An Orphan

AN ORPHAN By Lee Mariner

July 2002

DISCLAIMER: This story is a gay fantasy depicting homosexual acts between young men. IF YOU ARE NOT OF LEGAL AGE TO READ THIS STORY OR YOU DO NOT APPROVE OF SUCH MATERIAL, PLEASE LEAVE.

All characters are fictional and in no way related to any person or persons, living or deceased.

PLEASE AVOID ENGAGING IN UNPROTECTED SEX, IT CAN LEAD TO LIFE THREATING CONSEQUENCES.

This work is copyrighted by the author and may not be reproduced in any form without the specific written consent of the author. It is assigned to the Nifty Archives under the provisions of their submission guidelines but it may not be copied or archived on any other site without the consent of the author.

Copyright: 2002 - Author: Lee Mariner - All Rights are Reserved.

Mariner23502@hotmail.com

Chapter #20:

The Red Fox Steakhouse sat back from the street, nestled in a grove of trees on well-landscaped grounds. Spotlights had been strategically located so they would highlight the best features of the grounds and building. Impressive, I thought, the kind of place where you could relax with friends and enjoy a good dinner and drinks.

Cody parked the SUV in a space not far from the entrance. The main restaurant building was built in the style of an English Tudor Manor House and was on a slight rise with three tiers of flagstone steps leading down from the entrance, covered by a continuous canopy. Guests could drive up under the canopy in inclement weather and get in their cars.

Leaning forward just as Cody parked, Robert said.

"The evening is on Ricksford, Ricksford and Luskins tonight so don't go reaching in your pockets."

I glanced at Stewart as we were getting out of the SUV.

"He can do that Clyde, you're his client and I bet he talks about your case making it legal."

"He doesn't have to do that though." I said as we were walking to the entranceway.

"Why not? He wouldn't do it if it weren't all right. It's okay when an attorney is discussing business with a client over dinner."

"Well, you guys know more about that then I do, it just makes me feel a little funny, that's all."

"Get used to it Clyde, lots of things are probably going to be funny but, hey, your almost a millionaire and things will change."

I guess what Stu said was right but it was still a little difficult getting used too. I was beginning to think that my uncle hadn't done me any favors but then I wouldn't have met Stewart if he hadn't.

Dinner was relaxed and the food was excellent. Stu's prediction was right, Robert discussed some of what we had discussed with Martineze and his confirmation of things we suspected Dickson was involved in. He left out certain points such as his threat about turning everything we had over to the District Attorney's office or our appointments with Dickson and Mr. Branston.

Both Cody and Adam were wide eyed listening to Robert. Devon's hand was under the table and I suspected either resting on his thigh or in Robert's crotch. Either way, it was obvious from the way he looked at Robert he was becoming more attached.

On the way back to the hotel, we invited Cody and Adam for a drink but they declined, excusing themselves because of early classes. A young attendant came out as we pulled up at the entrance and opened the doors for us and then drove the SUV to its parking space. Cody and Adam went to where they had parked waving as they left.

"Two damned nice guys Clyde. Good thing you and Stu ran into them, they have been a big help."

"Your right Rob but it I think it started out to be something more then a friendship"

"Oh!! How's that if I may ask?" Rob said with a twinkle in his eye.

"For now, let's say Stu and I learned a lot and leave it at that."

"And we have another lawyer in the family Stu, Clyde is learning. How about a drink before we go up, the bar is still open?"

Rob was right but I didn't think the bartender was all that happy seeing us walk in and sitting at a table not the bar. He had a look of exasperation on his face as he moved a bit slowly to take our orders. I could understand standing behind a bar on your feet and being tired but this guy acted like he wished he were somewhere else.

"What's this guy's problem Devon?" I asked.

"Cliff never has like the second shift but Martineze won't put him back on the first. He's a good bartender and just does enough so that he won't lose his job. Good bartender's are hard to find."

"Hell, I don't care how hard they are to find, I'd can his ass in a heartbeat. With his attitude, the hotel could lose business."

"It's not all his fault Clyde. Martineze hired him for the first shift. Cliff is married and has a daughter. His wife is not happy being left alone at night with the baby. That didn't make any difference to Martineze and when he put the make on Cliff, he got pissed at being turned down. Martineze switched him and Cliff has been stuck."

"Why didn't he file a sexual harassment suit against him Devon?"

