Eff Del

Green Grow The Rushes, O

Book 3 of Young But Daily Growin'

Chapters 10-18

Chapter 10

When you rise in the morning, the first thing you should do is clothe yourself in love and compassion and wear these mantels all day.
Love and compassion are necessities they are not glib luxuries. We need them to be human beings.
They define us and make us who we are.
Lacking them, we are mere flesh and bone; soulless and without any meaningful purpose.

Once again, I had forgotten to close the blinds and the morning light woke me. After shaking off the usual confusion of sudden awakening, I relished the new experience of two little boy butts pressed against my thighs. They had at some time after my crawling into bed, both rolled over and snuggled against me.

Their sleeping noises were so cute that I simply had to grin as I looked down upon them. I took a quick mental inventory. Today was Saturday so, no class with Doc Swaim. The party was Monday and while I had things to go over with Daniel, that very capable man would handle all of the real work.

I wanted to have fun with the boys but also, Arlen wanted to have some time working on Sean's batting. It occurred to me that since Spider was going to be pitching, this practice might work out well for both of them. That would allow me more time to go over things with Ricky and Mandy and still leave lots of time to do something with the boys. I was really becoming fond of Brian. He was a gentle tender boy with a loving heart. I also truly believed he would be strong and supportive for his mother when his grandmother passed.

Life placed such heavy burdens upon the shoulders of little boys sometimes. I was startled as I had that thought because, when life's biggest burden had been thrust upon me, I was a grown man and I'd handled it badly. Somehow, though, I fully believed that young Spider would handle it very well.

I don't know what possessed me to do it but I reached out and slapped both naked wonderful little asses. The noise was fantastic, two young heads shot up with tussled hair, and bleary eyes trying to figure out what had just happened.

It was actually quite mean of me but they were so cute in their reaction that I felt it was worth it.

Sean was rubbing his eyes as he grinned at me.

"Mornin' Dad… that was quite rude don't ya think?"

"Nope, I think that was actually very assertive and indicative that you guys need to get into the shower."

Still fuzz-brained, they both hopped off the bed, moved into the bathroom and cross-streamed into the toilet while I set up the shower.

The washing was sybaritic and fun. Spider's young body was a completely new experience. While he was almost as tall as Jack was, he was still Sean's age and therefore didn't have the muscular development of a sixteen year old. His limbs were long and smooth.

He certainly wasn't skinny. With his athleticism, that would be impossible but his musculature was that of a boy and his body was a boy's body.

Except for a pubic patch about as sparse as Sean's, he was hairless all over. Despite his superior height, his young cock was essentially the same size as Sean's and appropriate for his age.

Much of his height seemed to come from his long sleek legs that flowed gracefully from his round young ass.

'Gracefully' was a good description to apply to the boy because that's precisely how he comported himself.

I was gratified to notice that after yesterday, some of the sadness seemed to have left him and he smiled and laughed during our antics in the shower

We toweled off, dressed and headed down to breakfast.

Ricky and Mandy joined us and, Mrs. Edwards smiled at Sean as she announced that breakfast today would be the newly invented 'Baseball Waffle' and she explained what it was and how it should be eaten.

"Oooh Martha! That sounds positively decadent." Mandy cooed.

As our plates were served and everyone began digging in, I remarked that John's parents would be flying in tonight. They'd returned to Philadelphia in order to begin the process of selling their home and their tavern. They'd accepted my condominium offer with tearful gratitude and I was touched. I wanted them here for Memorial Day so that they could meet my few friends and my key staff (most of whom I considered friends).

Spider was about four mouthfuls into his breakfast following Sean's lead of dipping and drizzling. His eyes were wide open and with syrup coated lips he exclaimed;

"Mrs. Edwards! I've never tasted anything this great in my life!"

Sean grinned and nudged him and with a giggle muttered, "Told ya Spider."

Martha turned her usual beaming red as she rubbed both boys' heads.

Arlen had set up a Lexus for Ricky and Mandy out on the car park because they wanted to do some exploring today and he was planning on working with Sean's batting out on the lawn. I'd mentioned to him last night that I hoped he could also utilize Spider since the tall boy was going to be pitching, perhaps he could work them both together.

"I'll do my best Eric but truth be told, pitching isn't my thing. I was a first baseman and a right fielder… that said I can probably give him a few important tips after all; he's what… 12 or 13?"

"While he's here Arlen, I just want to keep him involved and happy. He has a big wall of sadness about to smack him in the face in the pretty near future so, if nothing else let him pitch a bit and then work on his batting as well.

***

I walked with the boys out to the big lawn and Arlen was waiting there with his own glove and several bats.

I smiled at Arlen.

"OK Maestro, I'll be back in a couple of hours. I'm certain by then that Sean will be a slugger and Jack will be ready to throw a no-hitter."

Arlen looked at me with a startled expression.

"But… "

"Arlen, I'm just kidding. We're all three grateful for any help you can offer."

He looked relieved and grinned.

"Well, I can offer a lot of help it just won't be some instant fix." He tapped the boys on the shoulder.

"Come on guys let's get to work." As they trotted off, I smiled and thought to myself that no matter how I'd treated him, Terry would never have been as special as this guy. He was a real asset.

I walked back to the house and down to my study because I had three very important reports to look over.

Shortly, there was a tapping on the door and I looked up to see Gary and Bobby both quite sweaty standing there.

"We were out for a jog and I thought we'd drop by to tell you that we've decided to take your advice and Bobby is going to wait until he's 18 before entering the University. Turns out Bobby was afraid I was going to make him apply for early admission."

The boy grinned.

"You bet Mr. Tucker. I'm not even 16 yet and I'm only gonna be a kid once. I want to enjoy it."

I smiled as I got up and walked to the wet bar and poured Gary and I a single malt with two ice cubes. I reached into the little fridge and extracted a 'Blue Moon' lager for Bobby. I gave him an apologetic look.

"Sorry Bobby, I don't have any Sam Adams in here. If you want to run down to the library, I'm sure there's a bottle or two there."

He grinned and shook his handsome young head.

"Nah. 'Blue Moon' is just fine. Thank you."

"I think you both made the right decision and when he gets back, I hope Jack makes a similar one. Doc has already mentioned that Jack could be accepted into the University right now, but I really want him to enjoy being a boy. Being grown-up is somewhat forever you know. Sadly, I expect that Jack will be invited on more or these oceanography voyages and I can't in good conscious try to talk him out of participating in them.

"Have you told the Professor yet?"

Gary smiled.

"Actually, I was hoping to borrow one of your golf carts and ride out to the pond and tell him now."

I looked at the boy.

"Bobby, Sean and Spider are out on the big lawn doing batting practice." I reached into the drawer of the credenza and pulled out one of my old baseball gloves and tossed it to him.

"Why don't you go out there and join them even if you just shag stray balls? Your Dad and I are going out to Fish Camp to beard the lion in his den."

***

As the three of us sat together in the cabin, Gary explained why Bobby was not going to try for early admission and I explained why I was going to encourage Jack not to do so either.

Doc Swaim took a sip from his frosty drink… when we'd arrived at the cabin he'd quickly made a pitcher of margaritas.

He smiled as he pushed his dark rimmed glasses up to the bridge of his nose and I noted the slight frosty foam at the tip of his magnificent mustache.

"The both of you are acting as if you were expecting me to be angry at these decisions. I only presented the possibility because both young men are so bright and such wonderful students that I wanted you all to be aware that it was something that could be accomplished. I actually applaud your decisions because I also believe that youth should be savored for as long as possible… especially for two boys who suffered a brief but cruel interruption in what should have been a time of wonderful curious innocence.

"By all means let them continue to be boys and I shall cherish the time (that's now extended) to act as their mentor.

I" love those three boys and being their tutor is a personal joy. You certainly get no objection from me."

Gary and I smiled at each other and Doc got up, retrieved the pitcher, and refilled our glasses.

We chatted casually about the barbeque on Monday and other rather mundane things and we finally rose to leave.

I felt his big hand on my shoulder.

"Eric, you did a wonderful thing with Andy and, you did it masterfully with kindness and respect. Your Father could not have done it any better."

I spun around to face him and suddenly my eyes were pooling with tears. A million thoughts were suddenly racing through my head as I knuckled my watery eyes.

"I owe Andy more than I can ever repay. I'll do whatever it takes to keep him happy and safe… that's a fact."

***

We watched the activity out on the big lawn. Sean was batting and Arlen was pitching. Spider and Bobby were out back catching the balls. When they saw us, they stopped and trotted toward us.

I turned to Gary.

"Rather than walk or jog back home, why don't you take this cart? Go across the property and through the construction area and back to your house… you can bring it back on Monday and we'll get you home after the party."

Gary grinned.

"Works for us if it works for you friend."

I squeezed his shoulder.

"See you Monday guys."

They drove off down the path leading to the north end of the estate.

Spider approached me and I just instinctively drew him into a hug.

"Did Arlen help you with anything?"

"Oh yeah, Arlen is great and he's taught me how to throw a slider. How cool is that. I'll surprise them when the games begin.

"Mr. T, do you think you could get me home tonight? I know that my Mom wants to be with Granma but I think she might like to be with me a little bit too. Tomorrow maybe someone could bring me back here so my Mom can go back to be with Granma but I'd really like to see Mom tonight and tell her I love her and that I understand."

I hugged him tighter and said, "Of course Brian. Does she know you'll be home tonight?"

"I was gonna call her as soon as I knew it would be alright with you. I know this is putting you out a lot."

"Don't think about that. Call your Mom and let me talk to her after you."

After talking for about five minutes he handed me his phone and said, "It's Mom."

"Hello Mrs. Williams. It would seem Brian needs a little Mom time. I'll get him home about eight o'clock after he's had dinner so that won't be something you need to worry about. We'll keep his clothes here and I'll have him picked up around nine thirty tomorrow morning so you can get back to your mother if all that is convenient."

She was crying again as she expressed her appreciation and I once more assured her that it was no burden and no concern.

The two boys and I walked down the hall to the pool.

"After Tuesday when there are no guests here, we'll be able to use the outdoor pool for nude swimming. For now, we use the indoor pool. I can't wait for the sun to tan your lily white little butts."

That comment earned me two wicked little boy grins as they quickly shed their clothes and raced to the diving board. I was slower to disrobe because I was too busy enjoying the scenery.

Spider wasn't nearly as skilled in the water as Sean simply because Sean had been raised around a pool as a daily part of life while for Spider it was obviously a casual experience. He was a competent swimmer though and I had no trepidation as he horsed around with Sean.

I dived in and very soon was roped into tossing them both up and into the water. That was quickly followed by me crouching low under the surface while a boy placed his feet on my shoulders and as I shortly held his hands for balance, thrust up and the naked little cherub was propelled backward into the water. They both decided this was the most fun and actually so did I because it was physically less exerting than tossing them over my shoulder.

Eventually, I called a halt and set them to doing two laps. Sean realized that Spider was not in his league in this particular sport and so he swam slowly alongside his friend and offered his encouragement. 'That's Sean' I thought 'Perhaps there's not a better person in the world.'

After showering and dressing, we went up to dinner.

It was a surprise… something she hadn't ever made since Sean had come to Joyous Gaurde; manicotti; cheese stuffed tubes of pasta in a marinara sauce. She served it with a crisp salad of several greens again with her own Italian dressing. I poured myself a glass of Chianti. Chianti is a very nice peasant wine from Italy and there is no snobbery attached to it as there is with say; French wines but it is robust and very pleasant… perfect for the meal that had been served. This bottle was a moderately priced Ruffino Riserva Ducale and after one sip, I was happy with it.

I noticed Spider eyeing the bottle. "Would you like some wine Brian?"

He smiled. "Yes please Mr. Tucker."

I poured him about three quarters of a glass.

In jest I asked, "How about you Sean?"

I was stunned when he replied, "Yes please Dad."

I looked at him and he smiled softly.

"I told you. I gotta learn to drink grown-up stuff."

I smiled and placed a glass in front of him.

"Take a sip and tell me what you think."

He did and smiled. "This is very nice. I like it a lot. Thanks Dad."

"Yeah, thanks Mr. T."

Then they attacked their food with little boy gusto.

***

Arlen drove us in the limo and I got out and walked into the house with Spider. I spent about twenty minutes talking with his mother assuring her that her son was no burden on us and that she should just consider him safe and taken care of. He also assured her that he was happy staying with us but that every now and then he needed her. She was teary eyed as she hugged him tightly and assured him that she needed him as well. The fact that they loved each other deeply was the most obvious thing in the world. I made a mental note that when the sadness of Grandma passing was over, I'd find some way to help this family.

"So, Brian, check around and make sure there's nothing else you need here and know that Arlen will be here to pick you up at 9:30 sharp. Your Mom has important things to do. You be here young man for her tonight just as I know you can. I'll see you tomorrow."

He ran across the room and wrapped his arms around me.

"You're the best man I know in this whole world. I wish you were my Dad."

I kissed him on the top of his head and whispered, "Well, I can't be your Dad Brian, but I can be your friend and I can be there whenever you need me. You can believe that and you can rely on that."

His eyes were moist as he smiled up at me.

"Thanks Mr. T. I kind of love you."

I kissed his hair again and whispered, "I kind of love you too Brian."

***

I knew he'd be in my room tonight and I knew what he wanted and I knew that I wanted it as well.

He was standing by the window and the night light from the three quarter moon was actually surprisingly bright and he was waiting in his grey boxer shorts, his wonderful little ass pushed out as he leaned into the windowsill gazing at the property bathed in white moonlight.

He didn't turn around as he spoke, "Do you think that you're gonna bring Spider here to live like full time?"

I tried to gauge what he was getting at… was it curiosity or was it jealousy."

"No Sean, Spider has a mother and a home. He's staying here temporarily because his grandmother is very ill… probably dying and I'm trying to make it easier for his Mom to be there for his Grandma as this inevitable event happens.

"After that, his Mom is going to need him a whole lot and therefore, he'll need your friendship a whole lot. Is that something you can provide?"

He turned and nodded his head.

"Course I can. I just like having him here cause I think he's a cool guy. Prolly though, part of that is cause I'm missin' Jack."

He looked at me and locked me into a serious gaze.

"Tonight, we're gonna do the real thing Dad. I want it so bad an it's been a while. I'm not askin' I'm telling." He grinned and struck a pose with his right hip to the side like some underwear model.

I laughed at the entire presentation and hugged him.

"OK Little Man, after we shower and wash that little boy butt."

***

We'd kissed, hugged, and fondled and finally I'd lubed his little hole. As I applied the lube to my raging hard-on I explained that tonight I was going to have him essentially impale himself on my dick.

I was on my back as I guided him over my torso with his legs splayed over my sides. My hands helped him rise up and position himself over my stone hard erection.

"I'm going to help you do this slowly baby boy," I realized that my cock was at his little sphincter.

"Push down honey bear just like I told you." Suddenly the tiny orifice became more compliant and the tip of my iron hard dick was through the ring. He grunted and moaned and I knew he was experiencing pain. I reached up, stroked his small torso, and whispered encouraging words. This had gone too far to stop but I didn't want to hurt him.

He took a deep breath and suddenly lowered himself down upon me. In less than an instant, I was completely inside him. I gasped, he grunted, and then, we were smiling at each other. He leaned down and stroked my face as he smiled at me and then our dance began. Instinctively, he began rising and lowering himself and I in turn began thrusting up on the down stroke. Sean was soon moaning in pleasure and I was frightened that I wouldn't last very long. My fears were well founded and very soon, I exploded into his wonderful ass.

I pulled him down and kissed him frantically.

"I could never love anybody better than you Dad."

I returned his kisses and pulled him into a tight body hug.

***

At breakfast, I asked Sean; "How about we go pick up Spider in the XKE?"

I was rewarded with a 'Sean smile'.

"That would be so cool an on the ride back, I'll sit in that little stupid back seat so Spider can really enjoy the ride."

Sean hugged and kissed Martha and we were off.

The green Jag was parked about midway down the garage. It was somewhat strange not having John there to provide encouragement but we hopped into the vintage roadster and took off.

Spider's eyes were wide as he walked out of his house and saw us in our exotic automobile.

"Holy crap! This is an XKE! How cool is that!"

I got out of the car and asked Spider to introduce me to his mother. She was a lovely woman I'd guess about forty years old with dark brown hair and beautiful dark eyes.

"Mr. Tucker, I can't thank you enough for this. Brian seems very happy with this arrangement and being free to stay with my mother is such a blessing… I just… I just can't tell you… "

I touched her arm and said softly, "It's an easy thing to do Mrs. Williams and a pleasure besides. Brian is a wonderful boy. We'll probably do this several times when he needs his Mom and it's no inconvenience. You just do what you need to do."

"You're a wonderful man Mr. Tucker."

I squeezed here arm as I smiled.

"I don't know about that but you're sure a wonderful mother Mrs. Williams."

***

"Can we hike up to the top of Hawkes Hill Dad? It don't have to be a sad place. Walter wouldn't want it to be sad. I'd love to show the cave to Spider."

"Certainly Sean, who's driving?"

His smile was stunning.

"I'm driving out there and when we're through, I think Spider should drive back."

"I'm for that but, we have to be back in about two hours because I've got some stuff to do that's very important."

The trail to the top had become very melancholy because it led to the place where Walter had given up his life defending Sean and Jack.

Sean was more upbeat and he led us to the cave. I ducked my head as we entered and Sean was the perfect tour guide and I realized that to little boys, this was the perfect place in the world.

After touring the cave, we hiked back down and climbed onto the Red Kitty. Sean turned around and said, "Guys, there's something I dropped along the trail so scuze me while I go find it."

After he'd headed up the pathway, Brian turned around and looked at me.

"Mr. T… uhhm Eric… I wanted to know if you would uhmmm… do stuff with me."

Chapter 11

I stared into the boy's blue eyes and hoped upon hope that I'd misunderstood what he had just asked me.

"I-I don't understand Brian. I thought I've done lots of stuff with you. Why, we've just taken a hike and…"

"No, no not like that Mr. T. I mean other stuff… close stuff uhm… sex stuff." He never broke his intense eye contact.

"I'm almost thirteen like Sean and I have nobody in my life to teach me things. I have no father, no uncles no brothers. Sean is so lucky, he's got you and he's got Jack. You're the only person I can ask because you're the only man in my life that cares about me. You could show me how things are done and what it feels like and it would be right because I know that you're kind and caring."

"Did you and Sean talk about this Brian? Is that why he 'dropped something on the path' and had to leave us to go find it?"

He finally broke eye contact and bowed his head nodding. "I was asking him if you guys shared stuff like that and he finally told me that you do and how wonderful it was and how you taught him slowly, kindly and lovingly and I felt so sad and so jealous because, I've got nobody in my life to do that for me.

"Sean said that I had to ask you myself… that he wasn't going to do it for me and that he bet you'd say 'no' but that he'd fix it so we were alone so I could ask you."

His back began to shake with sobs and large teardrops were dropping onto his quivering chest.

"I'm sooo s-sorry! I don't know what I was thinking. I guess you want to send me home now huh?"

I was in the back seat and he was up front so I wrapped my arms around his shoulders hugging him tightly.

"Brian, politely asking a question is no reason to be banished from the kingdom." I'd hoped that would make him smile but it didn't though his sobs seemed to decrease.

"You've surprised me and I need some time to think things over before we discuss my answer.

"For now, dry your eyes you can't steer a golf cart through tears and know I'm not angry though I'm a bit disappointed in Sean and he'll hear about that from me."

"Please don't be mad at Sean! I kinnda tricked the answer out of him."

"Oh, I'm not mad at him Brian just… like I said; a little disappointed."

Just then, Sean came back down the trail and smiled sheepishly.

"Couldn't find it but it's no big deal it was just a nice smooth rock I found at the lake a while ago."

I could tell from his face that he knew the jig was up and that he was busted. I gave him a hard look and he just nodded his head and then climbed in the cart at the shotgun position. He spoke without looking back at me;

"Spider's gonna drive us back. I've been showing him how to drive this thing and I'll help him with the way if he gets lost." This was all said without enthusiasm and joy and I knew that he understood he had crossed an important line.

"That's fine with me." I said softly and Spider did in fact do a very good job of getting us home.

***

Arlen had driven Martha to town to do some grocery shopping. She'd left a note on the table indicating there was a platter of cold cuts and cheese in the fridge and lettuce and tomatoes in the crisper. Hoagie rolls were on the table and all the condiments were on the door. We silently and joylessly made our sandwiches and sat down to eat. I didn't ask, I just silently poured them each a glass of fresh lemonade and selected a beer for myself.

