Date: Sun, 5 Nov 2006 21:44:06 -0500
From: William King <williamtylerking@gmail.com>
Subject: Reclaiming Austin 23

I spent what remained of that night comforting Austin despite feeling sick
and worn out, I held him tightly when we retired to our bed in the new
apartment.  I felt guilty for enjoying being with him when his father had
just died, What follows then, is mostly second hand information, as I was
unconscious for most of it so I'll just relay the pertinent facts.

Austin slept badly and in fits until about 3:30 am when I woke him up
yelling incoherently, I was moaning loudly and grasping my insides saying
"snakes!!!" over and over.  I vaguely remember a dream like image of these
living flaming lava tubes popping out of my belly and diving back into it.
Austin was freaked out and was about to call an ambulance when he decided
he could get me to a hospital quicker. So he scooped me up and set me in
the jeep and drove like a demon to Orlando regional medical center
(henceforth-O.R.M.C.). Austin carried me into the emergency room and
screamed out that he needed some fucking help, I was immediately taken on a
gurney to a room in the back where Doctors checked on me and ran a barrage
of blood tests, Austin didn't know what else to when he was escorted
outside.  So while he waited he called my mother.  He then got out the
numbers for Mrs. Tremere, Michael, and the new job I was supposed to begin
later that morning.

My mother pulled in slightly before 6am and was told the Doctors were still
working on me and that she had to wait with Austin outside.  At 6:30am
Austin called Mrs. Tremere and Michael, shortly there after, Austin and my
mother were told by a young female doctor that I had slipped into diabetic
coma.  Austin insisted that that was impossible as I wasn't a diabetic; the
Doctor read the report and said my blood sugar was well over a thousand and
that it was very likely that I now had diabetes.  They were shown my room
where I laid quietly sleeping, a sharp contrast to what Austin had seen
earlier. I had an IV sticking out of my arm and a blood pressure cuff and
heart beat monitor on as well.  The nurse said this could last for hours or
indefinite, but that most people woke soon after their insulin levels were
stabilized.

Michael called into his work to say he wouldn't be there that day, and
showed up to the hospital slightly after 7am, he got the news from Austin
about my being in a coma and apparently fell apart, My Michael, all 6'6" of
him cried on 6'2 Austin's shoulder as my mother hugged him and whispered
platitudes to him.  When Mrs. Tremere showed up, after 8:30, Austin excused
himself to call his Mom, his father had just died after all.  Michael and
my mother told Mrs. Tremere what had happened and was going on
currently. Austin was told that his father had requested that he not be at
the funeral anyways, so he stiffened and said he couldn't have gone even if
he had been asked to attend, that I was in danger and his place was with me
and he was where he needed to be.  Austin and his mom talked for quite a
while, she told him that they had several relatives with diabetes that were
living quite well so he should be strong.

Austin and Michael called Henna and Jorge, and all my older friends. Mom
called all the relatives, and Mrs. Tremere talked to Ivan and he told my
former bank coworkers.  By 7pm the waiting are was over flowing with my
friends and family and a very despondent Austin.  Austin and my Mom stayed
most of the time over the next few days, they took turn giving each other
breaks and occasionally allowed my other friends or brother to take a
turn. Finally, late Thursday after noon I opened my eyes and saw my Mom
sitting by me reading a book. She almost fell out of her chair when I said
"hi" and then closed my eyyes and rasped out "can I have a drink, my mouth
is dry" She gasped and stood up as if I were a long dead relative and she
said, "Baby, don't try to sit up, I'll get your nurse and tell the others!
And I'll check on a drink for you!" Then she came over and gave me a small
kiss to my forehead. I lay back as I had no stamina at all and wouldn't
have even thought of standing up, though I was very curious about why I was
in a hospital. As I had gone to bed in my new house.  In moments, a
squadron of nurses descended on me with thermometers, stethoscopes,
syringes, and a variety of prods and gizmos.  Finally, a young guy came
over and stuck out his hand "Hi Mr. Johnson, I'm Dr. Shallamar, I'd like to
ask you a few questions if it's ok?"  I nodded my head and said yes, than I
rasped out hoarsely "Is it possible to get a drink, I feel like I've
gargled a mouthful of hamsters."  The young doctor laughed and then he
looked at a young nurse and said, "can Mr. Johnson get a cup of ice chips
please?" She smiled and nodded then left.  Your Mother's here and Your
Boyfriend, Mr. Camble, is being contacted at home, he's supposed to be
taking a nap."  When the nurse came back in she handed me a foam cup of ice
chips and set a plastic water pitcher by my beside table. I nursed the ice
like it was a cup of platinum as the Doctor asked me a barrage of questions
such as if I knew who the president was (Clinton), where I was (obviously a
hospital but not which one) And about my friends and family.  Than the
Doctor sat back and took a deep breath, "Mr. Johnson, for the past week you
have been in a persistent diabetic coma brought on by uncontrolled type I
diabetes mellitus." I was about to protest that I didn't have diabetes, but
Dr. Shallamar held up his hand and quickly said, "Look, I know you didn't
know you had it, but all those angry moods, that dry mouth, the persistent
peeing, being sleepy all the time, all of them are common warning signs."
"Does this mean I have to diet and not eat sugar?" I asked.  "Well
partially, but you'll be taking insulin shots too." I sat stunned a moment
while he read his chart. "But My grandpa only had to watch what he ate, and
loose weight." I protested weakly. "That's the other form of diabetes, Type
II, or Adult onset Diabetes.  You have type I or Juvenile diabetes, you're
a bit older than we usually see it, but it can occur any time in life.
Unfortunately, type I isn't brought on by being overweight, old, or
pregnant, they actually produce some insulin, just not enough for what they
need. Your pancreas has ceased to produce any insulin at all." I must have
looked quite weak at that moment, for even the very officious doctor looked
at me and closed his note pad. "This can all wait until later, why don't
you just rest and visit your friends and family and you can talk with our
diabetic specialist tomorrow and see our nutritionist soon too."  As
Dr. Shallamar was leaving my mother walked in.

	"Oh Alex, Honey... " She said closing the distance and bending over
to kiss me.  "Hi mom." I said weakly, still choked up by the news I'd just
gotten.  "So has he told you what happened yet?" She asked sitting in the
chair by my bed.

"Well, he said I was in a coma all week, and that I uhhh, that I had
diabetes." I said closing my eyes and laying back.

"Yes Honey, but we'll all be here for you, Austin has been taking classes
all week so he can help with your shots and your diet... I think all the
classes helped him because he's been just lost without you... the classes
gave him hope that there would be a future with you." She said taking my
hand and squeezing it slightly.  I felt like crying, how could all this be
happening, I wasn't fat, I ate pretty good, I worked out and
exercised... WHY did I have this??? In truth though, I was just too tired,
I'd fallen asleep within minutes of Mom entering the room and taking my
hand.  I awoke later to a very soft kissing of my lips and a firm hand
holding the hand my mother's soft hand had held. I knew that kiss and just
responded instinctively by kissing back.

	"Hussy, you aren't even going to open your eyes to see who it is
first?" Austin teased above me.  I opened my eyes to see his beaming face
looking down on me.  "I know who it is. I'd know that kiss anywhere!" I
protested weakly.  "Baby, you've had me so fucking scared..." Austin said
softly.  The room was dimly lit now and we were alone.  "now you know how I
felt..." I said closing my eyes but smiling weakly.

	"You're lucky I know you didn't fucking plan this... you little
drama queen." Austin said sternly.  I stuck my tongue out at him, "You're
mean!"  Suddenly the teasing stopped as Austin scooped me up in a massive
hug, carefully avoiding the IVs and monitors. "God fucking damn it Alex, I
was so fucking scared!!! I'm just so fucking glad you're ok now." He said
sighing as he held me tightly, his fears washing over me. As he began to
sob on my shoulders.  "But I'm not ok Austin..." I protested softly, "I
have diabetes apparently, and they don't know why..." I said softly, "I
have to start taking shots I guess..." Austin wiped the hair from my face
and I realized I hadn't bathed in a weak. "Baby..." He pleaded softly as he
kissed my hands. "I'll help with your shots and your diet, I'm just fucking
glad as hell you woke up.  Your mom and I really bonded this weak, and poor
Michael is a wreck... A lot of people are, Marika,
Henna... Natasha... Glen, Dennis... God man, you have a lot of really close
fucking friends and we've all been fucking wrecks!"  I looked up at
Austin. "Just friends?"  Austin smiled warmly then bent over to kiss me
"And family you little fucker" "Austin?" I begged as he stood up.

