Paul's Story

Usual Disclaimer: If you are not 18 years old yet do not read. If you are offended by male to male sexual content definitely do not read. If the laws in your state or county forbid this type of material, do not read. Otherwise enjoy the story and genuine comments will be appreciated.

The author retains copyright (2007) to this story. Reproducing this story for distribution without the author's permission is a violation of that copyright.

This story is fiction.

Thank you Nifty for the opportunity to post this story.

Paul's Story.

Chapter 12.

"How would you feel about finishing your job at the gym?"

Paul swivelled round to look at Peter and Michael. They'd just spent a happy day at Fairhaven where Peter sometimes patrolled the beach and did other duties with his lifesaving club.

"What do you mean?"

"Anthony needs all the help he can get with the renovations and he's been telling me how practical you are. Everyone's going to help when they can over the coming holiday break, but we've all got so many things happening he needs someone reliable, and you and Jeremy would be perfect."

Paul didn't know what to say. He loved his gym job and got on so well with everyone there.

"Don't worry about losing your pay. The house fund will cover that and you'll be much better off since Anthony will want to work seven days a week."

"I couldn't help all the time. I can't leave Brian."

"No way. He'd kill us if we took you away from him."

Paul looked at Jeremy but he was obviously leaving it to Paul to decide for himself. It didn't take long. The idea of working with Jeremy pushed any other considerations aside.

"Okay. When does this start? I'll have to give Alan at least a couple of weeks warning."

"The week after next. Anthony's finishing his apprenticeship and he's got a month's holiday so he's going to make the most of it."

Jeremy gave Paul poke in the side and a big grin. Cheat. Paul couldn't poke him back because he was driving, but that didn't matter and Paul gave his own smile at seeing Jeremy so pleased. God, how was he going to keep his Web design work going? He'd be too tired in the evenings because Anthony was a workaholic.

In bed that night Paul talked it all out with Jeremy and they decided they'd start at seven in the morning and finish by seven in the evening and that way they could have a couple of hours to themselves before they went to bed. Jeremy was all fired up about his new story ever since Peter had encouraged him about it, and said it would drive him crazy if he had to leave it for a month, and Paul needed time for his website work too, since Andrew had organised three new projects for him as well as the big site that Peter, Sam, and Michael wanted for their photos and pictures. Just as well there was no deadline, or he wouldn't have been able to do them.

"What will Anthony say? He likes to start at six and keep going till dark."

"We're not slaves Paul, though with these long hours we might feel like it. He'll be pleased whatever we do. You know what he's like."

Paul did know what Anthony was like. He'd already worked for him to help get the new room and garage for Andrew's bungalow finished. He was great. Fairly quiet, but still fun and you had to do everything carefully because he expected it to be just right.

"You'll have to do some extra workouts at the gym to make sure you're strong enough."

That got the poke it deserved. It was a standing joke that everyone was stronger than Paul despite his running and training. He wasn't really the weakest. He reckoned he was probably stronger than Brian whose only exercise was the regular Thursday evening with Andrew and the swimming which followed.

"You wait. If my growth spurt keeps going you won't be saying that."

That meant a tussle, but of course Jeremy won. Despite the three cm he'd grown in the last couple of months Paul didn't think he'd ever be as strong. Maybe he'd catch up with William, no one else though. Pete was strong as, so was Sam, and Peter could beat both of them, while Andrew made them all look like babies.

"Jer, we won't have enough time to do any training."

"Yes we will. We'll go for runs and do exercises in the evenings if Anthony hasn't worn us out. It's going to be good. Pete's working with us too."

"He is? How do you know?"

"Peter told me yesterday. Michael and Sam are too busy and Peter has to keep working at College so he was worried Anthony wouldn't have enough help."

Paul couldn't help grinning. Jeremy was right. With Pete there it would definitely be interesting. Interesting it was, with lots of laughter and even more hard work. Anthony kind of changed from his quiet nature. Well, he was still quiet, but he was definitely in charge, and had everything organised so they knew exactly what they were doing. For the first week it was just Paul and Anthony working because Jeremy and Pete had their final exams and couldn't afford a minute of time away from their study, and on the very first day Paul discovered how interesting it was going to be when Anthony handed him a welding mask.

"Watch what I do Paul. I'm going to give you a turn on some scrap when I finish these joins."

Paul didn't have a clue, but Anthony just explained things carefully, grinned when Paul's first effort fell apart, then made him try several more times.

"Hmm, not very good, but at least its holding."

He clamped two pieces of metal together and did another demo.

"See, now try again."

Paul did, and slowly got an idea of angles, times and pressures as he manipulated the welding rod.

"Getting there. We'll try again tomorrow."

The main job was building the steel framework for the five car lock-up garage and the rooms above, and by the end of the week all the big vertical beams were set in concrete with bracing rod's connecting and they were ready to start on the horizontal supports. Paul wondered how on earth they'd get them lifted into place but Anthony had it all under control. Each day there was a session with the welding and Anthony decided Paul had a good feel for the metal. After another week, he said Paul was a natural and started him doing some of the welding jobs. It was a good stir too because Jeremy and Pete had a try for a couple of days and Anthony said they were clueless. Paul's other main jobs were using a big old drill press to make bolt holes, and using the angle grinder to cut pieces of metal after Anthony had measured them out.

Work proceeded apace and by the end of the four weeks the five car lock-up garage with rooms above was close to finished, which amazed Peter who thought it would take twice as long, and Anthony started preparations for the big job of the changes and additions to the main house. Anthony's first bombshell was to leave Jeremy and Paul to build all the metal railings for the upstairs balcony while he did the decking with Pete. He watched of course, but Paul had to do all the welding and felt very pleased with himself when his work was given the nod of approval. The next surprise was Anthony's decision to quit his job at the big construction firm where he'd been for the last four years. It meant that the full on hours would continue indefinitely and Paul and Jeremy decided that after another two weeks they'd start having more time to themselves.

"Two more weeks? Okay. We'll make the most of it."

Anthony laughed, then explained that Peter had talked it over with him just the night before.

"He says that we have to work sensible hours and have weekends to ourselves, so this coming one will be our last. We're stopping for the house holiday too."

Paul knew about the house holiday. Some from Jeremy but mostly from Pete who reckoned it was the best holiday in the world.

"I think you'll finish the railings tomorrow. They're looking good Paul."

Pete thought that was funny and carried on about Paul getting a big head. He whispered something to Jeremy who nodded and grinned in a way which meant it had been something rude.

