Date: Wed, 18 Apr 2012 13:45:52 -0700 From: Trevor Johnson Subject: Davey Chapter 13 DAVEY CHAPTER THIRTEEN Written by Trevor Editor Jack Proof Reader Richie A far bit of the conversation going on in school throughout the day was the new Karate school of Davey's and every time he and Johnny walked down the corridors he was congratulated by everyone including several teachers who had also joined the class, but because of the large crowd, Davey didn't recognize them on that night. During the lunchbreak when all the guys were sitting at the table Carlos raised the subject of gymnastics, "Davey, I remember when Sally brought a box of stuff into the hospital there were several trophies and pictures of you competing in gymnastics and I recall her saying that you could well have been a an Olympic hopeful?" Shyly Davey answered, "Yes, I was doing a bit at my old school and with a local athletics club but that stopped." He got quiet and began to go back into his shell when he began to remember all the things that happened to him around that time. Carlos felt lousy that he had stirred up old memories and decided to try and bring his friend out of his shell, "now that you have the Karate club running, what's to stop you from getting back into training at the gym again?" Smiling Davey remarked, "I'd like that but there aren't many good clubs in El Paso right now. While Principle Michaels did offer to help if he could, the school also doesn't have much in the way of equipment and I can't imagine him buying stuff just for one person." Johnny piped up this time, "Err excuse me. Who just had a brother made President of the student council?" "Yes but he has a lot of other sporting groups and organizations to look after and support and there's only one of me." Carlos kept up the tirade, "Maybe there are more than just you. I wouldn't mind having a go at something like gymnastics. I've never tried it but I do need to keep fit. While Karate will help, maybe joining you will also help. Johnny Walker is no way near as fit as he should be and look around the table at some of these guys that could all do with being fitter. Not everyone can be on the football, baseball or whatever other team there might be." After that the conversation changed but Davey did like the idea of maybe getting back into training. The small gymnasium at the hotel might be of help as well, but he really does need a good coach to train and more importantly motivate him. He continued day dreaming having no idea what the general conversation was about, but he kept coming back to the same old problem that he needed a good dedicated coach to help him achieve his goals. It took a couple of good slaps on the shoulder by Johnny to bring him out of his thoughts and to tell him they'd better hurry because the first bell after lunch had just gone off and that all the other guys had already left. Once again a large crowd had gathered for the second night of Karate at the hotel and the first thing Davey noticed was that quite a few from the previous night had turned up again. This wasn't quite what he wanted but no one was turned away. It was Kimberley who once more was there with Carlos and Johnny to help Davey organise things and who pointed out that the man from the bogus Karate school was there. "Do you think I should go and ask him for his five dollars?" Carlos asked with a laugh. Davey in his usual calm mode replied, "No, maybe he'll learn something or perhaps he's just here to see where all his old pupils have gone." They all laughed at that. Needless to say the class went off very well with the guys selling plenty of food and drink while Davey soon had everyone organized into groups in relation to their experience. Gloria came up and announced that they had sold out of Karate outfits. So some people tonight would have to do without but more would be ordered for next week. Garrett was working at his bench all morning at the special school when one of the instructors came up to tell him he had a phone call and to go to the office and take it. He had no idea who it was from and was worried that maybe his mom had somehow got past security and was calling. The last person he wanted to talk to right now was his mother. He picked up the phone and in a quite nervous voice said Hello, "Hi Garrett this is Sally Hughes the social worker from the hotel." Breathing a sigh of relief Garrett said hello once more, "I know I told you that I was having problems getting enough funding for you to see a psychiatrist?" Without waiting for an answer she continued, "I had forgotten that a top man from Britain, Dr. David Jamieson had agreed to see you free of charge and the appointment is tomorrow at one. He is a top man in the profession and wants to use your case for a paper he is writing. Tomorrow you will remain at the hotel and in the morning you can help with the cleaning of your floor before you meet Dr. Jamieson." Garrett thanked Sally before going back to his work bench. Of course Jake wanted to know what was going on and when Garrett told him he said, "I wonder if I can swing it so I get the day off as well, I must admit I don't like being separated from you for too long Garrett. I believe I am falling in love with you. Ok, before you say once again that you're not gay I can still be in love with you. This time sex has nothing to with it just a loving friendship." Those words stunned Garrett a bit but he was touched by the way Jake had explained his feelings. "I think a lot of you as well Jake, but as a friend and that's all. If you can accept that then I am quite happy to have you as a close personal friend." Jake grinning all over his face, gave him a quick hug before dashing back to his own work station before he was spotted by one of the instructors. While Davey's karate class was on, Garrett and Jake were being transported to Providence hospital and the aids ward for their second night of the week. Garrett was a lot less nervous this time, while Jake was still not one hundred per cent happy about being there. As he walked through the ward towards Edwin's