"You're not old, Luke. You sure as hell can run circles around everyone. Do you have a girlfriend?"

That was an abrupt change in topics, and Luke was taken by surprise. He wasn't sure how to respond. He hated not being able to talk openly about his life, but he also knew that in his line of work being gay wasn't exactly welcomed. If his sexuality became known among his co-workers, he would most likely lose his job--or it would become so hostile, he'd want to quit.

"I'm engaged," answered Luke.

"Oh," said George. "I didn't know that. When are you getting married?"

"Sometime this Fall. We haven't set a date yet."

"Oh."

George was more quiet as they finished their lunch. They got into the car and drove back to the site. As Luke got out of the car, he noticed George's lunchbox on the back seat.

THE INN - Chapter 20

Joe picked up the local paper on his way home, planning to see what movies were playing the following weekend. As he leafed through the paper, he noticed a review of a play at North Central College--"Singin' in the Rain." The review was good, and Joe thought it might be more interesting than a movie. He also remembered there was a family-owned Italian restaurant only a few blocks away. He had eaten there a few times and the food was outstanding and the atmosphere casual. Joe decided he'd ask Cathy if she'd like to go.

Joe got a beer and puttered around for a while, trying to figure out how he'd ask Cathy and working up his courage. Finally he thought if he didn't do it this minute, he never would. He picked up his phone and called.

"Hi, Cathy, it's Joe. How are you?"

Cathy told Joe about going to Dubuque and some of what that entailed.

"It sounds like you had a good time. Cathy, I was wondering if you might like to go to a play next Friday at North Central. That is, if you're not doing anything."

"Sure, that sounds like fun. I'd love to. What's the play?"

"'Singin' in the Rain.' It got a good review, and I thought maybe we could have dinner after. There's a good Italian restaurant near there--Cafe Buonaro's. Have you been there?"

"No, and I thought I knew all the Italian restaurants in the area."

"I think you'll like it. Okay, then, I'm looking forward to it. I'll talk to you later in the week when I know what time the play is."

"Okay, Joe. Thanks for thinking of me. I'll probably see you at The Inn before then."

"Okay, see you later."

Joe put down his phone and noticed his heart pounding but he felt good about himself. He had actually asked Cathy out, and she'd accepted. But now he had several days to worry about the date. He thought maybe he should talk to Paul about it; on the other hand, he decided he should just try to relax and be himself. It wasn't like he and Cathy were strangers.

Cathy smiled as she closed her phone. Joe was the last guy she thought she'd be going on a date with. She liked Joe, and she thought he was a sweet guy. She also found him very attractive, but because he was so shy, she never thought he'd ask her on a date. She had considered asking him, but the time never seemed right. Cathy found herself looking forward to going out with Joe.

When Luke got home from work he got a beer and sat down. He was thinking about what George had said about wanting to do something different. Ever since high school Luke had wanted to learn how to fly, and now it seemed like it might be possible since he had a fair amount of money saved up. The only obstacle might be Jon. If he reacts like he did to the skydiving, it would be a serious problem. Luke could live without skydiving, it had just been a whim. But flying was something Luke had always felt he would do someday, and he was nervous about telling Jon. What would he do if Jon freaked out? He understood flying was a potential deal-breaker and if Jon gave him the same ultimatum he did before, Luke would be unwilling to relent. He decided he might as well get it out in the open sooner rather than later.

Jon got home a few minutes later. They kissed and Jon sat next to him.

"It's awfully quiet in here. Is something bothering you?"

"No, I'm just trying to figure out George. He said he forgot his lunch today so we went together. He talked practically non-stop and eventually asked me if I had a girlfriend and I just said I was engaged. After that he didn't say much. Then later I noticed his lunchbox in the car, so he didn't forget it after all."

"Well," said Jon as he got up to get a drink, "unless I'm way off base, I don't think it takes a genius to figure this out."

"You think you know what's going on with him? You don't even know George."

"Think about it. He's been going out of his way to be nice to you, he comes up with a lame excuse to have lunch with you, and when you said you're engaged, he clams up. Now what do you suppose that adds up to?"

