Date: Fri, 18 Jul 2003 22:55:08 +1000
From: iarwain <iarwain7@ains.net.au>
Subject: Peter's Mistake Parts 23 & 24.

Usual Disclaimer: If you are not 18 years old yet do not read. If you are
offended by male to male sexual content do not read. If the laws in your
state or county forbid this type of material, do not read. Otherwise enjoy
the story and genuine comments will be appreciated.

The author retains copyright (2003) to this story.  Reproducing this
story for distribution without the author's permission is a violation of
that copyright.


What happened in Part twenty-two.

Peter put himself into a horrible situation by returning to the porn
studio.

Part Twenty-three

Just as Peter started to dial there was a great crash.  His head jerked
round to see the door loose on its hinges and a giant black demon striding
in.  His heart leapt as he realized it was Andrew.

ANDREW!!  How could he be here?

Peter watched the camera guy thrown half way across the studio and then the
computer guy dragged over like a bundle of rags.

Paul! Are you O.K?

Peter saw Paul give a bewildered nod.

And you're Peter Bonner! Is that right?

Peter's sluggish mind had just enough presence tell him to likewise give a
bewildered nod.

Who the fuck are you? If you touch me again these two are dogmeat.

Peter watched as Andrew stood looking silently at the camera guy.  Andrew
was projecting such an aura of power and contempt, that in moments the
other guy seemed to shrivel in on himself and all his bluster turned to
fear.

Andrew started to speak in a soft but commanding manner.

Listen hard, little man!  You can eat your own words.  As of now you are
nothing and you have nothing.  If you are thinking of your black leather
briefcase at home, think again because everything inside it is gone, along
with your collection of home made videos.  Get this clear!  If you contact
anyone you've had in this studio, or try this blackmail game again, there's
only one step left for you and that's non-existence.

Peter's mind started whirling!  Was this Andrew, the gentle giant who lived
at his place?  The menace radiating from him was so great that Peter felt
an uncertain fear of him. Dressed in his black leather and boots he looked
like something out of a nightmare.

And now for you Mr Codexx.  Were you thinking of all your computer backups
and your special data files?  Watch this!

Andrew went to the computer, made a few mouse clicks and typed a short
phrase.  The hard drive light shone and the blue fatal error screen
appeared for a few seconds to be replaced by a black screen with a red
book.

Do you know what this means?  The computer guy was looking shocked.

How did you do that?  I had that computer protected and The Red Book is
just a kind of computer myth.


Just to let you know what you're up against, it took me five minutes to
bypass your firewalls and passwords and send this meltdown program through
the net.  Tracing all the computers you've downloaded to in the last twelve
months and erasing the files that originated from you took much longer.
You are up against the big league now, and that legend as you call it, now
has your name in it.  If you try to crack into anywhere at all you'll find
your computer will wipe out like this one did.  You'd best hide somewhere
and keep off the net for the next few years, because a lot of people are
looking for you, and I've let them know your real identity.

Andrew pulled some money out of his jacket and turned to the other guy.
Here's $1000 !  It's out of your secret briefcase and it's all you've got.
You'll both find that all your bank accounts have nothing in them, and I've
arranged for the banks to repossess your property.  Blackmail is
particularly nasty and if I take this through the legal system it would be
the rest of your life in prison.

Paul and Peter! You two go and get some clothes on while I explain a few
more things to these criminals.

Peter walked with Paul to the changing cubicle, his heart a mixture of
conflicting emotions, relief and awakening hope, and sadness and shame.
When he looked at Paul a great sob welled up inside and tears started
running from his eyes.

Oh! Paul! I'm so ashamed and sorry. I've hurt you and I don't know what to
do about it.

Peter felt two arms wrap around his back as Paul leapt forward and hugged
him tightly.

Peter! Peter! It's all right! It wasn't your fault.

Peter suddenly realized these were the first words Paul had spoken.
Thoughts flashed through Peter's mind.  He's trying to console me after all
I've done to him.  He's a better person than I am. I can't believe it.
Peter hugged Paul just as tightly, as it came to his mind that it was time
to help Paul, rather than feel sorry for himself.  The moment lingered,
then as they separated Peter asked,

Why did you do it?

Oh! No! What a stupid question to ask.

Paul went quiet and still for a second then replied,

They said they would kill you if I didn't.

Peter thought the world shook!  He was doing it for me and he didn't even
know me?

The hairs on Peter's neck stood on end, a shiver ran through him, and his
body erupted in goose bumps.  Overwhelmed, Peter went for his clothes and
got dressed.  He returned to Paul, then they walked to the studio where
Andrew was waiting, now alone, next to the computer.  Peter could see it
was the ordinary Andrew that he knew with the familiar smile.  He quickly
told Paul that Andrew was his friend.

