Trials and Triumph

TRIALS AND TRIUMPH -- II

PREVIOUSLY (in Trials and Triumph - Part 1)

With few regrets, Eric Mathews walked away from a life of luxury and the opportunity of extensive world travel with Ted Connors, a wealthy middle- aged man and former business executive. The comfort of opulent living and the adventure of visiting foreign lands had been a dramatic and welcomed change from his previous life with a physically abusive and alcoholic father, from inexplicable rejection by his boyhood friend, and from periods of homelessness and hunger. Ted Connors had never shown any signs of genuine affection for the teen. Rather, he USED the young man who was little more to him than a desirable male body with which to gratify insatiable lust. Abnormally frequent sex with the fiftyish man had initially been exciting and satisfying but quickly became an obligation that was devoid of any emotional connection. It was purely physical gratification for the man and little more than performance of duty for Eric. He didn't want to be a whore-boy. His unhappiness increased each time he provided sex-for-hire services. It had become a dreaded chore. His discontent was magnified when he learned that his benefactor had deceived him by withholding news of his father's death.

His dissatisfaction was further confounded upon learning that the lecherous man was his biological father. It was not the idea of incest that triggered the teen's rage; intergenerational intimacy did not upset him. Rather, it was concealing the fact while using a vulnerable youth whom the man knew was his son. It was, to Eric's thinking, convincing evidence of manipulation and selfishness that would make any kind of emotional bond impossible.

====== PART 2 ======

Chapter 1: ANOTHER NEW LIFE BEGINS

It was a very long walk carrying a suitcase and pulling a rolling luggage bag from Ted's estate into town. The first few miles were along the side of a roadway with no sidewalks. The temperature was climbing as it often does in that part of Texas and Eric wished he had the forethought to bring a bottle or two of water. If it weren't for his anger with Ted that continued to burn inside him he might have regretted his decision to leave the comfort and security of Ted's home. He still thought of the man as `Ted'. He refused to bestow on a selfish, manipulative master the honor of being called Dad.

He stopped to rest by the side of the road, protected from the blazing sun by the shade of a large tree. Sitting on his suitcase with his head hanging low, he wondered whether he might be able to find a stream to quench his thirst and, perhaps, to restore his energy. He paid no attention to the dust-covered pickup truck that passed by until it stopped and backed up to where Eric sat.

"Runnin' away from home, Sonny?" a craggy-faced old man in overalls called from the driver's seat.

Eric had to think a few moments to fabricate an explanation. "No, Sir. I'm just on my way to visit a friend."

"Whatcha doin' with the luggage, then?"

"I'm going to stay with him for a few days."

"How's come yur walkin'? It's a fur piece into town."

"My car wouldn't start. And my friend is expecting me so I decided to walk."

The old man raised his bushy eyebrows in disbelief, paused, and said, "Throw yur stuff in the back. Git inside. I'll give ya a ride. Ya got no business bein' out in this heat."

If the old man, probably a rancher, were much younger, Eric would have been reluctant to accept a ride from a stranger and risk being robbed or raped but the old man didn't fit the profile of a predator and was unlikely to have any malicious intent. "Thank you, Sir. That's very kind of you."

Less than a mile down the road the man said, "Ah don't believe yur story, kid. Ah jus' don't wanna see a young feller come to no harm. Wanna tell me the truth?"

Eric didn't. How could he explain being homosexual and living with an older man as a sex partner? How could he justify leaving a comfortable life for an uncertain future? He decided to stick with his excuse of a story. "It's the truth, Sir. I know it sounds stupid. I should have known better than to walk all the way into town. That was a huge mistake."

"Have it yur way then, Sonny. But jus' to be sure, I'm gonna drop ya off at yur friend's place ... and see that yur safe. Where's he live?"

Finally, Eric could tell the truth and gave the old man the address of Grant Kaiser's house. He had already decided to go there anyway. He had lived there before, taking care of the handicapped man. That was a while ago and before he agreed to be a boy toy, a live- in prostitute for a wealthy business executive. He knew that leaving the security and comfort of his benefactor's home, disillusioned and angry, would undoubtedly result in his former partner stopping the payment for a professional home care service. Grant would therefore need him as much as he needed a place to stay.

The kindly Good Samaritan waited at the curb until he heard Eric call through the open door, "Grant, it's me, Eric. Can I come in?" The rancher then drove away, still doubting the teen's explanation but knowing at least that the young man was safe.

Grant was in his usual recliner with his walker nearby. "Good to see you again, Eric," Grant said through a broad smile but then saw the suit case and asked, "What's with the luggage?"

