Chrysalis Part 2-Chapter 24
This story is about a young man's quest to fix a major birth defect--he was born without a penis. On his quest he meets his soul mate and many other soon to be friends.
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, and events are the product of the author's imagination, or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to any real person is coincidental.
The story depicts procedures and practices common for gender reassignment; however, this story does not claim to be a medical treatise, and information is primarily for the purpose of the story and not medical advice. This story is written for adults with adult themes. If you are underage or live in a location where references to gay relationships or transgender people is forbidden, please log out of the story or move.
This work is copyrighted by Boethiuscell@gmail.com © 2023
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Chapter 24--Britney Arrives
The sun at 5:39 AM found Chris awake, groomed, dressed, and with a mug of coffee. Juan and his brothers would not be at the apartment until 7:00, aboutish. But that only increased Chris's anxiety. The apartment was bare of food; Chris having boxed it the day before. He just left out enough coffee for himself and the movers. Chris figured he could always get coffee from the Deli, which opened at 6:00. Chris looked over the apartment, his home for seven weeks. His first home and now he was moving away from friends and the security they provided. He felt some trepidation at that thought, but was by far more excited to get the move over, settled and start a new routine. Whatever that might be. Chris had rechecked his schedule. Moving until noon, most likely done by 9. He had only a dozen small boxes by the door: three of CDs and DVDs, two of office supplies, and one toiletries, one wine and booze in a box he got from the liquor store, two boxes of miscellaneous that he should toss. And finally, Slim's triptych, which he carefully wrapped in bubble wrap and then boxed and taped and thought he might carry himself in his suitcase. Chris perambulated the apartment for the thirteenth time, checking, over, under and behind. Nothing stray was found, and even if he forgot something, Juan or Zack would return it. Once everything was moved, he knew he needed time with Chaz: dishes, linen, cutlery, decorations. Louis needed his time to purchase appliances; Louis's listed about fifteen items, but Louis assured him everything could be bought at a restaurant supply company that he had a membership to. The doctor's appointment with Sturgeon was moved up to 2:00, which was usually 45 minutes, 30 of it waiting for the doctor. And finally, his sister landing at 3:00. She said she would text after they were settled in the Algonquin Hotel. He was hoping that she would be able to spend the night with him. He just wanted time. Chris promised most of the Saturday with Chaz, which was fine because his sister and the group were doing a tourist tour of New York including the Statue of Liberty and the World Trade Center Memorial. The ballet starts at 8:00 PM so he made dinner reservations for 6:30 at the Grand Tier at Lincoln Center. He did not want to rush the meal. He checked the tickets in his wallet again.
Chris sauntered downstairs to the Deli, the last morning he would do this, and slid into his usual booth. He had a usual booth, he smiled at the thought. Stella put food in front of him. He did not remember ordering, but it was his usual order. He ignored it until Stella scolded him to eat, which he dutifully did. At a little after 7:00 Juan bounced into the deli followed by three men who were definitely his brothers. Juan sat next to Chris while the other three brothers crowded the other side. Chris had met Pedro and Hymie before, briefly, so Jorge, pronounced George, introduced himself and asked what needed to be moved. Chris described the twelve boxes and that there would be no furniture. Pedro and Hymie sighed in relief. Stella came over and took orders.
After the boys were sated, Jorge said they would empty the small truck of Juan's things and then bring down Chris's. Within an hour everything was at Chris's, and they were back at the deli. Pedro and Hymie teased Chris about his finding himself a sugar daddy. Juan added that Chris had the best kind of sugar daddy--absent. Tom and Chaz walked in just as the brothers were exiting. Quick greetings and introductions were exchanged.
"Move go well?" Tom asked.
"All in my bedroom closet, and it still has a ton of room."
"Must be nice to be so unencumbered" Chaz said. "If I ever move I'll need a freight train." Tom just rolled his eyes at Chaz.
Ollie and Louis materialized unnoticed when they entered the deli. They slid in next to Chaz. "Ready to do serious shopping?" Louis asked. "And we are very curious about how the appliances look; hence we are here early." Chris mentioned how pleased he was with Louis's input on the kitchen. Stella took the newcomers orders and soon everyone was enjoying, coffee, eggs and pancakes, and light conversation, which went far in relaxing Chris.
"I have several deliveries this morning," Chaz said, "Let's get to your pad Chris and get you settled before your sister arrives."
It was after 9:00 when the group arrived at Chris's new condo. Louis and Ollie went immediately to the kitchen, while Chaz pulled out his tablet, checking through the delivery schedule. Chris found Liam in the multipurpose room with two gentlemen that Chris had not met before. "Hey laddie, got here just right this is Terrance and Buck" "Terry," interrupted Terrance. "Terry is here for the computer system and Buck is for security." Chris extended his hand; Tom joined them and was also introduced. "Which of you wants to go first?" Liam asked.
