Date: Fri, 23 Dec 2005 21:27:24 -0500
From: Jaylovenj@comcast.net
Subject: Four Become Two - Chap. 30

I want to take this opportunity to remind you that even though the
characters are not practicing safe sex by no means should indicate that I
agree. SAFE SEX IS THE ONLY SEX! That should be your motto. Practice
this, please, because I CARE!

As always, this author craves feedback. Criticism only makes me a better
writer. Please respond to Jaylovenj@comcast.net. I look forward to
hearing from you.


From Chapter 29:

"Okay! Okay. This next announcement is something that Greg and I want to
give thanks to God that we are able to make. Shelia," I say, taking a
deep breath, "I don't know where to begin with you.

With your help, we were today able to make our family safe. You put our
family, and our son, yours, Greg's, and mine, above all else.

That's why Greg and I want to do something special for you, and since
the plans are already in the works, you have to agree," I smile.
"Rich?"

Rich comes towards Shelia, an architectural tube in his hand. Opening it,
he reveals plans for a five-bedroom cottage, complete with patio and
pool.

"What's this?" she asks.

"Things between us have changed." That draws a laugh. "I mean, in the
last year that you have been in the children's life, in our lives, Greg
and I have grown to love you, not as you and I once hope, and not in the
love that conceived our little man there, but in the love of family and
friends.

You have demonstrated your devotion to us by your actions in the past few
months. So, I had Evan petition the court to adjudicate your past
indiscretions, and he was successful in making you a free woman; free to
come and go where you want; live where you want; and be what you want.
Your record has also been sealed.

So, Greg and I talked it over with the family, and we would like for you
to come and work for PCL here in Glen Burnie. You will be in charge of
the legal department, although you cannot practice yourself. Your
knowledge is extremely valuable, and would be a definite asset to our
company.

To make this offer even more attractive, Rich has just shown you plans
for your new house, which Connor is going to build, within our compound.
We have way too much land, and clearing a couple of acres for you will be
well worth it.

Rich and Betsy, Mom and Dad, as well as Jeff and Bruce are all building
on the property, and we have enough space that we all have enough room to
live separately, and together. We just want Micah and Robyn to be able to
visit you, and you them, whenever you like."

"Dave, I...Greg, I...thank you. Thank you," she sobs. I look around to
see quite a few tears being shed also. "You don't...I don't...thank you
both," she says, grabbing each of us for a hug.

"Oh, one more thing," I announce to everyone. "When we leave here
tonight, we will be heading to the docks. Mom and Dad have graciously
ordered our transportation to the celebration on Paradise Island."

A cheer erupts in the room as Greg turns to me with questioning eyes.


Chapter 30:

The caravan of cars moved down the road. Mom, Dad, Penny, and Dean, along
with Shelia and the children, were riding in the stretch limo that
carried Greg and I.

"So, what's this mode of transportation that you have provided?" Greg
quietly asks me.

"Just be patient. We're almost there." We turn onto the road leading
to the PCL docks.

"What's here at the docks?" Greg asks.

"Our transportation," Dad answers.

"It's the PCL-II," I say. "It was delivered yesterday. Come on," I
say, as we grab the children's hands and lead them from the car. I
didn't even give the chauffer a chance to open the door.

"You kept this a secret?" he says, as I pull him from the car. He
can't seem to take his eyes off the yacht. It is eighty-eight and
one-half meters, or roughly 270-feet from bow to stern.

"Permission to come aboard, Captain," I say, as the assembled move up
the gangplank.

"Permission granted," I hear someone say.

"Captain Michaels, it's good to see you again," Dad says.

"You too, sir. Welcome aboard, all of you." Everyone assembles on the
main deck of the luxury yacht.

"Captain Michaels, may I present the love of my life, Gregory Jefferson.
Greg, this is Captain Jon Michaels."

"Welcome aboard, Mr.. Jefferson. It's a pleasure to finally meet you.
It's a pleasure to meet all of you," he says.

"Is everything in order?" I ask.

"Yes sir, all the luggage has been stored, and unpacked in the assigned
cabins.

 "How? When? Why" Greg asks.

"I thought it would be fun to sail down to Paradise Island for the
opening, and more importantly, our wedding. We are going to have the
whole family, and a few close friends, traveling with us." He kisses me,
overcome with enthusiasm. "It was really Dad's idea."

He turns to my father. "I'll just take a handshake," Dad says, causing
everyone to laugh.

"Greg, the Captain," I whisper.

"Don't worry about me, Sir. After all, this is your ship, and I'm sure
this is not the last time you two will get caught." Everyone gets a
chuckle from this. "Let me give you a tour, and introduce you to the
rest of the crew. There are fifty of us in all, but I'll only introduce
you to a select few."

The call for all hands on deck is sounded, and soon ten other men join us
topside. "Ladies and gentlemen," the Captain says addressing the
assembled group of family and friends, "may I present First Officer
Randy Wade; Second Officer Grant Walker; Safety Officer James Sweats;
Cook Carlos Rivera; Senior Cabin Steward/Valet Pierre Francois; Assistant
Steward/Valet Marc Fisher; Housekeeper/Bartender Dhairyant Patel;
Laundry/Seaman Ari O'Reilly; Machinist Mate William Penn; and Carpenter
Frank Greer. Gentlemen, our guests, and more importantly, our
employers."

"Thank you, Captain, and I'm Dave...and this is Greg.

I can tell Greg is just a little overwhelmed at this moment. He doesn't
usually act like this, honest, but this is a huge surprise for him, and I
think he's in a state of shock right now." Everyone is having fun
picking on my baby.

"I'm sure that we will enjoy many hours together in the future, and
we'll get to know each and everyone of you," the Captain continues.

"Captain, PCL doesn't have employees," I continue. "We have family.
So, if there is something that Greg and I can ever do to help you, please
don't hesitate to come to one of us. This is going to be an enjoyable
cruise for all of us as we prepare to celebrate the coming year, and more
importantly, Greg and my marriage. Welcome to the family, everyone. And
please pass that sentiment to all who are not present." A cheer erupts.

