Exposed: Chapter 36
The Newbury Prep School Captains were perennial lacrosse powers and over the years the rivalry between Mill Brook and Newbury was as fierce as Harvard/Yale or Army/Navy. However, in recent years, Newbury had made the Trojans their bitches, and the Mill Brook seniors were determined to end the humiliation. The game stakes increased for both teams when it was announced the game would be broadcast on a regional sports network.
The game was being played at Mill Brook and temporary seating had been added to handle the anticipated increase in the number of fans from both teams. Julia, Sydney, and Brock's parents came up from New York for the game. Julia and Sydney were there to give Florence Champlain moral support. There was no chance that Nelson and Florence would miss the game, but Florence was nearly beside herself worrying that Brock would be hurt again. So, Julia and Sydney sat on each side of her to give support.
James was at the center of an odd assembly of Mill Brook student-fans. The guys from the nerd table had started going to the home tennis matches to cheer for James, and in the process became friends with the tennis team. So, that evening the two groups combined to form the X-LAX booster club. The crowd burst into laughter when Trent led the group in a cheer.
Trent: Give me an E! X-LAXers: E! Trent: Give me an X! X-LAXers: X! Trent: Give me an L! X-LAXers: L! Trent: Give me an A! X-LAXers: A! Trent: Give me an X! X-LAXers: X! Trent: What's that spell? X-LAXers: EX-LAX! Trent: What's it make you do? X-LAXers: GO, GO, GO, GO, GO, GO, GO! Trent: That's disgusting! Someone (1): That's effective! Someone (2): Next time, use Correctol! Someone (3): Give me a C! X-LAXers: No! Someone (4): Give me an orrectol!? X-LAXers: Hell No! Evacuate! Evacuate! Rah Rah Rah!
The two people who did not find the cheer funny were the headmaster and his wife, Pickles. So, they sent Dean Meyers and Coach Montoya up in the stands to tell the group if they did another cheer like that, the entire group would be ejected from the game and would be assigned kitchen duty for the rest of the year. However, the threat lost some of its effectiveness when neither Dean Meyers nor Montoya could keep a straight face when one of the guppies said, "Please tell Mrs. Gates we're all sorry." Then another guppy said, "We sure are. We just wanted to ease some of the pre-game tension. You know, loosen everyone up."
Dean Meyers just shook his head and said, "That's enough." Meyers had announced his resignation at the last Mill Brook Board of Directors meeting. He'd accepted the job of headmaster at a private school in Albany and was trying to get away from Gates and Pickles with as little drama as possible.
James said, "I'll see that it doesn't happen again."
"Thanks, Mr. Spangler," Meyers said, "I appreciate your assistance."
James then turned to the X-LAXers and said, "Pizza is on me if we don't get thrown out of the game." The group cheered and James turned to Meyers, and said, "They'd run naked through a thicket of blackberry bramble for pizza."
"Blackberry bramble," Meyers said, "You've been hanging around Mr. Gregg for too long. Nobody even knows what a blackberry bramble is anymore."
Now it was James' turn to laugh.
The public address system came on with a pop and crackled, and the announcer said, "Please stand for the National Anthem sung by the Mill Brook Glee Club. After the National Anthem, the teams' starters were announced. As a boys' boarding school, Mill Brook had no traditional cheerleaders wearing short skirts, endlessly jumping up and down, and attempting to cajole the student section into yelling stupid "spirit chants," which if any of the cheerleaders actually played a sport they would realize how little impact they had on the team's performance.
When the ref blew the whistle to start the game, Weston gained control of the face-off before his opposite had time to react. Weston flipped the ball to Kip who immediately turned and sprinted down the left sideline. Brock, sprinting down the right sideline, head-faked his defender, then spun to the inside. Kip saw Brock get separation and passed him the ball as he broke to the goal. Brock buried the ball in the back of the net.
The speed with which the Trojans scored the first goal unsettled Newbury and Brock and Kip combined a second time for a quick score. This time it was Brock feeding the ball to Kip for another goal. The Captains' coach immediately called a timeout to settle his team.
When play resumed, Weston again won the face-off and got the ball to a midfielder; however, he was double-teamed and lost the ball. The Captains went on the attack and eventually got back one of Mill Brook's goals. For the rest of the first half, neither team could pull away, and going into half-time the score was tied 5-5.
