This above all: to thine own self be true, And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man. Shakespeare (Hamlet)
Thanks to Chael for assistance in editing and proofing the story. This is wholly fictional with no reference intended to persons alive or dead.
Please do not distribute to other sites without permission of the author. Comments can be sent to firehosejoe@yahoo.com
There are several Mexican/Spanish terms used in the subsequent chapters. Patron -- pronounced pah-trone and peones -- peh-o-nehs Likely these words have derivatives we use to day ie: Patron of the arts. Peon -- one of lowly status. If you find it helpful Free Online Dictionary is an easy tool to use for checking meanings. Have a good read!
From the previous chapter:
Tony didn't break his gaze when Stan finally met his stare. "I know you're right, Tony. It just happened so fast - you know his call and the visit and everything. I was afraid he'd say, "No" if he knew we were together. Oh shit! I'm sorry, Tony. That came out badly."
"Don't worry, Bud. I know exactly what you mean. That doesn't get you off the hook though. You still have to tell him," Tony said firmly.
Chapter 45
The next day, Stan picked up his phone. It seemed to weigh ten pounds. Dialing the number he heard it ring. `Damn, no reprieve with a busy signal,' he thought.
"Alejandro Algara. May I help you?" Few people had Alejandro's private number and he was curious who the caller might be.
"Hey, Alex! It's Stan."
"Hello Stan, Is there a change in plans? Are you alright?" Alejandro asked, slightly concerned.
By the time Stan had finished explaining, Alejandro was trying to stifle his laughter. Stan had fallen all over himself with the explanation. The storyteller in Stan came to the fore and when the conversation was over, Alejandro was actually looking forward to meeting Tony Escondido.
"Stan, don't apologize for living. I really do understand and am happy for you. I'll take your word that I won't be in the way. It will be nice meeting Tony and not having to stay in a hotel. You will let me take you both out to dinner - no argument, mind you," Alejandro concluded the conversation confirming the visit. He hung up and smiled not realizing until the call was over how much he was looking forward to the visit.
Alejandro continued to juggle the responsibilities at work along with the burgeoning building project. It was exciting to see an idea grow into a shared reality. He chided himself gently about taking time away so soon after his California trip but he was looking forward to seeing Stan again and meeting Tony.
Fortunately the time passed quickly. As was his practice, he had his lawyer do some research on each of the board members. This was a new group of folks and Alejandro liked to be prepared. In particular he wanted to know if there was information available on spouses. He was looking for single men who might share his interests in things other than art. The request was a simple one but didn't escape the notice of the lawyer. He was sympathetic to the situation and did his best to get Alejandro complete information. What Alejandro did with it was his business.
In Dallas, at the dinner prior to the board meeting, Alejandro was warmly welcomed as a newcomer and well received. He was careful how he used the information he had. One individual he was looking forward to meeting, John Abernathy, Alejandro found to be affable and engaging.
Fortunately they were seated at the same table and maintained an easy conversation. Afterward, they had a drink in the bar of the hotel catering the dinner. It was a familiar dance for both and they were careful. Before they parted company, they agreed to meet for lunch the following day after the board meeting.
Over a quiet lunch, they both dropped hints and soon determined they had interests in common. Agreeing that each would enjoy another visit, they exchanged business cards and promised to stay in touch.
Alejandro knew if he were to survive in this philanthropic business of traveling to different cities for board and committee meetings he was going to have to expand his circle of friends. Certainly he was not alone in his preferences and appetites. There were others and he would meet them. Time alone would tell if friendships would grow.
After lunch, Alejandro did some shopping for the warmer Texas weather. As his acquisitions and other luggage were loaded, he boarded the plane and was in Austin at the appointed time. Stan offered to come get him but Alejandro insisted that he could get a car. The charter desk arranged for a car and soon Alejandro was looking at the skyline of Austin as he headed into town.
Stan was at the condo to meet him. Their hug was warm and enthusiastic. Alejandro felt welcome immediately. Tony would be along later. He had to meet a client and would be home about 7 p.m. Stan suggested Alejandro settle in and then they could chat. After a stop by the bathroom and bedroom to put his luggage away, Alejandro returned. Iced tea was offered and both men sat and talked for a few minutes.
"Stan, I want to hear all about Tony, your law practice and life in general and I'd like to walk while we talk. I've been sitting most of the day and need to get my legs working," Alejandro said.
"Great idea! The weather is perfect right now. Let me change out of this suit and into some comfortable clothes and I'll be ready," Stan said in agreement. Both men were soon in shorts, T's and runners keeping a steady and somewhat fast pace as they talked.
