Eff Del

Flights of Angels

Book 2 of Young But Daily Growin'

Chapters 28-30

Too many times, we allow our past actions to determine future events. We make the very human mistake of believing that once we have chosen a course of action, we are committed to it even when we discover it to be improper.

The truth is; life and time are forgiving. No matter how long you have traveled down the wrong pathway, you can always turn around and go back.

I'd been too hasty as I'd lined up the cue ball and instead of potting the six into the side pocket as I should have, the six skidded against the rail and rolled teasingly almost in perfect alignment with the corner pocket.

"Ooooh Dad! That was a big mistake." His stunning green eyes flashed merrily at me and he smiled in his most cheeky manner as he bent over the table lining up to sink the ball I should have dropped last turn.

With a very audible click, both balls connected and the six ball rolled smartly into the corner pocket. He grinned over his shoulder at me and I leaned in and gave him a smart smack on the ass.

He feigned a yelp but then stood up and while nervously winding the chalk at the tip of his cue, he locked me in a gaze. "Dad, I've got enough hours recorded and John says I'm ready so… could I go get my license tomorrow?"

The news actually took me by surprise and I took a deep breath and smiled at him. "Jack, that would be wonderful and I certainly don't see why not. Would you mind if I came with you guys?"

He broke into a wide grin. "Actually Dad, that would be great; especially if you drove another car. See, I told Amanda that I probably was getting my license and if I did, I was going to take her for a drive."

"Oh I see, you need me to drive John back home, so, I'm your taxi guy, eh?"

"Dad! It's not like that… it's just that I…" I pulled him into me and hugged him tight. "Silly John William Tucker, Of course I understand." I kissed the top of his head and he snuggled in against me.

"I don't know about this girl stuff but I sure like Amanda, Dad. Trouble is, I'm still pretty confused and I keep our conversation in mind because, the thing is, I kinnda like little Charlie on Sean's soccer team too."

I pulled him tight and whispered, "Sounds like a terrible problem to have Jack." He looked up at me and grinned.

"Of course, you know that I like you best of all." He kissed me and then turned back to the game. My little Rufus was all business and he left me with three balls on the table.

I was down to a half-cast by now and I got along pretty well with just a cane. Thanksgiving was just next week and I hoped that no one remembered that my birthday was just about the same time. Thanksgiving was on the 27th and my birthday was the 21st. I was still short of thirty but I felt older than that. A great deal older.

***

I sat in the library sipping on a glass of cream sherry. While I had not cut out drinking, I'd found that I was certainly altering when and what I was consuming. I was currently enjoying the thick sweet taste of this desert wine with the newest Nate Mentor novel resting on my lap.

As much as his writing enthralled me, this evening I'd scarcely turned a page. Instead, every two minutes or so, I found myself glancing at the clock.

I certainly hadn't been surprised that Jack had passed his driving test, but now I sat in the library like a nervous Nelly waiting for him to get home. By my reckoning, he was quite overdue and I couldn't suppress a smile as I realized that somehow, I'd become such a 'parent' that if the boys weren't being educated privately, I could run for the PTA.

"Hi Dad!" he grinned as he walked into the room.

I tried to hide my relief and to assume a more dour and authoritative composure as I looked at him. He was glowing with youth and joy and was oblivious of the fact that I'd been concerned that he'd been so long in returning from the DMV.

My anxiety vanished in a puff of green eyes and red hair. "Hello Jack. You're later than I expected you to be. Did Amanda enjoy your driving?"

"Yeah… yeah she did and I'm sorry I'm late Dad. We stopped up on the ridge and we kind of made out a little… err… we kindda made out a lot. I'm really sorry Dad."

"Jack all I'm interested in is that you're unharmed and you're doing things safely. You're not a little boy and you have a lot of experimenting to go through. This life is very different from the one that you grew up in. You've got a lot to learn and to savor. I understand and I fully support you. All that I require is not to have to worry needlessly."

"I gave you that cell phone so that you could let me know where you were and if you were going to be late… so I don't have to worry. Use your cell phone a bit more if you don't mind."

He grinned and turned into me and we hugged tightly.

I didn't bother telling him that the truth was neither he nor Sean would ever again venture off the estate without an accompanying bodyguard of Skuggor. They would be invisible to them, but the boys would be closely watched and protected at all times. I would never again allow the terror of the night of the invasion to happen. I would never again allow the sickening melting feeling of being helpless while someone threatened my sons in any way.

"Go show John your new license, Jack. He earned it as much as you did I think."

I swatted his wonderful ass through the tight black jeans he was wearing and he giggled and gave me a quick kiss before running out of the room.

***

John, Doc Swaim, Chris, Richard and I sat in lawn chairs up on the rough hill overlooking the soccer pitch.

Jack's game was fabulous. I've never understood people who think soccer isboring because the skill displayed by two well-matched teams is usually breathtaking. Other than reading his transcript, I had no idea Jack was so skillful.

He darted up and down the field passing the ball, turning the drive, skillfully nicking the ball in the right direction with just a touch of his heel. He only scored one goal personally, but the other two were direct results of his set up.

As he plopped down on the hill alongside us, I grasped his shoulder. "Jack! I hadn't realized you were that good. No wonder Coach wanted you so badly! This is going to be a fabulous season for us fans I think."

He grinned up at me and snuggled against my leg. I reached into the cooler and snatched a can of beer covered in a clever plastic sleeve that identified it as 'diet propsie'. He grinned as I handed it to him.

"Wait 'til you guys see Sean on a soccer field." He was bursting with enthusiasm as he spoke to our companions. "You think he can tear up a swimming pool? Just wait."

I was really looking forward to the match. Coach Cramford had told me only half-jokingly that he was hoping for lightning to strike twice. All of the 'seven samurai' were on the same soccer team as well as an additional six boys that I hadn't actually met yet.

I wasn't very surprised. The seven of them were extraordinary athletes and kids their age had more or less grown up playing soccer. Coach had the added advantage in that the seven of them were a team in their minds and hearts and that, in itself, made for a great advantage.

Sean had been elected captain of the team, which certainly didn't surprise me.

I sipped my beer as he and the captain of the other team gathered in the center of the field with the three officials for the coin toss. The Deer Run team uniforms were dark blue and black… almost as if they'd been chosen to make my little boy look even more stunning.

He moved with such confidence; such perfect élan and my heart just thumped with love as I watched him.

The other team won the toss and chose to defend the far goal. The team stook their positions and just before the referee blew the whistle for the kick-off I had a moment to reflect that this was almost exactly how my life had changed just short of a year ago. Only today, I was watching it live on not on video.

I noted with interest that Coach was playing three forwards; Sean, Rico and little Charlie. The voyeur in me also noted that Rico was wearing his hair much longer than he had during swim season. It suited him.

The whistle blew and Rico touched the ball barely moving it one and a half rotations forward. Little Charlie was upon it instantly sending it spinning to Sean waiting on the right who then clipped it neatly straight to the waiting Rico.

Their offense was dazzlingly swift and brilliantly coordinated. In what seemed like seconds, Rico had passed the ball cleanly to Charlie who, neat as a pin, feigned a kick and instead passed it to Sean.

Sean maneuvered the ball around the last two defenders and knocked it into the goal past an astonished goalie.

The spectators on our side went absolutely nuts.

I was very impressed. I knew that Sean was a magnificent player but Ihadn't known that the other boys… specifically Rico and Charlie… were so good. Then, it occurred to me that Rico, coming from a Salvadoran family, might have been raised with soccer as his first sport but Charlie's ball handling took me completely by surprise.

He was still very much 'little' Charlie being by far the smallest boy on the field. He still looked more like an 11 year old, but, just like with his swimming, he possessed speed and agility that you wouldn't expect. His footwork was as good as or better than any player on the pitch with the exception perhaps of Sean and Rico. I mused to myself that the first time I'd seen him naked at our swimming pool; I'd thought to myself that all he needed was pointed ears and insect wings and he'd be a perfect forest elf. With his flashing blue eyes and perpetual impish grin, his skills and competitive drive perfectly complimented Sean and Rico.

The coach's choice of these three as forwards suddenly seemed brilliant to me.

"Coach has been letting me work with the three of them after regular practice," Jack said as if he'd been reading my mind. "We've got some plays worked out that other teams are going to find hard to handle."

"Why did you select those three?" Doc Swaim asked with a twinkle in his eyes.

"C-cause… they're the best." Jack blushed bright crimson as only Jack could. He had confided to me that, while he was developing unfamiliar feelings for this girl 'Amanda' (whom I had yet to meet), he also was recognizing strong feelings for Charlie and the attraction seemed to have been mutual from the beginning.

He'd also shared, in the course of the conversation, that Sean and Rico seemed very close. I'd suspected that Sean and Rico had a particular fondness for each other for quite some time. This was obviously information that Doc shared as well.

The other team launched an aggressive series of attacks that penetrated about three quarters of the way down the pitch before being stopped cold every time by the Deer Run defense. Coach Cramford was so pleased with how well they worked with each other during practice, that he'd nicknamed these seven boys 'the Blue Curtain'.

They consisted of Mike, Buddy, Bulldog and Matty (the rest of the original 'seven samurai') plus three other boys I'd yet to get to know. Their names were Chuck, James and Ryan. They were each thirteen and were well-made boys of about the same height and build as Mike. Strangely, they were all three tow-heads, and from a distance, if I hadn't known otherwise, I might have thought that they were triplets.

In goal, was another boy that I had yet to meet. He was also thirteen but noticeably taller than the other boys. From my vantage point, I guessed that he was not considerably shorter than Jack was. He had mahogany-brown hair, and a seemingly perpetual grin. While he was yet to be tested in this game, both Jack and Sean had assured me that he was exceptional in the goalie position. His name was Brian but the boys had named him 'Spider'. The analogy of a spider and its web and a goalie and his net was not lost on me.

About fifteen minutes into the first half, the 'Blue Curtain' had again foiled the other team's offense. It was Ryan that sent the ball back into our half of the field. Sean was on it instantly and launched it high into the air up field where Charlie was positioned perfectly. The other team realized that they'd made the mistake of leaving the small boy in a dangerous position and they tried quickly to pull him offside. The ball had already been kicked however, and the Assistant Referee at that end of the field knew his stuff. He did not raise his flag and I noticed he gave the Referee at center field a small hand motion to indicate there was no offside and play should continue.

Charlie moved as if he were in a choreographed dance. With a strong leap, he propelled himself into the ball. As it made contact with his shaggy brown hair, he skillfully twisted his head and launched the ball into the net completely on the other side of the dismayed goalie.

Fists flying high in the air, the Deer Run Team mobbed the small boy as they ran joyfully towards the center of the field.

We, on our side were ecstatic. I noticed Jack was particularly overjoyed.

Doc Swaim leaned over and said, in a not so subtle a whisper, "Well, they won't take our little elf for granted again will they?"

The whistle for the half blew with the score at 2-0 favor of Deer Park.

Jack, as an unofficial assistant coach scurried down the hill and joined the team at the sidelines. 'Shit!' I muttered to myself. 'I hope nobody smells that beer on his breath.' If anyone did, nothing was said, and a few minutes later, we cheered the kick-off for the second half.

About ten minutes in, one of the other team, using excellent ball skill sdrove past the Deer Run defense and kicked towards our goal. One of his teammates and our own Mike ran madly to intercept the ball.

Just inside the box, they made contact and the other boy landed flat on his ass and rolled over onto his side. The referee blew his whistle shrilly and pointed to the penalty spot.

"Nonsense!" Coach Cramford was screaming. "They were both playing the ball fairly!" He ran out onto the field in fury… a big mistake and one that a coach as experienced as he was should never have made. The yellow card was out of the referee's pocket in a flash and coach had the good sense to shut up and go back to his bench.

"That was a perfectly awful call but coach knows better than to go out onto the field." Jack said to no one in particular.