At the start of the second half, Weston again got control of the ball, and it looked like it would be a repeat of Mill Brook's first score, but then a Newbury player used his stick to trip Brock. Brock hit the ground hard, and there was an audible gasp, then silence from the Mill Brook stands as Brock lay on the ground. Kip, Weston, and the trainers immediately ran to check on Brock.
"I'm fine," Brock said. "Just help me get to my feet. With a little help from Kip and Weston, Brock was up on his feet. Brock found his mother in the stands; he pointed at his heart and then at her. Florence yelled back, "I love you, Brock. Now get your ass back in the game." The Mill Brook fans went crazy.
That was a turning point in the game. While the Trojans never went up more than two points on the Captains, they seemed to play like they knew they were going to win. Brock and his mother's display of love was inspiring, and Mill Brook went from underdogs to top dogs.
When the game ended, the team and fans hoisted Brock, Kip, and Weston on their shoulders and carried them off the field. The next day the sports page headline read: "Triple Threat Makes Trojans Team to Beat."
That evening the post-game celebration ran well into the early hours of the next morning. When Brock and James finally got back to their room, Brock sat down on the bed, then said, "Babe, I'm too tired and drunk to...." He didn't finish his sentence before he fell back on the bed asleep/passed out.
James pulled Brock's runners off and struggled to maneuver him into a comfortable position. Brock was a big guy and when his body was completely limp it was like trying to carry a mattress up a flight of stairs. James thought about getting help from Kip or Weston but then figured their roommates were probably doing the same thing he was. James finally managed to get Brock fully into bed and covered up and then realized he wasn't in much better shape. James kicked off his shoes and curled up next to Brock.
At 9:46 that morning, James' phone rang, it was Kevin (his security manager at the upstate New York cabin). "Sorry to wake you, boss."
"How did you know I was still in bed?" James asked.
Kevin laughed, "Chad keeps me up on your and Brock's sports exploits. This morning, he filled us in on the game. He found the Mill Brook athletic live stream and can watch games and matches. You two have become his heroes."
"That's both heartwarming and scary. There's a lot of responsibility being a hero."
"Yep. Anyway, the reason I'm calling is to tell you that the contractor needs to see you and get your approval and signatures before he starts breaking ground for the new house. We've had a few nice Spring days, and they managed to clear the building site"
"Is this something we can do by Zoom and fax?" James asked.
"I asked the contractor that and he said it could be done that way, but he said it would be better in person. He wants you to see the site before he starts digging for the foundation."
"I suppose I can drive out this afternoon. It might be just me and Mike. I'm not sure Brock is up for a three-hour road trip."
"I see Michael is letting you call him Mike. You guys must be getting along well."
"When you're around someone as much as I am with Michael and he knows way more about you than you would ever want your mother or anyone else to know, you'd better get along."
"I get your point," Kevin said. "As for this three-hour road trip, what if I can cut it in half?"
"How" Wait, did we get a,,,,"
"Pierce International Aviation got a helicopter two weeks ago, and for now it's based up here since I'm the only certified chopper pilot in the fleet."
"So, who do I have to call to get approval for this?" James said excitedly.
"It's already approved," Kevin said. "I can pick you up at 1:00."
"Great, Let's do it!" James said.
"Also, the boys are hoping you and Brock will stay with us. They'll understand if you don't want to."
"Of course, we'll stay with you guys. Like I could drag Brock away from those two," James said.
After saying goodbye James shook Brock and said, "Get up lazy bones."
Brock moaned, "Not even for a fuck."
"How about for a helicopter ride to the cabin?"
Suddenly Brock was awake, "Really, let's go."
Hold your horses, we're not leaving until 1:00, but you, we, have to shower, pack, and get some breakfast. So go jump in the shower and I'll join you after I call Mike and Mr. Gregg. Mike was thrilled to learn that after dropping the boys off at the airport, he would have the rest of the weekend free."
When Kevin landed the helicopter, he wasn't alone. Chad, Trey, and Perry were with him. "I hope you don't mind," Kevin said. "They've been pestering me ever since the helicopter was delivered to go for a ride."
"Not at all," James said. "I'm glad to see them and just look at Brock." Brock was already horsing around with the boys like an older brother.
"So, James, why don't you ride up in the cockpit with me," Kevin said, "and I can tell you about the new toy."
When everyone was buckled in Kevin announced they were taking off. James was sitting in the co-pilot's seat, and Kevin told him to put on the headset.
