SATURDAY, MAY 5

"Mom," called out Cooper. He took a bite of his Fruity Pebbles before finishing his thought. "When is Craig and Oliver coming home?"

"When are Craig and Oliver coming home," she corrected. "And you don't have to yell. I'm right here." She closed the refrigerator and opened another gallon of milk so Connor could have his cereal.

"But when's dad and them coming home?" added Connor. The twins missed their father every time he traveled for work, but they'd gotten use to his attending conferences and such. But this was by far the longest they'd not seen or spoken to their big brother, and they missed him terribly.

'Really?' thought Amanda. "What did I tell you last night before bed?"

"Sunday," they said unison.

"And when is that?" she asked. The twins had tested her nerve the last week or so and she'd about had it. Since they were being homeschooled, she'd felt like she'd been locked in a cage with the two precocious nine-year-old boys.

"Tomorrow," they answered.

"But mom," whined Connor.

"Did dad get the job or not?" asked Cooper.

She gave her boys a hug and a kiss on the head. She really couldn't be mad at the boys. They'd become very protective of Craig and his boyfriend Oliver, especially when the bullying amped up this spring. That's what led to all four boys being homeschooled. From all that went on this week with the twins, she figured out that they were worried Craig was being bullied and they weren't around to comfort and stick up for him. Their compassion warmed her heart, but she worried that they were taking it completely upon themselves to protect Craig and fix things. "You've checked my phone every time I've gotten a text or call. How would your father have told me without you knowing?" They just shrugged and took another bite of cereal.

They jumped when Amanda's phone vibrated on the kitchen table. She snagged it before the smaller hands got to it first. "Hello honey, how are you?"

Dr. Kendall was happy to hear his wife's voice. "Hi dear, are the boys up yet?"

"Of course," she answered, "let me put you on speaker." She tapped the screen a couple times and set the phone back on the table.

"Hi dad!" said Cooper excitedly.

"Did you get the job?" asked Connor.

"Well, I just got off the phone with one of the hospital's board members," teased Will.

"Will," said Amanda, "you said you wouldn't hear anything for at least a week. Did they extend an offer already?"

"I know. I didn't think they would be making a move this fast, but they were anxious to have me start as soon as possible."

"So, we're moving to California?" asked the boys. They looked like they were ready to erupt, teetering left and right in their seats and bouncing as if ready to blast off at any moment.

Amanda didn't even get "yes" out before the boys exploded from their seats. They cheered and started dancing around the kitchen. Will laughed as he listened to Amanda trying to get the boys under control. Giving up, she fled the kitchen to the sanctity of the master bedroom.

"Stop laughing or the next time you're going into lockdown with those rug rats," threatened Amanda. Will finally controlled his laughter, and his wife continued their conversation. "What do you mean 'as soon as possible'?" she asked.

"They want me to start June eighth," explained Will. "Well actually, they wanted me to start sooner, but I didn't feel it was appropriate to give less than a four-week notice. Unless you object, that's my next phone call."

Amanda's mind was racing. All the things they'd have to do: pack, move, sell the ranch, and find a place to live. She moved to the door and shouted, "Boys! Quiet down." She shut the door. "Will, that's awfully fast. How are we..."

"Don't worry. Dr. Meijer and his boys are going to visit family at the end of the month, and they'll be gone for a few weeks. Between his home and some space at his next-door neighbor's, we'll have plenty of room and time to find our own place. Plus, the hospital set me up with a highly sought-after real estate agent in Los Angeles."

"What? How does that help?"

"They figured the fastest way to sell the ranch was to market it to the stars in Hollywood. Since it's the hot place for celebrities buying real estate outside of Southern California, it seemed like the fastest way to get the ranch sold. Apparently, we can even ask for cash only offers and fast closing and we'll probably get the ranch sold quickly."

"I guess that's okay."

"You are okay with moving to California, aren't you?" he asked.

Amanda didn't answer immediately. "I'm sorry. It's just all happening so fast. I thought I was ready, but I haven't even been to southern California before and now we are moving there."

Will's excitement was tempered. "We had so many plans for the ranch, didn't we?" Amanda didn't answer. "I'm sorry things didn't work out in Bozeman. If we'd known Craig was gay, we might have made a different decision about moving there, or maybe we wouldn't. We can't change any of that, and I don't know if I would. If we hadn't moved there, Craig and Oliver wouldn't have met. Craig wouldn't have gotten into running. And we would have never known how brave our son was for coming out and being proud of who he was despite the risks. Amanda, we've raised three amazing children, but I worry that could all be undone."

"I know you're right," admitted Amanda. "I have just been so focused on these two while you were gone, it all just feels so sudden."

"Well, I know the boys want to tell you about what's been going on, but they wanted it to be a secret until we could all be together in person. Amanda, this place is incredible; East Harbor, I mean. The boys have made so many friends here. It's like night and day. They have other out, gay couples as friends and Craig has come out of his shell. Amanda, after seeing what our sons' lives can be here in East Harbor, anywhere else and I feel like we've failed them."

A knock on the bedroom door interrupted Amanda's thoughts. Connor and Cooper peeked their heads in. "Can we talk to Craig, please?"

She waved the boys in and had them sit beside her on the edge of the bed. "Will, the boys want to talk to Craig. Here," she tapped the phone screen, "you're back on speaker."

"Good morning boys!"

"Hi dad!" answered the twins in unison. It had become so common, Will and Amanda didn't even notice it any longer.

"Boys, Craig isn't awake yet. I called to tell you before I even told your brother."

"Really?" said one twin.

"They don't know yet?" said the other.

"That's right. I called your mother to make sure we agreed on the plans so I can call and accept the job and do the things I need to do."

"Dad?" asked one of the twins.

"How's Craig?" asked the other.

"Are the boys there really nicer?"

"Did Craig tell you the boys were nicer down here?" asked their father.

"He said they were nice to him."

"And they are really cool."

"Well, I was telling your mom that Craig and Oliver don't want to tell all the stories until they get back. But I will tell you some highlights. Craig and Oliver have made a lot of friends, really good friends. And they impressed the track and cross-country coaches and made friends on those teams too. They are happy here and I think you boys will be too."

"Okay, you two go finish your breakfast and clean up your mess!" Amanda hustled the twins out of the room before turning her attention back to her husband.

"So, what's next?" she asked.

"Here's what I'm thinking," began Will, "We're going to fly back tomorrow evening so I can spend as much time as possible looking at houses. Then we'll come back down and stay at Dr. Meijer's starting Memorial Day weekend. You and the boys can stay down here, and I'll fly back to Montana for my last two weeks in the office."

"What about our house hunt this month? Aren't we wasting a lot of time if we don't use the rest of this month looking?"

"I'll have a better handle on the real estate market here after this weekend," he assured his wife. "If we need to come back to see something, we can always fly down to see the house."

"I guess we can figure that out when you get back," she said.

"Don't worry. It will all work out. We also have a housing stipend we can tap into if we don't find a place before Dr. Meijer and his family get back."

----------------------     

Christian cracked up and started laughing at the sounds of Michael expelling the evidence of the night's activities. "Shuddup," griped Michael playfully, "it's partly your fault."

Then they both laughed at the sound of Craig doing the same thing in the hall bathroom. "That was partly your fault too!" laughed Michael.

Christian rinsed his mouth out and tapped his toothbrush on the edge of the sink. Spinning around, he checked the bath water and poured in some bubble bath. He sat on the edge of the tub to talk to Michael. Hearing the shower in the other bathroom, Christian wondered out loud. "Do you think Craig and Oliver are showering together."

"Of course," answered Michael, cleaning his butt with toilet paper. "But I know how to find out." He gave Christian an evil grin and stood up. He flushed the toilet and two voices screeching from the shower getting too hot echoed through the upstairs of the Novak home. "Sorry!" shouted Michael. Lowering his voice he added, "Glad we chose to take a bath instead of a shower."

"Huh! I'm sure there will be some revenge yet to be served up," smirked Christian. "I plan to stay far enough away from you that I don't get caught up in it!"

Michael walked up and pulled Christian into a hug. "Oh, you do, do you?" They kissed before Michael stepped into the bath first. Christian turned off the spigot and joined Michael in the tub, relaxing back into Michael's arms.

Squeezing out some bodywash onto his hands, Michael leisurely washed Christian's arms and chest. "Happy birthday, Christian." The blonde's body pressed against Michael as he completely relaxed in the arms of the boy he loved. Michael bent his knees and Christian hugged them to his body.

Closing his eyes, Christian declared, "If the water didn't get cold, I could spend all day like this."

"Me too," agreed Michael. They spent the next few minutes just enjoying the body contact and warm, bubbly water.

Christian felt Michael give him a squeeze before the boy spoke to him. "Are you okay with what happened last night?" It was understood Michael was referring to their evening with Craig and Oliver.

Christian wiped the suds from Michael's right knee and kissed it. "Is it always like that?"

"What do you mean?"

"It was...There was a...I don't know." Christian rested his head back on Michael's shoulder and leaned it against Michael's neck. "I guess I imagined the parties just being a bunch of guys sticking their dicks in whatever hole was available. But that wasn't what it was like with Craig and Oliver, not at all. It was like we had a real connection with them. It meant something to me. Did you feel the same way last night? Is it always like that? Or am I just being weird?"

"Gawd, I love you so much." Michael squeezed Christian tightly kissing him on the cheek. "Honestly, it just depends on who we're with and what everyone is up for. Sometimes it is as you imagined. Guys just enjoying each other's bodies. It can be a lot of fun that way, when you are with the one you love, or a bunch of guys. Then there are the guys you connect with. They're special and that connection can make things pretty intense in a different way, like last night."

Christian turned around and sat facing Michael. Grabbing Michael's knees, he slid Michael's legs past his hips until the two couldn't get any closer. Christian took Michael by the waist and lifted him to his lap until his erection smashed against Michael's balls and fat, little cock. "So, who do you have that connection with?"

The younger boy examined the older boy's face. He searched for the unspoken subtext of the question before answering. What he found wouldn't change his answer. He would never deceive Christian. However, what he read in Christian's eyes may change the way he delivered the answer.

Uncertain, Michael first kissed Christian passionately. "Well," he began, tracing a finger along Christian's collar bone and chest, "spending time with Lukas and Simon is always really special." Michael let that set in before offering more. "And Derek, he had I have a connection even if we both are in love with other boys."

Christian sighed. He felt a bit of jealousy about Michael's connection with other boys, but those three aren't a threat. Two are his brothers and he knew Derek and Michael would never be a couple.

"Then there is Craig and Oliver. You felt that too last night. And Alejandro..." Michael left that sentence unfinished. Christian understood the connection Michael and Alejandro had and he honored that friendship. He even felt a connection to the boy, well, boys...all three of them, Craig, Oliver, and Alejandro.

"Are there guys you like to have sex with that you don't have that connection to?" Christian thought it was cute that Michael blushed when asked that question.

"Sometimes..." confessed Michael before redirecting the conversation. "Now back to what I was asking earlier. Are you okay with what will go on tonight during the sleep over?"

Christian smiled at Michael's dodge of the question. He really didn't need to know. It will come out eventually. With a kiss, he replied, "Yeah, I'm fine. I didn't think I would be. It's still kinda weird to me to think we'd all be like, 'hey, let's go find a room and mess around'. But that's not how it went last night. It was unspoken and seemed natural the way it just happened. If that happened tonight, I'd be good with it. If it just ends up you and me cuddling in bed all night, I'd be happy with that too."

"How did I get so lucky?" asked Michael.

"No, I'm the lucky one," stated Christian.

"Okay. How did we get so lucky?" he restated. "I mean, we both ended up moving to East Harbor this school year. You grew up 300 miles from here and just happened to move East Harbor. If your dad didn't decide to commute all the way to San Diego, you could have ended up down in San Diego somewhere and we'd never have met. And if all that shit didn't happen to me, we would have never left Oregon. I mean, even with all the crap that happened, we could still be up in the northwest somewhere or have moved anywhere in the country."

"I just think it makes us so much more special," replied Christian. Their lips slowly met.

----------------------     

"Where are the other two?" asked Matthew handing plates to Craig and Oliver as they approached the breakfast buffet the adults set up for the troops.

