Date: Sat, 3 Apr 2004 01:43:26 -0500
From: Damion <snwdemon@worldnet.att.net> 
Subject: Rodie's Love Chapter 2 (M, b, no sex)

WARNING:

 This story contains descriptions of sexual acts involving a man and a
MINOR boy. I wish to explain that this story is not true! Further, it is
not intended to promote illegal acts against minors, but to demonstrate
that men and boys can love each other.  The sexual acts described in the
story are the result of my imagination. I have not performed these acts,
and I do not encourage others to perform them with minors. If the subject
of man/boy love offends you, if this material is illegal in your place of
residence, or if you are under the legal age for such material, do not read
further!

By downloading this story:

 "... you implicitly declare and affirm under penalties of perjury that you
are not a minor or in the company of a minor and are entitled to have
access to material intended for mature, responsible members of society
capable of making decisions about the content of documents they wish to
read...."

The story is copyrighted under my pseudonym, Snwdemon. A copy has been
placed in the Nifty archives for your enjoyment. The story cannot be used
to derive monetary gain. The story cannot be placed in archives that
require payment for access, or printed and distributed in any form that
requires payment either directly or indirectly.

Any similarity to individuals, living or dead, is entirely accidental.

Reference is also made in context to businesses, movies, characters, and
actors that have become part of modern western culture. No other
implication about the true sexuality of the people mentioned or their
private lives is intended.

All copyrights and trademarks belong to the holders.

Author's note: I want to thank everyone who commented on Chapter one.
Thank you for pointing out some mistakes I had made, such as the correct
spelling of Rodanthe, which I spelled incorrectly using the map I had when
I visited the KOA camping resort in 1997.  You will notice that I have also
changed my email address because I recieved so many responses about the
first chapter that I exceeded the storage limit on hotmail.  This account
has unlimited storage space so feel free to email your comments and
suggestions to me at snwdemon@att.net .  I also removed reference to the
ASSGM Archive because they are now a pay site requiring payment before
granting access to their archives.  I hope you enjoy chapter two, although
it was chapters 2 and 3 originally.  But after proofing chapter 2, I saw
that it hurt the story more by separating the the two chapters.  So I
combined them, then edited them down to a reasonable size.  I plan on
starting the next chapter on Monday at the latest, and hope to have it
finished and proofed by the weekend.  Damion.

Rodie's Love, by Snwdemon

Chapter 2.

	Jim awoke and started to sit up.  With a sharp intake of breath, he
collapsed back down on the pillows.  The pain in his lower back radiated
out sending stabbing pains down his legs.  With visible effort he reached
over to the night table and grabbed the bottle of Hydrocordone, removing
the child safe cap and removing a single pill.  He gulped the pill down
with a few swallows of water, replaced the cap and returned the bottle to
it's place on the night table.  Laying back Jim closed his eyes to wait
until the medicine made the pain subside.  He glanced at the digital clock
above him on his headboard, it said 6:23 AM.  With an audible groan Jim
grabbed the bottle of Robaxin which helped control the muscle spasms,
quickly took a pill before returning it to it's place beside the pain
medication.  As he lay there he realized that he could only think of the
beautiful ten year old boy who he just met the previous day.

	Shaking his head, Jim reached up and turned on the radio on the
clock, listening to the familiar voice of the announcer of the all news
station he regularly tuned in to.  The pain was beginning to ease off now,
and the knotted muscles beginning to relax.  Jim listened as the weather
forecaster announced a 90% chance of rain for most of the day.  Great just
what I need, Jim thought thinking about his promise to Rodie to return to
the beach today.  What was it about this boy Jim thought out loud to
himself.  Jim knew from an early age that he was gay, and as he grew older,
he realized that he preferred young men and teens between the ages of 16 to
25.  But this boy was only ten, only a child, and yet Jim couldn't stop
thinking about him.  He smiled as he remembered the beauty of the boy
standing naked in front of him as Jim applied the soothing lotion to his
sun burned body.  Of how the boy's hard 3-inch cocklet throbbed and
twitched when Jim gently squeezed it.  "Dear God, I'm turning into a damn
child molester again."  Jim groaned.  Yet, for some reason he didn't truly
believe that, not then, and not now.  Most of all he remembered Rodie's
body shivering as he held the crying boy while he released all of the pain
and sorrow he had be holding inside him.  Thinking of how he caressed the
boy's back, arms, and legs Jim drifted off into sleep again while the News
announcer droned on.
	He woke an hour later and sat up, without the sharp pains, this
time.  He was still extremely sore, while his leg muscles protested against
their stiffness.  Almost like it was second nature to him, Jim reached over
and started putting on his various braces.  A small bead of sweat appeared
on his brow, while gritting his teeth and breathing sharply, as he pulled
on and adjusted the knee brace.  Once in place he stood slowly then limped
over to his dresser, extracting an "A" style undershirt that he quickly
pulled over his head.  Grabbing a pair of casual jean shorts and a pair of
white ankle socks, he reached over to the side of the dresser and picked up
the plastic and steel lumbar brace and carried everything over to the
high-backed chair by his computer desk.  He quickly pulled on his shorts
and socks before standing up and started connecting and adjusting the
various straps to the lumbar brace.  Once the lumbar brace was secure and
adjusted, Jim felt the pain ease away as the brace relieved the stress off
his lower spine.  He then stepped into the bathroom to shave and brush his
teeth, but first to take a well-needed piss.  Once finished Jim paused only
long enough to slip on a pair of boater tennis shoes before walking to the
kitchen to make coffee.

	The coffee had just finished brewing when Jim heard Rodie open the
sliding door and telling his mother to hurry up before they are soaked.
Once they were inside Jim asked if it was very nasty outside to which both
Cathy and Rodie replied in unison "Yes."  Rodie then ran over and jumped
into Jim's arms quickly giving him a peck on the lips before rubbing his
little nose against Jim's own nose.  "Good morning Jim, I missed you," he
said as he hugged Jim tight.  "I missed you too surf boy, who'd thought
that I could spend a whole 10 hours separated from you." Jim said while
kissing Rodie's nose while gently supporting the boy by his waist
remembering the sunburn.  Looking over to Cathy Jim asked if they were
ready for coffee yet.  When he received and affirmative response from both
of them he eased Rodie down to the floor trying to bend as little as
possible.  "Your awfully hard this morning Jim" Rodie exclaimed innocently
looking up at him.  "Rodie!  What a horrible thing to say, you apologize
immediately young man."  Cathy said sternly with a shocked look on her
face.  "Why mom?  It's true, isn't it Jim" Rodie replied seriously, first
looking at his mom then at Jim before reaching up and rapping his small
knuckles on Jim's brace and getting a hollow sound in return.  "Oh he must
mean my brace Cathy" Jim said with a chuckle while pulling up his pocket
tee shirt he was wearing, revealing the lumbar brace.  "It's sort of like a
removable body cast because it is made out of steel, and hard plastic with
Velcro straps.  "Oh, I see."  Cathy replied before blushing and bursting
into laughter.

	"What's so funny now?" Rodie exclaimed with a injured and slightly
irritated look on his face.  Jim reached over and turned Rodie until he was
facing him, "You see surf boy, your mom thought you were speaking about a
different part of my body."  "I don't understand Jim."  Seeing the confused
look on his cute face, Jim leaned down to whisper in his ear, "remember
yesterday when I told you to stop squirming around before you poked my eye
out?"  Jim replied while he watched as the understanding slowly crept into
Rodie's face.  He had to chuckle as the Rodie's eyes went wide while he
blushed before turning towards his mother.  "MOM!  You thought I was
talking about his pee-pee?"  Rodie exclaimed with an innocent look on his
face.  Still laughing with tears in her eyes, Cathy shook her head up and
down as Rodie burst into giggles.  "I'm sorry Jim, I didn't mean to
embarrass you like that."  Cathy said once she had regained control of her
laughing.  "Well!  I have absolutely no control over that particular part
of my anatomy since it has a mind of it own!"  Jim replied with a suffering
look on his face.  They all laughed again then sat down as Jim poured
coffee for Cathy and Rodie.

