Date: Thu, 20 Jul 2000 21:44:52 -0400
From: Sequoyah <pendor@mailcity.com>
Subject: A Special Place--Part Twenty-one

		     A Special Place--Part Twenty-one

				 Warning!

     The usual warning applies: This story contains sexually-explicit,
erotic events involving alternative sexualities. Do not read the contents
if they will offend you. If accessing this site causes you to break local
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You have been warned!


				Disclaimer

  This is a work of fiction, any coincidence is just that, a coincidence.

			     About This Story

     For couple new to sex (gay or otherwise) the advise contained in the
introduction to the visit with Dr. Bailey cannot be repeated often
enough. Even those who ave been at it for awhile might do well to do some
thinking. One of the best resourses I have found, among the many on the
internet, is It's Only Me from Across the Sea's web site:
http://members.xoom.com/iomfats/resourceindex.htm.

     If there is any doubt that what happened to Eugene is far-fetched, the
e-mail I have received in response removes it. Many have agreed with the
statement in the "About This Story" before Part Twenty: "In spite of the
horrible thing which happens to Eugene in the story, real life is much
worse." Of course, those who have written have survived. But again,
regardless of how you might think and feel, there are people who care about
you. Search for them and you will both be richer!

     Again, my deepest and humble thanks to all who have written. To those
who have shared their own story, I am honored beyond telling!

     As always, you are reading a much better story because of SAH's care
for it and his work on it in spite of being buried with work that pays. My
debt to you is great, but it looks as though I'll not be paying it in
commas, you are making me use the ones up you took out before!

     This part is especially dedicated to those who just discovered A
Special Place and have gone without sleep to catch up. And in answer to
those who ask, "Yes, there is more to come." What was intended to be "just
a short story" is beginning to look like "War and Peace!"

     It is also dedicated to those who care and love people because they
and you are human.

     Do I need to say your comments and especially your stories are
welcome--yearned for? E-mail will be answered!

Sequoyah

			     Copyright Notice

This story is copyright by the author and the author retains all
rights. You may distribute, copy, or print this story however you like,
PROVIDED this copyright notice remains intact and you do not change the
story in any way. Also you may not charge any fee to anyone to distribute
or access this story.


		 A Special Place--Part Twenty-one--Eugene

     I was sleeping in the guest room at David Andrews' when I was suddenly
awakened by Dad. He had his belt in his hand and started beating me
again. I had thought I was safe. David had promised me Dad couldn't beat me
any more and now he was. My back was killing me. I could hardly keep from
fainting from the pain. I started screaming and when I did, Dad beat me
harder. I screamed louder and louder. Why didn't someone come to help?
Where was David? Where was Michael? Why had they let Dad get to me? I
screamed and screamed and screamed. Suddenly I wasn't in the dark any
longer. When the lights came on, I realized I had been dreaming, but my
back did hurt. I was in terrible pain. I should have taken a pain pill
before I went to bed. But I had. I really was confused when Michael sat on
the edge of the bed and pulled my head to his shoulder. I was crying like a
baby.

     "It's ok, Eugene. It's ok," Michael said as he stroked my hair and
held me close without touching my back. "You must have been having a
nightmare."

     "I was. I was dreaming Dad had come here and was beating me again. But
my back really does hurt. It hurts worse now than it did this afternoon."

     "It's ok. Dad will be here in a minute, I'm sure. Just relax all you
can." Michael was still stroking my hair and holding me when David came in
the room. "Dad, Eugene was having a nightmare and his back hurts terribly."

     "Margaret left a shot of pain killer just in case although she didn't
think Eugene would need it. I'll get it."

     When David came back with the shot he told me it was more than I had
in the afternoon and I would definitely be feeling no pain shortly and
would sleep. He gave me the shot and then checked my back. "I don't think I
need do anything more, but it's a lot worse than Margaret and I thought."

     "Eugene, would you like for me to sleep with you?" Michael asked.

     "You would do that even though I am...."

     "What's that got to do with anything?" Michael asked. "If you want me
to sleep here, of course I will."

     "Well, if you don't mind."

     "Do you want me to put on boxers or something?" He asked. For the
first time I noticed the Andrews men were as naked as the day they were
born. "Only if it would make you more comfortable."

     "Definitely not," Michael said as his voice got further and further
away. Michael lay beside me and I spooned into his back, feeling warm and
safe and wonderful as I started floating. I was floating, floating,
floating above a beautiful river. I was floating above the falls then I
just drifted...."

     When I woke up, I was completely disoriented. I was groggy and didn't
know where I was. For some reason, my back ached. When I got my eyes
opened, I realized there was a strange man sleeping with me. Suddenly, I
remembered where I was and why my back hurt. I tried not to awaken Michael,
but as soon as I moved, he was wide awake.

     "I hope you slept well after that nightmare," he said.

     "I did. Now if I don't get to the bathroom, I'm going to...."

     "I'm right behind you!

     When we had finished our business, Michael said, "I'm going for my
morning run. The Gang of Four runs every morning. I'll tell Dad you're
awake since he'll want to check your back. I guess you'll just have to take
a spit bath--you know, water in the basin and a wash cloth-- since I'm sure
he won't want you getting your back wet. See you at breakfast."

     A few minutes after Michael had left the room, David came in. "How are
you feeling this morning?" he asked.

     "I have felt better. My back's still painful, but not like it was last
night."

     "Let me take a look at it." David had his bag with him and gently
removed the bandages from my back. "I'd hoped I could leave the bandages
off so your wounds could get some air. That's best, but I'm afraid some of
the places are still oozing and your shirt might stick to them. Also, it
would probably rub the places which are raw and that would be very
uncomfortable. When you get back from whatever Millie has up her sleeve,
you can take your shirt off and I'll check the bandages this evening.
You'll have to take a tub bath I'm afraid and be very careful not to get
your back wet. When you finish, I'll redress your wounds. Just give me a
yell when you're ready."

     I was really glad I could get a real bath even though it was in a
tub. When I finished, I found my razor, shaved, brushed my teeth and put on
a pair of boxers, then called David. He came up and redressed my back and I
finished dressing and went downstairs. Michael came in the front door soon
after I got down. "Michael, I want you to know that I really appreciate
what you did last night. I'm sure it was not easy for you...."