"You go first, Terry, since security is piggybacked onto the computer system."
"First, Chris, this is your user's manuals." He handed Chris two thick ring binders. "The first manual is for the computer system itself. The second is for the Smart features. I assume you know the basics of a computer." He walked Chris and Tom to the computer desk which had an Apple MacBook and two tablets. "Are you familiar with Mac's?" Terry asked. Chris said his laptop operated on Windows 10. "That is fine keep that one too, each has strengths and weaknesses. Actually, the security system runs on Windows. But I am sure that you will pick up the Mac quick enough. The tablets are for use around the house to control the Smart house. But back to what is on the desk. You have a color laser printer, scanner, and fax, a drawing tablet that you can handwrite or doodle, of course a camera besides the one in the computer. In the closet by the door is a server, router, modem, and Wi-Fi master. You have Wi-Fi receivers in the master and in the living room. You should have access to your Wi-Fi from anywhere in the building and about a half-mile into the surrounding areas. If you want to picnic in the park across the street, you should have good connections. I also ran Cat 5 cable to each of the rooms, including the patio. Cat is far more secure than Wi-Fi. The server closet has three cooling fans that vent into the attic. Any questions?" Terry paused giving Chris time to think. "Now you have a Smart house, which means most functions can be controlled by computer or in many cases voice." Chris nodded that he was familiar with the concept. "Attend-lights office all on." All the lights in the office came on. "Attend-lights office all off" The lights went off "Attend-play radio select first." Country music started playing throughout the unit. "Of course, music selects can be changed." Terry grinned. "The key word for the system is Attend' follow by the action and then location Attend-play radio living select first.'" Country music was heard from the living room. "You can control the temperature in this room, the living area, and the master. I think that is it." Terry stopped, "Oh, one more actually two, no three more. You have microphones throughout the house so you can search the Internet, connect to recipes in the kitchen with a tablet the plugs into a cabinet but you can use the refrigerator. You can control the TV in the two areas, no TV in the living area but a monitor that can act as a TV. The building has a dish on the roof and cable. Finally, your phone is VoIP--Voice over Internet. No phone bills or limitations to calls overseas. I will sync it with your cell phone." Chris stood there stunned by the array of features. "Good, now I need to set the system up for your voice commands. Don't want strangers fiddling with the music. If you want I can set a second master, and of course you can set temporary limited commands." Terry had Chris repeat a dozen words and a few sentences. "That should be good. Anyone else?" Chris debated including Tom but then decided to add Tom; it was prudent to have a second person.
"Now on to home security." Bucky said. "You have three primary ways to enter your dwelling, Front door, patio, and the fire escape door. The last two are the most vulnerable to malicious intent. I changed the fire door to a steel reinforced door with three 5 inch deadbolts top, bottom and side. In normal mode these are in place. They release inside at voice command or hitting the big red button in the middle of the door. It will sound a chime if opened. From the outside, they can be released only by fingerprint. All the doors have outside cameras that will alert you and transmit to your computer system and any connected tablets, TVs or phones.
Bucky moved everyone to the patio doors. "I know that this seems safe because it is three floors up, but a grappling hook is easy to use or rope ladder from the roof." Tom looked at Chris with concern. "There is little I can do to prevent access, but there are motion detectors triggered to very bright lights--blinding. I replaced the kitchen window and the patio doors with bullet proof glass and secure locks that can only be released from the switch beside the wall next to the ovens. Your voice commands can override the switches. The front door is easier because you have a secured entrance to the building which is monitored 24/7 by an outside firm. Your front door will require facial recognition for it to unlock."
"What if I need to change hair color?" Chris asked.
"It measures, distances between eyes, nose, lips, chin, and cheeks. Unless you are planning major cosmetic surgery it should work?"
"What about weight gain?" asked Tom.
"The system does an average of the last five entries. Unless you are planning to gain 25 pounds in a week, it should not pose a problem. It has a friend or foe feature. It tracks and saves the features of each person that is in front of the door.
"What if I pop in front of the door three times in a row? Will the system categorize me as an acquaintance?" Tom's curiosity was piqued.
"Not a go, the frequency must be between three days and three months. If the face has not been at the door for longer than three months; the face is a stranger. I call it the Ex factor" Bucky laughed. "Chris, please stand still. It is time for your mugshot." Bucky sent the image to the computer. "All set. Try it." Chris went out the front door. It automatically closed and locked. Chris stood a second in front of the door. The door unlocked and a nice male voice said. "Welcome home Chris." Chris laughed. "You can change the voice or record your own greeting. At night two lights in the living area will come on automatically when you enter."
"Can I disable the front door if I am running in and out? And can I add more people for automatic entries."
