Date: Wed, 01 Mar 2006 21:26:42 -0500
From: Tyler Peel <tylerpeel@hotmail.com>
Subject: The Road Home Chapter Twenty Three

DISCLAIMER: WARNING!! This is a work of homoerotic fiction written by an
adult for the purpose of entertaining other adults. If you are not eighteen
years of age or you have any problem with this type of literature then this
is a warning to read no further. The author will not be held responsible
for any reason if you choose to disregard this disclaimer. If it is not
legal to read the following fictional story in your country then please
stop now.


The Road Home Yahoo Group:  http://groups.yahoo.com/group/the_road_home/

THE NEW IRC CHAT ROOM ON NEVERNET:  You don't need to have mIRC to chat!

**There will be and open CHAT SESSION for all readers to meet each other and
have fun on Sunday March 5, 2006 from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. E.S.T. (New York City
time)**

Treb says to tell you 'bring your own punch and pie cause Greg never
remembers'!

5 EASY STEPS TO CHATTING:

1)	COPY and PASTE the following into your Address bar!
2)	<http://chat.nevernet.net/direct.php?channel=theroadhome>
3)	Fill in your NAME, AGE, LOCATION (all must be filled in)
4)	You may be REQUIRED to UPDATE your JAVA from Sun Micro Systems! It is
safe to do so : )
5)	CLICK <enter>

Problems? Email Treb at treb03@gmail.com <mailto:treb03@gmail.com>   **only
with questions regarding the Yahoo Group or IRC Chat or Java problems!



"Hey Roadies!  It's me and Luke here!"

"Tyler! You're supposed to say its Luke and me here!  We know you're
Canadian and all. but you could at least talk using basic grammar!"

"Can we get back to why we are here Lucas?"

"Find!  Be a tard. what does it matter to me?"

"Okay Roadies. now you know the expression 'time to pay the piper'?"

"I'm the PIPER!  Pay me!!!!!!!"

"Shut up Luke!"

"Whatever."

"Nifty doesn't run on good intentions and this story you are reading, while
it is free, the costs of hits to the websites and to those who volunteer
their time is not free!  Me and Luke."

"Tyler!!!"

"Sorry!  Lucas and me noted that there are over 700 members in the Yahoo The
Road Home Group!"

"Woo Hoo!  Yeah!  Roadies Kick Ass!"

"Luke! Is that a jar of peanut butter over there?"

"Where? Where?"

"Over there!"  Tyler points.

<Luke runs away>

"Sorry, as I was saying.  If everyone gave $10.00 U.S. to the 'Nifty Archive
Alliance' then that would be."

"$7000.00!  Oh Yeah!  That would buy me.. ummm about 1700 jars of peanut
butter!"

"I thought you had gone to look for peanut butter Luke?"

"You're just trying to get rid of me aren't you?"

"Noooooooo Luke!  Never!"

"You're jealous because the readers love me more than you!"

"Uh huh Luke. yeah. I'm soooo jealous!"

"I love you Tyler!"

"I love you too Luke, now stop sucking up!  Now where was I?  Oh yeah, it
has to be in American funds!"

"None of that funny Canadian monopoly money readers!!!"

"Lucas!"

"What?  Read the link!  It says U.S. funds only!"

"What link Luke?"

"This link!   <http://www.nifty.org/nifty/support.html#monetary> It
gives all the information needed about keeping your fine ass posted here at
Nifty on the Internet!"

"LUCAS!  Don't talk like that!  Now here is the important part!"

"Peanut Butter!!!!!!!!"

"No Luke, not peanut butter!  Some people don't feel safe about giving out
private information, using personal cheques or credit cards!  So all you
need to do is put $10.00 U.S. wrapped in a piece of paper and stuff it in an
envelope.  You don't need to include your name or anything?  Just proper
postage and you can send it to this address!"

"$10.00?  That's not very much Ty!"

"To some people it is Luke!"

"Not to Bret over in Nifty chat it isn't!"

"What do you mean Lucas?"

"Did you know that me makes <whisper, whisper> dollars per year!"

"You're not shitting me Lucas?"

"No way! He was bragging in the chat room the other night!"

"Okay, maybe Bret can give a little more but if everyone gave at least
$10.00 then it would really help make a difference!"

"Brett you can donate at least a thousand fmpttffp"  <Tyler covers Luke's
mouth>

"Sorry!  Ummm Luke was about to give you the address where to send your
donation so take it away Luke!"

"Luke?  Come back here!"

"But you said to take it away."

<Sigh>

"You getting one of those thingys in your head that Mom gets when the school
calls aren't you?"

"Yeah Luke. something like that."

"No problem.  I can finish up what you started!  That's why America is here
for you Canadians, Ty!"

"Owww  owwww!  Let go of my ear!"

"Apologize Luke!"

"Owwww. k. I'm sorry you're a Canadian!"

"Try again Luke!"

"Owwww.  I'm sorry I offended Canada!"

"You can do better than that!"

"We love Canada, just not your worthless funny money!"

"Luke?"

"Wot?"  <puppy eyes and cheesy grin>

"Sit over there and shut up!"

"Sorry readers!  We know you want to get on to reading this chapter and all
but please make a small donation and as Luke was suppose to say, put a
little note saying that your donation comes via "The Road Home" and maybe we
can report how much money YOU readers raised?"

"Tell 'em you donated cause Luke asked you too!"  Luke yells from the
corner.  Tyler glares at Luke.

"Please send your donation to this address with appropriate postage"

NIFTY ARCHIVE ALLIANCE
PMB 159
333 Mamaroneck Avenue
White Plains, NY
10605
USA

"Did you tell 'em they could make credit card donations too?"  Luke yells.

"Stop yelling Luke and get over here!  No, I was about too but I think
you've taken care of that.  You can make credit card donations via a link on
the URL address posted above."

"Luke stand up, Luke go here, Luke go there, Luke sit down, Luke shut up!
What do you think I'm your f.." <Tyler puts his hand over Luke's mouth.>

"Maybe you Roadies could include a few extra bucks to help buy some soap to
wash Luke's mouth out?"  Tyler grins.

"No argument here Ty. do you ever wash your hands?  Yuck!"

"Sorry, I was messing up Kyle's hair earlier!"

<cough>  <hack>  "Yuck! Why did you have to tell me that?"

"Don't worry a little peanut butter will clean your mouth up."

"Speaking of. you promised me peanut butter for doing this!  Where is it?"

"I brought it!  You know I would never lie to you Luke."

"So where is it?  Is that a jar of peanut butter in your pocket or are you
just happy to see me? HAHAHA"

<Tyler reaches into his pocket>

"Shit!  That is a jar of peanut butter in your pocket!  Hahaha wait till the
readers find out!  They actually think you've got a big pmmfth"  <Tyler
covers Luke's mouth. again>

"I'm really sorry about this Roadies! Kyle was supposed to be here but he's
fixing his hair. please give responsibly, but do give!"

"Make the cheque payable to Lucas Ajjjpmmp"  <Tyler covers Luke's mouth yet
again>

"No readers!  Make a cheque payable to the 'Nifty Archive Alliance' please!"

"Hey Ty, did you see the pics posted of me on the Yahoo Group?  I'm much
cuter than you!"

"Whatever. there are more pics of me in the Yahoo Group than of you Luke!"

"That's cause there are more ugly people in Canada to choose from!"  <Luke
snorts>

"I am soooo going to beat your ass till it turns red, white, and blue when
we finish here!"

"Speaking of asses Ty." <Luke chuckles> "People would give more than $10.00
U.S. each if you let my brother Derek pop your cherry!"  <Luke runs away
laughing>

"Hehe hehe. ummm, sorry again readers!  Go and enjoy the chapter below and
please give to help keep Nifty running!  All the guys on the Dragons, the
people at Ciccone's Trattoria, and the Anderson family thank you for making
a small contribution!  Even if you read this story in the year 2008 or 2020
your help is still needed!"

"It's the beats for you LUCAS!"  <Tyler says running after him>





The Road Home:  Part Twenty-Three  (Thanksgiving Day)

Tyler woke to the vibrations of his cell phone under his pillow.  He opened
his eyes and looked around, confused as to where he was.  Kyle was drooling
on Tyler's chest with his right arm wrapped around him.  Abbey was on the
other side of him stretched out.  As soon Tyler moved Abbey's tail began
wagging and she opened her eyes to look at Tyler.

"Morning, girl!"  Tyler said reaching down to rub her belly.  Tyler
untangled himself from Kyle.  He kissed Kyle's forehead and Kyle rolled over
but didn't wake.  Tyler sat on the edge of the bed and put on his sweats and
running shoes.  He grabbed his mp3 player and a squeeze bottle of water.  He
stopped in the main bathroom to fill the bottle up and then quietly walked
down the hallway to the stairs.  Abbey's leash was hanging on the doorknob
of the front door.  As soon as he grabbed her leash Abbey began to get
excited.  He unlocked and opened the door and she ran outside to pee.  It
was so cold outside that he could see his breath.

Tyler began stretching on the front steps while Abbey continued doing her
business.  Exactly one minute after opening the door the alarm went off.

"OH, FUCK!" Tyler yelled as he opened the front door and came back inside
looking for the alarm panel he had seen Derek program the night before.
Larry yelled down from the stairway, "1234 enter!"  It took Tyler three
tries but he got it and all was quiet again.

"Oh God, I'm so sorry Dr. Anderson!"  Tyler apologized profusely.  Larry
laughed at him.

"It's okay Tyler. not like it's my only morning to sleep in!"  He joked.

"I'm really sorry!  I didn't know or well. think about an alarm. I
apologize, Sir."  Tyler said.

"Tyler, it's okay! No one told you, and you wouldn't have gotten far without
knowing that you have to punch in 1234 again down at the road to open the
gate!"  Larry smiled.  "It's my fault.  You told me you were going for a run
this morning."

"I'm sorry, Sir. Please try to go back to sleep."  Tyler smiled.

"I'll be fine, Tyler. I'm usually up at this time anyway.  Don't let Abbey
lead you astray!"

Tyler closed the door behind him and called Abbey over to put her leash on.
He programmed to his Blues Travelers "Run Around" and "All For You" on
repeat play and they were off to the gates.  They ran about four blocks
until they came up to the streetlight and Abbey picked up a scent on a
telephone pole.  She had to mark the pole.  After running for about 40
minutes they came to a park where Tyler stopped to let Abbey rest.  Tyler
directed Abbey on the route towards Casey's house.  When he approached the
area he slowed down and walked Abbey for several blocks trying to locate the
street he lived on.

Tyler found two ladies sitting at a bus stop and asked them for directions
to Maple Street.  He was in the area but on the wrong side of the road.  A
quick eight-block jog with a now tiring Abbey led him to Casey's street.  It
was tough for him to pick out the house because of the disrepair of many of
the houses but the sloping, broken front steps jogged his memory.  He
stopped in front of Casey's house and unstrapped his bottle of water for
Abbey.  As he slowly poured the water into a cupped hand, Abbey lapped up
all of its contents.   While Abbey drank up he scanned the house for any
signs of life.  The note he wrote was still on the door.

"C'mon girl, let's go home!"  Tyler said as he scratched behind her ears.
Tyler resealed the empty bottle and strapped it back on.   Now that Abbey
was refreshed and refuelled she had no desire to jog anymore, but rather to
mark every pole, shrub, and mailbox.  She also had to check out several dogs
on the way home.  As much as Tyler tried to get her to run, Abbey was
checking out every square inch of property they passed.  It was after eight
in the morning when they arrived back.

"You're home!"  Linda said peeking out from the dining room upon hearing the
door open.

"Yeah, we had to check every out every dog, telephone pole, and mailbox,
didn't we girl?" Tyler said petting her as he unhooked her leash.  Abbey
trotted off to her water and food bowls.  She finished the contents and went
to her seat on the sofa for a well-deserved nap.

"We were getting worried about you.  I was going to wake up Derek and get
your cell phone and call you but I saw you left it sitting on Kyle's bed."
Linda said as she worked on the place settings for dinner.

"We were fine!  Abbey could sniff her way home if we got lost!  Next time I
will bring two bottles of water though so I can have some!"  Tyler laughed.
"Wow! This is a really nice spread you've set up!"

"Thank you, Tyler."  Linda said.  "Larry's parents will be arriving this
afternoon and I think we will have dinner around five."

"Are they staying the night?"  Tyler asked.

"We never know."  Linda said. "If the weather is bad they will be."

"If you want I can change Derek's bed for them.  Derek and I can sleep in
Kyle's room and Kyle probably wouldn't mind sleeping with Luke and Casey."
Tyler suggested.

"Thanks, Tyler.  We usually give Michael and Mary our bedroom, but if you
wouldn't mind getting Derek up.  There's a lot to do today besides watching
football!"  Linda laughed.

"Yes Ma'am.  I will get him up and we will get his room in order!  I think I
will have a shower first, though."  Tyler said leaving the dining room to go
into the kitchen.

"Morning, Tyler!"  Larry said.

"Good morning, Sir!  Happy Thanksgiving Day!" Tyler said.

"You too, Tyler!  How did your run go?"  Larry asked.

"Run really isn't the word for it. more like walk from pole to pole." Tyler
laughed and so did Larry.  Tyler got himself a mug of coffee.

"Are you hungry?"  Larry asked.

"Starved!!!"  Tyler exclaimed.

"Good! I'm working on a nice greasy breakfast!  It should be ready in half
an hour.  By the way, there's something in that Tupperware container over
there for you!"  Larry said pointing back to the counter.  Tyler walked over
and opened the container and began laughing.

"So you've heard?"  Tyler asked.

"Derek said that you always buy cinnamon buns for everyone and rarely get to
eat any yourself.  Derek went out and bought some yesterday for you."  Larry
said.

Tyler fixed a second mug of coffee and placed three cinnamon buns on a
plate.  He left with the two mugs of coffee and buns saying, "I'll be back
after my shower!"

Tyler crept back into Derek's room and placed the mugs of coffee and
cinnamon buns on the night stand next to Derek's bed.  Derek was lying on
his stomach half uncovered.  Tyler stopped and stared at Derek's back and
the part of his boxers that were showing.  "You are so sexy, Mr. Anderson!"
He said quietly.  He stripped down naked and grabbed one bun and his coffee
and headed into the bathroom for his shower.

He soaped up his body and crotch, gently tugging at the skin between his
balls.  He ow would twist it around and release.  Tyler could feel his girth
increase.  When he was at full mast he pulled his foreskin ahead and twisted
it back and forth.  Beyond the wonderful sensation he felt, it made his
balls pull up tighter and as the skin wrinkled they told him 'we need to be
scratched!'  And he did!  Tyler played with one nipple hoping to heighten
the sensation but that only ever worked for him when it was someone else's
touch.

