Date: Sun, 24 Dec 2023 15:40:49 -0500 From: Ronald Speener Subject: Chrysalis Part 2-Chapter 25 Chrysalis Part 2-Chapter 25 This story is about a young man's quest to fix a major birth defect--he was born without a penis. On his quest he meets challenges, his soul mate and many other soon to be friends. This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, and events are the product of the author's imagination, or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to any real person is coincidental. The story depicts procedures and practices common for gender reassignment; however, this story does not claim to be a medical treatise, and information is primarily for the purpose of the story and not medical advice. This story is written for adults with adult themes. If you are underage or live in a location where references to gay relationships or transgender people is forbidden, please log out of the story or move. This work is copyrighted by Boethiuscell@gmail.com © 2023 All rights reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information and retrieval system, without the written permission of the copyright owned to the extent permitted by law. Please contribute to Nifty. They do a great job of providing stories that please the senses, titillate the mind, and expand our view of the world. Chapter 25--Puttin' on the Ritz As Chris stretched like a cat in the morning sun, he realized he was awakening in his own bed, in his own room, in his own house. No more worries about freezing to death during arctic blasts, pneumonia during pelting rains, or slow suffocation during fetid summer heat. He had a roof over his head; it was his roof. He had never felt more secure. When he lived with his parents, insecurity was elsewhere: "Don't talk to strangers, be careful walking after dark, avoid...." Insecurity was elsewhere and could be avoided. Once he was on the street, he was at that elsewhere; he was one of those strangers, he was to be avoided. Chris knew that that sense of insecurity was ingrained in him. The sudden tension in social settings, always watching for a knife, a punch, or a gun. Always, just to the side observing. Chris pulled his legs out from under the warm covers and put them on the floor: solid and cool. A whiff of coffee tickled his nose. He rose from the bed, careful not to wake Tom, and slipped on a housecoat purloined from Cedrick's hotel. Chris entered the living area, and Chaz was seated at the island counter with a cup of coffee, intently working on his tablet. "Morning, Chaz." Chaz jumped almost knocking over his coffee. "Jesus, Chris, you scared the shit out of me." Chris laughed, "Sorry, any coffee?" Chaz waved him over to the coffee maker which had an almost full pot. Chris grabbed a mug sitting by the carafe. The mug was hand thrown glazed with greens and tans. "Nice mugs, I like." "I hoped so. You strike me more earth tones than warm tones, more calm and collected. Even more so than Tom." Chris sat in a stool next to Chaz. "Good coffee." "Give the machine credit, not me. I just pushed the button after the machine reminded me to sit the carafe under the nozzle. Wala coffee, best house coffee. Need me one of these." Chaz turned back to his tablet briefly. You need groceries, Mother Hubbard, your cupboards are bare." "Don't know if I have time to grocery shop." "You can shop online and they will deliver in two hours." "Didn't know, but grocery shopping has been a limited issue with me when I lived over the deli. I ate there almost every day. Then often went out for supper." Chris smiled at Chaz. "Let's see if this works. `ATTEND'." "Yes sir" "I need groceries delivered, find such." Silence. "I find five grocery stores within five miles that offer delivery if ordered online." Pause. "Would you like a list or recommendations, Sir." "Recommendations." "Petronies is a little cheaper and has a slightly smaller selection. The offer free delivery with an over 50-dollar purchase." Pause. "Grandma's Pantry has a wider selection, they offer farm to table produce, a larger meat selection, more organic and specialty foods. The international selection is 15 percent larger than Petronies. They also have a virtual market you can use to shop. They are on average 10 to 15 percent more expensive. Delivery fees are on a sliding scale depending upon the total bill." "Do either of them have wine departments?" "Both do, but they verify that the purchaser is 21. They require a photo ID on record." "Please bring up Grandma's Pantry." "I have sent the information to the refrigerator." Chris looked at Chaz, then noticed that the front of the fridge was a grocery store. "Shall we shop?" Chris and Chaz walked over to the refrigerator, which said. "Welcome to Grandma's Pantry" below were several buttons: New Shopper, Returning Shopper, Place Order, Check on order, Edit order, Exit. Chris pressed New Shopper and then entered basic information, including payment source. Successfully done, the screen asked if the user wanted to give a list or shop. Chris chose to shop. For the next forty-five minutes, Chris and Chaz shopped, throwing items into the imaginary cart, asking questions about the ingredients, comparing products. It was a hoot. Produce, dairy and meats were more problematic, but the kind female voice that was the shopping avatar was reassuring. There was also the live video feed available with a real person. The last stop was the wine department. Chris ordered a dozen bottles of wine and several different types of beer. The avatar said age verified and the purchase went through. The total was over $1,700 so delivery was free. Delivery was guaranteed within one hour. "That is the way to shop." Chaz laughed. "Who's shopping?" Tom's voice entered the room followed by a naked Tom. Chaz almost fell off his stool. "We went grocery shopping." Chris said. Tom merely muttered an oh as if it were nothing spectacular. "Shopped right from the fridge." Chris added. "I need to shower and clean up," Chris said. "Suggest you do that too, Tom." Tom mumbled and headed back into the bedroom. "Need company?" Chaz queried. He knew it would not happen but what the hell. "Sure," Chris looked at Chaz who choked on coffee. "Always like your company." Chaz stood. "Just not in the shower." Chris laughed. Chaz hit Chris firmly in the center of Chris's chest muttering "ass." Chris and Tom returned to the living area an hour later--refresh. Chaz just shook his head and smiled knowingly. "stranger at the door." the voice said. A face appeared on the screen in the kitchen and living room. "Attend," said Chris, "that is my friend Millie Coons." "Identity added as friend," returned the friendly avatar. Chris opened the door for Millie, who was chuckling. "Your door just spoke to me. It first just said you were notified; then it used my name to say you would be at the door soon." "There is a camera in the door that triggers my computer system. I just told the system that you were a friend, so now it will recognize you and let me know it is you at the door. It is very cool `Attend play Vivaldi concerti.'." Chris waited while Millie grasped what happened. "I am still learning the system." "I prefer to look through the peephole. What happens if you lose power?" Millie said. "Don't know. That is a good question I will need to ask the technician." "Can't you just ask your computer?" Millie jested trying to yank Chris's chain over the new technology. "Attend" Chris said uncertain that the question could be answered. "What happens to the computer system if I lose power?" The voice quickly returned, "You have battery backup for 24 hours and a small emergency generator inside your gas grill, also the window sills have small solar panels, which feed the batteries." Millie was amused. "Know where I will hang out if we lose power." Chris said she was welcome. "Attend," Millie said. "Sorry, I do not recognize the voice as authorized for commands." "Worth a shot." Millie laughed. A chime sounded. "Sir, there is a gentleman at the main door. He has ID from Grandma's Pantry." The picture of a young man appeared on the screens holding an ID. "Attend-allow him entry." A few minutes later the voice said, "The gentleman from Grandma's Pantry is at your door." Tom let the kid in with a large cart. "Sir," the lad said, "I have more in the van, If you could keep the doors unlocked until I bring everything up. It will be two or three trips. You have a very large order." He disappeared. Millie joined Chaz at the counter. She introduced herself since Chris was busy with groceries. She looked at the boxes of food. "Chris. lot of food coming in. Planning a party." Chris said he was starting with nothing and needed to fill up,. "That camera at the front door is nice. It might be good to have all units with cameras. My unit is good because I can look out a window to see who is buzzing me. But seeing the person would help. Need to bring it up at the next owner's meeting." Soon Chaz and Millie were helping Tom and Chris unpack groceries. Chaz more directed than unpacked because he was the only one that knew where everything went. Chris commented that once Chaz went back to Chicago he might starve because he did not know where anything was hidden. After the groceries were stored, Millie insisted on a tour. She particularly liked the