My long-range forecast -- chapter 45
It's unbelievable to me that Halloween is this week! I hope everyone had a good weekend and that you're getting yourself in the mood for the upcoming holiday season. I'm preparing to leave this week and head south for the winter.
I continue to rewrite, add to 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 Wally both begin preparations for their upcoming Labor Day weekend away together. Alex ends up in the middle of the preparations and hopes he can keep all secrets safe for both CJ and Wally.
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I slept peacefully and felt well-rested when the alarm went off. I got up, went about my morning routine and was ready for work 45 minutes later. Wally resumed his naked attire selection while waiting for me at the breakfast bar. I said "good morning, babe. I'm glad you don't need to follow me to work this morning, but I'm going to miss knowing you're behind me though." He grinned and said "I will follow you to work any morning you want me to CJ, but I do have to admit I'm looking forward to getting a few more hours sleep this morning." He filled my travel mug with coffee, and walked me to the door. We shared a kiss and hug, and then I was back to my normal schedule.
When I entered the newsroom, Angela came running to me and gave me a kiss and hug. She said "I missed you so much yesterday, and I'm so happy to see you this morning. Are you feeling okay to be here today?" I smiled at her and said "thanks Angela for the warm welcome. I'm much better today and ready to get back to a normal schedule. I've got to get back here before Bailey decides he wants to take over for me!" We both had a good laugh on that and I proceeded to begin my morning weather work.
I had the weather segment done in about 40 minutes. I decided to surprise everyone as I remembered the better radar sites I found. The website did have a radar for Tampa Bay, St Petersburg, Clearwater and Sarasota. I got fancy and split the screen into quadrants showing all four radars at once. Everything was quiet this morning, but it was another change for the weather segment which looks much better than the radar sites I used before. In the future, I want to focus in on specific radars to show incoming storms impacting the bay area.
I refilled my coffee, and Angela said "are you ready to be overloaded?" I grinned and said "throw it my way, I'm ready to tackle a big work load today." She brought me over 12 stories to start with. I looked at her and said "12, my goodness -- it's going to be a busy morning." She replied "yes, quite a few follow up stories and a number of stories focusing on school starting in the next few days."
I started in on them, and Ross soon joined in as well. He said "good morning you news guru! Glad you're back. Don't get me wrong, Trevor is a great backup for you. However, I've gotten to use to working with CJ in the morning! It felt very lonely not having you on set yesterday with us."
We exchanged conversation while working on stories. We both wrapped up around 4:40, and kicked back for a few minutes of relaxation before the 5:00 am show. He looked at me and said "seriously my friend, are you sure that you're feeling, okay? I could not believe the stories of what happened Monday afternoon. It hit me hard, and all I could do was send you my positive energy while hoping for the best for you." I smiled and said "I felt your energy, Ross. It was a nerve-wracking day Monday. Thank goodness for my friends at the complex and the station. Everyone helped me get out of my sour mood quickly. I know I may have flashbacks to the traumatic event, but I'm feeling fine today and need to keep moving ahead." Ross smiled at me and said "if you ever need a bull session, or just someone to listen to you, I've got you covered CJ." I replied "thanks Ross, that's very comforting for me."
Before we knew it, the floor director gave Ross the kick-off signal, and our Wednesday morning was off and running. All four shows went very well, and the two hours flew by. Before I knew it, Ross was giving the wrap up line and then I heard the floor director say "cut". Jennifer joined us at the desk and said "the three musketeers are back! CJ, you bring out the best in us. I missed you yesterday, and I'm so glad you're back safe and sound with us." I smiled at Jennifer and said "I'm so glad to be here as well with you two. For a while on Monday afternoon, I was seeing my life flash before my eyes. That is an experience I never want to feel again soon my friends."
Nick and Angela joined us at the desk. Nick said "excellent shows everyone -- the morning gang is back together and taking no prisoners! CJ, I don't know where you got those radar shots from, but plan on using them every morning! That effect looks wonderful. Tell me, do you plan to fly into a specific radar if there is activity?" I said "I have not even thought about that Nick. I liked the look of the quad radars and went with that as a change for this morning." Angela said "I agree with Nick. CJ, I think that shot needs to be a constant in your weather segment, then fly into a specific radar site if there is something to expand on for the audience. Were those shots from that new website you found?" I smiled and said "yes, they are from that website. I plan to continue to use it, as well as see what else I can take from there to enhance the weather stories."