"Yeah baby?" he cooed back at me.

"Will you hold my hand until I fall back asleep please?" I asked reaching
for him.

"You mean like I have all week while you lay there sleeping?" I nodded so
he took my hand and kissed my head softly as he sat there sharing his
strength as I wandered back to sleep.

I was woken up twice more that night by nocturnal ghouls wanting blood and
vital statistics for their charts, and finally at 6am, a tray was delivered
with cold eggs, a piece of wheat toast, a pat of margarine, a tea with
sweet and low, and two cold pieces of bacon.

Although I ate it, a large part of me was praying this was just hospital
food and not what I'd be sentenced to eat the rest of my life.

About eight thirty am. I got my first visitor.

"Hello? May I come in?" An older woman asked at my door, I bid her in and
looked at her plain skirt, blouse, and shoes before it hit me whom this
was. `Mr's Camble?" I gasped, totally not expecting her.  She got a knowing
smile and put a large card on my desk. "Yes Alex, I came by to check on
you, You had us worried something fierce. Poor Austin..." She couldn't
finish her thought.  I suddenly remembered knowing that Austin's dad had
just died. "Oh, Mrs. Camble, I'm so sorry about Mr. Camble." I said laying
back to rest my head.  She stopped cold than gave me a small knowing smile,
"Your mama has got to be proud of you Alex." She said coming over to my bed
side. "Yes Ma'am, I think she is." I said humbly.  "well thank you, it's
been difficult, but to be very honest, I'm not sure we'd have been together
longer anywho..." She said giving me a weak smile.  "I don't understand." I
said looking at her not comprehending.  "Darling." She said touching my
hand maternally, "He was coming between a mama and her only son.  I may not
agree with your life style, or all his choices, but doesn't mean I don't
love my son, or that I don't think you're a fine young man." I was about to
pass out from her revelation.  All I could do was say "Thank you Ma'am!"
I've thought about it a great deal sense then and wished I'd said more, but
considering how close my brain was to shutting down, I guess I was lucky to
get that much out. "Thank you Mrs. Camble, Austin should make you very
proud, he's a wonderful guy."  She didn't respond, but I could see the
conflict in her eyes, how proud she was, but wishing I were a girl telling
her that.

"There's a big pink elephant in this room Alex, and we both see it but
don't know how to address it and still be polite." She said standing and
looking out the window. "Yes Ma'am, but we have to address him cause I'm
too tired to pretend I don't see him." I said with a sigh.

Mrs. Camble stood in the window and turned to face me, the morning sun
shining about her, "I'll be honest Alex, I pray he comes to his sense and
finds a nice girl and marry's her and brings me lots of grandchildren, the
way good southern men are supposed to do."  She looked down at her feet at
that point. "But you're a very well mannered boy, and he's plum crazy about
you... you keep my boy happy and I'll try to learn to accept this ok?"

I got a tear in my eye, "Mrs. Camble, after he learns I have diabetes and
what that's going to mean for us, all the changes we'll face, I don't
expect he'll be with me much longer anyways, so you might get your wish..."
I said turning to face the other direction.

"Now you listen here Alex," Mrs. Camble snapped suddenly, unexpectedly. "my
boy was a wreck while you were in a coma, he barely left your side, he's
learned how to give you shots, what to do for emergencies.. Alex, you give
my boy some credit! You didn't see the way he worried over you, you didn't
have to listen to him cry when he though he might loose you." She said
walking around to face me. Then she stopped and shook her head and said and
laughed to her self dismissively. "I can't believe I'm here trying to talk
you into staying with my boy! " She said shaking her head.

"Maybe it's for the best if he leaves me.." I said turning back to look out
the window.

"Now how'd you feel if he walked hisself away? Imagine life all alone..."
She said.  I began tearing up imagining my life with out Austin. "And how
do you think he'll feel if you turn him away?" She said further.  "You're
upset sugar, it's ok, it's what any body that goes through this feels. Take
a while to make your mind up about things, ok?"  I nodded and continued
crying, "Thank you Mrs Camble." I sobbed.  "Calm yourself down honey, won't
do no one no good all worked up like that." She said placing a hand on my
shoulder.  I nodded and tried to stop crying. "I'm... I'm ok
Mrs. Camble... Thank you for coming by."

"Alex, you're gunna be just fine, Now be strong ok?  I gotta go, but your
Momma and my son will be here soon.  You have a nice day sugar."  After a
weak smile, she gave a small kiss to the air and winked at me, a moment
later she was gone.

An hour later, a tall dark haired girl entered and introduced herself as
Maria.  She said she was the diabetic specialist and wanted to talk to me
about living with diabetes.  She talked a bit and gave me very enthusiastic
responses about how it wasn't a big deal anymore.  I however replied with,
"But I can still loose my limbs or go blind?" "Well yes but..." I cut her
off with, "And I can suffer from sexual dysfunction and be on dialysis way
sooner then other guys my age, right?" "Yes Mr. Johnson but..." I cut her
off again, "I'm going to have to take shots several times a day the rest of
my life and will never again have the freedom to eat what I want to?" Maria
set her note pad down on my desk and sat down and gave me a long
stare... "Are you done now?" She finally asked when I'd stopped. "I am
unless you try painting a rosy picture again." I said flatly.  "Fair
enough, yes, all that can be true, Diabetes comes with a lot of rotten side
effects, it's a tough disease, and no one can honestly tell you otherwise."
She said as she picked up her note pad again. "My job here isn't to try and
tell you coming down with diabetes is like winning a new car, it's telling
you how you can avoid all those pitfalls."

I laid my head back and said "Why can't you just give me a new pancreas?"
I closed my eyes then tightly suppressing a sob.. "Well, Mr. Johnson, there
are scientists working on that, but it's not a real option right now.  But
we do have some great new treatments and new insulin's..."  I looked over
at her and said weakly, I'm really tired right now, can we do this later
please?"  She moved in her seat, trying to think of what to say, finally
however, she stood up and I heard her notepad close, "Ok Mr. Johnson, I'll
come by tomorrow, maybe we can talk then... we'll have to before you're
allowed to leave you know?"  A lone tear escaped my eye as I tried to will
myself better.

About 4pm Austin showed up and walked in smiling and looking all
Abercrombie and Fitch like. "Hey gorgeous!" He beamed from across the room,
I couldn't help but give a brief smile back, even if I was depressed beyond
all recognition. ` Sooooo, word up at the nurses station is that you're
being a fucking miserable and ornery little cuss..." He said coming over
and kissing my forehead as he sat on the bed beside me.  "What gives baby?
The nurses are only trying to do their fucking jobs?"  Austin asked as he
reached down and took my hand in his. I just teared up as I tried to think
of what to say.  "Hey, hey, hey Alex, calm down baby..." Austin said as he
spun off the bed and reached down to hold me.  "Wow, My mom said you were
depressed, but... Dude, I wasn't expecting this." He said softly as he
pulled me up to his chest.  "Will you PLEASE stop being so nice to me?
Please?" I sobbed loudly on his chest as I tried to stop so I could talk to
him.

"I love you, of course I'm gunna be fucking nice to you... dumb ass!"
Austin teased down at me. "Alex, I went fucking crazy when you were in a
coma, no one could make me smile, everyone around here was a wreck... I'm
not here cause I feel sorry for you, I certainly don't think of you as
fucking weak or sick...  Alex, look in my eyes..." He said like a small
command, so I looked up, my eyes still wet with tears. "I'm here, because
the past few days helped me fucking see what you mean to me. Alex, I'm a
total wreck without you. Without your guidance... Baby, when I say I love
you, dude, it's a mixture of wanting you, needing you, and knowing with out
a fucking doubt that no one else can make me as happy as you. I was so
totally pissed cause I couldn't even call you up and talk to you about what
I was feeling." I was sobbing on his chest as he held me protectively in
his arms.  It was maybe five minutes later that he hugged me tightly and
said "Ok baby, this position is killing me..." And he got up and stood for
a moment looking down on me before pulling the chair up to the bed and
sitting down, taking my free hand in his and just smiling at me.

 "How the fuck am I gunna pay for all this?" I suddenly let out crying
again.  "sssshhhhhhhhhhhh" Austin soothed gently, "It's all taken care of
baby, Ivan said you're still insured even if you haven't started at the new
place yet, and Henna and Marika are coming in later to show you all the
money people have donated to what they're calling the `Alex-Aid' fund..."

