Date: Thu, 4 May 2006 20:44:59 EDT
From: Jetjt@aol.com
Subject: Super Jeff, Chapter 17

The following is a work of gay fiction. If the subject matter is offensive
to you or you are too young, please exit now. This story is the property of
the author and may not be duplicated without the consent of the author.
John Tucker JETjt@aol.com


				SUPER JEFF

			        Chapter Seventeen

JEFF'S POV

Mandy and Chris accompanied me to the visitation for Donnie Smith, while
Rick remained at home with Ben. Both had offered to go, but since neither
knew Donnie, it would have just been for company, so we turned down their
offer. Ben, for one, looked relieved and I'm sure that Rick felt the same
way.  We arrived a few minutes early as Mr. Smith had suggested.

The visitation was at the funeral home where the service would take place
the following morning. I had never been to a funeral within my recollection
so I was filled with apprehension as well as sadness. After signing the
guest register, we approached Mr. and Mrs. Smith who were greeting friends
and relatives as they entered.

"Mr. & Mrs. Smith," I began. "I'd like you to meet my sister Amanda and our
friend from school, Chris Taylor."

"Thank you for coming," Mrs. Smith said offering her hand. We all shook
both of their hands, then Mr. Smith suggested that I go into an adjacent
room where the pall bearers were to meet with Mr. Cunningham the Funeral
Director. I excused myself, telling Mandy and Chris that I'd return as soon
as I could.

As it turned out I was gone less than five minutes. Mr. Cunningham told me
where to sit and handing me a program, indicated at what point I needed to
get up and go to take my place at the coffin. He explained our duties, then
said I could go. Just as I was leaving I saw Doug Jacobs enter the
room. Apparently he was going to be a Pall Bearer too. We exchanged
greetings with somber expressions, then I left the room to rejoin Mandy and
Chris.

I found the two of them at the rear of the large chapel looking at pictures
of Donnie taken as he was growing up. Chris pointed out two or three where
I appeared also. After looking at the pictures we walked to the front of
the chapel where the casket lay open. Though it was sad knowing that Donnie
no longer occupied the body that was lying within the beautiful container,
I marveled at how natural he looked, and how at peace he appeared. One
would never have known, from the condition of his body, that he had been in
an accident.

I told Mandy and Chris that I wanted to pray, so we sat down on one of the
front pews. I folded my hands in my lap and bowed my head.

`Lord,' I prayed silently, `I'm not sure why You have chosen to take our
friend Donnie to be with You, but I trust in Your goodness and mercy that
he has gone to his reward in Heaven. I pray that his soul has found joy and
peace in Your presence. We will miss him here, but promise to remember him
in our hearts. Now I pray that you will give comfort to his parents and
family as well as his friends who come to honor and remember his life. All
this I ask in Your Name. Amen.'

I raised my head and saw that Chris was still praying. Amanda was looking
straight ahead at the casket. When Chris opened his eyes, I took his hand
and we stood, making our way to the rear of the room.

We said our goodbyes to the Smiths and promised to see them again in the
morning. They both smiled sadly and nodded.

Once outside, Chris and I took off our dark coats and loosened our
ties. Climbing into Dad's `panzer' there was little said until we were out
of the funeral parlor's parking lot.

"Donnie looked very nice," Mandy commented. "It's been a couple of years
since I've seen him, but he looked so peaceful."

"I thought he looked a little out of character," I commented. "Maybe it's
because he was a bit of a cut-up and a joker. He was always into some kind
of mischief, and at least for the last couple of years it was with girls. I
hardly ever saw him without a big grin on his face."

"Did you get a chance to talk to Ed before we left for the visitation?"
Mandy asked.

"Yes, we're to go to his office tomorrow afternoon," I responded. "He said
he'd be ready for us."

It was still early evening when we got home. We had asked Frank to make a
light dinner since I was pretty sure we wouldn't be much in the mood for a
big formal meal after the visitation. He surprised me by serving up one of
his special pizzas. It had everything imaginable on it except anchovies,
which I hated. Well, that's not quite true. A true Caesar salad is not
complete unless the dressing is fresh and made with a wipe of the dressing
bowl with an anchovy.  To return to the topic, the pizza was fabulous. I
ate far more than I thought possible, but Frank, knowing that there were
four young men eating, had made plenty.

