Date: Fri, 8 May 2009 17:39:58 -0400
From: Pee Jay <peejay@mi.rr.com>
Subject: Plaquemines Parish 5

"Plaquemines Parish" Part 5
By: Pee Jay
peejay@twmi.rr.com

I didn't say much to Mom. I gave her a quick cordial smile and went to my
bedroom; I was very disheartened at the ruined prospect of Dave's visit. I
lie in my bed with my face in the pillow and began to examine my situation
and what it would take to make it better.

If I can't see Dave and I have to be here all alone then screw it. Christ,
I've been beat up, harangued at work and then there was Kris trying to
force himself on me. And I'm going to hang around here for more of that? I
didn't think so.

I have to get out, this isn't working for me and there's no indication that
things would change anytime soon. And Dave, what about him? I wasn't ready
to talk to Mom about being gay and what would that accomplish anyway? It
wouldn't change a thing.

Mom had a boyfriend now or at least someone that was interested in her, she
would be fine, maybe worry some, but in the end she would be okay. There's
every reason to leave, get out of here and save myself, anywhere would be
an improvement. The sooner I could work it out the better off I would be.

As I walked to work, I began to weigh the various aspects of
leaving. Actually, it would be running away; I would be a runaway! That
sounded pathetic in and of itself. I wondered if the cops would track me
down and return me to my life of hopelessness and disappointment, there was
only one way to find out.

Then there's Mom, dear sweet Mom. She would likely be concerned; hell, out
of her mind is probably more like it. I would have to compose a note that
assured her everything would be okay. I would have to convince her that I
could take care of myself and remind her that she wouldn't have me as a
burden any longer. I thought that leaving her behind would be the hardest
part of it. I didn't want to cause her any undue pain or distress and that
would be the tricky part, trying to convince her I would be fine.

If I was going to go, it should be soon so I can get settled and enroll in
school wherever that ends up being. One thing is for sure, I am definitely
going to finish school. I will not be a dropout stumbling along life's
byway for the rest of my years.

I came upon the downed tree that Kris was sitting on that night we had our
run-in so I sat down to call Dave. I took my phone from my pocket and
turned it on, I wanted to hear Dave's voice, and talk to him about his
aborted visit; well sabotaged seemed more accurate. I missed him terribly
and would have to settle for the sound of his voice if I couldn't see
him. There was a message from him asking me to call and that was my intent
so I did.

His mother answered and told me to hang on after saying hello and asking
how I was. I told her fine but I wanted to say miserable and call her the
B-word for her part in killing Dave's visit. I was pretty sure it was
something she said to Mom.

There wasn't any trouble to be had around here unless you call wanting to
be with Dave trouble. I wanted that more than anything but I would settle
for talking to him, that would have to do for now. I don't know why but
when I'm with him everything is great, settled and nothing else seems to
matter.  "Hello."

"Hi Dave, how's it going?"

"It would be better if I could come visit. What happened?"

"I don't know. I think it must be something your mother said to
mine. That's the only thing I can think of."

"Like what would she say?"

"Did she say anything about finding us in bed or something like that?"

Dave thought for a minute and said that his mother probably did say
something along those lines and it made me cringe. That meant that Mom knew
about us. She knew about me! Oh God, now I absolutely have to get out of
here. How could I face her?

"I think I'm going to get out of here. I had a confrontation with Kris
after work recently."

"What happened?"

I told him about the incident and he said he felt bad about it. I told him
not as bad as I felt and now that Mom knew or suspected me of being gay,
that was all the more reason to make my way out of here.

"Where are you going to go?" Dave wanted to know. "I want to see you
again. Val, this isn't some stupid crush I have; I care about you. I was
going to come and see you even if I got in trouble."

That really made me feel good to hear him say that. I had the very same
feelings and it made me want to be with him. I knew it was right for both
of us.

"New Orleans. It's a big city and I should have no problem finding a job.
I'm a waiter now and making good money. I know how to smile and flirt with
the women and the guys that show interest are good tippers too."

We both had a laugh over that.

"Val keep your phone on will you? I hate not being able to talk to you."

"I will as much as I can. You know Charlie doesn't want us taking calls at
work so I turn it off. Speaking of work, I have to get going or I'll be
late. I'll call you tomorrow okay?"

"Okay. I miss you."

"I miss you too. Talk to ya later."

"Later sexy."

Well that didn't go so bad. At least I know he still cares, and man do I
ever miss him. I miss him so much. Dave lives in New Orleans so that's
where I'm going. I'm going to see Dave and be with him! Maybe I can get in
the same school he goes to. I felt like I was walking on air the rest of
the way to work.

That night it was business as usual. We weren't terribly busy and I had
time to think about leaving; how I was going to do it and what to mention
in the notes I left for Mom and Charlie. I wanted to make my getaway as
soon as possible so I could get settled and see Dave.

In the morning, I had toast and coffee with Mom. I couldn't look her in the
eye and was feeling fidgety and nervous. I was in the process of deceiving
her and hated the way it made me feel. I had never lied to her outright. Oh
sure, there were the little white ones; the ones that don't matter and
spare the person hurt. But this was different, this was deliberate
deception. I didn't like the feeling at all.

As I watched her eat breakfast, I was beginning to feel guilty. Not guilty
enough to call it off, but guilty just the same. I asked her to drop me off
in town on her way to work I told her I wanted to put some money in the
bank. What I really wanted to do was buy a bus ticket to New Orleans for
the next day and cash the paychecks I had accumulated. Between my tips and
the paychecks, I had almost two thousand dollars and I thought that would
be plenty to live on until I found another job.

On my way home, I called Dave and told him my plan. He thought it was a
little crazy now that it was actually going to happen. I told him he
wouldn't think it was crazy if it were him beaten up and harassed and stuck
in some shack in the middle of nowhere. He wanted me to call him as soon as
I was in New Orleans and I agreed. I was beginning to feel the tide of
emotions that comes from being close to him and it was enough to keep me
going.

When I got back to the house, I packed a change of clothes in my pack and
the extra uniform Charlie gave me. After closing, I planned to change into
my clothes and leave the uniforms along with a note next to the front door
for Charlie to find in the morning. I wrote the note in my room and put it
in the bag with my other uniform. The note said I would contact him when I
got to where I was going so he could forward my last paycheck. I thanked
him for all the nice things he did for me and especially the job and I
apologized for the short notice; I hoped he wouldn't hold it against me. I
mentioned the beating and incident with Kris again along with all the crap
that I took at work as reasons for leaving. I skipped the part about Dave
in the likely event someone asked him if he knew where I went.

Then, I packed my things up and went to hang out at the pier until it was
time for work. I had a quick swim in the gulf and took up my position on
the pier. As I lie taking sun, I was spread out on my back wishing Dave
were there to lie on top of me so I could kiss him, feel his presence and
weight on me. The night we spent together on his boat seemed like such a
long time ago.

