Date: Fri, 4 Aug 2017 08:27:02 +0000
From: Pony Boy1984 <ponyboy1984@hotmail.com>
Subject: The Haunting of Cabin 13: Chapter 6 "Deja Vu"

Disclaimer: All acts depicted in the following story are strictly fictional
and consensual.

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The Haunting of Cabin 13

By Ponyboy1984

Chapter 6 – Déjà Vu

It's the last full day, I can't believe it, Billy thought to himself. A
glimmer of sunlight was poking above the horizon, revealing that the storm
clouds of the previous night had dissipated. He sat on the edge of his
bunk, looking at the other boys. I'm going to miss these guys a lot. Jeffy
was right, I don't ever want to leave. Well, no sense in dwelling on it
now.

Tommy noticed that Billy was already awake. He stood up and stretched his
bare body, providing a little show for Billy, who watched with a
grin. "Feeling better?" Billy whispered.

"Yes, a lot better. I still have this weird feeling though."

"Oh, maybe you should check in with the doctor after breakfast."

"No, not a sick feeling. Like Déjà vu and that feeling is only
getting stronger."

Billy stood up and walked over to Tommy. "Stop worrying, we're gonna have a
great time today."

Tommy leaned forward and kissed Billy's lips. "Yes, I know we will."

"Hey, save some for me," Tad said, as he jumped down from his bunk. Billy
and Tad locked lips, their tongue's intermingling as Tad's hand drifted
down Billy's inner thigh, before wrapping around his swelling cock.

"Come on lovebirds, let's get going," Tommy said with a chuckle.

The trail to the archery range was muddy and littered with small branches
that had come down during the storm. "Well, that was a heck of a storm last
night," Tad said.

"And one heck of a story, too. You got quite an imagination, Tommy," Billy
said.

Tommy turned to the boys, "Who said it was just a story."

Billy looked over at Tad who shrugged his shoulders. "So, you're saying the
Lakeside Bog Monster is real?"

"This is Lakeside. The place is magical, haven't you noticed?"

The boys arrived at the archery range, shedding their clothing nearly as
quickly as they gathered the equipment. "Yeah, I've kind of noticed," Billy
replied after several moments of silence. "That explains everything. You
guys put a spell on me."  Tad laughed. "You've discovered our secret! And
you know what the spell is going to do next?"

"No, what?" Billy asked.

"Make you get on your knees in front of me."

"Oh? Really?"

Tad's cock was already hard, swinging as he turned his body to face the
distant target down the field. He drew the bowstring back, "It's going to
make you swallow every drop, too."

Billy thought that was one spell that was indeed irresistible. He sank to
his knees in front of Tad and wrapped his lips around his swollen boyhood
and let it slide into his mouth. His friend took a deep breath and let his
first arrow fly down the field. "See, I told you," Tad said.

After firing off most of his arrows, Tad's body stiffened as he shot his
load into Billy's mouth. "Oh, God, Billy!"  "Early breakfast," Billy said
after licking his lips. He looked over at Tommy's bare body. He had the
bowstring fully extended, his golden tan seemed to shimmer in the early
sunlight, and his blond hair wavered in the breeze. His biceps and
pectorals were bulging as he maintained steady balance with the bow. Tommy
was holding his breath as he gauged the breeze to lead his shot.

Billy thought of Michelangelo's David because at that moment Tommy seemed
like a Greek God. He was the manifestation of physical perfection. The glow
seemed to intensify around his body as he let the arrow fly, scoring
another bullseye on the distant target. "Your turn," he said, without
making eye contact with Billy.

Billy picked up his bow and loaded his first arrow. He relished the breeze
on his body and the warm sunshine on his face. This is how life should
be. This was how life was meant to be, he thought to himself. His muscles
stiffened as he flexed the bowstring, struggling to keep the arrow steady
on the rest. He drew a deep breath and closed the eyes, blocking out the
rest of the world for just a second as he sensed the direction of the
wind. Just me and the target. He watched the arrow as it whistled through
the air, impacting the target about an inch from a bullseye.

"You're getting better and better," Tad said.

"If we only had a few more days."

Tommy rubbed Billy's back, knowing that Billy didn't really mean archery
practice. "I know, but we don't have a few more days. So, we need to make
the absolute most of it."

"I know," Billy sighed. "I just wish..." Tad leaned in and kissed Billy.

"We will make the most of it. Right, Tommy?"

Tommy grinned, "That's right!"

Both boys knelt in front of Billy as he grabbed another arrow. The
sensation of two hot, wet tongues running up and down his cock caused him
to moan loudly. He didn't look down to watch his lovers. Instead, he
focused on the target and allowed all his regrets, fears and concerns melt
away as he repeatedly struck the target with increasing accuracy. Even as
he rode the crest of an intense orgasm that shot his cum into both his
friend's mouths.

"Alright, we better get back to the cabin," Tommy said. The boys stowed
their gear and returned to the cabin just as the other boys were awakening.

"Where were you guys," Jeffy asked.

"We were getting in some archery practice," Billy responded.

Sam made a lopsided grin, "Yeah, I bet!" the redhead quipped.

Billy's face flushed but he didn't reply. Tad grabbed Sammy into a
headlock, rubbing his head. "Hey, quit it!" he squealed.  Derek cleared his
throat, prompting Tad to release the boy. "Well, I see you're all
awake. Let's make the most of the day. Hit the showers, and we'll head off
to breakfast."

"Yes, Derek!" the boys replied.

As Billy headed for the shower, he noticed Derek's lingering glance at
Tommy. Even when Derek noticed Billy looking in his direction, he was
reluctant to break his gaze. Instead, he smiled at Billy. There he goes
again. He seems so sad sometimes. Maybe he doesn't want camp to be over
either, Billy thought.

...

The dining hall was abuzz with the sound of adolescent voices as the boys
discussed the storm and their own story experiences, the coming competition
and even the specter of going home. As Billy looked around the home, he
knew that he wasn't alone in wanting to stay. He had watched the blossoming
friendships around him. There really does seem to be magic to this place.

After the boys had their breakfast, the entire camp headed to the main
docks for the rowing competition. Nearly one hundred boys lined the beach
as each cabin sent either one or two pairs of rowers to represent their
cabin. The director used a megaphone to introduce each boy and their cabin
number.

The rowers lined the main dock as their rowboats were prepared. The
counselors held the boats in place for the boys to take their positions and
maintained their grip until all the rules were explained and the starting
horn was sounded.  "Do you remember how to hold the oars, Jeffy?" Tad
asked.

"Yes, and I ate a few packets of sugar, too!"

Tad noticed that the boy's body seemed to be oscillating up and down in
excitement. "Alright, I'm going to start us off. When I get tired, I'll
pass the oars to you. Just don't drag them in the water, because that will
slow us down. Oh, and no picking up passengers!"

Jeffy laughed, "I'll stay wicked far from the marsh. I don't want to wake
up Rudolph."

"Or Frogzilla," Tad added.

"That's right! He could eat our boat in one gulp!"

Tad looked over and saw Alex and Tommy getting into their rowboat. Both
boys had their shirts off and were stretching in preparation to exert
themselves. Alex took possession of the oars while Tommy leaned back in the
boat. "They sure look good, don't they?" Jeffy asked.

"Yes, they do," Tad replied, feeling the heat rush to his face. He took
some comfort in noticing that a couple other boys were likewise enjoying
the sights.

"Kick ass, Jeffy!" Sammy screamed from the shoreline. Tad turned in time to
see Derek cuff the back of the boy's head.  The blast of an air horn sent
the oars into the water, resulting in torrents of water splattering across
the dock, soaking the counselors. The dingy gray boats launched through the
water as the teams jockeyed for position. Tad dug the oars into the water,
using all his muscles to try and catch up with Alex and Tommy who jumped
out to an early lead.

"It's all about rhythm, Jeffy. Find your rhythm and keep with it," Tad
said.

"I've learned all about rhythm this week," Jeffy.

Tad struggled to not laugh, focusing on the rowing. "Don't make me laugh,
dude!"

"Sorry about that," Jeffy replied with a dimpled grin.

"You ready for a turn?"

Jeffy nodded his head, taking control of the oars. The oars cut into the
water awkwardly the first few strokes, but he quickly found his own
stride. Jeffy knew he couldn't compete with Tad's muscles, but emulated his
friend's technique and kept the boat moving forward. "I wish mom could see
me now."

"She'd be really proud I bet," Tad said.

After a few moments, Jeffy surrendered the oars to Tad. While they had
fallen behind some of the other cabins, Jeffy managed to keep them
competitive despite his slower speed. The boats broke into three distinct
groups with the older, more athletic teens dominating the field. Tad knew
he couldn't keep up with Alex, but the look of determination and joy on
Jeffy's face made it all worth it.

In the end, Alex and Tommy slipped to second place behind the older boys of
Cabin 10, while Tad and Jeffy managed to finish in sixth place. "You
represented our cabin quite admirably, boys," Derek said.

"We're not done yet!" Alex said.

"That's right, we're going to own swimming!" Sammy said.

"Well, first things first, boys. Archery is up next," Derek replied,
turning towards Billy and Tommy.

Billy bit his lower lip and shifted his weight from one foot to the
other. "I guess that means it's showtime," he said.

Tommy placed his hands on Billy's slender shoulders. "You got this. This is
your moment."

"Our moment," Billy replied.

Dozens of boys shifted toward the archery range as the sun rose above the
pines. The building heat made short work of the leftover puddles, though
Sammy and Jeffy managed to find the ones remaining. The other boys hollered
as they were forced to dodge the droplets of water hoisted into the air by
their stomping feet. "Knock it off, you chowderheads," Alex shouted,
chasing the boys head of the group.

Billy tensed when he spotted Greg in the crowd, watching him
intently. There was a grin on the boy's face that gave him the
shivers. Perhaps he thinks he's going to win? Well, he's got another thing
coming.

"Don't let him psyche you out," Tad whispered.

The murmur of the crowd swelled as the camp director announced the boys
competing in the archery tournament. Greg and his compatriot Sean stepped
forward from the group to take their position along the firing line. Sean
stepped to the line first with Greg standing right behind him.

"I've seen Greg's form, he's pretty good," Tommy whispered to Billy.

"Maybe I should go first, and you play cleanup."

"No, it's going to be you who wins this."

Billy looked to Tommy, shaking his head, "I'm not as good as you."

"Bullshit! You know exactly what to do. Just follow my lead and remember,
there is only you and the target. Live the moment, Billy. Trust me."

"I trust you," Billy said with a smile. He took several deep breaths before
casting a glance at Greg and Sean. They'd been whispering to one another
until Sean spotted him watching them. Sean motioned in Billy's direction,
prompting another grin from Greg.

They're smiling way too much, Billy thought to himself.

Billy and Tommy approached the firing line, looking at the distant targets
as they put on their wrist guards. There was a fluctuating breeze coming in
from the west, just enough to cause the branches of the surrounding pines
to sway gently. Puffy white clouds had formed overhead, casting shadows
that glided across the ground. The excited chatter of the crowd behind them
died down when the camp director called for quiet. Still, he could hear
their conversations, representing dozens of tiny distractions. These
distractions only multiplied as he looked over at Greg and Sean. Shut it
out, Billy. Shut it all out.

Tommy removed his t-shirt, tying it around his waist before picking up his
bow and stepping to the line. "Alright, each team member will be allowed
five shots. Those shots will be added up and combined with your
teammates. The team with the highest score wins. Campers, you are cleared
to fire!"

The sound of over a dozen arrows whizzing through the air made the archery
range sound like the scene of an ancient battle. Billy could almost hear
the screams when those arrow heads struck their distant targets. He didn't
need to look to know the misses from the direct hits. He could hear the
sound of wood scraping against dirt, and he heard the hollow thunk of arrow
heads striking wood and straw. There were the gasps of satisfaction and the
grunts of disappointment with each shot.

