Date: Sat, 1 Feb 2014 10:29:24 -0500
From: crazy4u <rnielsen47@gmail.com>
Subject: The Man From Swift Current Chapter 79, GM College, High School

Comments on the story are appreciated and may be addressed to the author,
Russ Nielsen (rnielsen47@gmail.com).  To read more of my stories, you can
find them at my story site - http://www.saskboystories.blogspot.com

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*** ***

Chapter Seventy Nine – Double Weddings

Rick walked down the lane to the shed where Grandpa kept his farm
equipment.  He had arisen early and had quietly dressed, leaving the house
to spend some time alone, thinking.  He waved a good morning to the
security detail that guarded the house, and noted that Mr. Curtis had
directed one of his men, Joel, to follow him.  He had gotten to know a few
of the guys, since Grandpa insisted that they be included in the
festivities during the holidays; even though they were still on duty.

Knowing they were there was a comfort; but, at the same, time it worried
him that such measures were necessary to protect him, and those he loved.
Rick's thoughts went back to his lover, whom he had left sleeping
peacefully in their bed.

As he dressed, he looked into the beautiful face he had grown to love so
much.  It made him smile as he noted the little bit of peach fuzz that had
managed to grow on Glenn's upper lip.  He teased Glenn good-naturedly about
his lack of facial hair; but, at the same time, he loved the touch of
Glenn's smooth skin under his hands.  Sometimes, Rick still couldn't
believe that this boy-man loved him so unconditionally.  Rick stifled the
urge to run his fingers along Glenn's jaw line to his chin and finally to
caress his cheek, as he usually did every morning.  The memory of the touch
of Glenn's skin made his fingers tingle.  He knew if he touched Glenn's
face, he would wake him; and he wanted to spend some time alone this
morning, to think about where he was headed at the beginning of this New
Year.

So, instead of caressing Glenn's face, he quickly finished dressing and
tiptoed out of the room and down the stairs.  He paused at the front door
and listened.  The rest of the house was quiet, so he gently opened the
door and softly closed it behind him.

He walked swiftly, and soon arrived at the equipment shed.  He decided to
look inside.  He opened the door and caught the smell of engine oil,
gasoline and metal parts as he entered the building.  In front of him were
the two tractors Grandpa used to maintain the farm in good condition.  He
walked around them, then decided to climb into the driver's seat.  He sat
there for a moment and let the memories wash over him of his first summer
here with Glenn.  Grandpa had set them to driving the tractors to clean out
the weeds, etc., from in between the rows of peach trees.  He remembered
Grandpa saying that they needed to get as close to the trees as possible
with the tiller, to break up the soil.  He laughed to himself as he
remembered Glenn's first attempt to get close to the peach trees.  Glenn
didn't watch the tree limbs and ended up being knocked off the tractor.  He
had panicked and had jumped off of his tractor, and ran over to see if
Glenn was okay.  Fortunately, the tractor stalled out, so Glenn had
suffered only minor scrapes and bruises; and they had both laughed pretty
hard at Glenn's misadventure.  Glenn eventually mastered the art of driving
the tractor near the trees without getting knocked off; but Rick always
kept Glenn in his line of sight, just in case!

Running his hand over the steering wheel, Rick liked the feel of the solid
workhorse beneath him that reminded him of the solid strength of his
adopted family.  The Scarboroughs had treated him as their own flesh and
blood from the very beginning; starting with Keith and Roger and their
parents, and ending with his rock-solid relationship with Glenn.

He felt a sense of renewed strength; and a new sense of purpose as he
pondered how fortunate he was to have a strong support network to fall back
on, when times were tough.  He marveled at how quickly he had been able to
move past the incident with Peyton.  All of the pain and suffering he had
felt, as a result of his parents' rejection, had returned to him in full
force when he saw Peyton enter the room that morning; and, with it, had
returned the hot, fiery anger he felt toward his family, for threatening to
destroy the happiness he had found in his relationship with Glenn.

After their initial comments about forgiving Peyton, his adopted family had
not pushed him on the issue.  The only indication he had that they were
still concerned about his feelings toward his family came last night, when
Mom Nielsen had sat down with him in a quiet moment and put her arm around
his shoulders, as they talked about new beginnings for the coming year.

He heard in his memory her words, "Rick, my son, you must let go of your
anger toward your family, so you can make room for all of the love and
happiness you and Glenn share.  I know what I am talking about."

She put her fingers to Rick's lips as he was about to respond, "No, Rick,
let me finish.  I watched your father harbor ill will and resentment
towards my parents for over 20 years, because of a seemingly insignificant
event.  The grudge he carried on his shoulders turned him into an angry
man, who rejected our son and his partner.  It caused an untold amount of
damage to the rest of my children, because of the harshness it brought out
in him.  I don't want you to damage your relationship with Glenn, or
inflict your anger, pain and suffering on your children.  Please consider
how much time and energy you have wasted, so far, on your bad feelings.  I
have watched you try to hide it from us; and, especially from Glenn.  I
know Glenn feels like he is the cause of all your pain and suffering,
because your family rejected you when they found out Glenn was your
partner.  When Glenn sees you suffering so much, he blames himself for it.
He has asked me many times if he should let you go, to prevent you from
suffering anymore; despite the fact that it would tear him up to do so."

Rick said, earnestly, "Mom, I have really tried to help Glenn see that it
is not his fault that my family chose to treat me the way they have."

"I know you have, Rick, but that doesn't change how Glenn feels.  You both
need to overcome this obstacle, to free yourselves of this burden.  It's
not fair to either one of you to let this continue to stand between you.
You know that Glenn won't let it go, until you do; because your suffering
causes him pain, too.  I am not asking you to forget what has been done to
you; but, I am asking you to let go of your anger and let your wounds begin
to heal.  I know it will be difficult to do; but, I am confident that my
two sons can work on it together and beat it!"

Her words had stayed with him last night, and were the reason he had ended
up here, to sort things out in his mind.  Mom's comments had caught him by
surprise; because up to that point, he had been blind to the pain he caused
Glenn, since he was always experiencing so much pain, himself.  It made
sense to him, now, as he looked back over the last year and a half that
they had been together, why Glenn reacted the way he did, whenever Rick
felt the ache in his heart at the rejection of his parents and family,.
The realization that he and Glenn had become knit together as one soul, and
what one felt the other did, as well; opened up another whole dimension to
their relationship that Rick had previously overlooked.  He knew that they
were starting to finish each other's sentences, sometimes; and, that he
could look at Glenn and know what his thoughts were on a subject before
Glenn could vocalize them.

Rick resolved to do his best to overcome his anger, so that he could be a
better partner for Glenn.  Mom was right!  They needed to make room in
their lives for the joy and happiness that their love brought to each
other.  Having resolved to work on his emotions and to let go of the
negative feelings he had, he climbed off of the tractor and walked around
the two tractors one last time; before exiting the building with a new
sense of purpose and a much lighter step than when he arrived.

He motioned to the security guard to join him as he walked back toward the
house.  Rick said, "Thanks for giving me some space, Joel.  I needed some
time to think."

The big, burly security guard grinned.  "I gathered that, so I waited
outside, until you were ready to go back to the house."

Rick looked over at Joel, and said, "Sometimes, a few minutes alone can do
wonders."

"Yes, you are correct, Rick.  You and Glenn have been through a lot with
your family.  I have to admit that I had an aversion to gays when I first
met you and Glenn; but, after getting to know you two and Randy and Shawn,
I have had a change of heart.  You guys seem to genuinely love each other,
and the way you treat each other is the same as my wife and I do.  Thank
you for being patient with me and my preconceived notions about gays.  This
assignment has been quite an educational one for me; as it has been for the
rest of the guys.  I know for a fact that Jerry and Dan have had a change
of attitude toward gays, as well, these last few days," Joel said.

"I am happy to know we can count you guys as our friends; and not just as
hired guns to do a job," Rick said, smiling.

"Your family has done a lot for us this holiday season.  We were out of
work and needed the cash; so, when this job came up, we were more than
happy to do the job.  Your Grandpa offered us permanent jobs here on the
farm, to help your uncles.  We talked it over with our wives last night,
and we've decided to take him up on the offer.  Your Grandpa also hired
Mr. Curtis as his full time security advisor; and we will be working with
him, to set up security at all of the Scarborough properties, including
those owned by the grandchildren," Joel said.

