Date: Thu, 6 Nov 2008 10:26:24 -0500 From: chris james <drmeta4@gmail.com> Subject: The Bridge to Anywhere, Chapters 11 & 12 Dear Readers: those under the age of 18 are not encouraged to read this adult material for that would be illegal. Many thanks to the readers who encourage this effort, you make it all worthwhile. This story is meant to bring but a brief glimpse at the lives of two special people, the moment they achieve love...is there any better? My thanks as well to the Nifty folks for allowing me entertain and giving me the space to do so. Having achieved a place on the prolific authors list the readers may now access the other works of Chris James as well. As always, your comments welcome. dtmeta4@gmail.com The Bridge to Anywhere (M/B) Chapter Eleven The morning sun was filtered through the trees towering overhead. Waist high wisps of fog still clung to the ground as they hiked up the trail. The quiet serenity of these giants was reflected on Alan's face, he was in awe of what nature had accomplished here. The redwood forest was shot through with beams of sunlight and Brandon captured the boy with his camera against the magnificent background of ferns that spread out before them. "It's like a church in the woods," Alan said, and Brandon could understand the feeling. California had always offered such a variety in nature. From these trees to the rugged coastline, the grand views of the Sierra all the way to the deserts of the south, nature here was all about contrasts. A delicate beauty often shook by the incredibly violent forces beneath the earth. Yet none of that seemed apparent this morning, he only had eyes for the boy. For even in sleep this morning, Alan had been the most beautiful thing Brandon had ever seen. He could stare for hours, the boy oblivious of his adoration. These were moments when emotion rose in his throat and Brandon would feel wonder at the immensity of fortune that had brought Alan into his life. The smooth skin on the boy's cheek was beginning to show signs of maturity. Wisps of hair on his jaw line, a faint golden fuzz on his upper lip. The boy in him was being absorbed, the man emerging. And what a man he would be, none of this beauty would be lost; Alan would merely evolve into a higher creature. The very nature of man was built on past lifetime experiences, Alan would be a wonderful man in his mature years. So talented, so capable...so loving. It brought tears to Brandon's eyes and he saw the boy staring up at him through the blur of his feelings. "What?" Alan had asked...his eyes now open and aware. His hand reached for Brandon's cheek and the boy smiled. "Don't cry...I love you." And the emotions changed, bringing them forward and into the realm of passion. For even as he had recognized the tears for what they were, Alan knew how to stoke the fire in Brandon's heart. Their lips ground together, tongues tasting that slightly sour morning environment in their mouths. To Brandon it tasted real and made everything about the boy so much more attractive. The smell of his skin after a night's sleep, the tang of sweat on his brow, it all spoke to the reality of their being...it all fueled the passion. Alan's lips on his throat, his tongue rasping in the growth of overnight beard...it was all so sensual, tactile. The boy's fingers pinched and plucked at his nipples, eliciting a moan from deep in Brandon's throat. And Alan rolled onto him, pressing him down on the bed and taking charge of their love making. And as always Brandon yielded, surrendering his mature body to the whims of the boy...the boy who would be a man. The passion they had both felt the night before was revived. And yet now their roles were reversed, Brandon giving, Alan taking what they both needed. The passions they had shared for a hundred days and nights all collapsed into this single moment and made them one. Brandon groaned as Alan slid into him, a cock so hard that he felt impaled. But the boy knew his body so well, every nuance of his being quivered at the flesh that possessed him deep inside. And Alan grinned at the power his cock displayed, the pleasure it evidenced on Brandon's face. And even as he slid into Brandon's heat, the forces of nature fought within him. Alan's urge to piss raged, the pressure making him groan as the stimulation physically suppressed the ability, replacing it with sexual need. And he stroked and plunged, his cock so hard it felt like it might burst. Brandon felt the urgency of the boy's actions, the cock so insistent and yet unwilling to surrender the contents of Alan's balls. He squeezed the muscles of his sphincter on the pole inside him and that won him a moan of delight. "Oh Brand...keep doing that," Alan moaned. He needed to get off; his balls were aching for release. And Brandon obeyed, milking the boy. Enjoying the sound of Alan's groans even as the boy's stomach pressed against his own cock, rubbing him towards orgasm. "Oh fuck yeah...yeah," Alan repeated over and over. His thrusts becoming more desperate and violent. Brandon felt his body give in to the pleasure, the flow beginning and building to a wave of explosive power. He groaned as he came between them, and that only seemed to make Alan's actions more desperate. Brandon resumed his muscle movement although his sphincter had long gone numb at the assault. "Oh fuck...yeah...Ahh fuck....I'm cumming," Alan whimpered. And Brandon felt the boy shudder as the forces within him let go a flood of pent up energy, flooding his gut with young seed. Alan collapsed on his chest and they kissed. "Oh shit...I'm gonna pee," Alan moaned and he pulled away, leaving Brandon to groan at the sudden emptiness inside. The boy rushed off to the bathroom and Brandon could hear a loud groan as Alan emptied his bladder. * * * * * Alan's hands were pressed against the bark of the redwood tree, his fingers spread, his face alight as he gazed into the lens. And Brandon could see the spark in those eyes; the boy was remembering their passion this morning. He lowered the camera and smiled. "What a sexy boy...God, I love you." And Alan's eyes flared with passion, click...whir...click, the moment caught for posterity as the beams of light played through the trees in their forest cathedral. The afternoon brought them to the beach and the breathtaking view of the ocean from the cliffs. Jack and Barry settled on a blanket as Brandon led the boy down a path to the sand. The wind off the cliffs, the spray of breakers off the rocks and Brandon had his moment through the lens. The beach was walled in by the cliffs; the sound of the surf echoing off the rock