Disclaimer: The following story is a work of fiction. If you are offended by descriptions of homosexual acts or man/man relations, please exit this page.
ROUTE 66 TOUR Copyrightc 2002 by Tulsa Driller 7. All rights reserved.
This is a work of fiction and in no way draws on the lives of any specific person or persons. Any similarity to actual persons or events is entirely coincidental. This work is copyrightedc by the author and may not be reproduced in any form without the specific written permission of the author. It is assigned to the Nifty Archives under the terms of their submission agreement but it may not be copied or archived on any other site without the written permission of the author.
PLEASE: In a perfect world AIDS doesn't exist. My characters have unprotected sex. I hope you use proper precautions because I'd like you to be around the read the last chapter of this story.
Route 66 Tour Chapter 2
We talked all the way back to Oklahoma City on that Friday afternoon. Holding hands, we discussed the last three days starting with seeing each other in the group on Wednesday morning at the Fort Reno visitors center, then meeting him and his grandmother over lunch that noon.
It had been a busy three-day tour (two-days for Charlie and me), with a lot of stops made and historical lore to digest. For those serious about Route 66 history and Oklahoma history, the trip could serve as an overview for those who wanted to go back on their own and slowly explore what was there to see and do.
Those going on the entire tour had been exposed to the plains of western Oklahoma on the Texas border to the rolling green hills and lakes of the eastern part of the state.
Imagine my surprise on Wednesday night after we had dinner in Tulsa that A.J. had intercepted me as I was leaving to take Charlie back to his house for the evening. We were to meet the group for breakfast the next morning at 7:30.
A.J. wanted a "tour of the city's nightlife" but it turned out that he really wanted a "tour of my bed" and actually seduced me. A 25-year old stud that went after (and caught) a 59-year old man who hadn't given any thought that something like that would happen.
After a night of passion, we continued with the group tour on Thursday morning. Instead of going back to Oklahoma City when the tour was over, he decided to spend another night with me and then wanted a quick tour of two of the city's art museums; the Philbrook and Gilcrease. I really didn't have any plans for the next day, so was glad to play "tour guide" again.
This is what had brought us to the drive to Oklahoma City that Friday afternoon. A.J. had a job interview at 3:30 so we'd had a quick lunch and were almost at the end of the 100-mile drive to his home. He lived with his parents in an area called The Village, which was an area of very expensive homes. His parents were in Europe for a couple of weeks and his grandmother lived in a townhouse between Nichols Hills and A.J.'s family home.
A.J. wanted me to come back the next day to spend three days with him. It was Labor Day weekend and my schedule was flexible, except I had a function tonight in Tulsa, which I had to attend. No getting out of it.
The first stoplight we encountered after leaving Tulsa was when we got off the Kilpatrick Turnpike to exit at Lake Hefner. It had been years since I'd been in this part of the city and what had been open fields the last time was literally "wall to wall" houses. I would not have recognized the area. We made a turn on Hefner Drive, and then a couple more turns into a cul-de-sac with a house that looked like Tara from "Gone with the Wind" at the end of the court. I guessed right. It was the family home.
A.J. instructed me to drive around to the back. His car was at a church parking lot where the tour had embarked on Tuesday morning, but he would use his mother's Lincoln Town Car to go to his interview and then get a friend to help him retrieve his car later in the evening. Right now he needed to get ready to go downtown, although he really wouldn't have to rush.
The inside of the house looked more like a museum than a place where a family lived. One could tell that a decorator had simply gone out and bought "this, that and the other" and stuck it on shelves and tables. Even the family room didn't look like it was used. The house had a cold, unlived-in feeling to it.
A.J. steered me upstairs to his bedroom. Now this room looked like it was occupied. There were sports trophies and plaques on the walls and shelving, several nice pieces of artwork and a miniature Calder mobile hanging from the ceiling. Surprisingly, there were a number of model cars that had been put together from kits. The room was large, probably 18 x 25 feet. Plenty of room for a queen-size bed, dresser, armoire, computer desk and a couple of comfortable easy chairs. He proudly showed me his huge bathroom with Jacuzzi tub and large shower and a big walk-in closet, which didn't have all that many clothes in it. What were hanging there were good quality items.
I was looking around the room and went to one of the windows. There was a nice, sparkling pool in the yard with a nice deck on two sides. There was a gas grill and lounge furniture on the deck.