When we'd finished our somber lunch, I indicated the counter top and said, "It would be wonderful if you guys could put this stuff away and clean things up. I have some very important work down in my study. You both surely can find something to do for a while eh?"

They nodded grimly and I left.

I was poring over an intriguing report submitted to me by Wolfman concerning a proposed completely revised 'special training' for select nest boys that would move them right into useful Skuggor positions quickly while they still graduated the nest and attended college. It was brilliant in concept and still age specific in such a clever way that the boys would be attracted to it and enjoy it.

I was writing notes and questions in the margins… yes actually WRITING with a pen! I paused to grin at that concept.

There was a light tapping at my door, which was of course open. I looked up and he stood there his eyes red rimmed. I looked at him with a quizzical expression but didn't say anything. Cruelly, I made him speak first.

"Dad I know you're busy b-but could we talk?"

"I've always told you Sean that we can talk anytime about anything. I'm somewhat sorry that you seem to have forgotten that." I indicated a chair in front of my desk and he wiped his eyes with his knuckles and shook his head no. He pointed to the informal seating in the corner.

"C-could we sit over there without the desk between us?" I nodded and we took two padded chairs facing each other. He sat for a few moments with his legs swinging and his hands busily entwined in nervous motion. He reminded me a bit of the little boy I'd first brought home on my jet what seemed like a lifetime ago.

Finally, he looked up and I could tell he was fighting hard not to cry.

"I've ruined everything haven't I?"

My heart melted at his statement and mournful countenance.

"No, Sean. You haven't 'ruined' anything but you have tarnished it a bit.

"The last thing in the world I'd have suspected would be that you would tell someone out of the family what the three of us do in the privacy of our own home and our own beds.

"Awhile back, when I was angry at Jack over the Amanda thing, he had broken a rule that he didn't even know existed so that was my fault and my error.

"What you have done though is to violate a very important rule that you knew about before you even left the nest with me. You were learning about the importance of not telling private secrets when you were nine years old right?"

He nodded his head and I knew the tears were coming soon but I decided to let them happen.

"It's just that… well, you know us guys or at least some of us fool around when we get the chance and it was just Spider an' me an' he asked if I'd ever done anything with someone older an' I told him… 'yeah with Jack' which of course I never shoulda done but I did an' he nodded his head and said somethin' like he really wished he could do things with you and that he bet you'd be wonderful an' I just didn't think… he'd been saying such nice things about how great you are that I just kinda said you WERE wonderful.

"He jumped all over that and so, I told him about us from the very first night. I've never been able to tell anyone but Jack about us and it kinda felt nice and I kinda felt proud and now I know I what I said could get you into a lot of trouble." Big tears were rolling now. I quietly smiled.

"Don't worry about trouble Sean I've got the resources to handle that."

"So, after a while he asked me if I thought you'd do stuff with him and teach him too. I told him prolyl not but that if he wanted to ask you, he hadda do it himself.

"Heck Dad… look how long it took me to get you to actually make love to me.

"I told him today that I'd find some way to leave you two alone so he could ask you and that sure blew up in our faces. I'm so sorry that I l-let you down and I'm so sad you don't trust me anymore.

"I'd give anything if I could make it up to you and have you have faith in me again."

I had a sudden inspiration.

"OK then, let's go get the paddle from the trophy room and light up your young ass again!"

His face was horror-stricken.

"Really? O-ok… tonight?"

I smiled at him.

"No Goofus. We both agreed that would never re-occur I was just joking.

"Actually, Sean, I do trust you and I have faith in you. You made a mistake and by the way, it was a big mistake and I've got to figure out how to handle the consequences and that won't be tonight… speaking of tonight, you and Brian can sleep in your room or Brian can sleep in Jack's but you're not sharing mine."

He nodded solemnly, got up, and climbed up onto my lap wrapping his arms around my neck and nuzzling his nose into my chest.

I whispered into his ear;

"You're getting a bit big for this don't you think?"

"Nuh Uh Dad! Not for a long time."

I stoked his back as I thought;

"That would be wonderful if it were only true."

"I don't never want to disappoint you again Dad."

I kissed his neck and whispered, "This is only the first time Sean. I wouldn't be too worried about it."

He snuffled snot back up his nose and I smiled knowing his tears were done.

***

Everyone in the inner circle knew that bathing suits were the uniform of the day and they began showing up at the pool around 11:30.

The first to arrive were Ricky and Mandy and Mandy was stunning in her bikini. Daniel and Arlen wearing Hawaiian shirts made certain the staff had provided the couple with tall maitai's and a plate of delicate crunchy mini-eggrolls. Tim and Alice who'd arrived last night were the next down to poolside and accepted drinks and finger foods.

To my delight and surprise, the next to arrive decked out in board shorts and a tie-dyed tee shirt was old Andy and accompanying him was his stunningly beautiful daughter Anna. We'd not seen each other since Thanksgiving and to my surprise, she greeted me with a large hug.

"Mr. Tucker, when my father's new condo is ready, I'd like to move in and watch over him. He indicated that would be alright."

"Absolutely Anna. It would be nice to know you were there with him."

She gave me a knowing look.

"You are a kind and generous man. In this country, old people are being discarded like used junk but you treat him like a valued person."

"Anna, that's because he IS a valued person. My god just a short while ago, he personally saved the lives of myself and my sons! Who could be more valued than that? I want him to enjoy his shotgun range and interactions as long as he wants and I'm delighted you'll be here to keep an eye on him."

She smiled a stunning smile and accepted a drink from Daniel.

Sean and Spider were excited as they escorted Ricco and his parents in.

We'd met at swimming events and soccer but hadn't spent a great deal of time with each other. They were from El Salvador and had escaped the horror down there and were proud of the lives they'd made for themselves. They were a handsome couple with Ricco's dark hair and dark eyes.

Cristo, Ricco's dad was compact and well-built just like his son and his eyes sparkled with good-nature. His Mother; Maria was a slender strongly made woman with brilliant dark eyes and a smile that left no doubt where her son had gotten his from.

"Welcome to my home Mr. and Mrs. Rojas. We love your son and I'm so glad you came today. Their smiles were warm and cordial and their English was perfect.

"Thank you Mister Tucker. Ricco loves your Sean as his dearest friend.

We've brought you this little gift and it's not to be opened tonight it is for your personal pleasure. It is pisco, a very special and very old brandy made in Peru and we think you may enjoy it."

"Thank you Cristo," I said as I accepted the bottle and shook his hand.

"Now let Daniel here get you something to drink and get comfortable." I noticed that the three boys were already in the pool with Ricky and Mandy.

Shortly, the magnificent four appeared… Chris, Phil, Richard and Barry. They were giggling and by god, they were all shirtless. I loved the fact that they had all grown so close and I felt that indicated good things for the 'Great Game'.

"Get drinks guys, you're all going to man grilles and bars today "I said.

"Not hardly." A deep voice behind me muttered.

It was Daniel. "You truly didn't think with a staff like ours that you'd be cooking or bartending Eric?

Arlen has the grilles under control and I'll handle everything else. You see to your guests and get pleasantly loaded."

The guys grinned at me.

"So I guess we're off the hook?" Uncle Phil smiled.

"Guess so." I shrugged and they all ran off to the bar and grabbed drinks.

Shortly, I felt a tug at my sleeve I turned and it was Sean. Standing by him were a man and a woman of medium stature but lovely smiling faces.

Standing between them was Charlie.

"Dad, this is Mr. and Mrs. Wendell. You've met them a couple of times but I don't think you got to know each other."

I reached out my hand and the man said, "Mr. Tucker, we're Chuck and Sally and we're so pleased to be here."

"Well, Chuck, I'm so pleased that you decided to come. We certainly think the world of Charlie and we certainly don't know what our sports teams would have done without him. You've got quite a boy."

They both beamed at that and Charlie of course squirmed uncomfortably.

"Mr. T… that's so… " then he grinned at me.

"Swimsuit on Charlie?"

"Course."

"Go for it while I visit with your Mom and Dad." He was into the pool like a shot. Some of these boys were part fish… Sylkies I though as I remembered my PaPops old stories. Sylkies… 'I am a man upon the land but I am a Sylklie under the sea'. I smiled to myself as I remembered.

Doc Swaim arrived shortly and quickly found himself a drink and a lounge chair smiling broadly as Andy and Anna moved to sit beside him. They were quickly joined by Gary as Bobby gleefully pulled off his shirt and jumped into the pool.

Finally Kevin and Grace walked out onto the patio. I jumped up from my chair and embraced them both.

"Welcome guys! I'm so glad you decided to come. Daniel will get you something to drink and then we'll get the formal stuff out of the way so you can enjoy yourselves."

I walked with them to the front of the patio and motioned for Andy to join us.

"Guys, I want you all to be the first to know about a major change here. I need Andy whose been the groundskeeper forever to concentrate on my shotgun range and he has agreed to accept the position of 'Shooting Master and Grounds Consultant' Kevin here with the agreement of his lovely young fiancée Grace has agreed to accept the position of Grounds Keeper on the proviso that Andy is available as his consultant. Andy accepts this responsibility so I think we're in good hands don't you all?"

There was a round of applause and everyone crowded in to meet the new couple.

There was soon a massive amount of splashing in the pool as more and more people dived in. Not much longer after that, Daniel was calling us to the food line. He'd handled it gloriously. The meats were laid out first; steaks hamburgers pork chops and baby back ribs. Then, the corn on the cob, the French fried potatoes and of course Martha's gigantic tubs of crisp salad… this time with a choice of three dressings.

With a bulging belly, I pulled Daniel aside.

"You've made certain the staff will be well fed right?"

He smiled at me and replied;

"Do any of us look undernourished Eric? Of course, they'll all be rewarded with a wonderful meal and they thank you in advance."

"You're a good man Daniel."

"I actually know that Eric but, you see, so are you."

Sean had been urged to go and get his guitar and now, he was sitting on a little stool on the patio as he played. He was so good that the entire group was silent and appreciative.

Finally, he said, "This is Menorial Day… I mean Memorial Day. Let's sing this all together." His fingers began a delicate but intricate arpeggio upon the strings.

Finally, he lifted his sweet face and with a funny gleam in his eyes he sang;

Mine eyes have seen the glory or the coming of the Lord.
He has trampled out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored
He has loosed the fateful lightning of his terrible swift sword.
His truth is marching on.

Without a pause, we all joined in at the chorus.

Glory, glory hallelujah.
Glory, glory hallelujah.
Glory, glory hallelujah.
is truth is marching on

He knew and sang every verse to that song and he had us up on our feet frenetically involved as we sang the choruses.

I no longer wondered and I was no longer surprised the boy was a marvel and I just accepted it.

It was sometime around 11:30 or 12:00 when the party finally broke up and we all headed to bed. As he was packing up his guitar, Sean looked up me plaintively.

He looked so sad and forlorn while at the same time so lovingly beautiful, I just nodded my head and he smiled as he walked to the house.

***

"We're just going to cuddle Sean." I said as I watched him shuck his clothes.

"I know that Dad, after what I did I'm just so glad you'll let me do this."

"Sean, I told you it was a mistake but it wasn't the end of the world. I'm not mad at you I've still got to figure out how to handle Brian."

"Well he knows that he's gotta stay in Jack's room tonight."

"Good but that's not the answer to this. Anyhow, it's very late so it's time for sleep."

He snuggled down against me and whispered, "I'm so very sorry."

I whispered back;

"In a way so am I because stuff like this means you're growing up on me and that makes me a little sad."

***

There was a special phone on my bedside table that essentially connected to the command center. It had only sounded once and that was a test call. I was stunned as I was driven from sleep by the harsh sound of its alarm. I rose from my sleep so suddenly that I actually threw Sean to the side of the bed. He of course was awake instantly and his eyes were wide with concern as I grabbed the red phone.

"This is Eric." I mumbled more than spoke.

"Wolfman here Eric and I certainly hate to wake you but I suspect that you want to come over to the command center."

"What's up Wolfman?"

"Better if you come over and see Boss."

I stroked Sean's shoulders and told him to lay down and go back to sleep.

"We're not bein' attacked again are we?"

"No silly, that won't happen again but there is some business I've gotta check out. You get under the covers and wait for me I'll be back as soon as I can."

He was up on his knees.

"Will you kiss me?"

"Of course little man. I'll do that at the drop of a hat." I leaned down and locked lips with him passionately. He smiled as we parted and sank down onto the bed. I pulled the comforter up over his shoulders and smiled.

"See ya soon."

"I love you so much Dad."

"Me too boy."

***

Wolfman was fidgeting around the table as I entered the room and I was surprised to see Barry and Richard were there. They like me were supposed to be sleeping. Their looks as they greeted me were not very encouraging.

"OK What's going on?"

It was Richard who finally took a deep breath and answered, "Jack's ship for whatever reason instead of just cruising around the Maritimes headed out a good deal further east. There was a fluke storm up there and it resulted in what they call a rogue wave. Shortly after it hit, all communication was lost and they're all completely off the grid.

We're scrambling planes and copters out there but I think you should be prepared for bad news Eric. This kind of thing doesn't usually end well."

"I want every resource we have on this I want every favor called in and I don't want an inch of that water uncovered or unsearched. Is that understood?"

Richard blinked as he looked at me.

"I hope you know that you didn't have to say that. We're way ahead of you and believe it or not, we love Jack too."

I rubbed the sudden tears from my eyes and said, "I'm sorry Richard, that was foolish of me. Thank you guys for what you are doing. Find my boy please."

"We're doing everything possible Eric." Barry said and I knew that was true. I walked up to my room and climbed back into bed with my slumbering little boy. I wrapped him in my arms and somehow fell back into a deep sleep.

***

There were no secrets in Joyous Gaurde among the close staff. Daniel knew.

Arlen knew and Martha knew. The anguish on her face was horrific and Brian, who didn't know what was going on, was confused as we sat down to breakfast.

He looked around, as did Sean. I'd planned on telling Sean privately but decided to just tell them both.

"Boys, there was a large storm out in the north Atlantic yesterday. Jack's ship was foundered apparently and there has been no communication since then. There is a massive air and sea search going on but we have to be prepared for bad news." That was as far as I got before I burst into sobs and couldn't stop. Martha came over and took me into her arms and held me tight. Sean was sitting with giant tears dripping from his eyes and Brian sat looking sad and confused.

"Finish your breakfast because you've both got class with Doc Swaim."

As I walked them down the wing, I gave them both tender hugs as we parted at the elevator.

"Fresh made coffee Boss," Barry said as I entered the big room.

"You been up all night Barry?"

"Well yeah at least since Wolfman woke me up."

"Any kind of news?"

"Actually a lot. We've found the ship. That wave knocked her over on her side and that's how she's floating. There were seven crewmembers clinging to her side. Jack wasn't one of them. They told us though that six life rafts were launched so that's where we're concentrating our search. This will take some time because we've got to do computer projections on tide, wind and natural flow. If he's alive Eric, we'll find him."

I smiled and patted his shoulder.

"You're a good man Barry."

"So are you Boss."

***

I'd made what I was certain to be an improper decision but I was so emotionally distraught that I wasn't thinking well, I invited both boys into my bed. They were naked and beautiful. I'd turned the lights down to almost dark and then I began to work my lips down the tall boy's body from his throat to his nipples to his navel to his small but hard cock. I then slowly worked my lips and tongue over his inner thighs as he wiggled and moaned in pleasure.

My lips softly closed over his little scrotum and softly nibbled the two little jewels contained there-in and as he writhed in pleasure he'd probably never imagined could exist, I took his young little cock into my mouth and began a slow and sensuous sucking and licking. I thought to myself that it was curious that all boy cocks tasted just a little different but they all tasted wonderful.

Brian was like Sean, he didn't try to prolong the pleasure. When it was time, it was time and he exploded with gusto as I closed my lips tightly around his little rod. His hips bucked and his legs flayed as he enjoyed his orgasm. I enjoyed his sweet little boy cum and also relished his obvious pleasure. I also knew in the back of my mind that this was a mistake but I was also trying to bury my fear and apprehension regarding Jack.

The brown haired boy finally recovered and muttered, "Mr. T… that was… "

"Shush now Brian. It's Sean's turn."

I rolled over and dove right down onto his little flag pole and very quickly, he was moaning and thrusting on the bed. His orgasm came quickly and mightily. He sighed as he collapsed onto the mattress.

"OK boys time to sleep I want to be up early tomorrow assuming nothing happens during the night."

"But Dad, what about you? You haven't… "

"Don't worry about me little man. It's sleep time."

Very quickly, they both snuggled in against me and despite my fear for my red headed wonder, I fell into a deep sleep.

***

Breakfast was scrambled eggs with slices of fried tomatoes. Sean sipped his coffee dejectedly and Spider was both sad and confused. He was also sipping a cup of coffee that like Sean's was heavily creamed and sugared.

Martha was distraught and she kept moving behind me and rubbing my shoulders. Sean finally raised his head and exclaimed;

"It's gonna be alright you guys. Jack is gonna be alright and he'll be back here soon. Jack's my Lead Senior an he knows how to do things. He can handle this… he'll be back in time for my birthday. He's so good about… "

His eyes suddenly exploded with tears and with a huge sob, he got up from the table and rushed out of the room.

I was about to follow him when Daniel entered the room.

"Eric, they would like you up in the Control room."

"Is it news about Jack?"

He nodded.

"Yes, I believe so."

"Daniel, good or bad, I'm going to take Sean with me. Would you or Arlen watch over Brian?"

"Of course Eric. I think Arlen would be better for that task and I'll see to it at once."

I found Sean weeping out on the big lawn. I wrapped him in my arms.

"Oh Dad, what if he's dead? What if we lost him? How could I go on without Jack?"

"Well Sean, the first thing is we have to know and I've just been told that there is news so, I want you to come on up with me to find out what we know and I expect you to be brave and mature whatever the news is… OK?"

He looked up at me and despite his tears, there was a small smile.

We walked down to the North Wing and took the elevator up.

They were all there and their faces were taught and grim. I steeled myself and grasped my little boy by the shoulders as we entered the room.

Chapter 12

Two absolute essentials for life are having something to love and having something to hope for.
Always attempt to have eyes that see the best, a heart that forgives the worst, a mind that seeks the truth and a soul that never loses the gift of hope.
When hope is lost, love and joy will very soon depart from you as well.

"Put it up on the screen Barry." Richard said. "Go make yourself come coffee guys though I have no idea how you take yours Sean, so you or Eric need to pour your cup. Your Dad is easy to handle." He grinned wanly as I nodded and headed over and fixed myself and the boy each a cup.

"Now Sean, since your Dad has brought you up here, I don't want you to be confused or misunderstand anything we tell you, but I also want you to realize that in the end there may not be good news. You have to be able to handle whatever the outcome is because frankly Tiger, that's the way life works.

"You sit over here so that you can see the screen clearly."

I handed Sean his coffee mug and sat beside him as Barry put an image up on the big drop-down screen.

"This is a high level image of the ship floating on its side. As you can see, they'd strayed quite far away from their original intent to just cruise around the Maritimes. We don't know why so for now, we can only assume they'd stumbled upon something very interesting.

"We know that when the rogue wave knocked the ship over, seven crew members survived by essentially clinging to her side. We also know that six life rafts were launched but I've got to tell you that even if they were filled to capacity, they wouldn't accommodate the unaccounted for remaining crew of thirty two which of course includes Jack.

"We have to assume that a great number of them are dead… drowned below decks. I also have to tell you that of the surviving sailors, none of them could confirm they'd seen Jack after the ship's knock-down but that's not very surprising considering they were trying to survive.

"The dismaying thing in this search is that each of the life-rafts were equipped with GPS location devices and therefore, we should have located them all by now but… there's no signal from any of them so, the equipment must be defective. We'll be looking into that when all of this is over and if I'm right, someone is going to pay.

"Right now, we're doing high-level fly-bys and low level surface scans using the ship as the center of our search grid. We're still hoping to pick up some kind of signal but you've both got to steel yourselves to the possibility that since the capacity of these life-rafts is only four, Jack may very well have been caught below when the wave knocked over the boat."

The pain on his face broke my heart almost as much as his news did.

"Hold on guys! Hold on!" Barry was jumping in his seat. "I've just picked up three bleeps. If they'll just stay on for a few more seconds I'll zero in on them." His fingers were flying as he did his Barry magic.