"First question you just use the voice command `Attend-disengage front door'. For the second, the identification system has four levels for permission to enter. Master, three people max, these unlock the door and give access to most of the features of the security system. Friend, twelve people maximum; these have access to the front door only without you needing to verify entrance. Acquaintance, 100 people, the system announces them by name but does not give access to the dwelling. And last, Unknown, the system stops them at the stoop. If for some reason they do have access to your unit door, the system goes into watch mode. The system starts recording sound and video. It any person tries to force entry, alarms and notification to police or fire, as may be required. You can add or delete master and friend level faces." Chris walked back into the living area and shut the door. "Door engaged" said the nice baritone voice.
"I would like to offer you something to drink, but I need to shop. I have wine." Chris gestured to the kitchen
"Thanks Chris," Terry started to say but was interrupted by Louis. "We could make coffee. I brought some." Terry and Bucky nodded that it would be apreciated.
Louis dragged Chris to his new coffee machine. The rest followed. Louis showed Chris how to use the machine. It took whole beans and ground them and then brewed from one to twelve cups. Ollie pulled from his bag Styrofoam cups and a pint of coffee cream. "Not the most elegant christening," Ollie said, and I hope no one wants sugar." Chris said he did have sugar in an unknown box--everyone passed on the sugar. As they sat around the dining room table the voice intoned, "Stranger at the door." On the mirror above the fireplace flashed a picture of Matías looking oddly at the door.
"Attend-Front door open." Chris giggled as the front door unlocked and Matías entered, looking back at the front door. "Hey, Matías, welcome," Chris said as he hugged Matías.
"Strange door dude. it talked to me and said to wait while you verify my identity."
Chris had Matías sit and asked if he wanted coffee. As Chris poured the coffee, Chris explained it was part of his new security system, then Chris introduced Bucky and Terry.
Liam was having a good chuckle at Matías's bewilderment. "This place is so tricked out it will take Chris a year to figure what it all does."
Matías just nodded politely, "So, dude, just stopped by to see if you are in yet and would like a tour of the building." Chris was up for it, but asked Bucky is he could set Chaz and Tom up with temporary master recognitions, since Chaz was expecting a slew of deliveries. "Each floor has a 10 by 20 storage unit, which is at the end of each hall after your door." Matías point to a door at the end of Chris's hall. Taking Chris to the central sections, he opened a wide door. "Each floor has two washers and dryers that are included with the monthly HOA fees." Matías explained as they entered the elevator. "The first floor you know has a meeting room and a party room with kitchen, which can accommodate fifty." The elevator glided past the first floor without stopping. "The basement," Matías held open the elevator door." has a full gym with weights, bicycles, steppers, and rowers. It has two showers, bathrooms, and a dry sauna." Matías quirked an eye at Chris. "Everything is gender neutral, not separate his or hers." Chris and Tom looked at the wide assortment of fitness equipment and the cedar lined eight-person sauna.
"Nice, very nice," comment Chris.
"No hot tub or jacuzzi?" joked Tom.
"Shit, forgot about that." Matías headed them to the elevator and stopped on the second floor and led the two guys through the laundry area to another door. Behind the door was a large pool and hot tub. A glass roof spanned between the roof. "The pool is heated, but your balls are at risk running from the pool to the steam sauna or the hot tub in dead winter." Several wood lounge chairs and tables surrounded the pool. Plants dotted the deck. "Showers and restrooms are by the door to the laundry room." Matías gestured as Chris took in the whole area, realizing that the building was and H and he occupied one limb of the H. "The glass covering dates to the thirties, shortly after the place was built. It does not keep the cold out but it does well for most of the rain and snow. I use it almost daily except for a few days in January or early February."
"The more I see of this place, the more I am so happy to be here." Chris was whirling all the amenities and how friendly Matías, Liam and Millie were.
Once back at Chris's unit, Matías bid his farewells understanding that Chris had lots to get settled yet. Chris told Matías that he was planning to be fully in today and would spend the night in his home. "His home" Chris hugged Tom. Chaz was busy with delivery people and Louis was still inspecting the kitchen. "Guys, want me to order a pizza?" Chris asked.
"No need," Louis said, "Mrs. Coons brought up sandwiches."
"She is a very sweet lady," Chaz added. "She is a great neighbor, and she thinks the world of you Chris."
"You ready Chris to shop?" Louis said, "It should not take too long."
"I called a cab," Chris said, "I want to thank Millie for the sandwiches and tell her I am officially moved in. We can wait for the cab at her place."
"I like that. I want to ask her about the sauce she used on the corned beef." Louis licks his lips in appreciation.
