Date: Wed, 08 Apr 1998 19:40:37 PDT From: Mike R <lil_boytoy@hotmail.com> Subject: Greg Part Two: The Journey WARNING: This is a story involves sex between men. If stuff like that offends you please don't read. Thank You. Greg by Michael Part Two: The Journey Chapter 7 "Mmmm!" "So what do you think of good ole Cajun cooking?" "Not bad, but spicy as hell; how do you people stand this food?" "Simple, we're born with cast iron stomachs," jokes Jason. Both boys laugh at the ridiculous remark. Jason looks at the youthful innocence in the eyes of the man that sits across from him. He smiles weakly as the buried emotions in him make a plea to let him feel the touch of another again. He pushes them away as his mind reminds him of what happened last time he let them run free. "Hey Jason, you okay, man? You look like someone just killed your best friend." Jason looks up at the remark, a little watery eyed, but fights back the pain. He flashes a weak smile at Greg. "Yeah something like that. Anyway we had better get back to the bus station. We don't want to be left here in this hell hole." Greg smiles back noticing the quick change in subject. He makes a note to never bring up the subject of friends to Jason again. The boys quickly pay for their meals and head back down the busy streets of downtown Shreveport. They see their new bus pulling into the station just as they arrive. Both boys make small talk while they wait for their new bus to get ready. After about a five minute wait the announcement for their bus is made. Both boys pick up their backpacks and head to the poor excuse for a gate, and pick seats next to each other as their new friendship buds. Greg and Jason talk for hours on end, neither getting tired of sharing stories as if they had been friends for the longest time, but both being careful to leave out their dark past. Jason finally decides to switch into a low gear; he tells his new found friend that sleep is taking him over. Jason turns a little to his side and starts to doze off. Greg takes his cue from his friend and decides that sleeping isn't that bad an idea. "How does that feel love? Do you want me start sucking?" "Oh God that feels so good, baby. Yeah, suck my cock." Jason purrs as feels the warm wet lips of his lover slowly engulf his cock. He can feel the hot breath coming from his man's nose against the base of his cock. Jason tilts his head back as those magical lips move their way down to his balls and start to suck at the skin. He gasps as he can feel one of his balls being engulfed, and teased by a tongue. Slowly the nut is released and his other given equal treatment. Jason starts to beg for his cock to be sucked. He can hear a sweet familiar laughter. "In time love, in time." Jason wiggles as the mixture of hot breath and wet kiss make their way delicately up his naked hard body to his heaving chest. The heat from the blazing tongue flicks at his hard nipples sending shock waves of pleasure to his cock and then back up to his brain. He can feel hands stroke his soft brown hair. Yet something suddenly changes. The picture in his mind somehow shifts; he can feel something happening. His mind asks, `are those tears landing on me?' He hears a `yes' as if someone is listening in on his mind. He then feels a light kiss on his lips. "Please love, give me up." "Kelly? NO! Don't leave me ... no not again!" Jason wakes up with a jolt. He looks around. He sighs in relief as he sees almost all the bus is asleep. Then the tears start to roll down his cheeks. He hadn't had dreams of Kelly in a year. Why now? Why when his life finally looks better? He takes a deep breath, then he hears it. At first a small whimper; he brushes it off as a bus noise. But then he hears it again; his ears strain to hear it. He gets up from his aisle seat and sleeping friend's side. He makes his way to the front of the bus. Half way there he sees him. The boy that looks to be about 12 going 8. The boy looks up to him wiping his eyes. "Hey little man, you need a friend?' The boys smiles back; `no one ever called me a man before,' he thinks to himself. The boy smiles at Jason. Jason smiles back and kneels down in the aisle to get on the boys eye level. He holds out a hand. "My name is Jason." The boy smiles and takes the man's strong hand. "I'm Jacob." "Well Mr. Jacob, my friend back there snores real loud, you care if I sit here?" Jacob smiles and shrugs; he notices he doesn't hear any snoring. "Sure. I guess--" Jason scoots in and takes the aisle seat. He notices the boy's eyes never leave him. They watch him like a prey would watch as the hunter stalks them. Jason sighs a little. He already knows this boy's story. It's written in his eyes. He can see the pain this boy has gone through. Jason would bet his last dollar that this boy has a couple of bruises, and has already lost his virginity. Jason thinks to himself ... `He's why I'm going there. I deserved my pain; he doesn't. Little kids like this don't deserve the abuse they get.' "Mr. Jason, what's wrong? Why are you crying? Did your dad send you to your mom too?" "No Jacob, he didn't." "Then why are you crying. Did I do something?" Jason just sighs. He wishes he could give the boy back his stolen youth. The only thing that comes to him is to hug the boy. Jacob tenses as he sees the man's arms move; the instinctive reaction of this type of kid. But something else happens. The man wraps his arm around him. Not to hurt him, but to do something that no one else ever did to him. Jacob gets confused; he doesn't know how to react. All he can do is cry, and hold on tight to the man holding him. Greg wakes and notices the seat next to him is empty. He raises an eyebrow, but figures whatever floats the dude's boat. He shrugs and looks out the window as they pass by some small unknown Texas town. He turns back to the empty seat and notices that Jason left his bag; he thinks to himself guy must have gone to the bathroom. He starts to fidget in his seat; he wishes he'd brought a book or something to read. He sighs as the hours drag on. He notices that Jason still hasn't returned. Finally around lunch the bus pulls into a rest stop. He looks up toward all the people hurrying to get off the bus. As the last few people get off he notices Jason sitting in a seat with someone. Greg gets up to do a little investigating. As he walks closer he can see that the other person is a young boy cuddled up in his arms. He smiles, but kinda frowns. `Shit, is this country starting to get over run with gay men, or is it just me,' he thinks to himself. He nudges Jason a little and smiles wickedly at him as Jason wakes groggily. "Hey man, you know they have hotels for this kinda thing?" "What... huh? Oh... eh this isn't what you think Greg. I mean... he needed... a..." "Hey Jason, relax man. It's cool what you do with a guy is fine by me." "But it's not like that, Jacob just needed a friend, and I have a big heart. That's one of the reasons why I'm going to California." "Yeah sure.. I believe you *snicker* Sure it isn't to get your cock in some sweet little boy's bum?" Jason's eye flash anger quickly at the last vulgar remark. He's about to say something when he notices the young boy starting to stir in his arms. He looks down at the innocent face that looks up at him. He can't help but smile at him, and quickly loses interest in his anger with Greg. "Morning Mr. Jacob." Jacob looks up at the man who is holding him. He feels a sense of security, but a little awkward having a man hold him like this. He gently, but quickly, eases himself from the embrace before saying anything. "Morning Jason" Greg notices the two boys start to go off in their own little word of talking; he starts to feel like a third wheel and heads for the door exit. As he steps off the bus