Date: Mon, 27 Jun 2022 13:48:51 +0000 (UTC) From: JH Subject: A Stepbrother's Desire - Josh and Tyson 58 This is a work of fiction - names and places are elements of fiction. Please donate to Nifty.org at http://donate.nifty.org/donate.html. Your donation will allow stories such as this to be published. Other stories: Nifty/Beginnings/Cards in the Deck - Adam and Ben Nifty/Incest/My Counsin's Son A Stepbrother's Desire - Josh and Tyson 58 On Thursday, I took a break from Ty and Gigi and the usual group because Jack and Jason asked me to hang out. I hadn't hung out with either of them in ages and I was excited to catch up with Jason. I was cool with Jack and I could tell by his limited worded text that he thinks I'm all "Team Tristan" which isn't totally true. Yeah, I totally support Tristan in whatever he needs and wants. If he wants Jack back, then I would support that. Jack was a good guy. Mom was going to the club to help with the setup of the Friday night dinner. Dad, Ty and Gigi were having a light dinner in town and going to an art exhibit. I headed out to Jason's where I was met by his mom. "Josh!" she belted as she opened the door. "Haven't seen you in so long. You look so grown! Ready for graduation?" she asked. "Yes ma'am, I'm ready. It has been a long time. I was glad to hear from Jason. Where is the bum?" I asked. "Jason!" she shouted up the steps. "Your guest is here and I'm not the butler here!" She turned back to me and laughed. "He is such a bum, isn't he?" "Send him up, Jeeves!" Jason said from the top of the stairs. I leapt up the stairs, skipping every other one. "You asshole, you should be there to usher me in when I arrive," and I gave his arm a punch. "You haven't changed in the last two months, have you?" He led me into his bedroom where Jack was sitting on the chest at the end of Jason's bed. "Hey Jackie Poo," I said, sticking my finger in his ear. Jason cracked up. "Anyone else would have died for that!" Jack barked and he got up and gave me a hug. "It's been a while," he said. "It's all good. Things have been so fucking busy," I said, taking a seat on the chest next to where he had been sitting. They were playing an X-Box game which I had obviously interrupted. He gave me a shy grin. "Listen, Jack. I know a lot has been going on but you need to relax. I'm really glad to be hanging out with y'all tonight. I needed a break from everything. It's really good to see you," I offered. He leaned into me. "I'm really glad to hear you say that!" Jack responded. "That's what I told him!" replied Jason. And our evening got off to a start. We migrated from the bedroom upstairs to Jason's hang out in the basement. We grabbed drinks from the kitchen in between. "I'm sending dinner down at 7!" chimed Jason's mom. Dr. Perrow would be coming home late because of work at the hospital. Once we were settled in the basement, we had a lot to talk about. The first topic started with the field party. I described the event leading up to the attack on Tristan. Jason was shaking his head in disbelief. "I should have been there," Jack whispered in a deep voice. "Wouldn't have done any good. What was going to happen happened and I'll tell you this: Tristan didn't do himself any favors by shooting off his mouth!" he said. "He has that tendency," Jack said in a lighter tone. "I think you guys take this relationship stuff way too seriously," said Jason. "I mean, why the tie down? Where's the fun in all that? I'm not being critical, just asking," he said. "When someone drives you nuts, you can't ignore it, Jason. Just wait, your turn will come. Then Jack and I will revisit the topic with you!" I said. Jack cracked up laughing. "I dated a girl for two months," Jason said. "Whoopee!" said Jack. "Macy?" "Well, I really liked her. I really did. But oh my God, we had to end every call, text, and everything with `I love you' like it was life or death. When I didn't say it back, she got crazy. I didn't want to say it. I didn't love her so I told her that. Well, that was the end of that!" Jason said. "I get that, Jase," I said. "Ty and I are not like that. If we say it, we mean it but we don't say it all the time and we don't expect it either." "How do you know you're in love, anyway?" Jason asked. "Drives your nerves insane!" said Jack. "Agreed. It's hard to explain the thing between Ty and me because we live together but for the few months, I couldn't wait to see him after school. I couldn't wait to run into him in school. I couldn't wait for him to call or text me. I couldn't wait to sneak into his room at night. I lost a ton of sleep back then," and Jack and Jason laughed. "Now that we've been together for so long, I know I'm going to see him. I know I'm going to hear from him. I expect it. I don't sit around and wait to see if he still likes me. And, I would do anything for him. Those punches I put on Roman, that was for someone I'm not in love with. Imagine if that had been Ty he had punched like that. I would be in jail right now." "Probably why it's good I wasn't there," said Jack. "And thanks, Josh, for standing up for Tristan like