Louis and Chris chatted with Millie for about fifteen minutes, discussing food, her secret sauce (which remained secret), Chris's planned trips to Chicago and St. Croix, his sister and spending a night in his apartment. The cab honked and Chris and Louis exited. Louis gave an address. It was close and twenty minutes later they were at Empire State Restaurant Supply. The size and variety were astonishing. The building covered two city blocks and had everything from ten burner stoves to pickle pickers. Louis had his list of makes, models and sizes. It was all ready at the pick-up counter with his name. Chris paid, with delivery around 4:00, since the truck was just getting loaded for today and Chris's place was close. Since it would take a while for a cab to return, Chris wanted to walk around. He picked up items that were attractive to only be told that it was cheap shit and not worth it. Chris did find a decorative quiche pan and three nested copper bowls that Louis reluctantly allowed Chris to buy. In the conversation around the store Louis mentioned that when he had more money he would buy himself a set of Wusthof knives like Chris's. Chris excused himself to go to the bathroom, found a clerk and bought the set of knives for Louis. The cab arrived and they were home a little over an hour later with Chris's bag of goodies and the bulk to be delivered.
Chris said he and Tom needed to leave for a doctor's appointment. Louis and Ollie decided to stay and help Chaz as the second delivery was deposited on the living room floor. It was dishes, glassware, and cutlery. Seven boxes to be opened, washed and shelved. Chris told Tom as they sat in the cab that he was glad of the appointment and would miss the unpacking. Tom patted Chris's hand in agreement.
Dr. Sturgeon was behind schedule, as usual. Chris and Tom waited over thirty minutes reading old baby magazines. A couple in their late twenties entered, holding hands as they checked in with the receptionist. They looked at Chris and Tom baffled why two men would be seeing a fertility doctor.
Chris grew annoyed by the constant furtive looks from the couple, rose and sat by the woman. "Hi, I'm Chris and that handsome man over there is my future husband Tom." Tom did not hear the last comment. "You are confused why two men would be here, so I will embarrass you and tell you." The woman tried to protest, but the man was truly curious and not hostile. "Gay men want children as much as any other straight people. It usually requires a surrogate to carry the child and the man to be potent. That is what Neil Patrick Harris and his husband did. Tom has a little problem in the delivery system, hence this visit."
"I am so sorry," the woman introduced herself as June and her husband as Tad. "We may be experiencing the same problems." Tad blushed.
"Nothing to be ashamed of." Chris reassured, "Your problem will be fixed with minor surgery. And I can see you having children; three seems the proper number for you."
"Chris," a nurse called.
"Our turn. Just trust me that you will have children, three beautiful children."
"Thank you Chris, for your reassurance." Tad said. June added, "I am sure that Tom's issues will also be resolve."
"I have no doubt they will be with time." Chris said back as he entered the hallway.
"What was that all about?" Tom whispered to Chris.
"I told them that the reason we were here is that you have a problem with delivery."
Tom blinked not understanding what Chris meant. The it hit him. "You told them that I was impotent?"
"Not exactly, but yeah." Chris laughed so hard he almost peed.
"Impotent," Tom muttered. "I will get you back for this.
Chris put a calming hand on Tom. "They needed reassurance that his problem was not unusual. If I could give them that comfort, how could I refuse."
"But why me and not you with the problem?"
"They never would have believed that I had a delivery problem." Tom sputtered and then laugh raucously. "I did see them with three children; I did tell them that. I did not tell them it would be triplets."
Dr. Sturgeon greeted Chris and Tom, smiling at their laughter. "I told the couple in the waiting room that they will have three children. I did not say it would be triplets."
"That is very cruel" Dr. Sturgeon looked at Chris with heat, "to tell people who are having difficulty siring children that they will have three. You have no idea the harm caused if they never are able to have children."
"Doctor, I totally understand why you are irate, but if Chris says they will have three children, triplets, they will." Tom put a protective hand on Chris.
"I saw a simple blockage in his vas deferens. Simple surgery will rectify it and they will have children."
"You are a doctor and can diagnose by just looking at people?"
"Sometimes." Chris stated flatly. "I know you have colon cancer, which is in remission, but you need to have it rechecked, something is not right."
Dr. Sturgeon glared at Chris but said nothing, "To the reason that you are here. You are responding well to the hormone treatment. We have about two dozen eggs frozen. Only about thirty to forty percent will be viable however. I would like to keep you on hormone therapy for another two months. I will start reducing the hormones toward the middle of June with complete cessation by the first of July."
"That is very encouraging, Dr. Sturgeon." Tom said.
"Now let me check you out and draw some blood."
Within fifteen minutes he was done. "Doctor, I want to apologize for interacting with your patients. It was inappropriate, but they seemed so lost and in despair that I needed to share the hope I saw."
"Thank you Chris," The doctor hesitated. "You are right about the colon cancer. I will make an appointment with my oncologist today." Chris smiled knowing that it was not too late. "Please do it soon for your two son's sake."
Out in the lobby the couple asked if everything was good. "Nothing a little blue pill can't solve," Chris said. The voice was light and carefree. "Everything will be good with you too." Once in the hallway outside the doctor's office, Tom shoved Chris into a wall, pushing his crotch into Chris. "Think this can't deliver?" He kissed Chris passionately on the lips and strode confidently toward the elevator.
