Date: Fri, 29 Mar 2002 17:06:36 -0500
From: Lee Mariner <mariner23502@hotmail.com>
Subject: Mark - Series Part #49

MARK
By
Lee Mariner
MARCH 2002

DISCLAIMER: This is a gay fantasy involving
homosexual relations between young men and
boys. If you are not of LEGAL AGE TO BE READING
THIS MATERIAL OR YOU DO NOT APPROVE OF SUCH
MATERIAL, PLEASE LEAVE.

All characters depicted are fictional and in
now related to any persons living or deceased.

ENGAGING IN UNPROTECTED SEX MAY LEAD TO LIFE
THREATENING CONSEQUENCES.

This work is copyrighted by the author and may
not be reproduced without the specific written
consent of the author. It is assigned to the
Nifty Archives under the guidelines of their
submission agreement but it may not be archived
or copied on any other site without the written
authorization of the author.
Copyright: 2002 -- Author: Lee Mariner -- All
Rights are Reserved.

Mariner23502@hotmail.com

* * * * * *

Chapter #49

William sat with his hand on the telephone receiver
reflecting on the conversation with Lee not noticing
Mark and Calvin standing next to him. Both boys were
excited but Mark was like a drop of water on a hot
skillet, he couldn't stand still. Charles stood in a
doorway hovering as he usually did watching and
smiling at the excitement.

As much as he loved both boys, Mark had fast become
his unspoken favorite. His youthful exuberance and
zest for life reminded him so much of the sons he had
lost and he had vowed that no harm would come too Mark
or Calvin. He had only spoken with Lee for a brief
moment but in that moment he detected that unspoken
events had taken place and they would affect Mark.
From where he stood, his eyes locked with Williams and
an almost imperceptible nod of his head told him he
would talk with him later and he melted into the
shadows waiting and watching not wanting to intrude
but available as always.

Waiting impatiently Mark could restrain himself no
longer.

"Uncle Bill, Uncle Bill, when is Uncle Lee coming
home? Did he tell you, what did he say?"

"First, let's sit down and calm down. I would like
some coffee and maybe hot chocolate for you two and
then we will talk."

Looking up William saw the doorway was empty and knew
Charles would appear shortly with the requested coffee
and chocolate. Charles was always close and now even
closer when it involved the boys and Lee. It was
uncanny how he always seemed to know things as if he
was reading their minds.

Closing his eyes for a moment as he sat down across
from the boys he quickly gave thought to how he was
going to get by not telling Mark that Lee would be
home in just a few days. He was lost in thought when
he heard Mark.

"Uncle Bill, do you think something is wrong with
Uncle Lee? He didn't sound like he usually does when
he talks to me and he sort of cut me off when I asked
him if he was coming home."

"No Mark, I don't think anything is wrong or he would
have said so. Your uncle is one of the most resilient
persons I know and even though he keeps his own
counsel it's not like him to be deceptive. He had a
business matter he wanted to discuss with me and that
is probably why you feel he cut you off and I am sure
he would never do that."

"You're right, I shouldn't feel like that but I miss
him and I was hoping he was coming back home. I know
he was afraid of some trouble when he got back to
work."

"Whatever problems he has at work, I'm sure he can
handle satisfactorily. Besides, he just left us so you
can't really expect him to almost turn around for
another visit with you and your family now can you."

Calvin had been sitting quietly beside Mark and
reached over taking his hand in his said softly,
"He'll be home soon Mark."

"Oh I know he will Calvin, I just miss him. Do you
want to take a walk after we finish our chocolate?
It's nice out."

Calvin's eyes lit up, "I'd like that." He said his
soft eyes looking at Mark almost like a doe. He didn't
hide his feelings and it made William a little sad
watching him.

Charles returned with the three cups and a decanter of
coffee and chocolate sitting them on the coffee table.
Pouring for each of them he sat the decanters down and
moved silently away as he always did.

"What are the both of you planning for tomorrow while
I'm engaged with the developers? Another horseback
ride maybe? It's good they get some exercise after
being stalled so long and only having the paddock to
run in."

"We could do that Uncle Bill if Calvin wants too.
There are some parts of the farm I'd like to see
before we leave on Monday. You want to do that?"

"If you want to Mark, of course I would."

William sat sipping his coffee watching the boys
chattering between each other with Mark leading the
conversation. "Charles, would you put that new CD of
Biset's Carmen on to play? I'd like to hear some of it
before I retire."  Almost instantly the strains of the
opera floated through the room and he closed his eyes
enjoying the music while Mark and Calvin finished
their chocolate leaving the room for their walk.

As he is enjoying the music, he hears the cups rattle
and opening his eyes sees Charles removing the dirty
dishes. "Those could have waited until the morning
Charles."