the heat hits him like a bulldozer. He quickly makes his way to the air conditioned lobby of the bus station. Once inside he finds himself a seat in the coffee shop. He grabs the town's local paper and starts to read, not really paying attention to anything at all. "Hey you loser, you couldn't wait for us?" Greg looks up at the voice, and sees Jason walking to the table with the young boy closely in tow. "Well Jason, I see you and your friend finely arrived; took you two long enough." "Yeah, but first we need to talk." End of Chapter 7 Greg by Michael Part Two, The Journey Chapter 8 * RING * "Hello?" "Uh... hi, this is Jason Parson, I'm the new case worker that was hired." "Oh Jason! Hi, how you doing? This is Justin, what's up man?" "Well I kinda found someone that may need our help. He looks like he hasn't had a meal in a while, and I think he may have been abused some. It seems like he has had a hard time and just needs a chance." "It does sound rough. Did you explain to him that the ranch was strictly volunteer?" "Yeah I did. From what he's told me so far he was supposed to meet his mom at this bus stop, but she hasn't showed up yet. I tried to contact his father, but the guy just gave me shit. But here is the problem. If I cash in my bus ticket and buy us two; it would only get us half way there. I hate to ask you this; considering I haven't started working for you yet..." "Hey man don't sweat it. First off, if you have forgotten, I explained to you that the reason I started this place was so kids could have the chance I was given; secondly, by doing this one thing now you have already started working for me. I could tell from the first phone interview you were a caring man, and third; money is not a problem when it comes to helping a kid in need. Just give me an hour; will it cause you to miss your bus?" "Yeah, it will." "Okay, tell you what. Give me the number to the pay phone where you are, and I'll call you. Don't worry about missing the bus; I'll take of it." "Okay, thanks again Justin; I really appreciate this." "Hey, don't worry about it! You're just doing what I pay you for!" The boys finish their good byes. Jason hangs up the phone, and feels that warm swelling feeling in his chest that you get after helping someone. He turns and looks at the young boy siting there, almost shaking like a leaf, as people pass him by. He thinks to himself, `how can a boy on the verge of physically becoming a man, be so scared that it would make him crawl back into the world of a young child?' It brings a slight tear to his eyes. He fights the pain back as the boy looks his way; he smiles as he starts to walk over to boy. "Hey Jacob, I have some good news; you're gonna stay with me at that ranch a for little while. My boss said it was okay to bring you along. He's getting you a new ticket too so we go up there together." Jacob smiles at the man sitting next to him. He wonders why he's being so nice. He thinks, `no one has ever treated me this way'. "Thank you sir... I mean Jason." Jason smiles at the boy, and tousles his hair. He notices the boy's slight flinch as he raised his hand. He makes a mental note of this, another tragic sign of physical abuse. Just as he's about to bring up a a nice neutral subject the pay phone rings. Jason leaps up to answer it; not realizing his sudden movement makes Jacob jump out of his skin. "Hello, this is Jason!" "Hey Jason, this Justin. We have a problem. Something about wiring money to the closest town -- it's a two hour drive away." Both guys mumble `shit' in unison. "I'm sorry man, maybe..." "Hey, wait a second I have idea." Jason starts to explain to Justin about this guy he's been traveling with and how he's heading to California too. He tells Justin that the guy had a good deal of cash on him, and maybe he could help. Both agree it's worth a shot. Justin also tells him that he can even offer a plane ticket from the town near the ranch back to San Francisco. Jason agrees and promises to give it his best. They hang up again, and Jason heads back to Jacob. "Well, we may have some problems; we have to go talk to Greg." Jason holds out his hand hoping the boy will make an attempt to trust him: he sighs when he sees the boy just staring at the hand. He decides to play off this awkward moment as if it never happened, knowing that it will take a long time for him to trust anyone. He starts to walk towards the coffee shop where he spotted Greg, Jacob quickly follows behind. "So let me get this straight? You want me to give you money so you two can go to some stinking ranch in the middle of fucking nowhere? Plus I will have to go too just so I can get my cash back?" "Yeah, but my boss has promised that he will fly you back to San Francisco. It's just cause the nearest place to wire money is two hours away. Please, can you help us?" Greg starts to ponder. Isn't this the same shit that happened in New York? He sighs, `how do I get caught up in shit like this?' He looks at Jason and sees those pleading eyes, and then at the little boy. Seeing the boy looking down at the ground, reminds him of the boy he knew sitting in a tub a few weeks ago. He sighs, even he can't let that happen to someone else. "Look, I'll do this, but if I have to stay in freaking nature land more than 24 hours, I'll climb a tower with a rifle, and blame both of you when they arrest me." Jason chuckles slightly at the remark, but makes a mental note of how uncomfortable Greg became at certain parts of his joking. He starts to wonder exactly why Greg is going to California. He makes a decision to tell Greg to lay off of the remarks in front of Jacob. Greg fishes out a wad of cash as they head to ticket counter. He makes the necessary arrangement for a ticket for Jacob. All three boys head back to the Coffee shop. Greg starts to get himself a meal. Jason fishes in his pocket, and gets out enough money to buy a lunch for him and Jacob. "So Jacob, what would you like to eat?" Jason sits there and patiently waits. Jacob is about to speak, but suddenly Greg makes another one of his remarks. "Hey kid, look, the guy is offering you free food; he doesn't want to fuck you or anything, he just wants to help." Jacob quickly looks wide eyed to Greg in fear, and then turns toward Jason. His instincts over ride his fear, and he runs towards Jason with tears. Jason grabs the young 12 year old in his arms. Meanwhile the rage inside him burns with every minute. He turns and flashes a look of pure hate at Greg. Greg looks at Jason. Half in a `I'm sorry' look, and half in a look of someone ready to fight at all cost. Greg quietly takes his change back and heads to a table by himself. He slowly undoes the wrapper. Jason continues to soothe the young boy crying in his arms. He can't help but care for this boy. The pain the boy feels reminds him of the hell that once ruled his own life. Yet in the mist of this young boy's silent cry for help his mind tells him another begs for help too. He lets his eye move away from the trembling boy in his arms to the young man a few feet away looking off into space. He wonders what demons have captured Greg and refuse to let go of him. "OOO God that feels so good. Yeah harder!!!" "Ugh... I'm gonna cum, Love." Jason quickly shoves his pulsing cock once more into Marcus's waiting ass. Marcus tilts his back with a moan as the thrust scrapes across his prostate sending ripples of pleasure from one head to the other. Jason lets out a gasp as the first shot of his cum escapes into Marcus's love chute. Marcus wiggles his buttocks milking his lover's cock for more. After a few minutes Marcus can feel his lover's cock go soft inside him. Jason rests a little then turns Marcus over onto his back. He smiles at the man lying below him; he wonders how someone could love