He decided that he didn't need to shower, but did a quick cleanup. I sat and admired his body and the grace with which he moved while getting dressed. It didn't take him long to dress. He looked like he'd just stepped off the cover of GQ.
I stood up and he gathered me in his arms to nuzzle my neck, then stuck his wet tongue in my ear. I experienced a thrill at the feelings he was causing my body. Then he traced a wet line around to my mouth and we had a duel with our two tongues. It felt wonderful and he smelled so good. I later learned that he was wearing ? (Pi) by Givenchy, one of my favorites.
"I wish you didn't have to go back home tonight," he said.
"Same here, but I can't get out of this. There just isn't anyway that I can skip this. They are depending on me."
"I understand."
We had talked about my coming back the next day. He thought his grandmother needed to go to the grocery store and had other errands the next day, but he would have to see what her schedule was. She didn't drive anymore and depended mostly on his mother and him to take her where she needed to go.
It was agreed that we would talk and exchange emails later in the evening and decide exactly when I should arrive back at his house the next day.
Another sensuous kiss and it was time to part company for a few hours. We hugged each other and headed for the garage and he followed me out of the driveway, but turned the opposite direction at the next turn.
I had plenty of fuel as I'd filled the car early that morning when we headed to the two museums. Although it was about 100 miles back home, it wouldn't take that long. The speed limit on the Turner Turnpike (I-44) was 75 mph and I had a PikePass, an electronic device that transmitted my entry and exit points on the toll road for automatic billing. There was a special lane for vehicles using that system so I didn't even have to slow down for the tollbooth.
I was back in my apartment in a little over an hour and a half. It's a pretty drive and I could pick up classical music stations the entire distance and was able to enjoy a Beethoven piano concerto until NPR started their evening talk show. I had several tapes with me, so picked something lighter for the rest of the trip.
Deciding that I had time to start a load of laundry before going to my rehearsal, I stripped the somewhat crusty sheets off the bed and gathered the towels out of the bathroom then loaded the washer in the laundry off my kitchen. Going back to the bedroom, I pulled out clean sheets, made the bed, and then got out clean towels for the bathroom. I really wasn't hungry since we'd had more lunch than I usually eat, so gathered up the music I needed and put it in my tote bag, setting it by the door.
Remembering that I hadn't gotten the mail for three days, I walked down to the mailboxes and unlocked mine. The box was stuffed full and when going through it I discovered the Postman had left two packages at the complex office. Too late to get them today, so I laid the notice where I'd be sure to remember it in the morning.
As I was driving downtown I noticed there wasn't much traffic at 7 p.m. Those on the road were going east in the other lanes. We had a good rehearsal, but I was glad when it was over. The final "polishing" before the dress rehearsal was next week. My obligation was over at that point, as they would use orchestra instead of piano for the performance.
I arrived back home and emptied the washer into the dryer and washed other clothes, all of which were colored so could go in one load.
I fixed myself a drink and sorted through the mail. Out of the whole stack, there were two magazines, two bills, a personal letter and a newsletter. The rest that had crammed the mailbox full was all trash. If the Post Office charged as much for junk mail as first-class, we wouldn't have any and maybe they could deliver the mail on time.
The letter was from a former co-worker giving me a detailed account and sending some pictures of her summer trip to Russia. She's one of the few people I know who still writes wonderful letters - in longhand, no less - and you feel as if you had been there. Everyone else I corresponded with had to settle from emails from me. I seldom made long distance calls anymore and the last bill had charges only for two faxes I'd sent.
I heard the dryer shut off, so went to check on it. The sheets were dry, but the towels needed more time. I ran the rinse cycle again on the washer to get rid of any excess soap that might remain in the clothes.
The telephone rang about that time. It was A.J. His grandmother needed to do her weekly grocery shopping in the morning after an appointment to get her hair washed and set. A friend was going to help him bring his car home while she was at the beauty shop. That was going to take up his morning so he suggested that I arrive back in Oklahoma City around 2 p.m. the next afternoon. That time worked for me.
It was time for the 10 p.m. news and I was thinking that I'd watch the weather, then go to bed, but had a dish of ice cream to quell that craving I couldn't - or wouldn't - control.
I don't think I was awake much past the time it took to roll over after my head hit the pillow. I didn't even dream during the night and slept until 8 o'clock, unusual for me.
