Date: Tue, 18 Nov 2008 19:24:14 -0500
From: Pee Jay <peejay@mi.rr.com>
Subject: "Winging It"

"Winging It"
By: Pee Jay
Email: peejay@mi.rr.com

This story is fictional no character depicted herein represents any person
living or dead.

It had taken me five years to earn a four-year degree from State; I was
more than happy to graduate and move on. I occasionally dreamt that I would
never finish college. The mornings following those dreams were more
nightmarish than dreamlike. I had spent eighteen years of my life going to
school; my formal training was definitely over, done, fini, c'est tout, I'm
outta here. There was no way in hell I was going to consider graduate
school, no way.

While I was elated to have school behind me; now, there was a different
drummer to march to. It was an obligation that consumed the hours of the
day between nine and five, that's right, a job. I was okay with that;
though it made the eighteen-year ordeal seem anti-climactic. I found myself
with too much spare time and a lack of interests to keep myself occupied. I
had morphed into a boring person with a mundane life. I wasn't quite sure
which was worse; school or the life of a working stiff.

The money was beginning to pile up in my checking account and I had no idea
what to do with it. I had an apartment, a new pickup truck, new furniture,
everything I needed; and worst of all, I was still bored. I wasn't
interested in girls like most of the other guys; and I hated going to
bars. I was too self-conscious and reserved for that. I needed some
excitement, a spark, some kind of thrill that would stimulate a functional
mind and beating heart.

My thoughts went back to childhood. When I was a kid, Dad bought me a
multi-band radio. I would tune it to air traffic control and listen to it
for hours on end. I envisioned myself as captain of a commercial jet with a
cabin full of passengers communicating with air traffic control. A kid's
imagination can be strikingly vivid.

"Hello Chicago approach, this is United 1265 heavy" I would mouth. Yeah,
that was cool; I was captain of a wide body jet! I conjured an image of
myself in the cockpit, reading the instrument panel with my headset and my
captains? uniform. I was important. I had responsibility and stature. I was
pilot in command. I was THE man!

On school nights Mom would turn the radio off, tuck me in, and kiss me
goodnight. When she left the room, I would plug-in the earpiece and turn
the radio on again. Often times, I would fall asleep only to awaken in the
middle of the night with the thing blaring air traffic directives in my
ear.

When I got older, I would ride my bike to the airport with my radio. I
would watch the airplanes land and depart as I monitored the control
tower. All the while wishing and hoping that one day I could be a pilot.

With those recollections in mind, it came to me that I should take flying
lessons. Why not? It was a dream I had nurtured since childhood. I could
afford it and there was a certain allure beyond a simple fascination; it
was my dream. It would be stimulating and venturesome. At the very least it
would be different, it was Saturday so I took a drive to the airport.

Capitol City Airport was a controlled field without IFR restrictions. In
other words, it wasn't a TCA (terminal control area) where pilots are
required to be instrument rated to enter the airspace. It facilitated
learning since VFR (visual flight rules) were allowed.

I drove up to one of the fixed-base-operators (FBO) at the airport; an
enterprise where you could learn to fly, charter or rent an airplane or
send something via airfreight if need be. It was Hughes Aviation. It was
smaller than the other FBO's; and, I hoped more personal. It also spoke to
me in part because of the name.

It was reminiscent of Howard Hughes and the mystique that surrounded his
legacy. I had a mental image of him with a scarf around his neck, a leather
helmet and jacket with goggles sitting in an open-air cockpit,
barnstorming. Maybe I over romanticized it a bit but I was gay, after all,
and entitled to some degree of embellishment.

I parked my pickup, locked it and went inside to explore my future in
aviation.

Behind the counter was a desk with someone seated and hiding behind a
newspaper, feet resting on the desk. I dinged the bell on the counter as
loud as I could thereby making my presence known.

The newspaper shook before it was lowered. I'd startled the guy behind the
paper. I smiled; it fed the sadistic side of me. He folded the paper,
placed it on the desk and smiled back as he looked at me.

He was nice looking with light brown hair, deep brown eyes about my size
and age; 5'-10", twenty-two with an average build. He had a handsome,
boyish look about him. We'd make a nice couple I thought to myself. Me with
my brunette hair, blue eyes and pale skin contrasting nicely against his
tanned complexion.

He asked what he could do for me as he rose and approached the counter.

I wondered if that was a loaded question. After all, he was very attractive
with stunning looks and I had to admit I was into guys.

I thought it best to play it straight. I told him I wanted to learn to
fly. That made him smile; and a nice smile at that. I couldn't resist a
grin too; his smile was attractive and infectious. There was something
about him.

He introduced himself as Adam and offered his hand. I shook it and
introduced myself as John. I couldn't stop smiling though; I was infatuated
with the guy.

"Well," he said, "Have you ever been in an airplane before?"

"Only as a passenger."  "When do you want to start?"

"I can start now. I have my checkbook with me."

Then an elderly man walked through the front door and made his way around
the counter. Adam introduced him as Mr. Hughes, he told him that they had a
new student.

I didn't like the sound of student very much. I had just spent five years
getting a four-year degree and the thought of more school was downright
ugly. But if Adam was instructing, I would most definitely get into it.

"Let's get started now" Adam said, eyeing me up and down.

Awesome, Adam was going to be my instructor! I couldn't help but check him
out, making little effort to conceal my roving eyes. When my attention
wandered back to his face, he smiled and said, "Let's get going."

He brushed against me as he rounded the counter and a burst of static
electricity passed between us. Hmm, I thought to myself, electricity!

He didn't bother to phone the tower for NOTAM'S (notice's to airmen
announcing closed runways, construction etc.) since he'd already been
flying that day.

We exited the FBO and walked out on the tarmac. There were four planes
parked in a row; two Cessna 152's and two Cessna 172's. There was a Piper
Aztec parked a short distance away. That's what I wanted to fly. It was a
twin engine, low wing, turbo-charged plane with variable pitch props; it
was sexy.

Adam explained the ninety-dollar rate was based on the 152 and the first
hour was free. He said standard procedure began with a pre-flight check of
the aircraft. I followed him around the plane as he explained what he was
doing. I was conducting my own pre-flight check. I eyed him intently and
missed a few of his comments in the process, I was fixated on him. We
checked the ailerons, flaps, prop, tires and tail of the
airplane. Everything looked fine including, of course, the instructor.

There were only two seats in the cabin and a small cargo area in the
rear. He told me to get in on the left side; that's the pilot-in-command
seat. It was a tight fit in the narrow cockpit as we sat shoulder to
shoulder. That suited me just fine.

The 152 was primarily intended for training purposes, and not terribly
expensive to operate; like all aircraft, it had dual controls. We chose the
newer of the two trainers. It was a few dollars per hour more than the
older one. I didn't mind, the new one looked shiny and nice; I couldn't
force this hot guy to fly an old rattletrap. And a rattletrap it was, as I
would come to find out later.

