Date: Thu, 3 Jul 2003 17:42:56 EDT
From: Tulsadriller7@aol.com
Subject: Tales from the Ranch, Chapter 47/?


Disclaimer:  The following story is a work of fiction.  If you
are offended by descriptions of homosexual acts or man/man
relations, please exit this page.

TALES FROM THE RANCH
Copyrightc 2003 by Tulsa Driller 7.  All rights reserved.

This is a story of men who have two common interests.  You will
see that they love the land where they live and work, but it is
also the story of young men who love other men and their coming
of age in a culture of prejudice and misunderstanding.  It is a
story, which deals with difficult and often disturbing issues
but, nonetheless, issues which must be confronted in today's
world.

This is a work of fiction and in no way draws on the lives of any
specific person or persons.  Any similarity to actual persons or
events is entirely coincidental.  This work is copyrightedc by
the author and may not be reproduced in any form without the
specific written permission of the author.  It is assigned to the
Nifty Archives under the terms of their submission agreement but
it may not be copied or archived on any other site without the
written permission of the author.

PLEASE:  In a perfect world AIDS doesn't exist.  My characters
have unprotected sex.  I hope you use proper precautions because
I'd like you to be around the read the last chapter of this
story.

Tales from the Ranch
Chapter 47: Williamsport - A Haven for Gays
     Jimmy Bob Jones didn't see Miles Truby sitting in the
courtroom.  Not that it made any difference; he couldn't have
done anything about it anyway.  Miles had been standing in the
hall and had taken a picture of Jimmy Bob in handcuffs, being led
to the courtroom by Deputy Ryan Majors.  He slipped into the
courtroom after Jimmy Bob was seated, then left as soon as the
Judge announced, "Next case".
     Needless to say, Jimmy Bob's plight had helped Miles Truby's
prospects of a new job and better money more than anything else
that had ever happened to him.  The third story on the 5 p.m.
news from the NBC affiliate in Austin was about Jimmy Bob being
released from jail without bail.  There would be more to come on
that story because Miles would soon find out that Jimmy Bob was
going to have to beg for a place to stay between then and his
trial on November 14th.
     Sam Arn made some telephone calls and was advised to call
the Starlight Motel, as it was the most reasonably priced place
in town to rent a room.
     Al referred him to Slim Dugan, the owner.  Slim had been
known to help people out who were in dire straits, usually
because of a fire or some such tragedy.  He didn't know anything
about Jimmy Bob except that he was zealous in fighting what he
called sin.  Yet, Slim had a hard time believing that all the
charges against Jimmy Bob were true.  He told Sam Arn that Jimmy
Bob could stay at the Starlight through the end of his trial and
at no cost.
     Gus Douglas told them he would make arrangements to get
Jimmy Bob's personal possessions out of the parsonage the next
morning.  Sam stopped at the jail to get the small bag of things
belonging to Jimmy Bob, which amounted to a change of underwear
and socks, two paperback books and the copy of The Book of Common
Prayer that Fr. George had given him.  Deputy Ryan Majors
promised to bring the clothes he had taken home for his wife to
launder to the motel the next morning.
     When they arrived at the Starlight, Al showed Jimmy Bob and
Sam to the room next to the one Michael and Pat shared.  All the
worldly goods Jimmy Bob had at that time, except for the clothes
on his back, was the $100 loaned to him by Bret Jenkins, Senior.
     As soon as Sam left, he walked across the street to the
convenience store to buy three large chocolate bars, a super-size
bag of 'Corn Curls' and two pints of dip.  Then he spied a liquor
store across the street in the next block and with great
difficulty walked over there to buy a 1.75 liter bottle of the
cheapest gin they sold.
     Sam Arn had left Jimmy Bob at the Starlight at 4:30.  He was
back in his room after his errands by 5 p.m.  There was a glass
and plastic ice bucket on a shelf next to the TV set.  Next, he
set out to see if he could find an ice machine.  It was across
the driveway, in a small room next to the office.  Al watched him
come across from his room.  He was surprised as he always thought
that Jimmy Bob was a younger man, yet he appeared to be in his
60's.
     He was sitting in a plastic chair that was too small for
him, but that was all the furniture in the room except for a bed
with a wall-mounted shelf on either side.  The TV was sitting on
top of a dresser that had 6 drawers in it.  The bathroom had a
counter with a wash basin, a stool and tub shower.  Not much
better than his cell at the jail except the bed was softer.
     He devoured the first of the chocolate bars in three bites.
It tasted good.  He hadn't had any candy for at least 10 days.
Next, he ripped open the sack of Corn Curls and took the lid off
one of the containers of dip, sour cream and chives.  Ahhh. that
tasted good.
     Jimmy Bob filled the glass with ice cubes and poured a
liberal amount of gin over them.  Since he was thirsty, he should
have drank a glass of water first.  The glass of gin went down
almost as easily as water and he refilled the glass.
     He had the curtains open and could see into the parking lot.
He noticed that most of the men who were staying there appeared
to be laborers, dressed in work clothing of various kinds from
denim to actual uniforms of various kinds.  Almost all appeared
to be in the their early to mid-20's.
     He had turned on the TV set, mainly for noise, but had
channel 36, the NBC affiliate out of Austin tuned in.  He wasn't
really paying any attention, until he heard something just before
the first station break.  "Stay tuned for an update on the Rev.
Jimmy Bob Jones case."
     He felt weak.  Why wouldn't they leave him alone?
     * * * * *
     As Dale was driving Joey to school on Thursday morning, he
reminded him that they were to have dinner with Leland Stanton
that evening.
     "Is this about my money?" Joey asked.
     "In a way.  Craig and I have an idea about how to invest
some money that we have.  Leland wants to talk to us and we want
you to explain more about your Computer Lab class, what you are
supposed to learn and how the class works."
     "Neat.  You're not going to hire a tutor for us, are you?  I
mean, Daniel and I've figured some of this out ourselves and
we're going to work on my interest program this afternoon in
class," Joey replied.
     "No, nothing like that.  Just don't tell any of your friends
what we're thinking about.  No need to get rumors started, is
there?" Dale asked.
     "I don't even know what you're thinking about, but I
appreciate your being willing to help me and some of my pals.
     "Hey Bud, we're your Dads.  You don't think we're going to
let you and your friends sink, do you?"