walls delighted them both. It seemed like their private place, the pathway guarded at the top, the cliffs surrounding the short stretch of sand. Click...whir...click. "I want you, Brand...right here, right now." Brandon lowered the camera, he shared the feelings. They took one last look up the trail and began to strip, their clothing forming a pile...a bed for their passion. They stood kissing, rubbing bodies, hands roaming bare flesh. The wind seemed to inflame the feelings as Brandon felt the boy's hair whip around his face. The thunder of the ocean masked their moans, the cries of seabirds urging them on and Brandon lay the boy down on the sand. He tongued and nibbled on Alan's nipples, the boy propped up on his elbows watching, moaning. Brandon's tongue sought out every crevice, the pucker of his belly button, the crease of Alan's thighs. The boy was rigid and Brandon plunged that hard shaft down his throat as Alan collapsed back on the sand. His lips sucked on the head causing the boy to shudder, and he lowered his mouth until he felt Alan's pubes tickle his nose. His hands roamed the boy's chest, pinching those pink nubs into hard little points, a nipple erection that made Alan groan. Alan gasped as Brandon abandoned his cock to lick and suckle his balls. The wind worked at evaporating the moisture on his stiffness, making him feel the chill, thrilling his senses. But that tongue worked its way under his ball sac and Alan raised his legs. "Oh God...yes," Alan hissed as Brandon's tongue pushed into his bottom. He squirmed, pulling his knees up higher, hands grasping his ankles...anything to give that tongue better access. And Brandon could hold back no longer, he had to be inside the boy. His cock was oozing copious amounts of fluid in preparation for the plunge, and he leaned over the boy and pressed in. Their eyes locked, and the boy's seemed to flare as Brandon slid into him. This is what he desired, needed...and Alan's world became nothing unless it was in the eyes that stared down at him with love. Brandon was absorbed by the feeling, his strokes long and languorous, each moment piling on the next until he was consumed by his role in pleasuring the boy. The place, the feelings...everything felt new, exciting and they moaned as one. "Oh yes...yes," Alan hissed into the wind. "Oh God..." Brandon groaned, he was cumming, his passion overwhelming, And just before he erupted Brandon pulled out, spraying the boy with his seed, painting his chest and belly. "Oh fuck," Alan yelped, "I wanted your cum inside me." Brandon smiled, leaning down to kiss those adorable lips. "And have a squishy bottom all day, I think not. I'll fill your tank tonight, lover boy." Alan looked down at the goo on his chest. "Well you better wash the car right now, what a mess." The ocean was cold; barely fifty degrees this time of year, so Brandon wiped the boy off with his boxers. They dressed and hiked back up the path. Barry was asleep in the warm sun, his head on Jack's lap. "Get anything good," Jack asked...the smirk barely visible on his face. Alan blushed, confirming what the man already knew. "Yeah, it was all good," Brandon said. "Do you want to pack up and travel back to the city tonight?" Jack asked. "Our flight is at two tomorrow." Brandon looked at the boy. "Here or San Francisco for the evening. What would you like, Alan?" The boy smiled. "I vote for another visit to the hot tubs, can we leave in the morning?" "Sure thing," Jack said. He woke Barry and they packed up. One more night to relax before the chaos of Los Angeles, Brandon thought. The Teen Star magazine came out tomorrow, Alan would be in Disneyland the following day, and several days thereafter. It didn't seem possible that they could remain anonymous for long. Dinner in town, the hot tubs after dark. Familiar things, comforting things. And this time when they retired to bed Brandon gave a repeat performance, filling the boy with his seed to a thundering ovation...it was raining on the roof. "You're worried aren't you," Alan said as he lay in Brandon's arms. "Our quiet times may be over, sweetie. Now it will be harder to touch, to share a glance without someone seeing the love in our eyes," Brandon replied. "We have to keep it secret, we have to or everything will change." "I can think of worse things than being gay, why won't people just leave us alone with that," Alan asked. "People fear the unknown, they can't understand us and that scares them. Not everyone is that way, just entirely too many for comfort. We just have to be cautious that's all. Take your cues from Jack and Barry; they understand how to deal with it in public." "I won't have a private life will I? Everyone will want to be in my personal stuff, that sucks," Alan groaned. Brandon kissed the top of the boy's head. "I'm your personal stuff no matter who gets in the way. Nothing will ever change that, I promise." Alan sighed. "Maybe everyone will suddenly forget how to read. We could always go back to working on your book." Brandon smiled. "I have my best friend and companion." He licked Alan's earlobe. "And he tastes delicious." Alan giggled. "You are my bestest friend ever, lover." "Bestest? Lord, we need to get you back in school," Brandon laughed. "Soon, when we get back to New York." The rain increased, the sound filling their room as Alan fell asleep. Brandon could feel the boy slump against his body, but his mind would not let go of his thoughts. No one could find out about them, it would destroy a budding career. One slip and the word would get out. The gay label had destroyed so many careers, it was senseless, disgusting. So the walls would go up, for security and privacy. For they would still need time alone to fulfill their desires, and soon it would become more then a need, it would be a necessity. Brandon had seen what fame did to some people, it wrecked their lives. He would not allow that to happen to Alan. The boy had just over a year left in his childhood contract with Theresa. After that it would be Alan's decision to continue or walk away. His life was more important than fame. But the boy had shown nothing but good sense and maturity in all his dealings with the people around him. The thought was comforting, he was so proud. Not only had he found a lover, but they were forging a partnership, one for the ages. Morning came and Brandon started awake. He hadn't been aware of falling asleep, but now he missed the warmth beside him. The bathroom door was closed, and then he heard the toilet flush. Alan returned and slid beneath the covers. He smelled of toothpaste as he snuggled up