toilets, wishing she had them when she had the kids growing up. The automatic cleaning and self-closing lids were the seller. Chaz and Millie discussed his design choices, although she always approved. Chris decided he would fix everyone lunch: salad and grilled cheese sandwiches. Both Chaz and Mille assisted. Chaz for locations of pots and pans. Millie because she needed to be useful. Chris saw that she was lonely and helping him helped her. Chris thought he might adopt her as a surrogate grandmother. The meal was served at the table for ten. "After we finish eating," Chris said, "Let's make this table more suited for everyday size. Four or six, Chaz?" "Although four makes sense since it is only you. I suspect this size group will actually be more common. So, six." Chris nodded. "We can put the extra chairs and leaves in the storage area. You have plenty of room." "Millie," Chris caught her attention. "I would like to have the board here soon for supper. What do you think?" "My dear, we all would be charmed to join you. But can you handle the number?" Chris looked at Chaz. "Can this table seat twelve?" Chaz said "Just. You have three sets of dishes for twelve and one for twenty four and several sets of silverware. You are good to go." "I was not thinking of space, dear," Millie said. "but time to prepare and everything." "True, but I can always cater. `Attend my calendar for June in kitchen'." The refrigerator lit up. The group followed Chris to the kitchen. "Shit, when did all this happen." The entire calendar was full of times, people and places. "Helga has been busy." Tom knew that this would happen as the pictures circulated, and Chris's reputation grew. Chris did not realize what a hot commodity he had become. "Attend calendar May." The calendar shifted. Chris sighed in relief that many more days were empty. "Didn't want to do May, but that seems to be the only free time I have in the foreseeable future. How does Wednesday sound?" Millie nixed it as many people worked late. Friday was settled on at 7 PM. Millie would make sure everyone was informed. Chris asked if she could co-host. She glowed with excitement. "Do you think it would be okay if I held an open house for friends. Everyone is anxious to see the place." "Dear this is your home, and you can entertain as you desire without any permissions. If you get too rowdy, just accept the fact that your party may be crashed." "Very acceptable." Chris looked at Tom. "The only day I see is Saturday, May 30th." "Good for me. Will you want formal invitations?" Tom was enjoying Chris's quandary. "I would opt for gold engraved, but I don't know anyone's street address. It will need to be done my email. `Attend-schedule Co-op this location diner May 29, 2015, 7 PM May.'" "Done sir" "Attend-schedule Open house this location May 30, 2015 2 PM to 6 PM" "Done sir." "I want to sit on my sofas." Chris pointed to the living area. "I have not tried them out yet." once seated, Tom retrieved beverages for everyone. Mostly coffee but tea for Millie. "Attend-fireplace on." "Yes sir. Do you wish to set a duration?" Chris looked at everyone and shrugged. "One hour. And maintain the ambient room temperature at 75." "Yes, sir" Chris laughed, "Need to try everything out." "Very slick," Chaz said as he stretched out on the sofa. "You just say attend and it happens. Your own personal butler." "I need to change the name. Attend is too cold. Any suggestions?" Names flew: "Not Jeeves" Millie said, "too predictable." "Smithers" Chaz "Lurch the voice is similar" Chaz "Stokes" Chris "Max from Norma Desmond" Tom "Samwise" Chris "Arthur from Batman" Tom again "Igor" Millie laughed "Sebastian Beach" That one had traction because of the Wodehouse stories. "Riff-Raff" Another possibility. "Sancho from Don Quixote" Chris "Angus from Upstairs Downstairs" Millie "Zazu" The final choices were Lurch, Arthur and Sebastian. Sebastian was selected from the Wodehouse stories and the TV series. "Attend" "Yes Sir," "I would like to change your name. How do I do that?" "Instruct me to change the master name and then repeat the choice three times." "Attend-change master name to Sebastian, Sebastian, Sebastian." Chris stopped. "The character was never called by his first name. "Attend-cancel request." Chris looked at the others. "He was always called by his last name. We must follow proper protocols. Does anyone know what it was?" "It was BEACH," Tom answered, "I read all the Blanding books as a kid." "Attend-change master name to BEACH, BEACH, BEACH." A pause "My new name is BEACH. Is this name after a person or a place? If a place it could confuse my response." "BEACH is a person, a character in P. G. Wodehouse novels." "I have referenced the novel and will emulate those references, except for the sherry in the pantry." Chris looked at Tom. "Did I detect a sense of humor?" Millie stood and said her farewells. She thanked Chris for lunch and the tour. At the door she leaned into Chris, "You do not know how happy I am to have you as a neighbor. We will need to arrange teas." She pulled Chris into her and kissed him on the cheek. "Tom, I am sure that I will be seeing a lot of you. And Chaz, it was a pleasure meeting you. You did a bang-up job with this place." Chaz, Tom and Chris settled back on the living room sofas. "Beach-play soft jazz." Chris looked at the other two guys. "Let's see if he can select." Kenny G started playing. "Not my first choice," Chris said, "but not my last either. I have the ballet tonight with my sister, what do you two have planned?" "I have a meeting with Mr. and Mrs. Donaldson." Chaz explained. "David and Mary?" "Yes, you know them?" "Know their son, Chet," Chris looked at Tom for jealousy, but found none--damn? "I've been to their house once, and they attended a party I threw a few weeks ago. Say hi to them for me." "Will do. I am meeting them about redoing a couple of rooms. Do you mind if I show pictures from here?" Chris offered no objections. "If this goes well, I may open an office in New York. I'm yesterday's designer in Chicago, so my market is shrinking. If I can establish myself in New York, my clientele expands. I might even be able to tap into the international market. Again, if you have no objection, I will send photos to Architectural Digest. They have put out feelers and this place is the one I want to showcase." "That is wonderful Chaz on all three. Chris and I would love to have you close by." Tom was very excited for Chaz. He knew he was very talented and always felt that Chicago was too provincial for his talent. "Before the magazine, you needs quality artwork. I have bought very little because I think it should be chosen, with my guidance, by the people who need to live with it." Chaz looked at Chris. "The artwork from Slim I would like to hang on this wall." pointing the wall behind him. "We can hang it now if you would like." Chris returned to the bedroom with the wrapped painting. After they were unwrapped, Chaz carefully arranged the work on the floor for positioning, measured 60 inches up from the floor and professionally hung the works. "This may be only temporary," Chaz said over Chris's rapture at having the painting hung. "With the high ceiling you can use larger art. I also want a large statute for between the sofa and the piano." But this will be a work in progress. I plan on being back for your open house Chris, if it is okay and we can art shop then. Derrek says you have a healthy budget for art." "So, he says," Chris shuddered. "I have spent more this last two week than my parents make in five years. It is mind shattering." "You spend once on quality; it pays off over time." Chaz reassured Chris. "Neither of you has said what your plans are for tonight since I will be at the ballet with my sister?" Chris returned to the topic. "Since Chaz is in town, I thought I would take him to some of my favorite places in Greenwich Village." Tom said. "A night at the bathhouse can be fun," Chris smirked. Chris abruptly realized that that was the plans and not a joke; he was not happy with the thought of Tom at a bathhouse. "You have not seen New York until you experience the Russian and Turkish Baths." Then Tom added, "It is not a gay sex den, it is mixed genders, but mostly male, with some skimpy swimwear granted. It is a great place for a massage and sauna. They have several. We'll do an evening in the Village: shop, eat, sauna, and drinks, then back to my place." Tom patted Chris's knee. "I will be good." "I am not promising the same," snorted Chaz with an evil grin. Chris picked Benjie up at the deli. He was dressed in crisp jeans, a white long sleeve shirt, a deep blue knit tie and black leather jacket. "Looking pretty sharp." Chris said. "I appreciate your giving up your Saturday evening to entertain my sister's classmates." "Didn't have anything planned and a free ticket to a Broadway show is a treat for me." Benjie looked at Chris, then winked. "Any hot babes?" Chris laughed. It was only 5:30 and too early for the dinner reservations, but Chris wanted some time before he left with his sister to make sure Benjie would be comfortable with the strangers. Chris and Benjie stepped into the lobby of the Algonquin and Chris put on his jacket. "Man, you're killing me." Benjie said looking at Chris. "I look like a turd next to a steak