"So tell me about this Tony, the `love of your life'," Alejandro said with a slight smile and raised eyebrows.
"Just remember you asked," Stan said a grin splitting his face. "He's such a good lawyer and so damned hot in bed.
"He's an aggressive, gifted litigator. He's broad-shouldered and built. He's 6'3" and good-looking as sex on a stick."
Stan was obviously proud of his man.
"He's truly passionate about his clients' cases and argues a great case. He uncovered one potential class-action suit involving dozens of local lawn and garden workers who'd been poisoned by a chemical provided by their company.
"Fortunately all lived to tell the story and spend the money Tony earned for them in a huge settlement. It marked him as a rising star in his company.
"And did I mention `hot'?" Stan's Groucho eyebrow wiggle made Alejandro laugh.
"All the details, Stan. Tell me just how hot this stud is," Alejandro played into Stan's desire to brag on his man.
Stan, never one to shirk on the details, described a good-looking man, well built, well hung and a voracious top when it came to pleasing Stan. Alejandro just shook his head smiling.
"Bet you give him a run for his money, Stan. You never could get enough, even from me." Alejandro cradled his crotch momentarily as he added his own Groucho eyebrow emphasis. Both men laughed.
As they neared the condo Stan told Alejandro of their tentative plans for the evening.
"I remember your stories about wrestling training. Do you still do that?" Stan asked.
With a big grin, Alejandro answered, "As often as I can get a match. You want to go a few falls with me?"
"Ooooo no!" Stan said in mock horror. "Tony would give you a better run for your money, but he's a lover not a fighter. You'd never think so if you saw him in action in court. More than a few witnesses have found him to be damned intimidating, all within the bounds and rules, mind you."
"Why were you asking about wrestling?" Alejandro said, returning to the subject.
"I hope I've not got my foot in it again," Stan said with a sideways look and smile at Alejandro. "Sometime back, I was having lunch with a friend. He told me he'd gone with a date to a wrestling club of sorts. It's members only and is a place to watch exhibition wrestling -- not collegiate stuff. He said there was something for everyone."
"Like what," Alejandro asked, his tone betrayed his growing skepticism.
"Geez, this seemed like such a good idea a week ago. We don't have to go." Stan began backpedaling.
"Stan, tell me about it for goodness sakes!" Alejandro ordered, stopping the flow of apology.
"Okay, well when he was talking about it, it sounded kinda hot," Stan insisted.
"The setup includes three rooms for wrestling. They are separated from the viewing area by one-way glass. The rooms are on angles so that the people watching can follow all three matches at the same time. The sounds of the wrestlers are captured by mikes and put on speakers but not so loudly that you can't carry on a conversation.
"There was one match that my buddy really enjoyed. A smart mouth young guy was mouthing off at a hairy dad-type. The kid got his butt beat in a long sweaty match. There was lots of variety - big, muscled, smooth college jocks, frat boys, big, muscled guys taking on smaller guys, hairy dad-types - you name it.
"He said there was something for everyone. The seats for spectators are arranged in tiers and there's plenty of room to move around. You're not packed in there like sardines. The food is fantastic. There is buffet anchored by large Gulf Shrimp and beef tenderloin rolls with horseradish to make your eyes water. Of course all the other salad-type things are there too."
Stan sort of shrugged. "Sounds a little silly out of context and I haven't been there myself. Don't feel obligated to go, okay Alejandro."
"You said it was members only, right? How do you plan to get us in?" Alejandro asked.
"The guy who first told me about it said we could go as the guests of his friend who has membership," Stan said.
"Okay, it sounds like it might be interesting. Anyway, you've made the plans and gone to some trouble as has your friend and you know how I like shrimp, especially fresh from the gulf." Alejandro tried to sound enthusiastic to mollify Stan's discomfort. "Sounds like we can let that be dinner and enjoy a drink while I get acquainted with Tony before we go."
Stan beamed a smile of relief. They got back to the condo to find Tony lounging in some shorts and a T. Soon they all had gin and tonics and sat talking. Alejandro found Tony every bit as attractive as Stan had described. The T clung to his well muscled chest that hinted at a generous covering of hair. His biceps were large, his abs flat. The boy was big.
Alejandro was captured by the eyes. They were clear and penetrating. They danced with intelligence, potential mischief and humor. When Tony looked at Stan, Alejandro could see love and affection, seasoned liberally with friendship. These men were obviously friends as well as lovers.