It was a nice morning, so several of us decided to walk to Cecilia's for breakfast. When we entered, Cecilia gave each of us a hug and said "my friends, it is good to see all of you together again. I pray that the evil man is out of your path forever." We all smiled and I said "don't worry Cecilia, he won't be bothering us ever again."
We all took a seat at the table and Cecilia took our drink orders. I'm not sure why I even looked at the menu as I plan to get my usual `Cecilia's Sunrise Surprise' with coffee. Jennifer spoke up and said "CJ, I'm starting a weekly Wednesday feature today at noon. The humane society is bringing in some kittens and puppies that are up for adoption today." I smiled and said "that's great Jennifer! I like that idea, and how can you go wrong with animals needing a forever home? Are you excited to start the new feature today?" She nodded her head yes and said "I'm looking forward to starting something new. I'll be heading to ZooTampa tomorrow for a feature story on flamingoes, and Friday I have a segment planned for weekend activities in the Bay Area." I replied with "that's wonderful! I'm looking forward to all of your features Jennifer. You're going to do an excellent job with them."
Our breakfast was delicious as usual, and the conversation flowed so well. I thoroughly enjoyed breakfast with everyone this morning. The time came for us to return to the station. Luckily, the morning was still on the cooler side and it was a pleasant walk back to the station.
I went to the bathroom and then went to my office as I had several agenda items I needed to get working on this morning. My first item is a call to UD. He answered his phone after the first ring and said "Good Morning my special guy! How are you feeling today?" I cracked up and said "Good Morning UD, I am doing wonderful this morning. Did I get you at a bad time?" He replied "not at all CJ, I was expecting a call from you before 10 this morning. My ESP did not let me down!"
We chatted about the shows with UD commenting how well I did on them after my day from hell on Monday. I said "UD, before you and Jack come down in September, I need to fill you in on two developments in the complex. First, Carl and Trevor are a couple, and are renting Wally's condo. Second, Bailey and Aaron are a couple as well, and they are buying Alex's condo." UD cracked up and said "holy shit son! Before I know it, you're going to have that complex filled with all of your gay friends CJ!" We both had a good laugh and he continued with "serious though, that's wonderful news CJ. I want to hear all of the details when Jack and I come there in September." I said "sounds good UD. Bailey wants to have dinner with you, Jack and Aaron while you're here. He wants to get to know you and Jack better and share his life story with both of you."
I continued and said "now, for my request of you. I'd like to get two patio signs made similar to what you had made for me and Wally. Is $200 enough to cover two signs?" He said "yeah CJ, $200 will be a good start. Don't worry, I'll cover the rest if needed." I said "for both signs, I'd like to have similar colors, roping and lettering. The first sign will say `Welcome to Carl and Trev's Place established 2023. Our playroom is always open'. The second sign should say "Aaron and Bailey's Pub established 2023. Home of the Bailey Special'. How do those sound to you, and any questions for me UD? I'll drop $200 into your checking account this week for them." UD chuckled and said "do I even want to know what the playroom is?" I cracked up and said "I hope that you and Jack will get to use it while you're in town!" UD and I had a hearty laugh together and he said "I like the idea of the signs CJ. I'll contact my sign maker today and have them get started on these."
I told UD "I need to run for a newsroom meeting at 9:30. It's been great to talk to you this morning UD, and I love you very much." He replied "I love you to CJ. Take care my son, and I'll talk to you later."
My next call is to Alex to see what he's up to today. He answered and said "I was just thinking about you! Are you doing okay, and what can I help you out with?" I said "good morning my friend. I'm doing well. The morning shows went very well, I went to breakfast with the crew and I just got off the phone with UD. What are you up to this morning?" He said "Aaron and I had some breakfast together, went to the hardware store for some paint, and you caught us painting their office." I said "wow, that's great Alex. It sounds like you are off and running on another very productive day." He giggled and said "yes, it's been a fun morning so far. We're painting the walls a garnet color, which is a little brighter than the burgundy color in your office. The wainscotting is going to be painted in the same grey color as yours, since I have plenty of that color left in my workshop. The plumbers are here working on the patio and Aaron and I are rocking out to some kick-ass music this morning." I cracked up and said "good for both of you. I need your help my friend, and we can talk more when I return this afternoon to the condo. Will you have some time to kick back with me, look at some jewelry, have a beer and maybe a cigar together on the patio?" Alex giggled again and said "my ring size is 10 and I'll be happy to look at jewelry with you CJ. It's a date!" I said "okay stud. I'll see you this afternoon. Bye Alex."