He grinned as he turned to us and said, "Well, we just found three of the six. I've just sent the coordinates to our helicopters. Now we can just sit and hope but I also trust everyone realizes that whatever the outcome for us personally, we ARE saving lives out there."

I nodded grimly at him because, in the end, he was totally right.

I rose from my chair and pulled Sean to me.

"Call me when you've reached those three rafts and I'll hope for good news guys."

Both Richard and Barry looked at me dourly and I knew that they didn't hold out much hope and were just trying to be kind and gentle.

***

Arlen was out on the big lawn essentially playing catch with Brian and I suggested that Sean go out and play with them while I went down to my study. I had to say goodbye to Ricky and Mandy.

They entered my study and Mandy rushed over and wrapped me in her arms.

"Oh Eric, I'd stay if there was one little thing I could do for you."

I smiled and whispered, "Thanks sweet girl, but it's going to end the way it's going to end and you guys have an Academy to run together. Arlen is waiting out front and Captain Lucas certainly knows how to get you to Houston. I also think you could get used to my jet couldn't you?" I grinned as I said that and she kissed me warmly right on the lips.

It turned out that Daniel was operating the limo having chosen to leave Arlen playing with the boys. I shook my head as I marveled at his thoughtfulness.

"Keep us informed Boss-man," she whispered as she smiled warmly and they were out the door.

I fought the urge to go back up to the command center because I didn't want to be a distraction or in their way. I also didn't want to be a presence that inhibited their open conversation. I reverted to an old habit and poured myself a drink, picked up the bottle, and walked down to the music room.

I sat down and my fingers began to fly over the keys. I didn't know what I was playing but it flowed out from my fingertips and the room was filled with wonderful sounds. I am a very accomplished pianist though I don't play very often anymore.

I must have played mindlessly before the door to the room opened and in walked Doc, Gary and Tim. They were bearing glasses two bottles and an ice bucket. Despite my anguish, I smiled to myself and thought; 'Well this is certainly not an intervention.'

I looked over at the Wizard and he smiled sadly and said, "I've given the three boys the next few days off because they've got other things on their minds."

"Perhaps that would be a good reason to keep them in the classroom Doc."

"Not when the tutor is so distracted it isn't."

I nodded and I looked at Tim.

"Well, your son and new daughter-in-law will be home in two days. It certainly would be wonderful if my son was home at the same time." He nodded his head and I stood up and he wrapped me in his arms.I totally lost it. I sobbed and shook and tears welled from my eyes while John's powerful Dad just held me tightly and rubbed my back.

As I finally calmed down, Gary softly took my arm and whispered, "Have hope Eric. Have faith."

I looked at him and said, "Unlike you Gary, I don't have faith, but I do have hope… lots and lots of hope."

***

I gathered the boys from Arlen. Bobby had joined their impromptu game of catch and I told them to head over to the pool. "

Mr. and Mrs. Costa are going out to look at the construction on their condo so you three are free to skinny dip." They looked up at me with forlorn eyes.

"Dad, that don't sound like so much fun when we're all so worried about Jack."

"Guys, you not having fun isn't going to change a thing about what's happened to Jack. If you love him, then do what he'd expect you to do… enjoy yourselves. Jack was all about having fun. You know that."

They all nodded their heads in agreement and shortly, three gorgeous naked little bodies were diving into the water and very quickly were horsing around.

"Wow! Swimming naked is so much better outside than inside," Spider exclaimed.

"Plus, you get a tan all over your body Spider," Sean said. "You'll see. It's great."

Gary walked out into the pool area and sat down next to me after pouring himself a drink and spent a few moments enjoying the wonderful sight of three naked young boys in the pool. Only Spider had a lily-white ass. Sean and Bobby had spent enough time in the sun naked last year that their skin was still residually tanned all over.

Gary reached over and gripped my arm.

"Hope, Eric. If you can't have faith then keep focused on hope. Hope is like an unconscious prayer and it's a very powerful force. You know that I understand what it's like to lose a beloved son. Whatever happens Eric, you will survive it and emerge strong and kind. You won't ever sink back into that pit of darkness you once lived in."

I smiled at him.

"Somehow, I believe you're right Gary but right now, it doesn't feel very good."

He took my empty tumbler from me and re-filled it.

As we sat watching the boys in silence, Daniel was suddenly at the edge of the deck.

"I waived him over.

"Daniel, it's not like you haven't seen these boys naked before."

He nodded.

"Eric, they'd like you up in the control room."

"News?"

"So it would seem."

I thought for a moment and then motioned Sean out of the pool.

"Gary, would you keep an eye on Brian for a bit?"

"Of course Eric."

I didn't have to tell Sean what to do. He quickly dried off and got dressed.

"Remember what I told you. Whatever the news, I expect you to act like a young man and not a baby. We have no control over what has happened so we've got to handle what we learn with common sense… OK?"

"Yes Dad. Thanks for letting me come up with you." He leaned tightly against me as we walked.

***

Richard and Barry were sitting huddled around Barry's multiple screens and they looked up at me but not with any joy as Sean and I entered the room.

It was Barry who spoke;

"Well, Jack was not in any of the three life rafts we recovered. There were four people in each of them but they'd never been trained in how to activate the GPS system and had only figured it out after trial and error. We're hoping that will happen soon with the other three rafts.

"That means the equipment is not defective just that the survivors weren't properly trained."

Richard quickly added;

"We also have been told by three of the rescued people that they saw Jack on board one of the life rafts. We consider that a confirmation. If he's on a raft, even if it's fully populated, they're packed with enough food and water to last at least a week. We'll find him Eric… I swear to god that we'll find him."

I suddenly realized that my Chief of Staff was on the verge of crying and I remembered that Richard had from the beginning a special relationship with Jack. I remembered the boxing coaching with Walter and I had to suppress a sob as I reviewed the joy that was shared between the three of them. Walter was now gone and Jack was lost at sea.

"The water and the wind out there are currently wild and unpredictable so we're expanding our search perimeters. We're also hoping that like these first three rafts, someone will figure out how to turn on their GPS locators.

"The good news though is that we now know that Jack wasn't trapped in the ship and that he's on a life raft. Our current job is to find that raft and I promise you that we will."

I didn't even try to suppress my sob.

I tried very hard to make dinner a pleasant affair. We were in the big dining room. Tim and Alice, Gary and Bobby and Doc Swaim joined us and Martha had made roast beef. I'd opened a couple of bottles of wonderful Medoc and as it was passed around, I wasn't surprised when Bobby and Spider accepted a glass but I was again surprised when Sean did as well. I sighed softly as I realized that my little boy was growing up.

As we walked down to the parlor, he pulled me aside and said quietly;

"Dad I really need you tonight. Can we be together please?"

I realized that I really needed him as well and so, I pulled him into my side and said:

"You bet love bug but not Brian."

"He knows Dad. Just me."

"Ok then."

***

He was so beautiful standing in the room wearing only his red boxer briefs and he turned coyly around to give me a full view. Unfortunately, his smile was sad and his face was melancholy.

"Are you gonna finish stripping me Dad?"

I hoped that my smile was warmer than I currently felt, but I said, "You bet little man, you know that's my favorite thing to do." I put my fingers into his waistband and drew the tight fitting garment down. He assisted by raising his hips off the mattress and I smiled as his little cock sprang to attention as his garment freed it as it descended down his legs and over his feet.

I kissed him deeply and then rose up and undressed.

I wrapped him into my arms and pulled him so close that I was afraid that I might hurt him.

"Sean… I just …"

He put his finger to my lips.

"Noli Timere, Dad. Great grandpa's motto for the family. 'Don't be afraid' remember? We gotta be brave and love each other and know we'll be ok… that Jack will be OK."

He rolled onto his back and silently pulled his knees down to his chest. Without a word I grabbed the lube and worked it into his wonderful little hole and then all along my cock.

Gently, I pushed against his tiny gate and it yielded swiftly. As I moved into him, I presses my lips down onto his and as we kissed passionately, I moved slowly in him in fluid gentle stokes. He was moaning very quickly and I knew I was making rhythmic contact with his little boy prostrate. It wasn't long before he was writhing on the bed beneath me and I grabbed his waist and pulled him closely into me as I expelled my load.

When we woke in the morning, he was straddling me as per usual and he smiled down at me and said, "We ain't played the shower music game in a while Dad. It's your turn to choose you know."

I nodded and got up to pee and thought about my choice. I really was hoping to beat this kid.

I moved to the controls and walked into the shower with Sean right behind me. The music soon filled the shower.

I was born in a cross-fire hurricane
And I howled at my ma in the driving rain,
But it's all right now, in fact, it's a gas!
But it's all right. Im jumpin jack flash,
Its a gas! gas! gas!

I was raised by a toothless, bearded hag,
I was schooled with a strap right across my back,
But it's all right now, in fact, it's a gas!
But it's all right, Im jumpin jack flash,
Its a gas! gas! gas!

I was drowned, I was washed up and left for dead.
I fell down to my feet and I saw they bled.
I frowned at the crumbs of a crust of bread.
Yeah, yeah, yeah

He smiled a very sad smile.

"Dad, that's not a great choice. It's 'Jumpin Jack Flash' by the Rolling Stones… but I think…"

I hugged him to me and whispered, "Like a very wise young man told me last night, 'Noli Timere' we have to hope and believe. Now get your hair wet so I can shampoo you."

As we all sat around the table eating breakfast I tried very hard to be upbeat.

"Boys, you've got baseball practice this afternoon. Arlen will take you but if I can, I'm hoping to be there too. Tim and Alice, what are your plans for today?"

"Well, we're actually going to do some exploring Eric. If we're going to be living here, we ought to learn more about what's around here don't you think?"

I smiled and nodded.

"Absolutely. John and Jenny will be home tomorrow night and then, he'll be able to help you a bit because he's lived here for a very long time."

Just as I was finishing my coffee, Daniel was at the door.

I approached him and he simply said, "They've got more news Eric." His face was non-descript so I simply excused myself and headed to the command center.

"We've located a fourth raft." Richard told me as I entered the room. "Jack wasn't on it but they all confirmed that he was on one of the rafts that launched after the knock-down. Since they were all launched at the same time, we're now using this as the center for our search circle. We're getting closer and I swear that we'll find him."

Barry suddenly exclaimed;

"Guys, I've got two blips! Somebody turned on the GPS devises! We've got them! By god, we've got them."

I felt the blood rush to my head and I was afraid that I'd faint but I sat down into a chair and recovered quickly.

I smiled weakly and said, "Go get them and let me know when you've got my boy."

***

I was on the proverbial pins and needles but I also knew that this rescue mission would take time so I followed Arlen and the boys out to the ballfield. I was driving the red cat because I was frankly hoping to be called back to the estate.

I was so proud as I watched Sean run through his fielding exercises. The boy was swift and instinctive. Though he'd never played organized ball before, it just came naturally to him. Not a single hit got buy him.

At batting practice, Arlen moved next to me and I could tell he was tense.

"Arlen, he'll do well I think."

"No, Eric… he should do great."

I watched in awe as ball after ball was thrown to the little boy and he connected and sent them deep into the outfield. Not one ball got passed him. He left the plate to a round of hoots and applause from his teammates.

"Now I have to work on teaching him how to position his hits so he can place them where they need to be but Eric, he learns so fast, we'll get that done quickly. He's some kid Eric."

"Yeah, I know Arlen."

I watched the rest of the practice and my phone hadn't sounded so I told Arlen to bring the boys to Deegans and we'd all have lunch.

They truly looked like little angels as they sat in the booth in their baseball caps and sun burnished faces. It seemed that Brian shared Sean's propensity to wiggle and I enjoyed that a lot. Watching them today had alleviated the apprehension I was experiencing but it was still very real.

I smiled at the three of them and as we walked out, I said, "I'm going out for a drive so, I'll see you a bit later."

I got into the sleek Jaguar and headed out onto the road.

I was thinking that a great road run would clear my head but if the truth be told, my mind was still very much pre-occupied and the deer that stepped out onto the road took me completely by surprise.

I swung the wheel instinctively and realized in horror that the car was headed down over the cliff.

*It is really rather foolish to worry all that much about survival.*
*We know for a fact, that nobody actually ever survives, some just manage to escape situations but no one really survives this life.*
*Worrying about survival is a complete waste of time. What matters is living life itself and the quality of that living for however long we can sustain it. In truth, that makes us no different than the Mayfly… just many days more fortunate.*

He was looking at me with a very kind scowl but it was a scowl non-the-less.

"Damnit Eric! When I was teaching you to drive all those years ago, what did I tell you about animals that step onto the road?"

"Don't swerve even if that means you'll hit them, Walter, but this was a deer and I was in a little sports car."

"You had brakes, you had airbags and you'd have still been on the road not over the edge."

"Leave him alone now, Walter, he feels bad enough. With everything he's got to leave behind and all that good work undone. I'm quite certain that Eric feels horrible. Don't you dearest?"

"Yes Mom, I really do. What's going to happen to all those kids… what's going to happen to Sean and Jack now? Who's going to take care of them?" She smiled and rubbed my cheek gently.

"You will of course, Eric. That's your job and you're going to do it."

"Dad?"

"Who else Eric? Son we've all fucked up and we pay a price for it every time. Hell, junior, my biggest fuck up was not paying attention on the hill that day. Certainly it was fast, but if I'd been looking and seen it coming, I could have gotten us out of the way of that truck. That didn't happen though and we left you so devastated and so lonely. There was nothing your Mother and I could do, but Kyle was young enough that he could reach into your subconscious and it seems he really was able to help. You really have turned your life around and Mom and I are so proud of what you're accomplishing with the Great Game and with your family."

"I wish I could hold those two boys of yours and be their Grandmother even for a little while Eric. I think they'd like me."

"I think they would too Mom."

"I really like little Sean, Eric. We spent some time together during his bad time up north but I took care of him."

"T-thanks Squirt. He told me that and I believed him. Kyle, do you sometimes hang around the cave on Hawke's Hill?"

"Silly big Bro'… I kissed you there awhile back didn't I?"

I smiled remembering that time with Sean.

"Yeah Kyle. Yeah you did."

"Eric, we haven't crossed over yet and we won't until we're certain that you're all right."

"Thanks Dad. That's good to know."

"We've just taken advantage of this opportunity to tell you that we love you and that we're proud of you and what you're becoming. Be peaceful Son."

He kissed me.

"Thanks Dad."

"I love you son… continue to prosper in love."

"Thanks Mom" I whispered as she kissed me as well.

"Eric, I always regarded you as a son and I'm so proud of your development and growth."

I felt his lips brush my cheek.

"Thanks Walter. We really miss you."

"We've already had this conversation, Big Brother. Mom and Dad and Walter will probably cross over in a few years when we're all comfortable that you're safe but I'm hanging around until it's your time and we'll cross over together."

I smiled bitterly. "Kyle I've got two other boys in my life now. What about them?"

He giggled his crystal clear Kyle trademark laugh. "Silly, on this side of the line, time is meaningless. We'll just wait for them and then the four of us will cross over together. The universe has been there for a very long time Eric, it will wait another eighty or ninety years at least, I suspect."

He leaned in and kissed me tenderly. It was a chaste kiss like we'd always exchanged but warm and loving non-the-less.

I looked at them and my eyes misted over.

"If it wasn't for Sean and Jack, I'd just want to cross over with all of you right now. I love you all so much but I can't… I just can't."

"We understand that son and we're proud of you and we're proud of our two adopted grandsons. We're just sad they never got to know us. Walter was lucky in that regard."

"Maybe Dad, but it cost him his life."

"Don't you suspect that was a better way to go than being blindsided by a run-away semi?"

"You'd better believe that. Those boys were like my own grandkids. It wasn't a long time, but it was a great time. Thanks for that Eric."

"You're welcome but, it was their pleasure, Walter."

"You have to go now Eric. I predict you have a very happy life ahead of you."

Everything turned dark and there was complete silence.

Momentarily, my brain felt as if it were a computer booting up. Strange sounds and miniscule lights flashing in random patterns filled my senses I actually felt as though I were tingling and twitching and then… everything dispersed into a neutral grey. I was conscious through this experience and wondered what was going on.

Just before I began to panic, light entered my consciousness and then color and finally, (though gradually) focus.

"Crash Tucker… terror of the open road! You certainly know how to welcome a guy back home don't you?"

It was John and he was looking down at me with a very phony smile and concern all over his face.

"Did you have a good time John?"

"Now's not the time to talk about that Eric. What the hell happened?"

"A deer."

"A deer?"

"Yes I was distracted and a fuckin' deer stepped out right in front of me and I forgot all of my training and I swerved. I was certain that I was dead."

"Well, I don't know if you believe in divine protection or not but Eric, I've been out to the accident site supervising the recovery of the Jag… if you'd have swerved off the road about twenty yards sooner or twenty yards later, you'd have taken at least a hundred foot dive. As it is, you found one fine spot with a gentle rolling incline instead of a steep drop. You came to a rest smashing into some barrel palms. For chrizzakes, you didn't even total your car."

"Did I break anything?"

"Besides your car? No. Though you've been out with a concussion for a few days and, even now, you still have two beautiful black eyes. How you didn't break your nose I'll never know."

"Are you and Jenny OK?"

"Yeah, Eric… your kindness to my parents… I don't know how to…"

"You, of all people, should know to shut up about that John unless you don't think it's a good thing? I never thought to ask you about that I was just so taken by your parents… I"

"Oh, it's a good thing I'm just so touched I… I…"

"Don't be a jerk John. By the way, I'm really glad to have you back."

He smiled "Anyway Richard is outside and he'll have more information for you. For the new guy on the job, you've really kept him busy haven't you?"

He patted my shoulder and left. Richard entered moments later with a tablet in his hand and a relatively calm demeanor. "I'm thinking of using my authority which you can't over-ride by the way, to make certain you never drive again."

"That's for later, Richard, tell me what you know I want to hear."

He nodded. "Jack is alive and on his way home right now. We had a bit of a struggle with the Canadian Coast Guard who wanted to transport all of the survivors to Medical Facilities in the Maritimes… I'm not going to make a comment in that regard other than to say that we wanted Jack home."

"We used some phony credentials and documents and uniforms and… well. All you really need to know is that he's on a Skuggor medical transport and he'll be here about nine o'clock tonight. He'll probably need a couple of days of hydration so the medical staff will stay here with him. Daniel has already helped us set up a special room in the residence away from any noise. I'm told he'll need hydration and rest and he should be fine."

"You need to know that Jack, like every other survivor of the disaster, is terrified from this experience so I expect gentle contact is most important. They were on a research ship that was knocked on its side and barely escaped in life rafts that they didn't know how to use and spent four days on a rough and wild ocean exposed to the elements not knowing what was going to happen to them. So, contact with him should be minimal and gentle Eric."

"Is that the official report?" I asked.

"Yes Eric."

"Goddam it Richard! This is Jack we're talking about! Sure he's going to need to be hydrated; no doubt but afraid and timid and all that shit? He's gonna want to see Sean… he's gonna want to see me and he's gonna want to see YOU and he's gonna want to see Martha. Move him into that special room but make certain that some well-meaning Skuggor medic doesn't try to get in my way."

"Yes Boss."

"You were doing your job Richard and I appreciate that."

He grinned. "Thanks Boss."

"Now, where's Sean?"

"Right here, Eric. He's on the estate."

"So I'm not in some fucking hospital… I'm in my own house?"

"Yes sir, it seems in your father's day half of the east wing second floor was converted into an emergency infirmary. It was state of the art then and it is up dated on a regular basis."

"Christ! Maybe I should walk all around my own house some time eh?"

Richard smiled. "Well, it is a big house."

"I wonder what the hell else is going on here that I don't know about… a casino? A bordello?"

"I'm sorry, Richard. I'm just stressed. Oh now, as to my driving, you issue that restriction and it will be the last command order that you give."

He smiled softly. "Somehow I knew that would be the case but a few of us would still like to talk to you."

I was angry but I also gathered myself together.

"Fine. Set it up after I'm out of this bed. Now though, I'd like to see my little son."

His eyes were tearless but obviously moist as he walked to my bedside. He bent over me on the bed and lay his little head upon my chest and suddenly began to sob.

I ran my hand down his shoulder and arm and over his back but he just continued to cry.

Finally he looked up at me and sobbed, "You coulda been killed. You'da been dead and who woulda loved me in this whole world?"

"Sean I'm still here and I love you in this whole world."

"Dad. Please don't never scare me like this again."