There would be no grunts from Tommy. All five of his arrows were true,
clustering in and around the bullseye. Neither Sean nor any of the other
boys were remotely competitive with his nearly perfect score. Most of the
other boys applauded his performance, while Greg punched Sean in the arm
for his relative failure. Well, here we go, Billy thought to himself as he
took Tommy's place at the line.

Billy removed his shirt, tying it around his waist. He even noticed a
couple smiles from other boys around him. He never imagined the day would
ever come that his body was admired by others, but this had been a week
like no other in his life. Almost anything seemed possible to him now. He
placed an arrow against the rest and held it in place with his finger,
waiting for permission to fire.

As the word was given, Billy took in a deep breath and closed his eyes. The
breeze seemed to come and go, but there was a pattern he could feel against
his bare flesh. As he felt it diminish, he opened his eyes and looked at
the target. The archery range was empty, there were no sounds and no
distractions. He released his arrow and tracked it to the edge of the
bullseye. He heard his cabin mates cheer loudly, just as he heard a growl
escape the lips of Greg.

His next shot likewise struck on the edge of the bullseye by the narrowest
of margins, this time on the opposite side of the target. He lined up his
third shot, holding his breath as he waited for the breeze to diminish. He
didn't need to see the arrow hit the bullseye because Tommy grabbed his
shoulders and gave him a squeeze, "Yes, that's it!"

Billy closed his eyes again and took several deep breaths. He thought of
the past two mornings at the archery range. He'd never felt so alive and
free before. It was a beautiful feeling that he never wanted to pass. He
imagined himself nude in front of all the other boys and felt no shame
about it. He drew his bowstring back and sent his fourth arrow into the
center of the bullseye. A cheer arose from behind him, and it wasn't just
his cabin.

"This is my moment," Billy said to no one in particular. He could feel
Tommy's radiant smile behind him. He drew in a deep breath and closed his
eyes for a moment, as a hush swept across the crowd. All the other boys had
fired their arrows, so every eye was now focused on him. Billy opened his
eyes just long enough to let his arrow fly, before closing them again. He
listened to the arrow as it flew through the air and didn't open his eyes
until he heard the sound of splintering wood and raucous cheers.

"Holy shit, he split the arrow!" one of the onlookers shouted.

You did it, Tommy. You did it! Billy heard in his head. You have to live
the moment, Derek. Never forget that We have to make the most of it. Billy
spun around but found himself surrounded by a dozen boys who rushed over to
congratulate him. Tommy had drifted to the back of the crowd, looking
confused but still smiling.

After Billy had broken free of the crowd, he caught up with Tommy and the
other boys in his cabin. "You guys were amazing. I'm so proud of you both,"
Derek said. "In the meantime, let's go get some lunch and get ready for
climbing."

"Oh, good. I need more sugar packets!" Jeffy said.

"You need more what?" Derek asked in alarm, but Jeffy had already sprinted
ahead with Sammy close to his heels.  "Do I even want to know?" Derek asked
the others.

Tad shook his head, "No, you don't."

As the boys walked the trail to the dining hall, Billy had drifted along
the side of the trail. He outstretched his arm, allowing the rhododendron
blossoms deflect off his hand. Until a hand reached out and grabbed his
wrist, pulling him off the trail.  "This has all happened before!" Tommy
whispered.

"What are you talking about?" Billy asked.

"Who are you talking to?" Alex asked. Billy turned to face Alex, spotting
Tommy walking down the trail while talking with Tad. He spun around back to
face the bushes, but there was nobody there. What the fuck is wrong with
me?

"Are you alright, dude?" Alex asked.

"Yeah, I think I'm dehydrated or something though."

"Well, come on. Relief is on the way," Alex said, patting his back.

Billy felt a measure of relief as he joined the other boys at their table
in the dining hall. Platefuls of cheeseburgers, pizza and tuna salad with
pitchers of juice and Gatorade re-energized the boys as their discussions
turned to the remaining competitions.

"You ready tackle the monolith, Billy?" Derek asked.

Billy nodded, "As ready as I'm going to be."

Derek turned to Jeffy, "And what about you?"

"Huh? What?" Jeffy said, hiding an empty packet of sugar behind him.

"Jeffy, what do you have behind your back?" Derek asked.

The empty packet was taken by Sammy, who slipped it into his pocket. "See,
nothing?" Jeffy said, showing Derek, his empty hand. The man shook his head
and chuckled.

"Are you ready to climb?"

"Yes, I'm ready. I just wish I had started practicing earlier," Jeffy
replied.

"I think Jeffy is part spider monkey. I think he'll do fine," Tad said.

Sammy and Jeffy simultaneously began making monkey sounds, "Oooh ooh aah
aah aah." Their arms flailing in the air, imitating chimpanzees.

Derek face palmed. "Alright! I got the idea. Just remember, climbing the
monolith isn't just about speed. It's about making good decisions."

"That's right, Jeffy. Do you remember everything we talked about during our
climb?" Billy asked.

Jeffy smiled, "I remember."

"Then I think you're going to do great."

"Alright, I think it's time we get a move on," Derek said.

As the boys got up to leave, Billy looked around the dining hall. Strange,
I don't see Greg anywhere. He took Tommy aside as they headed to the camp's
main trail. "Tommy, can I ask you a question?"

"Sure, you can ask me anything."

"You've mentioned several times that you had a feeling of Déjà
vu. What did you mean by that?"

Tommy glanced around, waiting for several boys in eavesdropping range to
walk ahead. "It's hard to describe. This is my third year coming to
Lakeside, and it's always great. But, this year something feels different,
a little off. It's not the activities or the people, but something else."

"Something bad?"

He looked down at the ground and sighed. "I don't know, but I have this
weird sense of dread. It's stupid, Billy. It's probably just knowing that
it's all going to end soon. As much as I miss my mom and dad, it's like
Jeffy said, it's always hard to leave. Do you know what I mean?"

Billy smiled, "Yes, I do."

The boys walked up the trail, spotting Greg and Sean already ahead of them
at the wall climbing area. Tommy's complexion flushed pale, his hands
beginning to shake. "Are you alright, Tommy? You're looking sick again."

Tommy struggled for breath, stopping for a moment to gasp for breath. "I
don't know what's wrong. It will pass. Billy, will you make a promise?"

"Of course, anything!"

"Stay away from Greg and his friends."

"You think they're going to start trouble?"

"Come on boys!" Derek yelled.

"I'll talk to you later. Don't worry about it for now," Tommy said.

As the boys jogged to catch up with the others, Billy looked behind him and
spotted a small puddle of water where Tommy had been standing. Did he throw
up again? I don't think he's well.

Most of the campers had formed a ring about twenty feet in front of the
monolith. The counselors had summoned the youngest of the campers to the
climbing areas to be placed into the safety harnesses. Jeffy was twitching
with excitement, his face turning pale as he stared up at the bell
glistening in the sun that was now glaring overhead. Sammy gave his friend
a hug of encouragement, restoring the smile to Jeffy's face.

"Jeffy, think before you step. Try to remember which of the stepping stones
are loose. You're going to do great," Billy said.  "I'll make you proud!"
Jeffy dashed off to the front of the line and was strapped into the safety
harness.

"Alright, campers. You're already familiar with the monolith. The first
climber to ring the bell will be awarded twenty points. The second place
finisher receives ten points, and the third place climber will be given
five points. Each cabin is allowed two climbers, so whichever cabin has the
most points wins the climbing competition," the camp director said through
the megaphone.

Jeffy bit his lower lip as he looked up the monolith. It always looks three
times bigger when you're standing right next to it. He looked to his left
and right as the other boys were strapped into the harnesses and given
final instructions. The counselors grabbed the safety lines and signaled
the boys to wait for the whistle.

I've never done anything like this. I wish mom could see me. He stretched
his legs and hopped up and down three times. The bell glimmered like a
beacon high above him as several moths fluttered around him. The sharp
report of a whistle sent all the boys scurrying up the wall. Jeffy knew
that the first dozen of the stepping stones were reliable, so he placed
little thought on where to place his foot and concentrated on ascending as
quickly as possible.

Within eight feet, Jeffy was already panting as sweat rolled down his
face. One boy beside him had already slipped down a few feet, while another
struggled to pull himself up. I'm not strong enough to pull myself up like
that. Billy said I need to make better decisions. After a moment of
hesitation, Jeffy pursued an easier route, one that let him concentrate on
his leg muscles and not his arms.

"Be careful, Jeffy. It's going to get tricky!" Billy yelled.

Jeffy was anticipating this, trying to remember which of the grips were
loose. Was it the yellow one or the blue one that was loose? He jumped on
the yellow one and was relieved to find stable footing, allowing him to
resume his ascent. He stole glances on either side to see to see how well
he was doing. There were two boys a few feet above him, but most of the
others boys were beneath him. It's not just about making decisions. You
have to make those decisions fast.

He oscillated from left to right, trying to find the ideal grips without
dwelling on it. He accelerated upward and caught up with the other
boys. The sweat was pouring from his face and beginning to sting his eyes
and made his hands slippery. He stopped to use his t-shirt to wipe his face
before resuming his ascent. Was it the bumpy red one or that flat blue one?
He reached out for the blue one, which rotated in his hand.

"Shit!" he gasped, losing about three feet of altitude, but managed to
catch himself before losing too much height.

"You got this, Jeffy! Don't stop!" Sammy yelled.

His heart pounded in his chest. You can't fall, Jeffy. Don't be a baby. Go!
He looked down and saw most of the other climbers were catching up. He drew
in a deep breath and began scrambling upwards. I got nothing to lose. I can
make my friends proud. He grabbed the bumpy red stone, swinging his body
and finding good footing.

His limbs were beginning to hurt, making each push upward more
difficult. He ignored any mild pain and pushed his body to the limit. He
had nearly caught up to the two other boys, and the bell gleamed alluringly
just out of reach. Just...have...to...leap!

One boy had already rung his bell, but Jeffy managed to grab his bell's
rope, allowing its sharp report to echo across the clearing. I did it! I
did it! He repelled down the wall and found himself surrounded by his cabin
mates. The beaming smile on his face said everything that needed to be
said. He'd proven himself to everyone, and it felt good.

Billy took Jeffy's place as the counselor secured him in the safety
harness. Greg took the position to his left, taking a moment to glare at
him. Billy ignored the boy, opting to look up the wall to mentally
calculate the best route to take. "Now, remember boys, stay in your own
lane. You can move left to right, but do not interfere with the other
climbers," the counselor said, grabbing Greg's shoulder to catch his
attention. "Do I make myself clear?"

Greg grimaced, "Yes, sir," he replied without making eye contact with the
man.

Tommy was right. He is out to make trouble, Billy thought to himself.

"On your mark, boys!" the camp director called out.

Billy took his position, taking the last opportunity to stretch. He looked
back to see all his friends lined up, ready to cheer him. Tommy was
standing beside Tad, both boys smiling at him. He couldn't help but think
Tommy's flesh looked a little translucent, like the first time he'd met
him.  The boys were scrambling up the wall before the director had finished
blowing the whistle. Billy effortlessly hopped between rocks, reciting the
planned route in his mind. The route required three hops of several feet
from left to right. While he was making an effort to block Greg's presence
from his mind, his route took him within three feet of the boy.  "Watch
where you're going, faggot. You might slip and fall," Greg sneered, making
a half-hearted kick at Billy.

"No interference!" the camp director shouted through the megaphone.