Hey you two! Are you really that glad to see me, he kidded with the old
joke, referring to their obvious erections.

Don't worry about that. It'll probably last about another hour then you'll
be sore and sorry for a while.  Now! Forget about those two. I've been a
bit unorthadox in dealing with them but there are seventeen other victims
on their blackmail list, and that's an awful lot of suffering if I were to
go through normal legal channels.  Everything is taken care of, and this
place will be empty by the end of the day.

Andrew was opening the computer while he was speaking and he took out the
hard drives.  He smiled as he explained that he didn't really wipe
everything out because there was still information he needed to follow up
on.

Paul! You have nothing to worry about now at all.  O.K! I want to get you
two out of this situation quickly so I can keep your names out of it.
Paul! Are you happy to come to Peter's home?  I can easily make other
arrangements.

Peter's momentary pang of worry went away when Paul gave a nod of assent.
Andrew used his mobile phone and called a taxi.

Andrew was waiting for them when they pulled up, and Peter could see
Michael inside.

Andrew!  I don't want Michael to find out what's happened.  He's got his
own problems without worrying about me.

He already knows Peter.  He's the one who told me that something was wrong.
If it wasn't for him I wouldn't have been able to help you.  My advice is
to tell everyone.  They're all your friends and they'll want to help you.

Anthony was at work but everyone else was there.  Peter could see their
anxious faces as he and Paul were ushered in by Andrew.  Michael looked
awful.  His face was white and he had the haunted look that Peter hadn't
seen for a long time.  He rushed over and hugged Peter.

Are you all right Peter?  Andrew said you were in trouble as he rushed out
this morning.

I'm OK.  Andrew came along like magic and helped me.  I was trapped and had
to do some things I didn't want to.

Andrew made everything much clearer.

Peter had some pictures and other private information on his computer and
some people got hold of it.  Because he is gay they blackmailed him and
they were very clever.  They started off easily but each time he was more
trapped.  He ended up having anal intercourse with Paul who is under age.
Peter looks okay but underneath he feels bad.

Peter was frightened by the look on Michael's face.  He jumped forward and
grabbed him and sat him down on the sofa.

Michael!  I'm not that bad.  You don't have to worry about me.

Andrew took over totally.  No one even thought to question him and they did
what he asked straightaway.

Pete and Sam!  You take Michael and look after him like he is your only
brother.

Jeremy!  Take Paul into your room and do the same.  He will probably fall
asleep soon but you stay with him all the time.

Paul!  You can tell Jeremy anything you like and he'll help you if he can.
Every person in this house will do the same.  I'll be back later and we'll
talk more then.

Peter!  You're coming out to my bungalow.  You'll fall asleep too, but I'll
be with you all the time.

None of you breathe a word about this to anyone at all.  We'll get together
at tea-time and have another talk.

Peter followed Andrew out and sat down on his bed.

Peter!  We'll have a good talk, but first lie down and keep your eyes
closed for five minutes.

When Peter opened his eyes again he found he'd been asleep for an hour.
Andrew was sitting there waiting for him to wake up.

Good Peter!  Now let's work out what happened.  I need to know your side of
things but I'll tell you my side first.  Michael told me on Tuesday morning
that he was very worried about you.  He said you were quiet and keeping to
your self, and you'd just gone off after being on your computer.  He told
me, because if it was related to your computer, he thought I might be able
to help.  I hope you don't mind but I've had a look through all your
personal computer files.  I felt I had no choice when I realized what was
happening.  It was through your e-mails that I found you were being
blackmailed.  I couldn't trace the people till there was an incoming e-mail
from them last night.  Once I knew their address I went to my work to get
some real computer power on the job.  I slipped up a bit because I was
caught by their change from Friday back to today.  I had everything ready
to put them out of business and only found that you'd gone when Michael
said you'd left soon after seven this morning.

There were still huge gaps.

Andrew?  How did they know about me.  They had information and files that
were protected by a password system.  No one's meant to be able to get at
them.

They found out about you when you joined that Gay-Check site.  The Codexx
guy was quite a clever hacker really, and he had access to all the
information on the site's database, which had hundreds of people's names
and e-mail addresses.  Do you remember?  You had to give yours when you
registered with them and when you joined up.  It wouldn't have been hard
for him to get past your password.  He probably just waited till you used
it yourself, then downloaded the whole directory through the net.  That
would be easy for him if you used it while you were connected up.

I'll have to say Peter!  That if you hadn't been playing these sex games
with Michael they wouldn't have known about you.

Peter looked blankly at Andrew for a moment.

Sex games?  I'm not playing any sex games with Michael.

Yes you are!

Andrew!  I don't know what you were talking about.

The Cock-of-the-Month thing and the CDs and all those others.  Peter!I've
read all your incoming e-mails since you've been here.