"Compared to what I flew in the Canadian Air Force, this baby is quiet, but the headsets make conversation easier."
As the chopper lifted off Kevin said, "This is a Sikorsky S-76D. It was originally ordered for some Middle Eastern ruler, but a coup canceled his order, and likely him as well. An executive air company bought it, and after several years of use, it came on the market two months ago. Axella had told the VP of Pierce Aviation that you were interested in a commuter helicopter. He put out some feelers and this beauty turned up.
"It looks great," James said.
"It flies even better," Kevin said.
"I want to learn how to fly it."
Kevin laughed and said, "Of course you do. I can't teach you, but I do have a couple of buddies who are flight instructors. I'm sure I can hook you up."
"Well, I'm sure Brock will want to learn to fly as well.," James said.
"I figured that," Kevin said with a chuckle.
"Where is the helicopter kept when not in use?"
"I was checking out private airports in the area and found The Gerber Family Flying Circus twenty miles from the cabin. They put on air shows with biplanes and have an airstrip and hangers. I Googled it out and found the crusty old codger who owns the place. Once he got past the fact that I'm a Canuck, we got along fine, and he was interested in renting one of his hangers."
James enjoyed talking to Kevin so much that he didn't even realize they were only 15 minutes out from landing. "Damn, I'm going to want to travel this way all the time."
"Just remember, it costs around $6000 an hour to operate this thing; so, when you and Brock want to hop down to the Big Apple for dinner and a show it's not a cheap date."
"Damn, I guess I'll keep my driver's license."
After landing the chopper at the airstrip, the group piled into the 3 row security company SUV and started for the cabin. However, when they got to Skokan, Brock said, "I'm hungry. Is this where that pizza place is located?"
"If you mean Hometown Pizza," Perry said, "Yes, it is. It's one of our favorite places to eat."
Chad and Trey started chanting, "Pizza, pizza, pizza..." and soon they were joined by Brock.
Kevin looked at James, who said, "I don't know about your boys, but my boy can get really cranky when he's hungry."
Kevin smiled and pulled into the Hometown Pizza parking lot. When they walked into the pizza joint, Chad waved and said, "Cody I brought my NYC friends."
Cody gave Chad a fist bump, then looked at James and Brock and said, "I remember you two. Welcome back."
Brock smiled and said, "We couldn't come here without getting some of your dad's pizza."
"You showed up on the right day. The special today is buy one large `Meat! Meat! Meat!' and get a second for half-price."
"That ought to take care of Brock," James said, "Now, what do the rest of us want?" Brock shrugged his shoulders, and everyone laughed. After getting seated and placing their order, Kevin called the contractor to arrange a meeting.
Chad told James and Brock that Cody was a genius. "Cody comes to my algebra class every day to help us. Mrs. Betchard is a good teacher," Chad said, "but Cody can explain math in ways a lot of us understand better, and he's patient."
"That's great," Brock said.
"Yeah, he says he's helping out so that some of the boneheads will be eligible to play football next year," Chad said. "He says his goal is to win the conference his senior year and he can't do it by himself."
"I bet he's helping out for more than just a chance to win a conference championship," James said.
"Yeah," Chad said with a smile, "He's a good guy. All the eighth graders think he's great. I know he's helped both Trey and me fit in."
"He's my Scout Patrol Leader," Trey said. "I can't wait to go to Scout Camp this summer."
When Cody brought their pizzas out, Brock said, "Chad and Trey have been telling us what a great guy you are."
Cody smiled and said, "That's what's so good about kids, they're so gullible."
"So, what are your plans after high school," James asked.
"My goal is to become a structural engineer. I would love to go to M.I.T., Stanford, or Cal Berkley, but those schools cost a whole lot of pizzas. So, I'm hoping to get a bachelor's degree at one of the state universities and then see where I can earn a Master's."
"It sounds like you have a plan," James said, "Which is more than Brock here has."
"I have a plan," Brock said in protest, "If my dream of becoming a professional soccer player doesn't work out, I plan to become either a priest or start an Only Fans page."
James laughed, and said, "Since becoming a priest requires a vow of chastity and obedience, I'm pretty sure that ain't gonna happen. So, I'm guessing you'll be asking for a camera and video editing software for Graduation."
Brock just grinned.
"Anyway Cody, while Goofy here tries to figure out what he'll do with the rest of his life, I just want to tell you that Pierce International has a scholarship program for students going into STEM careers. Anyone can apply, and scholarships are awarded based on an applicant's academic record, community service, and career goals. I can send you a link to the scholarship website."