The coffee and orange juice seemed really good this morning and then I realized that I hadn't eaten last night. There were some muffins in the refrigerator, so a quick zap of one in the microwave and a pat of butter rounded out my healthy breakfast. Hey, it was a bran muffin. Got to be healthy, right?
Since I needed to run the vacuum and take the trash out, I accomplished that in short order. I didn't need to do any dusting, but the bathroom really needed to be cleaned.
My time was occupied the rest of the morning by answering and sending emails and working on my story, "Tales from the Ranch". Four chapters had been posted to Nifty and I was working on 10 thru 12. My friend, Paul, had completed proofing and editing through chapter 8. I sent Chapter 5 to Nifty and asked them to hold it until Monday morning. I was going to try to submit two chapters a week and Chapter 5 was a long one - almost 13 pages.
For some reason I was restless and really couldn't concentrate on my writing. Usually I just sat and typed while the characters and scenes unfolded in my head. Not today.
I finished up the laundry by drying the clothes I had washed the previous evening and put clothes together to take with me. I knew we were going to eat one meal at their country club and another at a very nice restaurant, so would need a couple of dress shirts, suit and tie. Three pair of chinos, several sport and polo shirts and shorts, along with underwear and socks would complete my needs for the next few days. I always kept a bag containing toilet articles packed and on the shelf so I only had to grab it when packing. It saved forgetting something I might need. I kept a hair dryer in my suitcase, but could probably use A.J.'s. So, all I had to do was fold a few things and put the hanging clothes in a garment bag.
I needed to remember to stop at the ATM on the way out of town. I generally didn't carry all that much cash, but sometimes it was easier than a credit card unless I was at a restaurant or business. I'd need cash for admission to some of the things we were going to do - the art museum, the zoo and other attractions.
Finally it was a little after 11 so I decided that it was time to shave and shower, then put on the clothes I'd laid out to wear today. Simple - shorts and a polo with a pair of white Reeboks. I thought we might be walking a lot this afternoon. While I was dressing I decided to take the car to the filling station as it was down to a half tank, then stop at the bank.
When I got back to the complex, it was time to load up the few things I was taking with me. I shoved my laptop computer and digital camera bags in with the suitcase and garment bag. I was ready for my second trip to Oklahoma City in as many days.
There was little traffic as I went up the on-ramp of I- 44 and I was quickly up to the 60 mph speed limit that was allowed. It was only 8 miles to the tollbooth where the speed limit changed to 75.
The drive took about an hour and a half again and soon I was turning the corner to A.J.'s house. I pulled around to the garage in the back and as I was parking in the far corner, one of the doors went up and A.J. came out. "Park on the drive behind Dad's car. Your car will be in the shade most of the day over here."
I backed up and left the car where he indicated, popping the trunk lid. Before I could get out of the car, he had my suitcase and garment bag out. I picked up my camera case and laptop carrier from behind the driver's seat as I got out.
"Hey, big guy! I sure am glad you are here. It's been a long 24 hours." He flashed that wonderful smile that I knew was intended just for me. Suddenly, I wanted to kiss him, but not on the driveway.
"Hi, that goes for me, too. Wait until I get you inside," I leered at him.
As we started into the house, he pressed the button to close the garage door. As he shut the door on the utility room side, he laid my garment bag on the washer and dryer, sat my suitcase on the floor, then grabbed me into a bear hug and planted his tongue against my tonsils. I was weak and couldn't even bend down to put the two items I was carrying on the floor - and I sure didn't want to drop them.
I returned the favor as best I could, but couldn't do much more than wiggle my own tongue at first. Finally he pulled back slightly and I could reciprocate, giving him as good as he gave me. I pulled away.
"I'm glad to see you, too! Wow, that made my toes tingle. not to mention another part of my anatomy. I laughed as I sat my bags down and grabbed him around the chest and ran my hands up and down his back and front, trading more kisses. I was hard and so was he.
No wonder I had been at loose ends this morning. I was getting used to this and had missed it, even though just a few hours had passed.
A.J. picked up my clothes and I followed him upstairs to his bedroom, toting my own cargo. He showed me where he was hanging my clothes, then proceeded to take them out of the garment bag so they wouldn't wrinkle. "Hey man, nice threads," he said holding up the arms of my suit and cream- colored sport coat.