dinner. No chic will look at me next to you." "I'm gay, so that leaves you for all the droppings." "Hey that's right, I don't mind consoling the shattered ladies." Chris and Benjie went into the bar. Finding an empty table, he ordered a mineral water, while Benjie had a soda. "This is a nice place. Very classy." Benjie said while looking around. "Your jacket matches the lighting." Benjie commented, "A very blue, but you are the nicest thing in here Chris." Chris texted his sister to say he was downstairs in the Blue Bar. "My sister should be down shortly with a friend to introduce you to." Chris slid over ten $20 bills to Benjie. "This is for you to spend tonight or use however you want. I want you to enjoy yourself and not worry about the cost." "Jezz, Chris. You didn't need to do this, but thanks." Benjie discretely slide the money into the front pocket of his jeans. "Anyone looking would think you are renting me for the night." Benjie laughed. Chris laughed to. "In a way I am, just not for sex. I feel more comfortable if the group has someone who knows Manhattan and how to navigate the pitfalls." "That's me." Benjie grinned, "I know all the pitfall, been in a few myself." Noise from a rabble of teenagers doused all conversation. Chris waved to Steph, who was at the door of the bar, not willing to step into the bar itself. "Martha, angels come get me `cause I see'd me the rapture." Steph wailed in a high falsetto, back of his hand flung to his forehead, staggering like he was going to faint. Ravish me now Chris. Fling me across a brocaded chair and take my purity." He moaned loudly. A few patrons in the lobby and the bar applauded. Steph took a bow, blushing. "My public. I do so enjoy being among the little people." Chris and Benjie walked to the lobby where all the kids were gathered. "This is Benjie, he is a friend. He lives in New York and will be going the musical in place of my sister." Steph sidled up very close beside Benjie. "Nice to meet you Benjie, I'm Steph and available" he cooed while playing with Benjie's tie. "Nice to meet you Steph. I'm available too," Steph leaned in closer, "but only for chics, sorry." Benjie gently took Steph's hand, which was creeping closer to the belt and pulled it up to his chest. "But I do like my queer friends....as friends." Steph pulled away from Benjie, "Why are all the cute ones straight." He then took Benjie to meet the rest of the class leaving Chris by himself. Chris thought Guess I don't need to worry about Benjie being snubbed. "Where is my sister, we have reservations at 6:30 and we do not need to be late." Steph slipped through the teens; they were vibrating with excitement. They parted and Britney appeared, a vision in green spaghetti strap gown, form fitting to the waste and billowing out into a full skirt to the knees. "You are beautiful," Chris said as he walked toward her. "You are growing up into a fine young lady." Chris carefully looked Britney up and down. She stood there nervous. "The dress is perfect for you. Tom did a fine job picking it out." "We had to do some pinning," Steph interrupted, please that he had a hand in dressing Britney. "Didn't want things falling out." Britney pushed Steph softly. "I did her hair. Do you like it?" Chris gave his approval and thanked everyone for helping. "She will be the center of attention tonight." "Not too shabby yourself." Hector said, "Not shabby at all." He walked around Chris, pinched his butt, which made Chris jump, much to the delight of the students. "Where did you find this? It is not off the rack." "A friend made it for me for tonight. He is an unknown designer, but his work is fabulous." "Where you going?" Steph was back and close. "I won't tell." "No, you will just light up a billboard." Chris replied with a shake of his head. Hunter pulled Steph away from Chris. "He's got your number, dude. You can hold a secret about as well as a sieve holds water." "I hold your secret." Steph looked steadily at Hunter, until Hunter turned away. "That is no secret," Hannah laughed, "Steph and Hunter sitting in a tree." The glare from Hunter stopped her chant but not her laugh. "Lighten up bro, no one cares." "Where are we going?" Britney took Chris's arm. "This gown is not Pizza Hut." "It is a surprise. We are going to see a friend," Chris teased, "after a simple supper." Chris and Britney headed toward the door. Chris assured Glenda that Britney would be safe and back at a reasonable hour. Britney waved and everyone told her to have fun, take pictures, or stream video. Chris nixed the streaming. Steph ran up just as they went through the doors. "Can I take some pictures?" Chris looked at the waiting cab. "Sure," They went back inside and were back in a cab shortly. Chris whispered to the cabby so Britney could not hear the destination. But she did hear. "Lincoln Center, we're going to Lincoln Center." Britney was jumping around in her seat. Chris and Britney walked across the plaza of Lincoln Center, arm in arm. Head turned, a few took photos. They entered the Grand Tier Resaurant and soon were seated. "Chris you planned this for me?" Britney could barely contain herself. Then she suddenly realized that she was not in jeans and not a rock concert, her demeanor changed to dignified awe. She could not help it. "Mom is going to be so jealous. I will make sure she sees pictures." Chris smiled indulgently. The waiter took orders, but Britney barely noticed. "The people are so dressed up here." Britney whispered to Chris. Chris pointed out that she was too. Britney cocked her head and agreed. "I need to use the restroom." She rose from the chair and regally crossed the restaurant floor reveling in the attentive stares and subtle whispers. She returned glowing, "That was fun. Several ladies complimented me on my dress, but they were more interested in you." She took a bite of her poached pear salad. "Sir," the waiter interrupted. "This champagne is from a secret admirer" He poured a glass for both. Smiled warmly at Chris and left. "This is like a romantic movie," Britney bubbled, "A secret admirer buys you champagne." "One glass for you is all you are allowed." Chris sternly warned her. "Do you often have secret admirers?" "All the time. They drop from trees like autumn leaves." Chris suspected that Tom had ordered the bottle so Chris could impress his sister. The next course came as they talked about so many important things. It felt so good. "Chris, what a pleasant surprise." A female voice drifted from behind Chris. Chris turned around to find Cordelia Duncan fast approaching. "Cordelia, how pleasant to see you again." Britney looked at the elegant older woman in a blue velvet gown and blue sapphire necklace, as she gave Chris a firm embrace. Chris turned toward Britney, "Cordelia, this is my sister Britney. Her class is visiting New York from Chicago. I pried her away for the evening." "Looks do run in the family." Cordelia said as she gave Britney a Hollywood kiss on the cheeks. "Are you here for the ballet and to see my son dance?" Britney's eyes lit up. "Yes, although it was to be a surprise for her." Chris responded. "Sorry about spoiling it." Chris just brushed off the slip. "Your brother is a remarkable young man, very remarkable." Britney assented agreement, a little overwhelmed by the woman. "You are from Chicago?" Britney said she was a junior in high school. "How many people with you." Britney told her. Cordelia turned to Chris. "Do you think they might have time to stop by Slackers?" "I cannot say," Chris looked a Britney. "That is up to their chaperones." "I am trying to get more into the Chicago market. If they could stop by the offices, I would give them samples before our big launch next month." A wait staff brought a chair over, obviously accustom to impromptu gatherings. "If you have not checked your schedule, you are working for me in the middle of June in Chicago." Chris had not paid much attention to his schedule. He did not comment but let her continue. "If I can cause a buzz at a local school before hand, I can get extra bang for my effort." The waiter discretely deposited desert. "Oh," Cordelia stood, "Sorry to interrupt your meal and your time together. I will contact you soon, or I am sure Zack will. By the way congratulations on your new place. Zack and his lovely boyfriend Juan are drooling about moving into your old place." Cordelia rose but Chris stopped her from leaving. "I am having a brunch for the kids tomorrow at 11:00. Why don't you stop by and talk to them about your offer?" Chris gave the address, and Cordelia was off. "Chris that woman is so put together and so self-assured. How do you know her?" Chris was not sure what Britney meant by her comment. "She owns a clothing line called Slackers." Britney admitting seeing an ad for them in a teen magazine. "Her ex-husband made a pass at me and I slugged him." Britney's eyes widened. "She met me to apologize for the incident. I also discovered that a friend was her son, the ballet dancer we will meet tonight. She is a very kind woman, and we have become friends." Chris took a bite of his chocolate raspberry mousse and sighed. "Here try this?" Chris offered Britney a spoonful; she refused, too embarrassed and enjoying her Baked Alaska. Sated, Britney looked at Chris. "This is one of the best meals I have