Conversation was easy. Bits and pieces of life background were revealed as stories were told. From Tony's questions, Alejandro could tell Stan had briefed him somewhat.
Grinning at Stan, Tony asked, "Alex, has Stan told you about his rise to fame with his pro bono work?"
"You don't need to go into all that, Tony," Stan quickly protested.
"I'm proud of you, you've got a right to be proud and I know you won't say a word," Tony said then turned his attention to Alejandro.
He told of Stan learning, quite by accident, that a Mexican laborer who worked in his apartment complex had been accused of a crime he didn't commit. His alibi was rock solid and he had witnesses whose testimony was unshakable. Unable to afford a lawyer he was going to be railroaded and sent back to Mexico along with his family even though his documentation was in order and he had a child who was born in the United States, therefore a citizen.
Tony added for emphasis, "Alex you know how he is. Stan just couldn't look the other way and ignore this one. He made sure he had clearance before the Bar and took the case pro bono. In other circumstances it would have been a non-event. The laborer had been tagged simply due to his skin color and nationality to serve as a fall guy.
"The case, when presented and dismissed, made a couple of lines in the paper. The fallout was what caught citywide attention. When the convenient perpetrator was proved innocent, the press and cops smelled collusion and pressed hard for information.
"Eventually the real culprit convicted and the press used the previous case as filler. Stan got his twenty minutes of fame and made an eloquent case for minors of alien workers whose rights were all too often not only abridged but ignored.
"He's the kind of lawyer that helps our tarnished reputation in the public eye." Tony said with a teasing smile and reached over to give Stan's knee a gentle smack of affection.
Stan kept an eye on the time and made sure they were at the club promptly. Stan's friend was gracious as was his partner in welcoming them all to the club.
"You'll likely find that some matches are of more interest than others. Let's not try to stay together but just enjoy what appeals to us as the evening unfolds," Stan's friend said.
Alejandro was impressed with the venue. It was as described, only better. He saw that from nearly every vantage point you would be able to see action in each of the rooms from the way they were angled. The buffet and bar were centered along the back wall of the three tiers.
During the course of the evening, Alejandro enjoyed watching the patrons as much as the wrestling. After the business suit rip-and-strip match, he watched Stan reach over and grab Tony's obvious erection and whisper something in his ear. It was met with a big smile and `Oh yeah' that Alejandro could only see.
Alejandro was riveted to the age mismatch of an older man who looked much like Nicco wrestling with a much younger twenty-something smooth-muscled youth. They roleplayed a manager versus employee.
Both dressed in jeans and polos, they stripped down to their very skimpy briefs and hammered on each other. In another match, Alejandro could feel his cockhead leaking as he watched the give-and-take of two strong, skilled wrestlers. The finale was with the older man atop the younger. Ankles and legs were strongly secured as the older man humped against the younger until they both shot loads. That match got applause from many in the audience.
After saying good-bye to their hosts, the three men drove back to the condo. They were all horny, full of good food and slightly buzzed from the drinks. Stan made sure Alejandro had enjoyed the time then went over to Tony.
"It wasn't so bad was it? Didn't feel like you were bored when the suits started getting ripped off?" Stan said as he held Tony by the waist.
"No that was hot. We won't discuss which District Attorney I wanted that guy to be who got his ass beat," Tony said with residual heat.
"You wanted to be doing the beating too! Don't lie to me," Stan chuckled.
"Too right about that," Tony said. "Phew, you stink Stan. That smoke smell is all over you. Not sleeping in bed smelling like that."
"What! You throwing me to the wolves?" Stan grinned nodding toward Alejandro.
"Not sleeping with me either, Bud. I can smell you from here," Alejandro joined in wondering where this was leading.
Tony looked over to Alejandro with a tilt of his head and some question in his eyes, as if wondering if he were stepping over some invisible line of taboo.
"Maybe you could help me, Alex. There's plenty of room in the shower for the three of us and I know Stan would enjoy being helped," he added while making quote marks with his fingers, "by two studs like us.
"Think you could handle both of us, Squirt?" Tony laughed.
Stan threw a quick punch to Tony's gut. "You know I hate that!" The grin on Stan's face belied any anger. "I've had you both. I'm not sure together you're enough to satisfy me," he challenged.
Alejandro laughed. "Seems like I remember you moaning and sighing your satisfaction - if memory serves."
Looking at Alejandro, Tony said, "Yeah, he told me about your first time together. Damn near wore me out that night. It was like Olympic judges were gonna hold up scorecards as I competed against a ghost - not that I'm complaining. He seemed more than satisfied when I was done. Purring as I recall." That earned Tony another quick punch to the gut.