"Hey Pete. I know why your head's so big. It's because you wank it every night."

Pete whispered something else to Jeremy and they both gave him a wicked kind of look.

"What?"

"You'll find out."

They wouldn't say and then Pete, acting as if he didn't know, kept asking Paul what wanking was. What an idiot. It turned into the topic of the day and kept them all laughing. About half past ten Paul stripped off and jumped into bed. Jeremy said he was having a quick shower, which was strange because he'd had one a few hours earlier when they finished work. He flicked the room light off. Why did he do that? He always liked it on while they mucked around. Maybe he was tired and wanted to go straight to sleep? No that couldn't be. Paul started smiling while he waited in the dark. It would be some sort of surprise. The door clicked open, and there was a brief wash of light from the corridor. Paul tossed the covers aside. Jeremy's hand grabbed his dick and yanked it. God, what was he doing? Paul started to squawk with surprise when he was yanked again then stopped when a tongue filled his mouth. It was Pete! Yank. Yank. Yank. Oh my God. Was he trying to pull it off? There was no way to complain either because Pete kept the kiss going and all he could manage were several muffled grunts and strange noises. The yanks continued till Paul pulled his mouth away.

"Stop. Stop."

The yanking changed to a powerful grope, squeezing the boner that had quickly developed.

"What? Didn't you like it?"

"Like it! Are you trying to bend it out of shape or something?"

"Hey, good idea."

Paul squawked when Pete started doing just that. How was he going to stop him? Well, it had to be a case of fight fire with fire, so Paul grabbed at Pete. He was hard. There was a laugh and Pete rolled on top, squishing Paul and trapping his hands between them.

"Go on. Teach me."

"What? Teach you what?"

"How to wank of course. You've been saying all day that you know how to do it."

What an idiot. With his sense of humor bubbling, Paul went along and started explaining to Pete just as if he knew nothing about it.

"I don't believe you. Show me."

The game continued for ages with Paul spending most of the time laughing. Not all of it though, as Pete somehow managed to get him talking about all sorts of things.

"How do you keep up with Jeremy Paul?"

"What do you mean?"

"His dick never stops."

"Oh, yeah, that's for sure. Well I don't, but it doesn't matter, we just do whatever the other wants. It's not like we're having a competition."

"Do you wish he was here now instead of with Sam?"

"No, he loves being with Sam. That's a funny question Pete."

"No it's not. You're partners. Anthony and Brian stick together."

"They do don't they. Well, that's what suits them I suppose, but it doesn't suit Jeremy. He falls in love with anyone who's kind to him and its one of his ways of being a friend when he has sex with them."

"Is that what he says?"

"No, but it's true."

"You're right. He loves Peter like you wouldn't believe."

"He loves you just as much Pete. He'd do anything for you."

Pete was quiet for a moment.

"I know. It's kind of scary isn't it?"

There was quiet for another moment.

"What about you Paul? Do you like me much?"

"No. Not really, but the sex is fun and if you practise a bit more you might even get good at it."

"You brat. You're dead."

There was an explosion of action and seconds later Paul was laughing and begging for mercy at the same time.

"How's that friend of yours in England going?"

"He's not in England. He's in Europe somewhere, rushing all over the place before he comes back."

"Are we going to meet him?"

"I hope so."

"What's that mean?"

"He doesn't know I'm gay and Jeremy reckons I have to tell him."

"Has he got it in for gays?"

"I don't think so, but we never talked about anything gay. I wasn't game."

"Why not? You're gamer than just about anyone I know."

Paul was rather astonished.

"Sure too."

"When's he getting back?"

"In three weeks."

"Hey, you said he's really good looking didn't you?"

"Yes."

"And he's a nice guy?"

"Yeah, really nice."

"Ask him to come on the house holiday then."

Paul thought that would be great but he sensed something in Pete's manner.

"Are you going to play tricks on him or something?"

Pete laughed.

"Of course I am. He sounds interesting."

"I'm fairly certain he's straight Pete. He had lots of adventures in England and they were all with girls."

"Fairly certain? Not absolutely? Why not?"

"Well, William says he mightn't be."

"William? ...He knows him?"

"No, but that's what he said when I told him how Jarrod likes mucking round."

"Mucking round? Tell me."

Paul did.

"Whoo! I'm glad you never told him you were gay."

This, the opposite of what William said, was quite unexpected and Paul was quite taken aback.

"You think Jeremy's wrong? I shouldn't tell him?"

"Twit. Of course you should tell him."

"What are you talking about then?"

"I mean I'm glad you never told him before or you'd have gone to England with him and we wouldn't know you. William's right for sure. Ask him to stay the first weekend he gets back and I bet the three of you will be going at it like rabbits."

"Three of us?"

"Well Jeremy will have to be there."

Paul started laughing.

"Is that funny?"

"No, it's just that I never had sex with anyone before I came here and now I can hardly keep up."

"No-one? Not even one person? No wonder you're such an expert on wanking."

"Jeez Pete, I think I've forgotten how."

"Yeah? What about when Jeremy's away with Peter on their photo shoots?"

"William sleeps with me then, or you or Michael."

"William?"

"Yes, Jeremy started that when we took him away for a weekend."

"Jeremy? I would have expected that to be you."

"No, Jeremy thought William was lonely and he was right. He sleeps with us once or twice a week now."

"Sleeps? There wouldn't be much sleeping. He's as randy as Jeremy."

"Ha, you can talk. Anyhow how do you know that?"

"I just do. He doesn't seem lonely to me."

"He is better now. We talk a lot and he's really good Pete. I didn't think much of him at first but he was like a different person after he went away with us."

"Well Andrew and Peter like him, so that's good enough for me."

In the morning when Paul woke up he reached for Jeremy's bone, then grinned sleepily to himself when he realised it was Pete. He cracked one eyelid half open to check the time. Good, there was half an hour before they had to get up.

For the next four weeks Paul's life was so full he could hardly believe it. For three hours in the morning he worked with Brian, the next five hours he spent with Anthony and Jeremy, and in the evenings there were a couple of hours on his website projects. Weekends were heaven. Sometimes it was just him and Jeremy but once they went with Pete to the surf club and another time Pete took William with them to revisit the secret beach. Peter, Michael and Sam were a way for a couple of weeks at some artists workshop in Sydney and Pete couldn't help Anthony while he was doing his professional modelling for three weeks.