Billy swung back to the left, carrying him away from his
adversary. However, it altered his mental plans and made the route upwards
more challenging. Billy wasn't as muscular as Greg, but he felt he'd
already proven he was a decent climber. Work smarter, not harder. That's
what dad would say, Billy thought. He glanced on either side of him and saw
that he was keeping pace with the others. Keeping pace isn't good enough,
Billy. You can beat this kid. You're not a jock, but you're in decent
shape. You can do this!

Air was a luxury in any physical competition, and Billy drank it in deeply
as he ascended. He paused for a few seconds to wipe his eyes and take the
opportunity to plan the last third of his climb. "What's the matter,
getting tired?" Greg yelled.

"I'm just getting started," Billy yelled. In a moment of bravado, he
scrambled upward throwing caution to the wind. He had nearly caught up to
Greg when he decided to resort to some psychological warfare. "I'm catching
up, Greg. I'm right behind you!"

Greg looked over at Billy, surprised that he had nearly caught up to
him. His face was already flushed crimson, and his legs were quivering from
exertion. The boy looked up at the bell, just a few feet from his grasp and
victory. "Yeah? Fuck you! Watch this!" Greg leaped upward, hoping to ring
his bell before anyone else. However, his legs refused to grant him the
extra distance required. His grasp fell just short of the rope, and his
foot missed the stone on the way back down, causing him to fall six feet
down the wall.

Billy continued to climb, reaching the bell about five seconds before the
next boy. He rang it joyously, its clanging echoing around Lakeside and
prompting cheers from the crowd. He stood at the top of the monolith,
looking around as he waved to his friends. He turned to his left to
discover a boy he didn't recognize sitting on top of the wall, smiling at
him. The bare chested boy had scraggly, long brown hair and tattered jeans
that looked torn by claws. The streaks of dirt across his face and chest
gave him an almost feral look. However, it was his amber eyes that shocked
Billy.

"You're Billy, right?" the boy asked.

"Uh, yes. I am," Billy said, unable to take his eyes off the boy.

"I have a message for you. It's short but important."

"What's that?"

"Breathe, Billy. Breathe!"

"What?" Billy asked. The sound of a bell ringing beside him caused him to
look over at Greg, who had caught up after his fall. By the time he looked
back to his left, the strange boy had vanished. What the hell was that? Am
I hallucinating?  Greg paused for a moment, before looking over at
Billy. "Not bad, kid. Not bad."

Billy gave him a polite nod and began repelling down to the ground. Well,
maybe that's that, he thought to himself.

Everyone awaited Billy reaching the ground, mobbing him before the
counselor could even remove the safety harness. It wasn't just his friends
either, but quite a few of the others boys. Jeffy gave him a hug while
Sammy jumped up and down excitedly. Tommy appeared in the crowd, giving him
a warm smile, but disappeared after a few seconds.

"Well done, Billy. You boys have represented Cabin 13 quite well. I'm proud
of every one of you. But, I do have a little bad news for you," Derek said.

Billy looked around, "Wait, where is Tommy?"

Derek forced a smile, "I'm afraid that's the bad news. His parents called
the office a couple hours ago. Someone in his family is sick, so his
parents decided to pick him up this afternoon instead of tomorrow. He
didn't even know until a short while ago, I didn't want to spoil his day or
yours. He told me to tell you that he loves every one of you and that you
better come back next year."

"He's gone?" Jeffy asked, struggling to choke back tears.

"I'm sorry, Jeffy. I debated whether to wait until dinner to tell you, but
I knew you'd notice his absence at the swimming competition. He truly does
love every one of you, and you can bet he'll be back next summer."

"I didn't get his number," Alex sighed.

"I didn't get to say goodbye to him. Maybe if I run..." Billy said.

"No, he had too much of a head start, Billy. I'm sorry, but I promise he
will be thinking of all of you. He didn't want it..."

Derek choked up for a moment. "He didn't want to leave before saying
goodbye. But, you know Tommy. He is not one to be a killjoy, and he
wouldn't want anyone being upset because he had to leave early."

Billy looked up at Derek, spotting the glint of tears in the man's eyes. I
think he's lying, but why would he lie to us?

"Right, Jeffy?" Derek asked.

Jeffy smiled, wiping the tears from his eyes. "You're right, he wouldn't."

"And, if I'm not mistaken, Sammy and Alex have a swimming competition to
win."

"Oh, do you know something we don't, Derek?" Tad asked.

Sammy's freckles flared as he grinned. "I guess we never told you."

"Told us what?" Billy asked.

"Sammy and I have both competed and placed at the state swimming
meet. We're probably the best swimmers in the camp," Alex responded.

"They call me the red torpedo!" Sammy said.

"I thought they called you the red dorkus," Jeffy replied, prompting Sammy
to pounce on him.

"Alright boys, let's head back to the cabin for a moment so Alex and Sammy
can get their suits. We can rest for a little bit. The competition doesn't
start for an hour."

Each of the boys cast a long look at Tommy's empty bunk. All his belongings
were gone, but Billy detected the lingering scent of roses in the
cabin. He's really gone, just like he arrived. He grabbed a soda from the
refrigerator and sat on his bunk.

Tad took a seat next to him. "It sucks he had to leave early, but there is
a bright side," he whispered.

"What's that?" Billy asked.

"No distractions tonight."

Billy felt the heat rush to the face as he smiled. "I've been waiting for
that all week."

"I know," Tad said, discreetly groping Billy's crotch.

After the break, everyone headed down to the beach where the other campers
had already gathered. Sammy was sporting a bright red Speedo that nearly
matched his hair that seemed aflame in the sun and swimming goggles. Alex
was wearing a blue Speedo that showed an impressive bulge that Jeffy and
Billy silently admired.

The camp director, clutching his trusty megaphone, announced the final
competition. He called out the competitors names and their cabin
number. There was a corresponding cheer for each cabin, but the boys
noticed a louder cheer when Cabin 13 was called out. They looked at one
another, before turning to Derek.

"I think you boys have earned more respect than you realize," Derek said.

"Well, let's seal the deal," Alex said to Sammy. The two boys headed to the
water, to check in with the director.

Everyone migrated to the water's edge, some of them wading knee deep into
the water to get the best view of the swimmers. Billy and Tad stood
side-by-side as Sammy took the starting position on the dock with the other
boys in his age range. When the starting whistle sounded, Sammy dove into
the water and did the breaststroke. "Wow, he really does look like a red
torpedo," Tad said.

Billy chuckled, "He sure does."

Sammy effortlessly glided through the like a porpoise, rising and sinking
beneath the water line, taking his breaths whenever surfacing. He paid no
attention to the other swimmers, he only watched for the approaching dock
on the far end, using his feet to push off the dock and propel himself back
in the other direction. He completed four laps nearly one full minute
before the other swimmers. When he pulled himself up on the dock, he was
greeted by wild applause. He took a bow as his face turned nearly as red as
his hair.

Once the other swimmers had completed their laps, Alex, and the other older
teens took their place along the dock. "Hey, Alex. I hear you're thinking
about joining us next year as junior staff," the camp director said.

Alex grinned, "I'm thinking about it."

"Don't think. Just do it."

"Words to live by," Alex chuckled as he prepared his dive into the water.

With the shrill cry of the whistle, Alex's body cleaved through the water
towards the far end of the swimming area. There was a mechanical rhythm to
a skilled swimmer's movements and the more precise and tuned the machine,
the better the swimmer. Every motion of his body emulated the precision of
a clock, each stroke, kick and breath coming at regular intervals.

This isn't about me beating the other campers. This is about helping the
other boys feel the pride of a well earned and deserved victory. This isn't
about me, it's about the looks on the faces knowing they took a huge risk
and won. There's no better feeling than that.

He could feel the heat building in his muscles, stretching from the tips of
his fingers to his toes as he counted off each lap. He didn't need to see
his the other swimmers, he could feel the motion of the water, the drawing
of breath and the distorted shouts of the onlookers. He surfaced by the
main dock with about twenty seconds to spare. He pulled himself up on the
dock before the second place swimmer even completed the final lap. As he
returned to the beach, he stopped beside the camp director. "I'm in. I'll
sign the application tomorrow morning."

The director smiled, "Somehow I knew you would, Alex. Thank you."

He saw the looks on Jeffy's face as he ran up to him to hug him. "You did
it!"

"No, we did it," Alex replied.

All the boys joined in a group hug and were joined by the other campers who
came by to congratulate them. There was no need to count points, everyone
knew that Cabin 13 had won the day. "I hope you boys hold this day in your
hearts for a long time to come, you earned it," Derek said.

"I certainly will!" Jeffy said, still bouncing up and down along side
Sammy.

"I still can't believe any of this is real," Billy said.

Tad reached over and pinched Billy's arm. "Oww, what was that for?"

"Well, I guess you're not dreaming."

Billy gave Tad a playful shove, "You dufus!"

"Alright, Alex and Sammy, go back to the cabin and change for dinner. The
rest of you can hang out on the beach until dinner is ready. I'm going to
talk to the director for a few minutes," Derek said.

"Let's go sit on the beach until they get back," Tad suggested.

Billy, Jeffy, and Tad walked down to the water's edge and sat on the warm,
soft sand. "I wish Tommy was here to celebrate with us," Jeffy said.

"Me too. But, I know he'd be real proud," Tad replied.

"Yes, he would," Billy added, as he skipped a stone across the water's
surface.

"Hey, watch where you're throwing those," a hoarse, moisture-laden voice
called out.

Every muscle in Billy's body froze as he looked over at a nearby patch of
reeds that were wavering violently. "Uh, sorry. I didn't see you there."

"It's alright. I needed to talk to you anyway."

"Do I know you?" Billy asked, stepping hesitantly towards the reeds. The
sun had just sunk beneath the tops of the trees, casting long shadows
across the beach and shafts of reddish light blinded him.

"No. Well, we've not been formally introduced."

Billy noticed the accent was distinctly German, and it caused his heart to
pound in his chest. His legs refused to carry him any closer to the
voice. "What did you want to talk about?"

"Life isn't about a singular, perfect moment. It's a series of moments
strung together. But, there is one glue that holds those moments together."

"And what's that?"

"Breathing. You have to breathe, Billy! Breathe!"

Billy gasped and spun around when he felt someone grab his arm. Jeffy
jumped back in surprise. "Woah! Who were you talking to, Billy?" Jeffy
asked.

"I...uh..." Billy turned back to the now motionless reeds. "Nobody. I was
just talking to myself."

"You're awful jumpy. Have you been eating sugar packets, too?"

"What? I, oh geez no. And you shouldn't be either!"

Before Jeffy could respond, the dinner bell began ringing in the
distance. "Sounds like dinner time, we should head to the road to meet up
with Alex and Sammy," Billy said.

"Alright, race you!" Jeffy said, sprinting towards the road.

That's it I guess. I'm going certifiably insane.

Billy joined up with the others boys and together, they headed into the
dining hall for their last dinner together. For their accomplishment, the
boys were treated to steak and roast beef with heaps of baked potatoes,
corn, and assorted vegetables. The aroma of the bounty sent the boys into
sensory overload as they devoured their meals. Billy glanced around the
dining hall and noticed about a third of Cabin 10's table seemed to be
empty. He didn't see Greg or any of his friends either inside the hall or
the outside picnic benches. That's strange. Why aren't they here? Where
could they be?

Tad tapped Jeffy on the shoulder, "Hey, can you do me a favor and keep it
quiet?"

"Sure, anything!"

"Here, take this," Tad said, handing the boy a ten dollar bill.

"Wow, what do I have to do for this?"

"It's not for you. I want you to go to the canteen and buy some things for
me." Tad handed the boy a list of items. "Now I want you to bring these
things right to the cabin. Hide them in my bunk and don't let Billy see
you. I want to surprise him."

"Oh, that's what mom would call date night!" Jeffy said with a dimpled
grin.

"Shhh, not so loud!"