that." "Bryce got in his way first. Bryce didn't back down for a minute!" and then I realized I had opened the door to a new problem. "Fuck!" I thought. "Yeah, and about that..." said Jack. "Don't go there, Jack. If Tristan had to step out with anyone other than you, I'm glad it was Bryce. Bryce can't carry the load cuz he's not coming out but he adores Tristan and is the last person who would mistreat him. The last!" I confirmed. "I understand, but..." "No, no, Jack. You can't be critical here. You all were not together and you had your thing as well." Why did I feel like a litigator at this point? I sounded so fatherly, like a counselor. "I know I know!" said Jack. "I think Bryce is a nice guy. Just surprising he "sits on the fence" like that," said Jason. "Bryce isn't as bisexual as he thinks. I think he's just needy. But in the end, when he's your friend, he will do anything for you. I hope he'll get through this high school thing because I think he'll find the girl of his dreams once he gets out into the real world," I said. "I hope I do too," said Jason. "But in the meantime, I'm not losing any sleep over it." "Thank goodness for your right hand!" quipped Jack. A pillow sailed by my head and whacked Jack in the face. That started a whole new thing. I hadn't played in a long time. Ty and I didn't play like we used to. I used to always enjoy this, a little rough housing. Jason was quick but Jack was like a bulldozer. When both of them came at you, you had to think smart. Together, they were like the ultimate power house. Getting one of them onto my side was the goal! We finally pulled apart when Jason's mom came down with a big dish of roast beef and roasted potatoes. We ate downstairs at the four seated table that had been set up as part of Jason's "teen cave." When I returned home, it wasn't too late and everyone was up. I walked through the kitchen door and Ty was standing at the foot of the back stairs. "Well it's about damn time you came home. What do you think this is? The end of high school or something?" he barked. Gigi laughed. "Get him, Ty!" she said. That spurred me on. "I'm gonna get you for that!" I snapped. Ty shrilled and turned to run up the stairs. I bolted up behind him and he thought he was being clever when instead of running to his room, he headed for the front stairs. I turned and went back down the backstairs and when he barged through the door separating the breakfast room from the front hall, he crashed into my arms. "Got you!" I yelled, pulling him into a headlock "Help!" yelled Ty. "Boys!" barked Bill. "You can't get involved when they get like this, Bill. Just let them play it out!" mom said with a laugh. I dragged Ty into the family room but he got free and climbed on my back and got his arms around my neck. He slid off and had me locked in pretty tight. I knew the antique table by the chair was next to me so I was being careful not to crash onto it. Ty had one leg planted between mine and thinking football, I knew he could drop me if he pushed his leg slightly forward. No sooner than I had thought it, he did it! Damn him! He cried out in joy as I fell backwards onto my back. He landed on top of me with a thud. "That's my Ty!" squealed Gigi. "Impressive," said Bill. "Now you two get up! We have a lot to do tomorrow so you all need to turn in soon," he said. I was reminded that the dinner was tomorrow and I hadn't prepared my remarks. I would do that in the morning. I only needed a few minutes. Ty and I went upstairs and Gigi said good night was climbed the stairs behind us to turn in. I knew my mom was burning it at both ends because she was sorting all her files from her old job, writing manifestos or something for her new one and getting ready for the graduation weekend. I collapsed on Ty's bed. "That was a hell of a move down there, babe," I said. "I know. I felt so cool!" Ty chirped back. "We don't play much anymore, do we?" he asked "I thought that earlier when I was rough housing with Jack and Jason," "Oh yum! I would have enjoyed being a spectator at that event. Three hotties wrestling around on the floor," and his voice got quieter. "Why is that a fucking hot scene?" he whispered and he groped his dick, showing its outline in his shorts. "I don't know. Why is your bulge looking particularly hot tonight?" I asked. "My inspiration started downstairs but now I have images of you three piled up on the floor. Jason is really cute and you know how hot Jack is. Jack, Jason, and Josh. Yummmm!" He squealed. I cracked up laughing and pulled him to me. "Do I tell you I love you enough?" I asked, changing the tone. "Yes, but you don't have to, sweetie. Why do you ask?" "We talked about that tonight. You know I've been in love with you since day one. I mean, most days. Some days more than others but I always love you. You get me?" I asked. "Of course. I love you everyday too. Being in love seems to come in waves, Josh. I don't think after a few months, it's as intense. But Josh, nobody is ever going to love us as much as we do each other. Do you think?" Ty asked. I agreed with his point. "I think, as