All laughed and Alejandro said, "Let's get naked guys and see if we can take care of Stinky Stan."
In the custom shower area several faucets sprayed water on them as hands explored bodies. Alejandro stroked both men as they kissed, their affection obvious. Before the shower was over, both Tony and Alejandro had each climaxed twice inside Stan.
The next morning the smell of coffee wafted into Alejandro's room and awakened him. He pulled on his shorts and T and started for the door when the phone rang. Stan's back was to him as he padded down the hall bathroom to relieve himself.
"Hey Cesar what's up?" Stan listened, "Wow, what an opportunity. I don't know. We've got company; a friend from Chicago is in for the weekend." Stan listened a moment more, "Yeah we both scheduled Monday off since he was going to be here such a short time. I don't know. I've thrown so much at him already this trip I don't know whether he'd be interested." Alejandro didn't want to eavesdrop but this sounded like it definitely involved a potential change in plans.
"I can assure you Tony and I would jump at the chance. Couldn't get down there `til late with the lousy connections, but a day in paradise would be worth it." Stan listened as Cesar continued.
"Yeah it is perfect this time of year. Let me check with Tony first and then I'll ask my friend. Can I call you back at the casa in an hour?" He paused a moment more then said, "Good-bye."
Stan went directly across the hall to the master bedroom and closed the door. Alejandro closed the bathroom door and took care of his business. When he finished dressing he went toward the kitchen, "You'd better have a cup of coffee for me, Stan," he said with a laugh.
"Don't worry; I've made an extra pot. You and Tony are alike with your addiction to caffeine. Speak and the monster appears," Stan laughed as Tony came out of the bedroom. He was rubbing his eyes and slapping at his tousled bed-hair.
"Shut your yap and give me coffee." Tony instructed with a smile. Turning to Alejandro, "He's so damned chipper in the morning!"
As they sipped their coffee, Alejandro waited for the question regarding the phone call. They were munching on toasted English muffins when Stan broached the subject.
He told of his background with Cesar Garcia and how they'd met as a result of an inheritance involving people of both countries. Stan briefly described Cesar's physical attributes, wit, intelligence and a brief bit of the history of his family.
Stan's description of the resort to which they'd been invited did sound like paradise to Alejandro. He'd never been anywhere like it. A small but exclusive five-star resort catering to gay men, featuring all the amenities that you could imagine sounded like heaven. The weather on the Yucatan Peninsula would be warm and summerlike to a Chicagoan, even more so than Texas.
"There you have it, Alex. The downside is that it will take all day to fly there and then you add on a bit of a drive from the nearest airfield. He only has two rooms reserved so we'll all have to bunk in together. Don't worry. They're large, spacious, with two beds in each so no one will feel cramped. We'll have to leave early Monday to travel back here." Stan said with resignation.
"On second thought, I know what I said to Cesar about a day in paradise, but I can't imagine asking you to spend two full days on an airplane just to see the place. I'll call Cesar back and tell him we can't make it. We'll try to do this with you another time," Stan said firmly.
"Wait a minute, just a minute before you start making decisions for me, Buster." Alejandro smiled. "If we didn't have to fly commercial how long would the trip take?"
"Less than four hours but getting a charter on a Saturday morning will be difficult and very expensive," Stan said, puzzled. Quickly the light went on.
"You've got a plane!" Stan nearly yelled.
"Yep. Give me the coordinates or location and I'll call my pilot. By the time we get to the airport he'll be ready to taxi. Point A to Point B and back again with plenty of play time to spare."
Stan whooped his excitement. Grabbing the phone he called and got through to Cesar. Plans were made, information given and they were under way in less than an hour. Alejandro instructed the pilot to radio the airfield when they were half an hour out so Cesar could send a car for them.
To land into the wind, they circled over the resort. Stan was pointing out all of the things they could do. To Alejandro it looked like a plush oasis amid endless miles of cattle ranges. Tony peered out the window with mild curiosity as Stan played tour guide.
On the ground, a black Mercedes with tinted windows awaited them. The driver collected their bags and soon they were approaching Casa del Placer.
"Pleasure House? You're taking me to some high-fangled whorehouse, aren't you Stan. To think I trusted you." Alejandro laughed at Stan's expression.
"Is that what it says? I'll be damned. Never asked," Stan exclaimed.
