Date: Thu, 27 Dec 2007 12:20:10 -0800 (PST)
From: firehose Joe <firehosejoe@yahoo.com>
Subject: To Thine Own Self   Chapter 19

"This above all: To thine own self be true, for it must follow as dost the
night the day, that canst not be false to any man." Shakespeare (Hamlet)

More wrestling action coming soon. Thanks to TalonRider for assistance
proofing the story.

Please do not distribute to other sites without permission of the
author. Comments can be sent to firehosejoe@yahoo.com

From the previous chapter:

Tenting his fingers, Charles shut his eyes and leaning back recalled the
face he'd memorized. Handsome, articulate, confident and likely physically
disciplined as well, this was a student he'd like to get to know better. He
considered how to structure the independent study to achieve his goal.

His office hours over, Thibodaux headed home. He enjoyed the heaviness of
his penis as it moved in his boxers against his leg. Yes, he'd enjoy
remembering this young man as he gave himself pleasure later.

Chapter 19

Alejandro drove back to his office wondering what had been so captivating
about Dr. Thibodaux. Cool accent, good looking but still a typical
professor type. It was obvious from his tone that he felt his authority a
bit threatened by the request from his Dean. Oh well, all he can say is
no. Alejandro knew he'd make it work one way or the other. But what was it
about him that Alejandro found attractive.

The call came the next day. Could Mr. Algara meet Dr. Thibodaux at the
Institute any time between three and five? At their meeting, Dr. Thibodaux
had a text, a syllabus and the course requirements prepared. They agreed on
a weekly meeting to review progress, and have a Q and A about specific
paintings. Thibodaux decided not to play the innocent regarding the Algara
family's contribution to the Institute.

"How often do you visit the Institute, Mr. Algara?" he asked.

"I came with my grandmamma as a young child. They were some of my favorite
adventures. You'd have had to know my grandmother Isabella to begin to
understand that. Afterward, there were the obligatory school trips. Since
then, not often" Alejandro answered.

"Are you familiar with our O'Keeffe holdings? Gifts from your grandparents
began that significant collection." Thibodaux said, watching Alejandro
carefully for his reaction.

"Familiar? I'd have to say no. I'm aware that the family has made gifts in
general and funded the purchase of specific works in the past." Alejandro
answered candidly.

There was no guile evident in his response, attitude or posture. Thibodaux
began to relax. The remainder of their visit centered on some of the
Institutes significant pieces and an exhibition coming in the
spring. Thibodaux pointed out that the paintings he'd selected for
Alejandro's in-depth study of each period were held either by the Institute
or the University. Partly in jest he said there'd be no excuses for lack of
in-depth study of assigned works. Their parting was congenial.

Their weekly meetings became a high point for Alejandro. The discussion was
stimulating. Dr. Thibodaux was animated as he pointed out elements of the
`work of the week' as they laughingly referred to them. Afterward, they
went to his office to finish a review of readings and to answer questions
Alejandro might have.

"Mr. Algara, I have to admit that this exercise has been gratifying for me
and I hope you. At first pass I was against it. Now I just wish my other
classes were this enjoyable." Thibodaux said. They continued chatting
having concluded their `official business'. Alejandro suggested they go out
for dinner since he had work to complete at his office.

Thibodaux enjoyed the easy nature and confident demeanor he saw in
Alejandro. Wanting to know more, Thibodaux had researched the Algara
family's contributions to learn about Alejandro's father and
grandparents. Public records and news articles were available on microfiche
at the library. It gave him a wider frame in which to observe this unusual
student.

Asking some leading questions as they dined, Thibodaux revealed he had done
some benign investigation. Alejandro seemed not to take offence. His family
had been so much a public fixture for so many years; he took general
questions as a matter of course. As he'd hoped, Alejandro asked about the
Thibodaux family, his southern roots, and how he'd become interested in
art.

They lingered over coffee and split a dessert. When Alejandro next became
aware of the time, he realized he would have to put off the work and return
home. Jase was due in less than an hour.

Jase was methodical as a wrestling coach. He enjoyed training with
Alejandro because of his attention to detail, great physical shape and good
retention of skills learned in the past. As usual, they warmed up and
stretched together. Jase reviewed what he wanted them to practice. They
tied up and soon Alejandro was on his back.