"It's a long story, Grant. The promotion I got at the company didn't work out. So I'm out of a job. And I was hoping you'd let me stay here for a while."

"OF COURSE! I'm happy to have you. I've missed you. Come over here and let me give you a hug."

The genuinely warm welcome, accentuated by the hug, was just what Eric needed. Ted had given him plenty of sex and a comfortable life with exciting travel but Grant, who was uninterested in sex and probably incapable of it and who had very little money, gave him affection, something that he hadn't enjoyed for too long.

"So what are you going to do now, Eric?" Grant asked. "Without a job, I mean."

"Look for a job," Eric replied. "I'm not desperate to find one. I've got some money saved up. Another thing I'm going to do is to help you around here. Since I lost my job, the payments for the home care agency are probably going to stop. Even if they don't, I think you ought to tell them to stop coming by. I may not be as professional as they are but I'm happy to do it."

"They're professional, all right," the man groused. "They do what's required but to them it's only a job and a paycheck. But when you were here, you were a friend. I missed that."

The contrast between living with Grant and living with Ted was not lost on Eric. With Ted he was performing a service -- frequent sex for lavish pay. But he was fond of Grant and helped him not because it was a place to live but because of their mutual regard for each other.

<><><><><>

A month passed. Eric worked in an auto parts store and saved most of his pay. Grant's neighbor, Stan, called in a favor and got him the job. Grant gave him the use of his old Buick that had not been driven for years and Stan helped Eric get it running again. A regular job and helping Grant evenings and weekends left him with little free time but he was happy. Grant was also happy. He appreciated Eric's help but valued the companionship and their growing friendship.

Late one evening Eric helped Grant get ready for bed. It was a task that had become more and more arduous for the disabled man. When the man was finally in his pajamas and tucked into bed, he said, "Eric, my boy, I've got a question. You've told me about living in a posh house and about your travels with your boss. But you've never said what your job was ... or why you lost the job. You don't have to answer if you don't want to but I'm curious."

Painful memories of his duties and Ted's deception were revived in Eric's mind, memories that he had almost put to rest. Something inside of him, perhaps a firmly held value, argued that he should reveal what he went through and not be as dishonest with Grant as Ted had been with him. "It's not a pleasant story, Grant, but I'll tell you the truth. The promotion was to be what Ted called a personal assistant. He was very generous in raising my pay. That and the promise of world travel convinced me to accept the job." Eric paused to reconsider divulging the nature of the relationship. Did the need to be truthful trump the fear of alienating his friend?

The momentary silence was broken when Grant said, "Doesn't sound unpleasant to me."

"That part isn't. The next part is. My only responsibility was to sleep in his bed. And to be available to him whenever he wanted ... well ... when he wanted to do stuff with me. I guess you know that that means."

The man's surprised expression was obvious when he asked, "You mean he was queer? And wanted you to ... whatever queers do?"

"Yes, he's gay. And so am I. I knew before accepting the job what he wanted and I was willing to give it to him. Does it upset you that you're living with a pervert?"

"Not at all," Grant said emphatically. "I never understood why a man preferred another man to having a woman. But I know it happens. Probably happens more than anybody knows about."

Eric was relieved that his landlord -- no, his friend -- had not reacted with disgust. And he was confident that Grant was not just being diplomatic because of the respect and trust each had for the other.

"Wait a minute!" the man blurted out. "If he's queer and you're queer, what's the problem? You said your job ... and losing it ... wasn't pleasant. What's not to like if you both got what you wanted?"

"First of all, there was no affection -- from either of us -- in what we did together. I was just a live-in prostitute. That's not what I want to do with my life. But there's a bigger reason. He knew that my dad died and he didn't tell me. That upset me a lot. But what made me furious is that he told me how he got my mother pregnant so he's my biological father. He KNEW IT ALL THE TIME! Even before he offered me the job! And he didn't tell me! Damn it, Grant! That's dishonest! I couldn't live with a man who would hide something as important as that from me. So I left. I wasn't fired or laid off, I quit."

After considering what he heard, Grant said, "You did the right thing. It took courage to give up a life of luxury and travel but it says a lot about your character. And I thank heaven that you decided to come back here."

There was a long period of silence in which Eric reflected on Grant's understanding acceptance of homosexuality and Grant empathized with his young friend who had suffered so many trials in his life but triumphed over them all.

The silence was broken when Grant asked rhetorically, "You've kept your secret all this time? I never suspected. You helped me in and out of the bathtub ... when I was naked. You never took advantage of that. Why?"

Eric chuckled. "Partly because I was afraid ... afraid of letting my dark secret out. I was sure you would hate me if I tried to do anything and for being gay. I didn't want to lose your friendship. And a home." Then he broke into a broad smile and said, "But also because you're not the handsome, attractive man you used to be."