"That would be great," Cody said.
"The only catch is that Pierce International gets to interview you when you start looking for a job."
"That's not a catch," Cody said, "that's a bonus. Well, I'd better get back to work. I don't think anyone will be impressed when my resume says I was fired by my own father."
The guys dived into the pizza and managed to carry on a conversation between bites. After eating they drove back to the cabin property to meet with the contractor. Kevin and Perry's house was being built offsite and moved to the site in sections once the foundation and other prep work were completed. When people hear `factory-build home' they immediately think of a trailer house, but this is different. Structurally, it would not be much different from a house built on-site. In fact, there are several advantages to building a home in a factory, especially in New York. The first is that the weather doesn't slow down the build. It can be 20 below and a blizzard outside, and the construction can still proceed. Second, building the house in a factory allows for better quality control of both the build and the materials. Finally, it's faster because all of the trades can be scheduled more effectively. After the sections were in place, the roof trusses would be installed, sheathed and shingled and the siding installed resulting in a seamless exterior. The plan for the exterior was for a combination of stone and rough cedar. Both would weather so that in a few years it would look like the house had been there for years.
Vern Mondick was the contractor and was already onsite when they arrived. When James was introduced to him, he seemed a bit skeptical. However, Kevin assured him that James had complete authority to authorize any construction details.
"I guess we should get started then," Vern said as he gave James one more look over. "I've marked out the house's orientation and its rough dimensions," Vern said. "The house won't be lined up with the traditional East-West/North-South orientation, since that would make it seem more suburban than rural. Also, with this orientation, the back porch will have a great view through the trees of the cabin and the creek. If you're satisfied with this layout, I can get my crew in to dig and pour the foundation in the next week or two."
James looked at Kevin and Perry and asked, "Does this work for your family?"
"Yes," Perry said, "It's off the main road and private. Also, that view is amazing."
Kevin added, "The view through the trees also lets me keep an eye on the place even if the surveillance system is offline."
"Then that's what we'll do," James said and signed the work order.
"Next," Mondick said, "We need to finalize the porch specs. Currently, the original plan is for a covered deck, but you've asked for an estimate on a three-season porch. What have you decided?"
Kevin said, "We've talked and feel the three-season porch just makes more sense. It can be cool up here early in the spring and late in the fall, so enclosing it makes it more useful. Also, we want a wood pellet stove added. With energy efficient windows and a stove, the porch really becomes a year-round room."
"I agree. Vern said. "Is there anything else we need to discuss before you sign all the papers and I get started on the foundation?"
"I wanted to be in on the exterior planning because what the house looks like affects the overall property; however, the interior doesn't matter to me", James said. So, I have a document that gives Kevin and Perry the authority to make decisions about anything inside the house. The document also specifies the budget they have to finish the interior."
"That works for us," Vern said, "And it should speed up the process since they can sit down with my designer and figure out the cabinets, lighting, and floor coverings."
Vern and James both signed the final work order and said their goodbyes. When Vern was gone, James said, "I need to work off that pizza, anyone interested in a walk along the creek?" Brock, Chad, and Trey's hands all shot up.
The trees and bushes were leafing out and had a delicate lace-like appearance. Water plants were coming back to life and the woods were full of birds calling to attract a mate. In the shade, it was still chilly, but in the open areas, the sun reached the ground warmly, and the grasses and sedges were beginning to green up. The first batch of insects had hatched, and the air buzzed with their activity and carried the gentle scent of Spring.
Of course, Brock, Chad, and Trey were too busy horsing around, joking, and showing off to contemplate the poetry of Spring. Chad and Trey were doing their best to impress Brock. They were even foolhardy enough to try tackling him; however, the two pups didn't stand a chance of dethroning the physical Alpha of the pack.
James noticed the pleasant smell of wood smoke and figured Kevin had lit the fireplace in the cabin. Although it was Spring, the evenings were still cool, and it would feel good to sit around the fireplace. "I'm headed back to the cabin," James said.
"That's a good idea," Brock said and threw Trey over his shoulder. When Brock did, James noticed him wince.
"Okay boys," James said, "Brock is still recovering from his rib injury, and yesterday's game was tough. Brock needs to take it easy if he's going to be ready for the next game on Wednesday with Trinity Heights Military School." Chad and Trey immediately stopped messing with Brock.