 I don't know why, but that amazed me so much, "What??? Really?" I asked.

 "Yeah, they already did a benefit for you, and so did Natasha, honey,
don't worry, the bill is taken care of already, I was worried about it
too."  Austin was smiling his award winning grin at me and I just melted.
"Sooooooo," He said with a teasing smirk, I looked up not knowing where he
was going with his jest. "So, you won my Mom over this morning huh?"  I
rolled my eyes, "Well we talked..." I said.  "Must have been some fucking
talk I'm guessing." Austin teased as he pulled my hand up to kiss my
fingers. "It was nice though, I said softly, then added, "since she and I
wouldn't even recognize each other outside a hospital." I said
sarcastically.

"Dude," Austin began teasing me, "She hasn't blessed our marriage yet, not
sure we should fucking expect that, but she really likes you.  Hell, she
`warned' me not to hurt you..." She said, (mimicking her voice badly) "He's
a nice young man, he comes from good breeding, but he's in a bad way now
Austin Camble, don't you go and hurt him none!" he said wagging his finger
in my face.

"Alex, dude, she never even said that about any of my girl friends." Austin
said with a crazy smirk, I looked up too amazed to know what to say, I
kinda just shrugged for lack of a better response. "Dude, you have some
weird thing that makes everyone want to take care of you..." Austin said
kissing my hand.  I looked up and smirked, "Well, too fucking bad, that's
your job from now on!" I said winking at him... "Baby, trust me, everyone
fucking knows that already."  He said beaming at me.  "So can I tell the
nurses it's safe for them to come in here again?" He said smirking.  "Yeah,
but why didn't someone think to write, `must only be approached with a tall
sexy gay athlete in the room' in my chart?" I said laying back and taking
his hand with me. Austin shrugged as he stood up, "I think it'll be in
there by tomorrow sport!" Then he leaned over and kissed my head, "be back
in a few seconds." Then he left for the nurses' station.

Austin sat with me all after noon and into the night as first the
nutritionist and then the diabetic specialist came and talked to me, Austin
held my hand and talked soothingly to me whenever things got to be too much
for me and I'd start tearing up.  When they left, We were alone for a
while. Austin then got into bed with me and held me to his chest, "Thank
you baby." He said kissing my forehead. "For what hon? You've been the
champ in all this." I replied in true confusion. "For waking up and being
ok, for not leaving me... God!" He choked up, I could feel him quiver,
"Sorry, you just had me so fucking scared, you had all of us praying and
promising anything if you'd only wake up and be ok." He said hugging me
tightly.

We were kissing passionately when I heard a loud voice exclaim, ""Good god
almighty, the two never stop!  TELL me he's awake and you aren't just
molesting him PLEASE???" Marika begged.

"Marika!" I said sitting up with a smile. "Hey sugar, how you feeling
baby?" She said coming over and kissing my forehead. We talked for a while
and then she said, `So, has your Fiancée given you the money we raised
yet?" I was about to answer when Austin said "No hon, I did tell him about
it though, and I did tell him you were coming in with another surprise for
him though." Austin said. Then added, "Actually, I've already put a down
payment on a new Porsche." "Oh cool!" I added quickly, "We'll look so good
on our get away video!" Marika just scowled, "Neither of you are half as
funny as you think you are!" Marika said putting a folder down and then
sitting in the chair by me. "Now YOU Mrs. Drama queen, We have alllll had
way more than enough of all your antics! So cut it out!" Then she smiled
sweetly, "kay?"

I smiled at her and said as weakly as I could, "you just want me better so
you can pick on me *cough, cough*" Marika burst out laughing, " Shut it!
drama queen, Austin, you make him stop!"  Austin just shrugged and smiled,
"YOU make him stop, I'm just happy he's still here to fuck with!" He said
as he reached over for my outstretched hand. "Baby..." Marika said to me,
"You better treat this man like GOLD! I ain't never seen a man break down
the way he did worrying about your ass."  I squeezed his hand, both out of
gratitude, and because I knew he was giving her his tough macho posturing.
"Yeah, Like gold..." I said softly looking up in his blue eyes.

"Now!" She said sitting up and reaching for her folder, "I brought these so
you could learn the music before we have to perform these." She said
flipping the folder open before me on my beside tray. `WHAT?" Austin
exclaimed impatiently. "Marika, he almost died... He's not singing now!"
Austin was so cute and growly when he was protecting me.  "Easy there papa
bear... " Marika said with her hands up, "I gave him Christmas music for
our concert in two weeks, he'll be out and back to work by then I'm
guessing... Besides, He should already know the music, I'm just making sure
he has it all to refresh his memory."

I flipped through the folder than gasped and said, "you want ME to dress
like the Virgin Mary???"  I expected Austin to jump up and defend me
again...In stead he stood with crossed arms and asked her, "But he'll have
big boobs right?"

I snapped out, "NO I won't, I'm not dressing like a woman asshole!"  Marika
was laughing, "You two!!!!" Austin just smirked at me.  I lay back down and
grumbled.  "well Alex, I'm very glad you're feeling better, Robert will be
in tomorrow and God only knows when Phil and Tiago will be here., But I'll
visit soon, maybe this weekend if you're still here.," Then she leaned over
and kissed my forehead and left.

The next day Austin sat with me as I talked with all the all the
specialists, he held me and groomed me as I tried to shave and take a
shower.  He wouldn't let me anywhere near a mirror, saying, "You lost about
30 pounds while you were sick, most of it came from muscles..." He sounded
very matter of fact about it, but I knew he was worried about how I'd
react.  "Guess this means I'll never catch up to you now..." I lamented as
he washed my hair. "It means" He said correcting me, "that we'll be
spending a lot more time in the Gym from now on."

After lunch Austin tried to take me for a walk around the corridors of the
hospital.  I was surprised at how quickly I became winded and tired.
Austin nearly carried me back to the room and I fell asleep moments later.

When I awoke later, my Mom was sitting there reading.  "Hey baby, I heard
you were quite the athlete today." She said as she came over to kiss my
head.  I rolled my eyes, "27 and I can't make it across a damn hall way
without collapsing."  I was pissed.  "Honey, You were almost dead!  I don't
mean to make light of what you're going through, but honey, we almost lost
you... it's going to take some time and work to get your stamina and energy
back, But you will, Baby, you have an army of friends and loved ones that
want to help you...So just relax a little honey.  It'll take time, but
you'll get there."

I hung my head... "Yeah Mom, I know... Thanks" So we talked about my family
and what everyone was up to, what everyone said and did when they found out
I was in the hospital.  Mom told me how Austin looked like a florist in the
new place with all the flowers and bouquet's that couldn't be left at the
hospital.

That afternoon Michael showed up.  "Ok Little Mrs. Drama princess, just cut
the shit and get outta bed!" He bellowed on the way into my room, scaring
poor Daniel and Christian to death.  "Hi Michel, nice to smell you too... I
suppose." I quipped back laying against my pillow.  "I didn't get you any
damned flowers!" He stated flatly.  "Honey, you need to save your money for
breath mints!" I said turning to watch Daniel and Christian laughing.

"I don't know why I even bothered to come by and check on you!" He said
shaking his head.  "Baby, I heard all about how you were crying and
threatening the Doctors and nurses if they didn't help me... So drop the
Act ya big softie!!!" Michael Gave Daniel and Christian sideways looks and
then shrugged, "I was a little crazy- so sue me!" He shrugged.  "It was
sweet Michael- and it may only be me saying this because I've been starved
all week, but I love you too."  Michael made a strange face then turned to
face Daniel and Christian, "I trust you value your lives enough to keep
this little secret of ours? Can't have people thinking I'm soft or
sentimental or anything..." Michael said with an implied threat... Daniel
laughed and said "For a dollar I'll tell everyone you didn't even show up
here!"  Michael thought about it than said, "No, for a dollar I get
Christian for a night!"

"And what about Jason?" I added with a jab of my foot to Michael's
side. "Oh him!  Uhhh, well... He's in LA now... and while the cats away..."
"While YOUR Boyfriend's away, the faggot boy better damned well keep his
pants on!" I added with a grin.  Christian grinned too, he'd loosened up a
great deal since meeting us. "Ass hole!" Michael grinned back at me.

By the end of the week, I was ready to kill to get out... everyone I'd ever
known had visited me, Austin had brought me pictures of the legendary
botanical gardens our house had become since I'd been in the hospital.
Austin and Natasha had planted a great many of the live plants I'd received
so a new garden was waiting for me when I got home.