"Yes William they could but I would rather clean up
now. Will there be anything else? I won't go to bed
until the boys are back."

"I already knew you wouldn't. There are two things if
you wouldn't mind. Let me have the CD's, I want to
play them in my rooms and would you stop in after the
boys retire?"

"Of course William, is there a problem?"

"No there isn't but I have something on my mind that I
would like to discuss with you."

Charles handed the CD's to William and picked up the
tray going into the kitchen. He would wait on the
porch watching for Mark and Calvin after he put things
away.

* * * * * *

The evening was warm for early September and the stars
twinkled in the blackness of the sky, the moon had not
yet risen. The stark whiteness of the fence was almost
like a guide as Mark and Calvin descended the steps
from the porch walking beside it. They were both lost
in their own thoughts as Calvin took Mark's in his
holding it tight. The moon was just starting to peep
over the horizon its silver glow slowly illuminating
the trees in the distance.

"There is a bench over here Mark if you'd like to sit
down."

They both sat on the bench and still Mark had said
nothing since leaving the house. The moon continued
rising bathing them in its silver glow. Their T-shirts
reflected the silver glow as they sat next to each
other. Calvin could see Mark's eyes shining as he
looked into the moon and he reached over taking his
hand again sliding closer.

"Mark, what are you thinking about? You haven't said a
word since we left the house."

"I'm sorry Calvin, I was thinking about Uncle Lee and
how much I miss him. I was thinking about the time we
made love and it was on a night like this with the
moon shining bright making it almost like daylight. We
slept outside until almost dawn and we rushed inside
before my parents woke up. We made love again in our
bedroom before he left."

"You really do love him don't you Mark? Is there
anyplace for someone else?"

"A place for someone else? Calvin I love you but I've
loved Uncle Lee since I can remember and since we have
learned what we are, I love him more then my life. You
mean a lot to me and I don't want anything to happen
between us that would change that."

Mark fell silent while Calvin looked at him his mind
methodically digesting what he had said. He felt
sadness deep inside of him but his feelings remained.
He loved Mark but he knew that no one would ever
really replace Lee. Calvin ran his arms around Marks
chest and behind his neck embracing him as their lips
met in a soft gentle kiss. Mark's strong arms
encircled him pulling him tighter as the kiss became
more passionate.

Charles was standing on the porch as he said he would
and seeing them embracing he went into the living room
pulling a large lap robe off the back of Williams
chair. Moving quietly, he took the robe to where they
were sitting and draped it over their shoulders. Mark
lifted his head at the feel of the robe and saw
Charles slipping quietly into the shadows.

The robe was warm and Calvin sat next too Mark his
head resting on his shoulder as he moved his hand over
his hard muscled chest feeling the outline of each
muscle. He breathed deeply looking into his eyes.

"Will you make love to me here in the moonlight Mark?
Will you take me and make me a part of you tonight?"

No words were needed as Mark reached down and slowly
pulled Calvin's T-shirt over his head his gorgeous
chest glowing in the moonlight the perfect definition
of his muscled torso accentuated by the light of the
moon. Lowering his head he ran the tip of his tongue
over his hard nipples feeling his body tighten and
then slowly exhale a low sigh escaping from his lips.

Calvin sees Mark's eyes flashing as he stands before
him slowly removing his shirt, the sculpted perfection
of his chest illuminated by the silver light
surrounding them. He sits transfixed by his absolute
beauty, the beauty that few men would ever possess but
strove for with limited success. Mark had the beauty
that had caused the downfall of empires and men had
fought wars for.

Charles turns and walks into the house not wanting to
invade their privacy. Smiling, he remembers the beauty
of his sons Mark and Clark seeing the same beauty now
that he had seen when they loved each other and
remembered the joy they had shared and Mark and Calvin
were sharing.

With his eyes focused on Calvin, Mark unsnapped his
shorts letting them drop to the ground and he steps
out of them the brilliance of his white jockeys and
the thickness of his manhood accentuated by the soft
silver aura that surrounded him. With a slow
deliberate movement he pushed his jockeys down
exposing the dark hair in his groin covering his
pelvis. It was almost as if he was being controlled by
an unseen force as he slowly removed his jockeys. The
thick base of his cock was revealed and then its full
length suddenly swung free waving before Calvin's eyes
and Mark stood completely naked with the silver light
of the moon wrapping his body in a soft brilliance.

Calvin does not move as he feels his the top snap of
his shorts being undone and his zipper pulled down. He
does not resist as Mark takes his hands pulling him up
off the bench, his shorts drop around his ankles and
his jockeys being pushed down freeing his aching cock.
He leans forward slightly resting his head on the
broad chest before him feeling his heartbeat
quickening. He feels the warmth radiating from Mark
and the soft warm breeze of the night washing over
him. Looking into Mark's eyes he sees a gentle
softness shining in their depths.