Steve and Mike's boat pulled into the marina a few hours later and I saw
Steve walking toward the marina. He was shirtless and wearing a bathing
suit, I was turned on by the sight of his body. His light brown hair and
the soft thin hair on his legs glistened in the sunlight. His long legs
widened perfectly into his round butt. The shadow of his beard was sexy
too, he was all male and cute as hell in a grown up sort of way. On his way
back, he spotted me and came to the end of the pier to say hello. He stood
over me and I looked up the loose fitting leg of his swimsuit. I could see
his hairy crotch and had a sudden urge to touch him.

"Hi Val, how are you?"

I remembered the dream I had about the two of them and became embarrassed
but tried not to show it. I couldn't resist another look up his bathing
suit and admired what he had in there. I was starting to get hard so I sat
up and took off my sunglasses to get a good look at him.

"Good thanks, how are you guys and where have you been?"

"We went to Corpus Christi to visit some friends. Is Dave still here?"

"Nope. They went home a few days ago but I'm leaving tomorrow to visit him
in New Orleans."

"Nice, how long will you be staying?"

Now I had to lie or maybe give him half the story, which was better than
lying.

"I'm not sure, I haven't bought the return ticket yet."

"How are you getting there?"

"By bus, I just bought the ticket today."

"And when do you leave?"

"Tomorrow."

"No kidding! You can ride with us if you want. We're going home in the
morning."

"To New Orleans? Is that where you guys live?"

"Yeah."

I told him I already bought the ticket and he informed me that I could get
a refund when I got to town. It sounded rather enticing, the ticket was
sixty dollars, and I liked the idea of getting my money back. I asked him
how much he would charge me for the ride to the city and he said nothing. I
insisted on paying something and he said I could buy lunch.

I figured that couldn't cost more than ten dollars per person, and less for
me, so I agreed. He wanted me there as early in the morning as I could make
it and then we would leave. I gave him my cell number and we said
goodbye. It was time to go to work and he said they would be in for dinner
later as he walked away.

Work went well and the night was uneventful. Mike and Steve came in for
dinner like Steve said and Mike was real nice. He said it was perfectly
okay with him and they were glad to have me along. I thanked him and said I
would be at their boat early the next morning.

I helped Marla with the dishes after closing and said goodbye to Charlie
when we finished. Little did he know it would be a long while, if ever,
until we met again. I hated to say it and I hoped my note would explain
well enough that he wouldn't be upset with me. Before I left the
restaurant, I took one more look at Charlie to fix him in my mind's eye and
asked the Lord to look favorably on him; he was a good guy and deserved all
the best.

It was hard to fall asleep that night knowing what morning would bring. I
went from tears for the uncertainty of what may come to anger from what had
happened, and all points in between; my thoughts were all over the
place. It seemed like forever but eventually I fell asleep.

The next morning I had breakfast with Mom. When she finished eating she
said, "I have to get going honey, give me a smooch".

We rose together and I wrapped her in my arms. I pulled her warm, soft
bosom to me and said, "I'll always love you Mom".

"Where's that coming from?"

"It's just a feeling Mom. Ya better get going little lady or you'll be
late."

She chuckled and kissed me on the head. I stroked her arm as she pulled
away. I walked her to the front door. Before she opened the door I wrapped
my arms around her waist from behind and kissed her on the neck and said,

"I love you Mom."

She turned to look me in the eye and smiled. Then I watched her get in the
car and drive off. I wasn't sure when I would see her again; one thing I
knew for sure, I loved my mother and would let her know that I was okay as
soon as I could.

It didn't take long for me to gather my money and necessary belongings into
my pack. I sat at the kitchen table and composed a note for her. By the
time I finished, I was leaking tears all over the place and had to freshen
up again in the bathroom. I started down the road toward the marina; before
our shack was out of sight, I turned to have one last look at it. I bid it
a silent farewell thinking of Mom then turned to go, I hoped that she
wouldn't worry too much. I knew things would work out for me; hell, I would
dig ditches if that's what it took to make it.

I placed my uniforms and the note in a paper bag by the front door of the
restaurant with Charlie's name on it. As I walked to Mike and Steve's boat,
I saw Mike on deck waving at me. I gave him a half-hearted wave and smile
as I approached and wondered if I was doing the right thing.  I tossed my
pack on a bench after I climbed on board and gave Mike a hug thanking him
for the ride. He squeezed me hard and I loved the feel of it. It wasn't a
sexual hug; at least not for me it wasn't, it felt warm and reassuring and
safe.

Steve came up from below and said, "Hey, what about me?"

I laughed as he approached and gave him a hug too. I lowered my head a
little and pulled on some hair sticking out of his armpit with my lips. It
must have tickled a little bit because his upper body twitched and he
giggled. I pulled away from him because I was starting to get hard and
didn't want to deal with all that it entailed.

"I'm ready to cast off skipper," I said to neither one of them in
particular.

"Aye matey. All land lubbers ashore ere hold yer peace or yer knickers,"
Mike said in his best cockney accent and we laughed with him not knowing
what the heck he was saying or meaning.  After we were underway, I went
around to the bow and laid down resting my back against the cabin wall with
my hands behind my head. I closed my eyes and pictured Dave without his
clothes. God I missed him something awful. I could see his almost black
hair against his tanned olive skin with his white teeth and his warm brown
eyes and long lashes. I thought 'girls eyelashes' and laughed but it wasn't
really funny; they made him look sexy and inviting, the vision of him was
dreamy. I drew my feet up toward my butt and started rubbing my crotch with
one hand and my chest with the other. I kept my eyes closed and could see
Dave's naked body and spread my legs wishing he were between them.

"You want some help with that?"

I bolted upright, startled by the intruder's words. It was Mike. I looked
away with surprise; I had been busted for acting on my fantasy. I could
feel the heat in my face.

"Hi Mike. Who's driving?" was all I could think to say. I was embarrassed
as all get out to say the least.

"Steve's' piloting, mind if I join you?"

"Nope, make yourself comfortable."

Mike sat down and began to feel the inside of my thigh. I was uneasy with
the situation and wondered if I was supposed to have sex with him or Steve
or whatever in payment for the ride. It's true I had an erotic dream about
them but actually doing it was something altogether different. I was a
little scared and began to tremble slightly with anticipation.

"Don't worry Val. I'm not going to force you to do anything you don't want
to. You're safe with us."

"Is that how I have to pay for the ride?"

Mike laughed and slapped my thigh lightly then put his arm around my
shoulder and pulled me into a firm embrace. He messed my hair with his
other hand and chuckled. I loved the feel of his strong arms around me it
really did make me feel safe and secure. And Mike was quite the hunk anyway
with his athletic frame and clean cut good looks. Yeah, Mike was a hunk;
there was no question about it.

"Mike can I ask you something?"

"Shoot. It doesn't mean I'll answer but fire away."

"Do you love Steve?"

He was quiet for a few moments. My head was leaning against his right tit
with his arm still around me. I cocked my head to look at the expression on
his face. He looked surprised by the question and I wondered if I
overstepped my bounds.