mom puts it, it's as good as it gets between us. I swear, Ty, I hope it's enough. All the talk of going off to college scares me." "Josh, I'm a realist. I went from cheap player to supreme lover overnight because of you. And I'm not supid. Tristan would drop his pants in a second for you and Bryce wants nothing more than to get into them. That crazy guy was totally infatuated with you. You are so fucking incredible, so handsome and smart and witty." He paused and I wanted to know where he was going. Ty had a direct way about him and "blam!" "You're going to fuck someone next year. It's going to happen and we both know it. Let's just be honest with each other about these things and do what Gigi says. If our love is meant to be, it will survive. A hardon and a cumshot will surely not erase what we've had. If someone gets into our heart, then we call it a new season." I say his eyes well up. "How else can I think about it?" he asked and he squeezed tight against me. "I think you said it perfectly. And I'm not the only great thing in this bed. No telling who will come to the light next year and see you leading the diversity council and all." He looked into my face. "I already know them all," said Ty. "Yeah but you didn't see Rally coming, did you?" and Ty froze up. "What do you mean? What do you know about Rally?" asked Ty. "Don't think I haven't noticed. That boy had it bad for you. Did you two..." "It was an "almost" thing, when we `had space' but no, we didn't," Ty said. "But he wanted you. The first time you introduced me to him, it was all over his face. He was crushing hard." "No he wasn't. You don't think so, do you?" Ty asked, like he didn't know. "Oh yes he did and who could blame him? I don't know why it didn't happen and I'm not going to ask but I have to tell you he has one fine ass and the most beautiful skin I have seen on a black guy." "I think so too. We just seemed better as friends and he's not as, well, mature, experienced as we are. I can't go back to boys, Josh," said Ty. "I don't have time to bring someone up to my level." "I totally agree with you. I can't bare the thought of trying to fuck a guy who can't take it, doesn't know how to kiss, or is worried about what his friends will say. We are really advanced, aren't we?" I asked, feeling some level of accomplishment. "Out in the world, Josh, we might be a power couple. They'll be seeking our approval before we seek theirs," and he gave me a wicked grin. "We're going to the beach in two weeks. No one will know us there," I suggested. "Maybe we should have a little fun with our experience," I suggested. Ty beamed. "Some beach theater!" he chirped. "I love it!" "And if you feel any inspiration to bring that Rally around sometime, we could possibly elevate his experience level a bit," I continued. "He is a really fine looking guy." Ty's eyes squinted at me. He gave me another grin and his eyes were flashing. "You have a secret little fetish for black guys, don't you?" he asked. "I do not! I don't recognize people by their color. That's not important to me!" I said, defensively. "Yes you do! You totally judged Jordan Rose not only because he was a big black guy, but also because he played basketball. You called them thugs. I heard you!" Ty accused. "Ok, I see why you say that but my feelings back then were more about your feelings toward him. As a football player, I always have to rival the basketball team. That's in our nature but I know him now. I respect him and appreciate him. And now that I do, he would totally fuck me so I couldn't walk straight for a week!" and Ty nearly flew back across the bed. "Josh Warner, I can't believe you said that! My mind is blowing out the window right now!" he shouted loud enough for Gigi to hear. "But you know he's one I would give it up to and beg for your forgiveness the next day, right?" said Ty, laughing as he said it. "Yeah, I know. I probably won't give it up to him. His dick would drill a hole in me that couldn't be repaired. I would know if he did it to you for the same reason!" and Ty and I were laughing so hard. "Wow, we haven't talked like this in so long. I love that we can say these things and not get mad or defensive," Ty said. "Why get mad? It's truth even if it doesn't come true. It's ok, Ty, this is what's so hard to explain to people. When you really love someone, these topics, even if they're taboo don't break us up. We're teenagers with hormones and hardons!" I said. "That is exactly right," said Ty. "I just hope I've done enough, for you, that is. I meant it when I said I doubt anyone will be as great as you, especially to me." "That may not be true but yes, Ty. You have done more than I could ever expect." We stopped talking. We were both turned on but more than that, we were feeling each other. This was one of those nights that wouldn't be about how fast we could get it done or how many sexu positions we could find. This was a night where we would move slowly with each other. I would love the light that would beam from the moon across Ty's face. I would almost see my reflection in his eyes because