Being Poor -2
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Being Poor -2
Ricky and I settled well into the suburban lifestyle. I enjoyed the whole yard upkeep and flower beds and took great pride in keeping our home looking neat and tidy.
Ricky pretty much was the inside man and kept things magazine kept. We each were obsessive it seemed. We excelled at appearances but struggled at our relationship.
He got to remotely work two days and in office three. Transportation for me was still a struggle. So I went to several restaurants nearby looking for availability.
A neighbor asked me one day if I worked . I said that I was a server at the Italian place on Pikeville Road. That's where I know you from he said. Do you wanna work closer to home he asked me? I have been looking I offered up and he said his wife works at Tony's on the weekends but they need help . Let me get the wife to talk to you or heck walk on over and you two can talk.
He owns a bathroom renovation company and he said I've got work booked out for two years .
I walked to his place and met his wife Angela and we talked restaurant and she and I hit it off ok.
That's all it took really and Tony called my boss and besides the fact he was pissed he said I was a good worker and he hated for me to leave.
That settled and I went to work weekdays lunch and dinner. The dining room was usually empty by nine that meant I was home by ten.
Our sex life was fun but I hadn't figured out how to "bottom". He seemed to jam it in to fast and that hurt and well from that point it didn't go well. Ricky preferred to be the top and I felt bad that I wasn't able to satisfy him. He always assured me it was fine but I was certain that he wanted more.
Mostly we did oral and did that a lot and we both had steamy orgasms. I knew my limitations were an issue and he became a bit distant at home. He had a bunch of free time and i was pretty sure he wasn't always alone . I really wasn't the suspicious type but somethings you just know.
I got a message at work from Ricky that he'd have to go to training for a month out of state. I congratulated him on the opportunity.
When I got home he seemed pensive and excited. The power company wanted him to learn a new software system and it meant a promotion and raise for him.
He had to be checked in on Sunday on the west coast. We sorted out the where he's staying but with cell phones keeping up is easy. I sorta knew what he wanted to ask but was reluctant to ask.
So I said after some thought , look if you wanna mess around out there it's cool . He cut his eyes at me and said are you sure. I fumbled at first but said look it's a long time and I know there are things that you want I'm not good at.
He said I won't get upset if you want to as well. I guess what caught my attention was that he took it , so easily. We carried on getting him packed . But things had changed between us I felt.
I drove him to the airport that following Sunday and he left for a month. I got home and tinkered in the flower beds. Then fixed dinner. I was doing laundry and saw a box of stuff I'd packed up on the top shelf in the laundry room. I pulled it down and carried to the kitchen table . I remembered gathering up all the crap from moms room and putting it in here but had forgotten about it.
I stood and opened up the box and laid the contents on the table. The Manila envelope the pictures the bank book and key.
The key has a stamped number but nothing else and the bank book only has a name on it along with a string of numbers penned where it said Acct #. No entries but a page has been ripped out.
I opened up the Manila envelope and pulled out the neatly written pages.
The pages were numbered and page one at the top started with my name.
It told me to gather the photos and each photo pack was numbered on the inside flap.
She had been meticulous in the narrative and I thru pictures met my family. I read slowly opening packs of photos and reading the names on the back.
Ricky called me when he got checked in and was super animated on the phone. We should move to the west coast he says . We talked for an hour almost and he said he'd call me later the time difference was messing him up. We ended the call and I was exhausted but couldn't stop turning pages.
My father and mother met and created me but never got married. He died in a car accident shortly after I was born. His family couldn't accept that he was the father and they turned her away. The crash and my fathers death pretty much ended that conversation.
Mom explained in perfect cursive that her parents showed her the door when she got pregnant. The struggles were ever present and while she loved me she resented me and almost gave me up for adoption.
I sat reading crying and feeling distraught by it all. I read carefully and slowly and I realized why Mom insisted I learn cursive writing.
I slept on the sofa in the living room that night . The next morning I showered and went to my bank with the savings book and key. I was directed to an older white haired lady in the big corner office. She looked at the bank name and diddled on the computer. She said it's a savings and loan In Tennessee. She called and spoke to someone and read the number written on the book. I had to acknowledge that I am Ryland and I'd need to bring a death certificate to access the account and safe deposit box.
I was clearly overwhelmed by the last day's revelations. I wasn't surprised at how quickly Ricky agreed to the freedom to explore. I was fairly sure he'd been already. We were close , maybe it's me but we never got that close. I needed a place to live and and I'd been able to save a sizable nest egg between the cash we found and my small lifestyle.
Ricky made good money and we both bought the car and paid the bills for it , but he used it almost completely.