Oh!  I see!  No that's not Michael!  It's someone from college.

Peter told Andrew everything that had happened.

I promised not to tell anyone but if you've read the e-mails you know as
much as me.  It's meant to be all over in a few weeks and I believe them.

Peter saw that Andrew was looking at him strangely.

I'm sorry Andrew.  I can't understand how I did that but I have to live
with it somehow.  It hurt me to find that I wasn't the person I thought I
was.

Andrew was quiet for a moment before he replied.

Peter! I think you're about to have a rethink.  Come over here and have a
look at this.  Andrew's fingers flashed across his keyboard and in a moment
Peter saw the original photos from the party appear on the computer screen.
Andrew gave a bit of a grin.

Sorry!  Your password didn't mean much to me.

Peter watched as Andrew clicked through the photos.  He stopped with the
one showing the head of black hair.  He enlarged it to full-screen and
studied it for a moment.

Peter!  I don't quite understand what's going on, but I do know that you've
been conned somehow.  Here's the first thing you have to know.  I can prove
it to you on the computer, but it mightn't mean much, that every e-mail
originating from petersmistake came from our house, and the matching code
says that it was Michael's computer.

Michael!  But that doesn't make sense.

It doesn't much to me either Peter, but it's a fact you can't argue with.

Now look at this picture.  Its classic misdirection.  Look carefully at the
picture and you can see that while the underarm hair is not very obvious,
it definitely isn't dark.  You just don't get people with hair that black,
having blonde or very light colored secondary hair.

Peter watched as Andrew clicked on a color palette and change the hair to a
light, fair color.  The change was startling.

God!  That really looks like Michael.  But Michael wouldn't blackmail me.
I can't believe it.

I can't either but we haven't any choice.  Next thing Peter.  You say you
can't remember anything about that night?

Yes!  It's a total blank.

Tell me again, exactly how you felt the next morning.

I felt awful.  I had a hard-on for an hour and a half and I didn't feel all
right till the evening.

Well there you are!  You can stop torturing your conscience.  You had a
dose of what you're just getting over - Viagra, and some other kind of drug
which your body took all day to fight off.  You certainly weren't
responsible for your actions.

Andrew!  How can you work all this out in about 10 minutes?

I'm good at it and I've been trained as well.  The next thing is for you to
see if you can make any connections with Michael and what's been happening
to you.

As Peter's mind clicked over his heart started beating more and more
rapidly as with a terrible shock, he realized there were many things.

Michael told me I was talking to two young guys at the party.

He knew I had a key to the swimming pool when I was caught.

He turned up when I had to go to the nudist beach.

I was puzzled about how they knew so much personal stuff about me and that
would explain it.

On Saturday night I sent an e-mail asking about the car park meeting.  That
could explain how he knew it was computer related.

Peter suddenly felt terrible.  A great flood of tears welled from his eyes.
Peter's mind and body felt like it was being torn apart and the conflict
and pain built inside him as he had to accept the logic of the facts which
his heart wouldn't.  It was too much!  His mind had been increasingly
troubled over the last few days and this final blow could not be faced.

Peter went somewhere else.

Andrew saw the color drain from Peter's face and just managed to catch him
in time as his body collapsed.  He lifted Peter to the bed and laid him
gently down then sat quietly holding his hand.

When Peter opened his eyes he saw Andrew, and as all the happenings flooded
back into his thoughts, his anguish turned to tears and sobbing.  Andrew's
great arms pulled him from the bed and held him in a powerful hug of
protection and comfort till this storm of feeling subsided.  When Peter was
ready he moved from Andrew's comfort, sat on the edge of the bed, and tried
to speak.  For a moment his throat wouldn't cooperate.

Andrew!  It just can't be right!  It's our Michael.  You know what he's
like.  He's in my heart.  I can't believe he would hurt me.  What am I
going to do?

I can't believe he would hurt you either Peter!  He glows with love
whenever he's with you, and I've never known him to be nasty to anyone, but
we can't argue with the facts.  There's too much that doesn't add up and I
think you might have to front up to him.  At least you might find out why.
I can do it for you if you like.

No!  I'll have to do it myself.

Warning bells started to ring in Peter's mind.  For a moment they nagged at
him then he remembered Dr. Wells' last remarks at their talk.

Andrew!  If anything serious happens I'm meant to ring his Dr.  This must
be classed as serious and at least we'd have his advice on how to handle
it.

Peter pulled out his wallet and found the doctor's number.

As soon as he mentioned Michael's name he was put directly through.


###Part 24###

When he heard the doctor inquire if something was wrong with Michael, Peter
lost it a bit, and choked out his response in a strained voice.

I've just found out he's been blackmailing me.

I see!  Can you come over?

Now?

