Date: Thu, 16 Sep 1999 09:35:39 +1200
From: nivision@manawatu.gen.nz
Subject: Testing Times

Testing Times    Part 2

Grant accompanied them to the factory next morning. At nine Philip entered
the general manager's office, and George Mason with Tom Benson arrived soon
after. Gerald Thomson was waiting for them. As soon as they were seated, he
said, "Now that you have had the weekend to reconsider your decision, who
do you think we should appoint senior foreman? What is your decision.?"

George was the first to speak. "I have thought about the suitability of
Toby Oliver all weekend and I am prepared to give him a trial ."

"I still believe he is the most suitable applicant," said Tom.

"I am sure he could do the job and like Tom, I believe he is the most
suitable."

"It's decided then," said Gerald. "Will you convey our decision to Toby
Oliver, Tom, and then, Philip, will you see him and give him fuller details
about the terms and conditions of his appointment?"

"I will send him to you," said Tom to Philip, as they stood to leave.

Philip wondered about George's changed attitude as he returned to his
office. He wondered if his wife had persuaded him to be more accepting of
Grant's gayness and that this had influenced his decision about Toby
Oliver.

About thirty minutes later his Secretary, Joan, showed Toby Oliver in to
his office. He was tall and slim with a friendly but "no nonsense"
manner. After congratulating him on his promotion, he carefully went
through the terms and conditions of his appointment. Philip encouraged
questions to ensure that he was clear about his obligations and contract
conditions. Quickly a relaxed and easy atmosphere prevailed. Joan brought
in coffee and as she departed Philip said, "There is something else we have
to talk about. It's not going to be easy with George Mason. He's strong
negative attitudes towards gays. He's been alright with me even though he
must know that I am gay. Anyway, he believes you're gay and not keen to
appoint you. You may have seen me at the Albion the other night. I saw you
there, so am I right to believe that you too are one of the `family`?"

Toby looked at him and was slow to reply. "You're right, I'm gay but I
don't flaunt it. I'm a very private person and haven't lived here very
long, so I know very few other gays. Thank you for the warning about
George. I'll give him no reason to complain for I keep my working life and
my private life quite separate. Some others know of my sexuality and it
doesn't bother them. I'm sorry if it concerns him. I promise it won't
interfere with the way I do my job."

"Would you like to meet other gay guys?" asked Philip. "Roger, my partner
is in research and we would like to help you to meet others who might have
interests similar to yours."

"I know you and Roger are partners and assumed you were gay. Thank you for
your offer, I'd like to accept."

"First we would like to get to know you better. Would you come home for a
meal?"

Toby accepted and it was arranged that he would have dinner with them the
following night. He thanked Philip for his support and for making him aware
of a possible situation with George Mason.

"We've Grant staying with us. George is his father and he's made his life
impossible. You'll appreciate that he too is adjusting to the negative
attitudes of others," said Philip as Toby prepared to leave.

Later that morning Brent called on Philip.

"I hope you can spare a minute," he said. "I have to thank Roger for
introducing me to those terrific guys Grant and Mike. They are lots of fun
and we had a really wild night."

"I guess it is the exuberance of youth who are discovering the delights of
being gay with an attractive understanding friend," said Philip. "Grant is
experiencing the trauma of coming out. For Mike it happened some time ago."

"I guessed that might be the situation. Grant was much more hesitant than
Mike. Once he'd relaxed he was prepared to respond to his feelings. He
couldn't get enough of my hairy chest."

Philip laughed. "I bet, once his sexual desires demand satisfaction, he's a
wild ride, with no holds barred. I hope it was as an enjoyable ride for you
as it was for me."

"Oh it was, even more so when Mike showed that he was even better." Brent
laughed . If he needs a place to stay he is most welcome. Seriously, I
really mean that. I do like the guy and want to help him."

"We'll see how his situation develops. His mother is happy for him to stay
with us until his father is more accepting. Thanks for the offer. I'll let
you know should he want to join you. Those boys need to find more gay
friends and you could help. Let's cement your friendship. Would you care to
come for dinner on Wednesday?"

Brent looked pleased as he accepted. "I hope they'll become permanent
friends", he said as he took his leave.