"He did Robert but his lawyer told him that without substantiation it would be his word against his."

"His lawyer was right on that point. It's one thing to make the claim but proving it is another matter."

"Is he really any good Dev?"

"Oh sure, you couldn't have asked for a better man when he worked first. There are two people working the floor on the first and he handled the bar like he was born to make drinks. Some guys like the 2nd since they make more tips handling it by themselves. I've always thought we should have unmarried men working the late shifts. Married men if they want those shifts but otherwise single men."

Ironically, as we were talking the girl from the front desk walked up with a note for Robert, almost as if she was making Devon's point about men working the later shifts.

Robert told us the note was from Dickson confirming our appointment in the morning. Taking a sip from my drink a few thought were running through my head about the Branston.

"Rob, do you really think we might get the Branston?"

"I'd bet my law degree on it Clyde if everything goes as I think it will. Mr. Branston seems like he wants to sell or he wouldn't have been talking with Dickson and accepted good faith money. Why do you ask?

"If we do, there will be some changes made. I have a few ideas about the operation of the hotel. The Branston might be top notch in Lincoln but I think it's living on its past reputation. Have you looked around the place? It needs a good face lifting. The uniforms are shoddy, hallways need a fresh coat of paint and some plaster work, carpets need replacing, several things need changing, improving!!"

"Well Clyde, old buddy. You may be in a position to do all of that before much longer. Right now though, I'm just a little tired. What say we call it a night?"

When we left the bar, I put a pretty good tip on the table and Stu looked at me, grinning, when he saw it.

There were a lot of things going through my mind about things I wanted to do but couldn't until this mess over the estate was settled. I was damned glad I had Robert with us though; Stu and I could never have handled things like he could.

The elevator stopped at our floor and Stu and I got off, Rob and Devon stayed on.

"See you in the morning. Don't forget the appointment at 9:30." Rob said, a twinkle in his eye as the doors slid shut.

"Damn Stu, he sure isn't acting like he's married."

"He isn't, that's just a piece of paper. Right now he is happier then I have seen him in a long, long time. I don't think he was as tired as he said. How about you? You tired?"

"Not really but I don't want another drink." I said, opening our door and locking it after Stu followed me in.

He pinned me against the door, his blue eyes bright and I could feel his passion and mine between us probing.

Kissing me, he leaned back a little pushing our groins tighter. "I think I have what you might like." Stu whispered licking his lips.

"I'll bet you do lover." I said my arms pulling him tighter to me, kissing his soft lips tongues twisting, dueling.

Clothing was falling on the floor piece by piece. Watching the muscles of Stu's back rippling, the muscles bunching across his broad shoulders sent a chill through me. My cock was steel hard by the time we reached the bedroom, my breathing becoming heavier. The muscles in his smooth round ass cheeks contracted as he kicked his slacks and briefs aside spinning around and facing me.

His eyes gleamed, chest heaving, expanding thick breast muscles. Hard abdominal muscles tightened as he posed teasing me, his thick cock jutting from the thick protective mass of pubic hair like a steel lance waving in front of him ready for battle.

Dropping to my knees, slacks still around my ankles, I took his lance deep in my mouth grabbing his tight cheek muscles with both hands. His pre-cum was ambrosia covering my tongue and I tightened my lips sucking, forcing his cock to give up the delicious liquid of the gods, this god I loved and worshiped on my knees at his feet.

Stu moaned over me, leaning forward, holding my head tight thrusting his cock deep and tight. I inhaled the intoxicating scent of sweat mixed with cologne, my senses reeling from the passionate electricity charging my body. Pre-cum flowed freely between my legs a fire building in my groin when Stu pulled his cock from my resisting lips.

Stu lifted me with his hands under my arms, kissing my lips and whispering, "not that way, I want you too."

Kicking my loafers and slacks off. Pre-cum still dripped from the engorged head of my cock and Stu's. My chest was heaving and my heart felt like it would burst from my chest. He lay waiting for me and my passion for him only increased, his gorgeous body gleaming in the soft light, his eyes flashing as I hovered over him.

Lowering myself slowly, I drove my cock between his legs pushing his balls up to the base of his cock hearing him groan as my body covered his. It almost felt like I was sinking inside of Stu's body, the ecstasy of feeling his soft warm flesh blending with mine.