	"Well, what are the braces for Jim" Rodie asked looking at Jim
intently.  "The lumbar brace is for my lower back, it relieves the pressure
on my spine where I broke it.  It allows me to do things I could not do
normally like picking you up in my arms.  The knee and elbow brace does the
same thing for the ones I broke also.  Without them on days like this, the
muscles swell, and the joints stiffen to the point that I can barely get
out of bed surf boy.  Speaking of the weather, it looks like we will have
to postpone your boarding lessons today surf boy."  Jim explained.  "Well I
think that we can use this day to go shopping for some food and other
things" Cathy replied quickly.  "And you never know dear, when we come back
maybe Jim will let us try out his Jacuzzi or we can go to the pool at the
campground."  With that Rodie looked over at Jim with a pleading expression
on his face, "Please Jim...can we?"  "Well I can't see why not, and if I
turn the heat up on high, I know a wonderful recipe for surf boy stew
Cathy." Jim said with a silly grin on his face.  "You wouldn't eat me would
you Jim?"  Rodie asked.  "Of course I would, surf boy stew is my favorite
dish."  Jim replied, "I think you'll find out that he's tough and stringy
Jim."  Cathy said with a little laugh as she sipped her coffee.

	They all laughed at that, then Rodie slipped his small hand into
Jim's as they drank their coffee.  "Ok, I was thinking of western omelets
for breakfast Jim, since they are Rodie's favorite."  Cathy asked.  "Yeah
mom, a western omelet sound good." Rodie said looking towards Jim for
agreement.  "That sounds wonderful to me Cathy" Jim agreed as he reached
over and patted Rodie on his shoulder only to see the boy hiss and pull
away with a grunt of pain.  "Oh Rodie I'm sorry, I totally forgot about
your sunburn, are you alright?"  Jim asked and he quickly knelt beside the
boy forgetting about the pain.  "Yeah it's ok I think...just hurts if
someone touches it."  Rodie said with a distressed look on his face still.
"I know what will help, Cathy while you make breakfast Ill go put some more
lotion on his sunburn if that's ok with you."  Jim asked.  "Rodie, take off
your shirt honey" Cathy directed to which Rodie stood up and carefully
pulled the over large T-shirt off revealing Bright red shoulders, back and
chest.  "Oh honey, why didn't you tell me it was that bad, I could have
gotten the lotion and put it on you last night."  "MOM!  You're a girl!"
Rodie exclaimed with a shocked look.  "Well you could have said something
and I would have sent you over here to Jim so he could put it on."  Cathy
replied sympathetically.  "Well it's done with now, no use crying over
spilt milk, is there?  Come on surf boy and let's get you all fixed up ok."
Jim said as Rodie slipped his hand into Jim's again before heading to the
bathroom.

	Once in the bathroom Jim looked at Rodie, he was carrying his over
sized T-shirt in his hand, and he had on loose muscle pants that tied in
the front, and flip-flops.  As Rodie laid the T-shirt he had carried in on
the sink counter, Jim sat down and reached forward and undid the knot on
the muscle pants.  Once loose he grasped the waistband pulled it down a few
inches revealing Rodie's hairless pubis.  "Where's your undie's surf boy?"
Jim asked when realizing he was wearing none.  "Umm...I don't like wearing
boxers Jim.  They uh...they..." Rodie hesitated looking at his feet.  "It's
ok Rodie, you can tell me and I promise I won't laugh ok." Jim replied.
"You promise?"  "I promise surf boy."  "Well uh...well they tickle my
pee-pee and makes it big all the time."  Rodie said shyly looking up, "You
promised not to laugh Jim."  Rodie said seeing the smile on Jim's face.
"Yes I did, and I'm not laughing surf boy.  I was only thinking that if it
tickled your pee-pee and made it big, well don't you like that?"  Jim asked
seriously.  "Well it does feel good, but I don't want mom to see me when my
pee-pee is big.  It also keeps poking out the hole in the front when it's
big.  I think I would die if mom saw that happen."  Rodie explained while
blushing prettily.  "It's supposed to do that Rodie, all boys have the same
thing happen to them you know.  That's ok though if you don't like to wear
boxers.  Truthfully, I like the other one's you were wearing anyway, they
make you look so sexy."  Jim replied, "Me?  You think I'm sexy?  Really?"
Rodie peeped staring intently at Jim.  "Very sexy surf boy.  Come on now,
let's hurry or we will miss breakfast."

	With that Jim helped Rodie out of the cotton muscle pants and as
Rodie stood holding his hair out of the way, Jim gently applied the after
sun lotion to the sunburned boy.  Rodie was just as ticklish as he was the
night before, and just as hard.  Jim did notice that Rodie no longer looked
sunburned on his stomach and lower back.  Then Jim gently squeezed the
bluish head of the small, hard cocklet, Rodie let out a slight giggle.  "It
tickles Jim."  Rodie breathed as Jim released the hard little cocklet.  "I
know Rodie, it's supposed to feel that way" Jim replied.  "Do it again"
Rodie asked quietly, but with a hint of excitement in his voice.  "Uh, I
think we better not surf boy.  Remember your mom is right out there fixing
breakfast, and I think she might be a little upset about it if she found
out."  Jim said calmly.  "I won't tell her, I promise," the excited little
boy said.  "I know you won't Rodie, but it's just not right for me to do
this ok.  I like you very much and I do not want to do anything that might
hurt any of us, including your mom.  I couldn't live with myself if I did
something to cause that.  Can you understand that Rodie?"  Jim explained as
honestly as he could to the naked imp.  "I think so Jim," Rodie replied
still with a confused expression on his face.  "Just trust me for now, ok
surf boy?" Jim asked gently.  Ok...I trust you Jim."  Rodie said quietly
looking a little crestfallen.  "Good, I love you my little surf boy," Jim
exclaimed while gently lifting the naked boy into his lap and hugging him
tight.  Rodie hugged Jim back then lifted his head and kissed Jim on the
lips again, "I love you too, Jim."  He said before resting his head back on
Jim's chest.  Jim just sat there holding Rodie while he caressed his back
and stroked his long soft hair, remembering the feelings and memories from
so long ago that he thought he had long since buried.

	He then eased Rodie off his lap and quickly helped him dress before
standing and walking back to the kitchen where Cathy was just putting the
last omelet on the table.  "Feel better now honey?"  Cathy asked Rodie.
"Yeah it feels much better now mom, thanks again Jim."  Rodie answered and
looking at Jim again.  "Good then, now lets eat cause I'm hungry.  This
looks fantastic Cathy."  "Don't thank me until you try it Jim.  It might
taste like shoe leather for all you know."  Cathy said with a snicker.
Looking at his mom Rodie said, "everything you make tastes great mom,
except meatloaf."  Making a face while sticking out his tongue which caused
Cathy to laugh.  "I know dear, it was pretty awful wasn't it."  Cathy
replied to which Rodie shook his head up and down earnestly in agreement.
Jim gave them a raised eyebrow look and Cathy explained, "I was trying out
a recipe from a friend who told me how to make a meatloaf using preset
times on the oven.  It was after Rodie's father left.  Well I forgot to set
the shutoff time so the meatloaf cooked all day, I think I could have
blocked up my car with it when we got home that night."  Jim chuckled with
mirth before asking, "So what did you do with it afterwards?"  "She broke
the trash can with it!"  Rodie said before taking another bite of omelet.
As Rodie said this, Cathy was nodding her head in agreement, which made Jim
roar with laughter.

