My long-range forecast -- chapter 35
Greetings to all of you Nifty readers. I hope everyone had a nice weekend and that this chapter finds you all well and enjoying the transition to Fall. I continue to rewrite and write more chapters of this story and I'm seeking any suggestions, constructive criticms or positive feedback you have about the story. Please send information to cjwilson328@aol.com. For those if you who have already reached out to me - my thanks! I'm working your ideas into future storylines.
CJ's family packs up to return to Ohio, and CJ and the gang receives bad news concerning one of their circle. Stay tuned for the next chapter when CJ takes on his new assignment at the television station.
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Everyone got a good night sleep, and we met at 8:00 to head for breakfast at the diner. Tami was working, and welcomed us all in. She put several tables together for us, and gave us each a menu. She said "I'm going to bring the table water and coffee. I'll take orders for juices and food when I return."
After we made our orders, I said to everyone "this has been a beautiful week everyone. I want to thank you all for the birthday gifts, the surprise party, the great luncheon for the channel 2 staff and just for being here. It's meant so much to me, and I'm so happy that you can all see me in my new adventures in St Petersburg, Florida. Everyone is welcome to come here for a vacation, and don't worry I'll make my way back to Ohio every so often." UD then spoke up and said "CJ, Wally, Ronny and Alex thank you all for the hospitality, the outstanding company, your generosity and most of all joining us in this family event. I hope we can do this annually, and I want to see you four annually in Cincinnati if your schedules permit. We love you all, and I wish everyone at this table nothing but good health, happiness and a life full of adventures today and in the future. I even wish that for Josh, Maddie!" UD, Aunt Sally and I cracked up on that and I've never seen Maddie blush so much in her life! She said "he's just a friend dad! I'm glad I got to meet him this week, and I plan to stay in contact with him!" I leaned over to Aunt Sally and said "start planning the wedding now." She put her hand on my shoulder and we both had a good laugh.
Our breakfast was wonderful and everyone was satisfied. Kurt came out to the table and wished my family safe travels. We all decided it was time to go back to the condo, and do some final packing. I took the opportunity to move my clothing back to our place, and Ronny did the same. Aunt Sally came up to me and said "we're leaving you with such a mess, can I throw a load of laundry in for you before leaving?" I said "nonsense Aunt Sally. It's all good, and Ronny and I have the afternoon free to attend to laundry. I'm also going to go through all the presents and get those put away. Don't worry, I'm going to keep a list of who got me what. I'll send thank you notes to everyone. Thank you for all you have done for me this week. I love all of your special touches to the place!" She said "let me show you one more thing I added." We went into the master bedroom closet, and I saw two wicker laundry hampers. She said "Ronny has two as well in his closet. One for your good dress shirts, and the other for casual clothes. Their easy to move to the laundry area for sorting then." I looked at her and said "thank you so much! I had it on my list to get laundry baskets, and I love these! Where did you find them?" She gave me the store name and I said "oh, that's where I got the throw rugs for the patio area. They look so nice compared to standard old plastic laundry baskets." I liked her idea of two for each of us, but my wheels are already turning that I need at least two more for our foursome!
The time went by quickly and soon it was noon. UD said "okay ladies, time to pack up the SUV and head to Sarasota. Wally, Ronny and Alex began carrying luggage down to the SUV. Once everyone was at the SUV and made sure they had everything, our departure hugs, kisses and warm sentiments began. UD came up to me and said "I get to see you again in a month! Thank you again for the generous offer, and I'll get everything squared away with Jack on travel plans. I love you CJ and good luck with your new duties this week. I'll be watching you and sending all my positive energy to you!" I pulled UD in for a hug and said "I love you UD, and thank you so much for everything this week." I did the same with Aunt Sally and the girls, and Wally, Ronny and Alex repeated the process with each of the family members. The four of us waved goodbye as they exited the condo complex.
I turned to my circle of three and said "thank you gentlemen, we survived the week!" I brought us in for a group hug, and said "I cannot thank you each enough for your sacrifices this week and I love you all for everything you did for my family and myself this past week." Alex smiled, giggled and said "I enjoyed every minute of it CJ, and I will do the same for any of us again when needed." Ronny and Wally concurred with Alex and we all went back up to the condo.