ever had. I never thought I would be treated like a princess with a beautiful ball gown, a fancy restaurant, eat caviar with scallops and Foie Gras with the most beautiful man in the world, my brother. I love you Chris, and I am so happy that your life is now good." Britney giggled. "Mom would explode with envy if she could see us." When the waiter returned with the receipt Chris asked if he would take a picture of the two of them. He said that he would be honored, He led them over to a large bouquet of hydrangeas near the piano. "Sir, you make one of the finest couples I have seen in a long time. Love the tux." His look was more than at the garment. Chris blushed. Chris slipped him a 20 when the phone was returned. "Time to walk over to the theater." Chris took Britney's arm toward the grand staircase and the exit. Outside the sun was low but not set, and Britney played tourist with her cellphone: pictures of Lincoln Center, of Chris, of her--selfies, and asking strangers to take pictures. They strolled gathering admirers, occasionally questions of Chris about his tux, Chris handed out cards as they headed toward Koch Hall. The inside of the hall blew Britney away with the vertical lines of the balconies, the modern art, and the people, many in high formal, but more in jeans and T-shirts. Chris handed the usher his tickets, E 109 and 110. Center front. "How did you get these seats." Britney said looking around at the rows of balconies behind her and the massive chandelier above-a round stigma in the flower. "I have season tickets," Chris said, proud that he was impressing Britney, who would in turn tell his mother. "They were a gift from my boss at Silent Model." Britney, pulled away from Chris. Concern crossed her face. "Are you..." She fumbled for words. "an escort?" That was the last thing that Chris thought his sweet naive sister would ask. He laughed. "No, Cordelia's husband, ex-husband, that I slugged." Chris patted his sister's arm assuredly. She smiled weakly back. "Cynthia, my boss, gave me the tickets as a thank you for unearthing a pedophile. The fashion industry has a reputation of taking advantage of the models for sexual purposes. My protecting myself, for Cynthia, went a long way to protecting others. Her thanks were these tickets." Britney sat quiet, then turned to her brother, "That was you! I saw a brief story on the news. I knew it was you." Chris nodded; Britney howled with laughter so loud that others looked at her. "Dad saw that and said that some father should be proud of the kid, taught his son right." She calmed herself and added, "I told him it was likely his son. Now just need to know how and when to tell him for sure. I need to find a copy of the newscast. It should be on YouTube." The music started and Britney reached over and grabbed Chris's hand and gave a gentle squeeze but did not let go. Chris was euphoric, not only from the music and the dancing but also from how much closer he and his sister were. The curtain fell, the last bow was taken; Chris and Britney sat watching people leave. "Thank you Chris, this was the best night ever." Britney was over the moon happy. "You friend Zack was sensational too. I was mesmerized by the entire West Side story and then him in the Variations. He is amazing." "Yes, he is very, very talented. And a very nice guy too." Britney added that is nice. "Would you like to meet him?" "Sure, when?" "Now." Chris always likes playing with his sister. "He invited us back stage." "Really." Britney stood up ready to move. "Really." Chris found an usher and showed him the backstage pass Zack had given him. The usher directed Chris and Britney to another person. "Hi, I'm Peter. How may I help you?" He eyed Chris and Britney carefully, somewhat amused at their youth and innocence. How they looked and what they wore was worthy of any high fashion magazine, but he thought they are oblivious to the power they carelessly wore. "Hi Peter, I'm Chris and this is my sister Brit. Zack, Zack Duncan, gave us passes to meet him backstage." "Did he now?" Peter looked at the two like they had just asked for an extra scoop of ice cream. "We do not usually invite strangers backstage after a performance, insurance risk, dancer privacy as they change." Chris stood solid and waited. Britney slipped behind Chris. "How do you know Zack, boyfriend?" "No, we worked together at Silent Model and became good friends after we connected at Jazzabel's. I know this sounds backwards. We met briefly at Silent Models for auditions. Then again when he was dancing at Jazzabel's. I introduced him to his boyfriend there. And since at Silent Models, where we work together." Chris paused to regain breath. "We both were hired." "I almost understand the connection." Peter laughed. "And who might you be formally?" "Oh, yes, I'm Chris Wentworth." Peter's left eyebrow went up. "Zack did ask permission for the two of you. Let me take you back to the dressing room." He turned a smile to Britney, "Hope you are not offended by young men less than fully clothed." He did not ask Chris that question but Britney. He directed Chris and Britney, who followed Chris. Peter put a directional hand on Britney's shoulder. Britney moved grabbed Chris's arm to walk with him. "This is the ballerino dressing rooms." Peter said gesturing to the door. "Your sister can stay here with me if you think it more appropriate." Chris stepped through the door and then stepped back out. "Yes, I think you should stay here." Chris turned to Peter, "She is only sixteen and a minor. I don't want anyone accused of an indecency with a minor. It would not look good for the ballet company nor for the person involved." Peter looked at Chris with his sweet dare me smile and Peter walked away. Britney whispered a thank you. "They are all mostly dressed," Chris laughed and grabbed Britney's arm. "Zack?" Chris yelled. "You came. I am so glad. This is Chris, the Chris I was telling you about." Zack came rushing over. "Hot damn, and you hot damn." Zack moved closer to look at the tux. "This is stunning on you Chris. If I didn't have a boyfriend, I'd be howling outside your window every night." Zack turned, "You must be Chris's kid sister, Brit." He looked her over. "Damn the Wentworth siblings know how to put on the Ritz." Zack lifted Britney's hand and gently kissed her finger tips. "Mademoiselle Britney enchanté." Britney giggled. "If I didn't really like boy parts, I'd howl outside your window too." A few more of the male dancers gathered around Chris, even more around Britney. She was flush from all the attention. Soon they were joined by the female dances, who fluttered around Chris and gushed over Britney's gown. "We're heading out for a late nosh. Want to join us?" A lithe dark skinned dancer asked Chris and Britney. Britney looked expectantly at her brother for a yes. "We are always famished after a performance." added one of the girls, who likely weighed less than a wet Siamese cat. Chris checked his watch. "I need to have my sister back to the hotel by midnight. She is on a class trip, and the chaperones are aged and mean." Britney hit Chris on the arm defending them as cool and mellow. "Sorry, but I must return Cinderella before midnight or else she turns into a pumpkin, fat and orange." Chris rubbed his shoulder from Britney's harder punch. "Would love hang with all of you another time. Just have Zack set a date." Chris and Britney headed toward the door, "Zack, you and Juan are invited to the deli in the morning. I'm hosting a brunch for my Sis's class." Chris turned to his sister but spoke to Zack. "I may leave her behind if she hits me again." Britney hit Chris hard enough in the stomach that he winced with pain. "Be nice to me, and I won't need to abuse you." She grabbed his arm and headed outside. Most of Britney's class was still in the lobby gabbing about the play and the cute guys in the audience when Britney and Chris arrived. In the center was Benjie with Hannah on one side and Jessica on the other. Steph was draped over his shoulders from behind. "Benjie, ready to head home. I'll hail a cab, drop you off at your house and then head to my home. Anyone that is going to my brunch, transportation will be here at 10:30. After brunch we'll go to the Bronx Zoo." The excitement was palpable. Chris pulled a reluctant Benjie from the girl's embraces. Chris turned and bumped into Hector. Chris whispered to Hector, "My biker friend will be at brunch. Perhaps you and he can sneak off while everyone is at the zoo. There should be enough adult supervision so you will not be missed." Hector kissed Chris on the cheek. Close to Chris's ear, he said, "Thanks." Steph had run around to be the last person by the door. "You are one hot dude." Chris looked Steph over with casual interest. Steph gave Chris an oh-so-not chaste kiss on the mouth. "Bet you are even hotter naked." Steph pulled away and did a full body scan of Chris. Chris wanted to laugh at Steph's brazen flirting. "Me naked is full of surprises." Chris grabbed his crotch and pulled. Steph almost fainted from lust. When Chris entered his home, Tom and Chaz were sitting in the living area, the fireplace on and drinking wine. Chris walked up behind Tom, "Chaz, I have been gone four hours and you still don't have Tom naked. I thought you were a master of