Jeremy thought Pete's idea of inviting Jarrod to stay was a great idea so Paul put it in his next e-mail and it was all organised.

Jarrod replied, all excited about coming home, and said he couldn't wait to see Paul again. That made Paul excited too, but nervous as well because of all the things there were to tell him. Jarrod knew that Jeremy was a new friend of Paul's and that he'd moved out of the halfway house, but none of the reasons why. Everyone said not to worry, but he did, and on the Thursday morning when Jeremy drove him to the airport he was in quite a state till he saw Jarrod come through the arrival gate. He forgot all that at the sight of his friend with the rucksack they'd searched for slung casually over one shoulder, a carry bag held in one hand, the other waving, and his happy grin plastered over his face.

Paul's jaw dropped though and he heard a gasp of surprise from Jarrod's mum. No wonder. Jarrod was ten centimeters taller and looked about three years older. There was a great rush of hugs, kisses and handshakes with his mum and dad, and then it was Paul's turn for a powerful hug and a huge grin. God how could he change so much in just six months? After happy greetings they headed for a cafe and Paul introduced Jeremy who'd been watching quietly.

"So you're Jeremy, the mystery friend."

"And you're the adventurous overseas friend."

They smiled and Paul watched them sizing each other up and liked the smile they gave each other. Yes, just like Jeremy said, it was going to work out. For half an hour there was animated talk from Jarrod, mostly about his flight and some happenings in Germany where he'd been last, and then they parted. Jarrod wanted Paul and Jeremy to come back to his home but they had Brian and Anthony waiting for them so that was out and they organised to ring in the evening instead.

"What did you think Jeremy?"

"I like him. He's different to what I thought though. You made him sound fairly quiet and not all that confident."

"I know. He was. The trip must have changed him and he's so much taller."

"So are you. He was surprised when he saw you."

"Was he? I didn't notice that."

"I know. You were looking at his mum."

"He's still the same though, even if he's changed."

Jeremy laughed at that and so did Paul when he realised what he'd said. Later on Jarrod rang and said he wanted to get together the next evening but couldn't because his mum and dad were taking him out. Paul told him they'd pick him up at nine on Saturday morning.

"Where are we going?"

Jarrod was waiting with his rucksack beside him when Jeremy's hatchback pulled in.

"What's all that stuff? You got as much as when you went away for six months."

"Well you said to put in some good clothes in case we go out, and since I'm staying for three days I'll need a few changes. Where are we going?"

"Did you put your speedos in? We're going surfing."

"Surfing? I can't do that."

"We'll show you, but even if you don't like it the beach is still fun. You still like swimming don't you?"

"I haven't had a swim for so long. It's freezing in Europe. Hey, look what I've got for you."

He produced a couple of CDs which promptly went into the CD player and became the background for the drive to the beach. A big smile passed back and forth and suddenly Paul felt the same old friendly atmosphere. Jeremy and Paul listened avidly while Jarrod recounted some of his adventures. One story led to another and he did most of the talking till they arrived at Fairhaven.

"We're going inside the surf club?"

"Yes, Jeremy knows some of the guys here and he's helped out with patrols."

"Wow Paul, this is a great idea. Dad used to take me to the beach when I was in Primary school but then we stopped for some reason."

"It was Jeremy's idea, so blame him if you get dumped."

They went to the changing room and Paul's eyes nearly bugged out when Jarrod pulled off his shirt and shorts. His jocks went next and all Paul could do was stare. With a grin, Jarrod took a pair of red speedos from his day pack and pulled them on. Paul continued to stare and Jarrod laughed at him.

"God Jarrod, what have you been doing? You look so fit."

"Well, when I was on the plane after I left Australia, I started thinking about our wrestling and how you always beat me, so I decided to get stronger. I copied you Paul, and I found a really good gym while I was staying with my relatives for the first month. It was torture but then it started to work and I got stronger."

"A month?"

Jarrod nodded at the implication then laughed.

"They gave me a routine I could do anywhere and I go for a run most days too. You won't be able to boss me so easily now."

Paul felt funny as he studied Jarrod's features. He'd always thought he was amazingly attractive but this extra height and strength made him even more striking.

"I wouldn't be too sure about that. I've learnt a few tricks since you've been away."

Jeremy was enjoying this.

"Paul always complains about everyone being stronger and said he couldn't wait for you to get back so he could beat someone."

So, they were both going to stir him were they? Paul's gear came off and as he went to pick up his speedos Jarrod lifted him in a great bear hug. It only lasted a few seconds but it sent Paul's pulse racing. What was he doing? Jarrod's glance went to Jeremy, but he was quite nonchalant and Paul figured that Jarrod was kind of testing to see if their old ways were okay.

"Hey Jarrod, still got the same old red speedos I see. ...He's got a fetish for them Jer."

"Not really, these are brand new. I spent half the day shopping for clothes yesterday because nothing at home fits. Just as well mum was paying or I'd be getting everything from the op shop."

"Daggy baggies!"

"Horny devil!"

Jarrod had to be totally smothered with sun-block since he was so pale from the European winter. They walked past scattered clumps of beach goers looking for a suitable spot to dump their gear and Paul became conscious that eyes were turning. Well, they did stand out. People probably thought they were from the surf patrol. There was a race to the water, the enjoyment of diving through the breaking waves, then laughter when Jarrod tackled him and they both got knocked over by the next wave, and companionship while they taught Jarrod how to ride the waves. An hour later they had hamburgers for lunch then headed off for a walk along the beach. Jarrod chatted excitedly about how good it was to be back and how he'd hardly seen any beaches while he was away, let alone gone for a swim.

"What is it Paul? I've been talking all the time and you've hardly told me anything about what you're doing."

Jeremy stopped walking, grabbed the Paul's shoulders then pointed to the sand dunes and scrub.

"Jarrod's right Paul. It's time you had a big talk with him. Find somewhere shady so he doesn't frizzle and I'll have a swim."

Jarrod was staring at them, puzzlement obvious at this exchange. Jeremy made a shooing wave of his hand and they automatically started up the dunes.

"Wow, Jeremy made that sound like a big deal. What are we meant to be talking about?"

"Lots. Um ...Jarrod, do you know anyone who's gay?"

"Gay? Yeah, I stayed with this guy for... Oh my! ...You going to tell me you're gay?"

Paul nodded, watching closely to see what the next few seconds would bring. What they brought was a typical Jarrod grin.