	Jim refilled everyone's coffee as they finished clearing the
breakfast dishes and loading them into the dishwasher.  Once the kitchen
was clean, they followed Jim into the living room where Rodie sat next to
Jim on the sofa.  Looking outside, watching the rainfall Jim absently
draped his arm around the small boy's shoulders before looking at Cathy and
asking, "So what kind of plans are you making for today?"  "We really need
to go grocery shopping, after that I really don't have a clue," Cathy
replied.  "Well I have a few errands to run in Hatteras, if you like to tag
along they have a large arcade and theater at the mall there.  I also know
a great restaurant with a buffet, I was thinking that we could go to the
mall and roam around, and then have dinner after you return from grocery
shopping."  Jim suggested.  "Yeah!  Can we go mom?" Rodie pleaded with a
squeaky voice.  "That sounds good to me, I need to get a few other things
besides groceries anyway."  Cathy said, "Since that is settle, Rodie and I
shouldn't be gone that long to get groceries we should be back around
noontime."  "Sounds good.  Ok surf boy, you better scoot so you can get
back.  I will see you soon."  Jim replied while giving Rodie a hug before
standing up.  As they headed towards the sundeck, Jim paused to grab a
large umbrella from the stand next to the stairs going down.  "Take this,
you will probably need it unless you want to come back looking like a
prune."  He said while handing the umbrella to Cathy.

	They said their good-byes and he watched Rodie hug himself close to
his mother under the umbrella as they crossed over to their trailer.  Jim
poured himself another cup of coffee and carried it into the living room,
setting it down on the table beside the recliner.  Once seated he adjusted
the heat and massage controls on the recliner before taking a sip from his
coffee.  Closing his eyes, Jim thought back to that time so long ago that
he had thought he had put behind him.  Seeing in his mind the sandy haired
boy looking so peaceful in the satin lined casket, the grief he had thought
was long past came over him in waves.  It wasn't supposed to be this way,
he remembered thinking.  He could still feel the anger he felt when Dave
entered the small chapel.  "You did this to him you bastard!" Jim accused,
"Why couldn't you just leave us alone?"  Watching Dave jerk like he had
been struck.  "What was so wrong with us that made you hate your own son so
much?  He was happy, and he loved me like I loved him.  I loved him more
than I have ever loved anyone in my life."  Jim said sharply facing Dave
now.  "It didn't matter to him, he didn't care that he was 12 or that I was
20.  But, you couldn't accept that, could you?  Couldn't accept that your
only child was gay and in love with a man."  Jim stated in anger while
forcefully jabbing his finger into the older man's chest, and causing him
to flinch each time.  "Love isn't a disease that a doctor can cure, but you
had to lock him away in that hellhole, you son of a bitch.  All because you
couldn't face what your neighbor's might think."  Jim raged at him, trying
to hate him so much that Dave could feel his pain and utter sense of loss.
"Now he's gone, all because of you and your God damned pride."  Just then,
his grief overwhelmed him, and his shoulders fell as he turned back towards
the small casket.  "Well I hope you're happy now...I know Byron
is...because nobody can hurt him anymore...YOU can't hurt him anymore."
Turning and facing Dave again, "now everybody knows, they know how you
drove him to hang himself just to get away from you.  Now you can live out
the rest of you're miserable life knowing you killed your son."  Jim said
quietly to him.  He then turned and knelt beside the casket feeling the hot
tears as they coursed down his face.  "Goodbye my sweet love." Jim leaned
over and gently kissed the boy's small lips for the last time, "I will
always love you Byron, sleep well."  Jim whispered before standing and then
walking out of the chapel.

	He left that day; Eddie took him as far away as he could from that
place.  He promised Jim that they would never return, and never looked
back.  Since that day, Jim hadn't loved another boy.  He watched them,
fantasized about them, and interacted with them, but never allowed himself
to get close.  He tried dating men and women, although he never made a
connection, or a commitment.  It felt like he was dead inside, but now he
saw a new face, with green and gold-colored eyes, and long black hair, it
made him feel alive again.  He thought that he could never feel this way
towards anyone, especially another boy.  He tried to push down the
emotions, but he couldn't explain why he felt like this.  All he knew was
that every part of his being was drawn to Rodie, and that he realized that
he enjoyed those feelings when the imp was around.  It was like life had
meaning again...his life.  As Jim opened his eyes, he could feel the
wetness on his cheeks.  "Can I go through this again?  Do I want to?"  He
thought to himself.  Emotions he thought were dead long ago ran through him
as he remembered the softness of Rodie's skin.  Wiping his eyes, Jim felt
the loss he has lived with for all these long years.  He needed advice, so
he reached out to the only family he had.  He reached for the phone and
dialed, "Hello?"  "Eddie!  It's Jim, I'm glad I caught you."  "Jim, hey
Bro, how are you, it's been a long time, almost 6 months now, missed you
around here."  "I know, but you know how I get when the weather turns
cold."  Jim said into the phone.  "Yeah man, how you doing with that?"
"You know, SSDD Eddie, but that's not why I'm calling." Jim replied.  "Sure
Bro, what's up?  Anything I can do for you man, you know that."  "I know,
and I appreciate it.  Well...I don't know how to say this, but I've got a
big problem Eddie, I need see you?"  Jim asked quietly.  "Uh huh, from the
sound of your voice Jim, I think I know why.  You thinking about Byron
again aren't you?"  Eddie asked.  "Sort of...you could say that."  "Yeah I
know...can you give me 20 minutes, Bro?"  "Sure, that will be fine Eddie.
I'll put on a fresh pot of coffee ok?"  "Ok Bro, I'll see you in 20!"  Then
the line went dead.

	Jim got up and walked into the kitchen, he hadn't seen Eddie for
almost six months.  Eddie was his best friend, they had been friends since
the second grade.  They had both discovered that they were gay when they
were 12.  Although, they never became involved with each other, both of
them having chosen life long friendship over being lovers.  When Jim left
home, it was because Eddie had taken him along, since that day Eddie has
been the only family Jim has had, and he knew that Eddie would help him
now.  Jim started the coffee brewing, then went into the bathroom to wash
his face.  Not long after returning to the recliner in the living room, Jim
heard the garage door open.  As he stood up he saw Eddie come up the
stairs, as he reached the top he took a moment to study Jim's face.  "Oh
Bro, you look like shit!  I haven't seen you this bad since Byron's
funeral."  Jim could only nod his head and look down at the floor, "Want to
tell me what's going on Bro?"  Eddie asked while hugging Jim
affectionately.  "Let's get some coffee first ok," Jim replied leading the
way into the kitchen.  With fresh cups of coffee Eddie followed Jim into
the living room and sat down.  Jim looked at his oldest friend who was more
a brother to him than friend.  "You feeling guilty about Byron again Jim?"
Eddie inquired.  "Sort of, Eddie, but not the way you're thinking."
"Enlighten me then."  Eddie said with a soft smile on his face.  Jim looked
at Eddie, they were both older now, but in Jim's eyes, he still looked like
the tall, blonde-haired youth who had rescued him twenty years ago from his
unending pain.

