Max’s Awakening #37

by craigpnifty@protonmail.com and J

Author’s Notes:

In the last chapter, Max had an eventful weekend - sleeping over with Noah at Cam’s house on Friday night, where the three of them engaged in a hot romp.  Then they helped Craig paint before going out for pizza, where they ran into Chad, the man who took advantage of Max.  That sent him into a tailspin, but he snapped out of it quickly thanks to Craig and Cam. 

This chapter picks up on Monday, after school.  Max rode home with Noah and met Cam, who is staying at Craig’s and the two hot boys couldn’t resist taking advantage of the empty house.  Only they underestimated Craig’s potential annoyance with them being so obvious…

If you haven’t donated to nifty lately, you really probably should.


Chapter 37

I expected Craig to be happy to see us, and he did return my hug.  But he also seemed irritated that we weren't fully clothed.  “Kim could have walked through the door, not me,” he said.

That wasn’t exactly true.  I recognized the sound of his car and saw him pulling into the driveway, so I knew it was him.  We wouldn’t have run to the door in our skivvies if it had been her.  I didn’t get what the big deal was. 

“I don’t think Kim would mind seeing us shirtless,” I said assertively, pleading our case.  Well, technically it was a little more than that - Cam had on just underwear and I had on shorts, commando.

Cam was immediately on my butt, literally.  “Max!  Don’t talk back to Craig,” he said, swatting my ass, hard.  “Don’t make me discipline you again,” he added with a smirk only I could see.  I didn’t hate that. 

“Sorry, we were just changing clothes when I saw you pull in,” I was going to say, but was preempted.  He explained he knew we had been fucking before I could weave any deceit.  Apparently, we were both still kind of boned, sweaty, and smelled like jizz.  I had no idea it was so obvious. 

“Kim would lose it if she knew you were doing that in her house.  You HAVE to be more careful.”

Cam was immediately apologetic, but part of me thought Craig was being a little dramatic.  It’s not like us being sexually active is a revelation, and besides, what did he think would happen when he invited me over to see Cam?  I know for a fact he enjoys hearing (and fantasizing) about it.  He should appreciate that we’re having hot, gay boy sex in his house.  God, why do adults act like such hypocrites?

Craig made us shower - separately, which I rolled my eyes at but didn’t argue - before Kim came home.  I could tell he was aggravated and I was irked.  He basically told us we could do stuff, and now he’s mad about it!  WTF?!  The hot water of the shower helped ease my frustrations, but seriously!  Make up your mind. 

***

I thought we were past any tension, but before Kim took us to gymnastics, Craig pulled me aside and launched into another lecture.  Suddenly, I felt an immense surge of emotion and almost cried: I wasn’t bothered by being chewed out, but realizing I disappointed Craig by being disrespectful had me immediately contrite.  I wonder if Noah is feeling the same way (in addition to a sore ass, of course).  Is this how it feels when you let down a dad who actually loves you?  I never really felt bad when I pissed off my actual father.  Maybe I always knew nothing between us was real.

Craig reminded me how reckless and impulsive I can be with sex, specifically the BJ on the beach with Eduardo - and then later the whole thing with Chad.  But he was most upset because I defiantly argued and tried to minimize what would happen if Kim walked in on us. 

“If you can’t respect my requests, you won’t be allowed to come over to see Cam for the rest of the week,” he stated, presumably ending his lecture.

What the hell?  “That’s not fair,” I began to say, before he cut me off.  I was steaming again.

“I'm not finished, Max.  Please do not interrupt me,” Craig instructed.  “If Kim walks in on you, she would freak and might not allow either of you over at the same time ever again, besides being mortified and grossed out.  And I know she would call your mother.  There would be nothing I could do to help, and nothing good would come from you getting caught in the act under my watch.”

I was stunned he was coming at me so hard, but deep down, I knew he was right.  Things would go to shit if Kim walked in on us.  I get now why he was acting so butthurt - he’s just looking out for me.

“I'm finished now, if you want to reply,” he said, much more softly now. 

Suddenly, I felt an immense surge of emotion and almost cried: I wasn’t bothered by being chewed out, but realizing I disappointed Craig by being disrespectful had me immediately contrite.  I wonder if Noah is feeling the same way (in addition to a sore ass, of course).  Is this how it feels when you let down a dad who actually loves you?  I never really felt bad when I pissed off my actual father.  Maybe I always knew nothing between us was real.

I took a breath and looked up, deep into his eyes.  He seemed…  sad, almost?  I swallowed my pride.

“You’re right, we - I - didn’t mean to be disrespectful,” I apologized.  I don’t know why, but it’s so hard to get the words out when you are truly trying to say sorry.  I felt myself about to cry.  I took a deep breath before finishing.  “We’ll be more careful and won’t disappoint you again.  I'm sorry I was rude.”

Craig reached out and pulled me into a prolonged hug.  “I’m not upset,” he reminded me.  “Sometimes fathers have to be stern to get the message across.  If I’m going to be your dad, I’m going to correct you, understand?

Not only did I understand, I’m appreciative he cares about me so much.  Sometimes, being reprimanded is a sign of being cared about.  Craig knows how to do it just right: you feel guilty as fuck, but also loved and reassured. 

***

On the way to the gym, Cam and I discussed the fishing trip.  I was surprised when Kim asked what we were talking about.  Craig hadn’t mentioned it.  Shit!  I hope we didn’t screw up and get him in hot water.  I just assumed he already told her.

She didn’t seem angry, but I did sense some annoyance.  Fingers crossed it doesn’t cost us the trip, although I assume Noah is already out, so maybe it being postponed wouldn’t be the worst thing. 

***

“Great,” Cam whispered as we walked across the lot.  “We pissed Craig off earlier and now we probably just got him in trouble with Kim about the cabin.  I figured she knew by now.”

“Yeah, me too,” I sighed.  “We better be on our best behavior after school.”

“‘We’?” Cam asked, gripping my shoulder.  “You’re NOT coming over tomorrow.”

“I’m not?”  I liked authoritative Cam, but wtf? 

“No, better not.  Craig was mad.  Not visiting is a small way to acknowledge we screwed up and need to chill.  It would look really shitty if we just assumed everything was okay and did the same thing.  Giving up a day we could be alone is kind of a penance, and shows Craig we are taking him seriously.”

He was right, even though I wasn’t sure what the hell a ‘penance’ is.  I assumed it had something to do with owning your mistakes.  Cam always just knows the best way to interact with adults, and he’s definitely more mature than me.  I would never have thought of it because I’m too eager for another after-school fuck.  I could really get used to that, but I guess foregoing it won’t kill me.  It isn’t like I get laid during a normal school week.

***

We were taking a break alone in the corner.  “There’s something I need to tell you,” Cam said solemnly, staring at his feet.

“What?”  I asked.  I was concerned.  He was suddenly so serious; I was starting to freak.

“Last night, at my house,” he began.

“Yeah?”

“When Craig picked me up…”

“Okay?  So?”

“Craig and I ended up in the hot tub…  naked.”  My heart raced.  Was he telling me what I think he was about to tell me?  That he and Craig… no fucking way!

“D-did something…  happen?” I asked, struggling to get out the words.

“Nothing.  You told me Craig wouldn’t let anything happen again, right?”

“Yeah, but what?  What’s the big deal then?  Hot tubbing naked doesn’t matter.”

He suddenly looked ashamed.  “I, um, kind of gave him a test.” 

“‘A test’?  What the fuck does that mean?”  I could feel my anger rising. 

“I said some suggestive things, got boned and stood up so he could see, and invited him to touch it.”

I was aghast.  “Cam!  What the hell were you thinking?  You know how much trouble he could get in and how uncomfortable that would make him!”

“I know, I’m sorry,” Cam responded with his voice cracking, hanging his head.  “It was a shitty thing to do.  But I had to know for sure that he, you know, wouldn’t.”

“Cameron Brendan Rice!”  I admonished him, channeling his father in a pique of outrage.  I’m not sure what came over me, but I even punched him in the arm.  “Maybe I should discipline YOU next time.” 

Finally, stuff is out in the open and back to normal, and Cam goes and risks fucking up everything!  And Craig thinks I’m impulsive. 

He rubbed his arm and looked as if he might cry.  “I deserve it.  Craig actually acted like he was going to whoop my ass right there in the Jacuzzi, but when I bent over as instructed, he explained he was joking.  I apologized at bedtime last night.  He didn’t seem too upset, honest.”

I wasn’t sure I believed it, and maybe that was why Craig seemed cranky at first, he shifted the blame from Cam to me.  He might wonder if I put Cam up to it, and that’s why he was pissy.  Shit!  But no, that’s crazy.  I need to focus.

I collected myself.  “Well, that’s good.  We fucked up enough today,” I acknowledged.  Craig was bothered because we were inconsiderate and could have upset Kim by not being discrete, not some crazy conspiracy about him blaming me for Cam being dumb. 

“Yeah.  I just wanted you to know,” he explained sheepishly.  “No secrets, remember?”