"It's okay Mike. You don't have to answer. It's none of my business."

"I don't mind. You caught me off guard with that. The answer is yes, I love
Steve more than anything in the world. I would do anything for him and he
feels the same way. Why do you ask?"

"I don't know. I was curious that's all."

I rested my head against his chest again. I liked his answer; it was what I
wanted to hear. I knew I loved Dave and now I know two other guys that love
each other. There was Charlie and Bill too. I knew by his answer that I
wasn't crazy or alone or screwed up. I was relieved and a lot more sure of
myself after Mike's response. I was sure being with Dave was the right
thing to do.

"Do you love him Val?"

That caught me off guard but I didn't have to give it much thought. I just
nodded my head and felt a little stupid but I do love Dave. I wasn't sure
what to say but it seemed like Mike understood me and it felt good to tell
him. He tightened his grip for a few moments and I put my hand on his knee,
he felt big and strong and protecting; he felt good.

I was overcome with emotion and my eyes began to get moist. I hated myself
but I couldn't control it. I didn't know if I was being sentimental because
I was running away or because I loved Dave or maybe I was just a big
baby. The last thought made me snicker and cough as I blinked a couple
tears away.

"Hey what's wrong there? Are you okay?"

He tightened his arm around me and squeezed a little. It felt great and I
slipped an arm behind his back and rested my head on his shoulder. Even
though I loved Mom, he felt better than she did; he was strong and
confident; and of course he was a hunk of a guy which didn't hurt. After a
short while, I saw his dick move in his bathing suit so I eased myself away
from him and said,

"Thanks Mike. I feel a lot better now. Do you have a problem?" and I nodded
at his crotch.

He chuckled and rearranged himself, and then he said, "It's not my
fault. You're a very attractive boy; I mean very attractive."

"I'm not a boy Mike."

Mike laughed and pushed me away from him, "Go blow your nose and help Steve
make lunch".

"What if I'd rather sit in your lap?"

It seemed like a little taunting could be fun.

"Get out of here you little shit," he said with a smile so I did. And for
the moment, everything seemed to be in order and make sense.

Steve said there was sandwich material in the fridge below and told me to
get started. I guess I won't be buying lunch after all and that's good, I
can save the money. He cut the engines and said he would be there in a
minute as soon as the boat came to rest. I had them all made on paper
plates with a handful of chips before he came below. He passed them to Mike
then I brought the drinks up. I had three beers with me.

"Ah, excuse me little man but aren't you underage?" Mike asked.

"Oh my God, not you too! I can't believe it Mike. I just ran away..." I
choked on those words as I realized what I was saying.

"I mean that's what Mom calls me and I call her little lady" I prayed that
would explain away my hasty remark.

My eyes darted between Steve and Mike to see if they picked up on my
incomplete statement. I wasn't aware of it but the look on my face must
have finished the thought because they gave each other a knowing look then
stared me down. I pretended as though nothing happened and sat at the table
and took a bite of my sandwich. I looked down at the top of the table and
cracked the pop-top on my beer. Mike reached over and took it away. I gave
him a putout look since my mouth was full and continued chewing.

They both sat down at the same time like they were joined at the hip or
something; neither one of them taking their eyes off me. It was nerve
wracking. Are they going to eat or what? I looked up and smiled at them and
Steve grinned back at me. Good! One down and one to go.

I took another bite and gazed at Mike. He was sitting there like an
alabaster likeness of a Greek statue, rigid and sexy as hell. Well,
actually a tanned alabaster Greek statue but his stare was cold and hard;
one might say heartless. Who does he think he is? God or something? Why is
he beating me up with those looks? Not very nice, not nice at all. The
thought made me laugh and I regretted it. Whenever Mom gets mad and I laugh
it sends her off the deep end; she gets infuriated and I hoped Mike wasn't
the same way.

It was quiet for way too long and I couldn't stand it any longer, "Well?" I
said.

"Well What?" Mike said with a stern face. He still hadn't touched his
plate.

"I don't know. You got a problem or something?" I said very tentatively.

Mike slapped the table with an open palm and pointed his index finger at
me, his face was red hot. The sandwiches jumped, the chips flew and the
beers fell to the deck, the open one rolling around and leaving a frothy
trail behind it. That scared the shit out of me and I leapt back in my
chair. My eyes narrowed on him as I tried to figure out what his problem
was. Then I had a sudden urge to laugh but I stifled it successfully. I
looked at Steve and he raised one eyebrow, no smiles this time.

I looked down and said, "What are you going to do? You can put me ashore
now if you want; it's not a problem."

"You're goddamn lucky I don't put you over my knee. You misled us you
little shit."

"If I'm a little shit, what does that make you?"

Fuck him! Mr. High and mighty, who does he think he is? He's not my father
or conscience for that matter. If he wants to get into name-calling, I can
do that too! Fuck him and the boat he rode in on. I can swim to shore from
here no problem. I wished Dave were here to help or just make me feel not
so alone. Why do I have to go through this shit by myself?

Mike rose out of his chair and paced around in a circle stroking his hair
with one hand. He was muttering swear words under his breath as he looked
up with open palms.

I said softly to Steve, "What's his problem?"

"I think you know", he came back just as softly.

Mike went below still talking to himself and shaking his head. I stared at
Steve hoping he would break the impasse.

"Steve, just take us to shore and let me off. I'll get out of your hair."

"Val, I've only seen him this upset a few times. I suggest you go down
there and talk to him if you don't want to be turned in when we get to
town."

My appetite was shot and I certainly didn't want to be turned in. My
sandwich was only half gone and I was numb. My own mother never gave me
this much trouble. And I guess to be honest, I never gave her this much
cause for excitement. I had to convince Mike to relax and settle down;
breathe in, breathe out and don't turn me in, be cool. The last place I
wanted him to go was to the cops or whomever they turn you into and then
home again. Why the hell can't I get a break? It's so simple; all I want is
to be with Dave, get a job and graduate; is that too much to ask?
Apparently so.

I went below, "Mike? Where are you?"

"I'm back here in the Stateroom."

His voice was muffled and low. I walked to the back of the cabin and pushed
the door open.

"Can I come in?"

"Enter."

I walked over to the bed and sat on the edge looking at him. He was
sprawled on his back looking at the ceiling. I sat on the edge of the bed
and touched his arm,

"Mike, are you okay?"

"No", he said and pulled his arm away.

Jesus Christ did he have to be so abrupt? What the hell is eating him?

"Mike come on. You can put me ashore now if you want. It's okay. I'll be
fine."

"You little shit. You knew what you were doing all along didn't you?"  He
was right. I deceived him the same as I did Mom and Charlie. My big mouth
or should I say my dumb mouth gave me away but I can't take that back
now. I have to make this work out in my favor.

"Mike please don't turn me in. I can't go back there, please. I'll jump off
now and swim ashore but I'm not going back."