"Oh shit! You don't think..."

"Exactly. He has the hots for you. I can't say I blame him."

"No way! I can't believe it. Why would he? I'm almost ten years older than he is. He's just a kid--why would he be interested in me?"

"Have you looked in the mirror? Luke, you turn heads wherever we go--you're a world-class stud."

"I don't know. My gaydar never went off with him, but then again I never thought of him in that way. God, I hope you're wrong, it could cause me all kinds of problems at work."

"I don't think he'll be a problem, he has almost as much to lose as you do. But if you start calling and telling me you have to work late, THAT will be a problem."

"No worries, babe. You're the only man in my life and you always will be."

"I know, but sometimes I'm a little paranoid. Sometimes I can't believe you're for real."

"Sometimes you're a little paranoid? I'd say that's a lot of times."

"I know, but I can't help it. When I met you, I knew you were the one. I've never even seen a guy I've looked at twice since I met you. I mean that--I can honestly say you are the cutest guy I've ever seen, and the fact that you're such a good and loving man makes you even hotter. You're the only man I think about."

Luke gave Jon a questioning look. "That's it? You're done boosting my ego? You didn't even mention all my other fabulous qualities and talents."

"Let's eat something and then you can show me again how fabulous and talented your dick is. I'll warm up something my mom gave us. By the way, someone called this afternoon about renting my condo. It sounds like an older couple and they want to find a place while their house is being built in Florida, so they only need it for about a year."

"That might work. At least they probably won't be throwing any wild parties. When are you meeting with them?"

"Saturday afternoon. I've got to get over there and make sure it's presentable."

Jon got up to go to the kitchen and start dinner. Luke got himself another beer and sat on the couch again, wondering if this was a good time to tell Jon about flying. Jon returned and sat next to him, setting his drink on the coffee table.

"I've been thinking about something," said Luke. "You know I've said I'm tired of working construction, and I'm not getting any younger. I want to do something different."

"Like what? Do you have any idea what else you might do?"

"I've always wanted to learn to fly. Eventually I could become an instructor, or a charter pilot. Maybe both."

Luke waited to see what Jon's reaction would be. He was surprised when Jon kissed him on the cheek.

"If that's your dream, babe, I say go for it. You'd be a good instructor--you're patient and good with people. And it would be sexy to be married to a pilot. Do you think you'd wear a uniform?"

Luke laughed. "I'm glad you're not freaking about this. I wasn't sure how you'd feel after our 'discussion' about skydiving. And I didn't know you have a uniform fetish, but if you want I'll get one. Only for when I'm alone with you, though. If I'd known, I'd wear my hardhat to bed."

"No, it would hide too much of your handsome face. But if you're serious about flying, you should give it a try. I don't have a problem with flying in a plane, it's the jumping out that makes me crazy."

"Good, then maybe I'll go to the airport this weekend and check it out. I want to find out how much it costs and how long it takes. I know it isn't cheap, but I have some money saved up."

"Why don't you go there Saturday afternoon, then pick me up on your way back and we can go to dinner somewhere or maybe go downtown if you want."

"Sure, let's do that.

Jon awoke just after seven Saturday morning and decided he'd let Luke sleep while he went to his condo to make sure everything was in order. When he got there he opened the balcony doors to air out the place and noticed the glass could use a cleaning. He went to the kitchen and discovered he had about a teaspoon of glass cleaner left. He could go back to Luke's for it, but decided he'd just borrow some from Cathy. Jon knew she'd be up, Cathy always woke up with the birds. He trotted down the stairs and knocked on her door. After a few moments he knocked again. Cathy answered in her robe.

"Hi, I hope I didn't wake you up."

"No, I'm just a little lazy this morning."

"Can I borrow some Windex? I'm showing my place to a couple today."

"Uh, sure. Hold on just a sec."

Cathy pushed the door almost closed, which Jon thought was unusual. She always welcomed him in even if for just a couple of minutes. Cathy returned with the Windex and handed it to Jon. Jon heard a voice and glanced over Cathy's head.