bed his new found friend spotted him and a great big smile that lit up his face. When Garrett arrived at his bedside without even thinking he gave him a friendly hug, "Hi buddy how are feeling today?" "Pretty good, bored out of my brain waiting for you to turn up." Garrett smiled feeling good inside that he had someone who wanted to see him and be friends with him. They chatted away like old friends for a couple of hours before a thought suddenly hit Garrett. "You said last night Edwin that the guy who did this to you was serving a prison term and would eventually be released. Surely if he gave you AIDS then he is not going to go and out live his sentence." "You're right to a point." Edwin told him. Finding it difficult to talk about his own death which was only natural. "He is what is known as a carrier of the disease so the chances of him dying from it are a lot rarer than most people." Tears began to form in his eyes as he continued and Garrett wished he had never started this part of the conversation. He leaned forward putting his arm around Edwin who rested his head on Garrett's chest as he continued. "He didn't care who he passed it on to because he knew he was safe. My lawyer told me that if he behaves himself in prison he could be out in fifteen years or less." This made Garrett mad as he took in that piece of information, "That stinks! He should be locked up forever and the fucking key thrown away." They stayed in the same position without speaking or moving. Unknown to Garrett, the doctor and orderly he met last night had been observing the two of them all night, along with another guy who was in fact the doctor from Britain that Garrett was due to meet tomorrow. Dr. Jamieson spoke to his friend, also from Britain, Dr. Gareth Evans, "I think this young man is healing himself and with my help, could turn out to be a fine young man." Gareth agreed with him but pointed out, "Do you think I should let the friendship continue? Inevitably Edwin will die. His death may only be a few weeks away, maybe even days." "I'll talk to you some more about that after I have seen Garrett tomorrow." Both doctors had decided that they would give Jake a different job to do and let Garrett and Edwin be alone tonight. All too soon it seemed to both boys that it was time for Garrett to leave, "I've got to go buddy and they won't be bringing me back until next Monday I think." "The sad look on Edwin's face said it all and tears began rolling down his cheeks, "I'm sorry buddy but I have to do what I am told and go where they say. I would love to be able to come along every day and chat with you but I can't." They hugged and said goodbye and as he walked away Garrett didn't look back because he knew he would burst out crying if he did and he could sense that Edwin was by now sobbing his heart out. All the way back to the hotel and later in their room Garrett never said a word. All he could see what that young innocent face crying and sobbing. Jake decided to leave him alone because he could see he was hurting like crazy and while he wanted to hug and kiss him, he didn't. He even climbed into his own bed for the first time for a while leaving Garrett to his misery. Before dropping off to sleep Garrett had an idea which kept flowing through his brain and wouldn't go away. Until he had thought it through he decided to leave the thought there and not tell anyone. Finally he slept but all through the night that sad little face of a poor young boy serving a death sentence kept intruding into his dreams. Earlier that Thursday afternoon after school, Sally had a meeting with Joey and complained to him about her workload, "more and more are being admitted to your home Joey and my workload as increased at an incredible pace and I really do need some help." "You mentioned your friend Bethany to me the other day, who as you pointed out is qualified for the job. Is she interested?" "I believe so. I did ask her and if all the Government benefits she has come with her I'm sure she would join us." Joey was thoughtful and quiet for a while before speaking again, "How will this reflect on your relationship with Bethany?" This got Sally a bit mad as she pointed out to Joey, "In this hotel there are more gay relationships than I can count on one hand and you are questioning me about my Lesbian relationship with Bethany. If you guys can all work together then I don't see why we can't." "Point taken." Joey replied with a smile, "Talk to her and if she is happy to join us get the paperwork done and give it to Helen." Sally was in a much happier mood when she left the meeting than when she went in and immediately called up her lover as soon as she returned to her office. Bethany accepted the offer straight away saying, "I'd be mad to pass up the chance of working with my lover at my side no matter what. I am required to give a minimum of two weeks' notice, but I do have some leave available so I can be working with you in a couple of days if my boss agrees." Sally was pleased that it was all coming together, with her lover at her side day and night. One thing they had still to discuss and Sally had decided to leave that until later tonight is the fact that they would have to live in the hotel and she knew Bethany loved her own little apartment. Police Chief Falster was pleased that his pool of secretaries for himself and his two second in command's had been accepted by those complaining about Luke and Pru's relationship. While all three of them usually had the same ladies, they had on the odd occasion swapped around for appearances sake. In fact Luke and Pru's relationship was to say blossoming, and most nights were spent at one or the others apartment. Luke had been thinking about this all day but wasn't too sure what Pru's reaction would be regarding what he had in mind. Late that afternoon he walked back into his office after a long and rather boring meeting regarding his budget and he had a massive headache. As soon as he sat down at his desk Pru walked in with a couple of headache pills and a soda which she put on his