Austin and Natasha and the girls had been busy while I'd been away, even
Michael and Glen had come over to lend a hand, the place was totally set up
when I got home, and as I found out later, Austin and Mrs. Tremere had gone
though the cabinets getting rid of any possible temptation for a new
diabetic.  Everything was now "Low carb-high protein" or artificially
sweetened.  As Austin pointed out to me though, of major importance was
that I was already used to my coffee with sweet-n-low since that's how my
grandparents had always made it and what I'd always had growing up.  As
Michael had already said to Austin and repeated to me, the "place looked
like Martha Stewart blew chunk all over it" with all the flowers and the
flowery stuff the previous owners had left up.  And that was before Austin
and Christian and Daniel had put up the new Christmas tree and lights and
decorated the place with sparkly gold-silver- and red and green foil crap.

At noon I did my first blood test on my fingers and scored a 152, a little
high but not too serious.  Austin was upset though and blamed it on my
emotions for finally getting out.  He drew up my insulin and told me to
"drop trou'" Since he'd appointed himself my loyal shot giver.  It was
actually a little erotic bending over for him, as he pinched and then poked
my ass.  After he was done he continued to pet my ass and lamented "I have
missed this ass so much this past week." Then he swatted it and said, "Ok
perve, pull the pants up unless you want me to poke it again."  I just
stayed there bent over while he laughed then re dressed me. "Later perve,
we got a lot people to see and have to get some Christmas shopping done
first."  "Why do we have to go see the people? Hell, all of them saw me in
the hospital this week already!" I asked bewildered.  " Cause that's what's
done stupid!" Austin replied like it was just the most common sense thing
to do in the world... I assumed it was a Southern thing.  So we went on a
traveling spree all across Central Florida and thanked the people for their
flowers and good wishes.  When Korma offered me a Pepsi, something as
natural to her to as my British friends offering me tea, Austin nearly back
handed me as he flung a protective arm to shield me from the evil and
offensive sugar. "He can't have a regular Pepsi anymore Korma- ALL he can
have is unsweetened ice tea, coffee, or a diet soda. Or water I guess."
Austin said like a protective parent.  I took a deep breath then looked up
at Korma who was blushing and apologizing. "I'm sooo sorry Alex-I
forgot..." I held my hand up, "It's ok Hon, How 'bout a diet Pepsi?"  I
asked since I knew it was all she drank.  "Ok hon..." She said leaving.
"Austin, you CAN'T do that every time someone tries to get me a drink or
forgets and offers me a desert- it's just common courtesy, and lets face
it- I don't look different so people forget. But honey, you can't attack
everyone who forgets ok?" I asked before Korma re entered.  Austin blushed
and hung his head, I reached over and cuffed him playfully before Korma
stepped in with our drinks.

Later that day as we sat at Michael's he grinned over at me and asked "Want
some Apple pie or a big piece of Chocolate cake?" He smirked as Austin
about blew a gasket. "Ok, remember what I said earlier about being nice
when someone tempts me?"  "Yea..." He grumbled. "Well, all bets are off if
it's Michael being a wiener!" I said with sadistic glee.

"HEY Michael pleaded as Austin sprang up and closed with him.  "Are you
REALLY gunna have me put your Fiancée in the hospital; right after you get
out?" Michael asked as he stood up and held his ground.  "You'll be right
next me smart ass..." Austin growled as he flexed his massive bicep for
show. "Ok, Ok boys, relax, no one gets hurt today..." I sighed, proud as
hell of Austin and his mating strut.

That night as we were sitting looking over the stuff we'd bought for
Christmas, a car pulled up.  As Austin got up and went to the door, A voice
called out through our kitchen window, "Hey ass hole, open up!"  It was
Nathan.

"Nate!" Austin greeted him as he opened the front door.  "Hey Austin, Hi
Alex!  You feeling better now that you're out?"  He asked, which surprised
me cause I didn't even know he'd known I'd been in the hospital.  "Yea,
it's nice to be home!" I said with a smile at Nathan's upbeat stance.  `Hey
Austin, I brought something over for you, it's part... well, it's partially
something Joe left you, and partly an early Christmas present... I'm
brining it early or late depending one which way you look at it."  Austin
cocked his head to one side, not knowing what Nathan meant... "Huh?"
Nathan opened the door back up behind him and bid Austin and me to follow
him. "Joe left me his car and said I should think about letting you have it
since I already got one..." Nate said as he walked back to a sharp little
red truck under our street light.  "But I knew you'd feel as weird driving
his car as I would, and I know you needed one, so I used it as a trade in
and paid the rest to get you this S-10 extended cab pick up!"  "FUCK!"
Austin and I said at the same time, then we both talked at once. "Nate,
this must have cost a fortune!" I said as Austin said "Jesus fucking Christ
Nate! I just can't... Holy shit!"  Nate just stood there beaming.  "It
ain't really `new' But it's close, it's in really good shape.  I got it for
a great price and Joe's car went for a lot, I checked it out, and it's in
great shape." He said with sad reverence.  "If you don't think it's too
grim, Austin said slowly, "I think I'll name it Joe." Austin said softly
putting his hand reverently on his new truck!  "Thank you Nate, I-I-I just
can't thank you enough..." Austin said with great respect.  "Awww shut up,
if I'd known you get all mushy..." Nate teased though he never stopped
grinning.

"Hey, you want to come in for some coffee or tea or something?" I asked
since it was getting a little nippy out in the mid December night.  "Yeah,
coffee sounds good. I'm guessing you only drink the good stuff." Nate said
with a smirk, hinting at my being Gay and there fore classier than "normal
folk" I just smiled at him since in this case, he was right.  "Got ya, for
you I'll break out the Kona and ignore the 8-O-clock" I teased.  "Austin
cook any of his deserts?" Nathan asked. "Sorry, he threw them all out when
he found out I had diabetes." I sighed.  Nate looked shocked, "You have
what?"  "That's why I was in the hospital Nate." I said assuming he'd
known.  "I didn't know Alex, dude, I'm sorry, god you must think I'm a
total ass." He lamented.  I smiled at him as I held the door for him.
"Look at the smile you put on Austin's face Nate... I couldn't be happier
with you right now if you'd gotten me the new truck." I said as I closed
the door and let Austin explore his new toy.  " Dude, I'm sorry, my grandpa
and Uncle have diabetes, I know it gets rough watching what you eat all the
time." Nate said sounding suddenly a lot more human.  "It's gunna take some
getting used to, the diet and all the shots and shit, but Austin's
appointed himself my official nurse maid- so..." I grinned at Nate as I put
the coffee pot on.  "Yeah, that ass loves to take care of his girl
friends..." Nate stopped and was ready to apologize when I started
laughing. "Relax Nate-like it or not, that's what I am now."  "No you
ain't, but I'm sorry. It'll just take a while to start talking about Austin
and his boyfriend." Nate said with a sardonic grin-it was obviously still a
new idea for him.  "Dude, just relax, you won't offend me unless you say
something mean on purpose... I know the difference." Nate grinned up at me
with a strange look, "That's cool dude, you're alright."

Austin popped in just then looking like a lottery winner. "Dude, Nate... I
don't know what to say!  I mean, thank you so much... Man, that's one
cherry truck!" Nate laughed and grinned as I set out the sugar and
cream. "Austin, dude, after all the shit I've done this past year, it's the
least I can do for you. I know Joe would be happy as shit to know he'd
helped."  "Nate, we've been friends most of my life... you don't owe me
anything-this was just awesome though-God damnned-thank you." Austin said
shaking Nate's hand.

I put out the coffee and made my own with sweet-n-low and cream and poured
cups for Austin and Nathan.  "Thank you..." Nathan said as I handed him the
cup.  "Are you kidding me Nate?  Thank you!" I said with a warm smile.
"Now don't you go getting all mushy on me too- I can't take a house full of
men getting all weepy on me." Nate said with a self depreciating grin.

