My long-range forecast -- chapter 36
Hello everyone. I hope that you have enjoyed your week, and are preparing for the weekend! 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 and his friends help Aaron and Bailey out and CJ begins his new assignment at work.
Please consider making a donation to Nifty (using link https://donate.nifty.org/). Let's keep this site going so that we all can enjoy the continued submission of stories.
I returned to the patio and decided to stay up with the group for a little while longer. Bailey and I chatted and he said "CJ, I really want to be with you tomorrow on your big day. But I hope you understand when I say that Aaron needs me tomorrow." I smiled and said "Bailey, please don't worry about me. You have got us ready to go, and I know Nick, Angela and I are going to kick-ass for you tomorrow. Please stay with Aaron, and if I can do anything for you two after work, just let me know. Did you or he contact the pizza place to let them know he won't be in?" Bailey said "yes, he took care of that this morning. I don't want him to be alone tomorrow with his aunts. I was only there for 30 minutes with them, and I wanted to tell both of them get the hell out of Aaron's house!" I smiled and said "take care of our special guy Bailey, he needs you and I'm glad you two are staying in the condo tonight."
The crew got Aaron involved in some dart games, and I saw him relaxing a little. Bailey was watching him very closely and told him "When you're ready for some sleep baby, just let me know." I checked with Alex to see if he had extra toothbrushes at his place, and he said "yes, everything they need is in the master bathroom. I'll remind them when they go downstairs tonight, CJ. You get some sleep for your big day tomorrow!" I smiled at him, pulled him in for a hug and said "I will my friend. You take care as well, and I'll see you tomorrow. I love you Alex, and thank you again for everything you did for my family and me last week." I went around and gave everyone else a hug and when I got to Aaron I said "my dear friend, I need to get some sleep. You're safe here with Bailey and all of us. If you need anything from us, please just reach out as we're all here for you Aaron. I am going to work tomorrow morning, but I'll be available for you tomorrow afternoon if you need me. I love you, Aaron." He hugged me and said "I love you too CJ, and thank you for everything. I know you're here with me, and I'll see you tomorrow."
I saved my final hug for my man. I looked deep into his eyes and said "thank you sweetheart for everything you did for my family and me last week. I love you so much, and you join me when you want. I'm beat and need to get some rest." He smiled and said "I love you too CJ. I'm not going to last much longer either as I think my week has caught up with me. I'll be in soon with you."
I went in and set the coffee maker for 1:45 am, brushed my teeth and got into bed. With everything that happened today, I really was not thinking ahead to my new assignment tomorrow. I started thinking about it as I drifted off to sleep saying "you have got this big guy! Do it for yourself, for Bailey and for all of your friends. Go in thinking you're a winner, and you'll come out a winner!"
The alarm rang, and it was time to get my week underway! I did my morning grooming routine, picked out my suit to wear, got dressed and headed out to the kitchen. My stud was waiting for me at the breakfast bar in his naked godly figure. He said "good morning my love! Coffee to go for you?" I said "yes please Wally. How do I look?" He smiled at me and said "you look like the most handsome co-anchor, weatherman in the United States! You have got this today, CJ. I'll be watching you and sending you all of my positive energy. Go kick some ass for me today!" I cracked up and said "I will boss! You take care and take it easy today. Stay hydrated, and I'll see you this afternoon."
I made my way through the quiet streets and arrived at the station. After I parked, I went into the newsroom and found Angela there. I said "hey there boss! Let's get this new format rolling today!" She smiled at me and said "well hi there CJ. I'm working on the story lineup now to split between you and Ross. Why don't you get your weather segment knocked out and we'll get together around 3:15 to get moving on your stories." I said "sounds perfect Angela! Oh, thank you so much for the pictures. I love them all, and they're going in a collage on my patio. I'm also going to add the one of Bailey, Ronny and me to it. They're all going to look great on the patio. It was so thoughtful of you, and I crack up every time I see that 8x10 of Alex and me with the hat and sunglasses!" She smiled and said "I think that is my favorite as well. You two have beautiful smiles in it, and the hat and glasses are just too outrageous!"
I finished up my weather segment and only had to put in the 4:00 am temperature. I told Angela "I only need to update the temperature, and then load the whole segment to the switcher." She said "okay, I can always do that also for you. I want you to start working on these six stories. The first one you can take from the AP wire, and we'll cut to the national video over you. The second one is a follow up from last night's news -- grab any verbiage you can and add on to it. The remainder are all new this morning. Two of the stories should have fire and police reports you can use. I'd also check into the hospitals for the victim's conditions' this morning." I smiled and said "I'm on it, Angela! I will give you a yell if I need any help."
I had my stories written by 4:30, and she added the video roll notes, camera shot notes and special instructions for the director. Everything was in place just after 4:40 for our 5:00 start. She came up to me and said "relax, have fun, enjoy yourself and do this for all of us! Get us to that number one ranking CJ! I have extreme faith in you." I smiled at her and said "thank you for your help and support. I do have this, and we're going to have kick-ass shows today!" She said "one final item to remember. If we need to break into something live, I'll notify you via the audio earplug. I'll tell you a brief description and which reporter to go to in the field. If we don't have a reporter, I'll say watch video and adlib. Always say something like we'll continue to monitor this story throughout the morning." I gave her a thumbs up and said "Okay, I'm ready to roll Angela!"
Ross and I went to the news desk, took our seats and he gave me a fist bump. He said "relax and do good things today, CJ. You have got this!" The floor director gave us the one-minute warning. She then did a five-second countdown and the camera went live on the two of us. Ross started in and said "Good morning to everyone in the bay area this morning. Here's your St Petersburg in sixty to get this Monday morning kicked off." The floor director gave me a five second countdown and the camera came back on me and I said "Good morning, everyone, I'm CJ Walters and we'll be covering those stories as well as giving you the bay area forecast for the week. It's going to remain hot and humid, and I'll also be reviewing the tropics and Atlantic Ocean as we now have four tropical depressions to keep an eye on. Jennifer ...."