"Cath, do you have any..."

Jon was shocked to see Joe walk out of the bathroom with a towel around his waist.

"Oh, shit!" said Joe as he turned and went into the bedroom.

Cathy was blushing. "Looks like the cat's out of the bag. Come on in, Jon."

Jon was having a hard time suppressing his laughter, but he couldn't hide his smile. He would have never guessed.

"I'm sorry, Cathy. I should have called first. I'm sorry if I embarrassed you."

"Oh hell, I'da told you soon enough. But maybe I should go in there and make sure Joe is still breathing. He probably passed out."

A few moments later Joe emerged wearing a pair of jeans and a tank top. He hadn't bothered to put on his shirt, socks or shoes. He had a "cat that ate the canary" look on his face.

"Morning, Jon. What's new?"

Both Cathy and Jon burst out laughing.

Jon said, "I'm really sorry, you guys. I'm so used to just coming down here to see Cathy, it never occurred to me that, well, I mean..."

"Oh, it never occurred to you that I might have a guest? Thanks a lot, Jon."

"No, it's just...hell, I don't know. So, uh, did you like the play?"

"It was good," answered Joe. "It really rained on the stage. I don't know how they pulled that off, but it was a good time."

"And I have a new Italian restaurant to go to. We went to Cafe Buonaro's and had a wonderful dinner. The owner treated Joe like he was family."

"I don't know why, I've only been there a few times. But they remember me and they're very friendly and I love the food."

Cathy smiled at Joe. "They remember you because you're such a nice guy, you're friendly to the staff, and you tip well. I was a waitress once, and you'd be surprised how a lot of people treat you like crap."

"Well I'm glad you two had a good time. I'll get going, I want to clean up my place and then get back to Luke's."

"Do you want to stay for breakfast?" asked Cathy. Jon noticed Joe glanced at her.

"No, I've intruded enough. I'll see you guys later."

"Okay," said Cathy. "But call me later if you're free."

Cathy rose and walked Jon to the door. She gave him a quick kiss and said good bye, then returned to the living room and sat next to Joe. He looked at her with a guilty expression.

"Joe, it's okay. Don't worry about Jon or anyone else. I had a wonderful time with you last night--all of last night. I'd like to go out with you again."

Joe smiled like a kid. "Really? I'd love to go out with you again, I had a great time, too."

Jon finished sprucing up his condo and decided he'd return Cathy's Windex another time. He went back to Luke's and could hardly wait to tell him the news. Luke was in the kitchen getting ready to make breakfast. Jon put his arms around him and they kissed.

"You're never going to believe what I stumbled upon this morning. You're gonna shit."

Luke looked at him. "What?"

"I stopped to see Cathy, and guess who walked out of her bathroom in a towel."

"I don't know...the accountant she dated?"

"No. Think a little closer to home."

"Oh, you're kidding! Paul?"

"One more guess."

Luke was drawing a blank. He thought for a few seconds. "No! Joe?"

"Bingo! I practically caught them in the act. I'm not sure, but I think something's cooking there."

"No shit! Who'da guessed? It must be true what they say--ya gotta watch out for the quiet ones." said Luke. "Cathy would be good for Joe. And maybe he'll take her mind off of you."

"What do you mean?"

"Oh, please. Everyone knows how she feels about you. I almost feel guilty. I'm surprised she didn't scratch my eyes out."

"You know she loves you. Anyway, it would be nice if the two of them connect. I'm sure I'll hear all the details from Cathy. Maybe not ALL the details, but it won't be long before I know what's what. By the way, have you decided when you're going to tell your parents about us? It's going to have to be soon."

Luke sighed. "I know, and I suppose it's one of those things I'm going to have to do in person. Maybe next weekend, no sense putting it off. Will you go with me?"

"Of course, if you want me to. I'll do anything I can to make it easier for you."

"Okay, good. Then I'm going to call them in a little while--if I don't, I'll keep putting it off. Christ, I have no idea how they're going to react to this."