     "Why do you say that? You were a friend in trouble. I didn't do much,
but I did want to do what I could. That's what friends are for. Look, I
know you're gay and that makes no never mind. And even if I were gay, you
certainly wouldn't hit on me. You have a boyfriend. If you were straight, I
would expect Mary Kathryn to keep her hands off you if you were in bed with
her. Same thing, right?"

     "I still want you to know that I appreciate what you did very
much. Thanks."

     "Anything for a friend."

     David came down and we had breakfast. "I'm afraid Michael and I aren't
the best cooks in the world. In fact, if it hadn't been for milk, cold
cereal and fruit, we wouldn't have had breakfast for the past two or so
years."

     "Better than I'm used to," I said.

     After breakfast, David left for the hospital and Michael was off to
school with Matt and Luke after they came in to see how I was doing. I
waited around, doing nothing, trying not to think until Millie came.

      She had said she would pick me up around 8:30 and she arrived
promptly at 8:30. "Have you had breakfast?" she asked as soon as she was
inside. I told her I had eaten with David and Michael. "Well, we need to
talk and decide what we're going to do. Last night you said your father
took back his name. What did you mean?"

      I told her the whole story again as I had heard it from David and the
others who had gone to my house. "How do you feel about that? I mean really
deep down inside."

     "I guess I may need to think some more about it--no, I don't--if he
thinks I am a disgrace to the Joyce name I must be so far as he is
concerned. I know that, to my mind, he is a disgrace to the human race. I
have put up with his abuse as long as I can remember. I tried to do what he
wanted me to do until one day I realized I could never be what he
wanted. He once said I was a mistake and never should have happened. I
guess yesterday he just made clear by his actions what he always thought
and said; I was an unwanted mistake and kept being a mistake. He was
ashamed of me, so why should I be proud to bear his name? He doesn't want
that and I know, deep down inside, I agree with him--not that I am a
mistake, but that I don't want to bear the same name he does."

     "You're real sure of that?"

     "Yea, I'm real sure."

      "Fortunately you're eighteen and don't have to have your parents'
permission for anything unless you're living with them in which case I'd
expect you to... I was going to say 'do as they said,' but there are limits
and your mom and dad both went way past them. And, in any case, it doesn't
matter now. They tossed you out so you're a free man. I want to say some
things and then we'll talk.

      "Last night I started thinking about grandkids again. I swear, I
never thought that would bother me, and I'd die before I let Jason know it,
but I really miss having grandkids. I want you to know something about this
Willingham family and especially about Jason.

     "You know, of course, I have money. I have piles of money, more than
Frank left me and he left me a bundle. Hell, I've got money I have
forgotten about. Frank and I both earned our money by hard work. He came
from an old Concord family everyone thought was wealthy, but they
weren't. They owned a lot of land, but when it came to money, they couldn't
buy a pot to pee in. My family had nothing. Mom and Dad were hard workers
and were determined their kids would have a better life than they. Both
families scraped and skimped to find money to see that we got a good
education, but that was it. After that we were on our own. We really worked
hard. Frank found ways to make the Willingham's land pay off. Our
accounting firm was making good money so we were, over the years, made
wealthy. Our one sorrow was that we couldn't seem to have children."

     "When we discovered I was pregnant, we had just about given up hope of
ever having a child. When Jason was born everyone kept telling us he would
be spoiled rotten--an only son born late in life to a couple who had just
about given up hope. What could you expect? Frank and I sat down the day
Jason was baptized and talked a long time about his future. We were
determined he would not end up like the spoiled, wealthy kids we had known
at Oberlin. We entered into a pact with each other saying we would never
allow Jason to become a rotten, wealthy snob if we could help it." Millie
laughed, "I told Frank, 'He might be a rotten kid, but unless he gets money
somewhere else, he'll never be a wealthy rotten kid!' And we agreed on
that. You don't want to hear all this, do you?"

    "Sure I do. I'm certain it has a point or you wouldn't be telling me."

     "You don't think it's just a senile old lady rattling on?"

     "Not yet anyway."

      Millie laughed her full belly laugh and said, "Eugene, I can see
we're going to get along fine. Well, anyway, Jason was and is a good
kid. He's honest, cares about people, is very loving and just a great human
being. And I'm not saying that because he's mine. During high school, he
got into a few minor scrapes usually, I am proud to say, because he ended
up fighting to protect someone. He did well in school and when it came time
for him to go away to college, we told him we would provide for his
education at any place he wanted to go. We would pay all his expenses
within reason, but we were not paying him to party. He did well in college
his first year and asked to move off campus. He didn't like the noise and
horseplay in the dorm. Seemed reasonable and he got an apartment.... There
is a point to all this, Eugene, trust me."

     "I will, for a while longer."

    "Why I ought to slap your face for talking to an old lady that way,"
Millie said and drew back her hand. I covered my face with my hands and
started bawling like a baby. "Damn, how could I be such a fool," Millie
said as she jumped out of her chair, ran to me and put her arms around me,
avoiding my back. "Eugene, please forgive me. I have never struck a child
in my life and never would. I intended to joke with you as I often did with
Jason, but it was a damn poor joke. Can you forgive me?" she asked as she
pulled me into her ample bosom and rocked me, stroking my hair. When I
looked up, Millie had tears in her eyes.

     "I'm sorry. I should have known you wouldn't hurt me, but I have been
hit so many times, I just react."

     "Eugene, if I can make it possible, you'll never be hit again. I am so
very, very sorry."

    "It's ok now. Finish your story."

    "Are you sure you're ok?"

    "I'm sure."

    "Well, Jason had dated some in high school, but never anything as
serious as even having a steady girlfriend. I guess we should have known
something was different about him, but we never thought anything about
it. Anyway, the year after his father died, he came home Christmas and
brought one of the most beautiful men I had ever seen with him. When they
walked in, Jason said, 'Mom, I'd like you to meet Anthony, the light of my
life and my soulmate.' I suppose I was expected to be shocked or something,
but I wasn't and before the holidays were over not only was I convinced
Jason was a lucky devil, but also that Anthony was as good as they come. It
seems that Jason, even in high school, knew he was different and by the end
of his first year in college he admitted to himself he was gay, but told no
one.  One night at Canterbury--that's a college group for Episcopal
students--Anthony showed up and and Jason fell head over heels for
him--love at first sight Jason called it. I called it lust at first
sight. Jason laughed when I said that and said I was probably right, but
only at first sight. 'Mom, I fell for Anthony like a ton of bricks the
first time I laid eyes on him and it kept getting worse--better--whatever.'
But, according to Jason, Anthony was so obviously straight that he never
dared say anything to him, but managed to be around him a lot."