His erection was now so hard that it looked up at him.  He slowly pulled it
down to where it faced the showerhead.  He loved to force his cock downward
to that fine line between pleasure and pain when he orgasmed.  It had been
so long since he had been alone in a shower to just close his eyes and use
his imagination.  Internet pics were good, someone else's touch was better,
but there was something about being alone and allowing your mind to take you
to new places.  Derek's back was the current trip he was taking.  Tyler
never really understood the need to be inside someone else.  He never liked
being on top of someone fucking because the feeling wasn't natural to him
until now.  For the first time in his life he wanted to be inside of
someone.  Derek to be exact!  He wanted to stare deep into his eyes as he
released his load.  Tyler opened his eyes and looked down at his cock as he
pulled back the foreskin.  His head was turning deep purple.  He turned
around so that the showerhead was spraying on his back.  Spreading his legs
slightly he brought his left hand around behind and began fingering himself.
  Not even the entire fingernail of his middle finger was going all the way
in but the sensations were good!  Very good!  He paused and slid the frosted
glass shower door open to see if he was being watched.  "Good! I'm alone" he
thought.  He caught his own reflection in the mirror and laughed.  Slightly
bent down and leaning forward with one hand on his cock and the other stuck
in his butt.  "Definitely NOT a Kodak moment" he thought!

Closing his eyes and bending his head back he saw Derek beneath him in his
mind.  His eyes captivated Tyler.  Tyler wondered if that secret spot really
existed that would make a partner convulse into repetitive orgasms without
touching himself.  Though he hadn't kissed a lot of males or females he knew
that feeling when he touched Derek's lips.  The few kisses they had shared
seemed to make everything around him unimportant.  If Derek were to kiss him
at the dinner table that night he knew the odds were strong that he would
push the food off the table and onto the floor and take Derek right there on
the dinner table in front of everyone.  Tyler woke from his dream laughing
out loud.  "Shit! Wouldn't that be funny?"  He said out loud.

Placing his left hand back against the wall in front of him he spread his
legs so he could feel the warm water flow over his bud.  Grabbing his member
he began stroking as he visualized Derek under him.  He pumped slowly in and
out of Derek.  His foreskin never moved inside of him but his cock did!  He
clamped his hand tight as if Derek had flexed his sphincter muscle around
him.  Only seconds from that feeling of his cum beginning to ride up the
inside of his shaft, he closed his eyes tight and thought of Derek's face
clenching from his own orgasm. That feeling came fast and furious.  Tyler
shot so hard at the wet tile in front of him that it just stuck to the wall.
  He opened his eyes to watch the rest come out and fall into the flowing
water below.  Another painful and exhausting orgasm he thought.  Oh, how he
had needed that release.  He slapped his hard member a couple of times
saying, "C'mon, snap out of it!  I've got stuff to do today!" but his cock
felt like he had sprained it and it would never go down.

Tyler carefully cleaned his foreskin and then pointed the showerhead towards
the wall to remove all evidence.  He put a little shampoo in his hand and
rubbed it on the wall to clean any residue.  By this time, his not-so-little
friend was relaxing to a point where he could walk out of the shower.  Tyler
dried himself off inside the shower and then laid the towel out on the floor
so when he stepped out he could dry his feet.  He brushed his teeth and
shaved at one of the two sinks.  His one eye now looked more like he didn't
get enough sleep rather than having been punched by his roommate.  He
applied more of the cream that Andrew had given him.  Wrapped up in his bath
towel he opened the bathroom door to Derek's room.

"Thanks for the cinnamon bun and coffee." Derek said sitting on the side of
the bed looking away.

"You're welcome.  Thank you for thinking of me and buying them!"  Tyler said
grabbing his deodorant.

"It wasn't anything. Dad actually paid for it."  Derek said.  "Can we talk
for a bit?"

"Not now. Breakfast is almost ready and there are some people coming over
about Casey this morning, but if you eat quickly maybe we can get some time
in between?"  Tyler said.

Tyler dressed up in a button-down navy blue and yellow striped shirt with
his cargos and brown dress shoes.  He wanted to appear professional for when
the person from Child Protection Services arrived.

"Why are you dressed up?" Derek asked.

"Remember I told you about the people coming about Casey?  I want to look
professional and you should, too!"  Tyler said.  "By the way, thanks for
last night with Casey!  You really made him feel special!"  Tyler smiled.

"It was nothing. He's a nice kid!"  Derek said brushing the compliment off.

"Yes, he is a nice kid, and you knew that it was important to me and you
helped without me having to ask!  That says a lot about you.  Now hurry up!"
  Tyler said walking through the bathroom to wake Kyle up.

"Morning, not so little dude!"  Tyler said kissing the back of his head.
Kyle raised his head from the pillow.

"Morning.." Kyle said rolling over.

"Pew! Morning breath, not so little dude!"  Tyler said fanning the air
around him.  Kyle laughed and breathed on him again.  "Get up and get ready
for breakfast and can you dress up a little?"  Tyler asked.

"Why?"

"Cause we have some people coming over about Casey and we need to put on a
good face. and some clean breath." Tyler winked, kissed him and left the
room.

When Tyler entered Luke's bedroom he found they were both gone!  As he
entered the kitchen he saw the `Toon Network' on the TV and knew they were
both watching.  He slipped behind the sofa and leaned down and kissed the
tops of each of their heads.

"Morning, guys!  Sleep well?"  Tyler asked.

"Yeah, great Ty!"  Casey said.

"Mango woke me up in the night but it was okay."  Luke said more interested
in the TV.

"Give me your glasses and I will refill them with orange juice."  Tyler
asked.

Tyler went back into the kitchen and refilled their glasses.

"You're all dressed up this morning Tyler!"  Larry said.

"Yes Sir, with the company coming I thought I should be.  I have a bad
feeling about these people!"  Tyler said putting the orange juice back in
the fridge.

"You think my parents are bad?"  Larry queried.

"Gosh no, Sir!  I meant the people from the child protection service!"
Tyler said shaking his head.

"Oh! Sorry! I forgot about them."  Larry laughed.  "My mistake."

"Sir, what happens if they decide to take Casey away today?"  Tyler asked
quietly and then walked away to give the boys their drinks.

"I'm sure that won't happen, Tyler.  I have many friends at the Police
station and at CPS!"  Larry said.

"But if they do?"  Tyler asked.

"If they do, I will bring the house down upon them!  Besides I have a couple
of aces up my sleeve that I can pull out if necessary!"  Larry winked.

"Dr. Anderson, it's not my house and I am but a guest here, but I'm not
letting Casey miss out on a real Thanksgiving Day!  I have an opinion about
his Mother but that is irrelevant.  I might even be concerned if they send
him back to her, but he should be allowed to be a kid while he still can be.
  One day everything can be gone in a flash."  Tyler said walking over to
the coffee machine.

"Tyler, he isn't leaving this house this weekend unless his Mother shows up!
  Even then I am sure that Linda would invite his Mother and her boyfriend
to stay for dinner and even let us keep him for the weekend."  Larry said
stirring up the home fries in the pan.  "We owe you some money too!  You are
not paying for all those clothes!  I saw what you did for Luke's hockey
practice.  You can't be spending that kind of money and make it through
school, Tyler!"

"I have lots of money, Sir.  I was given a big inheritance and I am very
careful with it.  Outside of school expenses, all the money I've spent
doesn't even add up to half of what I've made working at the restaurant.  I
do spend on those that I care about, but that is all.  When I heard about
how bad the team practices have been I wanted to do something to inspire
them to work as a team.  I hate hockey and I especially hated hockey
practices!  I hate playing the game! I hate most of the parents of the kids
who do play!"  Tyler said with a clenched fist.

"What makes you play something that you ummm. hate so much?"  Larry asked.

"It's a really complicated answer and hard to explain.  Growing up I had
friends that got grounded or didn't get to eat dinner if they didn't score a
goal!  Everyone was always angry with someone.  Parents hated the Coach's
who in turn hated some or most of the players.  Parents of hockey players
should be banned completely!" Tyler said looking seriously at Dr. Anderson
who laughed at his comment.

"I understand what you are saying, Tyler, but I don't think either of us
will live to see it happen!"  Larry said.

"Sir, I didn't accept a hockey scholarship.  I got my scholarship for my
scholastic abilities!  I don't mean to sound like a snob but sports
scholarships are for people with big egos, big dreams, and not much else of
a future and I wasn't directing that at Derek!"  Tyler said.

"I know you weren't, Tyler!  I think I understand you but I don't agree with
you and you're not the only one who was against Derek's scholarship.  I
would love to see him play in the NFL but I would rather he got an
education.  Don't forget that there are many deserving, intelligent people
who wouldn't have their education if it wasn't for a sports scholarship, so
don't pre-judge every sport by hockey!"  Larry said.

"Yes, Sir."  Tyler said setting the plates down in a row along the counter.

"Tyler, it's okay to disagree with me and I never actually said I didn't
agree with you but don't let my age be a factor.  Stand up for what you
believe in but be open to input from those around you."  Larry said smiling
at him.   Derek walked into the room wearing a solid navy blue shirt and
grey dress pants with black shoes on.

"Shit, Derek!  Did someone die?"  Larry joked.  "So Tyler, you didn't tell
me why you are still playing hockey?"

"My not accepting the scholarship worked for everyone but me.  The athletics
department made a deal with the Engineering department.  I play hockey or at
least give it a try and they get to bring in one more scholarship.  In
exchange, the Engineering department gets some extra funds out of the
athletic department's budget next year.  I got to escape from my world for a
while and come down here so everyone is happy, I guess.  I'm getting honours
and playing hockey so they are all happy!"  Tyler said setting out the
cutlery.

"Dad he's already quit the team once this year and the entire teamed begged
him to come back!"  Derek smiled.

"Derek! Shut up. please!"  Tyler glared at him.

"Guys, how do you want your eggs?  Derek, would you start making toast
please."  Larry asked.

"Want to try something different, Dr. Anderson?"  Tyler asked.

"Take over, Tyler!  I know it's got to be better than anything I can make!"
Larry laughed and went and poured himself a coffee and sat down to watch
Chef Tyler.

Tyler pulled out a large skillet and turned the oven on to broil.  He
whipped up a dozen eggs and added sour cream, salt and pepper, chopped onion
and red pepper, and then added 10 tablespoons of biscuit mix.  Larry and
Derek looked at each other.   Tyler heated the pan and then chopped up some
broccoli and chives and threw them into the mixture.  Finally he pulled out
cheddar and feta cheeses.  "The Feta is the secret!"  He said holding it up.

Tyler poured the mixture into the greased pan and began cooking it on the
stove just above medium.   He shaved some sharp cheddar cheese all over it
and then slowly mixed it in the pan.   In about 10 minutes the mixture began
to settle.  Tyler crumbled the feta cheese all over the top of it.  In
another 10 minutes he removed it from the stove and put it in the oven to
broil the top of it.

Kyle came into the kitchen wearing a Rugby shirt and cargo pants with his
hair neatly styled as always.  "What smells so good?", he said walking in
with his nose up in the air.

"Derek had a shower!"  Tyler said winking at Derek.

"I can tell. go look at the bathroom!"  Kyle teased, "But what smells so
good?"

"My broccoli, salmon, and liver casserole!"  Tyler said.  Larry and Derek
started laughing.

"Cool!  I'll just have bacon, Dad!"  Kyle said pouring himself a glass of
chocolate milk.

When Tyler's creation came out of the oven he sliced two pieces of his pie
and put it on plates with bacon, sausages, home fries, and peanut buttered
toast.  He poured two glasses of chocolate milk and took them over to Luke
and Casey.  They both dug in and never mentioned wanting any more peanut
butter.

"Shit!"  Larry said. "They're eating it without asking for peanut butter."

"I would love to take credit for it but I think it's the DVD of "The
Incredibles" that is doing it."  Tyler said.

Linda arrived and Derek and Tyler served everyone's plate.  Derek and Tyler
ate standing across from Larry, Kyle, and Linda.

"Oh my God, Larry!  This is incredible!  What is that I taste?"  Linda said.

"It's the feta cheese!  My little secret ingredient."  Larry said.   The
three boys started laughing.

"Of course!  Tyler, this is great!  Thank you so much!  Larry, for lying you
don't get to cook the turkey today!" Linda joked and Derek and Kyle
cheered!!!!!!   Tyler pretended not to get the joke and Larry smirked at
her.

"Speaking of!  I better pop that sucker in the oven!"  Linda said.

Luke and Casey reappeared with empty plates.  "Dad can we have more of your
pie?"  Everyone laughed and Tyler cut two more wedges.

"Don't you guys want some peanut butter to go with it?"  Tyler asked.

"Nope!" Casey said.

"No thanks!" Luke added.  And they returned to their movie.

Tyler was looking their way when he saw Luke hold up his arm from behind the
sofa with an empty glass!  Tyler opened the fridge and grabbed the chocolate
milk and said, "Coming Master Luke!"  And did his C-3PO walk towards them.

"Who says white men can't dance?"  Derek joked.

"I'm not doing the robot Derek, well. actually I am I guess!"  Tyler said
continuing his funny walk towards them with stiff muscle movements.  Kyle
snorted chocolate milk through his nose.  Tyler returned and quietly asked
Linda in the kitchen if Casey knew anything about what was going on.   She
said she thought it was better not to say anything, as he would only be
upset and worry.

Derek signalled Tyler that he wanted to go elsewhere so they both excused
themselves.
They grabbed their coats and Derek led Tyler outside through the front door
closing it quietly.  The onset of winter was in the air, and only a few
leaves still grasped hold of their trees.  The morning sun could be seen but
no longer felt once they turned the corner of the house by Tyler's Jeep.
Pre-cut cedar and fruitwood logs lined the house from front to back.  Derek
lifted himself up on the logs and sat with his legs dangling in front of
him.  Tyler leaned against the pile beside Derek.   They both stared at a
large Maple tree in front of them, neither saying anything for a few
moments.

"That's my tree!"  Derek declared.

"Your tree? Like as in you pee on it or something?"  Tyler asked.

"Fuck off!"  Derek laughed. "When I was mad or upset I would run away and
climb up into that tree.  I would take a couple of logs and lay them next to
the fence and climb up the fence and step across to the lowest branch over
there."  Derek said pointing towards the tree. "You want a hand up here to
sit on the logs?"

"Nope.  Not the way I am dressed and I don't want to get a sliver up my
ass!" Tyler laughed and Derek smiled.

"So climbing the tree with me is out of the question?"  Derek joked.

"Maybe later!" Tyler said tucking his hands into his coat pocket to stay
warm.

"Why do you love me?"  Derek asked.

"Why?"  Tyler repeated.

"Yeah. Why?  I do everything possible to make you hate me but I know you
love me almost as much as I love you."  Derek said picking away at a piece
of bark on a log beside him.

"When I first met you, Derek, I was in love with you physically.  Your eyes
and smile drove me wild.  I prayed that you would be someone special inside
who might feel the same way I do.  I tried to do things to make you
attracted to me but that only made you angry with me so I tried staying out
of your way to make you less angry.  Neither one worked."  Tyler said.