When they stepped into the cabin, they were welcomed by the smell of pot roast, freshly baked biscuits, and cinnamon rolls. Perry was an excellent cook, and since moving, he had time to polish and add to his culinary répertoire. Supper was the perfect mix of good food, conversation, and laughter.
After supper, James and Brock played board games with Chad and Trey until bedtime. Perry took the boys up to bed, and Kevin stayed behind to figure out Sunday's schedule. "What time do you want to leave tomorrow," Kevin asked.
"What is your normal Sunday routine?" James asked.
"Well, we normally go to the Episcopal Church in Woodstock, and then out to eat," Kevin said. "If you are interested, you are welcome to join us."
"We didn't bring any dress clothes," Brock said.
"That's fine. The boys will be in jeans and sweatshirts."
James looked at Brock, and he smiled and nodded. "Well," James said, "I guess you'll have guests. So how about you take us back to Mill Brook after lunch."
"Then I'll see you in the morning," Kevin said, heading upstairs.
"Okay, big boy," James said, "What do you want to do now?"
"I know this is gonna sound lame, but I really would like a massage."
James smiled and motioned toward the stairs. Unlike Christmas, the improvements to the HVAC had made the bedrooms warm and cozy. Brock stripped off his clothes and lay down on the bed. James started massaging Brock, making sure not to be too rough in the area of his injury, and soon Brock was gently moaning. James focused attention on Brock's shoulders, not only because they were tense, but also because James liked the feel of Brock's broad and muscular shoulders.
Like in all sports, officiating is more opinion than fact, what is one official's slashing is another official's aggressive stick-checking. The officials for Friday night's game were let em play' kind of guys, so Brock's arms and legs took a beating.
After finishing Brock's back, James rolled him over to do his front. Brock was hard and James knew there was no way the massage was going to remain simply therapeutic. James started working on Brock's pecs but soon was kissing and sucking on his nipples. From there James worked his way down Brock's torso until finding his cock. It didn't take long for Brock to scream with pleasure into his pillow and James to swallow a rich load of jock juice.
While James said he was fine, Brock insisted on at least giving James a thank-you handjob that was amazing and deeply satisfying. James had come to understand that it wasn't how he came but why he came that made sex so good with Brock. Love was the secret ingredient.
After church, Kevin and Perry took everyone to the Bear Cantina for lunch. The Bear Cantina was located in Bearsville along the Saw Kill. In Bearsville the Saw Kill was a small waterway but downstream turned into one of the major tributaries of Esopus Creek and eventually the Hudson River. James said to Brock, "If we were to follow this little stream, we'd eventually end up a few blocks from where we'll be living next year."
"I know there is a lot of stuff, fun stuff between now and then, but I'm so looking forward to that," Brock said.
"Me too, babe," James said and kissed Brock.
"Ewwww," Chad and Trey said in unison.
"Oh, come on," Brock said. "Don't tell me you haven't seen Kevin and Perry kiss."
"That's different," Trey said.
"Oh, how?" Brock asked.
"They're old and married," Trey said.
Kevin looked at Perry and said, "I think we've just been insulted." Everyone laughed.
"Perry," James said, "I hope I'm not saying anything out of line, but when we first met, I didn't think you and Kevin were the sort of guys to travel 20 minutes to go to church."
Perry responded, "You're right we weren't. Kevin grew up Catholic and I split my time between a Buddhist temple and a Jewish Synagogue."
"Wow," James said, "That's quite a combination."
"Yeah, my family was sponsored by a Jewish synagogue when they first immigrated. Ss, we have always kept that connection. Anyway, Amanda was raised going to the Episcopal Church and she and her parents made sure the boys did as well. So, when we moved up here, we felt we needed to continue that for them. There is a directory of supporting and affirming churches online, and we started checking them out. We found we liked St. Gregory's. It's where we felt most comfortable. They're progressive and warm. Also, I like to sing, and I've enjoyed being a part of the choir."
"I was very impressed with the church and how friendly the people are," James said.
"Kevin and I didn't have a real wedding. We just went to the courthouse and had a civil ceremony. We have been talking with Reverend Shane about a church commitment ceremony, so you and Brock might get an invitation later this year."
"Well, we will certainly be there," James said with a smile.
After lunch, Perry dropped James, Brock, and Kevin off at the hangar for the flight back to Mill Brook. Chad and Trey wanted to go too, but Perry said, "Not a chance. Both of you have homework, and I'm not staying up until midnight while you finish it."