     "Anyway, one night there was a discussion group about sexuality at
Canterbury and someone said something about gays bed hopping and that set
Anthony off big time. He told the group they were a bunch of hypocrites
because they accused gays of doing what most of them were doing. 'I'm gay
and I haven't had sex with anyone since high school and I suspect few of
you can say that. I don't have sex to get my nuts off'--I suspect the
Episcopal chaplain wished he hadn't allowed that can of worms to be
opened--'And I won't have sex again until I love someone and he loves me.'
I guess after that bomb shell landed the meeting broke up quickly. Jason
asked Anthony if he'd like to grab a beer. They sat in a pub until it
closed, then Jason invited Anthony to his apartment and they talked until
daylight. They started doing a lot of things together and were having great
fun, but Jason was still reluctant to say anything for fear of driving
Anthony away. He has my blood in him and he doesn't take rejection very
well."

     "Finally, Jason decided he could be cautious the rest of his life and
lose Anthony or he could risk everything and maybe win Anthony. Jason
planned a trip over Thanksgiving break and asked Anthony to go with
him. The next thing I know, he shows up Christmas and announces they are
lovers. The first time I saw Anthony he was as neat as a pin, but
everything he had on was obviously well worn.  Anthony's family had nothing
but a determination their kids would have a better life than they. They
helped all they could, but Anthony worked like a dog in high school to earn
money for college and to earn scholarships. He had it hard, but he
appreciated every bit of help he got. Now why did I tell you all that? To
tell the truth, I'm not really sure except to say that Jason is a wonderful
son who has a partner whom I love as much as Jason. In one sense, Jason
lived an easy life compared to Anthony, yet both worked hard to make
something of themselves. Both had the best their parents could give which
for both was an excellent education."

     "When they graduated, I gave them money to put their education to
use. Both are well off now so I feel free to spend money as I damn well
please. The point of all this? I'd like to know if you are sure you are
willing to give up being a Joyce?"

     Matt had commented about Millie's tendency to change horses in
midstream and I was unprepared for her question. I couldn't see where she
was headed. "I guess if the Joyces don't want me, I'm man enough to give
them what they want. No, I would just as soon never be called a Joyce
again."

     "Do you think you could handle being a Willingham, knowing what would
be expected of you as well as what you can expect?"

     I know my mouth fell open and I couldn't say anything for a while.

     "Well, is that open mouth a yes or a no."

     "I don't know. What do you mean?"

      "I told you I really got into that grandmother thing yesterday and I
liked it. Would you be willing for me to adopt you? Technically you'd be a
son, but to me you'd be a grandson."

      "I'd be honored, Millie, to be your grandson."

      "Now I hope you don't think that means you'll have money to throw
around. Jason worked hard for his education and I'll expect you to do the
same, but I also expect you to have the time to put into getting a good
education, having some fun and working on your music."

     "Millie, I didn't expect anything from my parents and that's about
what I got. All I'll expect from you is to be treated like a grandson, if
that's what you want and I sure know better than to expect to be treated as
a spoiled grandson."

     "Couldn't have said it better myself. Well, let's get going. We've got
a lot of paperwork to get done. How are you feeling, by the way?"

     "I feel fine... actually that's a lie. I hurt like hell, but I didn't
want to take a pain pill unless I absolutely had to."

     "Hold off if you can otherwise someone might say you were on drugs
when you signed the hundred pages with your John Hancock. Well, let's hit
the road."

     When we reached her lawyer's office it was obvious Millie had some
lawyers earning their money since yesterday. There were stacks and stacks
of paper.

     "Mr. Joyce," a young lawyer--who obviously knew Millie because his
well-tailored three-piece suit displayed his bubble butt to
perfection--said, as he handed me a document, "here is a copy of the
restraining order against your father. Frankly, it will not keep him away
from you if he wants to harass you. However, should he do so, he'll spend
time as a guest of the county."

     "Mrs. Willingham, here are the documents necessary to adopt
Mr. Joyce. They, of course, provide for a name change from Joyce to
Willingham. Are you sure you want to do this?

     "Mr. Fox, have I ever asked you to do something and then proved to be
undecided?"

     "Well, no, but this is a pretty important step."

     "Don't think I have ever been more sure of anything since I said, 'I
will,' on my wedding day."

     "Mr. Joyce, since you are eighteen, this is an adult decision you are
making. The state doesn't require your parent's permission, but I want you
to be very sure you know what you are doing. You are saying 'No' to your
birth family--so far as the state is involved, they will no longer be your
parents. Legally, you will be as much a son of Mrs. Willingham as her son
Jason. I want you to be very sure that is what you want."

    "Mr. Fox, there is only one thing in this world I'm more sure of."
Millie looked at me and smiled.

    "Well, I'll get witnesses in here so you and Mrs. Willingham can sign
all these papers. As soon as that is done, we have an appointment with a
judge to make everything final unless either of you want to write in a
waiting period during which you can change your mind."

      "I think we know what we're doing," I said, and smiled at Millie.

      When we had finished signing everything, Mr. Fox asked that I wait in
another room. "Mrs. Willingham is making some changes in her will," he
explained.

      I had no idea that the justice system moved with a speed that would
make a glacier look like a speed demon. It was after noon before Millie and
I got to lunch and I was starved. In the excitement of the morning, I had
forgotten about my back, but as soon as I sat down, it made its presence
known. "From the look on your face you're having second thoughts or are
hurting like hell," Millie said.

     "If I had any second thoughts, which I do not, my back right now would
vote me down!"

     "Go ahead and take a pain pill now. The only thing we have left to do
is go to school and get records changed, Mr. Eugene Willingham."

    "Yes ma'am, Ma."

     "Ok, there are limits Mr. Willingham," Millie said and laughed one of
her great laughs.