Tom and Chris did not return to Chris's place until after 3:30. Chaz, Louis and Ollie were unpacking the last two boxes. "One more delivery scheduled," Chaz casually said without looking up from unwrapping glasses. "That is the bedding and towels."
"And the kitchen equipment should be here soon. I just received a text." Louis added.
"How are we doing for space?" Chris noticed when Tom and he walked down the corridor the stack of folded boxes.
"We're good, but once what Louis ordered is here, I am not sure."
"I have a storage just outside the door."
Chaz's eyes lit up, "Show me."
Everyone trapsed to the hallway, and Chris stood in front of the door. "Attend-Storage Room door open." The lock clicked and Chris entered, the lights blinked to life. "Hi Chris," came the baritone voice. "I find nothing stored here. Please identify items when you store, and then I can help you find them later."
"Cool," said Chris, "I am always misplacing things." Chris had a thought "Attend"
"Yes Sir how may I help you?"
"Do you have a name?"
"No Sir, I respond to the word `Attend' but you can change it."
"How do I do that?"
"Through the menu options. I can walk you through."
"Maybe later."
"Very well Sir, I am here at your command. Anything else, sir?"
"No. Thank you." Chris laughed, "I think I have my new best friend." then amended "after you guys."
"Nice save buddy," Ollie shot back.
"This is a great space," Chaz said as he looked around. "Plenty of shelves, a window to let in natural light,"
Chris walked over to the window. "Nice view of the park, shame it is wasted on storage. It is a great space for meditation and yoga."
"You can still designate some space for that. But you will need this once you actually settle in. You will need space for Christmas decorations, because the unit needs to be a showcase." Chaz pointed out. "Your dining room table is now at full length, but the leaves can be removed to just seat four, which you may want. The extra chairs can be stored in here with additional space. I ordered you two complete place setting for twelve; one formal and one informal. These can be stored here."
"Most of the kitchen gadgets can be stored here too: the chafing dishes, cookie sheets, pie pans, stock pots, anything you don't use frequently can be stored here."
"To answer your original question, Chris, space will not be a problem."
"Mr. Adamski," broke in a voice from the corridor. Chaz walked out and raised his hand, "I have a delivery for you." Chaz signed for the boxes.
"We can make the beds now." Then Chaz looked at Chris, "Should wash some of it first. Once the boxes were inside, Tom and Chris, like kids, ripped into the boxes. "Burgundy for the guest side and green for the master, tans are for the kitchen."
Chris opened one of the largest, but lightest and it was a duvet set of rich forest green with silver threads. Chris had Tom hold two edges and pulled the comforter out. In the center of shades of dark green was the faint image a large tree. The roots running along the base and ending about one third up in a profusion of foliage and branches. Parts of the trunk, branches, and leaves were rimed with silver. Tom fell to the floor on his rump. "The Old Man." All heads turned to Tom. "There is a tree on my Granddad's estate in England that looks similar to this." Tom gestured to the image of the tree. "The tree is ancient, at least 500 years old, and the official symbol of the Greenwood family. We call the tree the Old Man, but its official name is Derwa." Tom caressed the leaves. "Where did you find it? Why this?"
Chaz was baffled by Tom's visceral response to a bedspread. "Found it online from a very small company in England that makes one-of-a-kind bedding. Most of it was flowers, waves or clouds. I saw this and fell in love with it. It felt right for Chris."
"What's the company?" Tom asked.
"It's on the box." Chaz turned the box around to read the label. "Soul Creations out of London." Chaz looked at Tom "Not much help." Tom was on his phone searching. "Need to find the sheets so Chris can wash them and have a proper bed tonight." Chaz continued while Tom was busy on the phone. Sheets found, Chris and Ollie went to the laundry room. Louis unpacked kitchen utensils fighting with Chaz for drawer space, enjoying the banter. Tom was still working on the phone.
Chris and Ollie returned to the unit while the sheets washed. Chris shook his head at Tom. "Attend" Chris loudly said. "Yes, sir?" came the disembodied voice. "Find name of owner of Soul Creations London England." Silence "The name of the owner of Soul Creations--Soul spelt S O U L is Natashia Forsythe, Sir." Tom glared at Chris for the ease he found the information, but that glare turned into satisfaction. "New it. Just new it. She is a third cousin; Greenwood was her maiden name. I haven't heard about her in years. She is a good thirty years older than me." Tom stood up beaming. "Just wait until Cedrick sees the `Old Man'." Tom ran his fingers across the trunk of the tree, lost in his own world. Chris just shrugged dismay. "Is there an email address?" Tom asked Chaz. Once Tom found the address, he immediately emailed Natashia. "She is going to freak out that her work now belongs to Chris and me." Chris squinted an eye at Tom concerning the last statement, but he said nothing.