	Jim thought for a few more moments, then he took a deep breath and
told his friend the events of the last day and a half.  Eddie sat there
listening intently as his friend described the young, long black haired boy
who had completely flipped Jim's whole world upside down.  Once Jim had
finished, Eddie sipped his coffee while he mulled over what he had just
heard.  When he finally looked up at Jim, he said, "I know you won't like
this bro, but I have to tell you.  First give me an honest answer to this
question, I have wanted to ask you this since the day Byron died.  What do
you think you and Byron did wrong 20 years ago?"  Eddie asked softly.  "I
don't know my friend, anything and everything I suppose."  Jim replied
seriously.  "No Jim, everything you did was right except one thing.  You
waited to long, until his father found out.  That was your mistake.  Now
something you never dreamed possible has happened.  A new boy has come into
your life and turned it upside down and you're afraid that everything will
end up like it did with Byron right?" Eddie asked. "Yeah, I guess you can
say that Eddie.  But I only tried to shield Byron from all the trouble I
saw coming," Jim said.  "But, Rodie is not anything like Byron."  "I can
see that from what you told me about him, but my point is that you made a
mistake with Byron by trying to keep it a secret.  My advice to you is to
not do that this time.  Tell Cathy the truth, tell her how you feel, and
let events happen as they happen.  If she decides that this isn't right
then she will take steps to protect Rodie, but since nothing inappropriate
has happened between you two yet, then there will be no fall out that will
affect Rodie or yourself."  Eddie stated with the eloquence of a therapist.
"Ok Eddie, I hate to admit it, but I agree with you about this.  You are
the best friend a man could have Eddie, thanks for coming on short notice"
Jim told him as they stood up and hugged.

J ust as they were standing, Jim saw Cathy's Jeep pull in and park in front
of her RV.  "Speak of the devil..." Jim told Eddie and motioned towards the
Jeep.  Eddie turned just in time to see the passenger door open, and he
watched as the long black haired boy got out and looked towards them before
going inside the trailer.  "Jesus Jim, you didn't tell me he looked like
that, he's a fucking man magnet" Eddie exclaimed as he watched the imp
disappear into the trailer.  "Cute isn't he?" Jim inquired.  "Cute?  Like
hell he is, he is fucking beautiful!  No wonder you're feeling like this"
Eddie replied still watching the trailer.  "Well if you wait a few
moments. He will be here up close and personal Eddie.  You can meet him and
Cathy if you like" Jim replied with a hint of pride in his voice.  The
trailer door opened just then, and Rodie followed his mom out to the Jeep
and began carrying bags of groceries inside.  The Jeep was unloaded in a
few minutes then Rodie, with Cathy in tow, started over towards Jim's
house.  The rain had slackened to a misty drizzle, as they reached the top
of the stairs Jim and Eddie stepped into the kitchen.  Rodie walked in
without knocking as usual and quickly jumped up into Jim's arms and giving
him a quick peck on the lips before saying anything.  Jim gently hugged the
boy to him, then turned towards Cathy, "Cathy, I want you to meet my
closest friend Eddie Mitchell."  Jim said quickly.  "Pleased to meet you
Cathy, I stopped by the see how hop a long was doing" Eddie said with a
smile while extending his hand.  "Nice to meet you too Eddie, and that's
Rodie, my son, hanging on Jim like he's a tree."  Cathy explained while
shaking his hand.  Eddie looked at Rodie, "It is a pleasure to meet your
acquaintance, young Master Rodie," drawled Eddie with a florid bow, causing
Rodie to laugh and blush at the same time.  "Your goofy" giggled Rodie.
"Ah well, yes he is, surf boy, but it's not nice to talk about it in front
of others now is it," Jim replied with a big grin on his face.  Feeling a
little shy, Rodie hugged Jim tighter before turning to Eddie, "You're Jim's
best friend?" he asked with a little apprehension in his voice.  "Yes I am,
or was, until he met you, see" winking at Rodie.  "I like him Jim" Rodie
said with another giggle.  "I'm glad you do surf boy.  Come on everyone,
let's go sit down ok." Jim said as he headed towards the comfort of the
living room.

	They all filed into the living room and Rodie sat close beside Jim
on the couch while Cathy sat on the love seat, and Eddie took the recliner.
"So, did you finish your shopping Cathy?"  Jim asked as he absently draped
his arm around Rodie's shoulders.  "Pretty much, the refrigerator and
freezer aren't that large in the trailer" Cathy stated.  Turning towards
Eddie Cathy said, "So how long have you two known each other Eddie?"
"Since we were younger than young master Rodie there" Eddie answered.
"Well really now, I think it's going on something like 34 years now isn't
it Jim?  We were only 6 years old when we met Cathy."  "Something like
that, he is more family now than a friend really."  Jim explained.  "He was
just getting ready to leave when you pulled up Cathy."  "Oh he doesn't have
to leave just because of us Jim" Cathy said in an apologetic tone.  "No,
Jim is quite right Cathy, I was on my way home and in the neighborhood when
I decided to drop by."  Eddie lied flawlessly, "I have to go to work in a
couple of hours anyway."  Eddie told her.  With that he stood up, Jim also
stood and walked over and gave him a hug goodbye.  "Thanks again old
friend, be careful going home ok, I'll call you later," Jim said.  "Any
time Bro, Cathy and Rodie, it has been a pleasure meeting you both."  Eddie
said politely reaching out to shake Cathy's hand while Rodie moved even
closer to Jim's side and taking his hand.  Jim walked Eddie down the steps
to the garage, "remember what I said Jim, don't wait this time.  Love you
man," Eddie said as he turned and walked to his car.  "Love you too, Eddie"
Jim replied watching him get into his car before closing the door and
returning to the living room.  Once he had reached the top, he asked Cathy
if she would like anything to drink to which she declined.  Rodie looked a
little disappointed when Jim settled into his recliner instead of on the
couch with him so he sat down next to Cathy.  Jim looked at the unicorn
clock hanging on the wall, it read 12:20, and said "Well if we are going to
do as we planned we better get moving then" Jim explained.

	They stopped by the trailer so Rodie could change into some board
shorts and sneakers it was quite warm despite the rain, then they piled
into Cathy's Jeep Cherokee and headed for Cape Hatteras.  Once they arrived
at the mall, they decided to roam around and shop a bit first.  Jim asked
if Rodie wanted to see a movie but got a negative response to which Cathy
explained that Rodie wasn't into going to the movie theater.  They slowly
walked through the various shops in the mall occasionally stopping in a
store.  Rodie held Jim's hand the whole time, until they came to the Union
Bay Store.  "Oh lets go in there Jim, I need to pick up some things for
Rodie" Cathy said.  Jim gave her a questioning look and she leaned closer
and lowered her voice.  "I need to get him something to wear, all I brought
for him are shorts like he's wearing and a single pair of boxers.  With his
sunburn, if I don't get him something he will be sleeping naked tonight."
"MOM!"  Rodie exclaimed while blushing deep red.  Chuckling, Jim replied
"Now we can't have a naked boy on our hands can we, Cathy" as he led them
into the store.  Once they reached the boy's section, Cathy started looking
through the racks of clothes.  "I can't understand why he doesn't like
boxers Jim, I mean they are the latest fad, aren't they?  All the boys his
age are wearing them now."  "I think I know why Cathy" Jim answered, just
then Rodie's head turned sharply until he was staring directly into Jim's
face.  Jim could see the visible worry signs on Rodie's face as he thought
his trust was going to be betrayed.  Jim gave a barely visible shake of his
head to Rodie, who relaxed a little after seeing it.  "It's a boy thing
Cathy, I don't think you would understand" Jim told her.  Just about then,
Jim saw a pair of boxers, which he picked up and examined.  They had an
elastic waistband, like briefs, but were made out of thin cotton fabric
like a T-shirt, and no fly opening.  He bend close to Rodie and showed him
the boxers, "you think that maybe this kind won't cause the problems we
talked about earlier?"  Jim whispered to him in a hushed voice.  Rodie
looked at the boxers and felt the fabric before nodding to Jim.  Jim helped
him pick out six pairs with different designs and colors before explaining
to Cathy that they were going to the fitting room.

