todd and Karl's wife were also at the table. Little Steven was running around having a grand time with a couple of my young cousins. Colt was there with his mother and little brother, Sammy. Scott's family also came and it was nice to see Colt and Scott talking and laughing together. They were up on the dance floor in a circle of other young teens chatting happily. Occasionally, on a fast song, they would take turns busting out a dance move here and there. I noticed that Scott was a pretty good dancer. There was a noticeable spark between Colt and Scott. I made my way over to where Colt's mom was getting another cup of punch for his little brother. "How's it going?" I asked. She turned and then smiled. "Good. Thanks for asking." "It looks like Colt and Scott are friends again," I commented. I was hoping she would fill me in. "Yes. Scott's parents came over, and we all talked about it. Scott was as miserable without Colt, as Colt had been without Scott. We all agreed they could be friends as long as they promised to avoid any sexual interaction until they're at least sixteen and mature enough to make good decisions. They both promised. I think they were glad to promise it. It has been a good thing for Colt. I need Scott's father's influence in Colt's life with Brahma gone. They're helping us out for Christmas. They are really wonderful people. They're blessing our lives in so many ways. Pastor Nichols helped us find affordable counseling for Colt and that is really making a positive difference as well. I think he'll be all right. He's a tough kid." "What's going on with your husband?" I asked. "You didn't hear?" she asked. "No." "He chose to take his life. He couldn't deal with it any longer. He'd been abused for years by someone in his neighborhood growing up - a family friend. He'd been living his secret life with Reverend Lewis for many years, and it was just too overwhelming for him to be outed as he was. He was depressed, and I think being alone for the holidays pushed him past the breaking point." "Oh my God. I'm so sorry. Are you okay?" I asked. "Can I do anything?" "No. I'm fine. It's hard, of course. The hardest thing is the boys. We'll get through it. That's what you have to do in life. Am I right?" She sounded so forlorn, nearly empty. I understood that feeling when you'd done all the grieving one could and there was just nothing left but the empty jar. "Right," I answered. I wanted to say more, but I wasn't sure what to say. I was rescued by the little guy, Sammy, needing to use the bathroom. For a panicked moment, I thought she was going to ask me to take him. Instead, she waved Colt over. Colt saw me talking to his mom and rushed over. "Shane, hi." He stopped short of hugging me, although I felt like he wanted to. "Hey, dude," I said, extending my knuckles. "You doing okay?" He bumped knuckles and answered, "Yeah, I'm okay." "That's good man. I'm glad." His mom interrupted to instruct Colt to take Sammy to the bathroom and I excused myself. When the cake was cut and things were winding down, the brides removed their garters, and all the eligible bachelors formed a group. Whittaker, being so tall, easily snagged one of them. He turned and dangled it in my face with a smirk. I shook my head and blushed. That was a bit awkward in front of everyone. When they tossed their bouquets over their shoulders to the eligible bachelorettes, Shawna caught Jaime's. Whittaker clapped and cheered for her. Of course, the photographer had to have a picture of the two of them holding up their treasures. I studied Whittaker's face as he put his arm around her, and I felt some renewed anxiety. The happy couples disappeared out the back door. We weren't allowed to throw rice in the clubhouse, so we all simply clapped and cheered. We changed clothes and started cleaning up. Sometime around midnight, we were finished. "Ready to go?" Dad asked me. "Whittaker and I are going to take a little time to talk before heading home. I'll drop Whittaker off at his new apartment before coming back. Don't wait up," I said. "Fine. Drive safely," he encouraged. "I will. Love you, Dad." "Love you, too. Both of you," he added. I realized that Dad did love Whittaker: Not like a son, but he certainly loved him for who he was and what he'd done for me and for the business and for the family in general. When everyone was gone and the clubhouse was locked, Whittaker and I walked along the deck to the back of the clubhouse by the pond. The moon was full and shone off the fresh coat of snow covering the small meadow. We'd taken our jackets and ties off and donned our heavy parkas and knit caps. I fired up one of the silver outdoor heaters and we sat next to it on a bench, staring into the night sky. I pondered how to start. I'd rehearsed this speech even more times than the one I'd given at the wedding breakfast. I took Whittaker by the hand. I felt a slight trembling. He was anxious over why I'd asked him to hang back. As we sat there in silence, waiting for me to gather the courage to say what I had planned, there was movement in the brush. I'd almost decided to chicken out and leave before saying what I'd planned, when we heard the noise. Three bull elk stepped into the clearing. They were cautious, tenuously stretching their necks and checking for scents of danger. Slowly, they made their way to the pond. They drank from it and then grazed on exposed grasses near the shoreline. One of the bulls stayed a bit aloof from the other two. While they were grazing, a cow and a small spike bull emerged. They stared cautiously at the bulls for a bit. Then, they ambled their way to the pond for a drink. The cow didn't graze, but stared intently at one of the bulls. The bull left his companion and stepped toward the cow. They communicated in their silent way that animals seem capable of and then walked back into the brush side by side with the spike bull trailing behind. The bull who had been standing off to the side stepped cautiously towards the remaining bull. The abandoned bull stepped back from the approach, then he stopped and stared for a while before