He started the engine and held the plane in place with the foot
brake. After checking ATIS (airport terminal information service) for wind
direction, visibility, ceiling, barometric pressure, etc., he adjusted the
altimeter and called the tower.

"Tower, this is Cessna 9382 uniform with information November, taxing for
take-off" Adam said.

"Cessna 82u, cleared to taxi, runway two-seven, hold short, squawk 1357."

"Roger" was all Adam said and replaced the mic.

Adam turned the transponder on and set it to 1357, nudged the throttle and
the plane began to roll. I tried to steer with the yoke and Adam started
laughing.

"What's so funny?" I asked. I wanted him to like me, not laugh at me, I
felt a pang of embarrassment. It was the kind that makes you feel like an
idiot.

"You steer with your feet when the plane's on the ground" he said with a
broad grin on his face as he demonstrated the action with both feet, the
rudder responded accordingly. "When you want to execute a tight turn, you
brake the wheel on the side of the plane in the direction you intend to
turn and increase the rpm's with the throttle."

His comment made me feel very un-cool and I drew a long face. I got over
it; after all, I reasoned, I was a student.

I had to laugh, it must have looked funny to someone who knew the
difference. There I was turning the yoke like a kid behind the wheel of a
parked car and nothing was happening. I felt like one of the three
stooges. I was humbled.

I looked at him as we sat touching each other at the shoulder. He was very
captivating and I felt lil' John take note. It was a nice day and getting
better all the time!

When we reached runway two-seven we held short, did an engine run-up to
check the planes systems and called the tower.

"Tower, Cessna 9382 uniform holding short for two-seven."

"Cessna 82u, your traffic is arriving DC-9, taxi into position and hold,
caution wake turbulence."

Adam said "82u" acknowledging the tower's instructions.

We watched the DC-9 flare and settle into ground effect as it touched-down
beyond the chevrons. It looked majestic and virile; it wasn't a wide body
but it was breath taking to a novice just the same.

We taxied onto the runway, turned west (270ø or runway two-seven), deployed
ten degrees of flaps and held our position.

"Cessna 9382 uniform, cleared to go" came over the radio from the tower.
Adam keyed the mic to acknowledge the tower, pushed the throttle in and we
commenced our ground roll. As the plane approached rotation-speed he
instructed me to ease the yoke back and we became air-borne. The ground
fell away below us as we triumphed over gravity.

My senses were satiated. It was an exhilarating feeling. Although the `G
force' of the small plane was negligible, it felt like a jet fighter to a
beginner. Every nerve synapse in my body was sparking.

"Cessna 9382 uniform, contact departure on 123.7. Have a good day."

"G'day" Adam responded; then he tuned the radio to the departure
frequency. He advised departure we would be in the practice area.

The designated practice area was fifteen miles from the airport over
farmland. We climbed to an altitude of three thousand feet to begin
training.

We could see rows of crops and livestock grazing below us. The cattle
looked like small, stationary plastic toys. The term `patchwork quilt' took
on a whole new meaning. It was an amazing world where everything became a
first time experience.

Adam would demonstrate a maneuver and have me duplicate it. We did basic
stuff; slips, chandelles and the like. Every so often, there would be
physical contact in the cramped cockpit. It enhanced the experience.

After a while, I looked at Adam. He had a devious grin come across his face
and redirected his gaze out the windshield. He pulled the yoke full out and
pointed the nose of the plane nearly straight up. As the angle of attack
became too steep to maintain, the airplane began to shudder, shake and
buffet in the air. A few seconds longer and I panicked as the airplane
stalled.

The left wing gave way first as it dropped and pointed to the ground. Then,
the nose of the plane followed pointing earthward in an instant. All I
could see was the ground directly ahead as we spiraled downward, toward
certain death. I was confident that judgment day was at hand. I thought we
were goners.

"Whoooa!" I yelled as I released the yoke. I pressed my body into the
seatback as I stiffened my legs. My arms spread out against the window on
the left and across Adams' chest on my right. I could feel the color leave
my face, I must have been whiter than a ghost and was frozen in place as I
stared at our impending demise.

I had an instantaneous vision of Mom, Dad, Sis, home, and my bedroom came
into view, my mind wasn't seeing what my eyes were witnessing. I was
looking at the airplane from above as it dove to Earth.  Those were my last
thoughts... almost.

Adam eased the yoke back and applied right rudder; slowly drawing the plane
out of its death plunge; mindful of pulling too many G's and causing the
wings to fold up. I could feel the blood leaving my brain as the G-force
increased. It was a combination of mild vertigo and light-headedness; the
picture in the windshield was beginning to change.

As we resumed straight and level flight, I looked at Adam. He had a wicked
grin on his face, full of self-pride that he had scared the shit out of
me. As far as I was concerned; I had been given a second chance at life,
that's how close it was in my mind!

"You bastard!" I yelled, and he began to laugh.

"What?"

He couldn't contain himself; he was laughing uncontrollably.

"What do you mean, WHAT?" I hollered. "I damn near died there, that's
what!"

I was trying my best to be emphatic.

"Oh horseshit, you were no nearer death than driving a car" he was still
unable to control himself.

"It's my heart dufus. It almost stopped beating; actually, I think it did
for a minute. I had an out-of-body experience to boot" I was unable to
suppress my grinning.

He patted me on the thigh. "You still want to continue lessons?"

"How much business do you scare away like that?" I said, trying my
darnedest to be assertive and authoritative. "Do you always do that with
first-timers?"

"No, I have never done that on the first lesson" he said rather
sheepishly. "I knew you could handle it though. You're not mad are you?" he
queried in a diminutive voice.

"I'll think about it and let you know when I come back for my next
lesson. Be advised, you have one coming and pay-backs are a bitch." I
looked him in the eye to punctuate my intentions. I couldn't get mad at
him; he was too cute and sexy. Besides, it was fun, even if I did very
nearly die.

When the hour was about spent, we banked in the direction of the
airport. Time had escaped us. It seemed like we had just started and it was
nearly over. I was disappointed on two fronts; flying time was all but over
and I would have to leave Adam's company soon. On the bright side, my
instruction was just beginning and I would have many opportunities to be in
his company.

We parked the airplane, gassed it up, and went inside the FBO. I couldn't
contain myself and my excitement. I was chattering away like a schoolgirl
on the first day of class.  Adam was grinning at me as I rambled on. Having
verbally exhausted myself, we took a seat on the couch in the reception
room.

I sat quietly and became pensive as I drew a bead on my instructor. He rose
to remove some books from the display case; I monitored his every move, he
had a cute, pert butt. I wanted to look away but I couldn't. He was
decisively easy on the eyes; he was my type. At the very least, someone I
wanted to know.

