My long-range forecast -- chapter 6
This is chapter six of my first story on Nifty. I have more chapters written and I look forward to 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.
Wow, do you think CJ will ever come down from his emotional high? I hope you enjoy this chapter! Stay tuned as chapter 7 brings CJ's best friend back into his life.
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On my way home I decided I wanted to stay in this evening. I'll take Wally out this weekend for a big celebratory dinner. For tonight though, I want to create an intimate setting for the two of us.
I stopped at the home goods store first. I picked up some candlesticks and candles. I also put a champagne bucket in my cart. I did not get any champagne flutes before, so I picked up a set of those as well. The next stop was at the liquor store where I bought two bottles of good champagne. The clerk asked me if I wanted two more since I'd receive a significant discount on the entire purchase. I told the clerk "Okay, you caught me in a very good mood today. I'll take two more bottles." After my stop there I went to a specialty deli that I saw an advertisement for. I ended up with a small vegetable tray and dip, a meat and cheese tray, a small fruit tray and some other finger-food choices. I had the fixings for a nice intimate dinner on the patio and headed home.
I loaded all of the food in the refrigerator, washed the new flutes and champagne bucket and set up the candlesticks on the patio. I thought to myself `perfect a quiet and enjoyable evening for the two of us.' The only other item was to get the family call underway and share my news with everyone.
I went into the bedroom closet and hung my pants up, hoping I can get another wear or two out of them. I also exchanged my loafers for a pair of flip flops. I added a station swimsuit to my station polo shirt, and I was ready to go. I looked at the clock, and it was after 5:30 pm.
A few minutes later, there was a knock at my door. I opened it and there stood Wally. He looked all cleaned up from his day and his hair was still wet. I said "have you been here long?" Wally replied "yes, I got here about 5:00 pm and you were still not back yet." I said "yeah, what a day! I wanted to get some things before I came home. Everything is put away, and I just changed my clothes for the call."
Wally said "I heard some rustling around over here and saw your jeep in the lot. I decided to come on over. I was not sure what we may do for dinner, so I just changed into shorts and tee shirt for now. Depending on what you disclose to everyone, you may want me to get dressed up?" I said "no, you look just fine except you need to put this on." I threw the other station swimsuit at him and he grinned saying "I love it!"
I looked at him and said "how about going out to a fancy dinner this weekend? Tonight, I've got plenty of finger foods for us to enjoy with champagne. I'd like to come down from my emotional high with just you on the patio tonight if that's okay with you?" Wally said "that sounds just wonderful CJ."
I told Wally "I think I can only get through my news one time tonight, and do you mind waiting for the call?" He said "no babe. That is fine. How are you feeling about everything you heard today?"
I grabbed his hand and took him to the couch. We sat down and I said "I'm excited, scared, nervous and ready to begin my new career!" He smiled and said "why do you say nervous?" I told him "Bailey is putting me on a pedestal overlooking everyone. I feel that I easily can fall of it and fail. I know myself, and will not let that happen. He has extreme confidence in my abilities and it's just too overwhelming for a 22-year-old college graduate to be starting in the position I've accepted!"
Wally said "well you have obviously impressed them tremendously. They would not be doing this for you if they did not think you can handle it." I grabbed Wally's hand and said "I know that and keep telling myself that. I was not aware how much the March live show here did to catapult my career start. It's all good and as I get more broadcasts under my belt, I'll relax more. Until then, be here for me and keep me grounded. Keep telling me to pack my Virgo traits away and enjoy the ride. When you hear my salary later, please know that I never expected this when I chose meteorology broadcasting for my career. It's very nice, but I'm not going to let it go to my head."
Wally's smile kept getting larger. He said "do you know how handsome you are right now when you're unsure of yourself?" He put his arms around me for a bear embrace and said "remember what I said yesterday -- stick with me kiddo and we'll own this complex?" I shook my head yes. He then continued on saying "money is nice, but what we have going here between us is more important than anything. The money will help us to enjoy life, but our love will carry us through anything and soon we'll own the complex, the city and all the beaches in the Tampa Bay area. You got me CJ, and I have got you. Whatever we face, we'll face it together. Okay?"
I looked deep in his eyes and said "there you're already keeping me grounded! I love you Wally, and I'm glad to have you in my life."