"Well, thank you, ah, Dave. Okay guys, back to your posts," the Captain
says. "We will be sailing shortly.

Now, if you'll allow, I'll give you a tour."

We follow him as he begins to describe the ship. The PCL-II was built in
Germany in 2002, but it was fully renovated in 2004.

It has 14 suites that can accommodate up to 28 guests and 10 luxury
cabins, for a total of 48 passengers. All the cabins are fully equipped
with futuristic technology and every modern feature.

There is plenty of leisure fun, and our yacht boasts a full range of
water sports equipment, a massage and beauty salon, spa, Jacuzzi, gym,
and sauna to cater to your every need.

It has a library, conference room, three bars and lounges, and three
dining rooms. There are over 10,000 songs and 800 films in its audio and
video library, and 24 TV-stations.

We have seven international experienced chefs, and a wine list of 65
international selected fine wines and champagnes, and an array of every
liquor made. There are also complete laundry services available.

We also have on board a fitness trainer, a barber/beautician, and
masseuse to serve you.

These are the tenders and sport equipment. We have two speedboats; four
water jets, a 200 h.p. Sea Doo Bombardier, and a 160 h.p. Duarry Super
Cat. There are also tubsters, thrashers, u-tubes, bananas, water boards,
water skis, fly fish, and diving equipment."

He leads us to the second deck. "This is to be your cabin, or should I
say pre-honeymoon suite," he says, opening the door on Deck 2. I thought
Greg's eyes were going to explode. I had to grab his hand to keep him
from falling. The boy was definitely on overload.

The cabin is beautiful. There are fine glass sculptures and elegant
artwork, a six-seat conference table, an executive desk, lounge, large
walk-in closet, king size bed, a 64-inch plasma TV, and a spacious marble
bathroom featuring a Jacuzzi.

"Your telephone can make international calls, as well as connect to any
cabin just by dialing its number, and of course, they are portable."

"These linens are exquisite!" Greg says.

"They're Bellomo," the Captain answers.

"These are the Superior Suites," he says, pointing to two doors down
the hallway. Opening one, the Captain continues, "Each of these suites
are fitted with HP workstations with unlimited Internet access, a plasma
multimedia flat-screen television, mini-bar, safe, and portable phones.

Leaving there, we head to Deck 3. "This is the main deck, off of which
is located the main salon that includes a bar and entertainment lounge.
This deck also has ten suites, equally luxurious, with similar features
as the superior cabins. They're just a wee bit smaller.

Deck 4 can accommodate 20 additional guests, and they feature adjustable
twin beds, en-suite bathrooms, a multimedia, entertainment and computer
system, mini-bar, and safe.

So you see, we have plenty of room to accommodate everyone."

"My God," Greg says. "I feel like I'm on one of the bigger ships in
the fleet."

"Well, this is what Mr.. Welsh Senior and your brother Richard had in
mind when they designed this."

"Richard designed this ship?" Jeff asks. The Captain and Dad both
nodded in the affirmative. "I have a new respect for him." We all
chuckle at that. Greg is becoming somewhat more relaxed.

"This is one of the lounges. This one has an Ottomeister Grand Piano,
and the lounge extends to the aft deck terrace."

The tour continues. He shows us the library, the three dining rooms, the
gym, the beauty and health spa, and even the helipad.

There are seven decks in all, with the crew having spacious
accommodations on the Decks 5 and 6.

Pierre and Mark, along with a few others, are awaiting us as we once
again return to the main deck. "If you will allow, these gentlemen here,
will lead you to your cabins so that you might settle in. We should be
underway within the half hour. We will have Muster as soon as we clear
the harbor..."

"Muster? What's that?" Bruce asks.

"Very simple. It's an evacuation drill. In each of your cabins you will
find life preservers. When muster is called, you will hear three bells
ringing in succession. Don your life preservers, and assemble on Deck 5
on the port side. The crew will be there to direct you. We just want to
make sure that everyone knows what to do in the event of an emergency. Of
course, there won't be any," he chuckles, "but we need to be prepared
just the same.

Oh, the chef has provided some wonderful snacks that will be available in
the lounge on this deck shortly. A sort of Bon Voyage Party. See you
then."

We each are led to our individual cabins that will be our home for the
next two days as we sail into the Caribbean.

"Gentlemen," Pierre says, opening the cabin door so we can enter.

"Oh, Dave," Greg exclaims, as he takes in the cabin. It is rather
large, facing the bow of the ship with a balcony. There are two rooms,
divided by gleaming mahogany columns that lead to slumber area up two
steps.

I see Greg looking at the bed. "That is where I plan to have you ravish
me while we're on the high seas," I tease, running my hand across the
swelling bulge in his pants.

"Oh really?" he says, taking me in his arms, grinding that now
protruding mound against me.

Suddenly, there is a knock on the door and it quickly opens. "Don't you
guys get enough?" Jeff asks, as he and Bruce come through the door.

"Don't you ever wait to be invited?" I counter.

"No!" was his simple reply. Pierre eases out. We had forgotten he was
there, and his blush is evident.

"So, what can we do for you?"

"You can put those things away, and come up on deck. Dad has some things
he want to say to all of us," Bruce answers.

"What's it all about?"

"We don't have a clue. We were just told to come and get the two of
you."

Joe comes up beside Greg and I as we all gather in the main salon. Dad
and Dean are huddled at one corner of the bar while Penny and Mom occupy
the other. The bartender is busy as he takes drink orders, and
efficiently fills them while others are passing around the various trays
of canaps that the chef has prepared.

"Okay, you guys, I'm going to make this quick, as the Captain wants to
get underway with the Muster call.

First, I want to say how happy Raquel and I are that David and Greg are
finally going to stop living in sin. (Hint, hint, Bruce and Jeff.)"
Everyone laughs as he says this. "Greg is a fine young man, and I'm
proud to now call him my son.