The evening was spent in the game room playing pool and cards, mixed with
conversation. The more I was exposed to Rick the more I liked him. It was
plain that he was in love with Mandy, and, in my opinion, she got the
better bargain. I guess I shouldn't say that, because the new Mandy was
everything one could ask for in a sister. Nevertheless, there remained the
memory of the old Mandy, the one who hated my guts, or so at least it
seemed. Ben was like a fish out of water, but I'll give him credit, he
tried. He followed us around like a puppy dog, saying very little and
participated in whatever we did. He didn't seem particularly happy, but
instead rather resigned. By 10 o'clock we were all getting tired so we
broke up to go to our rooms. I told Ben that he was welcome to stay up if
he chose, to watch TV or use the computer in his room. He told me that he
didn't know how to use a computer, so after Rick and Mandy had gone to
their room, Chris and I spent about 45 minutes with Ben in a cram course of
Computers 101. We introduced him to the internet and after showing him how
to explore with Google, his interest was piqued. Chris and I excused
ourselves and made for my room.

"One down and one to go," I said as we entered the room.

I could see the lack of understanding on Chris' face.

"The funeral stuff, I mean," I clarified.

"Oh yeah," Chris said, understanding. "I've only been to one funeral
before. It was my Grandfather Taylor. He was old and we didn't see him
much, which for me was okay. He was a lot like my dad and not pleasant to
be around. I don't miss him."

"Do you miss your family?" I asked.

"I don't miss my dad at all," Chris said. "I miss having a mother around,
but mine never had time for us. She was always pregnant, so we pretty much
had to take care of ourselves. I miss my brothers and sisters though. We
used to fight some, and at the time I thought they were a nuisance, but I
guess that's normal. I worry about them though. I was always there to keep
them out of trouble with my parents."

"Maybe we'll find a way that you can see them," I suggested. "Let me think
on it some."

Chris beamed at the offer.

"I'd really like that," he gushed. "I'm sure if my parents found out,
they'd have a fit."

"Yes, probably so," I agreed. "Maybe Ed can do something about that. We'll
ask him tomorrow."

"Did you hear anything about Pop and Dr. Mel today?" asked Chris.

"No. I didn't. I hope the trail hasn't become cold," I worried aloud.

"Maybe Ed Macgregor has heard something," Chris said hopefully.

"He hadn't when I talked to him earlier," I reported. "Maybe we'll hear
something tomorrow."

I had sat down on the chair at my small desk and Chris sat nearby on the
bed.

"I'm kinda tired," Chris said as he stretched and yawned. "Do you want to
sleep together tonight?"

"Is shit brown?" I asked rhetorically.

Chris grinned and began to take off his clothes.

"I guess I should get my P.J.s," Chris said after taking off his shirt, "or
maybe we could just sleep in our underwear."

"Wrong twice," I said as I felt a stirring in my groin watching Chris
disrobe. "I want to feel some tender boy flesh next to me."

"Saves on the laundry," Chris winked as I stood and began to undress
quickly.

"Yeah. Save the planet," I agreed.

A minute later we were under the covers, each feeling some tender boy
flesh.

		* * *

The funeral the following morning was sad. While all five of us attended,
the others went more in support of me than for either Donnie or his
parents.  I couldn't help thinking about the young life snuffed out and the
really good guy who no longer would be a part of my life. It was sad and
seemed such a waste.

The service was nice, and Steve Jenkins, Donnie's best friend, spoke a
tender and moving eulogy about his life, how he met Donnie and about how
Donnie and he had shared many sorrows and joys as they had grown up. It was
obvious that they were close in a way that Donnie and I had never been. I
could see the love for Donnie in his eyes as he spoke. Steve was often on
the verge of tears as he relayed their encounters but he managed to get
through it, giving everyone in the chapel a new and better understanding of
his friend, now gone. I found myself wishing that I'd taken more time to
know Donnie better. I know I got a new appreciation for Steve.

After the Chapel service, when the time came for the movement of the casket
to the hearse, I stood up on cue and joined Steve, Doug and three other
guys from our school in moving the now closed container to the
vehicle. After it was loaded in the black hearse, the long, black vehicle
waited for everyone to get to their cars for a lengthy procession of cars
to the cemetery. Had I not been a pall bearer, I'd have probably opted to
go home after the chapel service. As it was I felt obligated to go.