Chris's phone rang.
"Hey, Brit. you are here... finally."
"Already at the Algonquin."
"I and Tom want to see you tonight."
"After 7:30"
"Orientation and trip rules." Chris repeated, "Boring." Tom could hear through the phone Britney sighed with a laugh.
"Though I might take you out to eat."
"No can do."
"I understand, first night and group bonding."
"Okay see you between 7:30 and 8:00. Meet you at your room?"
"No room visits, the lobby is fine. Everyone is anxious to meet my famous brother."
"Everyone?"
"Yes, everyone including the chaperones."
"I hate to disappoint them that I am not a famous model, but Tom is. Will that work?"
"They want to meet you Chirs."
"That is so sweet, but you need to say that because you are my sister."
"Bye till later. Can't wait to see you and spend time with you."
Chris vibrated with excitement, "That was my sister." A few "duhs" was the response. "She is at the Algonquin. Once they settle, they are eating at the Round Table Restaurant, then meet for itinerary and rules for the trip. She says they are free after they eat." Chris looked at Tom. "The entire group wants to meet us, for some reason. You okay with that?"
"It should be fun." Tom was not that sure, but he liked Britney. "Your sheets?" Tom reminded Chris, who ran back to the laundry room.
At 4:30 everyone was flagging. Chris suggested that he take everyone out to eat. The argument was where; fifteen minutes later Chinese at King Co. Imperial. The meal was good, the atmosphere a little funky, and the crowd minimal because it just opened for the day. By six the group was back at the unit. Ollie and Louis we heading home, so Chris retrieved his package from his bed room. "Before you go. Where should I put these items?" Chris pulled out the decorative quiche plate and the copper bowls.
"You wasted money on these bowls." Louis groused, "Go to an antique store and buy a large bowl. It will have patina and be thicker." Chris frowned, "But these are very decorative." Louis added to mollify Chris.
"I appreciate your help today, so I wanted to give you something as a way to saying thanks." Chris pulled out of the bag the Wusthof knife set and handed it to Louis. Louis's face fell in surprise; he was unable to talk. "Are these good?"
"These are the best. How did you know I wanted a set? Why did you pay so much? These are not cheap knives."
"I heard you mention them at the supply store, so instead of going to the bathroom I found a clerk and bought these. You do not know how I appreciate your help in this move and even more your and Ollie's friendship. I have only one condition." Louis and Ollie looked at Chris expectantly. "Please do not use these on each other."
"Chris that is a very difficult condition," Ollie deadpanned. "He put his dick in someone else's ass--castrati." Chris, Tom, and Chaz looked horrified at the comment, but Louis broke out in gales of laughter. "Idle threat. I never top." Ollie pulled Louis into a first-class kiss including tongue that lasted beyond other viewers' comfort. "let's get home, Louis, and I'll demonstrate my knife skills." With hugs and kisses Ollie and Louis departed.
Tom and Chris insisted that Chaz accompany them. He balked, wanting to get more items stored, but he was tagged on each side and march to the waiting cab.
Although Chris has heard of the Algonquin Hotel, and its literary importance, he had never been inside. It was a step back in time to a thirty's elegance. The yellow and rose floral carpets supporting plush yellow chairs and settees, same yellow as in the carpet. The dark wood paneling reaching almost to the ceiling and topped with simple deco lights transported Chris to cocktails with Dorothy, Benchley, and George S. Chris imagined Thurber at the bar disparaging the Round Table. Chris stood still, forcing Tom and Chaz to halt behind him thinking he was looking for his sister. Chris felt the dynamics of the past and the Vicious Circle. Chris's revery was interrupted by a scream and Britney flying into his arms.
"Chris, Chris," she squealed, "it is so good to see you. You are looking fantastic." She stepped back critically appraising him. "You are dressing far better these days." She grabbed his hand, gave a quick nod to Tom and a quizzical look at Chaz. "The gangs this way and very anxious to meet you." Chris nearly lost his balance as Britney pulled him across the lobby to the Autograph Room where twelve eager faces and two weary adult faces turn his way. The two adults stood.
"This is my brother Chris," Britney said hurriedly. "His boyfriend Tom." Tom smiled and bowed at that introduction. " and..." Britney sputtered at Chaz.
"This is Chaz Adamski," Chris smoothly inserted. "He is visiting from Chicago. He is a famous interior decorator." Chaz correct, "designer, interior designer, interior designer" Chris amended with a slight grin. "He is designing the interior of my new home. I would be totally lost without his intervention."
"Totally." Chaz said garnering grins and laughs.
Britney resumed introductions. "This is Ms. Crosswrith. She teaches World Literature and Drama."