And through him we have gained an extended family, and true friends in
Penny, Dean, and Joe. Not many in-laws can say they get along as well as
we. It's as if we've known each other all our lives.

These two," he says pointing to Jeff and Bruce, "are doing marvelous
work with the charity foundation, and are looking to expand on the ideas
that Greg and Dave first proposed. The trust is growing rapidly, and
should soon top the $2 billion mark.

And I'm happy to say, the executive family is growing with the addition
of Shelia in the PCL law department, and Joe will be joining the
Charitable Trust upon his graduation this May.

Richard, my eldest, is a genius with design. He has ideas that will
definitely make PCL the premiere cruse line in the 21st Century. He is
also ready to begin building the largest passenger ship in the world. It
will accommodate 5000 guests and a crew of 1600. Paradise Fantasy is
scheduled to launch in 2007. So, things are looking very good for the
future of this family.

That is why I am officially announcing my retirement from PCL. Rachel and
I have more than enough money to enjoy our lives, and we are assured by
our accountants that it we can never see red, unless we give it all away.

Each of our children is wealthy in their own right, and has greatly
expanded the trusts that they have received.

That is why, once our home is complete in Glen Burnie, it will be our
official residence, even though we will be traveling the world, enjoying
life. And we hope to entice our good friends to join us.

Oh, don't think we will be grandchildren deprived. Having you all soon
in one location is going to be great. And yes, they will be traveling
with us sometimes, parents, so get used to it.

But, it's time for all of you to take the reigns, and run with the ball.
I will always be only a phone call away if you need my help.

Well, I think I've talked long enough. Did I cover everything Raquel?"
Mom gives him the thumbs up.

"Okay then, back to your cabins so we can get underway." As if on cue,
the ship's horn blast, and we start to move away from the docks and into
the channel.





The soft pinks and blues of the morning skies were before us as Greg and
I stood by the rails as the ship gently decreased its speed, preparing to
come into the harbor at Paradise Island.

We could see the Tahitian Paradise docked to our left in much deeper
water as our private ship eased towards the shore.

There was a delicious fragrance of tropical flowers in the air, and the
white sandy beaches were glistening in the early morning light. A few
figures were jogging along the soft sand getting their morning exercise.

"You're absolutely beautiful," I say, pulling Greg tighter in my arms,
his back against my chest.

"And just think, the four of us did it," he responds. "Huh?"

"I said you're absolutely beautiful."

"I was talking about the island."

"I was talking about you," I counter.

"As far as the island is concerned, God did it. We just helped his
beauty to shine through," I respond. I pull the blanket that Greg and I
have around us a little tighter.

"Guess what? In less than seventeen hours, you will be stuck with me for
the rest of your life. You still have time to back out?"

"I don't know if I can wait that long," I whine.

"Good answer," he smiles, turning in my arms to kiss me.

"There you two are!" We groan as Jeff, Bruce, Bryan, and Rob come out
on the deck. "We've been looking everywhere for you," Bruce says, as
he pours himself a cup of coffee. We hadn't noticed it being delivered.

"And to what do we owe the pleasure of having you gentlemen stalk us?"
Greg asks.

"Well, isn't this your wedding day?" Jeff asks as if we should know
what he's talking about. When we don't respond, he continues. "You two
can't be together today..."

"Jeff?"

"Jeff nothing. It's bad luck. So as your best men," he says, "we have
come to prepare you for this evening's big event."

"Prepare us -- how?" I ask.

"Well, Greg is about to go ashore with his parents, Rob, Joe, and me,"
Jeff says, "while you stay aboard. You won't see each other until the
ceremony. Since we couldn't keep you two apart last night, we'll have
to hope that the gods will accept a sixteen hour sacrifice."

"Guys, for..."

"David! Stop being such a pain in the ass. Now you two are going to do
this willingly, or not so willingly. Take your pick!" That comes from
Bryan.

"Looks like we don't have a choice," Greg says to me.

"No you don't," Rob says. "Now, say goodbye, for now, and come along
Greg."

I pull Greg into my arms. "I'm going to miss you."

"And I'm going to miss you."

"It's only for a few hours," we hear from the voyeurs. We give them
dirty looks. Then, turning to one another, we give each other a kiss. I
slightly open my mouth, and Greg takes full advantage. "Don't start
anything that you can't finish. It's only going to lead to a long,
painful day." That comes from Jeff.

We break our kiss, and I watch as Greg is dragged reluctantly to the
elevator. I hear Jeff say that there is a tender waiting for them, and it
has been loaded with everything needed. I am allowed to stand at the rail
and wave as the tender heads to the docks.

The guys have ordered breakfast fit for a king, and they fill my plate.
"You're going to need your strength tonight," Bryan teases

I was next led to the salon, where I was given a facial, haircut,
manicure, and pedicure. By the time I was finished with that, it was time
for lunch. Again, I was encouraged to eat, and for some reason, I was
starving.

"Dave, there's a telephone call for you," Bruce sings.

Taking the phone, "hello?"

"I was just calling to see if you were still planning to make an honest
man out of me," my lover says.

"Oh Greg, I miss you. Where are you?"

"I'm at the hotel, but you still haven't answered my question. Are you
still planning to make an honest man out of me?"

"I'm can hardly wait. I want to tell the world how much I love you and
want you to spend the rest of your life loving me."

"Sex maniac!"

"That too."

"I've been pampered and spoiled so far today. And stuffed!"

"Yeah, I've been putting it away today too. I think it might be our
nerves."

"Are you alone?"

"No. But what did you have in mind?" I say, an obvious leer in my
voice. I look over my shoulder and see Bryan and Bruce intently observing
my conversation. "I've got a pair of very nosy people hanging about."

"Me, too," he says. "So I guess I can do what I wanted to do."

"And what is that, may I ask."

"A preview of tonight, I plan to leave you weak for the next few days.
I'm gonna wear -- you -- out!" he promises.

"As long as we're in the same position, sounds good to me. Babe, I got
to go now. These two are beaconing me. I guess they have more torture
planned."