When we got back into the condo I said "what time is Bailey coming over Alex?" Alex replied saying "he will be here around 3:00." I said "okay, I'm going to start some laundry and tackle my gift pile. I'd like to get everything put away today if possible." Wally said "I'll join you there CJ and get my gifts opened as well. I said "Ronny, I'm going to start a load of dress shirts first, if you get me yours, I'll wash them all at once." I went into the closet and placed my dirty shirts into a wicker hamper. I took it out to the living room and said "hey everyone, Sally got two of these laundry baskets for each closet. She was thinking one for dress shirts, and one for casual clothes. I like these versus a plastic laundry basket. Can we each survive with one, or do you think we should get four more allowing for two for each of us? Alex spoke up and said "those are nice. I think we should get four more and each have two." All agreed, and I said "okay, Alex and I will get four more sometime this week." Ronny got me his shirts, and I began a load of laundry.
I said "I promised Bailey some dinner. How about we keep it simple with burgers and brats, with some sides?" Alex said "sounds great chief! Ronny and I will take inventory here and go to the store. Come on stud muffin, I need your help!" Ronny grinned and tagged along with his man to their bedroom. It was good to see the four of us getting back into our normal routine.
About twenty minutes later, Alex and Ronny returned with dirty sheets and towels in one of the hampers. He sat them by the laundry and said "we stripped both beds, and I folded the murphy bed up for now. Our bed is remade and we put clean towels out for us. I smiled and said "sounds good Alex, Wally and I will do the same shortly. Don't put any alcohol on the grocery list until he and I get through our stash. I think we'll have plenty to get us through to the holidays!" Alex made a quick grocery list and said "my stud muffin and I will return with grocery supplies for today and the week. Does anyone want anything special?" Wally said "make sure we have coffee, and will you restock us on some fresh fruit?" Alex said "roger boss! Coffee and fresh fruit. CJ, any requests from you?" I said "I'm good for now Alex, we can go later this week if needed now that our schedule is going back to normal!"
Wally and I went into our bedroom and changed sheets, removed the used towels, put clean towels out and made the bed with clean sheets. I smiled at my man and said "hey you big stud, I love you!" He looked over at me and said "I love you more! Let's go tackle that gift pile now my love." I smiled at him and said "I think we'll need a beer to tackle that!" He cracked up and said "okay, that sounds great CJ. I'll also get a tablet so we can write down names and gifts which were given to us. There are a number of nice things out there, and I want to get thank you notes out to everyone." I told him "Yeah, I want to do that as well Wally."
Wally poured us two beers, and we sat down in the living room. The girls had kept two distinct piles, but there were some gifts also mixed in for Ronny and Alex. We took turns opening gifts, and it felt like Wally and I were kids sitting under a Christmas tree opening all of our presents from Santa Claus! I looked at him and said "what do you think about those jerseys Laura got us, and the suite for opening day with the Buccaneers?" He smiled and said "the jerseys are fantastic, and I'm looking forward to NFL opening day at Raymund James Stadium. That will be a very fun day. I'm so glad you were thinking on your feet and invited UD and Jack. That's so nice of you CJ to accept him and Jack. I know it means a lot to UD." I said "yes, I know it does. He's my uncle Wally, and I will never turn my back on him. He's done so much for me in my life, and is accepting us as we are. I plan to reciprocate his acceptance, even though I feel he needed to deal with his feelings earlier in his life." Wally smiled and said "let it go CJ. He did what he thought was best at the time. Just be accepting as you are doing, and move forward with him. It could have ended up going worse for both of you." I smiled and said "thanks Dr. Wally. I know it could have gone far worse. It's best just to keep a positive attitude, and look forward!"
I opened a gift from Ronny. It turned out to be a beer tap with the Maumee College logo and mascot. I said "Wally, look at this gift from Ronny. It's a beer tap with the Maumee College logo and mascot!" Wally said "that's great, we need to put that on the kegerator today." Wally got to Ronny's gift next and he opened the framed shirt first. He said "wow CJ, look at this. Ronny got me an autographed jersey from Baker Mayfield." I smiled and said "that's very nice babe. We need to put that up in the office." Wally opened the other box from Ronny and said "oh wow, a signed football from Baker also! This is so kick-ass!" I grinned at him and said "that needs to go into the office also Wally. What nice gifts from him!"
Ronny and Alex walked into the door and Alex said "grocery dudes are back! AWE, you are opening gifts and we're not getting to see them!" I said "not to worry stud, we still have plenty more to open and you two have some to open as well. We'll take a break and I'll hang the shirts to dry, and put another load of laundry in. You two put the groceries away and grab a beer. We'll continue when everyone is ready." Wally said "I'll get you two a beer." Ronny said "hey Wally do me a favor and fill up a pitcher with some of the beer. I want to soak the brats before cooking them."