A thin elegant lady of about 45 with greying hair pulled back into a bun extended her hand. "Please call me Helen. It is a pleasure to meet you Chris. Your sister is such a fan of yours. Mr. Adamski, (Chaz corrected her) Chaz, I have seen you designs in several magazines. I am impressed with your work." She turned to Chris, "I would be honored if I could see your place, if it is not too much of an imposition. I so want to experience an Adamski design."
"I would be honored, but I know Chaz needs to head back to Chicago Sunday and I am out of town Monday through Friday." Chris saw Helen's face fall in disappointment "but let me see."
Britney grabbed the hand of the young man standing. He was in his mid-twenties, thin, darker skin possibly Hispanic, wicked smile, and easy stance. "This is Mr. Vallia. He teaches AP Humanities and Art History." "Hector," he said as he shook Chris, Tom, and Chaz's hand with a sly grin and a wink.
"I brought this for you Brit." Chris reached brought a hand from around his back and gave Britney a single red rose. "A single red rose `Deep-hearted, pure, with scented dew still wet--One perfect rose.'" Britney flushed, no one had ever given her flowers.
"A fan of Dorothy Parker," Hector smiled.
"I thought it appropriate." Chris smiled back at Hector pleased that he caught the reference. Chairs were added and the three men were seated and further introductions were made. "Devi, Asfin, Hannah and Hunter (obviously twins), Satasha and Pedro (more interested in each other. Helen watched them closely.), Dalton, Jamal, and Ha (who bowed). Two classmates wormed their way close to Chris and Tom.
"I'm Jessica," the plumpish girl with wild hair said not waiting for Britney. "Brit has said a few things about you but I see so much more. Do you mind if I look at your palm?" Chris extended his left palm. "Jessica clams she has Roma blood," Brit explained. "You have the mark of the fair folk as does Tom." Tom squirmed. "You have faced many trials the last few years." Jessica looked a Britney. "but these have made you stronger and the road ahead, while not smooth is in the right direction. You have and will have many friends and family who love you. For them your love cannot last long enough." Jessica looked at the palm and rubbed it. "I don't understand this but I see one maybe two children born of you." Jessica released Chris's hand. "The last doesn't make sense to me so I might be reading it wrong. I am still new to readings."
Pushing Jessica aside a gangly teen just starting his transformation to manhood interrupted, "Hi, I'm Steph." The kid reached out and grabbed both Chris and Tom's hands,. "I don't read palms but I sure enjoy holding stunning men's hands." He giggled and bounced on his toes. If ever there was a stereotype of flaming it was Steph, Tom thought; all of his classmates rolled eyes at his flamboyance, but enjoyed his antics.
"He is gay" said Hannah, "if you are totally oblivious. But since the three of you are gay, I am stating the obvious. He is our own little queer boy, and we love him. Don't we Hunter." Hunter wanted to crawl under the chair. Steph giggled and blew Hannah and then Hunter a kiss. Hunter hid behind Dalton, but Dalton refused to be a shield and slid back in his chair.
After the introductions the conversation turned to the trip and what was planned. Saturday New York tour and The King and I, Sunday a free day; Monday the Met Museum; MOM and Guggenheim of Tuesday; Wednesday the Cloisters and Ellis Island with the Statue of Liberty, Thursday Natural History Museum, Friday a free day and leave at noon Saturday.
"That is an ambitious schedule." Chris acknowledged. He asked Helen and Hector to step aside with him. "I do not know what Britney has said about our relationship, but for the last three years I have been absent from her life. For work reasons this week is the only opportunity for us to spend time together."
"Britney has said very little to me about the family dynamics." Hector said. "Anything to you Helen?" Helen said a quick no. "I do know that your sister is in awe of you and where you are in your life. From reading between the lines, you were thrown into a pile of shit and are now growing roses from it. She is rightly proud of you."
"Thrown into a pile of shit is about right," Chris laughed but did not elaborate. "I need to be out of town Monday through Thursday. I have arranged a special night Saturday for Britney and me. I know that conflicts with the group's plan, but this is very important to me."
"I am very reluctant to allow her out of our charge. I know that she is your sister, and you will keep her safe. But she is still our responsibilities, and I am not sure that her parents would allow contact with you. And this is a cultural trip, how do we know that you will not take her clubbing."
Chris was seething and wanted to verbally attack Helen. He looked at Hector, who only nodded to continue. "My father threw me out of the house two days before Christmas because I was gay, to him I am dead. Because I do not want to upset the home and am only in contact with Britney, Britney is my only source of the current family dynamics. My mother, according to Britney, knows that Brit will see me here. It was one of the reasons my mother pushed my father to approve the trip. Helen, you have been a teacher awhile and have seen stranger family dynamics. Despite my father, Britney and I deserve, no demand the right to maintain our family ties. She is all the family I have." The last came out a little too pathetic for Chris but he continued. "As far as clubbing, Brit is 16 and I am 19. We are too young."