He asked me if I wanted anything to drink for the call? I asked him for an ice tea. He got us each a glass and noticed the champagne bucket with the bottles of champagne. He then said "whoa it must be good news for all this champagne!" I laughed and said "the clerk talked me into four bottles versus two due to the discount. I'm running on an emotional high today and I think anyone can talk me into purchasing anything right now." Wally chuckled as he came back to the couch and said "I also like your polo shirt and these swimsuits are awesome! Sometime I'd like to wear your polo hand me down! I'll be your reporter on the streets and you can toss any weather live shots to me." I laughed at that and said "I was actually thinking about you being at my July 4th live show at the pier. You up for that?" Wally said "sounds good. I'll stand behind you and get the crowd chanting CJ .... CJ .... CJ." I just shook my head and looked at the clock which was now at 6:20 pm.
We talked some more and I sat the laptop up for the call. At 6:30 I clicked on the link, and just like last night we all appeared. The girls were waving and Sally was smiling at us. UD looked better today than he did yesterday.
I started the conversation and said "Hi everyone. Wally's with us today since I have not even had a chance to tell him my news. I got back from the station just an hour ago, and I'm mentally exhausted from my day. I only think I have the energy to share my news one time with everyone. But first, let's start with the Ohio end and how did things go today?"
UD started and said "I knew you were going to throw it to me first. You never like being the center of attention!" Sally chimed in and said "Dean, I think CJ's right let's share what we know about the fire. I know once I hear his news, I'll have plenty of questions for him."
UD said "Well Wally, this is going to be a contractors liability nightmare as you suggested! My lawyers have already contacted the electrical firm. The fire department has ruled the fire to be an installation error on their part. The fire was traced to the new vent they put in before the restaurant opened. It was improperly installed and grounded. Their lawyers are now in touch with my lawyers, but the fire officials said there was no problems caused by the staff." Wally spoke up and said "that's good news UD. Is the electrical firm reputable in the area?" UD said "yes, they are a larger firm and handle plenty of commercial business in the tri-state area. I'm surprised with this though. Usually, you hear very little bad news about them. Oh well, it will all get straightened out though. Appraisers, inspectors and investigators will remain at the scene for the week."
I said to UD "How are you feeling though UD?" UD laughed and said "I'm fine, but I'm still running on low-energy." I replied "that's to be expected UD. Aunt Sally are you and the girls doing, okay?" Sally spoke up and said "we're all good here CJ. We'll get UD rested up and get him back on track. I cannot stand waiting anymore though, let's hear your big news!" UD chimed in saying "yes CJ, I've been sending positive thoughts to you all day. I hope it paid off for you?"
I started in saying "I believe I felt positive energy from all of you today! I cannot tell you how much my March visit paid off with the impromptu shows that I was asked to do. The original job was for the weekend weather anchor and general reporter position. However, today I was promoted to and accepted the morning and noon news weather anchor position. That means I'll be on the morning newscasts from 5:00 -- 7:00 am and the 12:00 pm midday newscast each Monday through Friday. There is a large increase in salary and more paid vacation which I'm now eligible for after October 1 versus waiting until next year."
An eruption of cheers and hugs went through the family and Wally said "sorry CJ this is bigger than a handshake dude." He grabbed me and hugged me as well. Sally said "thanks Wally, I was hoping you'd share a hug with him for all of us wishing we where there with him now."
I continued on saying "that is not the end of the news though. My March broadcast impressed the national network officials in Atlanta and New York. When there is a weather event in the southeastern United States such as a tornado outbreak or hurricane that needs to be covered, I will be leading the story from Tampa for wherever the network wants me. I'll be voicing over local footage and transferring to other reporters depending upon the size of the event. The network knows that this can impact my local schedule and due to that there will be an annual salary retainer which will increase my salary. So, this means that when a hurricane enters the gulf or comes close to anywhere on the southeastern coasts, you'll see CJ on the national news for the weather story."