They both laughed.

Eric went to bed thankful that he had revealed his secret to Grant. It hadn't destroyed their friendship but seemed to have strengthened their bond of friendship. Before Grant fell asleep, his thoughts were admiration for a young man who had survived what could destroy a lesser person. If I'd ever had a son, the man concluded, I'd want him to have the compassion, intelligence and integrity of Eric Mathews.

Chapter 2: ORDINARY IS SPECIAL

It had been almost six months since Eric moved back to Grant's house with no regrets about leaving Ted's plush estate. His life was good and promised to remain so. There was, however, one thing missing in his life. Although he and Grant were very good friends and each provided the other with the companionship he needed, Eric continued to hope that he would one day find a partner with whom to form a loving bond expressed in intimate ways.

Grant alluded to the problem one evening when he said, "It's none of my business, Eric, but I've got to give you a piece of advice. You're young. Living with an old man is not good. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate your help and appreciate even more your friendship but it seems to me that you ought to have somebody your own age to ... well .... If you were straight, I'd say find a pretty young thing to marry. But you're not. So I guess I'm saying find another fella. Trust me. You don't want to grow old all alone like I did."

Eric's immediate thought was one he had pondered often: How can he meet Mr. Right if most of his time after work was dedicated to helping Grant? Even weekends involve periodic tasks: housekeeping, laundry, shopping, and more. But he didn't voice those concerns. Instead, he replied, "Don't worry about me, Grant. I'm quite happy living here with you. There's lots of time left for me to find a life partner. When and if I do, you'll be the first to know."

The man frowned and said, "But I DO worry about you. You're busy with your job and helping me twenty-four-seven. You've got no time to do what YOU want to do. It's just not right!"

Eric was disturbed by the intensity of Grant's complaint so he said, "Listen. There have been only a few people in my life who were as kind to me as you have been. My Dad ... before he started drinking. The Winstons ... before Brian threw me out of the house. And Ted ... before it dawned on me that he was selfish and deceitful. You're different, Grant. You're kind without any selfish motives. If I choose to help you now and again, it's because I WANT to. Do I do it because it gives me a place to live? NO! I could easily afford to live in an apartment somewhere. Do I do it because of some sense of obligation? NO! Believe it or not, doing it makes me feels good. Helping a friend is my way of honoring that friendship. And you ARE a friend. Your friendship means a great deal to me." Eric's expression changed from earnest to one of playfulness when he added, "So stop your whining and pining over me. Okay?"

"God bless you," Grant said with conviction. "I love you, Eric. Ah ... not THAT way. What I mean is that I love you like you were the son I never had." To hide the tears of joy that threatened to emerge from his eyes, the man abruptly changed the subject and said, "Gotta go to the bathroom. We'll talk more later." Awkwardly, he struggled up from his chair and hobbled down the hall with his walker. Eric watched attentively. He was always afraid that Grant would fall. While he watched, he felt an odd mixture of pity and love for the aging man.

<><><><><>

Several days later, Eric and Grant had just finished dinner when the man said, "You told me not to worry about you but, damn it, I can't help it. So I made a decision. This coming Saturday and Sunday you're going to have two days off to do anything you want to do."

Eric interrupted, "But I..."

"No buts about it!" Grant exclaimed assertively. "It's all arranged. Stan from next door will check up on me, fix my meals, and help me with my bath. You can come and go as you please but you're to do no work around here. Nothing! Got it? I really want you to get out and have a good time. And don't worry about me, either. I'll be fine. So here's a question. Will you do it? FOR ME? And I won't take `no' for an answer!"

Eric was taken completely by surprise not only by Grant's offer but more so by his firm insistence. The idea of a couple of days off by himself with no responsibilities was appealing. That Stan would take over made the idea more palatable. "In all the time I've known you, Grant, I've never seen such stubbornness. It's obvious that if I said `no' and stuck around here, you would be unhappy and we would end up arguing about it. So my answer is yes."

"GREAT!" the man almost shouted. "You've got a couple of days before the weekend to decide what you want to do or where you want to go."

Eric's made his decision easily. He would spend the time in Ray Roberts Lake State Park hiking, horseback riding, swimming, and relaxing. He had visited there as a very young boy with his parents and always wanted to return but never had the time. Very soon after his visit there his mother ran off, he had work to do around the house and, later, a part-time job and homework that consumed his time. The excitement of two days alone grew.

The Lantana Resort lodge, located on a high ridge overlooking the lake, was normally full, especially on weekends, but luck was with him and he was able to reserve a room. It was expensive but he had spent very little of his pay from the food processing plant and the automotive parts store. The cost would hardly make a dent in his savings.