desk before moving behind him to massage his temples, "That's feels so good, you have a magic touch darling but be careful in case anyone walks in unannounced." Smiling Pru said, "Don't worry I locked the door as I came in." They both laughed and Pru leant over to lightly kiss him on the lips. Once the kiss was broken Luke spoke, "I've been thinking for a while Pru about our lives together." He paused a little bit nervous about carrying on, "We spend most of our nights together and before you ask, I think it's wonderful and don't want it to end. But it seems to me a bit of a waste money wise for us to have two apartments going when we only sleep in one each and every night." Pru burst out laughing and Luke couldn't understand why, "Darling I've been waiting over a week now for you to bring up that subject, you can be so slow sometimes, and the only thing that needs to be discussed is whose apartment?" Once they had stopped laughing they discussed the pro and cons of were to live and decided in the end that Pru would move in with Luke because his apartment was bigger and had a longer lease. Now that it was settled and it was almost time for them to leave anyway, they settled down to a very pleasant making out session which was interrupted before it had really began with a rattling of the door knob and then a knock. Pru smoothed her outfit and straightened her hair before opening the door to find the chief standing there with the biggest grin you've even seen, "It looks like this door might be sticking a bit, you will have to get maintenance to have a look at it." The two red faces in front of him made him roar with laughter as he sat down in front of Luke's desk. Pru politely asked him if she could get him something to drink and he asked for a soda. She left to get it and the chief said, "Sorry I didn't mean to interrupt anything Luke, but I guess by your faces that this relationship is going ahead by leaps and bounds." "It is sir, in fact Pru is moving into my apartment tonight, so that we can cut down on accommodation costs." The chief roared with laughter again, "So that's what they call it these days, is it?" Both of them were laughing loudly when Pru returned with the soda and she looked questioning at the both of them but got no answer. "Anyway chief all that aside what was the purpose of your visit to my office?" I just wanted to see how your budget was going with the finance department. It appears every department is being asked to make massive cutbacks and I don't like it and intend to gather all the facts and figures together before going to see the mayor. For us to run an efficient police department we have to have the funds to do it." Luke agreed with him and they spent the best part of an hour going through the budget which Luke had presented earlier today. That evening, they began to clear out Pru's apartment and were doing quite well until they both laid down on the bed. Next morning they transported what they had loaded into Luke's car to his place on the way to work. Laughing Pru said, "If we carry on like we did last night the move is going to take a long, long time." When they met later that evening Sally and Bethany had a meal at Bethany's place. Relaxing afterwards Sally raised the subject of moving into the hotel and possibly giving up her apartment. "Part of the requirements of the job is that you are available overnight at the hotel. Not every night but perhaps on a roster basis. The big question is are you moving in completely with me or are you going to keep your apartment going and be at the hotel overnight when it is your turn?" Bethany didn't answer for a long time and Sally thought that maybe she had put her foot in it and their relationship was going to be strained with some problems occurring. Finally she spoke up, "Sally you know I love you dearly and I also love my little apartment, but that is just a material love while my love for you is emotional and physical. I don't really want to give up my apartment, so what if we keep the apartment on and use it as a retreat when we are not working for us both to relax and enjoy each other's company?" Reaching over and kissing her, Sally whispered that it was a wonderful idea and why don't we do just that right now. Friday morning began with Jake heading off to school leaving Garrett behind, first to do some chores and then to meet Dr. Jamieson for the first time. Garrett was nervous to say the least and mop cleaned and did all he had to do automatically, hardly realizing what he was doing. The rest of the hotel was being caught up in wedding fever as the day approached for Gloria and Andy's remarrying ceremony. Another floor of rooms was being readied for guests who were travelling in from outside El Paso, and to say there was excitement in the air would be an understatement. During their second breakfast at the high school Davey announced that next Monday he was going to start training in the hotel's gymnasium on the evenings when there was no Karate and if anyone else would like to join him they would be more than welcome, "I am also looking for a trainer because it is no good just training on your own without someone to help you and motivate you. I know how to train and what is required but I need that special person and if anyone as any ideas please let me know." No one had any answers right then and there and the subject was changed. Carlos and Kimberley ever since they had been grounded for sleeping together had been very careful with their relationship making sure that neither of them got carried away and got into even more trouble. They spent a lot of time with Davey and Johnny Walker helping to organize the Karate school and generally hanging out with the guys. Not that their love for each other had waned any, it was just both their parents and especially Kimberley's watched her like a hawk. Of course everywhere they went, they were joined at the hip and everyone knew they were an item. Carlos felt that he was always horny after his first taste of sex with his girl and found himself `jacking off' three, sometimes