A penalty kick is as close as a referee can come to actually giving a team a goal. The goalie must stand in the center of the goal line, with feet on the line and is not allowed to move them until the ball has been kicked. In that instant, he must then guess to which side the kick will be directed and how high. The only restriction placed upon the kicker is that he must wait for the whistle to sound and he may not feign the kick. The odds are overwhelmingly in the favor of the kicker.

Now in higher levels of the game, you will see that the goalie will often move at the sound of the whistle and not at the moment of the kick. This is usually an infraction that is overlooked, but in youth soccer, the officials actually take the rules far more literally than they seem to do at the professional level and a goalie that moves before the kick risks that should he somehow prevent a goal, the kick will simply be taken again.

This is a tense time and up on the ridge we were all leaning forward in our chairs… not a one of us even breathing.

Tall slim Spider stood on his line his eyes blazing like lasers… studying the kicker. I noticed that the grin never left his face. The boy loved this.

The whistle sounded and the kicker launched the ball.

He'd either inadvertently telegraphed his intentions or Spider just got lucky but the ball flew to the left side of the goal about mid-body height and Spider moved in the same direction punching it out into the field before the kicker even realized he'd been thwarted.

We were so excited that it took us a moment to realize Rico, with lightning reflex action, had been first to the ball and he'd launched it towards the other end of the field. Sean was on it like a hawk upon a pigeon. The other team was scrambling to re-group after losing what they were certain was a guaranteed goal.

I realized suddenly and obviously much slower than my little son, that Rico had passed the ball while both teams were still on our half of the field so there could be no question of an offside call.

Sean had control of the ball far ahead of the opposing defenders. With a smile of pure radiance, he sped up field with the ball, totally unchallenged, and for just a moment, he teased the other goalie with his footwork before he drove the ball into the goal.

Chris was on his feet hugging Richard and they were both jumping up and down. Doc Swain was leaning over to Jack slapping him on the shoulder. "Our Sean is as good as you said he was Jack!"

"Yeah, but don't forget it was Rico who got to the ball first and set up the goal. That's why Coach calls those three 'The Trident'."

"What a team!" I mused more to myself than any of my companions. "It's 'theTrident', 'the Blue Curtain' and the 'Spider'. Sean certainly has a knack for getting on teams with clever nicknames. It's going to be some year!"

Coach, seeing his large advantage, pulled Sean, Rico and Charlie and put in his three subs whose names I didn't know.

It was a fine demonstration of sportsmanship but, while Deer Run didn'tscore again, the 'Blue Curtain' stifled the other team.

The game ended 3-0 Deer Run.

Jack knelt down by my chair and said quietly, "Dad, if it's OK, I'm going to drive Charlie home. Uhm, OK?"

"Certainly Jack. You're a good safe driver just remember you have a phone in case you're going to stop for ice cream or something." Somehow, I thought to myself that it was more likely to be 'something' rather than ice cream.

Smiling, he scampered off to the locker room. I suspected he was hoping that at least one little brown haired boy was taking a long shower.

I motioned Richard over to me. "After Thanksgiving, I want to have a party for these boys and any friends that Jack might want to invite. We'll get together and talk about it when we're flying back from the 'Steel Cunt' tomorrow. I'd like to have this whole affair settled before we fly home, Richard.

Just as Walter would have, he nodded curtly and didn't say a word.

***

There were fifteen of them. Two were actually United States Senators and the rest were men of various public positions all of whom had played a significant part in maintaining the financial security of the nest. They had done this, of course, in exchange for free favors from the boys. There is, after all, no free lunch. While they publicly proclaimed their support for this private educational facility for poor young orphans, they were ever more interested in asses than they were in classes.

They had been kept naked and cool (not cold) all this time, and were separated from each other except for one meal a day which allowed them to exchange fears. Even the most arrogant and self-assured of them had, by now, been diminished to a fearful frightened creature… still human but in no way resembling the self-imagined powerful personage that he'd imagined himself to be.

After a few days, they'd been informed why they were being held. A few days later, they began to be subjected to the videos… the castrations and the euthanasia. Finally, a few days before our arrival at the 'Steel Cunt', they were shown the video of the two men being impaled upon the cones. The lesson was terrifying and they were all almost whimpering as they were led into the grey, dark room.

I was nothing but a shadow to them and a device in my microphone altered my voice as I addressed the cowering group. "You know by now what your potential fate is. You are the scum of the earth and the lowest of the low. Most of you will soon sit upon your own cones and let gravity be your executioner."

A howl of terror and pleading filled the room.

"You will be judged individually. Sit down on the floor and you will be summoned as you are required."

Each of the individual meetings was the same. I recognized that we needed political support for the nest and these sleaze bags were well established in that regard.

They were offered their freedom and intact-ness in return for their full and complete support of the government assistance for the nest and total support for any programs that might later be required. "You don't know who we are," they were told. "We, on the other hand, know who you are. You were given an injection on the day you were brought here. That injection contained a nano-tracking device that has inserted itself into your brain. You can't go anywhere in the world that we can't find you. If we have to find you, that probably means that we'll kill you."

Without exception, these 'great men' collapsed and gave their word. We gave them each plausible stories to explain their disappearances in order to save their public face. While I despised them, I also recognized that. had I not had Sean in my life, I might have become just as bad as any of them. I'd certainly been a client of the nest and so, as they say, 'let he who is without sin cast the first stone.'

I was not without sin, but I was certainly casting the stones.

One by one they were sent off to remote locations where they could explain to a wondering press about 'car accidents, being lost on wilderness hikes, private medical emergencies … whatever.

***

I walked down the long corridor with Richard and almost hated having to open the door. The two once haughty men were huddled together in a corner wrapped in a blanket and obviously terrified.

After they'd been mounted on the cones, they'd begun screaming in pain. That was what I wanted. We'd left them there for about five excruciating minutes while their pain and terror had been carefully videoed for future use. We then extracted them off the cones. They'd been left naked and cold together ever since.

I walked over and helped each one to their feet and guided them to two comfortable chairs that I'd had brought into the room.

I gave them a cup of warm soup and a new blanket and urged them to wrap themselves up and be warm. "Your lives will change for the better from now on." I was purposely in the shade but they both knew who I was. "Your pain on the cones was most certainly horrible but, without knowing it, you've in many way atoned for the evil that you committed upon all those young boys."

"I'm not saying that the score is settled, but you'll not need to fear any further retribution from me." They sobbed and sank against each other.

"The video of your torture on the cones has become a teaching lesson. Everyone who has seen it believes that you died upon those things. It is in our interest for them to believe that. You both believed you were going to die that horrible death and it was planned that way… however, we are not barbarians. When we kill, we simply kill."

A look of terror came over their faces and I could not allow myself to traumatize them further. I tried to smile kindly. "No, there are no plans to kill you. You will never be free again but your lives will not be torture or pain. I'm having you moved to a facility on Private Island. It is a resort for very privileged people. Chang, you'll probably know many of them but you may not acknowledge that fact should you meet them."

"You will both live out your lives as groundskeepers. It's not heavy work but it is steady, healthy and it is out-doors. You'll have your own little cottage and if you are not foolish, you'll live comfortable and, perhaps, even happy lives in a tropical paradise. I need you both to sign these documents that essentially turns everything you own over to one of our shadow companies. All these funds will then be transferred into protected trusts that will assist in the support of the Academy. Of course, you can refuse and then you can die."

Proctor Nick's assets didn't amount to all that much but Chang had been a very wealthy man and the transfer of his fortune would be a significant windfall for the school. As he put his signature to the paper, I grasped his wrist. He looked up at me with concern and I got down low glaring into his eyes. "You took the life of a very beloved friend. My first instinct was to leave you on the cone."

He gulped visibly and quickly signed the document. It would convert a rather sizeable fortune into my holdings but he was smart enough to know what his own life was worth to him.

At my signal, they were both brought clothing and a good meal. They devoured the food as we watched. I thought to myself that anyone who watched the impalement video would think that I was a barbarian and that was the whole idea.

I had, in fact, dealt out death and neutering. Some of each I might have reconsidered now that I'd cooled down from my initial anger. I couldn't change any of that but I could now be merciful and gentle while. at the same time. controlling my enemies.

"I hope that you'll try hard to make the most out of this opportunity… there has been enough blood."

Richard led me back down the hall and we boarded the helicopter for the flight home.

***

"Dad, Dad… I made you lasagna!" Sean was in his very long apron and as cute as anything I'd ever seen. He'd run into my arms with such exuberance that he almost knocked me over.

After accepting his hugs and kisses I finally let him back down and he continued, "Mrs. Edwards showed me how, but honest, Dad, I made it all by myself. I KNOW you're gonna love it!"

I hugged him tightly and wondered to myself how much longer he was going to be this innocent, sweet, wonderful little boy. I swallowed that thought and decided at once that I would enjoy it as long as it lasted. Wrapping him against me with one arm I walked us down the hall to the elevator. Sean was giggling and swinging his legs the entire time.

***

I really needed a shower and, almost at once, I realized that I needed Sean in the shower with me. No music game this time, just flesh upon flesh.

We hugged under the hot water jets, just silently enjoying each other. I ran my hand down the wonderful globes of his ass and pulled him close to me. I thought to myself that, other than my lost brother Kyle, I'd never loved another human being as much as I loved Sean. I certainly love Jack and he made my heart warm. We'd certainly been intimate… more so than a father and son should ever be… but even Jack didn't stir my heart the way that Sean did.

Sean was my savior… he was the one who had turned me from the path of self-destruction. Sean was the one that was sent by heaven to give my life meaning. It was impossible to love anything more than I loved Sean.

His 'Sean smile' burst over the big fluffy towel I'd wrapped him in and I couldn't control myself as I picked him up and carried him into bed.

I slowly unwrapped the towel as if I were opening a present. He was a present… beautifully naked, still essentially hairless and very compliant. He smiled up at me and wiggled his little butt on the bed. Sean was always wiggling… it was his nature.

His little cock was rock hard and I knew what he wanted. My lips engulfed it instantly. As my hand played over his little body, my hungry mouth worked upon his nail-hard little rod. He never tried to prolong his pleasure and it was very soon that he was wiggling and thrashing under me. My lips soon smothered his exclamations of pleasure as I kissed my beloved little boy passionately.

I held him tightly to me and ran my hands over his sweet smooth body. Silently he extracted himself from my arms and, like a little lizard, slid down between my legs. Without fanfare, he took my rampant cock into his mouth.

Sean had become quite proficient at fellatio and his little lips and darting tongue soon had me bucking on the bed as I expelled my load into his willing little throat.

We cuddled for about a half an hour before he shook me and said, "Come on Dad… we needa shower again and get down for dinner… MY lasagna!"

***

I was a bit surprised that so many of us were having dinner together tonight. Besides Sean and Jack, Richard, John, Barry, Doc Swaim, Uncle Phil and Chris were seated smiling around the table.

Martha and Jenny smilingly presented the salad and the steaming trays of lasagna prepared by the grinning little boy who sat by my side. Once everyone had been served, the table was silent save for the sounds of appreciation as they all ate.

From the first bite, I was astonished and delighted. I leaned over to Sean and gave him a sweet kiss. He returned the affection with a wonderful sauce lined 'Sean smile'.

"When is Sean planning to open his restaurant?" Chris asked and everyone exclaimed their agreement.

As the plates were being taken from the table, I smiled happily and raised my wine glass. "A toast to the chef!"

Everyone complied but then Martha rose from the table. "There shouldn't be toasts before the desert and, if Sean would help me, it is forthcoming."

A few moments later, they both emerged from the kitchen carrying a chocolate cake with one big candle. Everyone in the room rose to their feet and began singing 'Happy Birthday'. Sean and Jack were smiling so wide that I thought it might be impossible not to hurt their faces. My idea to ignore my birthday was apparently out the window.