grazing again. The other bull stepped forward and tapped the horns of the one who had been abandoned for the cow. He tapped back and they playfully tussled, horn to horn for a bit. The two grazed together a short while longer, then spooked by something unseen, they rushed off into the cover of the brush side by side. "That was awesome." Whittaker said. "I know. I love elk. They are so majestic." I took Whittaker's hand and stared into his eyes. "I need to talk to you." "Okay," he said. "Since we had sex last week and you told me that you loved me, I've thought about it over and over. It's been almost all I've thought about. The more I've thought about it, the more I've come to realize that I want to give it a try together. I've recognized that I love you and that I could never find someone as wonderful as you, even if I looked another fifty years. So, I have something for you," I said, "If you're still interested in being with me, that is." I knelt in front of him and pulled a small velvet box from my pocket. I held it out and opened it. "These are promise rings. One for each of us to wear. I want them to represent a promise to each other to be exclusive while we figure out if we can make it as a forever couple." Whittaker made a fist and pressed it against his lips. He dropped to his knees and took one of the rings. "You know my answer, Shane. I want nothing more than to share my life with you. I've wanted it for a long time. I never thought it could really happen, though. I'm the happiest guy on the planet right now." He took a ring from the box and slipped it on my finger. I took the other one out and put it on his finger. Then, we hugged and kissed each other. My heart swelled; my body tingled; and I felt truly in love. The familiar peace spread over me to confirm my decision. This was meant to be. All that had happened and all we had been through, led the two of us to that special moment. "If we are going to do this," he said. "I have two requests. One, I want you to move in with me. Two, I want you to start calling me 'David,' not 'Whittaker.'" "Done and done," I said smiling. After making out on the deck for what seemed like a brief moment, but was probably at least ten minutes, we decided we should head home. Whittaker had moved out of the ranch-hand cabin and into an apartment on the edge of town. Billy and Jaime were taking over the cabin for their honeymoon cottage. They were not in a financial position to be on their own, especially with a baby coming. They were going to live in the cabin until they got through school when hopefully, Billy could get a hockey scholarship or even a football scholarship to help with a college education. David sent Todd a text asking if my parents were asleep. Todd was sleeping in my room along with my brother, Tom, since he had to vacate the cabin as well. I'd moved up into the attic. It was either that or the barn. Todd said that he could hear my mom down in the kitchen, so we asked him to go tell her that I was going to stay over at David's apartment for the night and that we'd be over in the morning to unpack and help with whatever she needed us to do. We chatted freely and joyfully together as we drove into town. We shared our feelings about how well the weddings had gone and our high hopes for the newlyweds. I felt unfettered peace - His peace that fills the entire body and soul. Maybe, it was the most peaceful I'd ever felt in my whole turbulent life. I knew I would always love Steve, but I felt like the love I felt for David would expand and grow and blossom into something beautiful. The best part was knowing that David really loved me back without reservation. He'd loved me enough to let me be with Steve, and even encouraged it, if that would make me happy. He loved me enough even to risk taking me on a rebound. He simply loved me. When we got to his apartment, we were naked and showering under a hot stream of water in a split second. We made out in the steamy confines of his tub shower combination. The shower curtain had multi colored dots on it - Wal-Mart special, I presumed. That would have to change. David and I washed every inch of each other's naked bodies. I traced my finger over the freckles on his shoulders and chest, and nibbled on his pink nipples encircled with a few orange hairs. David's nipples hardened under my attention, and I playfully flicked my tongue over them. Both of us sported firm erections, and we played them against each other as if in a fencing duel. When the water began to cool, we shut it off and dried each other off. I pulled the towel up his long legs to the lower crease of his cute, firm ass. I bent him over and knelt behind him. I spread his cheeks and peered at his pink pucker. The orange foliage surrounding it, glistened and beckoned me. For the first time in my life, I slipped my nose into his crack and flicked my tongue out and over the twitching pucker. He moaned in delight. I drew my tongue into a point and pressed it into his warm hole, forcing my way inside and wiggling it. He gasped and reached back to spread his cheeks even wider for me. I pressed myself as deeply against him as I could and still breathe while I tongue-fucked him. Simultaneously, I fondled his prodigious balls with both hands. He was completely under my spell, and I loved it. I felt droplets of precum on my hands and pulled away. He complained, but I was ready to move on. I led him to the bed where he surprised me with a thick, vibrating, and very realistic looking dildo. He lubed it up and pressed it into me while he swallowed my dick to the base. "Is that better than a brush handle?" he asked. "Hell, yeah," was all I could say. I was having trouble catching my breath from the sensations of the thick rubber head placed directly over my gay man's G-spot. David had maneuvered it in and out until I identified the perfect placement. David actually got a permanent marker out and drew a line on it so he'd know right where to place it the next time. He thinks of everything. When he started up the vibrator and gently pressed and rotated it against my prostate, I