"Sean it was really an accident and accidents happen no matter how careful you are, little man. Though I'll admit in this case I wasn't careful as I should have been. You can't stop living just because you're afraid of accidents. I promise you that, while I may look hideous with my two black eyes, that I'm perfectly fine."

"The best news is… has anybody told you… Jack arrives tonight."

"Really?" His face lit up and his eyes grew wide.

"Yep, he'll be here around ten o'clock but I don't suspect we'll go see him until in the morning."

"Dad, Mr. Gary was right. You gotta have faith and I had faith that Jack was gonna come home and now he is!"

I blinked my eyes and wondered to myself if it really was that simple. Could simply believing in something actually make it happen.

We chatted briefly about how happy we would be to see Jack and the logistics of the next few days.

"So, for a while, Arlen is going to take you and Spider to your practice. They want me to have bed-rest but I will certainly be there for your first game next week. I'm pretty certain so will Jack."

His dazzling smile warmed my heart. "I wish you would promise never to scare me like this again Dad."

"Well Sean, I can certainly promise that I don't intend to ever do it on purpose, my sweet boy."

"Also Dad, I wouldn't be plannin' on havin' any family photos taken anytime soon… unless you're planning on changin' our last names from 'Tucker' to 'Raccoon'. His eyes got wide. "Holy guacamole… I wonder if you'll be looking better for my birthday!"

His grin was ear to ear as he leaned over and kissed me before he left the room.

***

"Dammit! I will NOT be forced to negotiate my behavior in my own house!" The four stone-faced men in grey Skuggor medical scrubs standing at my bedside didn't even blink.

Richard had come to tell me that Jack was now in the residence and was being set up in his special room. I told him to get someone to come in and remove my IV so that I could go and see him and shortly, these four sour pusses had entered the room. I repeated my request and was told that wasn't going to happen.

I was flabbergasted.

"You're all Skuggor aren't you?" They nodded affirmatively.

"My call designation is; 'Luncelot'. Do you understand that significance?"

They all nodded and one spoke, "Yes Sir, you are the Ultimate Commander."

"Well then dammit… get this needle out of my arm so I can go see my son."

"Sir, the safety of 'Lancelot' is of prime importance to every Skuggor and so, you cannot order us to jeopardize your safety."

"Guys, my son was lost at sea for five or six days. He's just been brought home. I only want to see him… I don't want to be weightlifting or playing football with him."

"We understand and we're sympathetic so, this is what we propose; Your son is in a room in this very wing though not on this floor. The IV will remain in place, one of us will move it with you. You will be transported to and from your son's room in a wheelchair."

"A WHEELCHAIR! I didn't break my leg… I broke my goddamned Jaguar! I'm not riding in any wheelchair."

They looked at each other, nodded and turned to leave.

"Wait!" They turned back. "OK but Richard pushes the wheelchair not one of you guys."

"Richard pushing the wheelchair is quite acceptable Sir."

Shortly, Richard, with a devilish smile on his face entered the room pushing a wheelchair up to my bedside. As two of my stone-faced wardens 'helped' me out of bed and into the chair, I realized that all I was wearing was a hospital gown. I was about to tell Richard to have Daniel bring me some pajamas when I suddenly realized that I didn't own any pajamas and hadn't since I was ten. I quickly decided that some sweatpants and tee shirts would do fine. I'd speak to Daniel myself in the morning.

As my IV tube was being adjusted for mobility, I suddenly realized the Richard was softly but happily singing:

'Swing Low, Sweet Chariot'.

"You're certainly finding a great deal of humor in this predicament, Richard if you don't mind me saying so."

He leaned over and spoke softly into my ear, "Boss, after what you just put everybody that loves you through by your stupid carelessness, you've got every bit of this coming so don't you go pouting or complaining to me. Trust me, once the Docs release you, there's a whole bunch of people who want to tear you a new asshole."

That certainly shut me up and I sat completely mollified as one of the attendants wheeled the IV Bag Tree in perfect pace with the wheelchair as Richard gleefully sang 'Maybelleen'. I knew that in his private mind he was cackling at my discomfort.

***

The grey-clad Doctor sitting outside the door to Jack's room stood up and smiled softly. "John is sleeping. We administered a sedative shortly after we got him into the bed."

"Jack."

"Overall, he is remarkably well and we're going to do a complete physical…"

"Jack."

"… on him tomorrow but… eh? Excuse me?"

"Jack. His name is Jack. He's never been called John in his life. I doubt if he would instinctively answer to it."

The Doctor looked a bit disturbed.

"I see. Well I certainly wish we had been informed of that. I'll make certain that the staff is notified. I know that he'll be much more comfortable being addressed in a familiar manner."

"As I was saying though, he's sleeping and I'd be grateful if you tried not to wake him up. I know that all you want to do this evening is look at him just for personal reassurance so I'd like to tell you that you'll find him with an IV insert just as you have. You will also notice a very large bruise from the right side of his forehead to his temple… the result, no doubt of some blunt force issue. Our preliminary tests show no indication of concussion or damage to the skull. What you won't see tonight are the numerous other bruises and contusions in other spots on his body. The ocean worked them all over pretty good."

"That was my rather long-winded way of telling you that John… Jack… is going to look a lot worse than he is… not unlike yourself if I may say so Sir."

I turned to the stone-faced Medico that was my IV bearer and waged an index finger at him. "Now you see… THAT is how a Doctor is SUPPOSED to talk to people." Turning back I said to the Doctor attending Jack, "Thank you Doctor, that was very kind of you. May I see him now?" He smiled and opened the door.

By Joyous Gaurde standards, it was a normal bedroom and he was in a regular bed. The overhead light was dim but there was enough illumination to see him clearly. He looked so little and so peaceful.

The Doctor was right. The bruise on his forehead appeared horrible but the serenity on his face gave mute assurance that it wasn't a concern.

I smiled at the wispy stubble of red hair on his chin and under his lips… his sailor's whiskers. I'll be interested in seeing how long Sean lets those remain.

One long fingered hand was on top of his blanket and I stroked it softly. I saw his eyelids flicker so I quickly pulled back my hand.

I blinked and two large heavy tears dropped from my eyes. I looked up at Richard and his eyes were moist as well.

"Let's go. We can visit with him tomorrow."

As we approached my room, I looked back to Richard, "Would you ask Daniel to retrieve a couple of pairs of underwear, a couple of pair of sweat pants and a few tee shirts from my room and have them brought up with my breakfast tray?"

"Will do, Boss. Sleep well." The four stone-faces helped me into bed and moved the wheel chair into a corner.

***

In the morning, I was startled when the door opened and in Walked Daniel pushing my breakfast cart and behind him was Martha. She stormed right to my bedside and I could tell she hadn't come to sing me a sweet good morning song.

"Eric Arthur Tucker what has gotten into you? Saying nothing about your stupid carless selfish stunt of driving fast along a mountain road when you know that you're so distracted you shouldn't have been driving at all… we'll talk about that later… BUT last night you were rude and insulting to four men of medicine who have been working night and day to save your life. Behavior like that makes me wonder if you didn't damage your brain in the accident!"

"But Martha, they…"

"They what? They refused to do something that was not medically safe? They refused to give-in to you even when you tried to pull rank? They ignored your childish tantrum and yet managed to provide you with a safe solution and you were able to see Jack anyway?"

"Martha… I…"

"Don't 'Martha' me! This is a very big house Eric but it doesn't hold secrets well and the walls have ears. Even all those years you were so drunk and sick, I'd don't think I was ever as ashamed of you as I am right now!"

She was beet red and she bent over and kissed me smack on the lips. "I'm so DAMNED glad that you didn't get yourself killed!" She turned and stormed out of the room.

I sat up in the bed blinking wandering what the hell had just happened here.

"Daniel, it's turning out that that mountain run in the Red Cat was the worst drive I've ever taken and aside from the beer I had with my burger at Deegans, I hadn't had a sip of alcohol that day."

"Trust me Eric, there's more shit going to hit your fan over that drive. It's only begun." I looked up at the big man.

"You too Daniel?"

He nodded. "Practically everybody. Martha's just used last night's tiff with the doctors as a trigger for her venting.

"Sean's downstairs in the kitchen wanting to know if he can go see Jack or if he should wait for you."

I thought for a moment and then decided that I didn't think there could be anything Jack would love to see this morning than Sean.

"No, Daniel. I believe a visit from Sean is just what Jack would like. Just tell him not to be too rambunctious oh… and warn him that Jack's got a big bruise on his forehead."

"Will do. I'll come back later for your cart."

"Thanks Daniel and would you ask Richard to meet me up here in about an hour?"

Taking the cover off my plate I saw that Martha had lovingly crafted me a cheese and ham omelet with strawberries and cantaloupe slices and a half-dozen pieces of toast that had been cut into heart shapes.

I poured a cup of coffee from the carafe took a sip and then tore into my eggs.

I want to publically thank Sam T for providing the inspiration for part of this chapter. It felt right as soon as you said it Sam.

Chapter 14

Healing comes from the very depths of the universe and certainly not from the hands of the physician.
Becoming well is not a mechanical thing it is spiritual and despite what science will tell you, it is metaphysical. Only the mind and the soul can truly heal the body.
Without that partnership, all of the medicine in the world is useless.

As I was finishing my breakfast, one of the 'four sourpusses' came in and silently took my blood pressure. I looked over at him as he did his job. "Are all four of you still on duty right now?"

He looked up at me and nodded. "Yes sir, we're committed to your recovery. We take shifts sleeping. Probably starting tonight, since you seem to be in rather good shape, we'll take longer breaks but after head trauma such as you experienced, we can't relax yet. We know that you feel fine and you very well may be correct, but there are so many bad possibilities from an injury like you experienced, that we've got to be very careful with you. It's your brain we're dealing with after all, Sir. We're concerned with your recovery not your current happiness."

I felt the flush of shame rise in my face and I was very embarrassed. "Would you ask your colleagues to come in here for just a moment?"

He made a few notes on his tablet and then nodded. Shortly, the four stone faces entered my room and stood at the foot of my bed.

I swallowed my pride and it was no easy gulp. "Gentlemen, I am mortified over my behavior last night. I can only suggest that it was because I knew that my son Jack was safe and in the building and his accident at sea had been so traumatic. I had an urgent aching need just to see him. That is an explanation not a justification."

"You have been beyond professional and I have acted like a petulant child. I offer you my most humble apology and I assure you that you have my total co-operation for however long this needs to go on."

"Thank you sir. You were a bit of a spoiled brat last night but now, today, it would seem we have the real 'Lancelot'. We still want you in the wheel-chair but we're convinced this won't go on for more than a couple of days. Your trauma seems to be minor and we're hopeful you'll be back to normal very shortly."

"Thanks eh… I don't even know your names…"

"I'm Antonio, this is Joseph, this is Mohamed and the short guy over there is Larry. We're all doctors and we're all Skuggor and saving your life is our first priority."

"Well gentlemen, I hope you all accept my apology especially you Mohamed since you got stuck with my lecture about the other Doctor last night."

He grinned and replied, "Sir you didn't know that Doctor Howard had been fore-warned about how cranky and difficult you were so, he was prepared. We were stuck with you and had no prep."

I grimaced in embarrassment. "Well, I just want you to know that you'll find me totally compliant from now on."

"Now, with this damned IV, I want to know how I shower and how I slip on a shirt. I'm not going to spend my time in a damned ass-revealing hospital gown. There are limits to my complacency."

It was Mohamed who answered. "As for the shower, Sir, you just bring it in with you. As you know from last night, it's on wheels and it will follow you easily. Just try to keep it out of the actual spray. When you're ready to put your shirt on, let us know and one of us will disconnect the IV from your arm for the few seconds it will take to do that."

"The medication in the IV is very important because we're still at the point that potential aneurisms are a real concern. That's why we were so adamant last night."

I nodded in understanding. "Thank you guys and, again, I'm mortified at my behavior and I hope you accept my apology."

Larry grinned. "What behavior?" They laughed and left the room.

I looked down at my plate. There was one mouthful of omelet and a half of a 'heart' of toast left. I made very short work of that and drank the last of my second cup of coffee.

I got off the bed and I was surprised that I was quite steady… a very good sign… and guiding my trusty IV tree, I made my way to the bathroom. I began to shuck my hospital gown and realized the IV prevented me from totally losing it. I solved the problem by working it down the line and slung it over the tree.

The shower was a far cry from what I was used to but… it was a shower and the warm water felt wonderful against my body which hadn't been washed since I'd driven the Red Cat off the side of the road… how many days ago? I did frown in annoyance over the fact that the IV was in my right arm which made showering difficult… for that matter, it made everything difficult… but, I got it done and it felt wonderful.

I dried off and made my way back into the room and pulled on a pair of boxer briefs and then a pair of grey sweat pants. I already felt better but I pushed the button that signaled the stone-faced boys.

It was Joseph who came in. "Joseph, I've showered and I feel human again but as you can see, I've got my infernal gown tangled on the IV tree and I'd also like to put a shirt on."

His smile was warm. "These are easy things to take care, of Sir." He took my arm and gently removed the IV tube from the needle in my arm. He then worked the hospital gown down and along the tube and threw it into a corner.

"Put your shirt on Sir."

I grabbed a black tee shirt and pulled it over my head. I felt wonderful. I felt like I was alive for the second time.

"Joseph, Richard will be coming up soon to take me to see Jack. Will one of you need to accompany us to walk the IV tree?"

"Not just for that Sir. For the next two days we need to be close by you at all times until we're certain about your stability so, the answer is yes and Mohamed gets that job again." He was grinning as he reconnected the IV.

Richard was smiling as he held the wheelchair steady for me.

"I've got to be honest with you Eric. I didn't think this would ever happen. I was pretty certain that we'd lost our boy."

I mused over my knowledge that from the very beginning there had been a special bond between Richard and Jack. It was impossible to define but it was just there; an affection and connection that couldn't be completely explained.

"Well thanks to you and Barry, we've got him back, Richard. Let's go say welcome home."

Sean was sitting on his bed and the two of them were engaged in a very active conversation as we entered the room.

Sean's head turned quickly in our direction and he exclaimed, "Dad, look… Jack's got a black eye on his forehead!"

"Dad! Oh Dad!" Jack reached out to me.

"Sounds like we both almost died. We should stay together from now on."

I stood up from the wheelchair and walked over and wrapped him in my arms. "You have no idea how much joy I have right now to be holding you my sailor boy. I was so worried but your little brother always had faith… he told us all that you'd be safe and he was right."

Grinning, Sean joined us in our hug though two IV lines made that a bit awkward.

"Dad, there was a time when I thought we were all going to die. I wasn't afraid but I was very sad because we only have begun to be a family. I remember thinking what a gyp that was but then right next to me they broke out one of the life rafts an' Dr. Chambers grabbed me by the arm and said 'Come on Jack'."

"Doctor Chambers made certain that the raft was filled with students and then he pushed us off and we slid into the water. I don't know if he got off himself."

"At first, all six rafts tried to stay together but the water was really rough and eventually we wound up separating. Mine wound up close with only one other raft. We managed to stay with each other for two days. Nobody on our rafts was a professional sailor. We were all scholars and students we didn't know about the GPS locators. Hell Dad, we were lucky to find the rations and the drinking water. We didn't know anything about these rafts nobody taught us anything."

"As time passed and the ocean stayed so rough, I knew I was going to die and, believe it or not, all I thought about was you and Tadpole. I wasn't afraid for one second but I was so sad for everything I was going to miss. Doesn't that sound weird? It's the truth though."

"On the last day, I was playing around with this little box that we had no idea what its function was and somehow I triggered it on and it sent out a signal. We hollered over to the other raft and told them what to do and a bunch of hours later we were rescued."

'It was the worst time of my life Dad. Don't you think they should make those signal boxes simpler and easier to identify?"

"Well Jack, it's over now and you're home safe. I'm so thankful for that, son. Eventually in your life it will become a favorite story for you to tell. According to your doctors what you need right now is rest and hydration so you little man are leaving with us."

"Dad I just…"

"Kiss your brother and come with us."

"Kay."

They exchanged a kiss and then held each other in a tight embrace for a long time before Sean broke away and came over to me.

Richard and Jack did a little fist bump before we left the room and I made a mental note to check on what had become of this Doctor Chambers because it sounded like he'd saved Jack's life as well as the lives of other students.

"OK little man, for a few more days, Richard and Daniel are going to look out for you and Arlen will make sure you get you to your practice. Doctor Swaim will expect you in the class room so, things will be pretty normal for you. Pretty soon Jack and I will be OK and things will get back like they used to be."

He hugged up against me and almost cooed. "Dad I love you so much an I was so scared when you crashed. If you'd a died I don't know what I'd have done."

I smiled and thought to myself that what he'd have done was inherit half of what was almost certainly the largest personal fortune on the planet. The concept of wealth meant nothing to these boys and I suddenly realized I needed to teach them about that… then I thought that Doc Swaim probably was doing that already. Their education was designed around who they were and what they'd eventually be and not what normal children's schooling was.

The fact was, though, that money wasn't in least bit what my little boy was thinking of it was personal and it was about him and me. Over our almost two years together, Sean had come to love me as I had come to love him and that was the foundation of my life.

I kissed him and said, "Do well at your practice and I promise I'll be better in time for your first game."

I spent the day going over reports and memos that had been sent up by Chris and Uncle Phil. After the first hour, I began to suspect it was all just busy work contrived to keep me occupied and eventually I had them send for Chris.

"Christ Eric, is this the new trend in eye make-up?"

I smiled. "What you see is what you get, man."

"Those are two of the best shiners I've ever seen."

"Thanks. I tried very hard to achieve them. Now, besides the meaningless bullshit you guys have been sending me what's going on?"

"Well, the deal you struck with the English guy has turned into a real plum. It's already generated fourteen million dollars in pure profit… not bad for just a few weeks."

"Essentially Eric, your empire is in grand shape. The only concern has been about the 'emperor' himself. In many ways, if you should go down so does everything. Eric you need to make plans for that contingency so that the boys will be safe."

I nodded my head solemnly. "You're right Chris. Nobody likes to think like that but as soon as I'm out of this bed, I'll meet with Uncle Phil and we'll discuss a far more detailed will."

I smiled at him. His young handsome face beamed at me.

"Well this meeting would end differently if this was my bed room I can tell you that."

He grinned and said, "Eric you've been injured what you need is mouth to cock resuscitation."

Without another word, he pulled the waistband of my sweatpants down and my briefs quickly followed.

He dropped to his knees and wrapped his lips around my cock, which had become hard almost at once and he slowly, took me into his hot throat. He buried his nose into my pubic hairs, reached around and gripped my ass cheeks in his hands tenderly and wonderfully he drew his lips back up my shaft pausing just long enough to work his tongue over the tip before taking me deep again. He slid back up my shaft, looked up into my eyes with a twinkle in his glance, and then began a slow sensual sliding up and down my throbbing cock. I moaned as he sucked me off.

I gasped as I came and he looked up at me smiling. "See, you look better already."

I pulled him into a tight embrace and whispered in his ear, "Soon as these guys let me loose, I'll be spending a very hot night with you. Chris. You're very important to me. We don't get together enough."

He sighed and whispered, "I'll look forward to that night and I'm so damned glad that I'm important to you, Eric. That's all I want. You've changed my life forever and I'll be in your debt and service for the rest of my life."

I stroked his cheek with my left hand and kissed him tenderly. "Our lives will certainly be an adventure, Chris. When are you going to invite your Mom and Aunt Rita down again?"

"Well, before your accident, I was going to ask you about having them down for Sean's birthday I think they'd enjoy that because they love the little guy."

"Well then do it, Chris. Give me enough time to schedule the jet. I don't want them flying commercial. Would you want to fly up and meet them and bring them down like last time?"

"If that would be alright Eric."

I reached over and smacked him on the back of his head. "Stop that crap Chris. You're one of my key players now and you have benefits and privileges. I want your Mother and Aunt to be proud of you and of your success. Just let me know what day you want to go up and get them."

"Now, though, I think I need a little nap. I think Doc Swaim is coming up to have dinner with me and Sean tonight. They're letting my boy eat with me."

"That's great Eric. Do you need help getting into bed?"

I grinned at him. "Chris if I didn't need help standing there while you sucked my cock, I certainly don't need help lying down."

We were sitting at a table in the corner of my recovery room. Martha had prepared a wonderful roast capon with green beans broiled new potatoes and a crisp salad of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and raw mushrooms.

The four guardians of my welfare had nixed the tumblers of whiskey Doc had tried to bring into the room but to, both of our delighted surprise; they had allowed Daniel to bring in a bottle of wine. He'd expertly selected it to match Martha's orange roasted capon and it was an excellent slightly dry Riesling.