"Fair dinkum? Well, I used to wonder sometimes. You know, when we were mucking round, but then you always talked so straight I thought I must be wrong. He paused and looked down across the beach to where Jeremy was diving through a wave.

"Are you ...Um ...Together then? Your rings mean you're like boyfriends?"

Paul nodded again. He wasn't getting much chance to say anything.

"Is this what Jeremy meant by a big talk? Telling me you're together?"

"Some of it."

"What else? He wants me to go away?"

A worried look appeared.

"Is he jealous Paul, and doesn't want us to be friends any more?"

Every single one of Paul's concerns disappeared with that statement and he smiled with relief.

"Yes, he says if you even talk to me again you're dead."

Jarrod was shocked and went motionless till he saw Paul smile.

"You idiot, I believed you for a moment then. He's too friendly to be jealous."

"He's so kind I don't think he even knows what jealousy is. He just hopes we'll all be friends."

"He's watching us."

"Well, he's wondering how it's going."

"I'll bet. Give him a wave."

Paul lifted his arm, and as he did so, Jarrod stood beside him, rested one arm on his shoulder then raised the other so they were both waving. Jeremy waved back then started running towards them. That was because Jarrod's wave had turned to a beckon.

"Look at that smile Paul. He's happy I'm not bashing your face in for being a fag."

Now it was Paul's turn to be startled till he saw Jarrod's grin. So, he was still a tricker. Jeremy arrived and sat next to them where they'd moved back in the shade.

"So? What's happening? "

Once again Paul didn't get a chance to speak.

"Paul's told me he likes what's in your speedos and you're going to kill me if I even speak to him."

That was Jeremy's turn to be startled, but two grins told him it was a stir.

"Sounds like Paul, making up stories about me."

"I think he's got more secrets too, but you were down there all by yourself looking like an unwanted leper."

That got a big smile from Jeremy and Paul felt happy.

"What's it like being gay Paul?

"Great, specially with Jeremy."

"I'll bet. So, what else are we meant to be talking about?"

"Um. ...It's how I met Jeremy. It's good and bad."

"Bad? How come?"

"I was being blackmailed."

Jarrod grinned at the joke, then realised it wasn't.

"Serious?"

"Yeah. These two guys found out I was gay and got me posing for porn photos."

"You did porn photos just because you were gay?"

"Well they weren't much at the start. It was underwear and shorts and they called it modelling. They paid me too. Lots of money. That's how I bought my new sound system."

"This happened before I went away?"

"Yeah. And then they found out about sis and made me start doing rude stuff."

"Rude stuff? Like what?"

"Um.. Jerking off."

Jarrod thought about that.

"How did they make you do that?"

"They said she'd go to jail, and they meant it."

"How is she? You haven't even mentioned her."

"She's pretty good. I've only seen her a couple of times because she's at a retreat."

"What's a retreat?"

"It's a place in the country and she lives with monks and some staff who help her."

"Monks? Wow ..How come you didn't tell me about the porn?"

"It wasn't too bad till after you left, and if I told you you'd know I was gay. I was scared I'd lose you as my friend."

Jarrod went quiet, look thoughtful, then nodded.

"You could have told me Paul. How did you get out of it?"

"They blackmailed a guy called Peter and made us do stuff together, and another guy called Andrew rescued us and fixed everything up."

"Rescued? Like went in wherever and got you out?"

"Yeah, Andrew smashed the door down and then threw one of the guys through the air. We were helpless Jarrod. They had us drugged so we went along with whatever they said, as well as giving us Viagra and aphrodisiac pills."

"What's aphro whatever?"

"Aphro-disi-ac. You get super randy."

Jarrod stared in disbelief.

"God. What did they make you do?"

"Um. ... Everything."

Jared's eyes widened as more processing went on.

"Everything?"

Paul nodded.

"Ah. ...were you all right? ...I mean.. Um. ... did you get hurt?"

"Not really. Peter helped me get through it all."

"Peter? You sound like you still know him."

"It's his house where we live. That's how I met Jeremy. Jeremy looked after me while I recovered."

Jarrod picked up on that straight away.

"Recovered? You said you didn't get hurt."

"I didn't really, but the drugs made me funny. Jeremy caught me when I fainted in the shower and I was aching from the Viagra."

"Viagra makes you ache?"

Jeremy chipped in.

"They gave them so much they were hard for five hours."

"Five hours?? Oh my God... Is that how long you were doing things with that other guy?"

"Peter. No, that was about three hours."

Jarrod looked around.

"What happened to the guys who blackmailed you? I hope they went to jail."

"Not straight away. One of them tried to get revenge and Andrew saved us all again."

"Saved you? What happened?"

"It was terrible. He had a knife at Michael's throat and made us all swallow sex pills. Then we had to do all sorts of things to Andrew and each other."

Jarrett was shaking his head in disbelief as Paul and Jeremy went through what happened.

"A cattle prod? That guy is sick."

"He was worse than that. We think he was planning to kill us."

For nearly an hour Paul and Jeremy went through the details. It was strange talking about it all again, as it had become a background thing in his mind, but it was all new for Jarrod and he wanted to know everything. They decided to go back into the surf because they had all weekend to talk. Jarrod was surprised that Paul was now faster than him at swimming and said what was the use of now being stronger if he couldn't catch Paul when they were stirring each other. Jarrod started stirring them about their rude speedos and kept saying he was on his guard because they had the hots for him, so in the showers Jeremy and Paul made a point of staring at him and calling him a nice hunk of meat.

"Meat? Yeah, and you probably want to get your teeth into it too. No more hugs for you Paul unless I've got five layers of clothes on."

The end of chapter 12.

Paul's Story. Chapter 13.

At about eleven thirty in the evening they arrived home after a delicious meal at a bistro and laughing their heads off at a comedy movie at a theatre in Geelong. Jarrod kept stirring about how dangerous it would be staying the night in a house full of gays and wanted a room with a lock and bolt on the door. Sam was in Sydney with Peter and Michael, so they offered his room.

"Someone else's bed? No way. I'll take my chances here."

`Here', was the spare mattress which had been set up for him. Paul took him to the bathroom, organised a towel and soap, and a quarter of an hour later they were under the covers, Jarrod on the mattress and Paul and Jeremy together in the big double bed.

"Hey, are you two going to carry on all might?"

They weren't going to, not while Jarrod was in the room.

"Um. ...No!"

"Good. I'm safe then."

He jumped off the mattress, climbed onto the bed then pushed his way between Jeremy and Paul.