After supper on Friday night, Eric drove the ten or so miles to his weekend retreat with a mixture of concern (Would Grant be properly taken care of?) and anticipation (Would the state park be as magical as he remembered it?). After checking in to the Lantana Resort lodge, there were still a few hours of daylight left so he wandered outside to enjoy the enchanting beauty of the lake and the woods that surrounded it. It wasn't like the rugged majesty of the Andes and Machu Picchu that he had visited with Ted but it offered its own brand of tranquil splendor. That he was alone, independent, and free from obligations to a generous but demanding master intensified his contentment with the life he now lived.

Sunset and dusk turned the sky from brilliant blue to fire red. When darkness fell, Eric reluctantly returned to his room for the night to eagerly await morning and roaming along the trails of the park. Before enjoying the king sized bed, he showered. The very large mirror in the bathroom captured his attention. More specifically, it was the reflection of his nude body that triggered thoughts of pride. He had maintained a very fit physique with clear definition of his chest without being exaggerated. Firm muscles in his arms and legs were a testament to his maturity. But it was his genitals that were convincing evidence of his manhood. He had a right to be proud and no reason to be ashamed of that pride. The sexy body that looked back at him from the mirror sparked thoughts of physical pleasure. As he lathered under the hot stream of water, he watched himself in the mirror. It was a new experience for him because he previously had only small mirrors over the wash basin. He allowed himself to imagine it was not his hands running up and down his torso but those of a partner lovingly caressing him. In his flight of admittedly self-delusional fantasy, his cock responded with vigor. The sight of it only heightened the teen's arousal, which, in turn, further inflated the erect shaft to a hardness it had achieved only rarely. The orgasm was so forceful and deep that Eric's legs almost gave way.

He crawled into bed naked -- the first time he had been able to do that since leaving Ted -- and once again relished his freedom. Before falling asleep, he was briefly amused over his pretense of being washed by a lover in the shower. But he felt no shame nor harbored any guilt about it. Rather, he was grateful for the extraordinarily erotic experience.

<><><><><>

Breakfast in the dining room of the lodge was fit for a gourmet and quite unlike the cereal, toast, and juice that had been his customary morning menu for a long time. He ate alone but gave only passing attention to his solitary life. Although he had several acquaintances, he had only one friend: a very old man who was straight but tolerant of homosexuality. One day.... Yes, one day he would find a like-minded man to love and to be loved by. But who? When? How? Consciously dismissing those imponderable questions, Eric turned his attention to how to spend the day. The first activity would be walking the trails and enjoying the scenery. It wasn't the Rockies or Glacier National Park that he had visited with Ted. But it was better because it would be without the obligation to be available and to `service' his benefactor's insatiable sexual appetite. Now, once more, as he had done countless times before, he felt liberated and very happy.

At noon, having decided to skip lunch since the ample breakfast would see him through until dinner, he wandered off the dirt trail into the woods and toward the lake. Soon, he found himself sitting on a small boulder on the lake's shoreline. The vista from the small cove out across the lake and to the wooded hills beyond was spectacularly beautiful and a peaceful calm filled his mind. But it had grown quite hot since the cool early morning hours and he eyed the enticingly calm, cool water of the cove. He removed his shoes and socks, rolled his pants legs up, and soaked his feet in the refreshing water. It felt good. But he wanted to swim in order to more thoroughly enjoy the cool water. Unfortunately, he had left his swim suit in his room. He looked around. Behind him was a hillside with a hundred yards of pristine forest. In front of him was a small, secluded cove. He heard no sounds beyond the rustle of a breeze in the trees and the lapping of waves on the rocky shore. He was quite alone. No one would see him. Impetuously he quickly removed his clothes and waded into the lake.

Floating on his back, he watched the clouds overhead and saw animals and monsters slowly appear and fade away. He had done that often as a little boy, oblivious to the world around him. That was long ago, a happy time, before his mother ran off, before his father succumbed to alcohol and grew mean, before Brian's inexcusable treatment after their first sexual encounter, before two periods of homelessness, and before being used as a whore boy by a man who turned out to be his biological father. The memories of his happy childhood and the reality of his current life buoyed his spirits and imbued a sense of triumph over the difficulties he had endured.

His reverie was abruptly shattered when he heard something odd. He glanced back at the shore. His heart raced when he saw someone emerge from the underbrush. Eric was naked and silently cursed himself for foolishly convincing himself that he was alone. The intruder into his solitude stopped to stand at the water's edge and was looking directly at the lone, nervous swimmer just ten yards from shore.