Daniel had taken inventory of my wine cellar several months ago and now, not only did he know its contents, he was comfortable enough with me to make very informed suggestions regarding additions to the inventory as the opportunity arose.

He already knew that my preference was for the reds and tended toward dry and slightly fruity, but he also knew that, in white wines, I preferred the German style. This Riesling was a perfect choice for our diner tonight.

Sean accepted a glass of wine with a smile. I still couldn't get over his new experimentation in adult beverages but I supposed he'd seen his brother and most of his friends drink limited amounts of alcohol and coffee and had just decided it was time to do so himself.

He took a little sip from his glass and smiled at Doc and me. "I really like this a lot Dad. Thanks."

As we enjoyed our meal, I asked Doc Swaim, "Who is Doctor Chambers?"

His look was pained and he swallowed the bite that he'd just put into his mouth.

"George Chambers was the man that conceived the research project that Jack's voyage was all about. A brilliant marine-biologist and an outstanding educator. I was hoping that one day, he'd prove to be Jack's mentor. It was George who convinced the University to accept Jack as an intern on this voyage."

"Apparently, he's also the man who got Jack off that foundering ship and into a life raft, Doc. I owe my son's life to him."

"That sounds like George." He nodded. "That's the type of thing he'd do."

"Did he survive Doc?"

The big man removed his black rimmed eyeglasses and dabbed his eyes with his napkin. "It seems not. He'd waited until he'd made certain every young person on the ship was safely off before he'd take a seat in a life raft and my understanding is that they only got six rafts launched. It seems it all happened very fast."

"Was he married? Did he have a family?"

"No… like me, he relished his academic life and his bachelorhood."

"Well, we've got to come up with some way to 'thank him'… to memorialize him. Give that some thought, Doc, would you?"

He nodded.

"How about you Sean, how was your day kiddo?"

He grinned and said, "We played a practice game against the other Deer Run triple A team and we kicked their butts. We beat them four to one an guess what? Two of those runs are mine. In the fourth inning, I hit a home run and there was a guy on second base so I got a homer plus a RBI."

I was elated. "Sean that just great! I can't wait to watch your first game next week."

He was wiggling in his seat and grinning at us. "Spider pitched great. He only allowed five hits all game… course that was enough to let them score their one run… an Rico is fantastic as catcher. He really keeps Spider calm and focused."

"Oh, and you guys; wait til you see Charlie play shortstop. The only thing that gets by him is stuff hit over his head."

"So I take it that you're happy to be playing baseball?"

"Oh yeah! It's great. Arlen is really helpin me with my batting. The guys tell me that I'm proly the best on the team though I don't know about that. The only thing missin' is you Dad. You gotta hurry up and get out a here."

"I second that!" Doc Swaim replied with a hearty laugh.

There was a knock on the door and Daniel entered with another cart. "I assume that you're ready for desert?"

"You bet Daniel!" Sean giggled. "What have you got?"

Daniel smiled as he placed a covered plate in front of each of us and removed our dinner dishes onto the cart.

"Why don't you look and see young man?"

Sean did just that, he removed the cover from his plate and smiled with pleasure as he gazed down onto Martha's legendary homemade strawberry shortcake. The strawberries were as large as golf balls and everything was covered in fresh whipped cream and the whipped cream was sprinkled with shaved dark chocolate."

I smiled at Daniel. "It seems Martha's made a mistake Daniel. Sean doesn't like strawberries and he hates whipped cream. Just bring his plate over here by me and get him some cookies or something."

Sean's eyes flew wide open and he looked at me incredulously before he realized that I was joking.

"Nah Uh! Nobody's getting my shortberry strawcake!"

I didn't even bother to correct him. Sometimes 'Seanisms' were just too amusing."

Before I fell asleep, Dr. Larry came in to take my vitals. After making notes on his tablet he said to me, "All in all, you've been a pretty good sport about this. We're agreed that tomorrow, we'd like to do another scan of you… oh, actually you don't remember your first scan because you were in a coma… so it's a full body scan and we're mostly checking for aneurisms. Your cognitive skills seem to be quite fine."

"If the scan is clean, we'll give you some medication that you'll probably need to take for about thirty days, but we'll take you off the IV and let you leave here but you'll be on restricted activity for at least a week. How does that sound to you?"

"Larry, it sounds wonderful. How long will you guys remain here?"

"We'll all four be here for about thirty days but that doesn't mean we'll be bothering you. We'll want to do a final physical before we leave but you need to know that 'Galahad' has decided that there will be a doctor assigned to this facility from now on and for the time being at least, we four will alternate on a month to month basis."

I nodded. 'Galahad' was Richard's call sign in the Skuggor and only mine; 'Lancelot' was at a higher level.

"Well Larry, now that I know this facility exists, I'm glad that it's going to be staffed it only makes sense and frankly, I'm glad it's you four guys that saved my life who are going to be here. I really trust you."

He smiled, "Good night. We'll see you in the morning."

As I rested my head on the pillow, I reviewed the day. Jack looked quite healthy and I had no fear for him. I felt a deep obligation to the brave man who had saved his life and knew I would be doing something to honor him.

Chris had treated me to a wonderful blowjob and expressed his love and loyalty to me. I expected that as the boys grew older, it would very likely be Chris who would be my regular bedmate.

On top of everything, Sean had hit a two-run home-run and was considered the best hitter on his team.

Considering that, only a few days ago, all I could see was the edge of a cliff as I swerved my Jaguar off the road, this had been a pretty wonderful day.

Sleep took me quickly and peacefully.

Chapter 15

"What is life? It is the flash of a firefly in the night. It is the breath of a deer rushing through the woods in the fall. It is the little shadow which runs across the grass and is then lost as the sun sets.
When you were born, you cried and the world rejoiced. Live your life so that when you die, the world cries and you rejoice.That would be a life well lived.

What could possibly be better than that?"

I was really feeling cranky.

I wasn't allowed any breakfast and now I was lying in this cold room, totally naked as they slowly ran me through the MRI machine. It was an older MRI and therefore, it was very restrictive and claustrophobic. I hated every second of it and staying still was very difficult for me. I knew though that if I moved and screwed up the body scan, I'd just have to do it again so I tried my very best to be still. I kept my eyes closed and sang Beatles songs silently in my mind.

Abruptly it ended and Joseph walked into the room smiling and said, "Get dressed, sir and we'll meet with you in about an hour."

"Thanks Joseph. It's actually freezing in here."

My clothes were on a table in the corner of the room and I gratefully dressed in boxer briefs, sweat pants and tee shirt.

"By the way, Mrs. Edwards is sending up a late breakfast for you."

"You're the man Joseph!"

I'd barely returned to my room before Daniel entered with a cart. I thought to myself that he was so damned efficient. I sat down at the table in the corner of the room and he smiled as he placed a covered dish before me. He also placed a pot of coffee on the table and a glass of tomato juice.

I raised the cover off my plate and smiled because there before me were three pancakes with a fried egg on top of the stack. I quickly punctured the yolk of the egg and as I suspected it would, the yellow goodness flowed out and over the cakes.

Drizzling the syrup on top of the stack, I nipped off a bite with my fork. It was glorious and I smiled deeply as I methodically destroyed Martha's wonderful culinary creation.

As I was enjoying my last cup of coffee, there was a knock on the door and Gary entered with a smile. "Boy you don't know how many people are pissed off at you Eric."

"Oh, I'm beginning to get a pretty good idea about that. It was a stupid thing to do. I should have driven right back to the estate behind Arlen and the boys but I was just so distracted. What's really crazy is that I knew they'd located Jack's life raft so I should have been tranquil and serene. I can't explain it."

"Richard doesn't want me to drive myself around anymore but I'll fight him on that and he knows it."

"Sorry I couldn't bring you up a sip of single malt but these four guys watching over you are like pit bulls. One of them stopped me at the elevator and my two flasks will be waiting for me when I leave."

"It's OK, Gary, because they think they're going to cut me loose today and if they do, meet me in the library for happy hour. You and Bobby will have dinner with us tonight of course."

"Sounds great Eric but now, I've got to ask you what we can get Sean for his birthday. We're at a loss."

I smiled thinking about the gift I'd already purchased for my little boy and then replied, "You could get him a couple of pilot's shirts… with the two breast pockets and the epaulets on the shoulders. Trust me when I tell you that he'll appreciate them. Struthers will have them or be able to get them for you and Jacob will help you with your choice."

"Thanks. That's a great idea. I hope that I'll see you this evening. It's pretty great that you're still alive Eric none of us want a repeat of this. You're too important to a lot of people so Richard may be right."

About thirty minutes later, my four 'guardian angels' entered the room. They were typically stone faced but I was encouraged as Joseph smiled and spoke, "We have good news. Your scan is perfectly clear and all of our tests are negative so we can see no reason to keep you confined in this infirmary."

"You are free from your IV though we want you to take one of these pills each morning for the next thirty days. We do want you here every morning after breakfast to test your vitals again for the next thirty days and we want you to restrict your activities to moderation. So, except for your morning check-up, you're free to go."

I was beaming and impulsively I rushed forward and hugged each of them… an action that I'm certain astonished them all. "Guys, you are the best. Give me a couple of days to get caught up with my life and then, I want you to be my guests for dinner. You have no idea how much I appreciate you."

I took the elevator up to Jack's floor and was surprised to find that Richard was there and the two of them were talking in an animated fashion. They both smiled broadly, as I entered the room.

"Have you been granted your freedom Boss?" Richard asked.

I posed dramatically as I exclaimed, "Free at last. Free at last. Thank God almighty, I'm free at last."

I hugged my red headed wonder and kissed his forehead. "How about you, Sinbad the sailor? When are they going to cut you lose?"

"Today I think. They just want to do a few more tests." His smile was heartwarming.

"Well then hopefully we'll see you at dinner. Richard you are invited as well. I want it to be a big party tonight."

As I was leaving, Richard caught up with me. "Eric, I hope you don't mind that I've been visiting with Jack. You see, I had a kid brother; Jamie… he died of leukemia when he was fifteen. Except for his hair color, Jack reminds me so much of him and Jack and me have sort of hit it off from the very beginning. I love that boy and when I thought we'd lost him it took everything I had to keep from breaking down."

'When you came in the room we were talking about him boxing again. He's a real gamer that boy. You should be proud… I'm certainly proud of him."

I smiled. "Richard, the bond between you and Jack was obvious from the very beginning and your influence has been nothing but positive and good. Here at Joyous Gaurde, we are a strange but intimate family and you are an integral part of it. There is very little that you could do that would be improper. All I require is that you continue to do your very difficult job well. Would you please inform Barry, Phil, Chris and Wolfman that they're expected at dinner tonight?"

He smiled. "Will do Boss."

We went in opposite directions after leaving the elevator.

"Martha, are you prepared to cook for an army tonight?"

She turned from the counter and rushed over to hug me. "Oh Eric, I'm still so mad at you being so foolish as to drive when your mind was so besotted. However, you're alive and I'm thankful for that and the Lord teaches us that forgiveness is divine."

"Martha, I knew you'd forgiven me when I looked at the first breakfast you sent up to me. Now, seriously, I need a big dinner tonight. I want to do one huge group apology and then move on from this. Also, Jack may be cut free from his medical attention so the meal will be even more special; two Lazarus' rose from the dead."

"How about pork roast with braised potatoes, candied carrots and sauerkraut?" She said. Her clever mind was always working.

"Sounds great Martha."

"Then I'll have Arlen drive me into town"

"You know that John is back don't you?"

"Certainly, but Arlen has become our household 'go to' guy. I just love him and besides, John is still a newlywed and I like to give him all the time I can with Jenny. I'm hoping she will accept the job as my assistant."

I didn't usually do it but today, I walked into the classroom. Sean, Bobby and Brian were involved in something and they didn't notice me. Neither did Doc Swaim because he was intensely peering over Sean and Brian's shoulders.

"Dad!" Sean had looked up and noticed me.

Doc Swaim smiled as I walked into the room.

"I'm sorry to interrupt your learning but I wanted you all to know that we're having a formal dinner in the big room and you're all expected to be there."

Sean came up and hugged me. "So that means that you are all right?"

"You bet Tiger cub."

He reached up and kissed me. "I'm so happy Dad."

I felt a tug at my arm and looked over and it was Brian. "Don't I get a kiss? I've sure been worried about you but they wouldn't let me come up and see you."

I stroked his cheek and bent down and kissed him.

"I'm sure looking forward to you guys' first game Brian. I understand that you'll be pitching and that's exciting."

"Thanks Mr. T you're so special I'm really happy that you're all right."

"OK but back to school I'll see you later."

I smiled at Doc Swaim and left.

I walked into the command room and found Wolfman at the com. "How are things going?" I asked.

"Wonderful and happily tranquil, Boss."

His toothy smile was infectious.

"You're coming down for dinner so whose got the Com?"

"Brutus. He's an up and coming Skuga that you might want to keep your eye on. I personally think very highly of him."

As I was walking past the wild flower garden, a beaming Jack came running up to me. He threw himself against me in a big hug and I spun around as I enjoyed the contact.

"So they cut you lose too eh?"

With a huge grin, he answered, "Yep, guess I'm not going to drown in a shipwreck."

He looked up into my eyes and said, "It's a long time before dinner. Could we maybe go up to your bedroom and… you know… do some stuff."

I didn't even think about it. "Sure sailor boy. I'd love that. I haven't enjoyed your young body in a long time."

He smiled and leaned into me in a gentle hug and we walked down the pathway and into the house.

As we entered my bedroom, he looked at me seriously. "Dad I never thought we'd ever do this again. I thought that I'd be dead and lost. I was so sad all that time out there."

"But Jack, you're here now. You're safe and you're home. Forget those bad thoughts and enjoy your life. Why don't you lose those britches big boy so I can love you?"

He grinned and performed a 'Jack fancy strip' for me. By the time he was naked, I was hard as steel.

I was still wearing my 'hospital gear' and it was easy to shed. I moved him onto the bed and as I laid him down, I began to kiss him almost frantically on the lips. Shortly his mouth opened and our tongues began a dancing duel of pure pleasure.

I moved my lips down his body working first upon his rock hard nipples and then concentrated on his navel before I came to his rampant dick. I subtlety licked the helmet of his boner and then whispered, "I'm going to fuck you first Jack and then I'll suck you off."

He nodded his head in wordless consent. I reached for the tube of lube and greased up my dick I then applied the lubricant generously to his tight pucker. My fingers entered him gently smearing the emollient around his tight little ring.

I raised his legs up and placed them over my shoulders. I was perfectly positioned and I penetrated him in one smooth stroke. He gasped initially but soon broke out into a smile as I moved slowly but smoothly inside his sweet young tube.

The rhythm was slow and steady as we lovingly moved against each other; me driving in and him pushing out. It was a highly erotic dance and it seemed to last forever but finally, I felt the pressure deep in my core and I exploded into Jack's hot ass.

He collapsed onto the mattress gasping. I decided not to give him any rest and I spread his legs and plunged down upon his rampant young cock. I wrapped my lips around his shaft and quickly began a slow descent until I reached his pubic hairs. I then reversed direction and began a slow rhythmic assault on the boy's young cock designed to bring him to climax quickly.

His exclamation as he climaxed was deafening so I decided I'd done a good job.

"So my well fucked and sucked boy how about a shower and then a nap?"

"I think a nap and then a shower sounds better Dad."

"OK, scoot over then."

He nuzzled up against me and we embraced. After a bit of wiggling, he placed his head on my shoulder and fell into a sound sleep.

I was content and soon followed him into dreamland.

We woke up almost simultaneously and walked into the bathroom. We crossed our streams over the toilet and then entered the steaming shower. We were unabashedly sensuous as we washed each others body. The process was slow and decidedly erotic. We each had raging boners when the process was done.

"Sadly, we'll take care of these later, Popeye. We've got to get dressed for our dinner."

He was looking down at his raging hard dick. "Geeze Dad that seems like torture."

"Oh I think you'll survive, Sinbad."

"I don't know Dad. It sure hurts a lot." He was grinning like a red-haired devil and I smiled back at him as I quickly changed my mind. "Actually you're right Jack. That looks painful. Better lie down on the floor and let me see if I can fix that for you."

With a big smile, he dropped to the bathroom floor and spread his legs. I lowered down to my knees and bent low to his crotch and for a second time I sucked him to an energetic orgasm.

He giggled as he worked the bath towel over his legs and then left to go to his room to get dressed. I sighed as I thought about his glorious young body and the fact that I'd come so close to losing him. I once again considered that Sean and Jack were the most important things in my life and that, without them, I would probably be a depraved alcoholic or dead.

I walked into the dining room and smiled at the people gathered there. Chris, Barry, Richard, Uncle Phil and Wolfman. Also John and Jenny and John's parents. Doc Swaim and Andy and, of course, Gary and Bobby.

After everyone was seated, I rose and addressed them all, "You are all people that I love like family and I want to apologize for my foolish action. I should have known that I wasn't in a proper state of mind to be driving. By divine grace, I survived but I want to apologize for my stupidity and I promise that it will not happen again. I'm grateful for your care and concern and I'm mortified at my personal behavior."

"I'd also like to acknowledge gratefully that our Jack has survived the sad disaster at sea and is safely with us right now."

"You are all treasures in my life and I value you one and all."

As I sat down there was a round of applause.

Martha's pork roast dinner was outrageous and her desert of individual pots du crème just was mind blowing.

Everyone called for Sean to get his guitar and we all gathered in the parlor. Daniel skillfully attended to everyone's drinks while Sean sang sweetly. He always amazed me with his pure little voice and his astonishing musical inventory. When he sang it was always a diverse and enjoyable performance.

He blew my mind though as he sweetly sang a song that was a musical version of a Robert Burns poem.

'Green grow the rashes, O
Green grow the rashes, O
The sweetest hours that e'er I spend,
Are spent amang the lasses, O.'

The little kid never ceased to amaze me. After finishing the entire song in perfect difficult Scottish pronunciation, he got up and announced he was done for the evening and put his guitar back in its case.

I patted his butt and urged him up to bed. He grinned and quite dramatically bid everyone goodnight.

As he left I sighed and wondered if there was a more wonderful boy in the world.

We'd earlier moved Brian out of Jack's room and into Sean's, so I urged Brian off to bed as well. He sprang up and trotted off, but not before coming over and giving me a kiss. I ran my hand down his back and over his wonderful butt.

"Goodnight my young champion. Sleep well."

He grinned widely and hugged me in a tight grip. "Good night Mr. T I… I love you"

"Well Brian, I love you as well. You sleep tight and…"

"Don't let the bed bugs bite" He giggled as he completed the phrase. I watched his wonderful little ass as he trotted out the door. That boy was a real love bug and starved for male attention.

John and Jenny approached me and asked if we could talk. I motioned them over to a grouping of chairs and we sat down.

"Well Eric, it's like this… Jenny really wants to take the job as Martha's assistant but she also wants her degree so if your offer to take care of that still stands, then we're going to be both proud members of the Tucker crew."

"And important ones at that." I smiled as I stood up and wrapped Jenny in my arms. "I'm so happy and Martha will be more so. Why don't you go tell her? However, we need to set a time so that you can both tell me all about your honeymoon. Do you have lots of pictures?"

"Tons, Eric." Jenny replied

"How about you and the boys come over for supper tomorrow and we'll show you pictures and tell you all about it."

"You've got a date Jenny girl. Now go tell Martha the good news… it will make her night."

I was very weary as I entered my bedroom. I sat on my bed and kicked off my shoes. I pulled off my shirt and almost painfully undid my shorts and then my boxer briefs. My socks followed and I sprawled onto my bed for the first time since my accident. I was in heaven.

I heard them before I saw them. Sean and Brian. Two little boys in underpants and they came up to the side of my bed.

"We're sleeping with you tonight. We've been so scared about you an we need to be close."

I nodded my head. "Climb on-board boys you're very welcome."

I smiled to myself as they both quickly pulled down their underpants and hopped up onto the bed.

I wrapped an arm around each of them and pulled them close. They wiggled and squirmed but finally nested against me and fell into sleep.

Sometime in the deep of night I felt something around my dick. Groggily I awoke and realized his little hand was grasping my cock.

"Dad, I want you to do me." His little boy voice was soft but seductive.

"Brian, I'm not your Dad."

"I know but I like to pretend you are. I wish you were. Just for now couldn't you pretend to be my Dad? Couldn't you do me like you do Sean and Jack?"