close. "Did you sleep well?" Brandon asked. "Yup, that brandy did me in again," Alan giggled. "Now I'm horny." "You were born horny, let me make a bathroom visit first, then we can ravish one another." Brandon remembered to brush, wishing to hell he'd remember to buy some other brand of toothpaste. Middleton might be the client but his toothpaste was crap. He returned to bed and Alan crawled onto this chest. "I love lying on top of you like this, am I too heavy?" Alan asked. "No, I can't think of a better way to be crushed to death," Brandon smiled. And as he felt Alan's cock slide between his thighs Brandon raised his legs, giving in to the boy's desires and his own. If only this could last forever, if only the world wouldn't get in the way of their love, Brandon thought. But as always, the boy's physical needs brought him back to the moment and he felt swept away by the heat and insistence of Alan's passion. For the boy played him like a fine stringed instrument, their bodies resonating with the moans of making love as only two people in tune could do. In the months before when they first lay down for their love, Brandon had felt Alan feeding off his passion, embracing the little things that made them such successful lovers. At first he had thought the boy was copying his moves, afraid of making a mistake. But no, the boy had been studying him, learning what he desired and fanning the flames whenever he could. No one had ever seen to his emotional and physical needs like Alan did, Brandon had been stunned when he discovered the truth. For nothing in life offered greater satisfaction than this kind of giving, the boy was a true wonder. It spoke volumes about Alan's self confidence and maturity. The boy used this knowledge to satisfy his needs, but more for the benefit of others. It made him dear beyond belief. And even as these thoughts crossed Brandon's mind he was aware the boy was doing it yet again. And as they reached that stage of a blissful and mutual orgasm, Brandon marveled at the sight above him. For no matter how many wonderful photos he took of the boy, Alan never looked more exciting or full of life as he did when their love reached a crescendo. His head thrown back, mouth open and lips quivering with emotion, it was the smile of satisfaction Alan had as he climaxed that gave Brandon his own personal thrill. He would never capture that image for the world, it was his own personal heaven and it defined his love for the boy. And even as they showered afterwards, Alan kept a hand on Brandon at all times. The touch a sign of affection and more. For it seemed to take the boy a long time to come down off the high their love kindled, this was just a sign of that feeling. Alan felt so invested in love that mere drugs would seem inadequate by comparison. But as they packed their things Brandon felt a sadness creeping into the boy's composure. "Will we ever come back here...will it ever be like this again?" Alan wondered aloud. "This place is very special, we both know that. I'm sure we'll be back; I'll make sure we come back. For one of these days life will get very complicated and we'll need someplace simple like this to remember." Alan smiled as they walked out the door into the fog. The resort sat in heavy blanket of white mist; as if the clouds had come down to greet them. They had a light breakfast in the dining room before they left, enough time for Carlos to say his good-byes and share hugs, then they were off. The drive south was blanketed in fog, making for dangerous travel. But the trees seemed to loom around them, giant sentinels reaching for the hidden sky above. Alan held Brandon's hand as Jack drove with caution. Alan smiled. "Maybe God didn't want us to leave today?" He ventured. Even Jack smiled at that. "Just wait until you see what the fog does to the city, it's like a dream come true." And as the One-o-One neared the Golden Gate Bridge Alan stared intently. The sun had burned off just enough of the fog to make the giant span seem to float in a sea of white. "Wow...that's so cool," Alan grinned. And through the mist, the city appeared like a dream. City by the bay never had a greater meaning than it did right then. And Brandon saw the love in Alan's eyes. Yes, they would have to come back here...maybe forever. The one hour hop to Los Angles went smoothly, their arrival at LAX was something else again. From the fresh ocean breezes of the north to the smog laden skies of LA, Brandon could only be thankful it wasn't summer. Alan gazed around, as if expecting the city to be something right there. But the airport was just a huge complex for people and flying machines. Not even Jack felt familiar enough to drive in this huge sprawling town so they had engaged a car and driver to meet them. Finally they were away from the airport and Alan could see the tall office buildings of downtown in the distance. Even Brandon felt a little disappointed after the thrill of San Francisco, nothing felt exciting about this place. "I hope Disneyland looks better than this," Alan said. Brandon smiled. "It's a different world, sweetie." Soon they were on the 5 headed south towards Anaheim and the Disney complex. For security reasons Jack had booked them at the Plaza across from the park. This time of year the crowds would be mainly tourists from around the world, school was still in session here in America. Kids would be the first to recognize Alan and it was Friday, the weekend began tomorrow. Teen Star would be in the hands of young girls everywhere by now. Brandon just hoped they could sneak in and out before the secret was out. He imagined a bevy of young love sick little girls spreading the word. Alan Bennett was seen at Disneyland. Jack had suggested they not tell the Disney folks right away unless things got out of hand. He was sure Alan didn't want any special treatment, just loads of fun. His security role was taken seriously, his heart was another matter. Jack could only love the boy; he'd never met anyone quite like Alan before. The Plaza Hotel was pretty quiet when they arrived at five in the evening. Brandon signed them in and they made for the elevators. But they all stopped dead in their tracks as they passed the gift shop. For there was the magazine rack and right out front was the latest edition of Teen Star. The smiling face of Alan Bennett graced the cover. "Oh Jeez," Alan said. Barry went in and bought four copies, and then they made their way upwards to the suite they had booked. Brandon could almost feel the tension in that crowded elevator. Jack and Barry were resigned to their role, Alan was