There was no escape from the embarrassment. Eric mentally prepared his explanation -- or, more accurately, his excuse -- for public indecency. With luck, the new arrival would simply respect his privacy and retreat back into the woods. But no. He was taking off his clothes! Eric watched in amazement as more of the stranger's body was bared. The visitor's tanned, muscular body would have been enough to rouse Eric's lust except for the awkward circumstances.

Now as naked as Eric, the new arrival waded into the water. As he approached, he said, "Well, it seems somebody else has stumbled on my private swimming hole. My name's Mike. Mike Hanson." He extended his right hand to the still worried Eric.

Eric shook the newcomer's hand and said, "I'm Eric Mathews. I must say you had me worried for a minute. I was afraid you would report me for skinny dipping in the lake."

Mike laughed and replied, "No way, pal. I come here all the time and enjoy the chance to ... as they say ... get back to nature. But I haven't seen you here before. Is this your first time?"

"Yes. I left my swim suit back in my room at the lodge. When I found this place I couldn't resist getting in the water. Sorry for trespassing on your territory."

Mike laughed again, a spontaneously infectious laugh that Eric duplicated. "Trespassing is not the right word," Mike said. "It's public property and I'm glad to have the company."

They chatted for a long time, exchanging superficial information that is typical when two strangers first meet. Eric was less forthcoming and never mentioned the turbulent periods of his life. He didn't want sympathy! Mike was similarly reserved -- and, it seemed, evasive -- about his job. He said only that he worked odd hours and then quickly changed the subject.

It wasn't long before an indefinable magnetism seemed to develop between the two young men. Eric couldn't help but wonder whether his new acquaintance had the same desires and needs. But he knew the chances of that were slim to none. His hopes were dashed when Mike made a passing reference to his girlfriend, Laura. He resigned himself to thinking of Mike as a potential friend and not as a lover. He liked Mike. If he couldn't have him as a lover then having him as a friend would be nice. With that in mind, he resolved to be especially vigilant in concealing his homosexuality. If Mike learned or even suspected the truth and was homophobic it would destroy the potential friendship.

"So you're staying at the lodge," Mike said. "I'm what they call a day-tripper. Come here in the morning and go home in the afternoon. I try to make it here as often as I can. It's a beautiful area."

"That it is," Eric agreed. "I was here once as a little boy for just an afternoon. I decided to come back again because of my fond memories of the place. This time, I'll be here two full days."

"Does that mean you'll be here tomorrow?"

"Yes. I'll go home late tomorrow and then go back to work on Monday."

"Hmmm," Mike murmured. "I don't have any commitments until Sunday evening. If you like, we can spend this afternoon exploring some of the out-of-the-way spots in the park. Then we can have supper. But if you'd rather be alone, I'll understand."

"Not at all," Eric gushed perhaps too enthusiastically. "I'd love to have company and -- since you're familiar with the park -- to have you show me what most visitors don't get to see."

"Splendid," Mike gushed. "Shall we be on our way, then? We can sit on the shore in the sun to dry off before we get dressed."

Mike's suggestion to sit and dry off induced panic in Eric. He feared the proximity to a very attractive male body would lead to an embarrassing erection that would expose his secret desires. But there was no logical way to avoid the danger.

Eric sat gazing out at the rippling waters of the lake to avoid looking at the nude form lying on his back next to him. After a short time, the young men fell silent. It wasn't the awkward silence of two people who have nothing in common. Rather, it was more an indication of closeness in which neither felt the compulsion to fill the air with words.

Mike was thinking of his appointments in the coming week and the preparations he would have to make for each.

Eric was reflecting on the surprising meeting with a stranger. When the unexpected intruder first emerged from the woods, Eric's first impression was that of a very handsome guy. Although the impression was overshadowed by his panic over being discovered naked in the water, it nevertheless registered in his mind. Eric was astonished when the stranger stripped off his clothes and was awestruck by the very masculine and very sexy body. Were it not for his panic, lust would have been awakened and taken control of his mind.

Eric was undeniably attracted to Mike. The attraction soon became more powerful after a few moments of conversation. He recognized and admired the visitor's gregarious personality, keen wit, and the ease with which he engaged in conversation -- all of which wiped away his embarrassment and even took precedence over thoughts of sexual engagement. But with the naked Mike beside him on the shore, Eric's interest in his new friend evolved into wondering (He didn't dare hope.) whether Mike might be interested in having sex. Regrettably, that idea had been demolished when they were in the lake chatting and he heard the mention of a girlfriend.

Still, if they could not be lovers, Eric wanted very much to be friends with Mike. The prospect of a friendship would be in serious jeopardy if he sprouted a boner when they got out of the water and sat on the shore to dry off in the sunshine.

