My long-range forecast -- chapter 44
Hello everyone, and thank you for all of the wonderful comments and ideas you submitted since the last chapter posting. I believe I received enough ideas to keep CJ and the gang going for another 20 chapters!
I continue to rewrite, add to and write more chapters of this story and I'm seeking any suggestions, constructive criticms or positive feedback you have about the story. Please send information to cjwilson328@aol.com. For those if you who have already reached out to me - my thanks! I'm working your ideas into future storylines.
Cj recovers from his encounter with Jasper Jeffers. As usual, the circle of friends pull together to help CJ get over his tramatic event he encountered.
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I felt Wally moving and he whispered to me "CJ, I need to go to the bathroom sweetheart. Please release your grip on me. I'll make us some coffee baby." I remember moving, but forgot we had been sleeping on the chase lounge. Once I realized where I was at, yesterday came back to me. My only saving grace was recalling that everything is over, and Jasper Jeffers will not be bothering me anymore.
I moved over to the television area and turned on the news. It was 6:15 am, so I was able to catch the morning news. Ross was doing all of the news stories, and Trevor did the weather segment. Wally returned to the patio with coffee for both of us and Alex followed him out with a cup for himself.
Alex looked at me and said "how are you feeling CJ?" I looked at him and said "I can't believe I don't feel stiffer for sleeping on that lounge all night. I forgot how comfortable it feels and when you share it with someone you love, it's even better." Alex and Wally both smiled, and Wally said "Alex tried to get us to move last night, but you were out CJ. I did not want to disturb you since you were sleeping so peacefully." I smiled at him and said "thanks babe, I hope I did not cause you too much discomfort last evening?" He smiled back at me and said "we're both good, sweetheart. Like you I am surprised how good I feel this morning."
Alex finished his coffee and said "I am going to go get my morning work done in the pool area. Wally, are you going to work today?" Wally said "I am going to stay with CJ today, if he will let me?" I smiled and said "I'm fine baby, but if you want to stay, I'll call you in sick." He grinned and said "no problem baby, it is going to be a slow day anyway for me, and my construction managers have everything under control. I'll go call each of them now and let them know I will be out today." Wally went inside to get his phone and make his calls. I asked Alex "do you have much follow-up on the second floor today?" He replied "I am going to check in, but I had everything under control yesterday before I left. Maybe the three of us can get breakfast later if you and Wally want to? Just text me later if you both want to go to the diner. I'll see you later CJ." I stood up, hugged Alex and said "thanks for coming to my aide yesterday, Alex. I have never been so glad to see anyone in my life when I saw you running to me." He smiled and said "I'm just so relieved you are okay CJ, and that Jeffers will no longer be a problem for any of us. You take care today, rest up and I'll talk to you later."
I continued to watch the news. Trevor came on for his last weather segment of the morning, and did a wonderful job. Wally returned and said "can I get you more coffee CJ?" I smiled and said "not right now. Come sit with me for a while." Wally joined me on the loveseat and said "I'm all set to spend a day with you, my love. Is there anything special you want to do?" I smiled and said "how about we go into the bedroom and make love? After that, we'll shower up, get some breakfast with Alex, then go to Home Depot or Lowes to look at storm doors, wine chillers and their selection of stackable washers and dryers? Perhaps we can take measurements here before we leave, just to get an idea of what we are working with? He said "wow, that all sounds great babe, are you sure you're up for all of that?" I smiled and said "yeah, Wally I am. The sooner I put yesterday behind me, the better off I will be."
We went into the condo and I texted Alex saying "let's plan on breakfast at 9:00 at the diner. Wally and I are going to lay back down for about an hour, then take a shower. Does that sound okay to you?" Alex replied with "sounds great CJ. I'll leave you two alone until 9:00."
I took Wally's hand and led him to the bed. I laid down on the bed, pulled him on top of me and we began to kiss and caress each other tenderly. He pulled his shirt off, and removed my shirt after his. Our kissing continued, and he started working my nipples with his thumb and index finger. I also began to play with his nipples while we both continued our sensual kissing.