He returned to the couch with some aviation textbooks. I scooted next to
him when he sat down. As he was highlighting things for me to read before
my next lesson, I managed to touch his arm and hand a few times, as he
flipped the pages. It was sheer delight.

After some time, we grew tired of the textbook aspect of flying, so he
closed the book, folded the map and said, "You feel like getting a beer?"

"Yeah Okay, I'm not sure where to go around here."

"I'll lock up and you can follow me."

"I'll wait out front for you" I said and exited the building. As I waited,
I mulled over different scenarios with Adam and hopefully me. I decided not
to get ahead of myself. I would go slow and easy; I reminded myself that I
was lonely and the fact that he may not be gay was a very real possibility.

I followed him for a couple of miles and we turned into the parking lot of
a bar called `The Red Baron Saloon'. It was on the backside of the
airport. The bar was full of flying memorabilia and was rather old and
dirty with peanut shells on the floor. Aviation pictures hung from the
walls and replicas dangled from the ceiling; it had character. I liked the
overall feel; there was a certain charm to it.

We took two stools at the far end of the bar where it returned to the wall
facing the door. I noticed we were the only customers. Adam held up two
fingers and the bartender brought us two drafts. The beer was icy cold and
delicious. I drank half of the glass in one swig.

Adam looked at me. "So, what's your story?"

Great, I hate talking about myself, I thought. What was I supposed to say?
Tell him I was attracted to him? Ask him to get naked? Maybe I should tell
him I?m boring; after all, it would be the truth.

"What do you mean, my story" There's nothing to tell. I was bored that's
why I decided to take flying lessons. What's your story?"

I thought I would throw it back at him and see how he felt talking about
himself. I wouldn't mind knowing more about this guy that intrigued me. I
liked his spontaneity; it was refreshing and unpredictable.

"I meant like are you in school? Are you from around here? That kind of
thing."

"Oh. I graduated last year from State and moved back to Chicago. When I got
a job, I was transferred back here. I like living in a college
town. Besides, I already know my way around from the five years I spent
here in school."

"What do you do for fun?"

Great again, now comes the part where I have to admit I'm a boring
stick-in-the-mud. What is this anyway, twenty questions? I sure as hell am
not going to admit to being an accountant. That's bound to be a
non-starter.

"To tell the truth, not much; I wanted to fly since I was a kid so I
thought flying lessons would be fun" I said with a hint of meekness and a
little embarrassment. I thought my explanation sounded a bit coy.

Adam held up two fingers to the bartender.

After the bartender served us, I could feel him staring at me. I was
uncomfortable but stayed tuned in to him. The guy was sexy and I was quite
taken with him. I was relatively sure he was checking me out. I watched him
out of the corner of my eye as I sipped my beer. I cracked a few peanuts
and ate them even though I wasn't crazy about peanuts. I was confused. I
didn't know how to read him. I wasn't getting it.

Enough of this wishful thinking I said silently. I'm going to take a leak
and get out of here. I should go before I make an ass out of myself. I was
sure I was forcing myself to see something that wasn't there.

"I'm going to the restroom then head for home. I'll be out in a minute" I
said and I rose to head for the can.

Inside the bathroom, I rearranged myself. No way was I going to empty my
bladder; I'd be pissing in my face in my condition. I splashed water on my
face and took a paper towel to dry off.

I looked at the person in the mirror and realized how utterly desperate my
existence was. Aha, that's what I had; an existence, not a life. My destiny
was going to be one of a spinster, I was doomed to misery and
loneliness. Go to work, go home, get up and do it again for the next fifty
years or whatever. Die and go wherever, who gives a shit? Nobody.

The door swung open and in walked Adam. He approached me, stopped directly
in front of me, and stared me in the eye. I stood there returning his
gaze. He leaned forward, put a hand behind my head and drew my lips to his.

I stood there like a wet noodle as my head played catch-up. The scenario
began to come into focus, he was everything I always thought I would want
in a boyfriend; cute, sexy, witty, handsome...the whole thing; and he was a
fly-boy! My pulse was beating a mile a minute.

I pushed him back and stood there with my hands on his hips. Here we were
in a public bathroom kissing; two guys kissing in a public bathroom! Not
good. I was nowhere near comfortable with public displays of affection. It
made me nervous as hell; and two guys? Definitely a problem for me in
public.

"What's wrong?" he said. Then he kissed me on the neck. That was one of my
hot spots; it made me weak with pleasure.

I couldn't help myself, my animal instincts were calling the shots. I
pulled him close. "Come here" I said as I smothered him with a passionate
kiss.

When I let him loose he said "You're so hot. I want to be with you. We
don't have to do anything. I just want to be with you."

"Do you treat all your students like this?" and I planted a good long one
on him.

When I relinquished control of his mouth he said "Just the hot ones" with a
half-ass grin. "Actually, I never hit on a student before. You're the first
one."

"It didn't take you long. Let's go sit down before someone walks in." I
reluctantly followed him as we took our places at the bar. I was relieved
and fearful of having someone witness our rendezvous.

We were still the only customers, thankfully. He wrapped one of his legs
behind mine and stroked my thigh. I was disarmed; I was at his mercy and
loving it. When the bartender turned his back, he grasped my hand on top of
the bar.

I panicked and pulled it away and said, "What are you trying to do? Get our
asses kicked?" I said, somewhat surprised at myself.

He laughed and motioned to the bartender and said, "Rusty knows I'm gay;
he's gay too. He's been trying to seduce me as long as I've known him."

Adam leaned into me pressing his lips and torso forcefully against mine. I
was caught off-guard and fell backward as I lost my balance. I caught
myself by gripping his stool with my legs. He wasn't easing up so I pulled
myself upright with one hand on the bar. With the other hand, I pushed him
back on his stool. Even though he turned me on, I was nervous and edgy
about making out in public.

"Damn" I said. ?You almost broke my neck there dude. Easy does it, okay?"

"Yeah, I'm sorry, I had to have it though. You're too fucking hot, John."

"So are you. I'm sorry, I have a hard time being intimate with other people
around. I guess it's a hang-up or quirk or something" I said
apologetically.

I looked at the bartender, he was watching and laughing. I was embarrassed
and felt my face warming up. I hated public displays; aside from being
risky, it was something I wasn't at all comfortable with.

The bartender walked to our end of the bar and introduced himself and we
shook hands. He was a few years older, nice looking and in good shape. We
made small talk for a few minutes.

"Where did you find this fine specimen?" Rusty asked Adam.

"He's a student of mine as of today."

"Didn't take you long to orchestrate things" Rusty said, smiling.

"I'm curious," I said. "What made you so sure I was gay? That was a pretty
big risk you took by making that assumption."