Once the short gravesite service was over, Mr. Smith came over to where I
was standing, asking that we go to their house afterward for
refreshments. I really didn't want to go, but agreed to stop by anyway.

Leaving the cemetery in Dad's sedan, I said, "Look guys, you don't really
have to go with me to Donnie's parents. I'm going to go just because I said
I would. I'll take you home, then go over there. I should be back in about
an hour or less."

"Sounds like a plan Bro," Mandy said. "I'll be glad to get on some casual
clothing. We can eat when you get back."

"I'll go with you, if you want," Chris offered.

"Nah Babe," I declined. "You only met Donnie once and I'm sure Ben would
like some company at home. I'll hurry since Mandy and I still need to go to
Ed's office."

"I'd like to go to Ed's too, if I may," Chris asked. "I know Dr. Mel and
Pop were not my real parents, but I love them just the same."

"I think that would be fine," Mandy interjected. "I suspect that Chris is
going to be a permanent fixture in our family so I think it's appropriate."

"Ben and I will be alright by ourselves," Rick added. "I want to get even
from the beating he gave me shooting pool last night."

"Fat chance, Bro," Ben said with a grin.

"Well, I guess it's all settled then," I concluded.

		* * *

At the home of Donnie's parents, I was greeted warmly, then I circulated
amongst the guests, making small talk with some of the adults and a few
younger people I recognized from school. I politely nibbled on a few of the
snacks that had been provided. Watching Donnie's parents, I knew that this
whole ordeal had to be terribly difficult for them, particularly since
Donnie was their only child. Nevertheless they seemed to hold up
bravely. While there I got a new understanding of the trauma that having
lost a child can inflict upon the parents. My heart really reached out to
them.

One of the people I saw there was Steve, who I knew from school and who had
delivered such a fine eulogy. We talked for a few minutes. I could see that
he was heartbroken. I couldn't help wonder if he might have been secretly
in love with his best friend, Donnie.

After about 20 minutes I was ready to say my goodbyes, so I looked for the
Smiths.  Seeing them, I walked over to where they were talking to another
couple.

"Mr. and Mrs. Smith," I said breaking in. "Forgive me for interrupting. I'm
afraid I have to go. I've a meeting this afternoon with our attorney about
our parents," I explained.

"Thank you for coming," Mrs. Smith said with a sad smile. "Goodbye."

"I'm glad I could be here," I said as I prepared to go.

"Can you spare a minute?" Mr. Smith asked.

"Of course Sir," I responded.

"Let's go into my study where we can talk privately," he suggested.

I nodded and followed him into the nearby room. Closing the door, he joined
me, sitting next to me on the other of two chairs on the `visitor' side of
his desk.

"I still feel bad about your car," Mr. Smith began. "I know that insurance
will replace it, but I'd like you to have Donnie's pickup to compensate for
your inconvenience."

I was surprised and quickly thought over the offer.

"Mr. Smith, I really do thank you for thinking of me, but I have what might
be a better idea," I responded. "I know Steve Jenkins from school and a bit
socially. I know too that he and Donnie were always best friends and that
Steve's parents are not able to afford a car for him. I think that if you
gave the pick-up to him, it would be best. I know he'd appreciate it."

"What a wonderful gesture!" Mr. Smith said with tears coming to his eyes.

"Thank you," I said as humbly as I could manage. "I was really moved by
Steve's eulogy. He deserves the truck."

"I'll tell him you suggested it," Mr. Smith said.

"I'd rather you didn't," I replied. "Let him think it's your idea."

"If that's the way you want it, Jeff, then I agree. I can't thank you
enough.  I know that Steve will be delighted. I just wish I'd thought of it
myself."

"Just have him call me when he wants it. I can either deliver it to him or
he can come over and pick it up," I offered.

"I'll make sure he has your number," Mr. Smith said.

"Thanks," I said rising, "now I really need to go."

Mr. Smith stood and extended his hand.

"God bless you Jeff," he said. "You're a good man. We'll pray for the
safety of your parents."

"Thank you Sir. We appreciate it. Goodbye."