All I could think of was how much I loved him and as if he felt what I was feeling and knew what I was thinking, he whispered in my ear. "Do you know how much I love you Clyde?'

Lifting my head, looking into the passionate cobalt blue of his eyes I brushed his lips with mine, "My life belongs to you Stu, all of me is yours."

"Then take me Clyde, blend our lives into one." His voice was soft, quiet almost pleading.

Leaning back, I ran my hands over his magnificently toned torso, feeling the power swelling, spreading under my fingers, that power lifting his legs over my shoulders. Moving my hips closer and grasping his strong muscled thighs with my hands, I pulled him closer still, the length of my turgid cock sliding between his legs over his balls and lay between his balls as if resting in a cradle. He moaned softly when I kissed and nibbled on the soft interior of his thighs, his stomach muscles tightening.

Taking his cock in hand, I spread the pre-cum over its blood engorged head and then over mine mixing them into a slick lubricant.

Stu was completely relaxed when the head of my cock touched his anus as I leaned forward pressing his thighs against his chest. He moaned slightly, a silent "oh" formed on his lips, his chest expanding as he inhaled, sucking air deep into his lungs.

His sphincter relaxed accepting my cock as I increased the pressure and then a sudden snapping pressure gripped me just behind the head of my cock and Stu groaned deeper in his chest, his eyes closed. I felt the pressure of his sphincter relax and slowly sank my cock deeper in his rectum groaning as I did. I could feel my cock sinking deeper as if in the bowels of a boiling volcano and the heat spreading upwards through the thick juggernaut my cock had become as it filled his tight channel. The intense heat spread over and through me, consuming me and it was as if I was floating in a fog of euphoric pleasure, joining his body and mine becoming one in the intense passionate love we both felt.

Sweat was pouring from both of us as I set my hips at a steady piston motion sliding in and out of his hot rectal passage. Stu's eyes were closed, a look of utter pleasure on his face and every time my swollen cock brushed his prostate his cock would surge upwards sending a thick stream of pre-cum over his stomach. He groaned lifting his hips to meet my downward thrust the look of the thrilling pleasure he was feeling intensifying.

We both were close to reaching the climactic heights of an electrifying intense release of the fluid of life boiling within us. His fingers gripped my biceps tighter and I felt the pressure building when Stu groaned, "it's coming Clyde, fuck me. Ram it deep babe, fuck me." His muscles tightened as he lifted his hips gripping my cock tight and molten fire started surging upwards from my tightening nuts. All control was lost as my hips drove my cock deeper and with one final lunge I groaned, muscles tightening, almost screaming, "Yessssssss Stu, take it."

Stars shot through my brain as my cock swelled sending lightening bolts of the hot liquid of my loins deep into his bowels. Stu arched his back driving his hips upwards, streams of his sperm flooding over his chest. We both gasped seeking relief from the intensity of climaxing with heated force, his legs like a vice holding me. I felt the streams gushing from within me and I bit and kissed his inner thigh my body jerking tightening within the tight circle of his legs. We both moaned from deep within ourselves as muscles slowly relaxed, cocks wilting. Stu's sphincter gripped my wilting cock, draining it as it slowly slipped from him and I collapsed on his chest.

We lay quietly together for several minutes in the afterglow of complete relaxing contentment. Stu massaged my back muscles slowly and lip nibbled my ear. My heart was slowly returning to a soft slow beat, as the heaving of my chest subsided with relaxing muscles.

"You all right Clyde? That was really intense."

"Only because of how much I love you Stu. You are the best thing that has ever happened to me."

I didn't need to hear a reply from him, the beat of his heart and his arms holding me and the giving of himself too me were all I needed to know how much he loved me.

We lay quietly a little longer. Kissing his lips softly, I moved off the bed taking him with me. We showered, washing and drying each other.

The ear splitting noise of the telephone jarring you awake is not a good way to start the day and extremely irritating when you are required to take your arms from around a warm young man. The unfortunate thing about telephones is they don't stop if the caller insists on waking you and ours was being an extreme irritant. Rolling over and removing the phone from its cradle, a loud voice erupts from the receiver, "you guys going sleep all day or get up? It's 7:30 and we are starved."

"My God Rob, the sun is barely up."

"And how would you know that if you and Stu are still in bed? Drop your cocks; get out of bed and shower. Devon and I will meet you in the dining room."