It was mid-afternoon when George Mason came to see him. Philip was
surprised, for he did not expect George would be feeling too kindly about
him now that he was involved with Grant.

"I suppose you're finding it strange that I was prepared to accept Toby
Oliver for the vacancy?" He did not wait for Philip's reply as he
continued. "I have been thinking a lot about people who are gay. When you
discover your own son is gay it is devastating. I could accept others. I
believed others were not my concern, but when I realise that my son is one
of them, it is quite unacceptable. I was disappointed, horrified, angry,
and you know what happened." He stopped, overcome by his memories. "I love
that boy, he means everything to me. I felt he'd rejected my love and
destroyed my expectations that I would be proud of him." Again he stopped a
moment before asking, "How is he? I hope he is feeling better. My wife has
accepted his sexuality and is helping me to do the same. It's not easy."
Philip waited for him to continue. "I need time to acknowledge that Grant
is gay. You're helping me by helping Grant. Thank you. Give me a little
time to work through my feelings and then ask Grant to return home."

"Grant and I have spent a lot of time talking through his problems. I know
he understands why you behaved the way you did. He loves you and is
distressed by your reaction. He needs time as well to understand why you
rejected him so violently. I believe he is beginning to appreciate why."

 "I hope some day he will forgive me," said George as he stood to look out
the window. "Grant living with you is a comfort for my wife and I, and I
know you can help him. We are grateful and thank you."

"Let Grant stay with us for a while. I'm sure everyone will benefit."

George became deep in thought before he replied. He turned to Philip, "That
would be a great help. Thank you."

George left soon after, leaving Philip relieved that George was adjusting
to the realisation that his son was gay. He hoped he'd soon be able to love
him as before.

Over dinner Philip told Roger and Grant about his visitors. Grant was in
tears as he heard about his father. When Philip had finished he looked hard
at him.

"We owe you a lot. You have already been a great help and Id like to stay
longer."

Philip assured him that he was welcome. Roger immediately showed that he
agreed by hugging Grant. As the evening progressed, they grew much more
cheerful as they discussed the encouraging change in George.

"I believe your father thinks that your being with older guys who are also
gay, will help you," said Philip.

"I believe it will help me," said Grant. "On Sunday Mike and I met some
really nice guys. I like Brent very much. He's great, so friendly, and with
a body that sends tremors through me."

Philip laughed. "So you will be pleased to hear that he is coming to dinner
on Wednesday."

Grant yelped with delight. "Might I suggest it be a nude dinner party?" he
giggle.

"How disgusting", blurted Roger. "Dining with a hairy ape definitely does
not appeal."

" Maybe an after dinner nap might be more appropriate to satisfy your
lust?"

Grant gave him a punch to register his disagreement.

"I know he wants my body as much as I want his. You wait and see."

The following evening when Toby came to dinner, the occasion was more
restrained, because they still had to get to know each other. Toby was made
very welcome. Grant entertained him while Philip and Roger completed the
dinner preparations - Southern fried chicken. Grant's friendliness
encouraged conversation. It took little time for he and Toby to find topics
of common interest. Toby was sensitive to Grant's situation and avoided
anything that might intrude. They talked about the experiences of youth,
friendships and school.

Unperturbed, Grant suddenly asked him, "Have you ever had a lover? I have
Mike. He is the most important person in my life."

Toby, most surprised by the question, was slow to answer. "Yes. I was a
little older than you when I first met Tom, but, like you, I loved him
dearly. We lived together until a year ago, when he was killed."

"I'm sorry," said Grant, "how terrible, I'd be devastated if I lost Mike."

"So was I. I'm still adjusting and miss him terribly. It's one of the
reasons I relocated to this town. Meeting couples like Philip and Roger
reminds me of what I've lost."

"I hope it also encourages you to find another to love. I guess it can
never be the same as it was with your first partner. May be he could be
special too."

"You are a romantic," laughed Toby. "It's not always sweetness and light,
or a bed of roses."

"I guess not," Grant replied, "but Mike does have a beautiful prick."