"I could tell by the way you were checking me out. Then you were making
every effort to touch me while we were reading, it was a dead giveaway."

I just grinned. "Yeah, I couldn't help myself." We all had a chuckle.

We decided to get something to eat. During dinner, Adam asked if we could
spend the night together. I hesitated for a moment. I found his personality
quite appealing and the physical aspect was certainly there, but I was
unsure of myself. I wanted to be with him; at the same time, I didn't want
it to be a one night stand. I liked him and was afraid it would end in a
quick `pas de deux'; there were the flying lessons to consider as well.

I had a thousand dollars in my account at the FBO; and I would have to see
him every time I took a lesson. In the end, I decided to take the long view
and go home alone. It was a tough decision and I hoped he wouldn't lose
interest as a result. I had every intention of pursuing our mutual
attraction. I just couldn't get past my conservative nature.

I told him we could use the flying time to become better acquainted. He
thought that was a good idea but frustrating, and we laughed. Before
parting company, we exchanged numbers and a goodbye kiss.

I woke up early Sunday morning. It was the same time I awoke for the
humdrum and monotony known as work; you can't tame the internal clock for
one day.

I lay in bed for a while lost in thought. I turned, rolled, tossed and
tried to go back to sleep. After a half hour, I gave up and resigned myself
to greet the new day.

I was thinking about Adam as I made coffee and a bagel. What did I know
about him? Not much. I could care less about the usual faults; I had mine
to be sure. I didn't want to be a notch on his bedpost either. I was hoping
for something more. If things somehow went awry, I had flying lessons and
money on deposit to think about.

I wanted to call my sister and talk it over with her. She was a good
confidant with a level head and aware of my sexuality. The problem was the
time zone; she was two hours behind. She would likely put a contract out on
me if I called her now.

It was times like these that I wished I had a gay best friend. My best
friend, Jerry, was straight. He didn't care that I was gay but there were
certain things he really didn't want to know or discuss, so I discharged
that notion.

My caffeine level was too high and my stomach stopped growling so I started
my morning routine in the bathroom.

As I went through the motions, I couldn't get Adam out of my mind. He
seemed to be somewhat spontaneous and impulsive. The way he stalled the
plane and came onto me the first time we met. I was attracted to him and
wanted to know more about him. We hadn't talked much about ourselves during
dinner; it was mostly idle conversation.

I wanted to know about his family; that told a lot about a person. He
hadn't mentioned any goals or expectations that he was working
toward. Neither did I, for that matter. After showering and primping, I
decided to call him and see if he had plans for the day.

Three rings later, a voice said, "Hello?"

It wasn't Adams? voice so I said, "Hi, this is John. Is Adam there?"

"Oh, hi John, nice to meet you; I'm Jim. Adam told me all about you. Hang
on, I'll go get him" and I heard the receiver come to rest on a hard
surface.

Shit, how could he tell him all about me? He doesn't know anything about
me. We didn't discuss family or any of those personal issues. I decided it
was a good sign. He wouldn't talk about me if he wasn't interested. I
satisfied myself with that line of deductive reasoning.

"Hi John" Adams' voice came through the earpiece. "What you up to?"

I perked up with the sound of his voice. "Uh, that's the reason I was
calling. I'm not up to anything. I was wondering if you had plans for
today?"

"Jim and I were just trying to come up with something. Do you want to come
over and we'll put our heads together?"

I couldn't help but think `who the hell is Jim? Does he have a significant
other?'

"Who's Jim anyway?" I asked.

"We're roommates and friends. Nothing to worry about."

"Oh, okay. Yeah, that sounds good. I'm showered and everything; is it all
right if I head over now?" I said feeling relieved with the clarification.

"Yeah sure, see you when you get here."

We said our goodbyes and hung up.

I was pleased that someone else would be with us. He would have to be
himself in the company of a friend or get called on it. That was a good
thing.

When I arrived at their address I was somewhat taken back with the
premises. They lived in a gated, luxury condominium complex with a
guardhouse at the entrance. The guard made a call, hung up and gave me
directions to their unit. I waited for the gate to rise then proceeded to
the Condo.

I rang the bell and the door swung open almost immediately to a smiling
Adam. He grabbed my hand, pulled me inside and shoved the door closed. He
embraced me and gave me a big kiss. I put my arms around him and pulled him
close to complete the picture.

When we broke for air, Adam turned and introduced me to Jim, whom I hadn't
noticed. Jim was grinning big time and extended his hand. I could feel my
cheeks glowing from our brief exchange. I wasn't sure how I missed Jim
standing there, it made me nervous.

"Hi, nice to meet you" Jim said and he extended his hand.

"Nice to meet you too" I replied, feeling very much on display while
shaking his hand.

Jim turned to Adam. "So this is the dude you couldn't coax into bed on the
first date huh?"

"This is him. What do you think?"

"I'll take him if you don't want him" Jim said, bearing down on me with his
eyes.

"Over my dead body!" Adam countered and placed his arm around my
shoulders. He was sporting a huge grin.  That was comforting; it made me
feel a bit more welcome and a little less vulnerable.

I didn't know Jim, and here he was discussing going to bed. To top it off,
I didn't like showing affection in front of a stranger or being the center
of attention. Wallflower was my preferred mode. I wanted to take refuge in
the nearest niche.

"I think you could do a hell of a lot worse. He's hot" Jim said. Then, he
wet his finger on his tongue and touched me as he made a searing noise.

That did it. That was too over the top for me.

"Okay, that's enough if you guys don't mind" I said seriously and trembling
a bit from the morning coffee. My insecurities were roiling on the inside.

They both laughed but I didn't think it was funny. I was embarrassed and
wanted to hide.

Adam said, "Cool it Jim" as they escorted me to the kitchen. He sensed my
inner turmoil and I was grateful for that.

I sat on a stool at the island and began fidgeting with a spoon and
napkin. As I surveyed the room, I surmised that this was what one called a
`gourmet kitchen' though I wasn't sure, never having seen one. The kitchen
was bigger than our living room at home and grand in every sense of the
word.

I wanted to hold Adam like a security blanket but I suppressed the urge. I
felt spot-lighted with the bantering he and Jim did earlier and I wanted
some reassurance.

"Can I get you something John?" Adam asked.

"I'm okay, thanks. So have you guys come up with something to do today?"

Jim said, "Adam wants to take a drive in the country."

I quickly responded, "That's a great idea. Let's do it" I was praying they
would like the idea. I loved drives in the country. I knew a few places
that I was sure they hadn't seen.

"Let me know what you decide, I'm going to take a shower" Jim said as he
left the room.

"Is Jim into flying?" I asked.

"No he hates when I talk about it. He thinks it's boring and changes the
subject. He especially hates small planes. He's afraid of them."

"I guess going to the airport or flying is out of the question then?"

"Yeah, pretty much if Jim comes with us."