Jennifer transferred it back to Ross, who started off with the first story. When he completed it, the camera came to me and I started with my first story. I said "The heat that we have been experiencing here in the gulf region continues to ravage the southwestern united states. Today is the 24th straight day for Phoenix to top 120 degrees. Our national correspondent Maria Sellers has more for us on the continued efforts to keep people safe from the high heat indices." The camera cut off me, and video from Phoenix and Nevada was shown." The camera returned to me and I kicked back in with "Our heat will continue here in the bay region, but it will not be as hot as the desert southwest. I'll have more on our weather later in this broadcast for you." Ross started the next story and once it was completed, the camera came back to me. I said "In a follow up to last night's top story on channel 2 news, two people remain in the hospital this morning after their home exploded yesterday due to a probable gas leak. Reporter Toni Karshner has more for us on this story." The camera feed was live with Toni on the scene. She wrapped up and said "CJ, fire and gas company officials will be back on the scene this morning to continue the investigation. For channel 2, I'm Toni Karshner." I started back in with "Toni will be continuing to follow this story for us today and we'll have updates throughout the day on channel 2 news." Ross took back over and said "coming up, we'll have more local news for you after these messages." The camera went off us, and he smiled, gave me a wink and said "you're doing very good -- very smooth and relaxed. Keep it up!"
The camera came back to me and I started in with the next two stories concerning local news items. After I completed my two stories, the camera switched back to Ross for two more stories he completed. After his two stories, he said "we'll have a traffic update from Jennifer and CJ's weather forecast coming up after these messages. The time is 5:15 am, it the sun is about to rise over the bay. Stay tuned everyone, we'll be right back."
The commercials ended and the floor director gave Ross a cue to start in. He said "You don't need to adjust your television sets this morning, as we have a different news crew today. Vicki Lake has accepted a position in San Francisco and we wish her well as she heads west. CJ has volunteered to do double duty for us on the channel 2 morning news. You'll be seeing CJ and myself covering the morning news stories and CJ will still be giving us the latest weather forecasts for the St Petersburg and Tampa Bay regions. You've asked for more CJ in the mornings, and we heard your requests loud and clear St Petersburg. Let us know what you think of the new format. Now let's go to Jennifer who has a serious traffic backup to tell us about this morning. The camera went off Ross and I and Jennifer started in with "good morning, everyone. Yes, we have a multiple car accident in the downtown area at the I 4 and 275 junction heading southbound. Traffic is already backing up quickly this morning and we have a news crew enroute to cover this breaking news. Other than this event, our roadways are clear and running up to speed. Ross, I'll stay on top of this story and bring you further updates as we receive them."
The camera came back to Ross and I and Ross said "not a good place CJ for a Monday morning accident!" I replied "not at all Ross, that area is so heavily congested to begin with. As Jennifer said, we'll have further updates as we receive them. Turning to the weather forecast this morning, our hot and humid weather will continue this week with very little chance for rain." The camera went off me and I continued on saying "locally our current conditions at the pier this morning is ...." While I was saying this, I made my way over to the green board and reappeared with the local bay area radar shot. I added a larger map of the Atlantic Ocean Radar into the show this morning and said "Since our local weather is remaining constant this week, let's get a tropics update. There are four tropical depressions that have formed. All of these have been given a depression number, but none have gone into a named storm yet. All four of these are still well out of the reach of Florida, but Daniel, Trevor and I will continue to monitor these depressions for you the remainder of this week. Turning to our seven-day forecast ...." I walked back to the desk and sat down with Ross. I finished up with "So Ross, the bay area forecast continues to look as though as it will be a repeat of last week. It's that time of the year though, when we need to start watching the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean for storm formations." Ross said "CJ, how often do we get updates on the depressions when they are that far out in the Atlantic?" I replied "we get an update every 12 hours Ross, and if the depressions get stronger, more frequent updates are provided every four to six hours. I'll be receiving a projected path report this morning, and I'll review that with the audience on our noon show today." Ross said "that sounds good CJ, but let's head back to Jennifer who has more for us on the traffic accident at I 4 and I 275. Jennifer, what have you learned for us?"
Overall, the 5:00 show went very well. I was relieved when we went to the break before starting the 5:30 show. I quickly got some water for the set as my mouth became much drier than usual with all of my talking. I was very proud of myself, and I believe I kicked some butt on the first show. I know my circle of friends, Bailey, UD and James are already leaving me text and phone messages. One down and three more to go this morning!
The remainder of the shows went well for all of us. We changed the story lineup for the 6:00 show as our news crew arrived on scene of the traffic accident. There was one technical error in which Ross and I remained on camera instead of going to the reporter video in the field. Ross covered nicely saying "were having some video problems but you just heard from Mark Buttles who is live on the scene. We'll get that video problem corrected soon, and go back out to Mark later in this show. In other news stories this morning ...." The remainder of the 6:00 show went fine, and the 6:30 show went much smoother as all video problems were corrected.
I couldn't believe how quickly the two hours flew by. I was definitely feeling a rush, and felt very proud of what I had accomplished this morning. I had to go to the bathroom before doing anything! I relieved myself, went to the newsroom, picked up my phone and received a round of applause from the morning news staff! Angela and Nick both came up to me with nothing but compliments. Angela started in and said "once again my friend, you came off very professionally. I am so proud of you! You did so well. Bailey has already called me twice and wants you to call him when you can. He's overjoyed with your performance this morning!"