stunned. The bellhop wheeled their bags into the room and accepted a tip with a nod, and then they were alone with Alan's celebrity status. They all sat down in the living room to read what Teen Star had to say. Besides the cover, there were six photos and a few paragraphs. Some of the information was from Alan's press kit, the rest from the short interview. The concept of the magazine was to show off the boy, pictures that would soon adorn the bedroom walls of girls everywhere. "Jeez, Brandon...I didn't know I was going to be on the cover." Brandon dropped the magazine on the coffee table. "Nothing else I saw in there comes close to you, they went with the biggest draw they had. Yes, they probably should have warned us...or Theresa should." He looked at his watch and opened his cell phone, dialing Theresa's private number. "Afternoon, Brand," Theresa said, recognizing the number on her caller ID. "The damn cover? Theresa, you should have warned me," Brandon said. "I swear I didn't know either, but can you blame them?" "Hell no, I would have done the same thing in their shoes. This is a big score for their itty bitty titty magazine." Jack laughed and Alan gasped before he burst out laughing, Barry just smiled. "That was uncalled for Brand, but I understand," Theresa said. "If it complicates your vacation then come home, you can go somewhere else." "Somewhere else? Mars maybe, there must be a million of these magazines out there," Brandon said. "A quarter million if I'm not mistaken. We wanted publicity for the boy, now we have it. You'll make out rather well from this exposure I imagine. How's Alan?" Brandon sighed and handed the phone over to the boy. "Theresa? Wow, this is all so sudden," Alan said. "That's how it happens, sweetie." "I had a little girl ask for my autograph the other day, it was sweet," Alan said. "Aww...and I know you liked that. I had some photos of you printed up, things you can sign and pass out, they ought to be there today. There will be lots of fans out there now, you deserve it." "Thank you Theresa, I love you," Alan said. Theresa was silent for only a second or two. "Thank you dear, I love you too. Now go have a good time and tell Brand to get some pictures of you with the Disney characters, I'd love to put them up on my wall. Bye-bye now, sweetie...call me tomorrow, OK?" "Bye, Theresa" Brandon took back his phone and grinned. "You have that woman wrapped around your little finger, I've never seen her act like this before." "Are we going to the park tonight?" Alan asked. "Oh yeah, fireworks and all that jazz," Brandon said. "Let's clean up and then go downstairs for dinner, can you handle Mexican food?" "Oh yeah, I can eat a dozen tacos," Alan said. "Then we jog five miles tomorrow," Jack said. Alan laughed. "We already jog five miles every morning." "I mean five additional miles, that makes ten," Jack said with a smile. Alan groaned. The physical training was just beginning to get easier. The morning jogs with Jack and the afternoon body workouts with Barry. Alan had wanted to jump right in for some karate lessons but Barry refused. "When you're ready I'll let you know," Had been his answer. It still hadn't started. They showered; the suite had a bathroom in each of the bedrooms, and dressed casually. By now Alan was wearing the Italian clothing almost all the time, he seemed to like it. "Disguise?" Jack asked. "Do I have to?" Alan answered. "I suppose not, let him get a taste of stardom and we'll be able to judge the reaction. I imagine tomorrow will be a different story," Brandon said. They had dinner in the hotel restaurant and Alan ate tacos as promised. But as they re-entered the lobby the manager approached with a FedEx box in his hand. Theresa had sent five hundred of the photos; Brandon asked if he could have them placed in the room. "Just a warning, Alan, once you start signing autographs it won't stop until we leave the park. So let's just have fun tonight, catch a few rides like any normal tourist, OK?" They took the hotel shuttle to the main gate and got out to buy tickets. Brandon figured a three day pass for each of them was a good place to start. Then they walked through the gates, and into the magical land Walt Disney had created for children of all ages. It was Friday night and hundreds of people filled Town Square and Main Street. They took it slow, gazing in all the shops as they headed for the castle which loomed in the distance. It was still early evening and families were spread out everywhere in groups. But by the time they got to the Central Plaza they had a following. "You better smile," Brandon laughed. "There are about twenty young ladies following you." "OK, what should I do?" Alan asked. "You probably ought to stop and talk to them. Tell them you're out with your family and are just here for some fun like they are. Be nice, sign whatever they have and we'll move on. Just don't get into the hugging or kissing thing. That might start a riot." They took a few more steps and Alan turned. The whole bunch of girls rushed forward and all started talking at once. "It's him, I knew it." "Are you really Alan Bennett?" "Can you sign my T-shirt?" "What are you doing here?" "Is there some kind of event going on?" "Where did you get those clothes?" Alan smiled and the girls pressed in close. Jack and Barry were right there a few feet away, watching but not interfering. "So I guess you've all seen the new Teen Star magazine by now," Alan began. "Yes, I'm Alan Bennett." Moans and screams from the girls. "What are YOU doing here?" One girl pressed. "I'm here with my family, just like you. This isn't an appearance, I'm on vacation." He began to sign everything in sight, talking to each girl as he did. The crowd around them grew, filled with parents and family. It took him twenty minutes to get through all the fans, answering questions along the way. "So what's your favorite ride? Where are you from?" The boy knew how to work a crowd, and Brandon watched him treat each young lady as if she were something special. Then he addressed the crowd. "Thank you all and I hope you have a good time this evening like I plan to." Alan waved and turned away, walking across the bridge and into Cinderella's castle with Brandon at his heels. Only a few of the girls followed until their parents called them back. "Steer left," Jack advised, and they passed by several of the attractions. Alan didn't look uncomfortable; in fact he was still smiling as they approached the Haunted Mansion off Liberty Square. "Wow, that looks creepy, can we go in there?" Alan asked. "Only if you plan to scream like a little