"TORTURE!" they both exclaim, causing me to laugh. "WE'RE NOT
TORTURING HIM!" they yell towards the phone.

"Did you hear that?" I say to Greg. "Cruelty, I tell you. They are
just plain cruel."

"You're mean," Greg laughs, "but I love ya!"

"I love you too." We disconnect from the call. "Okay! What's next?"

"A nice, long massage, followed by a nap. That way, you'll be well
rested for tonight," Bruce says, arching his brow, and giving me a glass
of Bordeaux.

"This is delicious, Bruce," I say, taking a sip. He pours a glass for
Bryan and himself. "What is it?"

"It's a lovely little Bordeaux," Bryan begins, "with a warm, fruity
flavor, perfect for afternoon sipping." He has adopted this crazy
Italian accent. "A delicious find from the house of Mouton-Rothschild,
1958, and it's one of the gifts from Rob and me."

I almost choke on my sip. "Bryan..."

"We wanted to send you and Greg off in grand style. He's enjoying a
bottle now."

"But this is way too expensive."

"Hey, you're our best friends...and our new employers. Gotta make those
brownie points," he laughs. "Besides, it's our way of saying thank
you. Salute!" he says, raising his glass.

"And just so you don't get all bent out of shape again," Bruce adds,
"Jeff and I are leaving you a case of Latour, 1947 for tonight. We've
had some rough times, you and I, and Jeff and I wanted to celebrate our
friendship."

"Guys, I don't know what to say..."

"Don't say anything. Just enjoy," they both laugh, as they said the
line in stereo.

"What did you two do? Practice that line?" I join in the laughter. By
the time I am finished with the massage, and the wine, I am truly
relaxed.

"Okay, it is four now. You have until 7:30 to sleep. Then we'll get you
up, get you shaved, again, showered, feed you your last meal as a single
man, get you dressed, and off to this shindig by ten so that you can walk
down the aisle at 10:30. So, off to bed!" Bruce says.

"Well, I know who wears the pants at your house."

"Oh I let Jeff wear them sometimes especially when we play cops and
robbers."

"Hey, too much info," I laugh.

"That's my thing," Bryan says.

"Again, too much info." They usher me off to our suite. Mozart's
Serenade in G Major is filtering in through the hidden speakers.

"Jeff told me this piece always helped you sleep." I smile, as they
back out the door, effectively sealing me within the confines of the
symphony.





"Time to get up, Sleepy Head," Bryan says, shaking my shoulder. I open
my eyes, momentarily startled to see he and Bruce over my bed. "Your
shower is running, so I suggest you get your fat ass in there now."

"I'll have you know, I do not, and I mean do not, have a fat ass," I
return. "It's perfectly round. I've been told many times that it's
perfect."

"Who told you that lie?" Bruce questions.

"Greg, who else?"

"Well, he has to lie. He's in love with you." I flip them both the
bird as I stand and stretch. I forget that I'm nude, and they both gasp
as I stretch.

"Told ya it was perfect," I laugh over my shoulder as I head to the
bath. I get hit with a pillow as I'm going through the door to the bath.

I brush my teeth, and then step into the shower. The hot water feels good
flowing over my body, and I languish in its warmth.

"Stop playing with yourself, and hurry up. Dinner is getting cold,"
Bryan yells into the room.

"Be out in a second," I yell back. "Now, stop trying to get a cheap
thrill."

I turn off the water, and dry my hair. Looking at myself in the mirror, I
realize I do need to shave again. I slip on my boxers and am just about
to lather up when Bryan pokes his head through the door, "aren't you
ready yet?"

"I was just going to shave."

"Abel is here to do that for you. So, slip on your robe and get out
here!"

"Some people are so pushy..." I say, tying the robe around my waist.

I am led from the room, and to the salon where my hair is combed and
blown dry; again, and Abel gives me a shave.

"You almost look cute," Bryan says. Before I can respond, Bryan's cell
phone rings. "Hi, babe...Yeah, we're about to go have dinner now...The
tender will be leaving on schedule...OK, we'll go to the Truman
room...I'll find you when I get there...I love you, too...OK, if he
insists...Bye!"

"Was that Rob?" Bryan nods his head. "Why didn't you let me speak to
Greg?"

"He was busy. Unlike some people, he's not arguing with Jeff and Rob."

"You mean they got the good one?" Bruce teases.

"I'll give you the good one," I interject.

"Dinnertime!" Bruce announces, as Pierre wheels in a cart.

"I'm not really hungry..."

"You have to eat something, and the chef has prepared something light.
Now, come on, and be good!" Bryan snickers.

The chef has indeed prepared a light dinner. We have as an appetizer
Pacific oysters in a white wine sauce; a cucumber, tomato, and Spanish
onion salad in a dill vinaigrette; and for dessert, sliced peaches and
bananas in heavy cream.

Surprisingly, I manage to wolf everything down. I notice a self-satisfied
look on their faces as I finish.

"What?"

"You realize, these are all aphrodisiacs, don't you?" Bryan asks.

"Greg had better thank us for tonight," Bruce intones.

"I don't need aphrodisiacs to stimulate me. Greg is all I need."

"Well then, he should really thank us." This is from Bryan. "Time to
get dressed."

We all head back to my suite. I noticed that all of our suits have been
laid out on the made bed.





There must have been a million twinkling white lights illuminating the
shore as the tender pulled up to the dock. I could make out the beautiful
brilliant colors of the various native flowers that littered the
greenscape along the slope of the peaceful shore.

I could see torches strategically placed along the shore gently providing
romantic lighting for couples seeking a romantic hiding space.

"Less than twenty minutes to go." I turn to see Greg's brother, Joe,
walking towards me. He looks so handsome, reminding me so much of his
brother.

"Joe..."

"Greg's fine. Just a little nervous, like you. Not about the wedding,"
he quickly adds. "He's afraid that he's going to sound stupid and not
make sense. He's actually kind of funny. He's written and re-written
those vows at least five times. I finally just sat him down. Jeff and Rob
are with him now."