him so much with all his imperfections. Jason just sighs and considers himself a very lucky man. He bends down and slowly kisses Marcus's soft lips. He can hear a muffled moan escape into his mouth. He lets his lips slowly move down towards Marcus's neck; the gentle sucking and nibbling sends shivers of pleasure through the man's body. His cock twitches in the air slightly. Jason continues to move down Marcus's body; he briefly stops at Marcus's pronounced Adam's apple. Marcus lets out a groan that vibrates through his throat into Jason's mouth. Jason then slowly moves further south; he gently flicks at one of Marcus's hard nipples causing the man to squirm. Then with a sudden force he dives onto the nipple sucking on it with immense power. Marcus gasps softly , but quickly grabs hold of the back of Jason's head. He continues to push Jason deeper into his hard chest. With a sudden rush of energy Marcus turns himself and Jason over. Jason looks at his lover's eyes and can see a mixture of love, passion, and lust burning in them. Knowing that he could cause such powerful feelings in a another make him grow hard, but he doesn't have to think about these things. Marcus starts to press a well oiled finger into his waiting hole; it causes a ripple of pleasure to shoot towards his hardening cock. The hunger in Marcus drives him down to Jason's lips; he presses his tongue into the man's mouth; exploring every inch of the oh-so-familiar mouth. He takes hold of Jason's long hairy legs and with a strength fueled by the moment throws them over his lean shoulders. This causes Jason's hole to become an easy target. Marcus looks down on his conquest with a sinister smile. Without warning he thrusts his raging hardon at Jason's asshole. Both men gasp in unison. Jason lurches upwards from the initial shock, but quickly calms down. He begins to match Marcus's rough rhythm with his own. Jason reaches out and wraps his hands around the tight buns that are pumping a hard tool into him. He can feel the rhythmic contracting and relaxing of the hard muscles encased in a blanket of hot skin and soft downy hair. He lets his hand trace over to his lovers dimples; he then grabs on tighter as he can feel Marcus's tempo increase and get harder. Jason's legs suddenly lock harder around Marcus. His head tilts back causing his whole body to arch pushing both him and Marcus upwards. Marcus's smiles as he see what his action is doing to Jason. He looks down at Jason's untouched cock and watches as it quickly expands then starts to explode for the second time that night. Seeing the thick white ropes of cum fly up and past both of them, and the quick tightening of Jason's ass around his cock sends Marcus over the edge. He drives his cock in one last time, and then shoots his load deep into his lovers body. Marcus collapses onto the sweaty body below him. Jason wraps his arms around the man that holds his heart, and drifts off to sleep with him. *BEEP BEEP BEEP* "Ahhhh" Jason yawns and tries to stretch. He sighs and reaches over to turn the alarm off, knowing that Marcus wil not wake up from the noise. He gets a wicked grin on his face, and slowly his hand creeps down to Marcus's side. "You try and tickle me, and next time instead of it being my dick in your ass it'll be a fucking ice cube," Marcus says as he quickly moves; not realizing that he collapsed onto Jason the night before with a layer of wet cum between them. Both boys holler as they get an unwanted body shave the hard way. After a hard laugh they both get ready for the start of this semester's classes. "So after our philosophy class, you wanna run by your parents house to see if they have an update on Greg?" Jason looks up from brushing his teeth and just nods. Marcus can still see the hurt in his eyes; he walks over to his husband and wraps his arms around him. He whispers. "I know it hurts, love, but they will find him. Your brother is a smart kid; he's going through a big adjustment in his life. One that we all gotta go through; it's just he's not taking it as well as most do. I don't know why he isn't, but he is a resourceful young man." Jason sighs and starts to speak in a weak voice. "It's my fault you know. If I hadn't asked mom and dad to keep us a secret from the family till we were ready. He would already know it was okay if he was gay. He wouldn't have run away, and he wouldn't have tried to..." Jason chokes on the last word, the vision of seeing his little brother in the hospital bed with all the needles in him and bandages on his wrists rips through his mind. Jason and Marcus both try to sneak into the first class, being 10 minutes late wasn't what they had planned for the first day. "Glad to see you both could join us today, gentlemen. Since you both seem to feel that missing the first 10 minutes of my class will not affect your learning ability maybe you two can tell me what is the reason why the folk sayings from America's past are still valued today?" Marcus takes a big breath and lets loose a quickly thought up answer to the question that obviously pleases the hardnosed professor. "Very good, and for you, sir?" Jason raise a brow towards Marcus wondering where the hell that bullshit came from. He then decides to speak. "Well for the simple fact that this country is a fucking ass backwards, Puritan valued, Victorian Era, Right wing crazy, tradition family value loving, group of idiots that can't leave people's private lives alone." Jason smiles as he see his statement had the desired effect on the class. Everyone except for Marcus jaw is hanging; Marcus on the other hand is burying his head in hands half in embarrassment and half in trying not to laugh. "Eh.. Professor at this time I would like to make it known that this guy standing next to me is in no way a friend of mine. In fact I just met him five seconds before I came into this class." "Well that's too bad; because granted he expressed his views in a colorful manner, but he is in my opinion absolutely right. Mr.... I'm sorry son what is your last name?" "Jefferson, sir" "Ah, yes Mr. Jefferson. Exactly what can you provide us with to back up your colorful disagreement with your friend here." "Well, it's simple really. I mean look at all the old sayings. For each one there is a well known contradiction to it. For instance `Don't judge a book by it's cover,' but `The clothes maketh the man'. I mean what idiot in his right mind would listen to something that was said hundreds of years ago by someone that thought he was better than others?" Marcus suddenly smiles his classic "I'm about to burst your bubble" look at Jason. Which quickly makes Jason uncomfortable, and makes him wonder where exactly he left himself open! "So Mr. Jefferson, does that mean this class should follow your example and march out of here right now; then head to Washington DC and burn the Constitution of the United States of America? I mean, was it not an old saying written by someone who thought he was better than a King? Or while there, burn the Bible, the Koran, and the Khaballa?" The professor suddenly smiles and thinks to himself; `I finally have the dream philosophy class I've always wanted.' Both boys spend the rest of the class gathering allies in their debate. Both guys knowing not only did they save their asses for being late, but quickly became star pupils for the hardest professor on campus. After class Jason and Marcus hung around to listen to the professors praise. They then walked out the campus lawn where they bumped into Professor Owers. He quickly smiled at the two guys. "Hi Professor Owers." "Hello Jason, Marcus. How are things with your family? Any more news?" "No sir, other than what you gave us, and thank you again. At least we know he is alive!" Marcus stays in the background quietly