I could hear the receiver go dead but I grumbled anyway, "all right, all right."

Stu stretched beside me like a tawny cat rolling over, his morning hard slapping against my thigh. "Who was that?"

"Your brother telling us to get up!"

"So early? Do we really have to?"

"I'm afraid so lover, it's 7:30 and we have that meeting with Dickson at 9:30."

Stu wasn't helping any snuggling closer, his head under my chin. Snuggling down in the bed with him, his lips inviting a kiss. I pulled him a little closer lifting his chin but he pulled his head back.

"After I brush my teeth Clyde," he said turning his face away slightly. "I guess we better get up or Rob will be calling again if I know him. I'm starting to wish this was all over and we can start living normal."

"I know what you mean, come on lets get showered. Rob and Devon are meeting us in the dining room."

Robert and Devon were at what had almost become our table in the dining room. Devon was in his uniform and Robert was wearing a business suit similar to the one he wore when we first met, looking very much like a lawyer should look.

"Good morning Clyde, Stu. You both look pretty fresh this morning."

"Good morning Rob, you and Devon seemed to have slept pretty well. What are we having for breakfast?"

"I asked the kitchen to serve scrambled eggs, ham, toast and coffee with orange juice, hope that's okay. It seemed easer then everyone ordering individually."

"That's okay with me Dev, okay with you Stu or do you want something else?"

"That's fine, I'm really not all that hungry."

"Better eat something bro, we have a busy day ahead of us and no lunch until we meet with Mr. Branston this afternoon."

"He's right Stu, you better eat something. I'll be back in a minute. If Nicky's here he can get the SUV out front."

"I asked him earlier Clyde when we came down, he was at the desk. Remember last night? He told you to leave a message at the desk if you wanted it cleaned this morning."

"I'd forgotten that Rob, thanks. How long are you working today Dev? Cody and Adam are in school and we don't know that much about Lincoln."

"I scheduled in until 2 this afternoon but I think I could call in another waiter to fill in but it'll take about an hour before he could get here."

"Might be a good idea if you could Dev. It probably wouldn't be hard finding the court house but I'm not sure about finding Dickson's office or where Mr. Branston lives." Robert said.

Devon called in his relief and he arrived a few minutes before we left for Dickson's.

Dev talked with the guy for a few minutes and then went up to his room and changed clothes.

Nicky had the SUV waiting for us when we walked out. He looked fresh and his eyes sparkled. He opened the doors for us and when I tried offering him a tip, he shook his head but I slipped it in his shirt pocket anyway.

The drive to Dickson's was not that long and along the way the landmarks looked familiar. Dickson's office was across from the courts building where we had been before. We could probably found it without Devon's help. There were signs showing where the parking garage for the building was but Devon stopped in front of the building instead of parking in the garage. Looking at Robert and us he said," you guys get out here and I'll be waiting in the garage when you finish."

"You park in the garage and come on in with us Dev." Robert said. "You have a stake in this as well and there are some things you know."

He started to protest but I leaned over and told him to go ahead and park in the garage.

We found a space on the second landing and walked down the steps to the main lobby. Martineze was just about to push the button for the elevator when Robert called him.

"Good morning Martineze, glad you took my advice."

"You really didn't give me much of a choice, did you?"

"It was up to you Martineze. I suggested it might be to your advantage the decision was yours. Go ahead and push the button, we don't want to keep Mr. Dickson waiting."

Dickson's office was on the 8th floor in what was a typical office building. Granite floored hallways with half glass doors on each wall, names of the businesses behind them in black letters. It did not project much of an impression like the offices Robert and Stewart's father had his firm.

An older lady sat behind a small desk and looked up when we entered. Martineze must have been here before since she recognized him immediately and stood up. "Mr. Martineze, good morning. You haven't been here lately, who are these gentleman with you?"

Before Martineze could answer, Robert stepped forward.

"I'm Robert Ricksford. This is my brother Stewart, Mr. Hampton and Mr. Walker. Mr. Martineze is with us. We have an appointment with Mr. Dickson."

There was a tone of authority and confidence in Roberts voice as he spoke. The receptionist spoke softly into the receiver and then hung it up. Roberts cool gaze never left her as she spoke.

"Mr. Dickson will be right out, won't you have a seat?" She said indicating the chairs around the wall. I couldn't help but think it was almost like being in a doctor's office. We didn't get the chance to sit if we would have wanted too.