"Joe..."

"You two are good for each other. Sure, I'm disappointed...no, I'm not
disappointed; I'm fearful for the lives that you two are about to start.
There is so many who will not accept you, and I don't want that pain for
any of you. I...I'm a worrier, so don't listen to me," he smiles.

"Are you sure? You wouldn't lie to me, would you?"

"Dave, nothing is going to make me prouder than to call you my
brother." He wraps his strong arms around me, pulling me tightly against
his powerful chest.

"Damn, boy. You're built!"

"And straight."

"If you insist," I chuckle.

"I think your soon-to-be husband is enough for you to handle."

"Sometimes he's too much, but don't tell him that."

"T -- M -- I," he laughs.

"Dave, it's time," Bryan says as he approaches the bench that Joe and
I have sat upon.

"Last chance to run?" Joe says with a smile.

"I'm only running in one direction," I respond. "And that's to
Greg."

"Good answer."

I am ushered through the lobby, greeted by several friends in attendance,
and on to a room reserved for the occasion.

"My baby's getting married!" my mother exclaims as I come in the room.
She is dressed in peach chiffon Vera Wang, and she literally floats over
to me. "You look so handsome," she continues, squeezing my face between
her hands. "Are you nervous? I know Greg is..."

"You've seen him?" I ask.

"Yes, I have. He looks just like you...a little green around the gills,"
she giggles. "You're both going to be just fine, though, because I can
see the love shine in both your eyes. Be happy, son. And remember, I love
you -- too!"

"I know, Mom. You and Dad are terrific! Have I told you that lately?"

"Yes, but it's always good to get affirmation."

"Raquel, leave the boy alone," my Dad says as he comes over. The rest
of the family soon joins us as they gather around.

"Okay, family, friends, wedding party -- take your seats and
positions," Angelique, the wedding planner says. "You ready?" she
asks, turning to me. I nod my head. She speaks into a wireless mike to
some unknown assistant somewhere I can't see. "Alright, quickly put him
on," I hear her say. "Dave?" she turns to me. "Here!"

I take the contraption and put it on, with her help. "Hello?"

"Hi Dave."

"Greg? Where are you?"

"I'll be waiting for you on the other side of the door."

"Are you nervous?"

"Not anymore. You?"

"I'm anxious -- to be yours."

"You're already mine -- and I'm yours. I love you."

"I love you too."

"Then prove it. Let's get this show on the road." I hand the mike back
to Angelique.

The familiar notes of Bach's Andente soon begin to play, and I know from
preparation that our children and our nieces and nephews were lining the
paths to the altars. And then the music stopped. It was time. I was going
to my Greg.

Suddenly, the doors opened. I looked out at a sea of white linen with
brilliant yellows and greens of the floral arrangements sprinkled with
bursts of red. White tapers and starlights light the large ballroom where
we were being wed. A chord was struck, and I stared in awe, frozen in
place as my Dad extended his arm to lead me.

For all those times you stood by me,

For all the truth that you made me see,

For all the joy you brought to my life,

For all the wrong that you made right.

For ev'ry dream you made come true,

For all the love I found in you,

I'll be forever thankful, baby.

You're the one who held me up,

Never let me fall.

You're the one who saw me through,

Through it all.

You were my strength when I was weak,

You were my voice when I couldn't speak.

You were my eyes when I couldn't see,

You saw the best there was in me.

Lifted me up when I couldn't reach,

You gave me faith `cause you believed.

I'm ev'rything I am because you loved me.

Everything became a blur as I looked up at the smiling face of Celine
Dion as she sang my every emotion. Dad tightened his grip on my arm.
"There he is." I look up to see Greg standing across from me. From the
look in his eyes, I can tell he had just been prompted to look in my
direction as we both understand that Celine is singing for us.

Dad puts my hand in Greg's as Dean, who's escorting Greg, does
likewise, and the four of us proceed, hand in hand, towards the altar
from opposite sides of the room.

You gave me wings and made me fly,

You touched my hand, I could touch the sky.

I lost my faith, you gave it back to me.

You said no star was out of reach.

You stood by me and I stood tall,

I had your love, I had it all.

I'm grateful for each day you gave me.

Maybe I don't know that much,

But I know this much is true;

I was blessed because I was loved by you.

You were my strength when I was weak,

You were my voice when I couldn't speak.

You were my eyes when I couldn't see,

You saw the best there was in me.

Lifted me up when I couldn't reach,

You gave me faith `cause you believed.

I'm ev'rything I am because you loved me.

You were always there for me,

The tender wind that carried me.

A light in the dark,

Shining your love into my life.

You've been my inspiration,

Through the lies, you were the truth.

My would is a better place

Because of you.

You were my strength when I was weak,

You were my voice when I couldn't speak.

You were my eyes when I couldn't see,

You saw the best there was in me.

Lifted me up when I couldn't reach,

You gave me faith `cause you believed.

I'm ev'rything I am because you loved me.

I'm ev'rything I am because you loved me.

As Celine sings the final notes, our fathers release us, binding us to
one another. Robyn and Micah, as always, position themselves in front of
us, and begin urging us to pick them up. Their antics bring a few laughs
from the folks there, and naturally, we succumb and pull them to our hip.

"Ladies and gentlemen," Bishop Robinson begins. "I have preformed many
ceremonies in my career, but I don't think any can compare to the
exuberance and joy I feel this evening in giving God's blessings upon
the love and life of the two men standing in front of you.

I have known Dave all his life, baptizing him into a life of faith and
service to God, and I am proud to say that he has never let God down.
Through him, God's many blessings have flowed as he has always prefaced
any action by What Would Jesus Do? This is evident by the many smiling
faces of their family and friends here tonight.

I have gotten to know Greg in the past months, and I see in him the same
light and service that is in Dave, his kindred spirit. Never have I seen
two people so made to be together. Separately, they are something,
together, they are something else." This brings a few catcalls from the
guests.

"Tonight they ask that we listen as they publicly confess their love for
one another, and they ask that we include them in our prayers that they
will forever do what is right for God, for humanity, for their families,
and for themselves.