I checked my phone, and sure enough I had four voicemails and seven new texts. I sat down at a newsroom desk and went through all of them. James, UD, Wally and Bailey left me voicemails and I received two texts from Bailey, two from Wally, and one each from Alex, Ronny and Laura. It took me a while to get through everything, but the messages from Bailey definitely meant the most to me this morning. He had nothing but praises for me and said "you and I have a few things to work on you big Muskie, but for your first professional co-anchor show, you far-exceeded my expectations. I'll talk to you later today you stud!"
Carl and Trevor appeared at the desk. I looked at them and said "hey, I thought you two were both off today?" Trevor smiled and said "we are. We were both watching your shows this morning and we want to take you out to breakfast. CJ, you did a fantastic job! I cannot believe how well you took command of the news stories, and your transitions over to weather were fantastic! I'm going to need a shitload of practice to even come close to what you're doing. Congratulations my friend!" Carl smiled and said "what else can I add big guy. You impress the hell out of me with everything you do! Let's get you out of here for breakfast. You have to be on an emotional high." I smiled and said "I am guys. I know I will have ups and downs, but I'm very proud of what I accomplished this morning. Can we go someplace other than Cecilia's? I'm starved and want something more than a breakfast sandwich."
We went down the road and found a Denny's. I said "cool. Let me attack a grand slam this morning!" Carl and Trevor cracked up at me and Carl said "whatever you want CJ. Breakfast is our treat this morning."
The three of us placed our order with the waitress, and she brought us coffee, water and juices. I said "did anyone call you two about Aaron?" Carl replied "no, what has happened to Aaron?" I said "he woke up and found his father passed out yesterday morning. He could not get a pulse on him, called 911 and began CPR. The paramedics could not get him revived either, but transported him to the hospital. The ER doctor pronounced him deceased shortly after arriving."
Trevor said "ah Jesus, that sucks. Is anyone with Aaron today?" I told them both that "Aaron called Bailey first yesterday. Bailey and I went to pick up Aaron after his aunts left yesterday afternoon. He wanted to get out of the house and we brought him over to the condo. He did eat for us, and Bailey stayed with him last evening at Alex's condo. Bailey is going to help him with arrangements today and keep his aunts at bay." I continued on and said "guys, I'm not sure I should disclose this to you, but Bailey and Aaron have been seeing each other." Carl smiled and said "I was aware of it, but I have not shared it with Trevor yet until I knew it was official from Bailey. CJ, I'm the one who told Bailey about you, Wally and the playroom. Bailey and I have been friends for over six years. You might say we're friends with benefits! Bailey wanted to pursue you early on after you started. I advised him not to get involved with any of his work staff. He was insistant on it, and I knew you and Wally were in a relationship. I told Bailey about it to get him focused on someone else. I also mentioned the playroom to him as one of the new amentities that I'm going to enjoy at the condo complex." I said "okay, that crosses off the questions on my list of how he knew about me, Wally and the playroom. He was two sheets to the wind at my birthday party and disclosed it to me, along with sharing his love for Aaron! I'm so happy for both of them and I hope they find true happiness and love together. Thanks for looking out for me Carl. It would have been very awkward if Bailey had ever put the moves on me. I'm fine with you disclosing the information, and don't worry - everything is fine between us."
Carl cracked up and said "you get that man loaded with enough vodka, and no secret is safe with him! I'm happy for him as well CJ. He's been very lonely lately, and has been on the lookout for someone to accept him for whom he is. Trevor, sorry I did not say anything to you but Bailey asked me to keep things quiet until he knew that Aaron and him are a sure thing. He also did not want to disclose it to you, Ronny or CJ until he knows you better. Obviously, he has shared it with you CJ, and is Ronny aware?" I smiled and said "yes, Bailey came clean with all of us and asked us just to keep quiet about it and be here now for Aaron and him. They went through Alex's condo last night. Aaron has too many memories of his dad, and wants to sell his house as soon as possible. He wants to start a new place with Bailey. I think they are going to take Alex's condo when the time is right for both of them."
Trevor looked stunned and said "thanks guys for telling me all this. I'll keep everything under wraps about our group which now includes Bailey and Aaron! I just want to help out Aaron in any way we can now." I replied "me too Trevor. I'm going to check in with them when I get finished at the station today." Carl said "when you do CJ, please give them both our sympathy and if they need anything from us just to call." I said "thanks guys, I will do so." Trevor said "well on a bright spot, we can't ask for another two fun and kick-ass individuals for our happy hours and our complex. It's going to be a nice family there for all of us to enjoy."
The waitress brought us our food, and I dug in like a wild man! I said "I let my nerves get the best of me this morning, and I was starved when I finished up the last show this morning." Carl said "if you were nervous on set CJ, it did not show at all. You and Ross are so smooth together, and make an excellent team. I'm so glad that bitch Vicki has left town. That's going to be one more problem for Bailey to take off his list." Trevor said "wow, she was nice to me when we talked." I said "yeah, if you did not work with her directly you never knew how much of a pain in the ass she was to work with. She has been a real management problem for Bailey. Give Angela a few drinks and ask her how she feels about Vicki!" Carl said "oh God no, Trevor don't do it. I know of at least four times when I had to hold Angela back from kicking Vicki's ass in the newsroom. That is one individual that will not be missed at this station."
We all finished up our breakfast, and indulged in another cup of coffee. I received a call and it was from Bailey. I answered it and said "how is Aaron, and how are you doing?" He replied "we're both fine CJ. I was calling to tell you thank you for making my year this morning! CJ, you were practicing all weekend, weren't you?" I cracked up and said "it felt good Bailey, how did everything look to you?" He said "I've said it before, and I'll say it again, you and I are going to take this station to number one CJ! You were absolutely fabulous, and you and Ross covered so well with the technical glitch. Congratulations my friend, and keep up the great work!" I said "thanks Bailey, that all means so much to me -- I appreciate everything you have done for me."