A blank wooden door marked "Private" opened, Dickson entering the small outer office a smile on his face. Seeing Martineze standing with us, the smile disappeared for a moment before he regained his composure.

"Mr Martineze. Is there something wrong at the hotel, I don't recall an appointment with you this morning. Did I overlook it Emily?"

Before either he or the receptionist could answer, Robert spoke up.

"He is with us Mr. Dickson, I invited him. Shall we go inside."

Dickson's eyes shifted from Martineze to Robert and then back to Martineze. Martineze just grinned weakly at him. We stood there for a moment as Dickson hesitated, a little unsure of the situation.

"Well?" Robert said. "Shall we go in or do you have a conference room you would rather use?"

"Oh, I'm sorry. Come in, Emily hold my calls."

Dickson's office was as bland as the outer office except for a slightly larger desk. The usual law books were in shelves around the room with several framed degrees hanging where clients would see them. Three straight-backed wooden chairs sat in front of the desk and two others were on either side of a small table off to the side. An overhead light furnished the only lighting except for three large windows behind Dickson's desk.

Martineze and Devon took the chairs by the table. Stewart and I sat down in front of the desk while Robert glanced over the degrees on the wall. Dickson sat in a very large overstuffed executive style chair watching Robert. Just as he was about to speak, Robert turned to him.

"I see you graduated from Nebraska. Good school?" He said, the cool tone still in his voice. "Yes it is, where did you study?" Dickson asked just a slight nervous tone in his voice.

"University of Maryland, Class of 89." Robert said sitting next to me. "I graduated cum laude from Harvard Law School in 92 and joined the bar in 93. But I'm sure you know all of that. Shall we get down to why we are here?"

It seemed like you could have heard a pin drop. Roberts's eyes locked unblinkingly with Dickson's, his gaze not wavering. Dickson glanced at the side of his desk and pulled several files in front of him, opening the one of the top of the stack.

"The probate date was set for this Friday," he said somewhat softly. "Judge Doumar's office informed me you filed for an extension. May I ask why? Everything was in order for discharge of the probate procedure and his uncles assets would be transferred."

Robert's eyes bore into Dickson's speaking very softly but with a firm tone "There are a couple of points I'd like to discuss before we accept the inventories and audits. You say all assets will be transferred? The ranch, the farm in West Point, all of the stocks, bonds and cash in the several bank accounts the deceased Mr. Hampton had?"

"Of course they will be, you have a complete inventory/audit of the estate that we furnished your office."

Stewart and I sat watching the duel between Robert and Dickson. It was like watching two gladiators. With slow deliberation, Robert reached into his inside coat pocket removing the small recorder I had seen earlier when he talked with Martineze in his office. Dickson's eyes widened slightly when he saw it.

"What's that Ricksford?" He asked. His lower lip trembled slightly as he spoke.

"A recorder Mr. Dickson. You don't mind if I record our conversation do you? I've already recorded the date, time and location with those present. You really don't mind do you if we have a record of what is said." Robert said placing the recorder on the front of Dickson's desk pushing the record button a small red light blinking.

He looked at the red light blinking and then back at Robert before speaking again.

"Of course I don't mind but it's not necessary. We both are trying too take care of things for Mr. Hampton so he can have access to the proceeds of his uncle's estate."

"Not quite correct Mr. Dickson. I represent Mr. Clyde Hampton, YOUR client's heir. You represent the deceased Mr. Samuel Hampton and as his Executor you are responsible for seeing that all of the assets of that estate are properly placed in Probate for ascertaining that my client is in fact the legal heir to that estate. Isn't that correct?"

"Legally speaking, yes. That is correct, your client has not retained this firm." Dickson said visibly nervous, his eyes shifting over to where Martineze was sitting. "I don't understand why Mr. Martineze is here with us though. He has no interest in the settling of the estate and we don't need that damned recorder."

"We will get around to his being here a little later, Are you upset by the recorder?"

Stewart was sitting quietly beside me when I heard him breath in sharply. Glancing at him, his eyes were shining and I could guess why, Robert had just made the clear distinction between he and Dickson. There was tension in the room and you couldn't help but feel a little excitement hearing the two of them. It was obvious Robert was the superior lawyer while Dickson was shaken by Roberts's direct approach.