     "No, of course not.  I'm just a little confused about this
whole thing.  How on earth did Mr. Korte ever get to be a
teacher, anyway?"
     "According to what I heard, they had an instructor lined up
and at the last minute he was offered a job in another school
system.  It was the week before school was to start and Kent
Korte was the only person available.  Who knows if they were able
to check him out before they hired him?  You know some people are
really intelligent, but can't communicate with other people.
Maybe that's his problem," Dale said.
     By this time Dale had parked in front of the school and they
were finishing up their conversation.  "Don't forget that while
you don't need a suit, I think a nice pair of slacks and sport
coat would be appropriate for our dinner at the country club
tonight and we're to meet him at 6:30, so allow yourself time to
be ready."
     "I've never been to a country club before.  Those are pretty
ritzy, aren't they?" Joey asked.
     "Well, the one here is a nice place and it's run in
conjunction with the local yacht club and the golf course.  You
have to be a member to go there, or to take guests," Dale told
him.  "And, by the way, this will be a new experience for both of
us.  I've never been there before, either."  Dale smiled at him.
     "Thanks, Dad.  You and Craig are the greatest!  See you
later," he said as he got out of the Blazer.
     * * * * *
     John, Michael and Pat were waiting in the office when Dale
arrived at the Bar-W.  That was unusual, as Dale was always there
first.
     "Morning guys.  Are you ready for another day of riding your
tractors around and around?" he teased.
     "Absolutely.  You'd be surprised at all the problems I can
solve that way," John laughed.
     "Yeah, he's come up with a plan for world peace, a cure for
cancer, and. figured out his chances for getting laid tonight,"
Michael teased.  Pat laughed and John turned red.
     Dale thought that was funny, too, and joined them in
laughter.
     John turned serious, although still a little embarrassed.
"We talked to Al at the Starlight last night and he said we could
move anytime after November 1st.  He's pretty sure he has both
rooms rented starting the middle of the month and Slim, the
owner, wants a chance to repaint the rooms and put in new
carpet."
     "Yeah, we move out and somebody else gets the benefit of a
room that looks new," Pat said.
     "You're getting the benefit of a new room here," Michael
reminded him.
     "Yeah, I guess we are, aren't we?" he said.
     "Can we go look at the new place this morning?" John asked.
     "Sure.  Why don't you sign your time sheets, go have a look,
then drive to the field.  Are you going to have much stuff to
move?" Dale asked.
     "Clothes and my TV set," John said.
     "The same for me," Michael said.  "Are we going to have
cable TV hookup?  I'd be glad to pay for it."
     "I know they put in the wiring for it, but I'll have to
check," Dale said.  "I honestly don't know."
     "I'll be glad to pay my share," Pat said.
     "I'll find out," Dale said.  "If you guys need the use of
one of the pickups, you are welcome to use the one you drive to
the field to haul your things."
     "Thanks," Michael responded, the others agreeing.
     Dale had them sign the timesheets, then they fixed their
cooler and thermos bottles and put them in the pickup.  John
drove them back to the new crew quarters.
     They hadn't been back there for several days and were
surprised to find shrubs planted in the yard and it was obvious
that grass seed had been planted.
     Ray was there and didn't waste any time volunteering to show
the guys around their new residence.  Ray was particularly taken
with John, thinking he was a real stud.  There was nothing wrong
with Michael, although   he didn't seem as self-assured as John.
Pat would be his third choice of the men, providing that any of
them might be gay and were interested in him.
     He gave them a quick tour.  Rafael and Migel were finishing
up the floor tile on the second floor.  He explained that the
wood baseboard had to be cut and nailed in place on the first and
second floors
     As Michael and Pat started to go to the basement, Ray
stopped John.  "Didn't you tell Dale that you had some
construction experience?"
     "A little bit.  Not a lot.  I helped my Dad and brother
build two rooms onto his house about two years ago.  I know how
to frame a wall and I've helped do some wiring and insulation and
sheetrock finishing.  I'm not very fast," John told him.
     "Would you be interested in coming to work for my company?"
Ray asked.
     John was hesitant.  "I don't know.  I like it here pretty
well.  The work isn't hard and the Williamson's and Dale are
great to work for.  They treat me really well and we're going to
have a nice place to live."
     "Well, the reason I'm asking is that with a little training
on your part, working with my crew to begin with, I could
probably make you a pretty good offer.  My company has gotten a
contract for a big project to build a warehouse and distribution
center that is almost 170,000 square feet that will be between
here and Austin.  Construction is going to start right after
Thanksgiving and I not only have to hire at least two more crews;
I need two or three more foremen, too.  You might be the person
for that job," Ray told him, watching his eyes for any sign of
interest.
     There was.  "I'm honored that you think I could do something
like that.  I've always been interested in construction, but in
the small town where I came from the local companies weren't
hiring inexperienced people, so I never had a chance to even
apply," John replied.
     About that time Michael and Pat came back up the stairs from
the basement, clearly impressed with what they had seen of the
house and the amount of space they would have when they moved.
     "We'd better get to work or Dale's going to come looking for
us," Pat said.
     "You guys go on to the pickup.  I'll be right out," John
told them.
     As they went out the door, Ray said, "Here's my card.  Call
me at home tonight after 6:30 p.m.  I'll take you out for a bite
to eat because I'd like to talk to you, see what you know about
construction, what training you need and if we could work out a
deal for you.  My company pays well and my two partners and I
want to expand the company.  This could be a great opportunity,"
Ray said offering his hand to John.
     "Thanks, Ray.  I'll think about this today and I'd like to
talk to you.  Your company certainly does quality work, even on a
place like this that basically is just for the hired-help to live
in."
     "Marty wouldn't allow anything to be built here that wasn't
quality construction.  This place wasn't built to last for 10
years and then fall down.  It will still be here and being used
50 years from now," Ray proudly said.  He clapped John on the
back as he walked him to the front door.
     "I'll look forward to hearing from you this evening," he
said as John walked to the pickup.
     * * * * *
     "What was all that about?" Michael questioned as John sat in
the drivers seat.
     "He was telling me that his company had received a large
contract for a large warehouse and distribution center.  He's
really excited about it and wanted to share the news," John said.
     "I wouldn't mind working for him," Michael stated.
     "Aren't you happy here?" Pat asked Michael.
     "Oh, yeah.  Except our work here is pretty much the same all
the time.  Construction work is a different thing on each
project," Michael said.
