After Hours at the Gym
By David Lee © 2018
Marty enjoyed being the manager, and part owner of Better Life Fitness Club. He was a kind of "silent partner." He'd invested an equal amount of money into the business, but he was comfortable leaving the financial dealings to Frank and doing more of the physical labor himself.
Marty's main interest in figures wasn't math, but the human kind – predominately male bodies. He wasn't looking to get rich. The income he got from the gym was more than adequate for a single man who wasn't responsible for anyone else.
Being the person who closed most weekend nights didn't bother him either. There were several advantages, he saved the extra money it would have cost to fill the shift, he could sleep in late, and he could swim naked or lie around in the hot tub the same state of undress after all the patrons had left.
Once, when he was feeling really horny, he'd invited a client, Bud Walker, to join him in his naked fun after the man had hit on him in a none-too-subtle way. They had enjoyed using the jets in the whirlpool to get them off and had practiced a bit of mutual stimulation which also ended in great orgasms. After that evening of pleasure, they'd often spent time together on Saturday nights. It was more fun, and less expensive, than trying to hook up at a club. Their liaison lasted for over a year, but the relationship ended when Bud got transferred to another city. Marty missed the camaraderie, but he hadn't found another like-minded buddy, as it was risky recruiting from the clientele.
On a particular Saturday night in late summer, as he was getting ready to close, a guy who looked to be in his early 20's came in the door before he'd locked up. When the kid held his phone up to the check-in device, his photo and name, Todd Upah, appeared on the computer screen at the front desk where Marty could see them. Along with his picture there was a note that he'd been deleted from the family membership plan.
Marty chose not to challenge his right to be there but took an approach which might lead to a new playmate. Todd was only a few years younger but certainly of legal age.
"I'm almost ready to close..." Marty said, hesitating.
"My bad, I thought the gym was open until 10:30 tonight," Todd responded. "I was hoping to take a shower."
Marty considered his options. The dude's family was well respected in the community, so he wasn't likely to be someone he'd fear being alone with, and he was certainly good-looking. If Marty were nice to him, perhaps he would become a replacement for Bud.
"If that's all you're here for, there's no reason to leave. I plan to hose my body off and sit in the hot tub a few minutes, and I have the authority to allow you to be here after closing time. You're welcome to join me. Would you like a towel?"
"Thanks!"
Together, they walked toward the locker rooms.
"We might as well use the executive locker room since there's no one here to object," Marty offered, punching in the code on the keypad. "Would you like to rinse off enough to get into the whirlpool and take a proper shower after we relax a few minutes?"
"Um, that would be great if I had a swimsuit," Todd blushed."
"No need for one since we're here alone. I always go bare-ass after hours. The owners don't mind."
"Okay! Sounds good to me. My back aches from unloading semis for the last several hours and I could use the warm-water therapy. Um, how are we going to get there without being visible through the front windows?"
"It's not that far, and I've already closed the blinds, so no one can see us. I do this all the time. No need to worry about the security cameras, they're fake."
Marty set the spa timer for 15 minutes and soon the water was roiling.
"With the new pump, just about anywhere in here is good, but I've found the jets in this corner to be the most forceful, especially for your lower back," he explained, pointing toward the left-rear part of the whirlpool.
Todd took his recommendation, and soon felt the warm water loosening his taut muscles. This was a luxury he'd not expected or experienced in quite a while. He closed his eyes, feeling the stress draining from his whole body.
Right after the timer stopped, there was a loud clap of thunder, followed by the sounds of rain pelting down on the flat roof of the building.
"Wanna soak longer?"
"I'd love to, but I'd better get going. I'll probably get soaked either way."
"Didn't you park your car close to the front door."
"My bike is chained to the rack under the overhang, but once I leave..."
"Do you have far to go?"
"A couple of miles down Edgewood Road."
"There's mostly businesses and warehouses that direction. I don't remember seeing any apartments. Isn't that where the tent-city is?"
"That's where I live. If I had a home, I'd shower there."
Marty wondered why this young man from a well-to-do family had been reduced to living in poverty. Perhaps there was a way to help him. Instead of looking at him just as a prospective jackoff buddy, he began to feel protective.
They soaked for another 15 minutes, and by the time they had showered and dressed, the rain had stopped.
"See, it's not that bad," Todd said, optimistically. "I should make it before the sky opens up again."
"I don't like the odds. With slick streets and that dark sky, you could be hit by an inattentive driver. Help me pick up the towels in here and we'll start a load in the washer. Then I'll drive you and your bike there."