I left the bank and stopped by work and spoke to the owner about being gone a few days. It was a six hour drive to the bank. He asked me what's up. I explained in general terms that I'd been left a bank account and safe deposit box key in Tennessee and I had to go to the bank there with a death certificate and proof I was who I am.
Ricky called and the three hour delay was comical. He was excited to begin training and I didn't offer what I was up too. My business at this moment I felt needed to be held closer to my chest.
I drove for hours and then out into the country to a small town. I walked into the savings and loan and this older man said well you must be Ryland , you are the spitting image of your Dad. I almost fell out to the point my knees got weak. I had to sit down the realization that just walking into this little bank and someone so clearly knew me shocked me.
We sat in his office and he seemed concerned that I was so taken aback. Heck he said my son and your Dad were best friends. What was he like I asked him. Well how about we get up with my son for lunch and you and him can talk. Let's get the business done first after all ,that's why you are here.
I presented the death certificate and my birth certificate . He said we need to walk cross the street to the Courthouse see Lucy and do some paperwork. Let's get you in that safe deposit box first.
He kept saying he couldn't get over how much I looked like my Daddy.
The key fit the lock and he turned his key pulled it out and he removed the box . He sat it on a table and said when you are done come on out . I can stay here if you want it's up to you. I touched the box of secrets and said calmly , if I need you I will call you.
The latch clicked and I lifted the top to the box. An envelope with Ryland was on the top. I opened the envelope and it was a typed letter.
I read it several times and didn't quite get all the things involved. The banker said , how's it going? I asked him to come in and he opened the door.
What can I do for you he asked sincerely. I handed him the letter and he carefully read it. He smiled and said yea I pretty much knew all this. The part none of us knew was where to find you. What does it mean I asked him. Well let's close this up and walk to the courthouse and get that done .
I closed the box and put it back in the space and we closed and locked the locks.
The lady at the courthouse smiled at me and said you look just like your Daddy son. Why am I here I asked her. Well honey she said we been waiting years to finish up this crazy will.
I signed some paperwork that I didn't really understand. The banker said that it's all in a trust to keep and care for my Uncle Rob. I said who? He said your Dads brother Robert , he's not all there he said , upstairs .
We left the courthouse and crossed to a small diner. Sitting at a table smiling at me was a square jawed deputy. He stood extended his hand and said you have to be Ryland. You are the spitting image of your Dad. I honestly didn't know how to respond to that.
So I said I've not a clue I've only ever seen a photo of him holding me I suppose.
We ordered food and I listened to the men discuss my dad and I listened fascinated.
A jokester and solid friend. They made him to be a saint of sorts. His folks found out he and your mom were expecting and they went nuts he said after his dad left us to talk.
Where are you staying he asked me? I said the Mountain View Inn .
I need to get back to work but let me pick you up later we can ride to the farm meet your uncle and we can grab dinner. Besides he said I think my dad needs you at the bank.
When I got to the bank I was directed to a office and the banker and a older man in a suit was there. I met the family attorney and he verified some information and said you have been hard to find. Well I said you found my mother didn't you. He nodded but she refused to give us your information and well since you were a minor we had to go thru her. Well I said she died she got mugged and didn't make it.
I stiffened up and said someone needs to start talking. The lawyer said that your dad and uncle got hit by a drunk driver while your dad was home on leave from the marines. Your Dad died from his injuries and your uncle never fully recovered.
What's all this mean to me I asked . Well he said that as the sole survivor of your fathers estate you will receive his settlement from the accident. Currently the annual payments have been made to a savings account here. When your grandmother passed the estate created a trust to care for your uncle financially. He suffered a substantial head trauma. He lives on the original property and we make sure he's got food and the bills are paid . The banker said he makes whiskey and brandy but everyone turns a blind eye .
Dewey my son still visits Robert often. That's why Dewey wants to take you to meet your uncle. They were all the best of friends growing up. Dewey was supposed to be with them the night of the crash. He has some guilt about it.
The banker asked how I found the bank. After Mom died I cleaned out her room and found the bank book and key along with journals and a long hand written story she put together with photos.
My bank lady found this bank and well here I am.
When she called about the account it created a stir in town.
I finally asked , how much. Then I added seeing as you aren't giving it up I felt I had to ask.
The lawyer cleared his throat and said there was a lump sum settlement . Your uncle and you both received six figures after I got my fee . I've been maintaining the trust ever since for a very moderate fee. We made arrangements to send a small amount to your mother each month by making a wire transfer to a bank account.
Dewey makes sure your Uncle has all he needs and the place is clean and bills paid.
You currently are your uncles beneficiary. What's that mean I ask. When he passes you get the property and the houses. Dewey rents the big house to a family and Robert lives in a old cabin on the side of the mountain . He likes it there the best.