"I love you Mark."

"And I love you Calvin and I always will."

They stand holding each other feeling the desire
flowing over them and through them.

"Take me Mark, please. I need to feel you filling me.
Take me here now under the stars."

Pulling the thick robe from the back of the bench Mark
spreads it over the grass and they kneel on it their
lips meeting in a deep passionate kiss as they lower
their bodies onto it softness. Kissing and caressing
each other their fingers tease as their tongues twist
in an erotic exploring of their already familiar
mouths. Hard aching cocks engaged in a dance of the
ecstasy being felt by both. Pre-cum flows as they slip
deeper into a fog of intense desire. Mark slides over
Calvin and his cock falls into the depths of his warm
crotch. He slowly presses himself tighter against the
thickness of Calvin's cock as he brushes the head of
his cock over the entrance that will surrender to the
gentle probing assault of his throbbing cock. Kissing
the soft flesh of Calvin's neck he whispers, "Are you
sure you want me to take you Calvin? We don't have
anything that will help ease me going in."

"I don't want anything Mark, just you."

Pulling his knees closer, Mark lifts Calvin's legs
onto his shoulders leaning forward pushing down on his
chest. Guiding his cock with his hand he feels the
soft quivering flesh of his anus and slowly presses in
watching his face for the pain of his entry. Letting
the weight of his hips push his cock deeper he feels a
sudden gripping around his girth as the sphincter
muscle snaps tight behind the head of his cock and a
grimace on Calvin's face. Holding himself there he
waits for a few moments before allowing his weight to
continue his entry. Slowly, inch-by-inch he enters
feeling the intense heat of Calvin's rectum engulfing
the length of his cock sending the pain of pleasure
shooting through him. Lust consumes him as he pushes
the full length of his cock deep inside Calvin feeling
his pubic hair pressing against his flesh under his
balls. Inhaling deeply he sighs feeling the tightness
that holds him as if in a cocoon. He lowers Calvin's
legs feeling him clasp them tightly around his waist
as he pulls him tighter against his groin.

Leaning forward he places his hands on either side of
Calvin's smooth muscled chest supporting his weight as
he hovers over him. Lowering his body as if doing a
pushup he kisses him gently their eyes locked. No
words are needed as he starts a slow piston like
movement his cock sliding in and out of the tight
warmth of Calvin's ass. Slowly the intensity of their
passions increase as the muscles of Marks body
controls him, driving him deeper into the all
consuming need to reach the climax he seeks. Twisting
his hips he brushes Calvin's prostate and sees the
intensity of his desire expressed on his face. He
feels the muscles of their bodies tighten as Calvin
lifts his hips to meet each thrust of his swelling
hardening cock as he watches Calvin's cock matching
his own in thickness. With a sudden mind numbing flash
his tightening balls deliver hot molten streams of his
life giving fluids deep within the depths of Calvin's
rectum in surge after surge. His waist is gripped in
the reflex of tightening muscles and a deep groan
escapes from within Calvin's chest as he releases
great thick streams from within the depths of his body
over his chest. Thick milky white semen covers
Calvin's chest as Mark's cock fills him in a last
thrusting surge.

Calvin's legs fall from Mark's waist as he collapses
on top of him gasping for air, their hearts beating
rapidly as the return from the heights of erotic
rapture they had reached. Calvin holds him tight
feeling his slow softening cock slipping from within
him as their muscles relax and the beating of their
hearts slows.

Almost as if the moon had finished illuminating the
lovers, it descended below the trees the shadows
lengthening into darkness with only the stars
twinkling on a raven black backdrop and a coolness
settled over their nakedness.

Lifting his body, Mark reaches for his shirt and wipes
the semen from Calvin and himself. Lying beside him he
pulls the warm robe over them as they press closer
holding each other. Slipping his arm under Calvin's
head he kisses him softly before dozing off.

Under the light of the twinkling stars, Calvin looks
at the face he loves. He feels the warmth of Mark's
body and his gentle breathing. Not a word had been
said while they made love, it wasn't needed. He loved
Mark and he knew Mark loved him but his heart ached
knowing it. Tears welled up in his eyes as he looked
at him sleeping his heart aching with the love he
felt. He realized that he would never have Mark for
his own. Mark would only belong to one person and no
one would ever take his place. Tears streamed from his
eyes as he kisses his forehead and whispers softly "I
love you Mark, I always will."