All three men laughed as the car wound its way through lush tropical landscaping of trees, shrubs and innumerable flowering plants. The car pulled to a stop at a gate for permission to pass. Good security' thought Alejandro. I like that'.
Cesar awaited them in the paved circle in front of the Casa. He greeted Stan and Tony with a warm embrace. When introduced to Alejandro, his greeting was enthusiastic and welcoming. Alejandro responded effortlessly in Spanish to Cesar's delight. The two men exchanged a few brief sentences in Cesar's mother tongue before turning to Stan and Tony to bring them into the conversation.
"I've taken care of registration for you two." Cesar gestured to Tony and Stan. "Alejandro, if you will come with me, we can get you taken care of with ease. Have you gentlemen sorted out room assignments?"
Alejandro jumped in before Stan could get agitated. "If you don't mind Cesar, I'll stay with you. We can get acquainted and it will give me an opportunity to converse in Spanish. I don't get the chance often."
When they arrived in their rooms, their bags were unpacked and clothing put away.
"That was fast," Alejandro said.
Cesar replied, "There is a ratio of 2.5 guests for each staff member. Things run like a well oiled machine here. Have you given thought to how you'd like to spend your afternoon? There is the spa and the pools near the Casa. A short ride to the beach will afford you any ocean recreation amenity imaginable."
"Let's call Stan and Tony to see what they want to do," Alejandro replied.
They all agreed that whatever they did, they wanted to get some exercise. Deciding on a run on the beach first, they all changed into their running gear. Alejandro felt no need for modesty with Cesar as he stripped off his clothes.
"If you'd like that laundered, simply place it in the mesh bag with your name on it. It will be returned clean and pressed within two hours," Cesar instructed.
"That's an impressive level of service," Alejandro said as he let his eyes take in the naked, muscular Cesar. He was powerfully built. Standing 6'2", his thick chest tapered slightly to a pronounced eight-pack of abs. Cords of muscle shifted under his skin with each movement as he dressed.
Cesar had taken the same liberty of appraising his roommate. "For one who sits behind a desk, as Stan has accused you," Cesar's eyes twinkled, "you maintain a strong and healthy physique. With the unending demands of business it is difficult at times I know."
"Thank you." Alejandro wanted to know more about his host and decided a direct approach would be best.
"Cesar, how do you fill your days? You understand the challenges of sitting behind a desk," Alejandro said.
Cesar gave Alejandro a `thumb nail' outline of his work and life. As a lawyer, he traveled often to Mexico City to serve clients with national and international interests. Stan's work in behalf of the migrant worker had piqued Cesar's interest. Cesar told of his passionate commitment to the indigenous peoples all over Mexico.
"As a young man I was embarrassed at my dark skin color. There is Mayan blood in my history. I was teased as much as anyone dared tease the son of the Patron." Seeing Alejandro's puzzled expression Cesar continued, "That is the term still used for the head of family of the hacienda. It is one of several reasons for my passion to assist disenfranchised people of my country. I come from a place of privilege but have felt the sting of discrimination.
"I am fortunate. My family, through marriage, hard work and luck, built our estate generations ago. The hacienda, as we call it, is not only the house but the entire holding of land, resources and industry present on the property. The peones that work on the hacienda mostly come from a village that is historically Mayan and is protected under Federal Law. It was once considered part of the hacienda but the villagers are fierce with pride and when legislation was passed demanded separation from the hacienda. The small portion of land is theirs," Cesar explained.
Alejandro was puzzled, "Why do you call them peons if you work so hard to protect and preserve their rights?"
"Forgive me but you misunderstand. The Patron is the master. The peones," Cesar was careful to correct Alejandro's mispronunciation, "are all those who work on the hacienda. It is not a demeaning term. It is a class distinction from hundreds of years ago but not necessarily negative."
"Okay, I'm beginning to understand a little. Tell me more about your work," Alejandro asked.
"My work as a lawyer keeps me in contact with business and industry as well as the major players in the Federal Government. Because of the contact with the government I stay abreast of the plights of various indigenous populations in the various states. Quite often I am able to offer assistance pro bono while I am in the capital. Several years ago my Father was injured in a riding accident and died soon after. As only son, I have the full responsibility as the owner of a vast hacienda. The days are never long enough for what needs to be done. This I'm sure you understand," Cesar said.
"You mentioned your Mayan heritage. Is that where you get your height and build? You are the tallest Mexican I've seen," Alejandro observed, a bit embarrassed at the question.