“No secrets,” I confirmed.  I don’t know what that moment of paranoia was, but if I’m being honest, I was a little curious.  I rubbed Cam’s back.  “So…”

“So?”  he asked.

“What - exactly - did Craig say when you offered…?” I trailed off.

“Well, he said he would thoroughly enjoy it, but couldn’t.  Because he promised himself, and you, that nothing would ever happen again.”

“Hmmm,” I paused.  “I guess that’s honest.”

“Yeah.  He was even boned.  Said he couldn’t help it.” 

I was about to ask more when Coach Dale got our attention.

“Are you two going to get back to practice, or should I get you some tea and crumpets?”  He looked thoroughly miffed and we immediately separated.  Coach Dale picked up on our relationship over the summer.  He has been chill, but did warn us not to let it become a distraction because that would hurt the team and our performance.

***

It wasn’t long after resuming my routine that I felt moisture between my cheeks.  Damn!  Cam’s load was leaking out.  I tried to discreetly scratch, to have my underwear soak it up.  It was going to be hard to practice with… being so squishy. 

The undies thing worked, but for only a moment.  I reached back and couldn’t believe that even my shorts were wet.  Cam must have saved up a huge fucking load since Saturday.  I’m sure he didn’t have time to jerk yesterday.  Maybe it would have been better, at least for this current dilemma, if Craig HAD gotten him off in the hot tub.

I wiped again with my shorts.  I made a mental note that condoms would be a good idea if we fucked again directly before practice, or at least have him finish in my mouth.  That isn’t gross, is it?  Hopefully anyone who notices will just assume it’s sweat from working out. 

I tried to focus on my routine.  It was my turn to work the pommel horse.  Thankfully, it took my mind off Cam’s jizz soaking my Calvin’s.  But, all that moving around, with my legs spread…  ugh.  I finally dismounted and realized that not only had I leaked more, but some managed to make it all the way to my leg.  Fucking gravity!

That was both uncomfortable and embarrassing.  I signaled Cam to grab some paper towels or something, but it was too late, and he didn’t notice. 

“Why is your butt so damn wet?  You haven’t been going at it that hard.”  Spencer stated. 

“Why are you checking out my ass so closely, Spence?”  I responded, turning away from him.

He giggled.  “Duh.  You know you’re hot.  Besides, I might be a bottom, but I’m still gay.  I check out every boy’s butt.  And bulge.”

I shook my head.  “You never know, once you get to do the fucking you might like it more.”

“I doubt it, but it’ll be fun to find out.”  He was now standing next to me, and bent over.  Is he fucking sniffing my ass like a dog?

Spencer gasped.  “Jesus fucking Christ!  That’s not sweat, it’s cum!”  Before I knew it, he scooped my leg with his finger and put it in his mouth.  My God, his raunchiness in that moment was simultaneously revolting and arousing. 

“For fuck’s sake Spence, shut up!”  I explained, shifting my eyes around the gym.  “And don’t eat cum when you don’t know where it came from.”

He shrugged his shoulders.  “I know where it came from.  Your butthole, which I’ve tasted before.  Remember?”  He stated.  I did; he ate me out in the shower at our last sleepover.  “And before that, it was in Cam’s balls.  Am I right?”  He had a huge grin on his face.

I blushed.  “Well, uh, yeah.”

He elbowed me.  “That’s so hot.  So, he fucked you before practice?  I wish I could have been there to watch.  And join in,” Spence started rambling.  “So you guys always breed?  I wish I knew how that felt.  It looks so hot in porn.  You guys should breed me.  First one, then the other.  I can’t wait until I can spooge.”

He has such a single-track mind, in a very ADHD way, but I guess I can’t blame him.  I love being cummed in. 

“Down boy.  Take a breath.”  I know I’ve joked he’s the horniest kid in Minnesota, but he’d probably take the crown for the whole Great Lakes or Midwest regions.  His libido is unreal for someone who is still so underdeveloped. 

He smiled.  “Can we sneak into the locker room so I can rim you?”  Spence asked.  “They call that felching in porn.  It’s so hot.”  Who the fuck is this kid?  How does he know so much more than me?  I’ve never even heard of that term, much less thought about doing it.  As much as I enjoy sex, I have to say, it hadn’t occurred to lick Cam after finishing inside of him.  I guess I am a little curious, but it’s not like the desire is strong right after you cum. 

I admit letting him, uh, clean me up would probably be fun, but I found his boorish horniness more funny than erotic.  Here I was having a potentially humiliating moment, and all he could think about was getting off. 

“Coleman!  I’ve already talked to you once.  Get your ass moving, or I’m going to call your mom and send you home!”  Coach bellowed.  “Be a better role model for your younger teammates.”

I nodded.  “Yes sir, sorry, I just need to run to the restroom.  Must be something I ate.”

Spence looked at me eagerly.  I glared.  “Don’t even think about it.  Stay here and get back to work.”

He looked dejected, but took his place on the bars.

***

The rest of practice was uneventful.  After a busy weekend, long day of school, worrying about Noah, getting forcefully fucked, disappointing Craig (and Dale), fending off Spence, and a tough workout, I was exhausted and still had homework to finish.  The ride home was quiet.  I swear I saw Kim smile at us in the rear-view mirror while we held hands.

I gave Mom a quick hug before devouring dinner and showering.  I was just finishing my social studies worksheet when my phone buzzed.  It was Jackson.  Oh boy.

Jackson: Noahs alive but it was bad so don't give him any shit for awhile

Fuck.  Noah is always up for being teased, it’s kind of our thing.

Me: shit, what happened

Jackson: I don’t want to get into it, he can tell you if he wants but I've never seen dad like that

Adam was usually really nice, but I have seen his temper before and he can be scary when he gets loud.  If Jackson didn’t want to tell me it must have been intense.

Jackson: anyway I know you were worried.  Sorry I didn’t check in sooner, been distracted

Me: Thanks.  Let me know if anything else happens

Well, fucking wonderful.  It’ll be a miracle if I get any sleep.

***

I did toss and turn, concerned for Noah, but eventually succumbed.  I woke up groggier than normal, so maybe it would be a good thing I could come straight home before practice and sneak in a nap.

I waited at Noah’s locker.  His bus always seems to arrive after mine. 

Before Noah could arrive, Ashley came up to me.  “Hey Max,” she said smiling, before covering her mouth to cough.  “I was home sick yesterday.  I think my cousin gave me his cold.”

“We wondered where you were,” I replied.  “Noah and me, I mean.”

“What the eff is going on with him, anyway?  He hasn’t answered any of my messages,” she stated, obviously irritated.  “You were weird Saturday, and now he’s ghosting me.”

“Shit!” I answered.  I forgot to tell her yesterday, even though I told Noah I would.  I’m a terrible friend.  “He doesn’t have his phone.  His ‘rents took it away.  I was supposed to text you yesterday, but I totally forgot.  He’s going to kill me.”

I could see her breathe a sigh of relief.  “Oh, good.  I was worried he was upset or something.”

I shook my head.  “It's funny.  He got in trouble because he spaced doing a chore and popped off to his mom, but it was because he was stressed you hadn’t responded to his text Sunday night and was all worked up about that.”  Maybe ‘funny’ wasn’t the right word, but it was definitely ironic and so middle school.

Ashley grinned.  She seemed to enjoy knowing her silence worried Noah.  Fucking girls.  “Yeah, I was worn out, so I zonked out super early,” she explained.  “Hey, I need to run to my locker.  I’ll swing back in a few.”

I waited several more minutes before Noah finally rushed up, out of breath.  “Damn bus was late, there was a wreck that backed up traffic.  Have you seen Ashley?”

“Yeah, she was just here a minute ago.  She went to get her stuff and said she would come back on her way to class.  She was sick yesterday.”

“Like you said, I guess,” he answered as he pulled open his locker.

“So, uh, how did it go with your dad, anyway?” I asked with trepidation.

“Who?”

“Your father…” I answered.

He mumbled something under his breath that I couldn’t understand.

“Huh?” I asked.

“Nothing!” he shouted.  “I don’t want to fucking talk about it,” he added, slamming his locker. 

Whoa!  That is so unlike Noah.  Jackson said it was bad, but still, I was taken aback by his attitude towards me.  It’s not like it was my fault.  I was just trying to be a friend.  Hormones suck. 

Before I could respond, Ashley approached.  “There you are,” she managed to say through a cough. 

Whatever bitterness he was displaying was quickly buried for Ashley.  “Hi,” he said smiling.  “I hear you were sick.  I hope you’re feeling better,” he said, taking her hand.

“I’ll survive.  Walk me to class?”

“Of course.  Later Max.”

“Yeah, bye Max.”

I really wanted to find out more, but I guess it will have to wait.  Filling me in was clearly not the priority.  I wonder if this is how Noah felt when Cam and I started pairing off?

***

I checked my phone as I began to walk.  I had a snap from OlyGuy.  “They really do make a cute couple, don’t they?” his message read.  Fucking unnerving!  “I’m not allowed to date until 16, but it wouldn’t matter since my parents will flip over it being with another guy, at any age.”