girl," Brandon laughed. "It's a great ride." Alan turned to Jack. "You guys coming too?" "Of course, I'd love to watch Barry scream," Jack said. "Oh yeah, right," Barry laughed. The line held them up for ten minutes, but Alan stood behind Brandon, using him as a shield to ward off prying eyes. The boy managed to bump him several times, looking over with a grin each time. Finally they got into a car together, with Jack and Barry right behind them in the next car. For the next ten minutes their senses were assaulted by spooky images, sounds and music, it was great fun. But Alan finally had Brandon to himself and they held hands with their bodies pressed together. They both screamed at a few of the apparitions, laughing when they heard Barry scream as well. It was all over too soon and they were back out in the fading sunlight. "Wow, that was great," Alan laughed. "What's next?" They managed the Jungle Cruise and a look at several other venues before it started to get really dark. Alan had to stop several times and chat with several young girls who recognized him, but in all he had a great time. They finally settled in a corner of the Central Plaza to wait for the fireworks. Again several girls approached him, but this time with their parents in tow. Alan spoke to the adults with the same ease that he had with their kids. Many wanted to know what he was doing there, others telling him of having seen the ads. But everyone left them alone once the fireworks started. The park played music during the display and Alan laughed and clapped along with the crowd. Brandon enjoyed watching the boy have fun. Alan was like a child once again, an image Brandon had always imagined but never really known. And when it was over they walked back to the entrance, a little tired out from the day's events. Jack led them to the taxi stand, not wishing to be seen boarding the hotel shuttle. If the girls found them it would be all over town in a matter of hours, worshipful fans were like that. And even at the hotel the boy garnered a few looks, so they made straight for the elevators. "OK, that was interesting," Jack said when they got back to the suite. "Tomorrow will be a lot more difficult. I suggest we have a room service breakfast and talk before we go back over there." "That's fine; I don't want you guys to get upset," Alan said. "What happened tonight was fun, but with too many kids it might be a disaster. We can always go home." "If it gets to be too much pressure we will," Brandon said. "I don't even think your disguise will work anymore." "Let's just hope the Disney folks aren't going to freak, I don't want to see Alan on the evening news," Barry said. "OK, bedtime for us...see you at breakfast." Brandon and Alan went in their own room and shut the door. "If this is an issue I think we ought to leave tomorrow and go home," Alan said immediately. "I don't want Jack and Barry to get upset, I know they care about my safety." "It's more than that, they care about you. But if you can't go anywhere without being mobbed then we ought to go home. I want you to have fun, you deserve it. Maybe Disneyland was a bad idea, I'm sorry." Alan moved in close and slid his arms around Brandon's waist. "I saw the look of joy in your eyes when the fireworks went off, it turned me on." "And I saw the little kid in you tonight and I loved it," Brandon said. "There are so many things we could do, places we could go; we don't have to stay here if you feel uncomfortable." Alan smiled and offered his lips for a kiss. Brandon held the boy, feeling the hardness pressing against his thigh. "Let's get in bed," Brandon said. Alan began to undress and paused. "I've never been deep sea fishing or skin diving. Never rode a horse or been up in a hot air balloon. I don't think I would like to sky dive or bungee jump, go big game hunting or mountain climbing. But I could handle being alone with you on a deserted island if we had food and water." Brandon smiled. "Then let's go find that island." They crawled in bed and embraced. "Thanksgiving is next week, huh?" Alan asked. "Yes, suppose it is," Brandon said, "What are you thinking?" "Well Christmas is a month away and we won't have that Chinese clothing business until after the New Year. Would Theresa let us take a month off?" "A whole month? We're just getting started," Brandon said. Alan smiled. "I'll ask her, she won't say no to me." "What would we do for a month?" "Find that island and make love on the beach." Brandon laughed, pulling the boy onto his chest. "You're a romantic devil, aren't you?" "So can we go? Can you find that island?" Alan asked. "For you...anything." And Alan sat up, sliding his body down and reaching back to spread his cheeks so Brandon could penetrate. And as he rode Brandon's lap the world seemed to go away. Across the street lay the world's biggest playground, now it no longer held their interest or their imagination. But somewhere there was a beach covered in clean white sand waiting for them to arrive, and for a short time they were already there. Chapter Twelve Theresa was surprised to see them back. "What happened?" "I can't do it, Theresa. I understand the girls want a star to admire but the scene at Disneyland was too much. I'll do personal appearances, I'll sign a million autographs, but I can't deal with crowds like that." Brandon was puzzled; Alan hadn't acted like this before. They had left the Disney Park rather than face the crowds, but Alan hadn't been upset like this. "OK sweetie, we can control this. I'm sorry you didn't have a good time." "Oh, the photo shoot was fine, I know Brandon got some great shots and then it all went to hell. I need some time to think about this, Theresa. If nothing's going on I want some time off. I need to relax; I don't even feel like smiling anymore." Theresa looked alarmed and Brandon realized the boy's game. If anyone could get something out of Theresa it was Alan. But as expected she turned to Brandon for answers. "We were pretty much chased around the park; Alan had to hide from the girls when he got anxious. It wasn't much fun for any of us. I'm not sure where we could go if we did have the time, where could we hide from such a large adoring public?" Now Brandon felt guilty, he was lending credibility to Alan's ploy. "Well you better find someplace," Theresa said. "Christmas is coming and there are several engagements Alan will need to attend, not to mention that New Year's event the Teen Star ladies have set up. So go, find someplace to hide for several weeks, get away from the madness. Because when Alan comes back I need that smile on his