We all reconvened in the living room and I said "Ronny, thank you so much for the Muskie beer tap! It's going to look fantastic on the kegerator." Wally got up and gave him a hug and said "thank you so much for the autographed jersey and football from Baker. I love them, and I want to put both of them in the office so that we can all admire and enjoy them." I told Alex and Ronny "we're keeping lists of gifts and who gave them for thank you notes. Let me know if you want any names added to the list as well. I can't believe all these gifts that people gave us. It was such a nice evening, and I still cannot believe how well Alex and Aunt Sally pulled the entire event off!" Alex smiled, giggled and said "well, your aunt contacted me two weeks in advance of the trip! She called the condo office and asked for my name and number. We were planning it well in advance of their arrival!"
I handed Alex a very heavy box and said this is from Aunt Sally. He ripped into the wrapping paper and said "oh man, this is the cooking set I was admiring when she and I were shopping." I looked at it and said "that looks great Alex! Our frying pans have seen better days. If you don't mind, we can get rid of some of those and start using your new set?" He said "yes CJ, let's start using this new set and it will remind us of your aunt every time we use them."
I opened a box from Ken Blake next. It was a beer tap set featuring the logos and mascots for the Buccaneers, Lightning and Rays. I said "hey look everyone, this is from Ken Blake. He is the guy who let me look at his patio for inspiration ideas. It's a three-tap beer set with the logos and mascots from the three Tampa Bay sports teams." Ronny said "that is nice CJ. Now we can alternate keg taps for the appropriate seasons and use the Muskies tap for basketball season!
I opened a large box from Aaron next. It turned out to be a nautical themed picture in the faded blue grey color which will look great on the patio. The picture had a large colorful parrot on the left side of it, and it said "The Party Porch -- It's Always Happy Hour Here!" I turned it around and said "hey guys, look at this from Aaron." Wally said "that's going to look great on the patio CJ!" Alex smiled and said "I'll get that hung up for us CJ. We'll need to pick out a good spot for it."
The next box I opened was from Ronny and inside I found four wireless speakers. I said "thanks Ronny, where are you thinking these should go?" He smiled at me and said "my better half suggested those for you." Alex chimed in and said "those will mount on the patio CJ. Two over the kegerator, and two for the L intersection. They will hook into the television, and we can hear a music channel all over the patio now." I said "ah, perfect! I did not even think of that Alex. Thanks to both of you -- another kick-ass addition for the party porch!"
Wally opened his next gift from UD. It was a very rich looking humidor with a sterling nameplate on it. The inscription read "To my new son Wally. I welcome you to the family son, and please take care of CJ. All my love, UD." Wally broke down in tears and I went over to him. I read the inscription as well, and my tears began to flow as well. He looked at me and said "he's really accepting us, isn't he?" I nodded my head yes and gave him a hug. Alex got up and got us a box of tissues. We both used some to wipe the tears away, and Alex said "okay you two, those better be tears of joy! Come on now, we still have more to open and we have a guest coming in an hour." Wally cracked up, looked at Alex and said "okay general, I'm ready to continue on!"
We finished up opening all of the remaining gifts. Between all of us we received 28 bottles of wine, 25 bottles of various liquors, six boxes of cigars, several dart board replacement sets, numerous gift cards to various stores in the area, two sets of four tickets to upcoming Rays games versus the Yankees and Mariners and several beach themed pictures for the condo. Maddie and Josie got us each a Maumee Muskie hooded sweatshirt for the cooler mornings on the patio or beach. Angela surprised me with four pictures: One was a large collage of various shots from my first two weeks at work; the second was an 8x10 of Alex and me at the beach with the sombrero and large ass sunglasses; the third was another 8x10 of Wally and me at the pier; and the fourth was an 8x10 of Ronny and me in the newsroom. I said "look at these pictures Angela gave me. These are so nice, and the frames match the pictures from Bailey. Any suggestions for placement guys? The office is already getting overloaded!" Ronny said "hey CJ, what about a collage under the television on the patio. We'll put your large collage in the center top, my large picture of you, Bailey and me under it, and surround those two with the 8x10's?" I said "that will look great Ronny, and fill out that wall very nice. Great idea! Alex, you're going to be very busy this week!" He smiled, did his nervous giggle and said "someone has got to keep this place afloat! My work here is never done!" We all cracked up on his comedy, and began gathering all of the wrapping paper and boxes up for disposal.
