Date: Sat, 25 Feb 2017 01:09:22 -0500
From: Jim <sojourn1950@yahoo.com>
Subject: Change of Heart chapter four

Jim Ford
Sojourn1950@yahoo.com


This story is fiction.
The characters are adults in adult situations.
Warnings: The only person you can ever hope to truly know is
yourself. Trust no one; use condoms.
If you are not of legal age or in a jurisdiction in which this document is
illegal, go way.

This is my story. Please respect the copyright. If you enjoy it, let me know.

Please donate to Nifty. Surely these tales are worth, at least, a couple of
cups of coffee. http://

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Feedback is appreciated

Chapter Four

Paul wasted no time in grabbing clean clothes. For a moment he debated
going for something dressier than boots and jeans but in the end his
`usual', along with his best boots, won out. After all, for a "first date"
it was pretty laid back, just dinner at a diner and a movie. Not exactly
the stuff of romantic legends.

Paul wanted to be annoyed by Jeff insisting on opening the passenger door
for him, but he was just too flattered. Still, he felt he had to say
something. As Jeff settled behind the steering wheel, Paul offered, "You
didn't have to open the door for me."

"Well you kinda had your hands full. Besides, I liked doing it for you. I
didn't mean to feminize you. Hell, nobody could confuse you with a woman or
even think of you as an effeminate man. I can't explain it. I don't
understand it myself. I guess it's like holding hands. It makes me feel
closer to you. If it bothers you, I won't do it again. I guess that's just
one of the things we need to discuss. I want to make sure you let me know
if things I do bother you. I want you to know everything about me just like
I want to know everything about you."

Jeff reached over and took Paul's hand, "When I was freaking out about our
talk the other night, Rosarita asked me what changes I would be willing to
make in order to be a part of your's and Maria's lives. I want you to know
right now. Starting out. I don't know if there is anything I wouldn't do to
be with the two of you."

Paul got choked up at Jeff's heartfelt declaration. He couldn't speak for
the lump in his throat. So instead he simply squeezed Jeff's hand and
nodded. Jeff nodded in understanding, released Paul's hand and drove up to
the main house.

It suddenly occurred to him that this would soon become his primary
residence. Hell! if things worked out... this house would soon be home to
his new family. He could feel himself getting a little anxious about Paul's
reaction to seeing inside his house, their house, for the first time. As
far as the outside goes he seemed to be taking in every detail. Jeff had
the impression Paul was pleased with what he saw. Hell, if he didn't like
it he would strip it bare and let Paul decorate it himself.

As he unlocked the door, Jeff was glad he had given Rosarita the day
off. While she was a warm and friendly person her presence would only
complicate a potentially tense situation.

"I've passed by this house everyday for the past two years. I often
wondered but never thought I'd get a real look inside. It always seemed so
solid, so strong from the outside. I guess that's to be expected since it's
made of stone. I sometimes wondered about the past generations that lived
here, those that settled this land. I wonder if they knew that future
generations would view their lives as having been filled with strife and an
everyday struggle just to survive?"

"There are enough personal histories that show they knew how to enjoy
life. Saloons and Queenie Parlors or whore houses as we would call them
were usually the first businesses to set up in a new town. That should tell
you they at least occasionally enjoyed `sins of the flesh'. I suspect that
some people were invigorated by the challenge of living in the old west. As
a matter of fact one of my early ancestors gave up a law practice in Boston
to seek his fortune in Texas. I'm sure he left a more genteel environment
back east than he found in the untamed west."

"This house was built well over a hundred years ago on the original sight
of a `grease pot' cattle operation. That meant they didn't generally have
fixed buildings. Even before fencing became popular our ancestors were
branding cattle on this land. By the time this place was built, wooden
structures had already burned down twice. Guess they thought stone would be
more fire resistant. Looks like they were right.

As they moved into the house Jeff conducted the tour just as he had
witnessed his Mother doing so many times in the past. By today's standards
the rooms were very large. High beamed ceilings added to the sense of
spaciousness. His Mother never made an issue of the original and expensive
artwork or furnishings. Rather, she focused on things that made the `big
house' a home; photos, mementos and personal touches. Sometimes pointing
out a piece that had a history of it's own. Pointing out bullet holes in
places and pieces that confirmed this once was a hostile land. More
importantly it showed that the Adams family had a heritage of being
fighters, if the need arose.

