Introspection

Introspection 3

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This document contains homosexual themes and acts. If you are underage or don't like the subject, then don't read it.

The story is not autobiographical and is a product of the writer's fertile imagination.

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Previous

When Blake left I felt let down but I replayed some of the scenes from earlier today with Peter again and realized that I had to start building a new life that I wanted. I wondered why I felt so little emotions about leaving Peter. We had lived together for a year and yet I didn't feel any great, deep sense of loss. It bothered me. I mentally shrugged my shoulders; I felt dislocated, a little lonely and rudderless. But not much else. Was there something wrong with me? Was I incapable of deep, intimate feelings?"

Trying to get myself out of these rather depressing thoughts, I thought that perhaps I would phone Andrew the next day to see how things had gone with him. It was the least I could do. So that would be a first step taken. Well second if you count Sunday at 11.

Present

I did give my life, a lot of thought. I had slept well that night after Blake left. From a purely physical point of view, it had been very satisfying but he was gone and I didn't want a revolving door of bed partners in the long term.

I had left Peter and that chapter in my life was closed. I knew that I had a lot of decisions to make, like where to live. While the connections that I had made with men over the last couple of weeks had been exciting, I knew that was not the life style that I wanted. The image and memories of what Andrew and we had shared kept coming back to my mind at the oddest times. Even after the good experience with Blake, just moments after he left, my errant thoughts were of Andrew. I knew that we had only had one day and a night together and I was idealizing it but I felt that there had been a connection at a good level. I wanted to explore it if for no other reason than to make a new friend. We had both ignored our partners that day and it was done by both of us with our own free will, not with the prodding of our partners. I felt that I had taken the easy route in taking the hotel room for that Sunday night and then the next week. It really had made it easier to sort things out. I kept wondering how Andrew had fared with the 'force of nature', that he said Matthew was.

I had finally decided on the way to work that I was going to phone him today. I started to plan what I was going to say and what I wanted out of the contact with him. First, I was not going to rush into a torrid affair with him, as easy as that might be, for me. I wanted to go slowly, become friends. I was going to suggest lunch or supper right after work sometime soon. I thought of some movies, concerts, even walks by the river, some sports or work outs. My final decision was that if I were to ever live with another person, we would sit down and discuss the fundamentals of our relationship with each other and with others. I would also want to discuss our expectations of each other and I had a growing list of topics. I knew that relationships didn't happen in any order but I at least wanted to clear my own mind. Some times there were surprises, good and bad, in a developing relationship and sometimes they didn't happen the way you planned.

I became immersed in an interesting situation at work as soon as I arrived. I looked at the clock later and realized it was 10:45. I had the time. I phoned Andrew's cell.

It rang three times and then I heard a click and some shuffling noises, then a clunk and finally a muffled 'damn it' from the phone.

"Andrew Taylor here." He sounded flustered

"Andrew, Paul here. I promised that I would call. Sounds as if it is an inopportune moment?"

"Paul, good to hear from you. No I don't usually keep my cell out at work and I had to get it and then take the call. It sort of slipped out of my fingers for a minute. How are you?"

"I'm just fine. You?"

"Interesting times."

"Interesting can mean a lot of different things."

"So can fine."

"Touché. It is good to hear your voice. I was going to suggest that we get together for lunch or an early supper after work sometime soon and catch up. Interested?"

"You don't even have to ask. How about tonight after work?"

I was pleased that he wanted to meet like that and so soon. We set a time and place. That set a good tone for the rest of my day. Actually, it dragged just bit at the end, as I wanted to get to supper. I phoned Rob to let him know that I would be back later. He, of course, wanted all the details and I told him, in my definite voice, later. He just laughed at me.

I arrived before Andrew. I was nervous. A passing thought said good, that was the way it should be. I saw him first. As I remembered, tall, slim but beautifully proportioned and the ass. Why did I keep iterating on his ass? Maybe, because it was perfect in my eyes. I told myself to get my mind out of the gutter. But what a lovely gutter.

I stood up. We smiled generous smiles at each other. I enveloped him in a manly hug. You know, the grab him, not too close with back slaps, no kisses. He had a big smile when I let go. I could almost read his thoughts, possibly, they were just mine, 'We have done more than that together.' I gave him my most knowing smile.

I had ordered a good local beer and he chose a lighter one but from another microbrewery. Good taste in beer. We chatted about work but had to stop to look at the menu and order.