Charles walks back out on the porch looking to where
Mark and Calvin had been and sees them wrapped in the
blanket on the ground. Returning inside he goes to
their bedroom and gets their robes and another blanket
returning to where they are sleeping in each other's
arms. Moving quietly he spreads the blanket over them
and places their robes on the bench with their
clothes. Sure that they would be safe; he returns to
the house and walks up to Williams rooms.

* * * * * *

The opera is playing inside as Charles taps quietly on
the door before entering. William is resting in the
large lounge chair by the fireplace as he listens but
sees Charles entering from the corner of his eye.

"The boys all tucked in Charles?"

"Yes they are William, they will be sleeping outside
tonight. I checked on them before coming up."

"Sleeping outside, it's a little cool at this time of
the year for that. Are you sure they will be okay?"

"Yes William. I placed another blanket over them and
their robes are on the bench under the elm tree."

"Ahhhhhh now I understand Charles. Would you like to
join me in a brandy before you retire?"

"I would, thank you." He knows William will tell him
what is on his mind without him asking and he pours
the brandies. Carrying the glasses he hands William
his and then sits in another chair close by waiting.

"Charles, the reason I asked you here was I'm a little
worried and I would like your opinion since you are as
close to the boys as I am."

"Yes William, what is worrying you?"

"It's not what but whom. I'm concerned about Calvin,
about his well being. Calvin is deeply in love with
Mark and I'm afraid he is going too be hurt by it.
Mark is not going to intentionally hurt him but he
will without realizing it. I don't think Mark would
hurt anyone intentionally unless they were threatening
Lee."

"You may be underestimating Calvin William. I believe
he has more resilience then you are giving him credit
for. He has just learned his mother has only a short
time left and yet he is here and not running home to
be with her. That shows fortitude and intelligence.
There is little he can do for her except comfort her
and he knows that. Among my people in Croatia we
accept that death is a part of life. We comfort and
aid our old and ill but our lives continue as Calvin's
will. He will comfort and care for his mother and when
her time comes he will grieve and we will comfort him
but life continues. His love for Mark is a part of his
life but he knows there is only one person for Mark
and he will accept that and enjoy the moments he may
have with him. He knows that Mark loves him and in
that he will take comfort."

They sit for a few minutes sipping their brandy
listening to the music. William glances at Charles
sipping his brandy, no expression on his face.

"Charles, you never cease to amaze me. In all the
years we have known each other I have never known you
to become as devoted to anyone as are you are too Mark
and Calvin."

"You forget my sons William. I see much in Mark and
Calvin as there was in them. Clark was the strong one
and Calvin has the same strengths. I only wish I had
been stronger for my sons as you and Mr. Lee have
been. Had they been taught more, I might still have
them with me. I loved them too much and God took them
from me. That is his punishment of me for lacking the
strength and influence I should have had."

"You have never told me how you felt before Charles.
It must be difficult carrying that burden with you?"

"It has been William until God took mercy on me and
Calvin and Mark came into my life and yours. We both
take joy in their growing and becoming men, you as
well as I. Mark has Mr. Lee and you have Calvin. I
believe he will someday show you the love you need as
you grow older and nurture him."

"And what about you Charles? Don't you need love?"

"I have you the boys and Mr. Lee. While they may not
say it I can see and feel their love for me. Among my
people, we are not as emotional about loving each
other as yours are. We are a passionate people but our
loving each other is inside to be shown in the privacy
of our moments together."

"Would you object if I were to show you how much you
mean to me Charles? It has been a long time since we
were alone together."

"William, I have loved you since the day you rescued
me from the depths of my grief. I try and show how
much you mean too me by my service to you. I have
slept with and loved no man except you and will never
be with any man but you. I take my joy in the feelings
I know you have for me."

Finishing their brandy, they both stand facing each
other. In each other they see and feel their youth
again as they embrace and then slowly remove their
clothing revealing still hard bodies and rigid
manhood. Moving closer together their hard bodies
press tightly within the embrace of one another.

"Once again we are young William" Charles says as they
move too the large bed.

* * * * * *

The morning chill and dampness rouse Mark slightly and
he pulls the blankets closer around him before
realizing fully that Calvin was snuggling closer from
the chill that had awakened him. Lifting the blanket
slightly he looks at the still sleeping face nestled
against his chest and smiles.

"Calvin, Calvin. I think we better get up and go
inside, the sun is coming up."

Groggily Calvin raises his head looking around, sleep
still fogging his mind. "We slept outside all night.
Where did the blankets come from? Look our robes are
on the bench with our clothes."

Grinning, Mark leans down and kisses Calvin's
forehead.

"You know Charles brought them out, he must have. Good
old Charles, he's always around somewhere. We had
better get inside though, I have to piss something
terrible."

"Oh, is that what I feel so hard pressing against me?"