I froze and looked around.  The hallways were already emptying.  I didn’t see anyone who was on my list, but damn!  He’d been that close to me the whole time and clearly watched Noah and Ashley walk off.  That has to mean his locker is near Noah’s, right?  Or he’s following me.  Or, maybe it’s as simple as he just saw them further down the hall. 

“Oh and good morning.  Have a nice day,” his next message read.

I rushed to class.  I wish last night hadn’t been so hectic, because I really should have texted him before bed.  His comment about not being allowed to date until 16 seemed really strict, but he has said his parents are very religious so maybe I shouldn’t be surprised.

I’m worried I’ll never figure out who he is.  My mind wandered, and I pondered changing my tact.  Perhaps if I enticed him with some dirty talk?  How would he react if I told him about getting fucked bare and having Cam’s cum drip out of my ass, only to be gathered up and tasted by Spencer?  I bet that would put him on the defensive, but he’s probably NOT ready for that.  I’m not trying to make him uncomfortable, but not knowing is driving me crazy. 

***

The rest of the school day was uneventful.  Noah was withdrawn at lunch, barely speaking to anyone.  I wanted to ask more and get him to talk, but a noisy lunch table with the guys just wasn’t the place.  After we cleaned up, he managed to disappear.  I think he was avoiding me because he knows I’ll probe.  Maybe I can talk to him after school, via Jackson.  But honestly, he probably just needs space.

Seb’s parents cleared the sleepover for Friday - so he and Jamie were geeking out over their plans to upgrade his computer with spare parts Seb had at his house.  “We can really do that?  By ourselves?” Jamie asked. 

“Yeah, sure.  It’s easy,” Seb answered.  “I’m going to turn you into a computer nerd.”

I may not be Spencer-level deviant, but my mind is definitely perverted.  I wanted to joke about how Jamie had several other things on his mind they could do ‘by themselves’.  Or perhaps how Seb is already turning Jamie into something new and different.  But, I bit my tongue and grinned at their blossoming…  whatever the hell this is.

***

In Mrs. Hickman’s class, I swear to God Krew was staring at me!  It was almost as if he knew I had guessed he might be gay.  Every time I turned around to glance at him, he was looking right at me.  Maybe it really is him!  Or maybe he saw me staring at him first and thinks I’m being weird.  I have to admit, he really is kind of cute and has always been nice.  If it did turn out to be him, I wouldn’t be disappointed.  I mean….  I’d totally invite him to a borgy!

God, I hate this.  Maybe I can talk to this OlyGuy after school.  I’ve got to figure this out.

***

I waited until I got home to even open Snapchat.  I had a message from OlyGuy waiting.  “You seem agitated.  Something bothering you?”  He added three crying face emojis.

I couldn’t let him know his little game was annoying me.

Me: Me?  Nah.  Why do you say that?

OlyGuy88:  You seemed distracted

Me: Where?  When?

OlyGuy88: At school

Me: WHERE at school???

OlyGuy88:  Hmm… better not say but I saw you several times

There was only one class I remember being distracted and that was in English with Krew.  Okay, and in Art, I just wasn’t into creating today.  I was spacing off there too.  But, I guess I was worried about Noah too, so there could have been some moments throughout the day. 

Me: Why not?  Do we have a class together?

OlyGuy88:  I never said that

Me: But do we

OlyGuy88:  Maybe

Me: You’re such a tease

OlyGuy88:  I know

Me: Are you ever going to tell me who you are?

OlyGuy88:  Eventually.  Or maybe you’ll guess right one of these days

Me88: You’re really not Krew??

OlyGuy88:  Def not

Me: Can I guess again?

OlyGuy88:  Sure

Next up on my list was Henry from art class - the quiet Korean boy.  Honestly, it was the only other guess I had at the moment.

Me: Ok, Henry

OlyGuy88:  Who is Henry?  We have a Henry at our school?

Me:  Yes.  Skinny, quiet, Asian kid

OlyGuy88:  Sorry, nope.  I better go

Me: Wait

OlyGuy88: what? 

Me: Don’t go

OlyGuy88:  ok

Me: Lets talk

OlyGuy88: sure, about what

Me: Well… maybe tell me when you realized you like other boys

OlyGuy88:  Hmm.  Well, I guess I always had a hint, but didn’t really really get it until last year.  You? 

Me: I’ve known a while

OlyGuy88:  I tried praying to make it stop, to change and turn away from sin, but…

I immediately thought about Mr. Tim’s advice.  How I could use my coming out for good - to support other kids who might be struggling, like OlyGuy.  I knew I should try to reassure him.

Me: my mentor says you can’t change what you are attracted to.  It’s as much as part of you as your height

Craig told me that.  But so did Mr. Tim and Mrs. Hickman.  Come to think of it, I think Mom and basically every adult in my life realizes that, too.  My dad may be a homophobic prick, but compared to OlyGuy, I’m pretty well accepted.  I couldn’t help but feel sorry for him.  Still, I had the feeling he would cringe if he knew I was pitying him.

OlyGuy88: yeah, I’m kind of figuring that out

Me: So you shouldn’t try so hard to be something you’re not

OlyGuy88:  I wish it were that easy

Me: It is… if you try

OlyGuy88:  Not if people around you are going to hate you

Me:  your fam?

OlyGuy88:  Yeah

Me: They are really going to HATE you?

OlyGuy88:  They won’t like it…lets just say that

Me: That’s not the same as hating you

OlyGuy88:  close.  Is your family ok with it?

Me: Mom yeah.  My dad doesn’t know… but I don’t really care what he thinks.  he’s a homophobe though

It took a while for his reply.  But I kept getting the indicator that he was typing.  Finally, his reply appeared.

OlyGuy88:  Is it true?

Me: What?

OlyGuy88:  That your dad is in prison?

Ugh.  I didn’t reply right away.  I guess I’ve been asking him all sorts of stuff, so it’s only fair he’d be curious.  I decided to be honest but vague. 

Me: Yeah.  What he did was messed up

OlyGuy88:  Yeah, for real.  If my dad did something like that, I don’t think I could show my face.  I’d be mortified

Me: last year was rough.  Nobody really said anything but still.  I knew they knew.  It was good practice for being the out gay kid

OlyGuy88:  I can’t believe how strong you are.  I mean mentally and stuff

Me:  Thanks… and hey, I’m pretty strong physically too

OlyGuy88:  yeah, I’ve noticed, but I have enough self-restraint than to grope your muscles like Mariah.  I think I could still bench press you easily lol

Mariah felt me up at the S.N.O.  and in the hall that following week, but it just went to show how close he can be, watching, and still not noticeable. 

Me: lol thanks for that.  She can be so thirsty

OlyGuy88: girls, I don’t get the appeal

Me: So you’re really not Henry

OlyGuy88: I’m not asian.  Or scrawny.  Sorry.  You probably only like skinny boys like your bf

Me:  I’m attracted to a lot of different guys actually.  I’m not picky, at least so long as they aren’t shitty.  And Cam may be fit, but he’s pretty built.  I’ve never thought of him as skinny

He’d probably die of shock if I told him I’ve even been attracted to grown men.  He may think he understands, but there’s no way he’d understand sex with Craig… or Chad.  At least with gay boys I know, that doesn’t seem very common.  Although Cam doesn’t seem totally closed to the idea, Spence would do anything, and Seb might have been into whatever happened with his teacher.  So maybe it isn’t that odd after all.  Still, OlyGuy seems more sheltered and riddled with guilt.  I know I need to tread lightly and not overwhelm him. 

OlyGuy88:  Cool.  It’s nice you aren’t shallow

Me:  So you’re strong?  And you’re really not Krew?

OlyGuy88:  Krew couldn’t bench press a heavy book lol.  Lets just say i’m…sturdier

Me: yeah he is pretty small.  Cute tho

OlyGuy88:  yeah kinda, but like I said, he’s obsessed with girls

Me: girls are SO overrated. 

I added an eye roll emoji for effect

OlyGuy88: totally, but I better go, I have to get hw done before I head out

Me: to?

OlyGuy88: to what?

Me: where are you going?

OlyGuy88:  oh… maybe i’ll tell you tomorrow

Me: TEASE!

OlyGuy88: I know.  Sorry. 

OlyGuy88:  Max?

Me: Yeah?

OlyGuy88:  I like talking to you about this stuff. 

He added a single smiley face emoji

Me: Well it will be easier if I knew who the f you are!  We could talk you know… in person even lol

OlyGuy88:  Soon hopefully

Me: When?

OlyGuy88: idk… we’ll do lunch.  Laters

With that, he went offline. 

I guess I know a little more.  He’s not skinny.  Strong.  Maybe he wrestles or plays football or hockey?  Or maybe he just lifts weights?  He did mention being able to bench press me.  It’s also possible he’s just chunky.  Regardless, knowing he’s bigger narrows it down some…  unless, of course, he’s just lying about everything to throw me off. 