thought I'd just explode from the intensity of it. I leaned up on my elbows and watched as he artfully manipulated the sex aid within my elated ass. His face was focused and a satisfied grin creased his lips. "That could go on forever," I told him. "Where did you learn to do that? Off the internet?" "Don't be mad, but no. I learned how to do this from Calvin. This was a gift from him." "Of course you did," I said chuckling. "I should have known that. God bless you, Calvin." Then he laughed and turned up the vibration level. "Oh man, oh man, oh, oh, oh, CUM SHANEY CUM!" I screamed out. "SHHHHH!" he said. "I have neighbors." We both laughed in spite of ourselves as I shot a load clear over my head and onto the backboard. After the first shot, he quickly engulfed my dick in his mouth again and swallowed the rest of my ejaculate. All except for the last bit that he milked from me like I'd done for him the last time we'd had sex together. As I'd done for him, he saved the last bit of my cum to share between us. David pulled the rubber penis from my satiated ass and slid himself up over me. He kissed me and shared my sweet cum with me. Mine tasted sweeter than his had tasted or than I'd remembered Steve's tasting. I assumed it was what we ate that affected it. He asked me, "Would it be okay if I enter you with my dick? Are you okay down there?" "Please do, David. I want you in me," I assured him. He quickly greased his pole and slid easily into my body and at the same time, into my soul. He was such a magnificent, considerate lover. I hoped everything else would work out between us, because I couldn't imagine a more compatible sex partner. We resumed our kissing while he fucked me slowly and methodically. I didn't think I could respond again after such a powerful unloading, but the erotic feelings built slowly back up and the inkling of yet another orgasm rose up within me. I opened my eyes and looked at his face as he hovered over me, head thrown back, eyes closed, sheer content spread across his freckled face. "My goodness," I whispered, "I never truly appreciated how beautiful you are." He didn't respond. I don't think he heard me. He was in his happy zone, that place where we all go just before the magic moment. I watched him set his jaw and suck in a final breath before the plunge. Then, he drove his big dick deep and decisively into me. I felt his presence deep within body. I swore he was rearranging one or more of my internal organs. I clutched his dick with my anal ring as tightly as I could. "Ohhhh, Shane. Ohhhh, I love it," he muttered as he shook and shoved himself as deeply into me as possible with each recurring spasm. When it was over, we lay there sweating together, kissing and nibbling and giggling. We rubbed noses and declared our love to each other. When he finally slipped free from our connection, he rolled to his side and pulled me against him. He tucked his long penis between my thighs and wrapped his left leg up over my legs. Our arms threaded around each other and we caressed each other's backs. A calming voice came into my mind, "Do you trust Me now?" I smiled and softly answered aloud, "Yes." That night, I dreamed of the gorilla again. He hadn't bothered me for a long while. Now, he was back. I was in a long tunnel with a faint light in the distance. I heard the gorilla snorting and grunting. I knew he was there and I knew he was just waiting to attack me. I was prepared to run and my heart was racing. I was already tired, but I wasn't sure why. Then I heard him coming. I ran. I ran as fast as I could, stumbling occasionally in the dark. I was getting closer and closer to the opening of the tunnel but didn't know what was beyond it. I couldn't see anything. As I approached, I saw Steve and Cheyenne and little Steven step to the edge of the tunnel and look back at me sadly. "I'm sorry, Shane. There're only three parachutes. I'm so sorry." With that said, they turned their backs to me, held hands and jumped, dropping quickly out of sight. My heart lurched. I was trapped and the gorilla was finally going to beat me into a bloody pulp. I imagined how my lifeless body, bloodied and broken, would look to whoever found me, provided, that is, if anyone ever did find me. I reached the precipice and pulled up to a sudden halt. I stood on a ledge of a thousand foot cliff. The tunnel I was in had been etched in the wall of the cliff. There was no way to climb up and no way to jump so far down. I looked down and saw three colorful parachutes floating gracefully toward the canyon floor. The gorilla roared and beat his chest in triumph. I spun around, "What?" I yelled. "Why the hell have you been chasing me? What do you want?" The gorilla bared his ugly, yellow teeth and screeched at me. He was everything evil and cruel. He was everything I'd been running from my whole life. He was the liar and weaver of deceit. He was the schoolyard bully and the inflictor of pain for the sheer fun of it. He was the kid who laughed and the coach who scoffed. He was the physical abuser, and he was the monster in the closet when I was little. "I'm not giving you the satisfaction of beating me up," I spat. "I'm not going to live in fear of you anymore." Then, I took a giant step backward and fell resolutely toward certain death. The gorilla lurched after me, howling in anger. He lost his balance and fell out of the tunnel himself. I was not frightened, however. I was okay with it. It was over with. Suddenly, I felt a jerk on my left leg, and I was slammed against the rock wall. I dangled there upside down and dazed for a bit as I watched the horrified gorilla fall past me to his remorseless death. I gathered my wits and lifted my head to see my leg dangling from a rope. I followed the rope upwards to see Whittaker peering over the crest of the cliff. But it wasn't really a rope, it was actually a giant, rope- like penis with large purple veins running the length of it. I could see the purple dickhead poking out of the knot in the end of it, seemingly ready to burst. "Got ya!" Whittaker called out, grinning widely from