     They talked about that all the way to the field where they
were working.
     * * * * *
     Joey and his friends met for lunch in the cafeteria.  It was
almost like the gang he belonged to in Houston, where their
membership in the Boy Scouts held them together.  These fellows
were much more diverse in their interests and knowledge as they
came from different backgrounds.  It was interesting that Joey,
Hal and Forrest hadn't known Daniel, Bret and Bryce before, yet
all seemed to have become fast friends in a couple of days time.
     One of the topics of discussion was that Bret had been
accepted as a member of the men and boys choir at St. James.
Although Bryce's family attended Victory Temple on an infrequent
basis, he didn't understand why Bret wanted to attend church
elsewhere as his father was the church treasurer.
     Both Daniel and Hal had seen the previous evenings news
broadcast about Jimmy Bob being released from jail.  They didn't
understand the fine points of the law and seemed to think that
because he had been released, they weren't able to prove the
charges that had been made against him.
     Bret Junior was able to set them straight about what had
happened, calling it a fluke in the justice system.  Then he told
them that Jimmy Bob didn't have a place to stay because the
church owned the house where he'd lived, his wife had left him
for another man and that he had to borrow $100 from his father in
order to have a place to stay and something to eat.
     For once, Bryce didn't have anything to say.
     * * * * *
     Dale ate lunch with both Marty and Chris with Mrs. Wood
joining them against her protests that they probably wanted to
talk business.  Marty had told Chris that Dale and Craig were
looking into opening a new computer store with service and
software training, something not available elsewhere in
Williamsport as The Electronic Home offered only a couple of
informal training classes.
     They discussed the computer business and Marty was very
supportive and encouraging to Dale.  "Leland Stanton has contacts
all over the country.  I'll bet that he will have several names
for you to consider for both general manager and sales manager by
this time next week," Marty said.
     "But we haven't even met yet to talk about this.  I don't
know if I'll have enough money to even think about something like
this," Dale told them.
     "Let Leland put together a plan and prospectus.  He can lay
out a business plan, showing several business trends and what the
projected profits could be from each," Marty told him.
     "What about losses?  I don't want to put up everything I
have and lose it.  I know that's a risk of doing business, but if
we start small we can grow a little at a time," Dale asked as if
he was having second thoughts.
     "Dale, it's the small operations which can't offer anything
that are opening and closing.  Leland will tell you the same
thing I'm telling you.  You have to open with a good inventory in
a place that's clean and bright.  You have to have computer
equipment to sell and you have to service it.  You have to have
software packages to run on those computers and you have to offer
classes for people to attend to learn how to use them.  Those
customers are going to be the average people off the street, many
of who work in the business's you are going to sell computers and
software to.  They are going to learn to use the computer at
work, then think how great it would be to have one at home so
they can track their bank account and budget, write letters to
friends and relatives and have a calendar to schedule
appointments.
     "We've been hearing a lot about the Internet recently and I
think that's something that is going to grow by leaps and bounds
as people find out they can access almost any information they
want to know about."  Marty was enthused, almost to the point of
starting his own company.
     Dale was perplexed.  Marty had indicated that a small store
wouldn't work.  He was thinking that they could probably buy
inventory by borrowing money, using his money as a guarantee of
repayment along with the sales they could generate.  He knew they
would have to hire some good people, but again Marty made it
sound like Leland Stanton would do a nation-wide search to find
the right manager and sales manager.  He wasn't sure about this.
It's sounded like big business to him and he didn't have the
expertise and knowledge for that.
     I seemed like his good idea was snowballing even before he
could talk to a financial advisor.
     * * * * *
     Joey and Daniel managed to get the usage of one of the
computers during 6th hour in Mr. Korte's class.  He had read the
names of three people    that hadn't accessed his bulletin board
the previous day.  Daniel had covered for Joey.  One of the girls
had a problem with the WordStar tutorial.  She was sitting at the
computer next to Daniel and Joey.  Mr. Korte came to her
workstation, looked at the problem and told her that she was
probably trying to do something that wasn't possible with that
program.  He left to go back to his desk.
     Daniel rolled his chair around the low wall separating their
workstations.  "What are you trying to do?" Daniel asked her.
     "I changed the margins to make them wider and now the text
looks funny.  It has all these spaces between words that it
didn't have before."
     Daniel scrolled back up to the top of the document.  "Here's
the problem.  You have the margin justification set to full, so
both the left and right-hand margins are even.  Did you want that
to happen?"
     "No.  How did that happen?" she asked.
     "I don't know, but you may have accidentally hit a key you
didn't mean to push and the program made the changes."  Daniel
showed her how to take the formatting code out of the document
and the screen looked normal again.
     "That happens when you make the right margins even.  The
program insets extra spaces between the words to do what is
called right-justification, which is to make the right margin
even, like the left one.  When you take that code out, the
document returns to what I think you probably want to see."
     "Thanks.  I'd never have figured that out and Mr. Korte
isn't any help at all."
     "Glad to help you - and you're right, he isn't any help."
     When Daniel rolled his chair back to the workstation he and
Joey were using, Joey said, "I think you are the one who should
be teaching this class."
     "No way, Jose," Daniel laughed.  But I think we can add help
with WordStar to what we're not going to receive in this class."
     "You got that right," Joey agreed.
     The two boys worked together for the remainder of the class.
They made pretty good progress on the changes to the program to
compute interest, but the program kept halting after they typed
in the time period.  Finally, just before the bell, Joey
discovered that the line of code to calculate the date wasn't
right.  Unfortunately, the bell rang and that was the end of
their time to work.  Daniel copied the program to a floppy disk
and put it in his notebook.
     "I'll work on this tonight since you are involved with your
Dads," Daniel said.
     "Hey, guy, you don't have to do this.  I'd really like to
figure it out myself," Joey said.
     "That's fine.  Do you care if I work on it and if I find the
answer to the problem, I won't tell you?" Daniel asked.
     "Yeah. I guess that'd be cool.  I'd just kinda like to do as
much of this on my own as I can. it helps me understand what's
going on.
     "Not a problem," Daniel said.  "I'm interested in this,
too."
     "I know.  I don't have any problem with you working it.
But, if you find the answer, just don't tell me what it is unless
I ask you for it," Joey told him.
     "That's cool.  You might even come up with a different way
of working this than I do, so we're still helping each other."