face, we have business to conduct." Alan gave her a huge hug and several kisses, and Brandon could swear the woman blushed. Jeez, to quote Alan, he pulled it off. And as they made for the door Theresa yelled after them. "Call me, I want to know where you are, I'm paying for this after all. Stay safe and have a good time." And then they were gone. Out through the lobby and into the car where Jack and Barry waited. Brandon laughed. "You don't feel the least bit guilty, do you? Well enjoy it; she won't always cave in like that." "What, did I lie about anything?" Alan asked. "'I don't even feel like smiling anymore,' you said. That was rich, look who's smiling now." Alan was smiling, a devious smile at that. "So what happened?" Jack asked. "Alan won us several weeks off, our choice...any suggestions?" Brandon asked. "I want an island. White sand, clear water, palm trees and NO GIRLS," Alan yelled. Jack and Barry both laughed. Then Jack smiled. "I know just the place." * * * * * The tiny Canadian Airways jet set down smoothly and they had arrived. They deplaned, walking down the short flight of stairs to the tarmac, and approaching a low white building. Away in the distance they heard the roar of a large jet taking off and Alan looked, the bright sun causing him to squint. Jack led them into the custom's shed where they were greeted by a tall black man in a tan uniform. "Welcome to Nassau," The man grinned. "Is this your first visit?" "I was here last year as a guest of Colonel Jenson," Jack said. The customs agent smiled. "You are a friend of the Colonel's?" "Not really, we worked together on a case. This time we're here for pleasure." The agent stamped their passports and waved them towards the door. "Who's Colonel Jenson," Alan asked. "Chief of Police, a real asshole," Jack laughed. They waited for their bags to arrive and carried them out to the taxi stand. The cabs waiting at the curb resembled nothing more than a used car lot full of Cadillac's and Mercedes. "What the hell?" Brandon asked. "Big market for used luxury cars down here, don't ask why," Jack said and Barry laughed. They chose a cabbie and the man loaded their bags in the trunk. "Coral Harbor," Jack told the man and they all climbed in. "Jenson had Barry and I down here a couple of years back to help out with a case he had against an American. The guy used to be in my Army outfit and had asked to see me. At first I thought Jenson was playing games by calling me here, but in truth the whole mess was quite political and he was looking for a way out. "Seems Steve had stuck his nose into some scheme cooked up by a couple of local businessmen and they framed him to get the guy out of their way. Jensen suspected as much, Barry and I managed to get the crooks to confess to the whole thing and Steve went back to Atlanta. "After we left a...um, a source of mine told me Jensen let the crooks go for a piece of the action. Can't confirm that, but it sounds like something he might do." "Oh, so what have we walked into here?" Brandon asked. "Nothing, Jensen probably won't even know we're here. He's not an issue, I scare him," Jack laughed. Alan smiled. "You scare me too. Where are we going?" "Coral Harbor. A quiet little nook away from the city. We can go into Nassau any time you get bored, there's lots to do there. But you wanted white sand and clean water; we'll have lots of that. No one will bother Alan here; I don't imagine Barry and I will be needed so we all get a vacation. But don't worry; I won't take my eye off the ball." "Accommodations?" Brandon asked. "Maida has half dozen shacks spread out along the beach and up in the palm trees. You'll like him, he's one of us." "No phones, no television and only one radio station," Barry said. "But he cooks up a storm and has the coldest beer on the island. Hope you like seafood." "We can drive a buggy into town any time you need something. Otherwise the beach looks out over the finest coral reefs you'd ever hope to see." Jack said. "Scuba diving?" Alan asked. "You bet, I'll give you guys a few lessons and turn you loose," Barry said. "Lord, this sounds like heaven," Brandon said. "This is where God vacations," Jack said. The drive across the island revealed a lot of modern development and some large walled mansions set back in the trees. "Lot of famous folk have a place down here," Barry said. The paved highway ended and Jack began giving the driver directions. They rolled down a coral track surrounded by palm trees, passing a few houses, what could only be described as shacks...and then there was the beach. They were facing south and stretching to the horizon was a sea of startling blue. Alan followed Brandon out of the car and they stared. A mere hundred feet of white sand separated them from all that gorgeous water. It was like nothing either of them had ever seen before. "So what do you think?" Jack asked as he stood beside them. "Awesome," Alan said. They were in a small driveway off the coral road. A path led down to a cinder block building that was painted bright pink. The driver emptied the trunk and Barry paid him off. Now it was just the four of them standing on a small rise above the beach. The only sound was the waves lapping at the shore and the birds in the trees. "Paradise," Brandon said. A sudden burst of reggae music issued from somewhere inside the pink building. And a tall slender black man came dancing around the corner. He laughed and then stopped when he saw them. "Jack...Barry, you have finally come," he yelled. The man ran over and embraced the men. "Maida, you old scoundrel...how's life?" Jack asked. "Oh I have plenty of fun these days; you must come meet Chu-chu." Maida stopped and looked towards Brandon and Alan. "These are your friends, forgive me, I have forgotten my manners." "Brandon and Alan," Jack said by way of introduction. "We're family." Maida eyed Alan and then smiled at Brandon. "Welcome to you both...now come, you must meet Chu-chu." "The bags?" Brandon asked. "Leave them for now, no one will touch them. Bobby will fetch them to your rooms in a few minutes," Maida said. They followed Maida towards the source of the music and rounded the building. The front of the place was open to the sea, a low roof covering the long cool patio. A hodge-podge bunch of chairs and tables, several wooden picnic tables and a statue occupied the space. But the view of four young men dancing to the beat attracted their attention, they were damn near naked. "Chu-chu, turn down the music so a man might think," Maida yelled. One of the slender young men reached over and turned the knob on a boom box and