		* * *

After returning home and changing clothes, I joined the others. We had a
quick lunch and then Mandy, Chris and I headed for the office of Ed
Macgregor, Dad's lawyer. His office was in a gleaming glass tower in
Century City, north of downtown L.A., so the trip took the better part of
an hour.  I had been there only once before but I recognized the building
immediately. It was marked with the letters spelling out only one word,
`Turner'.  After putting our car in the parking garage we entered the
building and found the elevators. When a car came, we stepped inside and I
pushed the `40' button. After a quick ascent the doors opened and we moved
forward, finding ourselves in the lobby of Samuels, Johnson, Macgregor and
Pearlman, the law firm where Ed was a partner.

I walked over to the receptionist's desk and announced, "We have an
appointment with Ed Macgregor."

"Your name Sir?" the receptionist asked as she looked at a list.

"Jeffrey Richards," I replied simply.

"Thank you Sir," she replied as she picked up the phone. "I'll announce
your arrival. Please have a seat."

A minute later Ed appeared and approached us.

"Hi Guys, I'm glad you could make it," Ed said smiling as he offered his
hand in a very businesslike manner. "Let's go into a conference room."

We arose and followed after everyone shook his hand.

We entered a beautiful room with a conference table that could have easily
seated 20 people. Gathering toward one end, we all took our places. An
attractive woman came in and placed a file in front of Ed, then asked if
anyone would like coffee, water or a soft drink. The four of us asked for
water. She turned and stepped to a small built-in refrigerator, extracting
4 plastic bottles of water and then placed them in front of us.

"Will there be anything else Sir?" she asked Ed.

"No, Clarissa. Thank you," Ed responded.

She exited the room, closing the door quietly.

I began.

"Ed, Mandy and I wanted to talk about what will happen if our parents
aren't found quickly. First though, we'd like to know if you've heard
anything today about them?"

"I spoke with Agent Johnson this morning and so far there's little
progress," he reported.  "I'm nearly as impatient as you are." He
continued, "I've done something however that I hope you'll approve."

"What's that?" Amanda asked.

"I have an attorney friend in Las Vegas by the name of Terry Cannon. We
have a case together and we were speaking on the telephone yesterday about
it. The conversation came around to your parents. The story about their
death was in the Las Vegas paper and Terry knew that they were my
clients. I told him of the false report and that they were missing. I
further told him of my frustration in getting news of the investigation. He
made a suggestion. One of his personal clients is a multimillionaire by the
name of Ron Turner. He, along with his partner, his brother and his
brother's partner, own several companies. One of them, headed by his
brother Tyler is called Aztec-Turner Security."

"I've heard of them," I stated. "They take care of the security at our
house and also at Dad's office."

"Yes," Ed said nodding. "They also have an investigation division that is
widely recognized as having the best private investigation teams in the
country."

I began to see where the conversation was going, and it perked up my
interest, and especially the part about `partners'. Hmmm. I wondered if
Chris was thinking what I was.

"Another thing," Ed continued, "They have connections with Homeland
Security, and last year they bought the leading European private
investigation company. That company is headquartered in Great Britain but
with offices all over the continent."

He handed Amanda and me brochures on the company which he said had been
hand-delivered.

"I'm sure they're very expensive to hire," I guessed, looking at the
impressive presentation document.

"Yes, they're not cheap, but believe me, you're far from broke."

"What to do you recommend?" Mandy asked.

"It's really going to be your decision, but personally, I'm in favor of
hiring them," Ed replied. When I finished my conversation with Terry, he
offered to talk to his client and friend, Ron Turner about it. He must
have, because an hour later, Ron's brother Tyler called me personally. He's
flying over here from Las Vegas tomorrow, even though they have a very
capable office staff right here in this tower. By the way, Ron Turner owns
this building. Unless you tell me you're definitely not interested, we have
an appointment with him. I'm to pick him up at John Wayne Airport at 10
AM. We'll come directly to your house."

"Sounds good to me," I said looking at Amanda. "They seem to have
impeccable credentials and recommendations."

"It's certainly well worth exploring," Amanda agreed. "We'll be home."

I looked at Chris. He made it clear with hand signals that it was a
decision that Mandy and I had to make, not him.

"Can we talk a bit about what we do until we know about our parents?" Mandy
requested.

"Of course," Ed responded. "First I want to emphasize that your parents
gave me complete power of attorney in their absence. That means that I'll
see that all the bills are paid, and your parents' business interests are
taken care of. Except for finding your parents, managing their affairs has
top priority with me. If you need anything, all you have to do is ask. I've
been in touch with Frank so that all of the household items are covered. If
either of you need anything, all you have to do is call me, or tell Frank."