     "Hey, man, I've got to get to Phys Ed.  Wonder what
punishment we're going to get today, other than running laps?"
Joey laughed.
     * * * * *
     When Joey arrived at home from school, he started on his
homework.  He didn't have a lot and it all came together pretty
quickly.  He was reading a chapter of "The Optimist's Daughter"
that was written by Eudora Welty when Craig came in.  Mitsy was
glad to see him, just as she had been glad to see Joey.  He sat
on the floor so he could play with her; rub her ears, chest and
stomach.
     "How was school today?" Craig asked.
     "Really good," Joey said.  "Daniel and I figured out some of
the things my program needs to compute interest so we can
complete it.  The program kept hanging up, but I think I found
the reason why.  Then the bell rang and I didn't get to finish
it."
     "Do you want us to buy you a computer right away so you can
work at home?" Craig asked.
     "Well, I'd like to have one, but they are expensive and I'd
like to know more about what they can do so we can buy the right
one," Joey replied.
     "You are being smart about that," Craig said.  "I need to
ask Sherry about using her computer.  Maybe she won't care if you
work at the office when she isn't there."
     "I don't want to do that.  What if I'd screw up something
she was doing in another program?"
     You have a point there.  Well, we'll see how our meeting
with Leland Stanton goes this evening.  Maybe you can borrow one
from our own store," Craig laughed.
     "Do you think that will happen?" Joey asked.  "I mean, it's
great that you guys are willing to help me, but it seems like an
excessive way to do it."
     "Don't worry about it.  Right now we are just investigating
things.  It might or might not happen, but this is just between
the three of us, right?" Craig asked.
     "Yeah, I won't say anything because I don't understand all
the mystery to begin with.  I think it's great that you are
trying to help.  If Mr. Korte was a good teacher, we wouldn't be
worrying about this, right?" Joey asked.
     "You are right there, but this will all work out and I
wouldn't worry about it for now," Craig told him.
     Dale arrived home at that time.  It was time to shower and
dress for their dinner and meeting with Leland Stanton.
     * * * * *
     Dale, Craig and Joey met Leland Stanton at the Lake Shore
Country Club for drinks and dinner.  Craig had been there before
with his parents as his partner, Don, had a "junior membership"
there and Craig had guest privileges.  Don had made arrangements
for Craig's father to play golf there a couple of times.
     Joey, of course, was excited about going to the country
club.  He had never been to one before and was anxious to see
what it was all about as it had always sounded really special
when some of his friends in Houston talked about going to one
with their parents.  He wasn't disappointed.
     Leland was waiting for them in the lounge area and greeted
them.  He hadn't met Craig before and liked what he saw.  He
thought Dale had good taste in men and the three of them
certainly made a handsome family.
     "Leland, I'd like you to meet my partner, Craig Bastian.
Craig, this is Leland Stanton," Dale said as all of them shook
hands with each other.
     Craig immediately liked Leland and was picking up some
vibrations on his gaydar.  They settled down for drinks and the
cocktail waitress put a couple of dishes of nuts on the table in
front of where they were sitting.
     "I've met your business partner, Don Albrecht," Leland told
Craig while waiting for their drinks to arrive.  "I've been
working with Warren Collins on his new shopping center and have
been in several meetings with he and Don."
     "We're not too far from being able to finalize some of the
design work.  The two 'anchor stores' have signed contracts with
Warren and we're working with them now on their needs.  It's a
long process, but we should have the project ready for
construction bids in another three weeks," Craig told him.
     Their drinks arrived about that time and Leland directed the
conversation to the proposed computer business.
     "I've done some research into your interests and
Williamsport should be a fertile market for a good computer
store.  There are only three places that are into computer sales
here.  Those are Best Buy, The Electronic Home and Sears.
     "Best Buy is only interested in sales and you might get a
clerk that's knowledgeable, or you might not.  Regardless, if you
have a service problem with the computer, it has to be shipped to
an authorized customer service center.  The other problem is that
they cannot customize a computer for you.  You buy what they have
to offer and then it's up to you to get someone else to install
and configure additional hardware, such as a modem.  And, that
could void any warranty you would get.
     "Sears is the same situation.  I went in there this
afternoon and the clerk couldn't tell me anything about the
merchandise other than what was on the card attached to it.
Again, no service department or training.
     "The Electronic Home is more of a real computer store, and I
talked to a fellow named Dennis today, also.  Computers are
something they've just added in the last six months.  The company
started as a distributor for appliances, microwaves,
refrigerators, stoves, televisions, home audio systems and things
like fax machines, telephones and they are a cell phone dealer.
They added computers, but carry very little software and have
limited training available to help purchasers of their
merchandise."
     "We've talked to Dennis," Dale said.
     "Yes, he's very frustrated as he'd like to expand that
portion of the business, but the owners are afraid of the market.
They don't think it really exists and they are more comfortable
selling appliances," Leland said.
     "Does the market exist?" Craig asked.
     "Definitely," Leland said.  "And it's going to really take
off and grow in the next few years.  There is all kinds of new
technology that's right around the corner.  Computers with
greater computing capacity, data storage and speed, a new
operating system called Windows that allows you to have more than
one program open at a time.  There are new printers that are
super fast and can print in color compared to what's available
today.  The business market is wide open and ready to buy
computers.  They don't know what they want or need, so that's
where you need good, knowledgeable help for sales, service and
installation.
     "In turn, those who learn to use computers in their working
place are going to want them at home, too."
     Dale had a question.  "You talked about new technology.
What's going to happen to the computers people have already
bought?  What do people do with them?"
     "Ah. that's the beauty of the business.  Upgrade, upgrade,
upgrade.  People always want the newest model with all the bells
and whistles.  They don't necessarily need them, but some of them
want to be able to say they have the latest and greatest of
anything, whether it be a car, set of golf clubs or computer.
The market is self-generating."
     "You make it sound like people are going to be standing in
line clamoring to buy a computer," Craig laughed.
     Joey was sitting there, taking in all of the conversation.
It sounded good to him.
     "Computers are becoming more reliable and are going to keep
getting better, too.  The failure rate of chips is declining as
they are building them better.  Everything is getting smaller so
now we have laptop computers that are more powerful than some of
the desktop models sold a couple of years ago," Leland enthused.
     "And all this because we want to help our son ace his
computer lab class," Craig laughed.