I continued on and said "has Aaron heard from the coroner yet on the autopsy?" Bailey replied "yes, he did about 15 minutes ago. It was a massive coronary. There were three major blockages, and one artery blew out. The coroner said he was gone at the house and that no medicines or procedures would have revived him." I said "you tell Aaron that we're all praying for him and we're with him during his time of sympathy." Bailey said "I will extend that to him CJ. His aunts are coming over at 10:00, and he wants me to stay with him today. His dad wanted to be cremated and Aaron wants to honor that wish. He fears that his aunts are going to put up a fight on it. Aaron is the executor of the estate and has final say over all items though." I said "Bailey, please don't worry about the station. Take the week off and be with Aaron, we'll cover everything for you." Bailey cracked up and said "I'm going to take you up on that CJ. I talked to Brad and Mindy telling them I had an emergency come up over the weekend and that I need the entire week off." I said "good. If Aaron has a memorial service, let me know the time and place. I know of quite a few people who want to show up for him." Bailey said "I will CJ. He wants to come back to the condo when we get done with the planning today. You'll see us later today." I said "sounds good Bailey. You take care of Aaron and yourself. I'll talk to you later."
I shared the highlights of my conversation with Trevor and Carl. I told them if they want to swing by the complex later today, I'm sure that Aaron will enjoy seeing both of them. I looked at the time and said "guys, thanks for breakfast. I really enjoyed it and thanks for the conversation. I still feel so wired up, but I'm psyched about what I did today and I look forward to so many more shows ahead! I need to get back to the station for a meeting with Betty later this morning." We drove back, and I jumped out of Carl's vehicle. I said "thanks again you two, and I'll see you both later."
I went into the newsroom and left Angela know that I was back. I told her "I'm going to go into my office to check emails and make a couple of calls. If you need me, just give me a yell." I checked emails, and found another four responses on the Gasparilla race. As of today, we're at 25 wanting to do the race and have eight volunteering to help at the race with shows or whatever is needed. I said to myself "All right! 33 responses and there are still five more days to contact me. I sure hope we can get to 30 racers before the end of the week."
I made my first call to the love of my life. He answered and said "did you ever know that you're my hero?" I cracked up and said "hey sweetheart, how did the shows look to you?" Wally replied and said "CJ, you continue to amaze me with all of your talent. I'm not trying to blow smoke up your ass but those shows looked flawless to me. I know there was the video problem, but you and Ross handled that well. You two look as though you have been working together for years! Your transitions to the weather were also so smooth. It was as though you were talking to everyone in the audience individually today! You have my vote for the bay area news awards later this year babe!" I smiled and said "thank you sweetheart. I felt as though everything went well, and based on feedback I'm receiving my feelings have been confirmed." Wally continued on and said "I had to pull Alex off the ceiling this morning! He's so excited for you and be rest assured you will have a surprise waiting for you this afternoon!" I cracked up and said "I'm glad I surpassed his expectations this morning."
I continued on and said "how is the return to work for you babe?" He said "busy, but I've got a list started of items I want Alex to start taking over for me. We agreed that he will officially start on August 28th with me. He wants to knock out as much as he can at our place in the next three weeks. He's also planning to do some smaller tasks at his condo if Aaron and Bailey decide to take it." I said "I heard from Bailey, and Aaron's dad did have a massive coronary event. The coroner said he was dead at the scene and that no medicines or procedures would have saved him. Bailey said that Aaron does not want to stay in the house alone, so we'll see them at some point later at the complex." Wally said "sounds fine CJ. I need to get moving here. You take care babe, and I'll see you later today. I love you CJ!" I replied "I love you more Wally! Bye you big stud!"
My next call was to UD. He was on top of his phone and answered with "Do you know how damn proud I am of you? I swear to God, you look like you have been doing the job for 10 years or more. CJ, everything went fantastic for you, and I don't think I ever remember seeing you as an anchor on the news? Today was absolutely wonderful, and I look forward to watching you on so many more shows son!" I cracked up and said "you have had way too much coffee this morning UD! Thank you for all of the kind comments. I feel good about what I did today, and I've received nothing but positive feedback on my accomplishments." UD replied "Sally was upset that she was back here. She wanted to go right to the station and give you a hug. I'm supposed to tell you that she is so proud of you and that you kicked ass this morning!" I laughed and said "I also got a text from Laura telling me how proud she was of me and that she wants to be a female CJ when she grows up!" UD and I laughed on that, and I said "did you survive the trip and flight home?" He said "I'm great CJ. I feel good, it was so wonderful to spend the week with you and Jack and I cleared our schedule for the football game. In fact, you caught me with this call while I was looking at flights down there. Are you sure you don't mind us coming in early and staying a few extra days with you?" I said "let's do it UD, if you two don't mind sharing the office?" He cracked up and said "we'll just stay out on your patio in the lounger for two!" I cracked up at him and said "you're both welcome to stay as long as you want. Just let me know when you fly in and out. We'll pick you up and take you back to the airport as well." UD said "nah, Jack and I will get a rental. That worked out great for me and the family. It looks as though the better flights for us will be into Sarasota again. Maybe I'll get us a convertible rental for the week!"
I said "that sounds great UD. Are you alone now?" He said "yes, I'm in my office with the door shut. What's on your mind?" I replied "you shocked me with your news last week. How did you and Jack connect up, and how have you two kept this a secret for so long?" He chuckled and said "a long story for you, but I'll give you the highlights now. Jack and I got way to drunk one night, and ended up in bed together at our annual midwest restaraunt conference. After that, we discussed our feelings and found that we were both searching for something more in our lifes. He and I love our families dearly, but we also came to realize that we love each other. It takes alot of planning CJ, but we are able to see each other on a daily basis. We plan our guy trips, and make the most of our time as we can for each other. Having you in Florida now will definitely help us achieve more time together."