Dewey picked me up from the hotel . I'd forgotten about the time difference and Ricky called when we were having dinner at a fast food spot.
I said when asked that I was having dinner with a buddy and he seemed wary or concerned. Well call me when you are home he said .
Dewey looked but didn't ask and I didn't offer. Let's go meet your uncle and we got into his sherrifs pickup truck. You look so much like your Pops it might confuse Robert he's basically harmless and kind .
We went thru the woods to a smaller cabin faded white planks and a tired older pickup shone in the headlights.
Dewey hollered out , Robby it's me Dewey. A slender guy stepped out of the shadows and smiled. Hey Dewey who dat he asked.
Robby this is Ry your brothers son. As we walked up in the porch. He looked me over and said you looks like my brother Ryland. He dead he got killed by a car and it messed me up bad he said.
I knew you was out there but PaPa said ain't no bastard child coming here. He went to heaven then Momma went to heaven and now I'm alone . Dewey keeps up after me and all that .
We go inside and sit at a small table and he offers me a jar , just sip at it said Dewey.
Wow it was strong , Dewey said he makes the best brandy. Your Grandpa taught him. We in law enforcement turn a blind eye his way.
He showed me a photo of the three of them and I really did look like them and my Grandpa.
On the way back Dewey asked me how I was handling it all. I sighed and said overwhelmed.
Do you get any money for taking care of Robert I asked. Nope he said and it didn't sound like he minded.
Dewey said we were the three musketeers as boys . I remember when you Dad said he was gonna be a Dad. He was scared and excited . I asked were he and Mom dating?
Dewey laughed and said she happenstance came to a party with a friend of a friend. It's not a romance it was a hookup , that's what you younger folks call it now I think.
I remember she was sorta thick and standoffish. She had eyes for your dad from when he got to the party. Well said Dewey and here you are. They tried to get together but they just couldn't make it work.
When the accident happened your mom offered you to the family but they said to go away. Took my Dad and the lawyer years to find you so they could send money. I sat dumbfounded and quiet.
I got out of the truck and walked to my room. I sat on the bench out front of the room trying to size it all up.
I texted Ricky it said delivered but not read. Want a beer a fella a few doors down offered. Sure I said and walked his way.
John he said , I'm here on the new gas pipeline. He was lean and handsome and rugged. I'm Ry I offered, here on family business.
John's from Texas and travels for his job. He's got a huge twangy accent and soft eyes.
I wasn't adept at subtle innuendo but I could read the double meanings he kept dropping.
Finally I said if you want me to suck your dick I will. That was darned direct he drawled, then added was I that obvious. I just smiled back at him. Can we use your room Ry he asked me.
We each grabbed a beer and walked to my room. He slipped off his boots and left them just inside the door. Get comfy I said and he stripped off the T shirt jeans boxers and white socks. I did the same. He was sorta hard and seemed nervous. I pushed him back onto a bed and crawled between his lanky legs and swallowed his dick.
He trimmed and had huge balls. He's lean defined and cute. I bobbed on his meat not in a rush and sorta hoping he would do me too.
He moaned and groaned and flailed his arms and curled his really long toes. I pulled up off him and he said dude that's amazing. Will you do me I asked him and he spun and swallowed me fully and played with my balls and touched my ass. He raised up and said you have a sweet dick Ry.
He raised up my legs and slathered my balls then licked my butt hole.
He drove his tongue as far as he could and nibbled and licked and smacked my butt.
He spit on his hand and wet his cock. He pulled me towards him . It was all happening so fast when he pressed and I opened up. The got to the ring and stopped . Don't wanna hurt ya he said , that ass is tight . Now just look at me and breathe deep and slow .
I stared at his eyes and I felt my self giving and letting him in. My legs shot up straight and my toes curled and he slowly pressed till he was deep.
I looked at him and said fuck me ! He didn't disappoint me or himself. He slow stroked me spitting on his dick often getting me and keeping me wet. He said I'm a big leaker so I'm gonna keep ya wet.
How's it feel he asked me and I groaned and said amazing. He picked up his pace and I felt myself thrusting back against him. I was super caught up in the sex and the inrush of feelings and emotions and felt my orgasm churning in me.
I reached for my rock hard dick and he said as he stroked don't just let it happen and he punched my hole hard and fast and I dug my heels in his back and arched and hollered as I came.
He stopped and kept fully in me till I relaxed a bit . My turn, he said and he pounded my hole hard and fast. He looked at me and said here it comes. His neck muscles tightened and he thrust and then hot wetness filled me up. His whole being trembled with each spasm inside me.