Even without Jeff saying it out loud, Paul could see the level of taste and
sophistication that could only be achieved with money. It was obvious, even
to Paul's untrained eye, that a lot of cash had been spent to make this
place... relaxing. As strange as it seemed he could sense that whoever put
this all together wanted to make it first and foremost a home. That it was
a grand showcase of taste and decorum was incidental. All this was
definitely not accomplished with a Sears and Roebuck budget. Paul's
second-hand shop and garage sale budget probably couldn't touch the least
expensive thing in this house.

As they stepped out of the dining room and were about to enter the kitchen
Paul tugged on Jeff's arm and pulled him to a stop. "Jeff, I don't think I
have stopped to consider... I don't know much about you other than you're
an attorney practicing in Chicago. I mean, I just figured the ranch was
your Uncle's. I knew this house had at one time belonged to his brother,
your father, and before that it was the old home place. What exactly is
your connection with Joe and Mellie and the ranch. A lot of folks round
here call older friends and neighbors Auntie or Uncle even when they aren't
related. If you don't mind me asking, just who are you."

"Paul, I am willing to tell you everything about myself. Anytime you have a
question, just ask. As for who I am; I was born on 17 July 1989, at the
local hospital. I was raised on this ranch, at least the half that belonged
to my father. I graduated from the local high school where I played
football and baseball. I also ran track and wrestled. Of course not all at
the same time. I came out to my folks the night of my senior prom. They
came to accept me and even changed churches to one that fully accepted gays
and that's not easy to find in Texas. I got my Bachelor's as well as my law
degree in Chicago. During my first year of law school my parents were hit
head-on by a drugged out semi driver. There were no survivors."

Jeff took a cleansing breath, then continued, "It was then that the two
ranches were again combined. At first I wanted to drop out of school and,
and just... I don't know what I planned on doing. Uncle Joe talked me into
finishing up. I went to work at the same law firm I interned with while I
was in law school. I worked hard and passed the bar exam the first try. I
threw myself into my work. So much so that coming back home for visits
became an inconvenience. I began to make excuses. Before I knew it three
years had passed since I was last here. When I mentioned in November about
coming home for the holidays Uncle Joe and Aunt Mellie were shocked
speechless. I guess they thought they had seen the last of me. I have to
tell you that even if we hadn't met I was, at least subconsciously thinking
about moving back to Texas. Now, I'm moving back here no matter what
happens."

"Oh and I don't have much experience with relationships. I only had two and
they each lasted just a few months. In the past, I have used Grinder or
Craigslist for hookups. Not very often, I'd say less than once a month,
maybe once every two months. And before you ask, I jerk off a lot."

"Okay... We can talk more about our sexual history later. Exactly how big
is this combined ranch? I've heard numbers ranging from 30,000 to 50,000
acres. I know that the livestock is numerous enough that I could almost
make a full time practice just caring for them."

"Well, the perimeter combines almost 80,000 acres. The combined ranch
spills into parts of three counties. That includes two pecan orchards, a
small fruit orchard, as well as three lakes, covering almost 120
acres. Those lakes provide irrigation for some most of our crops as well as
some pretty good fishing. We employ around thirty full time hands and pull
in some part time help when needed, especially around calving time. Most
all of those permanent employees live somewhere on the ranch. A few spouses
are among those thirty. At least three are same sex couples. Everyone that
works here has to sign a statement that he or she has no problem working
for or with gays or minorities. We don't hire bigots."

"What else?"

"What do you mean `what else'? Any time you want more detailed information
just ask. I'm not trying to hide anything from you."

"I didn't say you were hiding something... I get the impression I am just
not asking the right questions. Everything on this ranch is in better
condition than any other ranch I've ever seen. The technology is cutting
edge and light years ahead of other ranches. The record keeping is amazing
if it shits and stands still long enough it has a brand on it and if it
moves at all it has it's own folder on some computer somewhere. I know
bigger ranches tend to be more successful, but is there outside money
involved? What other questions should I be asking, Jeff?"

"The only "outside" money comes from me or Uncle Joe. We like to ensure
this ranch has every chance to continue to succeed. If it will ease your
mind I can have our accountants provide an itemized list of holdings and
investments for the Adams Family Trust et al. Some of its interesting. Most
of it's just boring; real estate, stocks and bonds, charitable trusts. Most
of that stuff I leave to Uncle Joe. If anything out of the ordinary comes
up, Raymond Cargill let's me know. He's the current head of our legal and
accounting department. He's kind of like a watchdog guarding our
diversified assets."