"Yes they did, but continue."  Derek said.

"I remember in grade eleven history studying Hitler and my teacher said that
there was a fine line between genius and insanity.  I think I've come to
realize that there is a fine line between love and hate as well!  When you
fall in love with someone and that person doesn't really know it, then even
the smallest thing that person does can make you hate them.  You create
expectations of that person that are impossible for them to keep.  I put too
much pressure on the people I care about and end up getting hurt. and then
angry with them when it isn't even their fault.  I think I wanted you to be
something that you aren't."

"So I'm not what you want me to be?"  Derek asked.

"No!  I think you are more than I ever could have imagined or dreamed of!"
Tyler said.  "You leave all of these clues.  When I least expect it you go
and do the most wonderful little things.  I just hope you are doing them
because you feel it inside and not because I want you too!"

"My, what an ego you have Mr. Peel!"  Derek laughed.  Tyler turned and
stared him down.  "I was joking, Tyler!"

"You brought me out here to make jokes?"  Tyler asked.

"No, sorry!  I'm trying to understand what it is that you see in me.  I have
lots of people that like me for my body.  I know the looks I get from girls
and guys.  I even play it up with them.  You wouldn't believe how many guys
I catch staring at me in the shower!" Derek pondered peeling more bark from
the log beside him.

"Yeah I would know.  I'm one of them."  Tyler said.

"I know.  I heard you this morning!"  Derek smiled.

"You heard me in the shower???"  Tyler yelled.

"Hahahaha!  No, I heard you say that I was sexy, but please tell me about
your shower?"  Derek laughed and punched Tyler in the arm.

Tyler didn't say anything and Derek said, "I was afraid that all you thought
about me was that I was sexy and nothing else."

"Is that why you treat people the way you do?"  Tyler asked.

"You figured it out, huh?"  Derek asked.

"I figured it out a long time ago.  I was wondering when you would figure it
out."  Tyler smiled.

"Just now!  Maybe a while ago. It's not fun to have people love you for your
body and nothing else."  Derek said.

"You never let anyone inside to love you for anything else."  Tyler said.

"It's a lot safer that way!"  Derek said.

"You're preaching to choir, Rev. Anderson!"  Tyler added.

"So, what do you see in me that you like?"  Derek asked.

"Nothing!" Tyler teased and winked at Derek.

"Honestly!  I haven't figured it all out yet.  Every time I get a little
information you go into attack mode.  I see a lot of things that are really
great and things that are very special to me.  I know that asking me out
here must have been very difficult for you to do and then asking me 'why I
love you'?    Well that's just taking your heart out and setting it on the
floor wondering if I will pick it up and hold it or step on it and break it
in two."  Tyler said snapping a small stick of wood in half to emphasize his
point.

"No specifics, huh?"  Derek asked laughing?

"Derek.  I love your beauty.  I love your sense of humour.  I love you when
show all the love inside of you to others. Your kisses are better than any
orgasm I've ever had!  For a split second I was jealous of you and Kyle but
only for a second.  I never want you to feel you can only love one person!
I think if you truly love someone you want to share what you have with
everyone around you."  Tyler said turning around and facing him.  Tyler took
both of Derek's hands into his.

"So I can sleep around, huh?"  Derek teased.

"You can do anything you want, Derek. If you didn't want to be with me then
I wouldn't want you to be with me.  I just hope you want to be with me as
much as I want to be with you."  Tyler said staring into Derek's eyes.

Derek leaned down to Tyler.  Both of their heads tilted slightly as their
lips met.  As they pulled apart and smiled silently at each other, Derek
said, "Tyler, there will always be a space saved for you in that tree!"

Tyler laughed and said, "I was hoping you might say your bed but I get your
point!"  They heard the gate at the end of the driveway beginning to open
and Derek jumped down.

"Owwwww!  Fuck!"  Derek yelled.

"What's the matter?"  Tyler asked.

"I got a sliver in my butt!"  Derek said bent over pulling at the back of
his pants.

Tyler laughed and said, "No problem, your Mom will be able to pull it out!
We better head back in through the garage so you're not seen like this."
Tyler and Derek snuck around to the back of the house and entered the garage
through the rear door.

A plain clothes Police Officer and a lady got out of blue Ford Crown
Victoria and walked up the steps to the Anderson's front door and rang the
bell.  Dr. Anderson answered the door.

"Good Morning, Dr. Anderson.  I'm Trooper Gavin O'Leary and this is Ms.
Jennifer Coxwell from Child Protection Services.

"Welcome, we've been expecting you!"  Dr. Anderson said standing back and
opening the door fully for them to enter.  He led them into the living room
and asked them to be seated while he went and got Linda in the kitchen.

Ms. Coxwell was dressed in a grey business suit with her dark brown hair
pulled back and tied into a tight bun.  Her grey nylons and black shoes
complimented her black purse and black briefcase that she stowed to one side
of the chair.  She wore designer glasses with a dark straight-framed top and
transparent rim.  Make-up was not a priority as Ms. Coxwell was certainly
all business.  She sat down on one of the two large white chairs that were
placed on either side of the fireplace.  Trooper O'Leary sat in the other
white chair smiling at Ms. Coxwell without receiving a response in return.

Dr. Anderson returned to the room with Linda who carried a tray with a
decanter of coffee, pot of tea, cream, sugar, and an array of Royal Dolton
coffee mugs.  She set them down on the marble coffee table.  Mr. O'Leary and
Ms. Coxwell stood up as she entered the room.

"Trooper O'Leary.  Ms. Coxwell.  May I introduce my wife, Linda."  Larry
said.  Linda shook hands and exchange pleasantries with both of them and
apologized for interrupting their Thanksgiving Day celebrations.  Ms.
Coxwell quickly cleared the air that she wasn't being interrupted in the
slightest.  Larry really wanted to say to Linda, 'left-wing, feminist
lesbian at 11 o'clock' but decided it wasn't in Casey's best interest!'
Larry and Linda sat down on the sofa opposite them.

"Now Dr. and Mrs. Anderson," Ms. Coxwell began, "I understand that you have
been keeping a Casey Mitchell here?"

"Yes, Ms. Coxwell."  Linda said.

"And he came unto you by way of his hockey Coach?"  She asked.

"Not exactly.  Perhaps you would allow me to explain it all in a shortened
version?"  Linda offered.  Ms. Coxwell hooked her pen on her clipboard and
adjusted her glasses.  Linda carefully went through the details of the
hockey practice with Larry's help as he was actually there.  Linda explained
Tyler's connection and his taking both boys out shopping because Casey had
no clean clothing and what he was wearing was in a tattered condition at
best!

"Are all the boys here now?"  Ms. Coxwell asked.

"Yes!"  Linda said.

"Good, I would first like to meet with Tyler."  She asked flipping through
the notes she had made.  Larry went up to Derek's bedroom and got Tyler.  He
also asked Derek to get the boys dressed up but not say anything to them
about it.  He further added that he wanted the boys kept away until he
called for them.

Larry returned with Tyler and introduced him.  Tyler extended his hand but
Ms. Coxwell just ignored it and scratched notes on her pad.

"Mr. Tyler Peel." She began, "Can I have your Social Security number
please!"  Tyler looked at the Andersons.

"Ms. Coxwell, Tyler doesn't have an SS number. He is Canadian."  Larry said.

"A foreigner was allowed to be alone with underage boys?"  She asked
removing her glasses with a dramatic flare.

"Excuse me!"  Tyler burst in.

"I wasn't asking you, Mr. Peel!"  Ms. Coxwell said.

"What the Hell is going on here, Dr. Anderson?"  Tyler asked still not
sitting down.

"I was about to ask the same question, Tyler!"  Larry said.

"Dr. Anderson, do you really think it is proper to have an immigrant left
alone with children of such a young age?"  Ms. Coxwell asked.

"I know what the hell you are inferring, Ms. Coxwell, and if you have
questions about me I suggest you ask them to me.  I'm calling my lawyer!"
Tyler said pulling out his cell phone.  Linda pulled him down beside her and
closed his phone.

"Ms. Coxwell, I'd like a very clear explanation as to where your line of
questioning is going right now!  Trooper O'Leary, I would like you to be
making notes also!"  Larry said.

"I have a job to do and that involves questioning all suspects involved!"
Ms. Coxwell said flexing her position.

"Ms. Coxwell.  Tyler is not a suspect, as you like to refer to him nor is he
on trial here.  He owes you no explanation other than anything he wishes to
divulge here!  It is because of this boy that Casey isn't wandering the
streets or even dead right now!  As someone who knows a great deal of people
in YOUR office and at the Police Station I suggest you stick to point here
and that is Casey!  For the record, Tyler was never alone with boys as the
Assistant Coach was always there.  In fact, I was there for most of it.  Are
we clear, Ms. Coxwell?"  Larry said as the veins in his forehead began
bulging.

"Quite clear, Dr. Anderson!  I think the environment here is quite hostile
and I will take Casey with me right now!"  Ms. Coxwell said standing up.

"You will do no such thing, Ms. Coxwell!" Larry said.  "You are free to
continue asking relevant questions and to meet and interview Casey with
myself and Trooper O'Leary present at all times!  You can write whatever the
hell you want in your report but that boy will not leave this house unless
his mother shows up to get him!  Do you know who John Rubenstein is?"

"Yes, he is my boss's boss!"  Ms. Coxwell said slightly on edge.

"Very good, Ms. Coxwell!  He is also my golf partner and long time friend.
I can assure you that I know your boss, Helen Wilson as well!  If you have
any concerns about the welfare of Casey while he is in this household then I
will happily let you use the phone in my office and you can call them both!
If you have any concerns about Tyler's actions at the arena then I suggest
you file a report and I will present the entire episode on video for your
superiors to watch and decide for themselves!  If you want to arrest myself
or Tyler then I suggest you have Trooper O'Leary do so right now!"  Larry
fumed.

"I don't think that will be necessary. at this point."  Ms. Coxwell said.

"Ms. Coxwell," Linda said, "We wouldn't have contacted your office if we
didn't feel that there was a concern for Casey's welfare.  It may turn out
to be a misunderstanding but we feel that Casey is showing the signs of
neglect.  He may be undernourished and though Casey hasn't said anything
directly there could be some sort of mental abuse from Ms. Mitchell's
boyfriend.  Casey did say that her boyfriend doesn't like him."

"Perhaps I could meet with Casey now?"  Ms. Coxwell asked.

"Tyler, would you go and get him please?"  Linda asked.  Ms. Coxwell
flinched, as she was about to say something but stopped when Larry glared at
her.

Tyler returned carrying Casey into the living room.  "Casey," Tyler said, "I
would like you to meet Ms. Coxwell.  She's a really nice lady who would like
to ask you some questions so try your best to answer them and always be
honest!"  Tyler set Casey down and left the room but not before giving Ms.
Coxwell an evil stare.  Casey sat down on Linda's lap.

"Hi Casey, my name is Jennifer."  She said.  "This is Gavin.  He's a police
officer."  Gavin smiled and shook hands with Casey.

"Aren't you supposed to wear a hat and gun?"  Casey asked.

Gavin laughed. "Some days I do Casey, but this week I'm working on helping
little boys find their Mom's!"

Ms. Coxwell went through a series of carefully planned questions for Casey.
She learned all about his toys, school, friends, hockey, and family.

"Well thank you Casey.  I appreciate your taking the time to talk to me."
She smiled at him.

"I just have a few more questions for you!  Firstly, can you tell me how
long you've known Tyler?"  She asked.  Larry and Linda looked at each other
and then at Trooper O'Leary.

"I met him yesterday at my hockey practice.  He gave me some chocolate bars
and brought me back here."  Casey said.

"Ms. Coxwell, is this necessary?"  Trooper O'Leary asked.

"Just a moment please!"  She said glaring at the officer.

"Did Tyler touch you in any unusual places?"  Ms. Coxwell asked.

"That's it!  This is over!"  Larry yelled! "Linda, take Casey up to play
with Luke."  Larry grabbed the phone and Ms. Coxwell stood up about to say
something. "Don't move an inch or say a word!"  Larry said dialling the
phone.

"Hello, John?  Larry here, Happy Thanksgiving Day! I'm sorry to bother you
but we have a problem here!  We have a Ms. Jennifer Coxwell here about an
abandoned boy and she has been making accusations about Derek's roommate
from Drexel.  She's threatened to take the boy and she has gone so far as to
ask an eleven year old boy if he is being 'touched' inappropriately by a 19
year old who found him abandoned by his parents and brought him here." Larry
said.  "Uh huh.  yeah.   Yes we did.  Trooper O'Leary is right here.  Yes,
he was present for everything.  Just a moment.  Trooper O'Leary, Mr John
Rubenstein, head of CPS, would like to speak with you."  Larry said handing
the phone over to him.

Trooper O'Leary took the phone.  "Yes, Sir?"  "Yes she did!  No Sir, the boy
did not have any legal representation here when she asked.  Yes Sir, I would
definitely say the young man has legal repercussions he could act on.  She
kept notes.  Just a moment.  Ms. Coxwell, may I have the notes you've
written?"

"No you may not! Those are the property of CPS!"  She told him.

"She has refused, Sir!", Trooper O'Leary told Mr. Rubenstein.  "Uh Huh, I
will tell her right now!"  Trooper O'Leary said holding the phone away from
his mouth.  "You have two choices, Ms. Coxwell.  You can turn them over to
me immediately, or I will take you before a judge right now and Mr.
Rubenstein wants to remind you that they are the property of CPS - not you!"
  Ms. Coxwell handed the notes to him.  "I have them now, Sir!  Yes, I will
see that they are at your office tomorrow morning.  Yes Sir, he's right
here.  Dr. Anderson, would you pick up on another line please.  He wishes to
speak to both of us."

Larry left the room and picked up the phone in the kitchen. "Yes, John?"

"Larry, I apologize for what has happened.  She will be dealt with, I
promise you!  She's put our office in jeopardy by her accusations.
Momentarily she will be relieved of her duties and I will strongly suggest
she apologize to the young man!  Please thank him for doing the right thing!
  Can I appoint you as temporary legal guardian, Larry?"  John Rubenstein
asked.

"Of course, John.  He's a sweet boy.  I might not return him though!" Larry
laughed and so did John and the Trooper.  Ms. Coxwell fumed at hearing the
Trooper laugh.

"Larry, if the child's mother comes to get him then you must release him but
I want you to phone me right away.  Day or night!  I want an officer to meet
with her!  We don't want to upset the child or create a problem for him.  I
will ask Helen to personally handle the case. Now if you both don't mind I
would like to speak with Jennifer!"  John said.

"Just one more thing John, if it turns out that you are taking him out of
his home would you let us have him until things are worked out?  I think he
would be more comfortable here with Luke and they both go to the same
school!"  Larry asked.