"Thanks. I especially like the sport coat," I said. "I can wear it with almost any color. Simplifies the wardrobe."
He took my other two cases and put them on the floor of the closet, then asked, "Is this a camera?" When I gave the affirmative, he said, "I'll put it by the hall door so you can take it with you when we got out - if you want."
"That's fine. I want to get some pictures of my cousin's when we visit the monkey exhibit at the zoo." He and I both had a good laugh at that statement.
"I think I've seen them, but you're better looking - by just a little bit. Maybe it's because they needed a haircut." More laughter. I loved this guy.
He came back to where I was standing, took my hand and pulled me toward his bed. I don't know if we actually fell onto it, or if he gently lowered us, but soon he was on his back and I was on top in a full frontal position. It felt good. We kissed for what seemed to be a long time. My shirt hadn't been tucked in and his hands found their way inside at the bottom. His shirt came undone easily and I could rub his hairy stomach and chest, too.
"This feels good but could be even better if we were naked," he grinned between kisses.
"Mmmmmnn. me thinks you are horny." I started to say.
"I think you have the same condition."
Our clothes must have had master zippers because we were soon rid of them except for shoes and socks. He grabbed my arm and we were soon entwined on the bed, wiggling against each other, enjoying the great sensations of two hairy bodies rubbing on the other.
It quickly became apparent that shoes, even though they were not hard leather, were not designed for sex or the stimulation we were giving each other. A.J. sat up and removed his shoes, untying mine at the same time. Bang, bang, bang, bang as they hit the floor, one after another.
Back to giving each other pleasure, trading kisses and feeling the other's body with our hands. He tweaked my right nipple, and then pulled on the ring in my left tit. "What does this feel like when I pull on it?"
"Kind of like it feels when someone pinches your nipple. I've heard that some guys are really sensitive and that it's a real stimulation. For me, it is a turn-on to have it pulled gently, but I think it could get sore if pulled too hard or too much."
"How do they pierce the nipple?"
"They swab the nipple really thoroughly with something like alcohol, but it has somewhat of a numbing effect. Then they use hemostats to make the nipple stand out. Some kind of gadget containing a needle is used to pierce the nipple, kind of like it's spring loaded. Then a sleeve is inserted and the ring is pulled through. There was a drop of blood, but that was it. I was told to clean the wound everyday thoroughly with soap and water and move the ring around so it didn't stay in the same place. It was healed in about three days. I wanted to get something besides this ring, but couldn't find anything that I wanted. I think something that looks like a bolt of lightning would be neat."
"You've talked me into it. We'll have to find a place that does this over the weekend. Do you have any idea where to go?"
"I think any tattoo parlor can do it. Just make sure the place is clean."
"How much does it cost?"
"Mine was $40 and that included this ring. It can be removed, but I think it takes special pliers. It was just meant to be temporary - or never removed."
"I think I want one, it looks sexy," A.J. said.
"I think you are sexy regardless of whether you have one or not."
"You're so sweet. I didn't think I'd ever meet anyone like you," he told me.
"You are one special man, A.J. and I hope you know it. You are smart, sexy and a total turn-on for me. Most people your age don't' think people my age exist, or if they do. that we have one foot in the grave. Of course, most can't believe that there is life after 30," I laughed.
"Older men are sexy, and I don't mean just their bodies. I really get turned on by the fact that you are self-assured. You have had a lot of experiences, know how to deal with life and aren't out stalking little boys - like me," he giggled.
Then in a tiny 'little boys voice' he said, "Please mister, don't make me show you my wee-wee. Mommy says that dirty old men like you might try to fuck me. would you? Would you, please. fuck me, mister?"
By this time we were both laughing so hard I thought we were going to roll around and fall off the bed. I had tears in my eyes. When we calmed down, we exchanged several kisses, mainly just pecks over the other's face and nose, but they were sincere and given with love.
Wrapping ourselves around the other, we were front to front and it almost felt that we were trying to crawl inside each other. It felt wonderful. I'm not sure that either of us had anything in mind except to take our clothes off and enjoy looking at and being with each other.
A.J. finally said, "We need to be serious for a minute."
"This isn't serious?" I snickered.
I received a kiss on the end of my nose and gave in kind.
"No, we need to talk about the rest of the time you are going to be here. When do you have to go home?"