I was smiling and said "I am so happy for you UD, and we'll be here for you and Jack whenever you two need a break away. There are other stories here I need to fill you in on, but we'll cover those before you come back down in September. Don't worry, all good stories for you. I need to head back into the newsroom for a meeting. You take care, I love you and have Laura set our calls back up for Sunday's." UD replied "I will do that CJ. Goodbye son, and I love you!"
My final call was to James. Luckily, I caught him in his office. I said "good morning, James. Do you have a few minutes to talk?" He replied "of course I do CJ. My goodness young man, you climbed another mountain today in your career goals. Congratulations on a job very well done. Is Bailey happy with the first day?" I said "yes James, Bailey is so pleased with my performance today and is already preparing me to receive the best overall news performer award at the upcoming bay area news awards!" James laughed and said "if you two pull this off, I know you will receive quite a bit of attention on the innovative model you are presenting. I hope that everything continues to go well for the both of you CJ." James and I continued to talk for about 15 more minutes. He had flight delays, and finally returned to Cincinnati five hours later than planned. He said "next time I come down, I'm taking UD's advice and flying into Sarasota." James and I concluded the call with me saying "James, thank you again for everything you have ever done for me. I'm here today because of your positive mentorship. Please take care, and I'll talk to you soon."
I hung up from James and I heard "hey you Muskie stud! I did not want to interrupt you and James talking." I turned my chair to find my dear friend Ronny. He said "get your ass off the chair and give me a hug! Jesus CJ, you never cease to amaze me my friend. You did an absolute kick ass job this morning. I cannot believe how well things went for you, and you transitioned between the news and weather like you've been doing this professionally for years! Please remember me when you get called up to the network evening news my friend!" I smiled and said "thanks Ronny for everything. It felt very good to me this morning, and judging by all the positive feedback I'm getting I'd say we've got a good working model to move forward with. I know I'll hit some problems at times, but I was very pleased with my performances this morning." Ronny cracked up and said "you did wonderful my brother. Watch out, your biggest groupie and chief security guard will be planning something special for you later today. He gets so excited for both of us when we accomplish something new on the television. I love him dearly CJ, he's a keeper for me!" I smiled and said "yeah, he is Ronny. I know he loves you dearly, and I am honored to call him a true friend!"
Ronny sat down with me for a few minutes and told me about some of the stories he is going to work on this week. He asked "did you hear anything from Bailey this morning and if Aaron is doing okay?" I let Ronny know what Bailey had told me concerning the autopsy and that Bailey will be with Aaron for most of the week. Ronny said "Aaron is going to rely on you heavily CJ as he knows you have been through his current experience. Be there for him my friend, and in turn if you need someone to turn to -- I am always here for you!" I smiled and said "I know that Ronny and it has always been such a comforting feeling for me in my life." He looked at the time and said "I need to get moving for a noon interview with some of the Rays players." I cracked up and said "look at you -- Mr. Sports man rubbing elbows with all of our bay area sports celebrities! Are you enjoying it Ronny?" He giggled and said "I feel like a kid in a candy story CJ. So many good things to try in St Petersburg. We have both hit the big time here, and I can never thank you enough for getting my ass down here! I love you, bro!" I laughed at him and said "get out there and interview those Rays! I'll see you later tonight."
I finished up my noon show segment just before 11. Angela and I reviewed it, and we loaded it to the switcher in advance of the noon show. I went out to the studio desk about 10 minutes before the show. I sat down and reflected what happened on this set just seven hours ago. I thought to myself "Jesus CJ, think about what Ronny just said. You have hit the big time here at channel 2. Okay, there are bigger markets, but where else could you have captured all of the experience thus far in just under six weeks? Keep it up CJ and make St Petersburg your home for a long time."
Ross joined me on the set and said "ready to finish our Monday off CJ?" I smiled and said "let's do it Ross. Do you have some follow up stories from the accident this morning?" He said "yes, one from the hospital with conditions of the victims and one from the accident scene about how future planned improvements for the junction of the two interstates." I said "sounds good, I'm anxious to hear the second story." We got our cue from the floor director to take our positions, and within two minutes our noon show began. Everything went fine, and I soon had one full day under my belt."
I made the way back to the condo. Some of my adrenaline was wearing off, and I started to feel tired. I got home and was quickly brought back to life when Alex greeted me at the door with banners, noisemakers and a New Year's Eve horn going off! He gave me a huge hug with a kiss. He said "CJ, you impress the hell out of me with everything you do my friend. I am so proud of you, and cannot believe how effortlessly you pulled off your new assignment this morning. I'm in awe my friend and I want to be the organizer, leader and influencer of all the new social media groups we need to create for you!" I cracked up at Alex and said "thanks my friend. I felt good doing the changes this morning. I'm very pleased with the results and ready to continue on with more shows!" I said "how are you today, and have you seen Aaron or Bailey around?" He replied "I had coffee with both of them around 8:30 this morning at the pool. Aaron is okay, and I think having Bailey by his side is a good thing CJ. He said he was ready to get his father's plans underway and deal with his aunts." I said "boy, his aunts sound like a couple of battle axes! I was so fortunate to have UD and Aunt Sally who were very comforting and easy with me. They always told me it was my final decision, but gave me enough guidance on every topic to get me where I needed to go. I would have never made it without them." Alex smiled and said "Aaron is going to rely heavily on you and Bailey to get him through. I see that coming quickly CJ. I am here for you in whatever way I can support you, my friend."