Eventually we maneuvered our position and were able to remove both of our shorts. It felt so good to have his naked body next to mine this morning. In a strange way, everything feels like a rebirth to me today. I feel as though I have been given a second chance at everything in life and to make the most of it.
We continued on like two wild men who had not seen each other for a long period of time with essential kissing, body contact and groping each other in all the appropriate places. Wally pivoted on me and ended up in a 69 position. I devoured his mighty tool, getting it good and wet for its eventual invasion into my ass. The room was filled with our moans and it became hotter since we had not turned on the ceiling fan. Both of us worked up a sweat and Wally began expanding my hole with several lubed fingers. Without warning, he flipped me on my stomach and began to tease my hole with his mighty cock. I was moaning in sheer pleasure and said "take me baby, I need to feel you inside me so bad this morning." The message was all he needed as he began to slowly enter me until he was fully in. Once he knew I had adjusted to his cock, he began a steady rhythm of working my hole good with his beautiful tool.
About ten minutes later he pulled out, flipped me over on to my back, put my legs on his shoulders and dove into my asshole again. He began kissing me passionately as he continued his strong thrust motions. Wally broke the kisses, looked eagerly into my eyes and said "you are my world CJ. I love you and yesterday was a reminder to me that each day is precious to both of us moving forward. I cannot imagine ever going without you baby, and I hope you feel that way about me. I promise you a life full of love and I want to spend every day of my life with you CJ. I love you sweetheart so much." I was smiling through all of his words and began to have tears fall from my eyes. I replied "Wally, I want to be with you every day also. I can't imagine my life without you and today I feel as though I have a second chance at everything and I want to make the most of our life moving forward." Wally started kissing me again, and I wrapped my arms around his neck and upper back.
Eventually we both reached our climax and stretched out on the bed relaxing in the afterglow. He propped himself up on one arm, gave me another passionate kiss and he said "are you still up for a long weekend away with me over Labor Day weekend?" I smiled and said "you bet I am! I was actually looking at parasailing firms near Bradenton online yesterday between the shows to see if any offered parasailing for two." He cracked up and said "did you find any?" I nodded my head yes and said "I booked us for a Saturday afternoon cruise for two over Bradenton Beach. Is that okay with you, or will it interfere with any of your plans?" Wally replied "that's fine baby, and will work out well. I don't have anything planned for us other than relaxation at my dad's beachfront bungalow. After he passed away, I decided to keep it. I have a property management firm renting it out during the summer, and I use it when I want to get away by myself for a rest. However, I now have someone special in my life to escape with there. You'll love it sweetheart. I picture us now enjoying the hammock for two watching the sunset each night together."
We made our way to the shower, and ended up kissing, caressing and groping all over again. Eventually we washed each other off and exited the shower. I decided to go very casual today in a swimsuit and tee shirt. I looked over at Wally who was still in the nude and said "will you do me a favor today babe?" He smiled and said "whatever you want my love, I'll be happy to do it." I found his skimpy shorts and said "how about wearing these today, you know how they turn me on!" Wally cracked up and said "pick me out the perfect tee shirt to go with these, stud."
After brushing our teeth, we went out to the kitchen and still had 20 minutes before Alex was due back. I poured us each a cup of coffee and said "hey Wally, my suggestions for the day are not absolute. If there is something more pressing, we can do anything. I just want to spend the day with you, my love." He smiled and said "the only thing I can think of is putting up the wainscotting at Aaron and Bailey's place. Their living area is clear now, and it might be the perfect time to get the honey oak up before any deliveries are made." I said "do you want to call Aaron and see when he wants it installed?" Wally smiled and said "yeah babe, let's do that. We may be able to get that installed and put up a storm door today."