"Not now Brian but if you're certain that's what you want then we'll get together tomorrow afternoon and make love. OK? Now lay back down and I'll take care of your hard little pecker."

I embraced his little steel hard rod in my lips and began a slow bobbing up and down. His cocklette was so small that taking him all into my mouth was effortless and I enjoyed working my lips and tongue all over it. He was a little boy and he didn't last long before he exploded into my mouth in three strong bursts.

"Oh Dad!" He sighed.

I kissed him and drew his little body against me. "Sleep tight Brian I love you."

He sighed and snuggled up against me. Very shortly, he was asleep and apparently, soon I was as well.

It was a fun monkey hug in the shower and now we were all down for breakfast.

"Jack I'm so happy to have you here my sweet boy." Martha was hugging and fussing over the grinning red-head. ""We were all so worried as you were lost at sea."

He smiled and said, "I'm OK Mrs. Edwards but I'm sure glad to be home I'll tell you that."

Martha quickly placed plates of scrambled eggs, bacon and toast in front of us and we all devoured it. She followed it up with two bowls of melon and fruit.

I finished my last sip of coffee and said, "OK boys off to your school."

Brian came over to me and said softly, "You won't forget what you promised we'd do this afternoon right?"

"No Brian if it's that important to you, that's what we'll do but I want to be certain you've thought about it."

He smiled at me as he walked down the hall.

My dick was stiff as I thought about fucking his tight young ass. I was running on instinct. I knew that having sex with someone else's son was wrong and wicked but I also knew this boy was in tragic need of male affection and he craved the loving that he witnessed me bestowing on Sean and Jack. I was thinking that while he was staying with us, I could give him a bit of love and then ween his physical needs over to a boy of a more appropriate age… perhaps Jack or even Sean.

I spent an hour with Uncle Phil and Chris going over business and then moved up to the command center. Richard and Barry were there and I smiled as I walked over and took my seat at the head of the table.

They quickly assured me that all was well and, after a cup of coffee, I left.

He placed his young hand in mine and we walked across the compound into the residence. I had no idea what he'd told the other three boys. I felt my cock grow stiff as I imagined what was about to happen.

Inside the room, he wasted no time getting naked. He blushed cutely as he finally removed his young boy's white briefs and smiled shyly at me.

As I saw him, nude and glorious, I pulled him into a hug. I first kissed him before I whispered to him, "Are you shure you want to do this Brian?"

"Uh huh." He nodded his head vigorously. "I've wanted to for a very long time."

I ran my hand down his back and over his smooth butt cheeks as I continued to whisper to him. "You know this is against the law and I could get into a great deal of trouble if you told your Mom or anyone else about this… for that matter, if you told them about what I've already done to you?"

"You surely know I'd never tell anyone. I just want to experience fatherly love. I'm so jealous of Sean, Jack and Bobby. They have wonderful fathers to love them and teach them and do loving stuff. I've got nobody and I want that sooo bad."

"Well, for right now, you've got me. You need to know we won't do this a lot. I don't do it very often with Sean… just every once in a while and that's what I'm willing to do with you. Eventually, you'll find boys around your own age to do loving things with and that will be better for you… or maybe; you'll discover that you like girls and that would be great too. You've got your whole life ahead of you, Brian, and it will be happier than it is sad and you need to know that you ARE loved by lots of people including me."

"Now, let me get undressed and we'll get you prepared for this. It will probably hurt at first but I'm going to do everything I can to make certain it hurts as little as possible."

His eyes were big and they glistened with moisture but he wasn't crying as he leaned back onto the bed. I'd already shed my shoes so I pulled off my socks and undid my shirt and slipped it off. My torso is essentially naturally smooth but I'm in very good shape so I know my upper body looked good. He stared at me transfixed.

I smiled and dropped my cargo shorts and then quickly pulled down my black boxer briefs freeing my already rampant cock.

His eyes got wide as he gazed at me. It was the first time he'd actually seen me erect in full daylight.

I grinned. "Having second thoughts about taking this thing into you?"

He broke his gaze from my cock and looked into my eyes. "N-no! If Sean can take it, I can take it and I want to feel it… I want to feel you make love to me."

With a smile I reached out and ran my hand down his cheek and tilted his head back as I leaned in and kissed him.

"Ok Brian, there are lots of ways to do this but since this is your cherry-popping experience, I'd like you on your back so that I can see your face and kiss you while we make love."

"That's how I'd like it too. Uhmm… would you call me 'Son' while we do this and can I call you 'Dad'?"

"Sure 'Son'. That's just fine now I want to put this pillow under the small of your back to elevate your bottom a bit. We're going to kiss for a while but then we're going to get down to business. It's your first time and the feelings will be intense. You should enjoy them but enjoy them quickly."

I kissed the tip of his rock hard little dick. Don't worry, if 'little Brian' doesn't shoot, we'll take care of that before we leave."

"OK Dad." He grinned up at me.

I grabbed the tube of lube and instructed him to pull his knees up to his chest. Little boys are so wonderfully flexible. I couldn't do that… thank God that I'm essentially a top. Taking a large glob of the lube, I ran it down his opened crack and then moved one finger against his virgin pucker.

"Cold." He giggled.

"It'll warm up very fast son. Now I'm going into your tube to coat it with the lubricant so that the pain of your first penetration will be minimal. Are you still OK with this?"

"Y-yes Dad. Please do me."

I inserted one heavily coated finger into his ass. It entered surprisingly easily. I worked the lube around his hot slick walls and decided to seek out his young prostate. I found it and I massaged it softly with my finger. He jumped in pleasured shock and almost kicked me in the face.

"W-what the fuck was that?"

I laughed down at him. "THAT was your magic button son. I've got a lot to teach you about your body and that was your first lesson. You didn't even know it was there did you?"

"Hell no, but, could you do it again?"

"I guess you liked that huh?"

"Can you kiss me while you work my magic button Dad?"

"Your wish is my command honey-bunch. Spread your legs wider and raise your knees. You don't have to pull them all the way back yet."

I re-lubed my finger and slid it back into his hole swirling my finger around to gently loosen his young sphincter. I lay over him and brought my lips down onto his and, though he wasn't very experienced, he instinctively opened his lips and we were soon doing an intense tongue dance as we pressed our lips tightly against each other.

I quickly relocated his little button and began to slowly caress it with my finger and soon, he was bucking his hips up against me moaning in total erotic delight. I'll bet it wasn't ten minutes before his little cock exploded between our bodies. His hot sperm splashed forcefully against my stomach and he moaned as he collapsed against the mattress.

"Ohmygod, ohmygod,ohmygod!" His almost glazed eyes stared up at me.

"I've never felt anything like that in my whole life! Thanks, Dad, for teaching me about my magic button. You're so wonderful."

I stroked his face lovingly. "Ready for the main event or have you had enough for today?"

"Oh no. I'm really ready for you to do me right now."

"You mean to fuck you Son."

"What?"

"It's called fucking. You're about to be fucked. If you're going to have sex like a man, talk like a man; no little boy code words OK?"

"Y-yeah, I'm ready for you to fuck me Dad."

"OK then pull your knees all the way back as close to your shoulders as you can then place your feet up against my chest." I'd been rubbing lots of lube around my cock and I leaned forward and placed the head of my cock against his loosened little rosebud and, without a word to him, I pushed in.

"OHhh!" He exclaimed as I pushed through his tight little gate with no attempt at gentleness. Once the tip of my cock and about a half an inch was through, I paused and looked down at him. He was grimacing.

"You OK? Want me to stop or go on?"

"Oww… it hurts a lot more than I thought it would but I want you to go on. Sean and Bobby told me that it feels a lot better soon."

"OK then push down and I'm going to slide all the way in and then we'll slowly fuck, Son."

"OK Dad." He moaned obviously in pain.

I pushed forward, in one slick motion I was buried deep into his little rectum, I quickly began a slow in and out movement, and I knew quickly that my dick was massaging his prostrate. He soon began to moan and he wrapped his arms around my neck and his legs wrapped around my waist as I continued my slow long strokes.

He was moaning and almost crying as we danced our dance of the 'beast with two backs'. Almost without warning, his little dick exploded against my stomach again and I felt the hot jizz splatter against my skin. OH to be a young boy again! That was all it took and I drove deep into him and erupted deep into his bowels.

"Ohhh my god!" He cried out and collapsed onto the mattress, breathing like he'd just run a marathon.

I waited until his breathing had returned to near normal and I stroked his forehead.

"Well Son, was it anything like you expected?"

"Oh geeze Dad! It was so much more than I expected. I've never felt things like that in my whole life! Thank you so much! I know we won't do this a lot but we will do it again, right? "

"Sure Brian, we can do it again as long as it's our private thing between us."

His beautiful face suddenly looked sad. "S-so I'm back to 'Brian' again so you're not 'Dad' anymore I guess."

I stroked his smooth shoulder. "Brian, I can't be your Dad. You've got a mother who loves you intensely and you love her just as strongly. You already know that your Grandmother is dying and your mother is really going to need you."

"I can't be your Dad but I can and will be your good friend. You can count on me for anything you need. I love you Brian and I'll always be here for you."

He pulled his body tight up against me and sniffled into my chest. "C-can I sometimes call you 'Dad' an will you sometimes call me 'son'?"

I kissed him. "You bet, Honey-bunch but now, we need to jump in the shower we've both got cum and lube all over us."

He grinned at me. "Yeah but I finally have your cum inside me."

I giggled as I lifted him off the bed and carried him into the bathroom.

I washed him slowly and sensuously just like I washed Sean, finally working the rich conditioner into his hair and letting it do its thing for a few minutes before rinsing it out.

Brian was taller than Sean by at least six inches [15 cm] and so exploring his young body was interesting. When I'd first seen him on the soccer field I'd thought he was almost as tall as Jack but, that turned out not to be the case. His long legs gave the illusion that he was taller than he was though in fact, he was taller than all of his friends. He was still after all, a little boy.

He moaned and cooed as I washed him and my hands softly moved over his young athletic body. When I was finished he nestled his head against my chest.

"It's not fair that you can't be my Dad. I'd give anything to be your son."

"Well then remember that you can be and are my very good friend and that I love you and I'm here for you and when you're not privately calling me 'Dad', you should stop calling me 'Mr. Tucker' because friends don't do that. You should call me 'Eric' in front of everybody so they'll know that we're close friends, OK?"

He grinned and hugged.

"OK Eric. I love you a lot. Thanks."

Chapter 16

Joy is better than happiness. Happiness is like a way station where you wait until the brilliant light of joy fills your life. Joy is something that happens when we finally slow down enough to recognize how good things actually are.
Joy doesn't happen to us or come upon us. We must choose joy and then, after experiencing it, we must choose it every day.

Sean, Jack and Brian were sitting around the table in the dining room of John and Jenny's apartment. She'd made gigantic lasagna and it was outrageously delicious. The boys were almost eerily silent as they devoured the food on their plates.

Jenny grinned as she looked at me and said, "I don't think that there's a boy in the world who doesn't love lasagna. I think they could live on lasagna and pizza. I know my brother sure could have. He was about Sean and Brian's age when the accident happened"

I reached over and grasped her arm and noticed that John had also quickly moved over to her. "Jenny I understand what you're remembering but to change the subject I need to tell you that this is outstandingly delicious."

She smiled wistfully. "It's my mother's recipe. She taught it to me when I was sixteen. My Dad often secretly told me that I made it better than Mom. I don't know because they were all killed when I was eighteen."

A soft look… less than a smile crossed her face and she sat up straight. "Well, it may not be a perfect fit with the entree' but desert is lemon meringue pie… anybody in?"

She received an enthusiastic response from the boys and I leaned back and smiled.

Jenny rose from the table and returned with a fat meringue-topped pie that looked like it should be on a page in a foodie magazine

The boys were literally hypnotized as she cut their pieces and placed one in front of each of them.

After serving John and me, she sat down and smiled. "You CAN eat now boys." They grinned at her in perfect unison and dived into their pie and there was almost perfect silence as they devoured their desert.

John Jenny and I ate more casually but I certainly appreciated the pie.

We gathered in the living room and John had his flash drive in his laptop and the pictures were perfectly displayed on his fifty inch TV.

Most of them were pretty, some were downright beautiful and a few were funny as they took turns being goofy in front of the camera but it was obvious that they'd had a wonderful time. Their shared commentary as the images were displayed were fun and entertaining.

"Thanks you two. This was a pleasure but I've got to get these monsters to bed."

Sean took the lead and hugged Jenny and then John. "G'night and thanks."

Jack followed and then Brian who added, "Nice to meet you."

I suddenly realized that John and Jenny were off on their honeymoon while Brian had become part of the crew. They'd accepted him but he was a surprise.

I was getting ready for bed when he entered and stood close to me. "You fucked Brian yesterday."

I looked down into his deep turquoise eyes, and said, "Yes I did. He greatly wanted it and he wanted it from me. Does that bother you?"

"Heck no Dad. You're the most loving man in the world and Spider needs a loving man in his life. Who could be better than you? Can we sleep with you tonight? I promise just sleep an' cuddle."

"OK you conniver."

He ran out of my room and returned shortly with Brian and both of them pulled off their underpants and jumped into bed with me.

As I gathered them to me I said, "Goodnight boys."

Almost in unison they responded, "Goodnight Dad."

I sighed. I was obviously in a situation with Brian but I felt we'd work it out.

Jack joined us at breakfast. The little ones were chipper and giggling but he seemed pensive and concerned.

I looked hard into his eyes. "Jack, do you need a day off from classes with Professor Swaim?"

"Yes Dad, if that would be alright. I really need some time to talk with you if we could do that."

"Why Jack, you know that I'll always have time to talk to you. Right after breakfast, I've got some important telephone calls to participate in that have to happen early because of the different time zones so, let's plan on meeting about ten thirty in my study. Is that OK?"

He gave me a sad smile and said, "Yes Dad, that's perfect. Will you clear that with the Professor?"

"Just as soon as I'm done with breakfast. It will be all right."

"Thanks Dad."

After breakfast was finished and Martha had been properly hugged, I walked them down as far as my study, hugged, and kissed them each… including Brian… and sent the little ones off to the north wing classroom.

"You'll find something to do for a couple of hours Jack?"

"'Course Dad, I've got a bunch of email to still go through."

"All right then Son, I'll see you here at ten thirty."

I was troubled by the sudden change in his demeanor I buzzed Doc Swaim, informed him that Jack wouldn't be in class, and explained briefly my concern over his need to talk.

"Eric, remember that he's a young boy who has just been through a traumatic experience and that you are the person he loves and trusts the most in the entire world. For all I know he just may need for you to hold him while he cries out his fear and anguish. I certainly don't know how I'd be feeling after my ship was turned over by a huge wave, so many of my colleagues were drowned and I was forced to spend four days on a wild sea in a life raft I hadn't even been trained to use. The terror must have been astonishing and what sixteen-year-old is prepared for that much fear Eric?"

"Doc, could you plan on having dinner with us tonight and then later we can talk in the library?"

"Always a pleasure Eric. You know that."

"Yeah, I know, but it's polite to ask."

I heard him chuckle into the phone. "I've always maintained that you were the most considerate boy I've ever known… until I met Sean, of course."

His laugh was wonderful. "Great Doc! See you this evening."

Chris entered the room and said, "Mornin Eric. The big conference call is set up for fifteen minutes so we'd better head up to the command center."

"Yes, let's go but I need you to know that my part in this must be over by ten twenty because I've got a serious appointment down here at ten thirty."

He looked at me curiously but smiled and said, "Your participation shouldn't even be required for two hours. They just want to get a feel of your attitude and the extent of your personal participation. You're reputation has grown by leaps and bounds internationally and your word and opinion can largely be a deal-maker or breaker."

"We're hoping that this morning Eric Tucker will be the deal-maker. We'll make a fortune while at the same time saving thousands of acres of rainforest. That's a win, win situation if I ever heard of one."

I smiled and we walked out past the wildflower garden.

The conference call had gone quite well and, as I excused myself near the end pleading an important personal commitment, I sensed Phil and Chris would have the deal sewn up by lunchtime.

It was ten thirty but I felt like I'd put in a full day's work so I poured myself a tumbler of Gen Fiddich and waited for my boy. He was about eight minutes late and he entered clinging to a sheave of papers.

I smiled and indicated the more comfortable 'conversation' corner of the room. "It's early Jack, but would you enjoy a beer?"

He grinned and his grin made me feel better.

"Well, if my father says it would be OK, I wouldn't say no."

Returning his grin, I moved to the little fridge, popped the cap on a bottle of Stone IPA from Escondido, California, and poured it into a beer glass.

"You've become a cheeky little bugger." He grinned as he accepted the glass and took a sip… smiling as he did so.

I took a minute to freshen up my drink and then I sat across from him. After a moment of individually sipping our drinks, I locked eyes with him.

"These are the emails I've received so far from the Marine Biology Department and the Oceanography department at the University as well as all of those who made it off the ship. It turns out that thanks to the fact that Doctor Chambers transmitted our data three times a day, at least ninety-nine percent of our research is intact and being reviewed right now."

"I'm going to be a named member on the report so all that time wasn't wasted. All that research will go to helping save the oceans just like Doctor Chambers planned."

He took a big boy gulp of his beer and his eyes were suddenly glassy. "It's just… It's just I learned from my email that Doctor Chambers didn't make it off the ship."

His shoulders heaved and he squeaked as tears were suddenly pouring from his eyes.

He gulped and breathed in deeply. "He spent all his time getting life rafts launched and getting us inside that he didn't even take time to think about himself. As we were floating away and the ship took another quarter roll, trapping everyone else below the water we thought they were gone but I've been hoping. Now I know he's gone."

"He was some man Dad and he was so kind to me."

"Now that I have time to think about it, if it wasn't for him, I'd be dead. I'd have just hung around on the lopsided bulkhead. I had no clue what to do. I would have been sucked under when the ship took its second turn. He lifted me into the raft and he pushed us off."

He was sobbing now and I got up and pulled him onto my lap. Big as he was, he cuddled against me with his head on my shoulder and cried like a forlorn child.

I pulled him tightly into me and rubbed his back and shoulder. I was silent while he wailed out his grief. I came close to losing it when he said through his tears, "It's almost like losing Walter all over again. Why do such great men have to die like that?"

"Because Jack, they were great men like that… they were great men and they put the safety of others before their own. That is the definition of a hero."

"You need to know that you are alive today because Doctor Chambers chose to use his final moments to make certain that you lived. You must live your life in such a way so that you never squander that wonderful gift that brave man gave you."

"Now sit back down and sip your beer while I tell you what I've been thinking. I've known for a couple of days that Doctor Chambers didn't make it off the ship. I didn't know if you were ready for that information yet but it seems you've found out on your own. I've been trying to come up with a way to memorialize him."

"Tell me what you think about this idea… we'll commission a brand new research ship, the University will be involved in its design… no expense will be spared. It will be the best thing afloat and you Jack, will be integrally involved in designing a new type of life raft and they won't be accepted without your personal approval. After your terrible experience, who could know better how to make the life raft experience more easy to quickly understand? When everything is finished… probably a bit more than a year from now, we'll launch the SS George Chambers and you will personally present it to the University."

There were still big puddles of tears in his eyes as he looked at me. "Yeah, that's a great idea! That way all the research will still have his name attached to it. Thanks Dad… I really love you."

I rubbed his arm and smiled. "I know, silly boy. Remember, though, that I owe that wonderful man for the life of my son."

After we'd cried and hugged a bit he said, "Would it be alright if I drove out to Deer Run and talked to Coach Sal? I'd really like to start boxing again."

"Certainly, Jack, if that's what you want to do."

"Yeah, it is. Besides soccer, it's the most fun thing ever. I suppose one day I'll get really beat up and then it won't be fun anymore, but right now, I really like it."

"Are you going to do that today?"

"Yeah, this morning. I'll bring you back all the forms you have to sign. Then, if it's alright, I'm going to visit Amanda and take her for a ride. I'll meet you guys to watch the baseball practice this afternoon."

I smiled and wondered what 'a ride with Amanda' meant but I trusted him to be careful. He'd been well trained in birth control and disease prevention so I was comfortable with his potential activities.

I smiled as I thought about my little Jack fighting with his bi-sexuality. What a problem to have… we all should be so lucky.

***

"So, how's this for a solution? I'll drive everyone out to the ball-field and Arlen can concentrate on Sean and Brian?"