the patio went silent. "Good, Chu-chu, this is my old friend Jack and his partner Barry. This is also Brandon and Alan; they are our guests this month." Brandon watched the boys all look at Alan. OK, this ought to prove interesting. Obviously Maida had a liking for the young gay crowd; Chu-chu couldn't be a day over twenty if he was that old. The others looked a little younger, but still cute as hell. The boys all came in varying shades of brown, announcing the variety of native bloodlines on the island. They were introduced to Chu-chu, Bobby, Theo and Dominic. The last two looked like brothers or lovers by the way they rubbed against one another. Bobby was a long haired beauty with very light brown skin, a child of mixed race. But Chu-chu was plain of face until he smiled. Maida sat them all down at a table while Chu-chu went to fetch some refreshments. Beer for the men, a juice for Alan. Then Chu-chu sat in Maida's lap. "You have a beautiful view," Brandon said. "My own piece of paradise...I was born in New Jersey," Maida said, laughing at Brandon's look of surprise. "Yeah, Trenton. But my mother was from the islands, we come here when I was six." "We're staying in New York for a while," Jack said. "Brandon and Alan are in the fashion industry. It was time to get away and relax; no one knows we're here." "I know nothing about fashion," Maida laughed. "Here we wear very little if anything at all. I had the boys dress because I knew you were coming. Be careful, the sun will burn such white skin in a jiffy. But if you burn I have the cure." "Maida makes an amazing skin cream." Jack said. "So are we the only customers?" "Ya man, it's been a bad year for me," Maida said. "But I have good company and plenty of beer, a good life. Chu-chu is a great cook, even better than me, you will eat well. Bobby will show you around and the boys...they just get to be whatever they want. They are in love and this is a safe place for them now." Maida didn't explain any further, but Jack nodded. Gay life can be a challenge, even in paradise. Beers consumed, Bobby and Barry went to fetch the luggage. Maida showed them down a plank walkway to what Brandon had at first considered a shed. "I think this room for Brandon and Alan, Jack and Barry in the next one. The boys and I live across the road so our music won't disturb you I hope. Young men like to dance the night away, sometimes I let them." He opened the door and Brandon followed Maida inside, Alan looked dubious at first but then he followed. The outside was a mess, but the inside was neat and tidy. Brightly colored cushions on the chairs, a sturdy kitchen table and a tightly woven palm rug on the floor. "There is plumbing, I have new septic tank. The bathroom is there and this is the bedroom," Maida said. And what a bedroom. Again bright colors, handcrafted cabinets and a large bed. "You have hot water, but mostly we wash outside to keep the sand out of the rooms. The enclosure between buildings has the showers. You may have a refrigerator if you want, but I urge the guests just to walk into the kitchen. Help yourself to a beer or juice, day or night I leave it open." "This looks great," Brandon said. "So when can we go for a swim?" Alan asked. "The beach is yours. We have neighbors to the left, but not so close. To the right we have the trees and nothing for miles. You will find some private places that way. Bobby will show you. He does not hear, he is deaf, but he speaks just fine. "And if you wish to venture out on the reef he will go with you. There are dangers, the coral is very sharp. There are also some fish you will not touch, but many of them are harmless. Now I will show Jack to his room. Are you hungry? I will have lunch ready very soon" "OK, we'll get settled in and see you in a while," Brandon said. Maida left them, closing the door behind him. "So what do you think of this little paradise?" Brandon asked. "It's got everything we need doesn't it," Alan replied. "Cute boys, huh?" "If I wasn't here which one would you take to bed?" Alan asked. "Oh Lord, I am not going to answer that question. I have you here," Brandon said. "I came here to be with you." "And which boy do you like....wait...let me guess....Bobby?" Brandon said. Alan blushed. "Yeah, he's handsome, how can you tell if he's really deaf?" "He'll read our lips as we talk and the sound of his voice will be different. Deaf people learn to talk phonetically by sounding out the words. If he's going to be our guide around the island then I guess we'll find out more about him." There was a knock on the door and Alan opened it. "Bags," was all Bobby said as he carried the suitcases into the room. Brandon tried to give the boy a tip but it was waved off. "No money, what I need money for?" Bobby laughed. His voice did sound different, but he spoke quite well. Alan reached out and patted Bobby on the shoulder. The boy looked down at the hand and smiled. Then his eyes met Alan's. "You number one good looking I think." For the second time in five minutes Alan blushed and Bobby laughed, returning the pat to the shoulder. "Come eat soon, Chu-chu make food," Bobby said, and then he laughed himself out the door. "OK, so now you have another fan," Brandon said. "I didn't mean to encourage him," Alan said. "No kiddo, everyone admires you, he's a handsome boy too. He's not shy, but I think he's not that aware of his own beauty and I wonder why," Brandon said. "We'll have to find out. I guess we will, we're gonna be here a long time. Are you hungry?" Alan asked. "Yes, I could eat. I just wonder what they make in that kitchen. Suppose we better find out." They walked back to the patio where Dominic and Theo were still lounging about. The sound of pots and pans rattling in the kitchen caught their attention. "You have been to the Islands before?" Theo asked. "First time," Brandon said. Alan smiled as Bobby appeared, "You want a beer while the food is cooking?" "Sure," Alan said. Bobby ran off to fetch them. "OK, so you're drinking now?" Brandon asked. "Just the one," Alan said. "Is that OK with you?" Brandon shrugged. "Knock yourself out." Bobby had made a definite impression, Alan was interested. It wasn't a bad idea; the boy needed someone his age to pal around with the next few weeks. Coming here to be alone with Alan had been a good idea, but he couldn't monopolize the boy. Bobby was definitely a looker, the product of a native and European mix. And from the way things looked Bobby would be spending a lot of time with them, did Maida understand what he was doing? Jack and Barry arrived fifteen minutes later, just as Maida and