Aunt Sally began to cry, the girls were screaming and UD was speechless. Wally again placed his hands on my shoulders and shook me hard with his happiness for me. He ended up giving the traditional bro high-five. UD finally shook his head and said "Shit CJ, how did all of this happen?" Sally jumped in and said "Dean, watch your language!" UD said "the hell with the language woman, I want the details! Our son gets a promotion before starting his first job. Plus, he tells us there is a good chance we will see him on the national news as well. This is unbelievable, and before I go any further -- CJ I am so happy for you and proud of you!" He then broke down in tears and said "I only wish your dad and mom were here with us to hear all of this."
I broke down in tears hearing that and said "I do to UD, but you are all here with me and got me to this day! Without all of you encouraging me, loving me and keeping me grounded I would have never made it here." Wally got up and got me some tissues which I needed. I wiped away my tears and smiled to everyone saying "I love you all so much and am so happy to share this news with all of you."
I told everyone how the position came open for me. I also said "UD you had asked me how large the tv market is here. Tampa / St Petersburg is now the 13th largest television market after the latest surveys."
UD asked "do they have a replacement for you for the original weekend position?" I replied "no, not yet. Bailey, the general manager, asked me to reach out to anyone in my class who may not have a job yet. I'm also going to inform Dean Thompson at the college so he can send out a broadcast. The station also has openings for a sports anchor and a number of production-oriented positions."
UD spoke up and said "girls do me a favor and go into the other room for a few minutes." They all said "Ah Dad, we want to talk more to CJ and Wally." He told them he will call them back in shortly.
Once the girls left, UD said "CJ let's talk financials. I know you have the trust funds, but how does this look for you annually?"
Wally said "I'll leave for this as well." Before I could say anything UD abruptly said "stay there Wally. You have a good business mind as well as a thriving business. If I'm not there to help CJ, I want you to assist him with any financial questions he may have." Wally said "okay UD I'll stay if CJ wants me to." I said "yes, please just sit still. UD's right, I already have some questions about Florida state tax implications and what I should do. UD, my annual salary starts at $85,000. I am eligible for an annual merit increase and performance bonuses are issued depending upon the television rating sweeps held twice a year. I will also have the annual national retainer for coverages I do for them which bumps me to well over $100,000 a year."
I thought UD was going to pass out on the spot. He said "Jesus CJ, a starting job of $85,000 plus extras on top of it? Do you know how long it took me do rake in $85,000? I am so damn proud of you son!"
Wally smiled, put his arm around my shoulder and said "damn CJ. Do you know how many people won't ever see that type of money in their lifetime? You should be very proud of yourself, and please know I'm so proud of you on your significant accomplishment at such a young age!"
Aunt Sally joined in as well saying "CJ, I've always known you are destined for great things. You have always given your special 'all-in attitude' on anything you have wanted to do in your life. I am so proud of you son, and cannot wait to give you a hug in person."
I told UD, Wally and Sally "Thanks everyone. I'm very nervous about everything. I know I can do this, but I'm overwhelmed as a 22-year-old college graduate. I never entered this field for the money, and I'm truly in shock with what has happened to me."
Both UD and Sally said "we're in shock with you CJ." UD then asked "Wally, do you have a financial tax advisor you trust? I think we need to get CJ set up locally for his future financial implications. CJ, we need to get the trust funds adjusted as well for your full access now." Wally said "I sure do UD. I trust the man with all of my affairs and will put you and CJ in touch with him."
UD called the girls back in the room and we continued the call. The girls saw my shirt and Laura asked "can you get us anything from the station CJ?" I stood up to show her the swimsuit as well and said "I'll see what I can do." I then spoke up and said "everyone, I am emotionally drained and want to get some dinner." UD said "Wally please take CJ out tonight for a good celebration dinner." Wally said "don't worry UD. If I don't get him out tonight, we will paint the town this weekend." I wrapped up and said "everyone, again my thanks for getting me here and I love you all." UD said "CJ, we love you as well. I am so proud of you and cannot wait for a personal celebration with all of us in August. Good night son."
I ended the call on our side and closed the laptop down. I looked at Wally and said "well my love there you have it. Did I shock you with the news?" He pushed me back on the couch and began kissing me passionately. This went on for quite a while before he broke away and said "do you know how proud of you I am? It's not about the money, but it's about the person you are and including me in all of this. I love you CJ."
I looked at Wally and said "I love you too Wally. Buckle your seat belt, we're in for a fun ride. I look so forward to sharing much more with you throughout our lifetime together."