Jeffy scampered off to the canteen with Sammy by his side. Billy leaned
over, "What was that all about?"

"Oh, I asked Jeffy to get me a candy bar from the canteen."

"So, do you have a plan tonight?"

Tad shrugged coyly."Maybe...You'll see," Tad said.

Billy felt a surge of excitement, the heat visible on his face. It made
Tad's smile deepen, but his lips were sealed. "Oh, come on!" Billy pleaded.

"Patience is a virtue, but I have a little surprise planned," Tad said.

"Alright, I'll be patient," Billy sighed. "I'm going to get some more
dessert, I'll be right back."

He walked up to the dessert buffet, helping himself to chocolate cake and a
slice of watermelon. As he stared into the reflective chrome, he saw the
image of Tommy standing behind him. He spun around quickly but saw nothing
there. "Hey, you alright?" a boy asked him.

"Oh, uh sure. I thought I saw someone I knew."

"Hey, you're Billy from Cabin 13, right?"

"Yes, I am."

"You were wicked awesome today. My name is Oscar, I was racing you on the
monolith this morning."

"Oh! Yes, I remember. You came in second place right behind me. You're a
great climber!"

Oscar smiled, "Thanks. Hey, what did you say to that dick from Cabin 10
that made him fall?"

"I just told him to watch out, I was right behind him."

The boy laughed, "I'll have to remember that trick next year. Are you
coming back next year?"

"Yeah, though to be honest, I hate to leave."

"I wouldn't mind staying longer. This has been the best week ever. Well,
see you later!" Oscar dashed back to his table with dessert.

Wow, I guess this place is special for more than just our cabin, Billy
thought to himself.

"Was that a fan of yours?" Alex asked.

Billy blushed, "Something like that."

"Ever think you'd be the popular kid?"

"No, not in a million years! It's going to be hard going back to being a
zero."

Tad's eyes narrowed, poking Billy in the arm. "You're not a zero!"

"Tad is right, don't say things like that. It's not true," Alex added.

I feel special here though. Like I matter, Billy thought. He opened his
napkin to wipe the chocolate from his lips and noticed a single word
written on the back. Breathe!

"Are you alright, dude. You're as white as a ghost!" Alex said.

Billy put the napkin down and forced a smile. "I'm fine. It's just been a
long day."

"You're not going to fall asleep on me?" Tad asked.

"Not a chance in the world of that! I'll eat some packets of sugar first."

Alex shook his head, "Please, anything but that!"

About ten minutes later, Jeffy and Sammy returned from their mission. Jeffy
didn't say anything, he just sat beside Tad and smiled. Derek arrived with
some of the other counselors, which kicked off a sing-a-long and party that
lasted several hours. During the party, Tad excused himself and disappeared
for about twenty minutes. Billy wondered what he was up too, but this only
heightened his anticipation for the coming night activities.

As the sun sank below the horizon, the outdoor floodlights came on
automatically. For an instant, Billy thought he saw Tommy standing outside
by the picnic tables, but the image was gone in an instant. He jumped in
surprise when he felt a hand on his shoulder.

"A little jumpy this evening, Billy?" Derek asked.

"I guess so."

"Something on your mind?"

"I was thinking of Tommy. I know this will sound crazy, but I swear I've
seen him here tonight."

Derek smiled, "It's not so crazy, Billy. It's about time to head back to
the cabin. I'm going to head to bed a little early this evening. You boys
can stay up for a couple hours, but no later. And please stay near the
cabin and away from the lake. Knock on my door if there are any
problems. I'm going to take Jeffy and Sammy back to the cabin with me."

Billy looked up at Derek and noticed red rings around his eyes, and his
complexion was pasty white. "Are you feeling alright?"

"I'll be fine, I'm just a little tired," Derek replied, excusing himself
from the gathering.

"I've heard he's always had problems on the last night," Alex whispered.

"Why is that?"

"Well, I don't know. I heard the camp director talking about it last
year. I didn't want to get too nosy about it. Maybe we're not the only ones
who hate to leave."

Billy nods, "Yeah, maybe." Somehow, I think there's something more going on
here, Billy thought to himself. The boys mingled with the others, listening
to music and partaking of sweet snacks, gradually drifting outside to the
picnic tables to enjoy the mild evening breeze. The sun had disappeared and
was replaced by a sea of stars and a chorus of crickets.

"I think I'm going to take a quick shower. I'll see you soon," Tad said,
discreetly brushing his fingers across Billy's ass.

"Sounds like someone is going to have a good time tonight," Alex said.

"That's the plan. Just the two of us," Billy said, flashing his dimples.

The camp director indicated that everyone should start heading off to their
cabins, prompting a chorus of "Awww" from the assembled group of boys.

"I've been coming here before any of you were born. Believe me, leaving
isn't any easier for me than any of you. I was addicted enough to Lakeside
to become a junior counselor, then an adult counselor. Finally, after a
profound lapse of sanity, I accepted the nomination to be the director."
The director paused to allow the laughter to die down. "But, here is the
truth. I did it because I loved Lakeside from the second night I was here."

"Why not the first night, Mitch?" one of the adults yelled out.

The man sighed, shaking his head. "Because I spent the first night balling
my eyes out because I was homesick."

Everyone laughed again, some of the boys clapping their hands. Mitch
pointed at one of the older boys, "Don't you laugh William, you were in my
cabin three years ago as I recall."

William blushed, as everyone turned towards him. The boy drew a deep breath
and smiled, "It's true. I did not want to be sent away to camp, so the
first night I cried my ass off."

"And then what happened?" Mitch asked.

"I made some friends, and by the third night Lakeside was like a second
home."

"I couldn't have said it better myself, William. So, as you return to your
cabins for the last night this season. Remember, nobody can take away the
memories you made here this week. And, there's always next year. I'll give
you about another 15 minutes to finish up your drinks and food, and we'll
see you all next year."

As the applause died down, the director walked through the crowd,
collecting several of the older boys including Alex. "I'd like to invite
you to a little after party for the counselors," he said quietly.

Alex looked over at Billy, "Go on, you're going to be a junior counselor
next year."

"Don't get lost on the way back to the cabin," Alex replied.

Billy smiled, "And miss out on whatever Tad has planned? Fat chance!" Alex
patted Billy on the shoulder and walked off with Mitch.

Several boys had come up to Billy, asking him for tips on archery and
climbing while they shared soda and cake together. The evening wore on well
beyond ten minutes, requiring a couple counselors to herd the boys back
towards their respective cabins. As Billy headed up the main trail towards
his cabin, a younger boy holding a white envelope stopped him. "Excuse me,
you're Billy from Cabin 13, right?"

"Yes, that's me. Have we met?"

"My name is Joey, I'm in Cabin 5. Tad asked me to give you this."

"Oh! Well, thank you." Billy took the envelope from the boy, who smiled and
walked away.

Wow, Tad's really taking this far, Billy thought as he opened the envelope.

He stood underneath one of the trail lamps to read the letter. I've got
something special planned for us. I think you're going to love it. Meet me
on the main dock at 10:00 and we'll celebrate the last night of camp
right. Love, Tad.

"Love? He does love me!" Billy said to a passing firefly that swung around
him on the way to the pine grove behind him. Why does he want to meet on
the main dock? A long walk first maybe? That would be nice.

A wave of nausea struck Billy, causing him to double over, clutching his
chest in pain. Water poured from his mouth, forming a small puddle at his
feet. It looks like lake water. Did I catch something from Tommy?

As quickly the illness struck him, the sensation passed. Even the puddle
seemingly evaporated like it had never been there. Billy looked around in
confusion but breathed a sigh of relief. Maybe I just ate too much, he
rationalized. He briefly debated stopping to see the doctor but didn't want
to keep Tad waiting. He turned toward the beach, cutting through the woods
just in case one of the counselors might be watching for stragglers.

He walked along the water's edge until reaching the main dock. He saw a
solitary figure sitting at the end of the dock, looking out at the lake. Is
that Tad? It must be.

Billy walked down the dock, the wooden planks creaking in protest with each
step. Moonlight reflected off the placid water's surface, illuminating the
lake in a pale light. Billy walked down the length of the dock, passing
rows of boats that were tied to their moors along the length of the
dock. Some of the boats were covered with blue tarps, gently tapping
against the wooden pylons. He stopped several times to look around, hearing
what sounded like a chuckle coming from behind him. It must have come from
one of the cabins.

As he came within twenty feet of the figure sitting on the dock, he could
tell that something was wrong. While the moonlight wasn't particularly
bright, it became apparent the figure was not Tad. The crinkling sound of a
tarp being pulled back drew Billy's attention behind him.

"Were you expecting someone else, perhaps?" Greg asked, climbing out of one
of the rowboats with Sean emerging from another.

Oh, shit! Billy thought to himself. His stomach clenched into a tight knot,
and his heart began slamming against his ribs.

The boy that had been sitting at the end of the dock stood up, "Can I go
now, Greg?"

"Not quite yet, Philip. You should stick around. Maybe you'll learn
something," Greg said.

"Oh, come on. You can't be serious," Billy said.

"We're just going to have a little fun. Take what's coming to you, and
we'll let you go."

Billy moved forward, but Greg reached down and grabbed a wooden oar. "Going
somewhere?"

"What, are you going to kill me?"

"No, we're just going to show you what happens to faggots who don't know
their place and then you can go back to your cabin."

Billy made a tight fist, his initial fear morphing into anger. "Yeah, what
makes you think I'm going to just let you have your fun?" he asked,
pointing an accusing finger at Greg.

Greg made two half-hearted thrusts at Billy with the oar, forcing him to
take a few steps back. "You're not going anywhere, yet."

"Come on, Greg. We punked him good, let's just go back to the cabin," Sean
said.

Greg turned around, glaring at his friend. "Don't wuss out on me now. You
agreed to this!"

"I did not agree to you waving an oar around like a crazy man," Sean said.

"This was just supposed to be a joke," Philip added.

"It is a joke. We're all going to have a good laugh," Greg responded, now
pointing the oar at Sean.

Sean gulped, looking around nervously while taking several steps
backward. "Come off it, Greg. Stop swinging that thing around."

While Greg seemed occupied, Billy saw an opening to get past Greg while he
argued with his friends. He took several deliberate steps towards Greg,
causing the dock to creak in protest.

"Going somewhere?" Greg asked. As he spun around to face Billy, the oar
likewise rotated in his hand, jutting out in front of him. The flat side of
the oar made contact with the side of Billy's head with a sickening
thud. Billy's vision smeared with black and red, the sound of a loud bell
ringing inside his head. He teetered back and forth, trying to find steady
footing but his world spun out of control. With two steps back, he fell off
the dock and into the water with a loud splash.

"Holy shit, you killed him!" Sean gasped.

"Oh my God, what did you do?" Philip cried out.

"It was an accident! Help me find him you, idiots!" Greg pleaded. He threw
the oar down with a loud clatter and ran over to the side of the dock,
looking down. Billy's hands were flailing just beneath the water's surface,
a torrent of bubbles emerging from his mouth.

Greg grabbed the tips of Billy's fingers but couldn't hold on to them, and
within seconds, he slipped out of view. "Come on, help me!" Greg cried out,
but Sean and Philip were already running down the dock in panic.

"Shit, they're going to fry me," Greg said, fleeing the dock with the three
boys taking off in separate directions.

As the cool water had raised his consciousness, confusion turned to blind
panic as the water invaded Billy's lungs. The agony mounting in his chest
matched the pounding of his head. He opened his eyes and saw on murky
darkness with the faintest pale light above him. He thrashed frantically
with his hands, trying to escape his watery confinement, but the agitation
seemed to only drag him further downward. He made one last push towards the
light, but only managed a couple feet of upward motion before his vision
grew darker until there was nothing.