"Larry, you keep making my job easier everyday!  How many kids can I send
over?"  John laughed.

"I will get off the phone. My apologies for bothering you, John."  Larry
said.

"Larry, do not apologize!  I owe you for calling me and if she doesn't
apologize I want to know first thing tomorrow morning!  Trooper O'Leary, I
will need a full report from you of everything that took place by noon
tomorrow if you can?"  John asked.

"Yes Sir!  It will be my pleasure!"  He said smiling.

Larry hung up the phone and Trooper O'Leary handed the phone over to Ms.
Coxwell.  Larry went over to Tyler who was talking on his cell phone with
his Uncle David.  He had tears in his eyes.  Larry gave him a hug.

"Yeah, hold on a sec, Uncle David!  Dr. Anderson is right here."  Tyler said
handing his cell phone to Larry.  "My Uncle David, who is my lawyer, wanted
to ask you a couple of questions.

"Hello David!  A fine nephew you have!"  Larry began his conversation.
Tyler stood listening to half of the conversation.

"Tyler, would you go up and check on Luke and Casey please?"  Tyler knew he
was being sent away.

"Look David, I didn't want to say anything in front of Tyler but this crazy
woman even asked Casey if 'Tyler had touched him in any inappropriate ways'.
  No I stopped the interview right there and called her boss' boss!  He
happens to be a friend of mine.  Yes, he knows of the legal ramifications as
well.  He's ordered her to apologize to Tyler.  I don't think there is any
need to create more of a scene than she has already done.  I'm pretty sure
she will be relieved of her duties!  Yes, the officer was present through
the entire interview and John asked him to have a report on his desk by noon
tomorrow.  I think it will all work out and if there is any further problems
I will make sure you are aware of it immediately.  Yes I know the firm!"
Larry began to laugh out loud.  "All right.  Great!  Nice to talk with you,
too!"  Larry said as he closed up Tyler's cell phone.

"Ms. Coxwell, do you realize what harm you've just done to our department?"
John screamed at her so loud she held the phone away from ear.  Trooper
O'Leary snickered.
"You WILL apologize to that young man before you leave that house!  You WILL
never set foot on that property again!  You WILL be in my office on Monday
morning at 8 a.m.!  You are relieved of your duties until that time and if
you set foot on the CPS premises or have contact with any person's file
currently under CPS, I will prosecute you to fullest extent of the law!  If
I have to deal with a lawsuit from that young man I promise that you will
never work for this agency again!  Have I made myself clear?"  John yelled!

"Yes, Sir!"  Ms. Coxwell said visibly shaking now.  Larry stood at the
entrance way to the living room and Trooper O'Leary joined him in some small
talk that Jennifer couldn't hear.  She hung up the phone and grabbed her
things.

"Thank you for seeing me today, Dr. Anderson!",  Ms Coxwell said coldly.

"It was all your pleasure Ms. Coxwell, and for the record. Tyler gave every
kid on the team chocolate bars!"  Larry said with his arms crossed.

"May I speak with Mr. Peel?",  She asked.

"I don't know but I will ask him.  He just got off the phone with his Uncle,
who is his lawyer.  Are you familiar with the firm of Reynolds, White,
Anderson and Taylor?"  Larry asked.

Ms. Coxwell nodded and her face became flush.

"It seems that Greg Anderson roomed with David Peel for a year at Harvard
Law School!" Larry said as he climbed the stairs to go get Tyler.

Larry stopped halfway up the curved staircase and turned and said to Ms.
Coxwell. "Remember that you have a couple of witnesses watching this
conversation!"

Larry and Tyler returned with Linda, Kyle, and Derek in tow.  Tyler stopped
at the bottom of the stairs with Larry beside him.

"Mr. Peel. Tyler, if I may.  I want to apologize for my insinuations made
today.  It is part of my job to investigate all parties involved.  I am
sorry!"  Ms. Coxwell said and no one could really argue as to whether she
was sincere or not.

"Thank you Ms. Coxwell."  Tyler said without emotion and turned to go up the
stairs.

Trooper O'Leary called out, "Tyler.  Thank you for helping Casey!  The world
needs more people like you!"  He smiled and shook Larry's hand and winked at
him.  Ms. Coxwell turned and headed out the door with Trooper O'Leary in
tow.

Tyler ran into the bathroom and slammed the door shut.  He sat down on the
steps of the hot tub and started crying.

Linda started to go after him but Derek stopped her and said he would handle
it.  Linda looked at Larry and he nodded.  Derek tapped on the bathroom
door, opened it, and went inside closing the door behind him.  Derek pulled
Tyler into his chest and let him cry.  Tyler tried to say something but
Derek wouldn't let him.

"Tyler you're not alone, and I will never let you be alone again!  I want
you to know that you are safe with me and my family."  Derek said and Tyler
squeezed him tight.

"Well. if you're naked and Kyle's around I can't be responsible for that!"
Derek teased.  Tyler laughed a little between tears.

"Ty, you did nothing wrong and everything right!  As usual!  Even the cop
complimented you right in front of that bitch!  She probably just hates all
men and you happened to cross her path!  Now please stop crying because
there really isn't anything to cry about.  Dad will take care of her, and
good!"  Derek said rubbing his back.  "C'mon, let's get you cleaned up and.
do you think you could do me a little favour?" Derek asked.

"What?" Tyler asked.

"Could you take the sliver out of my ass for me?"  Derek laughed and Tyler
joined in.  When both got cleaned up and opened the bathroom door the entire
family was standing in the hall.  Tyler jumped back at the sight.

Casey ran up to him and threw his arms around him.  "Thanks, Tyler!" was all
he said.

"Anything for you, Casey!"  Tyler said holding him tight.  The rest of the
family joined in for one big group hug!

"Break it up people!!!" Derek said trapped inside the bathroom. "You can all
watch 7th Heaven on WB on Monday nights!"

Tyler turned and said, "I think somebody needs a hug!!!"  Everyone laughed
and encircled Derek.

"Ty!  I'm going to have Dad deep-fry you!"  Derek said.  Linda cuffed him
upside of the head.

"Tyler, we all love you very much!  Don't let her get to you!  All that
really matters here is what Casey feels and that he has a good home!"  Linda
said wrapping her arms around Casey.

"Okay people!"  Larry said, "We've got a meal to get ready and I don't know
about anyone else but I want some lunch. and maybe some pecan pie!" The
crowd dispersed and everyone went downstairs to get something to eat.  Larry
pulled Tyler aside into the living room and signalled for Linda to join him.

"Derek, will you make sure the boys all get something to eat!  There's
lasagne ready in the oven and garlic bread!"  Linda said.

"I wanted to talk with you alone for a moment." Larry said as Linda closed
the French doors to the room and joined them.  "I want to apologize for what
happened this morning. We had no idea that the person sent over would act
that way and I can assure that I will personally make sure that steps are
taken to make sure that it will never happen again to you or anyone else!"
Linda sat down on the arm of the chair that Tyler was in and put her hand on
his back.

"Sir, there is no need to apologize.  While I am offended at the accusation
I also understand that she was doing her job!"  Tyler said not looking at
either of them.

"No Tyler!  She wasn't doing her job!  That was what is known as an initial
consultation or fact-finding mission.  She had no right to question Casey in
the manner that she did without Casey having proper legal representation to
protect his rights!  If it turns out that Casey is being abused or neglected
her actions could hinder helping Casey!  This is all irrelevant at the
moment. Linda and I want you to know that we trust you and have grown to
love you very much.  If you haven't figured it out already, you are a part
of our family, and a wanted part of our family!  We hope that you will chose
to make this your second home!"  Larry said smiling at Tyler.

"Thank you Sir and you too, Mrs. Anderson!"  Tyler said.  "I can't even
begin to tell you how wonderful it is to be included here.  I just hope I
never let you down or disappoint you." Tyler said wiping a tear before it
appeared.

"Tyler, you don't need our approval for us to love you!  It's okay if you
feel that you let us down.  You're still just a boy and we are here to help
you back up if you fall down!  Larry and I try to be good at mind reading
but sometimes we're a little deaf, so you might have to open up a little bit
and yell or scream to get our attention!  Once you do, though, you will find
that we will be there for you as we would be for our other three boys!"
Linda said.

"Tyler, do you think it is possible for you do draw another family picture
for us sometime in the future?"  Larry asked.

"Yes Sir.  It might not be until after I finish exams though."  Tyler said.

"Good, because we have a problem with the one that you did!"  Larry said.

"Sir?"  Tyler said looking upset at there being a problem with it. "What did
I do wrong?"

"You forgot to include our fourth son."  Linda said kissing him on top of
the head.

The tears ducts couldn't hold back any longer after Linda's words.  Larry
came around the other side and they had a three-way hug.  "I love you both
so much and I don't deserve it." Tyler said through his tears.  Larry looked
up at Linda and furrowed his brow.

"Tyler, everyone deserves to be loved!"  Larry said.

"Let's get some lunch!"  Larry said standing up.  Linda signalled for him to
leave.

When Larry walked into the kitchen three of the four boys were eating.
"Everything okay Dad?"  Derek asked.

"Yes, everything is fine.  Your Mom needs some time to play Mommie!"  Larry
winked.

"Should I go rescue him?"  Derek asked but Larry just shook his head,
implying no.

"You should eat now Derek.  You don't want to spoil your dinner tonight!"
Larry said.

"I will Dad, but I wanted to wait for Tyler."  He said.  Larry smiled and
ruffled his hair.  Just as Tyler and Linda entered the kitchen the buzzer
sounded, telling them someone was at the gate.

"Sounds like Mom and Dad are here!"  Larry sighed.  Tyler looked at Derek
trying to get a read on the happiness factor.  Derek glared back as to say
'don't go there'!  Larry punched in the code for the gate to open.

While Linda and Larry left to meet his parents, Tyler and Derek filled up
plates with lasagne.

"What's up with your Dad and Grandfather?"  Tyler asked.

"They don't get along.  Grandpa is always comparing Dad with my Uncle Ted."
Derek said.  "Grandpa has spoiled every Thanksgiving for us since I can
remember!  I don't know why Dad puts up with Grandpa's shit!  I just wish he
would die!"

"Isn't that a little harsh?" Tyler said defending Grandpa.

"Wait and decide for yourself! He belongs with a woman like Ms. Coxwell."
Derek said

"What's so special about your Uncle Ted?"  Tyler asked.

"Nothing. he's a loser and has never really accomplished much of anything.
Mom thinks Grandpa feels sorry for Uncle Ted and takes it out on Dad.  I
don't even like my cousins.  Zach is stuck up!" Derek said eating a piece of
garlic bread.

"Sounds like the two of you would have a lot in common!"  Tyler joked.

"Michael! Mary! Happy Thanksgiving Day! How was your trip?"  Linda said
hugging each of them as they got out of their Lincoln Continental Town Car.

"Heavy traffic!  Bad weather is headed this way!"  Michael complained

"Hi Mom!  Dad." Larry said. "I see you brought your luggage."

"Just in case the weather is too bad to get home tonight, dear!"  Mary said.
"I told Michael that we should stay in a hotel."

"Our boy has lots of money and space!  He can put his parents up for one or
two nights!" Michael announced.  Larry glared at Linda as he loaded himself
up with four suitcases.

"Linda, would you call one of the boys to give me a hand please."  Larry
asked.

"Getting weak in your old age, Larry?"  Michael said.

Derek came running out followed by Kyle, Luke, and Casey.

"Hi Grandma!"  Derek said as he kissed her cheek and grabbed the two heavier
bags from Larry to carry inside.

"No hug for your Grandpa?"  Michael asked of Derek while Kyle and Luke
smothered Grandma with hugs and kisses.

"No Sir! I'm busy carrying your bags!"  Derek growled. "Dad just leave
those. You shouldn't be carrying this stuff!  You work hard enough all week
long!"  Derek said grinning at his father so Michael couldn't see him.
"Kyle! Come over here and help me!" Derek yelled.  Derek and Kyle grabbed
all the bags and took them into the house.

Michael pulled Larry aside and said, "That boy of yours has a bad attitude!
You better straighten him out before it's too late!  He's still got that gay
thing in his ear too!" Larry just ignored his father and bit his tongue as
always.

"Lucas!"  Grandpa yelled and Luke came running into Grandpa's arms. "How's
my favourite grandson?"  Kyle looked up at his mother from hearing Grandpa's
comment.  Linda smiled and winked at Kyle.

"Great Grandpa!  This is my friend Casey!  He's staying with us for a
while." Luke said introducing Casey.

"I see your Dad has enough money to take in strays." Grandpa said shaking
Casey's hands.  Casey looked at Luke and they both shook their shoulders not
understanding what Michael meant.

"Why don't you boys go on inside!"  Linda said.  Mary and Linda walked arm
in arm up into the house with Larry and Michael following.

"You should trim those fruit trees before winter Larry!"  Michael said.

"There are cutters in the garage and you'll also find a ladder there too. go
crazy Dad!"  Larry said walking off ahead of his father.  Larry joined his
mother and Linda in the kitchen.  Tyler was cleaning up the lunch mess and
doing dishes in the sink.

"Mary, this is Tyler, Derek's roommate at University."  Linda said.

Tyler quickly wiped his hands on a dishtowel and threw it over one shoulder.
  He reached out to shake hands with Mrs. Anderson.  "Pleasure to meet you
Ma'am! Happy Thanksgiving Day!"  He said smiling.

"And it's a pleasure to meet you, Tyler!  We've heard so much about you."
Mary said smiling.

Michael came into the kitchen and stopped when he saw Tyler.  Tyler extended
his hand to Mr. Anderson and said smiling, "Tyler Peel, Sir.  Pleasure to
meet you."

Michael stuck his hand out and said, "Tyler!"  Showing no emotion at all.
He turned and said to Larry, "I see you've got yourself a maid!  Must be
nice to be rich enough to afford all this hired help!"  Tyler pulled his
hand back and looked around at everyone in the room waiting for someone to
say something.

"I better finish the dishes Masta!" Tyler said in a Southern Black American
accent.  He stuck his hand in the dishwater and began singing, "Sweet Low..
Sweet Chariot.." Derek burst out laughing and Larry joined in.

"Michael!  You behave yourself!" Mary taunted him. "You know damn well that
Derek's roommate from college was going to be here!"

Derek wasn't about to miss taking a shot at his Grandfather.  "I apologize,
Tyler.  I should have warned you about my Grandfather!"  He said loud enough
for everyone to hear while staring down his Grandfather.

Linda looked at Larry and vice versa.  Neither knew what to do or say since
they couldn't really argue with Derek and both secretly wished that they had
said it.

"Give me the towel, I will help you dry.  How does that song go again?"
Derek said smiling at Tyler.

"Michael!  We need to get changed from our drive.  COME WITH ME!"  Mary said
not waiting for him to answer.  Grandpa followed her upstairs to Larry and
Linda's bedroom.