I re-read our chat and I was surprised by how naturally it flowed.  Even him asking about my father didn’t really bother me like it normally does.  He didn’t seem nosy, rude, or judgmental like some people.  I know Cam and Noah are worried he may be fucking with me, but the more I talk with OlyGuy, the more I like him.  There’s just something genuine and likable about him, I can’t put my finger on it. 

Suddenly, I remembered one of my first suspicions was Ryker.  He seemed totally confused when I talked to him, but that could have been by design and he actually ticks quite a few of the boxes.  He’s nice, smart, I know I’ve had PE with him, and he shot up quickly so he isn’t short or skinny.  Plus, he’s quiet so he doesn’t always stand out despite being taller than most of the guys, and we’re on the same team and have classes together.  It definitely seemed plausible… but, I don’t know that I would describe him as sturdy.  He has an average build.  I haven’t seen him shirtless for a couple years, but he doesn’t seem ripped or anything.  Possible?  Sure.  An exact fit?  Not so much.

***

I texted Jackson and asked if he would let Noah use his phone to talk to me.  He replied that Noah declined, explaining he was tired and would talk to me tomorrow, unless it was something important.  Damn.  Noah must really be in a funk.  I wanted to talk to him and cheer him up, but I couldn’t think of ‘something important’ and I didn’t want to annoy him.  Still, it kind of hurt.  I can’t remember a time he didn’t want to talk to me. 

“Don’t worry,” Jackson texted.  “He’ll be okay in a day or two.  I’ll kick his ass if he keeps being emo longer than that.”  At least I knew Jackson was keeping an eye on him, as only a big brother could.  I had my doubts whether he could actually make Noah come around.  Even if Jackson is well intended, he’s more likely to piss him off.

***

I texted Cam as well, but he was in the middle of homework and was trying to finish it before practice.  Some kids would love to have an excuse to procrastinate, but Cam’s not like that.  When he’s busy, he doesn’t want to be bothered, even by me.  Not to say he wouldn’t allow an intrusion for something of importance, but he isn’t big on idle, small talk.  Cam says putting things off he knows need to be taken care of makes him anxious. 

He told me we would catch up on the way to and during practice and reminded me that Craig was picking me up at 5:30.  It was just as well, I needed to do my own homework. 

***

I had a snack and was waiting for Craig when he pulled up.  I jumped in the back with Cam and we exchanged a brief hug. 

“So, what’s new with your stalker?”  Craig randomly asked as he pulled away.

“‘Stalker’?” I asked.  I’m not sure what he meant, but I assumed he was talking about Chad for some reason.

“He means Oly Guy,” Cam explained.  “We talked about him last night.”

I was relieved.  I really didn’t want to think about Chad.  But, it also occurred to me I hadn’t mentioned OlyGuy to Craig.  It felt weird knowing Cam and Craig were up late talking about my life. 

I gave them a recap of today’s Oly Guy developments, how I guessed Henry and discovered he was ‘sturdy’ and not Asian.

“Hmmm,” Craig commented.  “He keeps narrowing it down for you.  It’s clear he wants you to know who he is.  Eventually.”

I hope ‘eventually’ is soon, because frankly, it’s driving me crazy.

***

During practice, Cam suggested we ask Craig’s permission for me to come over tomorrow after school.  “We need to ask nicely and let him know we don’t just assume it’s allowed,” he suggested.  He’s right, of course.

Practice was uneventful.  It was so much easier focusing without Cam’s seed dripping out of me.  I was sure Spencer would have something filthy to say after last night’s debacle, but he was chill.  I wondered if Cam cornered him and told him to knock it off.

On the way home, I asked Craig if he had talked to Noah.  I knew he probably hadn’t, and honestly, I hoped he would.  If anyone can help get him back on track, it’s Craig.  I explained how down Noah has been.

“He’s probably just upset about missing the fishing trip,” Craig commented.  “But… I’ll see what I can find out.”  I hoped he’d provide an update, because Jackson wasn’t forthcoming.  Lisa and Adam like me, but I’m not an exception to the rules when Noah gets in trouble.  Craig is. 

We drove in silence for a couple miles before Cam elbowed me and nodded towards Craig.  “You,” I whispered.  Dealing with adults is his strength, not mine. 

“No, YOU,” he grumbled back, tersely.  I’m sure there’s some reason Cam thinks I should ask Craig for permission, instead of him, but I can’t fathom why it matters.  I decided to defer to his instincts.

“Craig, may I please, you know, come home with Noah tomorrow… to your house?”  I asked sheepishly.  For some reason, it was suddenly embarrassing to ask.  He’s always been encouraging of us having sex, but it felt weird asking after he got pissed at us Monday. 

“Hmmm,” Craig answered, before going silent.  His lack of an immediate response had my mind racing, concerned he was going to make us wait or just flat out reject our request.  He was pretty disappointed.

“You both promise to be more careful, should you engage in any sexual activities?” he asked.

“Yes sir,” Cam and I answered excitedly.  We smiled at each other. 

“Okay then,” he replied.  “However, if we have a recurrence of Monday, don’t ever expect to have the opportunity under my roof again.  Understand?” 

“Yes sir,” we both eagerly agreed.  We knew we would have to be careful, and not just to avoid Kim.  I also didn’t want a repeat of the leakage incident.

***

I sent Oly Guy a message before showering.  “I hope you had fun, wherever you went.”

I had no response by the time I dried off, so I wished him good night, plugged in my phone, and flopped into bed. 

I may not have slept well earlier in the week, but I crashed almost immediately and slept so soundly I didn’t hear my alarm and Mom had to wake me up so I wouldn’t miss the bus.  I didn’t even have time to pack my lunch. 

***

I still had no answer from OG by the time I got to school.  I was starting to think I’d asked too many personal questions and he’d grown nervous about revealing himself.  It didn’t bother me that he didn’t answer last night because he could have been asleep already, but why nothing this morning?

I saw Noah briefly before he was whisked away by Ashley.  “What did you want yesterday?”

“Nothing really,” I answered.  “You just seemed out of it.  I just thought maybe I could cheer you up.”

He let out a heavy sigh.  “Thanks, I guess.  I’ll be fine…”  He didn’t sound confident in his response at all. 

“Well, if you want to talk,” I said, offering a fist bump, which he returned, albeit with little enthusiasm.

He did seem to cheer up for Ashley, at least.  I guess he doesn’t want her to worry or think he’s cringey.

***

While not allowed, I took a chance and snuck a glance at my phone one final time before ducking into my first class.  Still nothing from Oly Guy.  I was starting to worry he got discovered by his parents and had his phone taken away.  That would be so bad for him, I hope it wasn’t true. 

When I opened my locker after science, a note fell out of it.  It was a folded piece of paper with my name written on the outside.  I immediately assumed the worst and envisioned someone making a threat or gay bashing.

When I opened it, I was shocked to see it said “From OG” on the first line.  It included a clue.  “I was at practice last night… fyi.  Also thanks for wishing me good night.  That was nice.”

He signed it off with “See ya” and a smiley face. 

I darted my eyes around the hall, to see if anyone was watching, but didn’t notice anything out of the ordinary.  I quickly folded and stuffed it in my pocket.

What the hell?  It made no sense.  My first class is right around the corner from my locker and I was almost late.  When would he have had time to shove the note in through the vent slots?  Was he watching me so closely he managed that and still got to his class on time?  It’s possible he could have beat me to my locker, gone to the bathroom during first period, or even slipped it in before school and I just didn’t notice.

I scurried to social studies, my heart pounding, trying to figure it out.  Maybe he came to school late, after class began?  That might explain why he didn’t text me this morning.  Or, he had to go to the orthodontist or something?  Jesus!  Why do I care so much?!

***

I carefully pulled the note out in social studies to further study it, when I was supposed to be reading about the Constitutional Convention.  The penmanship was nearly impeccable.  It was printed very neatly.  He didn’t hastily write this while meandering down the hall.  I had this familiar feeling that I’ve seen that handwriting before, but I couldn’t place from where.  Of course, I was probably just imagining it, hoping to finally narrow down the mystery. 

***

Noah’s mood seemed marginally improved by lunch.  Perhaps he’s beginning to snap out of it.  I wouldn’t say he’s back to normal, but at least he talked a little on our walk to the lunch room.  I decided to push things and see if he’d open up about whatever transpired with his father.

“How are things at home?  You know, with your dad?”  I asked tentatively.

Noah grunted derisively.  “I’m never talking to him again, so there’s that,” he fumed.  “Fuck him and the horse he rode in on.”

Whoa, okay, so Noah isn’t better.  I knew better than to push.

I regretted being lazy last night and sleeping in this morning.  The food options were not great.  Subway was already sold out and the other entree looked like slop.

Mr. Tim came into the cafeteria as I was finishing my lunch.  Well, okay, I didn’t really finish it, but I was done.  Some school lunches are okay, but the beef stroganoff is… not very good. 