I made my final call to Wally. He answered and said "hey babe, are you doing, okay?" I replied "I'm doing great my love. I'm calling to say thanks again for yesterday. It has put me in such a good mood today. I hope you're having a good day as well sweetheart." Wally replied "I am CJ. I'm sweating my ass off, but all is well. I'll be home around 3:30 and I'm hoping you and I can grab a shower together?" I cracked up and said "I've got you booked at 3:30 Mr. Walters, looking forward to it." He said "I need to get going baby. Take care, and I love you." I said "I love you more Wally, and I'll see you later today stud."
Trev appeared at my door and said "hey big guy. Are you doing okay today?" I smiled and said "hey there Trev. I am doing well today. It helped tremendously taking yesterday off. Thank you so much for covering for me Trev, I sincerely appreciate it." He smiled and said "CJ, not a problem at all. Actually, if you are able, I need you to cover for me the weekend of September 23 and 24th? I have a wedding to attend in Nashville, and I'm going to take Carl with me." I smiled and said "got you covered my friend, not a problem at all. Actually, can I ask a favor of you for coverage on September 1st and 4th? Wally and I are planning a long weekend over Labor Day weekend." Trev smiled and said "that's not a problem at all CJ, I have you covered. I think I'll tell Angela I want to do co-anchor stories those two days to start getting practice in. You are just amazing to me CJ! I watched you again this morning, and I cannot believe all of your natural talent and how well you command the set. It's truly an honor to watch and learn from you." I smiled and said "thanks Trev, I sincerely appreciate those comments."
I showed Trev the website where I found the new radar sites, and sent him an email with the URL. I showed him my quad radar shot and said "Angela and Nick want me to use this shot daily now, and fly into one of the four radars if there is storm activity to discuss." Trev said "I like that shot CJ, are these the radars which are showing up better against the green wall?" I said "yeah, these are the ones that Nick and Angela are saying come across so much better." Trev said "I'll start using these as well for a more cohesive look. Do you mind if I also go with the quad radar shot?" I said "not at all, let's promote some consistency where we can on all of the weather shows dude."
I updated my weather segment for the noon show, then did some online shopping on Amazon. I searched for a small bookshelf stereo unit for my offices. I found one that I really liked, and ordered two of them using a gift card from my birthday presents. I processed the order, and had them shipped to the condo.
I killed the remainder of the morning talking to people in the newsroom and editing bays. At 11:55, I made my way to the set and joined up with Ross. He smiled at me and said "ready to put on another show my friend?" I said "hell yes Ross, let's do this stud!" He cracked up at me, and soon after that he kicked off the noon show with the St Petersburg in sixty intro.
Our noon show went fine. Jennifer's new segment on the pets up for adoption was very well done. She said she enjoyed it tremendously, and Ross and I enjoyed playing with the puppies after the show. Ross commented "Sheila and I have been looking to get a new puppy. I'll have to take her to the humane society one afternoon this week to see if one of these little cuties will satisfy our need."
I wished everyone a good afternoon as I left the newsroom. I started the jeep and left it cool down before heading out to the condo. I'm in a great mood, and want to share it with everyone today!
I arrived back at the condo complex, and checked in at Aaron's place before going to our condo. Alex was still there when I showed up and I said "hey gents. How is everything going today at construction central?" Aaron smiled and said "we've had a great morning CJ! The plumbers are making good progress on the patio area, and come into the guest wing to see what all Alex and I have accomplished." I followed them into the second bedroom and found the oak wainscotting up on all of the lower walls. The upper part remained in a sage color. I said "very nice you two, this looks great for a bedroom." I then followed them into the office. The walls were still wet with the new garnet color. Aaron held up a piece of the other wainscotting to be put on and said "picture this as a light gray color against the garnet." I smiled and said "very rich. This is going to look wonderful Aaron." He smiled and said "I'm going to surprise Bailey with it. His school colors are similar to yours. I love the garnet and grey combination."
We returned to the living area, and I took a peek out at the patio work. The plumbers were on a break, but I saw the creation of a bar area forming. I said to Aaron "everything looks great dude. Are you pleased with all of the progress?" He replied "I am CJ. Everything is going to look great once it's all complete. I have two deliveries coming this afternoon. After I get them in, I'll catch up with you two and maybe we can catch some pool time together."