***

We'd finally withdrawn into the parlor and I'd opened my presents most of which were comical but then, the boys handed me their gift. With a smile I opened it and was suddenly speechless. It was a large photograph of both of them standing before a white background. Wearing matching blue polo shirts and white shorts… it was stunning.

"Boys… thank you so much How did you manage to do this?"

Sean grinned as he climbed up on my lap. "Dad, you remember that you've got a photo studio, right? Well, once we got the idea, Chris knows about takin' pictures and we just did it."

I hugged him tightly and decided to tickle his ribs, which set him off into a fit of giggles finally leaving him falling off my lap and onto the floor.

As the party was breaking up I put my arm around Martha. "Thank you for loving my boys so much." I kissed her on the cheek.

"You ass, Eric!" She looked up at me sharply. "How could anyone not love those boys. It's you that's hard to love." Then she smiled and pulled me down for a real kiss. Martha made the entire world all right with just a touch or a gesture… a kiss made it spectacular.

***

I carried my carton of presents down to the elevator and into my room. Setting it down on one of the built in cabinets, I pulled out the photograph and sat at the edge of my bed admiring it. It was breathtaking.

Chris had captured both boys perfectly and I felt my eyes misting up as I realized that ultimately, he had trapped a fleeting moment for me… one that was so ephemeral that in mere months they would have changed. The relentless metamorphosis of growing from a boy to a man was taking place within both of them.

Obviously it was happening faster with Jack but it was also happening with Sean. The lyrics of an old folk song played vaguely in my head:

Where are you going my little one, little one?
Where are you going my baby my own?
Turn around and you're small,
turn around and you've grown.
Turn around and you're a young man going out on your own.

It was life and it was, of course natural, but still, I sat there feeling maudlin and a little sorry for myself. I hadn't drunk any scotch tonight but I had consumed some wine so I was a little tipsy and as I sat there sniffling quietly my mind wandered as it usually does. Winter is almost on top of us. Time to get them both to Struthers for anew wardrobe. The shorts they've been wearing don't really indicate how much they've grown. Oh, but I don't want them to have grown too much!

I sniffed so sorrowfully that I barely heard the door open.

They walked over to me silently because they could tell I was crying and that, of course, both confused and troubled them. They noticed that I was holding their photograph on my lap. They sat down on either side of me and Sean ran his little hand from my shoulder down my arm… 'almost as if he were petting a kitten' I thought to myself.

"D-do you like it Dad?" His voice was soft and filled with concern. "We wanted to give you somethin' special an this…"

I turned to him, leaned over, and kissed him.

"I don't like it sweetheart… I LOVE it. I'm going to hang it on the wall behind my desk in my study so you'll both always be there." I turned in the other direction and kissed Jack in his turn. He smiled and walked across the room returning with another wrapped package.

"Actually Dad that is just half of our present. We thought you would like this one as well."

I looked at both of them quizzically before opening the wrappings. As the gift was revealed, I felt my heart flip and for a moment, I couldn't breathe because it was so beautiful.

It was another photograph; the same large size as the first and framed identically. They were both in front of the same all white background but in this photo they were completely naked, their faces radiantly smiling and their beautiful bodies posed as if they were performing the finale to a Broadway show tune. It was the most wonderful photograph I'd seen since the marvelous picture I'd taken of Sean almost a year ago.

I was stunned!

"Whose idea was this boys?" I asked, in a voice that was almost a croak.

"Really both of ours, Dad," Jack answered. "After Chris showed us the ones of us dressed and we'd picked the one we had blown up and framed and gave you downstairs, we decided that just, between the three of us, we seem to have at least as much fun naked as we do with our clothes on. You never have made a secret that you like seeing us that way. So, we got undressed and had Chris take a bunch more pictures. After all, it's not like he hasn't seen us naked a bunch of times just like we've seen him."

"We chose this one cause we like it best, Dad." Sean added "Only thing, I don't know if your gonna' want to hang this one in your study."

"No, you're right Sean… not the study. THIS one I'm going to hang in the alcove with all you guys' trophies and medals."

He looked at me with a totally startled expression on his face. He was so cute that I knew I was going to burst out laughing any second.

"D-Dad… really? You're gonna hang our naked picher in the hall with the trophies an…" He suddenly realized I was joking and he burst into a fit of giggles as he threw himself against me and wrapped his arms around my neck.

"Boys, these two photographs are the most perfect and thoughtful gifts I think I've ever received. Thank you so much."

"You're welcome, Dad. Course, we got a third present for you too." He'd let me go and was standing in front of me slowly pulling his polo shirt over his head. I heard a rustle, turned around, and saw that Jack was already pulling his boxer brief down his strong, young legs.

"For this present though, we're doing the unwrapping." Jack, now completely and magnificently naked, leaned over and began to undo my shirt buttons. In a matter of moments, they were both pulling my shorts down. With some difficulty, they worked them off my half-cast and then, as Sean turned down the covers, Jack lowered the lights.

I don't know how they'd decided who was going to do what but while Jack kissed my lips with a passion that was bordering on full-blown maturity, his hands played with my suddenly hard nipples.

Sean coaxed my legs apart and soon his moist warm lips had engulfed my raging, hard cock.

In between hot tongue dueling with Jack, I manage to mutter, "No fair. You two are picking on a poor cripple."

Jack giggled and said, "Who cares? It's not as if I haven't done it before. Besides… we'll both sign your cast in the morning."

I had another random thought, I know that the holiday isn't for six days but dear lord, this certainly feels like Thanksgiving right now.

We fell into a fever of need, love and pure lust that prolonged the night into the wee hours of the morning. It was as if we couldn't get tired and we couldn't get enough. I don't know how many times I tasted each of their sweet boy jiz and though I have no idea how many times I actually came that night, I know that each boy brought me to climax far beyond my usual capabilities. I also noted with pleasure that Jack and Sean were not shy about pleasing each other and I wondered if their relationship had gone as far as penetration.

I reflected that, if I had not interfered, Jack would have been the one to take Sean's little cherry in just a couple of years so it might be only right if they had already done it. Somehow, though, I suspected that I would have known it that had happened.

Eventually, our passion exhausted us and as I lay on my back, I found myself with a naked boy lying against each side of me with a head on each shoulder. I reached down and lovingly grasped two delightful young butts and smiled as sleep overtook me.

Guys, I can't thank you enough for your incredible response to Chapter 27. I hope that this chapter has cleared up some of your fears that Eric was becoming something evil I hope this has eased your concerns.

Chapter 29

In this life, we've met unhappy people who bemoan their fate and cast blame against others. Some people exclaim that cruel fate has turned their life to dross.In a manner of speaking, they are partially right.

Everything happens for a reason

Sometimes, though, the reason is that you've made very bad decisions.

There was a major controversy going on and I wasn't supposed to know about it.

Sean, being a little boy and not having been raised in the 'no snitch' culture of normal American kids, had come to me because he was concerned that it was a real problem.

I seemed that John had gotten it into his head that he wanted to deep-fry our Thanksgiving turkey. He'd heard it was quick, tasty, and juicy. He'd even gone out and purchased the equipment.

Martha on the other hand had insisted this was the silliest idea she'd ever heard of and continued by stating that; even if John's frying method produced a tasty bird, there would be no drippings that would be fit for creating the gravy that was so essential for a real turkey dinner. "People who don't know what they're doing simply use the giblets and other detritus" she'd apparently exclaimed, "but a truly rich perfect turkey gravy requires drippings from the roasting pan."

"Dad, nobody knows more about cookin' than Mrs. Edwards but Jack says we should let John try that fryin' machine 'cause John's so smart about stuff like that'."

"What does Jenny say about this situation Sean?" I asked trying hard to hide my amusement.

"Well, she keeps saying that we should get two smaller turkeys and try both ways an' that if John's way messes up, then him and Jack will wind up eatin' lots of mashed potatoes on Thanksgiving."

I just had to grin.

"Well Sean, I think that Jenny is a very wise young lady and she's going to make a wonderful wife for John. I think we should take her advice. Let's go call a peace conference."

It turned out that they were all in the kitchen when Sean and I walked down. "I've heard that we have a small controversy going on about the turkey."

They all turned to look at me and both Martha and John looked at Sean in a slightly adverse manner.

"Now hold your horses you two. Sean wasn't snitching; he was concerned and he loves you all such a bunch and he was afraid there was true anger going on. I know that's not happening between you so, here's what I think ought to happen."

"Martha, you should get an extra-large turkey because even if the fried bird turns out to be magnificent, we'll still want gallons of your famous gravy. John, you should get a nice big bird and try out your new method. I've read about it and I'm certainly curious."

"Sean, you're assigned to help Martha and Jenny in the kitchen and Jack, you'll help John out on the patio with his frying apparatus. Is that OK with everybody?"

Martha smiled. "A perfect solution Eric. I'll admit to being curious about this fried turkey thing as well but, my darling boss; if it works out and I cook a larger than normal bird, there is certainly going to be a lot of turkey left over."

I bent down and kissed her cheek. "Martha, Thanksgiving wouldn't be a very worthwhile holiday if it weren't for the left-overs. Besides, I forgot to tell you that there would be a few extra guests. Ricky and Mandy are flying up to be with us. Doctor Scott is staying in Houston to oversee the celebration at the Academy. He intends to dedicate the rest of his life to the boys and the curriculum there. He's so saddened and I think horrified at what his educational theories were corrupted into."

"The Commodore declined my invitation. He's flying back to Florida and says he doesn't want a thing to do with me until camp opens next summer. I guess I don't blame him. I placed a lot upon him this year though I truly wish he would have joined us and enjoyed this meal. This Summer we'll get him to Long Bear for a fish fry… maybe we'll finally get you to come up there with us Martha."

"Also, Gary and Bobby will be celebrating their first Thanksgiving as Father and son and they've happily accepted my invitation to spend it with us."

Everyone greeted this news with happy reactions and so, I headed back down the hall to my study. I was going over several reports when there was a soft knock on my door. I looked up and Sean was standing there.

"D-dad, could we talk about somethin'?"

"Of course Son. I told you I'm always here to talk about anything you're interested in. Come sit down." I indicated a chair in what I thought of as the 'conversation corner' of my study and I quickly got up and took a facing seat.

"Dad, you're prolly not gonna like this cause it's about sex stuff." I surprised myself by stiffening in my chair.

"Sean, anything that's on your mind is important to me, and I'll never get mad or angry over honest conversation. What's on your mind son?"

"Fucking Dad."

I couldn't hide my surprise and I'm afraid I frightened him for a moment.

"Yes?"

"Fucking. I want to try it an' I'm ready to try it an…"

"Sean… WAIT. I really need Jack to be a part of this conversation for reasons you don't understand right now."

"I have got a very important meeting with Richard in about an hour so let's say that you, Jack and I meet here after dinner? I promise we'll have a very adult conversation then for as long as it takes. Is that fair?"

He grinned and got up from his seat and hugged my neck. "You're always fair Dad. I'll go tell Jack."

His adorable little ass was out of the door in an instant.

***

Richard and I had become very comfortable with each other and he'd had no problem accepting my offer of a drink as he sat in my study. "You know Richard; you don't have to drink scotch just because I do. Walter, like Phil always drank Crown Royal and soda which was what my father drank."

"Thanks Eric, but my late Uncle Thomas told me once that successful men drink scotch and I'm acquiring the taste. Unfortunately for me, you pourvery expensive scotch but then, I don't drink much"

"Yeah, single malt is expensive but it's also the best. As for 'unfortunately' Richard, I guess you haven't paid attention to your raise in salary since you've assumed your new position. You can certainly afford to stand me to a few drinks now and then."

He blinked a few times and I realized that money wasn't really a major concern for Richard. He lived for his work and his honor and though we had dealt out justice, he still felt like he'd failed because Walter was dead.

I also knew that time would heal that wound and work would allow that healing process to evolve. I would allow time to do that healing and not attempt to interfere with his very complex personality. I liked him. Walter had trusted him. I felt comfortable with him in his current position. That was all that I really needed right now.