Around eight o'clock Luke decided he shouldn't put off the call any longer.

"Hi, dad, how are you?"

"I'm fine, Luke. Are you feeling better?"

"Yeah, a lot. I was wondering if you and mom are going to be home next Friday night. I wanted to stop by and talk with you both about something."

"I don't think we have any plans. Is it something serious? You're not having complications or problems, are you? Can you pay your medical bills?"

"No, it's nothing like that. It's a good thing, actually, but it's something I want to discuss with you and mom in person."

"All right, stop in after dinner, around seven. We'll both be here."

"Okay, dad, we'll see you then. Bye."

As soon as he'd said it, Luke realized he'd used "we." Oh, well, he thought, they might as well start getting used to it. As Luke closed his phone, Jon sat beside him.

"Did you tell them what you want to talk with them about?"

"No, I just said it wasn't anything bad."

"We haven't eaten yet and I'm sure neither of us wants to start cooking now. How about a pizza at The Inn? It's half-price on Monday."

"Sure, if you want. But I don't want to stay too late, let's try to get home by eleven at the latest."

Jon raised an eyebrow. "If we hurry, we can make it back by 10:30 and you can have me for dessert."

"It's a deal--as long as you don't order anchovies."

Greg went into the den where Linda was watching TV.

"Luke just called. He wants to stop by on Friday to talk with us about something."

"Did he say what it is?"

"He didn't say, but he said it's something good and he wants to talk about it in person."

Linda thought for a few moments. "Considering we've hardly spoken in the past ten or so years, there's only one thing I can think of."

"That's what I thought. He's planning on some sort of commitment ceremony, or whatever they call it, with Jon."

"Let's not get ahead of ourselves. But even if that's what they're planning, there's nothing we can do about it. Even if we could, would it be the right thing to do?"

"I know we can't do anything, but we might consider changing our wills. If anything happened to Luke, everything might go to Jon."

"Greg, whatever we leave to Luke is his, and it's his to do with as he pleases."

"But we don't know anything about Jon. He could be a gold-digger."

"Greg, get real. Luke works in construction and lives a relatively modest life. Even he doesn't know what he'll inherit. And from the little bit I've heard, Jon has a very secure and well-paying job. When you stop to think about it, it's funny--Jon's parents might be worrying about the same thing."

"Maybe you're right, I don't know. But Jon's boss did stop by to see them, and he seemed to be a very respectable and successful gentleman."

"Then will you go with me to that PFLAG meeting? Whether or not you go, I will. But I'm hoping you will go with me."

Greg sighed. "I suppose it's the least I can do. But I'm going to be very uncomfortable and if I want to leave, we're leaving. Damn, I don't believe I'm agreeing to this."

"Look, it's not exactly at the top of my list of things to do, but the way I look at it, it's about the last chance we have to make amends with Luke. Do you want to live the rest of your life knowing you rejected your only son?"

"No, I suppose I don't. But we don't even know whether we're right about what Luke wants to talk about. Maybe he's moving or changing jobs or something like that."

"Regardless, it's now or never. Let's see what happens, and even if nothing changes, we're no worse off than we are now."

"When you put it that way, I can't argue. All right, we'll go to the damn meeting. What if I see someone there I know?"

"And what if you do?"

"I suppose you're right--as usual."

Greg and Linda walked into the church and followed the signs to the reception hall. They were surprised to see at least 30-40 people of all ages in the room. As they were trying to decide what to do, they heard a deep voice.

"Greg! Good to see you again."

Greg turned and recognized Jack Evans, an old business acquaintance.

"Hello, Jack, good to see you. It's been a long time. This is Linda, my wife."

"It's a pleasure. Is this your first time here? I've become the unofficial group leader, so I know most everyone."

"Yes," answered Linda. "We wanted to learn what it's all about."

Jack led them to an area where they could sit and talk.

"PFLAG is a very interesting and worthwhile group. I've been involved in it for about five years now. Greg, you remember my son, Walt? He worked for you during the summers when he was in college."

"Yes, of course. He was a very bright and energetic young man. I was disappointed when he left."