"Grandpa has always been a good judge of character.  I am glad he hired you
guys.  I feel much better about sending Glenn back to school, knowing that
Grandpa has hired Mr. Curtis to take care of security.  It is sad that we
have to take such precautions; but we can't afford not to, given the hatred
and violence toward gays that is preached from the pulpits of the churches
in this country," Rick said.

"You are right, Rick.  We certainly have a sad state of affairs in our
country that was founded on freedom from religious persecution, where we
can't let people live in peace. who don't believe as we do," Joel said.
"Our preacher is always telling us we have to do away with sinners; but the
way I read the bible, it says we must love our neighbors, and even more
than that, we must love them that hate us."

Rick stopped short and turned to face Joel.  Joel had continued on and
hadn't noticed that Rick had stopped, until Rick asked, "What did you just
say?"

Joel, hearing Rick's voice behind him, turned around to face Rick and
repeated, "Jesus taught, in his Sermon on the Mount, that we must go the
extra mile and not only love those who love us, but that we must love our
enemies, as well.  Any good person will love his family and friends, but it
takes a real saint to love those that hate him."

"Do you really believe that, Joel?" Rick asked, earnestly.  "Do you really
think someone can learn to love those that hate him?"

Joel thought for a moment, "I think so.  I believe that once you get to
know someone, it helps you learn to love them.  They aren't some unknown
quantity, anymore.  People fear the unknown, and, since most of the people
I know don't know anyone who is gay, we believe everything our preachers
tell us.  It's like, I hated gay people, before I met your family.  I
listened to the bile coming from our preacher's mouth, and believed that
hating gays was the way God wanted us to treat gay people; but, now that I
have gotten to know you, Glenn, Randy and Shawn, I can't hate you.  You are
normal people, who want to have a family and to have your loved ones near
you.  You haven't tried to turn me into a homosexual, and I don't see any
of you as pedophiles, or any of the other horrible things our preacher said
gays are."

"Well, I am glad to know that I am none of those terrible things.  I'm
still surprised at how many lies are being told about gays to frighten
ignorant people," Rick said.

"Yes, you could say that they suffer from compound ignorance," Joel said,
smiling.

"What do you mean by compound ignorance?" Rick asked, puzzled by Joel's
choice of words.

"It means that they don't know what they don't know.  Ignorant people do
things because they are uninformed, or just plain don't have the knowledge
to make good judgments.  They compound that problem by assuming they know
everything, and won't admit that they don't know what they don't know.
It's better to acknowledge that you don't know something than to pretend
you do, and make a bigger fool of yourself, when people discover just how
ignorant you are," Joel explained.  "I'm sorry to be talking so much.  I'm
sure you have better things to do than talk to a simple-minded country
guy."

They had reached the house and Rick turned to Joel.  "Thank you for sharing
your thoughts with me today, Joel."  He shook Joel's hand, and, then opened
the door and entered the house.

The smell of fresh brewed coffee filled the air, along with the smell of
freshly cooked bacon.  He made his way into the kitchen to find Grandma and
Marcy setting breakfast on the table.

"Good morning, Grandma, Marcy," Rick said.

Grandma said, "Good morning, dear.  Please have a seat and I will bring you
a cup of coffee to go with your breakfast."

Marcy smiled at Rick.  "Good morning, Rick.  Did you enjoy your walk this
morning?"

"Yes, I did, thank you," Rick replied, a little surprised that Marcy knew
he had been out walking.

"I saw you leaving, just as I was pulling into the driveway this morning,"
Marcy offered by way of explanation.

"Oh, I wondered how you knew I had been out this morning," Rick answered
with a smile.

Grandma returned to the table with the coffee.  "I am glad you got to spend
some time alone with your thoughts.  I know that you and Glenn have been
inseparable since you got here, and I wondered when you were going to get
some time to do some serious thinking."  Grandma smiled and put her arm
around Rick's shoulders.  "We have been very worried about you, since you
saw Peyton.  I know that Eva spoke to you last evening, so I won't say
anything more; but, I do want you to know we love you, Rick, and will
support you, no matter what you decide to do about Peyton, or anyone else
in your family."  She kissed him lightly on the cheek.

Rick caught the light scent of lilacs as Grandma turned from him and passed
him an empty plate.  "Go ahead and help yourself.  I am sure the others
will be down shortly."

Rick looked at Grandma and noted just how much alike Mom Nielsen and
Grandma were.  They had many of the same mannerisms and strength of
character.  Grandma asked, "What are you thinking, Rick?"

"I was just noticing how much alike you and Mom are.  You and Mom have many
of the same mannerisms, and so does Glenn," Rick said, smiling.

Grandma smiled.  "Yes, we tend to act like those around us that we love and
hold in high esteem.  That is why you fit into our family so well, Rick.
We love you and you love us, so it is like you have always been part of our
family."

Rick heard footsteps in the hallway and turned to see Glenn come into the
kitchen.

I yawned, and then apologized, "Sorry, Grandma.  I am still really tired."
I walked over and sat next to Rick.  "Thank you, sweetheart, for letting me
sleep in.  I needed the extra couple of hours of sleep."

Rick leaned over and kissed me, before he passed me an empty plate, which I
took from him and helped myself to some eggs and bacon.  Grandma handed me
a cup of hot cocoa.

"Thank you, Grandma.  Good morning, Marcy," I said.

"Good morning, Glenn," Marcy replied.

"I thought you had the day off, today," I said.

"I do.  Your Grandma invited me over for breakfast this morning.  My family
is still sleeping, so I won't miss anything while I'm here," Marcy said.

Grandma said, "Yes, I invited Marcy's family to join us over at our
neighbors, the Braggs.  They raise horses and have extended an invitation
for all of us to spend the day riding horses on their farm.  I have already
made up a picnic lunch for us to take along with us."

Marcy said, "I checked the weather report this morning and it is supposed
to be nice and sunny today, but a little on the cool side."

Rick smiled.  "I love riding horses, Grandma.  Thank you for arranging for
us to go riding today."

I looked over at Rick.  "You will have to teach me how to ride.  I have
never been on horseback."

Grandma smiled, "Yes, your Mom reminded me that none of you have been
horseback riding, unless you have gone on your own, since you left home.
Your Mom learned to ride horses when she was about 5 years old."

"Mom never told us about that," I said, in surprise.

I turned around in surprise when I heard Mom say, "There are a good many
things you don't know about me, son, and horseback riding is just one of
them."

Mom ruffled my hair as she sat next to me.  "Good morning, Marcy, Mother.
How are you two doing this fine morning?"

Before they answered, Dad came into the kitchen.  "Good morning everyone."

We chorused good morning, as he joined us at the table.  Marcy answered,
"We are doing really well this morning, Eva.  We are all ready for our trip
to the stables today."

Rick and I finished eating our breakfast and excused ourselves from the
table.  Rick took me by the hand and led me back upstairs to our room.  As
soon as the door was closed, he pushed me against the door and pinned me
there with his body, while he kissed me passionately.

When we finally came up for air, I asked, with a smile, "I wonder what you
have on your mind, Mr. Lernier."

I didn't get to say another word for quite some time, as Rick showed me
exactly what he had in mind for us this morning!

Later, Rick nibbled on my earlobe before he rolled off of me and pulled me
close to him.  He looked into my eyes and said, "I love you, Glenn.  These
last few days have been heaven on earth for me."

I returned his gaze and rubbed noses with my lover boy.  "I love you, too,
Rick.  I feel exactly the same way as you do."

Rick kissed me one more time, before he said, "We need to get dressed.
They will come looking for us soon, if we don't."

He pulled me to my feet and we showered together.  We dressed in matching
t-shirts and jeans.  Rick said, "You look great!"

I grinned, "So do you, lover boy!"

I took his hand and we went downstairs to find the rest of the family, who
had gathered in the front room, and were getting organized for the short
trip down the road to the stables.

Jason grinned at us when he saw us.  "I win!"

"What did you win?" I asked.

Jason explained, "I bet Gary that you two were enjoying each other's
company this morning, just like newlyweds, and I was right!"

I blushed and grinned, "Yes, you are correct."

"See, Gary, you have to remember what it was like when you and Jessica
first were married," Jason said, grinning at his cousin-in-law.  Jason
turned back to us and said, "We were speculating when you two would show
up."

My brother, Gary, laughed, "Yes, you are right about that, Jason.  When we
were first married, we spent more time in our bedroom than anywhere else."

Jessica smiled said, "Yes, we certainly did.  Glenn, don't let these two
try to tease you.  You and Rick need to enjoy each other as much as you
can, since you two will be going your separate ways in a couple of days."