"Steph has shown me the video of you at Jazzabel's. Isn't that a club?"
"No, it is not a `club' in the more common sense of the word. It is a show hosted by one of the funniest drag artists around--a straight African American with grandchildren. My entertaining there was a complete surprise. And I enjoyed it."
"You are right Chris that was a stage show. It is a place dowdy Helen might even like." Helen gave Hector an evil eye. "If we can find a babysitter for the kids, would you take us?"
"I saw the video too, everyone on the trip has. Steph is not a wallflower. Dowdy me would like it too--as a cultural experience." Chris and Hector laughed. The kids looked over puzzled.
"So, what are your plans for Saturday?" Hector asked.
"I have tickets to the New York City Ballet. I have a friend who is a principal dancer. He has invited us backstage after the performance and then we are going out for food. Dancing makes the troupe ravenous. Before the ballet, I have reservations at a very upscale restaurant in Lincoln Center." Chris pulled out his wallet and showed the tickets.
"It is cultural." Hector said.
"It is a unique opportunity to experience the world of high culture." Helen added. "We approve." Helen was more than happy to let Chris have the evening with Britney, even before Chris's explanation, but she wanted to get the tenor of Chris's personality. She had spoken with Britney's mom before the trip and was told mostly the same. "Chris, I do have one large concern." Chris took a defensive step back. "An upscale restaurant and the ballet are very formal. Brit brought mostly jeans and one knock-about dress."
"Taken care of." Chris smiled knowingly, "I work in the fashion industry and suitable dress will arrive tomorrow in sufficient time for Brit to dress. Diner reservations are at 6:30, the ballet at 8 and I can have her back into your custodial care by 12:30."
"You have everything planned, which I like," Helen smiled at Chris. She saw a young man who is grounded and mature beyond his age. "I do have an extra ticket to the musical that I hate to waste."
"I would be happy to pay for it." Chris offered.
"No, you dad has already paid for the seat." Helen smirked at what she saw as justice.
Chris paused and then said, "I have a friend, he is 17. He loves cultural events. He took me to the Met Museum my first weekend in New York. I might persuade him to take the ticket. That would give you a native New Yorker. He could steer you clear of the more unsavory places."
"I like that." Hector said. Chris texted Benjie, who immediately replied with an enthusiastic yes. "Done deal," Chris said. "He'll meet you at the hotel lobby at 6. He is a nice kid. He will fit in well." Hector, Helen and Chris return to the group where Chaz and Tom are the center of attention. They are alternating between Tom dishing dirt on designers and Chaz critiquing the design of music videos.
"Brit," Chris said loudly enough to be overheard by the chatter. She looked up as did everyone else. "Your chaperones have agreed to free you tomorrow night from the play so that we can spend time together."
"Where we going?" Britney asked reluctant to miss the King and I but also wanting time with her brother. "Jazzabel's?"
"No," Chris did not want to think of Britney in that place. He still felt the need to shelter her. "It is someplace you will definitely like." Britney looked at Ms. Crosswrith for approval. Helen nodded with a Cheshire grin. "expect a package tomorrow afternoon." Britney wanted to ask questions but knew no answers would be given. Chris continued. "Since Sunday is a free day, how about brunch at an authentic New York Deli." There was moderate enthusiasm, "My treat and maybe a trip to the Bronx zoo. I have not been there yet and am anxious to go."
"That is very nice Chris, but the trip is not budgeted for transportation." Helen reluctantly said. She wanted to go too.
"I have already arranged transportation to be at the hotel at 10:45." Helen brightened. "Who is going?" Three backed out because they were going to a Mets game against the Cubs, Ha had relative to see and Devi was going with her. Helen had arranged to meet a friend, but Chris invited the friend too, so Helen was in as well as Hector. Chris asked the chaperones to text him a final list. Since it was already 10:30, Helen shooed the kids to their rooms. Hector lingered behind.
"Chris," Hector said tentatively. "I saw your video at the drag club. I was hoping you could direct me to similar establishments."
"Not much help there, Hector." Hector looked disappointed and then looked at Tom for help. Chris continued, "Jazzabel's is more than a drag club is more of a cabaret. The only other bar I've been to is a biker-leather bar. More of a dive than a club with disco."
"Me, disco." Hector chortled. "rather wear my granny's undies in public. Now the biker bar is more my style."
"I'll check with Chet, he has a motorcycle and leathers, see if he is free this week."
"Thanks Chris," Hector was happy. "Need to say good night and do room checks, no fornicating--all those teen hopped hormones." Hector kissed each of Tom, Chaz and Chris on the cheek and left.
"Drinks in the bar then home." Chaz said. Tom and Chris agreed.
Once back at his place, Chris invited Tom and Chaz to stay. Much to Chaz's disappointment, he was given the guest room.