He didn't say a word he was still shaking his head from side to side and
facing away from me. He mumbled something I couldn't understand.

I scooted next to him lying on the bed and put my arm over his chest
snuggling up to him, propping my head up with one hand. I asked him to be
quiet and listen. I told him about the ambush with the threats and
innuendos that were made, the bruises, my ribs, the concussion the whole
bit; the probing with the branch in my butt and Charlie's car scaring them
away. I told him about the derogatory comments at work, the pushing,
shoving and verbal abuse. I mentioned our shack and our situation just so
he knew where I was coming from. I told him about Kris and his attempt to
have sex with me and finally, I told him about Dave and how much he meant
to me.

I told him I loved Dave and was going to be with him. I told him he could
turn me in, do whatever he wanted; it would be nothing more than a
temporary setback, something to overcome. I told him to do what he thought
was best for him and I would do the same for myself; I meant every word of
it and intended to make it happen even if he turned me in. I hadn't come
this far to give up now.

When I finished making my case, I watched him for some kind of reaction. I
was hoping that would soften him up. Whether or not it did, I still had my
agenda and more than ever, was resolved to make it happen. I mentioned once
before that I'm not a quitter and I'll be damned if I'm gonna start now, no
way in Hades.

We put into port in New Orleans and the tension was still in the air. Mike
had been quiet for the balance of the trip saying very little, mostly
talking to Steve. I cleaned up the deck where the beer spilled. I thanked
Steve and gave him a hug. He was so nice and soft and sexy and a good guy
too. He reminded me of Mom with his softness, caring and easy going
manner. I thanked him and squeezed him again. He was a lot more sympathetic
than Mike was.

I went below to retrieve my pack. I fished thirty dollars out to give to
Mike before I said goodbye. On deck, I stuffed the thirty dollars in the
waistband of Mike's swimsuit. I thanked him for the ride and wished him and
Steve good luck. I asked him to wait until tomorrow to call the authorities
if that was what he was going to do and left.

I was half way down the pier to the marina when I heard footsteps running
behind me. Mike twirled me around and said,

"Where are you going you little shit."

"Fuck you. I'm not a little shit" and I pulled my arm from his grip and
started walking away.

I was pissed and sick of being the brunt of his self-righteous
attitude. Who the hell does he think he is anyway? He should try being me
for a while; that would cure him or shut him up. He may be a hunk but his
'bedside manner' is unrehearsed at best. He can go screw himself with his
lofty ideas or morals or whatever the hell he draws on to justify his
attitude. Fuck him and his big-ass boat!

"I'm talking to you."

"Mr. Fucking Important!" I said loudly and shook my head as I walked away.

"COME BACK HERE VAL."

I didn't look back and didn't want to give him the satisfaction that I
cared about what he had to say, mostly because I didn't. I guessed that
guys like him were the reason guys were called dicks in the first
place. How could I ever have thought otherwise?

I walked toward the parking lot and came to the stairs leading down to the
lot. I sat down trying to think of what to do or where to go next. Hell,
this place may as well be Europe or Antarctica or Oshkosh as far as that
goes. I chuckled at the last thought; at least I knew where Oshkosh was, it
was close to home. Well my old home in Wisconsin anyway and that was a
world away now. It was late afternoon and I had to figure something out, I
had to find a place to sleep but where could I go?

I turned my cell phone on to see there was a message from Mom and
Charlie. I sighed at the thought of having to call Mom. Then I would have
to listen to her plead and beg and I'm sure, listen to her cry. I wasn't up
for that so I turned it off.

I felt a hand rest on my shoulder. I looked up and it was Steve then I
turned my gaze straight ahead. He sat down next to me and said, "Val, why
don't you consider coming home with us for the night? You don't have
anywhere to go do you?"

"No I don't but what about Mike? He's acting like super jerk, he's being a
dick."

Steve laughed and hung his arm on me. Geez I had to admit that the nearness
of him felt good and reassuring, comforting even. I wanted to wrap my arms
around him so bad, I thought he was a lot like Mom the way he wasn't pushy
or headstrong like Mike. He pulled my head against him and said,

"Val, Mike wants you come home with us. This town is no place for a kid to
be on his own."

"I'm not a kid Steve."

"Okay. But come home with us while you try to figure out what you're going
to do."

"Are you going to turn me in or call my mother? If you do then I'll be on
my way now."

"We don't know your mother or where you live. We don't want you on the
streets so stay with us until you can figure something out, okay? Mike is
an attorney and he thinks about all the bad stuff; things like us being gay
and you staying in our house. You're a minor according to the law and a
runaway. We can get in big trouble for having you stay with us."

I liked what Steve said and I liked him as a person; hell, I could see
myself having sex with him if it weren't for Dave. I decided to accept his
offer. If Mike got weird then I would just leave. I would get out of there
if that's what I had to do, there was nothing to lose so I accepted his
offer.

Steve went inside and brought Mike out with him. I stood up and looked Mike
in the eye to gauge his mindset. He was impassive and neutral as he
returned my gaze evenly. We got in Mike's car and drove to their place in
silence, which made for an uneasy ride.

I was starving when we got there but decided not to say anything. They
showed me to a spare room and told me to put my things away then they went
to their room. I looked after them in the short hallway. They disappeared
into their bedroom and I could hear them talking. Their voices were within
earshot but I couldn't understand what they were saying.

I put my pack on the floor and lie down on the bed. The sun and the fresh
air from the gulf had been tiring not to mention the events of the day. I
pulled my phone out of my pack and turned it on. Mom left another message
and it made me feel miserable. I pulled a pillow out from under the
comforter and rolled on to my side turning the phone off. I wished Dave was
here and curled up with the pillow imagining it was him as I clutched it
and fell asleep.

The next morning there was an eerie silence in the house. I fell asleep in
my clothes on top of the bed the night before. I sat up in bed and looked
around. It was strange being in someone's house not knowing what I should
be doing or where I was. I knew I was in New Orleans but where exactly was
I? I had no idea.

I went downstairs and found the kitchen. There was a note from Mike and
Steve on the counter. They wanted me to call them when I got up and they
left both their work numbers. I decided to call Steve first; he was much
easier to talk to.

I dialed the number and the receptionist answered, "Miles, Davis and Brown
Architects; how may I direct your call?"

"Steve Brown please" I said.

Two rings later and Steve answered, "Hello, this is Steve".

"Hi Steve it's Val."

"Just a minute, I have to close my office door. I'll be right back."

I wondered what he had to say that was important enough for him to close
his door. When he came back he asked if I slept well and I assured him I
did. I apologized for falling asleep without talking to him and Mike. He
told me to get something to eat from the fridge and clean myself up in the
bathroom. I told him I wanted to call Dave and he said to go ahead but
don't leave the house. We were going to have a talk when they got home from
work. He made me promise to call Mike and we hung up.