"Thanks, but I hate to put you to a lot of trouble."
"It's no trouble. Hey, I've got an idea. I could use help on Saturday nights straightening up in here. I can pay you a few bucks and we can do this every week if you like."
"That would be great!"
The following Saturday night, Todd showed up a few minutes earlier than he had the week before. He asked for the code to the keypad, and he began to pick up towels even before Marty joined him in the locker room. He threw them into the hamper-cart and proceeded to the laundry room. Marty smiled at how seriously Todd was taking his "part-time job." He would pay the young man a few dollars, out of pocket, for his efforts. No doubt the kid could use the extra cash.
Todd must have strained his back more than usual that day at the distribution center, because he was still hurting even after the therapeutic jets of warm water had done their work.
"C'mon, we have a massage table and I'm a licensed masseur. I can work the kinks out of your back in a few minutes."
They wrapped their towels around their waists on the way to the room. Marty turned on the heating pad that warmed the table and asked Todd to remove his towel and lie face-down.
Warming some oil in his hands, Marty began massaging Todd's shoulders, and then moved down to his lower back.
"Let me know when I've found the spot. I can probably tell which muscles are seized up, but just to make sure...
Marty kneaded the area on either side of Todd's spine just above his butt-cheeks.
"Umm, you've found it!" Todd gasped.
"Okay, this may be uncomfortable for a few minutes, but I guarantee it will feel better soon when I stretch the muscles out."
As Marty continued his therapy treatment, the towel he was wearing slipped down his legs and finally fell on the floor. He figured it wasn't a big deal since Todd and he had already been naked in each other's presence, but he worried about how Todd would react if he threw wood. The sight, and feel, of Todd's firm young butt was beginning to stir his loins.
Just as Marty's cock began to swell, he realized there would be no fallout. Todd was asleep. He finished working the area gently and then covered the young man with a clean towel and went to shower and dress.
A few minutes later, Todd came into the locker room with his towel around his waist and a sheepish grin on his face.
"Not only is the pain gone, but I feel very rested. Wow! You're awesome."
"Thanks. I'm happy to have been of service. Don't they make you use a support belt for your back when you lift a lot?"
"Um, they do recommend it, but it's not required. I was going to invest in one, but there's always some other purpose for my money."
"Let me fix you up. There's a decent one in the lost and found that's been there way longer than we usually keep stuff before throwing it out or giving it to the Goodwill. I'll bet it would fit."
Todd left that evening with a new piece of equipment to help keep him from straining his back. He hoped Marty would still give him a therapeutic massage even if he didn't have pain. It had been an awesome experience.
The next time when the guys used the whirlpool, Marty suspected Todd was getting more than his back manipulated from the jets. The young man had a glassy-eyed expression for several minutes and then jumped out saying he needed to use the bathroom. Marty suspected that his need was to take himself in hand and find release. He could empathize. He wished he could think of a way to let Todd know it was okay to cum in the water. Marty would clean the filter of hair and any jizz that might cling to it. The chemicals would take care of whatever "germs" there might be. Of course, bringing up the subject would probably embarrass the guy, so he decided not to. He just positioned himself by a jet and let the throbbing water take care of HIS problem.
Things went along in the same manner for several weeks, and the two of them became better acquainted. The more Marty was around Todd, the better he liked him. They seemed to be forming a genuine friendship. Todd was always upbeat and optimistic despite his current lot in life.
The weather, however, was changing as autumn progressed. Already, temperatures at night were falling to the freezing point. Marty wondered how Todd would survive in his tent. After giving the matter a lot of thought, he decided to offer him the use of a spare bedroom in his house for the foreseeable future. Having gotten to know the guy, he would trust him with his life as well as his possession. Circumstances had dealt Todd a bad hand, and he was doing everything he could to turn it into a winning one. So, on the following Saturday night, Marty broached the idea when they were soaking in the hot tub.
"Todd, what are you gonna do when the snow comes, and it gets below zero outside?"
"I guess I'll try to find a place in a shelter. I haven't been able to save up enough for an apartment, and there aren't many people who'll rent a room to someone my age unless they know him well. I've got to keep going to school and tuition isn't free, you know."
"I worry about you out there in the cold, and I know the kind of people who use those shelters. Many have substance-abuse problems. Some are crazy and dangerous. Remember the homeless guy who stabbed another guy in the parking lot of that down-town church last year?
"Besides the danger, I heard Mission of Hope is closing two of its facilities due to a lack of funds. There'll be fewer places this winter.
So, I'd like you to move in with me. I own a small house with a couple of extra bedrooms. I think we're compatible enough to get along."