"He's doing very well now. I've always felt it was your training and guidance that allowed him to get where he is today. He's always spoken very highly of you."

"I very glad to hear that," said Greg. "You must be very proud of him."

"Yes, I am. He's the reason I got involved in this. Walt and his partner were married three years ago. I couldn't have asked for a better partner for Walt. He and Kyle are perfect together."

"Forgive me, Jack, but as I recall you never seemed to be open to homosexuals."

"No, I made Archie Bunker seem like a fag hag. But when I learned my son is gay, I had to do some soul searching. I realized my prejudices were based solely on stereotypes and things I'd heard. I decided if I was going to have to deal with it, I was going to learn everything I could so I could make an informed decision."

Linda asked, "And what did you find out, Jack? Was it a lot different than you expected?"

"What I learned was gay people aren't any different than anyone else. The media tend to spotlight the flamboyant and outrageous and their coverage is blatantly biased. But that's the tip of the iceberg. You'd be surprised to know how many people you deal with every day who are gay. You never suspected Walt was gay, did you, Greg?"

"No, the thought never occurred to me. Gee, I hope I never said anything to offend him."

"If you did, I'm sure he didn't take it personally. Have you ever noticed how a person will glance around before they say anything negative or joke about blacks? But they feel free to slur gays without a second thought, as if there couldn't possibly be any around them. But enough of my lecturing. You two must have a personal interest in coming here. Would you care to tell me?"

Linda said, "Our son, Luke, is gay. I'm ashamed to admit we haven't been supportive of him. Just the opposite, I'm afraid we've alienated him."

"That's why we're here. I know from my own experience how brave you were to even come here. Let me introduce you to some of the other parents. There's a lot for you to learn, and there are a lot of people here who know what you're going through and will be more than happy to help."

Jack introduced Greg and Linda to several couples and as the evening progressed Greg was surprised he felt as comfortable as he did. He and Linda both found their discussions enlightening and even Greg started to be more at ease talking about the subject. When the group began to break up, Jack handed Greg and Linda some literature.

"Read these pamphlets, they'll answer a lot of your questions. When I finally opened my mind and heart, Walt and I began a whole new relationship. I wouldn't have it any other way now."

Linda put the literature in her purse and the couple headed home.

"All right, Linda, you can say 'I told you so.' And Jack Evans is the last person on earth I would have guessed I'd run into."

"It did go even better than I'd hoped. And that one couple, the Parkers, they live right by us. Did you ever think there were so many people with gay family so close by?"

"No, I always thought we were the only cursed ones. That's probably why I have always been so intimidated by it. Like we had failed as parents in some way, and it's something to be ashamed of."

"I know what you mean, Greg, but I don't think that's how people feel today. Anyway, thank you for going to the meeting."

When they arrived home Linda made a late dinner and then they sat in the den to watch the news. Linda began reading the pamphlets.

Jon and Luke returned from The Inn after their pizza and Jon got two beers and sat on the couch beside Luke.

Luke said, "Can I ask you something? You don't have to answer, and it really doesn't matter, but I was just wondering."

"What's that?"

"How many people have you had sex with in your life?"

"What brought that up?"

"I don't know, I was just wondering. I know you've had sex with more guys than I have. At least, real sex--not just blowjobs.

Jon thought for a minute. "I don't know, five or six maybe. Why?"

"Just curious. You ever have sex with a woman?"

"Yeah, when I was about 19. I was friends with a girl and it got to the point where she was pressuring me. At that age you're always horny, so I was able to do it, but I had to think about the other guy she was seeing--I thought he was really hot."

Luke looked at Jon. "I thought about you when I was screwing Molly."

"Oh my God, you did? If only I had known that. I wish you had given me some idea how you felt."

"I know, but I couldn't. But if I knew then what I know now, I would have been all over you. I could kick myself for being such a jerk. Back then I thought if people knew, I'd be an outcast. I was surprised that after it became obvious you and I were an item, everyone pretty much just accepted it. Even the guys on the volleyball team. God, I wish I met you years ago."