"I think they were still in the bathroom," said Oliver. He attacked the breakfast items like he hadn't eaten in a week.

Matthew smirked. "Looks like you two worked up an appetite last night." He laughed when the two boys blushed. Of course, that also explained why Christian and Michael were late to breakfast.

"Is my dad here yet?" asked Craig. "He said he was coming up first thing this morning."

"Orange juice?" Matthew asked. Both boys nodded and he poured two glasses and set them on the table next to the boys' plates. "Your father arrived a while ago and was looking for you two. While he was waiting, he asked to use the library to make some phone calls."

Craig nodded and shoved another forkful of food into his mouth. He really enjoyed the cooking here. As much as he loved his mother's Sunday breakfasts, he enjoyed having that every day since he'd been at the Meijer's. Between Carol, Lars, and Zach, they managed to cook up a feast each morning, even when they were feeding an army and its friends. It occurred to him how much everyone worked together--adults and kids--to make things run smoothly. It was like East Harbor in a microcosm. Everyone was accepting, taking care of their business, and sharing the love.

"There you two are," said Dr. Kendall. He left the library door open and when he reached the table, he gave each boy a hug.

"So, dad, what's the news?" asked Craig as soon as he swallowed. "Did you get the job?"

"Morning!" chirped Michael when he and Christian rounded the corner from the hallway. He tossed a question out to whomever wanted to answer as the boys headed to the kitchen to get breakfast. "Where's dad?"

Matthew set his plate in the dishwasher and rinsed his glass. "He and Zach went for a run."

"Dad don't leave us hanging," pleaded Craig.

"Yes, I got the job."

"YEEEAAAAAHHHHH!" screamed Craig. He jumped into his father's arms and wrapped his legs around Will's waist.

"YES!" cheered Michael. He dropped his plate on the counter and joined Oliver in hugging Craig and his father. Christian wasn't far behind.

Father and son both cried. Craig because he knew the torment in Bozeman was over. Dr. Kendall because he was successful and bringing it to an end. Using his son's nickname from childhood, Will comforted Craig. "It's okay Boo. It's over. It's over buddy."

Craig reached out and held Oliver's hand bringing Oliver's brown eyes to tears too. When it was decided to home school, it released a flood of emotions from both boys. Oliver couldn't stand seeing the bullies trying to break Craig. But it wasn't until this moment that they realized there was so much more still bottled up inside.

Even being home schooled, there were trips to the store or restaurants where they would run into kids from school. Sometimes it was supportive and friendly. Other times the boys stalked them, waiting to corner them or split them up so they could attack. Coming to East Harbor showed Craig and Oliver what life was supposed to be like. The dread of returning to Bozeman weighed heavily on both boys. Looking into Craig's eyes, Oliver didn't see the hug coming. Two arms wrapped around his chest and made him smile.

"I'm so happy you guys are moving here," said Christian. He punctuated it with a kiss on Oliver's cheek.

Craig calmed down returned to his breakfast. "So, what happens next?"

"First, your mother and I need to find a house down here fast. I start work down here on June eighth. I'm going to take today and tomorrow to look for houses, then I think your mom and I will be back on weekends until we find the right home."

Will continued, "Then there are the plans we make for you two."

"What do you mean?" asked Oliver.

"Dr. Meijer offered to let you and Craig stay here and finish out the school year."

"Are you fucking serious?" It came out of Craig's mouth before he could stop it. "Sorry, dad. But really? We can stay here?"

Across the table, Michael pumped his fist with a cheer of his own.

"That is what Dr. Meijer suggested. But you will have to come home at some point," Will pointed out.

"But why?" asked Craig. He never wanted to go back to Bozeman.

Will laughed. "First of all, you'll need to pack your things for the move. You mother is already stressed out enough with the twins. You are going to be packing your own things."

Craig slumped down in his chair. "Oh, yeah..." In his mind, he'd already moved to East Harbor and for all he cared, Bozeman could be wiped off the face of the earth. After his family moved, of course.

"Besides Craig, I imagine you'll be visiting Bozeman quite regularly," reminded Will.

Craig couldn't believe his father would even suggest that after all he'd been through. "Why would I do that?!"

"I think you are forgetting Ollie's family. They're in Montana and that's where they are going to stay. Unless you want Ollie to make the trips by himself, you're going to have to get used to returning to Bozeman several times a year to visit."

Craig turned to Oliver grief stricken. "Oh god! I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to forget about you and your family. I was just..."

Oliver interrupted, "I know. I forgot for a moment too."

"Are you going to be okay leaving your parents and moving here?" asked Craig, for the first time worried about the answer.

"No," said Oliver confidently, "with you and all our new friends down here, I'll be okay." He looked over to Christian and smiled.

----------------------     

Dorothy joined her husband, Lars, and Zach on the porch with a fresh pot of coffee and four mugs. Pouring the first mug, she handed it to Earl.

"Thank you dear," he said. "Now I know you two didn't change your morning route and end up here by coincidence. What brings you this way?"

Zach accepted his coffee. "Thanks, mom." He took a sip watching his mom hand a mug to his partner. Sweaty and flushed from their run, Lars was by far the sexiest man he'd ever met. Their eyes met and Zach melted on the inside. There was something about his eyes, that look, that did something to him every time. With a slight nod, Lars broke his trance and reminded him they agreed he would be the one to broach the topic. "Oh, yeah, well, you know how close Scott is to the boys. He's like family. Well, I guess in a way, he is family, but, I mean, well..." He really didn't know how his parents were going to react. It had taken them a while to accept that he and Lars were in a relationship and even longer to be okay with them living together. Having regular big family dinners where they could see how the Novak and Meijer households worked together as one big happy family, Zach knew he'd won them over when his dad referred to them as the "Meijer Bunch", referencing one of his dad's favorite TV shows as a kid. What he wasn't certain about was how his parents felt about Scott being around his new family so much.

He took a deep breath and continued. "You know we are heading to visit Lars' family in Denmark in a few weeks. We've been talking about how this will be a great experience for all the boys. We thought about taking some time to travel to Sweden, Germany, and maybe some other places if time allows to give them a taste of Europe." He laughed, "Hell, I haven't even been to Europe before, and, well, we were thinking it would be a great experience for Scott to go too.

Dorothy and Earl continued to rock in their chairs while Zach and Lars waited for their answer. It took a minute or so, Dorothy deferring to her husband to answer for the both of them, before Earl spoke up. "Zach, you're an adult now so I'll be open and honest with you. I'm getting close to retiring and we still have Scott to worry about. He'll be sixteen in a year or so and then college. I don't think we are in a situation where we can afford to send him off on a big trip to Europe. I know your mother agrees with me that it would be a great experience, and if we'd planned this, we might be able to swing it, but I just don't think we can make this work."

"Mr. Schultz, Earl," said Lars correcting himself, "Carol is using her frequent flyer miles for the airline tickets, and we'll be staying with my parents in the family farmhouse. We'll have plenty of room and I know my parents will be thrilled to meet him. They appreciate nothing more than family and are so happy the family has grown. We're inviting Scott as a member of the family, not as a guest who would have to pay his own way."

Earl's pride got in his way. "Lars, you are inviting..."

"Excuse me, Earl," interjected Dorothy. "Lars, we can't get much closer as family and it's time we started acting as such. Zach, will you keep an eye on your little brother?"

Zach smiled. He always loved that his mother knew when to overrule his father and make a big decision. He knew who really wore the pants in the family and that his mother simply allowed Earl the honor unless she disagreed. "Mom, you know I'd never let anything happy to Scotty."

"Lars, this won't be a burden on you or your parents?" she asked.

"No, ma'am," he answered quickly. "Scott's just like one of our boys. Instead of noticing we have another boy around, we actually miss him when he isn't around."

"Earl, I think we should allow Scott to have this experience. Lars, Carol, and Zach are being so gracious offering to take him."

"You're right, dear," agreed Earl. He knew how to keep peace in the family. Turning his attention to Lars and Zach, "When do you want to tell him?"

"I think that can wait," said Zach with a smirk.

----------------------     

"Amelia," encouraged Erica, "it's okay for you to swim with your brothers."

The 12-year-old girl fidgeted in her seat. She had a one-piece swimsuit under her t-shirt and shorts but had yet to take off even a shoe or sock in preparation to join the others in the pool. "But mom," she whined with another glance at the pool, "I'm the only girl here."

Erica rolled her eyes and the other parents at the party shared the humor she found in her daughter's dilemma. A year ago, it wouldn't have mattered to Amelia. Now, after the "sixth-grade transformation", Amelia was self-conscious and embarrassed around boys. It didn't mean, however, that she didn't watch the boys intently from afar. Erica, on the other hand, reveled in the knowledge that most of the boys at the party were gay and Amelia had nothing to be self-conscious about.

Christian aimed the camera on his phone to capture a video of Lukas being a goof. "Watch this!" announced Lukas. He ran and jumped into the air facing the camera, arms and legs spread while making a funny face before splashing into the pool. The other boys laughed and cheered.

"It's your turn," came a voice behind Christian. He turned and handed Simon the phone and prepared for his "trick". Christian ran and leapt doing a front flip into a cannonball. He swam to the other side and pulled himself up to sit on the edge of the pool to dry off a bit.

Jaden and Isaac took their place in line. Jaden ran and jumped high into the air. Arching his back and snapping his hips, he tucked into a back flip before releasing his knees and piercing the water feet first. Isaac waited for Jaden to tread water and prepare to spot him. Careful not to trip, Isaac jogged to the edge and held his knees and nose as he cannonballed in Jaden's vicinity. The splash was exceptional for such a thin boy. Everyone cheered and hollered. Isaac swam to the surface and he and Jaden paddled to the side.

Lewis took a turn running to the pool's edge before twirling wildly in the air before hitting the water with a splash. Trajan, Oliver, and Scott following quickly, each striking silly poses before crashing into the cool water. Sam and Gregory held hands and performed dual cannonballs, turning in the air to direct their splash at the boys on the far side of the pool. Lukas sped at the pool then pretended to walk on water, until he didn't. Simon followed saluting Christian and the camera before "going down with the ship".

Alex, Josh, Jack, Derek, Craig, and the other boys from the middle school lacrosse teams joined the other boys in taking turns splashing into the pool. With each jumper, the cheers and laughter grew louder.

"Com'on, Michael," shouted Gregory. There were other cheers and encouragement all around as Michael walked to the edge of the pool and stepped off back to the spot he chose to start from. Michael's look turned serious. He took a deep breath. In a sprint, Michael raced across the grass and lunged into a roundoff turning his back to the pool. Reaching backwards, he followed with a back handspring spanning the cement pool deck. Springing up powerfully from his landing, Michael completed a double backflip entering the water feet first to shouts and cheers from everyone in the backyard.

Crawling from the pool, Michael joined Christian and headed over to one of the lounge chairs and shared the seat.

"That was so cool!" said Jack from the next chaise lounge. He and Derek shared a large beach towel to keep warm as they dried and rested together. Jack pulled his phone out of his bag and swiped a couple of times to find one of his favorite YouTubers and showed his phone to the older boys. "Can you do that?" Jack asked.

Michael nodded. "Yeah, I can do that."

Jack excitedly asked, "Can I see?" Jack was starting to idolize Michael the way Derek idolized him.

If anyone else asked Michael to do something like that, he would have begged off. To Michael, if felt like bragging or felt like he was in a competition and being graded by the judges. Two things he truly hated. But Jack looked so happy. After all that had happened to the boy, Michael just couldn't say "no". "For you, sure," he said giving Jack and Derek a half smile.

Michael stood and found a space in the yard giving him enough room to pull off the maneuver. Simon handed Christian's phone back to him so he could record whatever Michael was going to do and some of the boys gathered around.

"Move guys, so everyone can see!" directed Derek, excited to see if Michael could do it. Michael was concentrating and didn't even hear Derek gather everyone's attention. Boys moved to the periphery of the yard, so everyone could watch, careful to not block the view of the adults sitting at the table. Michael stood with his feet shoulder's width apart and hiked up the legs of his board shorts to make sure they didn't restrict his motion. Finding his balance, he held his arms out straight in front of him and bent his knees. A few calls of Michael's name to encourage him fell on deaf ears.