above. "Thanks," I said. "You saved my life again." "You're welcome," he said smiling. "How about pulling me up now?" I asked. "Oh, yeah. Of course. Sorry." He pulled the fleshy rope hand over fist until I was safely on the plateau. He untied his penis from my leg and we embraced. Dreams are so strange. I woke up, still entwined with Whittaker's naked body. The stirring woke Whittaker. When he looked in my eyes, he said, "You frightened me last night." "How?" I asked in surprise. I wondered if he had shared my crazy dream somehow. I was sweating and my heart was still racing from my vivid dream. "When you said you wanted us to hang out after everyone left and needed to talk to me privately. I thought you were going to cut me loose. As we sat there and watched the elk in the clearing, all I could think about was how I would ever manage to get through it if you did." "I'm sorry," I said. "It wasn't my intent to worry you." "I know. It's okay, because the joy I felt when you dropped to a knee and held out the rings was that much better." He smiled, kissed me tenderly and added, "I love you with all my heart." "I love you, too. I really do. This is going to work. I can feel it." We got to the ranch house around nine in the morning. We unloaded our truck and then sorted things out with Mom's help. We reloaded two trucks and I drove one while David drove the other one. Little Steven wanted to ride with me and talked my ear off. Having a father in his life had already been a transforming event. He was staying with Karl and Cynthia in Karl's old room while his parents were on a quick honeymoon in, of all places, Yellowstone. The irony of that was absolutely mind numbing. David followed me in the other truck as we made our rounds to return the borrowed items from the wedding. Little Steven wanted to help wherever we went, and I gave him small items to carry as we unloaded. A couple of hours later and a McDonald's Happy Meal later, we headed back to the ranch. On the way, we stopped at Wal-Mart, and we let little Steven pick out a star on the wishing tree. He chose a young boy the same age as himself, and we took him to the toy section. He chose a Captain America action figure. He wanted to get the boy someone to protect him until he could get a new daddy like he'd gotten. It made me cry when he said that, and little Steven took my hand and asked me what was wrong. "Nothing's wrong, Steven. These are happy tears," I told him. I was impressed that little Steven didn't ask for anything for himself. I bought him a pack of sugarless gum at the check stand and that made him smile. David worked on the business and I entertained little Steven until Todd finished with the chores. Then, Todd took over the kid duty, letting him go ride on one of our gentle mares and pet the various animals. The little guy was in heaven. His favorite pastime was scanning the presents under the tree and finding the ones with his name on them. He couldn't believe it when we reassured him over and over that they actually belonged to him. We'd stacked the wedding presents in a corner of the shop. We were planning on opening them the morning of Christmas Eve when both sets of newlyweds would be back and before Cheyenne had to go into work at the hospital. Before dinner that evening, Mom and Dad invited David and me into the family room. "Did you enjoy your time last night?" Dad asked. "Sure did," I answered. David chimed in also. "It was a wonderful event. No one in Kalispell puts on a better event than you, Mom," I added. "The weddings were very nice. I was really speaking about the time you had afterwards. We've noticed the matching rings. We've also noticed that you've been calling David by his first name instead of calling him Whittaker. Do you want to share something with us?" Dad asked. I blushed. David gulped. "Sure," I jumped in. "David and I like each other very much. The rings are promise rings. A token of the, umm, exclusive nature of our relationship." "That's what we supposed. We are both happy for you, but we do have a couple of concerns that we feel the need to explore with you," Dad pursued. "Okay," I said. "Are you properly protected. Disease wise?" Dad asked as delicately as he could. "Yes sir," David quickly answered. "Both of us have limited experience and both of us have been tested. We're clean and we're committed to being exclusive." "Okay," Dad answered. Mom, to her credit didn't flinch at David's response. I guess she knew well enough we were doing it together. "The other concern we have is how fresh the upheaval in both of your lives still is. We are concerned that you boys are rushing into something here. You, David, out of a need to rescue others and you, Shane, out of your impetuous nature and also on the rebound of losing Steve. You're both still pretty young." David and I smiled at each other. "I'll go first," David said. "Mr. Steele, I love your son. I have for a long time. It's why I came to visit and why I was thrilled to have a reason to stay and help with the business. I never thought I had a chance with him, because I knew how he felt about Steve and I cared too much about him to get in between them. Now, Steve's with Cheyenne. I made a play on Shane and rather than reject me as I thought he might, he showed interest. I am not rescuing anyone, here, except my own heart, maybe. Shane doesn't need to be rescued. He is the most amazing, loyal, kind, dedicated, uplifting person I have ever met. He makes me better, and I love him wholeheartedly." I reached over and took his hand in mine and took over, "As for me, I had the same concerns as you about it being too soon since losing Steve. I loved Steve, I...still do and always will in some way, but I didn't really know him that well. I love David because I know him. However, we are not committing to a lifetime just yet. We have simply promised to have an exclusive relationship while we make sure it's right. We don't know if that will take months or a year. We won't seal the deal until we both know for sure that it's right. But, I have to say, I have never felt more peace about something