I could not hold back my curiosity. "You are looking and acting in fine form. What happened on Monday of last week? I have been wondering all week. You and the force of nature." We both started to laugh.

"He phoned me at work, indignant that I had not come home and that I had not called. I told him that we would discussed it at home not at work. He tried to insist." I smiled and pointed to myself and mouthed 'same here'. "I just told him that was not on and I would see him at the condo. I said goodbye and over his protestations, I hung up." I put out my hand and we shook. The smiles on our faces could have lit up a room.

"Well, was he in fine form when I arrived at the condo but I was prepared. I roasted him for his attitude towards me and to you. By the time I was finished he was virtually speechless. His little laid back guy had grown some balls. Everything that he said just convinced me that we were just too different. You should have seen his face when I repulsed his attempt at intimacy 'to try and make things right between us' and then told him that I would be sleeping in the second bedroom that night. His true nature really came out. Orders, threats, and finally a door slam to his bedroom. Breakfast was as cold as a January cold snap. We left for work and I came back in the afternoon and moved all my important things and much of my clothing out to a friend's place. I knew him well so that afternoon I made copies of my keys to the building and the condo, just in case I forgot something."

"He didn't notice anything amiss until after we finished supper. I was sitting in the living room with a drink and asked him to come in and talk. He asked where my computer was as he wanted to email someone. I told him that was what I wanted to discuss. To make a long story short, I told him I was leaving. Hell hath no fury like Matthew scorned. What he hadn't done for me! I would regret it and if I left there was no coming back. I just told him in detail that what he had just said and his attitude had made it even easier to leave than I thought it would be. I just grabbed the rest of my stuff and left.

I recounted my story, saying that there was sadness for both Peter and me, even though he became a little steely at the end. With that out of the way, we enjoyed supper and talked as if we had been friends for a long time. It became obvious that we were both conscious of the time and it was time to leave. I looked at him. "Andrew, I really enjoyed this. Would you like to go to a movie sometime this week or ... anything else you had in mind?"

He had a little smirk on his face. What the hell was going on in his mind? "Are you asking me out on a date?"

I almost cracked up but I forced my laughter down and imitated his smirk. "I am asking you to go to a movie that we both would like to see." I paused, thinking and cocked my head. I'd turn his remark back to him. "What is your definition of a date?"

He paused looking at me. From the look on his face, I suspected that he was choosing his words carefully. I know I would have. "In common usage, I think that it is an activity of getting together that two people engage in when they are trying to get to know each other better to see if they want to continue getting together."

I knew I liked the guy. What a great question and answer. HE was setting the parameters of our relationship. Exactly what my musings had led me to. "A date it is. But I still would like to go to a movie or anything else that you would prefer." We were going to be equals in this.

The decision was a movie. I got out my telephone and we searched through Flixter to see what was on, when and where. I didn't know that choosing a movie could be such fun. Wry comments about actors or directors. Likes and dislikes of various kinds of films. We started to see each others likes and dislikes. What was even better is that we ended up choosing the same film. It was decided that Wednesday night was a good time.

"Paul, I am so glad that you phoned me and in just a week not weeks." Wow, he remembered.

"Andrew, I am so glad you found your phone and didn't break it. We might never have made contact."

We chuckled, paid and left the pub. Our cars were in the same direction so we walked together, pleasantly close. We got to his car first. He looked at me. "I hope that I am not out of place. Screw the manly hug." He leaned over and kissed me on the lips. It was gentle and didn't linger.

I spoke with actions. I kissed him back, lingering just for a fraction. He gave me his little, intimate smile. "I guess we don't have to worry about the age old question." I gave him an enquiring look. "Do we kiss on the first date?" I broke up. He had paused looking at me. "Actually to be precise, if I remember correctly, this will be our second date."

I looked at him, hit myself on the side of my head. "How could I forget that? First date was quite explosive." I gave him another kiss and he pulled me closer and it lingered, by common consent. Quietly and intimately, "See you Wednesday." He just touched my hand, nodded and got in his car.

We had picked a little quirky British film, Salmon Fishing in the Yemen. We both enjoyed it. We had read some of the reviews and disagreed with several. We felt that Ewan McGregor had played the part very well and we liked the soppy ending. In particular, I loved the quiet understated British humour. Andrew liked the cinematography even though it was not actually filmed in the Yemen; Morocco was spectacular. Basically, we had no place to go back to as we were both homeless so I suggested a pub for a drink and some food. We talked, we ate, we drank and played pool. It was everything that I wanted to do. We didn't make any plans but we both promised to connect.