Alex continued on and said "they enjoyed the condo very much last night and this morning. Aaron asked if they can just make it their hangout as they intend to buy it." I looked at Alex and said "they're going to buy it?" Alex said "yes, that is their plan. Bailey wants to hire Wally and I to make changes to it that they want to see. Bailey signed his contract, and will be closing on his house around September 8th. He wants to talk to Wally, you and I tonight to see if Wally has any ideas for a realtor for myself and Bailey so that we can save some money in the process versus using his pricey bitch of a realtor!" I cracked up and said "Alex you said that just as Bailey would have. You're learning his mannerisms quickly." Alex smiled and said "I'm going to enjoy having both of them with us in the complex. We're quickly becoming fast friends, and I want to continue to be there for both of them during this fast transition that they are both undertaking!" He continued on and said "I have had a very productive day here. Want to see what I got done?" I smiled and said "let me change my friend, and I'll be right with you!"
I came back out to the kitchen, and got myself a glass of water. I said to Alex "can I pour you a glass of water also." He smiled, did his nervous giggle and said "no, I think I'm going for a beer! I've had a good morning and want to reward myself." He went out to the patio, poured himself a beer and returned saying "I am so glad you decided on a kegerator CJ! It's so damn convenient, but I think it will be dangerous this fall on some of our sports Sundays! Follow me big guy, and I'll show you what I started today." He led me to his and Ronny's bedroom, then into the closet. I was shocked when I looked at the back wall and saw the shell of the organizer in place. He also had two drawers inserted. He smiled at me and said "are you surprised? I chose to start in here in case I made any mistakes. I can explain a mistake to Ronny better than I can to Wally and you!" I went up to the shell, pulled out the two drawers he had finished, and said "how did you do this all by yourself? It looks so wonderful Alex, I'm so damn proud of you!" I gave him a hug and kiss and said "I was going to help you this weekend on everything, but the way you are going, you will have everything done by then!" He smiled and said "it's going much better than I thought it would. I have the entire shell up and attached, now I am assembling the drawers and doors. We have the upper three shelves for storage, there will be six drawers across this row, two doors on bottom with the extra two lower shelves in the middle then. I went ahead and cut off the current metal racks to fit the unit in here. I need to talk to Wally on how he got his metal racks to line up perfectly with the organizer unit. I also don't know if these lower shelves are better used for shoes for us, or if we just put two clothes hampers in here." I said "do we have the option of four doors across the bottom?" He said "yes, that is an option and there are extra supplies included for the two extra doors. I said "what about four doors across the bottom, and we'll hide all four clothes hampers there? We'll go ahead with installing shoe racks under the hanging racks." Alex smiled and said "I like that CJ, want to help me finish this one off?" I smiled, put my arm around his shoulder and said "let's do it Alex. Tell me what to do, and we'll surprise Wally and Ronny tonight my friend!"
We finished off assembling and installing the remaining drawers. He looked at me and said "do you mind this hardware that came with the unit, or do you want to look at some different selections?" I said "why don't we go with what came with it? We can always change at a later date, correct?" He said "Absolutely. I actually don't mind this hardware since it's for a closet organizer." I said "no, you can't go wrong with black hardware against a white surface." We soon had the drawers assembled and installed with the hardware attached. Alex got the remaining door pieces lined up, and began drilling the holes for the door hinges to attach to the unit. It took both of us to hold and place the doors in place. We decided to face each door opening to face the center of the unit, so it looked balanced with two hinges on each side opposite of each other. Once the handles were installed, the full unit looked absolutely perfect! I grabbed Alex with a big hug, lifted him up off the closet floor and said "you did it you big stud! I love the look, and cannot thank you enough for what you did! I'm so glad I got to help with the finishing touches as I needed to release some more of my bundled-up energy today!" I placed the two clothes hampers in the middle doors, and they fit in very nicely. I shut the doors and said "there, we just discard our dirty clothes in the hamper, shut the doors and retrieve the hampers on laundry day!" I gave Alex another hug, kiss and said "what's next boss?"
He cracked up on me and said "I'm going to pull a CJ on you now! Let me get a tablet. I want to make a list of remaining things to do in here, and what we'll need to purchase. I also want to show Wally the wire racks for his suggestions before we go further." I said "sounds like a plan Alex. Let me go grab the notebook, and we'll complete the list here. I'll buy you another beer then on the patio!"
Alex and I finished the list which included: how to finish hanging racks off; adding shoe racks below hanging racks; and purchase two more clothes hampers. He said "do you want to add any shelf liner paper, or just leave the shelves as is?" I replied "I really have no preference. Do you have any suggestions? He said "not at this time. I think we just leave them as is, and if we want shelf paper later, we can always add it. CJ, based on what you see here, do you want to proceed with your closet in the same manner?" I smiled and said "absolutely you construction stud! This looks great, and I cannot believe how much you got done in one day. Thank you for everything again Alex! This is such a beneficial change for all of us!" He followed up and said "okay, one more suggestion to consider. I know Wally wants to move his business storage boxes over to the office closet. What if we consider another closet organizer unit so that we can hide some of his business items, and still have room for a true guest closet use when needed." I smiled and said "you guru you! I love that idea. Rather than having those plastic storge containers, he can use the drawers and doors for his business supplies. We'll have the shelves for guests, and we can put up an additional hanging rack and shoe rack. Excellent idea Alex. I'll write that down so we can discuss with Wally and Ronny."
It was just 3:10 pm, and Alex had definitely kicked ass today! I said "let's go out on the patio. You relax with another beer, and I'll even light your cigar if you want one today!" He smiled, did his giggle and said "maybe later CJ. Let's just have a beer now, and wait for our group members to file in. How does that sound to you?" I smiled at Alex and said "absolutely perfect my friend! While we're pouring a beer, let's attach the Rays tap to the kegerator."