We came back up from the recycling bin and I said "hey Ronny and Alex, I got two great ideas from Aunt Sally and I want to proceed on them if you two are okay with it. The first is to add a screen door with the front door. When the weather gets cooler, and we don't need to run the air conditioning so much we can open the sliding doors and the front door. That will allow a nice cross draft to occur in the living area." Alex said "I love it, and a number of residents have done that. It will look great."
Wally and I ran the pantry idea by her and UD. They both said for us to proceed as they saw it as a tremendous value add. Sally suggested that once the pantry is finished, we eliminate one of the lower cabinets and put a small wine chiller in there. We have electric down there with the sink garbage disposal, and given that we need to store 28 bottles of wine someplace I think that is a great idea. Ronny looked at the two cabinets and said "yeah, that is a great idea. We'll move the food to the pantry, and have a wine chiller in here now. I like both ideas CJ. Let's add those to the list along with the closet storage units! We have plenty of honey-do items for the fall!" Alex said "speaking of the closet organizers, I forgot to mention everything came in on those and I have everything in my workshop. Maybe we can tackle one of the closets next weekend?" Everyone agreed, and we exchanged fist bumps amongst us.
It was getting close to 3:00 and I asked Alex "are you ready for a figure if Bailey asks you how much to buy your place?" Alex said "yes, I'm all set with everything. I'm going to tell him $3,000 a month for rental which will cover my mortgage, HOA and all utilities, or he can purchase for $350,000 which is a steal for the area. The last condo which was sold in this complex went for $450,000." I smiled and said "Yes, it is a steal my friend. I saw some condos just down the street going for over $800,000. I'm anxious to hear what he is thinking. Don't worry Alex, it's all going to go well."
Bailey knocked on the door about 10 minutes later. I answered the door and said "hey there boss man, how are you doing?" I could tell that Bailey was not in his usual jovial mood. He replied "hey CJ, how are you today?" I said "Bailey my friend, what is wrong? I can tell something is bugging the hell out of you. You don't need to look at the condo today." He smiled and said "yes, I do. I need to get my mind on other things today." He and I went to the breakfast bar and he said "Jesus, how much are you guys planning to drink today" as he looked at all the wine and alcohol on the living room coffee table. I said "those are part of our gifts from the Friday night party. Can I get you a drink?" He said "yeah, just a beer today. I'm expecting a call from Aaron soon. I've got to share some bad news with all of you." Wally, Ronny and Alex came closer when they heard this, and Alex grabbed a glass and went to get Bailey a beer.
Upon Alex's return, Bailey took a drink and said "I got a call from Aaron this morning. His father passed away early this morning from a massive heart attack. I just left him about 15 minutes ago, as two of his aunts arrived. I thought I should give them some family time together." I said "oh man Bailey, what can we do to help?" He cracked up at me and said "once again, you're first in line offering help CJ. I'm not sure what he needs yet. His first words to me this morning was get me out of the house, there's too many memories there. I don't want to overreact on those words, but if he doesn't want to stay at that house, I understand and I'll help him out there. I think we just all need to be there for Aaron now guys. He thinks of all of you as dear friends, and he's going to need all of us moving forward." Wally chimed in and said "whatever he needs Bailey, we'll help out." Alex and Ronny agreed with Wally.
Bailey took another drink and said "first thing you can do is show me your condo Alex. I received a good sales contract I was not expecting on my house and I'm going to take it. They want to close in 30 days with no inspection and above asking price. So, gents I need someplace quick. If Aaron is serious about leaving his home, we'll make a new home together in our condo. Guys, Aaron and I are a couple. CJ is aware of it, and it's still early for us in our relationship. I've been bisexual for over 20 years. My marriage ended when I was 28 with a bitter bitchy ex-wife, and a daughter who only sees me now when she needs money. I have strong feelings for Aaron, and they are growing stronger each day. I love him, and I want to build a future with him. I'm not sure if this latest incident will change anything for him, but I feel it's going to make us stronger together."