four times a day, but both of them had spoken about what happened and the dire consequences after when they got caught and decided it wasn't worth the risk. The rough tough Carlos had developed a soft spot for Davey after he saved his life and this affection for him hadn't waned any over the past weeks. Whenever they were in a crowd Davey would always find Johnny Walker on his right and Carlos on his left and just behind watching his back just as he was trained to do with his best buddy Alex when they were in the gang. The idea of going into gymnastics also appealed to him and he was keen to see Davey get back into training as well. Davey himself, while he still had a few aches and pains and was not fully fit, decided that the week after the wedding to get Gloria to take him to doctor Whitmore just to be on the safe side. Just on lunch time Garrett was told to report to one of the interview rooms on his floor. He was nervous and timidly knocked on the door and he heard a British voice inviting him in. Opening the door he found a young good looking guy in probably in his mid-twenties, with blonde curly hair standing there with his hand outstretched. Come in Garrett, I'm Doctor Frank Jamieson here from England on an exchange program for twelve months." Shaking Garrett's hand warmly he invited him to sit down and make himself comfortable. Once they were both settled he didn't begin speaking right away but just spent a few minutes looking at Garrett which was beginning to unnerve him. Finally he said to the young guy, "Why did you do what you did to Davey Carson or should I say Davey Hernandez now?" Hanging his head down Garrett mumbled, "I don't know sir." "Please call me Frank, not sir. I haven't got my knighthood yet." He laughed but Garrett didn't have a clue what he meant. "Sorry I'm confusing you. What you did was wrong and you were lucky not to be facing a murder charge right now. I'm told that your mother and her social worker friend motivated you to take action, but why didn't you say no I won't do it, was your hatred of homosexuals so strong that you had to do it?" "I don't know sir, er Frank, I was very confused at the time." "Right we'll leave that for now and go right back to the beginning. I could hypnotize you and do all that stuff but I would rather hear everything in your own words. Don't worry about a thing just relax Garrett and tell me about your life as far back as you can remember. For example when can you recall first being in bed with your mother?" "I think I was three or four year's old sometime back then." "Good that's a nice starting point so take it from there. Anytime you want to take a rest just say so and we can have a soda or something together, ok?" Garrett nodded gradually growing to like this guy with his easy going manner. It was not at all what he expected and no way like the way his mother handled her patients. Garrett found it easy to talk to this guy. He went right through his early childhood leaving nothing out, not even what his mother did to him or forced him to do to her. One thing he noticed was that Frank Jamieson didn't take notes and didn't appear to have any recording devices on him either. After more than three hours of non-stop talking with Garrett doing most it and Frank only stopping him now and again to clarify a point, his doctor called a halt. "Let's take a break Garrett, there's some sodas in the refrigerator and a couple of burgers in the microwave to be warmed up." They sat eating and drinking in silence. Then Frank said, "I was watching you at the hospital last night Garrett and the way you spoke and have become friends with young Edwin is a credit to you." Blushing Garrett said thanks before Frank continued, "I know because of our session today which has really only just begun, you were going to miss your trip to the hospital but I thought you and I could go pay Edwin a visit for a while, what do you say?" "Really? That would be great Frank but don't you have to get permission to take me out like that?" Smiling Frank replied, "I already have it, so when you've finished your soda and burger we'll head off." "Do you think we could stop off somewhere and buy Edwin some junk food, I'm sure he must be sick of hospital food by now?" Frank nodded in agreement and after picking up more burgers and fries they arrived at Providence and headed straight to the AIDS ward. Edwin was asleep at the time and Frank told Garrett to move onto his bedside while he had a chat with his doctor, Gareth Evans. Quietly Garrett sat down next to Edwin's bed just looking at him and not saying anything or moving. Edwin must have sensed someone sitting there because he opened his eyes and the first thing he noticed was Garrett looking at him. He smiled saying, I didn't think you were able to come in tonight and it's great to see you my dear friend." Garrett then produced the burger, fries and soda which pleased him even more. Once again they sat chatting for a couple of hours talking about anything and everything from sport to school not mentioning once the problems they both had. It was getting quite late and visiting time was officially well and truly over when Frank Jamieson came up introduced himself to Edwin and suggested that they call it a night. "If I can I will try and bring Garrett over tomorrow if that's alright with you and of course if you want to come Garrett?" Both of them in unison said that would be great. In the car on the way back to the hotel Frank said that he had something he wanted to tell Garrett, "I'm gay Garrett, have been all my life and my partner of close on twenty years is Gareth Evans, Edwin's doctor. Does that shock you?" "No, but it surprises me, neither of you look or sound gay." "Well what about Davey, he doesn't look or sound gay either, so why pick him out of the crowd and do what you did to him?" Garrett was quiet and thoughtful for a while before bursting into tears, "Because my mother told me to." He said between sobs. Frank stopped the car and pulled Garrett into his chest holding him while he cried his eyes out. This