in my whole life. With my feelings for Steve, there was always a little nagging uncertainty involved. That's not the case with David. I love him without hesitation." "Does that include living together?" Mom asked. "Yes," I instantly replied. "We think that's the best way to know for sure if we can be compatible." I gave David's hand a squeeze. I didn't want any doubt about our intentions of that. I looked Mom straight in the eye as I said it. Mom didn't flinch. I suspect they had already made that assumption. "Okay," she simply said, "then we have something for you." I was surprised. Mom handed us a card. It was one of those generic Hallmark cards that Mom kept on hand whenever she wanted to send a special note to someone. I opened it up and read what they'd written. I suspected Mom wrote it and Dad edited it. David read it over my shoulder. My eyes got moist as I read it. "We love you boys very much, both of you. We know you are becoming a couple and we want you to have something special from both of us. OUR BLESSING. Love Mom. Love Dad." I started to cry. It meant everything to me. I'd spent most of my life trying to gain acceptance, at school, in athletics, in scouts, in friendships, in my family and especially from my parents. And now, in the one thing that mattered more to me than anything else, I had gained it. Ironically, it came in connection with the one thing I'd fretted over most of my life - being gay. The tears of joy and relief flowed as David held me and cried joyfully with me. "Thank you," I managed to eke out. "It means everything to me." We all ended up in a group hug, and even Dad cried a few tears. After dinner, Dad and Todd helped me pack up and move my things into David's apartment. Sitting on OUR couch, we skyped with David's parents and we showed them OUR rings and told them of OUR decision. To my delight, they weren't surprised or concerned. I found out that David had already confessed his love for me to them and asked their advice in what he should do. That evening, we didn't have sex. We just lay naked together, completely comfortable with sharing sweet kisses and caresses. In a way, that was better than having sex. We made love to each other without the need for an orgasm. I couldn't help but feel like that was a significant milestone in and of itself. Sunday arrived and the newlyweds came home. They were all beaming and excited for their new lives together. Little Steven was ecstatic to see his mom and new dad, and the little guy clung to Steve like glue. He talked nonstop about riding the horse and helping Todd feed the animals, and sitting on the tractor while they ploughed the fresh snow that had fallen. There was a tall snowman adorning the front lawn, which the two of them had built. They'd put an old mop head on top of it that Todd had spray painted orange. They said they had named it "Whittaker," because it was so tall. We had a wonderful breakfast and then headed off to church. The program was beautiful. Shawna sang with the choir and even sang a solo part in its rendition of O, Holy Night. Pastor Nichols spoke of the miracle of Christ's birth and the miracle of Christ's life being able to change our lives. A children's choir, dressed up as shepherds, sang While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks By Night. Little Steven was amongst them, but he only knew part of the lyrics and just stood there and smiled in between. I looked over at Steve and Cheyenne - they were beaming with pride towards him. It warmed me inside. At home, we changed clothes and played as a family outside before coming in and sitting down to a wonderful roast beef dinner with all the trimmings. I found an opportunity to speak with Steve. I wanted to fill him in on Whittaker and me, and I wanted find out how his honeymoon had worked out with Cheyenne. We walked over by the barn and leaned against it while watching a developing snowball fight - all in good fun. "How did it go with you and Cheyenne?" I asked. "You both look very happy." "It went fine. We are happy. We're going to make it work together. I think she's someone I can grow to love as long as she can put up with me," Steve answered. I was pleased for him. "If you don't want to answer this, I understand, but...," I hesitated. "What?" Steve asked smiling. He knew how curious I was about things. "How'd the sex thing go?" I blurted. "Ahhh, that," Steve said. He pondered a minute and I thought he was going to tell me it was NOMB. Then he grinned a bit and said, "Okay. Good, actually. I think we both enjoyed it, so who knows, maybe I've got some bi in me. Cheyenne's the only girl I've ever been with, and I guess since I was even interested back at the boys home, there must be some bisexuality in me, right?" "I suppose," I answered. I wasn't sure what to make of that and I wasn't sure what else to say, so I just spun it to a positive. "That's good. I'm glad it worked out." "Me, too. I was worried about it," Steve confided. "So kind of on that same theme, I wanted to let you know about Whittaker and me," I said. "Before you hear it from someone else. I've moved in with him. We're going to try it out and see what develops." "You told me you were planning on approaching him at the wedding. I'm glad to hear it turned out the way you were hoping for," Steve said sincerely. "Me, too. I hope we're compatible as a couple. I feel really good about it. So, what's going on with your mother, Mary?" I asked. "She's doing okay. Pastor Nichols put her up in a room after the wedding, and he's helped her get into the county system and a treatment center. Pray for her," Steve said. "You know I will. I'm glad. God bless Pastor Nichols," I commented. "For certain. He is a wonderful man. He really lives what he preaches. He's the real deal," Steve agreed. "I know it. I know it as well as just about anyone," I confirmed. "Guess what she told me?" Steve asked. "What?" "She told me that I was actually born in a boarding house on Christmas Eve. Imagine that. A friend of hers from the streets let her give birth to me in her bathroom. Her friend got evicted the