Austin drove Nate back home later while I cleaned up, he came back later
and beeped his horn.  When I went to see what he wanted, he yelled "Come
on, go get your jacket and get in- I want to drive around a bit."  So I
went and grabbed my bomber jacket and climbed in next to my leather clad
boy friend.  "How bout we get some coffee's at Mr. Donut then walk around
Lake Eola?"  Austin asked as we pulled out.  The truck was immaculate and
had a distinctly Austin smell to it now.  I lay across the bench seats and
laid on his jean covered lap.  "Whatever you say honey." I said glad for
his good mood after all the stress I'd put him through the past week. As we
drove then walked around the busy night spot, we saw Christmas decorations
on the light posts, some of the hotels, the condos, and some of the more
adventurous privet homes. Later that night, we sipped our drinks as we
strolled around the fairly chilly park.  The night was crisp and clear and
felt like a night in a big northern city with all the twinkling lights,
Christmas trees, and far away traffic.  We drove back slowly, me cuddled
against his leather clad chest and leaning my head on his shoulder and he
drove with his right arm over my shoulder hugging me to him serenely.

The next day was Saturday and Austin didn't work until that evening, I'd
decided to go visit the Seattle Scene and hang out with the group for the
evening.  That morning, about 10am, Austin walked out of the bed room
wearing a pair of beat up shorts, his white cowboy hat, (we now had a white
and a black for him, and a white for me) and a days growth on his face.
"Well Sexy, where you heading all shirtless and sexy as edible hell?" I
asked as I sipped my coffee and relaxed at the table.  Austin got a big
grin and flexed as he smiled at me, "Cole and I are gunna work in the yard,
I think I'm mowing today." He offered as he headed out the door.  I Said
"Ok sport! I'll come out and help..." "NO you aren't!" Austin snapped as he
chastised me. "You aren't doing any work until you get back in shape-I'm
not gunna jeopardize your health!" I got a big grin at his growly
protectiveness.  Then I reached for the phone... "Who you calling?" Asked
Austin.  "Michael, He'll die if he finds out I've been watching you sweat
all day and didn't call him."  Austin laughed as I saw a shirtless Cole
walk up.  "Ok, you can sit outside and perve- But NO getting out of your
seat!"  I kissed Austin as I filled my cup and rang Michael.  I sat outside
in the shade sipping coffee as I watched my big muscled boyfriend and Cole
pushing the mower around and pruning the bushes.  Michael Joined me about
lunch time and brought Subway subs for Austin and Cole.  After Lunch
Natasha came and joined our little Soirée dressed in a billowing something,
I called it a night gown and was then, summarily "shuuushed" by Natasha who
gave me an opened hand dismissal..  About 1pm Austin jumped in the pool as
it was still a warm day and the pool hadn't yet been drained.  After
another half hour of work, the shirtless hunk in the cowboy hat walked up
to me huffing. "You enjoy watching me work hard?" He asked with a sexy
grin. I stood up and licked the middle of his salty chest and stopped at
his right nipple and sucked away.  Suddenly a big hand was pressing my face
into the warm chest. "Ohhhhhhhh yeeeaaaahhhhhh, God I've missed that
mouth." Austin groaned.

"Baby , all you had to do was ask, I'd have licked you..." Michael was
saying from behind me.  Without a word I spun around and cupped Michael's
balls and began to squeeze. "FUCKEN-A!" Michael yelped as he bent
over. "Call this little rotweiler off me!" he yelped as Cole, Natasha and
Austin laughed.  "MINE!" was all I said before turning back to nurse on
Austin's other nipple.

"Michael, honey, I'd be careful around that one, even with all the muscles
he lost, his teeth and claws are still sharp as shit."  Natasha said with
her arm around the ever stoic Cole.

"Alex, I hate to rush you or disturb what you're doing, but Austin has got
be at work by 4..." Natasha said as she walked to her house.  "I started to
pull Austin toward our bungalow... "Which means he doesn't have time to
fuck you!" She added without turning around.  "SHIT!" I said
loudly... "Well come on, we have time for a warm shower at least."

In the shower I washed and shampooed him, but try as I might, every sexual
overture was ignored or rebuffed. "I gotta get to work sweety!" He'd plead
as he swatted my hands off his dick.  So he drove us to the P house and I
watched him get dressed in his cowboy outfit... Natasha came over and
interrupted us as I was sliding his chaps off... Then she shooed me away so
in defeat I drove Austin's new truck over to the Seattle Scene.

Cloe, one of the waitresses was the first to recognize me and hug me as a
greeting when I entered.  Then Henna and Jorge followed, and after their
practice set was over, Marika and the band came over to check on me.  I
guess from all the action and the emotions, I began to get dizzy as I sat
there listening and bantering with the regulars and the band.  As I sat
there I began to feel very strange, my stomach was gurgling at me and I
began to feel both faint and panicky.  Marika commented how pale I'd gotten
and told Henna to get me a muffin and something to drink when I told her
how I felt, when Henna exclaimed that I was diabetic and couldn't have
sweets any more, Marika said "honey-Alex is going into a diabetic insulin
reaction, if he doesn't get something to eat soon, he'll be back in the
hospital..."  So Henna ran and got me a blueberry muffin and had Cloe make
me an iced Latte.  My blood sugar had fallen to dangerous levels and I all
but ate the paper the muffin had been in. I ate with a panicky feeling of
urgency, as though I couldn't get the food in me fast enough. Half an hour
later I felt fine, as though nothing had happened.  Marika came over and
sat with me after her first set.

"Baby, from now on, you have to start taking better care of yourself, you
have to eat better and for god's sake, why aren't you carrying around some
type of hard candy or something incase you get low blood sugar?  What if
you were some place that didn't have food???"  Marika had learned a lot
about Diabetes both from her father who had the other kind of diabetes and
from her nurse sister, Tamara.  Later that night I wasn't allowed to leave
on my own after my silly reaction, I swore I was better but the group was
adamant.  Finally, Tiago said he'd drive me to the P house in Austin's
truck and if he couldn't find his own way back, we could drive him back to
his car after Austin got off.


While I had been at the Seattle Scene, Marika and I and the band had
discussed the upcoming Christmas event, She asked if we could do a toned
down version-i.e. `More religious' for her church, and we ask agreed we'd
love to.  Then, as Robert and Phil began discussing a way to decorate the
stage like a manger, I hatched an idea. Marika saw my eyes and smirk and
asked "Ok you aren't even back yet and I can smell you plotting
something... what gives Alex?"  I smiled and said I loved the idea of the
decorations. And I did. I didn't elaborate further as I knew she and Robert
would object.

When I goy yo the P-house I walked in the back dressing room and waited for
Austin to finish his last number.  He came back a few minutes later dressed
in black leather shorts and a chainmail shirt carrying a prop sword.  GOD
almighty was he hot!  "Hey you- back already?" he greeted me with a kiss to
my cheek. "No, I'm still there drinking Lattee." I replied with a smirk as
he shed his mail.  "You're such a shit sometimes!" He rolled his eyes and
replied back as he held his sword to my chin.  "Ok, I give up-rape me and
pillage my village!" I said with a hungry look in my eyes.  "Honey, if
you're gunna give up that easy, you should say it in French!" Natasha said
as she walked in dressed as a Massi warrior.  They'd just done her version
of Scandal's "I am the warrior".  "I don't want him to misunderstand me." I
said as a plea as Austin bent over to kiss me. "Trust me whore dog, he's
not going to misunderstand you-especially with that hard on in your
shorts." Natasha quipped as Austin cupped my hard on and rubbed it.
"Ooohhhhh, god, I think we need a few minutes alone..." I moaned as Austin
laughed. "nope- we'd need hours baby- think you can wait until I get you
home?" I held his arm so his hand remained where it was as I humped his big
hand. "Can you?" I asked breathing hard in his chest.

After we'd disentangled, I told Natasha and Austin I needed their help.  I
asked Natasha if she had any Tiger material left and what else she had in
animal prints.  She showed mr a bunch of tiger skins, Leopard skins,
cheetah skins, and both a variety of browns and buckskin materials and a
few black furs.  Then I asked Austin if he could get a few more dancers for
me,

Awhile later Tiago told Austin about my reaction which did little to ease
his mind, and he all but carried me to his truck. "Damn it Alex, I told you
you needed to eat more..." He admonished on the drive home.  Once home he
had me test my sugar then sat there and made me eat a peanut butter
sandwich before he ushered me to the bathroom to get ready for bed.  Austin
tried to baby me and act all parental and protective, but my soft touches
and pleading eyes, and a bit of seduction finally had him enter me and
pound me into submission. More than just wanting him, same as always, this
time I "needed" him. I needed him to prove to me that some things weren't
going to change.  The next morning we drove to the gym and I began trying
to regain all the muscle tone I'd lost.  It was amazing how much weaker I'd
gotten in two weeks.