He slumped forward a bit still inside me and I said kiss me please. He leaned down and kissed me like he really meant it . I kissed him back like I meant it. He moved a bit then a bit more and soon was slow fucking me again. We changed positions several times and ended up on my tummy him banging me and I came again without touching myself just from grinding against the bed.
I knew he came in me again he stiffened and then laid on top kissing my neck. He pushed up and pulled out and slid his fingers in and out of my sperm filled hole. He said you probably gonna end up pregnant after that fucking.
We would make a pretty baby I bet , I purred as he slipped beside me. He slid his muscular slender arm over me and licked my ear.
Two things I've known a long time he said softly. I wanted to be a welder and I liked boys. Being from super small town Texas it's easy to be a welder a whole lot harder to be gay.
Heck I said I didn't have a clue I was into guys till recently. Can we sleep together tonight he said and I snuggled deeper into his embrace as my answer.
When I woke up I was alone . I went to the bathroom and realized I was crunchy as hell down there. I piled into the shower and obviously John had showered here.
I was tender and quite happy . I wrapped a towel around me and saw a note in block letters with a phone number. Text me when you get up.
I had to plug in my phone to get it to respond . I messaged John and added him to my contacts.
I fixed a coffee and it was awful. I dressed and went out found a coffee shop and got a couple danish's too.
My first stop was the lawyers office. We discussed how I got my checks now and how much. I told him I didn't want it as a lump now I'm afraid I'm not ready to be that responsible. Besides Robert may need some of it . We discussed the savings account and he suggested that we just make arrangements to move money monthly.
My phone buzzed and I left it be while we sorted it out. The lawyer said that Robert is quite secure and that while he keeps the costs low I'd still be paying him to manage the funds. He said how about a trust like Robert's till say you are thirty. That way it's locked up sorta till you get older and more stable.
Can you make that happen before I leave town. When are you leaving he asked and I said when the paperwork's complete.
I will get on it today . He wrote my phone number down and I left. I went to the bank and checked the balance and went back in the safe deposit box room and carefully read the paperwork. I have a GI Bill school thing and the paperwork about the land and houses. I read the paperwork that said the property was mine but Robert has lifetime rights to the cabin.
I put it all away and locked my key. The banker was genuinely kind and offered any help I needed.
I looked at my phone and messaged John back and he replied immediately wanting to go get food after work.
I grabbed a seat at the diner and ordered a hot lunch. This older man and woman asked to share the table and I nodded. She said your his son I bet. I smiled and said who's son? Why that sweet boy Ryland that was killed in that terrible accident that left his brother in a bad way.
Yes ma'am I'm Ryland Jr or just Ry. She said you look just like him. We ate and I avoided much of the probing questions she asked . Her husband just observed and watched me.
I finished my meal and Bid them farewell and at the register I paid for all our meals. I gave the waitress a nice tip and she smiled and said thanks.
I rode back to the property and looked at the large place. A family with kids lived there by the toys in the yard. It was well kept.
I went up the drive to Robert's cabin. I stepped out and said Robert it Ry .
He stepped out of the shadows and smiled . We sat on the porch enjoying a breeze . They think I'm simple and I let them think that. I make whiskey like my daddy and granddad made it . Folks take pity on me cause of the accident. Truth be told it was my fault we crashed . I said well Uncle Robert that's old history now . Don't know one care anymore .
Let's make the best of what's ahead and do the best we can. He said I still got the money from the batch of shine me and your dad made before the wreck. Just hang onto to it for now I said . Naw it's yours he said . He went inside and came out with a tired yellowed envelope and handed it to me.
Walking round money he said smiling. Dewey looks out for me and makes sure I'm ok. He was supposed to be with us that night but he didn't show up at the ball field.
He feels mighty guilty about what happened. He's a good friend for you I suppose. He is for sure and he makes it so I can make shine and stay outa trouble.
You be different like my brother I reckon he said to me. I looked at him and said different how exactly. I ain't for sure but they be something you both share in ya eyes .
I didn't press the comment any further. He said will you come back to visit me from time to time. I will I said that's a promise from me to you and he hooked his pinky and I did and he called it a pinky promise.
We talked about my dad as he remembered him. We are very similar in many ways I learned as he told stories.
I felt better more fulfilled after spending hours alone with Robert.
I told him I had to be back to meet someone and that I'd come back tomorrow. Can you bring me a strawberry milkshake when you come tomorrow. Sure I said then asked if he wanted anything else .
I drove away and texted John I was headed to the Motel. When I pulled up he was outside in shorts and a nice shirt and flip flops. I took a fast shower and dressed in shorts and a polo.
There's a pizza place over cross town and a Mexican place just beyond it. Mexican I said and I let him drive the car.
You got a partner he asked me. Sorta I said but he's not the one . He helped me get thru my moms death and we live together. He likes older men and well I can tell he's struggling with me.