It sounds very much as if you might need to.

I could be there in half an hour.

The sooner the better!

When Andrew understood, he handed Peter a spare helmet, and they arrived in
fifteen minutes.  The receptionist tried to bar Andrew's entry but he
almost ignored her, and said the doctor could decide.  The doctor asked
Peter in, and started to explain to Andrew that it was a confidential
meeting.  Andrew said.  Dr!  I have to tell you that Peter has been
traumatized, forced to act against his will and drugged today.  Then when
he came home he discovered that the person closest to his heart has been
blackmailing him.  He needs a friend close by him.

Andrew had thrown a gauntlet down to the doctor who handled it well.

I see!  It seems we can trust your friend, Peter.  Is that the case?

Peter suddenly thought of how much Andrew had helped him today and became
quite emotional.

Dr!  I trust Andrew with my life, and I would say that Michael is close to
Andrew's heart as well.

Then Andrew, I presume, is the friend who takes him on his motorbike and
helps him with his singing?

Yes!  That's right.

I'm happy!  Let's talk about Michael then.  Before we start can I ask if
this blackmail has involved sex.

Yes!

I imagine it involved you alone?

Yes!  In a way!

No one was to be hurt in anyway?

Yes!  How do you know this?  Has Michael already told you?

No Peter!  It's the scenario that fits.  Now!  Can you give me your story
from the start?

Peter gave a full explanation, answering any questions the doctor asked,
then looked for the doctor's response.

Well Peter!  You're hurt and puzzled at the moment so what I say next will
probably surprise you.  This situation, with Michael blackmailing you, is
actually wonderful news, and you can take the credit for it.

I can?  Peter tried to assimilate this strange idea but he just couldn't.

Dr. you've completely lost me!

Of course!  Let me explain.  Michael's trauma was sexual in nature and ever
since then he has been impotent.  His subconscious mind has completely
robbed him of his libido.  This is why I say it's to your credit, because
since staying with you, he has recovered enormously both mentally and
physically.  >From my talks with him it's clear how strong your influence
has been, and now his body has healed so much that it's fighting back and
trying to fulfill its natural physical needs.  He's been quite devious and
kept this from me.  That will be because he's ashamed of his actions and
doesn't understand why he can't control them.  Peter!  Michael has fixed on
you as a role model and the fact that the person he admires most has been
succumbing to blackmail, has been sending a message to his mind that it was
all right for him to do the same.  What you have been doing is leaching the
self-guilt and blame from his mind.  Do you understand what I'm saying?

Andrew said.

Michael's acting under compulsion and it's helping him get better.

That's very precise Andrew, but correct.  The problem we have now is that
while this is good for Michael, he has no right to do this to Peter.
Peter!  You're facing that price I spoke of when you accepted Michael into
your home.  Quite bluntly, your choice is to continue having your rights
violated, or face the thought that Michael might not fully recover for
years, if ever.

Dr.!  Michael can get me to do whatever he likes if it will help him.  I
know it's not in his nature to hurt me anyhow.

Dr. Wells was quiet for a moment.

He means a great deal to you doesn't he?  Can you cope with the fact that
he is homosexual?

He is?  Well he must be, I guess, with what I've had to do for him.  He's
always been just neutral, and no one asked him why because we thought it
was something to do with what happened to him.  I'm gay myself doctor.
That's a fact I hope you can cope with.

Peter!  In this situation I think that's wonderful.  Are you attracted to
Michael?

That's understating the case.  It has been an enormous problem for me.
Whenever we're close I get aroused, but he's not eighteen yet.  He is very
physical in his communication, and is always hugging and cuddling and
holding me.  Just recently he's discovered my reaction when he's close, and
he's got a kind of game going where he tries to catch me with an erection.

He does?  Well this will probably sounds strange to you as well, but the
more he can see you like that the better.

But he's not eighteen.

Peter! I'm not worried about his age.  His health is my concern.  The more
he's confronted with his body's wishes, the more likely his problems will
be resolved.

Peter was thinking about this new information.

Doctor!  What should we do about Michael?  Andrew and I talked about it and
decided to confront him.

Thank goodness you came to me first then.  He must resolve this himself
without any external compulsion.  I've mentioned before that when he can
talk about his troubles it will be an enormous breakthrough.  Have you seen
any sign of him wanting to talk?

Yes! I think so!  One night recently when we were camping, he made a remark
and I thought he was going to talk about it, but then he went quiet.  He
also wanted to go away on a special weekend just for the two of us and I
had a feeling there was some purpose behind it.

Peter!  This is good!  The more you can engineer to be close to him the
better.

But what about his age? That would be against the law for me.

That's a decision you'll have to make for yourself.  I can't officially
advise you because of my position, but my personal opinion, which I'm
sharing with you, is that sometimes the law is an ass.