"I am an anomaly in both my build and skin coloring. Recessive genes came to the fore and gave me not only my height but also the propensity to be more heavily built than most Mexicans. While I was derided by classmates, at a distance and behind my back I assure you, they didn't want to confront me about the deep hue of the brown skin. Again, from my past came a gene for the Mayan coloring and facial features.
"Though my Father and Mother were supportive and answered all my questions, it was hard for me. One of my best childhood friends was a peone, Guillermo Sanchez. He and I joined the military as soon as my secondary education was complete. My Father was insistent that I go directly to college but I wanted some life experience away from the hacienda. It was the right decision for me," Cesar said.
Cesar studied Alejandro for a moment then said, "You represent more the classical Spaniard/Mexican. Your ancestry, Alejandro, came from European stock, likely Castilian. Your Mother was, without doubt, Castilian."
Alejandro's head jerked to face Cesar.
"Do not be surprised that I would inquire about your name, my friend. Algara has deep roots in both Spain and Mexico. I was certain there was some connection and the search for information was surprisingly easy. You have much to be proud of, though I am sure this is not news to you," Cesar added.
There was a sharp rap on the door and the voice of Stan called, "Did you guys decide to do something else?" Both Cesar and Alejandro heard laughter outside and looked at each other and smiled.
"Leave it to Stan to make that assumption," Cesar smiled.
They hadn't realized how long they'd been talking. Alejandro opened the door and let them in.
"We're ready. Sorry we took so long. Just talking and getting to know one another," Alejandro said. The comment was met with a big wink and grin from Stan.
Alejandro swatted at him with his towel. All four men headed out and down the paved cart path to the beachfront. They let Stan set the pace and ran two miles up and back. When the returned to the beach cabanas they downed water and rested in the shade of umbrellas. As they surveyed the various options, they all agreed that parasailing would be the most fun and cool them off the fastest.
After all four men had enjoyed a ride they headed back to the marina dock. The incline looked benign from the beach. They politely declined the offer of the cart ride to the top. By halfway each of them muttered at one time or another that walking was a stupid decision.
`Top-side' they all rinsed off the sweat at one of the outdoor showerheads and enjoyed time in the whirlpool. No sooner than they had gotten comfortable than a staff-member came by to offer drinks. Orders were given and the men relaxed. Cesar caught up on the goings-on of both Stan and Tony while Alejandro listened, filling in the blanks that conversation heretofore had not provided.
As the sun began to set behind the copse of trees that provided the privacy screen for Casa del Placer, they parted company to shower and dress for dinner. Cesar had taken the liberty of selecting a time and restaurant. There were three restaurants on-site, all with different themes and all staffed by award-winning chefs. Any two would handle all the guests but the arrangement of three allowed for more intimacy and choice.
Dinner was a leisurely affair with exceptional wines. Alejandro seemed to be somewhat at a loss at the, what appeared to him to be, esoteric descriptions of the differences in the wines served. Note to Alejandro,' he thought. Find someone who knows wines and learn more'. He remembered he had numerous cases waiting shipment. Such was the curse and joy of spontaneous enthusiasm.
Stan was much more knowledgeable of Cesar's hacienda than Tony. As Cesar explained the multi-layered responsibilities of being the Patron, Alejandro began to get a picture of a political-entrepreneurial-paternal role that was expected by extended family, workers and government.
Cesar was very young to be assuming such responsibility, he thought. Not that he was unable, or unprepared; a responsibility of such magnitude required time on task. Alejandro laughed to himself thinking, `And what did you have to do by the time you were twenty?' It could be done but it wasn't easy he thought, shaking his head slightly.
The unintended gesture was not lost on Cesar.
"You have been quiet, my new friend. What are your thoughts?" Cesar left the question open-ended. Perhaps, Alejandro thought, to give me a way out, perhaps to let me hang myself.
"From my own experience, and listening to you, Cesar, I realize again that we all have different journeys and are assisted, or I should say, accompanied, by various people who are critical in the development in who we become. Yours was not an easy journey."
"A perceptive observation, Alejandro," Cesar said looking not just at him but into him, it seemed to Alejandro.
"I mentioned my friend Guillermo earlier this afternoon." Cesar gave the very sketchy background to bring Tony and Stan into the conversation. "He became a friend at an early age. He was the son of a peone and worked on the hacienda from early childhood as was the custom.
"At an early age it was discovered he had a gift with horses. He became my teacher, though we were separated in age by only months. Father trusted him to keep me safe and we were sometimes gone from just after dawn `til sunset as we explored the vast hacienda.