Rob was up when I got home, with relief on his face. "Paul, you look happy. I am so glad."

Tony walked into the room and put his hands on Rob's shoulders. I could see Rob let himself relax into those hands. It looked so damn good. "Hey, he almost looks human again. Did you get some?" Rob gave him a swat.

"Tony early days. We had a great night at the movies and then went to a pub. I got a nice long kiss when we left. We are going slowly. I just met him last week but I feel as if I have known him for years." I shrugged my shoulders.

Rob looked at me. "What are you doing on Friday? A bunch of us are going to the club for supper and dancing. Ask him; there is safety in numbers."

"Thanks guys. Remember no comments" I stared at Tony. Tony liked to joke and tease.

"What me? You know me!"

"Right! Exactly but I still love you." They both laughed at my tone. When I phoned Andrew the next day, he was delighted.

I had to get serious about my living arrangements. On Thursday night, I saw David, the fellow who was renting my condo. It was mid May and he had until the end of August. I gave him notice verbally and in writing. He was glad that I had given him all that time and it was agreed that no matter what his rental arrangements were, he could leave any time up to the end of his lease with no penalty. He indicated that he would start looking immediately. When I told Rob the arrangement, he and Tony looked at each other. Tony smiled and said that they had discussed it and I could stay until my condo was free. I insisted that I pay rent and part of the food costs; otherwise I would move out. Terms were arranged and they were more than fair and cheaper than the Suites.

When we were finished, Tony had a little twinkle in his eye. "We also discussed house rules for you as well. There is a double bed and your room is your room. Visitors permitted." He paused. "But there is one proviso."

I could see that glimmer in his eye and just the suggestion of a smirk. Rob looked at him strangely. They hadn't discussed this part of it. "OK, I'll bite. What?"

"You cannot yell or make a lot of noise during or at the end. Rob will be so horny that I may never get any rest. He will totally wear me out."

We both jumped him and tickled him until he screamed uncle. How could I be so lucky? Rob gave him a very long kiss. I told them to get a room. They looked at each other and went to bed. I think that Tony was deliberately noisy just to get me going that night. It did; I had to take care of myself to get to sleep. Tony smiled a knowing smile at me the next morning. Rob looked very relaxed and gave Tony several very intimate looks. They had had a good night. I would not be an impediment. Friday night was going to be 'interesting'.

Friday was stressful at work as we had several problems, one of them being a computer malfunction. We had to work a little later than usual. One of my coworkers commented on how happy I had been this week even working late. I just commented that life had its up and downs and this had been a great week. I was out to the office but didn't really reveal much of my private life there. The day had passed so quickly because of the problems and now I was excited about meeting Andrew and the guys.

What a difference it was walking into the club with Andrew; we had arranged to meet outside the club. We had both arrived early. It was so good to see him. I could see and he could feel the appraising looks he got from the table as we approached but as I would have guessed, it was Tony first and then Rob who were on their feet introducing themselves and giving him a hug of welcome.

Andrew looking directly at Tony, "I've heard a lot about you guys, especially you." He had just right tone of voice. Tony ate it up. Rob told him he had it right, first time. This was a guy that I did want to get know.

Tony, "I'll get you a beer. What do you want?" He looked at me. "You can get your own." Typical Tony. I had started to talk to the guys. They returned with Tony handing me my favourite draught. "Your beer! Don't expect that all the time." A great start.

I saw a new Andrew. He fitted right in with the guys. He was talking, joking and listening to them. He liked some sports and played tennis. He had a bike and liked to ride. So did I and that was one of my problems, storing the damn thing while I was at Rob's place. One of my friends had found room in his locker for the next little while. The music started and Tony got up and grabbed Andrew. Andrew looked at me and I smiled and shrugged, mouthing 'later'. I got up with Alain whose partner couldn't make it tonight. We had a few great dances. The music turned slow. I made my excuses and went up to Tony and Andrew who weren't dancing but talking and joking on the dance floor.

"Excuse me but I am going to cut in. Tony take a break." He gave me a scowl but I knew it was an act. I grabbed Andrew and without a word we started to dance. I could feel him melting into me as I was to him. I lifted my head and looked at him. "You are very handsome. I like the way you dance." I gave him a peck on the lips. His eyes looked a little dreamy as we danced. We danced some fast ones and went back to the table. I got drinks for Andrew, Rob and Tony. We had a great time.