I smiled at him and sat down. We both took a slow slip and then I said, "So?"

"Well, Eric, as you already know, the nest people who were against our reform are pretty much neutralized."

"Our two 'cone sitters' are already in the South Pacific. They've been put to work but, their work will not be hard. If they behave, their lives will pretty much be a long tropical vacation. They will want for nothing except for little boys of course. Most people work hard all their lives and get a great deal less."

"Despite that, the attack on this property was a wake up call for all of us. While I know I have to keep up the personae as your butler, I truly think that I need to devote much more of my time to Skuggor activities. Finding my 'assistant' is really a priority for this property."

"I know that Terry was in line for that job but that was Walter's decision, and Walter (God bless him) had a weakness when it came to people he wanted to trust. I think that's why he needed Barry and me. We kept his perspective for him."

"Eric, I never had any faith in Terry. He was weak and ridiculously ambitious. I, of course, have some hindsight to draw upon and I believe a Skuggor trained man would suit our needs better."

"So, do you have someone in mind?"

"I do and I've taken the liberty to have him waiting outside to talk to you."

I raised an eyebrow in surprise. This was a bit audacious on Richard's part and it somehow made me like him even more. I realized that Walter had left me in very good hands.

"He has a general understanding of what this position would entail. Like most of us who've pledged to Skuggor Grey, he has no family and he's already dedicated his life to the service of Skuggor, which of course, ultimately means to you. This would be a gigantic and unanticipated promotion for him but I believe he's up to the job. Daniel is everything Terry was not."

"From a Skuggor point of view, he is skilled in three martial arts regimes… in fact, to say 'black belt' would be insulting. He is an expert marksman with rifle, pistol and (unlike most military trained men), shotgun, though I daresay Andy and Doctor Swaim would still embarrass him in that regard… Those two are amazing."

He would answer directly to you, and then to me as his second-in-command… we'd all be joined at the hip for better or worse." He actually giggled for a moment.

"As for the household part, Eric, he's FAR more qualified than me and frankly, far more qualified than Walter was. This guy is actually a graduate of the British Butler Institute and served as butler to some British Earl of 'some such'… I'll show you his resume if you want but he's been completely vetted and… he has a degree in economics. He'll probably save you tons of money on the estate budget… not that you ever really pay much attention to that."

"He can manage the entire staff efficiently and professionally. The household management would be his primary concern but, being a fully trained Skuggor, he could come in handy in a pinch."

"Besides all that Eric, he's a really great guy, plays the flute… not that that matters, but the boys might enjoy that, and, he loves the idea of this job."

"OK Richard," I smiled as I said it. "Let's meet this guy"

He rose from his chair and walked to the door. Shortly, he returned with a giant.

Daniel from my seated perspective must have stood six feet five inches [1.95 m] tall. He was stocky as a bull but seemed to have not an ounce of excess fat on him. Nothing jiggled as he walked confidently into the room.

He was clad in traditional Skuggor greys, which set off his red/gold hair. I suppose, it should be called 'auburn' but it was striking. He had light blue eyes and a neatly trimmed goatee. He also had the most joyful smile I'd ever seen in my life except for Sean's and the most joyful smile in the world.

I indicated a seat that he should take and it groaned as he took his place. "My God, I've finally met a man who could make Doc Swaim seem small." I grinned as I said it.

Daniel was confused and so I waved off his concern telling him he'd understand it all if everything worked out as we hoped.

I offered him a drink of his choice and I was pleased when he told me, "Truly civilized men only drink scotch." His eyes grew brighter as he watched me reach for the bottle of Glen Fiddich.

His smile increased, and his left eyebrow arched and he said in the happiest voice I'd ever heard from a grown man, "Only the truly high born, cultivated, civilized and cultured drink single malt 'uskebeaghe'; the water of life. I salute you Mr. Tucker though I must say that my own personal favorite is Glenlivet… as if I could ever afford more than a bottle a year."

I smiled at him and raised my glass in salute.

"Well, Daniel, I can assure you that if we agree upon this relationship, you'll not only be able to afford your drink of choice, most of the time it will simply be provided as part of your 'job well done' package. Hell, I'll bring in a couple of cases and I may discover I've been drinking the wrong whisky."

Much to my surprise, our conversation went on for just short of three hours.

We covered the mundane duties of running the household, the importance of careful staffing and many other seemingly ordinary things that somehow Daniel turned into fascinating subjects. His conversation was intelligent and intriguing.

I then touched upon my homosexuality and the questionable orientation of my boys. I carefully explained without any revealing details, the unusual relationship that we shared. I also mentioned the frequent nudity that would occur especially now that we'd shut down the outdoor swimming pool for the season.

One of his responses surprised and delighted me, "Aside from a sunset over the ocean, there is no grander sight than a boy's bum romping along in happy pursuit of his own imagination. If it's naked, it is all the more competition to the glory of the poor sinking sol."

Finally, I told him that the person who assumed this position would be expected to become like family.

Daniel nodded his head and then broke into a big grin. "So if I'm going to be family, I can ask for another drink right?"

Richard and I smiled at each other. "I'll do the refills," Richard said as he gathered our glasses.

After we'd sipped from our refreshed drinks, I turned to Richard. "You know, I was going to ask you to move into Walter's apartment here in the big house but now, I suspect that you should stay in your condo and that Daniel needs to move in here."

"Welcome to the family Daniel."

"Richard will show you to your suite. Walter's things have been moved out and stored in a far corner of the house. I'll go through them soon but I just can't do it now. The suite has been entirely cleaned and is ready for you to move in and make it your home if that should be your choice. It is more than comfortable I can assure you."

"I'll expect you to move in immediately if not sooner. I'll need you to hit the ground not running, but flying."

"That won't be a problem Mr. Tucker."

"Daniel, it's 'Mr. Tucker' for formal occasions. Otherwise it's 'Eric' OK?"

He stood up and so did I expecting to take his hand in agreement, but he wrapped me into a bear hug lifting my feet off the floor.

When he'd returned me to the ground, his face got completely serious. "Mr. Tucker… Eric, that's the last unprofessional thing you'll ever see me do and, I promise that you'll never be sorry that you've offered me this opportunity."

After I'd gained my composure, I said, "Daniel, Richard will get you acquainted with your staff. Take over at once. Richard will help you with that."

You and Martha are in complete control of the household, though I know she tends to concentrate on her kitchen and she always counted on Walter to oversee the rest of the staff. I suspect she'll 'let' you take on more of those duties and that's fine with me."

"Now, my first instructions. We'll be using the formal dining room on Thanksgiving and I insist that next to Jack's place, there will be an empty place setting. That will be Walter's place and we won't have this meal without him. Most of my senior staff will be at the table for the meal, you will not be because, you will oversee the service."

"After the meal has been prepared, Mrs. Edwards will be joining us at table and she will be treated as the lady of the house. I assure you that Mrs. Edwards will make certain that you and your serving staff will have a wonderful feast as well."

Richard remained stone faced just as I would have expected. Daniel got teary eyed and said, "I knew Walter too Mr. Tucker. He hired me and… It will be just as you say."

***

They walked into my study more timid and quiet then I'd ever known them to be.

I pointed to two chairs and I sat down just as they did and we looked at each other and, for the first time, I sensed they were uncomfortable with me. I decided that I needed to diffuse that situation at once.

I turned around to the little refrigerator, took out a root beer and two Heinekens, and distributed them appropriately. With a smile, I asked Sean, "Unless you're ready to have a real beer little man?"

He shook his head. "Not for me right now Dad.'

"OK. I have a sense of what we're going to talk about this evening Sean, and, you'll understand why I wanted Jack here before we're through."

We're a family Son, but in many ways, Jack has been family to you far longer than I have. There should be no secrets and no unspoken words between us… certainly not regarding something this serious. So, go ahead my little love bug and feel safe in what you say."

"Could I… would it be alright if I sat with you Dad?"

I smiled and opened my arms and he came across and sat on my lap. I wrapped my arms around him. He was still a bit small for his age.

"I really like the sex stuff Dad. With you an' Jack and even some of the other guys. I really like it an' I want to learn even more about it."

"I know what fucking is… you told me yourself an' I want to do it. Do you unerstan' that Dad?"

"I think I do Sean. I didn't understand my needs and feelings for male/male sex until I was older than Jack is but you guys were raised in the nest… well the old nest… and things were very different for you."

"The problem is, I took you away before that part of YOUR education had even begun. If the truth be told, you learned about and experienced sex sooner than you would have if you'd stayed at the nest."

"Yeah, but Dad… on that first day we were together, when you first picked me up and when we were on the jet, I asked you if you were gonna' fuck me and you said yes. I've asked about it since then an you always tell me 'NO'. I don't unnerstan' what's goin' on?"

"Sean, you don't know the real truth about the nest or what you would have been forced to do if I hadn't seen you on video and fallen in love with you. I'm going to ask Jack to explain what would have happened if you'd stayed there and I hadn't taken you into my life."

Slowly, lovingly, but with no holds barred, Jack related his story as Sean sat there wide-eyed.

"So, you see, that 'special Training' you were looking forward to Sean was just a way of getting you ready to let strange men do things to you that they had no right to. I'm guilty of many things… I'm guilty of getting you started with sex earlier than you would have had you remained at the nest."

"I won't apologize for that Sean… I was learning about you just as you were learning about me and I simply came to love you so much. However, I'm true to my original promise, little man. I will not violate you, hurt you, or compromise you while you're so young."

"What we've done has been mutual pleasure and pure and wonderful love. I would never abuse that love or your trust in me… not even if you begged me to."

"If you'd stayed at the nest, in two years or so, Jack, who, as your Lead Senior, would have been assigned to take your little cherry and fuck you for the first time."

"After that, as Jack has told you, you'd be passed around among the older boys to be fucked rather energetically before you turned fifteen and were sent out on contract to be used like a whore by men who didn't even care who you were."

"Jack knows all about this and so does Bobby. By the grace of God, you don't, Sean."

"I'm guilty of many terrible things, but I've never raped a little boy. Despite contracting for him, I've only fucked Jack very recently and I suspect he's told you about that."

I stared at both of them and they exchanged guilty looks.

"If you're determined to know about fucking, I suggest that you follow what would have been your natural course had you both still been at the old nest. You both love each other and Jack would be gentle and caring. It would also be age appropriate."

"Sex doesn't always have to be about love Sean although it's much more wonderful that way. Sex DOES have to be about mutual consent and mutual caring."

"Now that you're my Son, I promise that you'll never be forced by anyone to do anything you don't want to do and you'll never be anyone's whore, but, if you want to try fucking Sean, I sincerely suggest that you try it with Jack. He's your brother by the law but your best friend by the kindness of heaven. I wish my first time had been with someone like that."

"The fact is Sean, you may not even like it… Jack certainly doesn't."

"I like it with you a lot Dad," the redhead who had been silent until then said.

"Well, be that as it may, Jack, you're four years older than Sean and I thought you were too young just nine months or so ago for me to take that way. You both have to recognize and respect my point of view in this regard."

"Boys, this conversation would horrify and disgust 99% of the people in the world out there. This isn't the way our relationships should be in the eyes of proper society. In their eyes, I would be a disgusting monster and you, would either be poor little victims or depraved little wantons."

"However, we are not a normal family in any way shape or form. We have the benefit of being VERY rich and we don't have to really worry about that crap. Having said that, we love each other as much as any other family in this world… perhaps a great deal more than many."

Sean was nuzzling against my shoulder and I was rubbing his arm without even thinking about it.

"So Sean, if you came to me earlier to ask me to fuck you, the answer is still NO… for now and for several more years and by then, it will probably be the last thing on your mind. If you came to ask about fucking in general, you now have more information than most kids your age should have. What you choose to do with it is up to you."

He got up off my lap and looked me in the eyes.

"Thanks' Eric… you're the best Dad there could be in the world." He kissed me.