In a quick motion, it appeared Michael was performing a back handspring but when he landed on his hands, he caught his position and balanced into his handstand. Once he stilled his sway, he spread his pointed toes making a "v" with his legs. To keep his center of gravity over his hands, he leaned his shoulders forward and lowered his hips keeping his back straight. The strain on his chest and shoulders caused his muscles to bulge. Shouts of encouragement echoed off the houses as Michael lowered himself into a planche (or plank), a position where his body was parallel to the ground while balanced on his hands.

This was the part he was certain he could do. However, to complete the performance on the video, he needed to achieve a more difficult position-a planche with legs together. Moving his feet together would move his center of gravity towards his hips and away from his hands. The trick would be to move his shoulders and chest forward as he straightened his legs. Slowly and carefully, he coordinated his movements while maintaining his balance.

He heard someone shout, "You got this Michael!" The voice sounded far away. When his ankles touched, he held it for a moment then moved to alleviate some of the strain off his shoulders. Lifting his hips to move his center of gravity back towards his shoulders, he also bent at the waist. When his hips were once again directly above his hands, he could see his toes pointing to the place in the grass he used to spot himself visually.

This was more comfortable, but he wasn't finished, at least not if he was going to replicate the video in its entirety. Adjusting the position of his hands, he passed his legs between his arms until his legs were parallel to the ground with his toes pointing forward. Taking a moment to once again adjust the placement of his hands on the ground, Michael swung his hips between his elbows inverting his position. His legs were parallel to the ground again, but now they were above his body.

Jack cheered in excitement upon seeing Michael complete the challenge. Derek joined him mainly because he was excited to see a smile on Jack's face. Michael's other friends joined in. Flipping back around, Michael planted his feet on the ground and stood.

Rubbing his shoulders, Michael took his seat next to Christian. "That was for you, Jack," said Michael with a smile. Jack and Derek returned the smile with ones of their own of equal intensity.

"Whatcha doing?" asked Michael turning his attention back to Christian.

"Posting some of today's videos to our social media accounts. The band's fans are gonna love them."

"Stop working, it's your birthday."

"I know, but I like posting fun things." He typed out the last caption and posted one final video before setting the phone aside. "Thanks for the party. It's totally the best birthday party I've ever had."

"Anything for you," replied Michael. He leaned in and gave Christian a huge hug.

"Uh...sorry to interrupt or something." The boys looked over to see an embarrassed Lewis teetering from foot-to-foot. "Could we...uh...talk somewhere...private." Michael got up and Lewis motioned for Christian to follow. Past the pool and hot tub, they slipped through the sliding glass wall into the Novak family room.

Lewis crossed the room and sat in an armchair. He leaned forward, elbows on knees and dropped his head looking at the floor. Christian and Michael took seats on the adjacent sofa, concerned about their friend.

Christian reached out putting his hand on Lewis' knee. "What's got you so upset, bro?"

"After all the shit that's gone down and how I didn't listen to you two," said Lewis before looking into the faces of his two closest friends, "I wanted to apologize and thank you for still being my friends."

Michael stayed quiet and let Christian do the talking for them. Afterall, Christian had known Lewis a lot longer than he had. Christian told Lewis, "Look, we all screw up. And we all deserve forgiveness when we do."

"It's one thing to screw up. It's another thing to almost get yourself killed after not listening to your best friends. You guys were right all along."

"Maybe," offered Christian. "And maybe you were acting like a jerk. But we're friends. I'll always be here for you. And Michael, too."

"Why?" asked Lewis. "I was such a dick."

Michael decided to answer this time. "Yeah, you can get really bull headed and determined. In this case, you picked the wrong thing to be so obstinate about. But that was the same quality that enabled you to drag my sorry ass out of the van, up that steep hill, and carry me to safety. The way I see it, you got off track when your mom died, and you are working at getting back on track. No one's perfect. We're all a work in progress."

"And we're all here for each other, even when we veer off course," added Christian.

"Thanks," said Lewis quietly. He let out a sigh and relaxed back into the chair.

"But there is one thing you still have left to clear up," said Christian with Michael nodding in agreement. "Are you really transferring next year?"

"Oh yeah," groaned Lewis. "I forgot you guys all saw that tweet."

"Yep," confirmed Christian, "and I've had to hold the team at bay since all this other crap has been going on. Since everyone's here, this might be a good time to tell them."

Lewis sat with his head resting on top of the back of the armchair looking at the ceiling. "Ugh...you're right. Let's get this over with."

The three walked out onto the patio. Lewis took a deep breath and said loudly, "Hey, guys! I wanna say something."

Conversations hushed and the boys at the party gave Lewis their attention. Since the entire eighth-grade lacrosse team attended their teammate's party, this was the perfect venue for Lewis to explain.

"So, you guys all know my dad is in the Navy. When the coaches at the Army and Navy Academy learned my dad was a Rear Admiral, they reached out to him to recruit me. My dad thought it might be a good idea, so he set it up for me to spend part of spring break staying on campus and practicing with their lacrosse teams."

There were murmurs among his teammates. A sense of betrayal compounded the frustrations over Lewis' behavior over the last few weeks.

Lewis read the room and knew he needed to do something to demonstrate his loyalty to the boys who had shown him friendship after years of his abuse. There was only one decision, and it couldn't be clearer. He only hoped his father understood since he promised they would discuss this decision before he decided one way or the other.

He pulled out his phone and put it on speaker. With a few taps, he found Coach Granderson's phone number. Though nearly everyone at the party was too far to hear the Coach's side of the conversation, they appreciated the gesture none the less.

Army and Navy Academy's coach answered calling Lewis by name. "Yeah, it's me. I'm sorry I didn't call you back sooner, but I needed to talk to my dad about things."

"Yeah, my dad's doing fine."

"No, sir. That is what I wanted to call you and tell you. Pardon my language sir, but I thought it was kind of a dick move for you to post on social media that I was transferring to your school. It seemed like you were trying to turn my teammates against me to force me to decide to transfer. Well, it didn't work. I have the best teammates in the world and there is no way I would ever leave to play somewhere else." Some of the boys hooted and hollered at Lewis' comments. "Good luck in the playoffs tonight. I can guarantee you we'll be looking forward to seeing you guys on the field next year. We'll be ready."

Coach Granderson heard the roar from the teenage boys who were with Lewis.

Lukas took that as his cue to lead the team. "WE ARE!"

*clap* *clap*

"SABERS!"

*clap* *clap*

The rest of the boys quickly joined in, including Craig and Oliver who were caught up in the excitement. By the second time the cheer "SABERS!", all the boys were shouting at the top of their lungs. Lewis responded by holding up his phone to make sure Coach Granderson heard the East Harbor students. When Lewis looked at the phone again, the Coach had hung up. A new, intense lacrosse rivalry was born.

Christian grabbed the phone from Lewis' hand and tossed it on one of the chairs close by just before a few of the boys grabbed Lewis and carried him to the pool.

"NO!" laughed Lewis. It didn't stop his lacrosse teammates. They tossed him into the pool and jumped in after him.

Erica Moore gasped when the boys piled into the pool close to Isaac. He and Jaden were in the pool laughing and shouting with the other boys when they threw Lewis in the pool. Jaden managed to keep the other boys from running into Isaac while he and Isaac laughed and splashed with everyone else.

Carol reached out and placed her hand on Erica's arm. "He's fine. Watch," said Carol, pointing to Lukas and Michael, "the other boys are watching out for Isaac too. He's in good hands. Besides, Zach, Lars, and I are all watching him too."

"I thought there was going to be a doctor here," said Erica before realizing how that comment might come across. "I'm sorry, but one of the things Isaac told me was one of the boy's fathers is a medical doctor and he would be here."

"Erica, it's alright. I can't imagine how I would be if Simon or any of my other boys would have gone through what Isaac has. So, the two boys over there heading to the hot tub, that is Craig and Oliver. They are moving here from Montana. Oliver's father is a professor at Montana State University and Craig's father is the medical doctor who just accepted a position at UC San Diego Health. He was planning on being here for the party, but he's out looking for houses right now. He'll be back by dinner and will be here all night. There will be four adults here tonight looking after the boys. And unlike many of the other sleepovers, there won't be nearly as many boys spending the night tonight."

"So, are Craig and Oliver's dads...umm...together?" asked Erica.

Carol laughed. "Well, it seems like most of the males around here are, doesn't it?" Erica joined Carol in a chuckle before Carol explained. "Oliver's parents are staying in Montana since they both have jobs in Bozeman. Oliver is moving here with Craig and his family for a couple of reasons. One is the boys are runners and the weather here is better for year around training. The other is, Craig and Oliver are a couple and were being severely bullied at school. That's why Dr. Kendall decided to find a new job. Ultimately, they didn't want to break up the boys so Oliver will be living with Craig's family here in East Harbor."

"That's nice that there are other gay couples here. It will be good for Isaac and Jaden."

"You know," said Carol thoughtfully, "if I'm not mistaken, all the boys spending the night tonight are couples. You know Christian and Michael, but so are Lukas and Simon. And then over there, Gregory and Sam are a couple and the two younger boys on the lounger over there, that's Derek and Jack."

"Aren't they a little young?"

"Derek is nearly the same age as Michael and Jack's just a little younger than that. But honestly, I think Lukas and Simon knew they were gay by that age. They may not have known the words for it, but they were basically a couple at that age. I'm certain Isaac knew he was gay before he met Jaden. Have the two of you talked about it?"

"Actually," Erica stated, "no we haven't. We've only talked about his wanting more independence, even going back to school, but not about being gay."

"Do you think that was because you always knew?" asked Carol.

Erica sat quietly thinking before answering the question. "You know, I think I did. Before his diagnosis, he was an athlete, honors student, and such an empathic, sensitive child. I think then I suspected he had a crush on one of his teammates. There were other clues too. Shows he preferred to watch on TV. Playing with his little sister more than his older brother. Little things that made me wonder. I didn't care one way or another. I just wanted to be prepared to be there in case he struggled with his identity. But then doctor and hospital visits, the diagnosis, surgeries, fear of losing him, and trying to keep our lives afloat at the same time. I guess I lost track of who he was and started to only see him as the boy with cancer."

Carol looked at Isaac then his mother with compassion. "When you look at the boy in the pool, who do you see?"

"I see a boy who is the strongest person I've ever met. A boy who has earned every second of happiness he can squeeze out of life. A boy who needs to have his parents get out of his way so he can learn to be more independent."

Carol's hand found Erica's and gave it a squeeze. "You know what I see?"

Erica didn't take her eyes of her middle child. She simply asked, "What?"

"I see a boy who must be very special. A boy who is surrounded by some of the most incredible boys I could ever imagine, and they love and care for him as if he'd been their friend since the cradle. A boy who is as loved as much as he loves."

"You sound like Principal Trance," replied Erica with a smile.

"Oh really?" ask Carol with a chuckle. "And when did you speak with Janice?"

"I spoke with her today. After the case Isaac made about attending school, I decided I should at least meet with her and see what she had to say."

That piqued Carol's curiosity. "Well, what did she say?"

"Janice said if it wasn't for who Isaac's friends were, she would discourage him coming to school this late in the year. But when she understood who Isaac's circle of friends were, she said he would be well looked after. If I chose to bring Isaac to school on Monday, she will have already arranged with Jaden's teachers for the boys to be paired up for all their classes." Erica leaned over to get Amelia's attention. "Honey, go get Ryan and tell him we're going to leave in a few minutes."

Amelia rolled her eyes. "Thank gawd! Are we going home now?"

"No, I thought we'd go to Hammond's for some ice cream and then go to a movie."

"REALLY?! Want me to get Isaac too?"

"No. He'll be fine." Amelia ran to get her brother. Erica turned to Carol. "Thank you for listening. I'm going to have to prepare myself for dropping off three children at school on Monday."

"And one of those children will be ecstatic. You've got our numbers if you need anything, right?" Carol offered Erica an assuring smile before Erica collected her things. "Lars, Carol, Zach, thank you for having Isaac over. Thank you so much."

Isaac saw Amelia get Ryan and watched him climb out of the pool and grab his towel. Curiously, Isaac looked around and found Erica standing patiently waiting for his siblings. She smiled and gave Isaac the "be good" look his mother was so good at before she smiled and waved bye to her son.

It took a moment for Isaac to realize this was his mother's subtle way of letting him know he had permission to spend the night. His face lit up and he grabbed Jaden's arm.