     I hurt like hell, but I don't know when I had been happier--except
when Larry told me he loved me. I smiled and said, "Millie, no one has ever
made me as happy as you have...." Millie raised an eyebrow. "I mean except
Larry."

    "If you hadn't said that I think I'd give you back to the Joyces. Well,
take your pill. Our food's here." After we had almost finished eating,
Millie looked at me with a very serious look on her face. "I've got one
more question, Eugene. What about your sister?"

     "Millie, we have never been close. About the only thing we ever did
together was try to protect each other from Mom and Dad--I mean...."

     "I know what you mean. Don't worry about it."

     "Anyway, we chose different ways of escaping. I buried myself in my
music then after I got to know Larry, I spent as much time as possible with
him. Really, I hardly know Janice. I do know she hates school and has
skipped so much she's in real trouble there. She hangs out with a really
rough crowd at school and, when she slips out at night, I suspect she and
Wallace hang out with some rough kids. About the only time I have ever
heard her say she was happy was when she spent summers with Dad's sister in
Arizona. I guess that being far away was a part of it. Plus, there are
three cousins--all girls--one older, one younger and one about Janice's
age.  When she was there was the only time she got to do real girl
things--lipstick, colored her hair, you know, girl things. I suspect if she
had a choice she would go there to live."

     "Well, why don't we check that out as an option. You're sure she won't
mind being separated from you?"

    "Quite sure. She just wants out of the hell hole we've lived in and, as
I said, we were never close."

    "I think we need to drop by protective services on our way to
school. Want dessert?

    "Millie, I don't think I could be force fed another thing!"

    "Then let's roll."

     When we got to protective services, the social worker who came out to
the house yesterday was busy so Millie told the receptionist we would
wait. We only had to wait for about ten minutes. When we got into the
office, Millie told her why we came by. "Eugene has been taken care of. I
adopted him because I knew him and the good stuff he has inside. He tells
me he and his sister were never close and he thought she would like to live
with an aunt in Arizona if that were possible. Where does she stand now?"

     "She stayed with Dr. Bailey last night and I have been working on
placement when I had time today. We have to have her placed within five
days after the court hearing and that was this morning. Neither of her
parents showed up and that constitutes abandonment. But she can't stay with
Dr. Bailey beyond the five days without Dr. Bailey being certified a foster
parent. That probably could be done, but it takes time and I understand
Dr. Bailey is going to be kinda busy for awhile."

    "That's right. She's being married Sunday. I had forgotten that. Would
it be as complicated to get her to her aunt's?"

     "Not at all, since she's a relative. Janice is sixteen so some of the
rules are more relaxed for kids her age."

     "I don't know my aunt's phone number or address, but she works for
Office Depot in Phoenix."

     "That should be enough. If you have time, I'll call her right now."

     "It's almost 2:00 and we need to get to the school before it's out,
but we have time. Let me call Ms. Jones and make sure she will be there
when we get to school." The social worker--her desk plate said she was
Ms. Anderson--pushed the phone across her desk. Millie dialed without
having to look up the number. I suspected she kept a pretty close tab on
school these days. "Ms. Jones, please," she said into the phone. In a
minute she continued, "Constance, Millie. I'll be at school as soon as I
can get some things cleared up here in town. Could you make sure Ms. Norman
is also there? We have some important business to attend to.... No, I don't
think it's more trouble," Millie smiled as she looked at me. I smiled back,
probably kinda goofy because I was feeling no pain--literally and
figuratively!

     When Millie finished, she pushed the phone back across the desk and
Ms. Anderson dialed for directory assistance, wrote down a number and said,
"Thank you." She then dialed another number. She looked up as she said,
"We're at the 'if you wish, press' stage. Eugene, I forgot to ask, what is
your aunt's name?"

     "Sandra Martinez."

     "'Yes, could I speak to Ms. Sandra Martinez, please. Well, yes, if
Ms. Martinez is the manager.' They are paging her. 'Yes,
Mrs. Martinez. This is Carletta Anderson. I am a social worker with
protective services in Concor.... No, Ms. Martinez, no one has been
seriously hurt--well, that's not quite true.... Yes, you're right. No,
Eugene was severely beaten, but he is eighteen and I couldn't get involved
in .... No, no. I'll let him tell you about his situation. He is here in
the office with me right now. I'm calling about Janice.... No, she has not
been physically hurt, at least not this time'." The call went on for awhile
as Ms. Anderson explained the situation Janice was in. When she asked Aunt
Sandra if she was willing to take Janice, it was obvious from her face the
answer was "Yes."  She then explained since Janice would be moving out of
state, the state would be unable to pay her for foster care. "We will try
to get child support money from Mr. Joyce, but I wouldn't plan on it. Can
you handle the financial burden of an extra child?... You have just been
made manager? Congratulations. I'm sure the extra money could be used
otherwise, but I am thankful that you accepted without hesitation. Janice
needs a lot of loving and care and Eugene suggested the only place she was
ever happy was with you.... She is staying with a woman doctor here now,
but I think we can get the paper work done and have her on her way today,
maybe tomorrow at the latest.... Yes, please do give me your home number as
well and I will call you as soon as things are in order.... Of course we
will allow Janice to decide whether or not she wants to come, but she will
have to realize that the alternative is an unknown foster home.... I'm sure
she will appreciate your eagerness to have her as soon as possible and I'll
call you when I know something definite. Here's Eugene."

     I explained to Aunt Sandra what had happened and why Janice was taken
out of the house. She was delighted that I had been taken under Millie's
wing. When she asked if that was going to put a real burden on an elderly
lady, I responded, "Aunt Sandra, I think she would have your head for
calling her an elderly lady. She calls herself an old woman at times, but I
don't think she'd cotton to having the title used by someone else." I
laughed and winked at Millie. She got a good laugh out of that. "No, I
think she can manage to find the money for my needs so I appreciate your
offer to help out and I know she does, but it is not at all
necessary.... Well, I'm feeling no pain right now. I took a pain pill a
short time ago and I'm kinda floating, but I understand he did a
crackerjack job on my back. Dr. Bailey, with whom Janice is staying, and
David Andrews are taking care of it. He is an EMS nurse and I spentthe
night at his place.... I know and I appreciate your concern, but I'm more
than ok now that I am out of that hell hole of your brother and
sister-in-law, and knowing that Janice will be loved and cared for
completes things for me. Sure, I'll keep in touch. Bye."