Later that day I practiced Christmas songs while Austin watched some sports
team loose on TV, I pretended to be upset and consoled him after they'd
lost and while he returned my hug he quipped "Thank you Alex, even if you
couldn't care less who won or lost."  I kissed his bare chest and said "I
care if you do..."  He kissed the top of my head and said "Thanks
sweetness, But I wonder if Cole is watching the games-I think I need some
male enthusiasm..."  "Well, if the academy awards come on I'll show you
enthusiasm... but grown men throwing spherical objects?  Well, unless their
naked..." I smirked as I picked up the folder and began singing silent
night.  Austin smiled and waved on his way out the door.

So that Saturday we gathered at the Seattle Scene and wore our best suits,
I wore the pinstriped suit Ryan had bought me.  Tiago had on a brown
sweater and a pair of reindeer antlers they were funny as hell to watch as
he was drumming away and they just bobbed and rocked rhythmically. ...
Austin and three of Austin's friends were in the dressing room/supply
closet waiting for me.

We started our set with a warm welcome and wished everyone a merry
Christmas.  I announced that Henna had made a big batch of both warm hot
chocolate and a pot of mulled cider.  We sang a few favorites before our
first break, when the lights went out I gathered my men near the manger and
waited with them, kissing the shirtless Austin.  When the lights came back
up the audience saw the half naked men wearing animal print loin cloths and
Tiago and Phil in reindeer antlers and Robert in a giraffe print tie.
Marika, who'd been kept out of the loop stood there with a shocked look on
her face. "What in gods name are you doing?" She asked me mystified.  I
shrugged and said, "you put goats and sheep in your manger and I'll put the
animals I like in mine."  Marika was as near to verklempt as anyone I'd
ever seen.  "You are NOT bringing them to my church tomorrow!" She stated.
"Nooooo, they're on loan from the P-house, cept the rain deer Tiger and
Giraffe." I said.  One of the guys, a red haed named Bryan Okter, came up
in his leopard skin loin cloth and made a loud purring noise as he rubbed
his head against me.  I began our next set then as I pet Bryan and then
scratched Austin under his chin and behind his ears.

The last part of our first performance was all Marika, with all the lights
out, we put a blue spot light on her and in her lowest alto began a note
that was so hauntingly low and pure it caused shivers on me even though I
knew what song she was doing as she'd been practicing it for over a week.

 O holy night, the stars are brightly shining; It is the night of the dear
Savior's birth!  Long lay the world in sin and error pining, Till He
appeared and the soul felt its worth.  A thrill of hope, the weary soul
rejoices, For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.  Fall on your knees, O
hear the angel voices!  O night divine, O night when Christ was born!  O
night, O holy night, O night divine!

Led by the light of faith serenely beaming, With glowing hearts by His
cradle we stand.  So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming, Here came the
wise men from Orient land.  The King of kings lay thus in lowly manger, In
all our trials born to be our Friend!  He knows our need - to our weakness
is no stranger.  Behold your King; before Him lowly bend!  Behold your
King; before Him lowly bend!

Truly He taught us to love one another; His law is love and His Gospel is
peace.  Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother And in His Name
all oppression shall cease.  Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise
we, Let all within us praise His holy Name!  Christ is the Lord! O praise
His name forever!  His pow'r and glory evermore proclaim!  His pow'r and
glory evermore proclaim!

Marika sang with a power and conviction that was as haunting as it was
captivating. The audience sat transfixed even as the lights were brought
back up, the subsequent applause was almost a shock as the silence had been
so absolute.

Later, between sets, the well built cheetah and zebra left as they had a
show at the P house to do, But Austin stayed on with Bryan for the last set
as Bryan only worked as a part time bar tender- though Marika was prepared
and we had a good banter as Austin and Bryan both purred and pawed at me.
I stood behind Tiago later and ran a hand up his sweaty shirt and tweaked
his nipple before taking a Santa hat off a patron I knew and put it on
Austin before climbing on his lap and whispering "I love you" in his ear as
though I were asking for presents.

 The next day we had a nice morning of wrapping presents and Austin was
baking deserts for family and friends (And threatening me with bodily harm
and a butcher knife if I dared to take any samples.)  That afternoon,
Austin and I got in my jeep and drove to Marika and Robert's church and the
boys helped Robert set up as the church filled with people, the mothers of
Austin and I were easy to pick out of the uniformly black congregation.
Our mothers sat together with Marika's family along with Austin, and
Mrs. Tremere.  The concert was much tamer and more reserved then it had
been the night before. We had a resounding applause at the end, mostly for
Marika's stellar cover of O holy night.  The church service was much, much
longer then the catholic masses I'd been to and we were starved by the end.
As Marika had promised though, there was a great feast of donuts, and
various deserts with coffee in the reck room.  Austin and I stayed a short
time to be social, But Austin told the hosts that I was a diabetic and
needed to get special food to avoid getting sick.  Tamara, Marika's nurse
sister, was there and hugged the two of us and escorted us out as more and
more people were trying to get us to stay.  Austin's mom was nearly crying
she was so happy to see us in a church and getting that kind of
recognition.  My Mother smiled a lot and was in a discussion with several
older church goers about African art and the influence of the Highway men
on modern art.

This was the first time our mothers had met, and they had a lot of trouble
finding common ground to talk about.  Fortunately, Mrs Tremere was there
and she facilitated a great deal.  Also, Marika's family were there and
they were thrilled to meet our families.  Marika had been abundantly clear
that our sexuality was known by most parishioners, but they'd over looked
it in lieu of good old southern pleasantry.  As long as we didn't say
anything, neither did they.  It was like the musical directors in the
churches, 99% of them and most of the singers were gay, but it was a semi
guarded secret- as long as it was silent, everyone could pretend they
didn't know.  This was the southern tradition, black and white alike, of
don't ask-don't tell.

We left the families in good spirits as we drove off to get me some "Austin
approved" food.  We'd made plans before leaving to visit our mothers and
Mrs. Tremere Christmas day.

The next week went by quickly and Christmas eve night, We had a long
passionate night of romance and intense cuddling before I was carried to
bed and loved into a quivering mass covered with snow drifts of white.

Christmas morning I awoke to see Austin flying around silently, as though
my radar wouldn't pick him up trying to make our breakfast.  When he saw me
through our door smiling as I watched his antics, he got a big grin and
began walking towards me, wearing only a pair of boxers in our heated
apartment.  "Morning sunshine!" He greeted me before adding "and Merry
Christmas baby... breakfast will be ready soon if you wanna just relax."  I
smiled and said "naaaaaaa" as I stood up and walked to the edge of the bed
and waited for him to walk over and wrap his arms around my waist. We
kissed briefly since neither of us had the best breath in the morning.  He
carried me to the bathroom door as we kissed each others necks and nuzzled.
"Come on baby, brush your teeth before breakfast and let me give you a
proper Merry Christmas kiss." I said dragging him in by his arm.  "you can
spare three minutes to brush too baby."

After we were done, we had a 10 minute kiss by our Christmas tree and near
the mistletoe.  "I love you..." I moaned in his chest as he wrapped me in
the bathrobe he'd put on in the bathroom while I peed.  "Love you too
baby." He said as he disentangled himself as he walked towards the kitchen.
"But I need to get breakfast finished for my fiancee'" He said as he made
it to the kitchen and pushed the button on the coffee maker.

An hour or so later I sat between his legs on the floor by the tree which
had only a few presents for each other as we'd already splurged so much on
each other.  I gave him the Picture I'd bought him which he loved and
couldn't wait to hang up.  He said, "I have to get something from Natasha's
place before you can open the rest of what I have here, and Mom and I have
something for you at her place later." He said as he stood up and walked to
the door.  "That's ok Baby, I have your main present at Ryan and Michaels
for now." I said with a huge grin.

Ten minutes later Austin reappeared in our door way carrying a box with a a
big silver and red ribbon on it.  He was grinning so widely I began to
laugh at him.  He just bounced over and handed me the box, "I wanted to get
you a child to tide us over." He beamed.  I was confused a moment but as I
took the box, I felt it move and the weight shift.  I tore off the ribbon
and opened the top to reveal a gorgeous black kitten with even darker ears
and paws.  He looked up at me and gave the deepest meow.  I saw he had ice
blue eyes like a Siamese which also explained his chiseled features. Before
Austin could speak I was already holding the kitten and kissing it's head.
"Austin, he's gorgeous" I said happily, "It's a black Siamese, there were
five of them, his Mom was a pedigreed black maine coon and his dad was a
pure bread Siamese." Austin explained.  "He's just gorgeous baby, and he
has your eyes!" I said holding him at arms length next to Austin's face.
"Yeah, but he talks a lot, so he takes after you too." Austin teased
lovingly before adding, "all the other presents are cat stuff, litter box,
food and that shit."  I hugged the cat to me and said, "I can't wait to
give you your present at Ryan's." Then I let the cat go as I closed with
Austin to kiss him.  We embraced and kissed with great passion for a short
time, then I broke it off and handed Austin another of my little gifts.
Austin opened the smallish package and got a funny grin as he held up a
pair of fishnet boxer briefs. "Tired of me going commando?" He asked with a
grin. "Sss'hyeah right!" I scoffed, "Not at all baby, You wouldn't even be
allowed to wear anything but a smile if I had my way... but it might be
nice to wear these to certain events." I said simply as I rubbed him
through his robe and looked up in eyes.