"What about school?" Amanda asked.

"You parents have a substantial educational trust set up for both of you,"
he answered. "When you need money for your schooling, just let me know and
I'll get it to you immediately. Frank also told me about your and Chris'
allowances. The money will be deposited weekly into you accounts, as
always. What do you want to do about Ben?"

"I'm not really sure," I answered. "I really think that he would prefer to
go back home, in spite of the problems he faces there. I think he's having
a hard time adjusting to `life on the hill.' Maybe I'm wrong. I love the
kid, but his upbringing is so different, I'm not sure that he'll adjust."

"I'll put a couple hundred dollars extra per week in your account, Jeff,"
Ed offered. "That way he can have pocket money. You can just say that it's
his allowance. Maybe when we get this thing with your parents taken care
of, we can find a better direction. One thing though, and I hate to even
say it, if worse comes to worse and your parents are not living, I don't
think you need the extra burden of Ben. He's a minor and it would be the
devil for you to get permanent guardianship, especially since you're a
minor too."

"What about me?" Chris asked.

"Technically you're a ward of Jeffrey and Mel," Ed answered. "They told me
that as far as you're concerned, you're their son. In such a case, you
became my responsibility until they are found. If you need anything, or
even need to talk to someone, I'm here for you."

"That's very generous of you," Chris said with obvious relief.

Ed looked at Chris and smiled. "It's more than business, Chris. Jeff and
Mel are my two best friends. Jeff and I go back a long way. I'd do this for
free if it was necessary."

"Have you heard anything about replacing my car?" I asked.

"Yes, I talked to the insurance company today," Ed responded. "You can go
out tomorrow afternoon and pick out a new one because yours was
totaled. I'll deposit sufficient money in your account so that you can
write a check. You have to buy one just like the one you had before
though."

"That's fine. I loved my Z. What about a car for Chris?" I asked. "My Dad
said that he could get one when they got back from Europe. Now who knows
how long that will be?"

Ed paused for a moment, thinking about my question.

"He can have one equivalent to the cost of yours," Ed decided aloud. "If
Jeff or Mel have a problem with that when they return, they can take it up
with me. I'll put the money in his account."

"How much will you put in there?" I asked.

"Based on the estimated cost of a new Z like yours, I'll put $38,000 in
each of your accounts. That should more than cover it. Just remember that
the money has to be the total cost, not just the sticker price. There are
taxes, registration and all the other stuff dealers add on."

"I'm sure we can get a good deal," I said with assurance.

"I'll go with you if you'd like," Ed offered.

"No thanks, we can do it."

"Just call me before you leave the dealer's lot so I can make sure you're
covered with insurance," Ed directed.

"Yes Sir," I said with a floppy salute.

"Since you're spending all our parents' money, would you tell us about our
parents' financial assets?" Mandy said returning to her earlier concerns.

"As I'm sure you know," Ed answered, "you both come from families with old
money. Your grandparents set up trust funds for you years and years
ago. Either of you could live comfortably, but not lavishly, on your trusts
alone. Until you are 23, you have no control over the trusts, but until
then you receive a stipend each month. I can assure you that most of the
revenue from the trust goes back into the trusts' investments and only a
small part is distributed to you. Each of your trusts is worth nearly $20
million. Because of Chris' arrival, Jeff and Mel decided to set up a
separate trust out of their own money for Chris. It's initial funding is
$10 million."

"Wow!" Chris said, hardly believing what he'd just heard.

"Yes, Chris," Your dividend checks will start coming out next month.  As
for the net worth of your parents, it is far more than that. Between the
inheritance they've received from their own parents, and the assets they've
accumulated as successful business people, they are worth approximately
$188 million, not including the house, which by the way is paid for. The
taxes are expensive, and the upkeep is fairly high, but it's only a small
dent in their income. From a money perspective, I can assure you that you
have nothing to be concerned about."

"That's what I wanted to know," Mandy replied, satisfied. "Thanks."

"You're welcome Mandy. By the way, I've looked into Rick's family, just out
of curiosity. They're loaded."