Jon smiled at Luke. "I know. Do you know how good that makes me feel? Now let's not waste any more time and figure out when we're getting married. What about the third weekend in October? That should be a good time for the fall colors."

"That's fine. How big a wedding do you think it's going to be? I wouldn't think we'd have more than 20 or 30 people at the most."

"Probably, that sounds about right. So where are you taking me for our honeymoon?"

"I don't know, but we can figure that out later. Maybe we can go somewhere over Christmas and New Years. We should start thinking of who we want to invite, though, and when and where we're going to have the ceremony and reception. Of course, the ceremony has to be in Iowa but the reception can be anywhere."

Jon said, "I think the reception should be in Iowa, too. I want to have it where we're recognized as a married couple."

"That's the way I feel about it. And I think we should spend our wedding night there. I was also thinking of Paul and Joe for our best men. I think they'd expect us to ask them, and I think they'd feel honored. Should we flip a coin to see which one we each get?"

"It doesn't matter to me, but now that I think about it, I'll ask Paul. Physically we resemble each other somewhat, and you and Joe are a good match. It will look like our brothers are giving us away, if that's okay with you."

"It's fine with me. You sure are quite the romantic, aren't you? I was looking on the Internet the other day, and there are yachts you can rent for weddings. They take care of the ceremony, the reception and dinner while we cruise the Mississippi. What do you think about that idea?"

"That might be nice. It would be unusual, and since the whole wedding is somewhat unusual, we might as well go for it. But what if someone gets seasick?"

Luke gave Jon a look. "Do you ever stop worrying? We're not going to be on the high seas, it's the river. The yachts I saw were big enough that I don't think that would happen. There's always a couple of people who puke at weddings anyway, so it wouldn't be a big deal."

"I kinda like that idea. Show me the Web site and let's see what it's like. But wait until later, I'd rather be looking at you in bed right now.

"Okay, but give me a few minutes. I have some stuff I need to take care of. Have another beer."

Luke went into the bedroom and rummaged in the closet. He had worn a complete camo BDU [Battle Dress Uniform] outfit a few Halloweens ago. He found everything including the camouflage makeup and quickly changed. He looked as if he had just returned from combat. When he went back to the living room, Jon saw him out of the corner of his eye and for a second he was startled--he wasn't sure who it was. Luke stood before him with a stern look on his face.

"On your feet, soldier. You're coming with me."

Jon was stunned. He couldn't believe how hot Luke looked and he couldn't believe Luke actually had the camo uniform. But he wasn't about to complain and he decided it was best to play the subservient role.

"On your knees, grunt. Show me what that mouth of yours was made for."

Jon unbuttoned the fly and used his mouth to free Luke's cock, which wasn't difficult because Luke was already hard. Jon took Luke into his mouth and placed his hands on the back of Luke's thighs.

"Hands behind your back, soldier. I only want your mouth touching me."

Jon quickly complied. He found himself becoming incredibly turned on by Luke's dominance. Jon had never done anything like this before and he wondered how far it was going to go, but he wasn't worried. Anything Luke wanted he was more than happy to do. After Jon had been sucking and slobbering on Luke's cock for about five minutes, Luke put his hands on the sides of Jon's head and pulled him to his feet.

Luke growled, "Get that worthless ass of yours into my quarters and I'll show you what it was meant for."

Luke shoved Jon toward the bedroom and pushed him onto the bed, then pulled off his jeans and shirt. Jon was surprised at how forceful and take-charge Luke was acting.

"On all fours, grunt. I'm gonna mark that ass of yours as mine."

Luke took a moment to get the lube, then quickly penetrated Jon and went at him with a vengeance, all the time wearing the BDUs. Although Jon was taken by surprise with Luke's forcefulness, he found it very exciting and was quickly becoming wrapped up in the scenario. Luke pumped him with mock savagery and they both soon came almost simultaneously. Luke collapsed onto Jon's back. Once they had both started to recover their breaths he rolled off Jon and looked at him.