"It's awfully nice of you to offer, but I'm not sure you'd be comfortable with having me in your home."
"I can't believe I wouldn't be. You're honest, thrifty, and I'm sure you don't spend your hard-earned money on drugs. I totally trust you."
"There are worse things... I'm gay," Todd revealed, squeezing his eyes in a futile attempt to hold back the tears.
"So, big fucking deal. I'm gay too. I hope that doesn't frighten you off. I'll have to admit I've been tempted to hit on you, but I promise I'll be a gentleman. I won't pressure you into anything you're not comfortable with."
"I'm really naïve and I don't want to get my heart broken, but I like you a lot. I hope that doesn't complicate things."
"I've already developed `feelings,' as they say, for you. I want you to come. How about I sweeten the deal by giving you a massage."
"Oh, wow! I could really use that."
When they got out of the warm water, they were both about as hard as they could be. Neither appeared to be embarrassed, nor did they try to hide their attributes. After a quick shower, they hurried to the massage table, not bothering to wrap towels around their waists this time.
Marty began with Todd's shoulders again, working his way southward. Todd didn't stifle his moans of appreciation. When Marty arrived at his buns, he poured a stream of oil in his crack and worked sensuously, stimulating his perineum and cheeks. He also paid attention to his balls and the tip of his cock which peeked out from under his body.
Todd's erection throbbed as his precum flowed freely.
"Would you like a happy ending?" Marty asked, his voice thick with lust.
"Yes, please!
As Todd turned onto his back for the grand finale, he reached out to stroke Marty's drooling appendage. That nearly tripped Marty's trigger before he was ready.
Slowly, gently, Marty pleasured Todd's beautiful uncut cock until Todd could no longer hold back. Volley after volley of hot thick cum shot high in the air, falling back on Todd's chest and abs.
Although he was spent and content, Todd continued to stroke Marty for the brief seconds it took until his spooge erupted to join the puddles of Todd's making.
Marty mixed their loads together as he gently rubbed the front of Todd's body a few more minutes.
"If I died right now, I would have lived a full life!" Todd exclaimed. "That is the hottest experience I've ever had. Thank you!"
After they left Better Life, the men went to Todd's humble shelter. They packed up everything inside, and then struck the tent as well. One of Todd's neighbors, an older man named Bill, stumbled out of his cardboard and plastic-sheet enclosure to see what was going on. He'd often watched out for Todd's possessions, and had generally kept an eye on the young man. When he'd ascertained that someone wasn't assaulting Todd or stealing his stuff, Bill bade him goodbye and good luck. He was pleased that the kid wouldn't be facing winter in the tent, but he was a little apprehensive about his moving in with a stranger. After Todd explained that his benefactor was part owner of the gym, and that they had become well acquainted there, Bill felt much better.
When they got to his house, Marty suggested they leave most of Todd's possessions in the garage to sort later, if that was okay with him. Todd agreed that it would be best to put off any more work until another day. What they needed most now was a good night's rest.
Falling asleep to the scent of fresh sheets was a luxury Todd hadn't realized he'd missed so much. This was heavenly. Before he drifted off, he thought about his good fortune. Initially, despite what he'd said to Bill, he'd considered the possible consequences of moving into a house with a person he'd known for only a few months. He remembered hearing horror stories about men like Jeffrey Dahmer and John Wayne Gacy, serial killers who had lured young men to their deaths.
Todd's heart told him that Marty couldn't possibly be that kind of person. If he were, he'd already had chances to do things to Todd in the empty gym after hours but had shown him nothing but kindness.
Tonight, he'd even pointed out the heavy-duty chain device, he'd installed on the door of the bedroom where Todd would be sleeping, that prevented anyone from disturbing him without permission.
No, Marty wasn't an evil person. To let him know he was trusted, Todd had left the bedroom door ajar as he'd prepared to turn in.
The room was 62 F, only moderately warm by most people's standards, but it felt almost hot in contrast to a drafty tent. Being short on clean clothes, Todd opted to sleep nude with just the sheet as his covering.
Sometime in the wee hours, Todd was awakened by a loud clap of thunder. That was followed by pouring rain beating on the roof. The wind outside sounded strong. For a brief moment, he feared for his possessions and his personal wellbeing in the storm. Then, he remembered where he was.
While not being a threat, the sounds of precipitation had stimulated his bladder, so he padded across the hall to the bathroom. Upon returning to bed, he pulled up the blanket for security, turned on his stomach, and promptly returned to dreamland.