"The recorder is just so there are no mistakes Mr. Dickson. You have stated that all of the assets of the Hampton estate will be transferred stating that we had an inventory/audit of that estate. That inventory/audit is accurate isn't it?"

"Of course it is Ricksford, it has been filed with the Probate Court along with the documents your firm furnished confirming your clients relationship to Mr. Samuel Hampton. Are you implying I have furnished incorrect information to the courts?"

"Not at all Mr. Dickson. I'm only trying to ascertain that the interests of my client are protected. Maybe we should go over the estate assets item by item." Robert said as he deliberately opened his attaché case containing the two files we had compiled.

Holding the case on his lap, Robert turned looking at Martineze and Devon.

"Devon, would you and Enrique mind moving that small table over here beside me? I need a little space and since Mr. Dickson's desk seems full, I'm sure he wouldn't mind my using it."

We waited while the magazines and other materials were removed from the table. I later learned that the pauses were part of the tactics a lawyer will use to irritate his adversary. Dickson was clearly irritated waiting for Robert.

Robert placed his case on the table with the lid closed after removing one of the files. He opened the file and shuffling the papers removed one sheaf, closing the file cover and placing them on top of it. Standing, he removed his coat and hung it on the back of his chair before sitting back down.

"If you are quite ready Ricksford we can continue. I don't have all day for this."

"Really Mr. Dickson. I was under the impression you would clear your calendar?"

"I don't have the time to sit here going over ridiculous figures that have already been confirmed by the auditors. My fee's aren't $500 an hour, far less."

"I'm sure my father would like to know we earn $500 an hour Mr. Dickson. Stewart, be sure we tell Dad when we get home. I know he would like to know. I was beginning to enjoy Lincoln and was thinking of recommending we open and office here."

I glanced at Stu again. He had a slight smile showing at the corners of his mouth. It was obvious he was enjoying himself watching and listening to his brother.

Dickson glared at us before starting to read the audit. Robert sat patiently waiting while Dickson read down the list of assets. He flipped the pages back one by one and when he finished, looked across his desk at Robert.

"That's it Ricksford, satisfied?"

We watched as Robert leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowing slightly. Inhaling deeply he stared at Dickson for a few seconds.

"Is that the audit you furnished the court?"

"Of course it is dammit, it's the same one I sent your office when I asked you to conduct the background check on Clyde Hampton. It is the same audit I sent you along with the post card and other estate documents."

"Oh, your right about that. It is the same as the copy you sent my firm but it is not the audit you submitted with the applications for probating the estate. "

"What the hell are you talking about Ricksford? Will you turn that damned thing off?"

"Not yet. The 1st audit done 3 months before the death of my client's uncle lists a 500-acre farm outside of West Point, Nebraska with the other assets you have just read. The auditing firm of Ingles, summers and Simpson in Omaha conducted the audit and it is certified by that firm and signed off as true and correct by Mr. Samuel Hampton. The 2nd audit does not list the West Point farm but it does show that farm as having been transferred to a limited company titled as West Point Associates of West Point, Nebraska. It also shows that $1.3 million was transferred into that company and then placed in escrow for the purchase of the Branston Hotel here in Lincoln. The inventory of property attached as an addendum to the 1st audit shows the western property, the ranch, as having a value of #2.6 million and lists the value of 4,280 head of Black Angus cattle as having a separate value of $1.5 million. The 2nd audit indicates the ranch as having a value of #1.3 million but not the value of the cattle that were indicated in the 1st

I leaned over and whispered in Stu's ear, "how does Robert know all of this? I didn't see anything like he has said?"

"He did trial work before Dad talked him into coming in with him." Stu whispered. "You can bet he studied every piece of paper we got from the courts and corporate registration offices.

"Perhaps you can explain the differences?"

"Certainly I can. The 2nd audit was done after Mr. Hampton's death as required by the court. Acting as the Executor, I ordered the audit from the local office of the firm that had done the original audit. I didn't see any the need for contacting the Omaha office again. As the Executor, I signed the audit for Mr. Hampton and attached the pertinent inventory pages as an addendum. It met the courts requirements."