"Do we have to go to bed now?" Jeffy whined.

Derek laughed, "No, you can stay up awhile. Help yourself to anything in
the kitchen, but don't make yourselves sick. I'm going to head off to bed
early."

"You're not going to stay up with us?"

"I'm sorry, Jeffy. But this is your special night, and I'm not feeling that
well. I just need to sleep it off." Derek leaned over to give both Jeffy
and Sammy a little hug before disappearing into his room.

"Well, I guess it's just us. Let's raid the refrigerator!" Sammy suggested.

The boys ran to the refrigerator, pulling out ice cream and soda. "Let's
make a root beer float!" Jeffy suggested.

"See, that's why I keep you around," Sammy replied.

The boys jumped when Tad came through the front door. "What trouble are two
plotting?" Tad asked with a grin.

"We're making root beer floats. Would you like one?" Jeffy offered.

"No, thanks. I need to get things ready for Billy. Can you guys please tell
Billy to head to the overlook when he gets back. He should be back in about
fifteen minutes, which gives me enough time to get ready. I'm going to take
a quick shower first."

After his shower, Tad collected his bag of items, removed some soda from
the refrigerator and headed out the door. "What do you think he's gonna do
with all that stuff?" Jeffy asked.

"It's going to be like their first real date," Sammy replied.

Jeffy turned to his friend, wringing his hands. "Sammy?"

"Yeah?"

"Can we go on a date, too?"

Sammy grinned, his freckles flaring as he blushed. "Duh! I already made you
my boyfriend."

"No you didn't, I made you my boyfriend first!" Jeffy replied. Sammy didn't
argue, he leaned over and kissed Jeffy. The two boys sipped their floats,
staring into each other's eyes.

Derek collapsed on his bed, listening to Jeffy and Sammy rummaging around
in the kitchen. You don't need to micromanage the boys, Derek. They're good
kids, they'll be fine.

He looked over at the digital clock sitting on his nightstand, then up at
the antique clock hanging from the wall. He watched the second hand sweep
clockwise before forcing himself to look away. Instead, he stood up and
pulled off his t-shirt and stared into his mirror for a moment. He imagined
himself as a boy again, Billy and Tad's age. Such a beautiful time, but
those times don't last, do they?

He took out his wallet and pulled out a faded Polaroid. No, don't torture
yourself, Derek.

Derek stuffed the photograph back into the wallet. He pulled down his
shorts and sat back down on his bed, and watched the clock advance again
until he forced himself to flick off the light and lay down on the bed,
staring up at the ceiling counting the rafters. He sat up on the bed again,
flicking on the light. He pulled out a bottle of sleeping pills from the
nightstand and counted out two small pills in the palm of his hand. He
stared down at them and shook his head. No, Derek. You need to be cognizant
in case something happens. You can get through this.

He put the pills back into the bottle and turned off the light again,
resuming counting the rafters over and over until a fitful slumber overtook
him.




Tad had set up eight red candles along the edge of the water fountain at
the overlook. He lit each candle with a lighter, the flickering flames
reflecting off the water, further illuminating the fountain and bench. He
set a blanket on the ground and set out some food and drink he had pilfered
from the dining hall and the cabin's refrigerator.

He reached into the bag and pulled out several vases that Jeffy had
purchased at the canteen, placing them around the blanket. He used a knife
to snip some roses from the nearby bushes and arranged them carefully in
the vases while pulling the delicate, aromatic pedals from others and
sprinkling them around the blanket.

"There, now it's perfect!" Tad said softly. He pulled out his cellphone and
looked at the time. He's a little late. I'd just call him, but there's no
signal. The only bad part about this place, he thought to himself.

He sat on the bench and leaned back, listening to the gurgling water behind
him as he looked out across the lake. Couldn't ask for a better spot in the
whole world.

As the minutes ticked away, he heard a distant splash. He stood up and
looked out at the main dock. He saw three figures running down the dock,
towards the beach. Kids fooling around on the last night.

A breeze picked up across the lake, sending the rose petals flying into the
air and extinguishing the candles in an instant. The wind didn't feel cold,
but it gave Tad goose pimples. Billowing white clouds began forming around
the edges of Lakeside, and soon there were flashes of lightning all
around. What the hell is happening? This is unreal!

He looked at his clock, shaking his head. Where is Billy? Something is
wrong, I can feel it!

Tad ran back to the cabin, interrupting Jeffy and Sammy who were sharing a
kiss while making their second root beer floats. "I, uh, sorry to
interrupt," Tad said.

Jeffy chuckled, "It's alright. You looking for Billy?"

"Yes, I've seen no sign of him, and it's getting late. He hasn't been
here?"

"No, sorry. We've not seen him," Jeffy replied.

"Is Derek asleep?"

"Yeah, I think so," Sammy said.

"Want us to help you find him?" Jeffy asked.

"Yes, please. I'm worried about him. But, I don't want to wake up Derek
unless it's an emergency."

Jeffy and Sammy grabbed their flashlights and headed outside with Tad. A
storm seemed to be raging all around Lakeside with flickers of lightning
and a swirling breeze that felt charged with electrical energy. It was as
if Lakeside was in the eye of a hurricane with the moon and stars still
visible overhead.

Sammy's eyes went wide. "Woah, what's going on?"

"Why don't you guys head down to the dining hall and meet me on the
beach. I'm going to head down the stairs and check along the beach and meet
you there."

"Alright, we're on our way!" Sammy said. The two boys sprinted down the
main trail, while Tad dashed down the stairs to the beach.




Billy opened his eyes, dodging several boys laden with duffle bags and back
packs as they shuffled into the dining hall. Thirteen tables were setup
along the walls and counselors were calling off boy's names. What the hell
is going on? Have I been dreaming this whole time?

A boy with short brown hair walked into the dining hall, balancing several
books along with a sleeping bag and backpack. A larger boy with a mohawk
and studded leather wrist straps intentionally knocked the boy's books to
the floor with the swipe of his hand. Before Billy could help the boy,
Tommy stepped in front of him.

"Tommy! You're here!" Billy said, but there was no response.

Tommy handed the boy his books. "Hey, The Great Expectations, I love this
book," Tommy said.

"You do?" the brown haired boy responded.

"Yes, I love to read. But, I think you'll find there are better things to
do at camp." Tommy ran his fingers down the boy's arm.

"O-o-h, i-is, t-t-there?"

Tommy smiled, "Maybe I'll show you around later."

The boy's face flushed crimson, "I'd l-like t-that." Billy noticed that the
boy watched Tommy as he headed out the door with his gear. As Billy
approached the table marked cabin 13, a wave of pain in his chest caused
him to double over.  When he opened his eyes again, the tables had been
re-arranged, and the boys were getting their lunch. He spotted Tommy and
the mysterious boy sitting together at a table. Billy took a seat beside
Tommy. "Tommy, are you mad at me or something?"

"So, what's your name?" the brown-haired boy asked. Billy noticed the voice
sounded familiar to him, albeit with a higher pitch.  Tommy reached out his
hand, "I'm Tommy. What's yours?"

"My name is Derek," the boy said, shaking Tommy's hand. Billy gasped, his
eyes widening in recognition. No, this isn't possible, is it?

"What's happening here? Is this some kind of joke, Tommy?" Billy raised his
voice, but neither Tommy or Derek responded. "Can anyone hear me?" Billy
yelled, but his voice failed to garner so much as a casual glance. Another
wave of pain rose in his chest, but it passed much more quickly this time.

He closed his eyes and found himself at the archery range. How did I get
here? Am I dreaming?

There was a cassette deck playing music on the bench behind him, as Tommy
stripped out of his clothes. "Are you crazy, someone may see us!" Derek
exclaimed.

"Nobody is gonna see us. It's 5:30 in the morning. I did this last year,
and nobody ever showed up. You'll feel much better if you just let
loose. Live the moment, Derek."

Derek cupped his eyes and looked all around to see if anyone was watching
before removing his shirt. "Oh, come on. Take it all off, it's better that
way. Besides, you got a nice body, you know."

"Really, you think so?" Derek asked.

"Yes, now off with it. We only have about an hour."

Derek turned away from Tommy to pull down his shorts. "You know I'm going
to see it all anyway," Tommy chuckled. The boy removed his clothing and
tossed it aside. "There, doesn't that feel good?"

A smile crossed Derek's face, "Yeah, it does."

"OK, now the first thing I want to do is clear your mind of all
distractions. There is only you and the target."

Billy placed his arm over his chest as another wave of pain gripped
him. However, the pain was much weaker than the previous time. At least
it's not as bad anymore, Billy thought with a sense of relief. He closed
his eyes for a moment, and when he opened them, Derek and Tommy were
sitting on the ground at the overlook. They were cuddling on a blanket,
watching the geese fly across the lake in the moonlight.

"I don't want to go home. I wish I could stay here with you," Derek said.

Tommy smiled, "I know, me too. I'll give you my phone number so we can at
least talk once in awhile."

"I'd like that a lot."

"And I'll make a promise to you."

"What's that?"

"If you promise to come next year, then I'll be here." Tommy leaned over
and kissed Derek.

"That's a promise then!" Derek reached over and pulled several roses out of
a bag, handing them to Tommy.  Tommy's eyes lit up, "I love roses!"

Billy felt a shortness of breath that left him gasping for air, but it
passed within a few seconds. He headed up the trail to visit cabin 13, but
when he turned the corner, he was back inside the dining hall. Why am I
back here? I'm stuck in a dream!

"I'm sorry Derek, cabin 13 is at capacity. You're going to have to settle
for being in cabin 10." Derek's shoulder's slumped, but a pat on the back
by Tommy quickly restored his spirits. Billy noticed that Tommy was wearing
the same cutoff jeans and plaid shirt he'd been wearing the first day he
met him.

"It doesn't matter, we'll both here, right?"

Derek grinned, "Yes, we are. Just as promised. I'm just worried about that
asshole John."

"Aww, don't worry about him. Just steer clear of him. We'll have plenty of
time together."

Billy looked around and spotted the same kid with the mohawk glaring at
Derek. I guess that's John, Billy thought to himself. The kid was joined by
a smaller boy in a leather vest and spiked hair.

"Watcha lookin' at Johnny?" the boy asked.

"A couple faggots," the teen replied, motioning with his head towards Derek
and Tommy.

"We gonna do something about it?"

John folded his arms and leaned back against the wall. "Just chill for
now. I'm working on something."

Billy turned to warn Derek, but in the blink of an eye, he was now standing
on the beach near the main dock. He spotted Derek heading up the main trail
towards cabin 13, but Tommy was walking along the beach holding a plain
white letter in his hand. Déjà vu, that's what Tommy said. And now
I'm feeling it, too. This has happened before, something's not right.  His
eyes widened, "No! Tommy, stay away from the dock. Get out of here!" he
screamed, but the boy stepped up to the dock and walked along its
length. There was a solitary figure standing out at the end of the dock,
while two boys stepped in behind him

Billy saw the silhouette of a mohawk as two boys stepped out from behind
the bushes. "You get away from him! Tommy, run!" Billy cried out as he
hurled himself at the teens, only to pass right through them and land on
the ground. He looked at his arms in shock. "What the hell? What's wrong
with me? Am I ghost?"

Flashing lights and the sound of crying caused Billy to spin around. A pair
of paramedics were standing beside a motionless body. Derek was being held
still by a counselor, but he broke free and ran to the body. "No, what are
you doing? He's not dead!" Derek cried.

"I'm sorry son. He was in the water for nearly an hour. He's long gone,"
the paramedic said.

Derek screamed, "No, he can't be." The boy fell to his knees and took Tommy
into his arms. "You can't be dead. Breathe, god damn it, breathe!" He
cradled Tommy's lifeless body in his arms, rocking him back and forth. "You
promised, Tommy. Don't leave me like this. You promised..."