I got Aaron on the phone and said "hey there Aaron. How are you doing, and what's on your agenda for today?" He replied "morning CJ. I'm enjoying the morning on the patio. Bailey left early this morning for the station, and Scott's crew needed one more day at another job. They will be here tomorrow now, versus starting patio work today." Wally joined in and said "based on that Aaron, how does this sound to you? Why don't you join CJ, Alex and I for breakfast at the diner. We'll go to Home Depot after that and pick out a screen door for our front door. Once we return to the complex, you can help Alex, CJ and myself get the wainscotting up in your living area prior to any deliveries this week. If you know of any other furniture you do not want or need to move out before deliveries, we can do that also today." Aaron said "Wally, that sounds great! I'd love to surprise Bailey tonight with the wainscotting. I have the area cleaned up, so we're in good shape for an installation today." I said "perfect Aaron. Why don't you meet us up here around 9:00, and we'll head out to breakfast." Aaron said "thanks guys. I'll be up in a few minutes."
Alex returned to the condo and said "okay studs, I'm starved! Are you both ready to head out to Kurt's diner?" I said "Aaron is going to join us, so let's give him a few minutes." Alex replied "okay, let me go to the bathroom then, and I'll return shortly gents."
Aaron entered the condo and joined Wally and I at the breakfast bar. He gave me a big hug and said "how are you doing this morning CJ?" I smiled and said "I'm okay Aaron. My sexy man took care of me all night, and I'm feeling good this morning. I know I may have flashbacks or bad days ahead, but I'm trying my hardest to file yesterday away and move ahead with a brand-new day today!"
Alex joined us and said "okay, the gang is all here! Let's roll and get a good breakfast in. You three can fill me in our plans for the day over breakfast." Wally smiled and said "okay chief! I'll drive, as we're making a stop at Home Depot after breakfast." Aaron said "Wally, how hard is it to install a screen door?" Wally said "between the chief and I, we can have one up and going in 30 minutes or less. Why do you ask?" Aaron said "Bailey and I have started a phase II list for our condo enhancements. We both have screen doors now and agreed that we want one at our front door for the cooler fall and winter days. If I see a good deal at Home Depot today, I may go ahead and get one as well for a future install."
We loaded up into Wally's truck and headed for Kurt's diner. Tami was surprised to see us and said "this is a wonderful surprise, guys! It's great to see you this morning." I spoke up and said "it's so good to see you this morning Tami. Can you fit four of us in today for breakfast?" She smiled and said "I sure can, follow me everyone." When she got us to our table she asked "can I go ahead and get coffee and water for each of you?" Wally said "please Tami, we'll go ahead and start deciding on what delicious breakfast plate we're each having while you do that."
Tami returned to the table with coffee and water for each of us. Before taking our orders, she said "guys, I have to ask. We're any of you involved with that green eyed monster yesterday?" We all smiled and I said "well Tami, all four of us had a front-row seat at yesterday's apprehension of Jasper Jeffers. Do you want to hear the abbreviated story before we place our order?" She pulled up a chair and said "yes CJ, only if you want to tell me though."
I went through the highlights for her, and she had tears form in her eyes. She said "sorry guys, this is just unbelievable. I'm so glad that you're okay CJ, and I'm so glad you three were in the near vicinity to help him out." Alex spoke up with "yeah Tami, CJ took all my fun away yesterday. I wanted to beat the shit out of that son of a bitch yesterday, but CJ was the man of the day yesterday. He saved so many people from dangerous drugs yesterday. Our hero of St Pete Beach!" Tami wiped away her tears and said "okay hero, what are you having for breakfast today?" We soon had all of our orders placed and Tami said "I'll be back with juices in a few minutes. Do you mind if I tell Kurt about this and that everyone is okay? He and I were concerned yesterday when we heard the story and saw the breaking news." I said "that's fine Tami."