"What are you doing?"

"Getting comfortable. Just like we always used to."

Paul felt Jarrod's hand touch his thigh.

"Hey, you had jocks on when you got in."

"We were being polite."

"Good, I hate wearing anything in bed."

There was some wriggling.

"You remember that don't you Paul? You were always teasing me about being a nudist.

Paul laughed.

"How could I forget. You made me do the same."

"Made you! Ha! That's a joke. Jeremy, does he still like wrestling?"

"For sure, that's how he seduced me."

"Wow, all he did was bully me."

"He tries that too, but luckily I'm stronger."

Paul was laughing at them.

"Idiots. What is this? Two against one."

"Hear that Jeremy? He wants to fight. Who goes first. You or me?"

"He's a handful. You soften him up and I'll finish him off."

Before Paul could think, he was squished, the bed covers went flying and he was looking at Jarrod's grin a couple of inches away.

"I missed our wrestles when I left."

Paul tried to keep him off but couldn't. It was no different to when he wrestled with Jeremy or Pete, so sneaky tactics had to come into play. He remembered how ticklish Jarrod was and tried that. Jarrod squirmed and laughed, calling him a cheat, which was a perfect excuse for more tickling. Jarrod's body galvanised as he tried unsuccessfully to trap Paul's hands.

"Cheating again. Remember how I used to stop that?"

"Yes, but you won't do that now."

"Yeah? Tickle me again and find out."

Would he really do it? There was only one way to find out. Oh God.

"Jeremy, help, he's going to break it."

Jeremy just sat there enjoying the circus. Paul started laughing which made Jarrod look at him.

"What?"

"I used to dream about you doing this."

"You did? ...Well, I suppose so."

Jarrod sat up and looked at Jeremy.

"Does he try all his sneaky tricks with you Jeremy?"

"He never stops."

"He smiles a lot more than he used to... Wow, did you really dream about me?"

Paul nodded.

"Like. ...Um. ...sex dreams?"

Paul nodded again.

"I must have driven you crazy."

Jarrod turned to Jeremy.

"I used to try and make Paul get boners all the time because he was so shy about them."

"I know, he's told me all about it."

"Um. ...I suppose so."

Jeremy laughed then.

"He told me all the bad things."

Jarrod thought that was funny. He picked up on things faster than he used to.

"He's not shy now. Look at him showing it off to us."

"Hey Jarrod, how come you haven't got one? You always used to."

"If you keep wrestling me I will. Don't you remember? I always take longer than you."

That was right. Paul pushed Jarrod down then had an idea.

"Wrestle with Jeremy."

Jarrod looked a bit uncertain.

"What? Are you scared of him?"

Typical. Jeremy tried to make it easy for Jarrod.

"Paul, we're kind of new to each other."

"Not for long. Go on Jarrod, I bet Jeremy beats you."

They grinned at each other and Jarrod spoke up.

"Um. ...will we put our jocks on?"

Paul took over.

"No way, and the one who loses has to put his hands behind his head for five minutes."

Jarrod's head jerked around. So, he remembered.

"Shake hands! Good. Now hug each other."

Jeremy acted first. He was used to this kind of game. It was a quick hug because Jarrod used it as an excuse to get an advantage and pushed Jeremy onto his back. It only half worked because of Jeremy's quick reflexes. Paul watched with total enjoyment. It wasn't full on serious wrestling, but neither of them was going to give in either, so after a while he told them it was a draw.

"That means you both lose, so who goes first?"

They looked at each other then Jeremy flopped on his back.

"Go on Jarrod. Show him what tiny tickles are."

"Tiny tickles. ...Um. ...shouldn't you do that?"

"They're your idea. All right, we'll do it together."

The gentle touching turned Jeremy on completely and in moments he was quite rampant. Jarrod was kind of staring, which was only to be expected because Jeremy was bigger than most guys.

"Close your eyes Jeremy and tell us which one's touching you."

Jeremy willingly shut his eyes and Paul ran his finger slowly and lightly from his neck to his belly button.

"Paul."

That was easy since it was one of Paul's habits. Paul nodded at Jarrod to take a turn then watched him start at Jeremy's ankle and make tiny circles all the way up his leg.

"Paul."

Paul and Jarrod laughed and didn't say which it was. Paul pointed at Jeremy's stomach which received several big circles.

"Jarrod."

Paul pointed at Jeremy's nipple and Jarrod grinned like anything. He'd caught on that he was meant to do everything. He circled one nipple, then the other, then used two hands to do both of them at the same time.

"Both of you."

This was great fun and they couldn't help laughing, which must have made Jeremy wonder. Paul pointed at Jeremy's boner. Jarrod gave him a funny look but then went ahead. He rested his forefinger lightly at the base and traced it slowly to the top then down again. Jeremy didn't say anything.

"Who was it?

"Jarrod."

He'd tricked them. Paul figured it straight away and moved his finger up and down in the air telling Jarrod to repeat what he'd just done. He did it and stopped. Jeremy said nothing. Paul put one finger to his lips and motioned to Jarrod. Twice more Jarrod did the tracing thing till Jeremy laughed, opened his eyes and called them cheats.

"So who was it each time then?"

"We're not telling."

Jeremy knelt up and Jarrod relaxed in his place, closing his eyes without even being told. Paul motioned for Jeremy to do the chin to belly button thing.

"Paul."

They went right through, Jeremy doing exactly the same things and each time Jarrod said it was Paul. He opened his eyes right at the end.

"Jeremy?"

They both nodded.

"I thought you were playing the same trick."

"We did. You got it wrong every time."

Jarrod sat up, then pushed Paul on his back.

"Go on, you have to take your turn."

Paul was only too happy and felt tingly all over as the fingers set to work. He knew they'd follow the same pattern and said Jarrod every time. He also knew he was right because he cracked one eye open each time he was touched. They were both kneeling over him with big boners jutting out and there was an exchange of slightly awkward glances.

"I suppose you guys do stuff like this every night? I really missed it when I was overseas."

"How come? You said in your e-mails you slept with stacks of girls."

"Yes, but they're not friends. It's different."

That was exactly the same he used to say about Jenny, and Paul understood because they'd talked about it before.

"Are you going to give me a cuddle? Then we can play another game."

"Um.. Who?.. me, or Jeremy?"

"Well, is Jeremy a good cuddler?"

"Good? He's the best."

"Both of you then."