     "It sounds as though Janice will be in a good home so you don't have
to worry about her," Ms. Anderson said.

     "She will be and I won't."

    We got to school near the beginning of the last period when I would
have been introducing the ensemble to the music we had worked on
Saturday. When we reached the office, Millie briefed Ms. Jones on what had
happened. "Now we need to get some records changed. As of today, this is
Eugene Willingham standing before you," she said, placing her hand on my
shoulder. "Welcome to Independence High School, Mr. Willingham. I'm sure
you'll fit right in," Ms. Jones laughed. "Let's go to Ms. Norman's office
and get the paperwork done.

     After the paperwork was finished, Ms. Norman stuck out her hand and
said, "Welcome to Independence High School, Mr. Willingham. I'm sure you'll
feel right at home here," and gave me a big smile.

     When we got back to Ms. Jones office, she had her secretary call
Larry, Mary Kathryn ad Michael down. Luke and Matt had already left to keep
their appointment with Dr. Bailey. When the kids came in, Larry ran
straight to me, put his arms around my neck, avoiding my back, and gave me
a passionate kiss which I was happy to return. The others just said, "Hi,
Millie," and looked puzzled.

     "Gentlemen, and you are gentlemen are you not, I believe there are
rules about that kind of behavior in school. I'll overlook it this time,
but next time I'll have to report it to your parents," Ms. Jones
laughed. "I called you down because I believe you were involved in the
episode at the Joyce house yesterday and I wanted you to know the results
of your care and concern. Eugene, perhaps you would like to let your
friends know what is to happen with Janice."

     I told them what had happened and assured them that I doubted we would
miss each other. "Since all of you are so close, I suspect the closest
thing I can think of which might be like one of you moving half way across
the country would be if it were Larry. But Janice and I hardly know each
other. We were too busy avoiding beatings and harangues. I'm glad she will
have a good home and I know she loves Aunt Sandra and her family and they
love her. That's all that is important. It's not like I am even losing a
good friend."

     "Mrs. Willingham, would you like to finish the story?"

     "It's very simple, all of you I claim as grandchildren. Eugene is
special. It pays to have high paid lawyers who know the right people. Never
let anyone tell you justice is blind. She can see power and money. So, as
of today this young man is Eugene Willingham. I've adopted him. There is a
restraining order against his father so that takes care of that. Guys, do
you think you can do another move today? If you can't, Eugene can stay at
David's until you can."

     I blushed because I was frightened and had something I needed to say,
but felt embarrassed to say it. But as she said, Millie never missed a
trick. "Ok, Son, what's the problem?"

     "Millie, last night I had a nightmare and when Michael finally got me
awake, I was in such pain, David had to give me another shot. I think the
pain pills will be all I need since I have been doing ok most of the day,
but if it's all right with you, I'd like to spend one more night at David's
to be sure I don't need him."

     "Of course it's all right! I wouldn't think of insisting you move
until you are sure you can make it through the night without David's
help. Well, Ms. Jones, I guess I'm ready to go. If it's ok with you, I'll
just take this bunch of grandkids off your hands."

     "I certainly hate to see them go, but I suspect I will see them all
tomorrow."

     We all piled in Millie's car and drove to David's. Larry came with me
and then went back into town with Millie. When they had left, Michael and I
talked for awhile. I thanked him again for holding me last night and we
talked about friendship and caring for other people, about why he and his
dad had stayed at the Temple of Praise--neither really knew why they had
stayed. David and his family had started going when David got out of
service because some of David's family had been members there before it
became so radical. When Elizabeth was so sick, David just didn't have the
energy to change until the constant harangue against gays finally got to
him. Then we talked about all that happened today. I still couldn't believe
someone had cared enough to actually make me her son. By the time we had
talked for a long time, my back was making its presence felt so I took a
pain pill. Michael said he was going to set up a gym, I thought, as I fell
asleep. Michael must have picked me up and taken me to bed because when I
waked up I was in the guest room bed.

                                                                          A
Special Place--Part Twenty-one--Matt

(Author's Note: A Special Place is set--at least to this point--in
1995. For young couples or singles who have questions about sex, gay or
otherwise, internet resources have multiplied like bunny rabbits since
1995. Anyone with access to Nifty has access to tons of
information. Unfortunately, some of it is wrong or misguided. Still, it is
the best resource available.  Use it and your common sense. By all means
find a doctor you trust and who is concerned about you and ask questions!
The following is pretty much a "symbolic" doctor's visit. You need to make
one on your own. Your life may well depend on it!)

Luke and I left school and went straight to our appointment with
Dr. Bailey. We were both kinda nervous, but didn't admit it to each
other. We didn't have to. Not only was our personal mental communication
system in excellent order, but we knew each other well enough to read our
body language. When we reached her office, we had to wait a bit before she
could see us.

     "Guys, some of our time together may be a bit embarrassing for you and
some may, frankly, seem a bit gross, but there are some things I want you
to know because they are very important and you are very important to
me. I'd say the same thing if I were talking to Mary Kathryn and
Michael. Of course, what I'd have to say to them would be different in some
specifics, but not overall. And regardless of what else you may hear,
remember or forget, do not forget this: in sex, as everything else, you are
partners.  You are lovers and if you remember that and all that loving each
other means, you'll be ok. You'll be more than ok. It's kinda like lover is
always really plural.  If you always remember your beloved, sex, as every
aspect of your life, will be enriched. Think of your partner, not just
yourself. That's the reason sex without love never works in the long
run. God, I hope I don't sound too preachy, but I know you two love each
other and sex will be a glorious experience if it is always an expression
of love for the other. But you do have to take care concerning certain
things... some of which MAY not be of concern to a heterosexual couple.

   We talked for an hour and promised we'd read a book she gave us and
write down any questions which arose.  We had no more we could think of
then. "One final thing. Since you are virgins, you don't have to worry
about STDs now or ever unless one of you decides to play around. Should one
of you play around, when you go back to your partner, it will be the same
as his having sex with every person that guy--or girl--has had sex with. I
hope that will never be a problem for you and, if it is, I suspect worrying
about STDs will be the lesser of the two very serious problems you have to
deal with. Most STDs can be treated, some cured; I'm not as sure about
smashed trust, betrayal and broken promises.