Toby roared with laughter as Philip and Roger returned carrying serving
dishes of steaming chicken, chips and a variety of vegetables. Roger sought
the cause of the merriment. On hearing Toby's explanation, Roger laughed,
and said, "He's right, they both have the prettiest of pricks, rigid, sharp
and penetrating."

"Watch it Roger," said Grant. "Toby might be embarrassed by your explicit
descriptions of our bed of roses."

The banter helped to relax Toby. Soon they were exchanging much about each
other. Grant said little as the others talked about the problems of male
partnerships, of family and public acceptance. Toby shared with them his
loss and loneliness, the vacuum in his life since the death of his
lover. They shared experiences of living together. The conversation changed
to experiences at work. As they all knew the majority of the staff, they
shared amusing situations and gossip. Philip had to be careful for, as
personnel manager, he could not disclose too much. Roger mentioned Brent
and Toby asked in which department he worked. When he learnt that it was in
ccounts, he asked, "Is he the dark muscular guy who is so friendly?"

"Do you think he's found a kindred spirit?" asked Philip.

"He could be if he has turned on his charm for you," said Roger.

Toby laughed. "May be. Whenever I enter accounts, it is always Brent who
serves me."

"Would you like to meet him and see if he's really interested in you?"
asked Philip.

"I do like what I see," Toby replied, giving some thought to the
prospect. "I guess I would."

"Well come to dinner tomorrow night," said Grant, "and I'll play Cupid. "My
prick, sorry, arrow, is ready."

"Would you?" reinforced Philip. "Brent has already been invited, so it is
convenient. He's one of our friends and it'll be an opportunity for you to
meet each other."

Toby was unsure how to reply for he was nervous now at the opportunity to
meet a guy he secretly admired.

"I would like to meet him. Thank you for the opportunity, I'd like to
come."

The night finished early, with Toby leaving soon after ten, thrilled at the
prospect of getting to know Brent. He noticed that his cock was responding
in anticipation.

Philip phoned Brent next morning to tell him that Toby would be joining
them Brent remembered him, saying that it was an opportunity he hoped would
occur. Philip sensed his enthusiasm at the prospect. As they were driving
home, Grant suggested that it was a dinner that should be special and
warranted a bottle or two of wine. Philip agreed and two bottles of
Chardonnay were purchased.

Grant was enthusiastic about the dinner and did seem to be imbued with the
spirit of Cupid, or was it Eros. He busied himself adding decorative
touches to the table with sprigs of Honeysuckle he found in the
garden. Philip expressed amusement at the single red rose in the center of
the table. A couple of perfumed candles completed his decorations.

Brent, the first to arrive, showed surprise at the prepared dinner
table. "Is this a special occasion?"

"No, no," said Roger, "it's Grant's romantic inclinations getting an
airing. He's enchanted by the atmosphere of our love nest. We have to
humour him."

Brent laughed, "All we need is soft music and a lover and his lass, I mean
lad, to complete the picture. We leave those roles to you and Philip."

Any reply from Philip was interrupted by the arrival of Toby. Immediately
Brent and Toby recognised each other and, encouraged by the informality of
the occasion, were soon chatting together. Philip felt that his suspicions
were confirmed; that they were interested in each other. Roger, surprised,
whispered to Grant, "Cupid may have had an easy target."

Grant passed around bottles of Ice Beer while Philip and Roger put the
final touches to a meal of grilled lamb steaks and steamed vegetables.

"Have you seen Mike today?" Brent asked Grant.

"We had lunch together," he replied. "He also has a holiday job so there
are few opportunities, but Philip has invited him to stay weekends. We've
never had it so easy to get together for such long periods. He's
wonderful."

"You can say that again," said Roger as he entered, "once Mike arrives it's
unlimited sex, an orgy of youthful lust." The others laughed.

"I was like that at his age," said Toby.

"So now you are celibate?" asked Brent.

"No opportunities with the right kind of guy," he replied.

"Maybe we can help you find him," said Brent looking at Roger.

The meal was a great success, and helped by the much appreciated wine, the
company relaxed completely. Toby felt he was among real friends, where
complete openness and trust was the norm. Philip kept the wine flowing and
soon Brent was showing signs of diminished restraint. He moved to sit
beside Toby, pressing his leg hard against his. Roger leant against Philip
while Grant sat on the floor between Philip legs. Vivaldi played quietly on
the stereo; dimmed lights and the perfumed candles created a very romantic
setting.