Mike broke the silence by describing a few of the little know areas of the park they would visit. It took all the self-control Eric could muster to concentrate on the conversation and not on the desirable naked man lying next to him. But his best efforts were not completely successful ... or Mike was exceptionally perceptive ... or both.

"You seem distracted, Eric. Is something bothering you? Have I said something that upsets or offends you?"

"No. Nothing like that," Eric replied but with detectable nervousness not unlike a child who claims, "I didn't do it. Honest."

Mike was unconvinced by Eric's response but chose to let the matter drop. Eric, however, felt compelled to justify his lack of attention to the conversation and said, "It's just that somebody might see us here. We're naked. They may get the wrong idea. Or report us for public indecency."

"The wrong idea?" Mike asked.

"You know. Two guys. Alone together. Naked. What would you think?"

"I would think they were just swimming in the lake and forgot their swim suits. But I get your meaning. There are people who tend to see problems and would conclude that we're gay sinners."

Eric wanted to say that being gay is not sinful but chose to be cautious and said, "Sorry. Maybe I'm just a little too sensitive about what somebody would think if they saw us here like this."

"Not to worry, my friend. I've been coming here for almost three years. I've lost track of how many times. And I've never seen a single soul. That is, until now when I saw you in the water. But if it would make you feel better, we can get dressed. The warm breeze and sunshine has pretty well dried us off. Then I can show you some of the other interesting parts of the park that most people don't see and don't even know about."

Chapter 3: IF ONLY...

Mike and Eric spent the afternoon wandering through the park, thoroughly enjoying the time together while chatting as though they were old friends. They had taken an instant liking for each other (after Eric overcame his embarrassment at being discovered naked in the lake) and their rapport steadily increased throughout the day. Eric was captivated by Mike's amiable personality and quick wit. Mike was impressed with Eric's good-natured character and keen interest in the beauty and wonder of the outdoors. Each admired the other's physical fitness although Eric's favorable opinion of Mike's body was influenced by his yearning for physical intimacy.

At one point, Mike said, "I'm afraid I have to be on my way. It's only about sixty miles but the traffic is likely to be bad and I'd like to be home before dark. Before I leave, though, I have to tell you it's been wonderful having your company."

Eric had given a lot of thought to parting company and dreaded it. But he had formed an idea earlier and expressed it by saying, "You said you didn't have any commitments until tomorrow night. Why don't we have dinner at the lodge and you can stay here tonight. Tomorrow, after breakfast, we can go for a bike ride or even go horseback riding. If you leave after lunch will you have time to get home for your appointment?"

"I'd like to, Eric. I would enjoy spending more time with you. But they're always booked solid on weekends and I doubt they have a room available."

"I have a room," Eric replied. "That is if you don't mind sharing a king size bed."

Eric couldn't interpret the look on Mike's face. Was it merely surprise? Was he only evaluating the option of staying in the park longer than he had planned? Or was he reluctant to get into bed with another guy? He had a girlfriend. That much was certain. He had mentioned her several times. But was he homophobic to the point of avoiding the slightest hint of `perverted' behavior? Mike's delay in responding was only momentary but it seemed extraordinarily long to Eric.

"It's tempting, Eric. But I don't want to disrupt your weekend more than I already have."

Eric was relieved that it was not a flat refusal of the offer. But it was clear that more persuasion would be needed. "First of all, you didn't disrupt my weekend. Quite the opposite. Having your company made it far more enjoyable. For that reason, I'd like to spend more time with you tomorrow. But if you really need to get home today, I would understand."

The next thing Mike said gave Eric's spirits a huge lift. "I've enjoyed it also. I've always come here by myself and it was nice. But it's so much better with pleasant company. So here's my answer. I'll stay ... but on one condition. I know the room cost you a pretty penny and the meals here are not cheap. So dinner and breakfast are on me."

"Terrific!" Eric exclaimed. "You made my day with the tour of the park but you've just capped it by staying a while longer."

Mike burst out laughing, which worried Eric who asked, "What's so funny?"

"Sorry, pal. But your excitement was over the top. I had a flashback to when my nephew got the model train he wanted for Christmas. He was so excited that he almost wet his pants. His parents -- my brother and his wife -- were, of course, very pleased that he liked it. Matter of fact, I'm pleased that you like the idea of my staying an extra day."

Eric chuckled and replied, "I'm not a little kid. And you're not a model train. But yes, I AM very happy that you're staying."

<><><><><>

They went up to Eric's room to freshen up for dinner. Mike worried that he didn't have his shaving kit or a change of clothes. "Don't worry about it," Eric said. "This is certainly not a formal place. Most of the people in the restaurant will be in casual clothes."