It was past 8:00 AM when Todd awoke again. He couldn't remember the last time he'd slept that late or that soundly. He was yawning and stretching when Marty rapped on the frame of the slightly open door.
"Hey sleepy-head, are you ready for breakfast?"
"I can be as soon as I put on some clothes."
"Please don't feel you have to dress up on my account," Marty grinned. "I've seen your body many times, and I certainly haven't grown tired of the view. But, I guess it would be less distracting to have something on when we eat."
Marty turned to go back to the kitchen, and Todd donned the clean underwear he'd taken off the night before. Then he joined Marty in the kitchen.
"This looks like a feast! I'm used to eating cold cereal most mornings, sometimes dry."
"Hey, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. So, dig in."
The two men ate in silence for a few minutes and then Todd inquired about the nearest laundry facilities. Marty grinned and told him the closest ones were in the basement. He said that Todd was welcome to use any of the washing products he found there. Todd calculated how many quarters he'd be saving and offered to pay. Marty shook his head and told him to keep his money. However, Todd protested.
"Do you realize how much that will save me in coins alone? Not having to get my bags of stuff to a laundromat on my bicycle will also spare me lots of time and effort. While it's washing, I can do homework in the quiet of my room instead of trying to study with the distraction of rug-rats running around."
"You're welcome to study in the third bedroom which I use as an office. It has a laptop and a printer, as well as other amenities like a tabletop to spread your work out on. You can use at least half of the area because I don't do that much in there. And, we don't have to pick things up all the time. If we have visitors, we can simply close the door."
"Wow, that IS a luxury. I won't have to worry about someone stealing my Notebook and my iPhone either. Living in a tent didn't provide much in the way of security, and my faithful guardian wasn't always sober."
"I'm sure the situation wasn't secure, but that was a pretty decent tent."
"Um, I sort of purloined it."
"Really, you don't seem like a thief?"
"It belongs to my `loving' family, but they don't know I have it. My little brother, Josh, got it to me. I suppose I should have him sneak it back before they discover it's missing."
"Josh must not be too little."
"He's 17 and in high school. He's my best bud. Without him, things would be a lot worse. He's been forbidden to have any contact with me, so he has to be careful."
"I'm glad you have someone in your corner."
"I'm glad YOU'RE in my corner. You have no idea how much I appreciate it!"
"I'm happy to have you here. Do you want to talk about things? I'm not trying to pry, but I'll be a listening ear if you need one."
"Sadly, my story isn't all that unusual. Conservative Catholic family can't bear to have a gay son. What will people think?' They can't face reality. They did give me a choice before they threw me out. I could either go to one of those facilities that promises to turn your confused' child straight, or I could leave. I chose the latter, and I'm not sorry."
"Too bad someone in your school didn't start a funding-page for you like they did for that Seth Owen kid who's going to Georgetown on a free-ride."
"Well, it might be possible today in a public school. However, a few years back in a parochial school, who was gonna stick their neck out and do that? They might well have lost their job for encouraging a sinful lifestyle!"
"You made the right decision. So, it's up to me to help you succeed. My parents probably would have reacted the same way if I'd had the guts to come out to them while they were still alive. About the time I screwed up my courage, they were killed in a car crash."
The next week was much easier on Todd, despite the fact that his job at the warehouse was taxing. Now, he could spare a portion of his hard-earned money for a bus pass instead of riding his bicycle to and from work and school.
He had insisted on paying for some of the groceries since Marty refused to accept any rent money. For his own sense of pride and self-worth, he had to contribute to their daily living. Marty understood his need to do it and allowed him to, but he put the money away in a shoe box in case Todd had some emergency that would require it.
Everything seemed great to Todd, except that there had been no sex play between them since the massage which had led to a mutual experience. He was concerned that something might be wrong, and he brought up the subject over breakfast on the next Saturday morning.
"Um, I've been thinking about our new arrangement, and I'm wondering what you get out of it. My benefits are obvious, but what's in it for you?"
"Your companionship!" Marty answered. "Having a decent living and a house of my own is far more satisfying when I have someone to share it."
"But, that someone should be a person you could build your life with."
"I was sorta hoping you might come to care for me that way," Marty blushed.
"I DO care for you, but you've kinda left me alone since I moved in."
"That's because I don't want to put any pressure on you."
"So, you're saying the ball's in my court, so to speak."
"Yup. So, if you want your balls in my court, that's up to you," Marty quipped.
"Hmm... I'll have to think on that. I'm not sure I understand your reasoning."