Tami came back with our juice and Kurt was following her. He put his hands on my shoulders and said "my God CJ, I'm so glad to see you today. Are you sure you're okay, and is there anything we can do for you?" I smiled and said "I'm glad to see you as well today, Kurt. I am fine. Thanks to my group here, I'm feeling much better after the day from hell yesterday." Kurt said "CJ, did you catch the morning news this morning? Do you realize you kept over three million dollars in illegal drugs off the streets yesterday?" I must have appeared in shock and said "no, I did not catch the figure on the news this morning Kurt. Seriously, three million?" Kurt said "I could be wrong, but I think that's what I heard. Heroine, cocaine, other narcotics and numerous opioids which were positively tested for being laced with fentanyl. You're a hero CJ, and breakfast for you and your group is on the house today. It's the least I can do for what bravery you showed the community yesterday." Kurt patted me on the back and said "I've got to get back to the kitchen guys, you have a great day and CJ, thank you very much for what you did for our community."
I was dumbstruck and looked at my circle of friends. Alex grabbed my hand and said "are you okay?" I nodded my head yes and said "I don't want to be treated as a hero, I hurt that prick bad yesterday." Aaron grabbed my other hand and said "get use to the treatment my friend. Bailey told me that station's phonelines have been ringing off the hook with viewers wanting to thank the individual who caught the criminal. Bailey also said the chamber of commerce has contacted him this morning and wants to do a special recognition for the individual involved in the event." I replied "I did not do it for any public attention. I did it to save my life, and I don't want special treatment as a hero. I've got to stop all of this soon!"
Tami returned with our breakfast, and I have to admit I was starved. My omelet was fantastic as usual and I cleaned my plate of everything. Wally could tell I was disturbed by what Kurt and Aaron shared with me. He reached across the table, took my hand and said "try and put this all behind you, my love. This is just the initial reaction from the public. Once other news stories become more prevalent, this will fade away for you." I smiled and said "I hope so my love, I do not want any special attention out of this."
Tami did not bring us a bill per Kurt's instructions. We each chipped in some money and gave it to her for a tip. She thanked each of us on our way out and gave us each a hug saying "I hope I'll see some of you this Saturday."
The Home Depot stop helped to divert my attention away from the news that I had learned at breakfast. Alex grabbed a cart, designed to hold doors and lumber, from the entrance and we headed for the door selection. I found so many screen doors that I liked. I asked Alex "do I have to follow any instructions from the condo association on colors, types or installation guidelines?" He replied "the association has no rules on types of screen doors. The only requirement is that the color must compliment the front door color and should be white, sand or grey color." Our front door is hunter green, so I focused on a white or sand color selection. I found a sand color which I really liked. It had a full-length screen, and also included a full-length glass door which can be interchanged with the screen door. I looked at Wally and Alex and said "how does this one look to the two of you, and do we need a left- or right-hand knob?" Alex responded "I like the looks of it, CJ, and we need a left-hand knob." Wally smiled and said "looks great babe, and it's in stock! A perfect selection." He pulled the door box out of the bin and loaded it to the cart.
I asked Aaron "is any door calling out to you?" He smiled and said "yes, actually I like what you selected. With our black front door, I like to get the same style in grey." Alex began checking the bins, and found one in stock. He said "they have one Aaron if you want it." Aaron said "yes Alex, lets load it up and I'll surprise Bailey with that as well."
After selecting the doors, we made our way to the appliances section. We first checked out the washer and dryer units. We got the specifics on LG and Samsung models. Wally said "either brand will fit in fine in our current area. I can get both of these brands at wholesale prices through the company." I asked "is there any real difference between the two brands? I think either will work for us, and they both look so similar." Wally replied "the Samsung has a few more features, but the LG is better rated and has more favorable reviews by the public." I smiled and said "let's do an LG then when we need to order it babe."