Our table commentary included the usual litany of jokes about ejaculating bulls and ‘stroking off’ in general, which honestly wasn’t abnormal conversation for us.  Seb was quiet but didn’t blush or recoil.  Reese made a dumb joke asking whether I preferred bovine or boy cum more, which we all groaned at.  I swear I saw Tim roll his eyes before he stopped by our table and checked in with Noah, who managed to put up a good front.

As he chatted with my best friend, I had a brilliant idea.

“Mr. Tim, can I talk with you… alone?”

Noah shot me a death glare, assuming I was going to ask Mr. Tim to talk to him or something.  I shook my head.  “It’s not about you,” I whispered.

“What’s up, Max?” he asked once we were alone in the foyer. 

“This,” I said, showing him the note.

He quickly read it and gave me a look of confusion.  Then he stared into the lunch room.  Someone must have been doing something wrong.  “I don’t get it.”

I explained the whole Oly Guy story - starting with the suggestive Snapchat message and how we’ve been talking more and more.  “Remember how you told me I could be a positive role model or support other gay kids struggling?”  I asked.

“Yeah, and I think you can, but I’m not sure what you’re getting at.”  I wasn’t sure if he was being intentionally dense or what, but did he really not understand what I was hoping for? 

“The school has cameras, right?  In the hallways?”

“Of course,” he answered, still playing dumb.  “Dozens.”

“Well, you can look and see who put this in my locker, right?”

He gave me a quizzical look.  He didn’t seem quite sure how to respond. 

Finally, Mr. Tim spoke.  “I could, but it isn’t necessary.  He’s a fine young man who will reveal himself to you on HIS terms.  Don’t force it and scare him off,” he warned.  “It’s actually kind of cool… he's reaching out and putting his trust in you.”  For a moment I thought he almost said a name, before catching himself.

Mr. Tim’s response struck me as odd.  How would he know OG was a ‘fine young man’?  It’s almost like he already knew who it was.  I was suspicious again.  The handwriting sure was neat, definitely not like a typical eighth grade boy.  Was it some adult fucking with me after all?  Hell, I suppose it could even be Mr. Tim. 

The handwriting could be a huge, new clue and it really was almost too good to be someone my age - unless it was a girl.  I hadn’t thought about that angle before.  Would Mariah go to all this trouble just to get a nude or something?  I wracked my brain trying to remember what Mr. Tim’s handwriting looked like. 

No, that’s fucking nuts and totally paranoid.  Get a grip, Max. 

“Um… yeah, I guess,” I answered.  “It’s just driving me crazy and I thought you could help narrow it down.”  I snatched the note back, not wanting to forfeit my best evidence. 

He smirked.  “You said you started talking with him Friday night.  It’s Wednesday.  Less than five days and he’s already leaving you notes at school.  He won’t stay hidden much longer,” Tim tried to reassure me.  “Now go enjoy the rest of your lunch and keep making colorful jokes with your friends.  Just remind them to keep it PG-13 at school,” he added with a wink.  I blushed and slinked away, feeling dumb for even asking and more curious than ever. 

***

The rest of the school day was a blur.  I just wasn’t engaged or able to focus in any class.  Mrs. Hickman seemed to realize I was off because she kept smiling at me.  I wondered if Tim told her.  They seem to communicate pretty regularly.  She said we were due for a seating chart change, and even had our tables rearranged into groups of two with four chairs.

I was moved to the back corner by the windows.  I was hoping Reese and I would be seated next to each other, but no luck.  He was assigned to sit by Krew and this obnoxious, chunky boy named Ashton who annoyed the shit out of everyone.  I try to be nice, but I was glad I didn’t get stuck with him.  Instead, I was put next to a couple of quiet girls and Liam, who seemed as disinterested in class as I was.  He spent most of class fidgeting with a ring, which I noticed had “CTR” inscribed on it, whatever that means.  At least I had a view of the track and field from my new vantage point.  It’s nice to have scenery when you’re spacing out.

I didn’t even make much progress on my art project.  I could tell my teacher was a little irritated.  Oh well.

I made a beeline for Noah’s bus and sent OG a message.  “You have nice handwriting,” I wrote.  I decided to not wait for banter and just offer my daily guess.  I remembered thinking that assuming it’s a homophobe might be the smart move in case this was all a head fake.  “My guess today is Aidan G.”

Meanwhile, Noah was lamenting about how unfair it was that he and Ashley couldn’t talk after school because of his grounding.

“I have to do chores as soon as I get home,” he complained.  “They gave me a whole list.  At least I don’t have much homework tonight.”  His tone was barely above a grumble. 

I mumbled something about that sucking, but Noah was still quiet and bitter.  He spent most of the time staring out the window.  Is it bad I had a lingering thought that he might feel better if he fucked an ass again?

Meanwhile, it wasn’t long before I saw Oly Guy was typing a response.  Instead of receiving a quick response, the bubble appeared and disappeared several times.  Several minutes later, his response appeared.  “No.  Why would you think I’m that loser?  He’s mean and rude.”

He seemed annoyed.  Did that really offend him?

I decided to laugh it off.  “Lol sorry, just throwing stuff at the wall and seeing what sticks.  I thought maybe it was someone who pretended to be homophobic… I hear that’s a thing.  I figured you were too smart and nice to be him.”

He saw my message - of that I’m sure - but didn’t respond.  I thought it was odd.

I also texted Cam to see if he was on his way.  I couldn’t wait to be with him and have him inside me again.  “I’m almost here.  We get out early on Wednesday, remember?”

Actually, I totally forgot.  “Sweet, our bus is just leaving.  Be there soon.  I want you soooo bad.”

“Ha… don’t worry, you’ll get it,” he replied with an eggplant emoji.

My anticipation built as the bus meandered through the neighborhood, Noah still morose.  I thought about engaging him, but his eyes were closed and he seemed like he was deep in thought.  I left him alone.

We were just pulling away from the first drop off when I received another text from Cam.  “By the way, Craig is home already.”

“What?  Crap!” I replied.  Normally I’d be thrilled to see Craig, but a boy has needs, you know?  It isn’t often Cam and I have opportunities during the school week, and we’ve both been looking forward to this afternoon. 

“Yeah.  Try not to act disappointed,” he answered.

***

Noah’s house is a couple blocks away from his stop.  “You seemed distracted on the bus,” I commented as we made our way down the sidewalk. 

“Huh?”

“Your eyes were closed,” I explained.  “And you were very quiet.”

“I’m just tired,” he muttered.  “I haven’t really been sleeping well.”  I definitely understood that.  When everything was blowing up, I had several nights where I would wake up and be unable to fall back asleep.  But that all changed once the issues were resolved.  Noah just needs to reset.  I only wish I had the words to help him.  I tried to think of something to say, but I came up empty.

Soon it was time for me to peel off to Craig’s house.  “I’ll see you tomorrow,” I said with a wave.

“Later,” he mumbled as he walked on.  “Max,” he called out a few seconds later.  “Thanks.”

I nodded and smiled.  I’m not sure what he was thanking me for exactly, but I was glad to be there for him.  It made me feel better he realized I was trying.

***

“Hey Craig, hi Cam” I said, coming through the door and seeing them in the kitchen.  Cam was at the table eating an apple doing homework. 

“Hey sport,” Craig answered as I gave him a hug.  “Sorry to be home so early and barge into your alone time.  There was a water main break at work and we were all sent home.”

I remembered Cam’s advice to not seem disappointed.  “It’s okay,” I replied, mustering some feigned enthusiasm.  I felt like a jerk for being disappointed, but you feel what you feel.  Still, I wanted to seem nonchalant.  “It is your house after all.  Thanks again for letting me come over.  We’ll be good, I promise.”

“Is Noah any better today?” he asked.

“A little,” I explained.  “He’s starting to come around.”  I wasn’t sure I totally believed it myself.

“Good.  Now that he’s home, I’m going to hop over and say hello and then take him to get a treat.  I should be gone for at least, say… 37 minutes,” he said, grinning at me. 

‘“37 minutes’?” I asked.  How strangely specific.  He was basically telling us to go at it.  I couldn’t believe it.  I’d all but assumed it wasn’t going to happen today.

“Yes.  Kim is working late,” he answered.  “Carpe Diem, Max!” he added with a whisper, patting me on the back.

I had no idea what that meant.

“It’s Latin for ‘seize the day’,” he explained.  “Have fun,” he added with a wink before heading towards the door.

I glanced at Cam, who was grinning.  He’d already put his pencil down and stood.  I let my backpack slide to the floor and bolted upstairs.  I heard the front door shut, then the sound of Cam flying up the stairs.

I stood, waiting for him by the end of the bed.  He entered the room, breathing deeply from his sprint.

“I’m horny,” he announced as he wrapped me in an embrace, pushing his hand inside my shirt - not unlike at the dance.  He flicked my nipples and nuzzled my neck.  He didn’t need to tell me he was horny.  I could sense it.  And his gray slacks were tented.