"Not entirely correct I'm afraid. The executor of an estate does not have the authority to act and sign official documents for the testate, in this case, the deceased. You signed for Mr. Hampton when you should have signed off as the Executor. Perhaps an oversight and then perhaps not depending on how the court looks at it. According to the terms of Mr. Samuel Hampton's last will and testament you had a limited Executor ship. You were limited to maintaining the estate in status quo condition at his death. You only had the authority to pay necessary taxes and expenses of the estate. You did not have the authority to liquidate and/or transfer any assets of his estate. Your fees were not payable until the estate was either liquidated by the courts or assigned in total to his heir."

"Where did you get a copies of the will, audits and inventories?"

"From the court of course. Did you think Clyde was going to walk in and assume everything done was correct?"

Dickson was fidgeting in his chair, shifting his eyes from Robert and then to Stewart and me visibly sweating.

"Oversights and a couple of clerical errors that can be corrected. I'm sure the court will understand nothing has been done illegally.

"That may be so but I'm not sure Judge Doumar will understand how certain assets have become a part of West Point Associates and you just happen to be the beneficiary and become sole owner of the company or what interest Mr. Marx and Mr. Martineze have in that same company. From what I have learned, other authorities might be interested in certain activities occur there. The State Corporate office records do not show any investments in the company other then those of Mr. Hampton or why he would have wanted assets transferred to that company. Mr. Martineze had some interesting observations in his capacity as Treasurer that the court might find interesting."

"I was acting under the terms of a Power of Attorney for Mr. Hampton. The sale of the cattle was concluded just prior to his death. It was his wish those funds be placed in West Point Assoc along with the farm for tax purposes. It was his intention to buy the Branston Hotel using those funds and reduce the capital gains tax burden."

"I imagine you have the Power of Attorney and other document substantiating your actions? As for his intentions to buy the Branston, Mr. Clay Branston indicted to me that he had been discussing the sale with you not Mr. Hampton. It might be a little difficult to explain how the funds from the sale of the cattle were deposited in your companies account and not into the Hampton Estate. Since he died before the money was in hand, it was a part of his personal estate not West Point Associates. Of course, if you have the documents substantiating what he wanted...well Judge Doumar might like to see them."

"You know the PA ceased at his death, it was destroyed. The other transactions were his instructions to me."

"Bad move destroying the PA Dickson especially since you were involved in settling his estate. You know as well as I do that verbal commitments are not valid where an estate and its assets are involved even if you had witnesses that he gave you those instructions. The Nebraska Bar Association and the Probate court might not look very favorably on it. It might be considered unethical or possibly illegal. That would be up to them though. I've not decided if it should be brought before the authorities yet." Robert said reaching for the recorder. He had turned it off when he started discussing the will but I don't think Dickson was paying any attention when he did. He looked like a beaten man.

"How do we settle this Ricksford? I don't believe I have done anything illegal but you know I can't afford the Bar investigating a claim of violation of my position as Executor."

"And it might be difficult explaining the other ramifications as well. No lawyer can afford that on his record. Illegal or not the stigma will remain. As for clearing this up, I'm willing to accept the improper signing off of the estate assets and inventory documents as being an oversight. The mismanagement of the cattle sale funds as being a clerical error not in evidence, since you destroyed the PA and claim to be acting under its terms even though it was not proper, just unethical. Am I correct?"

"More or less, whets the rest?"

"Very simple, you sign over complete control of the West Point Associates to Clyde and the probate documents will be accepted as you have submitted them."

I looked at Robert dumfounded for a moment, hearing Stu inhale sharply. Dickson's eyes widened realizing what Robert had just said.

"You're kidding me, are you serious? You want me to give you what Mr. Hampton wanted and we worked together for?"

"If you have any doubts I'm not serious Dickson, try me. Refuse and every document I have with the recordings of this conversation and that of Mr. Martineze will be given to Judge Doumar, the State Bar Association and the District Attorney's Office. You may have only skirted the law or you may not. If you can afford all of this coming out then so be it. I'll tie you up so tight with lawsuits you will be an old man before you ever see a penny."

"That's blackmail and you know it."

"Call it what you like Dickson, I have another name for it. Settling a dispute either here or in the courts. Did you think this was going to be a cakewalk and we would accept what you had been doing at face value? Any lawyer worth his salt would check everything before accepting it. Perhaps you thought Clyde was going to waltz in here and everything would be settled okey dokey on your terms? Not very likely Dickson. We will see you in court or we leave here with the transfer of West Point Associates agreements. It's your decision."

There wasn't a sound except Robert closing his case and standing up with his back to Dickson, reaching for his jacket.