The evening sped by, and we were making moves to leave. Andrew looked at me and very quietly said, "Paul this has been a magical evening. Thank you so much. I wish that we had somewhere to go. I would like some time with you alone."

He was being very direct and honest and I had to admit that I felt exactly the same. It was obvious that my timetable was way off, too slow but I had had an idea. "Andrew, I want our first time together as something special. I have an idea."

"I seem to remember that you have very good ideas."

"It is not totally unlike my idea a couple of weeks ago. Let's meet for lunch, go for a walk down by the river and then go out for supper. I am going to check into the Suites on Saturday."

"You devil. You were trying to go slowly."

"You really are a quick study. Yes, I didn't want this to be a rebound romance. Am I going too fast?"

"No!" He paused looking intently at me. "Paul, I knew why you didn't want to hook up that night at Matthew's place but I saw something in you that night and certainly the next day. I have given it a lot of thought and I know what I want. I like the idea that we are dating."

Getting to know each other. So far I wanted to keep on seeing him, a lot. "Sometime chance can be just plain lucky. I do too."

Lunch the next day was excellent and we seemed to relax together, looking forward to the rest of the day together and of course, thoughts of the evening were not absent from my mind. I had strong memories of our night together. It appeared that we were both of the same frame of mind; we wanted to get to know the other. I realized that my timetable had been too slow; events don't always go the way you plan. We decided on a walk by the river and then made reservations for supper at an excellent restaurant downtown not far from the Suites.

Lunch had been slow and the conversation had been diverse and interesting so we arrived at the riverside park after 2:30. We knew that we shouldn't hold hands but we walked close together lightly touching arms, hands and legs as we ambled along the riverside.

"Tell me about yourself, Andrew. Family, background."

"I come from a small town. Dad is a plumber who now owns a small plumbing contracting business employing a number of people. Mom works in the pharmacy as an assistant. I have a brother Phil, more about him later. I actually had a good upbringing. We weren't rich but we had everything that we needed. I did well in school and was encouraged to go to University by teachers and guidance counsellors. Dad had a bit of money put aside but I knew that I would have to get work and save if I wanted that; so I did. I chose business, finance and accounting because it had a possible job and good returns if I did well. If I say so myself, I have done OK." When he paused, he had a bit of rueful look.

"Why does there have to be a but? I never really connected with girls although I did have some girlfriends. I was never really interested in make out sessions but I did it because I knew that it was expected. I was naive. In my last year of high school, I realized suddenly that I was enjoying the company of my male friends more. I didn't think too much about it until one night, I had a bit too much to drink and a friend and I were horny and he suggested that we help each other." He shook his head. "Wow, it was more exciting and satisfying than any encounter with a girl. Of course, I didn't dare admit that to the friend because I knew that being a 'fag' was just about the worst thing possible. We stayed friends but we never spoke of or repeated our actions. First year University, no details, short story, I discovered that I was one of 'them'. I had a very active year. That summer I had a visit to a University 'friend's' cottage. The next week, he sent some emails to me that were very explicit. My hand was busy for several nights. Somehow my brother read them and outed me to my parents."

"My brother. He was 2 years younger and the jock. Good football player and even better at hockey. He had a girlfriend when ever he wanted one. Slacked off at school and looked down at the brains, like me. He ended up in low paying jobs and got involved in drugs but mostly drinking. Outing me was his way of levelling the home playing field. I am not an outcast because Mom and I are really close and she laid down the law to Dad and Phil. So I come home for holidays and put on a brave face but I know that a friend or partner would never be welcome. Phil likes to make derogatory comments about me and Dad doesn't even try to stop him. I just shut up and stay out of their way as much as I can and then escape. It probably explains my relationship with Matthew. I took a lot of the same coping mechanisms with me. So that is me, successful in business, making good money, have some really good friends but not the confidence or relationship skills."

"Andrew, don't sell yourself short. Maybe you haven't met the right guys. You stood up to Matthew."

"Paul, you will never know the influence you had on that."

"Please don't just replace Matthew with me. I am not like him or Peter."

"I know that you want to go slowly but in this case, I know that I want a little more." He stopped and scanned my body. He had a big smile and he stopped, looking at me. "And I know that it is not little."