"That's true.  We will head to the airport tomorrow morning to catch our
flight to Thunder Bay," Rick said.

"We are leaving tomorrow, as well, and so are Randy and Shawn," Gary said.

Shawn nodded his head.  "Yes, our flight leaves tomorrow afternoon, but we
plan to leave when you do, to make sure we get there in plenty of time."

Grandma came into the room.  "Time to go!"  She gave us our marching
orders, and we all scattered to do her bidding.  Rick and I helped load the
picnic baskets into the vehicles, then rode over to the neighbors with
Keith and Kerry.

The Braggs were waiting for us as we pulled up next to their stables.
Grandpa and Grandma greeted them and then introduced them to us.  "These
are my cousins, Tom and Margie Bragg," Grandma said.  We all said "Good
morning, Tom and Margie!"  Then, Grandma introduced us individually to
them.

When the introductions were done, Mr. Bragg said, "Okay, first off, let's
get one thing straight.  Call me Tom and this is Margie.  We don't stand on
ceremony around here, so I will be very offended if I hear a Mr. Bragg, or
Mrs. Bragg from any of you.  Okay?"  We nodded our heads in understanding,
as he looked around the group.  "Next, who here has ridden a horse before?
Please raise your hands," Tom said.

He looked around and counted how many of us had experience on horseback.
"Okay, that means we have one coach for every two people who haven't ridden
a horse.  I want you to pair up with someone who has ridden a horse who
will teach you the basics and help you get acquainted with the horse you
are going to be riding."

Jack ran over and grabbed Rick's hand, "I want you to teach me how to ride,
Uncle Rick."

Rick grinned, and said, "Sure, I'll teach both you and Uncle Glenn how to
ride.  Is that okay?"

"Yes!" he exclaimed, exuberantly.

"I bet you will learn to ride a horse better than your Uncle Glenn!" Rick
said, grinning at me.  "What do you think, Jack?"

Jack looked up at Rick.  "With you teaching us, Uncle Rick, we will both be
the same, because you are the best teacher in the world!"

I grinned at Rick, "Well said, Jack.  I agree with you.  Rick is the best
teacher in the world."

Rick laughed.  "Okay you two.  Let's go find us some horses to ride."  Jack
led Rick by the hand toward the open stable doors, where the Braggs were
pointing out which horses everyone should ride, based on their skill level.

The Braggs spent the next hour or so helping us get familiar with the
equipment and how to use it.  Rick showed us how to saddle the horse and
demonstrated how to mount him.  Then, he put Jack in the saddle and
adjusted the stirrups to fit.  He took the reins and led the horse, with
Jack on it, out into the pasture, to help Jack get acclimated to riding.
The horse the Braggs had chosen for Jack was a gentle, even-tempered mare.
The horse was well trained and responded easily to the reins.  It wasn't
long before Rick handed Jack the reins and asked him to walk the horse
around the enclosure a few more times.

Soon his sister, Miriam, had joined him in the enclosure with Grandma
coaching her.  Miriam grinned at us, and said, "Look Uncle Rick and Uncle
Glenn, I'm riding a horse all by myself."

Rick said, "Great job, Miriam!  You are doing really well."  Rick turned to
Grandma and asked, "Will you watch Jack while I get started with Glenn?"

Grandma nodded her head, and said, "Yes, I can take care of these two."

Rick returned with me to the stables and helped me get the horse ready.
The horses the Braggs had chosen for us were beautiful honey-colored
palomino horses.  Tom said, "This one is called Happy."



Tom turned to help Gary with his horse, while Rick wrapped his arms around
me and stole quick kiss and whispered, "I love you."

"I love you, too," I whispered back.  I pulled myself into the saddle with
a little boost from Rick, who, of course, took advantage of the moment and
ran his hand up and down my leg.  "Rick!" I exclaimed.

Rick laughed.  "I just wanted to make sure you still reacted to my touch."
He took the reins from my hands and led Happy out of the stables and into
the same enclosure with Miriam and Jack.  He handed them back to me.  "I
will be with you, shortly."  Rick returned to the stable where Tom directed
him to a Palomino stallion.

Tom said, "I thought you could handle Trigger here.  He's a little frisky,
but normally responds well."

Rick grinned, "I think we will get along just fine, Tom.  Thanks."  Rick
led Trigger over to where the saddles were stored, and tethered him to a
post while he put on the saddle blanket and the saddle, adjusting things as
he went.  Rick said, "Well, Trigger, sounds like you are a lot like me this
morning – a little frisky, but I respond well to my lover boy's needs."
He laughed and patted the horse's neck.  Trigger snorted in response, as if
in agreement.  Rick laughed, and said, "I think we'll get along great."

Rick untied the reins and climbed into the saddle, and rode Trigger out
into the enclosure to find Glenn.

It took us a while to get everyone ready.  The Braggs were very patient
with us.  They joined us on horseback and led us out of the enclosure and
out onto their farm.  We rode for quite a while, before arriving at a
meadow next to a little stream that was surrounded by trees.  We dismounted
and tethered the horses.  Grandma took charge, giving us directions as to
where to place the blankets, etc.  We ate lunch and played around in the
water, until it was time to mount our horses and return to the stables.  We
thanked Tom and Margie for their hospitality, and returned to my
grandparents' home.

Rick and I went upstairs and took a quick shower together.  We enjoyed
washing each other, as usual.  After getting dressed, we rejoined the
family.

Mom said, "Glenn, let's run through your music one more time.  I know you
won't have time to practice it, again, until after school starts."

"Mom...," I started to protest, when Rick interrupted me.

"Listen to you mother, Glenn," Rick said.  I gave him the "look" which just
made him laugh at me.  "You look so cute when you're mad at me."

Mom asked, "When do you have to perform it?"

"Dr. Nohr said the concert would be the Friday after school starts," I
responded.  "I don't know why Dr. Nohr keeps asking me to play piano
concertos, when my real love is the violin.  I have told him I can play
anything he wants to throw at me from the violin repertoire; but he always
insists that it be a piano piece."

Rick said, "Maybe he wants to challenge you to expand your horizons, so you
can be a better musician."

"I agree with Rick's assessment.  Dr. Nohr already knows you can play the
violin extremely well.  You have always struggled to master the piano, son.
That is why I made you practice it so much when you were little.  You have
a natural affinity for the violin, and you love it so much that I have
never had to push you to play it.  So I am happy that Dr. Nohr is
continuing what I started and that is to push you to expand your talents
into other areas, so you will become a well-rounded musician.  So, when are
you going to practice?" she asked, pointedly.

I ignored her question and said, "But Mom, I have already made a lot of
progress in playing the piano.  I have done everything you have asked me to
do.  I have even managed to master the right technique for playing Mozart,
which you used to hammer into my head, constantly, remember?"

Mom said, "Yes, I do remember, and yes, you have greatly improved your
technique, as well as many other things.  I am proud of your progress, son,
but you didn't answer my question – when are you going to practice?"

"Tonight will be the last time I will have access to a piano until we start
school next week," I admitted, reluctantly, knowing that I had just lost
the argument.

"I think you need to run through it one more time," Mom said, firmly.  "I
don't want you to embarrass yourself in front of all those people because
you decided you didn't need to practice."

"Mom, I already know it by heart.  We have played it over and over again
since Rick and I got here," I said, in hopes of getting out of another
practice session.  I wanted to relax with Rick and enjoy talking with the
family.  Mom can be such a tyrant when it comes to practice time!

Mom didn't respond, but walked into the music room, leaving me standing
there with Rick.  I looked up at Rick, as he took me by the hand, and
begged, "Aren't you going to help me out, here?"

"No, your mother is right.  I'm sorry, sweetheart," Rick replied, smiling
at me.  "Now, don't pout!  You know we're right and just don't want to
admit it."

I allowed Rick to lead me into the music room.  "It is so unfair!  Why do
you and Mom always gang up on me?  I thought you were supposed to be on my
side all the time!"

Rick turned and put his arms around me and rubbed noses with me.  "We gang
up on you when we know it is better for you to do something, and, if you
think about it, you'll know we're right!"  Rick released me and we moved
across the room together toward the piano.

Mom took her seat at one of the baby grand pianos, looked over at me, and
signaled that I should play on the other baby grand piano.  After I took my
place, Rick placed his large hands on my shoulders and leaned over to kiss
me, before he crossed the room to take a seat on the couch.  "Just be
happy, Glenn.  It doesn't do any good to be mad when you know we are
right," Rick said.