"No, this can't be true. This can't be happening," Billy screamed.

"I told you, Billy. Life is a series of moments and the link between those
moments can be tenuous." Billy turned around to discover the mysterious
dark-haired boy with the wolf eyes.

"Of course, you could choose to live one singular moment. However, you do
so at the expense of all the other moments you could have," Rudolph added
in his moisture-laden gravely voice. Billy looked to his right and saw the
Lakeside Bog Monster standing beside him.

"What's happening? I'm scared, and I don't know what to do," Billy asked,
tears now streaming down his face.

The wolf boy pointed at Tommy's body. "Sometimes, life doesn't give us a
choice. We have to accept what's given to us, Billy."

"But, sometimes we do have a choice. Although, those choices aren't always
easy," Rudolph added.

"Are you saying I'm dead?" Billy asked, his entire body starting to shake.

"Not yet," Rudolph said.

"What do I do?"

"You already know what to do."

"No! I don't know what to do!" Billy exclaimed, but the beach and the
growing crowd disappeared into the growing darkness. His world faded from
view, returning him to the watery depths in which his body continued to
sink.




Sean stumbled face first into the sand as he sprinted along the beach. He
got up and ran blindly along the waterline until approaching the marsh. A
flash of lightning revealed the chaotic skies ahead, and the wind assailed
him with sand. He noticed movement out of the corner of his eye, something
lurking in the reeds. He saw a humanoid shape stepping out of the marsh,
but it took a flash of lightning to reveal the dark green scales, bony
claws, and black eyes.

"Oh, Jesus! Holy shit!" Sean screamed.

Rudolph's mouth tentacles flailed outward as he hissed angrily. He leaped
out of the water, landing just a few feet in front of Sean. "Leave me
alone! Get away!" Sean yelled. The boy turned around and began running back
towards the main dock.  Greg ran across the parking lot and into the pine
forest. He tripped over a fallen log and fell forward, crashing into a
batch of poison ivy. He stumbled forward into the forest, using his arms to
deflect the branches which seemed to come alive and lash out at his tender
flesh. He heard the crackle of thunder and looked up at the sky. "What the
hell?" he gasped as a wall of glowing, chaotic clouds began ascending into
the heavens all around him.

He resumed sprinting through the woods, heading towards the highway. "Where
do you think you're going?" a voice asked.

Greg stopped in shock, looking up at a shirtless boy with wild, untamed
dark hair that was covered in dirt. "Who the hell are you?"

"I live here. What's your excuse?"

"Get out of my way!"

"It would be best if you returned to the beach. If you know what's good for
you."

"Are you threatening..." Greg realized the boy's amber eyes seemed to be
glowing, becoming more oval like a wolf.  The boy's lips curled into a
snarling grin, "Oh, I'm going to do so much more than threaten." His body
became misshapen, fur began springing forth from his darkening flesh. His
bones crackled as his face elongated into a drooling muzzle that opened to
expose rows of razor sharp canine teeth. The creature looked up at the sky
and let loose a blood-curdling howl.

"Oh my god!" Greg cried out. Despite the urine now running down Greg's leg,
the fear stricken teen turned back towards the beach and ran for his life.

Philip ran blindly down a narrow trail until the lights of the dining hall
and parking lot were out of sight. He looked all around, but every tree,
bush and rock looked the same to him. Overwhelmed by fear, sorrow, and
confusion, he collapsed to the ground. He tucked his head between his arms
and sobbed. "It was an accident. It's not my fault. None of this was
supposed to happen."

He looked up when he heard the snapping of a twig nearby. A gray timber
wolf with amber eyes was sitting a few feet in from him. Philip gasped in
shock but made no effort to flee. "Go ahead and eat me. I deserve it," he
said.

The wolf tilted his head, its ears flicking like the creature was listening
intently. "It was an accident. Greg hit Billy with an oar, and he fell into
the water. I don't know what to do!"

The wolf stood up on all fours, turning towards the beach and barking. "Do
you think he's still alive?" Philip asked.  The wolf took a few steps
toward the main dock, turning its head to bark at Philip. "Alright, I'll
follow you!" The boy stood up and followed the wolf towards back towards
the beach.




Jeffy and Sammy paused at the intersection between the main trail and the
trail leading to the archery range. "Maybe we should check the archery
range?" Jeffy asked.

"We might miss him coming up the main trail."

"Stay right there, I'll run up to the range and come right back!"

"Alright, but hurry up!"

Jeffy dashed down the darkened trail, the beam of his flashlight bouncing
up and down to the rhythm of his body. The archery range was silent, even
the crickets and night birds had fallen silent. In the distance, the
crackling lightning danced across the sky. The only signs of life were
hundreds of fireflies dancing mid-air over the range and throughout the
surrounding pines. Several of the fireflies flew around Jeffy's head,
casting his body in a pale green light. "Woah, that's wicked!" he
exclaimed.

One of the fireflies emerged from its complex mating dance, soaring towards
Jeffy, every instinct in the insect seemingly overwritten. Its abdomen
brightened considerably, surpassing all the others in the group. After
completing two circles around Jeffy's head, it started flying towards the
beach. The other fireflies likewise altered their flight patterns, as the
intensity of illumination increased.

Jeffy watched in wonder as the insects glimmered like a thousand tiny stars
brought down from the heavens. The chaotic group morphed into a series of
long, serpentine lines that flew in the direction of the beach and dining
hall. I think they want me to follow them! Jeffy thought. He sprinted down
the trail to meet up with Sammy.

Sammy had been standing at the intersection of the two trails, aiming his
flashlight down the three directions, hoping for some sign of Billy or
Jeffy. As the beam swept from side to side, it caught a dozen pair of
glowing yellow eyes staring at him. He gasped, dropping his flashlight down
to the ground with a clatter. By the time he bent down to pick it up, a
fawn had emerged from the group and stood a few feet from him.

"Wow!" Sammy whispered as the animal walked close enough to him to
touch. He gently reached out to the creature, cognizant that the fawn's
mother and father were watching him closely. The male was sporting a small
set of antlers that Sammy did not wish to see too close. He ran his finger
along the animal's muzzle and scratched behind its ear.

As Sammy looked around him, the herd slowly walked around him, clustering
at the intersection. The buck walked right up to him, clomping his hoof and
huffing. He took a few steps back, but the buck moved past him and
stopped. The buck looked back at Sammy, clomping his hoof and huffing
again. He repeated this move twice until Sammy got the hint.

"You want me to follow you?"

Sammy followed the herd as it accelerated down the main trail, heading
toward the waterfront. It took a few moments for the fireflies to catch up
with Sammy. Jeffy was following close behind.

"What's going on?" Sammy asked in amazement as the fireflies swirled around
them, before heading out to the dock. The insects formed a swirling column
over the water that grew in height, and their numbers continued to increase
as additional fireflies arrived from all over Lakeside.

"I think something really bad is happening," Jeffy said after a moment of
silence.

"Uh, Jeffy..." Sammy pointed towards the dining hall.

"The Lakeside wolf!" Jeffy gasped.

"Someone is with him. Who is that?"

"It sounds like he's crying."

Philip ran up to the boys, leaving the wolf behind. "You guys are from
cabin 13, right?"

"Yes, have you seen Billy?"

Tears streamed down the boy's face. "I'm so sorry. Greg hit Billy with an
oar, and he fell into the water, right over there!" Philip gasped when he
noticed the fireflies right over the spot where Billy had fallen into the
water. "We couldn't find him. He disappeared so fast!"

Jeffy turned to the water, "No! Billy!"

Sammy began heading for the water until Jeffy grabbed him. "He's, too big
for you. He'll pull you down too!"

"I'll go get Derek, you guys find some counselors!" Jeffy said.

Jeffy sprinted down the beach until his legs began to burn. He saw Tad in
the distance, so he frantically waved his arms and shouted, "Tad!"

Tad heard the panic in Billy's voice and instantly knew it was serious. His
heart rose into his throat as he ran to meet with Jeffy. In the glow of the
flashlight, he could see tears streaming down Jeffy's face. "What's
happened, Jeffy?"

"Greg hit Billy with an oar and knocked him into the water! I'm going to
get Derek," Jeffy cried out.

Tad's eyes widened, "Go on and get him. I'm going to the dock!" Jeffy
continued to spring towards the stairs leading up to cabin 13, screaming
Derek's name all the way.




Derek snapped awake and sat up on his bed. He listened intently but heard
nothing out of the ordinary. He laid back on the bed, turning his head to
watch the antique clock tick the time away, second by second. As it reached
10:31, the second hand ceased its motion, and the clock sounded off a
distorted clanging before the glass protecting the clock mechanism
shattered into dozens of tiny fragments.

The man gasped loudly, jumping to his feet. He stared at the broken clock
in disbelief. What the hell? His digital clock emitted a high-pitched
squeal and began blinking 10:31 PM on the display. Did the kids play a
prank on me? He punched at the buttons, silencing the alarm. He checked the
alarm settings and verified it had been set for 7:00 AM. He sat on the edge
of the bed, watching the digital clock. However, like the wall clock, it
remained at 10:31 PM even after counting out sixty seconds.

He pulled his cell phone out of his suitcase and turned it on. Like
everything else in the room, the device showed the time to be 10:31 PM. He
watched the LCD display count out 60 seconds, but the time refused to
change. This is why you take the pills, Derek. Just take a couple pills and
relax. You can get through this.

Derek took the bottle of pills into his hand, staring at it. He shook his
head and placed it back on the nightstand. As his head hit the pillow, he
heard the sound of rumbling in the distance. Strange, there weren't any
storms in the forecast tonight. He closed his eyes and began drifting off
when he heard the sounds of screaming and crying. It was a sound he
remembered all too well, and has spent the better part of three decades
trying to silence. And with those screams came the flashes and fragments of
memories of one terrible summer night.

However, the screaming and crying only grew louder. The screams rose in
crescendo with the thunder off in the distance. Please stop, Derek
pleaded. After a moment, he realized that the screams he heard were not his
own. No, it was a different but still familiar voice. At first, he thought
it might be Tommy, but after a moment Derek's eyes snapped open. "Jeffy!"
he cried out, leaping from his bed and swinging his door open. The cabin
was silent and empty, but he heard Jeffy calling out for him. He ran
outside and looked down the stairs just as Jeffy turned the corner.

"Derek! Derek! Help!" Jeffy screamed.

Derek hopped down the steps two at a time, "I'm here, Jeffy. What's
happened?"

Jeffy pointed down the beach toward the main dock, "Greg hit Billy with an
oar on the main dock. He fell into the water and went under. They said he
didn't come back up!"

"Oh, god, please, no!" Derek exclaimed as he ran down the beach with every
ounce of speed he could muster. Jeffy did his best to keep pace but fell
behind. I'm not going to lose another one! As he drew closer to the dock,
he spotted the massive glowing column of fireflies over the water. He knew
that's where he would find Billy.

A group of counselors led by Sammy and Philip reached the dock at the same
time Derek arrived. Alex emerged from the crowd and joined Derek as they
ran down the length of the dock. "Light! We need some damned light!" Derek
shouted. We're never going to find him in the dark, especially if a current
caught him.

A portable spotlight was pointed at the spot the fireflies were flying
over. Derek and Alex dove into the water but could see little more than a
couple feet in front of them.




As Billy sunk further into the water, he detected the distinct scent of
roses. Not just any kind of rose, but specifically the white roses that
grew outside cabin 13. As he opened his eyes, he found himself standing in
front of the cabin, looking out over the lake. "It's always so beautiful,
isn't it?" Tommy asked.

"Yes, it is," Billy replied. There was a gentle breeze that felt good
against his body.