I called Mike at work and he answered his own phone; he seemed to be in a
good mood. I apologized to him for yesterday and he apologized to me too!
That was a little confusing coming from him but nice to hear all the
same. I guess I would have been upset too if someone misled me like I did
him. He told me not to be too nosy around the house and I told him I would
respect his property. We hung up on a good note and I felt much better
about the whole thing.

I was starving to death having eaten only half a sandwich all day yesterday
so I ate all the leftovers in the fridge and was still hungry.

I went upstairs to get my cell from my pack and call Dave. Three rings
later he answered the phone.

"Dave, is that you?"

"Yeah, Val?"

"It's me. I'm in New Orleans. I miss you."

"That's great, where are you? I want to see you."

"I don't know", and I laughed. "I'm at Mike and Steve's house and I don't
know where that is. They're at work and told me not to leave the house
today."

"Is there some mail or a magazine with their address somewhere?"

"Um yeah, let me go downstairs and look."

As I was heading downstairs I was describing their house to Dave. It was
beautiful and everything looked so expensive I was afraid to touch or sit
on anything.

"Yeah, here's something with Mike's name and address. It's the Legal News
and they live on Magazine Street."

"Oh my god! That's only a few streets over; we live on Prytania."  He asked
me for the house number and entered it on his computer. It turns out we
were only about a twenty minute walk apart. He said he lived in the Garden
District and Mike and Steve were in the Lower Garden District.  Dave said
he was coming over and I asked him to bring some food. I told him I would
pay him back when he got here and we hung up.

I unlocked the front door and went upstairs to get cleaned up. When I
finished I sat on the front porch waiting for him. I was a bundle of nerves
but in a good way. I thought if I had to pee I would probably do it in my
pants I was so excited to see him. God, it seemed like the longest time
since we saw each other.

As I waited my phone rang and it was Mom calling from work. I took a deep
breath and decided to answer her call. I didn't want to but I owed her that
much and probably more and I was sure she was worried beyond reason.

I answered it with a low voice, "Hello".

"VAL WHERE ARE YOU? I'M GOING CRAZY."

"Mom, take it easy. I'm okay, everything's fine, calm down."

"Where are you? You have me worried sick and I can't sleep. Val come home."

"Mom relax. I'm fine. I'm going out looking for a job tomorrow, don't worry
okay."

"It's not okay. I want you to tell me where you are right now."

I told her I was in New Orleans and she kept insisting I come home. I
didn't mention anything about Dave or she would surely be able to track me
down and I most definitely didn't want that; as much as I loved her I
wasn't going back. I told her I would call her tonight at home then I told
her I loved her and she started crying. Well I couldn't handle that so I
said my battery was running low and I would call tonight. She was still
crying when we said goodbye and I felt like crap. I wished she wouldn't be
so emotional for Pete's sake.

Dave was running down the sidewalk and I spotted him half a block
away. There was a wrought iron fence around the yard and the gate required
a code to get it open so I stood there waiting for him. When he got to the
fence, he hopped over it as gracefully as a gazelle. We wrapped each other
in our arms and started kissing and tonguing each other's mouth as we
laughed between his panting.

He felt so good and so right and so natural in my arms. I was overcome with
joy to see him and hold him and pull him close. He was every bit as good as
I remembered; it was like having your dream come true.

"I missed you so much Val," he said as he squeezed.

I almost cried as I hung on, he felt so good and I missed him something
fierce. I want this guy and I'm not letting him out of my sight again. This
is my Dave, my reason to be here.

It was a great feeling. I'm sure, now more than ever, that I love him and
want nothing more than to be with him. I knew he felt the same way and
could only hope that we could work it out. I would do whatever it took to
make it happen. I want to belong to him and him to me.

After our greeting, I ushered him in the house. He was looking around the
place in awe marveling and commenting on the furnishings and decor. I
shoved my hands down the front of his shorts and grabbed his short leg but
it didn't stay very short for very long; neither did mine. As I felt him
up, he became hard as concrete. I led him upstairs to the room I used last
night and we stripped in no time flat.

He pushed me on the bed and began poking my stomach with his hard dick and
I pushed mine into him loving the feel of him against me. We thrust into
each other kissing and moaning and grunting. We were both close to release
when he stopped and sat up on my legs. He hooked the front of his T-shirt
behind his head and pulled mine off.

I lie on my back with him gazing down at me and me looking up at his body
and face. God I loved him and the feel of his body, he was all that I
imagined perfection to be, he was warm and more than I could ever want. He
placed his hands in mine and lowered himself so that our bodies touched
everywhere. We kissed and licked as we smiled and pushed our hardons
against each other wanting to feel what we had to offer each other.

He stopped at my ear and nibbled on it then whispered, "I love you Val. I
love you so much".

"I love you too", then I squeezed and wrapped my legs around him like he
was going to get away if I let go.

He raised his head and looked me in the eyes, "You're so beautiful. I want
to fuck you."

Geez, that made me open my eyes. Fuck me? That could only mean one
thing. My hardon shriveled up like a dried leaf. The thought of it was kind
of scary. That was supposed to be a one-way street and he wanted to go the
wrong way!

"Dave I don't know if that's a good idea or not. I mean I never thought
about it but it seems kind of unnatural. I'm not sure."

He lowered himself on the bed next to me his dick was still hardness
personified. In fact, with his suggestion in mind, it looked like a
railroad tie. I just didn't know.

"I've seen it on the net and guys really get off on it. You'll probably
like it and I really want to fuck you bad, you're so damn beautiful." Then
he added softly, "It feels so good to be here with you."

"Would you stop saying that? You make me sound like I'm a girl or
something."

"Well it's true. Guys can be beautiful too you know just like you", and he
chuckled then kissed me on the mouth.

That was all I needed to get geared up again and I went after him. I turned
in the bed and took his hardon in my mouth and began bobbing and sucking as
I propped myself up on my knees and hands. He lifted my leg and scooted
under me licking my balls and hard dick.

We carried on that way for a few minutes and I gave into him when he
started licking my hole and it drove me crazy with pleasure, it made me
harder than ever. I never dreamed it could be so stimulating. As I worked
on him, his body went rigid and he pulsed his load into my mouth, it was a
mouthful and I took it all. He had his finger in my butt and sucked on my
dick at the same time causing me to jettison my load. I ejaculated pushing
my ass into his finger which felt phenomenally great. It felt good to have
something of Dave's inside me.

It was the first time either one of us came in someone's mouth. When I
looked at Dave he opened it to show me; then he swallowed and we both
started laughing. I didn't have a chance to swallow as I laughed, his cum
started leaking out of my mouth and down my chest.

I rubbed it into my skin with my hand and lie next to him kissing him
anywhere I could, running my hand over his chest and stomach. I was loving
him and he was loving me, what a wonderful feeling it was.

"I love you Val. We have to find a way for you to stay here."

"I'm not going anywhere. I'm getting a job then enroll in school for the
fall."

We lie there touching, feeling and kissing in a state of limbo until we
both fell asleep, content in each other's arms with our legs intertwined
and our crotches pressed together.