He smiled at me, as I scowled at him.  Well, at least, I tried to scowl,
because he started making faces at me that made me laugh.  I can never stay
angry at Rick for very long, because he knows how to make me laugh!  I
guess that is why I love him so much!

Mom began playing, and I turned to get ready for my solo entrance.  We
played through Mozart's Piano Concerto #21 from start to finish.  When we
finished, I was surprised by the sound of applause, and turned to see that
the rest of my family had made their way into the room and had listened to
our performance.  Mom and I stood up and took a bow.

Grandpa said, "Thank you for playing for us.  It is good to have fine music
played here, again."

Grandma said, "Yes, it is wonderful, dear.  Eva, you have done a fine job
of teaching Glenn to play the piano."

Mom smiled, "Thanks, Mom.  I have tried to teach all of my children to play
an instrument; some, with a better degree of success than others."

My brothers, Gary and Eric, laughed, and Gary said, "I have to confess that
I didn't try very hard, Mom.  I know you did your best, but I am just not
musically inclined."

"Nor am I," Eric said.

"But, at least, you know how to read music and you both can sing pretty
well, when you try," Mom said.

Eric said, "Yes, we can both sing, but we left room for the truly gifted
siblings to do their thing."

Shawn said, "Randy still plays his trumpet once in a while.  Fortunately,
he only does it in the middle of the day when no one is home!"

Randy laughed, "I am not as good on it as I was in high school, but I can
still play a few things without sounding too bad."

Dad said, "Shawn, you have to be a saint to be able to listen to Randy play
his trumpet!"

Randy responded, "He is a saint, Dad, because he married me!"

We all laughed at that statement.  I love my brother very much, but he is
prone to practical jokes which sometimes can be very annoying!  Shawn knows
exactly how to handle my brother.

"I think Rick got the best deal out of all the in-laws," Jessica said.

We all turned to look at her, and Shawn asked, "Why do you say that?"

"Rick got the one Nielsen who is very easy to get along with, and the most
even tempered," Jessica said, grinning at her husband, Gary, who stuck his
tongue out at her.

My sister, Nancy, started laughing, "Jessica, believe me when I say Glenn
is not even tempered.  He gets really moody all the time."

"Hey!  Don't be telling all my secrets!" I exclaimed indignantly.  "I am
not moody, at least, not very often."

"We all know that Eric is the calmest of all of us, and the most even
tempered," Nancy said.

Eric grinned, "Yes, I am the best one, aren't I?"

Nancy jabbed him gently in the ribs.  "I didn't say you were the most
humble one, though."

Mom said, "No, Eric, isn't the most humble of the lot of you, but he is the
calmest, and has given us the least amount of trouble...at least, up until
now."

Grandma said, "Let's move into the game room where we can be a little more
comfortable."  We followed her down the hall where we spent the rest of the
day playing games, visiting and enjoying the company of our family.  Rick
and I finally retired, well after midnight.  We fell into bed totally
exhausted, but very happy and content.

*** ***

The next morning, we were up early.  We showered, dressed and quickly
packed our stuff.  We went downstairs and were soon joined by the others
who were heading to the airport.  After a quick breakfast, we said our
farewells and caravanned to the airport.

After spending all day on airplanes, we finally arrived at the Valhalla Inn
in Thunder Bay, Ontario.  We checked in and found our way to our room.  We
were so tired, we stripped down and collapsed onto the bed.  I awoke the
next morning listening to Rick's heartbeat.  The warmth of his body felt
good against my skin.  I shivered as a cold draft cut across my bare back,
as the heat kicked on.  I could hear the wind howling against the building.
It was a good thing we had made it in before the storm hit.  The weather
frogs predicted it would move through quickly and that tomorrow would be
much milder.  I snuggled closer to Rick who automatically wrapped his arms
around me.

We both woke up a little later with Rick's hard on caught between us.  Rick
looked into my eyes before his lips captured mine.  Our desires for each
other were expressed without words, as we instinctively knew what the other
one needed.  The only coherent thought I had was that there is nothing
better than making out with my lover boy, first thing in the morning!

*** ***

Later in the morning, we showered and dressed.  I said, "Let's find out who
else has arrived."  I pulled out my cell phone and dialed Zach's number.

Zach answered, "Hey, Glenn!  Where are you guys?"

"We are here at the hotel.  Where are you and Todd?" I asked.

"We are downstairs in the ballroom which is next to the pool and the
Scandia 1 banquet room.  Why don't you and Rick join us?  We are going over
the plans for tomorrow."

"We will be right down," I said.  "Zach wants us to join them in the
ballroom."

Rick said, "Okay, let's go."

 We made our way to the ballroom.  We opened the door to find Zach, Todd,
Mark and Brandon surrounded by a group of people.  Zach broke away from the
group and walked over to greet us.  Zach hugged us both, and said, "Thank
you for coming.  Do you mind if we put you to work?"

Rick smiled.  "We would love to help."

Zach said, "Come join the crew.  We are figuring things out now.  The hotel
staff is working with us to set up the space the way we want it.  They are
catering dinner for us, and they also helped us hire a live band for the
evening.  So, we want to have space for dancing, as well as tables for
dinner and the buffet."

"Where will you have the marriage ceremony?" I asked.

"Right here," Zach replied.  "Our parents have hired photographers and a
videographer."

As we approached the group of people, Mark, Brandon and Todd broke away
from the discussions and greeted us enthusiastically.

Brandon grinned and asked, "Can you believe it?  I'm getting married!"

Mark laughed, "You had better believe it, because I'm not letting you go
anywhere until you have a ring on your finger and I have the marriage
license signed and witnessed!"

Todd smiled and said, "We went down to city hall yesterday and got our
marriage licenses, so we are ready in that regard.  We have met with
Reverend Joynt, who will perform the wedding ceremony."

"The rest of our friends should be arriving sometime later today.  I know
that weather may delay some of them until tomorrow, though," Zach said.

"Who else is here?" I asked.

Zach replied, "Patty, Janice, Ben, Donica, Devon, Irene, and Jimmy.  Justin
and Brian are driving up from Minneapolis today with rest of the guys from
the Twin Cities Gay Men's Chorus.  I think they rented a van or something,
so they could travel together."

"What can we do to help?" Rick asked.

Todd said, "Let's ask our parents."  Todd introduced us to his parents, Sam
and Vickie Ingram.  Zach and Mark's parents greeted us warmly.  We talked
with them for a while about the wedding arrangements, but it seems that the
Andersons, Ingrams, and Mattisons had everything under control.

Sam said, "Boys, why don't you go and relax in the pool for a while.  I
think we have the answers to our questions about how you want things, so we
can get everything taken care of here."

"Yes, I think we can take care of the rest of the arrangements.  Todd,
dear, do you and Zach have your weddings rings?" Vickie asked, looking up
at her son.

Todd replied, "Yes, we do.  Mark and Brandon have theirs, as well."

"Good.  Are they in a safe place?" Vickie asked.

"Yes, Mom, we have them in a safe place," Todd said, grinning at Zach.

Zach said, "Guys, let's hit the pool!"

We left the ballroom and headed back upstairs to grab our swimsuits.  We
were still swimming when we saw Justin and Brian.  They came inside the
pool area to talk to us.

"Hey, guys, you look great in your Speedos!" Justin exclaimed, looking us
over.  He turned to Brian, "Man, I love having roommates that are the best
looking guys in the world."

Brian grinned, "Yes, I agree with you, but I think you are better looking
than all of them!"

"Did the rest of the guys come with you?" I asked.

"No, they drove separately, because we wanted to get here early," Justin
said smiling.

Brian was holding Justin's hand, which wasn't unusual; but, I noticed there
was a ring on Brian's hand that was not there the last time I saw him.  I
looked at Justin's left hand and noticed he wore a matching ring.  It took
me a moment to process what the implications were, before I looked them
both in the eye and asked, "Guys, do you have some news to share with us?"

 Justin and Brian looked at each other and grinned.  Justin said, "Yes, we
got married yesterday."

Rick exclaimed, "Congratulations!"  He enveloped them both in a big bear
hug.  Luckily for them, he had wrapped a towel around himself so they
didn't get wet.

I hugged them both when Rick released them.  "I am so happy for both of
you.  Why didn't you tell us?"

Justin looked at Brian.  "We didn't decide to get married until a couple of
days ago.  We didn't want to spoil the celebration of the double weddings,
so we got married yesterday."

Zach climbed out to of the pool.  "What's this I hear?  You two went off
and got married without us?"

Brian smiled, "Yes, we did!"