We both started to laugh. I looked around. No one in sight, I gave him a big hug. I looked at my watch and commented that our reservations were in an hour and half. Did we want to go back and freshen up and dress up a bit? We did. In fact, we almost didn't make it out of the hotel. I had to be very firm with Andrew.

It was interesting to be out with another man. The waiter sized up the situation and treated us like a couple. We were both adventuresome in our ordering and we discovered a lot about our tastes and attitudes to food. Peter had always acted liked a snob and tried to show off in a restaurant. Andrew and I just liked savouring the menu and had a quiet, good natured relationship with our waiter but allowed him to keep it professional. It was a good restaurant and our waiter knew his job well. I was impressed by both of them when Andrew didn't finish his appetizer, a paté, and put his fork and knife in the four o'clock position, our waiter took one look and as he removed the plate without asking, asked Andrew if wanted something else. Andrew just simply said that it was OK, just not quite what he expected. The rest of the meal was delicious and the waiter brought a small chocolate to Andrew, compliments of the house as we had not ordered dessert. The waiter smiled broadly when Andrew used his coffee spoon to divide it with me and fed it to me.

The meal had set the tone for the rest of evening. We had an excellent meal, interesting and good conversation. Several times when our legs met under the table we let them rest there. Andrew even started to rub my leg with his. It felt great. We had decided to walk to the restaurant and as we neared the hotel, I had taken his hand and held it. He gave me the sweetest smile.

I had brought some desserts and some cognac and scotch with me when I checked in and so we sat side by side eating baklava and drinking cognac. Strange combination but it worked that night. We reviewed the day.

"Andrew, one of the nicest days that I have had in long time. Thank you."

"Paul, I cannot remember such a memorable evening. There is something that I want to give you." I looked at him with a question. As I was about to question him, he put his fingers on my lips and then replaced them with his lips. We repeated our light, erotic kisses of a couple of weeks ago. I still couldn't help thinking how incredibly erotic it was. They slowly turned into something much deeper and active. I suddenly found his hands on my face and hair. I was quickly lost in the feelings and sensuality that left me almost breathless when we broke the kiss. We both smiled at each other.

"Paul, I shall repeat what I said. I know what I want right now. I know that you wanted to go slowly and we can but right now ...."

"Andrew, you know what? I am in your hands. Do with me what you want. I trust you."

Andrew, this was the guy who seemed so embarrassed and hesitant that night at Matthew's. The guy who was chastised by the force of nature. Before I knew it, he had me out of the sitting area in the suite into the bedroom area. He had me naked and was running his fingers over my body. I had to stop him and I took off his clothes. When he was naked he held up his hand to stop us and strode over to his small carry-on bag and took out a small bag and put it on the bedside table.

I looked at him cocking my head in a question. "That is my Boy Scout kit. You know, 'Be Prepared'."

I went over to my suitcase and took out a bag. "Never a Boy Scout but this is my 'just in case bag'. I'll open yours if you will open mine."

By this time we were both smiling. I gave him mine and I picked up his. "OK, open them at the same time." We both started to chuckle. Each of us had included a bottle of lube and a huge box of condoms."

Andrew, "Man, we could stay here for a long time."

"You know we don't have ...."

He interjected. "Let's see where the mood takes us." That really got me laughing.

Strangely the whole interlude had no effect on us physically. Actually, maybe it did. I may have been even harder than when we started. I grabbed him and forced him onto his stomach on the bed. I could see my prize and I wanted it. I kissed his neck and then let my hands slowly move down his body massaging and lightly touching him until I reached his ass. I fingered it. He moaned. I ran my fingers up and down his crack. He moaned louder. I leaned over and kissed and licked him. Finally, in total rapture myself, I started to let my tongue go slowly up and down his crack. I spread his legs further apart and my tongue found his entrance. The moans were now mixed with guttural sounds in his throat and when my tongue pushed in, I had to use my hands to hold his body still. He was very vocal. Erotic? I was so hard it hurt. I lay in top of him and had him turn his head so that I could kiss him.

He pushed up and I found myself on my side looking at him. Without stopping he had my cock in his mouth licking and sucking me. I just gave into the sensations and marvelled at my feelings. He stopped and looked at me. "Paul, I know where the mood has taken me." He grabbed his box of condoms and lube and looked at me.

"Your choice big guy."