Wally surprised us early and said "hey you two" as he joined us on the patio." I smiled, stood up and gave him a hug and kiss. I said "this is a pleasant surprise, and it's not even 4:00 pm yet. You okay babe?" He smiled and said "yep, I am fine. I had a good day, and was at a good stopping point. I wanted to join my two favorite men for the afternoon. I thought I'd find you two at the pool this afternoon." I smiled and said "well, our construction foreman surprised me when I got here today." Wally said "I know, I see the banners and streamers out." I said "oh, there's more of a surprise than that dear. Do you want to shower first before seeing it, or just go for it?" Wally smiled and said "I'm in need of a shower before I do anything my love. Care to join me?" I smiled and said "Alex, sorry to leave you but we'll return soon." Alex smiled and said "no problem you two. Take your time, and I'm going to enjoy this refreshing breeze on the patio."
Wally and I went into the bathroom, and I got the water nice and warm for him. I washed his front, back, shoulders and arms. I then dropped down on my knees and began a slow blowjob on him. He started to moan and said "oh CJ, how did you know what I needed today? I should be the one pleasing you my stud, and your fantastic accomplishment today!" I stopped, gave him a smile and said "make love to me, buy me dinner and we'll call it even babe!" He cracked up and I returned to my mission of giving him oral pleasure. Once I had him fully erect, he lifted me up by my armpits, put me against the back shower wall and leaned down to eat my ass. He had me moaning soon as that tongue of his can drive me wild in five minutes or less! Soon, he started teasing my hole with his dick. He had it well lubed up, and did a full-length insertion on me. I gasped for air, and he stopped until I got use to the invasion. He soon began his slow rhythm and gradually worked up the speed. He had me moaning good, and I could feel his breathing intensify. He soon flooded me and shouted "oh CJ, I love you so much!" I came down off my high, and shifted around to kiss him passionately. We finished our shower, and stepped out to dry each other off.
We joined Alex back out on the porch, and found that Aaron and Bailey had arrived while we were in the shower. I looked at both of them and said "Aaron, how are you doing my friend?" He stood up, gave me a hug and said "I'm okay CJ. As each day goes by, I think it will sink in more. Bailey helped me out tremendously today, and I'm going to make it with all of your help!" I smiled and said "that's so good to hear Aaron, I've been thinking about you all day and sending my positive energy to you today." He replied "plus you had a kick ass day on set! Bailey and I watched it from bed this morning. You did a wonderful job CJ, and you cheered me up this morning!" I cracked up and Bailey stood up to me. He hugged me, gave me a kiss and said "you did not cheer me up this morning, but you made me the happiest fucking television station GM in the world this morning! CJ, you are amazing and all I can say is Wally keep this man happy so he continues to kick ass on stage like he did this morning." We all laughed on that and I said "okay everyone. Alex has a surprise for all of us as he completed most of the work on a big project today. I got home just in time to assist with the finishing touches, and it looks absolutely wonderful. Alex, take over and show us your accomplishment stud!"
I left Alex serve as the tour guide, and Wally, Bailey and Aaron followed. He went into the closet, turned on the lights and said "surprise everyone!" Wally said "holy shit Alex, you did this all by yourself, today?" He smiled, giggled and said "I sure did. Once I finished coffee with Aaron and Bailey, I decided to tackle a big project as the condo complex is going to be very quiet this week. How do you like it, Wally? Aaron and Bailey, please take a look also as we can add these storage units very easily into your new place!" Alex showed the guys the bottom four doors and how we plan to use them for laundry hampers. Aaron smiled and said "this is excellent, Alex. We saw this storage unit with you last night, and this is one change we want to talk to you and Wally about. We're going to have you two put these up in our place also." Wally kept looking at it, and said "Alex, this looks perfect. Thank you so much!" Alex smiled and said "thank you Wally for the compliment. CJ helped me with the final installations and I think it turned out very well. How did you get the wire hanging units lined up so well?" Wally smiled and said "I bought new ones and reinstalled once I finished the storage unit installation. I think we just buy some caps for what you have done, and stop the wire shelf hanging units here. We can get the caps at any Home Depot." Alex said "okay, that makes sense. I left two full sections; do you think we can get the same length shoe racks and install those to match close in length?" Wally said "that will not be a problem, it will be very close and we'll have a fully functional closet, Alex. Excellent job you stud! I'm buying everyone dinner. Aaron and Bailey, will you join us?" They both nodded yes, and Bailey said "we actually wanted to have dinner with all of you. We made some decisions last night and today and need to share them with all of you."
I said "okay, I'm starved. Mel's or the Beachcomber?" Aaron said "how about Mel's? I love their appetizers and grouper sandwiches there." Everyone agreed, and Bailey loaded everyone into his SUV for the drive over to Mel's.
We soon arrived at Mel's and it was not crowded. Lucas said "hey CJ and Wally, welcome! Five of you for dinner?" Wally said "hey Lucas, yes there will be five of us tonight."
Lucas took us to a nice table which faced the gulf. He said "I'll be serving all of you tonight. Can I get you started with anything from the bar gentlemen?" We all ordered a beer, and Lucas said "I'll be right back with those gents." Wally turned to Aaron and said "Aaron, you order us some good appetizers since you said you like them here!" Aaron smiled and said "how does the combo plate sound, along with the fried pickles? The pickles with their sauce are incredible!" Wally smiled and said "sounds great Aaron. You place the order for us when Lucas returns." Lucas returned with our beer and Aaron made the appetizer order.
Wally asked everyone to raise their glass for a toast. He said "first to CJ. Like I told you this morning, you continue to amaze me with everything you do! I'm so glad that Bailey saw all the talent in you, and I have no doubt that you two will take channel 2 to the top of the ratings. Congratulations to you, and keep up the great job! And to my new senior executive vice president of operational affairs and closet construction for Walters Construction." Alex smiled and said "is it just me or does my new title get longer each day?" We all cracked up and Wally resumed saying "Alex, thank you for taking on the job today. The closet looks wonderful, and I'm staying out of your way so you can finish the other one off this week. Thanks Alex, and congratulations to you on a job very well done." We all clanked glasses and everyone took a drink of their beer.