Luke smiled at Jon. "Was that a little too over-the-top? Did I scare you?"

"It was hot. Very hot. I never knew you had a dominant streak like that, but I really got into it. I never even knew I'd get into a scene like that, but I did. Any time you want to explore your wild side, just let me know. I trust you completely, and I'd do anything with you. Where'd you get the uniform?"

"I got it for Halloween a few years ago, I only wore it that once. I forgot I had it but when you mentioned uniforms I thought of it. It sure as hell did the trick tonight, didn't it?"

"I'll say. I could practically hear the mortar fire around me. I think I did hear it. God, you're hot. Now as much as I like the uniform, get undressed and hold me."

Luke stripped out of the uniform and fell into bed beside Jon.

Jon looked at Luke. "You know, I love you being so butch. It's a facet we've never explored before, and it was hot. I loved it when you took control like that."

"As Carl likes to say, 'A little S&M never hurt anybody.' You seemed to be getting into it. It was hot, but it was only role-playing. It was fun, though."

"It was a trip. As I said, I trust you and I'd do anything for you. But get that war paint off your face before it gets all over the sheets."

Over the next few days Luke found he had to keep a closer eye on George. He was slacking off and once again he was becoming an annoyance to his co-workers. Luke had thought George was past that; lately he had been a model worker. This week, though, he was just putting in his time and making smart-ass remarks to anyone who said anything to him. Luke had to reprimand him on several occasions, and he was starting to worry he might have to let him go. That was the last thing Luke wanted because he knew George was a very good worker when he wanted to be. And the fact that Luke might be the cause of George's problem made him all the more uneasy. He decided he was going to get to the bottom of this for George's sake and everyone else's. Toward the end of the day Thursday he walked up to him.

"George, how about we go for a beer after work? My treat."

George's face lit up. "Sure, that'd be great!"

"Meet me at Adolph's after work."

"Okay, see you there."

Adolph's tended to be a more quiet place and Luke knew they'd be able to talk. He wasn't sure what he was going to say or how much he wanted to tell George about himself. This was going to be a delicate conversation.

They both arrived at the same time and walked in together. Luke went to the bar, got two beers and handed one to George. Luke guided him to a table off to the side where they could talk. After a couple of sips George was still quiet.

"Has something been bothering you this week, George?"

"No, not really."

"Well I gotta tell you, you're pissing a lot of people off, including me. Up until this week you were doing a great job and starting to get along with everyone. Now you're acting like someone shit in your oatmeal. What's the deal?"

"Nothing, I just got some stuff to think about. You wouldn't understand."

Luke took another sip of his beer. "You might be surprised. It hasn't been that long since I was your age, and I had to go through a lot of shit. My parents didn't understand or want me, and I didn't feel there was anyone I could trust or talk to. If there's anything you want to talk about, man to man, it's between us and it will go no further."

"No, you really wouldn't understand. We're too different. You have a girlfriend and you're engaged."

"I never said I have a girlfriend."

George looked at Luke. "Okay, a fiancee. Same difference."

Luke stood and went to the bar for two more beers. He was becoming more and more convinced Jon was right, that George had a crush on him, but if not, this could turn into a disaster. He placed a beer in front of George and took his seat.

"Thanks."

"George, forewarned is forearmed. If you keep up the attitude, you're going to find yourself on the street. You know there's no shortage of laborers these days and it would take all of five minutes to replace you. I'm not threatening you, I'm just telling you how it is. The guys have been complaining to me and Donny and you need to do some attitude adjustment. If there's anything I can do to help you, please tell me."

"Luke, why are you doing this? I know I've been a jerk, and most guys woulda fired me by now."

"Are you trying to get fired?"

"No. I don't know. Maybe I am."

"Look, I know what you can do when you want to, and I don't want to lose a good man. And I feel a little guilty. I think I might be part of your problem."

George looked at Luke. He could tell Luke was being honest with him but he still didn't know him well enough to trust him with how he felt. Luke stared back at George and felt a wave of compassion.

"Would it make any difference if I told you my fiancee's name is Jon?"