"Okay, I'll explain further. I have a confession to make. When you came in that first night, I fell in `lust' with you. I figured if I played my cards right, I could entice you into being my fuck-buddy. You know, someone to play around with in the hot tub and get off with when I felt especially horny, and I could do it with no emotional attachment.
"However, the more I was around you, the more I began to care about you. You were, are, so sweet and innocent that I felt guilty for even considering you as a plaything. So, I kept myself pretty well in check until a week ago. Then, I crossed the line. I apologize. I've been trying not to do that again."
"Okay, I get what you're saying, but you DIDN'T cross the line. You asked me if I wanted a `happy ending' to my massage, and I readily agreed to it. In fact, I participated by giving you the same. I may be somewhat naive in the ways of the world, but I'm an adult in control of my own mind and body, and as such, I'm capable of making that decision."
As they stood up from the table, Todd threw his arms around Marty and kissed him fervently on the mouth. Marty, despite his sophistication, nearly lost his balance along with his cool.
"Tonight, after our shower," Todd announced, "I'd like us to lay a couple of mats on the floor of the steam room and wrestle!"
"Okay, I'm sure we can do that!"
To Marty, Saturday seemed never-ending. Todd's gesture after breakfast kept him in a constant state of anticipation, not to mention semi-erect. This was the kind of relationship he truly desired. Not only was there a promise of hot sex, but he had genuine feelings for the younger man. It was a sensation he'd never experienced before. `Am I in love?' He wondered.
Todd's day went well, and it seemed not to be as strenuous as usual. The loads weren't any lighter, but his spirit was more buoyant than ever, and the weight belt helped keep his back in the proper position.
His mind was on what he could do to please the man he'd become so emotionally attached to. Perhaps this wouldn't last. Many relationships don't stand the test of time, but he was going to enjoy his first one to the max and hope that it would become permanent.
Their after-hours tryst was worth the wait. Since they didn't have singlets, Todd suggested they strip to their underwear for their wrestling match.
Marty figured that "wresting" was just a euphemism for having intimate body contact, so he was surprised when Todd took him down with skilled moves.
"Wow! You could beat the crap outta me! I played basket ball in high school, but I never wrestled."
"Oops, sorry about that. I did well in high school wrestling, and I went out for track and field too. I had a partial athletic scholarship for the university, but I couldn't take advantage of it when my family cut me off."
"I'm surprised the coaches didn't figure out a way to fund the rest of your education."
"They might have if the legislature hadn't reduced funds so drastically. As a result, the state schools have had to raise tuition. The government gave tax breaks to businesses but screwed us over. Do I sound bitter? I am!
"Even without a scholarship, I'm still gonna get my business degree in the long run. I'll have a lot of my accounting classes by the time I get my AA from community college in the spring."
"That's good. Perhaps you can find a job that'll pay more than the back-breaking stuff you're doing now."
"Yeah, I might if someone would hire me without any experience. Chances of that happening are slim to none.
"Um, back to wrestling. Would you like me to back off?"
"No, I love the feeling of being dominated by you. I'll let you know if it's too much."
"Okay, but I won't body-slam you or anything. I might hold you down and pants you."
"Please do!"
Todd stripped himself and then stripped Marty too. With a few quick moves, he had Marty on the floor, covered with his young body. Then, he shifted into a session of frottage like one in a video he'd discovered on the Internet. Before long, they were moaning in lust, and soon after, their bodies were covered in their mutual secretions.
Rinsing in the shower, they boned up again, and ended up expending another load.
"Please sleep with me tonight when we get home," Marty requested.
"Yes!"
Todd got the opportunity to gain some work experience when the health club's part-time accountant, Don West, was arrested for embezzling at another place he worked for.
Marty wanted to offer Todd the job immediately. The extra income would be a real boost. However, Frank didn't seem keen on having someone he didn't know well handle the books. Finally, after some negotiating, Marty got his way. Frank liked the idea that the new employee was a kid struggling financially and wasn't someone with a lot of experience in the field. It would give him a chance to mold him the way he desired.
Todd wasn't the rank amateur Frank had expected him to be. Within a few days, he discovered multiple discrepancies in the records. It appeared that Frank was skimming income off the top and cheating Marty in the process. Todd was too savvy to let Frank have any inkling of what he knew.
Marty was very disappointed to learn that his business partner, whom he trusted, had done such a thing. His initial thought was to discuss it with Frank and allow him to make restitution.
Todd convinced him otherwise.
"I've taken the required intro to corporate law course among other classes in business. We've studied cases where someone has tried to give his colleague the benefit of the doubt and work things out privately. Many of those good intentions have backfired, including a situation in which the guilty partner attempted to hire a hitman to silence the victim. I think you'd be wise to talk to the police."