Adam came around the island and wrapped his arms around me from behind and
kissed the top of my head. It felt real good; I closed my eyes, turned in
his arms and kissed him on the lips. We held it for a few moments and I
stood up and pulled him in. I buried my head between his head and
shoulders. I inhaled him, rubbed his back and relished his nearness.

I released him with a peck on the cheek and sat down. I knew I had to slow
down somewhat. I reminded myself that I was lonely and, if I was honest,
insecure to a fault so take it easy, `Keep it on an even keel' I told
myself. We made small talk until Jim returned.

After his shower, Jim came down the hall into the kitchen.

"What did I miss?" He said. "I didn't hear anything while I was dressing."

"Nothing to report" Adam said. He stood up and walked to the other side of
the island behind Jim.

"So what are we doing today?" Jim asked.

"We?" Adam said, and he winked at me. He was taunting Jim. "You want to
crash our first date?" Adam said with a devilish grin on his face. I
couldn't help but smile; he had a way of keeping the ball in the air.

We decided to go for a drive in the country and had a great time.  The fall
colors were close to peaking and the afternoon sun seemed to embolden
natures' palette. We stopped at a cider mill and bought some fresh cider
and a bag of apples that we divided among ourselves.  We went to the dam
that held the city's water supply and walked the length of it.

Jim popped for lunch at a roadside diner and we ordered burgers and
fries. I sat next to Adam and did the touchy-feely thing as much as I dared
and he returned the favor. It didn't go unnoticed. We kidded each other a
lot and the two of them made me feel like I was an old friend.

I learned that Jim came from a well to do family. His parents bought the
Condo for him to live in while he attended school. After he graduated, he
found a job in his field in town so he decided to stay.  He said he had
recently dated a guy a few times but stopped calling since it wasn't going
anywhere. Jim was tall with dark hair and eyes tending on the handsome side
with a medium build. I didn't think he would have much trouble attracting
another suitor.

After we talked it became evident that Jim was a nice person with admirable
qualities.  He was genuine, sincere, and un-spoiled by his privileged
upbringing. I thought he was a good guy and a worthwhile person. He was a
lot like the rest of us, just trying to make his way in the world.

Adam turned out to be six months older than me which put him a year ahead
in school. He had graduated from the aviation program at State a year ahead
of me and wanted to be a corporate pilot.  He was currently building hours
in his logbook and still receiving financial help from home to make ends
meet, although Jim wasn't charging him rent.

Since he was an only child, I surmised that it wasn't terribly burdensome
for his parents. I found out that he had a boyfriend for a few months in
college but it ended when they graduated and the guy moved away.  Adam
indicated it was hard for a while but he had managed to get over it.

I set my inhibitions aside and kissed Adam a few times in front of Jim. It
was hard to keep my hands off him, he was liking it. When got back to the
Condo, we kissed goodbye and I found it difficult to leave; we had a great
time together.

As I reflected on the day that night in bed; I realized I was more or less
stuck on Adam. All things considered, I couldn't find much that I didn't
like about him.  He was smart and witty with a kind streak as wide and deep
as the ocean. Those brown eyes and hair coupled with his personality made
me want to hold him and not let go. I placed him squarely in my sights. I
hugged my pillow wishing it were Adam and went to sleep.


* * * * * *


A few months into the relationship Adam and John had steadily escalated
things to significant other status, though their relationship hadn't been
consummated as yet thanks to Johns cautious, reserved nature. John told
Adam that he thought they should wait until they moved in together to go
all the way. Adam was wanting to live together and applying steady pressure
to that end. John was holding out and not quite sure why; he had a pretty
good idea where things were going. In his mind, when he acquiesced it would
be a betrothal of a sort and therefore needed serious scrutiny.

It was rare that one of them was seen without the other. John was with Adam
every minute he wasn't working. He caught himself daydreaming about Adam at
his desk and having trouble concentrating on his work. John had acquired
some deep seated feelings for Adam and finding it harder and harder to
abstain from a full commitment. If John were honest with himself, he would
admit that he loved all that was Adam, wholly and fully. And that he surely
did, his thoughts could attest to it.

Adam, for his part, with all his impulsiveness and spontaneity was beyond
infatuation; he didn't recognize the depth and extent of his own feelings.
Quite simply, he had taken the plunge; he had been snagged hook, line and
sinker. Adam wasn't aware of it but he was out of circulation, he was
hopelessly committed. He was stuck in a rut called John and happy as a Lark
to be there.

Adam was the perfect match for John.  Whereas John was the quintessential
worrywart and prone to over analyzing things; Adam spiced the relationship
with verve and a certain `joie de vivre'.  He provided the spark that John
needed and craved; together they achieved harmony, they were in
balance...they were in love.

John went directly to the airport after work every day.  There were many
times he co-piloted the Aztec when Adam was shuttling VIP's or delivering
airfreight.  He logged those hours and enjoyed it immensely, if only for
Adams company.

If Adam was out for a lesson or on a charter when John arrived, Mr. Hughes
would leave and John would hold the fort down until Adam returned and
locked up.

John could hardly contain his anticipation when Adam was gone. He would
alternately sit and pace the FBO floor and monitor the tower for the first
hint of Adams voice, all the while glancing at the end of the runway. He
knew full well that he would hear Adam on the radio before he saw him but
he couldn't help himself. When Adam returned they would lock up and spend
the night at the Condo.

One night after Adam locked up and the two were at Jims place, Adam
broached the subject for what seemed to him the umpteenth time.

"John, what's the problem with you and me living together? We both know
it's right. Why are you doing this to us?" Adam looked like a little kid
pouting. John thought he was cute as hell, but Adam had ache in his heart,
he was lovesick.

Facing away from Adam, John smiled. He knew Adam wanted to make love, "You
have a one track mind and it's in the gutter most of the time. Did I hit
the nail on the head horn dog?"

"Well yeah, but that's not all of it. John..." Adam stopped in
mid-sentence. He approached John from behind and put his arms around Johns
waist as he rested his head on the back of Johns shoulder. In a soft voice
he said, "I love you" and he swallowed hard.

That was a big one for Adam. He had never said that to anyone outside his
family and he had just bared his soul to John. Even though Adam wore his
heart on his sleeve, he wasn't accustomed to voicing his innermost
feelings.

The gravity of the moment hit John like a ton of bricks. He turned in Adams
arms to face the inevitable. He hugged Adam tightly as he rubbed his back
and pulled his head in, cupping it with his hand. He stroked Adams soft
fine hair. Without further thought, John said softly, "I love you too" and
trembled slightly.

It was a first for John as well. If it was a big deal for Adam it was next
to impossible for John to impart his intimate feelings. He felt like he had
released a handful of helium filled balloons; it was liberating. He had
done it and loved the sound of the words and the young man he was holding.