As we grew older and I grew taller and heavier, it didn't seem to matter to him but he knew it mattered a great deal to me. I was embarrassed but couldn't talk about it to my Father. He drew out my thoughts and insecurities as we chatted about nothing in particular. It was another of his gifts, getting people to open up, to talk.
"With him I was comfortable, more than with anyone else. As we grew older and began our puberty we enjoyed the solitude of our rides and found shaded glades where we jerked off. One day he surprised me by reaching over and taking my cock in his hand.
"Looking into my eyes the entire time, he slowly jacked me until cum had covered both his hand and my chest. I watched in fascination as he brought his hand to his mouth and tasted my seed. We never talked about our physical need for each other but over the years we shared many things.
"You must understand this was taboo at many levels. Still we sought each other out. As we grew older we both knew we wanted to escape the confines of the hacienda. He because of his place as a son of a laborer; me, well I needed to find some of my own ground to stand on." Cesar's eyes were unfocused in a middle distance beyond his table companions.
"The land is as much part of my heritage as is blood. I felt I didn't belong to either by my own right. Together we made a pact to enter the military. Much to my Father's displeasure I kept my word, though there was much to keep me at home.
"We shared our initial training together. Because of societal rank, I was shunted off for officer training. Guillermo found a true calling in the Grupo Aeromóvil de Fuerzas Especiales del Alto Mando. It is a Special Forces mobile air group. Guillermo's many talents and gifts were exploited in the best ways there. He found his `piece of ground' to stand on." Cesar paused. "I almost envied him at times."
An awkward silence fell on the group as Cesar seemed lost in his thoughts. Tony picked up strands of the conversation as would any skilled litigator and wove them into a whole to save the embarrassing quiet. Soon all were involved in conversation relating to Mexican history and the hacienda structure's social and political impact on modern Mexico.
Alejandro could see the strain lessen around Cesar's eyes. His thoughts went to Frederick and to Charles. He wondered what Guillermo's current status was. Still with the military? Turned rogue operator? Promoted to a position behind a desk? It was a story that demanded an ending.
When they left the dining room, Alejandro saw that the pool decks and patios were lit with torchlight. There were upward-facing lights strategically placed beside walls and under trees. The evening, with the lighting, took on a magic of its own. Alejandro breathed deeply the warm moist sea air. He wanted to talk more with Cesar but knew it would be easier if it were just the two of them.
"Guys, it's been a long week and Tony and I are going to call it a night," Stan said. "Hope we're not ruining the party."
Both Cesar and Alejandro assured them they were adequately entertained with each other's company. "Sleep well, ahem, when you finally do fall asleep." Cesar directed his barb at Stan who laughed. The men parted.
"I'm not ready to go to the room yet but don't let me keep you. It's been a busy day for the three of you I'm sure," Cesar said.
"I'm thoroughly enjoying the night air. You must remember, in Chicago the temperature is in the single digits. This is a bit of heaven for me. Do you think it's advisable to walk the beach this time of night?" Alejandro asked.
"Yes and it is one of my most pleasurable times when I visit here. The Casa places torches along the edge of the beach. I find it calming at the end of the day. I'd be glad to accompany you unless you want to spend some time alone," Cesar said with understanding.
"I'd be pleased if you would join me. It will give us a time to continue getting to know one another," Alejandro said.
"May I suggest we change into more appropriate clothing," Cesar said. They went to their room and put on shorts and Ts.
Together they agreed that the exercise of walking the cart path would help burn calories from dinner's excess. The path was well lit with both torches and discretely placed lamps. `Romantic' - that was the feeling the ambiance gave, Alejandro finally realized. He smiled wondering if Stan and Tony had taken walks on the beach at night. Their love was palpable at times as they looked at each other.
Alejandro didn't voice his thoughts. Cesar might have understood them in abstract, perhaps not. That would only complicate matters.
As they wound their way down the gentle slope, Alejandro thought how wonderful it would be to have a home in a place like this. It would be an escape from the cold and a total change in atmosphere, both physical and cultural.
As the men walked, Cesar told Alejandro what he'd found in his brief research. One of Alejandro's forebears was likely a descendant from Maximilian I. Political unrest followed and the Plan de Tuxtepec was implemented in 1876 and was a direct threat to those who had ruled Mexico both politically and financially.
Cesar continued, "Historical records show that your forebear sold all assets he could and left the country in 1880. From there my information is much more speculative. It is told that he invested in cattle once arriving in San Antonio and built his fortune in Chicago. He owned slaughter houses, bought cows and slaughtered beef for the growing city.