Bailey took another drink and said "I like the complex here; I consider all of you friends and I want to make a change to a different life style. I want someplace where I can relax, play tennis, swim, work out and be close to the beach. The only other two requirements are someplace where I can be myself and that I can extend to my new love and build a solid relationship with him if he will allow me to." By this time Wally, Alex and Ronny had tears in their eyes, and I retrieved the box of tissues from earlier. They all took a tissue and I did as well. I grabbed Bailey's hand and said "Bailey, we're all here for you and Aaron! Whatever you both need, we'll help in any way we can!" Bailey smiled, took a look at each of us and said "thanks guys, I hope I have not blown my image with any of you today!" Ronny, Wally and Alex gave Bailey a hug, and kiss on his cheek. Alex said "on behalf of all of us Bailey, welcome to the complex. We're here for you and Aaron, and you're part of our circle now. We'll have your back covered, and we hope you'll have our backs covered as well." Bailey smiled and replied "thanks guys, you're all wonderful and I look forward to being included in the circle. I promise you all that I have your backs covered, and I look forward to our friendship, love for each other and mutual respect continue to grow today and every day in our future!" He finished the rest of his beer, and said "let's go see this condo. I want all of you to come and give me your ideas for improvements which can be made." Alex smiled and said "we'll all be happy to go with you Bailey. Do you want another beer for the tour?" He said "yes, Alex that sounds great!"
Alex returned with beers for all of us. Just as he sat the tray on the breakfast bar, Bailey's phone rang. He looked at the ID and it was Aaron. He answered it and said "hey Aaron, are you okay and do you need me to come over?" He left Aaron respond and said "okay, I'll be over and we'll come back here baby. I'm with them now, and they all want to see you if you're up to it?" Aaron responded again Bailey said "no I have not looked at it yet. I'll be right over, and then we'll look at it together sweetheart. Are your aunts going to help you with the funeral plans?" Bailey soon said "okay Aaron, I'll be right there. I love you sweetheart, and we're all here for you."
Bailey said to all of us "can we postpone the tour for 30 minutes? Aaron wants to come over as his aunts just left. They are coming back tomorrow morning to help him plan the funeral. He wants to see all of you, and he's serious guys about his house. He wants to leave there and start a new life with me." At that point Bailey started balling his head off, and we all grabbed him. I said "Bailey, let me drive you over and we'll get Aaron and come back here. Is that okay?" Bailey smiled and said "I'd appreciate that CJ."
I looked at Alex, Ronny and Wally and said "why don't you three get some food ready? Maybe we can get Aaron to eat something. Bailey, are you hungry?" Bailey looked at me and said "yes, I have not eaten all day and I don't think Aaron has either. We need to get something in our system soon." Alex took charge with the food, and I grabbed my keys. I said "come on Bailey, let's go pick up your man and get you two back here."
Bailey and I headed for Aaron's house. When we pulled into the driveway Bailey took my hand said "thank you CJ. I needed you to kick in and help me today. I'll be strong for Aaron, but this is all hitting me hard today." I smiled and said "that is understandable Bailey. I know Aaron has touched you deep, and when you see him down, you're down also! Like we discussed earlier, we're all here for you two -- whatever you need."
We walked up to the door and Aaron was waiting there for us. I went in and gave him a hug. He broke down in tears and said "thank you my friend for being here." I said "all of us are here for you in whatever you need. Let us help you get through your difficult times ahead. We all love you, Aaron." He looked at me and said "can we get out of here? I need to be away from the memories and the vision of finding dad collapsed this morning." I said "yes, we're going to take you back to the condo. Alex and the guys are fixing us something to eat. Do you think you can eat something?" Aaron nodded his head yes, and said "I'm ready to go if you two are." Bailey grabbed him, kissed him and said "we're here for you sweetheart. You just tell us what you need." We went back to the jeep, and Bailey got in the back seat with him to hold him on the way back to the condo. I jumped in the driver's seat, and started the jeep up for our return trip.
We got back to the complex and went up to our condo. I opened the door, and Aaron went in first followed by Bailey and me. The guys were out on the patio, and Wally saw us come in. We went out on the patio, and Wally, Alex and Ronny all gave Aaron a hug and kiss. Nothing was said, and I knew Aaron was assured we were all there for whatever he needed. I saw that someone had hung Aaron's sign on the patio above the dining table. After he released Ronny, he saw the sign and said "ah, thanks for hanging that already. Every time I see that parrot, I fall in love with it more." I went to Aaron and said "I love the gift -- thank you so much. It fits in with the patio so well, and even though you don't feel happy today eventually your pain will lessen and the meaning of the sign will return to you. Can you eat something for us?" Aaron said "yes, I think I can. I have a bad headache, and maybe some food will help." Alex spoke up and said I have some burgers and brats cooking Aaron, which sound better to you?" He smiled and said "let me start with a burger Alex." Bailey said "what can I get you to drink sweetheart?" Aaron looked at him and said "Bailey, watch what you're saying." He smiled at Aaron and said "it's okay Aaron. They all know about us, and we know about all of them. We're all here together in a special bond formed with friendship, love and mutual respect for each other. We don't need to hide any more around our group baby!" Aaron said "okay, thanks everyone. I need you all now, and thanks for being here with me today. Can I get some water and a beer maybe?" Ronny smiled and said "I'll get some water for everyone and beer refills for us."