"Jaden! Jaden!"

When Jaden turned to Isaac, Isaac pointed to his mother. Jaden turned to see Mrs. Moore waving and being joined by Amelia. Jaden waived without fully understanding why she was waving at them.

"Isaac!" came from their left. Both boys turned to see Ryan slipping his feet into his flip flops and drying his hair. Calling out so he would be heard over the noise, Ryan said, "Have fun tonight bro!" Then gave his little brother and Jaden a thumbs up.

Isaac returned the thumbs up when Jaden realized what Ryan said. "OMG! You're spending the night! YES!" He gave Isaac a huge hug then turned to give a much more excited wave to Erica and Isaac's siblings before they headed out the gate to the driveway. When the gate closed, Jaden turned back to Isaac and kissed him with all the love and passion a 13-year-old boy could muster.

----------------------     

The sun had gone down, and lights lit the historic buildings of Segovia. After his time here at his family's compound, Alejandro still felt a sense of awe and wonder in the presence of the ancient, majestic buildings. He dismounted his bike and slipped on his hoodie. The warming spring days of the inner Iberian Peninsula give way after dark to nights that dropped into the low 40s Fahrenheit (around 5 degree Centigrade). In no hurry, he decided to push his bike through town taking in the sights and sounds that finally felt like home, a real home.

Though he told his family he was going out to get some air, he was really hoping to see the twins again. They had completely captured his imagination. Tall and slender, the dark blonde twins had matching short haircuts. The boy had been in his blue and red FC Barcelona home jersey and dribbling a soccer ball while his sister had been wearing a full body suit with a sequin pattern and an unzipped hoodie. It appeared they were on their way to or from her gymnastics practice or competition. The two fascinated him. Being a boy and a girl, if it wasn't for the way they were dressed, he wouldn't have been able to tell the difference in sex. When he tried to explain it to Michael after the first time he saw them, the twins seemed like they were identical, but they obviously weren't if they were a boy and a girl. Then he tried to explain how they looked, but he couldn't decide if the male looked feminine, or the girl looked more like a boy. Either way, the twins had a seriousness about them that attracted and intrigued Alejandro. Since that day, he'd spent many afternoons and evenings wandering the streets of Segovia hoping to see them again.

"Buenas noches, Señior Diaz." Mr. Santos, the evening manager of the Restaurante Pandora, greeted Alejandro warmly. When he first arrived in Segovia, the greetings were formal and a bit icy. It wasn't that they didn't like Alejandro, but as a Diaz, his name alone intimidated the locals.

For years, rumors circulated about the disappearance of the Diaz heir. After a few interactions with Alejandro and learning of his story, the residents of Segovia found him to be humble and authentic. In the weeks he'd been home, he went from being the long-lost son of the Diaz family, to the long-lost son of Segovia. Addressing Alejandro as Señior was no longer out of respect for his wealth and family. It was now a term of endearment used throughout the city.

"Buenas noches, Señor Santos," greeted Alejandro with a smile. Mr. Santos began gathering the furniture from the sidewalk seating to put it away for the night. Alejandro propped his bike against the wall of the restaurant and helped stack the chairs and tables.

"Muchas gracias, Señior Diaz," thanked Mr. Santos.

"Mi placer (My pleasure)," replied Alejandro, returning to his bike. He noticed across the street in the Plaza Mayor, a crew was setting up lights for some sort of photoshoot or something. Curious, Alejandro crossed with his bike to see what was going on. From the angle the cameras were set up, whatever was going to happen would have the historic Catedral de Segovia in the background. The gothic cathedral lit at night would make a stunning backdrop for anything they had planned. He leaned his bike against the gazebo and took a seat on the steps waiting to see what would happen next. In the meantime, he observed lives being lived in the upstairs apartments in the 17th century buildings surrounding the historic town square.

Commotion around the photoshoot drew Alejandro's attention. He could hear directions for the model to move this way or pose in a certain direction. It was vocabulary he hadn't learned yet, but he understood enough to know the context. The person in front of the camera must have been short because he couldn't see them at all. Climbing the stairs, he hoped for a better view from the gazebo. He saw a fluttering ribbon, the kind used in rhythmic gymnastics then a foot pointing towards the sky. He figured it must be a young gymnast, but he couldn't see more. To get a better view, he climbed upon the railing. When the model stood back upright, he realized it was one of the twins. He leapt from the railing and ran to get a closer look. He stood off to the side, out of the way, and watched the gymnast contort into different poses while twirling the ribbon.

"Bien Abraham," said the photographer, handing his camera to his assistant. "Ve a cambiarte y ponte tu próximo atuendo." (Okay Abraham. Go change into your next outfit.)

Alejandro nearly fell over when he heard the person in the full body sequined bodysuit called "Abraham". 'That's a boy?' he wondered. 'Really?'

Abraham pranced off to a nearby van and climbed in the back. His brother, the other twin, climbed out and shut the door. He tossed his soccer ball into the grass and chased it while his brother changed in the back of the van. Alejandro was still processing this new bit of information when the van door opened and Abraham emerged wearing white jeans and wrapped in a blanket.

A lady who looked like the twins and could only be their mother, took the tennis shoes when Abraham slipped them off and took the blanket before hurrying out of the view of the cameras. Topless, Abraham rubbed his arms and waited for instructions. They came quickly in order to get this part of the shoot complete in the cool weather.

Watching the androgynous boy captured Alejandro's full attention. He didn't even notice the soccer ball roll into his ankle. The other twin strolled up beside Alejandro and sized up the boy staring at his brother performing a handstand for the camera.

"Why are you staring? You have a problem with a boy gymnast or something?" came a voice in Spanish, but not the local dialect.

His thoughts interrupted; Alejandro turned to see who said that. "Oh, uh...hi," he stuttered, face-to-face with the other twin. Being so close to the boys he'd been searching for made Alejandro's heart race and his palms sweat. "Ummm...no, my best friend is a gymnast. It's just...I think he's beau...I mean you're hot...shit, I mean..."

Elijah laughed. "It's cool. I just wanted to make sure you aren't one of those assholes that wants to beat him up because he's fem. I'm Elijah, but you can call me Eli. That's my brother Abraham, but don't call him Abe. He hates it."

"I'm Alejandro." He extended his hand. "Nice to meet you."

Eli looked at Alejandro like he was weird and raised his fist. Alejandro understood and changed his hand to a fist and bumped. "So, are you like gay or something?" asked Eli.

Alejandro was a bit put off by such a direct question when they'd only met. "That's sort of a personal question, don't you think."

"Well," said Eli with a chuckle, "if you are looking at my little brother that way, I think it's a fair question."

"I'm bi," replied Alejandro. "You?"

"Don't get your hopes up horn dog. Abe and I swing in opposite directions."

Alejandro raised an eyebrow. "I thought you said he hates being called Abe."

"He does," stated Eli before turning his attention back to his brother who once again was posing with a rainbow-colored ribbon.

They continued their conversation while watching Abraham perform for the camera. "So, you two aren't twins?"

"We're twins. I'm just older by five minutes. And don't you dare hurt him or I will hurt you. I don't care if you are a Diaz or not."

Alejandro's head snapped around to look at Eli who kept his eyes on his brother. "How did you..."

"Dude, we may not be from Segovia, but everyone around here knows the Diaz family." Alejandro continued to just stare at Eli, mouth open. When Eli didn't hear a response, he glanced at his new companion. "Well, okay. After Abe saw you out on your bike one day, we asked around to find out who you were."

The twins' mother hurried out to cover Abraham with a blanket. He slipped on his shoes and hurried to the van to change into the third and final outfit.

"Oh," uttered Alejandro turning his attention back to Abraham. "Wait," he turned back to Eli, "why did you want to know who I was."

"I didn't really care one way or the other," stated Eli, "but Abe thought you were cute."

"He did? He does?"

"Yeah, com'on, I'll introduce you." Eli picked up his ball and ran to the van with Alejandro following close behind. When they arrived at the van, Eli threw the door open exposing Abraham who was only wearing his beige thong-back dance belt.

Abraham shrieked! He attempted to cover his chest with his arms and crossed his legs and twisted to hide his crotch, not realizing he was showing his naked butt to the boys standing outside the van. "¡Cágate! ¡Eli, eres un gilipollas!" Which Alejandro understood to roughly translate to "Shit! Eli, you're an asshole!" from his "unofficial" Spanish lessons he took from his cousin Carols.

Eli shoved Alejandro into the van causing the boy to nearly land on top of Abraham before he slammed the door shut. "I'm not worried, Abe!" shouted Eli, "Someday you'll thank me for this."

Instead, Abraham ran off a litany of insults and curses in Spanish at a speed faster than Alejandro could process in his new tongue. But he caught enough to know Abraham was pissed at his twin brother.

"I'm sorry," Alejandro apologized. "I didn't know what he was up to."

"Don't look at me! Look that way!" commanded Abraham, pointing to the opposite side of the van.

Alejandro quickly turned to face away from the nearly nude boy who was unaware that his reflection was clearly visible in the van's windows. Abraham stood to pull up his body suit unknowingly showing off his tight, compact ass to Alejandro's hungry eyes. Alejandro chose to keep his mouth shut and eyes open.

Once dressed, Abraham opened the van door to find his mother standing there. "Mama, this is Alejandro Diaz--the latest victim of Eli's stupid pranks." Then he walked off to finish the shoot.

Abraham's mother looked at Alejandro strangely, wondering how and why he was in the van while her son was changing clothes. She looked Alejandro up and down and stated, "¡Ay! Eres el chico Díaz del que los gemelos han estado hablando. (Ah! You are the Diaz boy the twins have been talking about.)"

Alejandro blushed. He was certain that the mother thought he'd snuck into the van to see her son naked. Not the best way to make a first impression he suspected. "Si. Perdóname. (Yes. Forgive me.)" He jumped out of the van and ran after Abraham to the soundtrack of Eli's laughter.

Annoyed, Señora Sans called for the delinquent twin. "Elijah Belmonte Sans."

Running, Alejandro reached Abraham just as he entered the area lit for the photoshoot. He stopped his pursuit and watched from there. Abraham posed with two new apparatuses: a ball and a hoop.

The ball was iridescent blue. Alejandro thought it was pretty cool. It was smaller than a bowling ball, only about 18 to 20 centimeters in diameter. Abraham balanced the ball in the palm of his right hand then contorted and posed, never gripping or dropping the ball. He even balanced the ball at the base of his neck and leaned forward, reaching his left leg backwards until his toe held the ball in place so he could lean farther without dropping the ball.

Switching to the hoop, Abraham twisted and turned posing with the hoop. He did a series of different moves spinning the hoop around his foot or arm as he struck different poses. Then he did a series of tosses and catches of the hoop. Alejandro was dazzled by the accuracy and skill the boy exhibited in the brief moments he wasn't intrigued by the boy's looks. It was confusing to Alejandro. The twins' weren't the traditional beauty. Their faces were rather angular, and their expression could, at times, seem a bit severe. To some, they would be considered too skinny and lanky. Some may even find the boys' androgyny unsettling. Yet, Alejandro found them completely captivating.

"Did you get an eyeful?" asked Eli when he snuck up on Alejandro. The shadows cast by the bright lights hid Alejandro's embarrassment. "I'm just teasing you. My mom wants me to apologize so consider that done."

Alejandro didn't look at Eli but gave him a slight nod to let him know he heard what the boy said.

"By the way," Eli continued, "he likes to go to the movies and trampoline parks. He likes the ocean too, but there isn't one close to here."

"Why are you so interested in getting Abraham a date?" asked Alejandro, going on the offensive.

Eli's jovial manner faded. "He gets picked on a lot at school and doesn't have any friends outside of the kids at his gymnastics school. There aren't many boys doing rhythmic gymnastics and that even alienates him from a lot of the male gymnasts. He needs a friend and if you are the type of guy everyone says you are, then you'd be a good friend to him."

Alejandro turned and made eye contact with Eli. The two boys sized each other up in that moment. Eli deciding if Alejandro was who everyone thought him to be. Alejandro deciding if Eli was serious or teasing him again.

Eli broke eye contact first, satisfied that Alejandro would be good to his brother. That convinced Alejandro of Eli's intent. He pulled out his phone and asked Eli to exchange phone numbers, including Abraham's.