"I really should go home on Tuesday morning. I need to write some checks, pay the rent and I have a committee meeting to go to that evening. I don't think anybody in Tulsa knows I'm out of town and I didn't have the paper stopped."
A.J. said, "Well grandmother has invited us to her place for cocktails at 6 o'clock and then she's made dinner reservations at the country club for 7:15. That's why I had you bring a jacket and tie."
"That sounds good. You're grandmother is a really neat person. Does she know you are gay?"
"Yes. We've never really discussed it. She knows my sister's don't have happy marriages so she's not pushing me to do the same. Two of my brother-in-laws are in business with my father and I don't want to work with either of them, so that's the reason I refused to accept a position in the company. Those turkeys, and my father is included, are workaholics, but can't pay any attention to their families. I just can't see doing that. They can't see the world except what exists on the golf course and their offices.
"What about me. being here with you this weekend and us running around together?"
"Don't think that's a problem. She wouldn't say so anyway. She thinks that you are a neat person because you have recently moved to Oklahoma and yet know a lot of Oklahoma facts and history."
"Lucky in that regard," I said. I have several friends who've lived in Oklahoma all their lives and one can't miss on picking up a few facts here and there."
"Yes, but you know some things about some well-known people that isn't general knowledge. That's what got her attention; because she knew some of the same people from Tulsa and she was impressed you had access to that information.
"Oh, she thinks I'm a gossip?" I grinned.
"No, nothing like that, but some of what we talked about at dinner the other evening is local lore and one would have had to know those people to know about it."
"Let's don't deflate her balloon, okay?" I asked.
"She won't hear it from me."
We lay there, not really playing with each other, but enjoying the moment.
"See, this is what I like about you. We've been laying here for some time, just talking and enjoying being together. There is no pressure to do anything other than have a chance to get to know each other. We had the same thing at your place the other evening. Neither of us had any clothes on, weren't trying to stimulate the other, but really enjoying just sitting and talking. It's a relief not to have the hassle of trying to prove that one of us is able to give a better blowjob than the other, or fuck him deeper." A.J. smiled as he said that.
"Then you have discovered the basis of a real relationship," I said. "Love and respect isn't just about sex. Sex is the reward for understanding and love, not the other way around. Sure, we've had some fantastic sex - some of the best I've ever experienced - but we seem to be comfortable enough around each other not to push ourselves into trying to outdo the other, or lock ourselves into a sex only situation."
"Most other people don't understand this," he said.
"That's right and they are missing the point entirely. A.J., this isn't just a gay thing. It's happening to almost everyone. Your sisters and their husbands included. They don't understand that a relationship is more than physical love. You have to be able to communicate on every level, not just in the sack or hosting a fund-raising cocktail party."
"I hadn't thought of it quite like that, but understand what you are saying. When I think about it, I wonder how long it's been since any of my sister's and their husbands have had a good fuck, or a profound conversation. I'll bet it borders on 'never'."
"You may be more right than you want to believe," I said.
"Well, in three days time I'll bet you and I have established something they will never achieve. And. will never know what they are missing. or why."
"You are probably right. I've not met any of them, but from what you have said, it must be a sad relationship in each case."
"I'm not sure my parents are that happy, but cling to each other because they don't know any better. They probably couldn't find happiness with anyone else, either."
"You may be right, but we are not going to solve their problems so let's close the subject, okay? I asked.
"Sorry. but you gave me a lot of things to think about."
We were in a position that was halfway between lying in each other's arms and sitting on the bed.
"Hey, let's go for a swim," A.J. said.
"That's fine. I have some trunks in my case."
"We don't need them. There is a six-foot fence around the yard and a heavy growth of trees and shrubs along the fence. We don't need anything unless you just feel uncomfortable."
"No, that's fine with me. I've only been in a pool a couple of times without a suit, so this should be fun."
A.J. sat up, taking me by the hand and we started for the door. He remembered that we might need towels, so picked up four from his bathroom. We almost skipped down the stairs.
It was about 4:15 so we would have about an hour to enjoy the pool and we did. The amazing thing is that although we were nude, we could look at each other without becoming aroused. What were our bodies telling us? Had we become an "old couple" that was comfortable with each other without getting aroused?
We played in the water and sunned ourselves for about an hour, then it was time to go through the shower and dress to go to Laura's, A.J.'s grandmothers, house.