     Joey was sitting there with a big grin on his face.
     "You realize that none of the three of us know anything
about computers, don't you?" Dale asked Leland.
     "So, can the owner of the GM dealership personally overhaul
your transmission?" Leland asked them.
     They laughed together.
     "Look, I have more research to do on this, but the market is
there.  The people you need to run the business are out there; we
just have to find them.
     "But I think we are talking about a lot of money here to be
able to do this right and we don't have that much cash to put
into a venture like this.  I was thinking about a small store
that has computers for sale, can service them and train people to
use them," Dale said.  Craig nodded his head in agreement.
     "How about if I told you that I've found start-up money for
you?  The people providing the funds are willing to take the
risk, then allow you to buy their interest out as the business
becomes established.  They are willing to back you, but you have
to agree to find an aggressive manager who can also make a lot of
money in commissions and bonuses.  You have to find a good sales
manager and establish a service department.  It's possible to get
the approval to become a service center for some of the large
companies, too," Leland said.
     "This just about sounds too good to be true," Craig said.
     By this time the cocktail waitress was back with a refill of
peanuts and they ordered another round of drinks.
     "I don't know.  I don't like to risk losing someone else's
money," Dale said, hesitating.
     "Dale, there are a lot of people out there who are willing
to advance money for ventures like this.  Some make a lot of
money by buying out a company after it gets started, then
reselling it to someone else.  These people have made a lot of
money over the years doing this.  If you fail, and there is no
reason to believe that will happen, they write it off their
income taxes as an investment that failed.  Believe me, a half
million dollars or so isn't going to hurt them.  They'll strike
it rich on the next deal," Leland told them.
     Dale and Craig were astounded.  Joey didn't understand all
that was being said, but he knew it involved a lot of money.
     "Exactly what kind of money are you talking about here?"
Dale asked.  "I mean, all of a sudden we've switched from talking
about us using our own money to start a small business to using
someone else's to start a large business."
     "That's right."  Leland pulled some papers out of his
folder.
     "Here's what I've put together.  You need a store in an area
that has a lot of foot traffic, with plenty of parking.  I'd stay
away from the mall, but there are several locations in strip
centers that would meet your needs.  The store needs to be bright
and have an 'open design', Craig would know about that, and
plenty of display space for the products.  You need room for an
adequate service department and inventory.  You'll need a
classroom with equipment for those taking classes to use and
you'll need offices for the manager, the sales manager and a
general office area."
     Dale and Craig looked at each other.  This was bigger than
anything they envisioned.
     "There are a number of reliable suppliers of hardware and
software.  I would suggest that you carry as many name brands as
you can signup.  You're talking about IBM as they are realizing
that they are missing a large chunk of business by withholding
merchandise to good stores.  The other companies are Hewitt-
Packard, Compaq and Texas Instruments.
     "I would also suggest that the service department 'custom
build' computers for businesses and individuals.  There is a lot
of money in that area and you can put your own name on the
product and guarantee it with a longer warranty than you can get
from the others without buying an extended contract.  Generally
if there is a problem it's a matter of replacing a board and
that's not expensive.  You can't be liable for a hard disk crash,
but those are becoming more and more reliable all the time.  Turn
around time on repairs is your big selling point as they don't
have to pack up the computer and ship it somewhere, then wait for
it to be repaired and shipped back."
     He handed each of them a copy of the paper he was looking
at.
     "First of all is remodeling, shelving and decor.  Then you
have rent and utilities, which are lights, heat and air
conditioning and telephone.  Furniture is a big item, although
you would be carrying desks and chairs, so would be able to get
them for wholesale cost.  Merchandise is a big item, but you will
have a line of credit so that's not a big outlay of cash to begin
with and sales will take care of cash flow there.
     "The next expense is salaries for a manager, sales manager
and service manager.  All three of these people should be on a
commission over-ride and a bonus plan.  Sales Associates need to
be well trained and paid an hourly wage plus commission with
sales goals that result in an additional bonus for them.  You
have to have good people and give them the incentive to sell
merchandise.  That's where the majority of your sales will come
from - generated inside the store.
     "Selling equipment for a school computer lab will generate
volume, but not a great deal of profit.  But, it gets your name
in front of the students and generates secondary sales for
computers for their homes."
     Dale was reading the figures, as was Craig and Joey.
     "You're projecting $500 thousand as start up costs?" Dale
gulped.
     "Plus a line of credit for another $100 thousand.  You might
not ever need it, but it helps your credit rating and makes it
easier to buy merchandise," Leland told them.
     "What about instructors?" Craig asked.
     "They are hired on a contract basis, but they generally have
to be trained.  It is fairly easy to find college students and
teachers who need to augment their pay.  Again, pay them a bonus
if they can help generate a sale."
     Dale was reading on down the page.  "You are projecting that
we can repay the loan in five years?"
     "Actually, less," Leland said.  "But I wouldn't do that as
it could put too much strain on your cash flow.  The investors
would take a look at the financial statements every month.  The
people I have lined up are easy to work with and not demanding,"
Leland said.
     "May I ask if it's anyone we know?" Dale questioned.
     "No.  Most investors like this operate through a venture
capital agreement with a bank department such as mine.  They rely
on me to put together deals that are beneficial to people like
you fellows and themselves.  I manage their investments, but they
get to see how their money is working for them.  It's not a lot
different than them buying stock in large corporation, however,
they are investing their money locally and that helps
Williamsport."
     By this time they had finished their drinks and the Maitre
'd came to take them to their table.
     The specialty of the kitchen on Thursday nights was prime
rib.  They were early enough that there was plenty of "the rare
side of the roast" still available.  Craig marveled that Joey
wanted his portion "rare" also.  Most young people couldn't abide
the idea, but he remembered that he had an appreciation for beef
cooked properly at an early age, too.  It just tasted better.
     Leland was taken with the three men and wished that he could
find out more about them, but with Joey along, didn't feel he
could be too inquisitive.  He knew that Dale and Craig were a
couple and that Joey was "their son", but not knowing what Joey
might know, he didn't want to ask direct, pointed questions.
     He hoped that his presentation and discussion hadn't scared
Dale and Craig off from wanting to open a computer store, but
dammit, they needed to know what it was all about, or he'd be
shirking his duties as an investment counselor at the bank.  He
knew he could make this work and make a lot of money for them,
but he didn't want them to feel forced into this business
decision.