When they left room Derek was the first to speak.  "Don't either of you say
a word!  He was rude!  He is always rude and I may have to take his shit but
Tyler doesn't!"  Linda and Larry looked at each other again.

"Derek. It's okay. You did what was right standing up for yourself.  He's a
cranky old man. Linda and I have had enough ruined Thanksgiving days with
him!  This is the last time we are putting up with his shit!"  Larry said.

"Larry, don't do something stupid."  Linda warned him.

"Why not? He's always said I was stupid and bull headed!"  Larry smiled.
"Linda, he's insulted Casey, Tyler, Derek, Kyle and me!  You're next and you
know it, but that won't be until he picks apart his meal.  We don't have to
take this abuse.  We teach our kids to stand up for themselves and if I
don't stand up to him how can our boys ever believe anything we tell them?"

"Michael!  What in God's name do you think you're doing?"  Mary said. "You
ruin every Thanksgiving!  I will not tolerate this anymore!"

"I've done nothing wrong it's that son of yours." Michael yelled back to his
wife.

"Keep your voice down and don't you ever talk back to me again!  I let you
act like a jackass most of the time but if you ever insult my grandchildren
again, you'll sleep in an empty bed until the Devil calls your name!  Say
one word, just one word to me right now and you can get in your damn car and
get the Hell out of here for good!  How dare you say that Luke is your
favourite grandchild?" Mary yelled back.

Mary walked out of the bedroom and slammed the door shut behind her.  When
she walked into the kitchen everyone froze in silence.

"Mrs. Anderson, I made some tea.  Would you like a cup to help you relax
with after your long ride?" Tyler asked with a gentle smile.

"Why thank you, Tyler!"  Mary smiled. "Can you put a shot of JD in it for
me?"  She winked.

"Yes Ma'am! I'll make it a double!"  Tyler joked.  "How about a nice slice
of pecan pie to go with it?"

"Oh, thank you Tyler, but I don't think I'm going to eat now with one of
Linda's delicious meals happening tonight!"  Mary said.

"Well, Dr. and Mrs. Anderson were going to have some so I could cut a tiny
widdle wun for you?"  Tyler said holding his thumb and index finger
together.  Larry and Linda looked at Tyler wondering when they ever said
they were going to have some.

"Well, if Larry and Linda are going to have some." Mary said.

Linda stepped in and smiled at Tyler realizing what he was doing.  "You go
ahead, Tyler, and I will cut the pie."  Linda said.

"What does Mr. Anderson prefer?  Coffee or tea?"  Tyler asked.

"Scotch!"  Larry said laughing.

"Dr. Anderson would you mind pouring one for your father and I will take it
up to him!"  Tyler smiled.

Larry didn't know what Tyler's plan was but he didn't feel like questioning
him so he went to the bar and poured a Scotch for Tyler.   Tyler left the
Great Room and headed upstairs.  As he arrived at the top of the curved
staircase Derek was walking down the hall from his bedroom.  He saw Tyler
knocking on his parents bedroom door and did an about face running back to
his room.

"YES!"  Came the thunderous voice of Michael Anderson.

"Sir, It's Tyler!  May I come in?"  He asked.  There was no answer so Tyler
opened the door and entered slowly in fear that something might come flying
at him.  Michael was sitting on the corner of the bed with his shirt off.

"I brought you a drink to help you relax from your drive, Sir."  Tyler
smiled as he handed Michael his Scotch.  Michael turned his head cracking
his neck.

"Why don't you come and sit over here Mr. Anderson?  This chair will be much
better!" Tyler said.  Michael got up and sat down in one of the two chairs
that overlook the living room.  Tyler got behind his chair and said, "Now
just relax and close your eyes, Sir!"

Upon saying that, Tyler gently placed both hands on each of his shoulders
and began kneading the muscles next to the neck.  Michael was almost about
to protest until he realized how good it felt.

"You're very tense, Sir. must be from that long drive in the bad weather."
Tyler said but Michael didn't respond, he only moaned from the pleasure of
his massage.  Tyler continued his massage pushing Michael to lean forward so
that he could go lower down his back.

"Now Sir, I want you to sit still and just relax.  Sip on your drink.  I
need to get some towels and cream so we don't burn your skin!"  Tyler said
as he got up and left the room heading to the main bathroom.  He got three
large bath towels and took the bottle of St. Ive's skin cream back to the
bedroom.  The sound of the door closing woke Michael from his slumber.
Tyler laid one towel out open on the bed and used the other two as props to
elevate Michael's body.

"Now Sir if you will come with me?"  Tyler said and Michael got up slightly
delusional from his massage. "Sir, I need to ask you to remove your pants so
I don't get any of this body cream on them.  We wouldn't want to have to
explain this to Mrs. Anderson!"  Tyler winked and Michael actually smiled
knowing that Tyler wasn't going to embarrass him about the massage.

"Tyler, I appreciate your not.." Michael started to say

"Sir!  There is nothing happening here to be discussed anywhere or with
anyone!" Tyler said and Michael smiled.

"What are all the towels for?"  Michael asked as he lay down on the bed the
way Tyler instructed him.

Tyler climbed on top of Michael and sat on his butt.  He squirted the cream
all over Michael's back and then leaned down close to his ear as he began to
work the cream in.  "Mr. Anderson, the towels are positioned so that you are
not only comfortable but they prevent any accidents happening that would be
noticed!"

"Accidents?"  Michael asked.

"Yes Sir. It wouldn't be unusual for someone to have an orgasm from a
massage.  In fact, I would be more worried if you don't have one!  With all
the towels properly in place, I will be able to leave the room when I am
done and you will have your privacy and no one will ever be the wiser!  Now
sip your drink, close your eyes, and relax!  I only need to hear from you if
it hurts. in a bad way!"  Tyler said and Michael chuckled.

Tyler worked his way up and down Michael's back, over his shoulders and down
his arms.  Michael continued to moan his approval and his excitement.  Tyler
would occasionally move his hands back up to Michael's neck grinding his own
crotch into Michaels butt.  Tyler could feel every time Michael moved his
butt.  He slowly worked his way down to his butt.

Tyler lifted himself up and said, "Sir, I am going to lower your boxers now.
  Just relax and kindly lift you butt so I don't. umm. snag anything?"  He
said.  Michael sighed and gave a small giggle as he lifted his butt up in
the air.  Tyler reached around and under the front of Michael removing
sliding his boxers down while copping a quick feel of Mr. Anderson's fully
erect member!  He wasn't doing it for the feel but rather so he could tell
Derek one day!

"Oh, that feels so much better Tyler."  Michael said laying his head to one
side.

"Yes Sir!  My goal is make you feel better."  Tyler said as he massaged his
butt.  Michael began thrusting his hips gently and then stopped when he
realized what he was doing.

"Don't stop Sir!  That is helping relax the muscles!"  Tyler said.

Michael decided to toss the ball and see if it got caught.  "I think I'm
going to have 'bed burn' if I don't stop Tyler!"  He chuckled.

"I think I can help you with that problem, Sir, if you like?"  Tyler said,
returning serve!

Michael moaned.

The bottle made loud farting sounds as he squeezed some cream into his right
hand.  "Sir, if you would lift up for just a moment!"  Michael lifted his
ass up and Tyler slipped his hand underneath gently coating Michael's erect
penis.  Tyler kept his hand there sliding it up and down to make sure it was
fully coated.  He pressed down on Michael's butt to let him know it was okay
to relax with his hand still there.  Michael moaned.  Tyler used the cream
in his left hand to run it over his butt and crack.  Michael moaned more.
Tyler pulled Michael's member over to the side so it was sticking out and
Michael rolled a little to his left to give Tyler better access.  Tyler
began fisting him gently and Michael's breath began to take shorter, heavier
gasps.  Tyler's fingers began prodding at his hole putting gentle pressure.
Tyler stopped and grabbed Michael's Scotch just before it went over the
edge.

"Good save, Tyler!"  Michael laughed.

"Thank you Sir!  My apologies, I should have been watching it closer."
Tyler said and he continued rubbing Michael's penis.

"Tyler, I think the Scotch is my concern, not yours!"  Michael said.

Tyler returned his finger to Michael's butt and for the first time Michael
opened his ass to welcome Tyler's finger.  Tyler didn't want to push his
luck here so he only put pressure on his ring.  Michael moaned 'Oh God' and
Tyler knew he was close.  Tyler moved his left hand down to Michael's
exposed balls and began tweaking the skin.  He tightened his grip and
Michael's orgasm began.  Tyler could feel Michael's balls pull up and he
took longer and faster strokes for about five seconds and then slowed down
to a stop with the end of Michael's orgasm.

"Better Sir?"  Tyler asked as he returned to massaging Michael's neck!

"Much better, Tyler!  I haven't felt this good in years!"  Michael said.

"Good Sir!  I know that as the patriarch of this family you need to be in
top form!" Tyler said.

"Are you taking me somewhere, Tyler?"  Michael asked.

"Sir?" Tyler responded.

"You're not a stupid boy Tyler, and don't assume I am a stupid old man!"
Michael said.

"Can I be blunt, Mr. Anderson?"  Tyler asked.

"Yes, but I really think we've crossed the line of you having to call me Sir
or Mr.!"  Michael joked.

"Yes Sir, but it is simply out of respect and as far as anyone else is
concerned nothing has changed, has it?"  Tyler said.

"You really are a smart boy Tyler, maybe some of that will rub off on my
Grandson before it's too late!"  Michael said.

"Yes Sir. back to the immediate problem."  Tyler began,

"Problem?  We have a problem?"  Michael asked.

"Sir, if I may be blunt?  Who's fucking with whom now?" Tyler said poking
his back with a finger.

"Say your piece!"  Michael said.

"You need to remember your position in the family Sir!  Like the manager of
a corporation, you don't give orders.  You oversee how the factory runs and
quietly tweak potential problems before they become major disasters.  I
don't think any son has ever listened to a screaming father.  If I were you
I would be quietly working behind the scenes to change things to how you
think they should be.  `Tis better to plant the seed and let someone else do
the gardening, isn't it?"  Tyler asked.

Michael didn't respond.

"I think if you gave certain people an apology then you would garner more
respect and have greater success in the long run.  I think it's the last
thing on the planet anyone would ever expect from you.  I'm sure it would
fuck up their minds a little!  Best way to lead is by example, right?"
Tyler said climbing off of Michael and telling him to lie still.

Tyler went over to the ensuite bathroom and turned on the water in the
Jacuzzi tub.  He came back out with two warm washcloths and wiped his back
down.

"So you think this would work?"  Michael asked.

"I'm not sure Sir, but when you are trying to break down a wall and it isn't
working you need to try another spot."  Tyler said.

"I think you are wise beyond your years, Tyler!"  Michael said.

Tyler pulled out the towels from under his chest and stomach.  He opened one
up and held it up high so he couldn't see Michael's nakedness as he got up.
Tyler wrapped the towel around him and tied it.  He took Michael's Scotch
and led him into the bathroom.

Tyler turned on the jets and assisted as Michael stepped into the tub.
Tyler went around behind him and removed his towel trying to give Michael as
much privacy as he could.  Michael, with Tyler's arm for guidance lowered
himself down into the tub.  Tyler went back into the bedroom and scooped up
the creamy towel on the bed and returned into the bathroom.

"Sir! When you are done. you are going to accidentally knock this towel into
the tub if you get my point?"  Tyler winked.

"Gotcha Tyler!" Michael smiled.

Tyler bent down close to his ear and said. "I will be back in ten minutes to
retrieve you, and Sir between you and me and the towel!  If anyone ever
suggests you are old?  Just remember that a nineteen year old says you are
well equipped, well maintained, and your engine runs like a Corvette with a
350 engine in it!  See ya in ten, Grandpa!"  Tyler winked and kissed his
forehead.  Michael grinned from ear to ear as he slid down into the bubbling
water up to his neck.  Tyler took his Scotch away and set it out of his
reach.

Tyler left the room closing the door and headed back to Derek's room to wash
up.  Derek had hooked up Tyler's computer to his internet connection and was
downloading music.

"That's not legal you know!"  Tyler said walking through the room and into
the washroom.  He had to pee so badly and was glad his own erection had
deflated from what had just happened.

"What the Hell were you and my Grandfather doing for the last half hour?"
Derek asked following him into the washroom.

"I was jerking him off Derek!  What do you think I was doing?"  Tyler said
whipping his cock out to pee.  Derek turned his head away.

"What's a matter? Never seen my cock before?  Suddenly embarrassed?" Tyler
teased.

"No, It just makes me so horny that I thought I better not be thinking about
it right now!" Derek said.

"Too bad. I could really use a quickie right now!"  Tyler joked as he zipped
up his cargos.

"So what were you two talking about?" Derek asked.

"His position in the family and how he should lead by example rather than
yell and scream!"  Tyler said.

"Yeah right!  That'll be the day!"  Derek laughed.

"Derek. It's not very often that I ask you to trust my judgement but this is
one of those times!  Be nice to him and see what happens okay?  Just give
him one more chance!" Tyler asked.

Derek scowled at Tyler but he also knew that Tyler hadn't been wrong yet.

"I love you Derek!"  Tyler said kissing his cheek and walking out of the
room.  Tyler returned to the bedroom and knocked before entering.  The jets
could be heard flowing and Tyler knocked on the bathroom door before
entering.  Michael was dozing with a smile.

"Sir!  It's time to get out!"  Tyler said and Michael woke up.  Tyler smiled
and repeated that it was time to get out.  Michael, again with Tyler's help,
got out of the tub.  Tyler began drying Michael off.

"You don't have to that, Tyler. I am more than capable of drying myself
off." Michael said.

"Yes Sir.  It was just out of respect.  If I expect you to respect me then I
have to show you that I respect you!" Tyler said smiling.

"You made your point, Tyler!"  Michael said as he placed his hand on Tyler's
cheek.  "You're a good boy Tyler, and a smart one!"

"Thank you, Sir."  Tyler gave Michael a tight hug whether he wanted it or
not. "I think if you let people get to know the real you they will see all
there is to love about you."  Tyler said as he released himself from Michael
and said he would see him downstairs for some pie!

When Tyler walked into the kitchen everyone stopped looking at the picture
he gave the Andersons and stared at him.  "What?"  Tyler asked.

"Just wondering how Dad is?"  Larry asked.

"He's fine Sir!  We had a nice chat and he went and took a bath."  Tyler
said,  "He's coming down for some pie and speaking of. any left?  I'm
starving!"  Tyler asked.

Luke and Casey came running into the kitchen.  "Mom can we have some more
pie?"  Luke asked as both boys held up their plates.  Linda looked at Tyler
and he said, "Sure guys!  We need to save one piece for Grandpa though!"
Tyler cut two smaller pieces and put them on their plates.

"No spilling guys, and remember to bring your plates back!"  Tyler said.  He
went to the fridge and took out the chocolate milk.  As he walked towards
the Great Room Luke yelled that they needed some more chocolate milk.