they were so clear. Our motions would be so fluid like we knew what the other was doing that we would just let the current take us. Our bodies would be pressed tightly together while I was inside of him. It would be wrong to call it fucking even though that's what it was. But I was also spilling bits of my soul into him as we kissed him as well as taking bits of his from him. At the end of that session, cleanup wasn't even necessary. I came inside of him and swallowed every drop of his cum, a bitter salty taste stinging my tongue and throat. We had each shared that bit of our soul with each other and for some reason, perhaps because the stars had willed it, it would be one of the experiences between us I would never forget. Ty and I were right. We were elevated. Our sexual experience was unrivaled. There were no adults who knew how to use sex as expressively as us. We knew how to have fun, make it hot, get messy, and show our feelings. It was never out of obligation. Were our feelings that evolved? That was a question I could not answer. Did we have to spend a lot of time worrying about stepping over the line with another guy? Yes we did but was that because of how people made us feel about it or was it driven by our own fears? I can't answer that either. In any case, Friday morning came quickly. Out of sheer habit, without the phone alarm, I got up at 5:45 and sauntered back to my own room where I climbed into my bed and slept some more. I heard Gigi and Ty talking as I woke from early morning sleep. "Yes ma'am, we were up late. We do that sometimes. It's the only time we get privacy," I heard Ty explain. "I can imagine," said Gigi. I stuck my head out of my door to see Gigi and Ty watching Good Morning America in the den. "Hey Josh!" Ty exclaimed. "Morning," said Gigi, patting the seat next to her. I eased across the hall and took a seat by her. "Ty was just slipping around your late night rendezvous," Gigi said with a smile. "Sorry if we kept you awake," I said. "I couldn't sleep. I was just happy to hear you two laughing and giggling. I feel so comforted when I see you two express yourselves," Gigi said. "Anything else?" Ty asked. "Nothing we need to speak of," Gigi said, giving him a wink then turning to me and giving me one as well. "Have you written your toasts for tonight?" Ty asked. "Or course not!" I said. "But I'm going to get on it after I eat some breakfast." I was inspired by an idea. I texted my student teacher, Keith Burch, and told him I had to give some toasts at a dinner and would he proof them if I sent them to him. He replied that he was thrilled to hear from me and he would be happy to proof them. My inspiration went up by multiple points! I sat down and wrote out the toasts for the two people to whom I intended to recognize. It was almost lunch by the time I finished. These were not long toasts by any means. I just had to stop and start over several times. They wanted this to be classy but they were also hoping for some humor as well as sentiment. I was so happy Ty gave me a heads up. I guess each of us got a heads up from someone. Because other than the heads up about the toast, no one had said a word about the dinner otherwise. I emailed the narratives over to Keith who said he would look them over in the next hour. Ty and I considered going somewhere for lunch but mom told us we couldn't go out. That led to a surprise I didn't see coming. When the doorbell rang, I heard my mother downstairs as she opened the door. "Hey Dan, come on in!" and then it hit me. My father had come. He was here for my graduation. He said he couldn't come, he was busy. I fell for it! I had to laugh as I walked over to the balcony looking down into the foyer. "Hey Josh!" my dad growled. Oh my God, I was so happy to see him I couldn't get my thoughts straight. "H-h-hey dad!" I stuttered as I literally slid down the stairs. He caught me at the bottom. "Hey dad," I said, as he put his arms around me. "I didn't think you could come. I'm so glad you did," I said., "I couldn't at first but then I told the company they could fuck themselves if they thought I was missing my son's high school graduation. My boss laughed and apologized for putting me in that position. Then after talking to your mom, we decided to make a surprise. How are you, Josh?" he asked. "I was really good until you showed up," I said. "Oh?" "Now I'm great!" "Hi there," said a soft voice over the balcony. I looked up to see Gigi and Ty standing above us. "Gigi, this is my dad. He's come for graduation!" "I already knew that. You don't think anything gets past me, do you?" she asked in her jovial tone. She and Ty eased down the stairs. "Mr. Warner," Gigi said, extending her hand gently. "I'm Gigi," she said. "I could've guessed that. I have heard about you. Please call me Dan," he said. He looked really good. His hair was cut nice. He had lost some weight, looked pretty trim really. He was wearing a nice button down and khakis. Ty noticed the same thing and was the first to say something. "You're looking really nice, Mr. Warner," said Ty. "Have you been working