"His efforts quickly were expanded to other opportunities. The Algara name is an old and proud one in Chicago. Is this your history?" Cesar said.
"Yes, I'm surprised at your thoroughness and accuracy. It is the same story Isabella told me years ago," Alejandro said.
"Historical records are easy to access if you know where to look, and in my case have someone to do the legwork for you. Truly, I did not mean to pry. As I was telling you what I had discovered, I was uneasy that I might be offending you," Cesar confessed.
"A few years ago, it likely would have. Since then I've discovered that historical record is available to anyone. If you desire privacy you create if for yourself. You will perhaps not mind my asking more about your history, and family." Alejandro paused, "The story you shared about Guillermo seemed to just stop. I'd like to know more but certainly don't want to make you uncomfortable."
Alejandro asked for more explanation and details of Cesar's hacienda's business enterprises. With the vast acreage owned, Alejandro wasn't surprised to hear that cattle provided a bulk of the income.
"One of the interesting things I've been discussing with some of my compatriots in the capital is a growing interest in developing a tourist destination on the Peninsula. Our land is bordered by the Caribbean Sea for many miles. It is best known as the Mayan Coast.
"I recently sold an island and some acreage immediately adjacent on the mainland that is to be developed into a beach resort. So far the project promises much but there is a long way to go. If it develops as professionals say it will, the value of my land near the coast will exponentially increase."
They walked in companionable silence for a few moments enjoying the quiet crash of waves and the dancing torchlight. It was as if he'd never stopped his narrative about Guillermo.
"Guillermo found out much about himself during his service in the Special Forces. His commanders saw the raw talent inherent in him and continued to give him assignments that would stretch him and make him grow.
"He is skilled at evasive, defensive driving and can operate a variety of watercraft. His logistical skills were critical in the success of numerous covert actions taken by his and other squads. His nondescript body characteristics enabled him to blend into numerous groups to extract information. You recall my comment on it being easy to talk to him. I'm sure that's been used to great advantage.
"He works for me as an overseer without portfolio. Let me explain." Cesar chuckled softly. "I have tried any number of ways to entice him to take on major responsibilities at the hacienda. He continues to say that he will be happy to assist when problems arise but wants to keep his flexibility. His needs are simple. He lives in the house in which he was raised.
"Though I've never asked him pointedly about this, I imagine he was able to amass, what I believe you norteamericanos charmingly refer to as fuck-you money. His commander transferred him to a desk job managing logistics for his division. He stayed until he was eligible for a modest retirement and returned to his home village on the hacienda.
"He's been a godsend any number of times helping with major projects and giving direction to those responsible for farming or cattle production. Occasionally he will tell me he has work to do and will be traveling. I will not see him for a few days to a few weeks. I suspect he has maintained his contact network and does freelance work.
"He remains my closest friend, my most trusted companion. So, I respect his wishes. When we share a bed it is as before when we were younger -- a meeting of both mind and body." Cesar became quiet as they walked toward the cabana and path to the top-side.
Abruptly, Cesar changed the subject, "Are you ready to return to the Casa?"
They walked along in relative silence for a while until Alejandro became uncomfortable. He asked Cesar about the history of Mayan Mexico. Cesar enthusiastically embraced the topic as they made their way back to their rooms.
The steep climb up the path drenched them both in sweat.
"Please, help yourself to our shower first. I will cool off out here." With that, Cesar stepped out of his shoes and took off his clothes. Evidently comfortable in his nakedness, he let the cool water of an outside pool shower wash over his body. Alejandro returned to the room.
Sunday sped by for all four men. They sampled a variety of activities and all took advantage of the spa. As the day progressed, Alejandro knew he'd enjoy a return visit here. When he had the moment, he asked Cesar how one made reservations.
"I will be pleased to vouch for you. But, may I suggest that you come again, as my guest, in the near future. Perhaps then we could take the time to meet with the manager and secure you a place on the list of approved guests," Cesar said, smiling.
"I would like that very much and thank you for your willingness to stand for me. When we go back to change for dinner, remind me, if I forget, to give you my business card and contact information." Alejandro felt a kinship with this man at a variety of levels that he wanted to explore.
Cesar bid them good-bye the following morning. During the flight back all three men napped, lulled by the drone of the engines. In San Antonio, Alejandro stretched his legs as he said his good-byes and the ground crew topped off the tanks.
Refreshed from his morning nap, Alejandro ate a light lunch aboard the plane while catching up on some reading. When he landed the sun was setting, backlighting the skyline of Chicago. It had been a great weekend but he was glad to be home.
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