Aaron was able to eat a loaded cheeseburger, some pasta salad and a bowl of freshly cut up fruit. He smiled and said "thanks everyone, that tasted good and my headache is feeling better." Alex smiled and said "we have more burgers and brats if you want something else in a while Aaron." I asked Aaron "do you mind if I ask you a question about your dad, Aaron?" He said "no CJ, I can talk about him. I still feel that he is with me." I smiled and said "he is looking at you with pride Aaron, and wishing you happiness and love every day of your life. Did he have a history of heart problems or has he been sick recently?"
Aaron said "he has always been healthy, but he was working a lot of overtime recently. He was awfully tired lately, but I was blaming that on his work schedule. I woke up this morning and found him at the dinner table with a cup of coffee. He was talking to me and said he had a tightness in his chest and neck area. I told him I was going to call the paramedics, and he said not to as it had eased up since he got up. I left him to go and get a BP cup which we had in the bathroom, and when I returned, I found him on the dining room floor passed out. I checked and could not get a pulse on him, so I called the paramedics and began CPR on him." Bailey put both of his hands on Aarons shoulders and Aaron continued on saying "The paramedics arrived and I left them in saying I had been performing CPR since I originally called. They could not get a pulse either, and continued with CPR and oxygen on him. They put patches all over his chest, and could not get any standard rhythm. He was shocked twice, but nothing happened. The one paramedic gave him an injection of some drug, and shocked him again. He did not respond to any treatment at the house, so they continued CPR and loaded him in the ambulance. I went with the ambulance, and the ER doctor pronounced him dead shortly after we arrived as the hospital staff could not revive him either." Aaron took a drink and continued saying "I stayed at the hospital filling out several forms. I then called Bailey, and asked him to come and pick me up there."
I wiped a few tears from my eyes and said "I'm sorry for prying Aaron, you can tell me to back off anytime you need to." He smiled at me and said "that was the easiest question I've had today, CJ. My aunts were all over my ass with questions I did not have the answers to. I'm glad they did not insist on staying with me tonight, as I cannot handle them. The doctor suggested I have an autopsy be performed on dad, and that is occurring yet today. I should have the results tomorrow. I decided to have the autopsy performed as one of my friends went through a very similar situation earlier this year. He had a rough time with the insurance companies on an unknown cause of death. I do not want to go through any of the bullshit he went through, and I want a definite answer for my remaining family and the insurance companies."
Wally spoke up and said "I went through the same experience with my dad, Aaron. He was fine in the morning when I checked on him, and around 2:00 pm in the afternoon I received a call saying he was found on his front porch dead. I had an autopsy also performed on dad as he was always in good health. He had a massive coronary which took him quickly. When I look back at that day, the only relief I have is that he did not linger unhealthy in a hospital bed. My mom had a lengthy battle with cancer, and when my time comes, I hope to go quickly and peacefully like my dad did." Wally started to break up in tears and I handed him a tissue. I knew about his dad's passing but he has never spoken too much about his mom to me.
Aaron smiled and said "thanks for sharing that, Wally. I have now had the same experience with both parents as you did. I know it's tough today to comprehend those feelings, but as time passes, I hope I can eventually come to the same feelings as you just described."
Aaron smiled to everyone and said "thank you all so much. I feel much better being here with all of you. I'm not trying to block what happened to me today, but I need to look forward into my future. I know my dad wanted me to finish college, get a good job and find someone to fall in love with. I think I have found my one to fall in love with, but I still need to finish college and get a job." He turned to Bailey who now had tears in his eyes. Aaron wiped Bailey's tears away, looked deep into his eyes and said "thanks for being here for me today. I've enjoyed our time together, and I want grow old with you. I love you, Bailey Stauffer!" After Aaron finished, the box of tissues was flying around the table! Bailey pulled Aaron in for a hug and kiss, Ronny did the same with Alex and I went over to my man and hugged and kissed him as well. I'm so glad it was just the six of us and that my family was not with us now. Speaking of my family, I said to myself "I need to check texts to make sure they're safely enroute to Cincinnati."