Todd joined us, as well. "Congratulations!  I think you two should be
honored at our wedding celebration, as well."

Brian turned to Justin. "See, I told you they wouldn't let us escape
without celebrating our wedding with them."

Justin smiled and shrugged his shoulders.  "Okay, you were right, but I am
still glad we got married yesterday."

"Why don't you two get your swimsuits and join us?" Todd asked.

"Sure, we will be right back," Brian said.

The two left us and we returned to the pool.  Zach asked me, "Why do you
think they didn't want to be married at the same time with us?"

"It should be obvious to you, Zach, that neither one of them can afford to
contribute to the costs of the wedding celebration.  Justin's parents
disowned him and Brian's parents don't know he is gay.  I think they wanted
to be married at the same time as you guys, but were too proud to ask to be
part of your celebration, without having the means to help pay their fair
share," I replied.

"But we would have been glad to have them with us, no matter whether or not
they could help pay for the cost of the wedding," Zach said.

"I am sure they know that, but they chose to do things differently," I
said.  "Besides, we can still celebrate their marriage with them."

Brian and Justin soon returned, and we had a great time fooling around in
the pool and hot tub.  My stomach started to growl, since we didn't have
breakfast and it was nearly noon.  Rick laughed.  "Are you hungry or what?"

"Yes, I am starving," I said.

Todd said, "The hotel restaurant is pretty good.  Let's get dressed and we
will meet you there."

We spent the rest of the day hanging out with our friends and catching up
with what everyone had done over the holidays.  The rest of our friends
arrived just before dinner time.  Ben called me on my cell phone.

"Hello, Ben.  Where are you?" I asked.

"We just arrived and are checking in.  Have you eaten, yet?" Ben asked.

"No, we are planning to eat here at the hotel at 7 PM.  Why don't you get
freshened up and we will meet you there just before 7?" I asked.

"Great!  I will tell the rest of the gang," Ben said.

I turned to Rick.  "The rest of our friends just arrived and will meet us
for dinner."

Brian said, "I'm glad they made it safely here.  The weather was pretty bad
last night."

"Yes, it was.  We got in just before the storm hit," Rick said.

Zach picked up the hotel phone and spoke to the front desk about reserving
enough tables for our entire group.  They switched him to the restaurant.
He turned to us, and said, "I've gotten it all taken care of for dinner.
Let me call Dad to let him know the rest of our friends made it safely."

At the appointed hour, we met in the hotel lobby.  It was great seeing all
of my friends.  Zach and Todd were ecstatic to see that both of their
hockey teams had shown up for their wedding.  While Zach and Todd talked
excitedly with their teammates, their coaches walked over to talk to their
parents.

Rick said, "It is really cool that Zach and Todd seem to have the support
of their teammates."

"Yes, it is truly amazing, given the anti-gay sentiment most athletes
display, as if it makes them more manly or something.  Zach and Todd are
great guys and I think they have more than proven their worth to their
respective teams.  They have earned the respect of their teammates; and,
best of all, they are accepted for who they are," I said.

"I am very happy for them.  It makes it so much easier when your friends
are there for you," Rick said.

 Devon and Jimmy walked over to us.  Devon said, "Isn't it great that the
whole team is here!  Zach's Dad arranged for charter buses to bring the two
teams to the wedding.  Coach Dodd made it clear to the team that he
expected us to be here to support our teammates.  I heard that Coach
Madison told his team the same thing.  Todd's teammates have been really
cool about that fact that Todd is transferring to play on our team.  I
thought they would be really upset about it, but they understand that it is
important for Todd to be with his husband after they get married."

Jimmy said, "Zach and Todd personally delivered wedding invitations to each
of our teammates and every one of us is here to support them.  Todd said
they personally delivered invitations to Todd's teammates, as well; so they
could explain why Todd was transferring schools, and to let them get to
know Zach better.  Not only that, they each asked a teammate to stand up
with them.  Zach asked Ben and Todd asked his teammate, Aaron Jensen.
Aaron is the center for the Bulldogs."

Ben and Janice walked into the lobby and made their way over to us.  Rick
bumped fists with Ben, and gave Janice a hug.  "So, did you two get
engaged?" Rick asked.

Ben grinned, "Yes, we did, and Janice's parents are really wonderful.  We
have planned a June wedding."

Janice nodded her head, "My Dad thinks Ben walks on water.  My parents have
already talked to Ben's parents, and the wedding plans are just about
complete."

"Congratulations to both of you!  I am very happy things worked out the way
you wanted," I said.

At a signal from Zach's Dad, we all moved toward the restaurant.  The rest
of the evening went quickly.  We were all excited to see our best friends
get married!

*** ***

The next morning dawned with much excitement.  We spent the day touring the
sights and sounds of Thunder Bay.  By mid-afternoon, we returned to the
hotel and started getting ready for the main event.  At 5 PM, we made our
way to the ballroom and joined the rest of the wedding party.

The two couples greeted us at the door - Zach and Todd in white tuxedos on
one side and Mark and Brandon in black tuxedos on the other.

Zach said, "Thank you for being here for us."

"We wouldn't have missed it for anything," Rick said.

We turned to Mark and Brandon.  Mark said, "Glenn thanks for standing up
with me."

Brandon smiled and said, "Thank you for coming."

"You are welcome, Mark.  Brandon, thank you for asking Robbie to be your
best man; you know it means a lot to him," I said.

Brandon's smile widened, "Yes, I know.  Besides you, Robbie helped set me
straight.  After I tried my luck with you, I hit on Robbie."

"What did Robbie do?" I asked, in surprise.

"He slapped me!  I was so stunned, I didn't know what to do.  Robbie told
me in no uncertain terms that cheating on my boyfriend was not acceptable;
and that I had better be on the up and up with Mark, or I could expect a
lot of trouble from Mark's friends and roommates.  He said a lot of other
things, too, that made me really think.  So, between you two guys, I had a
real awakening - to figure what I intended to do with the rest of my life.
I owe my wonderful relationship with Mark to you and Robbie, because you
both had the courage to tell me straight out that I was wrong, and that I
needed to change."

I hugged Brandon.  "I am glad you listened to us."

More people were lining up to greet the lucky couples, so Rick and I moved
on to find our seats.  When the guests had all arrived, the two couples
made their way to the stage and took their places at the center of the
white archway, where Reverend Joynt waited for them.

Reverend Joynt spoke into the microphone, "May I have your attention,
please.  We are here today to celebrate the union of these two happy
couples.  Before we begin, I want to welcome everyone on their behalf.  We
are happy you are here this blessed day."

She paused for a moment, and then said, "Will the best men join us,
please."  Ben, Aaron, Robbie and I made our way to join them.  We took our
places and Reverend Joynt said, "The best men will each give a reading."

We each recited our reading into the microphone.  When we were done,
Reverend Joynt said, "Now we will proceed to the moment we have all been
waiting for.  Each couple has written their own wedding vows, so we will
start with Mark and Brandon, and will follow with Zach and Todd."

Reverend Joynt turned to Mark and said, "Mark, you may begin."

Mark turned to Brandon and said, "I, Mark Andrew Mattison, take you Brandon
Earl McCray, to be my husband, my partner in life and my one true love.  I
will cherish our friendship, and love you today, tomorrow and forever.  I
will trust you and honor you.  I will laugh with you and cry with you.  I
will love you faithfully, through the best and the worst, through the
difficult and the easy.  No matter what may come our way, I will always be
there.  As I have given you my hand to hold, so I give you my life to
keep."

Brandon, in turn, said, "I, Brandon Earl McCray, take you Mark Andrew
Mattison, to be my husband, my partner in life and my one true love.  I
will cherish our friendship, and love you today, tomorrow and forever.  I
will trust you and honor you.  I will laugh with you and cry with you.  I
will love you faithfully, through the best and the worst, through the
difficult and the easy.  No matter what may come our way, I will always be
there.  As I have given you my hand to hold, so I give you my life to
keep."

Reverend Joynt said, "I now pronounce you legally and lawful married.  You
may exchange rings."

Robbie and I handed the rings to Brandon and Mark, who placed them on each
other's ring finger.  Then, they kissed each other.  The whole room erupted
in applause.

Then Reverend Joynt said, "Zach, you may begin."

Zach turned to Todd and said, "From this moment, I, Zachary Blake Anderson,
take you, Todd Anthony Ingram, as my best friend for life.  I pledge to
honor, encourage, and support you through our walk together.  When our way
becomes difficult, I promise to stand by you and uplift you, so that
through our union we can accomplish more than we could alone.  I promise to
work at our love and always make you a priority in my life.  With every
beat of my heart, I will love you.  This is my solemn vow."