next day because of it. After that, my mother went to my father, Arty, to try and get help, and he told her to take me to a fire station and leave me there. Then, he arranged to have me get into the boys home. Crazy, huh?" he shared. "Yeah. Really. So you really are, Christmas Steve," I joked. "I am. I told Cheyenne you called me that and she started using it, too. I guess there could be worse nicknames," Steve said. We stood in silence for a minute or two, running out of things to say. I had lots more questions about the honeymoon, all of which were none of my business, so I held back. "Hey, it looks like Cheyenne's team is in need of help over there. We better go join in," I suggested. "I'm right behind you," Steve said. Before I got out of reach, Steve took my arm. "Thank you, Shane. Thank you for everything. I will always love you." I smiled. "Likewise," I replied. We joined in the snowball skirmish until Mom called us all in for dinner. It was like a second Thanksgiving. Steve ate his usual multiple helpings with high compliments for the cook. Mom beamed at him as usual. After dinner, we went to the family room where we sang some Christmas carols at Mom's insistence. Mom played the piano, and Steve played the guitar. He'd spent a lot of time practicing on it in Yankton, apparently, because he was no longer a complete novice. We sipped hot coffee and hot chocolate with peppermint flavoring. Little Steven was eyeing the presents. "You can open one, if you want," Steve said. "The squishy one over there. The rest have to wait for Christmas morning." Little Steven lit up. It thrilled me to see such childhood exuberance. He jumped down and snatched the gift. He climbed back upon Steve's lap and tore into the package. "Look Mommy," he shouted, "Cap'n 'Merica jammies!" He held them up proudly. He ran to the bathroom to try them on even though it wasn't anywhere near bedtime yet. We took turns hanging our ornaments on the tree as was the tradition. Each of us said something for which we were thankful. Karl and Cynthia spoke of their love for each other, and so did Billy and Jaime. Little Steven wanted to go first for his family, and after he'd hung up the Captain America ornament that Mom had purchased for him, he said, "I'm thankful for my new daddy!" He hugged Steve's leg. Tears welled up in Steve's eyes as he reached down and picked his boy up. I got a little emotional watching it. Steve hung his ornament, the one I'd given him a year before, and said, "I'm thankful for Shane coming into my life. Because of him, all of you came into my life and most especially my new wife and my son. I'm also thankful to have found faith in Christ, whose birthday we're celebrating." Cheyenne went next and said she was thankful for her son and her new husband and also for all her new friends in Kalispell. It was my turn, and as I hung my ornament, I got emotional. "This has been a very trying year for me, as you all know." I had to pause and get control of my emotions before I could go on. "There are so many things that I'm grateful for and most of them are right here in this room right now. I've been so blessed by all of you this year. Believe it or not, I'm thankful for the trials of this year. I'm a better person for having endured it. Most of all, I am thankful to my Lord for the strength he gave me to get through it all and teaching me to trust in Him. Merry Christmas, everyone." "Merry Christmas," everyone echoed back. I sat down and Whittaker hugged me before doing his. Whittaker stood and smiled at me and said, "Steve kind of stole mine already, but it's okay, because it's true for both of us. I am so thankful for getting to know and be a part of Shane's life. He has changed me and showed me things about myself and about how to live life that I would have never known otherwise. Love you, Shane." "Love you back, David," I replied. We sang Silent Night with Mom on the piano and Steve strumming chords on the guitar. It was tender and heartfelt, filling the room with a glowing sense of love. Before we separated, Steve asked if he could share a song he'd written. Of course we all agreed. I took David's hand in mine and leaned into his shoulder as we listened. It was a folksy melody written as a ballad. I loved the captivating chord structure. After the introductory stanza's, he cleared his throat and began to sing. His baritone voice was seductive. Born on a bleak and cold Christmas Eve; Child of Mary, no virgin was she. "Dear Lord," she cried, "Whate'er shall I do?" "I have no home to take my child to." And a cold wind blew. And so with the very best of intent, She entrusted me to the government. Diapered and fed then laid down to cry, No mother's caress, nor soothing lullaby. And a cold wind blew Too many babies for caregivers few Lacking time for all there was to do. I learned to talk and I learned to crawl, But my child's heart, grew not at all. And the little boy grew. The big boys take whatever they want. Young boys resigned to each cruel taunt. "Bend over boy, time to please your king. Submit yourself and endure the sting." And the little boy grew. Heinous deeds done with indifference Callously pillaged my young innocence. So, I set my jaw and resolved to endure; Swallowed my bile, as I began to mature. And my cold heart bled. Then came one with strange anatomy, I indulged the urge to cure my curiosity. Hormones surged and a seed was sown, But the life created was concealed unknown. And my cold heart bled. At age eighteen I was poised to escape, "God's speed," said they as I left the gate. "Don't speak to me of God," I angrily said. "Where was this God when I sobbed and bled?" And my bitterness swelled. "Did God bind up my wounds or dry my tears? Did He show me any love or calm my fears? If there is a God, He has no use for me, Alone, I walked through my Gethsemane." And my bitterness swelled. At last, a chance to escape the pain, But my wretched past held me in rein. I knew too much to be trusted and free I remained indentured to my enemy. And my conscience died. I knew the truth, but held my tongue Tried not to think of the