seduction." "Hard to seduce a man who is frustratingly smitten. I could be buck naked dripping in chocolate sauce, and all old Tom boy would want is your strawberries." "Wines on the counter. Join us." Tom wave toward the kitchen. Chris joined them sitting in one of the overstuffed chairs. "How did everything go?" Chris removed his jacket and tie and unbuttoned his shirt one button, took a sip of wine, sighed and let out a relaxing breath. "Perfect. Brit was dazzled." "Of course, she was. She had you on her arm." Chris smiled at Chaz appreciating how fine he was. "True," Chris gave a self-deprecating laugh. "The meal was first rate. Saw Zack's mother, Cordelia Duncan. The waiter was kind enough to take a few pictures." Chris handed Tom his phone who passed it to Chaz. Both muttered how stunning both of them looked. "The ballet was divine. It made what I learned look first grade." Chris laughed. "But then I was doing classes in first grade." "Did you want to be a ballet dancer?" Tom asked. "No, too girly for me. I wanted to pitch for the Cubs." Both Tom and Chris enjoyed the humor. "Zack is an amazing dancer. He is first rate and should become more sought after. After the ballet we went backstage. Some creep by the name of Peter tried to make moves on Brit. I stopped that short order." Tom gave Chaz a quick knowing glance. "You didn't deck him. You have that reputation." "No, just a reminder the Brit is sixteen, and I am her overly protective brother. He scurried off to hide in some dark hole." Chris took another sip of wine, enjoying the flavor. "I might actually start liking wine." Chris held the glass up looking at the pale liquid in the fire light. "I am exhausted and tomorrow, no today early is very busy." Chris turned to Tom. "Helga gave us a late flight to Chicago, 9:30 PM, and then me Monday to St. Croix at 7:00 pm. She is getting me back here late Wednesday, which I appreciate. I can spend Thursday with Brit." "I think we are all on the same flight." said Chaz with a salute from his wine glass. "I am to bed." Chris said rising and putting his glass by his kitchen sink. "I like all the plants you've added." Chris waved and disappeared down his hallway. Tom and Chaz soon follow, with Tom to Chris's bed and Chaz, alone, to the guest room. Tom stated "BEACH--lock up for the night." The fireplace went out and lights dimmed as Tom headed toward the bedrooms. Morning sang to Chris, off key, brash and shrill. He turned over and pulled a pillow over his head. Morning did not take the rejection and leave. Breaking to the insistent warbling of daylight, Chris dragged himself from bed to the shower. The face in the mirror was his face, more feminine from the hormones. Chris turned away in disgust. Patience he chided himself. He was on the path; he would change; he will be himself. Coffee. Coffee was the sole solace to brush the funk away. Chris looked at Tom still in bed. He was tempted to rudely wake him, but Tom, lovely gorgeous Tom, was snoring, chuffing snorts that should not be disturbed. Dressed in crisp jeans and grey T-shirt with the front shades of blue, red and green diagonal paint drippings. He added a grey-blue long-sleeve shirt, unbuttoned and flowing. Satisfied, he stepped out of the closet more confident in himself. Clothes do make the man, he mused. "God, you are one hot looking man." Tom said, catching Chris unaware. Chris spun to face Tom, sitting up in bed, chest naked above the branching oak comforter--a sprite among the leaves. Chris executed a pirouette. "Go get the coffee ready before I drag you back to bed. I'll be out in a bit." Chris followed the smell of coffee, already made, poured a cup and saw Chaz sitting on the patio. Chris joined him; the air was morning cool but a prelude to higher temperatures. "Morning Chaz, you sleep well? "I better say yes since I selected the bedding and mattress." Chaz sat his coffee cup on a small table and set the Sunday paper on the floor. He motioned Chris to sit in the chair next to him. "You enjoy your time with your sister yesterday?" "It was perfect." Chris leaned back in the chair, sipping his coffee lost in last night's. Chaz sat patiently for Chris to return to now. "I think I moved up several notches as favorite brother." "I thought you were the only brother." Chris grinned, "I am, but one can never have enough notches as favorite." Chaz tipped his head in agreement. "My sister was so poised and confident last night; you would have thought it was just a normal night out. She was charming, flirty, and funny. We talked about her, our family--without ranker, school, my life, her life, and loads of silly stuff." Chris sipped more coffee. Chaz was smiling. "How was the restaurant?" "Very elegant, Brit tried foie gras, truffles, and champagne for the first time." "Champagne? How did you get a bottle of champagne. You are not over twenty-one." "A gift from a table. They liked how we looked." Chris leaned forward, "I had two glasses, but I allowed Brit only one. I did not want to make a scene." "You do not need to be drunk to cause a scene." Tom joined them on the patio wearing just a robe. "Not afraid you'll flop free, Tommy?" Chaz teased. Tom pulled the bottom of his robe open exposing his now not privates. "Nope. I'm young, single, beautiful and hung. Let the world envy me." Chris elbowed Tom, almost causing Tom's coffee to spill. "We were discussing last night," Chaz said bring Tom up to speed. "He and Brit had champagne at the restaurant--a gift from an admirer." Tom frowned at Chris. "Two glasses, small glasses." Chris hastily added. "Not even a little tipsy?" Tom smelled his coffee "Not even a bit. We had a lot of food." Chris explained, although he was uncertain why he felt he needed to justify the bubbly. He and Tom drank wine together all the time. "You and Brit must have been the best dressed people at the restaurant and ballet. I was sure knocked out at how well you both looked." Tom's smile was mischievous. "Especially you." Tom liked it when he could make Chris blush. Chaz surreptitiously put a section of the newspaper on Tom's lap. Tom picked up the paper and read aloud. "Babes will lead us. The future of fashion was at Lincoln Center when Chris Wentworth and his date, upped the ante as hot young couples. Chris (19), a model, was wearing a bronze tuxedo designed by the up-and-coming fashion house of Costos and Poppidos. His date, not identified, was wearing a complementary Givenchy gown in green taffeta. The couple, poised and confident, will be the trend setters in the coming years." Chris grabbed the paper from Tom. "Very nice picture." Tom commented. "Stu will be very happy with this publicity." Tom sat back to enjoy his coffee and Chris's frantic call to his sister. Chaz just sat back totally amused as Chris told his sister about the picture. She was apparently flattered by the attention, and totally nonplussed by the exposure. Chaz could hear her yelling to someone to buy the Sunday paper. Chris hung up on his sister. Chris's phone buzzed; it was Ted and Jordan over the moon with the publicity. Chris told them, repeatedly how happy he was to help their design house. "Sir" Beach's baritone voice interrupted. "Millie, Matías and two unidentified individuals are at the door." Chaz was beyond amused to full laughter. Chris and Tom headed to the door; Tom going beyond to the bedroom to dress. Chris opened the door and in rushed Matías, Dan, Liam, and Millie. "Oh, dear, I just knew you would bring excitement into my life." Millie grabbed Chris and pulled him to an enthusiastic hug, stronger than Chris thought possible for a woman in her 80s. Don said that they could not stay long. Chris offered coffee or tea. They all accepted and moved into the living room. Chaz and then Tom, dressed in jeans and a polo, helped serve. Conversations were splintered among the newspaper, the apartment, Chris's moving in, the coffee, and of course Beach. Chris phone buzzed from Chet, then from Cynthia, finally Chris had Beach take messages. A second pot of coffee was made; Chris gave a quick tour--embarrassed to show the master bedrooms with its disheveled bed. Matías looked at Chris and Tom and grinned. Beach was a great hit; Chris put on a demonstration. Finally, close to 10 Chris forced them out the door saying he needed to meet his sister at 10:30. They dutifully apologized for staying so long and assured Chris they would attend his dinner on the 29th. "That was unexpected, unwelcome, with so much to do this morning, and exhausting." Chris threw himself on the sofa. "Chris, you are so fortunate to have neighbors who like you and want to be with you." Chaz chided Chris. "My neighbors say hi as we pass. I only know one person's name in the building, and that is the doorman." "Chaz is right," Tom added. "If the rest of the people in this building are as friendly as the four today, you have yourself a very nurturing place to live." Chris ceded that the people were great, and he liked that they wanted to be friends. "Chris," Tom looked at Chris like what he was going to say should be obvious, "you are a charismatic person, you attract people to you. People like you, want to be around you, and care about you." "The lost puppy dog kicked and abused. A poster for ASPCA." Chris said with a frown so pathetically that it made Chaz and Tom laugh. "Yes