Paul was surprised at that but moved to one side so Jarrod could be in the middle, Jeremy retrieved the bed covers and pulled them over and they snuggled together. They started off spooned the way they did at Jarrod's house before he left, then Paul was surprised when Jarrod got him to turn over so they were facing, and even more surprised when Jarrod's hand went round his boner.

"What are you doing?"

"Doesn't it feel good? Come on."

Rather stunned, Paul let his hand be guided to Jarrod's boner. What was he going to do next? Did he think he had to do this to stay friends? He didn't do anything else, just snuggled close, said how good it was to be together again and stirred Paul for being so hard. A couple of minutes later he rolled over and did the same with Jeremy. Paul had to hold back a laugh. Jeremy wouldn't be able to cope with his dick being held for long. Sure enough. He sat up and rolled over both of them so Paul was in the middle. Jarrod turned to face Paul and blithely held his boner again.

"Are we ready for another game?"

Paul had wondered about his game comment when he said it earlier.

"Sure. ...what is it?"

"Well, I thought we could have a kissing contest. I'm pretty good at it."

A jolt of disbelief went through Paul and he stared at Jarrod to figure if he was tricking. He had a funny grin.

"Jarrod, you're already playing some game aren't you?"

The grin got bigger.

"Yes. It's hard work though. I'm not getting much response."

"Not ...much ...response?"

There was a squeeze to Paul's boner that was a total come on and Jarrod laughed.

"Well, a bit of a response."

"A bit? We're practically ready to rape you."

"Let's do the kissing first."

"No. We're not doing anything. Tell us what's going on."

"I'll tell you as long as we all feel good."

Without waiting he moved to the middle and held both their boners.

"Come on, me too."

From his cheeky grin, Paul knew they'd have to follow his agenda, so he nodded at Jeremy.

"Jarrod, Jeremy won't last long like this so start talking."

"He won't? Just from holding? Doubts!"

He must have given a squeeze because Jeremy drew in a sharp breath. Jarrod laughed then leaned back and put his hands behind his head.

"Jarrod. Talk."

"Well, I've got a story of my own. I was going to tell you but not through e-mails."

"If you say you're gay I won't believe you. Even if you're acting like it."

"I met this guy in London and he was you. Well, he looked like you. Not completely, but so much that it made me feel weird. Anyhow, he was really interesting and fun to talk to and he asked me back to his flat to listen to some music. That made it even weirder because he had his sound system in his bedroom and we were sitting on the bed to listen, just like we used to at home. When it got late he said I had to stay, and that was a relief because it was pouring rain outside. But then there was only one bed and we had to share. Well, as soon as he turned the light out he started tickling me. Sexy tickling. You know. I tickled him back and then we were right into it. It was the first time I'd done it with a guy and it was great. I ended up staying with him for over a week until I went to France."

Paul was finding this hard to believe. After all the girls that had been mentioned in the e-mails it didn't fit his mental image.

"First time?"

"Yes. It's the only time Paul. I wouldn't even have thought of doing it if he hadn't looked so much like you, and then I kept wondering what it would be like if it really was you."

Jeremy was grinning like anything.

"You had sex with a guy because he looked like Paul?"

"Yeah. Weird hey?"

"Totally! I couldn't imagine it."

That set them both grinning so Paul decided to push this where it looked like it was going.

"So, what happens after this kissing competition then?"

Jarrett hesitated and looked cheeky.

"Well, whatever a porn star and a super stud can show me."

Paul gave him a poke in the stomach and promptly got one back.

"Porn star? All right what's the rules?"

"There aren't any. It's just a good excuse to get going."

"Jarrod, you're an idiot. Go on then, since you say you're so good at it, show Jeremy how well you can kiss."

Jeremy didn't have any say, not that he wanted any, and just relaxed back and let Jarrod take over. A kiss? Gods. That wasn't a kiss. Paul was totally turned on just looking at them. Yes, their mouths were active, but Jarrod was moving his body slowly and gently against Jeremy's. One hand was in Jeremy's hair and kneading his neck and the other was active between them. Jeremy would last about thirty seconds. Sure enough, his hips started, there was a muffled noise from their locked lips and then Jarrod lifted his head in surprise.

"Wow!"

Paul smiled.

"Keep cuddling. He takes a while to come back to the real world."

Jeremy opened his eyes.

"Ha. Look who's talking."

When Jeremy reached for the hand towel they always kept close, Paul suddenly got nervous. He really wanted this, but would it change anything? They were both looking at him.

"Kiss him Jarrod. He's shy of you."

Jarrod's face lit up.

"Oh wow, really?"

Paul had no chance to wonder whether Jeremy meant that and no chance to reply because Jarrod was pressing him flat on his back. Slowly and gently their bodies melded and soft lips touched. Shock, wonder, heat.

Paul opened his eyes and Jarrod was looking at him from a couple of inches away.

"Hi!"

Jarrod mouthed it back and almost inaudibly shooshed him. He nodded and Paul nodded back. They exchanged grins then Jarrod touched their foreheads together. A finger tickled Paul's stomach then made its way up to his lips where he held it gently between his teeth. Jarrod half opened his own mouth, and getting the message, Paul obliged. When Jarrod's free hand started another tickle Paul opened his mouth in mock shock. Jarrod smiled, releasing Paul's finger, then looked expectant. So, it was a follow-me game. For five minutes they played softly and silently, watching each other's expressions, till inevitably they were holding each other's boners. The follow game continued till Paul reluctantly decided he could no longer put off his morning bathroom visit. When he returned two faces were looking at him, and since Jarrod had pinched his place and was snuggled against Jeremy, he crawled on top and squished his way between, despite the groans and lazy complaints. Jeremy gave him his morning kiss and cuddle them rolled him over, saying it was Jarrod's turn.

"We already have. Jarrod got rude while you were still asleep."

"I got rude? Jeremy, he was groping me for ages."

"Yeah, I suppose so. He wakes me up like that every morning. Give him a cuddle while I go to the bathroom, then I want to see this famous wrestling he's always talking about."

It took an hour to get up.

"What are we doing today?"

"You'll see. It's a payback."

"Payback? What for?"

"For when I went to your place. Have you got any old clothes?"

"No."

"Well, you can wear something of Jeremy's."

After a quick shower they dressed in old shorts and T-shirts, had some breakfast, then headed out to paint the upstairs rooms of the lock-ups. It was a big job, but Pete joined them at about eleven o'clock, and with four of them working, they finished it all despite the laughter and mucking round he caused. Pete informed them he was shouting them a bistro meal. Jarrod tried to say he'd pay his share but Pete laughed at him.