Jack walked over and kissed me too. His green eyes were moist with unshed tears and he didn't try to say anything. I understood.

Much later, as I was on my way to bed, the door to Jack's room was open slightly. A warm soft orange light spilled out through the opening and painted a lovely line across the carpet and up the opposite wall.

I'm not a voyeur by nature but I was curious so I stopped just at the threshold.

The noises made by even a very expensive and well-made bed while being used as a playground were unmistakable and they were only slightly dampened by the moans, grunts and sighs of young voices obviously engaged in the act of ultimate physical pleasure.

A very significant event was going on in Sean's life and this was as close as I could come to being a part of it.

While my darker side quietly wished it could have been me doing it, I also knew I'd never feel right if it had been me. What was happening was just as it should be. In the end, the partnership between Sean and Jack had reached its ordained destination.

I smiled and walked into my room.

Sleep had no problem finding me.

***

It was still quite dark when I sensed him slipping under my comforter and into my bed.

His smooth, warm body snuggled up against my back and he wiggled several times sort of burrowing into and against my back… mostly my butt. I smiled at his not so subtle attempts to wake me without seeming to be TRYING to wake me.

"Do you want to talk about something Sean?" I asked softly without moving.

"Yeah." It was almost a sigh as he answered.

I turned over and around so that we were face to face, wrapped my arms around his wonderful torso, and pulled him tightly against me.

He responded by reaching up and grasping my neck in a tight hug. We stayed that way for about fifteen minutes and I guessed that I'd better break the ice.

"So, little man, what's up?"

"Jack fucked me tonight."

"Was it terrible?"

He nuzzled against my chest. "N-no, it was really nice. Jack was so cool… he 'splained to me everything that was goin' on and said this was just like we'd of done it when I was fourteen but this was better 'cause we were doin' it 'cause we wanted to and not cause I was getting' ready to be some slut for rich guys."

"So, it was nice then?"

"Yeah, it was nice. It hurt a little bit the first time but mostly, it felt wonderful. Jack says I'm lucky 'cause it only feels wonderful for him when you do it. 'Course I don't know 'cause you won't do it with me."

He began to squeak like a little mouse and I knew he was crying but trying hard to hide it.

I stoked his back in long soft rubbing motions as I held him tight in my other arm. This was a very emotional and life changing night for him and I understood his jangled emotions.

"Sean… you are my son. You are the son of my heart and my soul. I cannot put into words that you would understand how much you've changed my life and how much you mean to me."

"B-but you won't fuck me like you fuck Jack. W-why not Dad?"

I sighed and pulled him tightly against me. "Sean, I've never lied to you have I?"

"N-no."

"OK then, I'll make you a firm promise… when you turn fourteen, if you still want to, we'll go up to the cabin at Long Bear and I'll fuck you until you scream 'Uncle' and then I'll fuck you one more time. How about that?"

"Is that a real promise? Would we be like just 'Sean an Eric'… that kinda thing?"

"Yep. If you still want it, it would be that kind of thing. I truly promise, Sean. Are you happy that Jack fucked you?"

"Oh yeah. It was great… so much more than I thought it would be that's why I want to do it with you."

"Jack says that tomorrow night he's going to let me fuck him. He says I'll like that a lot."

I smiled in the darkness and thought to myself; 'little man, you have no idea. Your life is just beginning.'

"Yeah Sean, I think you'll like it a lot." I rolled over onto my back and he soon threw an arm and a leg across my body.

In this familiar position, we both fell quickly asleep.

***

John drove up with Gary and Bobby and the boys were waiting at the front door jumping up and down. We'd barely had time to say hello before all three boys disappeared into the house leaving Gary and me smiling and shaking hands.

"So Gary, how's fatherhood?" I smiled at him.

"Well it's certainly not what I expected Eric."

"After our last conversation, I took up your suggestion and we've become very … uhhm… physically close. Life is wonderful and I love him so much that it drives me crazy. This is not how I once envisioned my life to be but it's better than perfect. I'll always be grateful for what you've done for us."

We were still standing there while the staff unloaded the limo and Gary suddenly stopped one of the guys.

"These two boxes need to go straight to the library Eric. They're presents just for you." I nodded and Daniel, who was right there, pulled one of the men aside and softly gave him instructions.

Later, Gary and I were seated in the library. Their cases had been brought up to their rooms. I'd smiled at that because they were in two separate bedrooms but I suspected that only one would be used this visit. I'd made certain they were in two rooms with adjoining doors. What they did at night was strictly their business

Gary smiled broadly and my heart warmed as I realized how much I liked this man.

"Before you offer a drink Eric, you and I have similar tastes, and so, for our Thanksgiving celebration, I've brought a case of Bowmore 25 for our enjoyment. Daniel, if you would, open that crate and pour us a dram… only thing Eric, the first drink is without ice… agreed?"

I, of course, had some bottles of Bowmore 25 in my stock but at approximately $425 a bottle, it was ridiculously too expensive to drink… the way I drank at least.

"Pour one for yourself please Daniel."

The big man looked to me for guidance and I smiled and said, "Remember Dan, you're family."

Gary raised his glass of pure amber liquid. "I hardly knew him at all, but here's to Walter."

I took a slow sip and it was glorious. I smiled at Gary and Daniel. "Skoal! Walter used to say and this Thanksgiving is all about what he helped to happen so… Skoal friends."

We tossed down our glasses and Gary reached over and touched my arm. "Promise me that you'll never pollute this with ice Eric."

I smiled and hugged his neck. "Promise me that you'll never let Bobby down."

He turned abruptly obviously thinking I was serious, but when he saw the smile on my face, he began giggling. "I suspect that a boy is worth more than an expensive bottle of whisky yes?"

We calmed down and slowly sipped our exquisite scotch.

"Am I to assume this carton is to stay stored here?" Daniel asked.

"Absolutely" Gary responded.

"Before I leave, me and this wonderful young man who is your boss, will have drank… oops… drunk it all."

Now, that other case is six bottles of Beaujolais from a vintner in France that I own shares in. It's really very good and I thought it would go well with our Thanksgiving dinner."

As I sipped my tumbler of exquisite liquor, I once again thought about what a beautiful man he was.

***

We found all three boys just as I'd suspected swimming and horsing around in the indoor pool. The howls of young boy fun echoed against the tiled walls and Gary and I were forewarned of their mischief before we'd walked into the chamber.

"Pop! Get out of those clothes quick and you guys come play with us!" Bobby called from the far end of the pool as we walked in."

Sean and Jack waved at us with big goofy grins.

I turned to Gary and shrugged. With a large smile, he pulled his polo shirt over his head. Quite quickly, naked as the three boys, except for my cast and the plastic I'd wrapped around it, we were in the water and the melee had begun.

Gary was older than the rest of us and after about thirty minutes of horseplay, I could see that he was tiring. I called for a 'formal swim'… making things up as I went along, I had the boys swim lengths of the pool using different strokes while Gary and I sat up on the deck in lounge chairs.

Bobby was quite good and I wondered if all nest boys were such super athletes. My mind wandered back to Jack's interview with Doc Swaim and it occurred to me that they probably were. Growing up in an environment of mutual support and encouragement would bring out the best in anyone.

***

Chris joined us for dinner that night and over the entire cross conversation, I noticed that he was giving me the LOOK.

An impromptu pool tournament occurred in the game room after dinner, and we played in ragged teams… the three boys against Gary Chris and me. We played for about three hours laughing constantly and to my surprise, the boys beat us by one game.

In the end, as they all wandered off to bed, Chris was still in the game room. His eyes said everything that was needed.

We'd not reached the complete peace between us that would have allowed him to just assume that we'd go upstairs together, and so, I hung my cue stick on the rack and turning to him I softly said, "It's far too late for you to cart back to the condos alone Chris, Why don't you spend the night here?"

He smiled lovingly and gratefully and I moved across the room and threw an arm across his shoulder. I pulled him to me and pressed my lips against his. Our mouths opened and our tongues dueled for entrance and possession. Briefly, the thought passed through my mind that Chris just might be the best kisser I've ever known.

As we walked hand in hand down to the elevator, my mind played over an imaginary scenario. If things were going as planned, Sean was fucking Jack right about now.

Thanksgiving morning would dawn upon a very different little boy.

I sighed silently. Doc Swaim had prepared me for this many months ago and to my surprise, I was happy and content.

As we entered my bedroom, Chris silently began to remove my clothes. As he pulled down my pants, the huge bulge in my boxer briefs let him know that he was very welcome in my room.

Soon, we both stood naked in the dim light and I once again marveled at the beauty of his youthful trim body. I took his hand and let him to my bed.

***

It was Thanksgiving morning, the entire 'real' part of the house was bustling as Chris, and I walked down for breakfast. Martha greeted us with a large smile. She was entirely non-judgmental. All she wanted was for people to be happy.

"Well, you slugabeds! The boys and Gary have been way ahead of you and are already out about on useful business. You're barely in time for some sort of breakfast… sit down, sit down… it'll have to be eggs and toast and 'make do'. You can't expect more than that."

I smiled as I quietly squeezed Chris' ass and thought to myself that there was something wonderful about being the richest man in the world humbly allowing his cook to scold him for sleeping in."

I loved my life and I loved Martha.

As we sat down, I reflected upon the past. I realized that in many ways I loved Martha as much or perhaps even more than I loved my own mother.

I'd always been much closer to my father than my mother. She was certainly loving and caring but it was my father who had been cuddling, nurturing, and always interested in my day.

My mother certainly loved me. I never had a doubt about that my entire life and, we'd certainly had moments of intense closeness, but she was never capable of providing the physical contact that a child needs as he grows.

My father on the other hand, was quick with a hug, a kiss, and an unexpected tickle. My father was a fun father… someone I loved and wanted to be like. Except for my sexual orientation, I had begun to think that he'd be proud of me. He wasn't appalled by my sexuality when I 'came out'; he'd been kind and good-natured… understanding and caring. I loved my father only slightly less than I loved Kyle.

My mother was not cold, but she wasn't warm. Something about her life seemed to surprise and annoy her yet, I know to a certainty that my father and mother loved each other intensely. It was obvious just by watching them. In retrospect, I think she loved her husband more than she loved her children… it was rather convoluted because she was always there for me and she always hugged and kissed me but, I simply felt closer to and more loved by my father.

As those thoughts raced through my mind, Martha, with an obligatory huff, placed plates of scrambled eggs, toast and fruit before us. Just as I was going to teasingly protest her error, she arrived with two mugs and a steaming hot carafe of coffee.

***

We tracked down Gary and the boys. They were out on the lawn tossing a football around. Very quickly, we broke into teams…"Geezers against the Guys". Those were Bobby's names and I kept thinking that I really liked this kid. I really liked his Dad. I liked everybody around me.

It was three on three touch football but, without a modicum of shame, we adults blatantly took advantage of our superior size and strength. This really was fair in a way, because the kids certainly took advantage of their youthful agility and speed.

The ultimate breech in standard rules occurred when Bobby handed the ball off to Jack and Jack passed it to Sean who made a dash for the goal line.

Chris caught him just just in time and instead of just tagging him, picked him up and ran towards the other goal. Sean was howling with laughter, kicking, and thrashing but couldn't escape Chris' strong grip. The other two boys tried desperately to either stop him or tackle him but Chris was the youngest of us 'Geezers'. He crossed the line and planted Sean (who was still clutching the football) ass first onto the grass.

We didn't keep track of the score but eventually the boys admitted that we'd kicked their butts.

It was a glorious autumn day. Not cold but just crisp enough to make you enjoy a sweater and physical exercise. It was a perfect day to spend with three teenaged boys. Dinner wouldn't be until around four o'clock. I'd alerted Andy that we would be shooting and by mutual consent, we were walking out to the gun shed. Doc Swaim was going to meet us there.