George blinked a couple of times. "No shit? You're engaged to a guy?"

"Yes. He's the most important thing in my life."

"Wow. I don't know how I feel about that. I guess you know I'm attracted to you but after you told me you're engaged I figured nothing could happen. I guess it still can't, but at least I know we're both in the same camp. That makes us kinda like brothers, doesn't it?"

Luke smiled at him. "It's too bad we have to dance around the issue, but at least we're finally on the same track. So are you okay with this? I'd never consider being with anyone but Jon."

"I don't know. Yeah, I guess I can live with it. I did want to get to know you better and become good friends or more than friends. But don't worry, I won't stalk you. Just knowing we understand each other is a good feeling, like we connect. We can be friends, can't we?"

"Of course we can. Okay, then, can I count on you being back to your productive self at work tomorrow?

"Yeah, you bet. Thanks for the brewskis. Luke, I know you took a big risk telling me all this. Not many guys would go to the trouble with someone like me."

"Like I said, I hate to lose a good man and I felt you were worth the risk. Now just don't disappoint me."

"Oh, I won't. Just knowing a guy like you makes me feel good, like I can look forward to a future. Ya know, I'm proud to call you my friend."

"Me too. I gotta get going, Jon's probably wondering where the hell I am. I'll see you tomorrow."

"Okay, Luke. Thanks...for everything."

As Luke drove home he thought back on the conversation. He felt it went well, but he got the impression there was a lot more going on with George. It was a gut instinct. Luke had had a difficult relationship with his family and he sensed George did, too. He pulled into his parking space and went into the condo.

"You're running late tonight. I was about to call you."

"I went for a couple of beers with George after work. We needed to get some things straightened out before he got himself fired."

"How'd it go?"

"Pretty good, I think. You were right about him, but I told him about you and that you're the only one I'm into. He's just glad to know where things stand, and I think it's going to work out."

"So he's not crushed to learn you're off the market?"

"Maybe a little, but I think it means more to him that now he can talk to me. I think he needs a mentor, someone he can confide in. I don't mind as long as he's cool about it. I should probably down-play things until I figure out what he's all about."

Jon gave Luke a kiss. "That's one of the things I love about you. You have a heart of gold, you know it? You're a very good person."

"I just thought I knew what he was feeling, but I wasn't sure how he'd react. He could have gone ballistic when I said what I did."

"But he didn't, and I'm sure you knew he wouldn't. I'm glad you worked it out with him. You are a very empathetic person. You don't always show it, but I know you are."

"We'll see what happens. I really hope he straightens himself out, so to speak. Deep down he's a good kid and I hope he gets his act together."

"Evidently you're someone he admires and now that he knows you're gay, maybe it will help him deal with his own issues. You might be the only gay guy he really knows."

"Could be. If he can relax a little and be more comfortable with being gay, he shouldn't have any problem finding a boyfriend. He is cute, he's a little stud muffin. If he circulates a little, he won't have any problem. I just hope he doesn't wind up with the wrong crowd. He's the type that could happen to."

"All you can do is be a friend." Jon nuzzled his face into Luke's crotch and played using his teeth through his jeans.

Luke said, "I haven't even showered yet. I'm grungy."

"I don't care. I love everything about you."

"Let's take a shower together. I'll feel better."

They relaxed and played in the shower for ten or fifteen minutes until the hot water ran out. That was one of the things Jon missed about his condo--it had central hot water and it never ran out, but Luke had his own water heater. On the upside, it just meant they'd be in bed that much sooner.

Jon pushed Luke onto his back. "You just relax and let me do all the work."

Luke laid back and Jon lovingly caressed his dick with his mouth. It was one of the most enjoyable things he did. He was never more peaceful than when he knew he was making Luke happy.

"Turn around," said Luke. "I want you, too."

On Friday Jon found himself feeling uneasy. Usually he would be looking forward to the weekend with Luke, but tonight they were going to confront Luke's parents. Jon wasn't concerned for himself, but he worried about how it would affect Luke. Whatever happened, Jon would be there for him.

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