"You've not let me get away with that move in months!" Jase asked
questioningly. "Your mind somewhere else tonight?" Laughing, he continued,
"If it is, expect to get a good pounding!"

"Sorry Jase. Yeah, I'm a bit distracted. Don't worry, I'm back. My back
hitting the mat this early got me focused. Go ahead and try it again, you
bruiser." Alejandro smiled as he readied himself.

Their workout was as tough as usual; still Alejandro knew he hadn't been
concentrating. Instead he'd been thinking about Dr. Thibodaux on and off
the entire evening. As he and Jase showered, Jase usually reviewed the
workout. Tonight he asked if anything was wrong.

"Alex, you weren't focused tonight like you usually are. Have things
changed with your dad?" Jase asked with some concern, wondering what the
cause might be.

"Sorry Jase. I know I was off my game. Guess I'm distracted about one of my
classes. No change in Father, but thanks for your concern and asking about
him." Alejandro responded.

After checking in on his father, Alejandro headed to the kitchen for a
snack, then up to his room. After finishing his reading he prepared for
bed. Later with lights off, he lay awake thinking of Dr. Thibodaux. He
realized that he was beginning genuinely to like the man. Dinner had been a
great time of easy conversation as they shared parts of their lives.

Alejandro wasn't a bit surprised that Thibodaux had done research on his
family. Their involvement with the Institute would have provided a good
spring board for a person who had a bent toward research. It was natural
that questions would follow. Alejandro smiled; instead of being insulted he
felt a bit of a compliment had been extended.

The smile gradually faded as he reminded himself of the obvious and
logical. Thibodaux' involvement in the Institute could very well be the
motivation for his interest in Alejandro. If that were the case, it would
be a shame, but not a big surprise. Time would tell.

The next week, after they'd finished their discussion. Dr. Thibodaux asked,
"Last week after dinner, you seemed in a bit of a hurry to leave. I trust
nothing was said that made you regret our slight relaxation between teacher
and student."

Alejandro looked at him puzzled. He quickly replayed the end of dinner the
week before, he could see how the question might come to Thibodaux' mind.

"I'm sorry I left that impression, Dr. Thibodaux. I enjoyed dinner and our
conversation thoroughly."

Alejandro went on to explain about the scheduled work out with Jase, adding
a bit of his background and interest in the sport. Thibodaux began to relax
immediately. They were soon chatting about their various interests and
efforts to stay physically fit.

"Things have been hectic during my relocation here. I'm just getting
settled in." Thibodaux said. "Since college years, I've enjoyed playing
racquetball. I finally found a club that I was comfortable with just a few
miles away from my work." Seeing Alejandro's interest he continued.

"It's an old Y. When plans were announced to level the building a group of
supporters marshaled their friends and funds. As I understand it, one of
the members was an architect and well healed. He'd been coming to the Y for
years. The group bought it, rehabbed it and if you like retro it's a great
place. Still has the back and white tiles and all the kind of things
buildings of that era had as standard equipment.

"The main reason I like it is that it reminds me of a place near where I
grew up. I relax, get a thorough work out, and as a bonus it has six
racquetball courts plus quite a few men who are good players. As I
mentioned, swimming is another passion of mine and their pool and steam
facilities are top notch. If you'd like, come and be my guest sometime."

Alejandro smiled, recalling pleasant memories that he'd have to shelve when
he visited with Thibodaux. "If you don't mind staying in the role of
teacher, I'd enjoy getting some initial pointers in racquetball if you can
tolerate a rank beginner."

Thibodaux agreed immediately. "That would be fun. Courts are most easily
obtained late afternoon. We could enjoy a lesson in racquetball and spend
some time in the pools. Perhaps we could even grab a light dinner afterward
before you go home. How does that sound?" His enthusiasm was genuine.

"Late afternoon suits me best. Just let me know when it's convenient for
you." Alejandro said.

"I'm free tomorrow afternoon. Does that suit?" Thibodaux asked. They agreed
to meet at the club and Alejandro took his leave. As he drove home,
Alejandro continued to wonder about the reserve he sensed coming from
Dr. Thibodaux. He was almost sure that the man was interested in him as
more than a student, perhaps even more than a friend. All that had been
kept under tight reign if true, but Alejandro trusted his instincts.