"But, why do you look so sad, then?"

"I...I don't know. I feel like something's...wrong. But, I can't put my
finger on it. Like I forgot something important. Do you know what I mean?"

Tommy nodded his head, "Yeah, I do. But, I try not to let it get me
down. Life is too short, Billy."

"I'm supposed to remember to do something, but I don't know what," Billy
said.

"You don't look good, Billy. Are you sick?" Tommy asked, placing his hand
over Billy's forehead. "You're skin is really cool and clammy. He took a
step back, his eyes going wide as water poured from Billy's mouth and nose.

"Help me, please. I'm scared," Billy pleaded.

"I'm here, Billy. It will be alright. Just hold on to me, " Tommy placed
his lips against Billy's and held him tightly.

A wave of pain swelled in his chest as Billy felt his body drifting
upward. His eyes snapped open, and for a second he saw Tommy in the water
with him, dragging his body closer to the surface. He could hear shouting
and crying coming somewhere above him. There was a disturbance in the
water, followed by the feel of muscular hands grabbing his arms. The world
slipped into darkness again as Billy lost consciousness.

Alex and Derek dragged Billy's body to the beach, trying to purge the water
from his lungs. Alex put his finger on Billy's wrist. "He's got a pulse!"

Derek put his ear to Billy's mouth, then his chest. "Damnit! He's not
breathing."

"I'm going to start resuscitation," Derek said. He placed his lips against
Billy's and blew into him, briefly inflating his lungs. He counted to three
and repeated the process several times before putting his ear against the
boy's mouth again. "No, damn it. Billy, breathe!" Tears poured down Derek's
face as he continued to resuscitate him.

Tad dropped to Billy's side, weeping. "Don't give up, Billy. I'm here, just
like I promised. Just us..."

Jeffy and Sammy wept, calling out to Billy as the other counselors
struggled to keep the boys away. Billy heard the commotion, but it sounded
a million miles away. Echoes of distant screams and cries, something
serious had happened. Billy felt as though he should know what happened,
but the memory floated away like rose petals on a summer breeze.  I'm
supposed to remember to do something, what was it?

Fragments of memories flooded his brain. He remembered meeting Tad and
Tommy for the first time in the dining hall. He saw flashes of Greg when he
pushed Jeffy over and threatened him. Something about Greg's image made him
feel ill. He remembered opening up to Tad and sharing their first kiss
together. He recalled archery practice and the feelings of freedom he
experienced for the first time in his life. There were the competitions and
his personal triumphs against Greg. But, there was something else. A
cryptic message given to him repeatedly.

Another wave of pain gripped his chest, and in that instant, Billy
remembered the message. Breathe!

Water sputtered out of Billy's mouth and nose as he drew in a raspy,
desperate breath of air on his own. He choked and gagged loudly,
alternating between drawing in air and spitting out lake water. Alex and
Derek held on to him, pounding his back, helping purge the water from
Billy's lungs.

Billy opened his eyes and looked around, ignoring Alex and Derek until his
eyes settled on Greg. He rose unsteadily to feet, his eyes fixated on
Greg. "Woah, where do you think you're going there, Billy. You need to
rest!" Derek ordered.

A growl slipped from Billy's lips as he lunged forward at the boy. Greg was
stunned by the sudden turn of events and failed to turn away before Billy
threw a right cross that landed squarely on the side of Greg's nose. The
force of the blow sent the teen reeling backward, clutching his nose while
tears streamed down his face.

Derek restrained Billy, encouraging him to sit down while the counselors
dragged Greg off the beach. "Just relax, Billy. It's all going to be
alright."

Billy broke down crying, leaning against Derek for support as he continued
to cough and wheeze. "Derek...Tommy... I saw him..."

Derek hugged the boy, whispering, "I know you did... I know."

He looked up into Derek's eyes, "No... Don't understand. I saw him...from
before."

"Please, not tonight, Billy. If you want to know the truth, I'll tell you
tomorrow morning. Right now, we need to get a hold of your parents..."

"No! Please don't. I'm alright..."

The camp doctor kneeled down next to Billy, placing a stethoscope against
his chest. "Son, you almost died tonight. And you may have a concussion
too."

"If you call my parents...might not...come back. Might sue...must
protect...camp." Billy could barely speak the words between the coughing.

Derek motioned for Alex to watch over Billy while he spoke to the
doctor. "Considering all that's happened, he is doing remarkably well," the
doctor said.

"I don't like the idea of keeping parents in the dark about something so
serious, and the other boys will start asking questions."

Billy stood up with Alex's assistance. He looked at the men and pleaded,
"Please, don't let our last night here end like this. I'm going to be
fine." His voice was hoarse, but the coughing was subsiding.

"Alright, Derek take him back to the cabin. Oh, Billy, by-the-by, you broke
Greg's nose. Just thought you'd like to know," the doctor said with a
wink. Billy's lips curled into a grin.

Jeffy and Sammy ran over to Billy, both hugging him tightly. "We were so
afraid for you, Billy," Jeffy said, his words choked with tears.

"Come on guys, he needs to be able to breathe!" Derek said.

The group returned to the Cabin with Tad lending his arm to Billy for
support. Not a word was uttered until Billy was escorted to his bunk. The
other boys gathered up their pillows and blankets and positioned themselves
around Billy's bunk so they could remain by his side through the night.

"This isn't how I thought this night would go," Billy said, prompting a
chorus of laughter.

Tad leaned over to kiss Billy. `You would have liked what I had
planned. Maybe next year."

"No, I'm not waiting until next year. You're going to show me before the
summer is over. Life is too short to wait for the next moment. I think the
point is to make your own moments in life."

Tad smiled, "Now you're starting to sound like Tommy. But, it's a deal,
we'll make it work."

"Uh, guys...There's something that we've not talked about," Jeffy added.

"What's that?" Billy asked.

"Some weird shit went down when you disappeared. I mean like category five
weird," Tad said. The boys went on to describe the storm that surrounded
Lakeside, the fireflies and even the appearance of the Lakeside wolf.

"Derek, did anything strange happen to you?" Sammy asked.

The man forced a smile, "No, nothing out of the ordinary for Lakeside."

Billy made eye contact with Derek and knew immediately the man was
lying. They both knew what was behind these events that ultimately saved
his life. While there was still much he didn't understand, the puzzle
pieces were gradually fitting together in his mind. Yet, he didn't want to
risk upsetting the other boys any further.

He laid his head back and drew a deep breath that triggered a minor
cough. It felt good to breathe, Billy thought to himself. "Guys, I think I
need to sleep," he said.

"Go ahead, Billy. We're all here for you," Tad said. Billy detected the
faint smell of roses, letting him know that Tommy was present as well.

"I love you guys so much," Billy said, closing his eyes to sleep.




Billy opened his eyes and stared up at the top bunk for a moment. Was that
all just a dream? He turned his head and saw Tad was leaning against the
side of the bed, fast asleep. Jeffy and Sammy were spooning together
against the foot of the bed. Alex was stretched out on the floor between
the other boys and was snoring. Billy looked around and spotted Derek
sitting in a chair about six feet away.

Derek smiled. "Good morning," he whispered.

"Good morning," Billy replied. There were dark rings around the man's eyes,
and his eyelids appeared red and puffy. He stayed up all night to watch
over me. It looks like he'd been crying. Billy smiled, grateful for his
vigilance.

"How are you feeling?"

Billy drew in a deep breath and smiled. "I'm feeling good, though the side
of my head is a little sore."

Derek grinned, "I'll get you an aspirin."

Tad's eyes fluttered for a few seconds until they opened, focusing on
Billy. He smiled and reached out, taking Billy's hand into his. "Well, you
made it through the night. I guess we don't have to take you out back and
shoot you after all."  "Nope, it's going to take more than that to stop
me," Billy said with a chuckle.

"Good. Because I want you around for a long time," Tad whispered. Billy's
eyes began to water as he leaned over and gave Tad a kiss. Derek's alarm
began squealing in his room, awakening the other boys who stretched and
yawned wearily. Everyone smiled when they saw Billy walking confidently
under his own power.

"Alright boys, time to hit the showers and have our last breakfast
together."

Billy cringed at the thought of going in the shower, "Uh, do I have to?"

Derek laughed, "Well, since you smell like a bog monster...I'm afraid the
answer is yes." Billy grinned, grabbing his towel and heading to the
showers with the other boys.

As the boys exited the cabin, Billy picked a white rose from the bush
beside the door, tucking it into his jersey pocket. Derek raised an eyebrow
but smiled at him as they turned to the main trail. Jeffy and Sammy,
normally leading the pack to the dining hall were uncharacteristically
lagging behind the group with their shoulders slouched.

"Walking slowly isn't going to make camp last any longer boys," Derek said.

Sammy sighed, "I know, but we were hoping."

When Billy walked into the dining hall, nearly every eye was focused on
him. Well, this is going to be interesting. As he grabbed a tray and got
into line, a round of applause began. It started small but seemed to swell,
as each table added their hands. Billy felt the heat rush to his face, but
nobody said anything. There were smiles and nods though, and it made him
feel good.

"Oh, hey, Oscar," Billy said.

"It's good to see you, Billy."

"Uh, what was all the applause for?" Billy asked nonchalantly.

"You did kick Greg's ass yesterday. In more ways than one, right?"

Billy could scarcely contain his smile, "I guess you could say that."

"They made him and Sean stay in the cabin." Oscar leaned in to whisper into
Billy's ear. "Is it true they tried to drown you. Some of the kids said you
came back from the dead and broke his nose."

"Uh, I was nowhere near the water when I broke his nose," Billy replied.

Oscar narrowed his eyes and grinned, "I see. Well, good job. Are you coming
back next year?"

"You couldn't keep me away." The boy smiled, taking leave to get his food.

After the boys had shared breakfast together, discussing the prospects of
school and future vacations, the camp doctor took Billy aside to examine
him. "There is someone who would like to see you," the man explained.

"Oh, uh sure," Billy replied.

Philip had been waiting in the other room, wringing his hands. Like Derek,
the boy's eyes had baggy eyes with traces of pink. He gasped upon seeing
Billy, surprised at how well he looked. "I think you've met Philip."

"Yes, I have."

The boy began crying, "I'm so sorry, Billy. Please forgive me!"

Billy slid off the table and gave Philip a hug. "You had no way of knowing
what would happen. None of this was your fault."  "But I ran! I ran and
left you out there."

"Tad told me that you came back for me. If you hadn't, they might not have
found me in time. So, you have my thanks. Now, I expect to see you here
next year," Billy said, grabbing a tissue to wipe the boy's eyes.

Philip smiled, "I would like that a lot."

Billy looked over at the doctor, who smiled. "Philip is most welcome to
join us again. And we discussed keeping what happened just between
us. Although, ultimately that decision rests on your shoulders, Billy."

"As my dad would say, no harm, no foul."

Satisfied that Billy was fine, the doctor dismissed him with a nod and a
smile.




"Boys, I'm afraid it's time to pack. But, Jeffy there is something you need
to do before you can leave," Derek said.  Jeffy looked over at the plastic
tub containing Frogzilla. He sighed and nodded his head, taking the tub
into his arms. "Why don't you guys go help him," Derek suggested.

The group headed down the stairs to the beach. Jeffy placed the tub by the
water's edge and pulled Frogzilla out, giving the creature a hug. "You are
the best frog ever. I'm going to miss you."

Croak...croak!

The bullfrog used its powerful back legs to propel itself forward into the
water the moment Jeffy released him. The creature stopped, turning around
to look up at Jeffy as if to say goodbye, before disappearing into the mud.

Jeffy burst out crying, "I don't want to go home."

"We'll be back next year," Sammy said, giving him a hug.