"This stuff?"  Tyler said scaring him as he held out the container of milk.

"How did you do.  How did you know." Luke said.

"I read your mind!  I know everything you are thinking!"  Tyler teased and
Luke's mouth dropped open.

"I even know about your Lindsay Lohan fantasies and the peanut butter!"
Tyler joked and Luke gasped.

"You're shittin him aren't you Ty?"  Casey asked smiling.

"Pretty much.." Tyler said walking away.

Michael Anderson walked into the room and everyone tensed up except Tyler.

"Mr. Anderson, I saved you the last piece of pecan pie if you would like to
have it?"  Tyler said.

"Why thank you Tyler that would be great as long as I'm not taking it from
anyone else?"  Grandpa asked.

Linda looked at Tyler and was about to say that Tyler never got to try a
piece but he cut her off.  "No Sir!  Everyone else who wanted one got one
and Mr. Anderson said to be sure and save a piece for you."

"Thank you Larry.  Now you see Tyler!  Watch Larry and you too can grow into
be a fine young man like my son!"  Grandpa said.  Larry started choking on
his coffee and Mary made a gesture to Linda that it was the Scotch talking.
Linda grinned.  "Mary, I was thinking while taking a bath that we really
shouldn't put them out.  Why don't we book a hotel room for tonight before
the storm fills all the rooms and then we could take them all out to brunch
tomorrow?"  Mary's eye narrowed with suspicion over Michael's idea.

"Bring your pie Michael. we'll go into Larry's office and make some phone
calls and see what is available."  Mary said suspiciously.  Michael picked
up his half eaten pie and as he was walking out he turned and said to Linda,
"Linda, this pie is absolutely delicious!"

Mary held the door opened to Larry's office and shut it behind Michael after
he entered.  "What the hell is going on Michael?  How much Scotch have you
been drinking?"  Mary asked.

"Hardly any!  I didn't even drink half of the glass that Tyler brought up."
Michael said sitting down in one of the wing chairs opposite Larry's desk.
"Are you going to phone about getting us a room?"  He asked.

"In a moment. first I want to know why the sudden change of attitude?"  Mary
asked.

"Mary, you're right and I am wrong.  I've been so hard on Larry over the
years that we've grown apart.  Derek hates me; Larry won't talk to me unless
I call him; and you're going to be angry with me for the next two weeks like
you are every year!  It's my fault and I am going to start right now making
things better."  Michael said.  Mary walked up to him and put her hand on
his forehead.  "You're not running a fever." She said.

"Dammit woman!  I'm not sick!  I've already told you.  You're right!  You've
always been right and I've been wrong.  Now call and book us a room."
Michael said licking the back of his fork and walking to the door.  "Oh. see
if they have a room with Jacuzzi in it!"  He said winking at her as he
headed out of the room and back to the kitchen.

"What the hell just happened?"  Larry asked.

"I don't know. did you put something in his Scotch?" Linda asked.

They both looked at each other and then looked at Tyler.  "What?"  Tyler
said turning to cover his grin.

"Tyler!  We have three other sons!  Don't you think we've heard the 'what'
enough times to know when someone is guilty?"  Linda asked smirking at him.

As Tyler was washing the pie plate he said quietly to Linda, "Do you really
think I could change 'Grandpa Satan' as Derek calls him?"

"Yeah I do!  I'm just wondering what kind of magic powers you possess?"
Linda said nudging Tyler in the side.

"Want me to change him back?"  Tyler said winking at her.

"NO!" Larry yelled and Linda and Tyler laughed.

"No what?"  Grandpa asked as he returned with his dirty fork and plate and
handed it to Tyler.

"Ahhh. No more food before dinner!"  Larry said.

"Oh okay, glad I got my piece of pie in time, but you're right.  It's going
to be another one of Linda's fabulous meals and it's worth remaining hungry
for!"  Michael said to Larry as he patted his shoulder and announced that he
was going to spend some time with his grandsons.

"Tyler if you allow me to bottle your pixie dust and sell it we could be
rich!"  Larry asked.

Derek had finished downloading music and decided to head downstairs to watch
some football.  He opened his bedroom door and got halfway down the hall
when he saw Grandpa just about at the top of the stairs.

"Ahhhhhhh!"  Derek said and turned and ran back into his bedroom shutting
the door.

Grandpa walked down the hallway and saw Derek's door was shut but Kyle's
bedroom door was open and he was sitting on the floor playing his
playstation.

"Knock knock!" Grandpa said as he entered the room.  Kyle looked up and then
looked back at his game without saying anything.  "Whatcha playing?"
Grandpa asked.

"Just a video game."  Kyle said.

"What one?"  Grandpa asked.

"Race with the Devil:  To Hell and Back!"  Kyle said.

"Can two people play it together?"  Grandpa asked.

"Yeah, up to four can play but you need a really big screen TV for that to
work."  Kyle said twisting his body around as he turned corners in the race.

"Cool!" Grandpa said. "Could I play too?"

"Huh?" Kyle said crashing the car on the screen into a wall.

"I said could I play too?"  Grandpa asked.

"Ummmm.  This game?"  Kyle asked.

"Yes."  Grandpa said.

"With me?"  Kyle asked.

"That was sort of the idea. unless you're afraid I will kick your scrawny
little ass?"  Grandpa said.

"Pull up a cushion and sit down beside me Old Man!  You're going to Hell..
and back!"  Kyle said smiling at him.  Grandpa took a pillow off of Kyle's
bed and sat down on the floor beside Kyle and crossed his legs.  Kyle handed
him a game controller and explained how the buttons worked.  Kyle saved his
current level and started them back at the beginning of the game.

It didn't take Grandpa long to get the hang of it and soon they were both
leaning into turns as if it would actually help them.  Grandpa slammed his
car left into the Devil's car and sent him off a bridge into the pit o'
hell!  Level One Complete the screen said.  Grandpa put his hand out to
shake with Kyle and Kyle showed him how to make a fist and hit knuckles.

"No, like this Grandpa!  And you say 'dooooood'!"  Kyle said.

"Dude?"  Grandpa replied.

"No Grandpa, it's Dooooood!"  Kyle said laughing.

"Okay, dooooood!"  Grandpa said.  Kyle fell back laughing and his ball cap
came off.

"Now I want you to say 'Whoa. dooooood and then hit my fist with yours!'"
Kyle said.

Grandpa grabbed Kyle's ball cap off of his head and put it on his own head
backwards as he put his fist out to Kyle and said, "Whoa. dooooood!"

Kyle was into a belly laugh as he fell over off the cushion he was sitting
on.

"Hey Grand-doooood!  We've started the next level and you're behind!"
Grandpa said laughing.

"Shit!  Oops.  Sorry Grandpa!"  Kyle said and Grandpa laughed.

"Do you see your Mom or Grandma around?"  Grandpa asked.

"No."  Kyle said.  Grandpa winked and looked back at the game.

Tyler went upstairs to find Derek and as he approached the two bedrooms he
heard the laughter coming from Kyle's room.  He looked in and smiled.  Tyler
quietly left the doorway and went back downstairs.

"Dr. Anderson, can I get your help for a moment?"  Tyler said.

"Sure Tyler, what do you need?"  Larry asked.  Tyler signalled him to
follow.   Larry ran up the curved staircase behind Tyler.   When they
reached the top of the stairs Tyler shushed Larry and they crept down the
hallway.   Tyler pointed for Larry to peek into Kyle's room and have a look.

Larry stuck his head inside the half opened door and saw his Dad wearing
Kyle's ball cap backwards playing video games.   Then heard the two of them
say, "Whoa.  Dooooood!"  As their fists knocked against each other.  In a
very quiet voice Larry said, "Oh My God!"  Tyler had to turn away because he
started to laugh.

Larry backed quietly out of the room and pulled Tyler into a hug.  He
whispered into his ear, "I don't know what you did but don't ever stop!"
Tyler laid his head on Larry's chest and savoured the moment.  Larry rubbed
his back as he felt Tyler sigh and fall into his arms.  "We're never letting
you get away Tyler!  Ever!"  He said.  Tyler squeezed him tightly to let
Larry know that it was just fine with him.

Linda and Mary worked away in the kitchen preparing the final touches on
dinner.  Luke ran into the kitchen followed by Casey.  "Has the turkey got
its erection yet?"  Luke asked.

"LUCAS!"  Linda said and Mary burst out laughing.

"What?"  Luke said.  "Did the thingy pop up yet?"

"We're not having a Butterball turkey this year.  This is a fresh,
free-range turkey!"  Linda said. "Now dinner will be soon . . . go back and
watch your show!"  Linda told the boys.

"Whatever. We're starved!"  Luke said heading back to the Great Room with
Casey in tow.

Tyler and Larry returned to the kitchen.  "Good! You boys are back.  We need
your help in here.  Larry, the potatoes need to be mashed and Tyler, can you
put the two bowls of stuffing into the lower oven."  Linda asked.  Everyone
pitched in to help put the finishing touches on dinner.

"Where's your father Larry?"  Mary asked.

"You wouldn't believe me if I told you!  He's playing video games with
Kyle." Larry said as he added butter and milk to the potatoes.

"Larry would you get the turkey out and begin carving it up please."  Linda
said in a flustered voice.  "Tyler, would you go and let everyone know that
dinner will be in less that 15 minutes please."

"Yes Ma'am!" Tyler said heading out of the kitchen.

"Sorry to interrupt your game guys but dinner is almost ready and Kyle don't
forget about the clothing!  I have to get your brother also."  Tyler said.

"That's okay Tyler, I will get him while Kyle gets changed."  Grandpa said.

"Thank you Sir, they need me in the kitchen."  Tyler said running down the
hallway.

Derek heard the noises and the smells of turkey had made him hungry for the
last hour, so he decided to head downstairs and see if he could help with
dinner.  He opened his bedroom door to see his Grandfather standing there
with his fist held up in the air.

"AAAAhhhhhhh!"  Derek yelled.

"Sorry Derek!  I didn't mean to scare you.  I just wanted to tell you that
dinner was almost ready."  Grandpa said.

"Yes Sir!" Derek said turning around and walking back to his closet to put
on a tie.

"May I come in?"  Grandpa asked.

Derek paused for a second.  "Yes Sir."  He said.

"Derek I realize you're not comfortable around me and it wouldn't be much of
a stretch to say that you hate me.  Nor would it be unjustified!"  Grandpa
said as Derek slowly turned around to face him.  "Even if it is too late for
me to repair the damage I've done I want to apologize to you for being.
ummmm. what Kyle calls a dumbass!"  Derek started to laugh.

"It's okay Sir."  Derek said.

"Derek. Please don't call me Sir!  Call me an asshole or whatever you want
because that is all I deserve to be called, though I would prefer Grandpa.
Even though I am an ass, I've never not loved you!"  Grandpa said.

"Thanks Grandpa!"  Derek said and they hugged because they wanted to, not
because they had too.  "Don't lose that Tyler boy Derek!  He's as fine of a
young man as any of my Grandsons!"  He added.

"I won't Grandpa!  He means a lot to me."  Derek said letting go of his
Grandfather.

"I know he does Derek."  Grandpa winked and turned to leave the room.

"Wait up Grandpa and we can go down to dinner together."  Derek said as he
played with his tie trying to get it knotted.

"Here Son, let me do it for you."  Grandpa said.  Michael turned Derek
around and had him face the mirror.  He stood behind him and reached around
showing him how to make a Windsor knot.

"Wow! Thanks. Now I don't have to keep asking Tyler to do it!"  Derek said
smiling.

"In that case maybe you shouldn't tell him you know how?"  Grandpa said and
together they headed downstairs.  As they walked into the kitchen everyone
complimented Derek on how nice he looked.

"Speaking of. I need to go get changed!"  Tyler said exiting the kitchen and
heading to Derek's room.  Tyler put on a clean blue shirt with a white
collar. He chose a solid red neon tie since it was an American Thanksgiving
dinner.  He was cleaning out his pants pockets when he found the turkey
bone.  Kyle came into his room looking for help with his tie so Tyler stuck
the bone in his shirt pocket.

"Hey handsome!"  Tyler said. "Got a date tonight?"

Kyle looked behind him at the open door and quietly said, "Fuck Off and help
me do this tie please!"  Tyler pulled Derek's desk chair up in front of the
full-length wall mirror.  He sat down and had Kyle sit on his lap.  He
showed Kyle how to tie the knot and then he spun him around and kissed Kyle
on the lips.  "I love you not so little dude, Happy Thanksgiving Day!"

"I love you too Ty!"  Kyle said hugging him.

"Let's go eat eh?" Tyler said as he hugged Kyle.

Everyone gathered around the kitchen island.  Luke and Casey were busy
sneaking pieces of the now carved turkey.  One of the many traditions that
Tyler was about to experience was the progression of food.  Everyone picked
up a bowl, platter, dish, or plate of something to take into the dining room
for dinner.  Symbolic of everyone bringing something to the table!  By the
time they gathered around the table there was mashed potatoes, a turkey
platter, two types of stuffing, gravy, homemade rolls, carrots in an onion
sauce, green beans and sweet potato casserole, corn-on-the-cob, honey glazed
ham, and a large jar of peanut butter.

Everyone stood behind their chairs in front of the place cards holding their
names.  Larry was at the head of the table with his mother, Mary to his
left, followed by his father Michael, Luke, and Casey.  Linda was at the
opposite end of the table with Kyle to her left followed by Tyler in the
centre, and Derek on his father's right side.

"Tyler and Casey, welcome to our home and our family.  We are honoured that
you have both chosen to share in our annual Thanksgiving Day meal.  We have
some traditions during this meal.  Some are old, some are new!"  Larry said
and Luke and Kyle began giggling.  Everyone was smiling knowing what was
going to happen except for Tyler.  Larry caught Tyler's bewildered look and
said, "You guys didn't tell him did you?" Larry asked. Derek, Kyle, and Luke
burst into laughter shaking their heads.

"Feel free to take the three. four of them out to the woodshed after dinner
Tyler!  I believe we have a family full of pranksters."  Larry said.

"Okay, who's going to say Grace?"  Larry asked.

"Grace!"  Luke yelled out.  "What?"

"Why don't you dear?"  Linda asked Larry.

"I will Mom!"  Derek said and the small bits of idle chatter stopped.

"Are you sure dear?  You don't have to if you don't want to!"  Linda said.

"No, I'm fine Mom." Derek said.

Everyone pulled out the chair in front of them and stood at the table.
Tyler didn't know exactly what to expect so he simply followed everyone
else.   They all joined hands and Kyle on his right and Derek on his left
both squeezed Tyler's hands three times.  Tyler returned the sentiment.