Sgt. Elaine Samson from the police department, who dealt with embezzlement cases, was assigned to go over the books with Todd. She posed as his mentor from school to throw off any misgivings Frank might have.
Frank did seem to be a little edgy about having another outsider involved in his business, but Elaine played the "dumb blond" part to the hilt, and he was convinced that she was a complete air-head.
What Elaine found backed Todd's suspicions completely. The only problem was, that since the former bookkeeper had been arrested for stealing from his employer, it was possible that Frank could put the blame on him and get off scot-free. She suggested a sting operation.
The following week, Todd went into Frank's office to tell him about the discrepancies he'd found.
Frank frowned.
"Let me see your cell phone. It looks like you're trying to set me up, and I don't want to find out you're recording our conversation."
"Here it is. You can see that it's turned off. I have to keep it off for classes, so it's been that way for hours."
"Okay, let's talk. You're a student who's trying to make a go of it on your own; am I correct?"
"Yes Sir."
"You could probably use a little extra cash to pay your bills. I can make that happen if you overlook a few minor bookkeeping errors."
"I don't think I could ethically do that, they're not exactly minor."
"Poor men can't afford ethics," Frank snorted.
"Honest men can't be bought," Todd countered.
"Every man has his price. I heard your father is studying to be a deacon in the church. I was raised Catholic and I know a deacon is almost as important as a priest. What if I were to tell you I have a video of you playing around naked with Marty in the locker room? How would that effect your family?"
"If such a thing existed, it would constitute an invasion of privacy and could mean a fine or jail time for you."
"Look, you little smart-ass, you'd better play ball with me or I'll ruin your reputation and your father's along with it!"
"How about you show me this hypothetical video."
Frank opened a drawer in his desk and pulled out a flash-drive which he inserted into his laptop. He hit the "play" button and sat back with a sneer on his face.
Todd maintained a poker-face despite wondering what he would see.
"Feast your eyes on this!"
"Live from New York, it's Saturday Night!"
"What the fuck? Who's been tampering with my stuff?"
"Don't look at me," Todd smirked as he unbuttoned his shirt to reveal the mike taped to his chest. "Shall we go out into gym? I imagine Sgt. Samson has heard enough."
When Marty and Todd were alone again after the police had taken Frank away, they discussed what had transpired.
"Todd, you were so cool butter wouldn't melt in your mouth."
"Where did you get a saying like that?"
"Grandma used to tell me that when she knew I wasn't telling her the truth but was doing it without flinching."
"So, I didn't sound scared when Frank said he'd taped us? I nearly pissed my pants!"
"You didn't get my text?"
"Nope. Like I told Frank, I had my phone off in classes and I forgot to turn it back on. What did you say?"
"I explained that I'd found the stash of videos he'd taken of men in the locker room, including you and me. If you didn't know I'd intervened, how did you keep your cool."
"Well, just like I said to him; his activity was illegal. Men are bound to be naked in a locker room sometimes. On top of that, I didn't think we'd ever done anything `naughty' in there, maybe some towel-snapping.
"Now, if he'd had a camera in the massage room, that might be a different story. Still, what two consenting adults do in private is nobody's business. Besides, I don't give a large turd about my father's reputation!"
Marty had a surprise for Todd when he got home later that night. He had ordered singlets for them from a site called, International Jock. These were super-sexy, being low-cut in the front and made of stretchy white cloth that clung to every curve.
They showered before donning them, so they'd be ready for whatever came up. Obviously, one can easily imagine a couple of things that did just that.
This time, "wrestling" WAS simply an excuse for practicing frottage. Not long after they began rubbing their bodies together, precum flowed freely enough to make the fabric nearly transparent. The sight made them hornier yet.
Eventually, they got into the 69-position and sucked each other off through the thin material. Then, they kissed for several minutes, sharing their juices.
After that, they got into the shower still wearing their gear. Eventually, they stripped, washed their bodies, and rinsed the residual jizz from the crotches of their singlets.
Once they were dried off and in bed, sleep overtook them rapidly.
Thanksgiving season found Todd truly thankful. The month of November was colder than usual, and he'd have suffered in his tent. Now, he was quite comfortable.
Instead of cooking a big dinner, they opted to volunteer at a local church which provided a meal for the poor and disadvantaged.
They were part of the team who came early to prepare the food. The chef from a local restaurant had arrived hours earlier than the rest of the workers and had turkeys cooking in several large roasters as well as the ovens in the big industrial range. There would likely be leftovers.