"Yes and it will start emptying my bladder if we don't
get a move on. I wonder what time it is?"

"I have no idea but I'll join you if you don't mind."

Pulling their robes from the bench, they put them on
under the blankets. Gathering their clothes and the
blankets they dash for the front door hoping it is
open and it is. Racing inside they come to a sudden
stop seeing William on the steps leading up to their
bedroom.

"I see you decided to camp outside last night. I hope
you slept well?" William said grinning ear to ear.

"Uncle Bill, please. Right now we are both about to
have an accident if we don't get upstairs to the
bathroom." Mark says looking at Calvin who has started
squirming.

William stands aside watching as they run upstairs
dragging blankets and clothing behind them. Laughing
at the sight, he continues toward the kitchen where
Charles is in the process of preparing breakfast.

"Good morning William, you seem to be in good spirits
today."

"And why should I not be Charles? Last night was
wonderful and this morning I wish I had a camera when
the boys ran in from outside trailing blankets and
clothing holding their crotches."

"You shouldn't tease them like you do William. What
time do you expect your guests to arrive this
morning?"

"Probably around 11:30 but don't fix anything
elaborate Charles. Something simple will do."

"I will William. You have decided on splitting your
farm up then?"

"All but 100 acres around the main house and out
buildings. I've decided I want too keep the horses for
now. Both Mark and Calvin like riding and that should
give them plenty of riding room. The developers are
supposed to have a proposal that will only cause
minimal damage when they start building new homes. I
had the property surveyed to be sure of the boundaries
and then I intend having the new deeds made in Lee's
name."

"Excuse me Uncle Bill." Mark says as he and Calvin
enter the room. "What are you putting in Uncle Lee's
name?"

"I'm selling off most of the farm and the remainder
will be re-drawn with your uncles name on the deed. I
told him he would eventually get the farm so this is a
good time to have it done and at the same time avoid
some unnecessary taxes later. Charles has breakfast
ready, why don't we eat and we can discuss this at
another time. Nothing is done yet since it's only in
the preliminary negotiations."

"Good idea Uncle Bill, I'm starved. Mark and I still
want to take a ride while you're busy."

"I guess sleeping under the stars has an effect on
one's appetite doesn't it Charles?"

"William let the boys eat their breakfast."

"We enjoyed it Uncle Bill. Mark and I haven't done
that and it was fun but it did get a little cold this
morning. Thanks for bringing out the extra blanket and
our robes last night Charles."

With a nod, Charles places platters of hotcakes, bacon
and ham on the table after pouring their orange juice
and milk.

"Just juice a bagel and cream cheese for me Charles.
I'm really not that hungry this morning."

While William and Charles discuss what he will prepare
for when the developers are there later, Mark and
Calvin finish and excusing themselves rush upstairs
too change for their ride.

"I'm stuffed Calvin, lets ride to the knoll if you
want. This is probably the last chance we will have
too ride for awhile since we are leaving tomorrow and
I start school next Wednesday."

"Mark, do me a favor please. Stand there like you are
for a minute and take off your jockeys."

"Why Calvin? You've seen me naked before."

"I just want to look at you again. You don't really
know how beautiful you are do you Mark? I never get
tired of looking at you and I'm going to miss you
after today."

"Stop saying that Calvin. Look at yourself; you are
just as good-looking as me. Besides you make it sound
like we aren't going to see each other again, we
will."

Moving closer Mark takes Calvin his arms and kisses
him lightly pressing their almost perfect bodies
together feeling the passion starting to rise within
them.

"I love you Calvin Masters, I always will. Lets get
dressed before Uncle Bill's people get here and ride
out to the grassy knoll by the pond. We can take the
lap robe with us if you want."

Dressing quickly Calvin folds the lap robe as they
walk out of their bedroom. . . . .

* * * * * *

The rustling of the newspaper as Carl and Dalton were
looking through it was the only sound in the room.
Carl glances up and sees Lee sitting with his hand
resting on the receiver. His eyes had a faraway look
as if he was somewhere else as he stared off into
space.

Looking at Dalton who was watching Lee also he calls
softly "Lee".

Snapping back from where his mind had drifted, Lee
pulled a chair over in front of the cocktail table
where Carl and Dalton had been highlighting various
ads for furnished rentals.

"I'm sorry fellas, I sort of drifted off there for a
few minutes. How many have you got that we can check
out tomorrow?"

"Only three Lee that look like they would be what we
can afford. Dalton knows a little more about it then I
do but he seems to think they would be okay. We might
be able to check on two that are on 19th St. this
afternoon. Is Mark okay Lee?"