***

Andy was waiting for us. He had guns laid out for each of us. Sean and I had our own of course though Andy commented that Sean would soon be outgrowing the stock on his Beretta and that he'd need him to come down so that he could take measurements to refit it.

Jack had only used guns from our stock… not that there was a bad one in the group and I made a mental note that a personal one might make a dandy Christmas present.

Doc Swaim smiled and greeted us each with a slap on the back. "This is almost like a gentlemen's sporting club gathering!"

We all took positions and Andy launched the clays at our individual cries of 'Pull'. I noted with pride that Sean and Jack did very well and to my surprise, Gary matched me shot for shot.

"Now, you lot go o're thare and take a braeck while I have a bit o time with these two." Andy shushed us away while he kept Chris and Bobby at the points. He hunkered down and moved his arms like some ancient Gaelic snake.

I smiled… 'He's working his Andy magic' I thought. In just a few moments, they're going to be better than some people who've been shooting clays for years. I was right and shortly, Bobby was breaking eight out of ten.

We'd shot for about an hour and I noticed Doc and Andy looking at each other. "Damnit you guys! OK… a hundred shots between you and not another one. We have dinner at four o'clock. Sean, get up there and take the button from Andy."

Andy walked into the shed and returned carrying his double-barreled shotgun of unknown origin. We'd not really spoken since the invasion about how he'd protected the boys and how he had undoubtedly saved my life by killing Martin Longstreet. I wanted so much to express my gratitude but Andy was a difficult man to deal with.

We all watched in awe as Sean launched a hundred clays and neither of the two missed one.

"Enough you two," I called out and drew them both to me.

"Andy won't you please come down to the big house and join us for dinner?"

"Nay, me daughter is commin' oop and we'll be jest be fine Eric."

"Your daughter? I didn't even know you had a daughter Andy. I now have to insist. You and your daughter are expected for dinner. About four o'clock yes?"

"Shure Eric. It's been a long time since I've been in the big house. I'll be prout t' come."

***

We arrived back at the house in two Golf carts. Doc Swaim and Bobby arrived in a third and I sensed that Doc really liked the boy and probably wanted him as a student.

There was a great deal of interest out on the driveway. John had erected a metal tri-pod and below in the center a large pot rested upon a stand that contained a propane burner.

The flames were burning brightly and John was walking around the apparatus like a nervous nelly.

The boys were fascinated by this contraption and I had to caution them that the pot was filled with scalding hot oil and that accidents could happen easily.

"Well, just like we agreed, Jack, you stay here and help John and Sean, you scoot off to the kitchen to help Mrs. Edwards and Jenny."

Sean was obviously drawn to the wonderment of John's turkey fryer contraption but he never uttered a word. He scooted off to the kitchen.

"Bobby, you can amuse yourself out here with Jack or in the kitchen with Sean but, your Dad and doc Swaim are going to join me in the library for some big boy time."

Bobby smiled and said he'd stay with Jack, The lure of John's contraption was too much to resist.

I kneaded my brow and turned to John, "That actually looks like something devised by Torquemada for the Spanish Inquisition."

He looked up at me and grinned.

"Yeah, but you're gonna love it!"

***

"This is John's turkey and I think that you'll all be pleasantly surprised." Jenny walked in carrying a platter of perfectly carved bird. She placed it amidst the bounty already on the table and took her seat next to John.

I glanced around the table and my heart was full as I noticed those people that I regarded as family.

I froze for a moment as I took in the empty place between Jack and Chris. Uncle Phil had noticed it before me and there were tears welling in his eyes.

I raised my wine glass and I noticed that Sean's glass was filled with wine rather than water. "We toast our happiness and our sadness today and we give great thanks for all that we've received…" suddenly I couldn't go on. It was like my throat was closed.

I stammered and then at the far end of the table a stunning lady of about forty rose up and said,
"We toast to the past because that is what made us what we are.
We toast to the future because that is what we hope to be.
We mourn those we have lost because we miss them so.
We toast those we have lost because we love them so and finally,
We toast all that we love who are with us today.
We toast to the future which is our hope and joy."

It was Andy's daughter and I was stunned.

Dinner was so wonderful that it almost should be against the law.

John's fried turkey was astonishingly good. Everyone, Martha included, agreed we should do it again. John smiled and said that the secret was the peanut oil he'd used.

Barry grasped his throat and exclaimed "Oh gawd! I'm dying! I have a severe peanut allergy!" He followed this with a few dramatics before smiling across the table to assure everyone he was all right.

When the entire meal was over, the boys invited us down to the music room.

They had become a quartet because Daniel had joined with his flute.

They entranced us with a fabulous demonstration of classical, pop and uniquely reinterpreted rock and roll.

Suddenly Sean was at my side pulling at my arm. "You're turn Dad. It's been a long time since I've heard you play."

I hugged him to me and walked to the magnificent piano. I recalled my favorite piece as a very young man. It was sensual and quite romantic… Chopin's sonata 2.

It had been so long and my fingers flew like little birds across the keys. I felt a charge of energy rush through me. As I played, it was like being transcended. I forgot where I was and I was oblivious of everyone around me.

The music poured through me and out of me and I felt at perfect peace.

As I came to the finish, I realized that Sean had been standing behind me… his hands softly rubbing my shoulders as I played.

He leaned down and kissed my cheek. "You play so well Dad, you just don't do it enough, Thanks, I love you."

I almost lost it but I recovered in time to catch him and pull him around and kiss him properly. "I love you too my little bug. Thank you for being yourself."

***

As the boys ran off to get ready for bed, Gary, Chris, Doc Swaim and I sat in the library. Gary and I were sipping his exquisite single malt while Chris and the professor drank their jack and waters.

It was actually Doc that brought it up. "Gary, that boy of yours has a fine mind and it should be properly guided. You need to be meticulously careful and ensure his search for knowledge is properly nurtured."

"I understand that, Doctor Swaim, and I'm actively looking for school for Bobby. The thing is, I need to find one close enough that he can come home every day. I've been alone so long that I need him with me all of the time."

"Well, I might have a solution." I stood up and gathered everyone's glass for an easy refill.

"Since your business doesn't tie you down to one location, there is a three-acre plot of land adjoining this property near where I'm building condos for future staff. You could out-bid me on it Gary and build a proper home for you and Bobby.

Doc Swaim could control his education… I think that was what Doc was hinting at."

"Would you be willing to do that Doc?" Gary was almost out of his seat with excitement.

"The idea of working with three bright young minds in an exclusive atmosphere is wonderful."

"So, then tomorrow, you make a bid on the lot and I'll make one lower. That will get the land owner off his ass quickly. You'll get an architect and build your dream home. In the meantime, you'll live here and Bobby will be tutored by Doc Swaim until he and Jack are off to the University.

We stood and clinked gasses.

Slowly, we all headed off to bed. Chris lingered behind not sure of what he should do. I smiled and told him 'not tonight'.

I wanted to be alone and happy.

As I moved into bed naked and relaxed, I thought about Christmas. Last Christmas I was drunk, alone and devastated. This year would find me happy and surrounded with love.

Sleep overtook me rapidly.

Chapter 30

At times, we are told that it is important to know when something has reached an end. On the surface, this sounds like logical and sage advice because as we look back, the closing of opened doors, the finishing of projects; whatever we choose to reflect upon are simply moments we have lived and that are now in our past.

On the other hand, there are no real endings in life. The moments, the thoughts and the events actually draw into and against each other like pools of spilled liquid that cannot really be contained or containerized. The things we label as 'beginnings' or 'endings' are in reality, not very different at all. In a true sense, they are actually the same thing presented or perceived differently.

There are no real endings. It's just the place where we stop telling the story.

I was sitting in my study reviewing my Christmas list and checking off those things that I still needed to accomplish. After having been oblivious to the holiday for three years, I was determined to do it right this year.

I wanted my presents not to be lavish, but to be thoughtful… in hopes that the sentiment behind them would be understood, and appreciated.

The temptation to go overboard with the boys was almost overwhelming but I was fighting hard not you yield. I was hoping that somehow this could be a holiday filled with joy, love and understanding.

For Sean, I'd already obtained several voluminous books on piloting that Captain Lucas had recommended, A Rolex Oyster perpetual Explorer wristwatch like mine, and a pair of skis. My Doctor had told me the cast could probably come off near the end of January so I'd already made certain that my chalet in Breckenridge would be fully staffed and ready. One of the gifts I was giving the boys and Chris was a two-week skiing vacation in Colorado just as soon as my cast was off and I could participate.

I'd also had a pendant crafted for him that in form and structure was very similar to the emerald pendant I'd given Jack that long ago night in Houston. Though the chains were almost identical, the pendant portion of Sean's was a skillfully crafted token of half black sapphire and half turquoise; to match his hair and eyes. The jeweler was a master at his craft and the two bits of gemstone were perfectly joined into a 'yin yang' configuration almost as if they were one stone. I'd privately opened the box several times since it was delivered and it was so beautiful, I couldn't wait to see him wearing it. I could close my eyes and imagine him clad in this and his gold 'noli timere' necklace from Doc Swaim and nothing else.

My dick got hard just thinking about it. I marveled that my passion for the little boy got stronger every day and I wondered what my life might be like if I hadn't brought him home. To my surprise, I also realized that it hadn't been a full year yet. My God, how such a short space of time could change an entire life so quickly.

There would have of course be many other presents; clothing, sports equipment, books and video games.

For Jack, I'd consulted with Andy and purchased him a Beretta 471 Silver Hawk shot gun just like mine. Despite my temptation to do otherwise, Andy had advised me to refrain from getting Sean a similar gun until he was at least fifteen years old. I never second-guessed Andy when it came to shotguns. Jack was also receiving an identical Rolex…I knew the boys wouldn't care or be the least bit impressed with the value of these watches I just hoped they'd like them because they were the same as mine. They would grow to appreciate them for what they were.

All of my key employees wore similar watches and Chris, Richard, Barry and Daniel would receive theirs this holiday as well.

Jack would also receive an oak handled silver-tip badger hair shaving brush along with a custom soap mug bearing his new initials. I planned to speak with him about his choice of razor and (hopefully) induct him into the fellowship of the joy of shaving the pleasant old-fashioned way. I was, of course, assuming that at sixteen, he was shaving.

Jack of course, was also getting a set of skis. I'd take both boys to Greenwolds after the holiday to get them outfitted in clothing and other gear for the slopes. Doc Swaim had already gifted him with a gold 'noli timere' necklace identical to the ones he'd given to Sean and me and I was contemplating if some other piece of jewelry might be appropriate. I had an idea, but, I put it aside thinking it might be better suited for the New Year. Young boys didn't need to be over-burdened with jewelry. Like Sean, there would be many other presents under the tree for Jack.

For Martha I'd located and purchased three extremely rare Royal Daulton figurines to add to her already wonderful collection.

For John, a three-week Honeymoon package to a private island in the South Pacific… yep, the same place that Chang and Proctor Nick were now working as groundskeepers. But, he didn't know them and they didn't know him and this place was over the top luxurious. I'd also managed to obtain one of only thirteen known in the world Balabushka LTD 3 pool cues with ebony points and four-color inlays. I fully expected that he might piss his pants when he opened the box.

Richard was a problem, but I settled upon a rare set of Merle Seguin handmade sheath knives. Seguin (now sadly deceased) was a custom knife maker from Alaska. Little known to the public, his blades were revered by knife collectors around the world. Richard would recognize them for what they were. I owned one and now Richard would own two.

The list of course went on to include Chris, Barry, Doc Swaim and Jenny. There was also Uncle Phil, and Andy and of course, Ricky and Mandy as well as Doctor Scott and the erascable Commodore, though these latter wouldn't be with us to celebrate the holiday. I was happy to see how many I'd checked off my list and noted that I still had lots of time.

After three years of drunken neglect, I'd decided that every one of my employees from top to bottom would receive a Christmas bonus of 50% of their yearly salary. It was about time that I showed my appreciation for everything that they'd done and still did.