A.J. had a big shower as part of his bathroom. It was more than large enough for both of us. We each decided that we should probably shave as both of us had plenty of "five o'clock shadow". Even with a heavy beard I've been able to shave pretty quickly and A.J. was through about the same time. Since we had already shed our clothes, we were ready to continue our play in the shower.
The water felt good and we both used the pulsating showerhead and kneaded the other's shoulders. It was relaxing and we could both feel the tension leave the other's body. We decided to wash each other's hair and the mistake was that we did it at the same time. More fun and games and as might be expected, we both started to get hard. As much as we wanted to take care of business, we realized it would have to wait. Oh, well. something to look forward to later in the evening.
Without discussing what we were going to wear, we each pulled out a suit to put on. I selected a blue oxford cloth shirt with a maroon and gray rep striped tie to go with a medium gray suit. A.J. selected a charcoal green suit with a beige shirt and brown and green rep striped tie. We laughed as each of us pulled on silk boxers and over the calf socks. And I must say that we made a handsome couple when we finished dressing.
We had about 10 minutes to get to Laura's townhouse and A.J. decided we should drive his mother's Lincoln Town Car, as it would be easier for his grandmother to get in and out. His car was a new white Acura coupe, a good-looking car. His parents had given it to him when he received his Master's degree, although there was nothing wrong with his old car.
"They wanted to buy me either a BMW or Mercedes and I had a really hard time talking them out of it. Mother thought it was a better status symbol and Dad didn't realize that either of those cars would be in the garage for service more than they could be driven.
"Tough world," was my comment.
Laura lived within three miles of A.J.'s parents, actually on the way to the country club. She greeted us at the door, pulling me in to kiss me on the cheek rather than allow me to shake her hand. She gave me a hug, too. A.J. took our coats and hung them in the front closet.
"My, I'm really lucky tonight with two handsome men taking me out to dinner. Come on in and I'll have A.J. fix drinks for us."
As we settled down in her beautiful living room she told A.J. that she wanted a gin martini on the rocks. I saw a bottle of Beefeater Gin on the bar, so told him that I would like that on the rocks with a couple of olives.
A.J. started laughing. "This is the easiest bar- tending job I've ever had. Take 3 crystal old-fashioned glasses, put ice in them, then fill them with gin and put two olives on toothpicks and hand them out to the thirsty."
All of us laughed and agreed that we had good taste when it came to proper drinks.
As A.J. handed us the glasses I noticed that they were Waterford, the Lismore pattern.
"Grandmother, David has the same pattern for bar crystal as you do."
We held our glasses up and repeated, "Cheers" as we took a sip. "Aahh. Good."
We talked about our tour some more. We all agreed that it had been very well worth the time and effort. I wanted to go back to do some additional exploring on my own as some places had been skipped over because of the time restraints on the tour. All of us agreed that we would welcome the opportunity to see some of the downtown office buildings in both Oklahoma City and Tulsa. I wanted to explore the Port of Catoosa as I thought it would be interesting to see them load barges with their cargo.
A.J. liked museums, especially the ones that contained old artifacts from pioneer days. We talked about that and Laura told us that when she was able to get rid of old kitchenware and utensils, it was the happiest day of her life. "Now they are worth of lot of money," she laughed.
Neither of them had been inside the state capitol building since the dome had been added and opened to the public. I had been there with Charlie the day before the tour and indeed, it was impressive. Laura indicated that she would like to go and we agreed that it might be something we could do the next day or Monday.
After a second drink and more interesting conversation, it was time to go to the club for dinner. We were there within five minutes of leaving Laura's house.
The Oklahoma City Country Club was one of the "old money" country clubs where everyone still dressed for dinner. There was a "Men's Grill" for noon when men were in golf togs or casual business clothes. The room could be rented for casual affairs in the evening, but it had a separate entrance and you had better not be seen in something other than a coat a tie in the main club area. I thought that it was too bad most of the younger people didn't own a suit or dress shoes. There is something about dressing up that instills confidence and pride in a person.
I grew up with two grandfathers who would put on a dress shirt and necktie to go to the grocery store. This was in the 1950's and that was just the way it was done.
The maitre d' greeted Laura and A.J. and I was acknowledged as their dinner guest. We had a beautiful view of the golf course and patio from our table. Menus were presented and I was pleased that, in the style of a fine hotel, there were no listed prices on the menus the guests received. I wondered if Laura's menu or A.J.'s had the prices. Maybe neither of them.