	As they were entering the fitting room the sales girl started to
comment that Rodie couldn't try on the boxers unless they were over his
underwear, but quickly shut up after seeing the warning shake of Jim's
head.  As he ushered Rodie past her and into the room, Jim told the girl
that he was buying them no matter what, then he went inside and closed and
locked the door.  Jim helped Rodie to undress and then slip on the blue
tie-dye design cotton boxers.  "How do they feel surf boy?" Jim asked as
Rodie adjusted the waistband till it was below his sunburn.  He then
wiggled his hips side to side and said "these are kewl Jim, I didn't know
they made them like this."  Rodie looked towards Jim intently like he was
listening to something only he could hear, then struck a sexy pose before
asking with a half smile on his face "what do you think Jim?"  "I think you
look incredibly sexy in them Rodie" Jim replied as he stared at Rodie while
he felt a rush of blood as his cock started to enlarge.  Rodie gave him a
toothy smile then reached down and adjusted his small penis that was
forming a small tent in the cotton boxers.  Giggling at first, and then
blushing as he saw Jim watching him, Rodie stopped, placing his hands on
his hips until Jim looked away.  "Ok surf boy, you want to wear those now
or take them off till we get back?"  Jim asked.  "I'll wear them if it's ok
Jim" Rodie replied quickly giving Jim a hug.  Jim helped him get dressed
again, and led him out to where Cathy was.  She had a couple of pairs of
fleece and cotton shorts in her hands.  "I think we solved the problem
Cathy, Rodie prefers boxers like these instead of the other kinds" Jim told
her.  She looked at the boxers, and then asked Rodie a couple of questions
then leaned over and pulled the waistband to his shorts down just enough to
reveal the cotton boxers.  Satisfied with his answers, they followed Cathy
as she made her way to the checkout counter.  Cathy leaned close to the
sales girl and told her that Rodie was wearing a pair of the boxers, and
not to forget to ring them up, but not to say anything since he was very
shy.  The sales girl nodded her head in compliance, and proceeded to ring
up the purchases, which Cathy charged on her credit card.

	When they exited the store, it was almost 4PM.  Jim asked if Rodie
wanted to go to the arcade, which he was met with a resounding YES!  As
they entered the arcade on the third floor, Rodie squealed "Laser tag,
Kewl!  Can I play mom?"  "Yes honey, we will be over there if you want to
find us" pointing out a table in the back that looked down into the laser
tag area.  Cathy bought a two hour pass for Rodie and watched as he ran off
inside joining the two dozen or so kids already inside the obstacle course.
They made their way to the table and Jim bought them three cokes before
sitting down.  He took his medication as he watched Rodie duck and dodge
his way around the concourse.  "You know Jim, Rodie likes you very much"
Cathy said catching him somewhat off guard.  "He has really grown attached
to you in the short period of time since we met you."  "I like him very
much too" Jim replied, still watching Rodie.  "I know you do Jim" Cathy
answered, it was the tone of her voice the alerted Jim when she said it.
When he looked at her, she had a knowing look on her face as she studied
him.  "Uh, I think I know what you mean Cathy, I would like to explain
first before you jump to any conclusions though."  Jim said defensively
after clearing his throat, "yes I do like Rodie a lot.  He is a very
attractive boy, you know.  However, I think you know that already, but he
is much younger than I usually prefer.  If this bothers you, I will
understand if you ask me not to see him again."  Jim held his breath as he
watched Cathy contemplate what he just said.

	"No Jim, I think you misunderstand me," Cathy finally said.  "I
know how hard it was to admit that to me, but while I am concerned with
that, it wasn't my point.  What I mean is that it is not my choice to make
as to whether Rodie sees you or not, that's his choice."  Cathy said softly
while watching Rodie, "and he has already made it, if you ask me."  Looking
directly at Jim, Cathy said, "what I'm trying to say is that Rodie is very
special, in a way you can never imagine, and it is because of the way that
he is was the reason his father left him."  "You get my meaning?  Rodie's
father left because of him, not because of me."  Cathy said with a very
serious look on her face.  "Ok, I think I'm not grasping the meaning other
than Rodie was somehow responsible for his father's decision to leave,
which I can not see why he would choose to blame him in the first place"
Jim said.  Cathy watched as Rodie negotiated his self expertly through the
course, seeing that he was playing much better than the other children.
Looking back at Jim finally, "I'll try and explain, and I think you will
understand as you learn more about Rodie.  Rodie has always been very open
with his emotions, it's only been since his father walked out that he has
become very shy.  Even as a baby, Rodie always seemed to react to our moods
more than our words.  He can read people like an open book because he knows
what they are feeling whenever he is around them" Cathy explained.

	"Correct me if I'm wrong Cathy, but are you saying Rodie's
Empathic?"  Jim asked her, not believing what he was hearing.  "Yes, I
believe he is, but I've no proof other than a mother knowing her only
child.  However, it's more to it than that Jim, you see not only can he
feel what you are feeling when he is around you, but he knows how you feel
about him no matter how well you try and hide it.  That is why his father
walking out on him hurt him so much.  Paul, my ex husband, loved Rodie, but
he really wanted a girl instead of a boy when I was pregnant.  Somehow
Rodie could sense this, and it was why he did as much as he could to become
a girl in his father's eyes.  He refused to let his hair be cut, and it's
why he wears those bikini briefs instead of boxers or normal underwear.
However, as Rodie got older and changed how he dressed and acted, to Paul,
it repulsed him to see his son not only acting like a little girl but
looking like one also.  All he could see was his son the faggot, and not
Rodie doing his best to become what his father wanted the most. It was
finally too much for him to bear, and he just walked away one day,
explaining that he wanted no contact at all with Rodie."

	"That devastated Rodie, he did not understand why his father hated
him so much, and still don't today.  Since Paul left, Rodie has hardly
associated with anyone, afraid that he will drive them away like he did his
father.  I know you have noticed how he is very shy around strangers until
he has been with them for awhile.  And how he opens up once he is
comfortable...of how he instantly became so openly affectionate after
spending just a few hours with you" Cathy said quietly.  "That is because
when he met you Jim, he could sense that you're the exact opposite of his
father.  Rodie knows that you are afraid for some reason, but he can feel
how much you care and desire him.  He is very confused about it and is
terrified that he will scare you away."  Cathy explained carefully, "I knew
immediately when he told me this last night that you were not just gay, but
a boylover.  However, as much as it goes against my personal beliefs, I can
see how much he needs you to accept him the way he is, and I can see how
much you need him."  Cathy paused and rubbed her temples with her hand
before facing Jim again with a dead serious look on her face.  "What I
guess I'm trying to tell you is that if you hurt him in any way, I will
hunt you down no matter where you run to Jim.  Do you understand me?"