out?" Ty asked. "Well, I have Ty. Thank you for noticing. I got on a health kick a while back and it's really paid off." "It certainly has, Dan," said mom. "You look good, hon," and she gave him a light kiss on the cheek. "Karen, I don't know about you, but I love being in a house full of handsome men!" and we cracked up. "I rather agree, until they become needy!" and then Gigik cracked up. "Well said!" "Where are you staying?" I asked my dad. "Wyndham, just down the street," Dad said. I knew that place well as that was the hotel I tried to get a room in the night I fled. "Oh cool! You need help sorting things out?" I asked. "Sure. Want to ride with me over and help me unpack? I have dress clothes that need to be hung in the closet." "Sorry, Dad, I have graduation rehearsal." Oh sure," he said. "I bet they have to train y'all seniors to walk across the stage," he said with a laugh. "It'll be a production, Dan. If they don't walk them through it, there'll be a train wreck!" mom said. "Um dad, there's a dinner tonight. I have to..." "Oh I'll be at your little dinner, son. You didn't think your mom would leave me out, did you?" "Oh shit that's great!" and dad laughed. "There was a time your mom would have put soap in your mouth for that!" and I remembered the one time she did it. I was never able to bathe or do anything with Dial soap after that. I was like 8 years old and I said I hated someone because they didn't come to my birthday party. She shoved that bar of soap in my mouth without thinking twice. It tasted terrible! "I could have put her in prison for that, you know," and gasped. "How dare you!" she shouted, causing Gigi to giggle. "Ty's father threatened me once with that. I wore his ass out!" Gigi barked and we all cracked up laughing. "And you wouldn't be alive to graduate tomorrow," dad said. We drove back to the house and I marched upstairs to my room, opened my laptop and begin checking the edits Keith had sent. They were just a few. He said it was good work and he wished he could be there to see my delivery. I took the opportunity to write back to say thanks and to ask what he was doing the next week. Ty came marching into my room, it seemed we were all marching today, lol, and handed me a box. I knew it was a tie box from Bill's clothier. There was a pink bowtie with little white and blue paisleys. "Pink? Really?" I asked. "It's summer and let's face it, with your blue blazer, it will look amazing," Ty said. I knew he was right. There was never any need to question him. I darted off the rehearsal which was quite miserable. I won't go into details here but its a big program and they haven't called Valedictorian yet. Several kids had grade point averages greater than 5.0. I know Ginny was one of them. I returned home and began getting ready for the dinner. "Josh, Ty, are you all getting ready?" mom yelped up the stairs. Ty told her we were. We each took showers and Ty was helping Gigi attach her strand of pearls when I came out of my room. Ty then came over and tied the bow tie on me. I hadn't quite got it down at this point. And of course, he was right. The tie, against my pressed white dress shirt, gray pants, and blue blazer looked amazing on me. We styled my hair as it was longer on top and needed some style cream. He went to his room and put on his red and blue striped tie and got his blazer out with the buttons down both sides. God, he should be the one sitting up there tonight. He was so gorgeous. "Lawd have mercy!" exclaimed Gigi. "You are two fine looking gentlemen! Now, help me down the stairs," she said, offering us her elbows. "Heals!" she said, and Ty cracked up. "You're beautiful, Gigi," he told her, as we descended the stairs. Dad arrived and we stood around talking a bit. Mom asked me if I had my notes and I checked my coat pocket again. I really didn't need them at this point but I was taking them in case I got nervous. We took two cars over to the club. When we entered the club's private dining room, I realized that this was not just a small group thing. "Holy fuck," I whispered to Ty. My face got hot red and my eyes watered. A glass of water or a shot of vodka would have been welcomed. There was Principal Dillard and his wife, there was Coach Adkins and his wife. There were other people I hardly knew. There were Tristan's parents sitting with the Chatley's. Julia was wearing a pink dress that made her really, well, beautiful. She was definitely coming into her own. She smiled and waved at Ty. Everybody had a few friends in attendance. We had Gigi and my dad. And just as we stepped into the door, I heard a familiar voice say, "excuse me," and damn if Keith Burch didn't step into the room behind us. "Keith! What are you..." "You didn't think that I wouldn't think to invite him, did you?" asked mom. "Oh wow!" I thought. "That's Josh's teacher crush," Ty growled to Gigi. I laughed. Was he being a little jealous? Well tough shit on that one. Keith was here and that made me so happy. Lisa and her family came in. Ginny, with her mom and dad, came in. Kyle's parents were seated but I didn't see Kyle. Then, he