An hour later we were showered, I was freshly shaved and the cat, which,
I'd named "Tempest", was set up with a litter box on our front porch-sun
room, with food and water and a variety of toys.

We drove first to Austin's mother house, the one he'd grown up in.  I
noticed a `for sale' sign in her front yard near the make shift manger and
Cross.  There were no snow men or Santas in this yard unlike the rest of
the neighborhood, Mrs. Camble's yard was decorated with Christian symbols
and reminders that this was Jesus's birthday. "Wow, that was fast." Austin
remarked as he noticed the for sale sign.  "I'm sure there are too many
memories for her here..." I said assuming I was right. "Bull shit!" He
laughed, "She hated this place and always has, she's selling so she can get
the fuck out... and with the life insurance, she can definitely move up a
few fucking notches."

"How much did she get?" I asked stunned a bit.  "Plenty... She'll be very
comfortable." He said as opened the door for me.  The house reeked of stale
smoke and I could see Austin balk and turn to see if I was ok.  I just
smiled and ushered him in further, Mrs. Camble was near an old Christmas
tree in the living room.  "Merry Christmas boys!" She said as she came
across the room to hug Austin.  "Merry Christmas Mom." Austin said as I
wished her a merry Christmas too.

Austin told his mom to get her coat cause he was taking us out to lunch.
She grabbed a very nice fur coat and turned to me, "He's getting us out of
the house cause he's worried about you and all that damned smoke." She said
as she patted my back.  I smiled and nodded cause I really was getting sick
trying not to breath.  There were a surprising number of breakfast places
open for a Christmas morning.  At the restaurant Christmas carols played on
a radio in the back ground and a young blond waitress brought us coffee and
took our orders.

"Alex, you and that girl were just amazing that night when you sang."
Mrs. Camble said smiling, "God has given you a wonderful gift." She said as
she added sugar to her coffee.  Austin had taken to using sweet-n-low like
me, as a sign of solidarity and cause he maintained we didn't need extra
sugar bowls.  Mostly I think he was trying to keep sugar away from me.

"Thank you Mrs. Camble, I'm so glad you could come and see us." I said with
a smile.  "I'm sorry if things were tense between you and my mom, "I said
holding her hand warmly.  "Honey, we're from n different worlds, that's
all. We both love our boys and we both want the best for you."  She said
patting my hand. "She's apparently more used to this whole `gay' thing" she
said whispering like it was a big secret. "But she loves you and wants the
best for you same as I do for my baby." She added as she touched Austin's
hand.

"Awww Mom!" He smiled as he reached down and put a big wrapped present on
the table before her.  She smiled and tore open the wrapping paper to find
a professionally done portrait of Austin and me before a Christmas tree.
"I baked you a bunch of stuff too, but it's all wrapped up back at the
house." Austin said as she teared up.  "Ohhh baby, this is beautiful..."
She said reaching over to kiss him.  I gave her a smaller box and there
were new slippers and a new yellow Sunday dress in it."  "Alex, this is
wonderful, you got my colors right and everything-thank you honey!" She
said as she stood up and bent over to kiss me.  Our sandwiches were brought
over after that and we ate a few bites before She said out of the blue. "As
you know, Austin's daddy passed away a little while ago." I nodded. "And
though I'm not sure about this whole thing, I wanted to give you my
blessing and well..." She handed me a small box which I thanked her for and
opened. It was a small diamond ring inside, it was obviously old and the
silver was tarnished. I looked up not understanding "That was Austin's
grandmas ring, my Momma... it's a half carat, and I know it's too small for
either of you to wear, But I'd like to pay for a jeweler to reset it so you
give a proper wedding ring to Austin, keep it in our family I suppose."
She said as I sat there stunned.  "Told you she liked you!" Austin teased
as I sat there dumbfounded. I opened my mouth to talk but words just failed
to come out. "Mom, you really shocked him, I've never seen him totally
forget how to speak." She blushed and waved us both off dismissively. "Oh
you two..."

"Thank you Mrs. Camble" I finally said.  I wanted to say more but all I
could do was open and close my mouth.  "Alex, you make my son very happy, I
ain't never seen him so happy and so grown up." She said as she handed
Austin an envelope.  He thanked her and opened it and read his card as she
said, that's for both of you really, I guess both presents are." Then he
dropped it down and said, "No Ma, no... I can't accept this." There was a
definite tension going back and forth between them.  "Austin, baby, your
daddy kept me from you all through college, he was never ever a good daddy
to you, now let me make it up to you."  I gently took the card from Austin
to read.  It said "Merry Christmas my son, I wish you and Alex all the
happiness life can bring you.  Your gift this year is a down payment on a
new house when you find one.  Try to keep it under $45.000 ok? Love Mama"

I sat shocked, both by her opening up to me, to our relationship, and this
excessive generosity.  "So, should I tell Natasha we don't need new
cabinets?" I asked. Austin just gave me a stern look "I haven't accepted
this yet so you may want to wait" He said holding the card and tapping the
table with it.  "Austin, don't you go sassing me and not listening to your
Momma!" She scolded in stark contrast to the loving woman who had just
spoken.  "Mommmm, it's too much, all I gave you was a picture and some
muffins." He'd actually made more, but it made his point.  "Sweetie, I got
a LOT of money from his insurance, he has a lot of benefits I get to keep,
the house will sell for a good price cause of the land it's on... Let me
help you out as you start your lives together please?" she asked.  Austin
hung his head and then shook it before looking up with a crazy smile. "God
I love you Mom..." And he stood up and walked around to give his mom a long
proper hug.  I sat looking at the ring I had gotten, but would have to give
back when I put it on his finger.  His Mom asked a bunch of questions later
on, about what we did as far as house work, who did what... she really was
confused by the whole gay "two guys" issue.  She avoided any impropriety by
sticking to house work questions. I hugged her and thanked her later before
we rose to drive her home. "Don't worry none about the smoke Alex, I always
hated it too, no one would visit it was so bad.  Soon as Austin's daddy
died, I gave up smoking and can't wait till I get new place."  I shrugged
her concern off and wished her a very merry Christmas and promised that
Austin and I would go to church with her soon.

"Such a well bread young man!" She said pinching my cheeks and kissing my
nose as she said good bye to us.  "Dude, I can't believe how much My mom
likes you." Austin said in wide eyed amazement.  "Or that she wants us to
get a new house?" I added, "OR that she gave us her Mom's wedding ring!" He
added as he reached for my hand to hold it.  "You know what this means???"
Austin asked suddenly. "That we'll need a house with three mother in law
apartments for our Moms and Mrs. Tremere?" I said.  Austin laughed,
"Nooooo, Well-yes, it means that too come to think of it, but NO!" He
insisted, "it means I can get a damned dog!"  I smiled and held his hand to
my lips as I kissed his fingers, "It sure does baby" I said with a grin.

At my moms house later, we sat down in her bright red living room decorated
with all manner of art, paintings, sculpture and pottery.  My brother
Patrick was there too.  He had a smaller platinum blond girl with him he
introduced as Sam.  Sam was a very pretty girl with a great sense of humor
and I knew my mother would like her cause she had a thick Bronx accent AND
was an art major at the local university.  I helped Mom put out the food
for dinner.  It wasn't as fancy as Mrs. Tremere's food, but who had the
talent or time for her little `throw togethers'?