	Contemplating what he had just been told, realizing the truth as
everything started to fall together in his mind, Jim replied, thinking of
Byron, "I would never hurt him Cathy, I would kill myself before I allow
that to ever happen again."  "Again?"  Cathy asked him catching the tone
and knowing he was not speaking about Rodie, which was when he realized
what he had said.  "Oh sorry...well no matter, you have a right to know I
suppose" he told her in a softened voice, thinking back twenty years.
"When I was 19 I fell in love with a boy who was 11."  Jim stated quietly
as a look of pain came across his face.  "His name was Byron, and he was
beautiful...in many ways, like Rodie.  I tried my best to keep it a secret,
to protect Byron, but his father found out.  Only, he didn't blame me, I
think because he worked for my father at the time.  Also, there wasn't that
big a difference in our ages.  Back then there were no laws against what we
were doing, so he blamed Byron instead."  Jim explained quietly while
staring straight ahead, yet not seeing anything. "His father had him
committed in a mental hospital...there was this doctor who told him he
could remove the homosexual stigma on him.  By using electric shock
therapy, Byron went through hell in there, and ended up hanging himself in
his room one night.  I was devastated when I learned what happened.  I
think I might have followed him into death if it had not been for Eddie."

	Jim's features softened when he mentioned his dearest friend's
name.  "Eddie made me walk away, and promise to never look back, I have not
spoken to my family or friends since then, and it's been over 20 years
now."  Jim shook his head like shaking off a trance, "it took me a long
time to recover enough to be social again.  I joined the Navy as my way of
escaping the pain and guilt I had.  I was honorably discharged after six
years in the service, and went to work for a Federal Contractor as a
security expert.  I have had some brief relationships with adult men and
women over the years but I have never loved anyone else but Byron.  Until
yesterday, that is" Jim said.  "When Rodie started to cry, all of the
sorrow and hatred I have held for so long just seemed to flow out of me.  I
thought my heart had died inside me when Byron killed himself, and I've
always blamed myself for not being able to protect him, but I feel so alive
when I am with Rodie.  Something I haven't felt in 20 years truthfully.
And it scares me because of what happened with Byron."  Jim sat up in the
chair and looked directly into Cathy's eyes, "so believe me when I say
this, I could never hurt him in any way, not ever.  I won't lie to you, I
do not know what will happen between us physically, because I can't predict
what will happen.  I just know that in this short period that he has come
into my life, I have felt more alive than I have for the last 20 years."
Jim said solemnly.

	Cathy reached out and placed her hand on top of Jim's and gave it a
reassuring squeeze.  Jim looked at her seeing the understanding in her
eyes.  She understood who and what he was, while he understood how much she
loved her son to give her consent to him.  He now had a responsibility that
would require all his love to fulfill.  The moment was shattered when a
squeaky voice called out to them.  "Hey mom, look what I won, isn't it kewl
Jim" Rodie said as he scampered toward them, his long hair wet with
perspiration, as he waved the new skateboard he was carrying at them.
"Wow, that is really nice honey, how did you win it?"  Cathy asked as he
put the skateboard down on the table.  "I scored 1,000 points in less than
an hour mom.  The man at the counter said that only three other kids have
done that here."  Rodie explained as he breathed heavily to catch his
breath.  "You sound like you need a rest surf boy, here we got you a soda
ok." Jim told him as he handed the large cup to him.  Rodie took the cup
from him then cocked his head slightly to the side before staring intently
at Jim, then at his mom.  A worried expression crossed his face as he
looked even more intently at his mother, somehow knowing that whatever had
happened it was going to affect him.  "It's alright Rodie, there is nothing
to worry about now, it's ok."  Cathy told her son as he stared at her, his
lower lip trembling slightly.

	Something unseen seemed to pass between them at that moment, then
his eyes widened in realization while he looked at his mother, with a look
of hope in his eyes he looked at Jim for confirmation.  Seeing the tears
slowly making their way down Jim's face, a single tear ran down Rodie's
face before he wrapped his arms around Jim's neck allowing Jim to pull him
into his lap.  "Is it true?" Rodie whispered into Jim's ear, which Jim
could hear the desperation of hope in Rodie's small voice, "please tell me
it's true."  "It's true Rodie, I love you my beautiful surf boy" Jim
whispered back.  "I love you too" Jim heard in his ear as the small boy
began to shake in his arms.  Jim just started to sooth the boy as he
listened to the soft whimpers coming from his shoulder.  With his own tears
running down his face, Jim looked over and saw the tears of understanding
in Cathy's eyes.  With him knowing that, what Cathy had just done was the
right thing, not just for Rodie, but for all three of them.

	Cathy watched with understanding while both of them cried softly
together as Jim held Rodie in his lap.  She knew it was the right decision,
even if others considered it criminal.  They didn't know her son, nor did
they know what he needed.  Rodie needed someone who would love him
unconditionally, and she knew that Jim could provide that love...because
Rodie could feel it. As she watched Jim stroking his hair, and wiping the
tears from his small face, she knew they belonged together.  She decided
that there was enough time right now so she didn't have to make any sudden
decisions at the time.  Rodie had already made his decision, she surmised,
as she watched them together.  She watched them patiently until Rodie
lifted his head finally from Jim's shoulder.  "You ok now surf boy?"  Jim
asked him as he gently wiped the tears from Rodie's eyes.  Looking at Jim,
Rodie replied softly "Yeah, I'm ok now, I think."  Then copying what Jim
had done just seconds earlier; he reached up and gently wiped away the
tears on Jim's face before asking him, "you ok too Jim?"  Jim smiled and
then kissed him on the nose, "Yes Rodie, I'm ok too...now."  Rodie looked
around and smiled at Cathy, tilting his head slightly, and silently
thanking her in his own way.  Cathy watched as Rodie slowly became aware of
their surroundings, and then with a sheepish smile on his face, got up and
sat down beside Jim.  He quickly wiped his face on the tail of his T-shirt
then grabbed his soda, taking a long drink from it.

	"Ok then, now that everybody has settled down, why don't we plan
our next move.  I think it's about dinnertime myself, what do you think
surf boy?" Jim asked the young boy seated next to him after checking his
watch.  "I'm kinda hungry, but if mom wants to do something else that's ok
with me" Rodie replied looking at his mother.  Jim looked across the table
towards Cathy with a questioning expression.  "I wouldn't mind doing some
more shopping myself, we can go to the shops I pointed out on the way here"
Cathy said with feigned interest.  "MOM!  You take hours when you shop and
I am REALLY sort of hungry" Rodie exclaimed.  With a light laugh, Cathy
said, "I know you are honey, I was only teasing you.  I think dinner is a
wonderful idea."  "Well I'm no expert, but it has always been my opinion
that young boys are constantly hungry right Cathy?  What say you all that
we go to the dinner buffet at the Down Under?"  Jim asked.  "What's the
Down Under Jim?"  Rodie asked with an uncertain look.  "It's sort of like
the OutBack Steak House, only they have a much better selection.  They even
have Kangaroo burgers, and Kangaroo steaks; they claim that you'll have a
hopping good time if you eat one of those" Jim answered smiling while Rodie
broke into giggles.  They all then got up, picking up the skateboard and
shopping bags while slowly making their way out of the mall to Cathy's
Jeep.  Once inside, Jim then directed her to their destination.