Our tongues darted in and out of each other’s mouth as our hands ran up and down each other's torsos.  I was already gasping for air.  I wanted to get my clothes off and get to what was next, both because I was so turned on, and I still had in the back of my head we needed to be 100% sure Kim wouldn’t catch us.  Craig said she was working late, but still.

I began to tug at my shorts.  “Slow down,” Cam ordered.  “I want to be sensual and undress you.  Relax.  Mrs. Peters texted me that Craig would be taking us to practice because she has to work late.” 

I loved the idea of him undressing me, but the ‘slow’ part concerned me.  I didn’t want to be mid-fuck when Craig returns.  37 minutes goes by quicker than you think, especially if you lose track of time.  “We still need to be done before Craig gets back,” I reminded him.

“Don’t worry,” he answered.  “I’ll take care of this in no time.”  He pulled off my shirt and threw it on the floor.  He rubbed my groin through the mesh.

He gently pulled down my shorts and tongued my glans through its cage of underwear.  I could feel his hot breath through the cotton.  I was so fucking aroused… my cock was throbbing and my heart raced.  I wanted to free my dick and shove it into his eagerly waiting mouth.  I stopped myself, and let him direct the action.  I prefer it that way, and so does he. 

He granted my wish a few moments later, engulfing my boyhood in his mouth with my underwear pulled down only to my thighs.  Jesus!  It took all my control not to blow immediately.

He sucked me for a minute before forcing me back onto the bed.  He pushed my legs back and dove in, licking me all over… starting with my balls and working down until his tongue was tickling my butthole.  He was driving me crazy!  As much as I loved his mouth, I wanted - no, I NEEDED - his cock in me.  “Jesus Cam, fuck me!  Please?”

He stood, almost laughing.  “I love when you beg.”

He pulled some petroleum jelly from under the bed and slathered a thick layer on his cock and my hole.  I pulled my legs back even further, presenting my ass for the impending penetration.  I didn’t hate when he just used spit on Monday, but I was relieved he applied actual lubricant this time.  He pushed the head of his cock down against my anus and leaned forward.  POP… in it went, pushing deep until his smooth balls were against my hairless cheeks. 

“Oh God yes!” I exclaimed as he slid past my prostate.  I wrapped my legs around his back, locking my ankles.  “Give it to me.”  At that moment I didn’t even care if he jizzed inside of me.  In fact, I wanted him to.  I’ll deal with leaking at practice if I have to.  I can fold up some toilet paper and stuff it in my underwear.  “I need to be fucked, hard,” I whimpered.

“This isn’t going to be like Monday,” he explained as he slowly pulled out.  “We’re making love today, not fucking.”

Rather than the athletic and frantic pounding I’ve become accustomed to, Cam inched back in.  Once he was pushed to the hilt, he leaned over and kissed my lips.  Soon his tongue was back in my mouth, but he was gentle, almost deliberate, as we made out.  I squeezed him as tightly toward me as I could.

“I love you so much,” Cam whispered in my ear, before sucking on my left ear lobe.  He kissed my closed eyes.  “I just want to make you feel as good as you do me.”  He continued his gradual, short jabs.  It was like, rather than hard thrusting in and out, his dick was camped out by my magic button and kept continually tickling and rubbing it just right.

“It feels amazing,” I managed to whine.  My body was electric, almost vibrating with pleasure, but I also felt safe and loved.  I know that’s corny af, but it reminded me of Mexico and being with Craig.  Maybe after my…incident with Chad, I needed this.

“Yeah?  Good.  For me too.”  He rubbed my hair as he continued wiggling inside me.

I looked deep in his eyes.  He returned my gaze and smiled.  We didn’t need any more words.  At that moment, we both gave ourselves to each other.  We were one.

I wish I could tell you how long it went on, this slow burn sex.  We definitely lasted longer than normal, but I was so enraptured in pleasure I didn’t look at the clock.  I didn’t want it to ever end, but the inevitable warmth and pressure in my insides was building.  I would be past the point of no return soon.

“I’m getting close,” I whispered.

Cam immediately leaned back to kiss me as he continued his delicate dance in my insides.  He grabbed my rigid five inches and started slowly working it up and down.  I was oozing badly, and the friction of his palm on my slick penis was too much.  My body shook and my cock erupted, blasting three solid streams of hot cum and dribbling who knows how much more.

As I finished, Cam stopped rubbing and stroking, pulling his cock out.  He climbed onto the bed, straddling my legs.  “We better not do anything to make Spencer hungry,” he commented, laughing, as he began to jerk his cock.  I tried to help him out but he batted my hand away.

He quickly built to climax.  I opened my mouth, eagerly hoping he might blow hard enough to give me a taste.  When he came, he almost made it, but came up a little short (no pun intended), with a few drops landing just under my throat.  I quickly scooped and tasted him as he deposited the rest of his semen on my belly, atop my own. 

He caught his breath and then leaned into me, kissing me as our chiseled abs pressed together, cemented together by our sticky goo.

“I love you, Max,” he told me.

“I love you, too.  That was awesome,” I replied.  It was, too.  I love how two days ago he was playing Mr. Dom, demanding I serve and pleasure him, and today we made love.  I’m not sure I could explain the difference, but I sure understood it now.  I knew I would never get tired of having sex with him.  No two times are the same, but it’s always breathtaking. 

We stayed like that, cuddling, for a few minutes until we both felt our cum beginning to cool.  “We better shower,” I finally suggested.  He agreed.  He jumped up and pulled me toward him, holding my hand as he led me to the bathroom.

***

I checked the time as we hustled downstairs.  It had been 45 minutes since Craig left, and fortunately, we still had the house to ourselves. 

We sat at the kitchen table and got busy doing homework.  We needed to get it done and I know Craig will be happy to see us being industrious.  Or, at least, focused on something besides sex.

It was another 15 minutes before Craig returned.  And he brought Noah with him.  I’m not sure what Craig said, but it was obvious that Noah was happier.  He finished the last few bites of his DQ Blizzard and shook the empty cup at us.  “Sucks to be on strict diets, huh?”  he teased.

Cam jumped up.  I’ve told him how down Noah has been.  “You’ll pay for being so cruel,” Cam admonished him.  But then he gave him the biggest of hugs.  “I’m glad you’re still alive.”

I stood to join them as Craig retreated to his room to change clothes.  “Yeah Noah, keep teasing Cam and he won’t give up his ass to you ever again.”  We all laughed.

“Er, um, I don’t think that’s happening again, anyway,” Noah said, still smiling.

“Right,” Cam replied, “it’s Max’s turn.  I’ll go again next time.”  Cam playfully rubbed Noah’s chest for effect.  “It’s interesting how soft it feels.  It’s so squishy compared to Max.”

“Fuck off, Cam.  You know you loved it.”  Noah playfully retaliated.  “And I like my squish.”

“Yep, and I wasn’t the only one,” Cam teased.  Noah blushed but didn’t say anything else.  “Not that I blame you.  I know how good it feels, which is why we all know it will happen again.  You have to try it without a condom next time.”

We all laughed, even more hysterically.  Before Noah could respond, Craig reappeared and told Noah he shouldn’t push it and offered to walk him home.  I couldn’t help but notice Noah’s mood changed instantly.  He was back to being morose.  I guess his short escape had come to an abrupt end. 

“See you later,” he said solemnly as Craig led him out.  Damn, I thought he was back to normal, but maybe not.

***

On the way to practice, I thanked Craig for working his magic on Noah - even if it was only temporary.  I also gave him the latest Oly Guy updates.  He seemed interested at first, but then tuned out.  I think he thinks the whole thing is a little silly, which I suppose is true… but it’s important to me.  He’ll be interested again once I know who it is. 

Cam and I were both total beasts at practice.  We were satisfied from our romp and I know I was more focused with Noah on the rebound.  Plus, I didn’t have jizz leaking out my ass!  Everything was rocking again… finally!  It’s hard to believe it was just a few days ago that we saw Chad at the pizza place.

Cam and I were walking across the gym after practice when he suddenly stopped and let out a subtle gasp. 

“What?”  I asked.  He was reading his phone.

“Mom wants to call… tonight.” 

I put my arm around him.  “It will be fine.  If she upsets you, call me or talk with Craig.”

“I guess,” he muttered.  “I just wish I knew what she wanted.  It’s been such a killer day too.  Dammit!”

***

Craig offered immediate support and encouragement.  He already knew, somehow, that Cam’s mom would be in contact.  Probably had been texting with Cam’s dad.  Craig even offered to be beside him during the call if it would help.

We rode home in silence.  I’m sure Cam’s mind was on having to talk to his mother.  We held hands and I gave him frequent squeezes.  Sometimes words aren’t needed.  He eventually leaned over and rested his head on my shoulder.  I was surprised how worried he seemed. 

When we pulled into my driveway, Cam walked me toward the door and we savored a long embrace and kiss by the garage.  Craig waited patiently, but I suddenly heard Mom yelling from our porch that my dinner was getting cold.  It startled us into breaking apart. 