Greg? You begin."

Greg takes my hand and looks into my eyes. "Dave. Four years ago, I
happened to walk into a restaurant in the East Village of New York, only
to be struck by lightning.

I didn't understand what was happening to me at the time. Never had
someone affected me so, and I became afraid.

A friendship developed between us that later grew into the love that I
feel for you today.

I am so lucky. Not many people ever have the opportunity to find their
true soul mate. God truly smiled on me, and I am thankful.

Dave, my life begins and ends with you. I don't know joy unless I am in
your presence." Tears begin to fall from his eyes. "Every time I look
at you, my breath is taken away, and my heart flutters. I can't believe
that you love me -- me! And I ask God what miraculous thing I ever did to
deserve your love?

You humble me while you exalt me. You bring out the best of me by giving
me examples of love and generosity.

I love you, Dave, and I pledge before the world that I will never do
anything to cause your love hurt, or to make you want to take it from me.
This is my solemn vow."

I lift his hands to my lips, and open my mouth to speak.

"Greg, I have always had material things. Mom and Dad provided a
wonderful life for us kids, and they made sure that we were thankful for
our blessings, and that we always shared with others. So, I never doubted
that one day, God, in His infinite would lead me to this moment -- the
moment where I would ask His blessings upon my life, and my union to the
person I loved -- my other half.

When I first saw you, I knew that there was something about you that drew
us together. A magnetism so strong that nothing could ever separate. At
that moment, you became my destiny.

When I think of the meaning of the words family, joy, love, life, giving,
sensitivity, companionship, trust, and lust -- I define them as Greg.
Without you, those words fail to exist.

I promise, before our family and friends, to strive to earn those things
in your eyes and heart each day. I promise to love you, to care for you,
to be your champion, to be your critic, to be your rock, to be your
ground, and to be your cheerleader in everything you dream.

I love you, Greg. And this is my solemn vow." I kiss his hands again. I
can feel him tremble as my tears touch his fingers.

"Let us pray. Father God, creator of all things. Assembled before you
tonight are your children. We are here to celebrate and ask for Your
blessings upon David Marcus Welsh and Gregory Alan Jefferson as they
publicly profess their love for one another before You and all here
assembled. We ask that You bless this union; that they find strength and
joy in Your arms, and joy in Your service. In the name of Jesus Christ,
Your risen Son. Amen."

"Amen," comes the chorus of the assembled.

"The rings?" Rob passes the ring to the Bishop as Bryan does the same.
"These rings are the symbol of the love that you two share. They are
round, having no beginning and no end. But they are round so that they
encompass and protect the love that you to profess.

Repeat after me: I give this ring so that all can see that my love for
you is infinite and never ending." Greg and I, in turn, remove our
engagement rings, and placing them inside the surrounds, return each to
the other's finger.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I now present to you David Marcus and Gregory
Alan Jefferson-Welsh. Gentlemen, you may kiss your mate."

I take Greg in my arms and plant a kiss on him as cheers and applause
erupt in the room.

"Now, let's get this party started," Jeff shouts as the band begins to
play. Greg and I are led to the dance floor and the party gets underway.
As we make our way to the table, we are bombarded with congratulations
and well wishes from everyone with whom we came in contact.

The party is really going strong with lots of laughter, dancing, and
merriment. We've had private time with our families, as well as some
respected and influential guests. Fun is the order of the evening. After
all, it is New Year's Eve.

"Can I have everyone's attention?" we hear Joe say from the raised
platform in front of the orchestra. "It's almost midnight, so gather
near the ones you love. Quickly now.

10 -- 9 -- 8 -- 7 -- 6 -- 5 -- 4 --3 -- 2 -- 1! Happy New Year!" Horns
and whistles begin to blow as balloons are falling from the ceiling and
confetti is being fanned out across the room. Thankfully, someone had the
foresight to extinguish the candles before all of this occurred. The band
begins to play Auld Lang Syne as the crowd begins to sing. "Happy
2005!" Someone yells.

"Friends? Friends," Dad says as the crowd begins to settle again.
"Just a few words so we can get back to the party.

Greg and Dave are about to leave..."

"We are?" I ask.

"Yeah, you are," Jeff whispers in my ear, nudging my sides. "Your
horny-moon." He giggles.

"My sons, your mothers and your fathers wondered what to get the two
guys who had everything as a gift. A very difficult decision. So, we
enlisted the aid of your siblings, and together we came up with
perfection.

If you'll look through the windows towards the bay, you'll see
Perfection, a two hundred and ten foot yacht designed especially for you.
For it's maiden voyage, it will sail the Atlantic to through the Straits
of Gibraltar and into the Mediterranean Sea for a cruise through the
Greek Islands before returning home a month from now to be moored in
Baltimore Harbor.

Congratulations, my children."

Greg and I embrace before running to our family, giving them big hugs and
kisses. "Don't worry about the children," Penelope says. "Raquel,
Stephanie, Shelia, and I will take good care of them."

"Uh oh," I say.

"Just leave us a couple of rooms."

"Whatever do you mean?" my mother asks.

"Can you not say `Toy Store'?" Greg asks. Everyone laugh.

"No!" Dean says.

Our best men lead us outside as a throng of people begins to blow
bubbles. We grab the children, giving them big kisses and hugs before we
are pulled onto a well decorated golf cart, and driven off to the docks.
We can hear the orchestra begin to play again as we near the shore.

"We didn't get a chance to eat," Greg says.

"Don't worry. We covered that," Rich says. He's driving.

"Wow! Look at that!" I say, as we stand. Rich ushers us towards the
gangplank.

"Be happy, you two," Rich says, giving us a hug. "I love you guys. See
you when you get home." He hops back on the cart and begins the drive
back to the hotel.

Greg and I jump as fireworks begin to burst in the sky. I take his hand.
"Are you ready to board?"

"Yeah," he smiles.