Toby sighed. "This is delightful. I feel that you've already included me in
a special relationship."

"We have, said Brent. To everyone's surprise, he leant over and kissed
Toby. Toby quickly recovered, placed an arm around him, drew him close and
kissed him for sometime. He was like a thirsty man at last quenching his
thirst. Toby's tongue sought Brent's. The gentle kiss became a passionate
embrace.

A few meaningful coughs from Roger caused the couple to become aware of the
others. Toby blushed with embarrassment. Grant claimed responsibility.

"My arrow has found its mark. May it dwell in thy bosom and blossom as the
rose, full of beauty and delight. Cupid claims his reward."

He rose and kissed first Toby, then Brent.

"Sweet boy, your dart has truly found me one to love," said Brent.

"Enough, it's time for coffee," said Roger. "Eros will have us all
succumbing to his charms."

"I already have," Brent replied. "But Grant he has his Mike and has cast me
adrift to find another."

"He's drunk," said Philip to Toby. "He'll be full of remorse when he
remembers his familiarity in the morning."

Toby did not seem to be offended or perturbed and had returned Brent's kiss
with equal ardour. He whispered to Grant, "I loved it. Bless you Cupid."

The following morning Brent phoned Philip at his office. He thanked him for
a very enjoyable evening which had developed into something very
special. He had taken Toby home and they had slept together.

"Man he's a stallion with a magnificent cock.. I lay in heaven all night
and we didn't get much sleep. I hope he finds me compatible. Seriously, he
is a nice guy and I believe he could be very special."

Philip chuckled as he replaced the phone.

Toby came to his office after lunch to thank Philip for his
hospitality. Philip wondered whether he should apologise for Brent's
behaviour. He had no need to be concerned, for Toby was full of praise for
the meal and hospitality. He said he was delighted to meet Brent and
believed that they were likely to be good friends. Philip did not mention
that he had already heard from Brent, only indicating there would be many
more invitations in the future.


To be continued.


  [ Part 3: "Attached Text" ]



Testing Times Part 2

Grant accompanied them to the factory next morning. At nine Philip entered
the general manager's office, and George Mason with Tom Benson arrived soon
after. Gerald Thomson was waiting for them. As soon as they were seated, he
said, "Now that you have had the weekend to reconsider your decision, who
do you think we should appoint senior foreman? What is your decision.?"

George was the first to speak. "I have thought about the suitability of
Toby Oliver all weekend and I am prepared to give him a trial ."

"I still believe he is the most suitable applicant," said Tom.

"I am sure he could do the job and like Tom, I believe he is the most
suitable."

"It's decided then," said Gerald. "Will you convey our decision to Toby
Oliver, Tom, and then, Philip, will you see him and give him fuller details
about the terms and conditions of his appointment?"

"I will send him to you," said Tom to Philip, as they stood to leave.

Philip wondered about George's changed attitude as he returned to his
office. He wondered if his wife had persuaded him to be more accepting of
Grant's gayness and that this had influenced his decision about Toby
Oliver.

About thirty minutes later his Secretary, Joan, showed Toby Oliver in to
his office. He was tall and slim with a friendly but "no nonsense"
manner. After congratulating him on his promotion, he carefully went
through the terms and conditions of his appointment. Philip encouraged
questions to ensure that he was clear about his obligations and contract
conditions. Quickly a relaxed and easy atmosphere prevailed. Joan brought
in coffee and as she departed Philip said, "There is something else we have
to talk about. It's not going to be easy with George Mason. He's strong
negative attitudes towards gays. He's been alright with me even though he
must know that I am gay. Anyway, he believes you're gay and not keen to
appoint you. You may have seen me at the Albion the other night. I saw you
there, so am I right to believe that you too are one of the `family`?"

Toby looked at him and was slow to reply. "You're right, I'm gay but I
don't flaunt it. I'm a very private person and haven't lived here very
long, so I know very few other gays. Thank you for the warning about
George. I'll give him no reason to complain for I keep my working life and
my private life quite separate. Some others know of my sexuality and it
doesn't bother them. I'm sorry if it concerns him. I promise it won't
interfere with the way I do my job."