On a sudden inspiration, I decided to buy Sean a new Martin D-28 and Jack a new high-end violin so that when we traveled, their older much more valuable instruments could stay safely at home. I decided that this wasn't an extravagance since the instruments they used at home were so valuable (especially the violin) and yet when we traveled, I like the idea of having their wonderful music available and so, high end instruments seemed almost like a gift I was giving to myself.

I decided to trust Daniel with that task, since I suspected he knew a lot more about music than just playing the flute. In fact, I suspected that Daniel knew a great deal about many divergent things. He wasn't Walter, but I liked him and already was becoming comfortable with him.

I stood up and for some reason, danced around a bit. I was feeling like Scrooge at the end of the old and wonderful Alastair Sim version of the Dickens classic story that more or less had invented Christmas for us all.

Satisfied with my work thus far, I got up and went looking for the boys.

***

There was no soccer practice today and so, I knew that I'd find them at the indoor pool. All three of them were certainly part fish and they spent every opportunity in the water. I knew that Gary was up at Fish Camp meeting with Doc Swaim. The two of them had struck up a very close relationship and I knew that he enjoyed the Professor's sage, but always gently offered, counsel.

Despite his happiness, it was obvious that Gary was still struggling with his new physical and emotional relationship with his boy. He had spent his entire life in a strictly 'straight' environment and now, suddenly finding himself in a loving and sexual relationship with a teenaged boy, was still emotionally difficult. Doc was the best person to help him move comfortably into this new situation… helping him shrug off all the bullshit baggage of guilt and shame and to embrace the joy of it all.

Sean was diving from the high board as I entered the area. I arrived just in time to watch him tip the edge of the board, tuck in and do a double somersault before straightening out and cutting into the water with barely a splash.

Chris had obviously been working with him because the dive was almost perfect. Certainly the fact that he was naked would have added several points to my scorecard had I been a judge in a competition. It never ceased to amaze me how graceful and fluid that little boy moved… whatever he was doing.

They noticed me and I was greeted with "hey Dad" and "Hi Mr. Tucker" and they all three swam to my side of the pool.

"Guys, I thought that we might have a Christmas party for your friends and also so they could get to meet Bobby. How does that sound?"

"Would it just be an overnight thing Dad? 'Because, I'd like to invite Amanda," Jack said.

"Well, yes it would, Jack, because most of your friends live a good bit away from us but, Amanda could have her own room or I could have John drive her home. You don't have to invite everyone you know, just whoever you'd like to."

Later, the guest list the boys presented to me turned out to be surprisingly small. They'd both agreed upon it and it consisted of Amanda, Rico, Charlie, Mike and Spider. After the invitations had been presented, it turned out that Amanda could come but needed to be home by eleven, and the boys would all spend the night.

***

Charlie had been to the house and around me enough that he was comfortable being his cheeky little self. I could never get out of my first impression that he belonged naked in the forest sitting on a mushroom… a perfect little elf. Everyone who met Charlie just loved him. It was impossible not to.

Rico was a confident young man and, since we knew each other, he had no problem being at ease. I noticed that he was becoming a more beautiful boy every time I saw him. When he and Sean were together, they were a stunning couple.

Mike, as one of the 'Samurai', was quite comfortable in the house and around me as well. He was about as tall as Sean but more slender. His muddy blond hair and dark lashes provided eye-candy as he grinned and sassed his way around.

Tall, lanky Spider was very diffident at first and I'm certain… since it was his first visit… overwhelmed. But, just as he displayed in the goal net, he had an inborn confidence and he certainly wasn't timid.

Amanda turned out to be a startlingly beautiful little thing with raven black hair and onyx black eyes. She was about five foot eight inches [1.75 m] tall and willow thin. I loved her the moment I saw her.

My boys and Bobbie already knew that swimming tonight would be bathing suits only. Aside from that though, I noticed that Amanda could give as good as she got and, they all seemed to get along very well.

We gathered in the solarium. I'd had furniture moved in to make the room comfortable and enticing for sociability. There was a 'conversation grouping' of sofa, love seat and ottomans in front of the fireplace and, of course, a warm roaring fire was blazing.

Chris and I lingered in the room for a while in an attempt to provide some 'old guy' credence to the gathering but it was soon evident that we were really third wheels and so, we excused ourselves telling the young folk that we'd see them later at dinner.

Daniel smiled at us as we left the room, even having the gall to whisper,"I could have told you so," before he skillfully waded into the room, attending to the young people's drinks and snacks.

I sighed because I was missing Walter but also realized that I had a new staff that was far beyond competent. I knew that someday Walter would become a warm memory, but I wasn't there yet.

***

We had the table in the dining room down to its smallest configuration, but it was still huge. The 'samurai' guys giggled as Spider and Amanda walked into the dining room pretty much overwhelmed. Gary, Bobby, Chris and Doc Swaim joined us for dinner and the table still seemed immense.

Martha had prepared a pork roast with broiled potatoes, long green beans and, of course, sauerkraut.

As the platters were placed before them, the young ones' faces lit up with pleasure…they knew something good when they smelled and saw it. Sean turned to Martha who was sitting next to me and bestowed a gleaming 'Sean smile' upon her instantly communicating his love, pleasure and gratitude. Martha waved a hand casually at the boy and blushed as red as only Martha can blush.

Except for Spider and Amanda, the rest of the crowd already knew of Martha's legendary cooking.

I was personally delighted as the conversation crossed the table. It was interesting, intelligent and, for the most part, funny.

Spider turned out to be a very smart and humorous kid once he'd relaxed and Amanda just amazed me with her maturity and cleverness. She was certainly not intimidated at being the only female guest, and she most definitely was used to young boy nonsense. On several occasions, she actually made me giggle by her self-confidence as the only hen in a flock of roosters.

I smiled secretly as I noticed that Jack had somehow arranged to sit between Amanda and Charlie. His affection for them both was obvious to me if not to everyone sitting at the table. Poor kid, it must be tough to be so young and discover that you're playing for both teams.

I was hoping that there would be music after dinner, but Amanda stood up and proposed that we play 'Charades". This surprised me because I didn't think that young people knew anything about that old parlor game. Once again, I was proven wrong as they all embraced that idea with youthful enthusiasm.

Since there were eleven of us, Doc Swaim agreed to be the 'master of ceremonies". He took about fifteen minutes to write down the challenges on small slips of paper and presided over the correct conduct of the game.

Through luck of the draw, Gary, Chris, Spider and I were one team. Once the game got started, it was very evident that Spider was as sharp as a tack and the way he threw himself into the game was a hoot. Very soon, Gary, Chris and I were pawing him in genial loud laughter as he turned the game into a comedic tour de force.

All too soon, Amanda said that she had to go… even though she didn't want to.

"I'll drive you home, 'Manda," Jack had jumped up from the couch.

"No offense Jack, because I know that you are a wonderful and well trained driver, but, considering the hour, I think Amanda's parents would feel more comfortable if John drove her home. He's already waiting out back, why don't you walk her out to the car?"

Once Amanda had left, the boys all gathered in the game room and, while they played team nine-ball, a couple of them tried to figure out the game of billiards on that table. I made a mental note to teach Sean and Jack so that they could instruct their friends. Billiards was an entirely different game from pool but certainly as challenging and, once understood, just as much fun.

"Now boys," I interjected in my role as the responsible adult, "I have bedrooms assigned for each of you but if you'd rather, I'll have air mattresses set up in the solarium so that you can spend the night together." They all enthusiastically chose the solarium. Daniel quickly and efficiently moved off to have the room converted to a 'campground'.

Suddenly Sean was at my side and I knew that 'something' was coming. "Dad…now that 'Manda is gone, could us guys maybe swim for a while you know… skinny swimmin'?" I looked down into those almost turquoise eyes and I knew that I couldn't deny him anything. I also suspected that he knew that very well.

"OK Sean, here's the deal; it's ten thirty so you've got a half-an-hour to swim and then, it's time for bed so, you guys better get going." There was a massive shout of pleasure as they all ran down the hall towards the pool.

Doc Swaim had excused himself after dinner and carted back to Fish Camp. Gary, Chris and I entered the pool area assaulted by hoots of laughter from a group of naked happy boys.

Though this was Spider's first time with us, he either knew about our private tradition or just didn't have any modesty. I suspected that both were true because he was standing at the diving board laughing and as unassuming as the other boys. 'Where were kids like that when I was struggling with my sexuality at their age?' I wondered to myself.

Chris couldn't constrain himself and was naked before Gary and I even realized what was going on. With a giant splash, he had cannonballed into the center of the boys and was soon roughhousing with them. I thought to myself, ' I'm counting on him to be part of the future of the 'Great Game' but, he's really still just a kid himself… perhaps that's why I'm beginning to love him.'

Gary and I didn't join in the frolic. Instead, we sat on deck chairs enjoying the view of young bodies… especially wonderful asses, cocks and balls. All the while sipping a tumbler of Glen Fiddich poured from a bottle… I always made certain there was in a cabinet in the pool area.

I was growing very comfortable with Gary's company. He was old enough to be an almost father-like figure but innocent and confused enough to be like a brother. He was becoming a friend and I suddenly realized that, outside of my close staff, I had very few real friends.

We both enjoyed the view as five wonderful young butts jiggled their way to the showers.

***

Bobby had chosen not to spend the night in the solarium but rather, to go upstairs. I smiled when he announced his choice because, shortly after, Gary bid us all a goodnight and followed him. Their physical relationship was still new and very special. I envied them the excitement of the newness even though I was actually going through the same situation, Gary was exploring an entirely new sexual orientation. It must be fun while, at the same time, confusing. The one thing that was certain, was their shared love for each other. It was gratifying to watch.

The solarium was (once again), turned into a campground and I bid the boys a good night. Chris and I walked down to my study because I knew that the boys would need time to settle down.

As we sat sipping our drinks, Chris leaned forward and placed a hand on my knee. "Eric, I'll spend the rest of my life being sorry for what happened but I need for you to know that I love you and I'm dedicated to you and that I'll n-n-never let you down." Suddenly he was sobbing uncontrollably.

"Chris, this sobbing is weak shit and I don't want to hear it. You are not here to be my lover; you are here to be a key player in 'Magnus Verita's. You promised me that you were capable of doing that. Did you lie to me?"

He raised his face to mine and whispered, "N-No Eric it's j-just…"

"I don't want to hear about 'just' Chris. So you let Tip fuck you… that's not the end of everything. Our plans and our future remain unchanged. I've forgiven you because there's nothing to really forgive. You had sex with an attractive young man and that's a natural and wonderful thing. We had no promise of exclusivity and, frankly Chris, you'll never get that from me. So, I certainly didn't expect that from you."

"Sex is sex and love is love and Chris, they're not the same thing. I need you to focus on your job and the future. Our relationship will develop as it's destined to and, as I told you from the beginning, I don't know what that will be. But, you weren't brought here for that. You know what you were brought here for. Are you capable of doing that job?"

There were still tears in his eyes but he nodded his head in agreement.

"So then, have you invited your mother and Aunt Rita down for the holidays?"

"Would that be OK Eric?"

"Of course that would be OK, you jackass. Most of my staff have no family. We're sort of our own family, but you, do and they should come down and share the holidays with you. You set up the dates and I'll have my plane available. Maybe, you'd like to fly up and join them for the flight down. John will meet you with the limo… you know… really fly the flag for them eh?"

"That would be great Eric… I'm just so-o-o-"

"Stop this grateful shit right now Chris! This is what you've signed on for."

I stood up and reached out my hand to pull him to his feet. "Let's go check on the campers and then… well, it's too late for you to cart back to the condo isn't it?" His grin was priceless.

***

Before we got to the door, it was evident by the sounds that there was some nasty little boy sexiness going on in the solarium. The grunts and moans and sighs and hisses were clear evidence that something was happening in the room. As always, it was dark with just a subtle orange light. I felt a bit guilty but, Chris and I stepped through the door.