came in behind us as well. It was Mrs. Chatley who suggested he join even though he wasn't graduating. I thought that was super cool We moved into the room and began greeting and making introductions. Everyone was excited to meet Gigi. I watched as she took Tristan by the arm and led him off to the side. I know she was showing him some love as said she always thought he was special. I watched as she touched his cheek and he blushed. There are some people who can get away with that kind of affection. Doesn't matter how old they are or what they look like. They just have that thing that allows them to affirm you and you are glad to take it. Bryce and I commented on things in general and he said the gang wanted to hang out for a bit afterwards, kind of a "just the gang" thing then I could crash at his house. I was agreeable. He and I needed some time together in any case. Lisa's dad, Mr. Mayor, was very jovial and acting very sophisticated. Of course he was naturally, but he loved an audience. He and Bill and my mom chatted for a bit and they introduced him to Gigi. Mrs. Buxtehude was quiet but very stunning. You knew where Lisa got her style from. Of course, Lisa's parents were German so they had a European style to them. The adults got drinks from the bar while we were left with sodas, tea, and sparkling water. Bryce pointed at Ty and me and said to follow him. We left the private room and went across the hall. There was a bottle of vodka there that we were able to take some shots from. "Private stock," Bryce called it. "You know we don't go without, Josh. Come on!" said Ty who could see the disbelief on my face. Obviously, this wasn't about getting drunk. It was managing nerves and attitudes and all. We went back in and shot straight for Keith. "Hey Keith," I said, and he wrapped his arms around me. "It's fucking awesome you're here," I said. "Why didn't you tell me you were coming?" "Your mom said to keep it a surprise so I do what your mom says," he responded. I had to laugh. He was sipping on a gin and tonic with a slice of lime that looked very refreshing. "Thanks for reviewing my notes. Did you think they were stupid?" I asked. "No actually, it was some very mature work. Your thoughts were sincere and funny. That's all they need to be. Nicely done," he said, raising his glass giving me a "cheers." "I'm so glad to see you," I whispered to him. "Same here, Josh. Same here. Now I better get to my seat. I gather that's Gigi," he said pointing to the lady next to his seat. "Watch her. She's slippery with cute guys," I said. "Same here, Josh," and he gave me a wink and headed to the table. He looked good dressed up, his hair neatly parted and combed over. His cologne must have been called "Sex in a fucking bottle!" And fuck if my dick didn't start to get hard! Fuck! In gray dress pants? You know there are no secrets! As the guests of honor, including me, we being called out of the room, I buttoned my coat hoping to hide the inevitable and Lisa led us out into the hall. "They want an `entrance'," she stated. We heard people settling down. Lisa, Ginny, Bryce, Kyle, and myself waited nervously. "Everybody got their toasts ready?" asked Kyle. "This is some shit," he said with a laugh. "Whose idea was this anyway?" he asked. "I think it was my dad's and Josh's mom," Lisa said, wide eyed. "Oh, yeah, I knew that. Nevermind!" and we cracked up laughing. "Ladies and gentlemen," I heard my mom start up. "Shhh!" Lisa said. "We are honored to have you all here to celebrate what I think is a really special group of, well, what are they? They're not kids. They are not grown. I'm not sure how to refer to them," and she laughed and many others chuckled as well. "I think, Karen," said Mayor Buxtehude, "my administration would call them teenagers!" and everyone laughed out loud. "If not nuts!" said Mr. Chatley, causing more ruckus. "My dad!" said Bryce, rolling his eyes. "Those are both effective," said mom. "The friendship that has endured throughout this year between these young people has been special. As a `new' mom in this bunch, I can't tell how amazing it's been having the support of good kids and GREAT parents this year. This dinner is a special way to recognize this special time! I've had friends in the past say how glad they would be moving toward `empty nests' but I don't know. Maybe another year of grilled cheese sandwiches on a snowy day, maybe another missed curfew, maybe another `grade" driven discussion. I often wonder if I've done all that I could!" mom admitted. "You did, Karen, but I'm not sure I did!" said Mrs. Tatum, Ginny's mom. "I think yours was on a self-directed course to success," said mom. "Cut it you two," barked Mrs. Buxtehude. "I paid dearly for this face and you're about to ruin it," and we heard the stutter in her speech. "Awww," said Lisa. "Mom," she whispered. "So let's welcome our graduates to a very special dinner and I hope you all enjoy!" mom said. Everyone stood and began clapping and that was our queue to enter. We marched into the dining room and everyone looked so pleased. We took our seats at the