"No, we are not going to wait until next summer. We're not even going to
wait until next year," Billy said.  "What do you mean?" Sammy asked.

"Do you all have your phones?" Everyone pulled out their cell phones,
exchanging their contact information. "It's not like we went to some camp
where people come from all over the country. We are all in driving distance
of each other. Our friendship is too important to wait a whole year to make
new moments together. Is everyone agreed?" Billy held out his hand, and one
by one each of the boys placed their hand upon his, vowing to keep up their
friendships and promises.

They returned to the cabin and began packing their belongings. "Make sure
you get everything, boys. I'm going to be down on our dock. Give me a shout
if you need me, I'll be back in a few minutes," Derek said, disappearing
out the front door.  "What's wrong with him?" Tad whispered.

"I need to talk to him. Give us a few minutes," Billy replied, grabbing a
paper bag on the way out of the cabin. He stopped to pick several roses,
stripping them of their delicate, fragrant petals and placing them in the
bag before heading down the stairs. Derek was standing out on the small
dock directly in front of the water, staring out at the lake.

"I had a feeling you might join me, Billy," Derek said, without turning
around.

"Can I ask you some questions?"

Derek turned his head slightly, not enough to keep Billy from seeing the
stream of tears running down his face. "I think I owe you at least that
much. What would you like to know?"

Billy looked out over the lake, mustering his courage to
speak. "Tommy... He's been dead a long time, hasn't he?"

The man nodded his head, "About 35 years ago, as of last night."

"You were the Derek he was looking for, right?"

He nodded his head, "I was just a kid then, of course. But, yes, he was
looking for me."

Billy felt the hot stream of tears falling down his own face. "He doesn't
know he's dead, does he?" he asked, choking up over the words. Derek turned
to face Billy, placing his arms on the boy's shoulder.

"No, he doesn't. Though, sometimes, I think he realizes something is very
wrong."

"I just can't believe it. Everything's that's happened here. How can Tommy
be a ghost... We.. I mean... We touched... What is he?"

Derek laughed, "What he is now is exactly what he was before he died. An
unstoppable force of nature with a soul of pure love. He brought so much
joy..." He turned away, trying desperately not to sob in front of
Billy. The pair stood side by side, staring out over the water.

"When I was down there, under the water, I felt as though I was given a
choice whether to..." Billy said before his words trailed off.

He turned back to Billy, looking him in the eyes. "Tommy liked to talk
about living in the moment. But, that doesn't mean dwelling on those
moments because there are always new moments to embrace. You made the right
choice, not just for yourself, but everyone here. You are not the same
Billy that I met on that first day."

"What about you, though?"

Derek was taken aback by the question, quickly turning back towards the
lake. "I don't know what you mean." You damn well know what he means,
Derek.

"Do you still live that moment from 35 years ago?"

He closed his eyes, vividly recalling the screaming and crying. The sight
of Tommy's body and the thought of never seeing him again. "The first
couple years after he died were difficult, Billy. There were days I didn't
think I could...that I..."  "You wanted to join him?"

Derek sighed, "Yes, but my friends kept me strong. Tommy wouldn't ever want
that. But, there is something you need to understand. I do have a life,
Billy. I own a house, my own business and yes, I've even had..." Don't
patronize the kid, he understands more than you did at his age. "I've had
boyfriends as well." Had... that's the operative word, isn't it,
Derek. Nobody could ever measure up to Tommy. It became pointless to even
try. Not that you could ever admit it to yourself or anyone else.

Billy nodded, looking up at him silently. He detected the hint of
defensiveness in Derek and didn't want to further upset him. "You know, we
live pretty close to one another," Billy said.

"I think you better get packed, Billy. Time is running short...but thank
you." Billy handed him the bag filled with rose petals and headed up the
stairs silently. Once he was out of sight, Derek pulled out a fistful of
petals and threw them into the breeze, watching them flutter across the
dock and into the water.

As he turned to leave, he heard Tommy's voice behind him. "Is that you,
Derek? I'd been looking for you."

He gasped, slowly turning back toward the dock. There was a glimmering
visage of Tommy laying on the dock, sunning himself. Derek fell to his
knees beside the boy in shock. "I'm here Tommy."

"I'm really sleepy," Tommy said.

"It's been quite a week, hasn't it?"

"Yes, it has. We've made so many new friends this year. Derek, will you
come back next year?"

 "You know it, Tommy."

"Good. I'll always be here for you. You know, we could be counselors,
too. Do you think I'd make a good counselor?"

"I think you'd be the best, Tommy," Derek replied, trying not to completely
break down.

"I'm so sleepy."

"Why don't you take a nap. Your parents will be here soon, I'm sure."

"That's a good idea," Tommy replied, his image fading away into a swirl of
rose petals.

Derek splashed water on his face, forcing himself to stand up. Get a grip,
Derek. You still have a job to do. Don't let them see you like this. He
dabbed his eyes with his t-shirt and took in several deep breaths before
heading up the stairs.  By the time he opened the cabin door, he had forced
a smile to his face. "Everyone all packed and ready?" The boys nodded
affirmatively, holding up their backpacks and bags. "Well, you should start
heading down to the parking lot."

"You're not coming with us?" Jeffy asked, sounding hurt.

"I would, but I have a lot of cleaning to do, and I need to prep the cabin
for winterization. If I get a free moment, I'll come on down to see you
off."

"See you next year?" Billy asked as he checked inside his duffle bag one
last time.

"Yes, I'll be here. That's a promise," Derek replied. He walked into the
kitchen and began washing the glasses Jeffy and Sammy had used for their
floats the night before. Billy could hear the pain in the man's voice but
decided not to push him. The boys said their goodbyes to him and left the
cabin. He waited until their voices had faded into the distance before he
broke down.

He stood staring at the kitchen, closing his eyes trying to get a hold of
his emotions when he heard the cabin door creak open slowly. He turned
around but saw nothing there. "Tommy, is that you?" he whispered. He
glanced around the room but saw nothing. He turned back to the kitchen, a
loud bang at his feet caused him to jump. By spun around and discovered a
book lying at his feet. "The Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. I know
this book," Derek said. He still remembered Tommy helping him pick up his
books the first day at camp. He opened the book and saw Billy's name
printed on the back of the cover. He held the book close to his chest,
looking at the wet footprints leading to the door.

"I love you so much, Tommy. If this is what you want..." The cabin door
opened slowly, letting in the sunlight. Derek ran into his room with the
book, before sprinting down the main trail, hoping to reach the parking lot
in time.

"Billy! Billy!" Derek gasped.

All the boys turned around surprise. "You came!" Jeffy said.

"You, forgot something, Billy. I thought...you'd like to have it."

Billy looked down at the book and saw something sticking out from the pages
and knew that Derek did not mean the book itself. I wonder what he put in
there, from the look on his face it's really important.

Jeffy ran over to Derek to give him a big hug. Jeffy's mother was the first
to arrive, and he was sure to introduce her to everyone.

When Billy had a free moment, he backed away from the crowd and opened the
book. He pulled out a faded old Polaroid Instamatic picture of Derek and
Tommy standing together in front of cabin 13. Billy struggled to not burst
out crying on the spot. He looked up at Derek and smiled. It was then he
spotted something else between the pages. It was Derek's business card, and
on the back it said, "Call anytime, Billy."

He walked up to the man who gave him a hug, "I mean it, Billy. You've had a
hell of a journey. You should be proud of yourself."

Billy smiled, "I think the journey has only just begun."

"Perhaps, the journey never really ends."

Together, they looked over at the lake. "I think you might be right about
that." Billy took the photo and business card and placed them in his
wallet. "Derek, if I asked you a really tough question, would you tell me
the truth?"

He nodded, "Sure, what is it?"

"Would you tell me if I had died? How do I know any of what happened was
real?"

Derek ran his fingers through Billy's hair. "Billy, I assure you. You're
very much alive, and you will be going home shortly. Everything you
accomplished the past week was your own doing."

"But, would you tell me..."

"Would you really want to know?"

Billy couldn't answer the question. He looked out over the lake and thought
about Tommy. This was his paradise and what right did he have to take it
from him. He was certain this was Derek's thought, as well. He valued
truth, but what value does truth hold when coping with death. Especially
the death of someone you love so much. Tommy believed there are special
places for lovers and soldiers. Maybe this is one of those places.

Billy looked up at Derek, "No, I guess not."

Sammy's parents arrived next, necessitating another whole round of
introductions. As Billy waited for his parents, he took off his shirt and
tied it around his waist.  "Hey, Billy!" Oscar called out.

"Hi, Oscar. What's up?"

"Some of us chipped in and got you a present. Sorry, I didn't have time to
wrap it." He handed Billy an eyeglass case.

"Really. Oh my god, I don't even know what to say!" Billy exclaimed. He
opened the case and pulled out a pair of sunglasses. He'd seen them in the
canteen and knew they were expensive. "You guys shouldn't have!"

"Well, we had some help," Oscar admitted, gesturing towards a small group
of counselors standing by the dining hall.  Billy put the sunglasses on,
"Thank you so much, Oscar. I look forward to hanging out with you guys next
year."

"Yeah, you bet! Well, I gotta go.." Oscar replied, running to his parent's
minivan that was idling at the far end of the parking lot.

Tad motioned for Billy to join him behind a tree so he could kiss
him. "Where did you get the glasses, those look great on you."

"A going away present from some of the other guys," Billy said, as he
pressed his lips against Tad's.

"I was surprised Derek came to see us off. I guess it's a good thing you
forgot your book."

"He also gave me his business card."

"Really? See I told you he liked you. We're all going to have a great year,
I can feel it."

Billy grinned, "I'll text you when I get home. Speaking of which..." he
pointed to a car pulling into the lot.

"Hey, honey? Is that our son? " Billy's mother said, pointing at Billy.

Billy's father looked out the window, mouth agape. "Uh, I think so." He
pulled up to Billy and rolled down the driver's side window. "Hey kid, have
you seen Billy Harris around here?"

"Quit it, Dad!" Billy said with a giggle. After introducing his parents to
Tad, he brought over the other boys to introduce everyone. After a final
long goodbye, Billy tossed his gear into the back seat and climbed in after
it.

As the car pulled out of the parking lot and towards the road, Billy took
in a deep breath that he held until the car pulled out on the
highway. "Mom...Dad... Can you see me?"

His dad looked through the rearview mirror. "Were you supposed to be
invisible?"

Billy smiled, "I was just checking." He leaned back in the seat and thought
about Tommy. He deserved to live his life more than anyone. But it was
taken from him. He didn't have a choice. There was the scent of roses in
the car. He pulled open his duffle bag and gasped upon discovering a small
white rose bush, complete with an intact rootball. He pulled it out and
admired it.

"Where on earth did you get that?" his mother asked.

"It was a gift from a friend. It's beautiful, isn't it?"

She smiled, "For some strange reason, it suits you. What are you going to
do with it?"

"I'm going to plant it outside my bedroom window."

"I think it will grow well there," she replied.

Billy gently placed the plant back in the bag. Tommy can't be here in this
life, and I can't live this life for him. But I can live my life as he
taught me. Maybe I can be that force of nature too, only I have many more
moments to live, and I will make the most of them. That's what Tommy would
want.

After all the campers and counselors had departed Lakeside for the season,
leaving behind an empty and silent camp, a solitary figure appeared on the
main dock. Tommy sat, watching the geese take flight across the lake,
honking in the distance.

"My parents are late again, as usual. But, I shouldn't complain. It was
another great year, and I don't mind having a few extra minutes here,"
Tommy said. He laid back against the dock, his long blonde hair spilling
across the blanks. He closed his eyes and basked in the warmth of the
sun. He gradually faded from view, slipping into a well earned rest. For
now anyways. After all, he had promises to keep.


THE END