was one of the rare occasions when he had cried. The only other times where when his mother made him cry. Once Garrett had calmed down they headed back to the hotel with Frank escorting him to the elevator and then to his floor, "I think we have made a lot of progress today Garrett and I would like to continue our session tomorrow even though it isn't scheduled if that's all right with you?" Garrett agreed that he would like that and after thanking the doctor he headed for his room and his friend Jake who was just about going frantic wondering where his friend and roommate was. Garrett explained in detail what had taken place as he sang the praises of Frank Jamieson. Jake had never seen his friend so happy and excited as he was tonight and as he lay down on the bed next to him putting his arm round him he felt so happy and contented. No thoughts of sex went through Jake's head, just friendship and companionship. They even showered together and slept in the same bed but that was all they both needed to be close to someone. Also sleeping close together just a floor or so away was Davey and Johnny who also didn't indulge in sex on that particular evening. Both of them were excited about the wedding tomorrow and had been told by Gloria that they had to be up bright and early to help do things. Exactly what that meant they didn't know but they would find out right after breakfast. Several guests had already arrived and Johnny Walker was looking forward to seeing his father who was the Governor of Texas' Press secretary based in Austin who had not been home for quite some time. Al Hernandez was the Governor's Chief of Staff and Gloria's father but he was flying in early Saturday Morning with the Governor. Everyone was up early Saturday morning and even those at the hotel not involved with the wedding were excited and happy for Gloria and Andy. With quite a large number of long distance relatives joining everyone else at breakfast it was a happy affair. The reception was being held back at the hotel and caterers were already coming in to prepare the place for what was going to be a grand affair. This wasn't exactly how Gloria and Andy wanted it, preferring a nice quiet ceremony but the kids had taken over and now it was going to be bigger than Ben Hur. Plus there was security everywhere with the Governor and most of his main staff coming. Sniffer dogs had been through the ballroom and surrounding areas checking for explosive devices and the place was declared clean. The only floor of the hotel not involved was the one with the young offenders on it, which included Garrett and Jake. Because of the security they had breakfast served on their floor today in a couple of the meeting or reception rooms instead of their segregated section downstairs. Not long after breakfast Dr. Frank Jamieson arrived for another session with young Garrett. Finding an empty room they sat down and Frank said, "I'd like you to carry on were we left off yesterday but first I have an important question for you. Didn't you find it strange that you were the only kid around who slept with his mother?" "No, she told me it was normal for young guys to do this if the father wasn't around, but she also made me promise not to talk about it at school either. I believed everything she told me and did what she told me. I know now that everything we did was wrong." Tears began to roll down his cheeks and Frank moved in to comfort him. "It's ok to cry Garrett, men and boys do from time to time you know." As he calmed down Frank continued talking to him, "Over the next few months, no maybe few years you will have to be strong and if you keep your nose clean and behave yourself I could see you being released from here sooner than you think." Both of them were quiet for some considerable time. Frank was thinking an idea he had and should he mention it. Finally making up his mind he spoke again, "Garrett I don't think your quite ready but you are well on the way to being ready. Sorry I have to make sure I say this right. If I was to talk to Davey and assess his state of mind how would you feel facing him and explaining to him why you did what you did?" Garrett turned and stared at him in disbelief, "I, I don't know." He stammered being totally confused by what his doctor had just suggested. "I almost killed him. Anyway he would never agree to see me." "I have been asked if I would like to take on his case and have a chat with him and I agreed so we'll see maybe it will all come together but only if the both of you wish it. Now let's go grab some food and go see Edwin." They headed out picking up pizza on the way to Providence hospital. Meanwhile the Governor and entourage had already flown in and young Johnny Walker, Davey at his side was waiting for his father to arrive. Being wheelchair bound Johnny senior had a special car to bring him from the airport which he shared with Al, Gloria's grandfather so it was a happy reunion which took place in the foyer of the hotel. After shaking his father's hand and giving him a hug excitedly Johnny said, "Dad this is my boyfriend Davey and his mom and my mom now let us sleep together." Johnny Senior brow became dark at that news, "oh they did, did they?" He said glaring at his wife, "Don't you think you're a bit too young for that kind of thing young man. Just because you're gay doesn't mean you can start sleeping around at your age. If you had a girlfriend this wouldn't be allowed so why should it be different because your boys. No son I don't approve of this at all and will be having a word with your mother when I get the chance to talk to her alone." He didn't even acknowledge Davey standing there open mouthed wondering what just happened while young Johnny was just as stunned. They didn't have time to dwell on what had just happened because Jacob walked into the foyer to tell them to go get dressed because they had to leave in about an hour for the church. The two boys had been appointed as ushers and show everyone to their seats and so on. Andy junior was best man and while he wanted Jacob