As sous chefs, Todd, Marty, and their coworkers pealed potatoes, cut up veggies, made salads, and generally prepared everything else but the desserts. Those had been donated by a supermarket.
There was a later team to wash dishes after the meal, so the early workers were invited to partake of the feast when the clients did, or wait until after, if they didn't want to mix with the homeless.
Todd and Marty chose to eat with them. They didn't get in line until there was a lull after the first wave of people had already gotten their food. Just as they reached the end, Todd's old neighbor from the tent city came in. They saved a place at a nearby table for him to join them.
Bill was happy to see Todd and hear about his good fortune. He also had news. He had been hired as a maintenance man and freight-elevator operator in a large old downtown building. As part of his compensation, he had a small bedroom and bathroom in the basement for living quarters. His cooking facilities were minimal, but he had a dorm-fridge, a small microwave, and a coffee pot. It was enough for him to get by for most of his meals. He did take advantage of the church's free meals on Sundays and holidays because it was better than what he made on his own, and there was opportunity to socialize with others.
He was going to AA meetings regularly, and he'd remained sober for two months, and counting.
Todd was pleased.
Having no close family to invite them for Christmas, Marty and Todd volunteered to help with the dinner at the church the week before Christmas day. Again, they ran into Bill who was still on the straight and narrow. Since he had no one either, they invited him to their house for dinner on the actual holiday.
For the 25th, they splurged on a standing rib roast which Marty cooked to perfection. Along with the traditional green-bean casserole, Yorkshire pudding, and a cranberry salad, it tasted like a meal from a five-star restaurant. He would have added a bottle of good red wine but decided he shouldn't put temptation in Bill's path. Todd and he could enjoy it later with leftovers.
Marty had suggested that Todd and he should exchange only practical, token gifts, like sox or underwear. Todd certainly didn't have the money to spare, and Marty was concerned about how deeply he might have to dip into his reserves with the financial affairs of the gym in disarray. With or without Frank, the mortgage had to be paid.
Not surprisingly, they chose to buy underwear for one another. The sexy briefs Todd received made him feel like a stud. He proved that when they were alone again on Christmas night.
Early in the new year, Marty managed to get his business affairs straightened out. Since Frank was facing multiple charges which could lead to many years in prison, he copped a plea. To compensate Marty for what he'd stolen from him, Frank signed over his interests in the health club. Now, Marty was sole owner.
Marty was amazed at the amount of profit he made the first month. It wasn't just from new memberships inspired by New Year's resolutions to lose weight and get fit. Frank had been funneling money to bogus companies which billed the club for maintenance services never done.
The lack of proper maintenance had led to the breakdown of the whirlpool pump which resulted in expensive repairs a few months previous. Besides not servicing the pump, Frank had let a lot of other things slide. Marty knew he'd have to plow a lot of money back into the business, but when he got through, it would be a topnotch facility.
One priority was to invest in some functioning security camera for the pool area, both entrances, and the front desk where the cash register was. While there was never much money in the till, thieves might see it as an easy target.
Todd took on more of the business responsibilities under Marty's ownership and his salary grew accordingly. It wasn't long before he could afford to give up his warehouse job.
In March, Marty received an unexpected reminder from the past when Bud Walker came into the gym around 9:00 PM on a Saturday night.
"Hey Marty, I'm in town for the weekend. I'm considering moving back. Can we get together tonight? I know you'll be closing pretty soon. I could hang around in the sauna."
"Sorry, but I'm with someone now."
"I know you're not the settling-down type; he'd be welcome to join in."
"Bud, what we had was fun, but I'm in a real relationship now."
"Hmm... I wonder what Frank would say if I told him what you do after hours. I'll bet you'd be looking for another job."
"Are you threatening me?"
"Just sayin'..."
"Feel free to talk with Frank. I'm pretty sure he'll be able to have visitors if he keeps his nose clean."
"What are you talking about?"
He's serving time for tax evasion and embezzlement, and I'm the sole owner of this gym now. As such, I reserve the right to refuse service to anyone, including you."
"Yeah, well I'm outta here, loser!"
"What was that all about, or shouldn't I ask?" Todd said as he came up to the front counter.
"You have a right to know. That was Bud, a guy from my past. I told you I had fooled around with a client before I knew you. He was it. I told him that I'm with someone now, and he attempted to blackmail me into taking up where we left off. I'm sorry about all of this."
"There's nothing to apologize for. What's past is past."
"Thanks for understanding."
"Do you think he'll leave you alone, or will he come back?"