"What, oh yes he is. William says they are having a
blast. Lets give the ones you have selected a call and
see if we can get in today, it's still early. Let me
take a leak and I'll be right back."

"Who's Mark Carl?"

"Don't you remember Dalton? I told you about him
earlier. He is one of the coolest guys you will ever
meet. Mark is in Ohio. His father is Lee's brother."

"Yeah, I remember now but what does that mean to Lee
except he is his nephew? I was watching him on the
telephone and he kept calling someone Sport is that
Mark? He sounded like he was in love with him whoever
it was."

"They are in love Dalton. Sport is what he calls Mark
when they talk with each other. Kind of like a
nickname they have between them."

"You mean he and his nephew are lovers? You didn't
tell me that or I don't think you did. Lee doesn't
look old enough to have a nephew he could be in love
with like that. How old is his nephew?"

"Mark is 17 now and they are more then just in love
with each other. It's a long story, I'll tell you
about it some other time. Shhhhhh, here he comes."

"Nothing like a good piss to make you feel better.
What are you two jabbering about, the apartments?"

"Yeah, lets call this one and see if we can go see it.
We'll have to use Dalton's car since it might be a
tight squeeze in your Mustang."

"The Mustang is on it's way back too Ohio. What's the
number?"

Carl thought for just a second about the Mustang
before he gave Lee the listed number "838-0010, Cooke-
Neff Realty."

Dialing the number Carl had given him he leans back in
his chair waiting for someone to answer.

"Cooke-Neff Realty Sales and Rentals. May I help you?"

"You may, my name is Lee Michaels. I see where you
have a couple of apartments listed on 19th St. could
you tell me if they are still available and a little
about them?"

"Just a moment Mr. Michaels. Yes, they are still
available. We have had several inquiries and our agent
is over in one of them right now. The one located at
1900-19th is a single bedroom with small living room
but a nice eat in kitchen. Fully furnished, it is
renting for $475 including water and heat. You would
pay the electric and telephone plus the cable TV
connection. The other is at 1914 just up the street.
It is basically the same floor plan except it has a
very small second bedroom. The previous tenant used it
as an office/TV room. That room is not furnished but
the rest of the apartment is. The corner unit has
windows on the front and side but the other only has
windows in the front opening into the kitchen. Mr.
Neff had thought about installing a skylight in the
living room but the rent would increase from $425 if
we did that. They both are third floor walkups if that
is no problem. Would you like to look at them this
afternoon? I can call our Agent Mrs. Waring if you
would like for me to."

"Would you please? Tell her my nephew and his roommate
will be with me. The apartment is for them; they both
are in college together. We should be there in under
20 minutes."

"Yes Mr. Michaels. I'll tell Mrs. Waring you will meet
her at the 1900 address. Thanks for calling Cooke-
Neff, I hope like the apartments. Mr. Cooke and Mr.
Neff try and help students whenever they can."

"That's good too hear, thank you very much."

The drive was shorter then Lee had thought taking
Chestnut only 6 blocks west and then 2 blocks north.
The location was convenient too just about everything
including the 30th St. station that would give them
easy access to the trains that would take them out to
the University. There was a young lady in her 30's
standing at the bottom of the stairway leading up to
the front doors of the building. All of the buildings
on both sides of the street were almost identical in
appearance. They all had the same uniform windows
facing the street with the same 6 steps and all
brownstone construction. Parking was on one side of
the street only but there was a parking garage located
across a narrow alleyway from the corner unit they had
been told about.

Dalton pulled up almost in front of the lady who was
watching them as they drove up. Leaning down she
looked into the car and sees an older man sitting in
the front with a good-looking younger man. In the back
seat she noticed another nice looking young man.

"Mr. Michaels?"

"Yes, Mrs. Waring is it?" Lee said as he stepped up on
the curb.

"Yes, my office called and said you were coming over
with your nephew and his roommate to look at the
apartments. Is your nephew and his friend 21 or maybe
one of them is?"

"They both are 19 Mrs. Waring. Is there a problem with
them leasing one of the apartments? Your receptionist
mentioned something about your company trying to help
students out."

"Oh we do Mr. Michaels, we do. I might as well get
this out of the way before we start looking at the
place. As much as we try and help students, there is
often the problem of the rent. Students usually only
have part-time jobs what with their class schedules.
The nasty part is should they fall behind, well I
think you understand the problems. As a matter of
routine, we run background and financial checks before
renting and a great many do not qualify. Those that do
sometimes have problems."

"Mrs. Waring, could we go on in and while the boys are
looking around I think we can work something out if
they like this place or the other you have."