     "I don't even want to think that will ever be a problem," Luke said.

     "Neither do I. Nonetheless, should it be, your relationship will be
put to the most severe test it could possibly face. Much will be demanded
of both of you to handle the destroyed trust and broken promises. I
sincerely hope you never face that but, should it happen, I hope and pray
your love can handle it." Her last words to us were, "Matt, Luke, sex is a
beautiful, wonderful and powerful part of being human. It can be nothing
more than a way to get your rocks off--I guess that expression is still
used--in which your partner is nothing more than a convenient warm, moist
hole. Or it can be the deepest and most powerful way you have of expressing
your love. So long as you are thinking of the other, you'll do ok. Men have
found that to be true since time began. Be tender, be easy, be loving, be
caring and you will discover a whole new world. It won't be love, you have
that already, but it will be a way of expressing your love which will spin
the very stars."

     We were ready to go when I remembered Eugene and Larry. "Margaret, we
told Eugene and Larry we were coming to talk with you and asked if they
wanted to. They said they would. They have some problems which I'll let
them talk over with you, but could they see you?"

     "I'll keep time after school tomorrow for them." Margaret then got up
and, I guess, ceased being Dr. Bailey since she embraced each of us and
said, "I hope and pray you two have a long, joyful and loving life
together." Then she said, "Oh, I almost forgot. The social worker from
protective services just called. Janice is going to live with her aunt in
Arizona. She used to go there in the summers and loved it. She's leaving
tonight from Jackson. Ms. Anderson from protective services is taking her
to the plane. Eugene also has some news, but I'll let him tell you about
that. See you after work."

     It was still an hour and a half before Gabrielle would be off work so
I called her and asked her to pick me up at St. Mary's so Luke could go on
to work in his studio. When we reached St. Mary's, Luke came in with me and
greeted Gertie. Fr. Tom was out making parish calls. Luke walked into the
church with me, took me into his wonderful, powerful arms, pulled me to
himself and placed his lips to mine. My lips had healed enough for him to
give me a real kiss if he kept it gentle. Which he did, his tongue invading
my mouth, carrying the taste of Luke to me. When he broke the kiss, I
placed my head in the curve of his neck and whispered, "Luke Yonghon Tongmu
Hans Larsen, I love you more than I can ever tell you."

    "And, Matthew Sarang Hanun Pomul Greywolf, I can't begin to tell you
how much I love you, but I want to spend my life trying." Luke kissed me
again and this time sucked my tongue into his mouth. "Babe, we are doing
what we want to do, not what we need to do. I'll see you tonight unless one
or the other of us gets too involved in our work." He gave me a final quick
kiss and rushed out.

     I had copies of all the music I planned to play for my recital and the
concert, and decided I would just start with the first and play through to
see where I really needed to work. I had been at it for two hours without a
break when I realized that nature was calling. When I finished, I gathered
up my stuff and went to the office to wait for Gabrielle. Gertie looked up
as I walked in and said, "I'd have thought Millie was long past having a
child, but I understand she has a new son." Her laugh rivaled
Millie's. "You do know she has adopted Eugene, don't you."

     "No, I didn't. Margaret told me and Luke that Eugene had some news for
us, but didn't tell us what."

     "Sorry if I ruined his surprise. I thought you knew."

      "That's ok. I'll tell you one thing, Millie just got herself a great
son. Eugene is a really grand person who certainly deserves some good time
after what he has endured. I guess you know...."

     "That he's gay? Sure I do."

     "Well, that too, but what I was going to say was that he directed the
ensemble here the other night and will be directing it again."

     "Matt, I don't know why you didn't give me a good ass kicking for that
remark. There was no cause for me to think that was the most important part
of who he was. I owe you and him an apology."

     "Accepted. Have you talked to Chelsea and Gladys recently?"

     "As a matter of fact I have. They have found a location for their
hospice--it's a grand old house which will have to have a lot of work done
to transform it, but it sits near the river and has great lawns and has had
splendid gardens which can be resurrected. It will be a beautiful, calm
place. Come to find out it belonged to Millie and she sold it to Gladys for
a dollar so the money Gladys might have spent for property will go on the
renovations. Dr. Walker has gotten interested and is working on getting
equipment donated. Things are moving. You'll see them Sunday at the
wedding. I think half the county is showing up. Once the word got out,
people who have known David and Margaret just kinda invited
themselves. Should be a real event.... Hi, Gabrielle. Come to take this
wild Indian off my hands?"

     "I guess I need to. Seems some folks out in the country are kinda
attached to him."

     "Matt, see you next time," Gertie said as the phone rang.

     As we left, I made a mental note to tell Luke what Gladys and Chelsea
were up to and was lost in my thoughts about how Luke and I were finally
brought together and the loving people who surrounded us. That reminded me
of the very different situation Eugene had been in and his family didn't
even know it all. I was startled when Gabrielle said, "Where are your
thoughts, Matt? You seem to be lost in your own world."

     "I really was. I was thinking about Chelsea and Gladys and what they
are doing to provide a loving place for people who are dying and how they
loved and cared for me and Luke, about the suffering Eugene has been
through and how lucky Luke and I are to be surrounded by so many loving
people. How do you ever repay that kind of love?"

     "I guess in one way you don't because it is both priceless and given
without thought of cost. But in another you can and that's the way Gladys
and Chelsea are doing it. You repay love by being loving and giving love to
others. Too bad many people, perhaps most, never learn that giving is what
life's about, not receiving."

     "Makes me kinda wonder about Eugene. I can understand why the Gang of
Four can love because we have all been loved all our lives, but Eugene
hasn't."

     "If you can figure that one out, and why kids from really good, loving
homes can turn out rotten sometimes, I guess you'd make Bill Gates look
like a pauper," Gabrielle observed.

    "Yea." was all I could say, but what more needed to be said? "Margaret
told me Janice was going to live with an aunt in Arizona and that Eugene
had some great news for us. I wonder what that might be?" I wasn't about to
admit that Gertie had spilled the beans.