"I figured as much," Mandy replied. "I've been to their estate. It boggles
the mind. I wouldn't care if he was penniless though. He's the man for me,
and I love his parents too."

"If they're like their son, I'm sure they're great people," Ed
commented. "He left a very favorable first impression on me."

"He gets better and better the more you know him," I added. "Mandy is a
lucky girl."

"And Mandy knows it," Mandy said grinning.

"Have we covered everything?" Ed asked.

I looked around. Mandy seemed satisfied, but when I looked at Chris I
suddenly remembered.

"Uh Ed," I said, knowing that Chris was too uncertain of himself to speak
out, "Chris asked if there was any way he could see his brothers and
sisters. You know maybe take them out for the day or for lunch or
something, or maybe have them over?"

"Hmmmm," Ed pondered. "Let me look into it. It's going to be difficult, but
let's see what I can manage."

"We'd both appreciate it," I said gratefully.

"Anything else?" Ed asked.

"No," I responded looking again at Mandy and Chris for agreement and
getting it. "We'll get out of your hair."

"It was a pleasure," Ed replied with a smile. I'll see you tomorrow with
Mr. Turner."

We all shook hands and after saying goodbye to Ed, returned to our car.


Chris' POV

I couldn't believe it! I could hardly walk back to the car I was in such a
daze. Ten Million Dollars!  My sperm donor won't make that much in his
whole life!  A new car too!  Man, I never dreamed of having my own car,
much less a new one!  The best part though was being able to see my
brothers and sisters. I sure hope Ed can work miracles.

Once we got back to the car, I took the back seat of the Mercedes sedan
while Jeff took the wheel and Mandy rode shotgun. Jeff started the car and
soon we were on our way home.

As we drove, Mandy turned in her seat and asked, "What kind of car are you
going to get Chris?"

"Gosh, I don't know. I never dreamed I'd get one. I mean, I was thinking of
maybe seeing if I could buy Donnie Smith's pickup. I have over $2000 I've
saved from my allowance."

"Not a chance, kiddo," Jeff interjected. "Donnie's parents are going to
give that pick-up to Steve Jenkins."

"Oh. What kind of car do you think I should get?" I asked.

"It's up to you," he answered. "You can get a Z like mine or a pickup or
whatever you like."

"I think I'd like a small SUV," I thought aloud. "If we went to camp again
next summer we could haul all our stuff by just putting the seats down. It
would be handy because we can get more than two people in it too."

"This boy has brains," Mandy smiled. "It's sure more practical than another
two-seater."

"Agreed," Jeff said proudly. "That's my man!"

I could see Jeff checking out the blush on my face in the rear view
mirror. I wasn't used to the praise. I was embarrassed but oh so happy. I
sure hoped Jeff could also see more than the evidence displayed by my red
face. I knew if he looked a bit lower, he'd see my shit eating grin too.

I needed to say something.  I spit out the first thought that came to my
mind.

"I kinda like Ford Explorers," I hedged.

"They're really nice and in the right price range," S.J. agreed. "You might
want to look at Nissan and Toyotas too though. They have some pretty Gucci
models."

"Well, shopping for cars will keep your minds off worrying about the folks
for a little while," Mandy assessed. "I'm sure that Rick and Ben would like
to go shopping with you too."

"Speaking of Rick and you," Jeff said, changing the subject, "when do you
two have to go back East?"

"I really need to go back in a week," Mandy reported, "probably Friday, a
week from tomorrow."

"I wish you could stay longer Sis," Jeff commented. "It's really great
having you around."

Although I didn't say it, I thought so too.

"Thanks Bro," she replied with a genuine smile. "I can't tell you how much
I've enjoyed being here with you guys. I know Rick is enjoying it too. It's
just too bad it all had to happen under these circumstances."

"Maybe adversity has helped to bring us closer at last," Jeff ventured.

"I wouldn't be surprised, Jeff, not at all," Mandy agreed.

	* * *

It was good to be home. So much had happened since returning from our
counseling at camp that my mind had been bouncing around like a Mexican
jumping bean. All I wanted was to have a quiet evening. It was not likely
to happen, at least not tonight, but I knew that if I had Jeff by my side,
ultimately everything would work out fine. I thought of the night before
when I held him in my arms and we made love. Knowing that it would happen
again later was enough, in comparison, to make all my other concerns small
potatoes.

		* * * * *