Sometime later I was slapped hard on my naked butt and then I heard another
similar sound which was Dave's ass being slapped. It was a bad wakeup call
and we both awoke looking at each other puzzled. I had my back to the door
and Dave was looking behind me blinking his eyes. I turned around and saw
Steve standing next to the bed.

"Get your asses dressed and downstairs before Mike comes home", was all he
said and walked out of the room.

He didn't seem mad, just a little irritated, so we did our best to engage
the real world and lie there trying to snap out of our sleep-induced fog. I
looked at Dave and we had a passionate kiss with a tight grip on each
other.

"I love you", he said as he pushed his hard dick into me.

"I think you have sex on the brain. I hope you aren't confusing sex with
love."

As soon as I said that Dave's face drew a long, hurt look and I felt bad
about it. I had to know though; he wanted to fuck me and if that was all I
was then I had to rethink things as ugly as it sounded.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean it the way it came out."

Dave was looking away and climbed over me out of bed, his feelings were
obviously bruised. I went after him in the middle of the room and hugged
him tight.

I whispered in his ear as I held him close, "I love you. I had to be sure."

He raised his gaze and I kissed him on the mouth with all the sincerity I
could muster, "I love you Dave and don't forget it".

We held each other close and fast and I could feel him return my sentiment.

"GET DRESSED NOW," Steve said from the doorway.

We both looked and understood the urgency in Steve's voice; he was
beginning to get frustrated. He didn't want Mike to witness this scenario
and I didn't either, Mike could be a hard-ass given the proper stimulus.

We dressed and went downstairs to find Steve. He was in the kitchen
preparing some food.

"Steve, are you mad?" I asked.

"No, but it would be best if Dave, that's your name right? Left soon."

We looked each other in the eye and Dave said he should get going. He said
they would be having dinner soon and his mother would be wondering where he
was. I walked him to the front door and we held on to each other for a
minute or so.

"I love you Val."

I wrapped him up and held him tight. Those were the best words he could
have said. I knew I wanted to be with him. And loving him? That wasn't a
question, it was a given; already done. I put my face in the small of his
neck and said,

"Mmmm. I love you Dave Guidry. Take that with you."

We kissed and I let him out the front door. I patted his butt before he
hopped over the fence and watched him walk away. It was so hard to do like
the last time I watched him leave; I didn't think it would ever get
easier. After coming all this way, I would have to wait until tomorrow to
see him again.

I exhaled and turned to go inside. Steve was standing in the doorway
watching. He was looking at me like I was a freak or something; at least
that's what it felt like, it was one of those Mike looks that make you
think you have no secrets.

"What?" I said.

"You love him don't you?"

"Yes I do and he loves me and it's not gonna change."

"That's a brash statement for someone your age."

"Whatever", I said as I passed by him heading inside the house. "I'll leave
you guys alone tomorrow. I'll be out of here."

It was so frustrating to have people sit in judgment of us like I need his
approval or something. What is that all about? Why do other people want to
interfere, it doesn't concern them, it's none of their business. Dave was
all that mattered to me, he was the reason I was in New Orleans and not
somewhere else. So what's the big deal? Leave us alone already. I love Dave
I thought silently, so there. I decided to leave in the morning; I needed a
place of my own so I can get on with things. Steve and Mike got much more
than they bargained for with me and I appreciated what they had done but
they didn't need a freeloader hanging around.

I heard Mike come in from a door somewhere in the back of the house. I
didn't know exactly where because I didn't go nosing around after I talked
to him on the phone. I could hear the low murmur of their voices but
couldn't make out their conversation. After a few minutes, I heard Mike's
footsteps on the stairs then they stopped outside the bedroom door.

I rolled over to look at him standing there, "Hi Mike. You have a good
day?"

Geez, he looked so handsome standing there in a suit and tie. He walked
over and sat on the edge of the bed loosening his tie.

"What are we going to do with you?"

"Nothing Mike. I'm going to leave in the morning. I already wasted a day
sitting around here and I don't want to cause you and Steve any
problems. You saved me sixty dollars by giving me a ride here and I
appreciate it. Well actually it was thirty because I gave you thirty for
gas."  That made him laugh.

"I put the money in the side pocket of your backpack last night. Thanks for
the thought all the same. And where do you think you're going?

"I'll get a job and a place to live."

"Even if you had the money you can't rent a place, you have to be
eighteen."  "I have fake id which I paid a lot for. I'll get a room at the
Y and I have plenty of money Mike, I'll be fine."

I noticed Steve leaning against the doorway with his hands in his pockets.

Steve said, "You won't last a day at the Y. They'll be all over you."  My
stomach let out a loud growl and Mike started grinning. I couldn't resist
his smile and all three of us chuckled.

"Come on" Mike said. "Let's get something to eat" as he stood up.

He went to their bedroom and I followed Steve downstairs to the
kitchen. Steve had something cooking and the aroma made my gut wrench with
hunger pains. Steve told me to have a seat at the table and gave me a
bottled water.

"How about a beer Steve?"

I was grinning because I already knew the answer but I wanted to see his
reaction. He was fun to kid around with because he wasn't nearly as serious
as Mike. He didn't react at first, obviously taking the time to choose his
words. He went over to the refrigerator and opened the door. He didn't
reach for anything he just looked inside. He closed the door saying,

"There's two beers missing."

I knew exactly what he was getting at. He thought Dave and I took them and
I smiled. Of course we didn't but I was eager to play along.

"No there isn't", I said confidently.

He turned to look at me.

"Don't bullshit me little shit."

"I'm not bullshitting little man. You either took them yourself or
miscounted, so there. I know you think Dave and I took two beers but we
didn't. In fact we never went in the kitchen so if you're going to accuse
me just come out and say it instead of trying to intimidate me into
admitting to something I didn't do."

I couldn't help grinning ear to ear because I had him by the nuts and he
knew it.

Mike came in the room with an ominous look on his face. He focused on me
and said, "Dave was here?"

Now it was Steve's turn to grin at me behind Mike's back. He was awful
brave when someone else was in the hot seat.

"Yeah Mike," I said. "He only lives about a twenty minute walk away. His
family lives on Prytania Street."

"Where on Prytania?"

"I'm not sure but he said they were in the Garden District and you guys
were in the Lower Garden District. That's all I know."

Mike kept the questions coming until I had to tell him how Steve found
us. I didn't want Steve to have a problem with Mike over me so I came clean
and fessed up. Damn attorneys, I wonder if they're all like that or if it's
just Mike. He didn't appear happy for us in fact he looked like he might
pop his cork again so I ate in silence; speaking only when spoken to and
keeping an eye on him.

I filled my plate two more times and probably would have had more if the
food wasn't gone. During the meal Mike asked for my mother and father's
phone number. I explained about Dad and our reason to relocate to
Louisiana. I gave him Mom's work number and the home number. He told me to
call her tonight and advise her that we were going to call her at work in
the morning.