	As they pulled into the parking lot Jim explained that they had a
buffet that went along with the meal or that they could just have the
buffet alone.  There was a line of people extending out the door as Cathy
looked for a parking place until Jim directed her to an empty place.  It
was beside the entrance and was marked "Reserved."  Jim then guided past
them past the waiting people into the restaurant while Rodie held his hand
and Cathy followed.  Jim stopped at the Hostess counter where he was
immediately greeted then shown to a large table in the back of the dining
room.  "Wow, that was quick, they act like you're someone real important
here Jim" Rodie said.  Jim saw Cathy as well as Rodie looking at him for a
response, "Well, I am sort of, this is one of my investments I was telling
you about earlier, Cathy."  "You own this place?"  Cathy and Rodie asked
together, "no, not quite, I am the minority partner in the business, but
you've met the owner already" Jim replied.  Rodie gave him a questioning
look with a slight tilt of his head.  "We have?"  Cathy asked.  "Well yes,
this morning remember" Jim replied.  "Oh you mean Eddie is the owner" Rodie
answered knowingly.  "The one and the same.  I expect him to be out here to
greet us at any moment now" Jim said with a smile just as Eddie came out of
the kitchen.  "Well hello all, so nice of you to drop by" Eddie stated as
he gave a friendly hug to Jim before turning towards Cathy and Rodie.  "You
don't mind if I join you for a moment," Eddie asked them then sitting
without waiting for a reply.

	"This place is neat, Mr. uh..." Rodie faltered, then looking
towards Jim for assistance.  "Mitchell, Eddie Mitchell Rodie, but you can
call him Eddie ok."  "Is it ok mom?"  Rodie asked turning to look at her,
"If it is alright with them honey, then it's ok to call him Eddie" Cathy
answered.  Eddie motioned to a passing waitress, "Gina, be a sweetheart and
bring a round of Down Under Thunder's, oh yes, make one a virgin."  "Yes
Sir" the server replied before heading towards the bar.  "Um Jim, what did
he mean by making a virgin?"  Rodie whispered as he leaned close to Jim.
Jim chuckled at the question and was about to reply when Eddie broke in
"Shame, shame you two, no passing secrets when I'm around."  Jim smiled at
Rodie, then turned to Eddie, and said with a smirk on his face "Well I
would tell you Eddie but it's sort of a personal thing."  Eddie feigned a
shocked expression "Well!  I never...Ok you know I did, but you can't prove
it."  All of them laughed together, then Cathy said, "Well I can see you're
the more flamboyant of the two of you."  To which Eddie responded, "Very
true, very true, I was the blessed one with a sense of style, while he is
Mr. Moneybags" looking imploringly at Jim.  Rodie gave Jim a questioning
look as he heard this.  "I'll explain later ok surf boy," Jim said quickly.
The server arrived with their drinks, making sure the "virgin" one was
placed in front of Rodie.  "Virgin, means that there isn't any alcohol in
it" Jim explained as she placed the drink in front of him.  "Do they taste
different because of that?"  Rodie asked innocently.  Jim looked towards
Cathy, "Can he have a sip?"  He inquired to which she gave a slight nod of
her head.  Jim then had Rodie taste his own drink, then lean over and take
a sip from his glass, which caused Rodie to choke from the alcohol.  He
patted Rodie's back lightly until Rodie stopped coughing, "That's GROSS!"
Rodie exclaimed making a sour face as Jim put his arm around his slim waist
and pulled him closer.  "That's why he got you one without the alcohol surf
boy" Jim explained while handing him a napkin.

	While this was happening, Eddie, even with his expressive style,
noticed that the situation had changed from the morning.  "Maybe it would
be better if he rinsed out his mouth Jim" Eddie suggested while giving Jim
a serious look.  Jim took the meaning of the look from Eddie "Uh, sure,
come on surf boy and I will show you where the restroom is" he said while
taking Rodie's hand and escorting him towards the opposite side of the
restaurant.  Cathy had been looking at the menu while this went on, but
looked at Eddie as Jim led Rodie away.  "That was somewhat obvious, wasn't
it Eddie?"  She asked once they were out of earshot.  "You are very
perceptive, I see" he replied, "I just thought it would be easier this way
is all.  I can tell that something has changed between the three of you
since this morning. I don't mean to pry, but I just wanted to know your
thoughts about this.  I don't know what Jim has told you, but he is like my
family and I do not want him hurt."  "It is alright Eddie, Jim told me what
you did for him, and I admire you for that."  Cathy took a deep breath then
let it out slowly.  "Yes things have changed since this morning, but it
wasn't my doing or Jim's.  Rodie is a very special boy, he can sense much
more from the people around him that you can ever imagine.  When he saw Jim
yesterday morning, Rodie sensed something in Jim that he has been searching
for...for a long time now.  I may not always agree on some things, however
I know my son.  So it wasn't my decision to make, and he made that decision
this afternoon."  Cathy explained what happened at the arcade while Eddie
listened quietly.  "I know how Jim feels, he told me everything this
afternoon.  He told me about Byron, about how he died, and what you did for
him.  I can see the concern in your face also, especially knowing how close
you are to Jim.  Nevertheless, I trust my son's sense, and after talking to
Jim, I trust him to do what's best for both of them.  However, being a
mother, I have to worry about Rodie knowing what might happen between them.
Remember, he is still only a ten year old boy while Jim is a grown man."

	Thinking silently for a moment while Cathy watched him, Eddie
finally met her gaze.  "Maybe I can ease that concern a little for you,
Cathy" Eddie offered in a caring voice.  "Can you Eddie?  I truly hope so"
Cathy replied.  "I think I can Cathy, look I know Jim better than his own
parents know him.  Right now, you are thinking that you are allowing your
son to walk right into the arms of a pedophile.  A man who's only interest
is to use Rodie for his own sexual gratification, and then discard him once
he is older."  Eddie stated while watching her closely.  Cathy met his gaze
then looked down at her drink, "Well I wouldn't go quite that far, but I
worry that something like that will happen" she said seriously.  "Of course
you do" he told her, "you wouldn't be a mother if you didn't.  However,
believe me when I say this, Jim is no pedophile.  I am not saying that he
does not have a sexual attraction to your son.  What I am saying is that
Jim will not force Rodie into doing anything he is not prepared for.  This
is also including sex, no matter how willing your son may be.  He loved
Byron, but he never had intercourse with him.  Although Byron begged and
pleaded with him, Jim knew he was not physically and emotionally ready to
take that step.  Jim means the world to me, and I do not think he could go
through something like this again and survive.  So, trust me when I say
this, because I know that man as well as anyone can know someone else.  He
will wait until the time is right for Rodie, no matter how long that may
be."  Cathy studied Eddie's face, looking for any sign of deception, but
finding none.  "Yes, I believe that, now that you have said it.  Knowing
that, it does ease my worries a bit."  Cathy said finally with a serious
look on her face.  "Thank you Eddie, I needed that."  "I know Cathy, and
Jim needs Rodie as much as he needs Jim" Eddie replied with equal
seriousness.

	Cathy reached over and gently squeezed Eddie's hand just as Jim and
Rodie came up to the table.  Rodie was about to sit down when he stopped
and asked with a worried look on his face, "is everything ok mom?"  Looking
at Eddie, then at Jim, Cathy replied "yes honey, everything is fine.  We
were just having a little grown up talk is all."  Picking up his drink and
moving cautiously, he slipped into the seat beside her with a slight frown
on his face.  Looking directly at Eddie for a few moments, Rodie then
slowly let the frown ease out of his face as if deciding that Eddie posed
no threat to him, before returning his worried eyes back to his mom.
"Really honey, everything is fine.  Now what would you like to eat?"  Cathy
said trying to reassure him.  "Now I understand what you meant Cathy" Eddie
said with a knowing smile on his face.  "Well I have to go mingle, or my
customers will get unruly, so you all enjoy your meal" Eddie chimed as he
stood picking up his glass.  Jim looked at his friend and said, "I will
call you later ok?"  "I'll be looking forward to it, Bro" Eddie replied
with a reassuring look to Jim.  He then walked over and stood between Cathy
and Rodie.  "Nice meeting you again Cathy, and you too Young Master Rodie."
He then laid his hand on Rodie's shoulder only to jerk it away quickly as
Rodie hissed and grimaced in pain.  Jim was on his feet and beside Rodie in
an instant, "oh Jesus Eddie, I totally forgot to tell you that his sunburn
is worse than we thought.  You ok surf boy?"  Jim asked as he knelt beside
the hurting boy.  "Didn't you use Banana boat on him Jim?"  Eddie asked as
Jim carefully lifted Rodie's shirt exposing the bright red skin.  "No I
have a different brand of after sun lotion I used on him Eddie" Jim
replied.  "Well no wonder he is hurting, here I have some in the Gift Shop,
I'll go get it and you use that instead.  It has Lidocaine in it that will
stop the pain."  Eddie explained before hurrying off towards the entrance.