While the boys exchanged numbers, the photoshoot ended. Abraham walked by and called out, "Vamos Eli. Es hora de irse a casa. (Come on Eli. It's time to go home.)" Eli turned and followed his brother.

Alejandro was confused. He thought the twins liked him, but Abraham didn't seem to care one way or the other. "Uh...Adiós Abraham. Te llamaré en algún momento. (Bye Abraham. I'll call you sometime.)" He watched the twins climb into the van. Before Eli followed Abraham, Eli turned and gave Alejandro a thumbs up.

Dumbfounded by what just happened, Alejandro watched the van pull away before he returned to the gazebo to grab his bike and head home.

----------------------     

Christian's party was winding down for the evening. With teammates and friends from school heading home, the core group of friends from the lunch table and those spending the night were all that remained. All the boys helped clean up the back yard and put things away making the job quick and simple.

Not long after, Jordan's mother, called her troops to get ready to head to her house for a sleep over.

"Man," said Curtis shaking his head in disbelief, "how did you pull this off? Your mom never lets this many guys spend the night at one time."

"I know, right?" replied Jordan. In the past, at most he could have three friends over, but usually only two. After Jordan explained the situation with Trajan, his mother reluctantly agreed. She appreciated her son and his friend wanted to have some time with their friend to try to influence the direction of his life. Tonight, Lewis, Trajan, Curtis, Will, and Scott were slated to be joining Jordan. The boys going to Jordan's began to collect their things.

"Awe, man," griped Will, "I'm just getting comfortable."

"Yeah, well, we better get going," said Scott to the guys in the hot tub. Lewis and Will agreed and climbed out.

"What? No!" whined Lukas pouting.

"What?" asked Scott. "You knew we were planning to talk to Trajan tonight."

It was now just Simon, Lukas, and Scott in the hot tub. "Do you have to go? I thought they were going to talk to Trajan. I didn't realize you were going to go too. I really got my hopes up you'd be spending the night with us."

Looking into Lukas' eyes, Scott thought, 'How does he do this to me?' He knew Lukas had him twisted around his little finger. Don't get me wrong; Scott was a willing participant. That was the problem. No one, not his mother, not his girlfriend, not a single other person in the world could twist him to their will like that. He wondered if Lukas knew he had that control over him. The blonde didn't take advantage of it, nor had he ever teased Scott about it. Either way, if Lukas ever hinted that he would like Scott to do something or the slightest disappointment in Lukas' eyes, it wrenched Scott's heart. This was far from the first time he wondered if he could be in love with Lukas but still be straight. He even checked out other guys to see if he felt attracted to them the way he was attracted to Lukas. Nada. No other guy, not even Simon, turned his head, or turned him on, the way Lukas did.

Scott reached and brushed his hand across Lukas' cheek. "Let me see what I can do." He climbed out of the hot tub to find Jordan.

Jordan looked up and saw Scott approach. "Hey bro. My mom's waiting on us."

"Yeah, I heard," started Scott. "I think I'm just going to stay here."

Jordan zipped his bag and sat to put on his tennis shoes. "Really? You're supposed to help us talk to Trajan."

"I know...," agreed Scott trying to think of a good reason to skip out on this important discussion. "Do you think it will be a good thing that I'm there? I mean, I thought I made my point in the locker room. I'm kinda talked out on this topic."

Jordan tied his other shoe. "I see your point. You are part of the problem, but sometimes I think if anyone is going to get through to him, it will be you. It's like you are the problem and solution at the same time. Have mercy on us then. How do you think Trajan is going to react if you stay here and he spends the night with us? That's how our evening is going to go tonight."

"Sorry. He'll probably act the exact same way he does every other time I'm with Simon and Lukas and he isn't." As Scott thought about what he just said, he started to get pissed. "Dammit. Why should my decision on what I do tonight be based on how Trajan is going to react? Why should he get to control what I do? I'm not going to let him make me feel guilty about my relationship with Lukas and Simon. I feel like shit letting you and the other guys down, but if I go, I'm going to end up arguing with Trajan and that isn't going to help. He'll just get whiney and bitchy and defensive, and I'll just get madder and madder and madder. Me being there is not going to be productive."

Jordan stood. "Yeah, I get it. You're probably right. It will probably be better for us to talk to him straight up. You, Lukas, and Simon would be distractions. Besides, I'm sure my dad will be glad to have one less boy overnight." Jordan slung his backpack over his shoulder. "We're good. Don't worry about it. I think if I were you, I'd be pissed at Trajan. I think you've been nicer to him than any of us would be." His phone buzzed. It was a text from his mom asking what was taking everyone so long. "Have fun, Scott." Jordan turned to the other boys spending the night at his house. "Alright guys let's head out. Happy Birthday, Christian!" The other boys said their "byes" and birthday wishes to Christian before heading to their ride.

The gate to the driveway closed and everyone in the backyard heard, "WHAT DO YOU MEAN SCOTT ISN'T COMING?!"

Michael and Christian looked over to the hot tub where Simon, Lukas, and Scott stared in the direction of the gate. Lukas saw the other two looking their way and shrugged. To his mates in the hot tub, Lukas stated under his breath, "I'm glad I'm not hanging out with Trajan tonight." Simon and Scott shared Lukas' sentiment.

"What was that about?" asked Isaac as he held Jaden's hand to steady himself while stepping into the hot tub.

Lukas rolled his eyes. Scott, on the other hand, decided to answer the question as concisely as possible. "That, my friend, is a long story." He hoped they didn't ask for more detail.

"Ahhhhh..." exhaled Jaden. "This water feels so good. It was getting chilly out there." Isaac scooted close to Jaden and tilted his head against his boyfriends.

"I don't mean to embarrass you two," said Lukas, "but you guys make the cutest couple. I'm really happy for you."

Isaac and Jaden both blushed. Jaden gave Isaac's hand a squeeze. "I was so lucky," he told his friends. "I found this cutie swimming around at the 'Y'."

The boys looked over to see who was joining them in the hot tub. Derek and Jack took a seat on the edge dangling their legs into the hot water before taking the plunge.

"Hey, Derek," greeted Jaden with a fist bump. "Glad you came over. I wanted you to meet my boyfriend, Isaac. Isaac, this is my friend from the swim team."

Derek leaned over to give Isaac and Jaden each a hug. "Good to meet you, Isaac. Have you guys met Jack? We've been together for a few weeks now but we've been friends forever." Jack shyly waved to the other boys in the hot tub while Derek joined him on the edge of the tub again.

"I can't believe all the gay couples that were here today," blurted Isaac. His expression turned to embarrassment as soon as he said it. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to sound stupid or anything. It's just..." He wasn't sure how to finish.

Everyone waited for Isaac to finish. When he didn't, Jaden filled in the gap. "I think what Isaac was saying is, until we met, he didn't know anyone else that was gay. Now he's met so many gay guys, he's in a bit of shock."

"That's cool," replied Lukas. "Anyway, I think Isaac is an exceptionally cool name."

Simon rolled his eyes and Scott just shook his head and groaned. But Lukas knew his remark would spark someone to ask the question he was fishing for.

"Why's that?" asked Isaac.

Simon jumped in to answer. "Because it's his first name too," he said, depriving Lukas of a chance to reveal a fact that only those closest to him knew.

"Hey! I wanted to tell him!" groused Lukas splashing water in Simon's face.

The splashing and laughter drew the attention of the other boys. Alex, Josh, Sam and Gregory climbed out of the pool to join the others in the hot tub. Craig, Oliver, Michael and Christian, who'd been lounging and chatting at the table decided they wanted in on the action too.

The Novak hot tub was not going to accommodate 15 boys; not if there was to be any room left for water. Instead, some of the boys sat on the edge with only their legs in the water. Others seated themselves on the laps of the other boys in the hot, bubbling water.

Conversation was lively and the boys got to know the newer boys better. Jack's worries about his family were forgotten as he enjoyed being with the older boys, especially Derek. Thoughts of not measuring up because of his disabilities evaporated as Isaac bonded with his new friends; something he missed since his days of playing sports and having teammates. Craig and Oliver were on cloud nine. Since their arrival in East Harbor, there had been a sense of dread in the back of their minds. East Harbor surpassed their wildest dreams. That joy made the fear of Dr. Kendall not getting the job and the boys returning to Bozeman even more depressing. Now that they knew they were moving to East Harbor and they were in fact going to be part of the Saber community, the boys from Bozeman could finally relax and invest themselves fully into these new friendships.

Christian couldn't have imagined a better birthday. Just a few months ago, before Christmas, he was a miserable, lonely boy trudging through his daily routine. Since moving to East Harbor, he'd been happier than he could ever remember. He realized his face actually hurt from smiling so much today. Part of that was because of his boyfriend, the most incredible person he'd ever met, Michael Meijer. He turned his head to look at the boy who owned his heart to find Michael already staring at him.

"Happy Birthday," said Michael.

Christian leaned in to give Michael a kiss.

*smack*

A roar of laughter rose from the hot tub when a pair of red Speedos plastered the side of Michael's face before Christian could kiss him.

"DEREK!" shouted Michael and half the population of the hot tub.

"I didn't do it!" defended Derek, standing to show his Speedo was tented, but still in place.

The boy's looking his way noticed the mischievous grin on Jack's face. The little blond hopped out of the hot tub giving everyone a glimpse of his pre-pubescent boner before he turned and shook his bottom at the older boys then made a run for the pool and plunged into the deep end.

Derek jumped out of the bubbling water. Stripping out of his Saber green racing Speedo, he flipped the garment in the air and wagged his tween boner at the older boys and chased after Jack with a splash.

Other boys followed suit. Isaac and Christian took in the sights of the other boys in varying stages of maturity. Before Jaden could ask, Isaac mustered up his courage and shimmied out of his trunks and held them up out of the water. Jaden smiled and climbed out of the tub. Isaac stood and reached for Jaden's hand, but Jaden had other plans. He put on a show for Isaac, even with Michael and Christian ogling his boy bits too. Jaden slowly stripped out of his Speedo and tossed it into the hot tub in front of the naked Isaac. Isaac picked up the Speedo and twirled it on his finger before it slipped off and flew several feet away.

"Here," said Jaden, squatting down and offering both hands to Isaac. Isaac reached up and Jaden lifted the slight boy out of the water. Hand-in-hand they hurried to the pool. Before long, the boys started to cycle between the refreshing, cool pool water and the relaxing, bubbly water of the hot tub.

"Well?" asked Michael. Christian watched as Michael stood and kicked off his swimsuit. Michael's fat four inches pointed towards the blonde's face. Christian couldn't take his eyes off Michael's genitals and the few pubes that graced his pubis to the left and right of his boy cock. He watched Michael offer a hand and Christian took it. Stepping out of the hot tub, Christian looked around one last time before dropping his Boardies to his ankles. Kicking them off, he gave Michael a smile before dashing off to the pool. Michael was only steps behind.

Matthew returned from baseball practice and the batting cage. He scrounged up something to eat before slipping on some shorts and headed out to the backyard to see what all the commotion was about.

"Hey, Matthew! Com'on!" came a shout from the pool. Coming from the bright lights inside the house to the dimly lit backyard, Matthew couldn't make out who shouted. He headed towards the pool to see.

What had the boys wound up was evident when Scott climbed out of the pool and hurried to the diving board. Even being darker complected and tanned, his bare ass still challenged the moon in luminosity.

"Oh brother!" groaned Matthew. He should have known once the adults were inside and the sun went down, the swim trunks would come off. His first thoughts were of April's pending arrival to go for a swim and watch a movie tonight. Distracted by his evening plans, Matthew didn't notice the pointing and whispering going on.

Matthew was lost in his thoughts until he heard someone shout, "Get him!"

A swarm of arms and hands grabbed the surprised teenager. He wasn't sure how to react until he felt a set of fingers grip the band of his shorts and briefs. "No, you don't!" laughed Matthew as he was being dragged toward the pool. He grabbed for his shorts, but his arm strength was no match for a trio of middle school athletes holding each arm. "No! No! NO!" he shouted. His disadvantage now evident, Matthew squirmed in a more serious attempt to break free.

