RALPH, THE TAILOR
PART 3
From that point on, Tom and Ralph were always together. In the morning they worked in the sewing shop. In the afternoons, they utilized the cruise ship's facilities. In the early evening, they attended the shows in the theatre. They spent the night in each other's arms. Some times there was sex; sometimes there was not, they would hold each other, and that was enough. Their lust for each other was satiated, and they settled to prolonged lovemaking! Lust turned to emotional commitment. A couple was formed.
Tom and Ralph were now a couple. They were very happy with each other. They got through the second cruise and the changeover into the third cruise.The end of their summer vacation was fast approaching. This created a fear of the end of the summer. What were they to do then?
Ralph thought it through. He has met his "Mr. Right" in Tom, and he did not want to lose him. He came up with a solution in his mind; now all he had to do was to make an offer to Tom!
On the Monday of the last week of cruising, Ralph and Tom were in the sewing room working, when Ralph decided to make an offer to Tom. Ralph said: "Tom, we have to talk about the future. I had an idea that concerns you and I need to know if you are willing."
Tom replied: "Talk away!"
Ralph sat at one of the sewing machines and started talking: "Tom, you know that I have a successful business in New York City. I make clothes for the very rich. My business has been so successful that I own the building my shop is in and I live in an apartment above my shop. Having no "rent" to pay, results in plenty of money in the bank. My mortgage is less than the rent would be.
"For some time I have wanted to expand my business. Up until now, it has been a one man operation. I have been looking for someone to join my operation and I have not found anyone to my satisfaction, until I met you. We have a lot in common. I too came to New York City to become a Broadway Costume Designer. That did not work out, and I found a way to be financially successful, doing what I like to do.I exercise my creativity working on the SS Adonis, and designing and building costumes for a local community theatre group.
"Tom, we have found each other and I do not want to lose you. I ask that you join me in my business. That way we can continue to be together. I want you to think about the future and what you want to do. I think it is better than waitering."
Tom answered: "I don't have to think about it. The answer is I will join you one one condition."
Ralph asked: "What is that condition?"
Tom replied: "My condition is that I can move in with you. I too, think I have found my Mr.Right, in you, and I do not want to lose you."