"Dear Lord," Derek began and everyone bowed their heads, "On this day we
celebrate all that you have given us in the past and all that you will
provide for us in the future.  We thank you for this meal to celebrate your
love that you have bestowed upon us!  We thank you for the safe arrival of
our Grandparents and the love they give us.  We thank you for bringing Casey
into our family and hope that you keep an eye on him so that he is always
safe.  We thank you for bringing Tyler into our lives and pray that he is
always a part of our family as well!  We ask you Lord to remember those who
have given their lives in hope that our country will always remain a beacon
for freedom from persecution, hatred, and intolerance.  We ask you Lord to
look out for those around the world who are not able to be with their
families tonight because they are giving of themselves so that America can
continue to be free.  We five brothers thank you Lord for giving us parents
who show unconditional love and finally we all thank you for always being
here to guide us when we fall off the path and need direction to get back
home.  And Lord, on behalf of my brother, we thank you for giving us Peanut
Butter!  Amen!"

"Amen!" Everyone added laughing.

"Oh Derek, that was beautiful!"  Linda said with tears running down her
eyes.

"Yes Derek!  That was the best ever!  You've got the job for life!"  Larry
said to more laughter.  Tyler squeezed his hand three times.

"No biggie Dad. I googled it!"  Derek said to more laughter and everyone sat
down at the table.

"You guys really didn't tell him?"  Larry asked and Derek, Kyle, Luke and
Casey all snickered and lowered their heads not looking at Tyler.  "Tyler,
this is where we all go around the table and say something that we are
thankful for.  Keep it short because we all want to eat."  Larry winked.

"Mom, would you start us off?"  Larry asked and Mary stood up.

"Well, I just want to say how thankful I am to be able to spend time with my
family, and for Michael recovering well enough to make the trip, and getting
to share in this wonderful meal that Linda and Tyler worked so hard on!"
Mary said sitting back down.

"Dad, you're next!"  Larry said as went around the table.  Michael stood up.

"As thankful and honoured as I am to be here I want to apologize to
everyone."  Michael began and stunned looks appeared on the Anderson faces.
"I want to apologize to my son for not being the Dad I should have been.  I
want to apologize to my daughter-in-law, who is by chance, a daughter in my
heart!   And I want to apologize to my five grandchildren here before me.  I
have let you all down through my own self-pity and arrogance.  I hope to
earn forgiveness from each and every one of you, if you will allow me.  I am
not deserving of being here at this table but I want you all to know that I
will do everything in my power to make it up to you.  Lastly, I want to
apologize to the most important person in my life, Mary. You are God's
shining example of what he wants all of us to be like.  I am not worthy of
the 49 years you given me but I want you to know how much I love you and how
much I appreciate all you done for me."  Michael said and Mary stood up with
tears in her eyes and they kissed.  Derek and Tyler began a clapping and
everyone joined in.  Michael and Mary sat down.

"Luke!  Do you have anything you want to say?"  Larry asked.

"Yeah Dad, I'm thankful that I ate some turkey a while ago because I'm
starving!   Oh! And I'm thankful for peanut butter!"  Luke said grinning.

"Whatever!"  Kyle said shaking his head.

"Kyle!  Enough!  Casey, don't feel you have to say anything but if you would
like to go ahead!"  Larry said.

"Ummm. I just want to say thanks to Tyler for helping me out and all the
nice things he did for me and I want to thank everyone here for inviting me
to dinner. and I'm thankful for peanut butter too!"  Casey said and Luke
high-fived him!  Everyone else at the table laughed.

"Casey, you are more than welcome and thank you for helping us celebrate
this holiday!"  Larry said.

"I am thankful for having all five of my boys here at the table tonight!  I
am thankful that Grandpa came through his surgery earlier this year and is
able to be here and I am thankful for having such a wonderful husband to
help raise our children!"  Linda said.

Everyone looked at Kyle.

"I'm thankful for everyone here.  Each of you makes my life better but there
are two people that stand out!  I am thankful for having Tyler join our
family.  I've learned so much from him.  It isn't anything that Mom and Dad
haven't already said but he puts in a way that makes me feel good about
myself.  I'm also thankful to have my brother back home."  Kyle said looking
down at the floor.  He stopped and wiped a tear before it started and then
sat down.

"Tyler?"  Larry asked.

"I really don't know what to say, I'm overwhelmed by everyone here!
Everyone at this table has been so kind to me, welcoming a stranger into
your world.  You all keep telling me that I am considered to be part of your
family and I can't think of a greater gift that has been given to me.  You
hear people say a lot of things they don't really mean but everyone here
takes their word seriously.  I am humbled and honoured by your including
me."  Tyler said sitting down.

"I thought you said you didn't have anything to say?" Luke sat with his arms
crossed.

"Derek, we're all hungry!" Larry said and Derek stood up staring down at his
plate.

"I have a few things I need to say."  Derek began.

"Oh God!"  Luke sighed slumping down in his chair.  Linda glared at him.

"I want to apologize to everyone at this table."  Derek began, "I've let you
all down as a Grandson, a son, a friend, and most importantly as a brother.
I've been so focused on feeling sorry for myself and not taking
responsibility for problems I've created myself, that I ignored you all or
even worse took my anger out on you.  Grandma and Grandpa, Mom and Dad, I'm
sorry for my actions or rather lack of actions.  I've taken belonging to
this family for granted. I'm trying everyday to fix that and I hope you can
all forgive me."  Tears began dropping on to Derek's plate.  He wouldn't
look up at any of them.  "If you think that living with me has been
difficult just imagine what Tyler has had to go through sharing a room with
me."  Tyler squeezed his hand three times.  "Tyler, I don't how you've
managed to put up with me?  I know I've said I'm sorry a thousand times and
I can never make it up to you but you are the best friend I've ever had!
You're the person who least deserves to be stuck anywhere near me."
Everyone but Luke and Casey had tears streaming down.

"Honestly Tyler, I don't even know why you're here after what I did to your
eye."  Derek said.

"OH MY GOD Derek!"  Linda said out loud!.

"Linda!  Please!"  Larry said holding up his hand to stop her from saying
anything more.

Tyler raised his head slightly and looked to his left at Derek and said.
"I'm just here for the peanut butter!"  Derek, Larry, and Linda started
laughing and everyone else joined in.

They all left their places at the table to go and give Derek a hug.  Tyler
whispered in his ear as he hugged him, "I love you."  Derek collapsed into
Tyler's arms and wept.  Tyler lowered him back into his chair and everyone
returned to their seats.

"I'm so sorry Tyler."  Derek said.  "How do I ever thank you for all you've
done to help me?"

"You already have Derek. many times over."  Tyler said smiling at him.

"Can we eat now?"  Luke asked.

"In a moment Luke!"  Larry said.  "I don't think that I could top what's
been said tonight so I will simply tell you all that I love each and every
one of you and I thank you all for helping make this family celebration
complete!  Let's eat!"  Larry said.

"But Dad?"  Kyle said.  "What about the."

"Kyle, after dinner okay?  This went on a little longer than usual so we'll
do it then." Larry said.

Tyler leaned over to Kyle and whispered, "Do what?"  Kyle simply grinned and
passed Tyler the mash potatoes without saying any more.

The Anderson tradition of food being shared and passed around continued
until the plates were filled and the peanut butter jar was half empty.
There was limited talk as everyone was busy eating.  Linda signalled Larry
to look over at the boys.  Larry looked over and noticed Tyler was staring
at Michael with a look of horror on his face.  His eyes followed Tyler's
gaze to see Grandpa putting some peanut butter on turkey like Luke and Casey
did.  As Grandpa quietly put the fork full of peanut butter coated turkey in
his mouth his face distorted with pain from the taste.  Larry and Tyler
burst into laughter.

Tyler stole the Thanksgiving meal with his apple and onion stuffing and his
carrots with an onion sauce.  He kept seeing Grandma Mary looking back and
forth between Linda and a very quiet Derek.  "I think we need some more
gravy?" Tyler said.

"Here Tyler, I will refill the gravy boat."  Linda said.

"I'll give you a hand Mrs. Anderson."  Tyler said getting up and following
her into the kitchen.

"Mrs. Anderson, what happened between Derek and me is over with.  He feels
bad enough already."  Tyler said.

"Tyler what Derek did goes against everything we've ever taught him.
Something like this can't be allowed to pass unnoticed."  Linda said.

"Ma'am. That's between you and Derek.  I can only tell you that Derek has
always said you are the one person in his life he could always count on to
understand him and not judge him.  I think he needs you with him now more
than ever.  He's already punishing himself for what happened." Tyler said.

"I understand what you are saying Tyler but..." Linda said setting the
saucepan back down.

"I'll take the gravy back in."  Tyler said leaving her in the kitchen.
Tyler sat back down at the dining table and everyone was quiet.

"I thought this was a celebration?"  Tyler asked and no one answered.  Derek
glared at him.  Tyler slammed his fist into Derek's thigh.

"Owwww!  What did you do that for?"  Derek demanded.

"We're even!  You hit me, I hit you, now get over it!"  Tyler smiled and the
atmosphere lightened up.  "If everyone doesn't start talking I'm going to do
voice impersonations or tell really bad jokes!"  Tyler teased.

"Nooooooooo!!!!"  Chimed Kyle and Derek.  Everyone laughed as Linda walked
into the room.

"I want to hear a joke Ty!" Luke asked.

"Okay Luke!  A guy named Derek walks into a bar.  Owwwww!"  Tyler said.

Luke stared at him for two seconds and then burst into a fit of laughter.

Casey said, "I don't get it?"  Luke whispered in his ear and Casey started
laughing.

"I still want to hear a real joke Ty!"  Luke asked.

"Maybe later Luke."  Tyler said as he picked up his spoon and inserted it in
his breast pocket of his shirt.

"Why did you put the spoon in your pocket?"  Luke asked.

"I'll tell ya later Luke!"  Tyler winked

Linda wrapped her arms around Derek from behind his chair and kissed him on
the cheek. "Are all of my boys getting enough to eat?"  She asked.  Everyone
said they were getting full!

"Here Ty, eat something so we don't have to hear anymore of your jokes!"
Kyle said.

"Fine!  I had a really good one but you'll never hear it now!"  Tyler said.

"Please! Please! Please!"  Luke and Casey whined.

"Sorry guys I offered to tell one later, but now you'll have to take it up
with Kyle after dinner." Tyler said.

Luke stuck his tongue out at Kyle and Kyle returned the same sentiment.
When everyone had finally finished stuffing themselves and the effects of
the turkey began to sink in Linda got up and started to clear the table.

"NO Mom! You cooked!  Your five boys are cleaning up."  Derek said.

Linda's mouth dropped open as she looked at a smiling Larry.  "Careful boys,
I could get use to this kind of treatment!"  Linda teased.  Derek and Tyler
worked at cleaning the plates that Kyle, Luke, and Casey brought in.  They
scraped up a large bowl of leftover turkey with gravy for Abbey to eat.
Luke had to add some peanut butter to her dish.

Tyler clicked on the coffee maker and boiled water for tea.  Derek removed
the pies from the warming oven and Kyle took out the dessert plates, forks,
and serving utensils.  The only things remaining on the dinner table were
the centerpiece, nametags, and a jar of peanut butter.  Luke carried out the
cream and Casey followed with the sugar.

Derek and Tyler got everything they could into the dishwasher and started it
while piling the pots and pans into a sink of warm water to soak.  Tyler cut
up the rest of Luke's squares and gave them to Kyle to take out telling him
he didn't need to come back into the kitchen.

Tyler grabbed Derek's shoulder and spun him around scaring the shit out of
Derek.  He grabbed hold of his tie and pulled him in for a kiss.  "I love
you Mr. Anderson and don't you ever think otherwise!"  Tyler winked and
grabbed the tray with the apple and pumpkin pies on it.  Derek followed in
with the teapot and coffee decanter.

Before Linda began offering dessert to everyone she asked Tyler to explain
all about the desserts he made.  "Well, first we have a standard apple pie
with a couple of twists.  One I won't tell you about and see if you can
figure it out and the other part is the crumble topping on it!  The pumpkin
pie is like all pumpkin pies except better!"  He stopped looking for a
reaction.

"My what an ego you have Mr. Peel!"  Derek teased.

"Continuing on. after I was so rudely interrupted." Tyler teased, "The
pumpkin pie has a gingerbread base with a topping of caramelized crushed
pecans on it.  As for the squares. you'll have to ask Luke because he made
them not me!"

"I put a lot of peanut butter together with other stuff and baked it!  It
was hard work so enjoy because I'm never doing it again."  Luke said with
his arms folded.  Everyone laughed.

Everyone went for small pieces of each pie, some ice cream, and one of
Luke's squares!  Luke, being in a generous mood made his rounds with the jar
of peanut butter offering anyone who would take it, a peanut butter topping
on his square.  Only Larry, Tyler, and Casey took him up on the offer!
Derek and Tyler made their round pouring tea or coffee while Kyle went to
the kitchen for a glass of white milk for him and two chocolate milks for
Luke and Casey.

"Alright Tyler!  I give up!  I can taste something tangy in the apple pie
but I don't know what it is, but I sure want to know so I can make it!" Mary
asked.

"It's crumbled up three year-old white cheddar cheese Mrs. Anderson!"  Tyler
said.

"Ewwwww!"  Said Luke.

"You ate two pieces Luke!"  Linda said.

"Well that's because I was hungry, not because I like it."  Luke said
scrunching up his face.

"Did you like the apple pie Casey?"  Tyler asked.

"It was great. but it needed peanut butter."  Casey said shyly.  Everyone
laughed.

"Okay if we are all ready." Larry began as he stood up.  "Mom, thank you for
coming and sharing in our Thanksgiving Day celebration." He began and Derek,
Kyle, and Luke began uncontrollable laughter.

Luke said to Tyler, "It gets better every year!"

"Luke shut up!"  Derek said frowning at him.  Tyler looked confused.

Larry continued, "But Mom, why couldn't you have simply read the manual on
Planned Parenthood?  Look at this family and what it's costing me?  Didn't
they have abortion back then?"  Everyone was giggling except for Tyler who
had a horrified look on his face.

"And Dad!" Larry began "We're so glad you survived your by-pass operation in
the summer.  I mean it's not like you had the decency to die old man and
leave me some money so I could afford to get a divorce and be done with the
lot of them!  Frankly Dad, you're so old you remember when the Dead Sea was
only sick!"  Michael was tearing up from laughing.  Tyler made a fist under
the table having no idea what the hell was going on!  "By the way, are the
'Depends' we sent you for your birthday working alright?  Linda just had
these seats recovered!"  Larry said.   Luke, Casey, and Kyle were almost out
of breath from laughing.  Tyler didn't realize that they were laughing as
much from his expressions as they were from what Larry was saying.

"Lucas, Lucas, Lucas.  my third mistake!  So much for the rhythm method
Honey!  Luke if you ever develop a desire for Tequila and the backseat of a
'91 Pontiac Grand Prix then let me know and I will tell you a sad, sad
story."  Larry said as his roasting continued.

"Casey!  You're excused this year but watch out for next year!"  Larry
winked.