"No way. You're the guest and Paul makes you work like a slave? Someone's got to look after you or you'll never come back and be a slave again."

The meal was great. Pete was the centre of attention with his friendly carrying on, and on the way home he informed them that Jeremy was staying with him till next morning.

"You have to Jeremy. So they can talk out all their secrets. Don't worry though, we'll soon find out what they are."

Jeremy gave a quick look at Paul to see if that was okay, but of course it was. Jarrod was the puzzled one and he queried Paul as soon as they were alone in the room.

"Pete's just organising you and me to be by ourselves."

"But what about Jeremy? He doesn't have to be kicked out because I'm here. That's not fair."

"Don't worry Jarrod. I bet it was Jeremy's idea anyway."

"Truly? ...Jeremy is amazing. But where will he sleep? When you showed me round the house I only remember one bed in Pete's room."

"They'll sleep together."

Jarrod gawked at that.

"Like... Like we did last night and this morning?"

"Yeah, Pete's his best friend."

"Wow, so is he gay too? I didn't think he was."

"Pete's everything. He goes with anyone he likes."

"Anyone?"

"Yes, as long as he likes them."

Jarrod thought for a moment then grinned.

"I think I like that idea. Does he like you?"

"He might."

"Might? Aren't you going to tell me?"

"I might."

That led to ten minutes of happy wrestling with Paul pretending he was being forced to give answers.

"So, does he like you?"

"Yes."

"...Did you like me in bed?"

"Idiot... No way. You're clueless."

"Clueless? You wait. I'll show you who's clueless."

"Go on then, show me."

"Nope. You'll have to wait."

Paul laughed. He thought that was quite cluey.

"So what do you want to do while we're waiting?"

"Show me these websites. I haven't even seen one yet."

"That's not my fault. You wouldn't get out of bed this morning."

Paul started his computer and logged into the gym website, then the printing one, Sam and Michael's, and a couple of the lecturers from Jeremy's College.

"You've done all these? Gosh, and you get paid for them?"

"Yes, not much, but I'm getting better all the time and I've got lots lined up for as soon as I can do them."

"Lots? Does it take long to do?"

"Depends on what they want. Watch this."

For the next hour they had a great time, thinking of ideas for Jarrod's own Web site. Paul used his digital camera and quickly set up a mini photo gallery and they laughed at some of the journal entries they used as examples. The sound system played in the background and they took it in turns to choose CDs.

"Is this a real website?"

"Not yet. I'll have to organise it through my server. Then it will be."

Jarrod was amazed, and disagreed when Paul said it was just a basic one. After that Paul talked Jarrod into demonstrating his exercise routines and it was his turn to be impressed. The effort meant they needed a quick shower and then Jarrod said he wanted to go to bed.

"It's only just ten?"

"Well, I have to show you some clues don't I?"

An hour later they were lying together, Jarrod with his head on Paul's chest, exactly like they always used to.

"It feels different with you and Jeremy."

"What does?"

"Sex. It's fun as well as being sex."

"It is? Well, it's the way Jeremy taught me. He learned it off Peter."

"Peter? You mean Pete?"

"No, Peter. Though Pete makes you laugh more than anybody."

Jarrod was quiet while he took this in.

"Do you feel funny when Jeremy sleeps with someone else?"

"No, it was a shock at first but when you know him you don't even think about it."

"When did you know he was special?"

"Right from the start. He sat beside my bed for hours on the first day I met him and a couple of days after that we knew we were special to each other. He is amazing. He's special to everyone who gets to know him. You wouldn't believe how much everyone in this house loves him."

"Loves him?"

"Yes. Every one of them. Anyhow he thinks you're wonderful so you're part of the place now."

"Me? He thinks I'm wonderful?"

Paul laughed.

"Well he didn't have any choice after I told him did he? Anyhow, did you feel funny?"

"Funny? What about?"

"Sleeping with Jeremy."

"I couldn't believe it when you told me to kiss him, and then he exploded as soon as I touched him. He's very sexy."

Paul wasn't going to argue with that.

"What did you think? You really got into it."

"I know. He loves it doesn't he? It just felt right with him."

"There you are. You answered your own question."

Jarrod moved his head back and forth on Paul's chest.

"I did didn't I. Does Jeremy sleep with anyone else?"

"Let's see. As well as Pete and Peter, there's Sam, Michael and William."

"Oh my God. Truly? What about you?"

"Pete and Michael and William."

"Who are Michael and William?"

"They're away at the moment. Michael is special to Peter, like Jeremy and me, and he's in Sydney with Peter and Sam for their art stuff. William's seeing his parents at the moment and he'll be back in two weeks. Hey, we want you to come on the house holiday with us."

Jarrod sat up and looked at Paul.

"House holiday? What's that?"

"I haven't been on it myself, but there's a wild beach place down the coast where everyone in the house stays camping. It's only three weeks before we go and Pete raves about it. It was his idea to ask you."

"When did he say that? I didn't hear him?"

"Not today. It was before you came back."

"Before I came back? That doesn't make sense."

"Um... I was telling him about you. I was worried what you'd think when you found out I was gay and then I told him how good-looking you are. He was stirring me then and saying he was going to get you. He meant it though because he knew you were important to me."

"I am?"

"Idiot! You're my best friend."

Jarrod went quiet, then a big smile spread across his face.

"I'll never forget when you helped me up to your tree in the dark. Paul, I have to start looking for a job. I've used up all the money I had and it's pretty scary because I don't know what to do. Mum and dad will give me an allowance if I do some sort of course but I don't think that's really fair. I'm going to start looking next week because after all, I've been on holiday for over six months now. Camping at the beach would be terrific but if I've found a job I couldn't go, and if I haven't I couldn't afford it anyway."

Paul felt like rushing out and giving Jeremy a big hug.

"Well, if you had a job that lasted for three weeks would you come then? You could start looking again when our holiday finished."

Jarrod gave a very strange look so Paul went straight ahead.

"Jeremy's already found you a job that lasts till the day before the holiday."

"Jeremy? Paul, what are you talking about?"

"You told him down at the beach yesterday that you needed a job and he reckons you'd be a great help to the house. Anthony's always complaining there aren't enough of us and you'd get good pay. Peter makes us take $20 an hour."

Jarrod stared.

"I don't believe you."

"It's true."