She seemed… not upset, but uneasy?  I couldn’t remember whether she’s ever seen Cam and I kiss, but it must have weirded her out, and that’s why she interrupted?  I wasn’t really annoyed, but she’s also going to have to get used to it. 

That being said, Craig just reminded us to be discreet and how not everyone will be happy watching us being affectionate, so I want to be considerate and not make her uncomfortable.  I sure as Hell wouldn’t want to watch her make out with Mr. Lumberjack (or anyone else, for that matter), so I get it.  It’s going to be so cringey if she tries to “discuss things.”  God, why do moms always insist on ‘discussing’ awkward shit? 

Thankfully, she didn’t push it.  She asked about school and practice, and alluded to coming in faster so I could eat and we could have some time together before bedtime, but she didn’t mention Cam specifically.

By the time I went to my room, I still hadn’t heard from OlyGuy.  He did say he had ‘practice’, so maybe he was just busy.  Stil, I was worried I offended him with my most recent guess.  I sent a message asking “what’s up” before my shower.

There was no response before I went to bed or when I awoke.  While waiting at my bus stop, I sent another Snap asking if he was okay and apologizing if he thought I was trying to insult him.  This time he hopped on.

OlyGuy88: I don’t care about that, not really.  But I am a little bothered

Me: why?  Whats wrong

It seemed odd to me that he was suddenly so cold.  I guess we all get moody sometimes, but his entire tone changed.

OlyGuy88: come on max, you know what you did

I was thoroughly confused. 

Me: lol what are you talking about?

His response bubble kept appearing and disappearing again.  He was definitely building up his nerve to say something, or not sure how to say it.

OlyGuy88: I can’t believe you reported me to Mr. Tim.  He yanked me from class and it was so awk.  He was nice but warned me I could lose my position if I misuse my privileges again and they’d have to call my parents.  there’s no way I could explain it without them finding out I’m gay

Fuck.  I didn’t think about that.  And wtf does he mean by ‘position’ or ‘privileges’?  And if Tim talked to him, he definitely knows who OlyGuy is, which makes the whole thing weirder.  Now that I think about it, Tim did have an odd look on his face when he read the note.  He obviously knew whose handwriting it was.

Me: shit I’m sorry I wasn’t trying to get you in trouble, I just thought getting his help would be like a hack to end the game so we can become friends for real

OlyGuy88: it could have outed me.  Tim is cool, but if it had been anyone else… I'm not lucky like you and have a big support network of people who will accept me.  I’m alone.  I thought you understood that

Me:  I didn’t think about that, I’m sorry.  I feel bad

Damn.  Craig talks about how impulsive I can be, but usually that’s about sex.  I wasn’t trying to put him at risk. 

He didn’t respond.  I had a pit in my stomach and didn’t know what to do.  Should I try to talk to Mr. Tim and see if he can intervene?  That clearly blew up when I tried to get his help yesterday, but it also seems like he might be the one person who can help smooth things over.

***

Noah greeted me enthusiastically.  Apparently, he’s back to his normal, chipper self.  I guess either Craig’s pep talk helped, or he gave him solid advice on how to patch things up at home.

Ashley hadn’t arrived yet, so I had his full attention for a few minutes.

“We made up last night,” Noah explained as he opened his locker.  “Dad, I mean.  He apologized for coming at me so hard, and so did I.”

I slapped his back.  “That’s good.  I know how much better I felt when I made things right with Mom.  And Craig,” I responded. 

“Yeah, Craig’s advice worked.  It was a nice night until Jackson called, freaking out about being in an accident.”

Oh shit, I hadn’t heard about that.  I gave him a concerned look.

“He's fine.  Dad says it was just a fender bender and he wasn’t at-fault, but it was still stressful.”

“I’m glad everything is chill again.  You weren’t yourself all week,” I said.

“I know, but I think I had a right to be pissed.  It’s not every day a guy our age gets put over their dad’s knee and whooped with a belt.”  Understandably, he said that part in a whisper so only I could hear.

So THAT is what happened.  Jesus.  No wonder he was so out of sorts.  Adam used a belt?

“Fuck Noah, I’m sorry.  Jackson said it was bad but I didn’t think it went that far.”

Noah shrugged.  “He admitted he shouldn’t have and would never use anything but his hand in the future,” he said.  “Craig said I wasn’t too old to get spanked and I dunno, it’s weird, but that made me feel better.  I mean, he lit you up not long ago so maybe it isn’t the big deal I thought it was?  Of course, I don’t fucking intend to give Dad any reason to do it again.”

I was taken aback how cavalierly he was discussing things.  I knew he was spanked when he was little, but we never even talked about the Grilled Cheese Incident and I was there for that.  He was suddenly so nonchalant after being pissy all week.  Not that I was complaining.  It was good to have him back to normal.

“Did you tell Ashley about it?”  I blurted. 

Clearly, he wasn’t expecting that question, because he looked at me with mortification in his eyes.

“Uh, NO!  She knows I got in trouble and why, but I’m not going to share details,” he stressed.  “And neither are you.  She doesn’t need to know.”

“Yeah, of course,” I agreed.  “I won’t say anything.”

Her ears must have been burning, because it wasn’t five seconds later she tapped him on the shoulder and off they were. 

***

I still felt bad about going to Tim about the note and potentially getting Oly Guy in trouble, so I avoided Snapping him all day.  I’m exhausted thinking about who it could be and just tried to get my homework done.  I didn’t have practice and I wasn’t going to Craig’s, so it would be awesome to have the entire night free to do whatever.  Mom and I haven’t spent much time together this week, either

I was on the bus home, when Oly Guy sent me a message. 

OlyGuy88: What?  No guess today?  I really liked your outfit.  You looked sharp.

I wore joggers and a t-shirt with a button-down lightweight flannel over top.  It was one of my more put together combinations.  Mariah told me I looked sexy… and talking about it definitely makes me feel gay.

Me: I thought you were still mad and I didn’t want to make you uncomfortable

OlyGuy88: Nah, you’re forgiven.  I know you didn’t mean to get me in trouble, and I didn’t really anyway.  Mr. Tim just told me not to sneak a note into a locker again

Me: exactly.  I didn’t even think of that.

OlyGuy88: It is still kind of scary for someone to know, especially an adult

Me: You mean Mr. Tim?

OlyGuy88: yeah.  He’s cool and all it still freaked me out a little.  He talked to me more today.

Me: He did?  When

OlyGuy88: Yeah.  I think he might have felt bad.

Me: I do really like him.

OlyGuy88: Me too.  So no guess?

Me: No.  I’m out of ideas and tired of thinking about it.  We’ll just have to do lunch like you said.

OlyGuy88: Like with a bunch of other kids around?  You wish.  Are you crazy?

I keep forgetting how anxious and deeply closeted he is.  Eating together at school should be no big deal.  Of course, suddenly being seen eating with the gay kid would be noticed, I guessed.

Me: Yeah, why not?  I wasn’t going to suck your dick under the table.  I just want to know who you are and talk.  You seem nice, I think we could be friends

I wondered if Mr. Tim would let us eat lunch in his room?

OlyGuy88: LOL OK.  I have to go.  Mom is home and I’m not supposed to be using snap.  She wants me to help get ready for FHE anyway

It wasn’t lost on me how abruptly he tried to escape, so I decided to see if he’d respond further or if I scared him off.

Me: got it.  FHE?

OlyGuy88: family home evening. Ttyl

Me: laters

***

I still wasn’t sure what that meant, and realized it could be a clue, but before I had time to Google anything, Mom called and asked what I wanted to do for dinner.  She offered to take me out, but I could hear how tired her voice was and honestly, I’m fatigued, too.  I’m not sure how well I’ll sleep this weekend, and I just want to chill at home.

We decided to order Chinese and have a movie night.  The food was decent but the action flick on Prime was mediocre.  I made a point to snuggle with her on the couch under a minky blanket.  There’s something about cool air blowing on your bare torso while you cuddle under warm, soft fleece. 

I was so comfortable, in fact, I fell asleep.  I couldn’t believe it when Mom woke me.

“Good morning, sweetie.  You fell asleep a little after nine, and I don’t think I can carry you to bed anymore.  You looked so content, I couldn’t bring myself to wake you up,” she explained.

I rubbed my eyes and stretched.  I was shocked I slept so soundly all night, on the couch, without even having to pee.

“It’s a little earlier than your normal alarm, but you didn’t shower last night and I wasn’t sure whether you had a chance to pack for the cabin,” Mom said.  Damn!  I knew I forgot something.  I totally spaced that.  Thankfully, that should only take a few minutes.

I resurfaced a half hour later - when my alarm would normally be rousing me - ready for school and the drive north.  Mom made eggs in a basket, fried some bacon, and cut up cantaloupe.  It isn’t often we have a full, hot meal in the morning, but I wasn’t complaining.  We even had time to properly sit down together.  It was nice.

“Thanks for breakfast,” I said, giving her a hug before I left for the bus stop.  “Enjoy your date with the lumberjack.  Behave yourself, young lady.”