Timing it just right, Matthew's body relaxed and straightened out for just an instance and that's when the hands yanked on Matthew's garments. Michael had them below Matthew's knees before his oldest brother knew what happened. Further struggles to break free only helped Michael wiggle the clothing past Matthew's ankles and over his feet.

"I'll get you for this!" Matthew threatened. "All of you!"

He managed to get that out before breaking the surface of the pool. The laughter was loud enough he could hear it underwater. Landing in the shallow end, he changed direction underwater and approached the pool wall. He planted his feet on the bottom then exploded from the pool. Using his hands on the side of the pool for leverage, Matthew was out of the pool facing a startled group of boys.

A quick scan and Matthew's eyes landed on the culprit who planned the whole thing. Michael was laughing and twirling Matthew's shorts in the air.

"MICHAEL!"

Michael hadn't heard that tone of voice out of Matthew in ages. He stopped laughing and saw Matthew staring directly at him. Michael knew the score. Matthew's tickle fingers were engaged and ready to attack!

"Noooooooo!" cried Michael, laughing all the way. He started running towards the hot tub then veered around some furniture and bodies heading in a direction that would take him around the pool. Matthew, his nudity forgotten, was in chase. The other boys laughed, shouted instructions, or cheered as Michael sprinted this way and that avoiding Matthew's clutches.

Making a dash to the backdoor of the Meijer house, Michael threw open the door. His plan was to barricade himself in Lukas' room until Matthew calmed down. Through the door and down the hallway, Michael dashed by someone heading for the backdoor.

"Hi, April!" greeted the boy before slamming the door to Lukas' room and locking it.

The backdoor opened again as Matthew entered in hot pursuit.

"APRIL!" shouted Matthew. His hands shot down to make his privates private. He tried to decide what to do. He had to go past April to get to his bedroom or the bathroom. Should he risk it or retreat? Before he could weigh the options, his brain made a quick assessment. Hide? Where? Fight? Why? Flight? YES! Matthew turned giving April a rear view. He tore out of the house and ran to the hot tub and jumped in.

April laughed. "Michael, you can come out now. Matthew went back outside."

Skeptical, Michael carefully peeked out the bedroom door. Seeing April standing there alone, he opened the door wider.

"I think you'll save us all a headache if you just give Matthew back his clothes," she said.

Michael, now hiding behind the open door, reached the clothes out for April to take. She walked over and took the clothes from Michael and moved them to her opposite hand. Then she reached out for Michael to take her hand. "Come on. I know all your friends are out back. No need to hide in here." She watched the boy's head disappear behind the door and waited patiently as he decided what to do. Michael eventually came out from behind the door taking April's hand and hiding his junk with the other hand. April smiled seeing Michael's failed attempt at modesty. She'd seen two Meijer boys' junk and she fully expected to see their brothers shortly. Together, Michael and April walked out into the yard and over to where they spotted Matthew.

Someone spotted April and cried out, "A girl!" Shrieks and squeaks were followed by splashes as the boys dove for cover from the girl invading their all-boy party. At the edge of the hot tub, Michael quickly climbed in and submerged below the bubbles. He joined Christian who sat across from Matthew. With the swimsuits thrown helter-skelter around the hot tub, none of the boys had an opportunity to put their clothing back on without fully exposing themselves to the girl.

The boys in the pool lined up along the edge of the pool watching April's every move and spying their discarded bottoms.

April slipped off her sandals and kicked them under a chair before dropping her purse into the chair. She tossed Matthew's clothing into the chair then turned to face her sexy boyfriend. Matthew's face was red. She wondered if he was still embarrassed, if he was heated up from the hot tub's water, or if he was heated up by being naked in her presence. Letting Matthew take in her body, she grabbed the hem of her tee and slipped it over her head revealing her new two-piece bikini top.

Scott's eyes bugged out. He scrambled out of the pool and hurried to the hot tub. Picking a path so the patio furniture gave him some cover, he made his way to Christian's side and slid into the steaming tub. Lukas followed close behind and squeezed in next to Scott.

April enjoyed the show all the naked boys were putting on. She had an appreciation of the "semi" Scott was sporting before it disappeared beneath the bubbles. She hoped she was having the same effect on Matthew. Slowly, she unbuttoned the fly of her cut-offs before letting them drop to her ankles. There were a couple whistles from the pool but the boys in the hot tub were stunned into silence. April's new bikini was not something anyone would have expected April to wear. However, when you're planning on swimming in a private pool and you are trying to move things forward with your boyfriend, it is exactly what you wear.

"Do you like my new bikini?" she asked staring into Matthew's eyes. Matthew and Scott nodded vigorously causing April to don a crooked smile.

"You know what I was thinking?" she asked to no one in particular. All the boys anticipated her answer. "I was thinking...since I've gotten to see you naked, you should probably get to see more of me." With that, she pulled the string on the bow holding the bikini together and the two triangles of material fell away.

"She's showing her boobs!" said Jack pointing at April. Derek quickly capped his hand over Jack's mouth and shushed him. A discussion about discretion would be in order between the two boys. Especially if they hoped to be invited back to another Meijer boys' sleep over.

Letting all the boys have an eyeful, April was certain about two things: which boys were gay (boys that had a look of shock on their faces) and which were interested in girls (the boys that had a look of hunger on their faces). At this point in the party, the gay boys drastically outnumbered the others. She stepped down into the hot tub and the show ended. Sitting on the bench next to Matthew, the water was shoulder deep on April. Throwing in one last tease of Matthew, she put her hand on Matthew's leg just above his knee. Surprised and nervous, Matthew visibly jumped at her touch, hoping to avoid any embarrassing contact between parts that hadn't touched or been touched by April yet.

"Oh," said April as she remembered. "Happy Birthday Christian!"

----------------------     

Jax assessed his relationship while the bass of the music thumped, rattling objects on the walls and shelves of his friend's bedroom. He heard laughter from the party going on downstairs. He was in a house full of his buddies from school...hell, he was in bed with his supposed boyfriend...yet he felt very alone. He slipped out of the bed and started to dress. He just wanted to get home before his parents found he'd snuck out to go to the party.

"Where're you going?" droned a voice from the darkness.

"Home." He buttoned his jeans.

"Can't you stay a little longer?"

Jax slipped a t-shirt over his head. He wasn't sure if it was his or not. "I'm sure Kyle will want his room back. Besides, you know my parents told me I wasn't allowed to go out tonight. I need to get home."

His boyfriend sat up. "What's wrong? You sound kinda pissy or something."

Jax sat tying his shoes. "Why shouldn't I? You said his name again while we were having sex."

"I did? I don't remember."

Jax got up on his knees and crawled over to face his boyfriend. "You did and you need to get over it 'cause I'm not putting up with that shit anymore. You don't live in East Harbor anymore Gavin. Get the fuck over it or find someone else. I deserve better than being your fantasy fuck."

He hopped off the bed and closed the door behind him as he headed for home.

Gavin dropped back on the bed and stared into the blackness hiding the ceiling. "FUCK!" he yelled slamming his fists into the mattress.

There was a knock at the door before it opened. Kyle stuck his head in though he couldn't see who was in his bedroom. "I saw Jax leave. Are you love birds done in here? Eva and I want some alone time before she has to go home."

"Give me a sec and I'll be out."

Kyle shut the door and pulled Eva in tightly and resumed their game of tonsil hockey waiting for the bedroom to become available.

The digital alarm clock indicated it was close to his own curfew. Gavin dressed quickly. It was a short bike ride home, so he was certain to make it in time. Then his heart leapt when he remembered his 16th birthday was later this month. "At least that is one thing to look forward to."

----------------------     

"Dude," bragged Jordan, "I own you at FIFA tonight."

Will tossed the controller onto the table. "Someone else can take my place," he grumbled. Having lost three straight soccer matches, two to Jordan, Will's ego couldn't handle more at the moment.

Trajan, Curtis, and Lewis were also hanging out around the TV in Jordan's room. Having ordered some pizzas, the five of them were enjoying sugar, caffeine, pizza, and video games. The best part so far was that Trajan seemed to have forgotten what he'd been so pissy about the several few weeks. The boys almost regretted that they needed to bring it all back up.

When no one jumped at taking the controls, Trajan knew something was up. "You're gonna do it now, aren't you?"

"What?" asked Will.

"You know. It's time to 'have the talk' with Trajan." He fingered the quotation marks for emphasis.

Curtis' restraint was spent. He walked over and got in Trajan's face and poked him in the chest with his finger to drive home the point. "Yeah, it's time for us to 'have the talk' with Trajan. You just need to realize that we aren't doing this for us. We'd rather have spent the night at Lukas' or hang out playing video games. But we're worried about you. This is all about trying to get you to see what the hell you're doing or aren't doing. So, keep your mouth shut and listen to what we say."

Trajan dropped into the armchair with a huff and folded his arms.

"Look Trajan," said Jordan in a much calmer voice, "we've been friends since kindergarten. We want to talk to you because we want to continue to be friends even after we go off to college or something. But to be honest, you're making it really hard."

That set Trajan off on the defensive. "What do you mean? We play lacrosse together. We all sit together at lunch every day. I'm even in at least two classes with each of you. How hard is it to be friends under those circumstances?"

"There's more to being friends than that," noted Lewis. "Hell, if that's all it takes to be friends, you could say we've been friends since I moved to East Harbor. But we all know we can't say that since I was such an asshole to you guys for years."

"Exactly," argued Trajan, "I wasn't an asshole all those years. That's why I was a friend, and you weren't."

Lewis rolled his eyes. Before he could continue, Will jumped in. "Trajan. Let me ask you a question. How are things between you and Derek?"

"Fine," he answered.

Will asked, "Did you talk to him at the party today?"

"No. We don't need to talk all the time for things to be fine between us."

That was the expected answer and Will was armed with a poignant question. "When was the last time you guys talked?" He waited for Trajan to reply, uncertain if Trajan was unwilling to answer, or if Trajan simply couldn't recall the last time he spoke to Derek.

When an answer wasn't forthcoming, Will continued. "The last time we asked, you hadn't spoken to Derek since he broke up with you and I'm suspecting that hasn't changed. It's just an instance of what we're trying to point out to you. You've never apologized to Derek for how you treated him."

Trajan was quick with an excuse. "I...I...I haven't had a chance."

"Com'on Trajan. The two of you broke up at the beginning of March. Since then, we saw Derek at the high school lacrosse games we attended, and I know you still have his phone number. You've either been avoiding talking to Derek because you know what a jerk you were to him, or you don't care and don't even think about, so you just never bother to talk to Derek."

Trajan didn't have an answer to that.

Jordan jumped in. "It's like that with Scott, too."

"I apologized to Scott," stated Trajan.

"Yes, you did," agreed Jordan giving credit where credit was due, "but then you went right back to doing the same things you were doing before like the apology didn't mean anything."

"Why do you guys always side with Scott?" whined Trajan. "He always gets what he wants. You know the school dance I brought Derek to? Scott found us in the basement bathrooms and fucked Derek."

"Why are you telling us this?" asked Curtis. "First you blab to everyone about Scott and Lukas and now you're blabbing about Scott and Derek. It's no one's business. How are we supposed to trust you with anything if you share everyone else's secrets?"

"'Cause I'm your friend," answered Trajan.

"Then you aren't Scott or Derek's friend?"

"I'm their friend," said Trajan.

"Well, if you are their friend and you'll blab about their private stuff, then why shouldn't we think you'd do the same to us?" replied Curtis. "You just run your mouth and tell things that you think makes you look like the victim or makes you look good in comparison to someone else, but all you are really doing is making everyone not trust you because you blab everything."

"And when you aren't spilling the beans on other people's business," added Lewis, "you're bragging and making up stories just like you did about what happened to us."

"I didn't make up those stories," noted Trajan. "Those were the things the other kids were saying."

"That's how it started," agreed Lewis. "There were all sorts of rumors going around school about what happened that day -- especially when we didn't return to school right away. But then you started adding to the stories and egging people on. You made them believe things that weren't true. Why did you do that?"

Trajan shrugged. He didn't know why he did it. It was just fun in the moment.

"We're friends, but it really hurt me when you ignored the fact that I got shot at point blank range and that I was the one that pushed you out of the way so you wouldn't get shot, then you go around trying to sound like a hero and bragging about what Mark did. You didn't take the whole thing seriously. You didn't take my feelings into account. And I'd bet Mark would agree."