"Would you like to meet other gay guys?" asked Philip. "Roger, my partner
is in research and we would like to help you to meet others who might have
interests similar to yours."

"I know you and Roger are partners and assumed you were gay. Thank you for
your offer, I'd like to accept."

"First we would like to get to know you better. Would you come home for a
meal?"

Toby accepted and it was arranged that he would have dinner with them the
following night. He thanked Philip for his support and for making him aware
of a possible situation with George Mason.

"We've Grant staying with us. George is his father and he's made his life
impossible. You'll appreciate that he too is adjusting to the negative
attitudes of others," said Philip as Toby prepared to leave.

Later that morning Brent called on Philip.

"I hope you can spare a minute," he said. "I have to thank Roger for
introducing me to those terrific guys Grant and Mike. They are lots of fun
and we had a really wild night."

"I guess it is the exuberance of youth who are discovering the delights of
being gay with an attractive understanding friend," said Philip. "Grant is
experiencing the trauma of coming out. For Mike it happened some time ago."

"I guessed that might be the situation. Grant was much more hesitant than
Mike. Once he'd relaxed he was prepared to respond to his feelings. He
couldn't get enough of my hairy chest."

Philip laughed. "I bet, once his sexual desires demand satisfaction, he's a
wild ride, with no holds barred. I hope it was as an enjoyable ride for you
as it was for me."

"Oh it was, even more so when Mike showed that he was even better." Brent
laughed . If he needs a place to stay he is most welcome. Seriously, I
really mean that. I do like the guy and want to help him."

"We'll see how his situation develops. His mother is happy for him to stay
with us until his father is more accepting. Thanks for the offer. I'll let
you know should he want to join you. Those boys need to find more gay
friends and you could help. Let's cement your friendship. Would you care to
come for dinner on Wednesday?"

Brent looked pleased as he accepted. "I hope they'll become permanent
friends", he said as he took his leave.

It was mid-afternoon when George Mason came to see him. Philip was
surprised, for he did not expect George would be feeling too kindly about
him now that he was involved with Grant.

"I suppose you're finding it strange that I was prepared to accept Toby
Oliver for the vacancy?" He did not wait for Philip's reply as he
continued. "I have been thinking a lot about people who are gay. When you
discover your own son is gay it is devastating. I could accept others. I
believed others were not my concern, but when I realise that my son is one
of them, it is quite unacceptable. I was disappointed, horrified, angry,
and you know what happened." He stopped, overcome by his memories. "I love
that boy, he means everything to me. I felt he'd rejected my love and
destroyed my expectations that I would be proud of him." Again he stopped a
moment before asking, "How is he? I hope he is feeling better. My wife has
accepted his sexuality and is helping me to do the same. It's not easy."
Philip waited for him to continue. "I need time to acknowledge that Grant
is gay. You're helping me by helping Grant. Thank you. Give me a little
time to work through my feelings and then ask Grant to return home."

"Grant and I have spent a lot of time talking through his problems. I know
he understands why you behaved the way you did. He loves you and is
distressed by your reaction. He needs time as well to understand why you
rejected him so violently. I believe he is beginning to appreciate why."

 "I hope some day he will forgive me," said George as he stood to look out
the window. "Grant living with you is a comfort for my wife and I, and I
know you can help him. We are grateful and thank you."

"Let Grant stay with us for a while. I'm sure everyone will benefit."

George became deep in thought before he replied. He turned to Philip, "That
would be a great help. Thank you."

George left soon after, leaving Philip relieved that George was adjusting
to the realisation that his son was gay. He hoped he'd soon be able to love
him as before.

Over dinner Philip told Roger and Grant about his visitors. Grant was in
tears as he heard about his father. When Philip had finished he looked hard
at him.

"We owe you a lot. You have already been a great help and Id like to stay
longer."

Philip assured him that he was welcome. Roger immediately showed that he
agreed by hugging Grant. As the evening progressed, they grew much more
cheerful as they discussed the encouraging change in George.