She busted out laughing.  “I was just going to say the same thing to you.  Listen to Craig and Bob, and… make good choices.”

I paused for a moment.  She never said anything about Cam and I in the driveway, but it was clear what she was alluding to. 

“I won’t do anything this weekend you won’t,” I responded stoically.  “Except maybe fish, tune into nature, and look at the stars and stuff.”

She gave me a funny look.  I think she read me loud and clear - and understands I knew exactly what she and James were going to be up to this weekend.  I wouldn’t say she was okay with Cam and I having sex, but her expression told me she was coming to accept the inevitability of it.

***

When I walked to the bus stop, I noticed a message from Oly Guy.

OlyGuy88: Happy Friday!

Me: good morning

OlyGuy88: I’m so ready for the long weekend.  Do you have any plans?

I wasn’t sure he was ready to hear about the copious amounts of sodomy I had intended, so I kept it vague. 

Me: Me too.  And yeah, I’m going camping and fishing with my bf, his dad, and my mentor.  I think I’m even getting picked up from school early. 

Me: You?

OlyGuy88: nice.  Nothing as fun as that.  I’m jealous another guy gets to spend the weekend with you

I saw an opening.

Me: hey that’s your choice.  You can always reveal yourself and we could hang out in person. 

OlyGuy88: you never give up lol. 

He added an eye roll emoji.

OlyGuy88: and that’s exactly what Mr. Tim said.  You didn’t put him up to that, did you?

Now he seemed paranoid, but I guess it was a fair question.  I made a mental note that Tim seemed to be trying to help.

Me: lol of course not.  I just asked him to look at the cameras and he said no, that you would share your identity when you were ready and not to push you

OlyGuy88: He gives good advice.  Not sure pestering me about who I am is following it though

Okay, yep, I could definitely tell that was a warning to back off.  Besides, we were pulling into the bus lane at school.

Me: well, have a good day and weekend.  I’m not sure I’ll have any reception in the woods…

OlyGuy88: Thanks for the heads up.  I wouldn’t want to think you were ghosting me or something

And he was gone.

***

I snuck my phone and sent OG a message during science.  “How’s your day going?”

He’s probably not the type to use his phone when he’s not supposed to, but everyone grabs a few minutes of screen time at school sometimes.

Science was boring, but I stirred to attention when I heard my name.

“Max, this is for you,” Ms.  Cotter informed me, summoning me to her desk by waving my red pass to leave school early.  “Thanks, Liam.  See you next period,” she added to the office aide.  I wonder if he has any good stories, working in the office.  I’ll have to ask him sometime during language arts, especially now that we are at the same table. 

“Coleman, you aren’t in trouble again, are you?”  Jamie cracked.  I pretended to scratch my head and subtly flipped him off. 

I wasn’t sure what time Craig would be grabbing me.  Right after lunch, score!  Of course, that meant we wouldn’t be getting lunch before we head north, so mediocre school food it is, again.  I really need to set a reminder on my phone to pack a lunch every night.

Anyway, I kept checking my phone, but still had no response.  Dammit, Max.  You scared him off again!

***

Noah was on cloud nine at lunch.  Ashley ditched the girls and sat at our table!  He was sitting across from me, beaming.  His disappointment over missing the camping trip had been replaced with something which, for him anyway, might be even better:  Ashley had convinced her mom to invite Noah over for dinner Saturday night.  It would give Noah a chance to make a good impression on Ashley’s father, who only knew him as the boy who got his daughter in trouble at S.N.O.

He had only two worries - getting ungrounded to go, and not being a nervous wreck.  He even said he wished I was there to be his wingman, like at the dance.

Ashley assured him his mom would clear the way for him to come… I guess her mom and Lisa are acquaintances, both from the PTA and their HOA.  I think Ashley is probably right, moms can’t resist setting up their offspring with other kids they like and approve of.  Plus, Lisa is kind of a softie, and after everything that happened this week, she will want to cut Noah a break. 

I was giving him some ideas of ways to impress Mr. Richardson, and to stay relaxed, most of which Ashley nodded at.  Actually, my best idea was that he talk to Cam and ask HIM for advice.  He’s so much better at dealing with adults than any other kid I know. 

“That would be a great idea… If I only had a phone,” Noah replied, frustrated.  I felt bad.  I totally forgot he was phoneless. 

“Yeah, shit… sorry,” I mumbled. 

I had just looked away when a tray hit the table, in the empty spot between Noah and Jamie. 

“Can I sit here?” It was Liam from language arts.  “The lunch monitor wouldn't let me squeeze in with the rest of the Wildcats.”  He nodded across the room to a table, filled with purple football jerseys matching his.  It’s a ‘thing’ for the boys who play football to wear their jerseys on Fridays.  There were several different teams Olympia students play for, but the Wildcats were one of the most popular and successful.  I guess when you have huge, mean guys like Brady on your team, it helps.  I certainly wouldn’t want to line up across from him. 

“Yeah, sure,” I answered.  Liam’s fine, he’s never been rude or annoying.

“Hey Liam.  What’s up?”  Noah chimed in.  I didn’t realize they even knew each other.  “Who do you guys play this weekend?”

“Sharks.  They are the worst team in the league, so it probably won’t be much of a game, sadly,” Liam answered.  “I actually feel kind of sorry for them.  They play hard, and I guess that’s all you can ask.  At least our second string will get lots of PT the second half.”

“What position do you play?”  I asked.  I don’t know a ton about football, but I’m not totally gay, either. 

He smiled.  “Tight end.”

Jamie, who had been focused on Seb, couldn’t resist the easy, um, opening.  “Max loves tight ends, or at least Cam’s tight end.” 

Seb chuckled, but he was the only one.  Ashley grimaced.  Noah would normally laugh at such lines… but enjoying Cam’s ass might have hit a little too close to home, or maybe he was trying to seem mature to Ashley. 

“Um… right, so I’ve heard,” Liam answered, digging into his fish sandwich.  He gave a slight eye roll and looked uncomfortable.  Great, Jamie’s boorishness is going to make him think we’re all pervs or something.  I mean, we are, but it’s never good to advertise it, right?

Noah distracted me by starting to give unsolicited fishing advice, telling me which flies and lures would be good this time of year.  I don’t think he realizes I’m going for the company more than angling.

“Where are you and your boyfriend going camping, anyway?”  Liam asked, trying to make himself a part of the conversation.

“Up north,” I answered, before - wait!  How the eff did he know I was going camping with… Cam?  I looked up at him.  His bright, white uniform number was staring right at me: 88.  OlyGuy88, sturdy… oh my fucking God, Liam is Oly Guy!  I dropped my spoon and chocolate pudding splattered on Jamie’s arm.

“Smooth move Max,” Jamie quipped.

How could I be so dense?  OG said he would ‘do lunch’ sometime.  Why didn’t I think of it as soon as he sat down?  I can be so oblivious sometimes.

You know how they say when you’re about to die, or at least think you might, that your life flashes before your eyes?  That didn’t happen, but I did have a sudden recognition of different pieces to the puzzle and how they fit together. 

Oly Guy talked about going to practice.  I remembered seeing Liam deliver my early release pass this morning and could have sworn he smiled at me.  He’s an office aide!  That explains how he snuck the note into my locker, and why Mr. Tim knew who he was and referenced his ‘privileges’ and ‘position’.  I can’t believe I didn’t piece it together right away.  It seems SO obvious now!  I guess I just never had Liam on my list of potentials because he seems so completely masculine and straight.

That’s why he seemed so off in language arts Wednesday; Tim talked to him and he was upset.  I wonder if that’s why Mrs. Hickman assigned us to the same table?  It was all making sense!

I gave Liam a broad grin.  He kicked my leg under the table.  “About time,” he whispered, smirking.

I was speechless.  I looked up, past Liam, and noticed Mr. Tim watching - and smiling.

***

I wanted to ask Liam so many questions, but knew I couldn’t in front of my other friends.  And of all the days for him to reveal himself, it has to be today, when I am leaving before language arts and may not have a connection most of the weekend.  Argh!

We walked toward the door together as lunch was ending.  “Have a great trip,” he said as we put our trays on the conveyor.

“Thanks… good luck in your game.”

“Thanks.  Do you think you can text some, on your drive I mean?”

“Of course,” I replied.  I gave him my number.  We might still use Snap, but I wanted him to be able to reach out on something not forbidden by his parents. 

“Awesome,” he replied as we walked off together.  “Max,” he said quietly, “thanks.”

*** End of Chapter 37 ***

Author’s Notes:

Was Liam being Oly Guy a surprise, or did we give too many clues along the way?  We tried to be subtle but also include some easter eggs to weave in hints.  There was considerable discussion whether we were fore bearing too much. 

It probably won’t be difficult to ascertain Liam’s religion, either.  If you think you know, drop us a line…

We hope you enjoyed the chapter and find Liam as intriguing as we do.

As always feedback and comments are always appreciated:  craigpnifty@protonmail.com

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