Chu-chu were delivering dishes to the table. Jack looked over at Alan swigging off the beer bottle and raised an eyebrow. He looked over at Brandon who shrugged, knowing Jack would ask him later. The food was incredible. A seafood stew over rice, a platter of fresh fruit and a bag of Fritos. The latter seemed to be something that Maida just couldn't do without. The meal took them several hours to consume between the conversation and the beers, Alan had three. Bobby sat across the table from Alan and Brandon could see the adoration in the boy's eyes. Their conversation was about the ocean and how the Bahamian life depended upon it. The subject seemed safe enough...educational. For his part Alan seemed just friendly, drawing Bobby out, exploring the options for having fun the next few weeks. It was Bobby who seemed to have the fixation, and Brandon watched the boy with amusement. Of course Jack and Barry were aware something was up, they were always aware where Alan was concerned. The beer finally caught up with Brandon and he excused himself from the table to use the bathroom. Jack was waiting when he came out. "Oh I get it, it's a vacation and he wants to drink beer, or is it that a raven haired beauty keeps feeding them to him?" Jack said. "He needs a friend, Jack. Bobby seems like a nice kid." "He looks about ready to eat Alan, unless you guys are suddenly into kinky sex." "I'm not jealous; I don't think Alan is ready for another sex partner. I think the idea hasn't entered his mind," Brandon said. "We'll be spending a lot of time together, they need to get along." "Your call," Jack said. When they returned Alan and Maida were having a raucous conversation, no doubt fueled by the beer they had been drinking. "Maida thinks we ought to shower and take a nap," Alan laughed, his words slurring a bit. "Life is a party here after the sun goes down and it cools off. It is best to sleep away the heat of the day and stay up at night, but Alan thinks it is silly," Maida said. Bobby and the others were laughing at the argument, but it made sense to Brandon. Besides, Alan needed to sober up a bit anyway. "I think we all need to get out of these traveling clothes, a shower and something more comfortable sounds good to me," Brandon said. "Can we swim later on?" "Oh yes, the water is wonderful after the sun begins to fade," Maida said. "OK, my lovelies, let us leave our guests to clean up." He gave Brandon a wink, they understood one another. Jack and Barry headed back to their room, while Bobby escorted them back to theirs. "I will see you when the sun fades," Bobby said. He grinned, "I go sleep for a while." He headed off into the palms and disappeared in the dense growth. Alan watched the boy go and then suddenly realized what he was doing. "Uh, a shower would be nice," He said. The outdoor shower facility reminded Brandon of summer camp. It was divided in two halves, theirs and Jack's. Wrapped in towels Brandon led the boy into the wooden enclosure. "Warn you, the water is cold," Jack said from the other side of the wall. "It feels wonderful," Barry added. Alan hung his towel on the back of the partition and Brandon turned on the shower head. The boy yelped as he jumped out of the stream of water. "Its damn cold," Alan laughed. "Pumped from hundreds of feet underground," Brandon said. "Get back in there and get cleaned up." But even he shivered as the cold water splashed against his chest, it felt wonderful. The Islands could be very hot in summer, and even now it was in the low nineties on the beach. Alan finally managed to get soaped up and groaned under the rinse. But both of them felt refreshed and a little more sober as they rushed back to their room. And despite the earlier protest, Alan did fall asleep. The air travel and beer finally taking its toll. Brandon lay beside him, watching the fan spinning lazy circles below the ceiling. The windows were shaded with awnings, enough to keep the sunlight out and allow the breezes to flow in from the palm grove. Alan had been right, if he had come here alone Brandon would have been very attracted to Bobby. He was the opposite of Alan, but only in looks. Brandon had never thought of being attracted to a black boy before but these islanders were so different. And Jack had been right as well, what if Alan did want something to happen with Bobby? So far it was all based on looks; the boys were just discovering one another. Brandon knew that if Alan wanted more than the friendship he wouldn't stop it. Passion would bring the boys together; reality would separate them at the end of the month. And then Alan would be ashamed for having cheated, for going back on his word. And Brandon didn't want the boy to feel guilty...it would kill that winning smile. The easy way out would be to bring Bobby into their sex life, Alan would feel no guilt if the man in his life was involved. But then there was Bobby to consider, what he wanted was just as important. Would he sleep with an older man? Too many unknowns...and Brandon finally fell into a fitful sleep. The sun kept its course across the Bahamian sky, finally heading towards the horizon, soon to extinguish its heat in the expanse of blue ocean. The breeze from the palm grove cooled the room further until Alan woke up. The distant sound of music from Chu-chu's boom box got him out of bed and he went to the door to look at the ocean. The first thing he saw was Jack and Barry stretched out on a blanket in the sand halfway to the waterline. It took only a moment for his mind to register that both men were naked. The second thing he saw was Bobby lying on the plank walkway a dozen feet away, he was nude as well. Alan eyes traveled up the boy's slender brown body, not missing the fact that Bobby was well hung and uncircumcised. And then their eyes met, for Bobby was awake and had been waiting. Only then did Alan realize he was also naked. The urge to rush back inside gripped his mind, but it was too late, the boy had seen him naked. And from the look on Bobby's face everything was perfectly fine between them. "Come...swim with me," Bobby said, holding out his hand. Alan looked back in the room, Brandon was still asleep. He should...he ought to...oh hell, why not. And Alan turned back to Bobby, watching the boy rise to his feet, extending his hand. Alan reached out and took that proffered hand, and together they ran down the beach towards the water. Jack propped himself up on one elbow and watched the boys hit the water. Hmm, wonder where this is going, he thought. Looking back over his shoulder at the shack, he saw Brandon standing in the doorway.