Aaron said "how about we clean up the table, grab another beer and go tour this condo?" Alex smiled and said "are you sure you're up to it Aaron, we can do it later this week." He smiled at Alex and said "Don't get me wrong Alex, it's a sad day. However, I need some positive things to happen which will help me move on. I cannot think of anything more positive than seeing my future residence where I'll be living with my handsome stud here." Bailey gave him another kiss and Alex said "okay then, I'll clean up the table, Ronny can get us a beer for our walking tour and do you want it to be all of us Aaron, or just you, Bailey and me?" Aaron said "all of us need to go. I'm not thinking straight, and I want to hear everyone's ideas on improvement opportunities that Bailey and I may want to consider."
I checked my phone before leaving our condo, and I had three texts from UD. The first one being that they arrived in Sarasota, the second informing me that they were checked in and through TSA, and the third simply said "boarding plane now" which he sent at 3:10 pm. They should be arriving in Cincinnati close to 6:00 pm tonight. I took my phone with me in case he called me while we were on our walking tour.
Alex led the way to his condo, and opened the door for all of us. He said "you will find a similar layout to what CJ has, but the main difference between my condo and his is the patio size, and one less sliding glass door exit to the patio. How do you want to do this, do you want to go walking through yourself, or you want me to give you a guided tour through each room pointing out items which may interest you?" Aaron looked at Bailey and said "do you mind a guided tour, Bailey?" He smiled and said "I'd actually prefer that. Please Alex, you're doing fine as our tour guide. Continue on for us. We'll ask questions along the way."
Alex started back in and said "guys, if I miss anything or you want to suggest changes to Aaron and Bailey that we're planning to make please speak up. Let's start in the kitchen and laundry area then. Alex opened the laundry area first and said "you will want a new washer and dryer as these are ready to give out any day. CJ has a newer set that we can move down here once we make our planned changes." Aaron said "what changes are you making?" Alex continued on and said "we're thinking about a stackable high-duty washer dryer pair. The other option is one of those new washer dryer combination units, but I hear those are not too good yet and to wait on the second generation before purchasing. When we get the stackable unit in, we're going to leave some room for laundry and cleaning supplies, but cut down the overall size of this room. We're going to put up a wall, and then follow me over here to the kitchen. We're adding a door here which will open from the kitchen and feature a pantry with shelfing for canned food, kitchen supplies and other items." Aaron and Bailey both nodded their heads yes and Bailey said "I like that change guys, and I think it's wise to consider it in this condo also."
Alex continued on in the kitchen and said "the appliances are all two years old, and I added the glass front cupboards two years ago. The blue color matches the blue in the living room and hallway. Wally and I added the backsplash two weeks ago." Aaron said "this all looks good and presents a nice beach theme. I like it as is." Bailey said "I agree Aaron, are you planning anymore changes in your kitchen CJ?" I smiled and said "once we have the pantry in Bailey, were going to remove one of the lower cabinets around the sink. Were going to replace it with a wine chiller." He smiled and said "very nice. I have one now, and I want another one here. Aaron, that's a must do also for us sometime. Trust me, we'll use it."
Alex continued and moved all of us into the living area. He said "as you can see, I have bar stools at the breakfast bar, but I have no dining table and chairs. You may want to bring one in, or we can show you one that will be available very soon from Wally's condo." Wally stepped in and said "as far as all furniture here, we can move anything you do not want to my warehouse and I'll use it in staging my new homes. I'll also let you go through the warehouse, and if you see anything there you want to use, we can move it here. My dining room table is coming available, but it's not a good match with Alex's barstools. In addition, we can move anything from your places now in here for your use." Bailey smiled and said "the sales contract on my place has all furniture staying, so I'll need to use all of this or we can refurnish it from top to bottom Aaron." Aaron smiled and said "I have a few items I want to keep Bailey, and we'll make that list later this week. For now, I'm satisfied with everything we've seen so far. We can use it for our initial move, and keep replacing once we get moved in." Bailey commented on the living room and said "this is all very tasteful, and I love the blue color. I'm missing the wainscotting from CJ's place. Is that hard to add?" Wally smiled and said "wainscotting is easy to put up. I have plenty in stock not being used. There are two designs which CJ has at his place. We can look at both of them, and easily add wainscotting in this room and the hall if you want Bailey."