I see! Well there's no choice really.  It will feel strange after a year
and a half of fighting my feelings.  Am I clear that you're saying the best
thing for him is to be confronted with sex as much as possible?

Yes!  As long as he's not pressured in any way of course.

How should I react if he does tell me what he's been doing?

I'm certain that it won't be long before he does, so just assure him you
understand, and make clear how it makes no difference to your feelings for
him.

Now Andrew!  We've talked about Michael but I've noticed some significant
reactions from Peter and I want you to tell me what's been happening to
him.

Andrew explained what he knew about the last few days' events then the
doctor had Peter go through from his viewpoint.

Peter!  You'll get through this very well.  You must get yourself out of
your superhero mode where you think you are responsible for everything that
happens around you.  Tell yourself the truth, over and over, which is that
you were the victim and can accept no blame.  Intellectually you already
know this but it will take a while to establish itself.  Tell me!  Have you
had a feeling that you are a bit behind what's been happening to you today?

Peter thought of his feelings about Andrew's help and his conversation with
Paul.

Yes!  That's exactly the way I feel.

I thought so.  I've been watching you closely and I can tell you that
besides the Viagra and the aphrodisiac, it appears that you've been given
another drug, which makes you very amenable.  It causes you to do things
when you're asked and it's not till later that your mind starts to question
your actions.  Andrew!  Did you see any sign of the packaging for the
drugs?  It would be very helpful to identify them precisely.

Andrew took out his fancy mobile phone and had the information in minutes.

Andrew! Peter will probably be emotionally withdrawn for four or five days
and it would be best if he could have friendly company during that period.

I should have said the same about Michael too.  Try to keep someone with
him for another fortnight.  He'll be going through enormous stress if he
feels it's his fault for Peter's troubles.

The doctor talked with Peter and Andrew for another 20 minutes before they
left.  Peter's head was whirling with all the ideas and happenings but he
felt much better.  He now knew that he hadn't done anything wrong at the
party and he felt he had an understanding of what was happening with
Michael.  When they arrived home Peter slept from 5 PM till 7 PM and got up
for some tea.  He found out that Andrew had spent the time talking to Paul
and explaining the drugs.  Paul said he was all right, but Andrew knew he
should be watched the same as Peter and Michael.  Paul lived at a halfway
house and Andrew asked him if he'd like to stay a few days till he felt
better.  Jeremy jumped up and said there was plenty of space in his room
and they could put a mattress down.  Peter watched as Paul's face
brightened a bit and he looked at Jeremy.  Paul made it very evident that
he would like to stay, and went with Jeremy to organize the room.  Peter
felt restless and quiet at the same time and went up to his room.  He had a
long shower and climbed into bed, where he lay thinking about all the
things that had happened.  He was worried about Michael, and hadn't seen
him because Sam and Pete had taken him out somewhere.  He heard steps
coming up his stairs and saw Jeremy and Paul standing there.

Peter!  Paul wants to talk to you.  He's nervous about it but I told him
how kind you are.  Can I leave him with you?

Peter was pretty nervous about this himself but he nodded to Jeremy and
beckoned Paul over.  Paul went to sit in a chair.

Come and sit on the bed if you like Paul.  It's more friendly and I won't
feel like a patient having visitors.

I want to talk to you Peter but now that I'm here I don't know what to say.

True?  Well that makes two of us.  I been thinking about you all day but so
many things happened.  Ah!  How are you feeling now?


I'm tired and I'm aching a bit, but I feel good too because Andrew tells me
it's all over. He can get help for my sister and they can't do anything to
me anymore.

Peter's balls were feeling achy too and he hoped that was what Paul meant.

Did I ah!  Hurt you today when we were together?  I mean when I was inside
you.

No!  They made me use those plug things last night and this morning so I'd
be ready.  They said they didn't want me to get hurt so I could keep doing
stuff.  They'd already arranged for me to stay for two more weeks.

Do you want to talk about all this Paul?

I think we should, so we know how each other feels.

I feel awful Paul!  Everyone says it's not my fault and I shouldn't worry
about it, but I still hurt you and that makes me feel bad.

That's why I wanted to talk to you Peter.  I know from what you said this
morning how bad you feel but you didn't hurt me at all.  I knew you were a
good person as soon as you touched me and said sorry.  It might sound funny
but I felt kind of safe whenever you were holding me.

You're an amazing person Paul.  How come you're staying at a halfway house?
Your family must be proud of you.

Mom and dad died in a car crash about three years ago so I was in foster
homes till I turned 16.

I'm sorry Paul!  Now I don't know what to say again.

That's all right!  I'm used to it now.

Paul told Peter his whole story.  His sister who was two years older
couldn't cope and started to take drugs.  The porn guys had discovered he
was gay and watched him closely.