as a thought slowly develops in his mind. He suddenly perks up, and starts to speak. "Hey, you remember that guy they just arrested a few days ago in New York City?" Both men nod then as if reading Marcus's mind. The professor realizes what he is getting at. "You're right, that is the same guy they arrested." Jason looks at both of them confused. "Who is the same guy? What guy arrested?" "Love, remember the internet pictures of Greg? "Yes--" "Remember me pointing out that guy in the paper that got arrested for kiddie porn? He's the same guy in the pictures with Greg" Jason's eyes widen with the knowledge as it sinks in. "If he knew Greg then maybe he knows where Greg is. Shit, we have to get home quickly. Thanks again for your help, Professor Owers." Jason hugs the man tightly after saying this. He grabs Marcus by the hand practically dragging him to their car. Marcus decides to grab the keys, before Jason ends up getting them killed. As Jason gets in the passager seat his mind is racing with hope. Greg sighs as he looks at the sandwich then back to Jason and Jacob. `How can I be so stupid; he thinks to himself. I didn't mean this to happen; I'm such a fuck up.' He gets up and walks over to the others. He looks down at them, and in a soft and fragile voice whispers "I'm sorry... I... I didn't mean it to sound like that." Jason looks up and sees the tears forming in Greg's eyes. He smiles softly. "It's okay, I forgive you. We all have problems, but it's not me that does the forgiving." He looks down to Jacob, who wipes his tear swollen eyes. Jacob looks up at Jason then at Greg. He stares at him for a while not moving. Greg can feel the kids eyes look directly at his soul; he knows this kid can see the pain in him. Jacob sighs a little then walks over to Greg slowly and cautiously. He grabs hold of Greg's wrist and pulls the sleeves up on the long sleeve sweat shirt to reveal the scars. He looks at them, then up into the trembling eyes of Greg. He lets go of them then nods. Greg crunches down a little and holds out his arms to hug Jacob. Jacob quickly backs up. He looks at Greg, and Greg nods to him. "I understand." After saying this he stands back up pushes the sleeves down, and looks at the slightly shocked Jason. "Well now you know my little secret. Yeah, I tried to kill myself." "Looks that way, and from those scars it wasn't that long ago. You wanna talk about it?" Greg says "No!" in a quick cold voice. After another awkward moment of silence all three head for the gate of the bus to take them to the next stop on their trip. `Oh how cute, a fucking Hallmark moment here in the middle of a bus station. God, will someone fucking just shoot these three losers,' thinks Michael to himself as he drinks his coffee. He watches the three boys a few yards away. Michael continues to watch the three sizing them up; especially the one that kept flashing the large wad of cash. He smiles to himself as he notices them getting on the same bus as he is. He thinks to himself `Alright, steak dinner and a hooker tomorrow night, my boy!' End of Chapter 8 Greg Part 2 The Journey Chapter 9 Guess what, there is no disclaimer. I'm being a rebel. :) Mr. Jefferson patiently waits inside the police lobby. He remembers two days ago when Jason and Marcus came flying into his home with the idea, and how it gave him a bitter sweet feeling inside. He was happy that his family had another chance at finding their youngest son, but also feeling sick that Greg was actually involved with this man. He also remembers how excited his sons were at their idea to find Greg. Mr. Jefferson chuckled to himself as he realizes he called Marcus 'one of my sons'. He thinks to himself "And why not? Marcus may as well be my son-in-law. He and Jason have practically been high school sweethearts, and both really do care about Greg and the family." Mr. Jefferson is suddenly awoken from his thoughts by a tap on the shoulder. "Excuse me, Mr. Jefferson." "Huh? Yes? Oh, Detective Peters." Mr. Jefferson's face frowns slightly; he sees that Peters isn't bringing good news. "Mr. Jefferson. I'm sorry, we questioned Frank about your son's disappearance. He couldn't give us any leads; your son left Frank before we arrested him. I'm sorry that we had to make you drive all the way to New York for this." Mr. Jefferson sighs. He fights back the tears of another hope crushed under foot. He starts to wish that it was him they found in the tub that day, and not their baby. He's about to say thank you to the detective when both see a dress blue running to them quickly, shouting the detective's name. The detective asks the young man, in a very annoyed voice, exactly what is so important. The young man, obviously a rookie, catches his breath for a second. He then spits out that the hidden cameras used in the shelter match the description of reported stolen cameras. The district attorney wants to add this to the charges on the guy he has in the interrogation room. Both Mr. Jefferson and the detective smile at this new information; the detective makes a quick good bye. He quickly catches up to the rookie. Mr. Jefferson sighs to himself, and wonders exactly who keeps playing this game with his family's hearts? Mr. Jefferson slowly pulls into his drive from his long drive back from New York City; he notices all of his kids cars are parked in the drive, and a dreadful feeling creeps forward in his heart. He slowly walks into the living room of his house; when he enters he can see his family just sitting there in a daze. He sighs as his wife comes toward him in tears. She practically falls into his arms. ________ Michael keeps a close eye on the three boys sitting a few seats ahead of him on the bus. He sizes each up carefully; he figures that the one with the little boy is the leader, and is not to be messed with. But then he isn't the one with the cash, is he? Michael pays close attention to Greg, and figures that if he can get the guy alone it will be easy to mug him. "I just have to wait for the right time," he thinks to himself. Greg quietly muses as he watches the trees go by outside. His mind wonders exactly what he has started here. He starts to answer himself, but is quickly distracted by a soft painful whimper at his side. He look towards Jacob first out of instinct, but realizes it's Jason doing the whimpers in his sleep. Greg sits there and studies his companion's face, and tries to figure out exactly what would cause such pain to the only man who has shown kindness to him. Greg sighs a little as he guides Jason's head onto his shoulder. He smiles as he sees Jason's face slowly relax. Jason slowly wakes as sunlight shines in his face through the window. He realizes his head is laying on Greg's shoulder; he jumps quickly. Greg laughs a little. "Hey man, relax. I put it there. You looked like you could use a shoulder to lean on." Both boys smile at each other, but their attention is quickly diverted as Jacob starts to stir in Jason's lap. The three boys smile to each other as their new day as friends begins. They then hear the bus driver's voice over the intercom. He announces that the bus is having to make an unscheduled stop at the next bus station for maintenance repairs. All the passengers moaned in unison - except Michael. He sees this as his possible chance. Greg and Jason continue their small talk as the bus pulls into the station. The bus driver makes another call over the intercom, stating that the bus would be delayed indefinitely, and that an announcement would be made in the bus depot when a new bus would be ready. The passengers groan again, but most are happy that this was a major bus station, and was quite large. Jason and Greg gather their stuff and head off the bus with Jacob who is protectively sandwiched between