An electric lock controlled the entry doors with an
intercom from the front into the apartments. Mrs.
Waring opened the doors with her passkey. Inside it
was clean and well lit. Looking up the stair well you
could see a large skylight in the roof. The steps
leading upwards were wide and had non-skid runners to
avoid anyone slipping. You could see that each floor
had two apartments, one front and one rear. The walk
up was not that bad but an elderly person would
probably have a little trouble reaching the third
floor.

"Does Cooke-Neff take care of the hallways Mrs.
Waring?"

"Yes we do. Tenants are responsible for their own
trash and there are large dumpsters in the rear of the
building. The inside buildings have a chute at the
rear of the first floor for trash but in this building
you must walk around to the rear. The hallways are
cleaned on Monday and Thursday."

They reached the third floor and the door for the one
that was being rented was directly across from the
head of the stairs. Mrs. Waring opened the door and it
led directly into a small living room containing a
used but serviceable couch with two chairs and end
tables. Dalton and Carl saw the door leading into the
bedroom and headed that way while Lee and the agent
went into the kitchen. It had up-to-date appliances
except for a washing machine and dryer. The
refrigerator was not large but it was adequate for an
apartment. The stove was electric with four burners
but very little working space. A small maple table
with two chairs was provided for meals. There were
three fairly large windows, two on the front and one
in the wall that would be looking over the alleyway.

"Where do tenants do their laundry Mrs. Waring?"

"Please Mr. Michaels, call me Beth. I'm sorry but
there is a Laundromat on the corner of 20th St. We
don't provide those appliances above the first floor
because of possible water overflows. The Laundromat is
just a short walk though. I don't think it would be
too much for your nephew and his friend."

Lee noticed the change from roommate to friend as he
turned walking back into the living room. Carl and
Dalton were coming out of the bedroom.

"Check the kitchen fellas. Where is the bathroom, I
didn't ask about that?

"It's off of the bedroom Uncle Lee, you'll see it when
you go in the bedroom."

Carl was right and Lee saw the door leading into a
small but well equipped bathroom. The bedroom was
larger then a normal bedroom usually is in an
apartment. A double bed, large double dresser and a 5-
drawer highboy with two more chairs were the
furnishings.

"If you are wondering about the bedding Mr. Michaels,
we replace the mattress and box spring each time a
tenant leaves. They aren't new but we have a company
that cleans and reconditions the bedding bringing it
up to the acceptable health standards for used
bedding."

Lee grinned at her, "You read my mind Beth, and I was
going to ask you about that. Another question though.
What if the boys wanted to replace any of the
furniture? Would there be allowances made?"

"If you wanted to replace an item, we would make a
note of that on the lease which by the way is for one
year and renewable with 90 days written notice. There
wouldn't be a reduction in the rent unless you wanted
to replace all of the furnishings. In that case we
would rent as unfurnished at $425 a month."

"That sounds reasonable Beth. I think the boys would
want their own beds. A double can be small for guys
their size. There is a lack of closet space though
isn't there? This room only has one but it's fairly
large. I noticed another door in the living room so
that must be another closet?"

"It is a small closet. I'm afraid when these buildings
were built they didn't think about closet space. Most
older homes are that way as if they didn't think
people had many clothes for some reason."

Carl and Dalton had rejoined them as they were
talking. "Well fellas what do you think?"

"We like it Uncle Lee but the rent is a bit steep
don't you think? We both like the size of this room
but would we be able to get twin beds instead of that
double?"

"Way ahead of you on that Carl. Lets go into the
kitchen where Mrs. Waring and I can talk at the
table."

The apartment was clean and while only furnished with
what was needed to qualify as a furnished apartment,
he liked it. Lee had already decided to replace the
furniture if things could be worked out about the
lease.

He and the agent sat at the table while the boys stood
in the doorway looking puzzled. The rent was more then
they could afford even with Dalton working. Carl did
not have a job yet but probably would be able to get
one at the Holiday Inn with Dalton. Even then the rent
would be stiff.

"Carl, why don't you and Dalton wait in the car while
Mrs. Waring and I try and work things out? You like
this place right?"

"Yes sir but." Both Carl and Dalton said together
before Lee cut them off.

"Wait in the car for me, okay?"

Beth Waring watched and listened to the exchange
between the three of them. She didn't know what was
going to be said but you could see that the older
young man was not used to being questioned. She was
not going to underestimate him any longer. At first
she had thought it was going to be another boring walk
through but no lease and she had other apartment
appointments a little later. They both waited as the
two left the apartment before speaking.

"Now then Beth. If I give you a check drawn on the
Philadelphia National Bank for $6,000 would you be
able to draw the lease in both Carl's and Dalton's
names? I thing that will cover the lease for 1 year
with about $900 left that you would put into escrow
but refundable at the end of the leases first year.
Think we could do that and you can show me as being
the responsible party."