     Leland admired Marty and his father.  They were very astute
businessmen and very wealthy, even if they never invested another
dime of their money into a "venture start up company".  Marty had
advised him to give Dale and Craig whatever was needed (up to
$600 thousand) to make this work.  How could he convince them
this was a "win-win" situation for them?  One that could make
them very wealthy.
     * * * * *
     After thanking Leland for the dinner and his business
advice, the three adults and Joey parted company for the evening.
     "Dad's?" Joey asked as they started down the street.  "I
didn't understand all of what he said, but it sounded like
someone wants you to open a computer store and is willing to give
you the money to do it."
     "That's the way I read it, too," Dale said.  "I'm just not
comfortable with risking someone else's money.  It's bad enough
to risk mine, but after hearing what Leland said this evening, we
don't have enough of our own money to even consider something
like this."
     Craig broke into the conversation.  "I'd feel a lot better
if I knew who was willing to back us, but I know there are a lot
of wealthy people in Williamsport who can take a risk.  The only
thing I don't understand is why they don't want part ownership of
the company."
     "I agree.  It seems to me that we would be dealing with
silent partners who are known only to Leland and that it's Leland
we have to trust to guide us," Dale told them.
     "That's the way I read it," Craig said. "Why don't you talk
to Marty and see what his thoughts are on this?"
     "We talked a little about it today at lunch.  He's
enthusiastic about this, to the point I thought he was ready to
open a computer store himself," Dale said.
     "We have a lot of thinking and talking to do.  Do you care
if I talk to Dad about this?" Craig asked.
     "No, I was thinking about that earlier this evening.  He
certainly is in a position to know more about this than us.  It
wouldn't be too late to call him when we get home, would it?"
Dale asked.
     "No.  It will only be about 9 o'clock.  They always watch
the 10 p.m. news, then go to bed, Craig said.
     * * * * *
     Frank and Doris were thrilled to hear from Craig, Dale and
Joey.  They all were on speakerphones and had a good visit.
     When Dale posed the question to Frank about the computer
store and their "blind" investors, Frank assured them that it was
the way business was conducted in 1990.  "If you have a person
from the bank on your side, watching out for you, you have
nothing to worry about," Frank told them.
     They talked a little, and then Frank posed the question.
"Would you guys feel any better if I put up the money to help you
in this?"
     "No!"  Dale was emphatic.
     "Why not?  It sounds like a good deal to me?" Frank told
them.
     "Because you are a relative," Dale said.  Craig agreed.
     "Then you just answered your own question," Frank replied.
     "How so?" Craig asked.
     "Under the terms the investors have come up with, you don't
know who they are.  That means you don't have to look anyone in
the face and say either, 'I'm successful' or 'I failed you'.
This is the way business is done right now.  It's a drastic
departure from when I first entered the business world, but maybe
it's better.  If the investors have enough money to take a chance
on you, they have more money than they will ever be able to
spend.  By the same token, they don't seem to be as greedy as
most who are in a position to help men like you."
     Joey, of course, didn't understand any of this, but it was
an interesting discussion, regardless.
     "Look, if you can get a copy of an agreement from these
people, fax it to my office and I'll run it by one of the
partners.  But, it looks to me like you guys can only win on this
one," Frank said.
     "Thanks, Dad," Craig said.  Dale and Joey echoed their
appreciation.
     * * * * *
     John called Ray at home about 6:40 p.m.  Nolan was attending
an evening class that met from 6:30 to 9:00 on Tuesday and
Thursday evenings and John usually picked him up at the end of
the class instead of at his dorm.
     "You haven't eaten yet?" Ray asked, hoping John remembered
he'd invited him to go out.
     "No," John said.
     "Good.  I told you I'd take you out.  I just got home and
need to take a shower.  Why don't you come to my house in about
twenty minutes," Ray told him.
     "That's fine.  Where do you live?
     "2907 Morningside Court.  Do you know where that is?"
     "Not for sure, isn't it out in the northeast part of town?"
John asked him.
     "Yes.  Take Central to 28th Street; turn right and go about
6 blocks to Morningside.  Make a left turn and it's the third
house on the left side of the street," Ray directed him.
     "I can find that with no problem.  See you about 7 o'clock,"
John responded, looking at his watch.
     Ray had worked hard all day and had been on the go
continually since picking up Rafael and Migel before 8 a.m. to
take them to the Bar-W.  He'd had meetings with two architects on
a project that was coming up and had also been to the
construction sites that his partners, Keith and Andy, were
supervising.  He hoped that John had enough experience and was
interested in working for them.
     He stripped out of his sweaty clothes, hurriedly showering
and was dressed except for putting on a shirt when the doorbell
rang.  He opened the door to let John in, shaking hands with him.
     "Make yourself comfortable on the divan.  Would you like a
beer?" he asked.
     "Sure, sounds good," John replied, eying Ray.  John could
tell that Ray's great body came from hard work, just like his
own.  Ray was moderately hairy with a goodly amount of brown hair
covering his pecs and upper chest, narrowing to a thin strip
running down the middle, where it spread into a thicker amount
surrounding his navel and going on below his belt.
     Ray disappeared into the kitchen area and was right back
with two bottles of Coors.  He had already removed the caps and
handed one of the bottles to John.  "Hope Coors is okay," he told
John.
     "Great.  It's usually what I buy."  John was looking around
Ray's living room.  His house was small, but appeared to be
fairly new construction in an older neighborhood.  The
furnishings indicated that only a man lived there, although it
appeared the furniture was expensive and well cared for.
     "Nice place," John told him.
     "Thanks.  The house that was originally on this lot was
badly burnt in a fire about 4 years ago.  The insurance company
didn't come up with a satisfactory settlement, so about a year
later I bought the property, tore the house down and built this
one."
     "I assume your company built it?" John said.
     "Actually, no.  They did part of the work, like digging the
basement and pouring the walls and floor.  I did most of the work
myself, but had help when I needed it.  We had too much other
work for me to have them build this place for me."
     "I like the open floor plan," John said.
     "I designed the house myself.  There is a full basement,
then this floor has a bathroom, living room, dining area and
kitchen.  Upstairs is a loft arrangement with two bedrooms and
two bathrooms.  There is a deck off the kitchen and dining area
and also one on the second level.  It's really not a family home
as such, but it works okay for me," Ray told John.