the two young men. Michael watches as the boy got up and started to move to the bus exit; he quickly places himself directly behind Greg. As Greg, Jason, and Jacob exit they quickly become engulfed in the crowd of people waiting for their luggage from under the bus. Greg is smart enough to grab hold of Jacob's hand and hold onto him. Michael smiles warmly to himself as he watches Greg and Jacob accidentally walk in the opposite direction to Jason. Greg and Jacob continue down the long corridor. Jacob suddenly stops; Greg is about to ask him what is wrong. He quickly realizes the problem - they are quite a way from the bus and Jason isn't around. "Shit!" he mumbles; he can see Jacob getting scared. As Greg tries to comfort him he hears someone hollering at them. He turns to see Michael waving a knife in his face. Michael stabs Greg in his lower abs; Greg falls to the ground instantly. Michael leaps on the kid and goes for the pocket filled with Greg's cash. He is totally unaware of the kid's crying and pain. After he gets the money he turns around and looks at Jacob; who is standing there in a total catatonic state. Michael smiles an evil grin. "Well we can't leave any witnesses now, can we?" Michael starts to head to the young boy who is frozen to the spot. Michael raises the knife, but is suddenly broadsided by someone screaming "NO!" in his ear. Greg falls to the ground with Michael under him. In an unconscious rage Greg lets loose on Michael. He continues to scream at the man as he pounds the man's face and stomach. He screams "You ever touch him, I'll kill you I swear." ___________ Jason looks around at the place were he and the others got off the bus. The panic and fear in his face is visible. He thinks "How could I be so stupid as to let this happen?" He suddenly pauses in total terror as he sees two ambulances screech to a halt in the bus terminal. He runs up to one the officers and asks, pleads, what has happened? The officer shrugs him off saying something about 'a mugging gone bad'. Jason swallows hard as he imagines the bodies of his two best friends lying cold somewhere in this building. Finally he sees the first body being rolled out of the station; he sees a man with a face badly beaten and knocked unconscious. He sighs in a relief that it's not either of them. Then the second person comes out of the station on a stretcher. He can tell who it is before he even sees the face because of the shouting from here. He can hear Greg yelling "No you can't leave Jacob alone; find Jason or let me loose to find him!" Jason quickly comes forward crying "Greg, I'm here! I'll get Jacob!" __________ "Honey, what's wrong?" Mrs. Jefferson just looks up to her husband and cries more. Jason looks to Marcus then to his dad. He raises his head from Marcus's lap and starts to speak. "D-D-Dad, it's Greg. The police said he's in legal trouble. A pawn shop owner in New York positively identified Greg as selling some of the camera equipment to him. The police said that he's wanted for questioning as soon as he is found. They said he may be found quickly now that a paper trail has been started from the pawn shop. They are checking all possible leads.. bus stations, trains, airports, any means of transportation that he would have to sign for." Mr. Jefferson sighs as he holds his wife tighter. He wonders what has happened to his baby? Why has he chosen such a path? A tear runs down his cheek as his mood soon joins the others in sadness and pain for Greg. ________ "Okay, let me get this straight. Jacob and Greg got separated from you. Some guy tried to mug Greg and stabbed him. But when he tried to hurt Jacob, it caused Greg to snap. Greg kicked the man's ass big time. The police aren't releasing the money cause they say it's evidence; so you guys are broke and need help again. Does that cover it?" "Uh, yeah it does. I'm sorry for this Justin; I didn't mean for it to happen. I'll understand if you don't want to hire me." "Hey Jason, relax man; shit happens sometimes. I'm just glad you called me. Look, it's going take some major shit to get me pissed at you man. I've been through a lot - I understand what's happening there right now. You did the right thing by calling me for help. Now this is what I'm gonna do. Since the hospital already knows you work for the ranch, and you've explained what it is, tell them both boys are under your supervision; that they were en route up here. Also, so they'll stay off your back, tell them a second representative will be there in a day to settle the bill. I'm sending a gentleman named Jeff. He's one of my best friends, practically family. He'll have a company credit card to take care of the expenses. He'll rent a car from the airport in El Paso and drive to the little town where you guys are." Jason gets a little emotional as he is amazed at how generous Justin can be to total strangers. He wonders what would happen if all his new found friends found out he was a queer. He pushes the horrible thoughts away as he and Justin make their final good byes. ___________ Jeff starts up the little rental car's engine; just grateful to be out of the downpour. He looks at the map on the passenger seat and starts off towards the little town in Texas. He thinks to himself, "I'm going to kill Justin for sending me on this one." Greg looks up with a daze in his eyes. He can feel the throbbing in his knuckles; he tries to sit up and winces in pain. "Hey Greg, take it easy man! You got 40 stitches in your lower abs." "Then explain to me, Jason, why my knuckles hurt?" Jason sighs "Cause they're bruised from you pounding the shit outta that guy." "Good then. He deserved it, and by the way where is Jacob?" "He's okay. He's in the bed over there sleeping. Hey man, I don't know how to say this, but thank you." Greg smiles, and motions for Jason to sit on his bed. "Look Jason. I may be an asshole, but I have a heart. I don't show it a lot, but seeing someone mess with Jacob or you made me snap. I don't know how to say it, but I consider you two to be my friends. I know I don't show it, but I've had some stuff going on in my life that makes it hard. But remember you two are my best friends, and I would do anything to protect you." Jason smiles warmly and hugs Greg in a friendly embrace; Greg winces as Jason accidentally squeezes his wound. "Oops, sorry man. Hey can I ask you why?" "Why, what?" "I mean what happened to make you close yourself off. I know it had to do with your wrists. I don't mean to push, but I'm your friend and I want to help." Greg sighs and looks away. A tear rolls down his cheek. He starts to speak, but a page comes over the rooms intercom from the nurse's station. "Excuse me, Mr. Jason. A Mr. Jeff is here to see you." "Okay thanks." Greg gives Jason a confused look. Jason just smiles and tells him he will explain in a bit; he heads out the door and down to the nurse's station. He smiles as Jeff looks up and starts walking towards him. "You Jason?" "Yep, and you must be Jeff." "Yeah, that would be me." Jeff shakes Jason's hand firmly. "So Jason, where are the rest of the guys?" Jason sighs a little bit. He starts to give Jeff a quick overview of the situations with Greg and Jacob. Jeff nods thoughtfully, and mentally starts to prepare himself for a long drive to the Ranch. He jokingly thinks "I'm gonna kill Justin slowly for this." Greg looks up from his thoughts as the door opens to his hospital room. He starts to say something smartass to Jason and Jeff as they come in, but his sentence is cut short by his mind. He looks at Jeff in awe; his eyes follow the guy from his short cut brown hair that is wet from the rain, to the guy's dimpled caring smile, and then back up to the man's caring hazel eyes. Greg can't help but smile back at him. "Hey, Earth