"You realize that's kinda like what you did to Scott, don't you?" asked Jordan. "You only focused one how you weren't getting what you wanted and didn't even consider Scott or Lukas' feelings. You went so far that you pushed Scott into getting naked just to please you."

"He gets naked with Lukas, what's the difference."

Jordan's tone took a more serious tone, "Because when he's with Lukas, he chooses to do what he wants to do. With you, you demanded until he gave in. He did it to shut you up, not because he wanted to. You realize that was more of a sexual assault than consensual sex, don't you?"

"Well why does he want to do it with Lukas and not with me?"

The other boys looked at him as if he had two heads. They couldn't believe he was still asking that question. After previous conversations, it was assumed that was resolved.

"In short," stated Jordan tersely, "it's none of your business. All you need to know is that he doesn't owe you any explanation why. He just feels the way he feels."

Trajan crossed his arms and let out a huff. He fumed in silence, but the other boys knew exactly what was going on in his head. Trajan was pissed that what he hoped would be a fun sleepover with Scott and friends turned out to be a lecture from the friends, without Scott. Will, Jordan, and the others were all sounding like Lukas, Michael, and even his own mother. Why didn't anyone care about how he felt?

The other boys knew anything else said would be a waste of breath. "Here," said Jordan handing the controller to Curtis, "I don't feel much like playing another game. Why don't you and Will play."

Curtis and Will started another game of FIFA in the gloom of Jordan's bedroom. The fun was over. Even the boys playing the PlayStation let their thoughts dwell on Trajan and their attempts to open his eyes. Now each boy was determining if they would even bother to try again.

----------------------     

Three of the loungers had been pulled together and a group of boys shared the makeshift bed. They'd been watching the stars and talking quietly.

"Jaden," whispered Christian, "Isaac's asleep."

Isaac was the little spoon, so Jaden couldn't see the happy, contented look on the sleeping boy. "I thought so. I bet today wiped him out." He brushed Isaac's bangs from his face and kissed him just behind the ear.

Michael's head popped up on the other side of Christian. "It's really cool how you two met," he said. "I bet he about died when the boy he was crushing on just swam up to him."

"Yeah," laughed Christian. "I'm surprised he didn't have a heart attack and drown."

Jaden just smiled and squeezed Isaac tightly. The sleeping boy didn't even flinch.

"Hey," said Christian, "should you guys sleep inside? I mean with Isaac's health and all."

Jaden's brow furrowed. "I hadn't thought about that."

"I think we're going to spend the night out here. Why don't you guys use my bedroom," offered Michael.

"Okay." Jaden rose careful not to disturb the other boys. "Could you help? I'll carry him, but I'll need help with the doors." Michael and Christian were on the end and got to their feet to help in any way they could.

"I'll grab your phones and overnight bags," offered Christian.

The naked boys headed to the backdoor of the Novak residence, modesty in April's presence had long since passed. Michael glanced towards the hot tub wondering why it was unusually quiet. He wasn't shocked to see four couples (plus Scott) in separate make out sessions. A smile crept along Michael's face seeing Matthew with April. He really liked April and was happy to see their relationship growing and how happy Matthew was these days. He wanted his big bro to be as happy as he was.

They made their way up the stairs to Michael's bedroom. Christian fluffed the pillows and Michael turned down the covers so Jaden could place Isaac in bed. He sat next to his sleeping boyfriend and wiped his face.

Michael noticed and sat next to Jaden while Christian fussed with something across the room. Placing an arm around his friend, he asked, "What's wrong?"

"He was so light," said Jaden with a sniffle. He traced a finger along Isaac's nose then ran his hand down the boy's arm before taking Isaac's hand in his. "He's so fragile."

"No, he's not," said Michael. "In body, maybe, but he's one of the strongest people I know. You know all he's been through and look how happy he is."

Jaden nodded in agreement before Christian joined in. "That's a lot coming from Michael," he noted. "Isaac and Michael are two of a kind and we are lucky to be the ones they love."

Christian got the first hug from Jaden. Jaden turned and gave Michael a hug too. "You guys are awesome. Thanks."

"Get some sleep," said Christian. "Your phones are charging on the table over there. Call us if you need anything."

"Night," said Jaden climbing over Isaac and pulling the covers up.

Michael closed the door quietly and they headed down to the backyard.

----------------------     

"I think we need to move this to my bedroom," whispered Lukas. Simon and Scott agreed, and Lukas scrambled out of the hot tub and grabbed a towel. When the other two didn't join him, he turned to see them both too embarrassed to exit the water with boners with April there. Lukas rolled his eyes and tossed a towel to each boy. They climbed out of the hot tub shielding themselves from April even though she had her eyes closed with her back to them while she tongue-wrestled Matthew. Neither Sam or Gregory, or Alex or Josh bothered to look up to see who was doing what. Sam and Gregory didn't care, they were used to this type of thing. Alex and Josh were not, but they were busy making up for lost time. This was the first time they'd gotten naked together and it would have taken a nuclear bomb to get their attention.

April leaned back, her breast just above the water. "I think we should go inside too."

Matthew didn't care where that was going to lead, he just nodded and followed April when she stepped out of the hot tub giving Matthew a quick, first, real-life glimpse at a female's sexual reproductive parts.

With a towel tied around her body, she handed Matthew a towel to wrap around his and they headed to the backdoor of the Meijer's home. They quietly entered and stepped carefully to avoid making noise. It wasn't that they thought what they were doing was wrong, but they wanted it to be private; to be something that they would share with others if they chose.

Matthew turned to lead April into his room when he felt a tug on his towel. He turned to see April back into the bathroom. She tossed the bathing suit she carried onto the counter then dropped her towel onto the rug below. Matthew watched as she turned on the shower, the golden glow of the night light making her wet body glisten. When she beckoned Matthew to come closer, he moved as if he were in a trance shutting the bathroom door behind him. The lock clicked keeping out any boys who might barge in to relieve themselves.

Though she'd felt Matthew's manhood press into her hip as they kissed in the hot tub, neither had made a move to touch more intimate places. The hot tub just wasn't the place for that; at least not for their first time. Once April found the water temperature to be satisfactory, she turned to face Matthew. His body cast a shadow masking his features from her eyes. April didn't need to see to find what she wanted. Her hand trembled as she lifted it. Matthew sucked in a sharp breath when her hand wrapped itself around his rigid cock.

She looked to her hand as it held a cock for the first time. Feeling it's soft skin, she slid her hand gently up and down the lengthy rod before giving it a squeeze. She was amazed at how something could feel so soft and hard at the same time. Pulling her hand away, the string of precum drifting towards the floor caught on her fingers. Curious, she brought her hand to her mouth and tasted it. She liked it.

"My mom got me started on the pill," whispered April. "It's been over a month now. We're safe."

Matthew stepped forward and kissed April with a hunger neither had ever experienced. She felt his hands grip her just below her butt and lift. Instinctively, she wrapped her legs around Matthew's waist. He carried her into the shower, her wetness pressed firmly against the underside of his erection.

----------------------     

When Christian and Michael emerged from the darkness of the Novak home, the mood in the backyard had changed. Gregory stood on the bench in the hot tub while Sam stood on the floor. The height difference made it, so Sam didn't have to lean over too far to suck Gregory's stiff dick. Alex and Josh watched the show intently. Their hands finally drifting to the other's cock, something the two had longed to do since the night John Vance had essentially cock-blocked them.

"Simon's room is still available," informed Michael, "but keep it down. Mr. Kendall's using the guest room and Isaac is sleeping in my room."

Gregory nodded and pulled Sam off his cock. He looked over to Josh and Alex. "Come on." Alex looked to Josh who gave a quick nod. The four boys scampered out of the hot tub. Grabbing towels, they dried and hurried off to Simon's bedroom. Hard spikes bouncing and pointing the way.

Scanning the backyard, it wasn't hard to spot Jack and Derek right where Michael and Christian left them. Only now they were rolling around under the blanket kissing and frantically humping against each other. It took more time to find Craig and Oliver. The older boys were making out on the diving board. Oliver straddled the board, his long legs nearly reaching his toes to the water's surface. Craig faced Oliver with one foot slowing swinging over the water, the other planted solidly on the diving board. This allowed Oliver's right hand to play with his hole while they kissed.

Michael grabbed Christian's wrist to stop him. "Let's sleep outside tonight," suggested Michael. The look on Christian's face made Michael feel like he needed to explain. "I don't think anyone will want to go in and disturb Lukas, Simon, and Scott. No one usually crashed in Matthew's room, and I think the 'rents are still hanging out in the family room. And here," he shoved his thumb towards the Novak's, "the guest room and Simon's room are full, and I don't want anyone going into my room with Isaac sleeping. We could either crash in the family room, or we could sleep out here under the stars."

Michael's logic seemed reasonable and the idea of sleeping under the stars was enticing to Christian. "It's going to get a lot colder tonight."

"Lukas said they have sleeping bags in the garage. Let's see if we can find them." The boys went off to see what they could find.

Derek and Jack squeaked when they reached their peak. They shuddered through intense orgasms, Derek's wetting their stomachs.

The pleasure of the younger boys intruded upon the world the Montana boys had created for themselves. "I don't think the diving board is going to be the most comfortable place," said Oliver. "What do you want to do?"

"I don't know." Craig thought a minute. "We could go in and find a place in Simon's room. But with dad's bedroom next door, I think I'd be a bit embarrassed if he heard us and four other boys, even if we weren't doing stuff together."

Oliver nodded in agreement. "We could go see what's going on in Lukas' room."

A mischievous grin drew itself on Craig's face. He imagined Oliver, Simon, and Scott standing side-by-side naked and erect, and it was up to him and Lukas to satisfy them. The thought caused a tingle where Oliver's fingers had just been. "Let's go." The boys looked for their swim trunks then gave up and grabbed towels. The rear door to Lukas' house closed as the garage door opened with Michael and Christian carrying arm loads of sleeping bags and pillows.

Derek and Jack looked so peaceful sleeping soundly, wrapped in each other's arms. Christian and Michael didn't have the heart to wake them. Instead, they unzipped one of the sleeping bags and draped it over the boys to make sure they didn't get cold during the night and placed pillows next to their heads.

For their own sleeping arrangements, Michael and Christian found two more chaise loungers and pulled them together. Zipping the two sleeping bags together and finding various throw pillows, they made their bed for the night.

Christian looked at Michael. "You know, the hot tub is empty."

Michael looked at Christian and saw the blond wiggle his eyebrows. Looking down, he saw Christian was already chubbing up. That was an invitation Michael couldn't resist. Dropping to his knees, he used his mouth to help Christian reach his full potential.

Even after sneaking away twice during the party for a quicky, Christian felt an urgency as if he hadn't touched himself for a week. The boys never made it to the hot tub. Christian joined Michael on his knees and the lovers fell into each other's arms and then into the grass.

----------------------     

After returning home from the Plaza Mayor and watching Abraham, Alejandro retreated to his room to think. His mind was going a million different directions but there was only one catalyst to the chaos: Abraham Belmonte Sans. In his opinion, the boy was hella cute and talented and made Alejandro want to be his friend and more. But he'd never met someone so flippant, so aloof, so aggravating, so attractive.

Giving up on sleep, he was going to call Carlos. Then he realized the time. At least if he called Michael and Christian, it would be earlier in the evening. He knew they would listen and have some good advice. He typed out a message, his thumb hovering over the send button, but Alejandro couldn't bring himself to execute the task. It was Christian's birthday, and they didn't need to listen to him talk about a boy he hardly knew. Instead, he deleted what he'd typed and tapped out, "Hope you had a great birthday! Wish I was there!" Then he sent the message to Michael and Christian.

Alejandro settled on calling Carlos, even at this late hour. The phone rang a few times, answered just before it rolled over to voicemail. It still took a few seconds to hear his cousin's voice. "Hello?" croaked Carlos. He had clearly been asleep. Not exactly what Alejandro expected on a Saturday night.

"I thought you'd be out tonight," said Alejandro.

Carlos was aware enough to recognize his cousin. "Hey cuz," he said, rubbing his eyes to wake up. "I've got term papers and finals coming up. I stayed in this weekend to study."

"Oh."