     "Looks to me like you did a good job in planning it."
     "Let me put a shirt on, then I'll be ready to go," Ray said.
     John watched Ray go up the stairs.  He thought he filled his
Levis well.  Obviously, Ray wasn't married.  Hmmm.
     * * * * *
     Later when Dale and Craig were in bed, they were holding
each other in their arms, nuzzling the other, feeling the other
become aroused, but in truth neither were thinking about sex at
the moment.
     "What did you think of Leland's presentation?" Dale asked.
     "He makes it all sound so simple.  That's the scary part.
I'd feel better if I knew more about how a business is run and
could actually step in and run it if I had to, but I'm totally
ignorant on this matter.
     "I know.  Me too.  It's kind of like we are the people in
the middle.  Someone is loaning us the money and we're giving it
to somebody else and telling them to make it multiply so we can
pay back the loan."
     "Dad's right. the part about not knowing who the investors
are.  Somehow, it doesn't seem to be quite as much risk when you
don't know who's supplying the money," Craig said.
     "Yeah, we can't look them in the eye, but they sure know who
we are.  I'll always feel that someone is watching over my
shoulder, waiting for me to slip up, then stepping in and taking
it away from us," Dale told his lover.
     "I was just counting up the number of people who could
possibly be working for us," Craig said.  "It's a little
daunting, knowing you are responsible for paying them and keeping
them happy."
     "How many people?" Dale asked.
     "Let's see.  The General Manager, the Sales Manager, the
Service Manager, someone to work in the office to cashier, answer
the phone, type contracts, etc.  Then I assume we're going to
have to have at least 5 people to work in-store sales, some
people in the service department. at least one to begin with.
That's ten people already and that just gets the doors of the
store open."
     "If we are successful, then we start adding more staff and
the numbers go up from there," Dale told him.
     "Yeah, we'd be helping the economy of Williamsport real
fast," Craig said.
     "Do you know what?" Dale asked.
     "No, what?"
     "It would be less risk to hire a personal computer tutor for
Joey," Dale giggled, attacking Craig's lips with his tongue.
     That was the end of the discussion.  Business quickly gave
way to pleasure as they worked on bringing the other to a roaring
climax.  They made love to the other, taking their time,
exploring the others erogenous zones, having a great time doing
it.  Finally Craig worked himself around to where he was laying
on his back with Dale in full-body contact on top of him.  Using
their mouths, fingers and grinding their crotches together, Dale
erupted first, triggering Craig's climax.
     They hadn't put towels on the bed, so had a mess to clean
up, plus themselves.  They could put towels on the bed and sleep
on top of them.  A quick shower took care of the cum that was all
over their chests and groins.
     * * * * *
     Shortly after Tom arrived home from school, there was a
telephone call from Jeremy Houser at the Juvenile Hall in Austin.
     "Is this Eddie?" the voice said.
     "No, this is Tom."
     "Sorry, Tom, this is Jeremy Houser in Austin.  I've not
talked to you and Eddie on the phone enough to recognize your
voices."
     "That's not a problem.  I understand.  Eddie won't be home
from school for close to another 45 minutes.  Is that too late
for him to call you?"
     "Actually, no.  In my business I'm on call 24-hours a day.
You and Eddie expressed an interest in helping young boys and I
have a case where I need a home pretty quickly for a 15-year old
boy.  He came out to his parents yesterday and his father beat
him and then threw him out of their house.  He went to a
neighbor, who took him to the emergency room because he was
bleeding.  He has two cracked ribs and a lot of bruising on his
face and torso.  The hospital kept him overnight to make sure
there were no other problems, but he's been released and is in
Juvenile Hall right now."
     "Geeze," Tom said.  What did they do to the father?  Isn't
that a case of abuse?"
     "He's out on bail.  The family has a lot of money and the
guy is a respected business man here in Austin, so they probably
won't do anything to him, unfortunately."
     "That makes me sick," Tom told Jeremy.
     "I know.  It does me, also, but our hands are tied for the
most part," he said.
     "What can we do?" Tom asked, still surprised Jeremy was
calling them.
     "Look, I know that you guys haven't met with my boss or been
through the workshops, but truthfully, they haven't been
scheduled yet.  Based on your friendship and recommendation from
Chuck and having spent an evening with you last week, I would
like to place the boy with you - that is - if you still want to
help."
     "Of course we do," Tom said.  "What do we have to do?"
     "We've worked through the boy's mother and the neighbor who
took him to the emergency room.  The mother has packed two large
suitcases of his clothes along with a couple of boxes of personal
things and that stuff is at the neighbors now.
     "I need to tell you that the boy is from an otherwise good
home and has been attending a private 'Christian School' here in
Austin.  He realizes that if you take him he won't be able to
attend school there while he's with you, but is actually looking
forward to going to a 'real school', as he puts it.
     "Do we need to come pick him up?" Tom asked.
     "No, I need to get a little paperwork accomplished for my
boss and the Juvenile Judge to sign, but I could bring him to you
his evening, probably about 7 o'clock if that would work for you
fellows."
     "I don't even need to talk to Eddie about this.  We've
agreed this is something we want to do.  I guess we never thought
it would happen immediately," Tom told him.
     "I understand perfectly and I appreciate your being able to
do this on such short notice."
     "How long is he likely to be with us?" Tom asked.
     "That will depend on his father and if he should change his
mind.  The judge will probably order counseling, at the very
least, but that is no guarantee that it will help him.  The boy's
mother seems to be willing to help, but she's involved with
'volunteer work' as she calls it and the three children seem to
be dependent on a live-in housekeeper to see to it that they get
to the various activities they are involved in and that they are
fed and clothed," Jeremy said.
     "That's sad," Tom sighed.
     "Yes, children are the minor inconvenience of being
married," Jeremy said.
     Tom told him, "It's too bad that the ones of us that really
want them have such a tough time making it happen."
     "That's what I hoped you might say, Tom.  You and Eddie seem
to be the ideal gay parents and I have a feeling that this will
work out for both of you and for Matthew, too.
     "Anyway, I'll be there with Matthew about 7 o'clock or
shortly afterward.  I'll have the paperwork you will need to get
him enrolled in school, vouchers for expenses you might incur
until we can get a card for you.  And, most importantly, I'll
bring the book that you guys would receive at our workshop."  He
laughed, "Guess you can call it a 'hands-on learning experience',
but I know you fellows will do okay with this."