His mind wandered as he considered being in the gym environment with
Thibodaux. What would he look like naked? Would he get in the whirl pool in
the nude? Was he gay? Alejandro's fist slowly pumped his muscle as he
brought himself to a delicious slow climax as he considered the next day.

Alejandro arrived a few minutes early. He reminded himself that as far as
knowing `his' city he was a babe in the woods. His life and the circles
with which he was familiar and comfortable were circumspect. They had been
defined not only by family but by expectations of others. He vowed that
would change, gradually albeit, but it would change.

He saw Dr. Thibodaux walking toward him and waved. In the locker room
Dr. Thibodaux wasn't in the least uncomfortable with his nudity. Alejandro
finally got to look at this mystery man. A few inches over 6' he had a
classic swimmers build. Muscles in his arms were long and defined, not
bunched up like a body builder. His chest was sculpted by miles of breast
strokes, his abs defined. They moved gracefully under his skin with each
turn of his body. He was nearly hairless except for his pits and pubes
which were the same color as his hair and were trimmed.

The thighs and calves were swimmers muscles. Like his torso, they were
sculpted and sinuously long. Thibodaux bent down to retrieve something from
his bag. Alejandro was surprised when he saw his quads flex. They looked
like flesh enclosed steel bands. Letting his mind wander a split second,
Alejandro wondered what they'd feel like scissored around him as he fucked
the good Doctor. Shaking himself back to reality he hurriedly finished
changing.

On the racquetball court, Thibodeaux handed him goggles and a
racquet. Methodically he began beginner's drills. Wasting few words, he
demonstrated and then made Alejandro repeat the action until it was
correct. When he'd gone through the basic rules and rudimentary strategy of
ball placement on the opposing and parallel walls they began their first
game.

It was a beginner's game. Alejandro compared it to sparing with
Jason. Practice a move. Practice a defense. Put it in
context. Repeat. Laughing about the comparison to himself, he kept working
at returning the seemingly endless volleys that came his way.

It was hard work, even for someone in good shape. He understood how
Thibodaux stayed trim and fit. Alejandro found that he liked the
game. Thibodaux' coaching style was perfect for Alejandro. He only hoped
he'd bring enough of a game to the teacher so that he'd be invited to play
again.

They were both wringing wet when a buzzer sounded and startled Alejandro.

"Our hour is up and likely there are people ready for this court. You did
very well for a first timer, unless you're sandbagging and have played
before." Thibodaux said.

"To answer your challenge to my integrity," Alejandro said with a smile,
"This is the first time I've ever done anything like this, save years of
tennis. Whew, I'm nearly whipped. This is faster than tennis by far."

"That explains your excellent eye hand coordination. You likely will make a
good player if you'd like to continue training. What do you say?" Thibodaux
asked.

"I'd enjoy it if it won't encroach on your court time. It will be a long
time before I can offer you a game." Alejandro responded.

"I do this for exercise as well as for sport. Don't worry, I'll get in game
time with other experienced players who will likely clean my clock as well
as give me a good workout. Ready to cool down?" the Doctor asked.

Alejandro wiped his face with the back of his arm and nodded. Together they
headed back to the locker room and a tepid shower to gradually cool
off. Alejandro noticed that Thibodaux didn't pay specific attention or
`look' at him; but, from time to time he let his gaze fall to take in all
of Alejandro's body.

"Did you bring any swim gear?" he paused, "Did you hear me?" Thibodaux was
looking at Alejandro.

"Sorry my mind wandered. What did you say?"

"I asked if you brought swim gear, not that it's needed here. Would you
like to do some laps?" Thibodaux asked. "If you don't care to dress, we can
go to the pool from here." He said as he gestured toward a door in the
shower wall.

"I'm good like I am." Alejandro saw a slight smile on Thibodaux face appear
and disappear as quickly. "I'll follow you."

There were only a couple of people doing laps so they were able to have
their own lanes side by side. Thibodaux kept a steady pace for
them. Alejandro stayed close knowing he was stroking appreciably faster due
to his shorter arms and legs. His lungs were burning. His legs and arms
felt like rubber before Thibodaux stopped. Smiling, he asked if Alejandro
had had enough.

Only able to nod his head, Alejandro hoisted himself to the pool deck,
noticing that his arms quivered at the effort. `Damn, he thought. What a
workout'! They sat quietly, both catching their breath.