    "Well, you'll soon know. We're at David's." I had been so lost in
thought that we had gotten home before I realized it. "Do you want to stop
here or go on home?"

     "I'll stop here and see how Eugene's doing. See you later."

     When I got inside, I yelled, "Anyone home?" and bounded upstairs. I
saw Eugene was asleep in the guest room. I turned to go since I didn't want
to wake him but, just as I started out the door, he said, "Matt, glad
you're here. I have some real news for you and Luke, but I didn't want to
bother him if he's really involved in his work."

     "I'll check. He's been at work for two hours and needs a break
anyway. How's the back?

     "It's a real bitch, I'll have to admit. I took a pain pill when I got
home and fell asleep, but it's better."

      "Where's Michael?"

      "He said something about getting the gym ready. Said you all were
going to do it Saturday, but... and that's when I drifted off. I don't know
what he was talking about." I explained that all three of us had worked out
at school, but were having a time problem so we decided to combine our
stuff and set up our own workout room in a shed at my place. "I need to get
in on that as soon as this back gets better. Think Larry would like to as
well."

     "Sounds like a winner to me. I'll see what Luke's up to."

     When I reached the studio, I knocked on the door and Luke came out,
carefully closing the door behind him. "Can you take a break? Eugene has
some news for us."

     "I'll be in in five minutes. I need to take care of a few things
before I can leave for any time at all," he said as he leaned forward and
kissed me.

    When Luke came in, Eugene told us all about the events of the day. "Hot
damn," Luke exclaimed, "the son of a rich mama!"

     "Well, she made it pretty clear that she wasn't about to have a
spoiled brat on her hands, but she did say that she'd do the same for me as
she did for Jason: see that I had an excellent education. That is sure more
than I could have expected otherwise."

     "Well, I suspect that if you weren't who and what you are, you could
end up a spoiled brat anyway. No problem with your dad?"

     "Haven't heard a word and would like for it to stay that way."

     "Matt, I think this turn of events calls for a celebration. How 'bout
I call Gabrielle and see what she can whip up?"

     "You think I'd ever turn down a Gabrielle meal?" Just as Luke reached
for the phone, it rang.

     "Hello.... Hi, Mom, just getting ready to call you.... 7:30? Sounds
great.... Oh, I was just going to suggest the same thing. Yea, I'll make
sure I am at a stopping place in time. Bye."

     "Mom was calling to say we were having a celebration at our place at
7:30. Seems like we are either celebrating or in some hell hole these
days. When will everything just be even?"

     "I suspect when we are feeding the worms six feet under," Eugene
laughed. "This way we know we are alive and there are things to
celebrate. Afraid my life was on a pretty even basis and I sure didn't like
where the base was."

     "Eugene, slip off to slumber land again. I've got to get back to the
studio if I want to be at a stopping place in time to celebrate your
adoption. What are you up to, Matt?"

     "I'm about played out and I don't think I need to worry about working
on the score until we can see how it works in practice so I think I'll go
and see what Michael's up to."

     "Later," Luke said and kissed me, almost full force, but holding back
a little. "Later Eugene."

     "Matt, I think I'd probably feel better with a little exercise. Mind
if I tag along?"

     "Not at all. Do you want to walk or take the Jeep?"

     "Let's leave the Jeep for Luke and walk. I really love being out here
and the day is sooo nice."

     "Eugene, it's completely overcast and looks as if it might pour any
minute! This is a nice day?"

      "You better believe it! I can remember only one nicer."

      "But you're bound to be in pain even with the pill."

      "I was then too, if you remember," he smiled and for the first time I
realized what a beautiful smile Eugene had and I knew its glow came from
deep within. "I wish Larry were joining us tonight. It would make my
celebration complete."

     "I won't be surprised if he isn't, among others."

     When we reached the shed, Michael had the place all swept out and was
beginning to set up equipment. "How's it going, Michael?"

     "Great, now that you are here with your lazy butt. Eugene, feel better
after the pill?"

     "Yea, I slept until Matt arrived. Thanks for taking me upstairs."
Michael dismissed that with a wave of his hand. "I feel pretty good. Want
to make it without a shot tonight and see if I can stop the pills
tomorrow. I don't like the way they make me feel: all groggy and crazy."

     Eugene helped get things put together after Michael warned him not to
overdo it. "You start sweating and you are going to regret getting carried
away." We worked for maybe an hour and had everything set up. "Man, I think
getting all this stuff together was a pretty good workout, but I guess we
need to try it out."

     "I can spot one of you," Eugene offered.

     "Sounds good. Spot Michael and then you can spot me." We did a
short--maybe thirty minute workout and then took a shower. The cold water
probably wasn't the wisest thing we ever did, but it sure felt good.

     "Man, I sure miss having a shower. It's kinda hard to give yourself a
bath," Eugene said.

     "Let's go home and I'll help you," Michael offered. "Won't be like a
shower, but it'll be better than trying to do it yourself. Won't be as good
as if Larry were doing it, but if you don't mind a poor substitute,"
Michael laughed.

     "See you two later," I said as Michael and Eugene headed toward
David's and I headed to the house. Mom and Dad were home and Dad asked,
"What's this about a celebration at Gabrielle's tonight? Saw Millie at
school today and know she left with the crew before school was out. Do you
know what's up?"

     "Sure do and I guess it's no secret." I told Mom and Dad all about
Janice going to Arizona and Millie adopting Eugene."

     "I guess Eugene feels like he went from hell to heaven without passing
'Go' and collecting $200," Dad laughed.

     "I'm not sure what he feels. Of course, I think he has been kept a bit
calm by the pain pills and I guess it really hasn't sunk in yet, but he's
surely a much happier camper today than yesterday."

                                                          A Special
Place--Part Twenty-one--Michael

     After Eugene and I left Matt, we took a leisurely walk home. I was
afraid he would work up a sweat because the day was quite warm and I knew
if he did, his back would sting like mad. When we got back to the house, I
said, "How about that bath?"

     "You sure you want to do that?"