to do the job Jacob said no as the eldest boy he should do it. Jacob was also a groomsman while Marie, Gloria's daughter and the youngest in the family would be a bridesmaid. Jeremy, who you may recall from someone else's stories, was severally handicapped, with the help of Dwayne and Alex he would carry the cushion with the rings on it a job he was very proud to do. Cupid, Jeremy's cute little dog would also be part of the official party complete with a white bow. He had been shampooed and trimmed along with a manicure especially for the occasion. Along with all the extended Hernandez family, their hotel friends and the Governor's family, the church was filled to overflowing. The ceremony was simple but moving with the highlight being a secretly rehearsed special duet with Jacob and Josh, the Governor's son who as you may be aware from other stories was a national platinum record recipient. When they had finished their song which was aimed at all married couples no matter what gender or sexual preferences there were tears in everyone's eyes. Then it was back to the hotel for a massive wedding feast which went on quite late into the evening. Davey and Johnny Walker enjoyed every minute holding each other's hands enjoying each other's company, except every time Johnny looked across at his parents he could see his father looking at him and scowling. "Davey, Dad keeps looking at us and he doesn't look very happy I wonder what the problem is?" "I don't know but he's making me feel very uncomfortable and I don't want to ask mom about it not on her wedding day." When Garrett and Dr. Jamieson arrived at the hospital they noticed the curtains drawn around Edwin's bed and Garrett murmured, "Oh No." Putting his arm around him Frank said, "Never assume the worst Garrett let's just find out what's happening first." Frank's boyfriend Dr. Gareth Evans came towards them and said, "He's ok but had a bad day and we had to drain some fluid from his lungs. He's not very happy right now so a visit from you Garrett will really cheer him up and that's what he needs to keep going." Nodding Garrett almost ran towards the curtains and he flew into the open arms of Edwin, "Oh boy Garrett am I glad to see you." He sobbed into his best friends arms, "I don't know what I would do without you coming in to see me. No matter how hard I try not to think about it I'm scared of dying. I don't want to go Garrett I have too much to live for." He burst into tears sobbing and crying with Garrett hanging onto his frail body also crying for the plight of this poor boy who had become his best friend. The crying made the two doctors come running because Edwin could be heard throughout the ward. They pushed through the curtain with Frank giving Garrett a questioning look which received a shake of the head. The two doctors decided to leave them alone and let Garrett handle this himself. Once more alone, Edwin gradually settled down laying his head on his friend's chest and looking up, "I'm sorry you must think I'm an idiot and fool to carry on like that." "Not at all, you are frightened of what's ahead knowing that there's nothing you can do about it. I don't know if you believe in God and all that stuff. Frankly I've never ever thought about it myself but I suppose there is something to all that bible and prayer stuff and I know that God will welcome you with open arms and look after you while that bastard who put you here will be rotting in hell." Garrett surprised himself with that statement because he had never ever before spoken about God except when being blasphemous. Frank who was listening to every word from outside the curtain whispered to Gareth, "I think I'm having a win with this young guy." Once the two of them had settled down they started into the Pizza which they had brought in and although Edwin only had a small piece most of the ward and staff managed to get some as well. Time flew and the lights were dimmed but still the boys were chatting away telling Jokes and talking about school, sports and stuff which boys usually talk about. It was past midnight when one of the staff brought in a portable bed placing it next to Edwin's. Frank came in and said, "I have been given permission for you to stay the night with Edwin, but it was against the authorities better judgment so I am putting a lot of faith in you Garrett and you must promise me that you will not even think about walking out of here. Remember you are still a prisoner of the courts so please don't let me down. Gareth and I will be back in tomorrow and I hope to find you still here. Do I have your promise?" "Of course you do Frank, I would never ever walk out and leave my friend here all alone, and thank you very much for putting your trust in me because no one has ever done that for me." Frank and then Gareth hugged them both before taking their leave. Edwin snuggled closer to his friend saying, "If by chance I was gay, which I'm not you would be my one and only boyfriend. Thank you for staying, just having you here makes me feel so much better and who knows the longer I can hang in there may be bringing them closer to finding a cure." Garrett hugged Edwin for the last time before climbing into his bed right next to his bed and holding hands they both fell asleep. Davey was getting tired and he asked Johnny if he wanted to leave and go to bed. Nodding his head they both hand in hand headed off to say goodnight to first Gloria and Andy, who hugged and kissed them thanking them for their help in making this such a great day for them. They then moved on to Johnny's parents hugging his mom, but it was his father who shocked the pair of them by saying, "I think you boys are far too young to be sleeping together and I think you should come home with us tonight and sleep in your own bed Johnny." "But dad we've been sleeping together for some time now and we don't do anything really bad." Nancy Walker very rarely went against her husband but this time she decided to take a stand, "You don't know or understand the full facts of why Johnny stays with Davey so just listen