"This way, gentlemen. I'm Captain William Martin. We will be underway
in about ten minutes. I figured you can meet the staff tomorrow. Tonight
is for other things," he winks.

We walk hand-in-hand out onto the stern of the ship. You could still see
the fireworks display over the island. I reach into the ice bucket that
one of the stewards had left, and extracted the bottle of champagne that
was being kept chilled. Popping the cork, I pour two glasses.

:To the one I love," I say, clinking my glass to my life partner's.

"Dave, you have made me so happy," Greg says, bringing the glass from
his lips.

"I promise that I will try to give you only sunny days." I kiss Greg.

"Aren't the fireworks beautiful?"

"Not as beautiful as the one I'm with." Greg leans back into my arms,
and I encircle his waist.

"Ahem!" We turn to see one of the ship's officers standing there.
"The Captain wanted me to let you know that we'll be underway in a few
moments, gentlemen. Before I leave, can I get you anything?"

"No, I think I have everything I need," I say, pulling Greg closer to
me. "How about you babe?"

"Maybe you could have some snacks brought up?"

"Why don't you have them sent to our stateroom," I say, giving the
officer a wink.

"Right away, Sir. Right away. Dinner is being served there" he says,
with a big smile as he scrambles off.

Soon, we hear the blast of the horn, and the engines come to life. We can
see the activity on the wharf as ropes are being untied, and we can hear
the anchor being lifted.

"Ready, Mr.. Jefferson-Welsh?" I ask.

"I was born ready." With fireworks exploding over the island, the yacht
leaves the harbor and sails into the waters of the Caribbean.

We had been underway for about forty-five minutes when Greg asks,
"Honey, I was just wondering. Aren't we going to bed tonight? I mean,
this is our honeymoon."

"Would you think it strange of me if I said I was nervous?" I ask.

He looks deep into my eyes. I'm so afraid he's going to laugh. Why did
I say that? "I'd be more upset if you weren't nervous...I mean, I'd
hate to be the only one," he smiles.

"You...you're nervous -- too?" I ask. He shakes his head in the
affirmative. "Why are you nervous?" He takes my hand, seating me in one
of the loungers. We look out over the sea as it passes behind us, the
lights and the fireworks becoming distant.

"I'm afraid..."

"Afraid?"

"Afraid that I won't be enough for you. I want to be enough for you,
Dave. I love you so much, and I want our life to be perfect." I can't
help myself. I begin to laugh, relieving all the tension that I've been
feeling. "You're laughing at me?" he pouts.

"Oh no. No, baby. I'd never laugh at you -- with you, yes. At you,
NEVER!" I cross my heart. "I'm laughing," trying to get my breath,
"because you are everything, and I was worried that I wouldn't be
enough for you."

His eyes soften at my explanation. "Dave, I have never, ever not felt
loved by you." We kiss again, this time feeling the passion that has
marked our relationship from the start.

"Come on!" Greg says, pulling me from the bench. Hand-in-hand we begin
to search for our cabin. Finally, we see a steward, Franois, who is more
than happy to lead the way. "Everything has been taken care of, Sirs,"
he says.

I stop to kiss Greg again at the door as Franois proceeds into the
cabin, saying that now that we were here, there were a few things he need
to take care of. "I'm going to need a lot more of those from now on. I
open the door. Immediately, the soft scent of Jasmine floats towards us.

"Oh, Dave!" Greg gasps. The floor is littered with red and white rose
petals. A couple dozen white tapers are burning giving the room a very
soft glow, and music was playing in the background.

"This is so beautiful," Greg says, walking into the room, and taking it
all in. The door opens to a sitting room, where a table has been set for
dinner. There is also a TV and stereo here, as well as a computer
terminal. Another door leads into the bedroom chamber with its highly
polished wood furnishings with rich blue bedding.

"Not half as beautiful as you," I answer.

I gently remove Greg's jacket as my lips once again find his. "Tonight
is about you. I'm going to make love to you so that this night will
still be fresh in your mind in eternity," I whisper in his ear. I can
feel him shudder in my arms.

We begin to sway with the music, and I pull Greg tighter against me.
"I'm going to make love to you all night long." I pull him tighter
against me, letting him feel my hardness. It is met with his own, and we
both groan at the sensation.

"You have made me the happiest man alive," Greg says, pulling me
closer. "I promise to never, ever give you a reason for doubting my
love."

"As long as you let me share that cloud with you, I'll be happy. I
never knew this level of happiness exists, and now that I have found it,
I will do everything to make sure that we stay this happy -- always!"

I sit him on the bed, removing his shoes and socks. Sitting back on my
haunches, I begin to massage his feet. Greg groans from the attention I
give them. When I stop, he begs for more, but I ignore him, wanting to
keep him wanting.

I move up, sliding the bands of his suspenders over his shoulders, then
remove the tie, tossing it on the floor beside the bed. I then begin to
unbutton his shirt, removing the studs one-by-one, kissing each morsel of
flesh that was revealed. I can hear Greg moan as my lips attack his
Adam's apple and the spot just below. That has always been one of his
hot spots.

I slip my arms around him, removing the cummerbund that he was wearing. I
can feel Greg's hand begin to massage the hard log between my legs,
causing me to moan along with him. "Oh Dave," he moans, as I begin to
nibble his right nipple through the T-shirt that he's wearing. As
always, they respond, hardening to meet me through the fabric. I feel
Greg's fingers in my hair, press my head harder against it as he lifts
his chest tighter against my mouth. My fingers find the other one,
squeezing it between the thumb and forefinger, keeping it in synch with
the other.

Greg fumbles with his belt, opening it and his slacks before I can stop
him. "Dave -- Dave, I need to be naked," he pants.

"You shall be, my dear, but this is my show," I tell him.

I finish removing his clothing, and then remove my own. Greg has moved up
on the bed, his hardness pulsating thick and hot above his navel.

Taking his hand, I pull him to his feet, feeling his naked body molding
to mine as each inch of our naked flesh comes together for a kiss.