"You win Ricksford." Dickson said reaching for his intercom telephone calling his secretary. "Emily, bring my personal file from the safe please."

We waited for a few minutes in silence. When the door opened all eyes shifted. Emily had a large locked file case and handed it to Dickson. Unlocking the file he pulled out a document, checking it front and back.

"Emily, would you complete the reverse in the name of Mr. Clyde Hampton and show a sale price of $1.00? When you have completed it ask Mr. Goldman to come to my office."

"Yes sir, right away."

"You understand I am doing this under protest Ricksford. You haven't given me much choice in the matter."

"You had a choice Dickson, no one is forcing you. I simply pointed out the errors and indicate the consequences of them not being corrected. If you like we can see what the court says, I'm not adverse to that."

"Magnanimous of you to say the least."

Dickson's secretary returned followed by an older man whom he introduced as his partner. It surprised me that he didn't ask any questions before signing the transfer document. He simply signed and left the room. After Emily signed the document, she gave it to Dickson who signed it.

"Are you a notary?" Robert asked and when she confirmed she was he asked her to notarize the signing and gave it to Dickson rather then Robert and he handed it too Robert.

Checking front and back, the document went into his case.

"Thank you for being so cooperative." Robert said extending his hand to Dickson.

He was still sitting in his office chair as we left.

When we were outside of the building, it was like everyone had been holding his breath until we were sure we were out. I looked at the others and everyone started smiling except Martineze. He had a dazed look, not sure just what he should do until Robert turned to him.

"Martineze, you aren't getting off scott free in this. I think you know how lucky you are though. However, when we get back to the hotel your resignation better be in the hotel office, understood?"

"Yes sir Mr. Ricksford, you won't have any trouble with me, and thanks. I really appreciate it."

It was laughable the way he almost ran leaving us on the steps. The four of us walked to the parking garage and when we got in the SUV there was an almost audible collective sigh. A security guard might have been shocked seeing four men hugging each other.

Before we left the garage Robert opened his case and pulled out the West Point Associates registration document and another he had. Turning he handed me the case and a pen with the documents. He had a completed application of a corporate incorporation and I looked at him surprise in my expression.

"Sign where indicated Clyde and then Devon can drive us to the State office building and we will make this transfer official."

I felt almost speechless. "You had this already made out Rob? How did you know he would cave in?" Stu snuggled a little closer squeezing my arm. "I told you he was good Clyde." His eyes shined with admiration for his brother.

"Not that good bro, a lot of it was bluff and knowing the limits I could bluff him. His own guilt and fear was most of it. He didn't expect the 5 of us and Martineze being there shook him up. From what you told me about him on the phone when you called, told me he was looking for it to be a breeze with just you and Clyde to contend with."

"Well Rob, I for one am glad that's over."

"Not quite over yet Clyde, we still have Friday ahead of us. Lets get this registration complete and then have lunch with Mr. Branston."

It took us less then 15 minutes and I was the registered sole owner of a company that had the option of buying the hotel we were staying in. Lunch with Mr. Branston was casual and after Robert introduced himself as my lawyer and showed him the papers we had registered he breathed a sigh of relief. He and Robert negotiated the sale of the hotel for $3 million to be complete in 30 days or less not the 6 months Dickson had insisted on. He had told Branston he wouldn't have the rest of the money until then. We left feeling pretty good about lunch and the way things were straightened out.

When we got back at the motel, Devon checked the restaurant while Robert checked for the resignation Martineze was supposed to submit, it was in an envelope addressed to Mr. Clay Branston. Robert dropped it in the outgoing mailbox and told the asst. manager what had happened and he seemed a lot happier suddenly being promoted into the manager ship of the Branston. Cody had called while we were out and left a message for one of us to call them.

Devon returned from the restaurant and everything was going well there. Looking at Robert he said.

"I don't know about you guys but I'm bushed and I need a shower. I feel all gritty."

"The same goes with us. How about dinner at 8:30 and we will call Cody and Adam, that okay with you?" Stu said a little excited.

On the way up in the elevator Stu kissed Rob on the cheek and whispered in his ear receiving a slap on the ass with a chuckle.

Rob and Devon turned to the left and we went to the right. Stu grinned at me.

"I could stand a shower myself, what about you?"

"Before or after I tell you how much I love you?"

"I know that already Clyde, why don't you show me?"