head table, sitting where the name card scribed in Calligraphy said, "Joshua Warner." The dinner was fantastic. Starting with a salad, we moved to prime rib and potatoes and asparagus, then there was a choice of banana cream pie or chocolate pie for dessert. "Eat up guys," said Lisa. "We're on after desserts," she reminded. "That's appropriate," said Ginny, "since desserts spelled backwards is `stressed'," and we broke out in laughter. I knew the parents were all wondering what we were talking about. I had to laugh twice at the desserts thing because that was hilarious. As the valedictorian for the graduation had not been named because it was too close, and because Ginny was in the running, it would only stand that she would know something like that. We all had our fingers crossed that she was it. Lisa stood. "Oh shit," said Bryce. "She can't wait to kick it off!" he whispered to Kyle and me. "Everybody, I want to start by saying thank you to you all for hosting us in this way. This is a really special night." The light reflected off the jewels on her black dress. She looked like a movie star, really done up nice. "As you all know, I depart for my year abroad in August and I'm really excited to study in France for a year. This scholarship was a lucky break and there are some people here I'm going to miss!" and she went on to call out some of her old friends and she directed her attention to Ginny which I thought was awesome. "We might not have been friends over the years, but the time I've spent with Ginny this year has been incredible. Ginny is fierce and loyal and never wavers. She has shown me what true friendship looks like in a mature state," Lisa said and she started to choke. Several of the parents started to as well. Lisa went on for a bit. Ginny gave her speech, directing toward not one, but all of us and how her inclusion this year, allowing her to be a "player on the stage," which caused her dad to choke, had shown her a new lifestyle. Books and studying and diligence were all great but without the fun, it was exhausting. Everyone applauded and her mom rushed forward to hug her. Principal Dillard stood and everyone got quiet. That's what happens when he's about to speak. "Ladies and gentlemen, it is an absolute honor for Mrs. Dillard and myself to be included here tonight. I have watched this bunch grow up and I have never been prouder of a loyal, dedicated group of friends. I am anxious to learn of their accomplishments in the future. And that being said, let me announce to you all that Geneveve Larons Tatum, known to you all as Ginny Tatum, will be representing her senior class as the class valedictorian tomorrow! It was close but we finally got it nailed down this evening. Congratulations Ginny, now get that valedictorian speech finished up before tomorrow!" and everyone stood and gave Ginny a standing ovation. She stood there looking shocked. I clapped the hardest for her. I was sure that I did. Bryce did a fine job, saying he was one of the lucky ones to have spent some great time with someone like Lisa. He also referenced each of us, dropping a big note about his years with Kyle as friends and as football players. Then he looked at me and made reference to the great football pass that helped him score one of the most important touchdowns of our season and that my friendship had been that important to him this whole year. Mrs. Chatley broke down and my mom rubbed her shoulder. And then, it was my turn. I began, "Ladies and gentlemen, I'm the newcomer this year. I don't have long histories with this amazing group of friends. I wasn't there for Lisa's sweet 16 birthday party, assuming she had a Sweet 16." "Um Josh," Lisa interrupted, "it was Sweet 13, 14, 15..." and everyone screamed with laughter. I was glad for the laugh but I had to get back on track. "I was not there when Ginny decided that a life of knowledge and intellect would be her life's calling when she won her first Spelling Bee in 3rd grade." "You mean first grade, Josh, honey!" drawled Mrs. Tatum, wearing bright red lipstick, causing another helping of laughter. "I was not there when the devilishly handsome Bryce went through his awkward phase, maybe a little chubby, blonde hair sticking up everywhere, and perhaps some acne, wearing clothes that didn't fit properly!" "Not my baby!" shouted Mrs. Chatley. "Bryce was always beautiful!" "Here here!" shouted one of the other ladies. "I was not here, to climb the ranks of the football team with Kyle, to see him, to see ourselves duke it out as to who would be the senior year quarterback, and having got to know him since, I would've gladly played my best and served my team under his leadership!" and everyone applauded. Kyle's cheeks turned red. "What I'm trying to say, in a roundabout way, is that the short time I have had with this group, well," and I had to pause and clear my throat, "well, when I moved here and in with the Ty, the most amazing guy in the world, I never thought there would be a forcefield of friends like these to go with. I thought I would play it out alone and go on my way. Not with this