"Jenny is spending the day with Martha basically planning how their new working relationship is going to go and I'm going nuts with nothing to do. If I was a body shop guy, I'd be working on the red cat but that's not one of my skills. By the way, they're coming to pick it up tomorrow. Did you want to see it Eric?"

I shook my head. "No John, I'm mortified enough I don't need to see what I did to that magnificent automobile."

He smiled. "Believe it or not, the damage isn't that bad. It's a sturdy little machine for something so little and sleek. She'll be good as new."

"OK then, you'll drive us out there.. .I think we'll 'fly the flag' and take the limo."

"John, Arlen isn't a threat to you or your position. He's a new member of our staff and he's done yeoman's duty while you were gone. He has marvelous baseball knowledge and, just as you've taught the boys about pool, he's helped the two young ones with baseball skills. That's why he's being with us today."

"He'll mostly be involved with Daniel and, occasionally, as your back-up but, nothing has changed as far as you are concerned."

He gave me a large grin. "Thanks Eric. You know I love my job and you know I love you."

We shoulder hugged and I walked down to my study. Uncle Phil was waiting for me with a large smile. He'd already made his own drink so I just quickly poured some scotch over two ice cubes and sat down.

"Well son, you're reputation has gained great credence all over the world. Today's conference call resulted in a gigantic deal and it's mainly because of you. You are beginning to surpass your father in your worldly esteem and I have to tell you that it's difficult for me to say that because you know how much I loved your father."

I smiled and raised my glass to this beloved man in my life. "Guess I'm not doing bad for a guy who was a constant drunk less than three years ago eh? It was you, though, that found me the angel who saved me from all of that Uncle Phil. I love Jack dearly but everything I am right now is all because of Sean."

He nodded. "Yep, he's some kid. I suspect that you've decided that he'll be the future 'Lancelot'. I don't think that it's in Jack's nature."

"That's the way I see it Uncle Phil. I hate to dump the burden on his little shoulders but it has to be. When do you think I should start inserting him into his training?"

"Well, he's turning thirteen in a few weeks. That is the traditional ritual into manhood. He won't be a man of course but he can begin to be introduced into his life's work. We should talk about this in detail and Doctor Swaim should be involved."

"Thanks Uncle Phil. We'll do that in a couple of days."

He finished his drink and I made another.

Jenny was in the kitchen when I walked down looking for some lunch.

"Hi Eric. This my first day as a full-time member of the staff. Martha took advantage of my being here and personally brought lunch up to the boys in the classroom."

"Oh, that means Jack will be left out."

Of course, I'd no sooner said that then the smiling red-haired wonder walked into the kitchen. "I was kind of hoping for some lunch," he grinned.

"Well, I was thinking cheeseburgers guys. Does that sound OK?"

We responded positively and in unison.

"Here's some chips and salsa. Go sit down and I'll bring you burgers when they're ready."

We sat across from the each other at the table and casually dipped the taco chips into the salsa.

"How did things go with coach Sal?"

"Great. He wants me to start training right away. He says I've got a fight in ten days. Man that seems soon but I'm looking forward to it."

I smiled and then asked, "How was your drive with Amanda?"

He suddenly blushed. "It was alright. You know… it was more than all right. You know it was more than a ride. Dad, like you told me, I enjoy both kinds of sex and I don't know what to do about it."

I smiled at him and said, "All you need to do about it is to enjoy it Jacamo. Don't be cruel and don't be mean. Try to give pleasure to your partner just like you take pleasure from them… in your case, whatever sex they are."

"It seems that you are blessed with the best of all worlds. You should enjoy it. Whenever you have sex with girls or strange boys, make certain that you use a condom. Beyond that, Jack, enjoy yourself. Mutually agreed-upon sex is so much better than what you were made to endure when you were a nest boy. You may never decide what direction you prefer. You just need to enjoy your life Son."

"Thanks Dad, though it's still a mystery sometimes."

"Actually Jack, it would be sad if it wasn't a mystery."

Jenny brought in our burgers and we dug in with smiles.

***

Arlen was grinning. "I've never ridden in the back of a limousine before, believe it or not."

I smiled. "I think that's true of most people, Arlen."

"Now Brian, you've got your slider and we've been working on your two-seam fast ball. Just remember and maintain your mechanics. You too, Sean, when you're at bat remember to open your hips and stand into the box. I'll watch you and we'll work on what you need after this practice."

"OK Arlen. Thanks." Sean said.

John, Arlen and I sat on the bleachers and watched the practice while Jack was in the compound talking to Sal about returning to boxing.

I was so impressed with how Sean fielded balls hit in his direction and even more so when he was at bat. Brian's pitching seemed to baffle his teammates. What two wonderful athletes these boys were.

Jack eventually joined us with a grin. "I start training tomorrow and I've got a fight next Wednesday. Think you might want to come?"

I grinned and punched his arm before I pulled him into a hug.

At just that moment, Sean tagged a pitched ball and sent it over the fence. "How can such a little boy hit so hard?" I asked no one in particular.

"Dad, Tadpole can do anything you know that."

"Well I guess we're all going to Mirreli's for ice cream," I said with a smile.

That night, after dinner, I was sitting in the library, Nate Mentor had finally come out with a new novel and, true fan that I was, I'd arranged to get a copy as soon as it was released. I sat with a glass of scotch at my side and my feet propped up and opened my new book in joyful anticipation.

After a drink, I thought that Jack would be hounding for me to finish so that he could read it.

I marked my place and headed upstairs.

Doc Swaim and I had moved our discussion to tomorrow because he had a sudden conference call with his publisher regarding his new book.

The full moon was amazingly bright and I undressed without turning the lights on. I walked into the bathroom to piss and when I returned to the bedroom, he was standing there.

He was by the window bathed in the pale white light of the moon. He looked like a statue made out of alabaster or pure white marble. Only his jet-black hair betrayed that illusion.

The perfect round melons of his wonderful boy ass moved subtly as he turned slowly and faced me.

"Spider's asleep but I couldn't 'cause I just want you to hold me. You've got so much love but sometimes I think about when it was just you an' me and I wish it was still that way. I'm so bad… I'm so selfish."

I breathed deeply and took him in my arms. He was a much bigger boy than the little tyke I'd first brought home from the nest but every bit as beautiful and even more loving.

I dropped down onto the bed and he sat with his face on my shoulder while his legs wrapped around my waist.

"So, why are you feeling sorry for yourself, little man?" I kissed him after asking that question.

He wrinkled up his cute little nose and after thinking for a moment, he nailed me with his incredible eyes, "I think it's 'cause things are changin' an I'm afraid I'll lose you. I'm afraid I'll grow too big for you to love any more. I want to always be your 'little man' Dad."

I gently moved him onto the bed and I rested alongside of him and I stroked his body lovingly.

"Sean, we've kind of had this conversation before. You'll never grow too big for me to love because I love you and I love the future you… the you that you will grow up to be. For me Sean, not loving you is impossible. Now as for being my 'little man', I certainly hope that you're going to grow up into a big man… just not too fast. Take your time and enjoy the pleasure of being young."

"Just know that you are in a place with a man who loves you so intensely that it almost brings me to tears. Only your mother and father, had they lived, could have loved you more. You are the center of my universe Sean. While life brings change, my love for you will never change."

From the squeaking noises he was making into my shoulder I knew that he was crying so I pulled the covers up over us and pulled him tightly against me.

"What would I have become if I didn't have you to love me Dad?"

I sighed deeply and kissed him.

"What would I have become if I didn't have you to love me Sean?"

Chapter 17

It was a perfect day for a ball-game and we most assuredly crowded the bleachers. John and Jenny, Richard and Arlen as well as Jack and Chris and Barry. Doc Swaim couldn't be there because of some business with his book. It was certainly getting close to being published.

It was the first time I'd seen the boys in their dark blue uniforms. The blue shirts against their white pants was stunning. Sean's black hair and Brian's deep brown hair just stood out magnificently. The Deer Run boys had all chosen to wear the traditional long socks up and they were sharp. Little Charlie was darling. He seemed to wiggle his little ass in anticipation of the game. I loved everything that I saw.

We were the home team so Brian was on the mound throwing warmup pitches to Rico. Sean was standing at first base and Charlie was literally dancing in place at short.

Spider threw his first pitch and it was a strike. His next pitch was too much to the middle and the boy at bat connected. He hit it right to Charlie who quickly controlled it and threw it to Sean at first base for the out.

Three pitches later and the second batter was out.

Jack was on his feet screaming, "Spider! Spider! You're the man!"

The boy on the mound looked in our direction and grinned. He actually tipped his cap… cocky little bastard.

His first pitch to the next batter was a ball but he followed it up with a filthy slider that the kid hit into the air and was easily caught by Aaron in center field. We all smiled and high-fived and took a sip of our beer. The great thing about Deer Run Club was that 'beverages" were allowed.

Rico was up first and he struck out standing. It took five pitches though.

Charlie was next and he took the first pitch without moving. Arlen grinned at me and said, "That's some smart little kid. He knows what he's doing."

Sure as hell, Charlie sent the next pitch deep into right field and he was soon hopping up and down on second base.

Aaron was up next and after a quick strike, he stroked the next pitch sharply into the infield between everybody for a single and, of course advancing Charlie to third.

We were all going crazy.

Jack was jumping up in his chair. "Charlie is the monster man! He's the littlest giant in the whole world."

I smiled and quietly wondered if they still had a thing going on between them.

I hadn't been keeping track so I was surprised when it was Sean up at bat. He took two quick strikes and then two balls. He dug in determinately and swung mightily at the next pitch and missed.

"It's OK Sean you'll get him next time!" Arlen shouted and my little boy smiled in our direction as he walked to the dugout.

Kelly, our third baseman was at bat next and the big thirteen-year-old took the first pitch for a strike and then just crushed the second pitch. The ball flew over the left fielder's head and over the fence and suddenly we had a 3-0 lead.

Danny our right fielder ended the inning with a pop up fly but everyone on the Deer Run side of the field was happy.

I reached into the cooler and retrieved another beer. Richard and Barry eagerly accepted, as did John though he added that his cut-off was the fourth inning. Jenny declined but Arlen accepted a bottle with a smile. Jack looked at me with forlorn puppy dog eyes. I frowned at him but I wasn't really angry.

"OK Sailor boy, but I'm pouring it into a solo cup before I give it to you so that everyone can suspect you're drinking Coke."

He grinned. "That doesn't bother me as long as I'm not drinking Coke. That stuff is bad for you you know."

I scowled. "You're becoming a real smart-ass, Jacamo."

Richard was sitting next to him and smiled at me as he threw his arm around the sleek young red-head and pulled him into a hug. "Yeah but Eric, he's OUR smart-ass!"

Jack was giggling as I smiled at them both and said, "Yep, that's the truth alright."

Brian raced through the next batter in three pitches.

"Man, that boy's slider is ugly today! Those guys don't even know what they're seeing. I'm so proud of him." Arlon was jumping in his seat and his grin was ear to ear. I looked down at the mound and the boy with the mahogany hair was smiling just like when I'd first seen 'Spider' waiting with his feet on the goal line anticipating the penalty kick that very first soccer game. He was confident; he was happy and knew he could beat the other kid. Brian was a born competitor. No wonder Sean and Jack liked him so much.

The first throw to the other batter was a ball but, if truth be told, not by much.

The batter connected with the next pitch and drove it straight to Sean who snagged it for the second out.

The next batter swung at the first pitch and drove a grounder that was quickly scooped up by Charlie and thrown to Sean.

Three ups… three outs.

Brian was actually first up for us. He took two quick strikes and then two balls. The pitcher sorely misjudged him because Brian made a solid connection with the next pitch. Though not particularly powerfully hit, it dropped… slick as snot… in-between the center fielder and the right fielder and by the time those two had figured out what was happening, Brian was safe at second base.

Chris, our big centerfielder was up next and on the first pitch drove a line drive right between the short stop and the second baseman deep into left field. The coaches were waving the base runners around and Brian quickly rounded third and ran standing into home before the ball was even thrown to the infield. They held Chris at third though I suspect he could have easily turned that hit into a home run.

Brian looked up at us and pumped his fist into the air as he trotted to the dugout.

Evan, our left-fielder was next up and he accepted two balls before being hit on the shoulder by a wild pitch. After being examined and questioned by the coaches, he took first base.

Ricco was up next and he wasted no time in announcing that he'd been underestimated his first at bat. The pitcher really made a mistake and sturdy Ricco launched that ball into space and well over the fence.

We Deer Run people were going nuts. It was now a seven to nothing lead and we still had no outs.

"Ricco! Ricco! Ricco!" Jack was cheerleading as the beautiful black haired boy rounded the bases grinning from ear to ear.

Charlie was next and he allowed two balls to pass him with no attempt to swing. This little kid was a wonder. Arlen leaned over and said softly, "This kid knows just what he's looking for. If that pitcher makes the mistake of giving it to him, it's 'goodnight Irene'."

The next pitch was a called strike with no attempt to swing.

"Charlie knows what he's looking for," Arlen muttered, "just watch. He's got this guy figured out.

Sure enough the next pitch was met with thunderous contact and landed in the corner of right field. Little Charlie raced around the bases and once again he was safe at second.

Aaron was up next and worked his at bat into a full count. In the end, he took ball four and trotted down to first.

Sean was up for the second time and he didn't look distraught as he approached the plate but he did look serious.

Arlen leaned over to me and Richard. "Sean's been watching him like I've taught him. You watch that Munchkin has got this pitcher figured out. Look at his stance… see how he's opened his hips… see his shoulders? He's got him in his sites."

Sean took a few hard chops before settling into the box.

The first pitch was wide and outside and Sean didn't even move. The second was low and inside and, again, Sean stood there essentially telling the other boy that he was going to have to come after him or put him on base.

Arlen was out of his seat as soon as the next pitch was released. "That's the one! That's the one!"

Sean's swing was elegant and powerful and his contact with the ball was perfect. It wasn't just driven, it launched over the center-field fence and deep into the woods. He hopped into the air and then trotted around the bases pumping his fist into the air in joy and grinning directly at me making my heart swell with happiness.

By the end of the fourth, we were ahead by twelve-to-two and the umpire invoked the 'ten run mercy rule' and ended the game.

We were wild up in the bleachers as the little boys piled into a large bundle and enjoyed their first victory down on the field.

"Let's gather our heroes and then to Deegans for burgers, fries, onion rings and beer!" I exclaimed and we all ran down to hug the whole bunch of them. They were a giggling happy group of little boys totally pleased with themselves and, why not?"

***

The almost full moon was still very bright and maintained its alabaster luster. I was washing my face in the bathroom when I felt two arms wrap around my middle.

"We voted an' we're sleepin' with you tonight and Jack is proly gonna too. You don't get a vote." He giggled as he hugged me. " We love you so much an' we wanna be close to you."

"Today was so great an havin' you there to watch was the best. I love everthing about my life an' Jack says he's gonna start boxin' again. Man that sounds excitin' an… am I truly going to start flying lessons after my birthday?

"Sean, I've never lied to you. It's all set up and the learning will be up to you."

He turned me around, stood up on his toes and kissed me. "How can someone love someone so much?"

I returned his kiss. "How can someone have so much to love?"

By the time I'd dried off and returned to the bedroom, the three of them were naked and sitting on my bed with wide grins on their faces. "Well boys, how do you think this is going to work?"

Sean smiled. "Well, Jack will sleep on that side of you cause we know how sound he sleeps. Spider an' me will take turns on this side. We'll move quiet so you'll never even know when we change places cuddlin' with you."

I smiled a bit doubtfully and said, "First one who snores or disturbs my sleep gets kicked out onto the floor."

We settled into a sort of strange group hug and I turned down the lights. About five minutes into the strange but sweet silence, there was a large fart.

Moments later Brian giggled and said, "Oops! Does that mean I'm getting kicked onto the floor?"

The bed erupted into an explosion of boy giggles and it took no time for me to join in. What is funnier than little boy farts?

***

Breakfast was an energetic recounting of yesterday's game for an enthralled Martha before hugs were exchanged and we all four headed to the south wing. Bobby had just arrived almost the same time that we did.

"I hear you two had a great game yesterday. Sorry I missed it but Dad and me had some stuff we needed to do down the coast."

I hugged all of them and kissed them on their foreheads.

"Dad, remember I'm going to start boxing practice with Coach Sal this afternoon so I'll see you at dinner this evening," Jack smiled as I waved taking the elevator up to the top floor.

Richard, Barry and Wolfman were there so I suspected that Brutus (who I'd yet to actually meet) was getting the com at night more frequently.

I moved to the corner and poured a cup of rich dark Kona and then took my seat. "Boys you all look like somebody has walked over your graves. It doesn't sound like you've got great news for me today."

Richard sat down next to me and said, "Eric, we've found out that an Islamic radical terrorist group has targeted either you or your business empire. We just don't have very much information yet. You know we'll get it because we're the best in the world but in the meantime, we'd like to keep you all close and safe."

"These are nutsy people and they often don't fear for their own lives so they can be extremely dangerous. They'd have no qualms about taking out the boys… they have no true moral values they proclaim Islamic bullshit but in the end they're just terrorists trying to bully the rest of the world.

"The estate is probably the safest place for you all to be. The fact is that it's now considerably safer than the White House. Last time was a big wake-up call for us.

"We're increasing security around the nest in case for some reason these moronic fuckers think that would be a legitimate target."

"What about the boys and simple things like their baseball practice, Richard? Are we suddenly prisoners on our own estate?"

"No Eric. In the first place besides escorting the boys with sufficient body guards, our 'shadow flies' can be programed to detect things like roadside IUDs with a high level of sophistication. Any time they leave the estate, not even the President of the United States will be better protected than you and the boys. I'm just asking that for a while, you restrict how often you leave the estate. OK?"

I gripped his shoulder. "Yes, Richard OK. This wasn't how I was expecting to begin my day though."

He gave me a tight smile. "We were hoping this wasn't going to be your morning wake-up call either but, we're on top of it. It seems it's just a small group of nut cases and we'll get them but they're crazy so we have to be careful."

"I've located their web site," Barry said, "I'm hacking it and I hope to soon get a location. After that, I'll give the information to Wolfman and his boys will REALLY hack them." They grinned at each other.

"OK then, from now on you guys won't leave the estate without giving me prior notice so that I can set up a complete security detail ahead of time OK?"

"Yep, you're the boss Richard."

He grinned at me. "Well, for a while at least I guess."

"So we can plan for the baseball practice but with an armed convoy Richard?"

He smiled, "Yeah kinda like the President's son going to little league."

"So, you'll certainly keep me very much informed then?"

"You're the Boss… Boss."

"Thank's guys. You three are the best. Keep me informed and remember that Sean and Brian have baseball practice at three thirty." My heart would ache for a long time when I realized that I'd forgotten to mention Jack's afternoon boxing practice.

I left the Command Center and eventually walked down to my study. I took my first drink of the day and decided to call Ricky down at the Academy.

Once he was on the line I told him,

"Skeeter, we've got some potential trouble and we're sending in some significant protection for you. Please go along with everything that they say. It may not be anything at all but we want to do everything to keep you all safe."

I explained about the crazy terrorist threat and asked, "Do you think you'd like to send Mandy up here for her potential safety?"

I could hear him giggle into the phone. "Eric, do you honestly think that woman would leave me behind if she thought I was in danger? She's my true-life partner and she'd never leave me. I feel safe. You'll protect us and we'll stay down here with all our little boys. The nest is supposed to be a safe place for these kids and goddamitt if someone tries to change that, they're going to have to come over me and… truth be told, probably Mandy and Tyler as well."

"We love this school and we love these boys. Nobody gets to hurt them."

I swallowed hard before I could reply, "Thanks Ricky but please pay attention to the new wave of security I'm sending you OK?"

"Sure Eric. We'll keep these kids safe or die trying."

"For God's sake Ricky, don't do that!"

I heard him giggle. "Well, Boss, we'll certainly try hard not to."

I smiled. "Thanks Director Flores. Have a good day with your pupils."

"Thanks Boss. Keep us informed OK?"

I hung up the phone and took a deep sip from my drink.

I had a very big conference call in the late morning. It seemed I had suddenly gained quite a reputation internationally. I sort of suspected that it was because of the brutal way I'd handled the nest kidnapping and certainly the attack on my home. I think that I'd suddenly become a force to be reckoned with and people were thinking that it was better to deal with me than try to work against me.

I didn't mind being feared. Walter had told me early on that if people were afraid of you, they would strive to be your friends. Complacent people were certainly easier to handle than aggressive ones.