Our server took our drink orders. Surprise, we all ordered the same thing again. He disappeared toward the bar and one of the bus boys arrived to fill water glasses and put butter and dinner rolls on the table. I was impressed with the table service because many places simply put out a fork, salad fork, knife and teaspoon. There were butter knives and dessert forks at each place setting as well as iced tea spoons.
Our drinks arrived and we "cheered" each other again.
Decisions, decisions. Many things sounded good so I asked Laura and A.J. if they had tried several different entrees that caught my eye. I finally decided on the Braised London Broil and later was glad I did because it was wonderful. A.J. decided on prime rib, toward the rare side and Laura chose an entree of Beouf Medallions. All were served with grilled vegetables with a rich brown glaze on them.
More conversation as we sipped our drinks. Laura reminded A.J. that she wanted to go to the 10:45 mass the next morning. She said that I was welcome to go with them and I inquired as to which parish they attended. It turned out that they were also Episcopalians and were members of All Souls parish. I was familiar with the church and said that I would be joining them.
I was sitting there thinking about how much these three people seemed to have in common when Laura asked he next question.
"What do you gentlemen have planned for the weekend?"
Before I could say anything, A.J. gave her a list of possibilities. "I'm going to have to check some of these things because of holiday, but I've thought about this." He then started down his list. "Kirkpatrick Galleries, Oklahoma City Museum of Art, the 50 Penn Place Gallery, Classen Street Pottery, the Oklahoma City Indian Art Gallery, the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, Bricktown, the Myriad Botanical Gardens and the Oklahoma City Zoo."
Laura looked at me, and then laughed. "How many weeks are you staying? My goodness, A.J. you can't possibly do more than drive past all those places in two days time."
"Grandmother, I didn't say that we were going to go to all those places, they are just the ones I've come up to choose from. Maybe David has some things he wants to do, too. Certainly we're not locked into any of them. These are just places where I like to go."
"Actually, I've only been to a couple of places on A.J.'s list and I'm going to let him decide where to take me. They all sound good to me." I was sitting there thinking about being sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.
Our drinks were getting empty and the salads arrived about this time. Again, I was appreciative of the service. They didn't try to rush us. There is nothing I hate more than having everything arrive at the table at the same time. Another decision. The salad dressing cart arrived and Laura recommended the house dressing, a creamy Italian dressing. It was delicious.
Conversation continued while we were enjoying our salads. The greens were crisp and it was unusual to find what tasted like homegrown tomatoes in the salad.
Laura said, "I don't think the Martin Park Nature Center was on A.J.'s list. He loves that place."
I like places like that, also, so it was added to the list as a possibility.
A.J. had ordered a bottle of wine and it was presented about this time and he approved it. A small amount was poured into each glass at this time.
We continued talking about nothing in specific, but it seemed that almost any subject that was brought up was something all of us could be conversant about. I thought it was very pleasant and was nice to eat in beautiful surroundings. The dining room was fairly busy, but there was a very low noise level. People at the tables were talking to each other, but there was no feeling of intrusion.
Our entrees arrived and the plates were beautiful. The wine glasses were filled at this point and we began eating. Wonderful. Even Laura ate like she was really hungry. The waiter was very efficient and we were hardly aware of him coming to the table to check on us during the meal.
We were through eating and Laura insisted we try the seven-layer cake. It was very unique. Each layer was a thin layer of a pound cake that had been soaked with a different flavored liqueur. There was a thin layer of white icing between each cake layer. It was very, very good and certainly unique. I, for one, was glad they didn't serve a huge piece. We had coffee to go with the cake.
About that time A.J. excused himself, I assumed to go to the restroom. Laura turned to me and took my right hand as I set my coffee cup down. She smiled at me and said, "A.J. really likes you. He hasn't stopped talking about you since we met you and your friend, Charlie, the other day at lunch." I was surprised at the conversation and wondered just how much she knew or suspected.
She continued. "His parents haven't given him the attention he needed through the years. If they couldn't buy it, he didn't get it. They certainly didn't expose him to anything of artistic value. I tried to get him interested in everything and I think I've succeeded."
I agreed.
"He thinks that you are 'cool' as he put it. Someone who has had a lot of life experiences they are willing to share with him and that he can relate to. I don't think that he ever had too many friends his own age. He always seemed older than he actually is."