I said "now let's celebrate! You fill the champagne bucket with ice and start chilling a bottle." I went out on the patio and lit the candles. I then went into the kitchen and opened the various platters I had purchased. Wally took the champagne out to the patio and returned to the kitchen. He said "candles even for this celebration! How romantic." I said "yes, I wanted this to be a private celebration with an emphasis on romance for you and I." Just as we were going to the patio with the food, glasses and utensils my phone rang. I looked at the caller information and it was UD. I showed Wally and he said "you better take it."
I answered the phone and said "Hi UD, what's up?" UD replied "I stepped outside for a walk and just wanted to talk to you privately without the women. Is Wally with you?" I said "yes he is here." UD asked me to put the speaker on, which I did. UD said "hey guys, sorry to bother you but I cannot believe what a week we have all had. I just want to say congratulations again CJ and please know how proud of you I am. I have to admit I'm jealous of where you are at in your career and how bright it's looking for you. I'll be down soon so we can all celebrate together. Until then, Wally please take care of my son. I love you both and please have a cigar or two tonight for me." I said "we will UD. We love you too, and please take care of yourself. Get some rest and if there is anything we can do for you just reach out to us." UD ended the call with "night guys, I'll talk to you later."
Wally and I took everything out to the patio. He popped the cork out of the champagne bottle and poured us each a glass. The taste was wonderful and mixed well with all of the food I purchased. Wally dipped a strawberry into his glass and then fed it to me. I returned the gesture to him and we clanked our glasses together. He said to me "thank you for doing this. I like this more than a fancy restaurant." I looked deep into his eyes and said "I do too my love. I'm right where I want to be and with the man I love."
We kept eating and enjoyed everything. The sun was starting on its downward swing. Wally said "too bad I did not get that lounger built for two over here. We could have snuggled up, watched the sunset and fallen asleep out here tonight." I said "we will enjoy that sometime."
We both stuffed ourselves but had plenty left over. I took the remaining food to the kitchen and stored it in the refrigerator. Wally put more ice in the bucket and began chilling another bottle of champagne. He looked at me and asked "do you want to enjoy a cigar with this next bottle?" I said "yes, lets enjoy one and watch the sunset together." I took the champagne back to the patio, and he cut two cigars for us. We both lit up our cigars and enjoyed the flavor of them mixing with the champagne.
Wally looked at me and said "I need to get something off my chest." I replied "okay, did I say anything on the call to upset you?" He cracked up and said "not you, but are you worried about UD?" I said "what are you thinking stud muffin?" Wally took a puff on his cigar and said "I may be just over analyzing everything but did UD ever come on to you, or ever tell you that he's not happy in his marriage?" I said "No, UD never touched me inappropriately nor has he ever come on to me. I never engaged in a personal conversation about his relationship with Aunt Sally. Are you feeling some weird vibes from what all he says to you and I?"
Wally pondered his next words and said "yes, I'm wondering if this move to Florida for you was the start for UD to break away from the family. I think he's thinking that he can use you to make a change in his life?" I replied "perhaps, but he has all the restaurants in Ohio. I don't believe he would leave everything there just to solve a mid-life crisis or whatever he is encountering. I also know he is very faithful to his girls and Sally. I just don't see him upsetting the apple cart now. Once the girls are older maybe. Until then I believe he is content." Wally continued saying "yes you can tell me to shut my Virgo analytical skills down now. I do truly feel something is not right with him. Please continue to be there for him."
I then picked up the thinking and said "I will be there for him my love. When the time is right, I will disclose our relationship. With all of his comments and how he is treating you, I cannot help but think he already knows that I'm gay and he is okay with it. In a strange way I feel he knows we're already a couple."
Wally said "time will tell. Until that time, we have each other and again I am so happy for you and proud of the man you are. It's a blessing from above that we encountered each other. I cherish what we have started and look forward to so much more with you."
Our conversation continued and the sun set with brilliant colors on the gulf. We finished another bottle of champagne as well as well as our cigars. I blew out the candles and took Wally's hand. He looked at me and said "what do you have in mind now CJ?" I said "I'm taking you in for another shower, and then I want to make passionate love to you all night." Wally said "I am good for that my love; you lead the way."