They stood in silence embracing each other for a few minutes neither one
willing to let go of the interlude. At that place in time, they were as one
in body, mind and soul; dictated by emotions beyond their control.

Adam raised his chin and kissed John on the side of the head and lowered
his head, "How `bout it babe? You still haven't answered the question."

John thought to himself, `You have to hand it to the guy, he's
persistent'. John decided, what Adam wants Adam gets, and he wasn't going
to torment his lover boy or himself any longer.

"Yes, the answer has always been yes in my mind." John winced as he allowed
his inner self to overtake his being and could only imagine how Adam must
be feeling.

"It took you long enough to get there. Still, all in all, I'm happy. When?"
Adam said as he tightened the screws on John.

"As soon as we can work it out hon. I have to find out when my lease
expires. My place is too small for two; we'll need more room."

"John, you were supposed to do that two weeks ago. What the hell?" Adam was
hoping this wasn't another one of Johns' ploys, he was getting frustrated
with the whole thing.

"I know, I know; I'm really gonna do it now, absolutely, I promise."

Before Adam could respond John said, "You know what?"

"What?" Adam said as he drew his head back to look John in the eye.

"I don't care when the lease is up. There's only one months? rent at
stake. Screw it, let's start looking now, okay?"

Adam was grinning madly and put a lip lock on John. The two kissed
passionately as if to shake on the deal. When they finished, Adam took John
by the hand and led him to his bedroom.

One Friday in late October, the managing partner of John's office was going
to be out of the office for the day and the news spread quickly.  The
company was on flextime and John was able to stay late or come in early
provided the company wasn't closing the quarter or fiscal year so he began
to formulate a plan.

John was approaching the forty-hour mark and still hadn't taken his long
solo cross country. That meant a minimum of three touch and go's; or crash
and dash as the case may be, at three different airports and the total
distance had to be 150 nautical miles with one leg at least 50 nautical
miles long. He would ask Adam to go, which he wasn't supposed to do, but
John knew he'd go along with his request.

John planned to reserve the 152 for the last slot Friday afternoon and
first two slots on Saturday morning to make the trip. They would leave late
Friday afternoon to arrive before dusk since John wasn't night certified.
John designated the first destination as Manchester, which was an
uncontrolled field at 60.55 nautical miles from the airport.

It was a romantic lake resort town frequented by tourists and nestled in
the mountains with assorted restaurants, a boardwalk, and an abundance of
quaint Victorian style inns. He wanted to make dinner reservations at one
of the better eating establishments so he could wine and dine Adam. John
was planning to go all the way with Adam that night.

They had already professed their love for each other and began to search
for a place to live. John reasoned, why prolong the agony? And he loved
Adam like no one he had ever known. So he set out to square it away with
him.

"Adam, will you go with me on my long solo cross country?"

"Yeah, why do you ask. You know I will" and he gave John a look as if to
say `duh'.

"Well it's supposed to be solo but if you don't say anything it'll be the
same as me doing it alone."

"I'll sign you off now if you want. You're an excellent pilot and we've
taken longer trips than that already."

"Thanks for the vote of confidence. I was hoping we could spend Friday
night in Manchester and complete the trip Saturday morning. What do you
think?"

Adam smiled at John and hugged him firmly. He was going to spend the night
with John out of town; and in Manchester! What more could he ask for?  He
was enamored with the thought. They were in Adams bedroom and held on for
some time. Adam leaned back and said "Of course I'll go? and kissed John.

John smiled and put his head on Adams shoulder and said, "Good, I made
reservations at an inn and restaurant. I thought if we left at four we
would arrive a little after five and still have some daylight to walk
around before dinner. You know, walk through some galleries and shops,
touristy stuff. It can be our first special night together."

Adam couldn't believe what he was hearing, "Did Father John just say what I
thought he said?" Adam teased exuding delight.

"There's no priest here so you must be hearing things. Apparently you've
been breathing thin air too long. And your eyes are bugging out too, yup
definitely thin air syndrome." John was grinning.

"For someone that has their head in the clouds all the time, you should
know" Adam shot back and clipped John on the back of the head with an open
palm.

John pushed Adam backwards onto the bed and jumped on him. After a quick
kiss he began to tickle Adam relentlessly. Adam was near tears and begging
for relief when John let him up gasping for air, only because Adam was
going to `wet his pants'.

John hurried out of the bedroom not wanting to be on the receiving end of
Adams backlash and made a dash for the kitchen which was neutral ground.

As soon as Adam was able to gather himself, he sauntered into the
kitchen. John was sitting at the island drinking a beer and Adam clipped
him on the back of the head on his way to the fridge.

"Hey, abuse will get you nowhere. Do it again and your dead meat. It'll be
death by laughter."

John was hoping that was the extent of Adams redress and his feigned
protest was enough to even the score.

"I haven't begun to exact my revenge. You're a marked man in deep doodoo. I
wouldn't want to be in your shoes."

"These are awfully big shoes to fill. Maybe you can grow into them" John
said on a condescending note and laughed.

"Very funny Mr. Gaboris. I feel a headache coming on. I think it'll be here
Friday night."

"You wouldn't? John said. He looked at Adam who was grinning from ear to
ear with a glint in his eye. "You would wouldn't you? I wouldn't put it
past you."

"We'll see" was all Adam said and ignored John as he walked by.

John grabbed him and pulled him into his lap and locked his arms around
Adam so he couldn't move. Adam was bouncing and squirming as he tried to
free himself to no avail. John was laughing loud and not sure how much
longer he could maintain his hold on his boy.

"Now who's in deep doodoo?? John said laughing.

"Let me go Gaboris" Adam demanded.

That made John laugh all the harder. It was more than he could stand. Adam
in distress, it was too funny.

"I'm going to let you go for now but you better behave" and John released
him; he couldn't hold him any longer if he wanted to.

Jim came out of his bedroom to see what the buzz was about.

"Hi John, what's going on here? Are you guys fighting?" Jim said with a
knowing smirk on his face as he focused on Adam. He wanted to witness the
antics.

"Yeah, it's a to death thing" Adam said, and John did a double take on
Adam. Man, this guy keeps getting better all the time; to death rang a bell
in Johns head. He's incredible, John thought.

"Adam was receiving some overdue discipline. I think he's all the better
for it" John said.

"You're pathetic. I don't think I like you anymore" Adam said and took a
beer from the fridge.

"Get over here boy. And I shouldn't have to tell you twice" John said as he
and Jim laughed.

"I'm waiting!"

"Don't hold your breath Mr. Gaboris" Adam said defiantly.

"Son, you're fighting me" John said in his best parental voice.

Adam laughed and said, "You ain't seen nothing yet.?

They chatted idly for a few minutes. Jim went back to his bedroom. Adam,
with John in tow, returned to Adams bedroom.