We continued through the bedrooms, bathrooms, closets and finally the patio. Aaron and Bailey went to look over the railing at the view and Aaron said "it's a great view Bailey." Bailey said "it sure is baby, I like everything we've seen. How about you, are you feeling this as our place?" Aaron smiled and said "yes, I am Bailey. Let's do it! Alex, are there any restrictions on putting a four-person hot tub on the patios? It's an inflatable unit and has not been used extensively." Alex said "several residents have an inflatable hot tub on their patios and the condo association has no rules against them." Aaron said "okay, we'll bring my hot tub over, add a tv on that wall, keep the grill and dining table and chairs, add my plants that I want to bring over and on the other wall we'll put in a bar with refrigerator versus a kegerator." Bailey smiled at Aaron and said "this is exciting you, isn't it baby?" Aaron smiled at him and said "yeah Bailey, it is. I'm feeling so good about this and I want to proceed with you. We can use your money from the house sale, as well as my money from the house sale and dad's life insurance for the price and future enhancements."
Bailey turned to Alex and said "okay big guy, let's hear the financials!" Alex smiled, giggled and said "if you want to do it as a rental, I need $3,000 a month to cover my mortgage, HOA and utilities. If you want to purchase it, I'm offering it for $350,000." Bailey said "wow, that is a good deal. The last sale in this complex went for $450,000 and I know some units down the street are going as high as one million. Can Aaron and I discuss it tonight and we'll let you know tomorrow?" Alex said "that is not a problem. In fact, why don't you two give this place a trial run tonight? I'll put clean sheets on the bed, and fresh towels out for you. You can come back up to our condo, have a few more beers and a cigar or two, and then come down here for tonight and stay together?" Aaron said "Bailey, I was going to ask you to stay with me tonight, and I really don't want to be at my place. Can we stay here?" Bailey smiled and said "anything you want precious. Alex, let's make your plan happen and will you show us the amenities before we discuss anything further?" Alex said "I'll be happy to show you the amenities Bailey, and if you want, we can also show you the closet storage units in Wally's place for a different closet view. We're going to place the same units in our condo for more closet storage." I spoke up and said "Alex, show me where your extra sheets and towels are. Wally, Ronny and I will change stuff out in here, and lock up. You go show Aaron and Bailey the amenities and we'll meet back at our place in a little while?" Bailey said "perfect guys, thank you all for your genuine hospitality on the tour, discussing possible changes and for letting us stay here tonight. I usually don't say this to associates at the station, but I love you all for what you're doing!" Aaron chimed in and said "thanks guys for everything, and I love all of you too!" Everyone joined in hugs, and we went our separate ways to finish out the plan we created.
We met back up at our condo, and Alex, Wally, Aaron and Bailey went to Wally's condo to see the closet organizers and the play room. They came back and Aaron said "let Bailey and I talk things over, and we'll get back with you tomorrow on our direction we want to take. Does that sound fair to you Alex?" Alex smiled and said "it's all good with me, and I believe I'm speaking for all of us when I say you two take whatever time you need."
We ended the evening with more beers, and playing some dart games. Aaron was feeling more relaxed, but I know he will have up and down moments daily for the near future. At least we can keep his mind off the negative aspects of what all has occurred to him, and continue to discuss the positives with him to keep his spirits uplifted. He looked at me during the first dart game and said "do you mind if I have a cigar CJ?" I said "I'll go grab the humidor Aaron, and you can have as many as you want."
I forgot that the humidor was at Wally's place, so I went to retrieve it and the supplies. Just as I was shutting up Wally's place my phone rang and it was UD calling. I answered and said "hey UD, are you all back in Cincinnati fine?" He replied "we are CJ, and we're waiting on our luggage now. Thank you again for a wonderful week son. We love you so much and I'll be in touch with you this week on our September football plans." I said "perfect UD. Will you do me one favor and ask the family to extend their prayers to Aaron tonight? His father passed away unexpectedly this morning due to a massive coronary event. He's with us now, and we're going to make him stay with us until his remaining family gets here tomorrow." UD responded "oh God CJ, just another occurrence which reminds you to live each day to the fullest and tell your loved ones each day that you love them."
UD continued and said "please tell Aaron we are sending him our prayers, sympathy and our positive energy to him. You take care CJ and remember we all love you, Wally, Alex and Ronny."
I said "please tell Aunt Sally and the girls that I love them UD. UD, I love you so much and I'm so glad that we have everything out and in the open with each other now. I cannot wait to see you again in September, and please know you're always in my heart and on my mind. Goodnight UD."