"I suppose you're right," Mike conceded. But tomorrow I'm going to have a face full of stubble."

"If it will make you feel better, Mike, I'll skip shaving. We'll be a pair."

They both laughed. Eric said, "It just occurred to me that before meeting you it had been a long time since I laughed so often. I thank you for that."

"You're welcome. But I'm not ready to try my luck at comedy clubs."

Because the restaurant was crowded and service was slow and because they lingered over their dinner, it was late when they returned to Eric's room.

"If you don't mind," Mike said, "I'd like to make a phone call. If Laura calls me and I'm not home, she'll be worried."

"Go right ahead," Eric said. "While you're doing that, I'm going to take a shower. There are plenty of bath towels if you want to shower after me."

Eric took a quick shower but the thought of sharing a bed with Mike resulted in wishing it was for more than a night's sleep. His imagination created a fantasy in which he and his new friend made passionate love before yielding to the need for sleep. The reality of the situation -- the impossibility of anything happening between them -- short-circuited his wishful thinking. He turned off the shower, dried himself, and slipped on a fresh pair of boxers. As he exited the bathroom, Mike, who was still on the phone, looked up and ended the call by saying, "Love ya, Larry. See ya tomorrow."

Mike's abruptness in ending the call was a mild surprise but Eric was mystified by what he heard. Mike had said he wanted to phone his girlfriend, Laura. But he had said, `Love ya, Larry'. Had he heard it clearly? If so, who was Larry? Or was it Mike's mistake to use the wrong name? If so, it was very uncharacteristic of him.

Mike noticed Eric's puzzled expression and recalled saying `Larry'. So he explained, "Laura wasn't home so I called my brother to relay the message." He grinned and asked, "Did you leave some hot water for me? I probably smell like a wild animal."

"Plenty," Eric replied.

"Plenty of water or plenty of smell?" Mike laughed.

Eric crawled into bed. Rather than bemoaning the fact that there would be no sex with his new friend, his thoughts lingered on the Larry-Laura mystery. Mike's quick explanation that he called his brother was plausible. And it was supported by the fact that he didn't take time to come up with a lie for an excuse. However, his startled expression and suddenly hanging up the phone suggested that he had been caught doing something wrong. What could that be? The only logical answer was that he was not talking to his brother but to his BOYFRIEND. Did he have a lover? Was he, in fact, gay? That would be good news except for the possibility that Mike was in a committed, monogamous relationship with another guy. But then again.... Larry might be just a boyfriend. Mike might be free to have sex with other guys. If so, perhaps there was a chance of having sex with him tonight. OR NOT! If he goes to bed with anyone available, wouldn't that mean real trouble for a long- term relationship? And disqualify him to be the lifelong partner that Eric wanted?

All the speculation and `what-ifs' put Eric's mind in turmoil. Just then, Mike emerged from the bathroom. Completely naked! He got into the other side of the bed. The havoc in Eric's thoughts intensified with the very sexy, nude guy beside him ... a guy who had a girlfriend and was therefore straight ... or had a boyfriend and was gay but concealing his interests.

"You don't snore, do you?" Mike asked in his typical joking manner.

"Don't know," Eric replied. "How would I know if I'm asleep and can't hear it?" It was a lame joke and he was afraid it sounded sarcastic so he added, "If I do, just punch me in the ribs to shut me up."

Mike laughed heartily.

"What's so funny?" Eric asked.

"I just remembered what my dad told me once. Mom complained about his snoring so he said there was a cure for that and told her, `Just roll me over on my back so my balls cover my ass hole to cut off the draft.' She was so offended that he had to spend that night on the couch!"

Eric laughed, which reduced his tension somewhat. They exchanged `good nights' and Mike turned off the bedside lamp.

Mysteries and confusions kept Eric awake for a long time after his bed partner's deep breathing signaled he was asleep. Was Mike gay? Did he have a lover? Was he promiscuous? Or was he straight? And unavailable? How could he continue the friendship? Could he hope to be his life-long lover?

<><><><><>

Eric awoke before Mike and lay there thinking of what might have been ... and of whether he would be able to spend time with his new friend sometime soon. He had abandoned the hope of having Mike as a lover. There were zero signs of his being gay but an abundance of clues that he was straight. Still, he enjoyed Mike's company and wanted to spend more time with him. But there was a significant problem: a full-time job and a part-time job helping Grant left virtually no time for socializing.

Eventually, the pressure in his bladder forced him to get out of bed and visit the bathroom. He did so quietly so as not to disturb Mike. When he returned to the bedroom Mike was still asleep. He slipped carefully back into bed, hoping his friend would awake soon so they could spend at least part of the day together.