bunch. They have loved, laughed, cried and been the kind of friends I didn't see coming." I looked down at them all and said "thank you." Gigi was dabbing her eyes and mom was holding her head up by a fist under her chin. "I will say this, as there is no competition up here tonight. Lisa scared me to death when I first got to school but I learned under her beautiful and forceful exterior is an loyal and talented gal who has defined the term "popular.". Ginny was that girl that every good guy needs, the one who will call him out and give him that push when he needs it and Bryce's reference to that football pass, well that deserves a special call out!" I took a breath and Keith Burch was smiling at me. "We were up against a mountain of a team. The odds had been against us but we had done better with those odds than anyone expected. The final play, well it was doozy. Execution had to be perfect. I assessed the field and watched as all the players fell into line. I launched the ball, probably the longest pass of my career, into the air and aimed at no one. With 30 seconds left in the game, Bryce moved effortlessly into place, caught the ball, took two steps backward, and scored the goal that won the game." I looked down at Bryce who was all but crying. "Bryce," I continued, "you have been moving effortlessly and gracefully into place, wherever you were needed and wanted and that's just the kind of guy you are. You have been the best friend and true pillar to me. Thank you!" I said and he leapt out of his seat to give me a hug. Everyone applauded. The friends at the table were all a mess. "This group, to sum it up, has not allowed me to get away with anything, they have called me out every step of the way, and they have given all the forgiveness they could. I love you all," I said, looking down at them. Ginny had to use her napkin to wipe her face. I think she wiped Lisa's as well. "So, I don't know what the last day looks like for us. As Lisa heads to France, Ginny to Duke, Bryce to William and Mary, and Kyle to USC and as I head to The University, I don't know how it winds down but I would like to offer this sentiment, that Ty's grandmother, Gigi, always shares with him. Gigi," I said, "I hope you don't mind me doing this but I just have to do it!" I said to Gigi. "Go ahead, Joshua," she barked. "Let `em have it!" and she laughed. "Everybody," and I raised my glass, "our story is straight, our slate is clean, and I will always love you for the friends you've been!" and there was silence. I wasn't sure what to do. Ty got up slowly from his seat. He walked toward me. Tristan got up and followed him. Ty came around the table and people had started applauding. He hugged me with the strength of a thousand arms. Tristan draped his narrow arms around us. The whole table got up and we were, just one more time, enthralled in this "inner-circle" clutch that had occurred on several other occasions. Everyone cheered and clapped. I looked out from the group hug, my mom was washed up. Bill had his head bent forward in his hand. Gigi was dabbing her eyes again. My dad was beaming at me. Mrs. Chatley was covering her face with a full linen napkin. The whole crowd was whacked. We broke our embrace and Ty and Tristan returned to their seats. I sat. I had said what I wanted to say. Kyle stood and everyone finally settled down. "Seriously, Josh," he said, looking down at me. "I have to follow that?" and everyone chuckled. "No, I mean it. Who decided the order of things? I might as well go home!" he barked. "I came with these," holding up three note cards. We were all giggling now. He threw them into the air and looked flabbergasted. I was cracking up now. "I mean, Josh, you just won a seat in congress with that speech and you didn't even run! The mayor is looking for a place for you in his administration right now!" "I've already found it!" shouted Mayor Buxtehude. "Press secretary should do nicely!" "Come on, Dad, help me out here. What do I say after that? You're always quick with the advice. What do YOU suggest?" and the hairs on my arms pricked a bit. That might have been a dart. "Son, I got nothing for you, except to say, you should give this bunch whatever you have to give. It will be good enough tonight, just like it's always been. Like the lady over there said, son, `let `em have it!" and there was some quiet. I wasn't sure but I'm pretty confident Kyle and his dad just had a moment, maybe a "long time coming" moment. Maybe that was the approval Kyle had always wanted but had rarely gotten. "Thanks, Dad. That's what I needed to hear!" and Kyle launched into a great speech. All the years running with this crowd, having met Ginny only in the end, to discover what an amazing `lady' she was, pulling back up to Bryce, and meeting me, only to have me be the needle and thread to "patch them back together.". He was satisfied with where he was and friends, equal to are greater than, would be all he would have time for in his life. It was good, especially since his note cards were spread on the floor. Tomorrow is Graduation. A big day for all of us.