"I believe your father thinks that your being with older guys who are also
gay, will help you," said Philip.

"I believe it will help me," said Grant. "On Sunday Mike and I met some
really nice guys. I like Brent very much. He's great, so friendly, and with
a body that sends tremors through me."

Philip laughed. "So you will be pleased to hear that he is coming to dinner
on Wednesday."

Grant yelped with delight. "Might I suggest it be a nude dinner party?" he
giggle.

"How disgusting", blurted Roger. "Dining with a hairy ape definitely does
not appeal."

" Maybe an after dinner nap might be more appropriate to satisfy your
lust?"

Grant gave him a punch to register his disagreement.

"I know he wants my body as much as I want his. You wait and see."

The following evening when Toby came to dinner, the occasion was more
restrained, because they still had to get to know each other. Toby was made
very welcome. Grant entertained him while Philip and Roger completed the
dinner preparations - Southern fried chicken. Grant's friendliness
encouraged conversation. It took little time for he and Toby to find topics
of common interest. Toby was sensitive to Grant's situation and avoided
anything that might intrude. They talked about the experiences of youth,
friendships and school.

Unperturbed, Grant suddenly asked him, "Have you ever had a lover? I have
Mike. He is the most important person in my life."

Toby, most surprised by the question, was slow to answer. "Yes. I was a
little older than you when I first met Tom, but, like you, I loved him
dearly. We lived together until a year ago, when he was killed."

"I'm sorry," said Grant, "how terrible, I'd be devastated if I lost Mike."

"So was I. I'm still adjusting and miss him terribly. It's one of the
reasons I relocated to this town. Meeting couples like Philip and Roger
reminds me of what I've lost."

"I hope it also encourages you to find another to love. I guess it can
never be the same as it was with your first partner. May be he could be
special too."

"You are a romantic," laughed Toby. "It's not always sweetness and light,
or a bed of roses."

"I guess not," Grant replied, "but Mike does have a beautiful prick."

Toby roared with laughter as Philip and Roger returned carrying serving
dishes of steaming chicken, chips and a variety of vegetables. Roger sought
the cause of the merriment. On hearing Toby's explanation, Roger laughed,
and said, "He's right, they both have the prettiest of pricks, rigid, sharp
and penetrating."

"Watch it Roger," said Grant. "Toby might be embarrassed by your explicit
descriptions of our bed of roses."

The banter helped to relax Toby. Soon they were exchanging much about each
other. Grant said little as the others talked about the problems of male
partnerships, of family and public acceptance. Toby shared with them his
loss and loneliness, the vacuum in his life since the death of his
lover. They shared experiences of living together. The conversation changed
to experiences at work. As they all knew the majority of the staff, they
shared amusing situations and gossip. Philip had to be careful for, as
personnel manager, he could not disclose too much. Roger mentioned Brent
and Toby asked in which department he worked. When he learnt that it was in
ccounts, he asked, "Is he the dark muscular guy who is so friendly?"

"Do you think he's found a kindred spirit?" asked Philip.

"He could be if he has turned on his charm for you," said Roger.

Toby laughed. "May be. Whenever I enter accounts, it is always Brent who
serves me."

"Would you like to meet him and see if he's really interested in you?"
asked Philip.

"I do like what I see," Toby replied, giving some thought to the
prospect. "I guess I would."

"Well come to dinner tomorrow night," said Grant, "and I'll play Cupid. "My
prick, sorry, arrow, is ready."

"Would you?" reinforced Philip. "Brent has already been invited, so it is
convenient. He's one of our friends and it'll be an opportunity for you to
meet each other."

Toby was unsure how to reply for he was nervous now at the opportunity to
meet a guy he secretly admired.

"I would like to meet him. Thank you for the opportunity, I'd like to
come."

The night finished early, with Toby leaving soon after ten, thrilled at the
prospect of getting to know Brent. He noticed that his cock was responding
in anticipation.

Philip phoned Brent next morning to tell him that Toby would be joining
them Brent remembered him, saying that it was an opportunity he hoped would
occur. Philip sensed his enthusiasm at the prospect. As they were driving
home, Grant suggested that it was a dinner that should be special and
warranted a bottle or two of wine. Philip agreed and two bottles of
Chardonnay were purchased.