As we headed to the wine chillers, we found one on display in the middle aisle on clearance. To me, it looked like the size we need and it held 18 bottles. Alex took measurements and announced "this will fit perfectly in one of the cupboard spaces." I said "what's wrong with the chiller guys, and why is it marked for clearance?" Wally said "usually there is nothing wrong with the markdown items. They may have just ordered too many and want to offload them at their cost." Besides the display model unit, there were three additional chillers still in boxes. I turned to Aaron and said "does this look good to you? I don't think we should pass these up at this price." Aaron smiled and said "I think it looks very nice CJ, and will fit into any of our kitchens well." I said "let's load them up guys. Wally, if we don't use all three, can you use them for the business?" He grinned and said "absolutely, CJ these are a steal at this price. Go look at the other 18 bottle models to get a price comparison, and I'll get us another cart to load these three up on."
I was very satisfied that we were getting a good deal, and we proceeded to the checkout with out purchases. All items were scanned, and I scanned the gift card from Aunt Sally to see how much more money was needed to cover the sale. I was shocked to find out that the gift card was loaded with one thousand dollars! I only needed to add $124 to settle the sale. I smiled and said "I love my aunt! She did not tell me the card was loaded with one thousand dollars. I've got to send her pictures and a thank you note once we get both installed."
On the way back to the complex Aaron said "CJ, just keep a running figure for me and I will give you money for the screen door and the wine chiller." I said "Aaron, don't worry about it! Consider them a welcome to the neighborhood and a housewarming gift from me to you and Bailey." Aaron said "thanks CJ, I love both items and I will think of you whenever I use them. I know that Bailey will be so pleased, especially when he learns that they're gifts from you."
We got out of the truck and Alex said "how does this sound gents? I'll go get an initial supply of the wainscotting from my shop that Wally has stored there. Two of us can start on the wainscotting, and the other two can begin on the screen door at Aaron's place." Wally smiled and said "way to go chief! That sounds like an excellent way to get started this morning. I'll go help you with the wainscotting and the tools we'll need. CJ, do you and Aaron think you can get the grey door out and carry it up to Aaron's place? It's not heavy, but the box is awkward to handle." Aaron put his arm around my shoulder and said "the two of us can do anything Wally! Consider it done." I cracked up at Aaron and said "let's go for it stud."
Once we had everything we needed in the condo, Wally and I tackled the wainscotting while Alex and Aaron took a stab at installing the screen door. The four of us worked very well together, and by noon we had most of the wainscotting installed and the screen door was on and functioning perfectly. Alex and Aaron moved for us, and Wally and I continued to install the wainscotting in the entry hall.
While Wally and I were finishing up, Alex began looking at the cabinets where we want to place the wine chillers. He said to Aaron, I think by removing four screws holding the cabinet, I can remove this very easily. Since you don't have these cabinets loaded yet, do you mind if I try to install your wine chiller to make sure there are no problems with it?" Aaron smiled and said "let's do it Alex, Bailey is going to be so pleased when he sees what all we accomplished today!" Alex had the cabinet out in a short time frame, and Wally and I retrieved one of the chillers from the truck.
Alex was precise with his measurements, and the wine chiller fit in perfectly. He plugged it in and the refrigerator motor kicked in very quietly. Within five minutes, the inside was cooling down and will be ready for use very soon. Aaron smiled at all of us and said "guys, this has been a kick-ass morning. Thank you so much, everything looks wonderful! I'm so glad I got to help in some of the jobs today, as it has made me feel like a true homeowner!" He pulled a six pack of beer out of the refrigerator and said "let's go have a beer on the patio."
Once we sat down on the patio Wally said "Aaron, are you sure everything meets your needs and you're happy with the job done?" Aaron said "I'm more than happy Wally, everything looks so good and I can't believe we got it all done in a little over two hours. Guys, I cannot thank you enough for the suggestion today. I feel so wonderful, and I know Bailey will be ecstatic with everything that has been completed today." Wally said "fantastic Aaron. Thanks for letting us invade your place today. It was so easy to put the wainscotting on with the room empty of furniture. It's going to look absolutely beautiful once you start getting your furniture in here. Have you and Bailey discussed wainscotting in the office, and did you make any decisions?" Aaron said "we're not finalized on what we want to do in the office Wally. Once Bailey sees the living and dining room, I'll light a fire under him and we'll get our plans in order for the office." Wally said "no problem, whenever you're ready to tackle it, just let us know and we'll get it done for you two."