So, James and Brock said goodbye to Chad, Trey, and Perry, and promised they'd be back to go fishing before leaving for Europe.
When they were getting ready to board the Helicopter, James said, "It's your turn to sit in the cockpit, I'll see what it's like in the back."
So, James had the passenger compartment all to himself. As the chopper lifted off, he settled back into a comfortable leather seat and got out his phone to call Julia.
"Hello, Mom."
"Hey, baby."
"Mom, you know I don't like it when you call me baby."
"I know, and I don't care. You'll always be my baby. Besides, I bet you don't mind when Brock calls you baby."
"Mom!!"
Julia laughed and then asked, "How was your trip to New York?"
"It was great. We're heading back to school right now."
"Do you like the helicopter?"
"It's the bomb. I can't believe you got it for me."
"Well, it's not just for you; however, I'm sure you'll be its biggest user. Just remember, any personal use has to be charged to your account."
"Yeah, Kevin told me what it costs an hour to fly this thing. I know $6,000 an hour is a drop in the bucket, compared to what I have, but I want to keep things real. I may need some help with that, it's so easy to just spend money when you see something you want or to solve a problem."
"Well, are you including Brock in your spending decisions?"
"Not really, I'm not sure he'll be that much help."
"Don't sell him short," Julia said, "Sydney and I have gotten to know Nelson and Florence and they are solid people, and I'm sure they've raised Brock to be the same. Also, sometime this Summer, how about Sydney and me; Michael, your attorney, Axella, and Michael Walker meet with you and Brock to talk about your money? Maybe by then, you'll have found a personal assistant."
"That sounds like a good idea," James said.
"Oh, and James..."
"Yes, Mom."
"I'm proud to hear you say you are thinking about money and how you use and spend it. That's the maturity that will make you a good CEO and head of the Pierce-Walker family. However, right now you have enough things on your plate with graduation, your plans for this Summer, familiarizing yourself with the company, and starting college next Fall. You don't need to add to it. You've got plenty of money. You won't overdraw your account no matter how many pizza parties you throw or how many helicopter rides you take."
"Thanks, Mom. I just don't want to be one of those entitled assholes who recklessly spends money and does nothing useful with his life."
"That is something I don't worry about with you. You and Brock both want to make a positive difference in the world. The two of you have something very rare in this world: vision, compassion, intelligence, the resources to do great things, and a partner to share your dreams with."
"I love you, Mom," James said.
"I love you too, son," Julia responded, and the call ended.
James wiped tears from his eyes. He then put on some soothing music and drifted off to sleep."
The next morning, James was up before the alarm and was really horny. He looked at Brock, who was sleeping so peacefully. He knew he should let Brock get some more sleep, but he was feeling a bit selfish. He rolled over next to Brock and started kissing his chest. When Brock ignored him, James started licking his nipples.
Brock giggled and said, "Stop! that tickles."
"But it's morning, I want to play." Brock looked at his alarm and said, "It's not morning, It's only 6 a.m. It won't be morning for another hour. I'm sleepy."
"Too sleepy for this," James said and started fondling Brock's cock.
"Oh, fuck," Brock moaned. "You are so annoying."
"Yes, but I'm sexy annoying."
Brock knew he wasn't going to win. His cock was already getting hard. "Fine," Brock said, "but you're going to have to do all the work."
James kissed Brock and said, "It's not work if you love doing it."
That morning Brock and James ran into the cafeteria ten minutes before the end of breakfast service. When they sat down with their friends, Kip said, "Damn Brock, you look like shit. Did you have a rough night?"
"No," James said, "It was just hard for him to wake up this morning." Brock was in the middle of drinking his orange juice and ended up snorting some of it through his nose. The guys couldn't stop laughing.
After breakfast, Brock had Spanish, and James worked in the library. During first period on Mondays, the library wasn't busy, so James and Mike usually grabbed a cup of coffee and went over the week's activities. James had gotten used to calling Michael, Mike. Mike also fit the more casual relationship the two were developing. They now used "Mr. Pierce" and "Michael" as a way of signaling to each other that something may be a problem.
"Well James, did you enjoy your weekend at the Cabin?"
"Yes, very much. The site for the house is really nice, and Kevin and his family should be moved in by the end of the Summer if not sooner. We also talked with the contractor about the barn conversion."