"I tend to pay more attention to the venture capital firm. I insist on
having input on which startups we invest in. Only a few show real potential
while most are like pissing into the wind. I love technology. I'm a big fan
of Tesla. I bought in big on their IPO. I never pass up an opportunity to
rib Uncle Joe for not listening to my advice. I have a brand new Model X in
Chicago that I'm going to have shipped down here. You'll love it."

"If you would like, you can attend the next quarterly boards of directors
meetings with me. The last few years I gave my proxies to Uncle Joe. They
all meet in Dallas so it's just a couple of hours away. Though it usually
takes a couple of days to go through everything. Hey! We could charter a
helicopter. Maria will get a kick out of that, don't you think? We can
schedule the meetings for when she is out of school."

As though he were afraid of the answer Paul seemed to withdraw even as he
asked, "Jeff, how much is the Adams Family Trust... or, uh are you worth?"

Jeff was beginning to worry that Paul was going to either run or faint. He
stepped forward and took Paul into his arms and asked, "Paul, If I had
nothing would you think less of me?"

Paul stood up straighter, not pulling away but still he frowned. "Don't be
stupid! Of course not. Why would that even cross your mind. Do you think
I'm that shallow?"

Pulling Paul in for a quick kiss, Jeff said, "I couldn't in my wildest
dreams ever consider you to be less than the kind, loving, thoughtful man I
know you to be. Paul, we have feelings for each other that some couples
take years to develop. I knew the first moment I looked into your dreamy
brown eyes that you were going to be a big part of my life. Now, I'm
convinced that you and Maria are my life." With that said he brought his
lips gently to Paul's and kissed him deeply.

Paul felt the thrill of that kiss run down his spine and nestle in his
balls and swell his cock to new dimensions. It felt larger and harder than
ever. He could feel the precum surge forth almost like he was
ejaculating. Like that first night, again he was pushing Jeff away. "Stop!
Jeff, Stop!"

His eyes glazed over, in a croaking, desperate voice Jeff asked, "Why?"

"If you keep that up I'm gonna cum. I want to feel you inside me when I
cum."

Jeff took in a deep breath and grinned saying, "Let me show you my room."
Ignoring the rest of the tour and the financial report the two made short
work of getting to Jeff's old room. Paul dropped what had been his
carefully folded clothes into a heap on the floor.They began disrobing as
if in a race to get naked. Before his underwear could hit the floor, Paul
dropped to his knees and engulfed Jeff's manhood to the root. While his
left hand fondled Jeff's balls his right rubbed along his taint slowly
making progress toward his rosebud. Once there he circled then rubbed the
tight, crinkled orifice.

Jeff was gritting his teeth, trying not to cum too soon. Paul broke away
from Jeff's cock and shoved him back to lie across the bed. While he looked
on in surprise, Paul lifted Jeff's legs up to his chest. Jeff took the hint
and wrapped his arms behind his knees, pulling them in tighter. Paul
attacked Jeff's cock with renewed fervor, taking it deep into his throat
with no problem. After several deep throating strokes, Paul stopped
sucking, dropped to his knees and tried to push his tongue into Jeff. While
continuing his oral assault Paul began stroking Jeff's cock using the slime
left over from the blowjob to rub around the crown.

It was all too much for Jeff who pushed Paul's hand away, muttering, "Too
close." As his body relaxed from the almost imminent orgasm, Jeff felt
Paul's tongue slide into his asshole. He was no stranger to being
rimmed. But this was so intense knowing it was Paul's first time and he was
eating his ass with such enthusiasm. It felt like Paul was trying to eat
his way inside. When Paul inserted a spit lubed finger alongside his
tongue, Jeff was sure he would lose his mind. He felt nothing but the
sensations coming from his ass. By the time Paul added a second finger
Jeff's intention had shifted. "Paul, I want you to fuck me!"

Paul's spit glazed face gleamed in the light spilling from the
hallway. Hesitant but hopeful he asked, "Are... are you sure? I've never
done that to a man."

Jeff raised up and reached into the nightstand pulling out a strand of
three condoms and a full bottle of lube. "I was hoping that I would get to
use these. Never expected I would be on the receiving end. But, yes I'm
sure. You started an itch that needs to be scratched. Men or women, the
fundamentals are the same. I can't wait. You'll be my first in years so
take it easy."