Grant was enthusiastic about the dinner and did seem to be imbued with the
spirit of Cupid, or was it Eros. He busied himself adding decorative
touches to the table with sprigs of Honeysuckle he found in the
garden. Philip expressed amusement at the single red rose in the center of
the table. A couple of perfumed candles completed his decorations.

Brent, the first to arrive, showed surprise at the prepared dinner
table. "Is this a special occasion?"

"No, no," said Roger, "it's Grant's romantic inclinations getting an
airing. He's enchanted by the atmosphere of our love nest. We have to
humour him."

Brent laughed, "All we need is soft music and a lover and his lass, I mean
lad, to complete the picture. We leave those roles to you and Philip."

Any reply from Philip was interrupted by the arrival of Toby. Immediately
Brent and Toby recognised each other and, encouraged by the informality of
the occasion, were soon chatting together. Philip felt that his suspicions
were confirmed; that they were interested in each other. Roger, surprised,
whispered to Grant, "Cupid may have had an easy target."

Grant passed around bottles of Ice Beer while Philip and Roger put the
final touches to a meal of grilled lamb steaks and steamed vegetables.

"Have you seen Mike today?" Brent asked Grant.

"We had lunch together," he replied. "He also has a holiday job so there
are few opportunities, but Philip has invited him to stay weekends. We've
never had it so easy to get together for such long periods. He's
wonderful."

"You can say that again," said Roger as he entered, "once Mike arrives it's
unlimited sex, an orgy of youthful lust." The others laughed.

"I was like that at his age," said Toby.

"So now you are celibate?" asked Brent.

"No opportunities with the right kind of guy," he replied.

"Maybe we can help you find him," said Brent looking at Roger.

The meal was a great success, and helped by the much appreciated wine, the
company relaxed completely. Toby felt he was among real friends, where
complete openness and trust was the norm. Philip kept the wine flowing and
soon Brent was showing signs of diminished restraint. He moved to sit
beside Toby, pressing his leg hard against his. Roger leant against Philip
while Grant sat on the floor between Philip legs. Vivaldi played quietly on
the stereo; dimmed lights and the perfumed candles created a very romantic
setting.

Toby sighed. "This is delightful. I feel that you've already included me in
a special relationship."

"We have, said Brent. To everyone's surprise, he leant over and kissed
Toby. Toby quickly recovered, placed an arm around him, drew him close and
kissed him for sometime. He was like a thirsty man at last quenching his
thirst. Toby's tongue sought Brent's. The gentle kiss became a passionate
embrace.

A few meaningful coughs from Roger caused the couple to become aware of the
others. Toby blushed with embarrassment. Grant claimed responsibility.

"My arrow has found its mark. May it dwell in thy bosom and blossom as the
rose, full of beauty and delight. Cupid claims his reward."

He rose and kissed first Toby, then Brent.

"Sweet boy, your dart has truly found me one to love," said Brent.

"Enough, it's time for coffee," said Roger. "Eros will have us all
succumbing to his charms."

"I already have," Brent replied. "But Grant he has his Mike and has cast me
adrift to find another."

"He's drunk," said Philip to Toby. "He'll be full of remorse when he
remembers his familiarity in the morning."

Toby did not seem to be offended or perturbed and had returned Brent's kiss
with equal ardour. He whispered to Grant, "I loved it. Bless you Cupid."

The following morning Brent phoned Philip at his office. He thanked him for
a very enjoyable evening which had developed into something very
special. He had taken Toby home and they had slept together.

"Man he's a stallion with a magnificent cock.. I lay in heaven all night
and we didn't get much sleep. I hope he finds me compatible. Seriously, he
is a nice guy and I believe he could be very special."

Philip chuckled as he replaced the phone.

Toby came to his office after lunch to thank Philip for his
hospitality. Philip wondered whether he should apologise for Brent's
behaviour. He had no need to be concerned, for Toby was full of praise for
the meal and hospitality. He said he was delighted to meet Brent and
believed that they were likely to be good friends. Philip did not mention
that he had already heard from Brent, only indicating there would be many
more invitations in the future.


To be continued.