     "Eugene, I may do a lot of things, but saying something I don't mean
is not one of them. I know how I would feel if I didn't have a decent bath
and it makes sense to me that I help you get one--at least the best one you
can. To tell you the truth, I don't quite understand my feeling toward
you. I don't mean the kind of feeling Larry has for you or Luke has for
Matt, but I feel a kind of closeness, like you're a brother I never had
maybe. It's even different from the way I feel toward Luke and Matt who are
as much brothers as they could be. I really have been thinking about this
since last night. There's a kind of protectiveness about it and a kind of
bond that, I'll admit, I don't understand."

     "That's strange because I can't understand it either, but I think I
know exactly what you mean. It's a feeling that I have as well. And,
frankly, I'm surprised by it in myself and maybe more surprised to see it
in you. It doesn't seem to fit who I thought you were. I'm not sure who I
thought you were, but I guess I thought you had all the friends you needed
and, hell, I don't know what I'm trying to say, except you're a great
friend and on pretty short notice."

    "Well, I guess we don't have to understand it or work it out. Let's get
you in the tub--ugh."

    Eugene got undressed while I ran water for his bath and when he was
ready, I stripped to my briefs and helped him get a bath. I could wash his
back where it was not bandaged and only once or twice did he flinch when I
hit a tender spot. I almost got sick at my stomach as I looked at the welts
and I couldn't see the worst, which was covered by the bandages.

     As I was washing his shoulders, he turned and looked at me and said,
"Michael, I think I may know why we feel a kinship. We have both lost
parents. You lost a mother who, I am positive, loved you very much and I
lost both parents who hated me--maybe hate is too strong--no, it's not--and
if they didn't, they would if they knew the whole truth.  But we have both
suffered in ways that the others in the Select Few haven't. Don't recommend
suffering for anyone, but I think we both have gained something from it."

     "You know, I think you may be right--and you now have a loving
parent--and believe me I've been around Millie enough to know that she's a
loving old gal beneath that crusty outside--and I'm getting another one
Sunday. Does that make us newborns? Maybe that could count as being born
again!"

    I think some of the pent-up emotions Eugene had burst loose, because he
started laughing and couldn't stop. He had tears running down his face he
was laughing so hard. Every time he began to get control, I would start to
help him out of the tub, and he'd start laughing again and slip back
in. "Hey, you're not being much help, Bro." That sent Eugene off again. I
heard Dad come in downstairs and yelled down, "Dad, I need some help up
here." I finally climbed in the tub behind Eugene, put my arms under his
and started to lift him. I had almost got his ass off the bottom of the tub
when he started laughing again. This time it set me off and I slipped,
falling in the tub behind him. When Dad came bounding up the stairs we were
both laughing our fool heads off.

      "What in the world is going on here," Dad said as he rushed into the
bathroom. Neither Eugene nor I could stop laughing long enough to say
anything. "Michael, if you can get your butt out of the tub, I'll see what
I can do with Eugene." I finally managed to get out and Dad lifted Eugene
out easily. Dad's strong as an ox and knows how to handle people. "Now,
could I please find out what this is all about?"

     Eugene and I had finally gotten control of ourselves and Eugene told
Dad what had happened. "I'm sorry, Mr. Andrews...."

     "David."

     "I'm sorry, David. Michael was helping me get a bath and I got a bad
case of the giggles and it just got worse and worse until Michael caught
the disease and we were both helpless in the tub. I'm sorry."

     "For what? For having a good laugh? That's never reason for an apology
unless it's at someone else's expense. I think you deserve a good laugh!
Michael, if you'll bring my bag, I'll take a look at Eugene's back. It
needs dressing anyway, since SOMEONE managed to get it wet. Tell Margaret
to come up too. I want her to take a look."

     I went downstairs and got the bag and asked Margaret to come up. Both
she and Dad said Michael's back was much worse than they had thought when
they first saw it, but decided to leave the bandages off. "If it starts
oozing again or if your shirt irritates it, we can put them back on,"
Margaret said. "Why don't you put on a plain white T-shirt that's not too
loose so it won't flop around and rub your back."

     "I don't want to go to the Larsens' looking like I don't know how to
dress for a party," Eugene said.

     "Well, I seriously doubt that would be a problem, but if you'll put on
a T-shirt under what you want outside, that should be ok. I just don't want
something to rub your wounds--and they are wounds--or to stick to
them. I'll keep check on that tonight," Dad said.

     "Before I forget it," Margaret said, "I made an appointment for you
and Larry to come in to see me after school tomorrow.  We'll have to figure
a way for you to get there since Matt and Luke leave school before last
period and Matt said he thought you would need to be there to get started
with the ensemble."

    "He's right. We'll just have to come up with something."

    "Bro, bet yo' mama would get you and bring you to town."

    "His mother! Have you lost it Mikey?" Dad exclaimed.

    "Now, Dad, you know I hate being called Mikey or Mike. Why are you
torturing me?"

    "Well, you seemed to have lost your senses suggesting his mom could
bring him to Margaret's. I wasn't sure you were Michael," Dad responded.

    "Oh, I guess you haven't met Mr. Eugene Willingham. Mr. Willingham,
Mr. David Andrews."

    "What's going on here?" Dad asked.

    Eugene had started laughing again, but was able to get control of
himself. "David, as of today, I am officially Eugene Willingham. Millie has
adopted me," Eugene said, and a huge smile spread across his face.

    "You deserve having a decent parent. I know Millie may be tough at
times, but she has a real heart of gold. So that's why we're going to Jens'
and Gabrielle's," Dad said. "I asked Margaret and she pretended she didn't
know."

     "I thought Eugene should have the pleasure," Margaret said and gave
Dad a kiss.

     "Man, we are on a fast count down to the end of slow and easy, I can
see. The very idea kissing in front of us innocent children."

     Dad laughed and said, "Best I recall a certain young Michael Andrews
came home not long ago groaning, muttering something about stone...."

    "Dad!"

    "Doesn't sound like there's a lot of innocent children around,"
Margaret said. And that sent me and Eugene off again and soon Dad was
laughing as well.

     "If you three BOYS can get control of yourselves and get dressed,
we'll be leaving for the Larsens' shortly," Margaret said in what sounded
like a mama voice.

     As Eugene and I were getting dressed, I heard the Jeep pull out of the
driveway and knew Luke was headed home to get cleaned up and dressed. Or
more likely he was headed to Matt's.

******************************************************************************
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