Paul grinned broadly and grabbed the condoms and the lube. Once he was
properly dressed, he resumed tonguing and fingering Jeff's ass. After
applying lube, which he decided tasted weird, he started again to suck on
Jeff's cock. When his three fingers twisted around and found Jeff's
prostate he was rewarded with a gush of precum and loud "OH FUCK!!!" from
Jeff.

Jeff couldn't get purchase in Paul's close cropped hair so he grabbed
either side of his head and pulled him up toward his face. In a desperate
plea, "I'm ready. please fuck me now."

Paul quickly repositioned Jeff to the middle of the bed. Looking down at
Jeff, he realized he had never seen a sight so hot! His cock throbbed in
anticipation. Lining up his rock hard manhood, Paul had every intention of
moving slowly into Jeff. Instead, Jeff let go his legs, wrapped them around
Paul's ass and forced his cock in balls deep.

The sounds echoed off the bedroom walls. Paul's lustful "HOLY FUUUK!!!" was
almost drowned out by Jeff's own shriek of pain.

Both men froze. Jeff's body suddenly glistened in sweat that broke out with
the intense stabbing pain. Agony distorted his face and his cock began to
shrink as if it could disappear into his body.

Unsure, Paul felt his own manhood began to relax. He reached behind to move
Jeff's legs. Jeff flexed his legs to hold him in place, "Don't move
yet. I'm alright. Just give me a minute. I guess I was in too much of a
hurry. Paul, I want you in me. Kiss me and let's start again. We'll just go
slower." Jeff pulled Paul's face down to his until their lips softly
met. Jeff's tongue slipped inside Paul's eager mouth and began to
explore. Jeff tugged, lightly pinched and twisted Paul's nipples.

Slowly Paul began to slip out and then back in. Jeff showed his renewed
interest by lifting his ass to meet each thrust. Soon they developed a
rhythm that had Jeff clamping down as Paul withdrew. Paul's actions soon
grew into a series of longer withdrawals and more forceful plunges. Sounds
once again echoed off the walls, but this time they were moans, groans and
the smack of flesh against flesh.

Jeff left Paul's nipples to play with his, once again, rock hard
erection. "Babe, I... I'm gonna cum soon."

Paul, increasing his already frantic pace, panted, "Me... too!"

Jeff's climax hit first with a howling, "OH Fuuuuuuck Meeee!!!... I'm
cumming Babe!" Cum splashed against his chin and splattered his hairy
chest. With Jeff's cumming a pulsating grip on Paul's cock set him to
pounding with an even greater frenzy.

"Ohmygod... Ohmygod... I'm Cummin!.. Arrrriggg!"

Drained of energy and cum, Paul fell forward with elbows either side of
Jeff's face. Staring into his eyes and gasping for breath just like Jeff,
he stuttered, "Thank you. Thank you. That was awesome!" Softly he lowered
his lips to Jeff's and stole a gentle kiss.

Jeff searched Paul's face as if seeing him for the first time, "I never
knew it could feel so good to be on the bottom. I've done it before, but
that was years ago. I don't remember it ever feeling this good. Maybe it's
just you." Jeff stretched his neck and stole a quick kiss, "We'll
definitely be doing this again."

Paul's cock slipped out with a soft `plop' and they both chuckled. Paul
rolled over to lay beside Jeff. "You know, this started out with me wanting
you inside me."

"Is that a complaint?"

"Not at all! That was greeeeaat!" Paul growled, like the cereal
tiger. "Just want to remind you, you owe me. Now, shouldn't we get that
shower and get dressed if we're going on our first date? By the way, I hope
you aren't the kind to kiss and tell. It won't help my reputation if the
other fellas learned I put out `before' the first date." Paul held the
condom on his cock until he was standing beside the bed.

Jeff scooted across the bed and stood beside Paul. He watched as Paul
removed the condom, tied it so it wouldn't leak and dropped it into the
trash can. He made a mental note to get rid of it before Rosarita cleaned
the room.

Paul must have read his mind, "You might want to dispose of that some other
way."