Finally the Potatoes, ham, lamb, and veggies were set out. And I called
Austin and James and Sam to the table.  We drank a nice wine Patrick had
brought.  "One son is dating an Austin, and my other son is dating a
Sam... I'm so proud!" My mom said hamming it up for dramatic effect.
Austin and Sam just laughed but Patrick had to add, "It's SAMANTHA... sorry
to take away your pride Mom, but she's a girl."  "And your brothers
engaged- your point?"  "Well, if things work out, Patrick could offer you a
grandchild first..." Sam added with a hint of amusement.  "HEY!" Austin
jumped in, "I gave Alex a baby for Christmas this morning-your first
grandkid has blue eyes and is named `Tempest'.  Mom was laughing, we were
always an animated family and she was delighted to have two new members who
seemed to fit right in.  So we bantered through out dinner and afterwards
went to the living room for presents which were stacked under the tree.
Patrick and Sam and my mom had done theirs after breakfast.  Mom had gotten
Austin a bunch of really nice clothing, Patrick had given us a new set of
Calphalon pots-n-pans with a few low-cal, diabetic cooking books.  We'd
gotten Mom a wonderful new Dress in golds and magenta hues with a few
splashes of electric blue that always seemed to radiate a little more when
worn.  I accentuated it with a small matching purse, shoes, and a really
sharp small gold broach set with a black opal.  Austin had brought two huge
baskets of his baked goods, and we'd given Patrick two season passes to the
local teams Football games. Sam laughed as she said, "I get so fucking
tired of explaining the rules to him!"  Austin chirped up with "Oh I hear
you, at least Patrick cares though! Try taking Nathan Lane here to a
football game..." They both got a huge laugh out of that as I hammed up a
scowl.

Finally mom handed me one box that contained three of the Raku pots I'd
been ogling right after thanksgiving, and then I got that wire mesh piece
of the naked guy throwing the ball... to compliment the piece I'd given
Austin.  "Oh, and we packed up all your other pieces for your new place
too, they're in that box by the front door." She said off handedly.  Austin
and I looked at each other not sure if we should say anything yet. "You ARE
staying there aren't you?" She asked afraid the deal had fallen through.
Austin just handed the card his Mom had given him.  Mom read it and then
flushed "Oh my... oh my god!"  I explained to Patrick and Sam what it was,
and that very soon we'd be looking for a new house.  "But you just god
damned moved." Patrick said.  "And yet, it seems we'll be moving again!" I
added sarcastically.  Mom said she knew a few real estate agents in the
Orlando area and that she'd find a good one for us.  Then I showed her the
ring Mrs. Camble had given me and asked her for a good jewelry
maker...:Don't know why she gave it to you, I'm the one that's gotta wear
it..." Austin said feeling left out.  "Face it Bud, we're expendable during
the whole wedding thing" Patrick said to him.  "YOU might be." I said to
Patrick as I winked to Sam. "But Austin better damned well be there..." I
said hugging Austin around his lower chest facing his back. "Here..." I
said handing him the ring. "." I added with a conciliatory smile as I
handed him the ring. Austin grinned and said, "I was only joking baby..."
I put a finger to his lip and said, "I know, but it only makes sense... the
important thing for me is being part of your line, your history, the ring
belongs to you" I said before kissing his chest through his shirt.  "You
get it adjusted and put it on me when we're married... I can wait." Austin
said wanting to kiss my lips.

"How come your brother's so romantic and you're such a schmuck?" Sam asked
Patrick.  She was joking, but it set Patrick off. "Cause he's gay, and
Austin always treats him nicely... he's never teased him in front of his
friends."  I was about to correct that last statement when Austin used his
hand to cover my mouth as he said, "See Patrick, treating a guy is no
different than treating a girl, you gotta treat them nicely" And before I
could say anything he spun around and began kissing me.  "Even when other
guys think it's gross or whatever." He added as he pulled me against him.
"I don't think it's gross." I protested as I pulled him down for another
kiss. "Alex, he said ""guys""..." Patrick added with a smart ass smirk.
"Sam, let me tell you about the time Patrick found a dog hair in his
underwear..." I said evilly.  Patrick glared at me and gave me the
universal "Ok brother dear, keep the secrets in the damned family before I
start spilling them too." So I just smiled and played dumb when Sam tried
to coax the story out of me.

So we bantered and ate desert, well they did, Austin tasted a little but
said he was supporting me in an act of solidarity.  At 7:30 we said good
bye as I still had to get Austin over to Ryan and Michael's house for his
present and to give them theirs.

I told Mom I'd have dinner with her Wednesday while Austin was dancing, and
told Sam we'd get together soon so I could go over all the important facts
Patrick had left out.

We pulled up to Ryan and Michael's house thirty minutes later.  "How you
holding up Alex?" Austin asked as we walked to the door. "Well, it's been a
long day... Can't wait to get home and get naked with you..."  "Well, we're
still planning to be good boys after New Years right?" He asked.  I groaned
and nodded...

I had Ryan and Michael take Austin to the living room and sit down while I
`supposedly' went to the bathroom.  In reality, I went to a back bedroom
and collected Austin's present.  I walked out holding a small black Police
dog with erect ears and a wildly wagging tail.  "Merry Christmas baby!" I
said when Austin looked up.  "Oh my god!!!!!!" Austin yelled as he crossed
to greet me and the puppy.  "But you said..." Austin began, "I said we
couldn't keep him at our place, assuming we'd be in the apartment a while,
but Ryan said we could leave him here with Thor an d Loki since they all
get along fine." I said hugging Austin as he played with the puppy.  "But
since we can get our own place, I guess we need to get a place with a big
yard." I added before turning to Ryan and Michael, "Austin's Mom has
promised to help him get a house." I said as an explanation.  There was a
great deal of hugging and back slapping as Ryan and Michael congratulated
us.  Austin played and played with the very happy puppy as I explained that
the puppy could visit, but would have to stay here. We'd pay for food and
all that stuff, and Austin would have to come over once a day to walk the
baby and play with him.

I was telling the boys about the irony that Austin had gotten me a kitten
that morning and I'd gotten him the puppy for virtually the same reason, we
wanted children for the other... Austin had, for once, been more practical
and I'd gone ahead and opted for what I knew he wanted despite the
problems.  The smile on his face as he rolled around with the gangly puppy
was priceless.  "So what did you name the kitten?" Michael asked me as he
pet Loki's face as they both watched Austin on his knees rearing up and
bowing down for the little black puppy. "I called him "Tempest" I said,
cause his coat was all stormy and is eyes flashed like lightening."  "What
a cool name!" Ryan laughed as Austin got a sudden face full of puppy
tongue.  "So what are you calling him?" Michael asked Ryan and me about the
puppy. I shrugged and said, "He's Austin's dog, you'll have to ask him..."
Austin stood up carrying the puppy, "Thunder!" He said suddenly bringing
the puppy in for a big belly zerbert.  "oooh, I like that!" I said walking
up to hug my husband and love child.  "So we have a storm theme going
down?" I asked.

"Hey, you started it... and with that bark of his- thunder just makes
sense" He giggled, "Even if it more of a yip now!" He laughed and we all
joined in.

Austin snuggled up against me and reached his arms around me to pull me
against him, "Sooooo, I was just thinking Mr. Johnson..." I leaned back
against him and ran my hands up his muscular arms, "mmmmmmmm Yes Mr. Hunky
guy with puppy breath." He cracked up laughing and Ryan was snickering
away.  "I was just thinking..." He lead in assuming I'd read his mind.  It
was obvious what he was hinting at but I played dense. "Since when have you
started thinking?" I asked.  "Ok, SNOT head... I was GOING to say that
sense we have a house now, I could take you back and try to get you
pregnant... but screw that" He said playfully shoving me aside.

"Heeeyyyyyyyyyyyy" I protested. "I Still wanna try having your baby" I
pleaded as I grabbed his arms and pulled it against me.  "You killed the
mood!" He said dismissively.

"PLEASE!" Ryan exclaimed loudly, "You two whore mongers will be naked
before you hit your bed room." He added. "Sweetie I'm betting Austin's
already hard and Alex's ass is begging him for some attention." Michael
added as he shoved me towards Austin.

Austin grabbed me and slid a hand down the back of my pants. "HEY!" I
yelled as I pulled away. "Not in front of the children!" I ordered as I
straightened up.

"Thunder, can I mate your hairless bitchy mother?" Austin asked looking
over to the very attentive puppy. Austin cocked his head as if listening a
minute then grabbed me again, "He said to go for it."  A moment later I was
lip locked with a big strong sports star.  Thirty minutes later Austin was
trying his damnedest to get me pregnant, I didn't bring up either the fact
that we were both boys or that he was wearing a condom.  But sometime
before dawn I culled up on his chest and played with his chest hair as I
fell asleep and joined him in dream land.