We finished our beers and Aaron said "okay guys, let's go tackle your screen door!" I said "I'm up for it, and guys since Alex took the cabinet out so easily, what do you think if we do the same at our place today? I know we have canned food in it, but we also have 28 bottles of wine sitting around the kitchen. We can fill it with wine, and store the canned food in a box in the laundry area for now?" Alex said "yes, let's do that. We can have the screen door and chiller in place within an hour, then we can all relax by the pool for the afternoon." Wally agreed with everything, and we retrieved a chiller and the other screen door from the truck.
Alex and Aaron started on the screen door. I emptied the canned food from the cabinet, while Wally removed the wine chiller from its packing contents. I decided to overload one cupboard with canned food versus storing a box of food in the laundry supply area. Wally removed the cabinet, and I cleaned the area before we slid the chiller in place. I did the honors of plugging it in, and soon the chiller was cooling down inside. I looked at it and said "it looks very nice with the existing appliances. I'm so glad we lucked out at Home Depot with these on clearance today." Wally said "it fits in very nice dear, and it looks as though it was originally installed as part of the kitchen. This is an excellent enhancement CJ, and I know we'll get plenty of use out of it."
It was just 1:15 pm, and all of us declared it a very productive day! The new screen door looked wonderful, and I loaded the wine chiller up as much as I could. Just as we were finishing up, Trev and Carl appeared at the screen door. Trev said "wow, this is new. Did you guys install this today?" I said "hey guys, yes, we just finished the installation up a few minutes ago. What do you think of it?" Carl said "it looks good CJ. A screen door is always a nice option to have."
Trev said "I'm going to change and then Carl and I are heading to the store. We're planning to fix dinner for everyone tonight. Do pork chops sound good to everyone?" We all nodded our heads yes, and I said "I'll fix some baked beans as a side to get rid of a couple of cans of beans. Come on into the kitchen guys and look at the other item we installed today." I showed them the wine chiller and Trev said "ah man, that is sick. My parents installed one in the kitchen, and I cannot believe how much we use it for wine and champagne." Carl said "it looks very nice guys, and matches the existing appliances very well." I smiled and said "do you two want one in your kitchen?" Carl said "that's okay CJ, we need to see where we're at financially before we start adding enhancements to the condo." I said "well, we found three on clearance today. Bailey and Aaron have one, the second one is installed here and there is a third unit boxed up for you two if you want it? Consider it a housewarming gift from me!" Trev looked at Carl, they both smiled and said "thanks CJ. We'd love to have one." I said "great. You two go to the store, and we'll install your gift while you're gone."
Wally and Alex went down to the truck to get the third wine chiller. Aaron and I began to fix some baked beans and cole slaw for dinner side items. About thirty minutes later, the third chiller was up and running. Alex gathered all of the cabinet remnants and took them to his workshop. I sat a couple of bottles of UD's barbecue sauce on the counter to use for marinating the pork chops. Aaron loaded the rest of the wine into Carl and Trev's chiller so that we were able to clear the counters in our kitchen.
Aaron said "it's not even 2:00 pm yet. How about we mix up some drinks, and go to the pool for a happy hour this afternoon?" I smiled and said "you read my mind Aaron. Let's mix up a cooler of Bailey specials, and when everyone returns, we'll head to the pool for some afternoon sun and cocktails." Aaron said "great, I'm going to text Bailey and tell him to try and come home early to enjoy the pool with us."