Jeff took Paul into his arms saying, "I don't care who knows we made love
here today. I just want you to know that I agree this is a crappy first
date. If you want to, we can drive into Abilene and have a nice dinner or
even Dallas and stay the night. I want you to know that wherever we go it
will be the best just cause I'm with you. I love you Paul." Jeff took
Paul's mouth in a forceful kiss that left no doubt about his feelings. The
kiss was shared with equal fervor. The kiss ended with both men again
gasping for breath. Glancing toward the trash, Jeff said, "Remind me to
properly dispose of that. I really don't want Rosarita finding it. She'll
be gloating about us being together as it is. She'll be impossible to live
with if she finds a used condom in our room."

With a teasing smile Paul looked into Jeff's eyes, "I thought you said you
didn't care who knew we made love here today? Are you ashamed of having
been fucked?"

"Hell No! I told you." A quick kiss, then, "We will be doing that again. I
just don't want us to be the brunt of her jokes. I don't know her well, but
I bet she has a wicked sense of humor. But if it'll prove to you I proud of
loving you, we can let her watch."

"Yuk! That idea is revolting on so many levels! I don't want or need an
audience when we make love. In fact, we could stay here tonight and have
peanut butter and jelly or baloney sandwiches and I would enjoy it just the
same. The important thing to me is being with you."

Jeff led the way into the ensuite. Adjusting the water in the spacious
shower he wondered if his folks knew he would someday be sharing this with
the man he loved? Taking their time, they washed themselves and little bit
of each other.

As they were getting dressed Jeff smirked as Paul pulled on his wranglers,
foregoing underwear. Paul knowing the look for what it was said, "I'll have
you know, I don't always wear underwear. Ok, most times I do. That's
because little girls would be horrified if they knew their daddies didn't
wear underwear." With that, he zipped up his pants and stuck his tongue out
at Jeff. Jeff noticed they both dressed to the left, he wondered if that
was because they were both right handed? When he saw Paul button up a blue
shirt he was tempted to wear the same. Instead, he chose a creamy tan
colored button down. When fully dressed they looked like a couple of
buckaroos out for a night on the town.

After locking up, Jeff again opened Paul's door. "I didn't get your door to
aggravate you. I did it because I wanted another kiss."

Once they broke the lip lock, Paul couldn't remember if he was going to
complain or not. Now, he just wanted more. He seriously considered
foregoing the date in favor of more kissing and uh... The spell was broken
when Jeff climbed in behind the wheel.

"I know you been here a while, have you eaten at the diner?"Jeff hoped that
the diner served food as good as he remembered. The pies they made were the
best he had ever eaten, bar none. The rest of the menu had been just plain
old home style cooking. The kind Jeff liked the best.

"You mean Julie's? Over on the highway? Yeah, Maria and I eat there at
least once a week. She has to have her apple pie ala mode fix or she goes
into withdrawal. I prefer the peach pie but strawberry is my favorite when
it's in season."

"Yeah, I could eat a piece of each of those one after the other. A couple
of times, while I was in high school, I'm sure I did. Nowadays, I watch
what I eat. Used to be all their food was good. I hope it still is. Last I
heard, Julie left town. Got married and moved up north."

"Yeah, she did but her husband was killed during a robbery. She sold out
and bought back this place. We see her pretty much every time we go
there. She sometimes says some weird things. Like the night before I met
you, she told me I would soon meet a surprise that would change my life. I
wondered at the phrase `meet a surprise' then I met you and it kinda made
sense."

"I used to go there quite a bit. Then it became a touchstone of coming for
a visit. Of course it's been years now since I've eaten there. It was the
first thing that came to mind when I considered asking you for a date."

Jeff was surprised to see the place was so busy. They were directed to a
booth near the back. As soon as they were seated a waitress came to take
their drink order. They both ordered unsweetened tea. Once their drinks
arrived, they both reached for the sugar. "I use just enough to cut the
bitter taste",Jeff explained.

"Yeah, me too. Can't stand what goes for sweet tea around here. It's like
drinking syrup."

"Ain't it the truth" Jeff agreed.

After studying the single page menu, they agreed on the meatloaf
special. That came with mashed potatoes with gravy and two vegetables. Paul
selected corn on the cob along with peas and carrots. Jeff opted for red
beans `n rice and fried okra.

"Paul, there are some things i need to talk to you about that might get too
personal. If they do, just tell me it's none of my business. Ok?"

"I can't imagine something more personal than the things we've done
already. But, i'll let you know if I don't want to answer."