"The cure for that torture is the whirlpool. Ready to fend off the cramping
of sore muscles?" Thibodaux asked and seeing Alejandro nod yes, led the way
to the steam and pool area.

Grabbing a couple of towels, they headed to the steaming cauldron of
promised comfort. They eased in. Finding jets of warm bubbling water they
both sighed. Alejandro knew he wanted to explore but was quite unsure if
his subtle gestures would be noticed or welcomed. Deciding to play it safe,
he only partially stretched his legs out in front of him.

Encountering nothing, he began to relax in earnest. Suddenly he felt
Thibodaux' foot cross his. He pulled back as if he'd been shocked. Looking
up he saw Thibodaux smile with the veiled look he'd seen in his eyes from
time to time.

"No need to be startled. It happens frequently, particularly when the pool
is full. Relax." Thibodaux said in a voice that sounded intentionally
soothing. Alejandro decided to let this play out as it would. He leaned his
head back and let his legs relax. For the next few minutes they talked of
racquetball, art, their dinner plans. Their legs and feet touched
often. Alejandro didn't try anything and waited to see if Thibodaux
would. Nothing, oh well, Alejandro thought.

Several times during the easy conversation Alejandro saw the veiled look
pass over Thibodaux face as he listened to Alejandro's response to a
question. Luckily, Alejandro kept his muscle from erecting and soon it was
time to shower and go.

After dinner, Alejandro drove home. They agreed to play again the next
afternoon. Puzzled, Alejandro kept thinking about the veiled look that he'd
seen several times. As he stopped in the drive behind the house, he
determined that to worry it would solve nothing. Best not to think on it
too much he decided. That didn't stop him from masturbating with the images
of the nude Doctor running through his mind.

The spring season of boards and foundation meetings was mercifully
light. Alejandro and his attorney mapped out a schedule. Letters were sent
advising that Alejandro would be coming instead of his father. With
adequate time to schedule travel, Alejandro flew commercial
airlines. Compared with charter flights, they were more time consuming and
tiring.

The semester quickly drew to a close. Thibodaux had to be out of town the
week of exams so Alejandro's final evaluation was his last hurdle. On his
return, Thibodaux arranged a time at the Institute for their final session
and had agreed to let Alejandro host him at dinner as a token of
appreciation. The exam was one question, a question impossible to answer
thoroughly. Alejandro was puzzled and attempted to begin framing his
response.

Thibodaux interrupted him. "It is truly a beautiful day. Instead of sitting
here, let's enjoy a stroll as we discuss your thoughts." It became a
conversation that covered all the areas Alejandro had studied. It carried
on through dinner, coffee and dessert.

Dr. Thibodaux sat quietly smiling, looking at Alejandro as he continued
talking as they finished their coffee. Finally Alejandro stopped, realizing
that Dr. Thibodaux wasn't saying anything, didn't intend to say
anything. Looking at Dr. Thibodaux he said, "What!?" with some
exasperation. "What are you smiling about?"

"With a bit of polishing and some focus you could have easily defended a
Masters Thesis with that answer. Well done!" Alejandro felt both pleased
and deflated. He realized that this might well be the end of what had
become something he truly looked forward to.

Hesitant at hearing an answer he would not like, he knew it was best
finished tonight if this was to be the end of their relationship. Extending
his hand across the table he said, "Dr. Thibodaux, this has been one of the
most enjoyable courses I've had thus far at the University. Not only have I
enjoyed our discussions but have enjoyed having an opportunity to become
better acquainted with you." Shaking Thibodaux' hand he sat waiting.

"Well Mr. Algara, I believe this brings down the curtain on our roles as
student and teacher. I must admit it has been awkward at times, simply
because I felt you were a kindred spirit but it was not the time or place
to explore that possibility. If it would suit you, I hope we can continue
meeting, talking about art, enjoying games of racquetball and getting to
know one another on a more personal level."

Alejandro felt foolish. He knew he was smiling like a child opening a
gift. "I'd like that very much."

"If I may make one request," Thibodaux asked. "Can we drop the title? If
you will, call me Charles."


A writer's peculiar food and drink are the comments of his reader. Feel
free to share your thoughts with me.  firehosejoe@yahoo.com

Ps. Any of you guys who are wrestlers, if you are interested in being a
beta reader for this story, drop me a line.