"So, what's on the agenda for this week?" Mike asked.
"Brock has a lacrosse game on Wednesday. It's at home, so not a big deal. Then Friday and Saturday is the League Tennis Meet."
"Great, an easy week then," Mike said.
"Oh, and Brock and I are moving back up to our room. There's no reason for us to stay downstairs, and we feel like we're missing out on being a part of the group."
"I can see that," Michael said.
"One last thing. You and Kendra need to get down to New York for a walk-through of the apartment and to sign some paperwork."
"So, can Kendra and I start moving our things to the apartment?"
"Yes."
"Kendra will be happy to hear that. I need to get moved out of my place in the city, and we have to move her. That's a lot of things to do in what, three weeks."
"I know, I can't believe I'm about to graduate. I didn't think my exile to Mill Brook would ever end, but now I think I'll miss it."
"You'll miss it for a minute," Mike said, "When you're back in the Big Apple and enrolled at Columbia you won't have time to even think about this place. Plus, you're taking your favorite part of Mill Brook home with you."
James almost blushed, and said, "You've got that right."
Things were pretty relaxed until eight that evening. That's when the Trojan Wars team assignments were emailed to the students and staff. James and Brock were finishing moving the last stuff back to their room.
"Damn, who would have thought we hauled as much stuff downstairs in such a short time," Brock said.
"We?" James said, "I don't recall you shlepping any of this crap down those narrow stairs."
Brock laughed and started to say something when they heard yelling down the hall. When they went to find out what was going on, they found the rest of the guys crammed into Kip and Lance's room. Kip was reading off the Trojan teams. The teams were named after heroes of the Trojan Wars: Hector, Aeneas, Achilles, and Diomedes.
When James and Brock joined the group Kip said, "James, you're on Team Achilles with me.
"Of course," James said, "it only makes sense we would be on Team Achilles. Achilles was a great warrior and hot as fuck."
Then Kip said, "Brock, you're on team Hector."
"OOOOH," Weston said, "You know what that means... No fraternizing with the enemy."
The room burst into laughter and Brock's face turned Crimson. The email also said that morning classes were canceled so that teams could meet with their sponsors, "THE GODS," and choose captains.
As the guys headed back to their rooms, James hung back to talk with Kip. James said, "I'm going to nominate you to be one of the three captains, and I'm sure you're a cinch to be chosen."
"What about you?" Kip said, "I'm sure you will also be nominated."
"That's possible, but I won't accept," James said. "I need a break, and also, everything I touch this year turns into some event or drama. The last thing I want is to have the Trojan Wars somehow become about me."
I understand," Kip said with a nod
"So, when you're a captain," James said, "I want you to make sure I'm not in any event where I'm directly competing against Brock. Will you do that for me, for us?"
"Absolutely," Kip said. "It's going to be hard enough for me to compete against Brock, so I would never ask you to do that."
"Thanks," James said.
When James got back to the room, Brock said, "So you and Kip already plotting?"
"Nope, I told him that when he's team captain, I wanted him to make sure we aren't directly competing against each other."
"That's probably a good Idea. It would sting a bit losing to you in front of the school."
James laughed and hugged Brock. "Babe, that's sweet of you to say, but we know you'd kick my ass in anything physical or athletic, and in the other stuff..."
"I know, I know," Brock laughed, "I won't be competing in the talent events."
"Now I'm going to bed," James said, and took off his clothes and started to crawl into the top bunk."
"What's this?" Brock said. "Why are you going up there?"
"This is my bunk, that's your bunk. If you want me to join you, you have to ask."
Brock got down on one knee and said, "James Spangler Pierce, will you do me the great honor of sharing my bed tonight, and every night for the rest of our lives?"
James smirked and said, "I'll have to sleep on it."
Brock put on his pouty face, and James laughed and said, "I suppose I can sleep on it just as well down there as up here."
It didn't take long for Brock and James to get into bed, and James said, "There's not much room. I got used to that double bed."
"There's plenty of room to cuddle," Brock said and pulled James close. After a few minutes, James took hold of Brock's erection and said "This doesn't feel like cuddling. I don't think there's room for all three of us."
"Are you sure it's just three of us? Brock said as he ran his fingers down James' torso to his crotch.
"I guess we're going to have to find some way to get rid of these two intruders," Brock said as he started to stroke James. It didn't take long for the boys to make room in the bed to sleep.
I hope you're enjoying "Exposed."
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