Somehow they'd found out that his sister had been robbing houses, and they
threatened to send information to the police unless he did some modeling
for them.  Mostly he'd had to pose in speedos or skimpy underwear, then
have a jack-off session.  This had been going on for several months but
Peter was the first time he'd had to have sex with another person.

Peter wanted to hug Paul but he was nervous about it.

Paul!  Can I give you a hug?  If you don't want me to touch you that's all
right, but I want to help you somehow.

Paul edged along the bed till they were close and Peter felt huge relief
sweep through him when they hugged tightly.  Somehow he knew that Paul
genuinely liked him and had no aversion to him.

Can you stay at our house for a while Paul?  Andrew says we both have to be
looked after.

They said goodnight and Paul went down to Jeremy's room.  Peter turned his
light out again and was thinking about Paul when he heard more sounds on
the steps.

It was Sam is time.

Hi Peter!  Move over a bit.

Sam stripped off and climbed into bed with Peter.

Michael's not too bad now.  We took him out all day and Pete even got him
to laugh a few times.

Sam wrapped his arms around Peter and pressed his smooth body against him.
It was warm and comfortable, and it was wonderful Sam holding him, and
Peter felt wanted.

Oh!  Sam!  It's been an awful day and a good day.

Shh!  Just snuggle up and go to sleep.

And that's what Peter did.

The next day was Thursday and Andrew supervised Peter, Michael and Sam with
work on the roof of the new carport.  Anthony was at his work but had left
everything ready, and explained to Andrew what needed to be done.  Pete was
away for the day with an interview about the modelling job he was doing in
the last week of the holidays, and when Jeremy and Paul surfaced at about
10 AM they left together to collect some of Paul's things.  Once Andrew had
set things going he left as well for other things he had to do.  A lot of
tidying up was his description.  They worked steadily, with their minds
mostly focused on the job they were doing.

They stopped in the afternoon and Peter decided he wanted to go for a swim,
since he hadn't had one for a few days.  Everyone was home when they went
back for tea.  Anthony was delighted with how much they'd done and said
he'd have everything finished on the weekend.  Peter read for a couple of
hours then had a shower and went to bed.  After awhile he got up and put
his track suit on and went down to Michael's room.  Michael was looking at
some of his photo work on his computer and Peter went over and hugged him.

Michael!  I want to be with someone tonight.  Can I stay with you?

Michael looked worried and jumped up quickly.

Of course you can Peter.  I haven't had my shower yet so I'll be back in a
few minutes.

Peter stripped off and climbed into Michael's bed.  When Michael got back
he turned off the light and slid in next to Peter.

It's your turn to hold me tight Michael.  I just feel like I need someone
close to me.

Michael gave Peter a fierce hug and then they settled into a comfortable
position.

I'm all right Michael so don't worry about me.  Andrew took me to a doctor
yesterday and he said I'm going to be fine, but it will be a few days
before I'm back to my old self.  I was sore from the Viagra but that's
nearly better too.  Michael wanted to know what had happened to Peter on
the three days and Peter went through it all.  Michael had lots of
questions, which were mainly about his feelings at different times.  He
laughed when he heard about the depilatory cream and turned his bed lamp on
so he could have a look.

It makes you stand out more.  It must feel funny.

It does a bit.  I hope it grows back before swimming training starts again
though.

They talked for a while then Peter drifted off to sleep.  In the morning
Peter turned the tables on Michael.  Michael was lying on his back so Peter
rolled over and put his arm on Michael's chest and bent his knee up to rest
on Michael's groin.  This position meant that his cock was resting against
Michael's hand and soon Peter became semirigid.  Peter didn't think Michael
was awake and patiently waited.

The moment came when Michael's body twitched a little and then Peter felt a
little pressure against his cock.  This was enough to send him quite hard
and then he felt Michael's hand very gently move till it was lightly
grasping him.  After a moment Peter started to move his cock a little as if
he was having another of the erotic dreams that Michael had sometimes
caught him in.  He jerked his body as if he were waking up and then opened
his eyes to see Michael looking at him.  Eleven and a half now Peter!  I
can catch you every morning if I wake up first.  Peter rolled on his back
and put his head on Michael's chest.  You wouldn't have yesterday morning
but it looks like I'm normal again.  Peter rolled back on his side again
and rubbed his hand on Michael's stomach a couple of times.

I think you've got a perfect stomach Michael.  Can I stay with you for the
next two nights?  It's nice when you look after this poor old patient.

Michael grabbed Peter's hand then they had a wrestling match.  Peter gave
in and let Michael sit on top of him.

See!  I'm your boss, so my rule says you haven't any choice.

O.K! Since you're so powerful and a muscly I'll give in and stay the next
two nights.  But if I can beat you I can make a rule of my own.