Before I knew it, I had a lubed condom on me and a beautiful man on his back with his knees up and spread. What can I say, I have not had such a meaningful experience in a long time. After I opened him up, he pulled me down to kiss him. It left me right at his entrance. With just a bit of guidance from his hand, my head popped past the first muscle. Just feeling him surround me and feeling his body pulsing could almost have finished me but he distracted me with his kisses. My body could feel everything as his body reacted and I knew that this time was going to be fast. Before I knew it, I was moaning, kissing him and filling the condom. My body was racked with sensations that I had felt before but they seemed to me to be amplified. Unlike many times when I finished and didn't want to do anything more, I wanted him in me. When I could finally think rationally, still in him, I reached for the condoms and lube.

"Andrew, I want you in me now." He looked at me surprised. I came out stripped off the condom and put one on him. I gave him a pleading look and soon he was on me and moving in and out. I flexed my muscles as he set his rhythm and his moans just encouraged me more. I finally felt his rhythm change. His eyes grew large and luminous as his face reacted to the what must have seemed like electrical currents coursing through him. I heard him mutter my name. I could feel his many contractions. Surprised even at myself, I realized that I was hard again. He came out of me and took me in his mouth and finished me for a second time. I had to move him off of me I was so sensitive.

I grabbed him holding him tight to me as we stroked each others bodies and kissed. We eventually fell asleep. I awoke the next morning with my arms around Andrew with his soft sounds of sleep filling the room. I realized that some of the closeness had disappeared between Peter and me over the last months and I suddenly realized how much I missed it. I realized that at sometime in the last months Peter had disengaged from me. I wasn't blaming him but I realized yet again that I had never been in love with him. We enjoyed each others company but not much more. Maybe that was the way of life and relationships but somehow even now at the beginning, I felt different about Andrew. I wanted to be close; I wanted to share with him. I knew that if we were to start a relationship, I was going to put my cards on the table. I had wanted to go slowly but the timetable had to be set by the two of us together. I realized that we had really done that. We had taken each others feelings into account but had also pushed what we each wanted. My mind wandered and I even began to formulate some of the things that I wanted to say to him.

However, there were more pressing issues. I needed to go to the bathroom, badly. In addition, I seemed to have a part of my body that was very hard and in need of some attention. I raised my head and looked over Andrew. He was in the same condition. I moved slowly and quietly. When I returned, there were two open eyes taking in my body, a big smile on someone's face and a very erect cock sticking provocatively up under the sheet. Subtle but hiding nothing.

He stood up naked and erect. "Paul, I need two things, the toilet and then you. Be back in a flash."

Needless to say we didn't get up out of bed for quite a while after he came back. We both needed to shower after we 'dealt' with each other. I hadn't taken a shower with anyone for a long time. It was erotic and fun. I insisted that we use the shower as foreplay and that it was time for breakfast. Andrew complained comically but said that he understood the wisdom of delayed gratification.

With that in mind, breakfast was fun with each of us trying to touch the other without drawing attention. I had never had someone take off their shoe and caress my thighs and other things with their foot. I told him that this was going to prolong delayed gratification because I could not stand up to leave the restaurant. He just laughed at me and told me that waiting in that case was OK with him.

So I used that as my time to say some things. "Andrew, using your definition, I want to continue dating." That got a big smile and an affirmative shake of his head. "I just want you to know that when I date, I am only with that one person. Actually, I realize now that I feel the same way about a partnership." I was trying to learn from my recent mistakes.

I got a frown from Andrew. My heart skipped a beat. "Damn, are you telling me that I have to be monogamous." He screwed up his face. "Only you?" He rolled his eyes.

I was sure that I saw just the vague hint of a grin. This was the new Andrew that I really liked. He could put me in my place but he could agree with me in such a delightful way. "Don't roll your eyes at me!" He did it again. I glimpsed the hidden smile. "Once more and you get smacked on the ass." I could only see the whites of his eyes this time. I stood up now mostly deflated. "OK back to the room for your punishment."

"Who said it would be a punishment?" The bugger leered at me.

We jostled each other playfully as we made our way back to our room. I decided to play this a little rougher and so I grabbed him as we entered. I was so quick that before he knew it I had his belt undone and pants and shorts to his knees. He stepped out of them as I pushed him into the room so that we could see each other in the mirror of the closet. I pulled up a chair and forced him over my knees. The first smack was soft and the next was a little harder. He was watching, looking intently at me. Then his head switched so that he could us in the mirror. I then started to softy but firmly spank him. I could see his ass getting redder and his eyes started to shine. As I hoped, he was hard. I leaned over and saw what I wanted. He turned his head and his face was a mask of lust. We kissed. These kisses were not soft and gentle. We invaded each others mouths. I forced him up and started to suck him, eventually putting a finger in him. In less than five minutes, he had my face and chest covered with semen. He quickly knelt in front of me swallowing me completely. His face and chest was covered in less than 2 minutes. We kissed each other combining our tastes.