"Well it's about Tom... er, uh me and Tom and er... you and Tom. You see,
Tom worked for my dad a long time. We, uh... kinda fooled around some. I
mean, Tom was my first. I thought I was in love but he didn't feel the same
and let me down easy. He never misled me or lied to me in any way. While I
was underage, i'd like to think I was old enough to know what I was
doing. It really was a teenage crush and I got over it when I went to
college. Tom is a good man and I can certainly see how you would find him
attractive. What I need to know is... well, I got the impression that he
has strong feelings for you... and well, who wouldn't love Maria."

The silence surrounding them seemed to absorb the chatter coming from the
other diners. Jeff regretted having brought up the subject as soon as he
saw the `deer-in-the-headlights' look. "I am sorry I brought this up
now. We can talk about it later, if you want. Let's just enjoy our dinner."

Paul shook his head in a comical double-take. "What? Oh no you don't! You
tell me you had a fling with a tall, handsome cowboy, as a
teenager. Something straight off Nifty.org. Then you say that cowboy has
the hots for me." He chuckles. "Now you're sorry you brought it up and want
to maybe talk about it later. I don't think so Cowboy!I want details! I
want them now or I will... I will pull your pants down right here and spank
your naked, sexy little ass across this table in front of God and
everybody."

Jeff's initial shock melded into a smile as he realized his worst fear was
unfounded. "I have no problem in sharing the details of my wayward
youth. I'd rather do it while we're in bed since I get the impression it
turns you on. I can gladly tell you all about it as long as you tell me
there is nothing going on between you and Tom. You were holding hands with
him this morning. I saw him licking his lips as he looked at your
ass. Believe me, I know that look means he wants you naked."

"Wow! I can't believe... wait a minute! I was not holding hands with Tom
Braxton this or any other morning. Where'd you get that idea?"

"I was there remember? He took your hand to shake it just like he did mine
except he just held it. He'd probably still be holding it if I hadn't
cleared my throat to get y'all's attention."

Paul's mouth gaped in surprise, "I didn't realize... it was a long
handshake wasn't it. And you think he was flirting with me? Wow!

Jeff was becoming irritated, "Of course he was flirting with you! Does a
bear shit in the woods? You are a very handsome man! Has he not made a move
on you before?"

"Of course not!  He's always been friendly and Maria thinks he pert near a
superhero... Come to think about it, the last time I worked with him, I
thought, for a moment, he was going to kiss me. I had slipped and lost my
footing. He caught me in his arms like some old Hollywood movie. He stared
into my eyes and was moving his lips closer to mine. I remember closing my
eyes. Then we were interrupted by one of the stable hands. He muttered
something under his breath and helped me stand up."

Their food arrived. As soon as the platters were placed before them, both
reached for the ketchup. Jeff chuckled as he deferred to Paul. Paul grinned
as he applied a healthy dose of ketchup to his not so healthy, large slice
of meatloaf. In turn Jeff applied a similar amount to his meatloaf. "At
this point is it safe to assume we both, usually, prefer french fries with
our steaks and hamburgers. Can we agree, `there is no other kind, once
you've tasted Heinz'."

"That's putting the cart before the horse, settling major domestic issues
before we resolve the more timely issue of old flames. And yes I think
ketchup is one of the lesser appreciated food groups. I won't refuse to use
generic ketchup, but I do prefer Heinz."

Paul then continued, "Like I said before, Tom may have been flirting but I
didn't know it. I was shocked when you insisted he might be attracted to
me. That almost kiss, I dismissed as my horney imagination. Can't say I
didn't jerk off thinking about it. Don't know how I would have responded if
he had pursued something. Besides, he's too late. I found my cowboy and he
is you."

The smile that spread across Jeff's face could have lit up the whole
restaurant. His joy could not be diminished by thinking of Tom's
disappointment at his own good fortune.

It was only when their waitress came to remove the empty platters that they
realized had finished eating sometime ago. She had in fact, checked on them
a couple of times and refilled their glasses while they were busy staring
into each other's eyes, smiling goofily while making small talk that
neither would much remember.

No sooner had the platters been taken away than two serving plates appeared
holding pie ala mode. The shapely bleached blonde in a waitress uniform
shoved the plates in front of the men, despite their protests. "You boys
have plenty of time, the movies here only show Friday through
Monday. Besides you'll be needed at home soon. This is my homemade
mincemeat pie. And I don't mean from a grocery shelf. I made this by hand,
using real meat and suet and real spices. If you don't like it... I was
about to say you'd get your money back. But, the pie is on the house for
the hottest couple in the place. Enjoy boys. Oh, and by the way Paul..."