"Mike, I love my mother but if you're planning on having her pick me up
then I'm leaving tonight. I won't go back except to visit and I'll do that
before school starts."

"And where do you plan to go to school?"

"I don't know but it's going to depend on what school district I live in,
at least that's how it works in Wisconsin. Do you guys have internet
service?"

"Yes" Steve said. "Why do you ask?"

"If you could find out where the Y is and the address and phone numbers of
a few nice restaurants then I can get started in the morning."

"Not so fast young man" Mike said. "We haven't decided what we're going to
do with you yet."

I rather liked the term young man in that it was a hell of a lot better
than 'little man' or 'little shit'. Although, it still wasn't what I wanted
to hear.

"Mike I'm getting a job tomorrow one way or the other. I'm not wasting
another day sitting around. If you could please get me those phone numbers
and addresses I would appreciate it."

After we cleaned the kitchen, the three of us went to the library as Mike
called it to get on the internet. It was a beautiful room with a fireplace
and built-in cabinetry and bookshelves from floor to ceiling. The books
were mostly legal and architectural volumes that they both used to work
from home from time to time.

Mike informed me he would be working from home tomorrow and we would be
calling Mom together, it wasn't phrased as a suggestion either. He promised
that he wouldn't turn me in but couldn't guarantee that Mom wouldn't come
and get me. I told him I was resolved to bolt at the first hint of Mom
taking me back to that horrible place. As much as I loved her, I know that
sounds repetitious; there was no way I was going back, no blessed way!

They printed the information for a few of the better restaurants in the
area and numbered them beginning with the best or, as Steve put it, the
most expensive which meant bigger tips. The internet was fascinating, I had
only used it in school and the computers were rigged with parental controls
but this one didn't have any! It looked like fun and I remembered what Dave
said earlier that day.

When we 'understood each other' as Mike said, they got up to watch TV and I
chose a book from the library. I wasn't much into television and it seemed
like a big waste of time to me. As we left the library, I said to Steve,
"Geez, is he always this organized?" The question had an underlying air of
sarcasm.

Steve laughed and said, "Yeah, it isn't so bad once you get used to it" and
he made sure Mike could see the smirk on his face. It was evident he was
lodging his own little jab.

I didn't call Mom that night like I said I would. I figured if we were
calling her in the morning then we could cover everything at that time and
she wouldn't be able to make me feel as guilty with Mike on the line. And
she would be at work too; that would make it harder for her to be
emotional, or so I hoped.

Before I started reading, I wanted to call Dave and hear his voice, talk to
him and pretend I was lying next to him. I wondered what his room looked
like. His father was a surgeon and, no doubt, made a lot of money. I tucked
a pillow between my legs and one under my head and speed-dialed him.

After two rings someone said, "Hello".

"Hi, this is Val is Dave home?"

It was his father, Don or Mr. Guidry if you prefer. He said hello and asked
me to hang on for a minute.

Dave picked up the extension and I heard him holler, "I got it".

There was a click on the line and Dave said, "Val?"

"Yeah, how are you?"

"I miss you. Is everything okay?"

I explained about the powwow with Mike and Steve and how it went earlier
and our plan to call Mom in the morning. I assured him after he asked that
I wasn't leaving and would be out of their house at the first mention of
going back. I told him I was going job hunting in the morning after we
called Mom and he said he wanted to go with me. I mentioned the stuff Mike
printed from the net and speculated that it shouldn't be all that difficult
to find a job.

We chatted some more about what to do tomorrow and I said I would call him
when we finished talking with Mom; after all, I had no clue where anything
was and Dave knew the area. We said good night and Dave told me he loved me
very much. I said I loved him too and wanted to be with him and we kissed
over the phone. I waited for him to hang up and he waited for me to hang
up.

"Hang up Dave."

"I was waiting for you to go first."

We both chuckled and said good night then I hung up. Enough is enough for
Christ sake! I exhaled deeply and rolled onto my back smiling at the
ceiling and hugging the pillow, wishing it was Dave. A few moments later
and I looked at the door, Mike was standing there. My heart skipped a beat
at his unexpected presence.

"How long have you been there Mr. Nosy?"

"Long enough" he said walking toward the bed smiling.

He sat down on the edge of the bed and looked at me. His stare was
uncomfortable but I didn't look away. I wasn't going for that intimidation
crap again but damn he was a handsome dude and hard not to like, and smart
too if I were honest. And I had to admit tolerant after the last two
days. But how much longer would he put up with me? It's a long shot but it
sure would be nice to stay here. I couldn't help but think how strong,
confident and handsome he is. And Steve, you couldn't ask for a nicer more
appealing guy, not to mention sexy. I guess it was easy to see the
attraction between the two.

"Mike, I don't want to go home. It sucks there, it's really bad. Let me
know if you make some kind of deal with Mom for me to go back 'cause I need
a head start."

"We hope after our conversation with your mother tomorrow that she'll let
you stay. Steve and I would like to have you with us and see how it
goes. We both like you and think you have yourself on the right track. Do
you love Dave?"

"Didn't you hear me Mr. Nosy?" I asked as I rolled away from him on the
bed.

It was too embarrassing to give him an answer. Damn, there's that
aggressive, direct approach attorney crap again. Why does he always have to
put someone on the spot? I wonder if he ever gets out of that mode, poor
Steve. Poor me!

"Yeah, well there's going to be a lot of Mr. Nosy if you're staying here,
get used to it."

"Lighten up Mike, this isn't court or whatever".

He chuckled and lie next to me on the bed. He wrapped his strong arm over
my chest and another under my head and it felt great. The bastard, how does
he do it? Makes you feel like shit one minute and then the next you want
him to take his clothes off! I don't get it.

I pulled his arm tight around me and placed mine on top of his, damn he
felt good. He wasn't Dave but he was being nice and I liked this version of
Mike a lot. He seemed protective and I don't know what, maybe fatherly? I
had to give it some more thought, I don't know. It felt safe to be here
with him, yeah safe that's it; it was safe with Mike in his strong arms. It
occurred to me to ask him about fucking because of what Dave said but it
didn't seem like the right time. And besides, I wasn't sure if I wanted him
to know I was thinking about that.

The next morning, I was up before them and got the coffee pot going then
went to shower. I left the zip-lock bag with my toiletries in the room so I
went to get it in my underwear. Steve came into the hallway at the same
time in his skivvies and we checked each other out then started laughing
when we realized what we were doing.

When I got back to the hall bathroom, I locked the door. I was starting to
get a hardon and pulled my underwear down to check it out in the mirror. I
stuck it out as hard and as far as it would go. It was enough to impress
myself. It was big and rigid as hell and pointed straight up. I thought the
brown bush around it was hot and arched my back with my arms raised to make
it look bigger and see the hair under my arms. It was so hard it felt like
it was going to blow up! Just then a loud knock came from the door,

"HURRY UP IN THERE" Mike hollered.