I personally didn't like to be aggressive but I could certainly wield more weight into a fight than anyone else. I had a personal army for fuck sake.

Uncle Phil and Chris came into my study and I indicated the wet bar. They made their drinks and sat down and literally moments later the phone rang.

After expressing personal greetings, I put the instrument on speaker and we began our business conference.

It was very good natured and almost predetermined but there was a large amount of negotiating and squirming around what we all knew was going to be the final decision. The call ended cordially and Phil, Chris and I slapped a high five.

"You're becoming the King, Eric." Chris said with a smile.

"He's not wrong, Son." Phil said. "You've got all of your father's talents but a clever instinct that he didn't have."

"OK guys, I'm going down to the library to dig into my new book before it's time for baseball practice. I need some enjoyment and relaxation all on my own."

I settled into one of the ancient leather chairs with my feet up on the ottoman and enjoyed page after page of the newest Nate Mentor novel. I took the occasional sip from my tumbler of scotch and sort of thought to myself that life couldn't get a lot better than this when Richard walked into the room. I knew from his face that he wasn't bring me good news.

"You didn't tell me that Jack was planning on leaving the estate early this afternoon."

I shook my head in befuddlement.

"Yeah Richard, he had boxing practice with Coach Sal."

Richard shook his head and there were tears pouring down his eyes, "Well Eric we didn't know about it and we weren't ready for it. We had no protection or detection in place as he drove off onto the road. The fucking IUD was just about two hundred yards down the road and it launched the Beemer into the air. He's on his way to the hospital but it doesn't look very good."

His shoulders were heaving as he sobbed and his tears poured profusely. "Eric… Eric if only we'd known!"

"It never occurred to me Richard. It never occurred to me."

"John is waiting to take us to the hospital."

"First I've got to make certain Daniel or Arlen take care of Sean and Brian"

After explaining to Daniel what was going on, the big man quickly assured me that the young boys would be taken care of.

We met John in the Car Park and he quickly drove us to the hospital. As we drove away I noticed that there was a yellow police tape around parts of the driveway and there were lots of law and order people swarming around the scene.

As we drove down the road, we quickly came upon the brutalized little blue BMW.

I gazed out of the window and suddenly realized that no one could have survived that kind of explosion.

Chapter 18

"My God. I've failed in my job completely!" Richard was sobbing.

"Of course you didn't. You had no idea that the boy was going to leave the property. You had no chance to plan his protection. No one at the gate was instructed to restrict him from leaving."

"If anything, the failure was mine for not telling you. I knew he had early boxing practice but it never occurred to me to let you know. The idea of this terrorist threat was so new, I hadn't even assimilated it."

I gazed down at the broken young body before me and just wept. He'd been torn up terribly but his sweet young face, despite the tubes and ventilators, was still beautiful and actually serene. I ran my hand down his white cheek and finally kissed his forehead. He was unresponsive; such an unfamiliar sensation from Jack who was usually hot and eager.

"I'll spend some time in this vigil hoping for his life Richard, but starting right now, I want all of our resources spent on finding those mother fuckers and I'd prefer you find them alive because they are going to pay in pain for what they've done to my little boy."

"By the time this is over, I want to be the most frightening man on the planet. I want every evil fucker on earth to prefer to shit his pants and then eat it rather than go up against me and my family."

He nodded his head and I knew he totally understood.

Sean entered the room with Arlen and Brian. His amazing blue/green eyes were puddled in heavy tears as he looked down at his brother. He also bent down and kissed Jack's forehead.

He leaned into me and he was sobbing, "Why would somebody do something like that to a person who never did anything but be good to everyone he ever met?"

I hugged him tight and said, "I have no answer to that question. That kind of evil is beyond understanding."

"Mister Tucker, I'm Doctor Raymond. I'm the trauma specialist here. I'm also a Colonel in the Marines and at a high enough security level that I know about the Skuggor so if I might, I'd like to speak frankly."

I nodded. "Do you prefer 'Doctor' or 'Colonel'?"

He smiled and replied, "I prefer 'Sam' because that's my name."

I smiled and liked him instantly and I thrust out my hand to him.

"Thanks Sam. I'm Eric and this is Sean, this is Richard… if you know about Skuggor then you know that Richard IS Skuggor. This is Arlen and this young man is Brian."

They all exchanged handshakes.

"I assume that I may speak freely in front of you all?"

I nodded my head.

"Good, then, I'm happy to tell you that it's not nearly as bad as it looks. Whoever set the IED was certainly a bumbling amateur. It exploded in the wrong direction therefore the bulk of its dynamic force was away from the car Jack was driving.

"While I know his car looks horrible, that's because that's the way modern automobiles are designed to respond to stress such as collisions. They sort of look like they're self-destructing while the fact is, they're wrapping around the passenger protecting them. The Germans are among the best in the world at that so… congratulations on your choice of car for your boy.

"Jack hasn't lost a limb, based upon the way he's breathing, he doesn't seem to be affected by blast lung. He did suffer a concussion based upon the force of the explosion though he didn't receive a blow to the head and we're keeping him in a medically controlled coma so that his organs and the rest of his body can recover naturally from the residual trauma of the blast.

"He has numerous seemingly minor shrapnel punctures all over his body. I might tell you that one piece now lodged in his inner leg seems to have barely missed castrating him so… sometime in the future, you might want to let him know how lucky he was.

"We'll take advantage of his induced coma to surgically remove the shrapnel to minimize pain and stress. Based upon our preliminary prognosis Eric, the worst thing I've got to tell you is that his left eardrum seems to have been severely damaged by the initial explosion and we suspect he has permanently lost hearing in that ear."

I nodded my head. I knew it was a damned stupid thing to be grateful that my son had lost hearing in one ear but, by God, if that was the worst thing the Doctor had to tell me about my boy who'd just been blown up… I would in fact be fuckin' grateful.

"Thank you Sam. That's very encouraging news. How long do you suppose you'll keep him under?"

"Well, we'll bring him into surgery tomorrow to deal with all the shrapnel, then we'll let his organs rest for at least one more day so my guess is two to four days. Then, he'll be weak, confused half deaf but otherwise ready to go home and lead a normal life. Did I hear correctly that Jack is one of the researchers that made it off that foundered NATGEO ship?"

I nodded my head in confirmation. "Well Eric, that's some tough little kid but maybe May is one month he should just stay home from now on."

I smiled. "Sam that may be some great advice. We're going to leave. Keep me informed as you progress with my red-haired wonder."

"Of course. We'll certainly let you know when we plan to bring him out from his coma."

We headed home. John was driving the Lexus SUV and I took the boys into it with me while Richard jumped into the sleek little Subaru that Arlen used as the go-to vehicle.

They leaned into me and hugged me tightly. "S-so Jack's gonna be OK right?"

"Yes, Son it seems so. Apparently, Jack is a very lucky boy. It will be a few days before we can actually talk to him and from now on, we've got to learn to talk loud when we're on his left side… but he's going to live."

"What's going to happen to the guys that did this thing?"

I looked at him coolly and said, "When we get home, you and I will go down to my study and I'll tell you. Brian, this isn't something you should hear."

He nodded his head recognizing the seriousness of the situation.

As we drove up the road, the blue Beemer was gone but I suddenly remembered John talking about armoring our vehicles almost a year ago and I wondered if he hadn't had that done without telling me. That would be natural for him. He had total control of the maintenance of our cars and didn't have any reason to ask or enquire.

I suddenly suspected that John had actually saved Jack's life.

"Brian, go up to the room and play some computer games. Sean and I will be a little while."

He nodded his head without protest and we parted company at the elevator.

I pointed to the plush leather chairs in the corner. I walked to the bar and asked, "Would you like a glass of scotch Sean?"

"Dad I never had a taste of scotch."

"Well Sean, scotch is a serious man's drink and we're going to have a serious man's conversation."

He nodded his head. "OK then Dad."

I handed him his tumbler and he took a sip. His nose scrunched up but he didn't cry out. He looked over his glass and said, "It kinda burns an it's bitter but not bad bitter. I've never tasted nothing like it… it's OK."

"OK Sean, sit down and listen to what I tell you. Listen very carefully because this is all so very important."

"You are the son of one of the richest men in the entire world… in other words me. We control the vastest business network on the planet our fortune is almost impossible to measure.

"That makes us very powerful but it also makes us targets to evil and crazy people.

"You know this very well. You were kidnapped once and almost harmed during the invasion of our estate and now, we have this attempt to murder Jack. We also have a vast private army that my father and Walter formed years ago. It's mighty and it's skillful.

"Right now, Uncle Phil and Chris are in charge of the business part of things and Richard is in charge of the military part with Barry and Wolfman behind him. I am in total command of all of this and someday you will be. It is essential that we be aggressive and decisive in both our business affairs and in the way we handle our safety.

"People should treasure us as friends and be very afraid of us as enemies.

"I expected to wait a couple of years before letting you know about all this, but the attack upon your brother tells me that it's probably time to begin to teach you about your life's work.

"I'm pretty certain that we'll very soon hear that Richard and his crew have located these scumbags who did this thing to Jack and then, young though you may be, you'll see how we handle people like this."

He sat back and sipped his glass.

"My goodness. You're enjoying that aren't you?"

He smiled. "I actually like it better than beer."

I grinned back at him. "So do I."

***

I was wrapped between Sean and Brian and very content when the bedside phone sounded.

"Eric we've got them. They're all twenty year old morons who are wannana be jihadists even though four of them aren't even Muslims."

"We've whisked them off to our familiar 'slida av stall 4'… 'the steel cunt'. There were twelve of them but only one had the balls to try and fight us. I'm sorry but we had to kill him. His body is in cold storage because we didn't want to leave any litter behind. I've torn down their stupid web site and turned it into a site promoting pork products. I thought that might be appropriate especially if there are other morons out there who signed into their site."

"Great Barry. Have the helicopter ready for ten o'clock and understand I'm bringing Sean. His real education begins tomorrow. Do me the favor of informing Uncle Phil that I'll expect him on the copter with us as well."

"Consider it done boss."

As I hung up the phone, I realized that both boys were awake and sitting up in bed staring at me wide-eyed. I smiled and tried to look calming. "I'm sorry boys, but when you sleep with me you need to expect occasional wake-up calls. So… here's what's going on… we've caught the guys that did this to Jack."

"Brian, tomorrow after breakfast, you'll go up the classroom and when school is over, Arlen will get you to baseball practice."

"Sean, you will leave with me to a secret place and you'll begin to learn how we deal with people who think that they can do things like this to us."

"Uncle Phil and Richard will begin to explain to you about our family business. It's a vast and complicated enterprise Sean, but it will all eventually fall upon your shoulders but not for many years and you'll be carefully trained and prepared. I'd thought you didn't need to learn about this for a few years but this cruel action tells me that you need to start learning now."

His eyes were wide as saucers as he softly said, "Kay Dad."

I stroked his hair and kissed him right on the lips and then turned and did the same to Brian.

After breakfast, I'd made certain that Arlen had personally taken on Brian's security. He promised to inform Barry about the schedule of leaving the estate even though we were confident that we had the entire group under our control.

Richard and Uncle Phil joined us for a cup of coffee. Uncle Phil wrapped and arm around Sean and smiled. "Don't be afraid Sean. Today you're going to learn things about your family and about your future."

"You're going to learn some wonderful thing and some things that might be a bit scary but it's your future because eventually you're going to wield what may be the most power in the world and believe it or not, you're up to it and you're just the guy for the job eventually."

Sean blinked. "I'm not afraid Uncle Phil. Dad wouldn't ever do anything that was wrong for me. I'm just a little confused."

Phil squeeze his shoulder. "We'll try to slowly make it less confusing."

Daniel entered the room. "The copter is out in the car park and rotating. Here are travel mugs of coffee and I'll take Brian down to the wing for his classes."

As we flew out to the 'Steel Cunt', I sat silently as Uncle Phil explained to Sean in simple, but honest terms, the complex make-up of our family empire. As the explanation drifted to the Skuggor, Richard entered the conversation and filled in more information.

The little boy sat with a serious face and listened attentively taking in all the information that had been provided.

Eventually, he stopped them both from talking. "I can't take in more information right now. I want to have some time to understand it. I'll have lot's of questions for you later an' I know you've got a lot to teach me but now, I want to learn how we deal with people who try to blow up my brother."

"I'm going to warn you, this will not be pleasant or pretty, Sean. You may wind up thinking that I'm horrible and cruel."

"Dad, nothing could be too cruel for the guys who did this to Jack."

I hugged him into me. "That's what I was hoping I'd hear you say little man."

The eleven of them were naked and chained to hooks in the floor. For the most part, they were smug and cocky as I entered the room.

"You're the infidel in charge here?" the one who appeared to be the oldest of the group asked arrogantly.

I walked up to him silently and slapped him seven times across his face. He fell to his knees weeping.

"Oh, I guess you're not so brave or tough when you're not planting booby traps against innocent kids."

With a whimper in his voice, he managed a bit of arrogance, "Well at least we killed your infidel elitist son Allah be praised."

I kicked him in the mouth and knew that I'd broken a few teeth.

I faced the camera that I'd had placed in the room and motioned for it to be activated.

"My name is Eric Tucker. Twelve men have threatened my family. One is dead and the other eleven will soon be dead. I'm sending you this video so that you understand that whatever depraved program you have in mind, my world is off limits to you.

"You don't want to experience the vindictiveness we would have for even a threat and this will be a brief example. I have no quarrel against any of your ideals or beliefs just so long as you carefully exclude any part of my family and business operations.

"As what you will soon see will demonstrate, I have less mercy for attacks against my family than any man on earth.

"Unless you are ignorant fools, you know that I have the resources so that whoever you are, I can find you within hours and I am not kind."

I turned so that the attention of the camera would be the focus of the picture.

"These fools are wearing beards like they are actually men. Remove them."

A team moved in and bent the boys back and used clippers to remove their beard to stubble

"You fucking inept morons didn't kill anyone. You don't even know how to plant a bomb you imbeciles. My son will be good as new in a few days but you did take the hearing in his left ear so now I'm going to take yours."

I turned to the selected Skuggor who were placed strategically and, in unison, they moved to the left side of the bound young men and skillfully inserted a long pick into their left ears leaving them screaming in pain. Blood soon was dripping from their ears as they collapsed as far as their bonds would allow.

I turned back to the camera.

"These fucking idiots tried to blow up my son. My son survived but these animals will not. Here's how I deal with people who try to blow up what is mine."

At my signal, the Skuggor bent the captives over onto their knees and lubed their assholes and then shoved heavily lubed M-80s into their rectum. The fuses were lit and very quickly their rectums exploded.

The screams were loud and hideous and relatively quickly, they all bled out. I had no intentions of offering aid to these bastards. I wanted them painfully dead.

I turned to the camera after it had scanned the carnage.

"So, come near me or mine and the howling wolves of Hell will come after you. Leave me alone and I don't give a shit what you try to do with all your 'jihadist' bullshit. By the way, if you ever want to discuss some serious non-Islamist real world commerce, you might just find that I'm a great partner to connect with."

Sean was white faced.

I wrapped him into a hug. "Sean, if they don't fear us, then we're vulnerable to constant attacks. That's why the deaths today had to be so horrible but setup to match the crime.'

"Tomorrow, Barry will upload a copy of that video to every known terrorist site on the Internet and I suspect that we'll be left alone. We'll become a 'scary' family."

"What was your reaction to today?"

"It was scary and upsetting but after hearing that first guy, I wanted him dead, I hated him and I hated the rest of them looking like they were so proud of doin' somethin' so mean and horrible. I gotta say that blowin' up their asses was a surprise but considerin' what they tied to do to Jack, it was prollyl a fair deal."

"In just a few weeks, you're turning thirteen. In most cultures, that is when a boy traditionally becomes a man. I was hoping that, you would be allowed to be a boy for a while but, from now on, for an hour or so every day, you'll spend time with Uncle Phil or Chris or Richard or Barry or Wolfman and you'll learn about the scope and operation of 'Magnus Venatus'."

He looked at me questioningly.

"That's Latin. It's what my father called this all. It means; 'the Great Game'. We're involved in so much stuff that it really is a game and Sean, don't be afraid, little man, most of the time it's fun. Just once in a while we have issues like this."

"Kay Dad. Thanks for trusting me enough to share all this. While I'm learning though, I'm gonna try to be a boy as well. I don't have to be a man while I learn grown-up stuff."

I hugged him tightly. "You are wise beyond your years Sean Michael Tucker."

He wiggled in my arms and looked into my eyes. "That's 'cause I've got a great father Eric Arthur Tucker."

***

Daniel informed me that there was no change in Jack's condition other than the fact that the shrapnel had been removed and it had all been superficial. During his conversation with Sam, he'd been informed that they would be keeping Jack in his induced coma for two more days for therapeutic reasons.

Daniel also told me that Arlen and the security convoy were on their way back from Deer Run with Brian. So, all was well it seemed.

"Come on Sean, let's go down to my study and talk about today."

We were seated across from each other and like yesterday, he'd accepted a glass of single malt and sipped it like a forty year old.

We discussed the mechanics of what had happened in that horrible room.

"They are required to grow beards by their religion in order to be considered a man. Therefore, I had them shaved to demonstrate that they weren't men.

"I had each of their left ear drums punctured because the explosion did that to Jack.

"Finally, I had them killed by an explosion because that's what they intended for your brother.

"Every action was very appropriate but also designed to make us scary to any crazies out there. By tomorrow, every organization sophisticated enough to have a WEB Site will have the video from today. Barry is VERY good at that kind of stuff."

"So Dad, Walter used to be the head of the Skuggor? He wasn't just your butler?"

I smiled. His quick bright mind was already putting together the pieces to the puzzle he only just been presented with.

"Actually, Walter organized the Skuggor many years ago along with my father who I hope you'll come to think of as your Grandfather even though you never knew him."

"I actually do already an your Mom is my Granma as well as my actual Granma in that place in Georgia and Kyle is like my brother an' my uncle… that's confusin' but I love him and also Walter is like my Grandfather too."

"We didn't learn about norman… sorry I mean 'normal' families a lot in the nest but I often wondered what it would be like to have a norman family an I kinda got the chance to learn."

"Mrs. Edwards is what it must be like to have a wonderful Grandma. I can't imagine a better Granpa than Walter and Dad, there can't be a better father in this whole world than you."

I smiled warmly at my wise little boy who had so quickly taken such a burden upon his shoulders and seemed to be handling it so well.

"So Sean, let's talk about your birthday. It's in three and a half weeks, which means that Jack will be home for it. Who would you like to invite and how would you like to celebrate?

"Well every one of our family of course." I smiled as he said that because I knew he meant our close staff members. "Mr. Gary and Bobby and 'course Spider an Charlie and Ricco."

"How about the rest of your team Sean?"

He crinkled up his cute little nose and though for a moment. "You know Dad, with everything that's happened; I haven't had the chance to get to know them that well. I'd rather just be with friends an' family."

I was beginning to believe that Sean was what some people call an 'Old Soul'. He was so much wiser than his age would imply.

My heart ached with love almost all of the time when I was around him.

***

After supper was finished, Sean quite abruptly announced, "Spider an me are sleeping in my room tonight and we're goin' up now. It's been a long day."

Brian actually looked a bit bewildered at this proclamation but he followed Sean down to the elevator after they'd both hugged Martha and kissed me.

I walked down to the library and poured myself a drink and laid out on a couch with my Nate Mentor novel and spent a very pleasant two hours. I'd learned that except for a hearing loss, Jack should be all right. I'd administered swift and frighteningly vengeful 'Tucker justice' and had a very interesting conversation with my young son who was much wiser than his years.

After my second drink and many enjoyable pages, I closed my book and decided that bed was more alluring than even the fiction of my favorite author.

I noted that it wasn't very late and decided to give the boys a kiss. Being boys they probably weren't asleep yet. Sean's door was ajar but I didn't quite expect what I saw as I approached.

Brian was on his knees with his torso and head lowered onto the mattress and Sean was aggressively reaming his athletic raised ass. It was obvious that Brian, although the larger boy, was completely submissive.

I wondered if Sean was exercising his dominance after learning about his inevitable future. I knew that I was certainly by nature an aggressive top so, this might be normal. There was nothing wrong with that as long as pleasure was shared.

I decided that this might not be the time to walk in and kiss them good night so, I walked down the hall and climbed into my bed and. despite the fact that I'd dealt out death today, I actually slept wonderfully.

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