About this time A.J. returned to the table. He grinned as he sat down. "Okay, so what are you two scheming about?"
Laura still had hold of my hand. "I was just telling David that I thought you were right, he is a good influence on you and you can learn a lot from him." She squeezed my hand and reached for his left hand, too. "I'm glad the two of you have become friends."
Strange thoughts were running through my head. Does she know that we are fuck-buddies, or does she think we are good friends who share some common interests? Oh boy, I wish I could read minds.
With that, she pushed her chair back and announced that she was ready to go home.
"Laura, thank you so much for a wonderful evening. I've enjoyed the conversation and the meal. and the beautiful surroundings. The food and service are superb.
"I'm glad that you could join us. It's a special treat for me to be able to go out with two handsome men. I'm glad I'm an old lady and don't have to choose between you."
We all laughed at that statement. I thought, 'She really is a neat person. She seems to see things the way they are and make the best of it.'
When we pulled into her driveway, I got out of the car to open her door, and then moved to the front seat as A.J. took her to the door and went in with her. He was back in the car in two minutes time."
As we started down the street, he reached for my left hand and kissed my fingers as he brought it to his lips.
"Grandmother really likes you. She thinks you are special and is glad I found you."
"I really like her, too, and especially her grandson. kissing his hand. Tell me, just how much does she know about all of this?"
"She knows that I'm gay. We talked about this a long time before I told my parents. She's always been my biggest fan and has taken the time to see to it that I was exposed to the good things of life. She has taken me on countless trips since I was little. My grandfather died about the time I was born, so I guess I've become somewhat of a substitute for him as a traveling companion and best friend.
"I have to tell you about my parents. They are very materialistic. The only thing that impresses them is how much money someone has or who can throw the biggest party. I've told you that, in my opinion - and grandmother will tell you the same thing - that Dad has been lucky to have a good advisor. He's made a lot of money, but it hasn't been his own doing. My two brother-in-laws that are in business with him are smart and they will make the company grow and prosper. But they are greedy workaholics and don't pay any attention to my sisters or their children. Grandmother has tried to take the older boy under her wing but has been rebuffed.
"They are jealous of me because I get an income from the company and don't even work there. I couldn't stand to work with them, anyway. Dad thinks I should work for the family business, but thank goodness, it hasn't been an issue. I would have moved out of the house before, but had a small apartment when going to the University. It's almost like living in the house by myself because they are never home. Always out on the cocktail circuit, impressing and being impressed by their friends."
I was sitting there, listening, wondering if this was suppressed anger that I was hearing, or just him telling me where he was coming from. I decided that he probably wasn't all that angry, just hungry for someone besides his grandmother to love him.
If his sisters were all in what A.J. thought were unhappy marriages, then it stood to reason that it was the parents fault because they had never expressed love to any of their children. Parents could be so cruel without realizing it. It's to his grandmother's credit that he has turned out to be a thoughtful and smart young man.
By this time we were in their driveway and waiting for the garage door to open.
"This opener doesn't seem to transmit around corners so it doesn't do any good to push the button until the car is behind the house."
I replied, "Most can't. Besides you have brick and stone walls on the driveway side of the house."
A.J. parked the car and we got out. I waited for him to come around so we could enter the house together. He unlocked the door, stepped in and grabbed me as he turned around to shut and lock the entry door.
He gave me a big bear hug and a big wet kiss. Next I heard, "This has been a wonderful evening. I always enjoy being with my grandmother and going out to dinner, but you made it really special by being with us tonight."
I gave him a kiss also and replied, "You are lucky to have her and she has done a splendid job of helping you grow up and to become the man you are."
We continued to embrace each other and share kisses.
A.J. said, "Come on guy, let's go upstairs and get naked. I feel a hardon starting." He leered at me and wiggled his eyebrows.
"You talked me into it," I replied as he took my hand and pulled me along with him, going up the stairs.
(to be continued) * * * * * Author's Note: I hope you enjoyed Chapter 2. I proofread this one by myself and am sure that mistakes exist. Please read around them. The only way I can learn whether or not I should continue is from my readers' feedback. I would appreciate your comments, criticism, suggestions, and anything else that you would care to say. All Email will be answered. If you wish to receive e-mail notification of subsequent posting, please let me know by sending your request to the e-mail address below. Contact me at: tulsadriller7@aol.com