"That's a little unusual Mr. Michaels, I'd have to
call the office first."

"Fine Beth, lets do it then. As part of the lease
though, all furnishings are to be removed by this
Monday. I'm leaving town and the boys don't really
have a place other then the University dorm. Think
that could be arranged also?"

"That's moving kind of fast but I think it can be
done. What about furniture though?"

"I'll take care of that as long as yours can be
removed before the afternoon on Monday."

Beth stared at Lee for a few seconds as she reached
for her cell phone. She had a feeling that she was not
in control of the interview and was following
directions. Without knowing how she knew, she felt
that what he said would be done. Lee Michaels had an
air of a man with absolute confidence and she could
tell that he had control of what he wanted and didn't
doubt it would be done. His eyes held her as she
dialed her office number.

"Debbie, Beth Waring. I've just leased 1900-19th St.,
are Mr. Cooke or Mr. Neff there? I need to speak with
one of them."

"Mr. Neff is here Beth, just a second and I'll get
him."

"Hello Beth, Douglas here. Debbie tells me you've
leased 1900 on 19th St. congratulations. Is there
something I can help you with?"

After Beth had told Neff about the requested leasing
arrangements and the conditions Lee has asked for she
hands the phone to him. "Mr. Neff would like to speak
with you."

"Lee Michaels here Mr. Neff, how are you? Do you think
your firm can arrange what I have asked for?"

"I like that, a man that gets right to the meat of the
subject. I'd like to meet with you someday for a
drink. I can use men like you with Cooke & Neff. I see
no problems with it at all. Would you furnish the
necessary information for background and financial
checks?

"I can and will. It might be a little sketchy though,
I just returned from Saudi Arabia after a long
assignment on government business. I was with the
MegaData Corp. on Chestnut St."

"I know them Michaels, they have done some work for
us. Do you know Melvin McKay? We played golf together
a couple of times."

"I do but he has merged the firm and is only the
President now not the CEO. I think he is on a long
cruise. The Human Resources office could give you
whatever you might want. I'm not with them any longer
though."

"That's interesting Michaels but maybe all the better
if your looking for a position here in Philadelphia.
I'd really like to talk with you. George Cooke and I
could have lunch maybe next Monday or Tuesday and work
something out with you."

"I am sorry Mr. Neff, I'm leaving town on Tuesday for
Louisville for a few days and then I'll be in
Cincinnati for an undetermined period. I have several
lose ends that I must get tied up since I've left
MegaData."

"Sorry to hear that Michaels but maybe you will call
us when you get back into Philadelphia? Go ahead and
tell Beth its okay to work the lease up with your
specifications. No need for the background
information, I'll take care of that. You won't forget
to call us will you?"

"I'd rather you told her Mr. Neff and thanks for your
help. I might just give you a call later."

"Good, have a safe trip."

Handing the phone to Beth, Lee stands up stretching
and moves to the window looking out. Carl and Dalton
are leaning against the car looking up at the windows
as they are talking and wave. He stands there for a
few minutes looking down at them wishing Mark was with
them. He daydreams for an instant wanting Mark when he
hears Beth calling him.

"That Mr. Michaels was the fastest and most unusual
lease I have ever written. Mr. Neff said everything
was to be done just as you asked and the apartment
will be cleaned thoroughly by Monday noontime. I can
only write up a rough lease but it will be binding
after you and I sign it. I'll give you a receipt for
your deposit and rental. Do you mind if I ask if you
always work that fast?"

"No Beth, not always unless I have too. You don't have
to give me a receipt. My check will do that. Just
indicate the terms as we discussed. Will the boys have
to sign the lease?"

"They can come into the office and sign the finished
copy. We can either let them have your copy of send it
where you want."

Sitting back at the table, Lee watches as she writes
the information she needs as he gives it to her. He
lists his address as 23 Crestmont Dr., Cincinnati,
Ohio with John's telephone number. Finishing the
document and signing she hands him a set of keys.

"There is only one set, they can have another set
made. We will use our master and have everything done
before they move in on Monday."

"Thanks for your help Beth, I really appreciate it.
The boys will be tickled."

Shaking hands briefly he turns and leaves Beth Waring
standing in the living room, her head swimming as if
she had been in the vortex of a tempest.

Lee had gotten everything exactly as he wanted with
little effort. Strange how businessmen think when
money and people with contacts work together. Carl and
Dalton almost hugged him when he told them the
apartment was theirs and then the questions started.

Their excitement almost matched Mark's and that tinge
of regret at his absence flitted through his head. It
won't be long and there would be no absence he was
thinking as he told Dalton to drive to Macy's on
Market St.

* * * * * *

It won't be that much longer. . . . .