By 2:15 pm, we had the pork chops marinating, everyone had their speedos on and we all were at the pool enjoying the afternoon. I was lounging on a raft enjoying my Bailey special when Alex said to me "damnit, we forgot to bring any cigars down. I can go for one this afternoon. How about you CJ, will you enjoy one with me?" I cracked up and said "let's do it big guy!" Alex went up to the condo, got all of the supplies together and returned to the pool. Everyone ended up smoking an afternoon cigar and we continued to enjoy pleasant conversation and the Bailey specials were going down like water. Wally took a break and went back to the condo to mix us up another cooler of our drink for the afternoon.
Bailey joined us around 3:00 pm and said "afternoon everyone, thanks for the text babe. Jesus guys, how did you get everything done today in the condo? The wainscotting looks absolutely beautiful, the screen door is a very nice add on and I was shocked to see a wine chiller in our kitchen! You must have worked you asses off after I left this morning." Aaron smiled and said "does everything look good to you sweetheart?" Bailey replied "good -- everything looks fucking incredible! Aaron, I want to get serious about the wainscotting in the office, and let's think about wainscotting in the second bedroom also." Aaron said "okay babe, that sounds good. I like the idea of a combo color in the office. I don't want to copy CJ's color combination, but the dual color is a very rich and handsome look in there. I want you to be very happy in that office when you need to do work from home."
Several of us got out of the pool and joined Bailey at a table. Bailey fired up a JFR lunatic, and chugged half of his Bailey special. He smiled around his cigar and said "I love this place, and I can see myself leaving work much earlier each day than I do now. I finally have such a warm and inviting environment to live in. Thanks everyone, for making this happen for Aaron and I."
Aaron smiled and said "I'm glad you are enjoying this, Daddy! I'm feeling so relaxed also. The plumbers could not start today, but will be here tomorrow to begin work. Wally, Alex and CJ called me and we had a very busy day. It felt good to help them out, and I feel like I'm becoming a true homeowner now. I know we talked about a screen door and wine chiller for later, but you can thank CJ for our housewarming gifts." Bailey looked at me and said "CJ, my goodness I love everything, but you did not need to go overboard on us!" I took a draw off my cigar, blew my smoke and said "nonsense Bailey! Welcome to your new place, and enjoy it! The screen door and wine chiller are just two small tokens of my appreciation to you and Aaron for all that you have done for me. I agree with Aaron, it felt great to assist Alex and Wally today with the enhancements. I cannot believe what all we finished today, and it helped me tremendously to block the events from yesterday. I'm now looking forward to this Saturday when we can tackle another project."
Our conversation continued and I said "Bailey, I caught the 6:30 news this morning. I watched Trevor's segment, but I honestly was not listening closely to the news headlines. Is it true that the estimated street value of the drugs apprehended is over three million dollars?" Bailey took a draw on his cigar and said "that is correct my friend. Because of your heroic actions, you prevented three million in illegal drugs from hitting the streets. Our phone lines are ringing off the hook, Mindy is exhausted from answering calls and I had a meeting today with the Chamber of Commerce President. The chamber wants to honor you with a special recognition and a cash reward for your actions." I smiled and said "Bailey, all of this is appreciated, but I want to stop the attention immediately and I'm seeking your assistance in making it happen. I am not a hero and I hurt that mother fucker Bailey. It was my life or his hands. I want to put the whole event behind me, and move on with my normal life here."
Bailey smiled and said "calm down stud! I knew you were going to feel this way. I have kept your name out of the limelight. I'm not going to deny the chamber their right to reward you though. What I'd rather do is have you accept it, then immediately donate it to a charity of your choice. Between you and Betty, I'm hoping you can find a non-profit organization which helps crime victims out after their terrible experiences. You have had a taste of it, and I think you will agree that everyone needs a support system after their ordeal with criminals. The chamber will not be upset with you, you will be helping a deserving community organization and eventually your news story will fade out to another story that we cover on the St Petersburg in sixty. CJ, I'm not trying to put you on a pedestal, but let's make this a win for you, a win for the community and position you for the Bay Area News Humanitarian Award. How does this sound you big Muskie?"