"Yes, I know. I just don't believe you. You helped me get my trip and now there's a job for me. It's unreal... What would I have to do?"

"All sorts of things. Just like today. Anthony supervises and we do whatever he says."

"Oh man! I think I'm dreaming. We'll be working together."

"Not all the time. I help Brian with the printing business, but Jeremy will be there all the time. Everyone else helps when they can too."

Jarrod wanted more details and Paul happily supplied them.

"Hey. Did you really put band aids on your dick? You made that up didn't you?"

"What? Well. ...sort of.. I did get bitten though."

"You're a nut. Did you sleep with all those girls you talked about?"

"Yeah, they like Aussies over there."

"Would you go back again?"

"For sure. If you come with me. ...And Jeremy too of course. I know you'd like it."

"What do you want to do tomorrow?"

"Anything."

"All right. What about spending the afternoon at the Bay? Jeremy will want to write his book in the morning."

"A book? Like what people read?"

"Yes, I told you he liked writing."

"I thought you must have meant stuff for his College."

"He's way clever. Peter says he's a natural. Can you keep a secret?"

"Me? Of course I can."

"You can't tell anyone."

"What? Not even Jeremy?"

"Oh God no. It's a surprise for him."

"All right. What is it?"

"We're making one of his stories into a book. A proper book. It's really exciting. Peter gave Brian thousands and thousands of dollars for a big printing machine and Sam is doing the illustrations. They made me the main character and Sam draws pictures of us all. As soon as he's finished we'll start printing."

"Here? ...You make books here?"

"Yes, in the brick garage. It's locked up at the moment but I'll show you on Tuesday. It's my job to work the printing machine."

"Boy, you've done a lot while I was away."

"I know. I can't believe it myself. Things kind of happen round here."

"I know. Like jobs appearing out of nowhere. Give me a hug."

"You first. You're the boss now you're stronger."

"You're the boss Paul. You always will be."

In the morning when Paul woke up Jarrod was looking at him.

"What?"

"I'm trying to figure out why you look so good."

"I'm sexy, that's why."

"I know. But you look good too."

"Well I must have caught it off you or Jeremy. Jarrod, what are you doing?"

"Giving you a boner."

"How come?"

"'Cause you like it so much."

"All right. That means I can give you one."

"No you can't."

"Why not?"

"I've already got one."

"Is it a good one?"

"Check it and see."

"Wow, it sure is. It feels like it's ready."

"It's really ready. It can't wait."

"Why not? I want to tease it."

"I'll tease yours if you do."

"Go on then."

The friendly nonsense continued till they were both spent, changed to conversation, then returned for more nonsense.

"Are we going to get up?"

"Why? Have I worn you out?"

"I feel like going for a run."

"Really?"

"Yeah. I missed out yesterday"

Paul had trouble finding time for his own runs nowadays so he was keen on this idea.

"What about Jeremy? Will he come with us?"

"Doubts. Pete really keeps him going so they'll sleep in."

Later in the morning Jeremy drove them to the Bay, left them so he could do his writing, picked them up in the evening and then took Jarrod home. The next three weeks passed rapidly and Paul was so busy he hardly had time to turn around. Sam returned with most of his illustrations complete which meant they could start setting up the printer. Brian was working overtime to clear his catalogue obligations so he could go on the holiday. Jarrod's idea about a website for Jeremy's book created great problems because it was so difficult to work on secretly and as a result of their Sydney workshop, Peter, Michael and Sam also had a great deal of material and information to be entered on their website as soon as possible.

Anthony took as much time as he could get and the no working on weekends rule was put aside because when College started Pete and Jeremy wouldn't be available. Jarrod was a real bonus for the building project as he was strong and a hard worker. He had to concentrate more than he was used to, to keep up to Anthony's standards, but Anthony ended up so pleased with him that he asked him to be his apprentice. That happened in his last week when they were having lunch and Anthony asked him what he was going to do after the holiday.

"I don't know Anthony. I guess I'll find something. I don't know what but at least I've got some savings now to help me keep going for a while."

"You like the kind of work we do here don't you? I know it's hard, but you're good at it."

Paul shot a glance at Anthony. It sounded like he was leading somewhere. Peter was smiling too. Something was going on.

"Yeah, it's great. I'm too young though. Dad says if you want to do this kind of work you need a driver's licence and you have to know someone."

"What else did he say?"

"Lots of things. He reckons I'd have a good chance in the hospitality industry because I look pretty smart when I dress up."

"You look even smarter when you undress."

That was Pete, but Jarrod was quite used to his comments by now.

"Sure Pete, how would you know?"

"Paul's always telling me."

There was a general laugh but Paul hardly noticed. He was watching Anthony.

"You wouldn't need a licence if you worked for me."

Every head swivelled to see Jarrod's reaction. His eyes lit up.

"Here?"

"Yes, and any other projects I get."

"Wow, really? I'd love it."

"You'd have to be my apprentice and I couldn't pay you as much."

"Apprentice? Do you think I could do that?"

"Of course you could. It might be hard but I'd make sure you got through."

Wow, Paul was really excited for Jarrod. It was perfect. He might have trouble with the coursework but Anthony had been runner-up apprentice for the whole state one year and if he couldn't help him no one could. Jarrod was looking round with a grin that nearly split his head in half. He shook Anthony's hand as a clincher then gave him a hug.

"Hey, we all want hugs."

That was Pete. Jarrod just kept smiling and gave the hugs. Peter said congratulations to Jarrod then told him he had to think carefully about his decision and go over all the details with Anthony. Well, he'd do that, but everybody knew he'd already decided.

The end of chapter 13.

Special note.

• If any readers would like to know more about all the new people in Paul's life it can be found in the story `Peters Mistake'. There is also a special section about Jeremy.

Paul enters the story in chapter 22 and in the ensuing chapters there are some events involving him which are not chronicled in `Pauls Story'.

A note of caution. -- In an attempt to show the trauma of the initial meeting of Paul and Peter, the scene in the van guy's studio in `Peters Mistake' is portrayed far more strongly and some readers might like to skip to the end of it.

`Peters Mistake' was last posted in the College section of Nifty on the 1st of October 2007 but it's probably easier to access through the prolific author's section as mentioned below.

Author's Note.

Any comments and feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Please note my main email address - iarwain@aanet.com.au I also have a backup address iarwain7@ains.net.au

Should you be interested, my other stories can be found by looking under 'Iarwain' in the Prolific Authors section on Nifty.