Several minutes later, Mike stirred and rolled over on his side toward Eric. Mike was either still asleep or in that foggy period between deep sleep and wakefulness. He draped an arm across Eric's chest and a leg atop Eric's. He could feel Mike's morning hard-on brushing against his hip. The astonished young man didn't know what to do. The press of warm flesh against his body was both delightful and frightening. He had longed for such contact since shortly after meeting his new friend. His wish had come true but not in the way he had hoped. The bodily contact caused Eric's cock to inflate. But he didn't dare move and wake his friend because it would be an embarrassment to the obviously straight hunk if he woke up and realized he was cuddling with an aroused guy.

Eric decided on an action that would solve the problem. He would quickly get out of bed, rush to the bathroom to hide his erection, and pretend that the pressing need to piss forced him to move in haste. Jumping out from under Mike would surely awaken him and he would find himself alone in the bed with only a very brief glimpse of Eric's backside disappearing into the bathroom.

Before he had a chance to escape from the awkward situation, however, he felt Mike's hand drift downward and grasp his hard-on through the fabric of his boxers. Simultaneously, Mike mumbled, "Good morning, Larry."

Although it was almost inaudible, it was clear enough that there could be no mistake -- the name he heard was Larry and not Laura. The conclusion was inescapable. Mike thought he was in bed with Larry. Larry was not his brother but his gay lover!

Eric's befuddled mind coped with the shocking turn of events. He felt his cock being fondled and heard Mike say, "Looks like you're ready for some fun."

Getting no reply, Mike opened his eyes and looked up at Eric's face. "SHIT!" he exclaimed loudly and immediately withdrew and sat up. Without making eye contact, he said mournfully, "I'm sorry, Eric. Please forgive me."

"Who's Larry?" Eric demanded.

Mike paused for a long time before answering. He had to think of a way to explain himself. There was no other choice than to be honest. "He's my partner. We're gay. We love each other. It's not uncommon that we have sex when we wake up. I wasn't fully awake and I thought you were Larry. Please forgive me. You're probably thinking that I'm some sort of pervert because I'm homosexual. If you knew that yesterday, you would never have asked me to stay. You would never have been so friendly. I enjoyed your company, Eric. But please believe me. I would never have done what I just did if I knew at the time what I was doing ... that is, if I realized I was not at home with Larry. I'll get dressed and leave. I'm sure you don't want to pal around with a queer."

Without waiting for a response, Mike got out of bed.

"Get back here!" Eric commanded. "I listened to your story. Now you're going to listen to mine!" A very puzzled Mike sat on the edge of the bed as Eric continued, "You think I hate gays? Not so! Because I'm gay also. To tell the truth, I was attracted to you from the moment I saw you. At first it was a sexual attraction. But as we spent time together, I grew to like you as a person. I still wanted to have sex with you but I became convinced that you were straight. Your frequent mention of Laura was the strongest evidence. So here's the bottom line, my friend ... and I'd like to continue having you as a friend ... I will still feel lust for your body but I'll never act on that lust now that I know you're in a committed relationship. How about it? Can we be just friends?"

Mike's look of surprise bordered on disbelief. "I'll be damned," he said. "Both of us craved to have each other but neither of us dared to reveal his secret. But now the secret's out and we're free to do what we want. And what I want is to crawl all over your magnificent body, to have you do the same to me, and to have one helluva hot time."

It was Eric's turn to be surprised. Without thinking, he asked, "How could you be willing to have casual sex with someone you've just met? Seems to me that violates the trust that ought to exist in a meaningful relationship with Larry."

"Not really," Mike grinned. "Let me explain something. I've been evasive about my job. The truth is I work for an escort service. That's a fancy way of saying I'm a male prostitute. Business men visiting Dallas ... or even a lot who live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area ... are willing to pay for a quickie or even the whole night with a young man. Larry works for the same company. That's how we met. We both have sex with countless men ... and occasionally with women. But it doesn't affect how we feel about each other in the least. So if you and I have a little fun in bed, it's not going to damage my love for Larry. Or his love for me. Will I tell him about it? Of course. Will he care? No. That's how strong our love is for each other." Mike paused to gauge Eric's reaction but a necessity caused him to say, "Right now, you'll have to excuse me. Nature calls. In the meantime, think about it. We'll both get what we want. With no harm done."

Mike made a dash for the bathroom, leaving Eric to absorb the totally unexpected situation and to decide whether or not to agree to his friend's request.

To be continued

AUTHOR'S NOTE My thanks to Iatia for his constant encouragement and peerless editing