to Greg! I know they gave you some strong drugs for the pain, but none that would space you out." "Huh? What?" Greg looks to Jason sitting in the chair. He blushes slightly, being embarrassed by the strong emotional effect Jeff has on him. He feels betrayed by his own body's desire. "Anyway, as I was saying this is Jeff; he works at the ranch. Justin sent him to pay the bills for us. He has a rental car. We were supposed to fly back with him, but Jacob made it very clear when you were out of it that he doesn't like flying." "So let me guess, we're driving there then?" Jeff nods to Greg and says "Yep!" He smiles to the guy; fully aware that he was just checked out by this guy. Jeff returns the favor. He smiles as he watches the young man's lean body move easily under the thin blanket. He lets his eyes linger on Greg's face; Jeff sighs to himself as he looks into Greg's eyes. Jeff feels a lump form in his throat. He remembers that lost soul look; how could he forget it? It used to be his own look. ____________ "Hello, this is Sheriff Benson. What can I do for ya'll?" "Hello, Sheriff. This is Detective Jefferson from New York." "Oh! Detective. Yeah, I've been expecting your call. Look I got some bad news. That paper trail that led you to our town, led you a little late. The kid you were looking for left town a few days ago with some other kids." "Shit!" "Now hold onto yourself, Detective. I still have some good news for you. One of them he was with rented a car in El Paso. We've ran a check on him. They guy works for an organization that helps runaways. We contacted this organization, and explained the situation to them. They understood, and the owner assured us they would help us in anything. But..." "But?" "But, according to some old law in their state if the kid reaches the Ranch before we get him, he can have full protection from them. They have told us they won't use that as a scapegoat, but.." "But? You know I'm starting to hate that word." "Yeah, me too. They said they would, however, use it as a bargaining chip. They understand that Greg is in trouble with the law, but feel that the trouble between him and his family is more important. They have a policy there that all runaways must contact their families. However, in this case they've decided to go ahead and do it without the young man's permission. The owner wants to set up a meeting with the family if at all possible. He's even willing to fly across country if need be. I really think the guy is sincere about this. I'm leaving the ball in your hands, Detective." The detective thanks the sheriff for his advice and hangs up. He starts to think what he has gotten into as he picks up the phone again, this time to call the Jefferson's home. __________ Greg moans softly as he snuggles in closer to Jeff. He can feel Jeff's warm breath on the back of his neck. Jeff squeezes Greg's naked body tighter to his. He lets one of his arms slowly rub Greg's smooth chest; it carries on down over his flat stomach. Greg whimpers at the touch. He tilts his head backwards and stretches to kiss Jeff on the lips. Jeff's hands rest just barely inside Greg's pubic hairs; toyingly playing with them. Greg bites his lower lip slightly as Jeff's hand grabs hold of the base of his cock. Jeff slowly strokes up and down Greg's cock rythmically squeezing it. Greg moans as the pleasure ripples through his body. Jeff leans forward and whispers into Greg's ear. "Do you want me to continue, my love?" Greg gasps and barely gets out a "Yes!" Jeff smiles his winning smile and hugs Greg tighter to him. He presses his cock up against Greg's bum. Jeff continues to stroke his lover's rod harder as he grinds his cock against Greg's crack. Greg leans back as every muscle in his body tightens; he lets out a whimper as ropes of thick cum shoot from his cock onto Jeff's hand. Jeff gasps as the feeling of his lover's cum on his hand sends him over the edge. Jeff pushes against Greg's butt in one final thrust. Greg squirms as he can feel the hot jiz on his ass. Greg opens his eyes in shock. He looks around to make sure no one sees him. Lucky Jeff is driving, Jason is asleep in the front passenger's seat, and Jacob is asleep next to him in the back. Greg looks down at his jeans. He thinks "How could this happen to me? I'm fucking 17 for Christ's sake, not 12!" He looks at the soiled jeans and wonders how is he going to explain this one. But he thinks to himself "What's worse, I called Jeff 'my love'." _______ Postscript: Okay, this isn't the end, but I have had trouble with responding to e-mails (if you use Hotmail you understand). I've been working a busy schedule, so I can't get all the e-mails replied at once but I will try to respond to them as quickly as I can. So please bear with me. I PROMISE I will respond. Michael Greg, by Michael lil_boytoy@hotmail.com The rebellion lives. No disclaimer, no holds barred. Why should I apologize for expressing myself? Greg, by Michael Chapter 10 Greg tried his best to go back to sleep, but even the pain medication can't beat his embarrassment. He still thinks to himself, `How could this have happened?' Jeff looks in his rear view mirror and sees Greg awake. "Hey man, you up? Something the matter?" Greg blushes and gets out a shaky "No." He thinks to himself, `Damn, even this guys voice turns me on.' "Okay just checking; say, can you do me a favor?" "Sure, what do you need?" "Well, if you aren't going back to sleep yet could you talk to me? I mean, I need someone to help keep me from going crazy." Greg smiles and nods. "Okay so what you wanna talk about, Jeff?" "Well, how about soccer? I'm guessing you're a fan; I noticed you had an Umbro T-shirt on." [Note: to all non-Americans and Canadians. What you call `football' we call 'soccer' here in the North America. Don't ask me why! I have no clue why we changed Rugby to Football (basically the same sport, just more padding, dumber rules), and Football to Soccer; I guess it's part of the whole USA "We have to be a rebel without a cause" mentality.] "Yeah I like it, I played forward for seven years, and goalie for two. It's a great sport, just wish the rest of the world would cut us some slack. It's not like the sport has been popular all that long here. What about you?" "Well I like it, but I don't think I'm as much of a fan as you are. I prefer the good ole game of Baseball, but hey, to each his own." Both boys continue to talk about nothing and everything at once as their other two friends slept soundly, and the road and hours pass by. Greg soon loses sight of the accident he had earlier and gets lost in the conversation with the captivating young man driving. He decides to get a little gutsier, and ask some personal questions. "So Jeff can I, er, ask you a personal question or two. I mean if that is okay? I'll understand if you say no." "Hey dude, chill out! Its okay if you ask me personal questions! I have nothing to hide, but I have one rule about these type of questions." "What?" Jeff smiles to himself as Greg plays carefully into his hand. Jeff uses one the oldest tricks in the book to get Greg to start opening up. "Well the rule is this - for every question you ask me I get to ask you one." Greg looks at the back of Jeff's head thinking this rule over in his head; he can tell that this is a trap. But Greg doesn't care, he has to know more about this guy; he will even risk the chance of having his most personal thoughts and feelings known. "Okay then, it's a deal, but I go first." Greg decides to go for the goal quickly. "So tell me Jeff, you got a chick back home at that ranch?" Jeff chokes slightly on his gum at the frankness of Greg's first question. He thinks, `Damn, this guy doesn't waste time!' He quickly recovers and answers with a calm, cool, and collective "Nope." He then decides he's gonna beat Greg at his own game. "Okay Greg, my turn. So tell me, wherever you came from, did you leave some hot young hunk of a boyfriend with a broken heart?" Greg's eyes widen quickly. He thinks to himself a million thoughts at once. How did this guy know I was gay, and why would he ask such a question? Jeff can see his question has had an effect on Greg, but he wonders what effect exactly. "Hey Greg, listen man, I was just teasing with that question, you don't have to answer it." Greg takes in a deep breath, "No you asked the question, and fair is fair. No I don't have a boyfriend... yet." Greg smiles at his pause and hinting ending statement, hoping Jeff caught the drift. Jeff smiles secretly to himself, enjoying toying with the young man in the back. "I see, so what are you trying to say Greg? Are you saying you're a queer?" Greg smiles suddenly as he notices that Jeff just set himself up for an attack. "Well Jeff, I should tell you this. One, the last person that called me that is in jail right now; two, yes; and three, since you went out of turn with your question I get two free making it a total of three questions I get to ask you." Jeff's smirks to himself jokingly, pouting that he left an opening like that out to be taking advantage of. "Hey, that was not in my rules!" "No, but it's in my rules." "Yeah, but I never said I would agree to your rules." "No you didn't, but my rules were in the fine print at the bottom of yours. I just can't help it if you didn't check for them." Greg jokingly sticks out his tongue at Jeff in the mirror. Jeff smiles at him, and winks back. "Hmm is that an offer?" "Maybe, but since you asked me that question Greg, you are now down to two questions left." Jeff grins slyly at the comeback he made; Greg thinks over the `maybe' in his head. "Okay you got me on that one, but turn about is fair play. Are you gay?" "Actually, yes I am." Greg smiles to himself, but is slightly disappointed with the easiness with which Jeff answered. "I see, well ... okay, so do you have a boyfriend at this time?" Jeff grins, knowing that question was about to appear. He thinks of how long it has been since someone has affected him like this. Not since the crush he had for Justin did he want someone so badly as he wanted this guy in his back seat. "No, I don't, but are you offering?" Greg ponders the question. He thinks `Damn, why is this happening again. What is it about a pretty face and a sweet voice that does this to me? Well not this time Frank Jr. I'm not letting you get the best of me." In a cold and icy tone Greg delivers his unexpected reply "No, and I think I'm through with this game." Jeff kinda sits up straight as the words come out; he feels his mind being jerked from the wishful thinking he had. The cold "No" is all that registers in his heart. He can feel the heavy feeling of rejection setting in. "Hey Greg, did I say something wrong? Look man, I'm sorry if I did." Greg looks out the window not facing Jeff. He can feel the mixture of emotions in him. His heart says `Tell Jeff the truth,' but his mind tells him `No, it'll just give him a chance to use you.' Greg just looks out the windows as tear's form in his eyes and lets the question hang in the air. "Hello, Jefferson and Sons, how may I help you?" "Hello, my name is Justin. I had a phone appointment with Mr. Jefferson Sr. today at this time. Is he available?" "Oh! Mr. Justin, yes, he has been expecting your call. I'll put you right through to him." Justin waits calmly as he gets transferred to the gentleman's office, not too sure what to expect, but confident enough to handle it. Mr. Jefferson has been waiting anxiously by the phone in his office. He grabs at it as soon as it rings. "Hello? How is my boy? Is he okay? Where is he?" Justin takes in a breath as he is bombarded by the sudden questions of a scared and concerned parent. "Mr. Jefferson, calm down! Your son is fine. He is on a road trip here towards northern California; I believe he is just on the outskirts of California right now. He is with two of my best counselors. I need to tell you this; just calling you right now is breaking company policy, but in this case I'm making some changes. First off, we normally make the teen call his family before he even gets a chance to stay here. But like I said this is a special case. I know you are a lawyer so you know the trick I'm using is legal. I don't want to use it, but if it comes to that I will. I know you care about your son, but you have to hear me out if he is to get any help." Mr. Jefferson can't take the stress anymore; he breaks down over the phone crying his heart out. "I... I... I just want my baby back, please let him come home." Justin sighs as he hears the man's pain through the phone line. "Look, Mr. Jefferson, I know this hurts you, but you have to see the bigger picture. Your son must have something wrong in his life. I mean to attempt suicide and then run away. Something has happened to your son mentally. We can offer him help, but I feel that it's help that needs to be done away from the family as the initial doctors recommended." "I... I... I know what caused this... He... he is gay." Justin sighs as this piece of information sheds some new light into the reasons for Greg's actions. "Mr. Jefferson that may have a few things to do with your son's reason, but I honestly think something else may also caused his actions. What, I don't know. I have to ask you, will you give us your word that we don't have to take this into a legal matter? We only want to help Greg. We will give you full reports on a daily basis, and I have already talked with your local police. They have agreed to hold their questions for Greg in the stolen merchandise case. All we ask is just give us a chance." Justin can hear pure silence on the phone. He prays that this will not get ugly. He truly only wants to help Greg. He remembers the pain he has been through as the seconds tick by while Mr. Jefferson thinks. "O... Okay, I'll agree, but I want daily reports on him; I don't care if the only thing he did that day was a take a dump. I wanna know everything. Do you understand?" "Yes sir, we will Mr. Jefferson. I promise." Jason slowly stretches as the first rays of the morning light hit his face. For once in his life he had a night with no dreams of Kelly. He opens his eyes slowly and looks around. Instantly he can feel something in the air is wrong. His first instinct is to look for Jacob; he smiles as his eyes fall upon the sleeping little angel in the back seat cuddled up next to Greg. He then notices Greg staring out the window; he can see the swollen redness in Greg's eyes. He thinks to himself, `Now what?' Jason then decides to ask Jeff what may be up, but when he looks at the driver's face he sees the same all-too-familiar look of someone who has shed tears. Jason sighs to himself and wonders what would have caused this. He finally decides to break the silence. "I don't know about ya'll, but man I have got to take a piss big time. Can we stop at the next gas station?" Jeff looks up from his thought a little startled by the sudden shattering of silence. He nods in agreement as his bladder reminds him he hasn't been in quite a while either. He looks back to the boy who stole his heart and broke it all in the same move. He starts to say something, but the words get lost before they ever reach his mouth. He looks into his rearview mirror as they turn into the gas station. He can see Greg is still looking out the window and his eyes are puffy just like his. Jeff thinks `Why?' The gas station is uneventful - everyone pretty much stays to himself, but Jason just can't help himself. He walks over to Greg. "Hey Greg man; what's up?" Greg looks at him and just sighs. "Look just leave it alone. This is something that doesn't concern you." Jason takes in a deep breath trying to calm his temper. He looks at the stubborn guy before him and wonders why the hell that he has to be such a smart-ass? Jason decides `Not this time Greg; you are going to answer me!' "Look Greg, it does concern me. You're my friend. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to see something happened between you and Jeff. If there is trouble I wanna know so I can help." "Jason, please, I'm asking - not this time. I... I... know you wanna help, but..." Greg sighs and stops mid sentence. How could Jason possibly know what it was like to want someone so bad that even your own dreams betray you? To want to be with this perfect stranger every moment possible but yet still be scared out of your mind that at any second he could take your heart and crush it. "No Greg, no buts. I'm serious. This time you talk. I'm getting sick and fucking tired of you shutting the world out. You keep doing that, and it's starting to piss me off." Greg just stares at Jason. Both boys are surprised at Jason's frank speech. Jason is shocked that he let his frustration get the better of him, and Greg is shocked that someone would talk to him like that. They just stare at each other. "Fine. I give up. You wanna live in your own private hell, and won't let anyone help; so be it." Jason turns and storms off more pissed at him self for being so cruel than being pissed at Greg. Greg looks at the retreating back of Jason's head. Greg thinks to himself, `Why do I do this?' As Greg turns to walk into the little coffee shop at the gas station Jacob pulls on his shirtsleeve. Greg looks at Jacob and sighs. "What do you want? You gonna bitch at me too? Of course not, you're a mute." Jacob just looks at Greg and out of nowhere hugs Greg's waist and starts crying. Greg is shocked and confused at the same time by this unexpected show of emotions. All he can do is just hug Jacob back. "Hey little dude... I... I'm sorry for the mute thing. I didn't mean it. Don't cry." Jacob just looks up at Greg and hugs him tighter in his young arms, wetting the older boy's T-shirt with his tears. Jacob's own emotions stir feelings in Greg that he doesn't want, but the young boy's grip seems to just keep him there. In a way it forces Greg to face his demons. After some time Jason comes looking for both so they can get back on the road. He walks up just as they separate; a tiny pang of jealousy makes its way into Jason's heart. The next hour or so is dead quiet in the car. Jeff finally speaks up in a monotone. "The ranch is only an hour away. We have a choice - hold off for lunch till we get there, or stop for a bit and pick something up so we won't have to worry about being the last at the table. So which will it be?" Everyone discusses it and they decide to eat at some place right off the highway. They pull into some classic greasy diner, the type with the waitress that gives that all so heart-warming sassy attitude. The waitress sits them in a booth. Jason and Jeff sit on side and Greg and Jacob the other. "So boys what will it be?" Each boy orders a hamburger, fries and a coke. "Okay, the food will be out in a bit. I'll get your cokes while ya wait." Jacob wiggles in his seat some. Jason notices the all to familiar dance that Jacob does in his seat. "You have to go, Jacob?" Jacob nods. Greg and Jeff get up to let Jason take Jacob to bathroom. Both guys just stare at each other. Jeff finally can't take the pain of being near Greg and gets up to go use the bathroom. As he leaves the waitress comes back. "Here ya boys go." The lady can't help but see the pain in Greg's eyes. "Having man trouble, sugar?" "Huh... what!!" The lady can't help but laugh at how she hit the nail on the head. "Look sugar you work in a grease trap like this you see all kinds, and one thing is always the same, that look. The look of when you are going ape shit for some guy, but either you're too chicken-shit to do something about it, or he ain't got an eye for ya. That look don't care if you're a boy or a girl." "Am I that obvious?" "Yep kiddo, but you know what? You ain't the only one this girl has seen today with that look. That cutie pie that was facing you had the same look. I bet my hair net you're both so damn crazy for each other that you're too blind or too messed up in the head to admit it!" "May I ask you something? It doesn't bother you that. You know... I like... you know." The lady can't help but laugh. "Sugar, I found it takes all kind to make this place we live on go around. It don't bother me one bit if you fancy boys over girls, but it bugs me when I know god damn well two people have the hots for each other and won't do anything about it." The waitress finishes her sentence just as the three others exit the bathroom. She smiles at Greg and winks. Greg just mouths `Thanks' as her words add on to what he was told earlier. As the boys pull to the end of the dirt road they can hear laughing and talking. It's summer and the twenty-something kids at the ranch are enjoying the California day. Jacob instantly scoots closer to Greg in fear. Jason notices this and sighs to himself thinking `Why exactly has Jacob started to go to Greg for help?' An older gentleman, in his early to mid 50's, meets them at the car. "Hi ya Jeff. These must be the two new guys and Jason?" "Yep." The older gentleman walks over to Jeff and hugs him tight. Greg and Jason just stare in shock at the display of affection. Jeff notices their shocked expression and can't help but laugh. Jim looks at the two boys and laughs too, but soon recovers and explains his action to the two open mouthed boys. "Sorry if this offends you guys, but one of our rules is no matter what your sexual orientation is, it will be respected here. Jeff just happens to be an old family friend." Jason finally recovers and just laughs hard. Jeff looks at him like he flipped his lid. "Hey Jason, you okay?" End of Chapter 10 e-mail me at: lil_boytoy@hotmail.com My stories are also at: The Nifty Archive, a.s.s.g.m. and, http://members.tripod.com/~BC_Dude/index.htm Okay guys and gals (hey some do read this, I have the e- mails to prove it too!). I know I've been late in posting, but right now I'm starting a new life in a new town (relax, nothing bad happened. Just moved to be closer to my beaux). I'm hoping to get back into the swing of writing soon. I'm trying to write a little bit each day. Okay, almost done with this little epilogue. There is one guy I would like to say something to. The young man that read my story and is a heterosexual. Your friend is damn lucky to have you for a friend. Not only did you accept him for being gay, you were willing to read this to understand him better. You don't know how happy, proud, and hopeful that makes me. It makes me hopeful that when my generation finally takes its place in the world we may do better with accepting each other for who we are than the generation before us did. Also to the friend who is homosexual, man I'm just as equally impressed with you. It took guts to come out to someone while still in high school. If you can find it, get the book called "The Shared Heart" by Adam Mastoon (don't know if I can get away with plugging this guys book, but I am going to try it). It's a photographic autobiography of high school students who were brave enough to come out and live their life openly while still in school. It has given me my strength to live my life openly, and I recommend it to any teen or fellow X'r (Generation X that is, NOT THE DRUG!) that is thinking about coming out. As for your family - man, hang in there! I know it's rough, but you are fighting the good fight and the road you are traveling is not a lonely one. We all travel it, man.