others so young. Self-preservation is a powerful drive Everyone endeavors to stay alive. And my conscience died. Angels, I learned, don't always have wings Mortals can heavenly messages bring. An Angel of Steele came into my life, Unconditional love my hope did revive. And I was sore amazed. So the Angel of Steele, had stolen my heart, But the lingering evil kept us apart. Steel is so strong and hard to break, My Angel risked it all for my sake. And I was sore amazed. My Angel of Steel stood strong and brave He trusted in God, both our lives to save. He would not concede, determined to win, For he knew he'd not committed the sin. And an ember glowed. Then came a second Christmas miracle, When I was freed from my prison cell. I'd fallen in love with my Angel of Steele, Who'd taught me to trust, believe and feel. And an ember glowed. But our lives weren't meant to entwine as one, For I learned I'd created a magnificent son. And though my Angel and I must live apart, We are firmly lodged in each other's heart. And love burns strong. A first love it seems, is seldom the last, Your future need not be defined by your past. Since we trusted in God to shape and refine, I'll dwell in your heart and you'll dwell in mine. And love burns strong. And love burns strong. When he was done singing, I was weeping as were most of us. David hugged me. We sat in silence and let the moment reverberate. Steve set his guitar down and wiped his cheeks. "You will always be in my heart. You will always be my Angel of Steele. Nothing can change that. I will love you forever." "And you, Mr. Fahrenheit, will always be my 'Christmas Steve,'" I said. "I love you. I found out, hearts have many chambers, and there's always plenty of room for love." We ended the gathering with another hug. On the way home, I shared something I'd been thinking about with David. "Can I tell you a fantasy I've been entertaining lately?" "Sure. Does it involve me?" he asked. "Of course," I answered. "It doesn't involve me wearing a Captain America costume or anything like that, does it?" I laughed really hard. "No. No, nothing like that. It has nothing to do with sex. I've been thinking I'd like to get back in college as soon as possible and get a degree in psychology. I'd like to specialize in counseling young gays and their families. If the business goes really well and we get some money from it someday, what would you think about opening a summer camp that caters to gay boys and their families?" "I'd completely support that. You'd be amazing at that," David answered. That evening, when we arrived at the apartment, David took me in his arms as soon as the door was shut. He pulled me into an embrace and kissed me passionately. "I love you, Shane. I love you with all my heart," he declared. "And I love you, David. Can you accept, that I have a piece of my heart reserved for Steve?" I asked. "Oh, it's a lot more crowded in your heart than just that. You love everyone. Almost everyone, at least. I don't mind at all that you continue to have love in your heart for Steve, as long as you love me last and best. Can you do that?" David asked, looking deeply into my eyes. "I can do that, and I want to do that," I answered honestly. "Good. Then I have a gift for you to open early," he said. He pulled a box from the closet shelf. I smiled, "This is unexpected. What is it?" "Just open it," David instructed, sitting on the couch and patting it for me to sit by him. "Wait. If I'm opening one then I need to let you open one, too." I retrieved one from under our little tree. "Thanks," he said. "I'll go first, okay?" "Sure," I agreed. "It's squishy," he said as he squeezed it. "It's not Cap'n 'Merica jammies, is it?" I laughed out loud. "Maybe," I said, "cuz, you are my superhero." He opened it and pulled out the shower curtain I'd ordered. It had two large elk on it. He stood and held it up. "I like it. I guess you're not a fan of the big colored dots on the one I have," he observed. "Not so much, but I just thought this was kind of a symbol of what our relationship is about. Strong and enduring." "Nice. In that case, I love it," he declared. "Now, open yours." I tore open the wrapping and opened the box. "Mmm, chocolates," I said. "Thanks." "Did you like the movie, Forest Gump?" David asked. "Where did that come from?" I laughed. "Just answer. Did you like it?" he persisted. "Yeah. I liked it. Why?" "Do you remember the famous line from it?" David asked. "Umm," I thought about it. "I know what love is, Jennie." "NO! About the chocolates," David said. "Oh. Duh. Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're going to get," I answered correctly. "Yeah, well, try one," he said. I smiled and took one. "Mmm, strawberry cream. I love it." I offered him one and he took one. "Strawberry cream, too," he said. "They're all strawberry cream. So now that you're with me, you know exactly what you're going to get," he said. I smiled and a chill ran through me. "You're sweeter than these delicious chocolates. I love strawberry cream in my chocolates and in my men." We kissed and held each other. "Thank you, David. This is the sweetest thing ever." "I'm glad you like it," he said. "I love you so much." There was emotion in his voice. We fell into each other and began kissing and caressing. Piece by piece, we lost our clothing. The foreplay was long and tender as we kissed and nibbled and stroked and tickled one another. When the passion rose, we escalated into frenetic grasping and groping sessions as we attempted to swallow each other's tongues, while grinding and clutching at each other's naked flesh. Then, on an unspoken cue, we settled back into a slow, melodic pace with gentle caresses, and soft, tender kisses. This alternating pattern repeated itself over and over. During the slow, tender interludes, our lips brushed lightly against each other's as we relished the electric sensation of it. We rolled to our sides to allow caressing of each other's firm backs and buttocks. David rolled me onto my stomach and reached to his night stand. He pulled a bottle of massage oil from it and then