to me and then make your decision." Nancy went on to explain in detail, but for Davey's sake leaving out the gory bits about what happened to Davey since he arrived here. She then went on to mention all the traumas and nightmares he was having and how Johnny was able to settle him down and help look after him. Johnny senior was surprised at what he was hearing, "I never realized it was like that guys and I'm sorry. Mind you I still think your both too young to be in a relationship but if it's helping Davey recover then so be it. But boys please be careful, especially when you're out in public. The Governor is getting to hear more and more stories of so called gay `bashing' and I don't want either of you to get hurt." "Thanks dad, we do take care and we're lucky that we are at a school which as a number of gay people so there is safety in numbers. I love you dad and wish we could see more of you than we do. When do you have to go back to Austin?" "Not until Monday. The Governor is flying back early Monday morning, so it would be nice if we could spend the day together as a family and that includes you too Davey." It was agreed they would meet at the breakfast table tomorrow. Being a Sunday, Mrs. Walker didn't have to work so they could all do something together. Being in a wheelchair Davey thought that would restrict were they could go but that didn't stop Johnny senior from going wherever he wanted to. It was about five in the morning when Garrett was woken up by someone coughing uncontrollably. At first he wondered where he was and then remembered that he was staying the night next to Edwin in the AIDS ward at Providence hospital. It was Edwin coughing his heart out and a nurse had arrived to sit him up give him some medication and help him with his breathing. It was then that Garrett noticed that Edwin was coughing up blood as well as mucus and this freaked him out a bit. He got out of bed so that the nurse could get in closer and soon the coughing subsided and his breathing got more normal. "Sorry if I woke you." Edwin said reaching out to hold Garrett's hand, "That's all right my friend, you can't help being sick like that." He began to settle down in bed again and invited Garrett to lie on the bed next to him, "I want you to be near me all the time." He whispered, "I know some people might think we are both gay but I'm not, I just want you to be near, to stay with me until it is all over." "Don't talk like that Edwin, as you say, tomorrow they might discover a cure and you'll be as a good as new." "Smiling Edwin said, "Yes all of us in here keep saying that but we know it's not going to happen." Garrett lay on the bed and Edwin snuggled up closer and closer to him his head resting on his friend's chest and once more they drifted off to sleep. Once they got to their own room Davey and Johnny discussed what Johnny's father had said about them sleeping together, "I can't see anything wrong with it and we don't go stupid sex wise do we?" Johnny said. Laughing Davey replied, "Only because I can't. I think if I was fit and well we'd be going at it whenever and wherever we could." Both of them burst out laughing at that remark and the only way they could stop was to start kissing and making out which they did. They finally finished up in a sixty nine position with both their seed being swallowed by their partner. "Do you think your father would approve of that session?" Davey asked. "I don't know and I certainly don't intend to ask him." Again there was a lot of laughing before the boys finally lay back down and drifted off to sleep holding onto each other. It was midmorning when Keith Jamieson arrived to take Garrett back to the hotel, "Sorry but we have to go otherwise I will be in trouble with the authorities, but I am working on a an idea which could result in you staying at the hospital helping out permanently if that's all right with you?" "Yes, I'd love that. I know Edwin would appreciate it as well. He is so lonely and being on your own, waiting to die must be terrifying." After saying that he began to choke up, and had trouble once more controlling his emotions. Keith after getting him back to the hotel in one piece said that he would call in later that day with what he hoped would be good news regarding his moving to work in the hospital. Thanking him and giving him a hug he made it to his room to tell Jake everything that was happening. Once more he got emotional relating the state Edwin was in and Jake had to comfort him. They sat silent for a while until Garrett had a thought, "Jake are there any juvenile gang members on this floor with connection with gangs in prison." "Yes a couple of my old gang at the school belong to one mob I think, Why?" "Just an idea cooking inside my head right now, can you ask them to come along to our room right now." "Sure I don't see why not but be careful these guys are tough and mean and if you upset them you could find yourself with a knife in your back." Promising to be careful, and assuring Jake that what he had in mind would not harm them both Jake went to get them. After careful introductions Garrett told them about Edwin and how the guy in prison who did this was immune from dying from it. He left nothing out and once they fully understood the situation he asked the big question. "Would you guys be able to get a message into the prison and get a sort of well I suppose you'd call it contract out on this guy, whose name is Jacob Wellings. I feel so strongly about this that I would like to see this guy either killed or at the least badly injured." The three other guys looked at him as if he had gone mad, "Are you sure you want to do this?" "I've never been more certain about anything else in my life. Can you get a message inside and make sure this fucking animal never walks out of that prison." Both guys were quiet for a while thinking things over then one of them spoke, "We'll get the message to the right people but if they take action or anything on it then it will be entirely up to the gang inside." They weighed up the pros and cons a bit