"Follow me," I say breathlessly, leading him towards the bath. This
cabin comes with a large Roman-styled, Jacuzzi tub, and Franois has
drawn us a bath, complete with bubbles. Candles light the room also, and
rose petals are floating on the wings of the bubbles.

I step into the tub, pulling Greg in with me. Sitting back, he relaxes in
my arms. He presses himself against me, trapping my dick between our
bodies. The contact is like a furnace where our bodies touch.

Also, as per instructions, Franois had placed a bottle of champagne on
ice in the room. I reached over and poured us a glass. "To loving you,"
I say, touching my glass to Greg's.

I take his glass, and then begin to wash his body. His skin is so hot to
the touch. Greg is moaning with each caress, pushing and grinding his
body against me as my hand searches for places to wash.

"Dave, let's hurry. I need to make love with you."

We get out of the tub, and I grab the towel, gently drying my love, then
myself. We move to the bed, where we envelope each other in a kiss.

"I could kiss you forever," I say.

"I want to do more than kiss," Greg answers, grabbing my maleness. We
both moan as his hand closes tightly around me. He begins to jack me off
as my lips explore his upper body.

I slip one hand between his legs, and they part expectantly. I move down
his stomach, feeling the wet, leaking head of his dick graze my cheeks.
He lets out a moan and shudders, as I pull his left testicle into my
mouth.

Greg pulls his legs up, giving me access. My tongue has a mind of its own
as I pop his nuts out of my mouth, and zero in on the real target. I
spread his cheeks, revealing his rose to me.

I bite into it, tasting the flavor that is Greg. His natural juices are
already flowing, and my tongue slips easily inside. Greg moans his
approval, pulling his legs tighter against his body, offering himself to
me.

He opens easily, as he calls my name and begs me to eat him. I uncap the
lube as I bury my tongue deep inside him. I can feel his muscles clamping
down, massaging my tongue as I plunge in and out.

I replace my tongue with my index finger, and within the minute, he has
opened enough so that two are easily sliding inside.

"Dave, I want you in me. I need you in me," he pants. Sweat has broken
out on his forehead, and a thin sheen cover his body. His stomach muscles
have knotted, and his hairy ass is clenching as his hips push against the
invaders. "Please, Dave...I'm ready."

I move up on my knees, smearing my own leaking cock with lube. I rub the
head along his trench. He's so hot it almost burns. I can feel his
manpussy contract and push, trying to capture the head, as it passes
across.

Finally, I zero in on the target. Greg pushes against me as I apply a
little pressure. I can feel myself slip inside. I pause as I breach the
fiery furnace. Greg lets out a moan. "More," he demands, pushing up
against me.

I slip in a couple of inches more, pausing once again. He is so tight,
and so hot, that I can feel the pressure beginning to build. "Just a
minute! You're tighter than a virgin," I pant. I bend over, sealing my
lips to his once more, our tongues battling in the airspace between our
mouths.

Slowly, I rock my hips, feeding myself until I can feel my pubes against
his hard asscheeks.

"Now, do it, stud!" he says, as I push his legs back. I slip a pillow
under his ass, lifting him, readying him for the assault.

I grind my hips against Greg, rotating them so that I strike his prostate
gland on each turn, causing Greg to gasp for air each time. His hard dick
begins to leak profusely as it is smashed between our bodies, his large
nuts rolling in their sack.

I then withdraw, until only the head is still trapped between his
vacuuming cheeks. I slam back in again, knocking the breath from his
lungs. I continue to stroke him this way for several minutes. I can see
his balls draw up, readying for their release.

"I'm cumin'," Greg suddenly yells. His hands began to claw at my
back, urging me on. "Oh, Dave!" he moans, as he begins to fire off his
love. I plant myself deep inside, riding out his waves, as he grinds
against me, fighting to keep myself from releasing.

As he comes down from his orgasm, I begin to move again, really pounding
his ass, expressing my love for him in the desperation that I had for his
body -- his soul.

Greg wraps his legs around me, caressing me with his hairy skin. I can
feel the muscles of his thighs and legs contract as his urgency, now
subsided, concentrates on me.

We make love. For more than forty minutes, I am inside of Greg. Our
lovemaking is sometimes tender, sometimes rough, as we each rise higher
and higher on our sexual emotions.

"I love the way you love me," Greg says, as he climaxes once again. I
feel his swollen, abused ass grip me tighter as he begins to cum. This is
too much for me this time. With one more hip slamming push, I bury myself
deep inside, and explode. To say I saw stars would be an understatement.
My body exploded. I filled Greg to overflowing, and still I came.

We must have blacked out. My first recollection was of Greg holding me
tight, his legs wrapped loosely around my waist. Our chests were heaving
against each other as we struggled to gather air.

"You were remarkable," he says. "Oh, Dave, promise me that each time
will be like the last."

"It...it...it was you," I managed to squeak. My body is still
short-circuited from my orgasm.

"That was the best yet. You were a tiger."

"It...I...I promise...to always...love you."

"And I promise -- to always love you."

After I catch my breath, I reach over to grab the phone next to the bed.
I speak softly, giving the Captain new direction.

"Thanks Captain, I think we'd like that better," I say, concluding the
call.

"We'd like what better," Greg asks.

"Our new destination."

"Oh? Where are we going?" he inquires.

"Home."

"Yeah. Home."

                                    THE END










This is the end of the Dave and Greg story -- for now. Maybe one day,
they'll return with more adventures. It has been a pleasure writing
their story, and thank you for your support.

I've promised to tell you about myself, since so many of you have asked.
I am 48 years old, and live in Northern New Jersey. Because of my day
career (I am in politics), I cannot reveal my real name, although it is
not one that you ever read in the papers. I work behind the scenes.

I was once married, and have an older teenage son, who after much
discussion, has accepted my life and my partner. No, it wasn't easy, but
honesty, and full disclosure, made him see my reasoning had nothing to do
with him. He wants me to be happy! And in order to do that, I had to be
true to myself. That's my mantra -- be true to yourself! You can't go
wrong.


Love always --

Jay