partly, maybe. But I think it is more who you are. You are kind, considerate, non-judgmental, and interested in them." "Need to add hot and sexy." Chaz chimed in enjoying how Tom protected and supported Chris; jealous how Tom protected and supported Chris. He wanted a relationship like that. "That too." Tom gave Chris his sexy face; Chris laughed. Chris knew that he was one of the luckiest people in the world. He had Tom in his life. And Chaz was a wonderful person too, just too much of a horn dog. Chris pondered the last thought as to why Chaz had no relationships. He was handsome, talented, had a secure job, a young 28. Chris cocked his head and studied Chaz and saw the tinge of jealousy--Chaz wanted what he and Tom had. Chris moved over to Chaz and hugged him firmly. "I'll find you someone special." That whisper in Chaz's ear comforted Chaz, lotion on chafed skin. "Thank you," Chaz whispered back. "Okay guys, Tom here. No necking in front of me." Chris crossed to kiss Tom "Is Tommy jealous?" "Hell no, turned on and left out." "Three way?" Chaz's grin was wide and humorous. "No way." from both Tom and Chris. "I need to get moving. I promised Stella I would be there early to help set up." Chris stood, grabbed coffee cups, loaded everything into the dishwasher. "I just need shoes and I'm ready. Beach--call Jazz Cab for pickup here ASAP. You coming Tom, Chaz?" Tom followed Chris. Chaz said he needed to see potential clients and do research. "Beach--give Chaz Guest 2 status." Chris turned to Chaz who still sat on the sofa. "Guest 2 gives you access to all most all the functions of the place. It will give you free reign to come and go as you please. I am not sure how late it will be before we return." Chris turned to Tom. "Does Chaz have anything at your place." Chaz said some clothes, but they could stay there since he would be back next weekend and that he had a key to Tom's place. "Since we are all on the same plane to Chicago tonight. Why don't we plan supper together at 6 and share a ride to the airport?" Chris dashed off to the bedroom for shoes. "Pushy isn't he." Chaz laughed. Tom laughed, "Yea, one of the reasons I love him." Tom heard himself say it without a second thought; he knew it was true and needed to say it to Chris. The deli was crowded, which was not unusual for a Sunday morning. Chris's usual booth was now populated by Zack and Juan, who had moved into Chris's upstairs apartment the day before. Since Juan and Zack sat on the same side, Chris and Tom occupied the opposite side. They're so cute together, Chris thought. Chris wondered if he and Tom looked the same. "All moved in?" Chris asked. "Mostly," from Juan. "Need a few things, but my brothers and Zack's mother have been very helpful." Zack asked if Chris and his sister liked the ballet. "It was beautiful. I lost track of time." Chris was stammering. "I loved West Side Story. The choreography was brilliant, but not as brilliant as you in the Goldberg Variations. You blew me away." Zack beamed at the praise. He was not sure, but the choreographer and the rest of the troupe were more than pleased with the performance. But they were like family, so Chris's praise meant everything. "You can expect more and better roles." Chris leaned over to pat Zack's hand. "You may even see requests from other companies here in the States and elsewhere. You were that good." Zack tried to minimize the praise. "I took several years of ballet; my mother took me to the Chicago Ballet and other ballet performance from visiting groups. Last night was not my first ballet, so believe me when I say you are very good." Chris paused; Juan was as thrilled as Zack by the praise. "I did think that you held back a bit. Let loose and let your soul sore." Chris's phone buzzed. a short text from Britney, "Limo, OMG. cu soon." My sister and her class are on their way. Juan looked at Chris for further explanation. "I invited her and her class, and anyone else to brunch here at 11, You are welcome to join us. In fact, I insist because my sister will want to show off Zack." "`nough restin'. Work to do." Benjie shagged Chris and Tom off to the meeting room. Juan and Zack followed. Tom and Chris followed Benjie through a door that Chris always assumed was a closet. It was a large rectangular room with one window at the long end. Five round tables with six chairs each staggered down the middle. Under the window was a long buffet table. A door at that end connected the kitchen to the room. Louis entered the room from that door carrying a large chaffing dish; Ollie followed with another. Chet was placing silverware and napkins into baskets. Cordelia fussed at an arrangement of flowers. Soft jazz played over head. Why were Cordelia here? Chet he knew would be because of Hector. Chris wondered, stuck in stride by the door to the room. And Ollie and Louis. Cynthia entered from the kitchen with serving spoons. Chris knew he had invited them but not to serve. They were doing this because they wanted this to be special for Chris. He wanted to cry. He had never expected people to honestly care for him--to care despite how fucked up he was. Tom felt Chris struggle and pulled him into a side hug and a kiss on the cheek. "Nice, huh." Juan said from behind, a certain smugness in the tone. Zack giggled, "Caught you off guard." Chris turned on them. "That whole let's chat at the booth was a delaying tactic." Chris tried to sound angry but it was more gosh-shucks-jezz. "Thank you." Chris walked into the room making rounds hugging and thanking everyone until Stella shewed him out to wait his guest by the front door. He did not pace long before a stretch limousine stopped in front of the deli. The deli patrons' heads turned toward the rare vehicle belching out a gaggle of teens. Chris met everyone by name and directed them to where Tom was standing. Hector stood by Chris ensuring everyone was out. Chris talked to the chauffeur, who came to the door. about returning at 12:30. Hector placed a lazy arm over Chris's shoulder as they moved back to the brunch area. "The perfect rose did get the limousine." He laughed as they entered a room just shy of bedlam. Chris stopped to admire Hector in his tight black jeans, silver belt, black T-shirt and black denim jacket. Chet will have fun with him, Chris thought. Chris leaned against Tom's shoulder, satisfied at how everyone meshed. Ollie and Louis discussing food with Glenda, Melissa (the friend Glenda brought) and Satasha, Cordelia and Zack laughing with Asfhin and Jamal, Benjie floating like a good host, flirting with the girls--mostly Britney. Chet had latched onto Hector, with Steph and Hunter drooling at their sides. "Time to join the group. Chris pulled away from Tom, grabbed Tom's wrist and entered. The food was first rate, the conversation bubbly, the atmosphere convivial. Chris was inundated with compliments about the food, questions about the newspaper article, and people having fun. Steph and Hunter, frustrated with being shut out by Chet and Hector were now hovering around Chris and Tom. Steph badgered Chris about going to Jazzabel's. Chris always answered with a no, not until you're eighteen. Finally, a firm no with a harsh glare, quieted Steph. Tom started asking Hunter if he and Steph were an item; the two boys both blushed at having themselves the objects of intense scrutiny. It was obvious to both Tom and Chris that Steph wanted Hunter as his boyfriend, but Hunter was afraid. "Hunter," Chris said, exasperation in his voice. "You can run all you want from who you are, but like a shadow you cannot out run it." Hunter looked at his shuffling feet, taking Steph's hand, he looked at the group and yelled over the conversations. "Guys, attention." The room gradually quieted and looked at Hunter. He took a deep breath, "Guys, I want you to officially know that Steph is my boyfriend." "About time your realized that." Pedro yelled back with a laugh. "Yeah, I owe Hannah five bucks," yelled Jessica. "Kiss him you idiot," added Satasha. Hunter blushed, pulled Steph face to his and gave a deep French kiss; Steph slowly turned red like a lit candle. "Get a room." yelled Jamal. Everyone laughed and returned to their conversations. "That's it?" Hunter said, his face both confused and befuddled. "That is all the to do about this announcement. They take it like it was not a big deal." "To them it is not a big deal. To them you and Steph are an obvious couple. The big deal is to you. For you are finally finding yourself, who you are." Chris pulled Hunter between himself and Tom, "Being gay is just a small part of you, the more important things are your kindness, intellect, determination. What they see is everything else that they like and the gay is just incidental." Tom, pulling Steph between himself and Hunter, added "This between you feels right?" Steph and Hunter looked into each other's eyes and nodded. "Then it is right." Steph and Hunter started to pull away from Tom and Chris, but Chris grabbed Hunter's shoulder. "How will your parents react when you tell them? You know you must." Chris `s voice expressed his deep concern. Hunter paused at the realization that he must tell his parents, then he laughed, I have a feeling the Hannah and my mother have already talked about me being gay from some hints that until now I have