"Hey, I told you, I don't go out and party all the time. When I visit, I'm on vacation from school so I'm a lot more fun. When I'm at school, I'm a lot more serious."

"I know, but I didn't think you'd be alone or asleep. Sorry."

"Well, if I wasn't alone, I may not have answered the phone." Alejandro knew what Carlos meant and laughed. "So, what has you up at this hour?"

"I couldn't sleep."

This wasn't the first time Alejandro had called his big cousin late at night. "Thinking about school again?"

"Yeah, but that's not what's got me not sleeping," explained Alejandro.

"So, what is it tonight?" Carlos asked.

"Abraham."

"As in the Old Testament?"

"Not that Abraham. This Abraham." He sent Carlos a photo he'd found on Instagram that evening.

Carlos looked at the photo of a thin boy with short, dark-blond hair and a face that would be described as a pixie face. This combination of features caused the boy in the photo to be unintentionally androgynous the way only young teens can pull off. Another photo appeared in his messages. It showed the boy leaping into the air in front of the Catedral de Segovia. Shirtless with tight, white jeans, it was clear the boy was a gymnast or dancer. Carlos was beginning to get the picture. "So, are you two an item?"

"An item? He hardly acknowledges I exist." That lead to Alejandro rattling off the whole story from the first time he saw the twins and thought they were brother and sister, to meeting Elijah and Abraham at the photoshoot. Carlos just smiled to himself and wondered if Alejandro would take a breath or pass out before he finished the story.

"You got it bad little dude," teased Carlos.

"What do you mean?"

"You're totally all in on Abraham."

"How can that be?" asked Alejandro. "I haven't even had a real conversation with him yet."

"Exactly."

"Exactly what?"

"Yet," explained Carlos. "No matter how much Abraham acts like he's not interested, it's not going to deter you. You are going to chase him anyway. It sounds like you're completely infatuated with him. I don't blame you. You've been away from your friends in California and Abraham's cute."

"So, you think he's only acting like he's not interested?"

"Yes. No matter how much of a prankster Elijah is, it doesn't sound like his brother's feelings are something he would joke about. I think Abraham is being coy to test you; to see if you really are interested in him."

"Oh," said Alejandro in understanding. "He's keeping me at a distance until he trusts that I'm not going to be an asshole to him. But how will he know he can trust me unless he talks to me."

"Time. If you are going to be a jerk to him, you wouldn't put up with him keeping his distance. But if you put in a continued effort to get to know him, he will learn to trust that you are going to be nice and give in. Plus, I think Elijah will help you."

"You think?"

"I think Elijah loves his twin and will be your ally in getting closer to Abraham."

"So, I should talk to Eli, first."

"That's what I would do." Carlos could almost hear the gears in his young cousin's brain starting to work.

----------------------     

Josh was riding on near sensory overload. Sitting on the bed in Simon's bedroom with three, hot, naked boys had his body humming. He touched his forehead with the back of his hand because he felt flushed.

"Are you alright?" asked Alex.

"Yeah," replied Josh, adjusting the pillow he was using to hide is aching erection. "I'm just feeling kinda hot. Maybe I was in the hot tube too long."

Gregory snickered. "Maybe it's just been too long since you've had some relief." He started to laugh at his joke but an elbow in his side ended that. "Ow!"

Sam flashed a look at Gregory before he spoke. "Josh, have you ever done anything before?"

Josh blushed and shook his head. "No. Every time Alex and I tried to do something, we got interrupted." Alex was leaning against the wall nodding in agreement while he rubbed his foot against Josh's thigh.

"Sorry, dude," offered Gregory feeling badly about teasing Josh. "If you guys want to be alone, we can go somewhere else."

"No," answered Alex. He scooted next to Josh and put his arm around his boyfriend's waist and pulled him close. "I've never done anything with someone I liked before. This will be my first time too. But I think we're okay with sharing the bed with you guys. What do you think Josh?" Josh nodded in agreement.

"Good," said Gregory. He grabbed Sam by the waist and pulled the boy backwards onto his lap. "I so fucking horny for this sexy boy."

Sam laughed. "You're just horny 'cause you got to see naked boobies tonight," teased Sam.

Gregory dove in and started to suck, nibble, and lick on the side of Sam's neck. It was one of Sam's most sensitive erogenous zones. Sam threw his head back and moaned as Gregory's hands moved to pinch and twist his nipples.

Josh watched in shock and lust at Sam and Gregory. What little he'd experienced making out with Alex was nothing like what his new friends were doing. Alex was heated up watching Sam and Gregory, too. Seeing the freedom of love and passion between the other two boys inspired the newbies. As Josh watched, Alex kissed Josh's shoulder before licking up the boy's neck and sucking Josh's ear lobe between his lips. Josh closed his eyes and turned his face towards Alex. When the boys' lips met, Alex's left hand slipped under Josh's pillow and cradled Josh's testicles gently in the palm of his hand.

It seemed like ages that Josh had waited, anticipating his first sexual experience. There was not a chance in hell he was going to let anyone interrupt them this time. He pushed Alex until Alex reclined on the bed then dropped his head into Alex's lap fulfilling years of fantasies.

----------------------     

Craig paused and peered around the corner. Carol, Lars, Zach, and his father were chatting at the dining table while he and Oliver were standing there naked just feet from the door to Lukas' room. The question was, how to traverse the last few feet without the adults seeing them. One good thing, the thought of being caught had tamed their passions and deflated their manhoods.

Turning to Oliver, Craig asked, "What do you want to do?"

Oliver thought for a moment and whispered back. "We've got the towels wrapped around our waists. Let's just walk into Lukas's room like it's nothing."

They tightened their towels and tried to walk casually to Lukas' bedroom door. The forced nature of their walk drew Dr. Kendall's attention which caused the others to turn their attention to where he was looking. Craig's sweaty palm caused his hand to slip on the doorknob. When he stepped back to try again, he bumped into Oliver causing both of their towels to fall to the floor. Scrambling to cover their nudity they noticed the four adults at the table staring and laughing.

Oliver reached over Craig and opened the door. Grabbing their towels, the boys stumbled into Lukas' bedroom and shut the door. Laughter from the dining room could be heard by all of the boys in the room.

"Wait," the boys heard Dr. Kendall say, "aren't there other boys in that bedroom?" He'd seen three streaking boys hustle into the room and close the door earlier.

"Uh, yes," answered Lars. "Like I was telling you earlier, the boys have gotten really close while you were in San Diego."

Craig groaned and Oliver said, "So much for your dad not knowing we were with a group of boys tonight."

Tossing the towels aside, they let their eyes adjust to the candle lit room. Soon, they could make out the three boys relaxing on Lukas' bed -- Lukas in the middle. They were taking a short break after round one, cuddling, kissing, and caressing Lukas' body as they recharged.

Lukas raised his head and looked at their new friends. "Ah! You guys decided to join us?"

"Yeah," was all Craig answered. The two boys from up north crossed the room to join the others on the bed -- erections returning to full strength.

"Looks like someone is ready for action," joked Simon seeing two wagging erections as the boys knee-walked across the bed. He grabbed Craig by the waist and pulled him down between Lukas and himself. Craig laughed as he fell between Simon and Lukas. Feeling Simon's full but limp manhood close to the target Craig offered, the doctor's son cuddled back into Simon making his offer clear. Lukas made a similar move to make room for Oliver in front of Scott, but it also created a similar opportunity for Craig -- an opportunity, or offering, that Craig had only taken once before with Michael.

Oliver saw Lukas eyeing his rod. Instead of lying down, he scooted forward between Lukas and Scott. Lukas was surprised that Scott was eyeing Oliver with a comparable sense of lust. As the boy shuffled closer, Scott reached out first and fondled Oliver's heavy sack.

"Mmmm..." hummed Oliver, pausing his progress to enjoy Scott's handy work. Lukas looked on in shock and a bit of jealousy. As far as Lukas knew, outside of what he and Scott had done together, he would kiss Simon, but that's about as far as they'd go. Scott weighing and caressing Oliver's nuts was totally unexpected.

Scott's limits weren't known to the other boys in the bed. Oliver enjoyed the attention and moved closer to offer himself to more of Scott's attention. When Oliver stopped, Scott shifted his attention to Oliver's hard cock. Lukas watched as Scott tentatively let his hand drift up and down the shaft before taking a tighter grip and dragging the foreskin back to reveal the glans. Watching this, Lukas couldn't recall a more erotic scene. It had his own cock rejuvenated and ready for more.

Shifting Oliver's manhood to his left hand, Scott raised himself onto his right elbow to get a better view. Pulling Oliver's foreskin back again, the glans glistened with the precum leaking from its slit. Scott slowly rubbed the viscous fluid around the head with his thumb. Adjusting his position again, Scott leaned forward and took Oliver's cock into his mouth. Lukas audibly gasped.

The scene was getting Simon and Craig heated up too. Craig was quietly moaning watching while Simon manhandled his body. Roughly running his hands across Craig's body, gently biting Craig's ear and neck, and lubing Craig's crack by forcefully humping his painfully erect penis back and forth, Simon used Craig's body for his own pleasure. Craig loved being dominated by the bigger boy.

Lukas lost interest in the activity behind him and rose to his own elbow to get closer to Scott and Oliver. Reaching out, Lukas took Scott's neglected penis into his hand and joined him in pleasuring Oliver with his mouth.

"Ohhhh..." sighed Oliver watching two boys attached to his cock. To steady himself, he placed a hand on the back of each boy's head.

When Lukas and Scott bumped noses, Scott opened his eyes. Lukas was looking back, eyes full of lust. Lukas nuzzled into Scott, lips touching each other while parted around Oliver's cock. Scott turned his head to accommodate Lukas causing Oliver's bare glans to escape his mouth. Lukas continued to masturbate Scott and moved his head opposite his friend's. He surprised Scott when his tongue slithered under Oliver's glans and found Scott's own tongue. Oliver groaned again as the two life-long friends worked to French kiss around the large, uncircumcised penis between them.

Checking on his boyfriend, Oliver glanced over in time to see Craig reach between his legs and direct Simon to his proper destination. With a single shove, Simon drove himself deep causing Craig's toes to curl and his body to shudder.

"Oh fuck," groaned Oliver watching Simon power fuck Craig. Moments later he warned, "Gonna cum."

Lukas moved to take Oliver's load, but Scott still had his hand at the base of Oliver's cock. With a flick of his wrist, Scott had sole passion of Oliver in his mouth just in time to receive the first blast to the roof of his mouth.

Hearing Scott moan in satisfaction, Lukas increased his efforts on Scott's cock. Before Oliver finished unloading into Scott's mouth, Lukas was splattered by Scott firing off his second load of the night.

----------------------     

On this night, the boys of East Harbor, wherever they were in the world, dreamt of their lives and their approaching summer vacation.

Middle school had dispelled the myth that life gets easier as you get older. Friendships and relationships were getting more complicated. The fragility of life and the consequences of actions were more apparent than ever, and each boy was on his own journey as he navigated his life. Friendship simply allowed them to raft up and support each other on this journey.

In the fall, some of the boys would be taking on leadership roles as the older boys moved onto the high school. The eighth graders would become the new kids, leaning on each other as they explored high school and prepared for their lives after their days as a Saber.

----------------------     

Carol yawned and crossed over to her house to go to bed. Seeing Michael and Christian collapsed in the grass and breathing heavily, she called out, "I don't think that is a good place to sleep. You two get to bed."

"Yes, ma'am."

"Night mom."

The boys waited until the back door shut then giggled all the way to their makeshift bed. Cuddling in the sleeping bag, they stared at the stars.

"You know, 'Lost and Found' is an awesome song and I'm honored that you wrote that for me and Lukas."

Michael smiled, "Well, it's an awesome song for an awesome, extra special guy."

Christian kissed Michael on the cheek and continued. "I just wanted you to know you found me too. Coming to East Harbor was great and everything, but I still felt kind of lost. But falling in love with you just made everything make sense. It helped me understand who I am and how I fit in the world. Thank you."

"I love you too."

Christian pulled Michael closer. "If I could wish on every star in the sky tonight, I'd make the same wish on each one. I'd wish that the rest of our lives could be as good as this moment."

At some point, each boy's eyelids fluttered and closed as they joined their friends dreaming about the future.