We must have drifted off to sleep again because I suddenly became conscious that Andrew had his arms around me and was snuggled up close. My movement woke him. I turned and looked at him.

"It appears that we are making up for lost time. That or you are the horniest bugger I have ever met." He was hard again.

"From my vantage point, we seem to be evenly matched." He looked down at my erection.

"Andrew, I think that it is lunch time and I know a really fine bistro close to here. I can wait if you can."

"I always like a challenge. Lunch it is."

After coffee, Andrew looked at me. "You haven't told me about your background. I suspect that it is a little different than mine."

"Yes and no. I knew that I liked men from early on. Like you, I knew that it would be devastating for the information to get out. I horsed around with a few guys in grade 9 and 10 but once dating started, I kept to myself. Went out on double dates with friends, even went to the Prom with a girl I knew.

I ended up repressed, with little experience in my first year at University and like you it was a great time of discovery. Had a few guys that I teamed up for a few months but never really got close. In my second year over Christmas, my mother was very interested in my love life, you know, the girls I was meeting and what I was doing at New Years. In fact, I was going back to a party of guys, some couples but lots of singles. She became fairly insistent and intrusive even, so I finally told her that there would be no women in my life. They were disappointed but at first, I thought that they accepted my decision. They still attended the local Catholic church and I came to think that they were never really reconciled to my orientation. We sort of dropped it. I guess they were embarrassed and I didn't want to rock the boat. They never asked again about my relationships and certainly never suggested that I bring someone home with me. My sister, Anne, was much more sympathetic and we became very close. Dad is a dentist and Mom works in the public service so money has never been an issue. I moved to the city so I go back for holidays and spend some time at the cottage but always by myself. For some reason, I never pressed the issue when Peter and I hooked up. I guess it was a sign that neither of us were totally committed. All of it sort of sad in a way. They do follow my career and are proud of what I have done but ...."

We chatted about our situations.

Andrew looked me, "So we are dating. What does that mean exactly?"

"I guess we have to decide that together."

We talked a lot about that over the next hour. I decided to try out Andrew's gym which was closer to my work. We decided that we had to get know each others friends. We set up a schedule as to when we would meet and set up some plans for the following week. As the week progressed, we saw each other and became very comfortable with each other. We went dancing with Rob and Tony on Friday night. I couldn't believe how much I enjoyed the evening and how totally at ease I felt with Andrew. During our last dance, I told him about Tony making the point that my room was my room. Andrew looked at me and told me that he was so ready right now that he would like to do it. I told him of Tony's proviso. He broke out laughing on the dance floor. It felt great. We were fairly quiet that night. I got a lovely smile from Rob the next morning and Tony whispered that he was really happy for me.

We saw each other a lot over the next few weeks. Sometimes we went back to Rob's; sometimes, we didn't. I found that I really missed him on those days that we didn't see each other. It wasn't the sex; I just missed our being together, being part of each others lives. One evening over supper, I mentioned that I had tickets for the Ballet next Thursday.

"Paul, I know nothing about ballet or classical music for that matter."

"Is that a no?"

"I just wanted to tell you that I would be a total neophyte."

"Andrew, I love ballet. This is the National Ballet of Canada's new 2011 production of Romeo and Juliet danced to the Prokofiev score. It is one of my favourite pieces of music. The new production was considered a great success. Prokofiev is a 20th century composer; his music is modern but lyrical at the same time."

"I find out more and more about you all the time. If you will take me, I promise not to embarrass you with my lack of understanding."

"Andrew, all you have to do is sit back, immerse yourself and let yourself be embraced by the dancing, acting and the music. Maybe this will be your moment like Julia Roberts at the Opera in Pretty Woman." I shrugged my shoulders and smiled.

"Don't expect tears over a ballet from me." I shrugged and smiled again.