ignored. My Dad's best friend is gay and married to a man. So, it will be cool." Chris smiled and sent the two boys on their way. "They are a cute couple." Chris sighed and leaned back into Tom. "Chris," it was Glenda, "can I talk to you in private." Chris looked at Tom and nodded toward a corner that was away from the food and the conversations. Tom followed Chris and Glenda. She did not look happy about it but she did not prevent it. "First I want to thank you for today, this brunch is perfect. McDonald's breakfast was on the plans. And Louis is a five-star chef, the kids will be talking about this for years." Chris expressed his pleasure in doing it. "I have taught at Butler High School for fifteen years, and Dr. Peterson has been principal for ten. He is a man I deeply admire because he cares about his students, not only academically but personally. Three years ago," Chris stiffened, "a Chris Wentworth did not return from Christmas break. She, yes it was a she, was a solid student so he was obviously concerned. At first, her parents said she was staying with relatives. Of course, when any young girl `stays with relatives' the first thought is pregnant. He did not believe that about that Chris Wentworth. Dr. Peterson did not see her as easily swayed, nor, honestly comfortable in her womanhood yet. He pressed her parents until they confessed she ran away." Glenda looked at Chris. Chris was trembling. "I do not know the reason, but that action almost destroyed the family. They were close to divorce and Britney became belligerent and withdrawn. Running away was a cruel thing to do to people that love you." Chris turned to walk away, no run away, but Glenda held him in place. "I understand that hiding as a man makes it more difficult to be found, but you need to return home and put thing right." Chris was trembling; Tom stood ready to either restrain Chris or slug Glenda. "I appreciate your concern, but did my parents make any attempt to find me? Did they report me missing to the police?" Glenda took a step back; she had never considered that nor had she heard of any attempt to find Chris. Britney, Hector and Chet, all observed the tension in the back corner and drifted, unnoticed behind Glenda. "Ms. Crosswrith," Britney stepped close in front of Glenda red with rage. "Chris did not run away. My parents kicked him out." Glenda stepped back as if slapped. "If I ever hear you say anything so hurtful again about my brother." Brittney fumed to a stop. "Your brother?" Glenda now was confused and angry too. "Glenda," Hector said gently in her ear, "I spoke with Dr. Peterson too about Chris." He turned to Chris, "I apologize for Glenda, but Dr. Peterson has never lost hope of finding you and knowing that you are well. Please forgive Glenda, she is naive about situations and too easily believes what she is told by weeping mothers." Chris saw Glenda's reaction to that last comment and almost laughed. "Chris is Britney's brother, just like she says, and his friends say. Just like Jessica Starks is a young lady." Glenda hand quickly covered her mouth in shock as she realized her horrible errors. "Chris, please, Chris," she plaintively said, "I made horrible assumptions about you. Please forgive me. I will get a cab and return to the hotel immediately. I said some very hurtful, unwarranted things that I should never have. I made assumptions without investigation. I was oblivious to all the clues." She staggered against Hector. "Oh God, how can I be such a fucking idiot." That caused Chris to laugh. "Glenda, we are all idiots at times. Just ask Tom," Tom said hey and nudged Chris. "But that does not mean that your heart is not in the right place." Chris gave Glenda a tight embrace; she started to cry. "I never told anyone this, but my mother left us when I was twelve. The hurt never left me. I assumed, wrong to assume, that you did it for the same unknown reason. In all my life I never thought a parent would do it to their own child." Glenda pulled out of Chris's hug, taking the handkerchief Tom offered. "That is why you are naive," Hector said. "For gay and transgender kids, it is a too common an event. Chris is very lucky because he has the support of an amazing group of friends." "Excuse me," Cordelia stood up at the front of the room drawing students' attention away from the back of the room. "I am the owner of Slackers clothing line. Anyone hear of us?" Quiet until Hunter raised his hand. "I've seen your ads in GQ. They were cool." "And you thought you weren't gay," Steph laughed and hugged Hunter. That produced a general round of laugher. "That is what I thought. We will start promoting in Chicago in a few weeks, but word of mouth is always better. So, I brought samples for you." Louis, Ollie, Benjie, Chet, Cynthia, Juan and Zack entered with boxes. "The sizes are based upon what Tom estimated from seeing you. If a particular item is not in your size, let me know and I will get them to you before you head back to Chicago." Tom, Chris, Glenda, and Hector organized the students into groups by gender and size; soon everyone was oohing and aahing over the slacks and tops. Hunter, much to Steph delight, stripped off their shirts and jeans to wear the new one. It was loose yellow-brown denim, soft and tailored to show off Hunter's physic without being tight. Steph ran his cheek along the front, across Hunter's nipples. "Nice," he purred. Chris looked at Chet, Hector and Tom and they fought a laugh. "Guys," Chris yelled. Everyone turned toward him. "The limo will be here in about fifteen minutes to take us to the Bronx Zoo. Any questions?" Hunter stood on a chair like a politician. "Guys, we need to give our thanks to the fabulous people that prepared the food and helped make this a memorable event." He started applauding, immediately all the kids joined him. "We also need to thank Ms. Duncan for the threads. We will be the envy of the school because these are sooo cool." Cordelia blushed slightly. "Also, Ms. Crosswrith informed me that we have an invitation to tour a couple of the fashion houses Friday, courtesy of Ms. DuBois of Silent Models." That prompted a number of hoots of enthusiasm. "Finally, Benjie, my man, has agreed to be our official tour guide while we are here. He promises that besides the museums, he will show us some of the less famous such as the New York Transit Museum and the Sony Museum. As Mr. Vallia always says, "culture is more than museums." Steph pulled on Hunter's shirt. Hunter bent down. "One more request, before we hit the Zoo. How many would like to see Chris's new digs." Glenda's hand went up first. Chris looked around at all the expectant faces. He could not face their disappointment; besides he was proud of his home. "okay, but it needs to be quick." The room erupted in cheers. Chris pulled out his phone and called Millie, just to warn her, but she was delighted by the prospect. Then he called his house. "Beach--Is Chaz there?" "No sir the place is secure." "Beach--I will be returning within thirty minutes. Do you have the capacity to clean?" "Yes sir, I will have the remote vacuum to do a quick cleaning. Rosie will make the beds and do any dishes and dust sir." "Beach--who is Rosie?" "Rosie is your robotic housekeeper." "Why haven't I seen it." "You have not asked sir. It has limited capacity sir. You may want humans for this in the future." "Thank you Beach." "Who's Beach?" Jamal asked. Chris smirked, "My butler." "Is he as sexy as his voice?" Steph leaned forward on Hunter's arm. Chris just gave a crooked smile. "You will have to see for yourself." The limo came and the kids piled in. Hector spoke briefly with Glenda then he went off with Chet. Juan and Zack still needed to settle into their apartment; Louis and Ollie had another party to cater, business was picking up. Benjie, Tom and Chris joined the rowdies in the limo. Millie had seen the limo stop in front of the building and was waiting by the elevator, grinning to greet so many fresh, young faces. Tom and Britney entered the elevator with Millie, Glenda and Melissa. "Room for two more this trip," Chris said. Satasha and Pedro squeezed in. "We'll race you." Hunter waved at the closing door. "To the stairs," Tom gave Chris a commiserating look as the elevator door closed. A breathless Hunter greeted the elevator group at the elevator door. Chris, according to Steph, was still climbing the stairs. Chris vowed he would start using the small gym in the basement. He was only three years older than this group of kids, but was he in much worse shape if he tired on the stairs. Now his muscle formation was not bulky, but after he started the hormone treatments. That was a question for his doctors. Now ten pair of eyes waited for his direction. Tom was waiting at the door of Chris's unit. "You did not go in?" Tom said he wanted to let Chris have the honors. Chris stood in front of the door; it unlocked itself. "Welcome home sir." Beach said in the best British accent. Chris was surprised by the stertorous voice of the computer. Was his computer putting on airs for the company? Chris looked around, and the place looked like no one every used the place. It was spotless. No dishes in the sink. The room had the scent of fresh lilacs. Fresh lilacs were on the piano. Another mystery to ask Beach. "Please, have a seat." Chris