After another bout of wrestling Michael gave in so he could find out what
Peter's rule was.

I always knew you were a puny weakling Michael.  When I really try I can
beat you with my hands tied behind my back.

Well I always knew you were a cruel bully, so torture me with your rule
whatever it is.  I won't see you next week while we're on our different
trips, so you have to go away with me for three or four days in the week
after.

What will you do if I say no Peter?

I'll cry!

Boy!  You play rough!

After breakfast Andrew borrowed Peter's car and took Jeremy, Paul and
Michael with him and they went to look at some cars that might be good for
Jeremy.  Peter went with Sam and Pete to get some supplies for their hiking
trip.  In the afternoon Peter had a big talk with Brian.  Pete's prediction
that other Galleries would be keen for his business had come true with four
more contracts starting in July and Philip had told Brian that he had some
inquiries from four or five others as well.  Peter could see a couple of
problems straightaway.

Brian!  The first thing I can see you need, is a much better computer.
We'll talk to Andrew about it.  You'll also need a high quality printer.
I'll pay for them now and then you can pay me whenever you like.  You'll
also need lots more space than you've got here, so use the double garage
till your permanent workshop is built.  It works out well because Anthony
is just finishing the carport.

But that will be marvellous Peter!  I can have some workbenches and display
boards then.  It's getting a bit scary.  I think I'll be a hermit for a
while with all the work that's coming up.  Our trip next week might be my
last holiday for a long time.

Later on, Peter was reading when he heard his car drive in.

Jeremy came rushing up in great excitement and gave Peter a hug.

We think we've found the best car.  Andrew's organized for it to be checked
out properly next week and if everything is all right we'll collect it the
week after.

They talked about the car and then Peter asked how Paul was going.  Jeremy
said he thought he was happy but still a bit quiet.

Do you think he could come with us on the hike Peter?  We could watch him
for longer that way.

Peter got a bit concerned at this.

Do you think he needs watching?

No!  Not really!  I'm sorry Peter, but I thought it would be a good excuse
for him to go.

Does he want to go?

Well!  I've been so excited that he might be copying me a bit but that's
what he says.

We'll get him some hiking gear from College tomorrow then.  Has he said
anything about me?

Ah!  Yes!  He thought your balls must have been implants, and you were
poking a flagpole inside him, and that it was a tidal wave when you came.

Jeremy?

All right!  He thinks you're great Peter but he didn't have any choice,
because I told him the truth about you.  But he did say you felt nice too.

After tea everyone in the house went for a swim.

Paul ended up borrowing a pair of Pete's old speedos.  Everyone told him to
swim in his jocks but he was too embarrassed.  He was embarrassed by the
speedos too, because when they were getting changed Peter heard him
speaking to Jeremy.

Jeremy!  They hardly even cover me up.

I know!  That's the whole idea.  You look terrific in them.

It was half swimming and half a muck around.  Andrew was enjoying the
wrestling and play fighting and throwing the others halfway across the pool
when they got near him.  Paul was quite strong and could swim all the
strokes but he had such poor technique that Peter knew he'd never last more
than six or eight laps.  They arrived home a bit after 10 PM and everyone
went their own way.  Peter went to Michael's room and they went to bed,
even though neither was really tired.  Peter complained that Michael wasn't
looking after him well enough.

The doctor said I needed half an hour of proper hugs every night.  One from
the front, one from the back, one from each side and two in the middle.
All you've done is try and push me out the other side of the bed.

Michael laughed and wanted to know what a middle hug was.  He did them all
then started to poke Pete's body.  Peter flinched away each time but
enjoyed it.

Michael!  That's kind of tickling.  I'll have to squish you if you do it
much more.

As soon as Peter mentioned tickling he felt Michael's hand feel his cock.

Oops!  Sorry!  When you said that I thought you meant you had a boner and
I'd get another score off you.  Peter hadn't been hard but he'd been
feeling that way and the touch of Michael's hand sent him skyrocketing.

Well!  I have now.

Peter felt Michael's hand grab him once again.

Boy!  That was quick!  Twelve and half in a few seconds flat.

Hey!  You can't count that.  It was your fault for touching me.

It's still a boner though so I think I can count it.

It's not a true report of the situation.  You could get what ever score you
wanted, just by grabbing me anytime.

Peter felt Michael grab him once again.

How come you haven't turned away from me or turned over like you usually
do?

I've thought about what you said that time, so I decided not to worry any
more.  You've seen me about a zillion times anyhow and I sure don't seem to
have any control.  I've decided I do want to roll over though so you can
give me a neck massage.

A neck massage?  I don't know how.

Of course you do.  You just rub my neck and make it feel good.

You show me first and then I will.

Copycat!  Where's your sense of adventure?  Roll over on your tummy then.