     "Thanks for the vote of confidence," Tom said.  "We'll do
everything we can to help Matthew.  I need to ask one question,
though."
     "What's that?" Jeremy questioned.
     "How is Matthew's attitude?  Is he hostile toward everyone?"
     "Not that I can tell.  Actually he seems to be pretty
relieved that this has happened.  I think, from what he's told
me, that this has been building for quite awhile and now that
it's finally out in the open he feels it can be dealt with
instead of him feeling he was going to be caught, which is what
happened.  What he wasn't prepared for was his father's reaction
and his mother's indifference.
     "Listen, I've got a ton of paperwork to push through the
system in the next hour and a couple of things need the signature
of the Juvenile Judge.  I'll see you guys as close to 7 o'clock
as we can make it.  I really appreciate the two of you being
willing to take this on and I know you will do fine."
     "Thanks, Jeremy.  We're looking forward to seeing you again
and to meet Matthew."
     * * * * *
     The connection was broken.  Tom stood in the kitchen,
wondering if they were prepared for this.  He'd forgotten to ask
Jeremy if they would have eaten, but regardless, he and Tom had
to eat.
     As he was getting things for their evening meal out of the
refrigerator, Eddie arrived home.  He greeted him with a kiss and
a grin on his face that stretched almost from ear to ear.
     "Hi, Daddy!" he greeted Eddie.
     "What?" Eddie questioned, wrinkling his brow.
     "Jeremy Houser called just a little bit ago.  He has a 15-
year old boy named Matthew who came out to his parents last
night.  His father beat him, cracking a couple of ribs and
bruising him on his face and body.  Then he kicked him out.  The
boy went to a neighbor, who took him to the emergency room.
Charges were filed against the father, but the family is rich and
he is out on bail.  The boy was in the hospital overnight and now
is in Juvenile Hall in Austin.  Jeremy needs a place to put him
and they will be here around 7 o'clock."
     "But. we haven't been to their workshop yet.  What if we
can't do this?" Eddie asked, as much in horror as in surprise.
     "Jeremy told us that he'd gotten his supervisor to approve
us based on his having spent an evening with us, plus Charles'
recommendation.
     Eddie looked at his watch.  "We have less than 2 hours to be
ready, don't we?"
     "That's about right.  I forgot to ask, but I assume the boy
will have had dinner, but we have to feed ourselves, anyway," Tom
said.
     "Yeah, right there.  I'm hungry.  I didn't really have time
for lunch again.  Our meeting ran over and by the time I got to
the cafeteria all I could get was a sandwich and a salad.  What
are we having?" he asked.
     "Meatloaf, baked potatoes, a salad and green beans.  Why
don't you get comfortable and make sure the second bedroom and
bath is ready.  Matthew might as well take that room and have his
own bathroom."
     "I don't need to clean up, except to wash my face and hands,
but I'll put on some other clothes."  He and Tom exchanged a
kiss.  "Wonder if we'll still be able to kiss each other whenever
we want?" Eddie asked.
     "I don't know," Tom said.  Jeremy said he seems to have a
good attitude.  He's been attending a private 'Christian school'
and is looking forward to going to a 'real school' as he told
him."
     "I just happened to think that we've got 2-dozen people
coming here Saturday night for a Halloween party," Eddie said,
sounding worried.
     "That's the perfect thing to have happen.  All our friends
can meet him and he can see that we have a good mix of gay and
straight friends that accept us for who we are," Tom told him.
     "Yeah, guess you are right except there is only one other
person his age that will be here and that's Joey.  Do you think
we should invite someone else his age?" Eddie asked.
     "That might be a good idea.  How about Bret?  He already
knows some of the people who will be here and he and Joey seem
have become good friends pretty quickly.  Except we don't know if
either of them are gay," Tom said.
     "Doesn't make any difference.  They will be accepting of him
and are guys who can introduce him to other kids their age, plus
give him some support," Eddie said.  He was excited.
     "Why don't you call and talk to his father and find out if
they would approve of Bret coming to the party?" Tom suggested.
     "Okay," Eddie said, giving Tom another kiss as he picked up
the phone.
     * * * * *
     "Beth, this is Eddie Thompson. Just fine, how are you?
Good.  I'm glad to hear that. The reason I'm calling is that the
officer from the Juvenile Court in Austin is bringing a young
fellow to stay with us for a while.  His father beat him pretty
badly and kicked him out of their house.  He's 15 and will be
going to school here in Williamsport.  That's right.  Anyway, Tom
and I are having a big Halloween party and wanted to invite some
other kids that are about his age and wondered if you would allow
Bret Junior to attend.  It's a costume party and will be at our
house at 6:30 on Saturday evening.  We're serving a buffet dinner
at 7:30.  Yes.  There will be about 2-dozen people here,
including the principal of the high school and his wife.  (He
added that statement to let her know there would be women
attending, also).  Well, if Bret Senior has any questions, have
him call me, but we'd love for Bret Junior to attend as this boy
needs friends and we thought he and Joey Sullivan could help
introduce him to others in their high school.  Okay, thanks Beth.
We'll look forward to Bret Junior being at the party.  Yes,
you're very welcome.  Goodbye to you, too."
     Eddie looked at Tom.  "I think it's all set.  She thought it
would be okay with Bret Senior but I told her to have him call if
he had any questions."
     "Great, I hope they allow him to attend.  He'll be a good
person for Matthew to know.  I just hope the three of them like
each other," Tom said.
     "I do, too, but we can only help Matthew make the contacts.
The rest is up to him and Joey and Bret," Eddie told him.
     "Hon, you're going to make an excellent Dad for this guy."
     "So are you, Tom.  So are you," Eddie said, giving him a toe-
tingling kiss that almost made him drop the bowl of meatloaf he
was mixing up.
     * * * * *
     (To be continued)
     * * * * *
     AUTHOR'S NOTE:  Thanks for all the feedback on previous
chapters.  I would appreciate your comments, criticism,
suggestions, and anything else that you would care to say.  All
Email will be answered.  If you wish to receive e-mail
notification of subsequent postings, please let me know by
sending your request to the following e-mail address:
TulsaDriller7@aol.com
     Thanks for Paul Daventon for his help in proofing and
suggestions.  Also to "Joey" for his comments and help, too.
Have a great July 4th Holiday.