Do you have a partner or wife. A wife he laughed a genuine open laugh I could've had one, I suppose but they don't make my parts tingle and well now near bout everyone back home knows I'm gay I reckon.
I travel all the time to make a living it's mighty hard to have a relationship when I'm gone months on end. We ate with gusto he was a bottomless pit it seemed.
We left and went back to the Motel and several of John's coworkers were sitting out drinking beer. He introduced me to them by work nicknames . One of the fellas asked how our date went. John said so far so good Heavy but the nights still young . Heavy asked me what I did and I said I wait tables . Heavy snorted and snickered. I said well next time just get your own damn food. Everyone laughed and smiled and John gave me a wink. We sat outside and the fellas called it a night . We went back to his room and laid on one of the beds and he snuggled me up.
Tell me about Ryland he said I really wanna learn about you. Tell me first I said and he began the tale about an oil worker and a pretty girl. He played sports and barely made it thru school. He's the oldest of three a sister and the baby brother. His folks live in the only place he's ever known. How he took welding in school vocational training then at the community college.
The married guys he said have campers they take on the road . As soon as I get my trucks paid for I'm gonna buy a camper.
We can travel and live the life.
I heard him say "we" me and him ?
Your turn he said and don't be scared.
I began my life's story and didn't hold back but didn't tell all. I swear when I told him about Mom getting mugged he cried. Do you have any family left he asked. I said an Uncle that lives near here , that's why I'm visiting . How Ricky was sorta my rock but of late he's been different.
Do you love him he asked me rolled up looking at me. He used to make me feel all goofy inside but not so much anymore.
I explained he's on the west coast for a month and that he and I agreed to not get mad if we played around.
Do you think he's been a creeping before that? Some nights when I get home from work he's super preoccupied it seems .
He rolled onto me and we kissed . Not a hurried kiss at all it was almost a time stopped and the stars lined up kiss. Slowly we rolled about loosing our clothes and exploring each other's bodies .
What's this scar I asked tracing my finger along it. Four Wheeler crash when I was thirteen bout bled to death. One of the guys was a Boy Scout he ripped off his shirt and pressed on it and the other one hightailed it to a house to get help. Broke my leg and arm and cracked my pelvis. The boy that saved me got blowed up in Afghanistan. His Momma still mourns all the time. That's so sad I softly said. He chuckled and said all he ever wanted to be was a soldier as long as I knew him. He died doing the thing he loved .
Our faces were so close I pulled back and traced my finger along his jaw. He said I favor my Dad he's a lean man slow to speak or get angry. The other two favor Momma my sister is a hot mess of wild curls and backtalk. Daddy says she is payback for my mom. The baby is smart and a star athlete. Better than you I asked .
I played with all I had and did good but he's great at it a natural. Daddy thinks he's going to get a scholarship .
Do you think they would like me I asked and sorta wished I hadn't said that.
Yea he said and he smiled when he said it . Daddy had the hardest time with me being gay. He says he just wants me to happy.
I toyed with his dick and used his pre to slick it up. I leaks like a faucet don't I he said . Then he said when I was younger I could put it in my mouth but I can't no more. I can get my tongue to touch it on a good day. Show me I said and he rolled his hips up and sure enough he could touch the tip with his tongue . I licked his hairy butt hole and he moaned .
I dug in like he did to me and it wasn't what I thought. I feasted on his hole and pulled his muscular cheeks apart with my hands and lapped and probed with my tongue.
Slide a finger up in me he said. Curl it towards my dick . Feel that hard thing and I nodded , tap on it with your finger then rub it and watch my dick drool. I played with the hard spot and he gushed out clear . That's the man's G Spot . That's what my dick was rubbing when you came without touching yourself.
Wanna fuck me he asked me and I smiled and nodded. Sit on your ankles he said he rolled down and I pushed my cock in his butt. He grabbed a tube of cream and said put some of this on your cock . I greased it up and I slid in way smoother.
He pinched his nipples as I stroked his insides. I felt his heels on my butt.
I tried to slow it down but I rolled up the wave fast and hard and I exploded inside him. Damn I said I wish I didn't cum so fast. I love watching you cum he said.
I slowly pulled out and used his cream to slick my butt and I crawled up on him and eased him inside me. I realized that Ricky was in too much of a hurry and it hurt me .
When I went slow it worked so much better and I was able to relax. I sat with him in me and just slowly rocked as he danced his calloused hands on my body. Time sorta ran off and I grew hard and leaked a fair amount and John rubbed it all around my crown.