As they stripped to their underwear, John said, "So we're going to make the
trip then? It will be nice and romantic, just the two of us."

"It's a go babe. There's nothing scheduled for Friday afternoon; when I get
to work in the morning I'll reserve the time slots for us. Now come to bed"
Adam said as he pulled John into the sack. They rolled around and struggled
for a few minutes trying to get the upper hand on each other then gave up
and drifted off.

John may as well have called in sick Friday morning. He was on cloud nine
all day and didn't accomplish much of anything. John had committed himself
and was ecstatic with his admonition. He stared at the monitor on his desk
but all he saw was Adam beside him, in front of him, on top of him,
underneath him...Adam was all over the place in his thoughts.

"What's wrong, John?" a voice behind him said.

John pivoted in his chair and regarded the figure behind him. His boss was
standing tall and inquisitive as John straightened up in his chair.

John said, "Nothing Will, why do you ask. I'm fine."

In a low voice Will said, "Your work has been lacking lately, to say the
least, and you're one of my top producers.  Join me in my office" and Will
walked toward his office.

Oh shit, was all John could think. Here we are looking for a new, more
expensive place to live and I'm in trouble at work; Adams income is modest
at best.

The only thing that came to mind was the commitment they had made to
additional expenses. Damn, why the hell did I agree to that? I love him,
that I know. I will go to any length to be with him, of that I'm
certain. What will it cost? The possibilities spun in Johns mind.

In Will's office with the door closed, John sat uncomfortably.

"What's wrong, John?"

John sat in place rigid and mute. He sensed that life as he knew it was
about to change forever. It wasn't a pleasant feeling.

"If you have a problem, maybe I can help, or at least offer some advice."
Will was making every effort to nudge John as gently as he could.

Will was a large, middle aged African American man with a deep voice,
paternal in his management style. John liked him in a big way and respected
the man. He had always been forthright and upfront with him. John had been
to his house for dinner on a few occasions and got on famously with his
family.

":No you can't but it's nice of you to offer. Oh, and by the way I don't
have a problem." John was doing his best to avoid eye contact and more than
cognizant of his imploding situation.

"John, is it a woman?" Will pressed on. "We can talk. I know you well
enough to see there's something wrong." Will bored into John with his eyes
as if to say he wasn't leaving until this was resolved.

John saw the intent in Wills eyes and decided to come clean and let the
chips fall where they may. He wasn't out to his parents or anyone else at
work but he didn't feel like hiding from Will any longer. He wanted to get
it off his chest and Will was the fatherly type and more friend-like than
boss.

John exhaled with a sigh, looked up and said, "It's not a woman Will, and
yes it's love. I can't think straight. I am so..." He was going to say "in
love" but changed his mind. "I'm so embarrassed."

John started tearing up and couldn't stop himself. He began crying tears of
joy, tears of happiness, tears of relief and tears of regret for what may
come; he let it all hang out for the first time in his life. He put his
hands to his face as he sobbed. He wished Adam were there in the worst way.

"It's okay John, take your time." Will was silent for a few moments.

"What's his name?" Will said in a warm, assuring tone, devoid of judgment.

John looked up with tears streaming down and said, "His name is Adam and I
love him. He's all I care about" and the dam burst as he hid his face in
his hands. He was for sure that his career was over.

"It's okay John." Will came around his desk and sat next to him. He put one
arm around John and encouraged him to get it out of his system. John sat
there and sobbed, his body shook with every whimper that escaped him.

A few minutes passed before John was able to regain control of himself; he
dried his face and blew his nose with some tissue from Wills desk. John
looked at Will to see he was smiling but wasn't sure what to say. He stared
at the top of Wills desk and waited for Will to speak. He was ready to
clean his desk out.

`That wasn't so bad was it?" Will asked.

"That depends on what's coming next" John said sullenly, still gazing at
Wills desk. John had already resigned himself to joblessness. He had money
in the bank; not a heck of a lot, he was trying to play it out in his
head. How long could he hold out before he was on the street; or worse, had
to move home.

"John, your job is secure if that's what you're thinking, us minorities
have to stick together" and Will laughed as he tried to lighten the mood.

John looked at him with a weak grin. The man certainly had charisma. He
wanted to hug Will but knew that was inappropriate; John thought the dude
was a class act and wished he could be like him.

Will sensed that John was feeling better so he withdrew his arm. "John, I
don't claim to understand it all but it's perfectly fine with me. The
company has a policy toward minorities and sexual orientation is part of
it. So you see, neither one of us can be discharged for being who we are."

John liked the sound of that and felt a new bond with his boss. He silently
wished his father was like this man and wondered how Will had acquired such
a cosmopolitan outlook. John surmised that Will must have experienced some
degree of discrimination in his fifty years of living and felt compassion
for him.

"Back to the reason we're here" Will said as he reclaimed his chair at his
desk. "You are one of my best employees John; your work has always held up
to the auditors. In fact, I don't recall ever having problems or questions
arise on your behalf. Lately, your production has been significantly off
and that's the reason I called you in here."

John was looking Will in the eyes as he spoke. When Will paused for
emphasis, John took the opportunity to speak up, "I'm aware of it Will and
I promise I'll correct my performance. I've had a lot on my mind recently,
so it's been hard to concentrate. Will, we decided to live together; that's
what I've been struggling with."

"Your personal life isn't any of my business but I appreciate your
candor. Professional people need to be able to separate domestic problems
from job related issues. I want you to think about that, okay?" Will paused
for a moment. "John, why don't you take the rest of the day off. Think
about what I've said over the weekend and give it a fresh start come
Monday. I have faith in you."

"Thanks Will. Thanks a lot. Man, if I was in Perkins' section I'd be
screwed now. You're the best Will, I really mean it. If there's anything
you need at crunch time you can count on me."

Will smiled, "Just bring your A-game Monday, okay kid?" as he stood up
behind his desk and extended his hand.

John stood up, shook his hand and said, "You got it. And thanks again
Will."

John started for the door and Will said, "John?"

John turned to face him, "Yeah?"

"Maybe you could bring him to dinner sometime."

John obviously liked what he heard; he was beaming. "That would be great,
Will. I'd like that; anytime, just say the word." John headed for the door
and entered the world renewed.

Will grinned as he watched John leave his office, smiles and all. For some
reason he liked the kid, gay or straight he didn't care. The kid was okay
in his book. He sat down at his desk smiling and shaking his head, `Ahh, to
be young and in love'.

John went to his apartment to change and pack for the overnight
excursion. He was feeling good about his session with Will. He felt
baptized or anointed or something; he didn't know what it was, it was
cathartic for sure.  As far as he was concerned, all was right with the
world and he had a place in it.