They were all clearly visible in the soft light and they were all actively engaged in sex. Jack was slowly fucking little Charlie who was on his knees moaning softly. Sean was energetically sucking Rico's cock. The dark haired boy lay on his back with his legs splayed wide. Mike and Spider were off near the windows engaged in an active 69.

"Whew!" Chris whispered in my ear.

"I agree," I whispered back.

"Did you know this was going to go on?"

"I sort of had an idea. What say we go upstairs and get into our own bit of trouble?"

Chris leaned in and kissed me and we headed down to the elevator.

***

A holiday! A holiday! And when you have family and friends, what better holiday than Christmas?

We'd spent Christmas Eve rather quietly. Martha had prepared a traditional fish dinner… not the whole 'seven fishes' dinner from some cultures but a rather simple fillet of sole with boiled potatoes and angel hair pasta tossed with broiled garlic and olive oil. After eating, we were all quite tired.

We'd spent the day searching for and selecting the Christmas tree. It had finally been chosen from a spot at the eastern corner of the grounds. The three boys took turns with the bow saw cutting it down and the three of them were a hilarious bunch of monkeys carrying it back to the house.

It was about fifteen feet [5 m] tall and took almost an hour to erect it. We'd giggled like jerks as it fell down three times before we realized that we weren't tightening the stays in the stand evenly. Once we had that figured out, the fulsome fir was quite stable and we began the process of trimming her.

This was actually a new thing for Sean, Jack and Bobby because, at the nest, it turned out that the tree was a small artificial thing with no real significance… more symbolic than emotional. Consequentially, the boys were excited and the joy and hoots of laughter as they placed the ornaments on the tree were just a pleasure to hear and watch.

About three quarters of the way through, Martha came into the solarium with three small boxes in her hands. "Boys, these were meant to be Christmas presents, but I think that they're best opened now. They are something that you'll take with you through your lives and perhaps even share with your own children as you trim your own tree. In any event, as you place them on a branch, I hope many years in the future that you'll remember me."

She was sniffling as she handed each boy a specific box. They looked up at her and she nodded misty eyed and almost in unison the boxes were opened. With gasps of surprise and pleasure, each boy extracted the treasure from its container.

They were identical. Silver 'sleigh bells' about the size of a baseball and each of them was engraved with their name and the year.

"Boys, this is my way of always reminding you of your first Christmas in your new families and your new lives… but mostly to remind you that this is the first year that I've come to love all three of you." In a rush, Sean, Jack and Bobby were upon her and smothering her with kisses and hugs. Tears were flowing and. as bystanders, our eyes weren't dry either.

Misty-eyed, we watched the boys hang their new ornaments on the tree. The rest of the day was spent 'sneaking' our presents under the tree.

That afternoon Sean insisted that Jack and I join him for a hike up Hawke's Hill because he wanted to spend a moment at the spot where Walter died. I choked back tears as I agreed that would be a good idea.

It was winter and most of the nation was being blasted with cold and snow. But here, it was in the low seventies and the sky was a brilliant blue… so blue as to almost bring tears to your eyes. It was the kind of day that made me raise my eyes to heaven and thank my great grandfather for moving the family from Chicago.

"Are you sure?" Jack asked.

"Yep. This is where he fell and got shot but he saved me when he did it, Jack… p'rolly saved you too"

"I know. I loved him like he was my Grandpa and I miss him so much." They were hugging each other and from their discreet little squeaks, I knew that they were crying.

Sean had brought a small evergreen wreath with red holly berries and he placed it on the stones. "We can go back now." He looked up at me with his blue/green eyes moist but not tearing over.

I reached over, gripped his little shoulder, and squeezed it. "Walter will always love you, little man. You believe that don't you?"

His eyes were now brimming with unspilled tears. "Y-Yeah I k-know that but I wish…" His voice deteriorated into a series of squeaks and his back heaved, as he was wracked with sobs.

"Walter saved me twice didn't he Dad? You guys never told me but he saved me that other time, didn't he?" He was sobbing uncontrollably as he spoke and I pulled him tightly against me and tried to hug all of the sorrow out of him.

"Yes Sean, it was Walter who saved you. I'll tell you all about it when you're ready to hear it. Walter would have done anything for you… he gave up his life trying to save you that night up here. Walter loved the both of you as if you were his own flesh and blood. He considered you the grandchildren that he never had. He adored you both."

His little back stopped heaving and I knew he was calming down. Jack was crying but much more under control and so, I placed an arm around him and we slowly walked down the steep path.

***

I wasn't surprised that both boys followed me into my bedroom.

"Am I to suspect I'm having bedmates tonight?" I snapped rather sharply. I turned around as they entered my room. They stopped in their tracks for a moment taken aback by my surprising tone.

Sean stood stock still with his eyes wide open and his lower lip quivering for a moment before he realized that I was joking. "Dad!" He ran to me and wrapped his arm around my torso. "You silly! It's Christmas Eve and we should spend it together as a family. We wanna be with you tonight, Dad."

"Ok you two. Hop into bed and I'm going to light a fire in the fireplace." As I turned my back to get the fire going, I heard the sound of clothing being shed and discarded. I knew that when I turned around there would be two naked boys waiting for me.

I turned around and the room lights had already been turned down to a warm burnish. The flickering light of the fire cast its glow upon the two stunning little creatures huddled together on my bed.

The bigger boy was holding the younger one in an embrace as the watched me. My own eyes feasted upon hair black and red, eyes blue and green and skin tanned to bronze. Their smiles were all I needed for my dick to turn as hard as stone.

I joined them and they shifted so that I was in between them. "You know that Santa only comes for good little boys don't you?"

Jack leaned over and kissed me passionately. As he separated our lips and moved down to my nipples, I felt Sean move between my legs… his little hands forcing them apart. "Then, I guess we'll have to be specially good tonight, huh?" Jack croaked in my ear.

Both boys giggled wickedly and I surrendered to their ministrations.

***

The solarium was like a war zone. Paper and ribbons were everywhere. I felt a bit guilty about the mess but I remembered that I was actually paying people to clean this up… paying them quite well actually.

All of the presents were well received but the surprise for me came when I opened my gift from the boys. I had no idea how they'd pulled it off but, apparently, they'd gone to Uncle Phil and he'd assured them that they could afford it and Chris had gone with them to the jeweler.

It was a ring, thick and bulky like a college ring. It held a black sapphire and a red ruby cleverly fitted together and clad in gold. Engraved at the top was the year and on either side was 'Sean' and 'Jack'. At the bottom was 'Noli Timere'. I lost it for a moment as I pulled them both to me and hugged them sobbing silently over the loving thought that had obviously gone into this gift..

Chris' mother and aunt turned out to be delightful and they both insisted upon joining Martha in the kitchen.

I knew that, by tradition, Martha was preparing a standing rib roast with Yorkshire pudding and the whole thing. The ladies apparently got along well and giggles were heard from the kitchen. I also suspected that more than one bottle of merlot was being consumed in there.

Dinner was extraordinary. Once it was ready, the women joined us at the table and Daniel and his handpicked staff served. It was obvious that Chris's mother and Aunt were impressed and I was pleased about that… I wanted that for him. They both obviously loved him with a fierce passion and they were very proud of his new position in life.

After the meal, we all went to the music room because the boys had prepared a presentation for us.

The first number was a duet between Jack and Sean. It was the old carol; 'Lo How a Rose ere Blooming'. As it was announced, I remembered Jack's interview with Doc Swaim and realized with a slight shudder that this was the duet they had performed for the nest just a year ago.

It was magnificent. Their voices and their instruments blended perfectly and I was filled with joy.

Barry joined on the piano, and Daniel added his very versatile flute and for about an hour, we enjoyed a private and very talented concert. When they were finished, with a grin, Sean announced that Chris had a special Christmas performance for us.

Blushing almost as red as Martha usually did, Chris reached behind one of the couches and pulled up his five-string banjo.

"I just thought that I should add another traditional Christmas tune." He was grinning as he then began an intricate finger-picking arpeggio and then launched into a wonderful and delightfully humorous rendition of 'You're a mean one Mr. Grinch'.

He brought the house down.

***

I wasn't surprised that they were waiting for me when I came upstairs. They stood at the side of my bed smiling. They were, of course, both unabashedly naked and the sight of them once again astounded me.

Jack stood tall and proud in the bloom of his burgeoning maturity. Long limbed, his almost grown up cock hanging down against an almost hairless body save for the bush of red hair at the base of his pubis.

Sean, on the other hand, still had a little boy's cock of about three inches [7 cm] and still just a dusting of light darkness promising of pubic hairs still to come. Currently, his proportions were perfect though puberty would probably effect those things a bit as he matured.

They were my boys and I'd never seen anything more beautiful in my entire life.

"Thank you for everything Dad," Sean said as he pulled me down onto the bed.

"Yeah, Thanks Sanny Clause." Jack whispered as he pulled close to me.

Wrapped in glorious boy flesh, I engaged in an unmarked game of twister on my bed, reveling in the giggles and squeals as a great deal of spit, cum, and love was shared.

***

Soccer season ended with victories for both Sean's and Jack's teams. There were two new trophies to be installed.

I hosted a dinner party for both teams but I noticed that Jack wasn't drawn to any of his teammates closely. He was much more involved with Sean's team and, particularly, little Charlie. It was a wonderful time none-the-less and I enjoyed meeting all the boys I'd only watched from the sidelines up until now.

I thought to myself that this old house was such a better happier place than it was just a scant year ago and I was a better, happier person.

It was New Year's Eve and everyone was sipping on a drink waiting for the ball to drop. I was sitting alone reviewing the amazing past year and suspecting that nothing could ever surpass it.

The little apple of my eye was currently sitting across the room chatting with John and Jenny. John had asked Sean and Jack to be groomsmen at his wedding and he'd also asked me to be his best man.

They were both overwhelmed but, of course, accepted happily. The wedding would take place here at Joyous Gaurde and I'd already gifted them their honeymoon.

I was lost in my reflections when I felt a tug at my sleeve.

"Dad, could we go off someplace an' talk?"

"Sure son," I took his hand and we walked down the hall to another unused parlor.

"Dad, it's almost a year. In two weeks my contract is gonna expire. Is alla this real or just some kina game?"

I was stunned. "Sean, is that a real question or just a goofy little joke?" His head was bowed but from the soft little squeaking I knew that he was trying not to cry.

"T-the older kids tole us that s-sometimes clients make them play games and pretend about stuff and it occurred to me that m-maybe that's what this is and s-so I'm scared that…"

I grabbed him and pulled him close to me… so close that I could have hurt him.

"Sean… This is more real than anything you've ever seen or known. This is your life… MY life. I'm sad that you asked that question but I understand why you did. Little man, you are the most loved thing in my world and you HAVE to start to believe that. Isn't it wonderful what a family we've become in just one short year?"

He looked up at me and he wiggled as he smiled. Dad, are we gonna stay a happy family like this alla time?"

"Well, Sean. We're going to try, that's for sure. We may have problems from time to time but if we really love each other, we'll work them out." "But, things are changin' ain't they?"

"Well, in a way they are. Next week Doctor Swaim has to go back to the University for a week to do some stuff about his new book. Jack is going to go with him to look at the University campus because Jack will be going there in two years."

"I don't like the idea of Jack leavin' us Dad."

"Sean, Jack is growing up just like you are. I hate that you're growing up and I'd love to keep you as a twelve-year-old boy. But Sean, the only little boy that I can keep little forever is Kyle. He's in my heart and he'll always be fourteen. He can't grow up, but you can and you will and I will be happy to watch you grow. Life is wonderful, Sean. It's even more wonderful when you know that you're supported and surrounded by love."

I received a 'Sean smile' and he danced rather than walked away… happy with my answers and happy with the world.

The End

Continued in book 3 Green Grow The Rushes, O