I almost lost my balance when I jumped and my dick deflated like a popped
balloon. Jesus Christ, the guy has the worst timing. I nervously finished
up as quick as I could. I felt guilty as hell like he knew what I was up to
or something. Geez, now he's the bathroom cop too. What next?

After breakfast Mike gave Steve a hug and a big kiss on the mouth and we
both wished him a good day at work. He winked at me and turned to go.
"Okay young man, fill your coffee if you want more and let's make that
call."

Before we made the call, I told Mike that Mom wasn't aware of the trouble I
had back in Plaquemines. He wanted to know why and I told him I didn't want
her to worry, she already had enough on her mind. I told him about Mom and
Dave's mother talking and how it led to the demise of Dave's visit. I
mentioned what I thought was the reason behind it and he simply nodded, not
saying anything.

"Mike, is there any way you could talk to her first without me?"

"Why don't you want to talk to her?"

"I don't want to tell her the whole story."

"You mean about being gay?"

"Yeah and everything else too. Mike I just want to be here with Dave and
I'll run away again if I have to."

He agreed but insisted I sit in the room while he called her. I took up a
place on the couch and listened. Mike was smooth and it was obvious that
Mom was upset because he would pause every so often and nod his head as he
listened.

Mom wasn't one to shout or raise her voice; she was pretty cool and adept
at expressing herself. He told her about everything including Dave, the
trouble at work and on the way home. He even went so far as to tell her he
was gay and living with Steve, that made me cringe. I hoped that revelation
wouldn't be an automatic rejection of what he was working up to.

When they were finished Mike looked at me and said, "Your mother wants to
talk to you".

I moved to a chair in front of his desk and he passed me the phone.

"Hi Mom."

"Honey, you didn't have to run away. Why didn't you think you could talk to
me? I feel like I failed you."

Then she started crying and I hated it. I didn't know what to say so I
said, "Don't cry Mom. Everything is okay. I'm going to get a job today."

I wasn't sure who I was trying harder to convince, me or her. I did my best
to choke back the tears and was barely successful. Oh God, can this be over
soon? I hate it when she cries. Now I feel like the bad guy, I feel
responsible for making her miserable and I guess I am.

She regained her composure and said, "I have to go now. My boss wants me in
his office. I'll call you on your cell later and I expect you to answer it,
okay?"

"Yes Mom. I love you."

"I love you too honey", and she hung up.

I passed the phone to Mike and said, "She's upset".

"What did you expect? She loves you and she's worried sick."

"I don't know but I hate to see her worry so much. What did she say to
you?"

Mike said she was aware that I was gay and was waiting for me to tell
her. He said that Dave's mother had mentioned her suspicions over the phone
and they had decided to keep us apart because they thought we were too
young. That was no big surprise; I suspected something like that as soon as
Dave's visit was cancelled. He said they were going to talk again at lunch
and he would propose the arrangement to her at that time. I told Mike that
I would pay rent so I wouldn't cost them anything and he said we'd discuss
it when the time came.

I thanked him and said I was going to call Dave and go look for a job. I
went upstairs and made the bed. When I called Dave he gave me directions to
his house and I left after saying goodbye to Mike.

Dave's mother answered the door and looked surprised to see me there. She
stood there looking at me for a few moments then invited me in. Dave was
having breakfast so she escorted me to the kitchen. He was eating a bowl of
cereal when I walked in.

"Morning Dave."

"Morning, it didn't take you long to get here."

"The directions were easy enough to follow."

"Sit down" he said. "You want something?"

"A black coffee if it's already made, otherwise I'm fine."  Dave poured me
a coffee and put it in front of me. I watched him as he moved around and
tried not to stare; his mother was sitting at the table with us.

"What are you two doing today?" she wanted to know.

"I'm looking for a job," I said. "Dave's coming with me for company."  She
gave Dave one of those parental leers and said, "It wouldn't kill you to
get a job too young man".

"Maybe I will," he said.

Then he looked at me as he was lifting a spoonful of cereal to his
mouth. His head was bowed close to the bowl and he let one of those Dave
smiles go and I couldn't stand it, I had to grin too. We went to his
bedroom with our coffee's and he showed me his computer and some of the
games he had on it. I never knew anyone that had their own computer and I
was impressed. In fact, the whole house was like something you would see on
television. Other than Mike and Steve's house, I could only imagine that
some people lived like that.

While Dave took some time getting ready I sat at his desk and called a few
numbers Mike had given me. There was no answer at some and a couple others
said they weren't hiring. I ended up with two restaurants to apply to and
one was specific about the time I should show up. They were both at the top
of the list according to Steve's ranking which meant they were
expensive. That was good since the tips would be larger.

We were early for the interview by twenty minutes so I gave my name and
waited for them to call me. We sat in the waiting area just inside the
front door. It was mid-afternoon and they were starting to get busy
preparing for the evening crowd. I couldn't help but notice the waiters as
they went about their business, they were all very attractive. One of them
looked so much like an older Dave that I couldn't stop checking him out and
he caught me in the process. As soon as I realized it, I looked away
embarrassed to the max.

"That guy looks just like you except older," I said to Dave.

"You think so?"

"Yeah, but you're actually better looking than he is. Your more handsome"
and I gave him a quick nudge and wink.

He liked that and started smiling. I wanted to grab him right there but I
held back.

A short while later, the manager walked up and looked us over; he wanted to
know which one was Val Milner. I stood up and extended my hand saying, "I
am, nice to meet you".

"Nice to meet you too, I'm Roger Blackwell the manager."

He led me to his office and closed the door. We sized each other up
thoroughly and he told me to have a seat. The interview went well. I smiled
a little and tried to be cheerful and friendly without over acting and it
seemed to work. I told him we just moved here and couldn't remember my home
address or phone number but would fill it in and bring the application
back. I lied and told him I was eighteen and that went off without a hitch.

He said I could start tomorrow and reminded me to bring the application
back the next day. I was so elated by the news that I couldn't keep a
straight face. I was grinning out of control and couldn't hide it. I
thanked him profusely; shaking his hand and telling him how much I
appreciated it.

Roger gave me a uniform and told me to try it on in the bathroom to see if
it fit properly. I was checking out the fit in the mirror when one of the
waiters walked in.

"Hi" he said eyeing me up and down.

"Hi, how's it going?"

"Good. Are you the new waiter?"

"I guess so. Roger just hired me a few minutes ago."

"I can see why," he said with a grin breaking across his face. "My name's
Rick."

"I'm Val, nice to meet you."

I wasn't sure what he meant when he said he could see why so I kept quiet.
I turned in the mirror to check the fit of the uniform on my backside.

Rick slapped me on the butt on his way to wash his hands and said, "Don't
worry, it looks great. I'm sure Roger noticed too".

I was embarrassed by his observation and at a loss for words. I turned in
the mirror to have one more look at the front of me. I was satisfied with
the fit so I went into a stall to change.



To Be Continued.