Peter sat on Michael's back and worked for five minutes then they swapped
over.

Michael!  That feels so nice!  It gives me goosebumps and makes me fall
asleep.

Peter pretended to fall asleep and Michael started poking him again.

Help Michael!  We're caught in a time loop.  We've gone back to where we
were fifteen minutes ago.  Do you think we'll ever get out?

Michael called him an idiot then wrapped his arms round Peter and they went
to sleep.

On Saturday morning Michael went with Andrew to collect his motorbike for
their touring trip.  Peter went into Jeremy's room at about 8:30 AM to get
them moving along.  This was interesting.  They were both in Jeremy's
double bed.  Jeremy looked awkward and Paul looked worried.

Peter laughed.

Come on you two love birds!  Do you want some breakfast before we get the
camping gear?

After some toast and a drink they set off in Peter's van.

Hey!  Peter!  This isn't the way to college!

We're getting some other things first .  We'll need extra supplies since
Paul's coming with us now.

They weren't surprised when Peter went to the Bush gear store, but they
gawked at him when he proceeded to outfit them with high-quality rucksacks,
sleeping bags, thermal mats and light hiking runners and a mountain climate
coat.  Paul couldn't believe it.

We're going up into Victoria's Alpine area and you need good equipment.  It
lasts for years and you know you can rely on it.

Jeremy assured Paul that Peter was mad.

You can't stop him Paul.  He does it for everyone.

Peter also bought a three-man tent with the four seasons rating.  This
meant it could withstand wind, rain and snow, which could all be possible
at this time of year.  At home Peter showed them how to pack their
rucksacks and got them to set up the new tent.  They would learn how, and
Peter would also know that the tent was okay.  They went to a bistro for
tea, and Anthony was king of the night because he'd finished the double
carport.  He enjoyed the recognition and Peter knew he was proud that he'd
done a good job.  After tea it was a big planning and checking session.

Andrew and Michael were touring to Canberra, and Brian and Anthony were
meeting them each night.

The rest of the group were going on their seven-day hike in the high
country and planning and sharing their food supplies was very important.
When Peter went to Michael's room he wasn't there so Peter climbed straight
into bed. He pretended to be sound asleep and making snoring noises when
Michael returned.  He jumped a mile when Michael jabbed his finger into his
bellybutton.

Torture!  I was having a lovely sleep when I got woken up like that.

Sleep!  I thought it was a herd of wild pigs.

Now I get insults.  The doctors orders are hugs and a neck massage and
instead I get insults.

Does the doctor keep changing his orders?

Of course he does.  As soon as he knows what I need he sends me a new
prescription.

Michael laughed and gave Peter his hugs and told him to turnover for his
massage.  The feel of Michael sitting on his back and his hands rubbing his
neck quickly brought Peter's boner to full attention.  When Michael
finished Peter just lay still.

That was so pleasant I feel like going to sleep.

What about my turn?  I like neck massages too.

They swapped positions and after he'd massaged Michael's neck for a while
Peter changed to his back.  Michael said he loved that so Peter kept going.
Eventually he lay down next to Michael and they went to sleep.

In the morning Peter woke up on his back with Michael in what seemed to be
his standard cuddling position, lying on his side with his knee resting on
Peter's groin and one arm resting on Peter's chest.  Peter lay quietly with
his eyes closed and when he felt Michael's knee press on him a couple of
times he opened them.  Michael was grinning.

Good morning Mr. thirteen and a half!

Good morning Mr. scorekeeper.  You're slipping up on the job though.  It
could have been fourteen and half if you'd caught me last night.

I'll count it anyhow.

No you can't!  That would mean you have to count every time I had a boner
in my life.

We'd probably be up to a million then.

Peter worked out the numbers for this.

That would come to nearly 300 times a day and that's about um!  Once every
5 minutes.

That sounds about right then Peter!

Idiot!

Michael!  I won't see you for a week.  Give me a big hug.

How can I? With that big thing poking out, I won't be able to get near you.

Michael's actions didn't agree with his words though, and Peter was
thoroughly hugged for a satisfying length of time.

Mm!  You've got perfect hugs too!  Now I'm going to have shower.  It will
be the last one I have till I'm back here again.

The End of Part 24.

####Author's Note.####

In an effort to portray Peter in a situation of despair and hopelessness I
believe I may have been too detailed in my representation.

The intention of part twenty-two was twofold.  First to highlight Peter at
his lowest as a contrast to the happiness soon to come.  Second to build an
atmosphere about Paul who is an important new character.

In future there will be a warning in the header if there are any negative
situations.

I do appreciate people's comments but I've had to think a great deal after
part 22 which received an overwhelmingly negative response.(Maybe that's
what it deserved??)

Iarwain.