It was early afternoon and John decided to hit the drive-thru at Burger
King and pick up lunch for himself and Adam. When he arrived at the FBO,
Adam was behind the desk reading the newspaper, feet on the desktop as per
usual. John had the idea to ding the bell and startle the hell out of Adam
but the smell of burgers and fries beat him to it.

"Hey babe" Adam said lowering the paper.

"Hi yah sexy, where's Senor Hughes?"

"He went to lunch. What ya got in the bag?"

"Nothing."

"Bullshit, did you bring me lunch?" Adam felt hunger pains as he inhaled
the aroma.

"No I thought you would be gone. It's for that cute air traffic controller
in the tower."

Adam bounded out of his chair around the counter at John with an evil
twinkle in his eye, and John took off running for the door. He threw the
door open to the tarmac and ran to the front of the Aztec skipping
intermittently and laughing. Adam abandoned the chase and went back inside
to eat his lunch, locking the door behind him.

When John tried the door it was secure. He pounded on the glass and yelled
that he had decided to take his long cross country alone so it was okay
that he was locked out. John started to walk around the building to the
parking lot as though he was going to leave; he was grinning on the inside.

Adam unlocked the door and took off in hot pursuit of John, jumped on his
back wrapping his arms around Johns neck and legs around his thighs,
"You're not going anywhere without me, you hear?"

John bent forward under Adams weight laughing, unable to straighten up in
his weakened state. ?Get off me before I call the cops. This is
assault. I'll have you locked up. Get off me damn it." John was laughing so
hard he fell forward on the ground with Adam clinging to his back; pleased
that his boy was so predictable and he could evoke the response he was
looking for.

Adam kissed his neck and held him down for a moment before he let John get
up. As Adam climbed to his feet, John noticed one of the A&P (airframe and
power plant) mechanics watching from the tarmac in front of the adjacent
hangar. He pretended not to notice.

Adam extended his hand assisting John to his feet. John accepted and once
on his feet, they noticed Mr. Hughes in the parking lot watching them from
his car. They made their way inside and Adam went back to his now cold
burger and fries. The air in the FBO was somber.

"What the hell else can go wrong today?" was the only thought on Johns
mind.

Mr. Hughes came in the front door with a stolid look on his face and sat at
his desk behind the counter. Adam was eating the balance of his lunch on
the sofa in the reception area.

Eyes were darting back and forth and no one spoke.

John walked over and sat next to Adam and said softly, "I love you in case
you forgot. We are going to be lovers before the night is over. Don't let
the old man spoil it."

"That's nice but now my boss knows about us. Did you see him in the parking
lot?" Adam said with trepidation.

"Yes, I saw him and felt him glaring at us when we stood up. Did you see
the guy at the hangar watching?"

"You're shitting? One of the mechanics saw us?"

"Yeah, I don't know his name but I definitely know his face. We've been in
there enough times that I know who he is" John said.

"You know what John? I don't care anymore it's too damn difficult to
hide. I would rather be unemployed with you than sneak around. If I'm with
you I can be happy anywhere and I do mean anywhere. I'm over it."

"I don't care anymore either Adam. I had a tête ... tête with my boss
today. I thought I was going to be fired but it worked out okay. He wants
to meet you and I want you to meet him; I know you'll like him. I feel
closer to him than my own father. He's a great guy and he knows all about
us."

"That's cool, but Mr. Hughes is sitting over there, c'mon let's do this."

The two of them walked around the counter toward the desk Hughes was
occupying. Adam sat on the corner of the desk and stared Hughes in the eye
not saying a word. He was ready to tell the old man to shove it and John
was there to back him up and take him home.

They sat there staring each other down; neither one making an effort to
speak. It was, perhaps, two minutes but the deafening silence and tension
in the room made it seem like an hour.

John was awed at the stamina Adam exhibited. Where did he learn that John
wondered. It was a kind of brinkmanship; a push and shove type thing
without words or deeds.

Finally, Adam chose to break the silence and Hughes looked away.

"Mr. Hughes, we're taking the 152 this afternoon and not coming back until
mid-morning.  The reservation is in the book. It's paid for in
advance. We'll be leaving soon."

"Adam, can we talk?" the old man asked shifting his gaze out the window.

"Yeah, shoot. What's on your mind?" Adam was primed and pumped; he was
ready for battle. If the old man wanted conflict, Adam was geared up and
ready for it.

"Adam" the tired pilot said. "I'm and old man. I flew in WWII, the Korean
conflict and downed a lot of enemy aircraft. I'm lucky to be here and not
entirely proud of what I did. I'm not an intelligent person, and I don't
claim to be. What I do know; I know for sure. I saw you and John a few
minutes ago on the lawn. I've suspected something like this for awhile
now. I've always liked you, in fact, I've never trusted an employee more
than you."

The old man cleared his throat and went silent; still avoiding eye
contact. He appeared to be gathering his thoughts.

"I've been wanting to talk to the two of you for some time now. I'm not
sure of myself at this point and would like to reserve my thoughts until
next week. Do you have any students tomorrow?" the old man asked Adam.

"No, and unless someone calls in the next few minutes, there are no lessons
scheduled for tomorrow" Adam stated.

"Mr. Hughes" Adam said. "Do you have a problem with us?"

There's that persistence again, John thought. He was proud to be with Adam
and wanted to hold him then and there.

"I guess not or maybe I do. I don't know. What the hell do I know?" the old
man said. "My wife and family are gone. To grow old is to change a lot, and
things have changed. We'll talk next week. I'm not mad or looking to fire
you. There's a proposition I've been mulling over."

Adam went on the uptake, "Mr. Hughes, you and all the people of your
generation deserve the credit for the quality of life we enjoy
today. Without your effort, our generation couldn't live our lives freely
and openly. We all owe your generation big time. But, you're right. Things
have changed."

"Thanks, have a nice weekend and don't forget to lock up" was all
Mr. Hughes said as he rose and excused himself to go home.

Adam came to the front of the desk, wrapped his arms around John and kissed
him with great affection and conviction. Now more than ever, he was
convinced that John was all he needed.

All John could do was embrace his love and admire all that was Adam, he had
a deeper appreciation for him after the ordeal, the guy was truly amazing.

The duo retrieved their overnight bags from their vehicles and tossed them
in the cargo area of the 152.

Seated in the cockpit, John had pre-flighted the aircraft and waited for
the most important person in his life. He recalled everything that had
happened and realized how it made him love Adam all the more; with Adam,
anything was possible. He didn't want to consider going forward without
him. To John, they were unsinkable.

As Adam closed the office, he was pondering his future with John and where
it may lead them. There were no guarantees but if he were with John, he
could face anything. He climbed in the aircraft and kissed his other
half. He was ready to commence their sojourn into life. Nobody said it was
going to be easy.



Thanks to Colin Kelly and my Canadian friend Michel for their help.