more and the guys went away saying that it might take some time. "I don't care as long as I can give Edwin the news before he dies." Jake took Garrett in his arms kissing him gently on the cheek, "This guy Edwin has really got to you hasn't he?" Nodding he agreed with Jake and he then went on to say that he hated the guy in prison so much that he would love to be able to go in there to the prison and kill him himself, "You've seen that poor innocent boy lying there in his hospital bed. You yourself Jake had trouble coming to terms with what he going through. It's not fair, it's just not fair." Garrett broke down again unable to get the sound of that terrible coughing and all that blood being coughed up out of his mind. "I want that bastard in prison killed and if nobody else in there will do it I'll find a way to do it myself." "Ok, ok calm down I'm certain that they guys will be able to help you and one day we'll hear on the news about this guy's death." In fact it was only two days later when an excited Edwin yelled for him to come over because they had just announced on the news that Jacob Wellings had been stabbed to death while working in the prison kitchen, but we are getting ahead of ourselves and will hear more of this in the next chapter. To Be Continued... Writers corner: Before I get into talking about this particular chapter let me just say to my regular readers. Some of you may be aware that I was posting my stories on another site hosted by Jacob, another prolific author and very good friend of mine. I was the first one he invited to be on his site long before it became as big as it is now and I was thrilled to do so. Certain circumstances in the past few weeks have made it difficult for me to continue posting on this site. I assure you this has nothing whatsoever to do with Jacob himself, who I have the utmost respect for, both as an author and a friend. Rebirth was not originally my story and some of the characters were either taken from Jacob's stories or created by Jacob and Roland who was the original author of Rebirth. Roland was unable to continue so I took over at chapter 2 and have since developed the plot but always on conjunction with Jacob. Rebirth, I will continue to write and publish on a number of sites but the story will have nothing to do with any of Jacobs's stories and he will integrate some of my characters into his other stories. Now to this particular chapter which featured and concentrated more on Garrett than any of the other characters. With the help of Doctor Keith Jamieson I can see Garrett developing into a kind caring person entirely different to the one we knew from earlier chapters. He was abused so much by his mother as a child that I don't think he ever realized that he was doing any wrong and now he is beginning to see and realize this. I'm sure with more help and guidance he will becoming a fine young man. Dr. Jamieson hinted that he would be working with Davey and that maybe further down the track they may be able to meet face to face and Garrett can apologize and explain why he did what he did to Davey. I have a feeling that when Edwin does succumb to this terrible disease, Garrett will have problems coming to terms with the loss but we will have to wait and see. I was surprised when Garrett asked some gang members to organize a revenge killing of the guy who gave Edwin this disease and not sure if I approve how about you? Pru and Luke have finally began moving in together so maybe we will have another wedding soon? Speaking of weddings Gloria and Andy are now officially back together and what a grand affair it was. I thought Johnny Walker senior was being a bit too harsh on his son regarding sleeping with Davey and of course he was not aware of the full story at the time. Still I was only fourteen when I got parental permission to begin sleeping over with my boyfriend so I could see nothing wrong with it. Us guys are lucky because if I had been with a girl no way would sleepovers or living together have been allowed because of the pregnant thing. My sister used to complain bitterly that I was sleeping with my boyfriend yet they couldn't with theirs. I could go on talking about this chapter for a few more pages and bore you to death so I won't. If I missed anything I'm sure Jack or Richie will write about it. Please contact us and tell us what you think about this chapter and any of my other stories. Your comments are the only pay we get. My other stories if you are looking for them are The adventures of Cliff & Derek (which is my personal life story) and Living a lie. Hugs Trevor Supertev699@hotmail.com Editors Corner: Well, well, well. What a chapter. Yes, it focused on Garrett, but I think rightly so. Ultimately, I would like to see Garrett and Davey meet and come to terms with what happened and become friends. We have seen this happen with Jacob and Alex. As Davey and Garrett grow, I think they will come to understand each other, much like Jacob and Alex. Right now my heart is breaking for Edwin. His whole world is crumbling before his very eyes and he is totally helpless. I can just imagine what Garrett is feeling as he sees his friend suffer. I know that Trevor is using this situation as a vehicle that facilitates Garrett's growth, helping him to heal and mature into fine young man. Dr. Jamieson is just perfect to help both Garrett and Davey. Garrett has taken a big chance on putting out the hit on Jacob Wellings. I just hope it does not come back to him and destroy the opportunities he has been given. Mr. Walker, Johnny's father, really surprised me with how he reacted to his son and Davey. Fortunately, Mrs Walker is a strong woman and stepped in to explain to her husband what Davey has gone through and how Johnny has been instrumental in Davey's recovery. Added Note: I am sure many of you were surprised to learn about Trevor's stories not being published on Jacob's site, no more surprised than I. Nevertheless, I will continue to edit for Trevor and do whatever I can to support his efforts. Huggs to all, Jack jackunders@yahoo.com