Kiss me he said and I leaned down and our lips met and he gushed out his load inside me. Throbbing holding my face and out tongues danced. We lay there after he slipped out of me. I felt his load leaking out of me. We fell asleep like that and when I woke he was closing the door then I heard the trucks start and the crew headed to work.
I got up and slipped on my clothes and went to my motel room. I showered up slipped on clothes I was hungry.
I went to the diner up the street and got a BLT with fries. Dewey came in with another cop and sat down. When ya leaving he asked me? I think maybe tomorrow if the paperwork's finished by then.
It's good that you care so well for Robert I added and he seemed like he'd prefer to not discuss that with company.
We finished up our meal and we all walked out together. He spoke to the uniform and that guy left. He and I stood by the pickup and he said you got no enemies here . We all knew you existed your mom kept you away. Just be respectful Robert deserves that. I got no issues with anyone here. He scoffed and said well I hope not , after all you won the lottery didn't you.
You have no idea about anything I said to him . You don't have a clue what I've been thru. So before you preach to me about shit you don't know about , fuck it , I said to him .
I walked to the motel and there was a knock at the door. I opened the door and Dewey was there. Can I come in he asked. I guess I replied and stepped away from the door . He came in the room clicked the door.
You don't need to know this but I've asked to modify the trust so that Robert is always cared for. That's all I'm gonna say about it. And for the record , I've never had shit in my life and I'm ok so if you want it all then fucking do whatever you need to do!
It's not like that honestly Ry. It's just that when your Dad died part of me went with him.
I'm not sure I get what you are saying. Dewey said we were very close that's all that matters and well every time I see you it's like a flashback to when we were kids .
I pondered his words and honestly it was to involved for me to sort out. Look I said I like you mostly cause you were my dads best friend. I will never ever know him like you knew him and I'm sorta jealous about that. I used to lay awake and wonder about him. Why he never came and got me and took me from the hell I grew up in. I can't say I love him but I can say I wanted to love him.
Tears streamed down my cheeks as I let it out.
Now I'm so close but I'm a million miles away from him. Dewey wrapped me in his arms and I sobbed . I guess I let it out , all of it the pain and the grief and heartbreak .
I awoke laying on the bed the room was still and quiet. I heard the toilet flush and John came out . Hey there he said sliding in next to me. He hugged me and kissed my forehead.
You are a complicated fella he said squeezing me tightly. I had a long conversation with that deputy he sat here while you slept. He really wanted to know where I fit in so I sorta told him about our few days .
That's cool I said I'm ok with it besides at this very moment I'd step in front of a bullet for you.
Yea Ry I fell the same way. I sorta scared of the way it's taken me . I looked down and said yea you don't have a boyfriend at home I bet.
I was kinda hoping I might snag one soon tho.
I spun my head and he was smiling but worried. I just need to clear up things with Ricky. That's the right thing to do . John said yea I talked to him a hour ago. He kept calling your phone so I answered it.
He was a bit surprised even shocked to have a stranger answer the phone. He's nice and he is a good friend I feel. I probably said way to much to him . But I was raised to be honest .
I'm cool I said to John , I'm gonna have to talk to him anyway. It's just so much to resolve . I need to find a place to live. I mean he can afford the house it's a family rental anyway. He can have my half of the car .
Details don't matter you can come be with me , us together . I make really good money and all that .
I'm starving I said and he said get up grab a shower we can get dinner.
I showered and slipped on clothes and John and I left in my car with him driving. We went to the Chinese place and ordered and ate . So much has happened these past few days I'm so overwhelmed.
The cop said you were a miracle baby , what did he mean by that? I'm not sure and he knows way more than he's telling right now.
He said you have an uncle that lives here. Yea Uncle Robert he lived in the accident that killed my Dad . He's sorta messed up they say. Have you met him he asked me . Yea wanna meet him , I offered up and John said sure.
We left the restaurant and I gave him directions to the property. We stopped and grabbed a Strawberry Milkshake like he asked me. As we passed the larger place I said yea I own that and I think about 90 acres surrounding it. Keep going up the drive I said .
We stopped at the cabin and got out of the car. I hollered Uncle Robert it's me Ryland . I then added this is my friend John he's a welder. Robert stepped away from an out building and smiled at us. Come on inside he said . I got some brandy I want you to get a taste of it.
John really liked the Brandy. For me it wasn't all that but then I really wasn't all that with drinking.
Robert gave John a quart of clear and a quart of Peach Brandy. He said in his slow cadence now don't be sharing from where this come from ya hear me. We talked a bit more and John sipped from the open jar .
John looked at me and said I'm surely happy you turned out so fine. Ya Daddy would've been might proud of you.
Tears steamed again and I managed to not loose it fully. It was time to go and I hugged Robert and at first he stood still then he bear hugged me and said I love you boy don't you never forgets that.