"My `goodbye' was final, so I think he got the message. He's not the vindictive type."
Spring was in the air, and Todd decided that the drama in his life was now a thing of the past. He had experienced hardship after being kicked out by his parents, but he had rebounded, thanks to his hard work and a hand-up by the man with whom he shared a home and a bed.
Life was very good, and it seemed to be getting better by the day.
It was another Saturday night and they were about to close after the last guest had left.
"I'm going up to the aerobics balcony first," Todd announced. "Some idiot left a pair of five-pound dumbbells by one of the treadmills. I'll review the security tape later and figure out who it is. Then we'll have a come-to-Jesus meeting. I'm tired of picking up boys' toys!"
"Go for it!" Marty laughed. "And good luck..."
Todd smiled as he bent down to pick up the weights. He knew that there would always be irresponsible people at the club, but he might be able to change the habits of a few slackers at least.
Suddenly, he heard a loud voice coming from the front desk directly below him.
"I'm here to even the score! You're a dead man."
"Look, Dude, I don't know who you are or what you're talking about," Marty replied.
"Don't give me that, you stole my wife two years ago and I've been paying alimony ever since. You get laid and I have to pay."
"Man, you've got me mixed up with someone else. I have no idea who you are."
"C'mon, Frank, don't play dumb with me!"
"I'm Marty; Frank doesn't own any part of this place. He's in jail as we speak."
"Bull shit! You'd better start begging for your life!"
With his eyes raised heavenward, Marty prayed aloud. "Please, God, save me from this fate!"
He caught sight of the first dumbbell flying through the air and ducked behind the counter as it crashed into the glass top, sending shards everywhere. The intruder fired a shot just as the second weight found its target – the top of his head. The man fell to the floor, out cold.
Marty ran around to kick the gun far out of reach.
Todd scrambled down the stairs, two at a time. He nearly lost his footing because he was calling 911 on the way.
When the policemen arrived, the person on the floor remained unidentified and unconscious.
Fearing the gunman might be playing possum, the cops quickly handcuffed him before checking his injuries and searching his pockets.
"His name is, Doug Smith. Does that ring a bell?" one of the officers asked.
"Nope. From what he said, he must have had a beef with my former partner. There was bad blood between them over a woman, I guess."
"Hmm... I wonder if this is related to the shooting of a 40-year-old female an hour ago."
"His gun is over there under the trainers' desk where I kicked it," Marty pointed.
"We'll be able to check ballistics and find out."
"We'd better call for an ambulance," the other policeman said. "We don't want to have him die from our negligence."
Soon a siren was heard in the distance.
Marty drove Todd to the station to give a formal statement, after they'd told the officers what they knew. He took along the flash-drive from the security camera over the front desk. It would tell the story better than they could.
"I'm just as glad they put up the crime-scene tape, so we can't go back tonight or open tomorrow," Todd sighed, as they drove home. "I don't want to see the blood stains and shattered glass. I wonder if I killed him."
"If you did, it was done to save my life. You should have seen the crazed look in his eyes when he waved his gun around. My prayer was partly an excuse to see what you were doing, but in a sense, it was the real thing. I figured I might not make it."
As the adrenalin wore off, Todd began to shake and cry. Marty had tears in his eyes too. He pulled over to the curb while they composed themselves enough to continue.
Once home, Marty got out two glasses which he filled halfway with ice and poured a shot of Jack Daniels in each.
"We've both had a bad shock. Hopefully, this will help us."
After a few sips, they shared a shower and tumbled into bed as soon as they'd dried off.
Propped up with extra pillows, they sipped a bit more while cuddled together naked.
"When I heard the shouting, I thought it was that Bud person who felt jilted and had come back for revenge," Todd said.
"Bud may be a jerk sometimes, but he's not evil. Besides, we never had any serious feelings for one another."
"Are you sure he wasn't in love with you? I can't imagine that anyone could share your body without developing a romantic interest."
"Nah, we both wanted to get off with no strings. He never emailed or anything after he moved. If he'd have been in love, he'd have found some way to maintain a long-distance relationship.
"If you moved away, I'd sell the club and go wherever you were."
"Whither thou goest?"
"Yup. I'm totally in love with you. Will you marry me?"
"Yes, I will. But remember, you're taking on a work in progress. I don't have my degree yet."
"A minor detail, my love. Let's do it as soon as possible. Whom shall we invite?"
"I don't care as long as we ask Bill and my brother Josh. Oh yeah, and I want the dude who left the dumbbells by the treadmill. We owe him!
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David