Lucas came back and delivered the appetizers to the table. He asked "do you want to place an entrée order, or finish these up first?" Aaron spoke up first and said "I'd like a grilled grouper sandwich Lucas." Bailey said "I'll take one also." Wally said "CJ and I will have a grouper sandwich also, but make ours blackened Lucas. Alex, what's your choice for tonight?" Alex smiled and said "I'll go with a grilled grouper sandwich as well please."
Aaron said "before Bailey and I get into our main discussion with all of you, I want to let you know that I'm planning a memorial service for my dad at 9:00 am Friday morning at St. Joesphs Cathedral. The burial will take place at St Petersburg Memorial Garden after the service. Dad wanted to be cremated, and I'm honoring that request." I spoke up and said "I'm sure we'll all be able to make it there Aaron. Did your aunts give you any grief with the planning?" He looked at me and said "plenty CJ. They're not happy that I'm having him cremated, but that is what mom and him chose. They're also not happy that I'm selling the house and I finally had to tell them both that it's mine to do with whatever I want with it. I hope that Friday is the last I see of them as they never did anything for dad and only showed up on our doorstep when they needed something from him." I grabbed his hand and said "you're doing right by your dad Aaron. Just remember the good memories with him, and forget about the family. Funerals can bring out the worst in family members. Remember, we're all family here and we will be there for you on Friday and beyond." He looked at me and said "thanks CJ. I wish you and dad would have met formally. He liked you so much on television, and I know you two would have hit it off well together." Bailey put his arm around Aaron's shoulders and pulled him in for a hug.
Lucas brought our sandwiches out and we started to feast on them as the conversation continued.
Aaron looked at Bailey and said "do you want to take the lead on the rest of the discussion?" He smiled at Aaron and said "sure I will, but you jump in and correct me on anything I forget, promise?" Aaron smiled at him and said "I will Bailey." Bailey smiled at the table and said "we're happy to share with all of you that we want to purchase Alex's condo." Wally and I stood up, applauded and gave each of them a hug. Alex smiled and said to Wally "before you say anything to me you hairy ass beast, they shared the news with me this morning and I gave them a hug as well!" I cracked up and told Aaron and Bailey "get use to this bantering that goes on between the two of them. Don't worry, they're harmless and are secretly in love with each other." We all cracked up at the table.
Bailey continued on and said "I'll be closing on my house around September 8th. The first item I want to check on is Wally, do you know of any realtors that Alex, Aaron and I can use together to help soften the commission fees on our closing? I'd do it myself if I knew what was involved." Wally smiled and said "I have you covered gentlemen. We'll talk to my realtor that I use for the construction company. His name is Rick, and I'll ask him to do us a favor and keep the commission at 1-2% split between both of you. How does that sound?" Alex, Aaron and Bailey nodded their head in approval. Wally continued on and said "I'll get him to meet with you three tomorrow if possible, so we can get the sale moving."
Bailey said "Wally, thank you so much! That was concerning me if I had to use my current realtor as I knew she will have charged 3 -- 4% to each of us. Our next topic deals with modifications that Aaron and I want to make. We want to hire both of you to do the modifications, or you are welcome to subcontract them to other parties that you trust. The money is available to begin anytime you can and the modifications include: modify the guest bathroom to match master, or renovate both to match; reduce the size of the laundry area by adding a heavy-duty stackable unit and take the remaining room to create a pantry with entry from the kitchen; add wainscotting in the living, dining and third bedroom areas; add a television on the patio; create a bar area with wet sink on the patio; and finally add the closet units to all closets. Did I miss anything Aaron?" Aaron smiled and said "no babe, that was an excellent summary."
Wally spoke up and said "do you two want to move in while renovations are occurring?" Bailey said "yes, we do. We'd like one bathroom done first, followed by the second if both need to be renovated." Wally said "Alex, please chime in if you disagree with anything. I'm more than happy to take on some of the renovations. I want to subcontract out the bathroom work to my firm that I use. I will get them hooked up with you and Aaron yet this week if that sounds, okay? I'm also thinking I want to subcontract the patio bar. I'm comfortable with tackling the rest of the work though." Alex chimed in and said "I agree with all that Wally said. I'm comfortable with tackling the pantry, wainscotting, patio television and the closet organizers." Wally said "how does it sound to both of you if we estimate all costs for each job separately? If you two have any concerns with the costs, we can discuss prior to starting anything?" Bailey and Aaron both smiled and Bailey said "gentlemen, thank you so much. We have a deal, and can hardly wait to become official residents of the complex in September. Until that time, do you care if we hang out at the complex? Aaron felt very comfortable there and prefers to stay there with me until we get his house sold. We'll start moving some stuff over as needed, with the bulk of the move occurring in late August or early September. Alex smiled, did his giggle and said "this all sounds wonderful to me Aaron and Bailey. I will place another order for closet organizers and keep on moving with those changes. It's going to be so wonderful to have you in the complex! If you two need to hire me for your patio bartender, I'll give you a break on all of your vodka lemonades!" Bailey and Aaron both cracked up on that. Aaron looked at all of us and said "thanks guys. You are making my recent sad event into a more bearable event, and I thank you all so much for your help." Bailey gave him a kiss and said "I love you Aaron, and I'm ready to make us a permanent couple at the complex!" Aaron blushed and said "I'm ready too Bailey, thank you for entering my life and I love you so much."
I developed tears in my eyes. I looked around the table and saw so much love is in my circle of influence. Even though one of us is going through a tough situation, we're all there for each other easing everyone's burden. I reflected on my day as well and said to myself "CJ, you're doing very well. Keep going you Muskie, and keep that positive long-range forecast in your future goals."