Todd, in turn, said, "From this moment, I, Todd Anthony Ingram, take you,
Zachary Blake Anderson, as my best friend for life.  I pledge to honor,
encourage, and support you through our walk together.  When our way becomes
difficult, I promise to stand by you and uplift you, so that through our
union we can accomplish more than we could alone.  I promise to work at our
love and always make you a priority in my life.  With every beat of my
heart, I will love you.  This is my solemn vow."

Reverend Joynt said, "I now pronounce you legally and lawfully married.
You may exchange rings."

Ben and Aaron handed the rings to Zach and Todd, who placed the rings on
each other's hand and then they kissed each other.  Again, the whole room
erupted in applause.

Reverend Joynt said, "I present to you Mark and Brandon Mattison and Zach
and Todd Anderson-Ingram.  Please come up to congratulate the newlyweds."

Since I was already there with them, I turned and said, "Congratulations,
Mark and Brandon.  I am so happy for both of you."  Rick joined me as I
handed an envelope to them, and said, "Rick and I talked it over with our
family, and we decided that, for your wedding, we will set up the Mark and
Brandon Mattison Scholarship fund at the university.  You two will be the
first beneficiaries of the scholarship funds.  Upon your graduation, the
athletic department will use the two scholarships to help gay athletes fund
their college educations."

Brandon eyes were filled with tears.  "Thank you so much!"  Brandon gave us
both a hug.

Mark said, with a lot of emotion in his voice, "We love you guys."

Rick and I moved over to congratulate Zach and Todd.  Rick said,
"Congratulations!"  He hugged each one.

I said, "I am very happy for you."  I handed them an envelope and said,
"Rick and I talked it over with our family, and we decided, that for your
wedding, we will set up the Zachary and Todd Anderson-Ingram Scholarship
Fund at the university.  You two will be the first beneficiaries.  Upon
your graduation, the athletic department will use the two scholarships to
help gay athletes fund their college educations."

Todd looked at both of us and said, quietly, "You are miracle workers.
Thank you for making it possible for me to attend college without having to
lean on my father-in-law to fund my schooling.  You don't know how much it
means to me."

Zach's voice was full of emotion, as he spoke, "Thank you for being our
friends; and I am especially grateful for everything you have done for us."

Rick and I made our way back to our table, as the rest of the guests
congratulated the happy couples.

Rick said, "I'm glad Grandpa Scarborough agreed with your suggestion to
establish the scholarship funds for them.  I don't know them as well as you
do, Glenn, but I saw how much it meant to them.  They will never forget
what we have done for them."

I took Rick's hand.  "It is the least we could do for our friends.  When I
told Grandpa about them and everything they have done to make me feel
welcome at school, and how they have become our good friends; he agreed
that we should do something extraordinary for them."

"You know we will have to work with the athletic department to establish
the criteria for awarding the scholarships.  I think we should ask the guys
to be the chairmen of the scholarship selection committees, so we can be
assured that the funds go to support gay athletes and don't get diverted
elsewhere or go unused," Rick said.

I looked at my lover boy, and said, "You are a genius!  Do you know that?"

"Yes, actually, I do know that I am pretty smart!  I chose you to be my
life partner," Rick said, grinning at me.  He leaned over and lightly
kissed my lips.

Ben and Janice joined us and the conversation moved to other topics.  The
rest of the evening went off as planned.  The food was excellent and the
band was great.  We each took turns dancing with the newlyweds, and then
with many of our friends.

At one point during the evening, Mr. and Mrs. Mattison joined Rick and I
for a few moments.  Mrs. Mattison said, "Thank you for the generous wedding
gift.  It means a lot to both of them.  Brandon, especially, was touched by
your thoughtfulness.  He thinks of you as part of his extended family."

I said, "It is the least we can do to help them get off to a good start as
a couple.  We thought it would relieve a lot of stress for Mark and Brandon
if Brandon had his own money for college."

Mr. Mattison said, "You are right on the mark, Glenn.  He is very adamant
about the fact that he doesn't want to take our money without paying it
back.  We were trying to figure out a way to help them, without upsetting
Brandon.  You have done it without offending them, and in a way that will
also benefit others after they have moved on to the next stage of their
lives together."

Mrs. Mattison hugged us both.  "Thank you, again, for being here for them.
I know that the Andersons feel the same way we do about what you did for
Zach and Todd.  I wish everyone had good friends, like you have been for
our sons."

I said, "We have a saying at our place on campus that we got from Jimmy,
originally.  It is that we are all part of an ohana; meaning that we are
all part of the same family.  And more importantly, we know that being part
of our ohana means that no one gets left behind.  We look out for each
other and we stand by each other.  Sometimes that means we have to rescue
one of the members of our ohana, and set them back on the road to success."

"Mark has talked about this ohana concept with us.  It means a lot to us to
know that Mark and Brandon have an extended family there in Minneapolis,"
Mr. Mattison said.

Jimmy and Donica joined us, as the Mattisons moved on to visit with some of
their friends from Duluth.  Jimmy said, "It is so cool that the guys got
married.  I just wish they could have been married in the states.  It's too
bad there is so much prejudice against gays that has been written into our
laws."

Donica said, "You're right, Jimmy, but it falls to our generation to change
those laws.  It is people like you and I that will make things better for
our gay friends."

"I agree with you, Donica," I said.  "However, it is going to take a lot of
us working together to get other people to understand the injustices that
they have committed."

Rick said, "Now you have done it!  You have got Glenn started on his
activist tirade!"

Donica laughed, "So I did!  I'm sorry, Rick, I forgot how passionate Glenn
gets about gay rights.  Glenn, let's talk more about this when we get back
to school.  I have some ideas about what we can do to raise people's
awareness of gay issues."

I smiled, "Thanks, Donica.  Rick, I promise I won't say anything more about
it, the rest of our time together.  Okay?"

Rick put his arm around my shoulders, and said, "Okay.  I agree with you,
Glenn, but I can't do anything to support our cause until I am out of the
military."

"I am sorry I got started on the subject," I said, turning my head so I
could give Rick a kiss.

Patty and Irene came over and sat down with us.  Patty asked, "Are you
ready for the concert next week, Glenn."

Before I could respond, Rick said, "He had better be, after all the
practicing his Mom made him do over the holidays!"

"I think I am ready.  How about you?  Are you two ready with the Mozart
violin concertos Dr. Nohr asked you to play?" I asked.

Irene said, "No, I am not ready.  I am so nervous I keep messing up a
couple of the more difficult passages."

Patty looked at her friend, and asked, "Do you want some help with them?
Glenn and I could work with you on it."

"Yes, I would welcome the assistance.  I think that once I get through it a
few times, I will be okay," Irene said.

"We could get together tomorrow night, after we get back to Minneapolis,"
Patty said.

Irene smiled, "Thanks for bailing me out.  I was getting pretty
discouraged, since we only have a little over a week before the concerts."

Rick asked, "How many concerts are there?"

"Dr. Nohr scheduled four nights of Mozart concerts at his home.  Each night
highlights different solo instruments: piano and violin the first night,
clarinet and horn the second, piano and violin, again, the third, and flute
and harp the last night," I said.

"And the following two weeks, there are eight more concerts.  Each night
highlights a different composer: Beethoven, Brahms, Haydn, Sibelius,
Schubert, Paganini, Tchaikovsky, and Mendelssohn.  All of the top music
students will be performing at one of the concerts," Irene said.

Patty added, "Dr. Nohr gave us our assignments the day before winter break.
50% of our grade depends on how well we perform at these concerts.  Each
concert benefits a different charity.  There is no admission charge;
however, patrons are encouraged to donate to the charity that is sponsoring
the concert that night."

"Wow!  I didn't know there were so many concerts!  Glenn told me about the
concerts next week and that they would benefit various charitable
organizations.  That is really cool that the school is giving you an
opportunity to showcase your talents, and, at the same time, provide
community service," Rick said.

"The university is very involved in the local community," Jimmy said.  "The
hockey team does some similar things, but more around sporting events,
etc."

Donica said, "I am very happy that the school does so many community
outreach activities.  It is one of the reasons I decided to attend the
U. of M. Twin Cities."

Rick and I stayed for a while longer, talking with our friends, before
making our way back up to our room.  We helped each other get undressed and
Rick looked intently into my eyes and said, "I think we need to celebrate."