I was speechless with what Bailey had said. Wally recognized this and said "Bailey, I know you have caught CJ off guard with your thinking. Several of us have tried to calm him down today about being treated as a hero over this tragic event. I think once he analyzes the scenario you have laid out, he will agree that it's a workable solution. Thank you for having a plan on this. It's obvious you have been in this position before, and I believe the plan you have suggested is very well thought out, and benefits all involved very well."
I smiled at Wally and said "thank you babe. You spoke for me very well, and Bailey you are the first one to calm me down on this today. Once I heard from Kurt this morning that I'm a hero, I went nuts! I like what you're thinking and I do see benefit for aiding a victims of crime organization. I'm going to take a back seat on this now, and follow your lead boss!"
Everyone at the table smiled, took a draw on their cigar and Bailey said "join me in a toast everyone. We experienced a traumatic event here yesterday to our friend CJ. It's been 24 hours now, and we can look back at the terrible event and make some positive progress out of it. To CJ, and his brave actions yesterday. He is a hero in all of our hearts and minds, but let's not dwell on that and help him to make this a positive event in his mind. To our friend CJ everyone, cheers!"
About ten minutes later, we heard thunder in the distance. It was close to 5:00 pm and Trev said "I think we should consider moving this to the party patio everyone. I'm getting hungry, so I'm going to start the cooking for tonight's dinner." Everyone agreed with Trev and acknowledged they were getting hungry. We gathered up our belongings and headed for our condo. The sky left loose with a humidity breaking rain shower just as we reached the fourth floor. When we entered the condo, I placed the beans into the oven to get them ready. Carl ignited the grill and he and Trev began preparing baked potatoes for everyone.
Bailey and I went out to the patio, and sat down in the tv area. He looked at me and said "are you okay with my suggestions?" I smiled and said "you took me by surprise, but I needed you to kick in and help me sort this out logically. Yes, I am fine with the approach now. I just don't want too much publicity out of this Bailey." He smiled at me and said "understood, CJ. Just remember, we'll be doing a great thing for a crime victims' organization here. I appreciate your thinking and will minimize all of the paparazzi for you. Trust me on this one!"
Carl retrieved two bottles of white wine from their chiller to serve with dinner. He announced to everyone "the chiller has done its job well. CJ, thank you again for the housewarming gift. Trev and I appreciate it very much." I said "no problem, everyone, I'm so happy that I was able to benefit everyone with a wine chiller today. When I suggested shopping today to Wally, Alex and Aaron I never expected to find such fantastic deals which will benefit all of us. Trev and Carl, thank you both for this delicious dinner as everything looks wonderful." We all enjoyed the dinner and conversation which continued throughout.
Once we finished, Alex and Wally cleared the table and loaded the dishwasher up. Alex created a dinner plate for Ronny, and the remainder of us adjourned to the television area. We watched the remainder of the local news, followed by the national news.
My energy was wearing down, and I announced to everyone "I'm going to retire for the evening gentlemen. I've had a wonderful day, and want to thank you all for such a pleasant day. I'm re-energized and ready for another workday tomorrow. Please continue on, and enjoy some darts and beer if you want to. I'm going to head in and get myself ready for my early morning alarm." Everyone gave me a hug, and Wally said "I'll join you shortly babe, as I have an early day tomorrow also."
My stud muffin joined me about 15 minutes later and prepared himself for bed. We snuggled together and shared multiple kisses. I looked into his eyes and said "thanks for keeping me grounded today my love. I enjoyed our day together, and it was just what I needed to keep me out of a black hole draped with depression. I love you so much, Wally." He kissed me again, wrapped me up in his arms and said "I enjoyed everything today as well CJ. We both needed today to be together. I love you baby, and I hope we both sleep well tonight." I placed my head on his chest and soon fell asleep knowing I was safe and secure in my mans arms.