"Dad!!!  That's not fair!  Casey's family too!"  Luke complained.

"Casey you play hockey like the girl we always wanted, so we might just keep
you around forever as long as you don't listen to boy-bands!  And we're
taking all your clothes back and getting you dresses!"  Larry teased.   Luke
and Casey were giggling as Tyler was beginning to figure out that this was
all a joke of some sort?

"Linda!  We have the money!  You don't work!  Would it kill you to have some
enhancements, liposuction, and botox?   As long as we have to share the same
bed could you at least face the other way?"  Larry asked laughing, while
Linda wiped her tears away with her napkin from laughing.

"Kyle!  Why did you have to float?  I kept holding you under water but you
kept coming back up to the top!"  Kyle laughed.  "Your real mother wasn't
even good in bed!"  Larry said. "We knew you were a treasure when we brought
you home.  So we buried you but you kept finding your way back!"  Kyle
snorted his milk through his nose.

"Then there is our pansy-assed, bleeding heart liberal, tree-hugging,
anti-gun, save the Beaver, 28 man navy with a leaky row boat, cinnamon bun
scarfing Canuck!  Or should I say that again slower?"  Larry said and Tyler
laughed louder than anyone else in the room.  "Your kind really make us
sick!  You're always saving this and saving that!  Crawl out of that igloo
and kill something with your bare hands like a real American!" Larry had to
stop and wait for the roar of laughter to die down before he continued.

"Last and MOST definitely least there's Derek!  Dammit Linda!  Why did you
buy those cheap condoms?  Two million sperm and you were the fastest?  What
the hell happened?  Still tired from the race!  You know how some kids come
from the cabbage section of the super market?  You came from the day old,
stale-dated section.  We had to cover you in beef drippings just to get
Abbey to play with you!  When God gave you a brain you should have asked for
it to go!"  Larry said teasing as Derek cried happy tears this time.

"Okay, where's the bowl?"  Larry asked.

"I GOT IT!" Kyle yelled and jumped up.  He ran around the table took
everyone's place card except Larry's.  He ran out to the kitchen and
returned with all of the place cards in the bowl.  Luke was in hysterics!
Kyle took the bowl and held it up high over Larry's head.  Tyler's
bewildered look returned to his face.

"You guys really didn't tell him did you?"  Larry asked.  Derek covered his
mouth and shook his head no.  "Okay Tyler I will explain.  Every year one
person gets to roast the rest of the family and then he or she has to choose
the person to respond.  That person gets to roast everyone next year.  Do
you follow the cycle?"  Tyler nodded but was still confused.  "So Tyler, the
person chosen from the bowl gets to give pay back on behalf of everyone at
the table."  Larry said.

Larry reached his hand up over his head to place his hand in the bowl.
Derek, Kyle, Luke, and Casey couldn't contain their laughter.  Larry reached
in to the bowl held over his head and pulled out one place card and read the
name aloud.  "It's the guy with the spoon in his breast pocket!"  Larry said
holding Tyler's place card for everyone to see.  Everyone began laughing.
Tyler showed a look of horror.  Kyle set the bowl down in front of Larry and
returned to his seat.

"C'mon Tyler!  You're the lucky man tonight!"  Larry said.

Tyler stood up with his mouth hanging open.  "I, I, I can't do this?" He
said.

"Typical Canadian wimp eh Derek?"  Larry said mocking Tyler.  Larry and
Derek fisted hands together.

"With all due respect Sir." Tyler began, "It would be rude as a guest to
comment on how handsome your Father and your Son's are!  It's obvious that
beauty skips a generation in this family!"  A course of "Ooooooooooooooo's!"
came out from the table.

"On such short notice it is hard to imagine what to say!  Maybe I'll settle
for imagining you with a personality!"  Tyler taunted and his now cheering
section said, "Ooooooo!" and they all laughed.

Larry sat listening to Tyler's rebuttal and looked inside the bowl and began
laughing out loud.  Kyle saw him look at the bowl and held his finger to his
mouth.

"I do have to be somewhat kind. considering your age Dr. Anderson!  Is it
true that happy hour to you is a nap?  I heard that a night out for you only
happens when Mrs. Anderson puts wheels on your rocking chair?" Tyler said
and Linda covered her face from laughing.

"And before you pick on us Canucks. take a look at how the world sees
America!  You want a divorce?  You go on a nationally syndicated talk show
and beat up your spouse with a chair.  Only in America does a pizza arrive
faster than an ambulance!  Only in America can you find drive-up ATM's with
Braille lettering on them.  Only in America do people order
double-cheeseburgers, fries with gravy, with a diet Coke!  If you looked at
a map of Canada Dr. Anderson, you would see that we are bigger than you and
we are on top!  If we were in prison right now. you'd be my BITCH!"  Tyler
said and sat down.  Everyone stood and gave him a round of applause.

Tyler raised his hands for everyone to be quiet!  "And Dr. Anderson?"  Tyler
said reaching into his pocket and pulling out the piece of turkey bone, he
handed it Larry.   "This fell out of the tree and I believe it belongs to
you?"  Tyler smirked.  The loudest roar of laughter that night went to
Tyler.  Larry placed his hands together and bowed down to Tyler
acknowledging he had won.

"Kyle make sure there is an extra blanket in Abbey's dog house for Tyler
tonight!"  Larry asked.  Tyler laughed and so did Larry.

When everyone sat back in their chairs and calmed down from laughing Larry
handed Tyler the bowl of names.  Derek tried to grab it away but Larry made
sure that Tyler got it.  "Tyler read the names in the bowl!" Larry said as
Mary, Michael, and Linda leaned forward to find out what was happening.

Tyler flipped through the nametags and looked at a giggling Derek and Kyle.
"It's the beats for both of you!!!!!!!"  Derek fell off the side of his
chair from laughing and Kyle shied away Tyler afraid he would hit him.

"What's wrong Tyler?"  Mary asked.

"Every name in the bowl says 'Tyler' on it!"  Tyler laughed.  "You guys are
sooooo dead!"  Larry, Linda, Grandma, and Grandpa roared with laughter!
Then the four adults got up and began clearing the plates away.  Linda left
the one pie with two pieces of pumpkin left in it and told them to eat it
up.

"Who gets the last two pieces?"  Kyle asked.

"You and Derek get nothing!"  Tyler teased.

Luke interrupted the discussion by announcing that he and Casey deserved the
last two pieces!

"What the fuck are you talking about Lucas?"  Derek asked.

"Let's face it Derek, me and Casey are young growing boys and since we are
the only two sperm donors in this room, we need to build up our strength!"
Luke said flipping the two pieces on to his plate and Casey's!

Derek and Tyler looked at each other.  "Oh my God, I can't believe you said
that!" Derek said wide-eyed.

Tyler burst out into laughter.  "You are so bad Luke!"

Luke grinned at Tyler and winked as he began adding peanut butter to his
pumpkin pie.  The boys cleared what was left on the table and brought
everything back to the kitchen.  Luke asked if they could change out of
their good clothes and Linda said she thought that was a good idea.  Luke
and Casey left for Luke's bedroom.  Abbey barked needing to go outside and
Derek jumped off of his bar stool and headed back to the solarium to let her
out into the darkness.

"Holy Shit!" Derek said.

"What's wrong?"  Larry asked.

"It's a snow storm!  A big one!"  Derek said.

"You're definitely not driving anywhere tonight!"  Larry said to his
parents.

"Dad, you and Mom can have my bedroom and Tyler and I can sleep in Kyle's
room and Kyle can stay in Luke's top bunk."  Derek said getting an evil
stare from Kyle.

Larry saw the look on Kyle's face. "Kyle, would you mind sharing a room with
Luke and Casey?" He asked.

"No Dad."  Kyle said unconvincingly as he continued to stare at Derek
letting him know his unhappiness with the suggestion.

Larry went over to the bar and poured two Cognac's for him and Michael,
peach schnapps for his mother, and a glass of white wine for Linda.  "You
boys want something to drink?"  Larry asked of Tyler and Derek as Luke and
Casey returned.

"I'll have a rum and coke Dad!"  Derek said.

"Nothing for me Sir, except more coffee."  Tyler said getting up to refill
his cup.  "Shit Luke!  Where do you get these t-shirts?" Tyler asked
laughing.  Luke was wearing his 'Hedonism Rules!' shirt.

"I have my sources." Luke said opening the fridge door and getting out the
chocolate milk.  "Dad can me and Casey have a Vodka shooter?"  Luke asked.

"No!" Larry responded as if he knew the question was coming.

"Fine. be that way."  Luke said plunking himself down on the sofa and
turning the TV on with Casey following.  Tyler laughed thinking it was
hilarious but everyone else was use to Luke's unabashed comments and just
ignored him.  All the men gathered in the Great Room with the fireplace
glowing from the fresh logs Larry had added.

Larry and Michael took one sofa with Kyle between them and Tyler and Derek
flanked the arms of the other sofa with Luke and Casey in the centre.  Linda
and Mary joined them sitting on chairs.  Everyone sat in silence watching
either the TV or the fireplace.

"Okay you two!  It's way past your bedtime!"  Linda said to Luke and Casey.

"But Mom!!!!!!!!!"  Luke whined.

"Tyler why are carrying a spoon in your pocket?"  Linda asked.

"Ummm.  I was going to tell a story about it but it's not for the ladies in
the room!"  Tyler winked.

"You think we can't handled it Tyler?"  Linda challenged him.

"No Ma'am!" Tyler said pointing down at Luke's head, "I just didn't think it
was appropriate."

"I want to hear the story about the spoon!"  Luke demanded.

"If you want a joke Luke then you have to tell one first!"  Tyler said.

"Fine! How many surrealist painters does it take to screw in a light bulb?"
Luke said looking up at Tyler beside him.

"I don't know!  How many Luke?"  Tyler asked.

"One Trout!" He said looking back at the TV.  All the adults burst into
laughter.

"Luke you need serious psychological help!"  Tyler teased.

"Whatever!  Now tell me about the spoon!" Luke demanded.

"Okay, apologies to the ladies in the room!"  Tyler began.

"A guy walks into a restaurant and is greeted by the Maitre d", Tyler
begins.

"How can I help you Sir?"  The Maitre d' asks?

"I'm here for lunch," says the customer and he notices that the Maitre d'
has a spoon in his left breast pocket.

"Follow me to your table and your Server will be right with you!"  He says.

The guy sits down and sees a busboy go by with a spoon in his breast pocket
as well.  Then he notices the bartender wears the same thing!  When his
server arrives he is also wearing a spoon in his left breast pocket.  He is
handed a menu.

"Welcome Sir!  Would you like to order a drink?" The server asks.

"Just coffee and I don't really need the menu.  Could I have the soup of the
day and an egg salad sandwich on toasted whole wheat bread?"  The customer
asks.

"Certainly Sir, I'll be right back with your coffee!"  The Server said and
as he was about to leave the customer called him back.

"Just one question!  I see you wear a spoon in your left breast pocket and
so does everyone else that works here!  I was wondering why?"  The customer
asked.

"Yes Sir!  Well. we had a marketing consultant in and he told us that if we
wore a spoon in our pocket it could save up to 4 hours in productivity each
week."

"How the hell do you figure that?"  The customer asked.

"Easy!  If you drop your spoon then I don't have to run back to the kitchen
to get you one.  I just give you this one!"  The Server said.

"Okay. Interesting!"  The customer said.

The Server returned with his coffee and soup.  The customer noticed that the
Server had a black thread hanging out from his crotch as he left the table.
  Upon further observation of the restaurant he notice that Maitre d', the
busboy, and the bartender all have the same black thread hanging out of
their crotches!

While observing this, the customer drops his spoon and his Server was right
there with a new spoon from his breast pocket.

"You see Sir!  No waiting, no time lost!"  The Server says and the customer
laughed and thanked him for the spoon.

When the Server returns with the customer's sandwich he takes his soup bowl
away and the customer asks, "I notice that you have a black thread hanging
down from your crotch and so does everyone else working here.  Why is that?"
  He asks.

The Server immediately becomes upset!  "Oh, I'm sorry Sir.  You're not
supposed to notice that.  That is why we all wear black pants here."

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean anything by it.  I was simply curious!"  The
customer said.

The server responded. "Well Sir, that marketing consultant I told you about?
  He said we could save up to 2 hours in productivity each week by tying a
thread to it!"

"It?" He said.  "How would that save time?"  The customer asked.

"Easy!  When I need to go to the washroom I just unzip my pants and use the
thread to pull it out!  Since I've never touched it I don't need to wash my
hands."  The Server said.

"Ummm." Said the customer.  "Well, how do you put it back in?"  He asked.

The server leaned in close to the customer and held up his hand to whisper,
"I don't know what the others that work here do, but I just use the spoon!"

Everyone broke out into laughter.  Kyle laughed hardest and Tyler thought
that Grandpa might have a heart attack from laughing so hard.

"I don't get it?"  Luke said.  Tyler whispered in his ear.  "Oh!" Luke said.
  "That's not that funny!"

"Got a better joke Luke?"  Tyler asked.

"Of course I do!"  Luke said standing up to take the floor.  "I heard this
from my friend Treb at school!  How many Californians' does it take to screw
in a light bulb?"

"How many Luke?"  Grandpa asked.

"None!  Californians' screw in hot tubs not light bulbs!"  Luke said
smiling.

No one said a word.  They all looked back and forth at each other.

"Jesus couldn't save you people!"  Luke said shaking his head and sitting
back down

"Time for bed Luke!"  Larry said.

"Me too!" said Tyler.

"Speaking of hot tubs. Mary, it's time for bed!"  Grandpa said leading
Grandma out of the room.




Please do NOT email the author!  Post your gripes/compliments/questions at:
<http://groups.yahoo.com/group/the_road_home/>

Many thanks to Nifty.org for providing a vehicle to display my first
multi-chaptered story and the poor guy at Nifty who has tolerated me over
the last few weeks!  All Rights Reserved Copyright 2005-2006 Tyler Peel


"Okay!  I lost Ty so it's just you and me!  I was only joking about making
the cheques payable to Lucas Anderson.  Nifty really needs your support!
They had a server crash and will need to replace and upgrade old equipment.
Now I don't get much for an allowance so I'm going to make some Chocolate
Peanut Butter Squares and donate them to a place that serves Christmas
dinner to those who are less fortunate but most of you can help make a
difference!!!  I know that David and all the other great guys at the Nifty
Alliance won't mind because I'm only 11 years old, but you Roadies can
really make a huge difference by doing something today!!!  Not tomorrow,
TODAY!  Write the address down on a piece of paper and stick it in your
wallet!  Bret, you may have to use a crowbar to open yours but do it anyway!
  As Ty would say, good intentions are a great start but there is a point in
one's life when you need to take action!  TEN STINKIN' BUCKS!  C'mon!  Show
the world that Roadies are the coolest readers on the planet!"