"What are we celebrating?" I asked, rubbing noses with my lover boy.

Rick grinned, "I think we should celebrate being together - alone in our
room!"

"I think that would be a great thing to celebrate," I said, laughing.  "And
how do you suggest we celebrate?"

Rick didn't answer my question.  Instead, he picked me up off the ground
and walked over and gently put me down on the bed.  He joined me and soon
answered my question in many wonderful ways!

*** ***

The next morning we were up early.  We had an early flight back to
Minneapolis, so we packed our bags and had everything ready to go in short
order.  We checked out and caught the hotel shuttle to the airport.  The
best flight we could get was the 5:10 AM through Toronto that arrived in
Minneapolis at 10:25.

We arrived on time in Minneapolis.  Ben and the girls were on our same
flight, so we hired several taxis to take us to the university and split
the cost between us.  Rick and I carried our bags upstairs to our room.
After putting our clothes away, Rick turned to me with a wide grin and
asked, "What shall we do for the next few days?"

"I think we spend the entire time in bed, making passionate love to each
other!" I exclaimed, as I wrapped my arms around Rick's waist and looked
into his eyes.

"I couldn't agree with you more," Rick said, as he kissed me.  "We need a
"Do Not Disturb" sign for our door."

"I think we can make one up.  I have paper and some markers in my desk
drawer," I said, releasing Rick.  "The rest of the guys won't be back until
tomorrow night, and Ben will be out with Janice; so, we should have the
house to ourselves for the next little while."

"Sounds like a plan," Rick said.

There was a knock on the door, and Ben stepped into the room.  "Guys, I am
heading over to pick up Janice.  We are going downtown with some of her
friends from the dorms.  Do you want to go with us?"

We looked at each other and Rick responded, "Thank you for the invitation,
but I think we will stay home today."

Ben grinned.  "I didn't think you would be interested in going with us, but
I thought I would at least invite you to join us."

I laughed, and said, "You know what we are interested in, and it's not
going downtown."

Ben laughed with me.  "Yes, I figured as much.  Don't wait up for me
tonight, since we plan to be out late."

Ben left, closing the door behind him.  Rick looked at me and said, "I
guess we don't need the "Don't Disturb" sign, since we will be alone the
rest of the day."

Later that evening, Rick and I prepared our dinner together.  We decided to
make a baked ziti dish, with a salad and some fresh fruit, which meant we
had to get dressed and go out to the market.  We made a quick trip to the
store and returned to prepare our meal.

Rick chopped the vegetables and prepared the salad, while I put together
the pasta dish.  Rick said, "I love being here with you, Glenn.  It seems
like we have been together forever.  I wish I didn't have to go back to
Quantico.  I am really going to miss you."

"I know, sweetheart.  I am going to miss you, too," I said, as I put my
arms around Rick's neck and gently kissed him.

Rick asked, "Did you set the timer for the baked ziti?"

"Yes, I did.  Let's go into the family room and relax for a bit, while it
cooks," I said.

Rick led me into the family room, where we turned on the TV and got
comfortable on the couch.  I snuggled up next to Rick and he wrapped his
arms around me.  We didn't find much of interest on TV, so we ended up
turning it off and turning on some music.

Rick asked, "Have you decided what you want to do after school gets out in
the spring?"

"Honestly, I haven't given it any thought.  I have been concentrating on
surviving each day without you.  It has been much, much better, now that
you are able to call me more often than when you were overseas; but it
still isn't the same as being in the same room with you," I said, as I took
Rick's hand in mine.

"I know how hard it has been for both of us, sweetheart; however, we need
to concentrate on the positive side of things.  We are more than half way
through my one year deployment.  Lt. Col. Bachman thinks we will be sent
home in May, sometime," Rick said, trying to lighten my mood.

"Do you want to return to Atlanta and Georgia Tech to finish school?" I
asked, already knowing the answer.

"Yes, I would like to return to our condo in Atlanta.  I like being here
with all the guys, but it is not the same as living with you in our own
place.  I also miss Keith and Kerry.  Do you want to go back?" Rick asked.

"Yes and no.  Yes, I want to go back for the same reasons you do, and no,
because I have made so many good friends here, and I finally feel like I
belong somewhere.  I have never felt accepted for who I am at Georgia Tech,
and I hate the fact that I have to always watch what I do whenever we are
out public, for fear that someone from the Marine Corps will see us and
report you," I said.

"If I joined you here in Minneapolis, I would have to transfer to the
reserve unit here, and we would still have the same issues as we do in
Atlanta," Rick said.

"Not to mention the fact that we have been pretty open about our
relationship with everyone we know here," I said, pausing to think.  "And
living with three married gay couples would also raise red flags with the
Marine Corps."

Rick said, "I'm sorry to rain on your parade, Glenn.  I know how much you
like it here, and how much it means to you to be yourself and not have to
hide who you are, to protect me."  Rick's voice cracked, as he finished
speaking.  I sensed the emotions he was feeling as he tightened his
embrace.

I lifted my hand to his chin and turned his face toward me so I could look
him directly in the eyes, as I said, in a tone of voice that left no room
for confusion, "Richard James Lernier, I want you to listen to me.  We are
going to do whatever it takes to make sure you are able to meet your
obligations.  If that means we go back to Atlanta, then we will go back to
Atlanta.  I need you to understand that I am going to be wherever you are,
no matter where that somewhere happens to be.  Do we understand each
other?"

Rick's eyes were bright with tears, as he answered, "Yes, Sir!"

I gave him the "look" and said, "You had better say, "Yes, Sir!" because I
intend to be with you forever, and I want to make sure we have a clear
understanding of what that means, so we make decisions that will help us
stay together."

I gently stroked Rick's cheek, before pulling him towards me and giving him
a kiss.  "We will return to Atlanta if you think it is best for us," I
said.

Rick held me tight for a few minutes before he said, "I have thought about
it a lot over the last few days, Glenn.  I have tried to think of all the
consequences a move to Minneapolis would have for us.  I even drew up a
chart and listed out the pros and cons.  I will show it to you, so you can
make sure I didn't miss anything.  I think that you will see that, from a
logical standpoint, it makes more sense to move back to Atlanta."

I said, "I will look at it, but I trust your judgment, Rick.  Let me say
it, again, Rick – I trust you!"  I put my hand on his chest right over
his heart.  "I trust you because you love me."

Rick took my hand in his and kissed it.  "Thank you for being my life
partner, Glenn."

We heard the timer go off in the kitchen, indicating that our dinner was
ready; so, we migrated back to the kitchen.  Rick set the table, while I
removed the baked ziti from the oven.  Rick poured us a couple of glasses
of Martinelli's sparkling cider and lit a couple of candles.  I placed our
dinner on the table and dimmed the lights.  We had a nice romantic evening
talking and joking with each other, followed by a wonderful, enchanted
night together.

*** ***

The next morning, Rick opened his eyes to the sight of his sweetheart's
angelic face.  He loved how his blond hair fell across his forehead and
partially covered his eyes.  Glenn's long, dark brown eyelashes brushed his
cheeks and matched his dark brown eyebrows.  As he watched, Glenn seemed to
be having good dreams, as he smiled and stirred slightly.  He looked so
peaceful and content, sleeping with his head on Rick's arm; his hairless
chest moving slightly against Rick's side and his legs, intertwined with
Rick's.  Glenn's body had filled out nicely as a result of working out with
Ben and his teammates.  Glenn had always been trim, but now he was almost
as buff as Rick was, himself.  Rick contemplated his beautiful lover's face
for some time as he remembered their wonderful time together last night.
The memory brought tears of joy to his eyes and warmed his heart, as he
thought about how much love they had for each other.

Rick thought over everything they had discussed last night.  They had gone
over Rick's pros and cons chart and talked at length about their goals and
aspirations, both as individuals, and as a couple.  Glenn had agreed to
return to Atlanta to finish school.  It still amazed him how unselfish
Glenn was about everything.  He had never known anyone, before Glenn, who
totally and completely put someone else's needs above his own.

Rick had pushed Glenn to make sure moving back to Atlanta was what he
wanted to do.  In the end, the decision was made jointly, after much
discussion.  Each of them had their own personal preferences, but had been
willing to sacrifice them for the happiness of the other.  For Rick, it
reinforced his determination to put Glenn's happiness above his own,
knowing that Glenn was doing the same.  Glenn had made it very clear to
Rick that Rick held the highest priority in his life, and that Glenn's
happiness depended on making his sweetheart happy.