Paul, with rather dazed expression asked, "Huh?"

"What I was saying was that Tom has a couple of surprises coming his way
and you ain't one of them. Jeff here is the one you need to hold onto. Just
remember even if you feel like you're dancing too fast, it's the fact that
you're moving in step with your partner that counts."

Gracing the two with a beatific smile she walked away, casually greeting
customers by name as she went. Their waitress immediately presented two
cups and a pot of coffee. Jeff drank his black, while Paul added cream to
his. Both raved about the pie.

Jeff insisted on paying, reminding Paul it was he who asked for the
date. Paul relented saying would buy next time. Jeff didn't comment.

Without thinking Jeff drove to the theater. It was only after seeing the
marquee that stated "Fri-Mon" that he remembered Julie's remark regarding
the movie. Jeff shrugged. Pointing to the marquee, "Guess that's why we got
such a good parking spot. Guess that means you have to take me out again to
see the movie you promised."

"What do you mean, `I promised'? You're talkin bull cause you got away with
takin' me on a cheap date. You probably wanted to do a happy dance when we
got free pie. I hope you're not expecting to get lucky `again' after
failing to follow through on our date plans. I was looking forward to
greasy handfuls of popcorn and sody water before crawling into your
backseat. Now I guess I'll just have to go home and play with myself in the
dark, thinking about what a good time we could have had."

Jeff fought to keep from laughing out loud. He felt warm inside to know
that his partner could roll with the flow. He was also glad that Paul was
quick witted and caught onto his sense of humor. "Hey, don't get your
pantys in a wad... oh, wait you're not wearing any. Does your momma know
you dress like that, for a date? And don't start dissin free pie, you
enjoyed that just as much as me. You're just tryin' to load the dice talkin
bout a cheap date so you can take me to Burger King or Taco Bell. Well, I
got news for you Mister! I am a cheap date so I will gladly go to Burger
King or Taco Bell with you. Furthermore, I am a sure thing, I will put out
for you whether you take me out or just want to park in my front yard. When
it comes to you I'm just that easy."

Releasing his seatbelt, Jeff stretched over the console and pulled Paul
into his arms. "When it comes to you I'd put out right here on Main Street,
in broad daylight and give you thirty minutes to draw a crowd." Pressing
his lips to Paul's, his tongue licked for entry.

Paul softly muttered something that sounded like, "This ain't Main..." as
he sucked Jeff's tongue into his mouth. The heated kiss, accompanied by
some serious groping, was all too soon interrupted by someone tapping on
Jeff's window.

Abruptly sliding back into his seat, Jeff wished the cowboy hat in the
backseat was in his lap. He could use it to hide the hardon trying to crawl
down the left leg of his jeans. Not to mention the incriminating wet spot
of precum more of which he could feel leaking from said hardon. He wondered
how long the deputy sheriff had been watching. He wasn't sure how long they
had been making out. Glancing at Paul he was glad they weren't guilty of
indecent exposure. If the deputy had arrived a few minutes later they might
not have been so innocent. He smiled as he saw Paul's hands lying
innocently, palms up, in his lap. They were trying in vain to hide his too
obvious erection.

The deputy tapped on the window again, saying, "I need you to step out of
the car, please sir."

Jeff, trying to stall for time so his hardon would not be so obvious,
rolled his window down, "Evening Officer, is there a problem?"

"Sir, I need you to step out of the car."

"Of course officer." Jeff slowly opened the door and stepped onto the
pavement.

The deputy looked down at Jeff's crotch and sneered. Jeff had the
impression he should know the man. Taller by a couple of inches, he had
brown hair and brown eyes. Even in the leather jacket It was obvious that
the man was massive. Broad shoulders tapered to a waist, while not slim, it
showed no gut. Jeff glanced further down only long enough to notice a
pronounced protuberance against the deputy's left trouser leg. Maybe he
liked what he had seen. Jeff idly wondered if the man was right handed?


"You gentlemen having a good time here this evening? Couldn't you think of
someplace more discreet to play tonsil hockey. There's probably some half
dozen ordinances you violate just by being in the great state of
Texas. Haven't you heard homeosexuy'alls ain't welcomed here. Gimme your
license and registration, please sir."