The week passed quickly and we were suddenly at supper at the Centre for the Arts' restaurant. It was interesting that Andrew was nervous because he didn't want to disappoint me. He looked smashing in his casually elegant open shirt, form fitting pants and smart new dress jacket. Supper was as usual very good and we were very quickly in our seats. I had bought the tickets months ago and we had seats very close to the stage. The conductor raised his baton and the opening notes sounded. I reached over and squeezed Andrew's hand. He smiled that lovely smile. I was captivated. A couple of times I looked over at him and he seemed totally engaged with the music and the dancing. He laughed at the humour in some of the dancing in the crowd scenes. I could see him react to the theme music that runs through the score. Suddenly, it was sudden to me, the curtain closed on the first act.

I looked at him. "Paul, I would never have guessed that the music and dancing could have such an incredible effect on me."

"You liked it?"

"Blown away would be a better word."

We moved out to the lobby and got a drink from the bar. I saw some friends over at the side and we joined them. Of course, the talk was all about the performance. I was surprised by Andrew's insightful comments about the how the age of Romeo and Juliet were so much closer to what he had always thought they should be, in their teens. He commented on the incredible ensemble dancing of some of the men in the town centre scenes. I was impressed but said nothing. We spent the second act intermission by ourselves. I watched him in the third act and final act which moves quickly and does some really interesting things to tell the story in dance. He was entranced. The ending was quick, incredibly poignant but not maudlin. I sat mesmerized as the curtain came down. I felt Andrew put his hand in mine. I looked at him. I was astonished when I saw that his eyes were moist and he was clearly trying to control his emotions.

As we stood with the audience for a standing ovation that was spontaneous, he whispered thank you to me. As we clapped, I saw him wipe his eyes quickly trying to make it look as if he had something in his eye. It was at that point that I knew that Andrew and I were going to become closer much faster. It was a defining moment. I realized that Peter had only gone to the ballet to be seen and to talk to friends. I realized yet again that Peter and I had had little deep emotional attachment. I also made up my mind on another matter that I had let slide because I was wondering if I would be acting too fast or too soon.

Needless to say, the drive to Rob's place was filled with exited comments about the production, music and dancing. We made love slowly and passionately that night almost as if we were the star crossed lovers.

Andrew was like a kid about the performance the next morning over breakfast. Tony and Rob couldn't get a word in over Andrew's enthusiasm. As we left, we made arrangements for supper at a pub that night. The day went slowly as I prepared for what I was going to suggest to Andrew. He was already at a table when I came in.

We reviewed our day and more comments about the previous evening which brought legs against each other. I decided not to give a lot of preamble. "Andrew, I have an idea and a suggestion. Dave, the fellow who rents my condo, has found a place and my condo will be free at the beginning of July. You haven't found a place to live. Would you consider my place ... if you are interested? It has two bedrooms and is quite comfortable but it needs a bit of work." I stopped and looked at him. He was absolutely still, looking at me. He didn't say a thing. "Ah shit, I am going too fast?"

"Would I consider? Would I be interested? Too fast? Let's see ... yes, yes and a definite no." He paused with a goofy grin. "You bloody well took me by surprise. I have one proviso, a deal breaker."

I gave him a frown with a questioning look. He looked at me. He pursed his lips. "One bedroom and one study with a sofa bed for guests or family, only." Now I had the goofy grin. That was it; we were living together. I guess my go slowly timetable was shot to hell and I was overjoyed.

Author's Note

There is another chapter coming after the proofreading etc. is finished. I hope to publish next Thursday or Friday.

Let me know your thoughts on this chapter preecherdave@gmail.com

If you liked this story, you might want to read the others that I have published on Nifty. In particular, Unexpected Change which has had the most positive comments and one of my favourites, Getting My Act Together.

Unexpected Change, Nifty, College, April 16, 2011 Friendship, Nifty, Adult Friends, May 20, 2011 Surprising Last Year at University, Nifty, College, June 9, 2011 Murder Changed My Life, Nifty, Beginnings, July 8, 2011 What is Love?, Nifty, Beginnings, August 31, 2011 Getting My Act Together, Nifty, Adult-Friends, November 10, 2011 Surprised, Nifty, Adult-Friends, January 14, 2012 Surprised Eric and Dave, Beginnings, February 10, 2012 Surprised Graham and Robert, Nifty, Adult-Friends, March 22, 2012 What a Difference a Year Makes, Nifty, Adult-Friends, September 13, 2012 Discoveries, Nifty, Beginnings, November 1, 2012 Introspection, Nifty, April, 2013