Glenn had suggested that he drive to his parents' house with Ben after
finals, and would wait there until Rick could join him.  They wanted to
attend Ben and Janice's wedding in June, so they decided they would stay in
Swift Current for a few weeks, before making the long road trip back to
Atlanta.

Rick's thoughts returned to his lover's face as Glenn's eyes fluttered open
and a smile spread across his face, as he realized Rick was gazing into his
blue-gray eyes.

Rick returned Glenn's smile and said, "Good morning, Babe."

"Good morning," I said.  "You are up early this morning.  I expected you to
sleep in after last night's activities!  You sure wore me out!  Remind me
not to give in to you when you ask if I am ready for a marathon lovemaking
session!"

Rick laughed, "I was going to ask if you were up to making out, again, this
morning.  I feel so alive and full of energy.  Do you know why?"

I looked at my beaming lover boy for a moment, and then replied, "You're
happy."

"Yes, I am very happy and content.  I haven't felt this way since I left
you in Atlanta last May," Rick said, brushing his lips against mine.  It
was just enough to make me want more!

I moved closer and kissed Rick, as I ran my hands over his well-muscled
abdomen.  I love the feel of his six-pack abs.  Rick had been working out
and it showed!  "I want you to make me yours," I whispered, as I nibbled on
his ear.

Rick, never being one to turn down such an invitation, grinned and said,
"Your wish is my command, lover boy."

*** ***

We were enjoying the afterglow of our lovemaking when there was a knock on
the door and Ben walked into the room.  He stopped when he saw us and said,
"I'm sorry, I should have waited until you invited me to come in.  I'll
come back later."

He turned to leave, but I called him back, "It's okay, Ben.  Come in and
sit down."  I reached down and grabbed the sheet and pulled it up over us.

 Ben sat down on the desk chair next to the bed and said, "What do you have
planned for today?"

Rick grinned, "The same thing as yesterday!"

Ben laughed, "I thought that might be the case.  Janice and I are going to
spend some time at the campus bookstore getting our textbooks for our
classes, and then we will probably take in a movie or something."

I said, "Why don't you meet us for lunch, and then we can all go to the
movies?"

"Sounds like a plan," Ben said.

"Ben, what do you think about letting the newlyweds switch rooms with us?"
I asked.

Ben thought for a moment.  "It makes sense to do that, since I am getting
married in June.  Have you decided to go back to Atlanta?"

"Yes, we decided to go back to Atlanta, yesterday.  I thought that the two
married couples could manage this rental for us, since you are moving into
a new place and I won't be living here, either," I said.  "I also thought
we could approach Grandpa about setting up a rental management company
here, because I think that we could buy several more homes along this
street."

Rick said, "I think that we should ask Grandpa to set up the same kind of
situation for our friends as he has given us.  It would be beneficial for
them, as well as for us.  What do you think, Ben?"

"I think it is a good idea, but I would like to discuss it further with
Grandpa before we say anything to the guys.  If the business deal is
structured properly, I think that it can be a win-win situation for all of
us.  I know the guys would never intentionally take advantage of us, but it
never hurts to be proactive in protecting the interests of all the parties
involved," Ben said.

"Have you talked to Grandpa about buying a home for you and Janice?" Rick
asked.

"Yes, I called him and my parents to talk about it while we were at
Janice's home.  Her parents would chip in some of the down payment, as will
my parents.  Grandpa agreed to buy the home for us, and we would make
payments to him until we decided to either rent it out or sell it," Ben
said.  "We would be paid by the company for managing the rental property if
we rent it, and we would evenly divide the profit from the sale of the
house between us and Grandpa if we decide to sell it."

"Sweet!  I knew Grandpa would help you out!  I think he will also work the
same deal with the guys here.  I think they will want to stay here until
they have graduated," I said.

"When are you going to talk to Grandpa?" Ben asked.

"Today.  I want to talk to the guys when they get home tonight," I said.

"Good.  I will make sure Janice and I are back by dinnertime tonight," Ben
said.  Ben got up and walked toward the door.  "I will see you guys
downtown, for lunch."

He closed the door behind him, leaving us to enjoy the rest of our morning
together.  After a shower and a quick breakfast, we called Grandpa
Scarborough.

"Hello, Grandpa," I said.

"Good morning, Glenn," Grandpa said.

"Can we talk to you about a business deal?" I said.

"Yes, what is it that you want to talk about?" he asked in return.

I outlined what Rick, Ben and I had discussed earlier.  When I finished,
Grandpa didn't reply right away.  I could hear him writing down something
on a pad of paper at his end.  Then, he said, "I like the idea.  Let's go
ahead and propose the idea to your friends; and, in the meantime, I will
get the paperwork drawn up.  If they agree to the terms we have discussed,
we can go ahead with your proposal."

"Thank you, Grandpa.  I am sure they will be more than willing to work with
us," I said.

"I will talk to you later today, then," Grandpa said.

"Okay," I said.

I hung up and turned to Rick, who was smiling.  "Grandpa is so cool!  I
can't wait until the guys get here, so we can find out if they are
agreeable to working with us, or not," I said.

Rick and I met Ben and Janice for lunch, and then spent the afternoon at
the movies.  When we arrived home, the guys were home.  We all gathered in
the family room and talked about the double weddings and all the excitement
of having all of our friends there to support them.

After a while, I asked if I could speak to them about a business
proposition.  The room went silent, and everyone looked at me.  I stood up
and outlined what we had in mind.

At first, no one said anything.  I wasn't sure what they were going to say.
Zach looked at Todd and asked, "What do you think?"

Todd smiled, "I think it is a very sweet deal and we should do it."

Zach nodded, "I agree.  We're in favor of it, and we agree to the terms you
have laid out for us."

I turned to Mark and Brandon, who both nodded their heads in the
affirmative.  "The answer is yes," Brandon said.

Justin said, "And it is yes for us, too."

"Cool!  Let me call my Grandpa and I will put him on speaker phone," I
said.

Grandpa answered, "Hello, Glenn."

"Hello, Grandpa.  I have all the guys here and I have put you on speaker
phone.  They have all agreed to our business proposal and to the terms we
have outlined for them."

"Good.  Let me say I am very happy to have you boys come on board with us,"
Grandpa said.  He continued to talk about the specifics of how things would
work.  When he finished, he asked, "Are you all comfortable with how we
will run things?"

They all answered in the affirmative.  "Good.  Enjoy your evening, boys,
and I will be in touch with you later."

We said good-bye and hung up.

Zach stood up and came over to Rick, Ben and I, and said, "Thank you for
believing in us.  We won't fail you.  I know this is an opportunity of a
lifetime.  Todd and I will make sure we make it work for us."

The rest of the guys expressed these same sentiments.  We ordered out pizza
and spent the evening talking about our upcoming classes, the business
proposal and our plans for after graduation.  We talked long into the
night.  For the newlyweds, they not only had the excitement of the
weddings, but the added buzz that entering into a business arrangement with
us brought with it.  It made me very grateful for my Grandpa and his
willingness to take a chance on us making things work.  It also made me
realize that my friends are top notch kind of guys.  They are the type of
people you can count on.  I count myself very fortunate to have good
friends who love and support me.

As we got ready for bed, Rick said, "Glenn, I am glad we have such good
friends.  It makes it easier for me to leave you here, knowing that you are
surrounded by those who love you and will look out for you."

"I agree with you.  It doesn't stop me from missing you, but they do keep
me out of trouble," I said, laughing.

Rick pulled me into bed and wrapped his arms around me.  I love snuggling
up to his warm body.  I thought of how much I was going to miss him, as I
drifted off to sleep, listening to the steady rhythm of his heart.

*** ***

Author's Note:

Thank you D. for editing this chapter.

Mozart Concerto No. 21 – Part 1 of 4 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltGCNAgSgIU

Part 2 of 4 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yBjgaT4Cu7s

Part 3 of 4 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qCY1bVNSp4

Part 4 of 4 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZA4ezgKp2U

Where to get your marriage license:  http://www.thunderbay.ca/Living/City_Services_and_Info/Guide_to_City_Services/Marriage_Licenses.htm

The form you must fill out to get your marriage license:  http://www.forms.ssb.gov.on.ca/mbs/ssb/forms/ssbforms.nsf/AttachDocsPublish/007-11018E~1/$File/11018E.pdf

Wedding Photographers - http://thunderbayweddingphotographer.com/f-a-qs/lesbian-gay-weddings/

Valhalla Inn - http://www.valhallainn.com/article/a-place-where-dreams-come-true-146.asp