John drove extra careful back to the Mountain View. He was a little tipsy I suspected from the liquor. He said as we laid on his bed and he held me. I know you are gonna leave soon just go when it's time . Don't tell me goodby ok. Daddy always says till we meet again. I know you gots to deal with things at home and well there's a place in my heart for ya Ry.
I pulled him tight and my head was swirling badly with all the thoughts and emotions. I watched his eyes close and his breathing settle.
The rooms were far from dark poorly fitting curtains and the parking lot lights kept the room bright. He was so relaxed an calm. Ricky always seemed tense when he slept and he often complained of being tired. Many nights he'd end up on the sofa or downstairs in his office.
I surely dozed off at some point and slept soundly. I awoke and John was gone. I snuggled with his pillow because it had his smell.
I got roused and showered and realized how hungry I was . I slipped on some clothes from his room and it excites me to wear his clothes. I gathered up all the dirty clothes in his and my room and went to the laundry and started the wash. I crossed to a fast food spot for food and iced tea.
I put his clothes away and straightened up his room. Long terms only get the room cleaned weekly.
I got a call from the attorney and we set two pm for an appointment.
I was surprised to see Dewey and his Dad at the lawyers office. I looked each one in the eye and said I wasn't expecting you guys . The lawyer coughed and said would you prefer they leave ?
Don't really matter cause they will know it before I cross the street I suspect. The banker said, perils of small town America. A younger heavyset man hustled in wearing khaki slacks a blue Oxford and a bow tie. This is Arnie, he's the investment wing of this. We felt you should meet him as well. He shook my hand and asked if he should start.
He showed on his laptop the balances and how it all was invested. For me the number was staggering. He explained the monthly draw that would let the principal last thru a projected age of ninety. I asked about Robert's fund and he said that he wasn't supposed to discuss it unless Dewey Jr authorized it. Seems the Deputy was his "custodian". He nodded and the funds mirrored. We split the taxes and insurance costs.
Arnie said that they sent once they found my mother a stipend to her account here at the savings bank per her request and she got an annual draw that was small , we always suspected it was to pay for housing. I asked when did this happen. It was about the same time we got the apartment and became sorta stable.
Arnie asked me how much a month I wanted and he had a graph that showed numbers and balances. Then he asked me how much do you make now. I threw out some average numbers and Arnie said we can easily send out that much to your bank each month and that will ease your life struggles if you don't go crazy. So I asked Arnie if Robert's fund would run out and he laughed and said nope.
We agreed on an amount and Dewey Sr said I'd sure like it if you used my little bank to do business with. If not we can wire transfer to any bank monthly. I just need a card I said to pay my bills and buy stuff like I got now. Between the money in my Moms accounts and the cash I have plenty I guess.
What bank do you use and I showed him my card . We have a branch about ten miles from here. We can work it out I know the manager there. We can ride over after this is done.
We got to a place where I was asked who I wanted as a beneficiary. I asked what that is and they explained it. Can I change it as I need too I asked and they all nodded. Do I have to put a beneficiary down now I asked. It's customary said the lawyer but you don't have too.
I need to think about this . We finished up signatures were notarized and Dewey Sr and I rode to my regular bank in the next town. He made the introductions and I asked Sr to leave us to talk. He wasn't happy.
Look I said I'm not smart about these things but He wants to control everything. Do you know the guy Arnie the investment guy. Can we talk to him and get my monthly checks sent here ? He called Arnie and they exchanged some forms that I signed.
Done he said smiling it's not complicated really.
The ride back was cold and tense. I took some mild pleasure in my decisions and outfoxing the banker.
My only reason to hang out in the wide spot of a town is now John.
I sat out front of my motel it was sticky warm but there was a breeze. I should have packed and left for home. But I couldn't bring myself to leave just yet. Didn't want to face empty house. Didn't want to face the reality that I didn't want to be with Ricky. I felt like I owed him so much. But how I felt about John opened my eyes that Ricky was an amazing man and awesome friend but I wasn't in love with him. I knew love scared me and it wasn't a place I wanted to go. I also knew that I had to talk to Ricky soon , especially after the other night .
I texted him asking if he was busy. My phone rang immediately.
Are you ok he asked me. I'm much better thanks . That guy really likes you a lot he said . I'm kinda jealous of him sorta like Mark was about me I suppose.
Before we both say a lot of things let's both understand that we are best friends that tried to have a relationship. We shouldn't stop being friends because we slept together.
I sat listening and felt five hundred pounds lighter. I said how is it you are so cool about this. He laughed and said you know I like more mature men right . I've known that we couldn't ever be all that. But I care about you so much I wasn't willing to give up till you get things put together . That moment when that guy answered the phone and I heard how he felt about you I knew the time was right.