Even though he hadn't raised his voice above a conversational tone the more
the deputy talked the more pissed off Jeff became. Trying to control his
temper, Jeff took his driver's license from his wallet. Getting the
deputy's permission he sat in the Tahoe to look for the
registration. Finding it he got out and faced the deputy.

The deputy's drawl became even more pronounced, "This here license says you
live in she-ca-go. What brings you here and how long you planning on
staying?"

"Look Officer, if you're going give me a citation for some fake violation.
Do it. I want you to know I am an attorney and I cannot imagine we have
broken a law tonight even in the great state of Texas. So unless you have
some valid reason to detain us, I'd like my license and registration back
and we'll be on our way."

"Do you have any idea who you're talking to?" Jeff noticed the deputy had
dropped the Texas drawl. "You don't remember me, do you? You know Jeff, you
weren't the only gay kid in high school."

For not the first time Jeff read the deputy's name
tag... Lovan... Lovan... Daniel Lovan. A grin as big as Dallas spread
across Jeff's face as he pulled the big man into an exuberant
embrace. Which Danny returned with equal enthusiasm. "Danny Lovan! What t'
hell are doing gettin' off on scaring the shit out of old friends. I ortta
kick your ass, like I used to in high school. Last I heard you was going to
go to college to become a lawyer. What happened since then? Oh wait, I want
you to meet someone."

Turning to the Tahoe, Jeff leaned down and told Paul, "Come on out hear
Paul. I'd like you to meet an old high school buddy of mine."

Paul got out and came around the front of the Tahoe. "Evening Deputy
Lovan. I've met a couple of your coworkers and I have treated some of the
Sheriff's animals, but I haven't had the pleasure. My name is Paul Wilson,
I'm one of the local veterinarians. It's a pleasure to meet you. You're the
first friend of Jeff's I've had the pleasure to meet. I do hope any others
I meet will be under less stressful circumstances."

Danny Lovan had the decency to blush. "Well in my defense if you knew half
the sh... stuff your... ah... uh"

"Partner." The two men answered together, then looked dreamily into each
other's eyes.

Danny cleared his throat. "I can see now if I'd have arrived five minutes
later I would have had to cite you for public copulation. Not sure if I
would have wrote you a ticket or paid to watch."

"Anyway, if you knew half the stuff Jeff and I put each other through, you
would've expected a lot more than a little harassment. We're talking;
stripped nekkid, full body cavity search. Even that would not bring me to
even. I've been thrown from more horses more times than I can count because
of loosened cinches, burrs and such under the saddle blanket. I was forced
to walk into a crowded gym stark naked after a basketball game..."

"Quit your whining. You were just as bad. I had to run the bases in just my
jock and cleats with the stands still half full. Most of the stuff you made
me do was so traumatic I have blocked it out of my memory. There ain't
enough therapy in the state of Texas to ease my tormented soul because of
you.

Paul softly chuckled at their attempts at one upmanship, "Sounds to me like
both of you are as full of bullshit as a Texas longhorn and I don't mean a
football player. Also sounds like you two have some catching up to do."

"Seriously Jeff, how long are you gonna be around?"

"I will be moving back permanently. I just have to submit my resignation
and clear out my apartment. I'll be working at the ranch with Uncle Joe."

After they exchanged numbers and a promise from Danny to call on his next
day off, they parted company. But not before Danny had cautioned them both
on being discreet. Reminding them that some of his fellow deputies as well
as some of the city policemen didn't hesitate expressing their disdain for
gay folks.

As they drove out of town Jeff asked, "How about we go to your place take
care of the pup, then come back to my place and maybe watch a movie before
going to sleep together? I'll throw in some greasy popcorn and sody
water. How bout it, Babe?"

"You had me at `greasy popcorn'."

Jeff reached over and held Paul's hand as they drove in a comfortable
silence. After a while Jeff broke the silence with, "Hmmm, that's weird."

"What's weird?"

"That car looked like it just turned onto the highway from our access
road."

"Maybe it was Seth. But, i've never known him to work this late."

It was only after they had turned off the highway and were approaching
Jeff's place that they saw flames engulfing the front of Paul's house.

Author's Note: I hate cliffhangers, especially if there is serious time
lapse between chapters.It just seemed that any more and the chapter would
be too damn long. I will try to hurry with chapter five.

Thanks for the encouraging emails. I answer them all even the discouraging
ones.

I would be most flattered if one of my readers was inspired to donate to
Nifty.

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