gestured to the sofas and chairs in the living area. "I will give a tour in a sec." "Where is that sexy man," Steph asked looking around the room for the man. "His voice makes me want to cream my pants." Hunter grumbled next to Steph. "Beach" Chris said, "Please introduce yourself to my guests." The mirror over the fireplace dimmed to be replaced by a figure. A man in his late fifties, slightly rotund, thinning graying hair. A condescending frown and narrowed eyes in a jowly face. The attire was pure Edwardian with jacket, vest, tie with pin. "Sir, I hope this avatar is acceptable, but you said my personal was based on Beach in P. G. Wodehouse novels. I borrowed this image from a BBC series and other sources." Chris said it was perfect. "Thank you sir. I am programed to meet your needs." The figure on the screen turned and looked at the kids sitting around the living area, jaws slack with amazement. "I am an AI program that controls the basic functions of this house to make Master Chris more comfortable. I have 2 terabytes of RAM memory and 20 terabytes storage on site with unlimited via the cloud. Does that help sir?" "Holy shit, the VR you could do with that." Afshin said as he turned to Pedro, "League of Legends would be awesome, man." Jessica shook her head, "Gamers." "Beach--play some music for my young friends from Chicago." A brief pause and music filled the room. "No fucking way," Jamal exclaimed as he jumped up from the sofa. "No fucking way, that's Sidewalk Cafe. No fucking way a computer would know that group." Jamel turned around and saw Glenda frowning. Realizing his word choices, Jamel sat quietly down, "Sorry about the language Ms. Crosswrith." "Let me show you the rest of the place and then to the zoo." Chris started in the master bedroom. Glenda loved the Deco vibe; Steph made a subtle remark about the size of the bed should represent the size of the man. Jessica was fascinated by the design of the bed spread; she ran her hand along the trunk into the leaves at the top. "This is a thing of great beauty," she said, "I can feel the breeze in the leaves if I close my eyes and let go." "The design is based on a real tree that lives on Tom's grandfather's estate in England." Chris ran his finger along the trunk knowing what Jessica was feeling. "Is Tom royalty?" Steph asked with increased interest. "No," Chris chuckled, "I don't believe so, but his grandfather has a title. He grandfather is Lord Greenwood." "Does that mean Tom will inherit the title?" Tom's pedigree now the topic of interest. "Yes, most likely." Chris replied. Panic hit Chris at the thought. "Will you have a title when you marry him," Steph continued to follow the logic. "No," Chris laughed unsure if no was the correct answer. "And who says I will marry Tom. I might find someone better." Tom scowled and Steph groaned that no one was better than Tom, which prompted Tom to tout Steph's intelligence. "The strange thing about the bedspread is that Chaz bought it because he liked it. Once it was on the bed, Tom recognized it as the family tree, it's in their coat of arms. We checked the designer, and it is a cousin of Tom's. Talk about coincidence." "I see very little in your life being coincidence, Chris," Jessica said as Chris lead the group out of the room to the office and then out front to wait for the limo. "Nice to have a park across the street." Hunter commented as everyone waited. "Yes, one of the reasons I chose my place. I have not had a chance to explore it yet, but it has a zoo. I was told it was designed by Olmstead, same guy that did Central Park." Chris looked over at the park, his park. "I plan to explore every inch of it." The Bronx Zoo was the highlight of the day. The group broke up because each wanted to see different exhibits with the understanding to be back by 5:00. Chris, Tom, Glenda and her friend Melissa decided to tour the butterfly house. The house was a large glass enclosure, lush with flowering vegetation and shimmering with thousands of butterflies. The air was warm and humid, but not to the level of discomfort. It was embracing like hot tea on a cold day. Chris breathed in, lost in the intoxication of perfume, the perfume of growing, of change. He stood, arms slightly out stretched, eyes closed luxuriating in the unity of life. "Wow," he heard Melissa whisper. Chris opened his eyes and dozens of butterflies danced around him, landing on his arms, shoulders, nose and hair for a furtive kisses and then flying off. He spun slowly around, the butterflies following like courtiers. He held up his hand, a tiger swallowtail alighted in his extended index finger, it lifted its delicate legs. A hawk owl's nest, royal blue and white, landed at the base of Chris's thumb. "Thank you for saying hi to me my regal friends." Chris quietly said as he lifted his hand to his face. A foot away they took off. Chris jerked back to reality and saw a small crowd gathered to watch him and the butterflies. Chris gave a self-deprecating grin. "They must like my cologne." He did a quick two step to join Tom and friends. The butterflies did not follow. "That was a highlight," Melissa said, "I love butterfly. Hate caterpillars. They are so creepy and hairy." "I feel that way about reptiles," Glenda added, "We'll skip that exhibit." She pointed toward the build across from the butterfly pavilion. "We have enough time for the Wild Asia Monorail." Chris showed Tom and Glenda on his park map. "A ride would be nice; I am tired of walking and twenty minutes will give us plenty of time to be by the meeting point before the kids." Glenda grabbed Melissa's elbow guiding her toward the monorail. The ride was a hoot. Chris appreciated Glenda's dry sense of humor and Melissa keen eye for the animals hidden in the brush. After a relaxing ride on the shuttle to the ornate Zoo Center to meet the kids by the rhinoceroses' sculptures, the four non high schoolers indulged in an ice cream cone and beverage. By 5:00 everyone was present except Hunter and Steph. Jamel texted them. "Should have known, they are shopping." Five minutes later the two came running bags fluttering on their arms. Glenda gave each a stern look, "Sorry, but I just had to have this cute shirt." Steph whined, showing a shirt with a sloth. The limo pulled up to the gate just then, so any further discussion was curtailed by the hustle to embark. If Chris thought the ride over to the zoo was loud, the ride back was louder. Chris leaned over to Tom and asked if the monkey house was emptied. Tom's answer was lost in the noise. Chris had the limo drive drop Tom and him off first at his place and then take the rest back to the hotel. He slipped the driver two hundred as a tip since he made the extra stops and the noise. Chris and Tom said goodbye to the gang, got lots of thanks, Benjie decided to exit with Tom and Chris. He said that he would see them tomorrow at 8:30. The door closed and the kids were off. Chris stuck a finger in his ear to restore hearing. Once upstairs, Chris said, "We'll get you a cab, Benjie. Tom and I fly to Chicago tonight and we still need to pack. Beach--cab here ASAP." Chris turned to Tom, "I sure like having Beach." At the door, Chris handed Benjie money for a tip and had a polite discussion about hands off his sister. Although Chris did not think that was going to be heeded. Chris sighed and returned to the living area and Tom. "Need to finish packing. Anything you need at your place Tom?" Tom said no; since he was to be back tomorrow evening he was taking only a small carry-on. Chaz was announced at the door by Beach and allowed in. Soon they were in at JFK, through security two hours before the flight. They chose supper at Bobby Van's since it was close to the American Airlines' gate. Over drinks while the food was prepared Tom asked, "Was this trip successful for you, Chaz?" Chaz swirled the olive in his martini and pursed his lips. "I have several new clients Derrek Lovejoy sent my way." Chris and Tom offered congratulations. "Means that I will be flying more to New York." Chris looked closely at Chaz, waiting. "Think I may move here." "What about your business in Chicago?" Tom asked more curious than concerned. "Easy to move since it is only me." Chaz sighed. "I have no emotional ties to Chicago. No boyfriend to abandon." Chaz took a sip of his drink. "Maybe here in New York, I can find someone to share my life with." "I always have worried about you being alone." Tom placed a hand on Chaz's shoulder and squeezed. Chaz smiled faintly back at Tom. "Do I expect to move in with you, Tom?" Chaz gave Tom a cheesy grin. "No, but I would have you and Chris nearby. You are my friends. I really like being around you guys." The food came; Chaz ordered another martini. "I know this sounds very needy, but I want you as part of my life. Tom and Chris reached across the table, each taking a hand. "We want you in ours too." Tom said. Raising his glass in toast, Chris and Chaz followed the lead, "To you and New York and to us, friends for life." They finished their meal and boarded the plane to Chicago. Chris looked out the plane window watching the haze of lights far below. Sometimes you must travel back to move forward. It was only a day in Chicago, but he was not the same man who left less than two months ago. He closed his eyes contented.