	Eddie returned a few minutes later carrying a bottle with a cream
color lotion inside.  "Here you go Jim, you can use the office if you want
to put it on him now.  Just remember that he will smell like a banana split
afterwards," Eddie said with a grin.  "You want me to put a little of this
on your shoulders Rodie?"  Jim asked, "can I smell it first?  I don't want
it if it stinks" Rodie replied wrinkling his cute little nose.  Eddie
handed the bottle to him where Rodie carefully unscrewed the top and
inhaled lightly.  "Hey, it does smell like a banana split" he exclaimed
then burst into giggles.  "Well then maybe we should wait until after we
eat or the customers will think you are dessert."  Jim said while smirking
at Rodie who stuck his tongue out at him before giggling even more.  "Come
on surf boy, let's go get you doctored up while Cathy order's" Jim said
reaching for Rodie's hand.  "What should I order you Jim?"  Cathy asked as
he started to lead the boy towards the back.  "Oh don't worry about me,
Eddie already know what I want, just order for Rodie and yourself ok."  Jim
replied before turning.  "Um...thanks for the lotion Eddie" Rodie said as
turned and followed Jim into the kitchen.  "Anytime surf boy," Eddie
replied before turning towards Cathy, "well now, what can I get for you and
your son?"  Cathy ordered a steak for herself, and a petite Filet Minion
for Rodie.  "These also come with the buffet so help yourself Cathy.  Oh,
by the way, you are my personal guests this evening so everything is on
me."  Eddie said before heading off towards the kitchen.

	Cathy had prepared herself a salad and was just returning to the
table as Jim and Rodie came out of the kitchen entrance.  "Feel better now
honey?  She asked as they took their seats.  "Yeah mom that stuff really
works good, it took all the pain away as soon as he put it on me."  Rodie
replied while eyeing her salad hungrily.  "I am glad to hear that dear so
quit eyeballing my salad and go get your own, it's over that way, now
scoot" she said pointing towards the buffet.  Rodie jumped up and grabbed
Jim's hand tugging him towards the buffet.  They returned after a few
minutes with their plates just as a server placed baskets of warm rolls,
butter, and a plate of potato skins on the table.  She then took their
drink orders, then presented Rodie with a cap and psychedelic colored
T-shirt with the Down Under logo on the back, explaining that it was a gift
from the management.  "These are so kewl looking, can I put it on now mom?"
Rodie asked.  "If you want to honey" Cathy replied as she buttered a roll
for herself.  Rodie stood up and pulled his T-shirt off revealing his
bright red shoulders, chest, and upper back.  "My you are burned worse than
I thought honey, are you sure it's ok?"  Cathy asked as she lightly touched
his bare shoulder.  "Yeah mom, that stuff Eddie gave us really works good.
It doesn't hurt at all right now."

	Cathy glanced around and noticed quite a few of the men were openly
staring at Rodie now.  She looked towards Jim and saw that he noticed this
also, which he then stood and moved around until he was impeding the view
of the young shirtless boy.  Relaxing a little, Cathy said, while grinning
at Rodie, "that is good, but I think you should put your shirt back on
before someone mistake's you for a lobster and decides to put you on a
platter."  Rodie gave her a suffering look and rolled his eyes before
slipping the new T-shirt over his head.  It was two sizes too big, but
Rodie refused to exchange it for a smaller one stating that he liked his
shirts big and baggy.  He saw Jim looking at him as he settled the shirt
into place, he then put his hands on his hips and posed for Jim, and
waiting for a response.  "Yep, I agree, you definitely look like you belong
on a platter" Jim replied with a silly smile on his face, then burst out
laughing as Rodie pretended to strangle him.  They all laughed before
settling down and eating their salad and appetizers.  The server brought
them their drinks followed by their meals a few minutes later.  They
laughed and joked while they ate about how much Rodie was eating.  Once
they had finished, Eddie brought them Irish coffees and a cinnamon mocha
latte for Rodie.

	Finally, full and relaxed, Jim suggested that they head back
towards home.  They said goodbye to Eddie as they reached the door.  Once
outside, Jim looked up at the cloudy sky hearing the distant thunder, then
down at his watch.  9:45 PM the display said, "Whoa, it's later than I
thought Cathy" showing her the time.  They got into the Jeep and Cathy
headed back towards Rodanthe, which was about 20 miles away.  Rodie
immediately dozed off in the back seat, clutching his new skateboard close
to his chest.  As they crossed the bridge, that connected the Outer Banks
to Cape Hatteras, the sky ripped open as the full force of the storm hit.
It took another 20 minutes to reach Jim's house, but the storm showed no
signs of easing up.  Jim told Cathy that hail would come shortly and
suggested that she park in his garage for the night.  She quickly agreed,
and Jim took out his keys and pressed a button on the keychain.  The door
opened slowly then the light turned on as Cathy eased the Jeep into the
space next to Jim's BMW.  "Nice car, that must have lightened your wallet a
little" Cathy said while Jim pushed the button again to close the door.
"Well, not really Cathy.  I made some very good investments when I got my
settlement."  Jim replied as he opened the rear door and gently picked
Rodie up into his arms.  Cathy grabbed their shopping bags and Rodie's
skateboard, then followed Jim inside and up the stairs.

	Once they reached the living room, Jim turned to Cathy, "This storm
isn't supposed to blow over till morning, you and Rodie can stay in the
guest bedroom tonight."  Just then, the loud thuds of the hail hitting the
roof could be heard.  "I don't think so Jim, Rodie would have a cow if he
woke up in my bed, it's ok if he sleeps in your room" Cathy replied.  "If
you say so Cathy, let me go get him tucked in, then we can relax in the
living room ok.  "Oh you better undress him Jim, or he will be raw by
morning" Cathy told him.  "Good suggestion, I will be right out," Jim
answered as he carried the sleeping boy back into his room.  Jim gently sat
Rodie on his bed, then slowly eased Rodie's shirt up, then over his head,
before laying him back onto the pillows.  He then removed Rodie's sneakers
and socks, and gently bent his knees so he could remove Rodie's board
shorts.  He quickly untied the knot, and as he eased then down past Rodie's
hips his hand brushed against his soft penis.  Rodie let out a little moan
and Jim felt his small cocklet beginning to grow.  He gently pulled the
shorts down to his ankles and slipped them off.  Straightening the small
boy's slim legs, Jim could see the tent Rodie's small cocklet made in the
thin cotton boxers.  Gazing down at him as he slept, Jim could only marvel
at the overwhelming beauty of his boy.  He gently pulled the covers up to
his chin and kissed him on his forehead.  "Sleep well my surf boy.  I love
you" Jim whispered before joining Cathy in the living room.

End Chapter 2.

Comments welcomed at snwdemon@worldnet.att.net