straddled me. Wedging his long penis between my ass crack, he gave me a firm back massage from my neck to lower back. It was deliriously pleasurable. When he was finished, David lay down on top of me and nibbled on the nape of my neck, sending chills up and down my spine. I wriggled beneath him. I returned the favor by lubing up my penis and sliding it between his thighs and against his large, silky balls. As I lifted myself to access his back, my erection strained against him to create a pleasurable pressure from my anus to my pubes. I kneaded his muscular back and shoulders while he rested his strawberry cream cheek on the flat of his hands. A contented smile creased his lips. When I finished the back rub, I slipped downward and nibbled on his tight ass cheeks. I spread his legs and suckled his sizable, soft balls. David moaned in delight. "Roll over," I whispered with a pat of his ass. He complied and settled his head into a pillow. I took his large staff in my hand and admired every inch of it. "I've been practicing something special for you. It's your Christmas surprise." David lifted his head and watched as I slipped his penis between my lips and slowly slid it to the back of my throat. Then, just as I'd practiced, I tilted my head and relaxed my throat. Inch by inch, I let my lover's magnificent penis slip slowly down my esophagus. I controlled my breathing and focused on remaining relaxed. David was wide-eyed, and his mouth was agape. When I'd taken the full length, I pulled back off and then repeated the process over and over, picking up speed until David was quivering in anticipation of a pending orgasm. "Stop, Shane," David said. "I want this to last a bit longer." I extracted his dick from my mouth and watched David's wetted penis slap against his belly. I lowered myself down and softly kissed the tip of it. Then, we fell back into our slow, sexual dance. I closed my eyes and made blind love to David by touch and feel. At some point, David filled me with his manhood and I opened my eyes to see him hovering over me, supported by his hands planted beneath my armpits. His back was arched and his eyes were closed. His head was rolled back and he was in his mystical pre-orgasmic zone. Slowly, he slipped three or four inches in and out of his favorite place to be. As he withdrew his dick outward, his abs tightened and as he pushed back into me, his abs relaxed. Going in must have been more pleasurable for him, because with each forward push, he let out a delighted moan. I smiled in joyful satisfaction as I watched him gain so much pleasure from my body. He was exceptionally handsome and strong. I studied his face and marveled at the beauty of it. I wanted to connect with him, and I reached up and caressed his blushed cheek with my thumb while I lightly pinched his left nipple. He came back from wherever he'd been and looked down into my eyes. "Look," I said, turning toward the alarm clock on the night stand. "It's after midnight. It's officially our first Christmas together. What do you say we celebrate and share a Christmas Cum?" "I'm in," David agreed with a brilliant smile. He pulled free from my body and I immediately felt the loss of our connection. He groped for the tube of lubricant and smeared a generous portion on his penis, giving it a couple of test shakes to make sure it was fully erect. It was. Then he squirted a large glob onto my penis as well and lifted my ankles. Propping my ankles on his shoulders, he pressed his red, bulbous tip to my entrance and in one fluid motion, drove himself fully back into my body. "Ahhhh, yes!" I exclaimed. He smiled, and reached around my legs with his long arms and gripped my dick in one hand and used his other hand to play with my nipples. Then he began thrusting in and out of me in wild abandon while he stroked my rock hard in time with his thrusts. "Oh, oh, oh, oh," I called out with each powerful thrust. "Mmm, mmm, mmm," he groaned in time with me as we formed a sexual duet. "I'm close, I'm close," I gasped. "Me, too. Me too," he replied. "Here I go!!" I cried as I gripped the bed sheets in both fists. "Yeah!!! Oh yes! Yes! Yesssss!" he cried out as he thrust himself into me with the power of massive bull elk. "CUM! SHANEY, CUM!!!" I cried, going stiff from head to toe as a powerful orgasm rocked my torso. Hot white cum exploded from my bulging dick through his firm grasp as we both shook in complete and utter exultation. When it was all over but for the oozing remnants, David dropped my ankles and lowered himself on top of me. We kissed and rubbed noses while our bodies struggled to return to normalcy. I was flushed and panting while I relished the weight of my lover covering my naked body. His dick remained firmly implanted inside me for a long time following the magnificent event. David placed the tip of his nose to mine and said with smiling eyes, "Merry Christmas, Shane." "Merry Christmas, David." ***###*** I sincerely hope that you have enjoyed this story. I have loved creating it. I hope with all my heart that you all enjoy your holiday season this year. I hope you find true peace and happiness. I wish to thank all those who have contributed to its creation, most especially, Paul Stevens, for his valuable and insightful editing. I was able, with the help of another wonderful editor for this story, Flip McHooter, to find out that Paul experienced some serious health problems but is now improving. Say a prayer for him. I also thank IJK from California, for stepping in at the end and generously assisting with editing. This story is a work of fiction. It contains graphic sexual descriptions and is therefore solely intended for readers of legal age. Any similarities to real life persons or events is purely coincidental. This work is copyrighted and owned by Hans Schreiber. No reproduction of it is permitted without the express written authorization of Hans Schreiber. I would also like to thank the Nifty Archives for hosting this story. Please consider making a donation to Nifty at http://donate.nifty.org/donate.html Hans Schreiber h.schreiber@hushmail.com