I'm envious really said Ricky . I wish someone would care about me like that. I wanna meet him he said to me and he meant it. I want you to meet John after all Ricky you are my only friend .
Promise me Ry that no matter what through it all we will always be friends. I promise I said to Ricky.
We ended the call and I felt so relieved by it and how things went.
I was walking across the street from getting a drink and some chips. Heavy pulled in the parking lot he is always the first one to get here and the first one out in the morning. He's married with a bunch of kids . He's mean and gruff but he's got a super kind soul. He fished out a beer and plopped beside me on the bench. You look good he said like some things been sorted out .
He patted my knee and said my number two girl is a quee...... gay. She's got a regular girlfriend and they seem happy. John is ,the gay , he don't hide it or nothing but he don't flaunt it like my Amber does.
I've been working with John for a couple years he's good people and well don't fuck him over. We heard the trucks coming. Not a fucking word about this you got me kid. He smiled a fatherly smile and I hugged him. Quit that shit kid he said trying to suppress his smile.
John sat next to me popping a beer. What's up with you and Heavy.
He just gave us his blessing I said or I think he did.
He's been my fill in dad on the road . His daughter Amber is gay. He really likes me like a son.
I talked to Ricky today for a long time. He really wants to meet you. I wanna meet him John added.
Heavy and the guys from the back of a truck said jeez kiss already you two the suspense is killing us.
John looked and Heavy waved his hands and John leaned in and kissed me. The fellas cheered and jeered .
Heavy said as we ate pizza twenty years ago we would probably have shunned you , now you are family to us .
We laughed and ate pizza and they drank beer.
We got back to the Mountain View and said good night to the guys.
I don't want you to leave said John. I don't wanna leave feeling my emotions falter . I said I've almost never cried I said but I sure have caught up this week.
John said I cried when my Daddy told me Grandpa died . Daddy told me men don't cry that day and that I needed to toughen up.
When our dog Rex died I went to the barn and I hid and watched my Daddy cry. He didn't cry when Grandpa died but he cried when Rex died. We never got another dog.
I asked Momma about it and she said you men are fickle. She said your Dad was raised to be hard he thinks he's raising you the right way. She told me that evening that she knew I was different and she loved me. Your Daddy knows it , he knew before me she said . He loves you too.
Ry I still seldom cry and I can take a punch better than most. It tore me up to see you struggling so much.
Where do we go from here he asked. Well I said a white picket fence and three kids if that's possible. Us figuring out if we like each other is a good start. I like both ideas said John.
I need to go away for a bit to settle up some things .
Do you work tomorrow I asked and he nodded . Don't tell me goodby ok just come back quick. Aren't you off on Sunday I asked him. Surely am he said grinning. Well I'm not gonna miss a whole day with you . Besides I need to handle some business at the bank on Monday. I wish I understood more so I won't make mistakes. He pondered a moment then FaceTimed his Mom. He asked her , isn't uncle Jack a banker in Dallas and she said he was. She almost asked why but stopped herself . Then she said who's with you is that Ry? He turned the phone and said Momma this is Ryland . I smiled at her and said hey. I spoke to his sister and brother and then his Dad.
Call your uncle Jack he can set ya straight said his Mom. My brother is a smart man .
When will you come to visit she asked us . The jobs got a scheduled break in a few weeks I'd planned on coming home then. Please bring Ry with you she said and my ears heard that she meant it.
He called his uncle and he actually works for the bank I have been with.
He and John caught up a bit then John made the introduction to me . He said now carefully explain your situation and concerns.
So I went back and discussed the settlement and the payouts and how I understood the trust. He asked me if I was comfortable sharing the totals . I said it's just under two million I believe and John seemed shocked then he whistled . Then I added that I currently have over forty thousand between checking and savings. The uncle said this isn't what I do on a daily basis but I need to call a friend and ask him to review this . I think I can access your accounts if you give me permission. What's your email address he asked me and my phone dinged with a new mail. Reply to that giving me permission to access your accounts.
I did and he got it and said give me some time so maybe tomorrow afternoon . I hope I'm not messing up your weekend to much. He chuckled and said it's not a problem.
We said our good byes and he hung up. John said I'm not sure what he does but he has a huge house on a lake . Momma says they are rich.
Money don't make ya rich John . Having someone who really cares about you is way more important than how much money you have. I don't know a whole lot about a whole lot but I'm pretty sure I'm right.
He wrapped me up and picked me off the ground and nuzzled my neck. Well Ry you got someone who's crazy about you. I'm crazy about you Mr Welder man .
I think this is a good spot to end this chapter. Thanks for the patience as I create each chapter.
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Cheers
CJ