Alex and I returned to our condo. I said "I'm hungry big guy. Do we have any appetizers or something small we can fix?" Alex said "how about some pizza rolls and a beer?" I smiled and said "perfect. I'm going to change stud and I'll meet you back here in a few minutes." Alex preheated the oven and said "I'm going to take a quick shower CJ before we eat and attend to your business at hand."
I returned to the kitchen first, spread the pizza rolls onto a cookie sheet, put them in the oven and set the oven timer. Alex returned and said "okay you beat me to the pizza rolls stud. I'll grab us a beer." I replied "sounds good Alex. I'll get my laptop and meet you on the patio."
We sat down in the tv area and I said "okay, I'm going to surprise Wally on Labor Day weekend, and I need your help. He may be asking you for help also, and all I ask is that if you are bombarded by both of us, please steer us in the right direction. I'd like to keep this a secret from Wally, but I need your assistance with finalizing my purchase." Alex smiled, giggled and said "if it's of any immediate help to you, he has not asked me for any assistance yet. You are the first in line my friend. If you want me to casually check in with Ronny I will, just in case Wally is working with him?" I said "yeah, if you will Alex that makes sense. Wally may go to Ronny first thinking that Ronny will know my preferences and tastes, even though I think you have a better idea by now on my likes and dislikes."
The oven timer went off and Alex went to retrieve the pizza rolls, while I fired up my laptop. I went to the site that I had bookmarked and brought up the home page. Alex returned with the appetizers and said "okay my friend, what type of jewelry are we looking at this afternoon?" I smiled and said "rings Alex, and specifically I'm seeking rings that will serve as engagement rings for the two of us." Alex smiled, gave me a hug and said "are you serious CJ?" I smiled and said "yes, I am Alex. I have met the man I am supposed to spend my life with. I want to surprise him with a marriage proposal over Labor Day weekend. Do you think this is a stupid idea, or do you think Wally will not appreciate it?" Alex had tears form in his eyes and said "Wally will love this CJ. He loves you so much, and I know you love him as well. I think it's so wonderful for you to be thinking about an engagement ring first. I know he will love it and fall further in love with you stud. Show me what you're thinking about."
I smiled and said "well, I found this style which I really like. I'm thinking of white gold for the metal, but I'm unsure of the stone. I know we both hate our birthstone which is peridot. Wally likes rubies and sapphires, which will look good on the white gold. I'm not sure though if that says engagement or not though and this is where I really need you to chime in for me Alex." Alex smiled, looked at the ring and said "first of all, the ring style is absolutely gorgeous. If my man ever asks you to help him, I'd gladly accept this style. It's very handsome, and will fit with a wedding band very nicely CJ. I think the style you have selected is a definite purchase, now we need to set it off with the right stone." I smiled, cracked up and said "thanks chief, I knew you were the one to come to for help on this!"
I showed Alex all of the stones I was thinking about. Alex smiled and said "CJ, do you want diamonds in a wedding band?" I replied "yes, I do Alex if Wally wants them as well." Alex said "for this particular style, I really like the black diamond or a sapphire CJ. I think they are both very nice looking and you won't go wrong with either of them." I changed the stone to a black diamond and put the inscription of "I Love You More" into the visual display. Once I did this, Alex began crying and said "that screams Wally and CJ my friend. Do you mind if I copy it when I propose to Ronny?" I smiled at Alex and we gave each other a hug. He wiped his tears and said "CJ, it's absolutely beautiful and I know your man will love it very much." I placed the order for a size 11 for Wally and a size 10 for me." Before I hit submit, I turned to Alex and said "do you believe this is a good idea, or should I just go straight to a wedding band selection my friend?" Alex smiled, ruffled my hair and said "buy it CJ. It's so touching and trust me for you two this will be a token that you will both treasure forever my friend." I entered my card information, and hit submit for the purchase. The transaction was approved and I said "Alex, thank you for doing this with me today. I love you, my friend." Alex smiled at me and said "I love you more, CJ."
We ate our pizza rolls and drank a couple of beers. Alex said "if Wally does ask me for help and he wants to pick a ring for you, how do you want me to direct him?" I smiled and said "a ceramic black wedding band with a sterling or white gold middle insert. Three diamonds in the insert." Alex giggled and said "can you be any more specific for me?" We both enjoyed a hearty laugh and I went back into the ring site to show Alex what I was thinking. Once I had the visual created for him, I sent him the link to his email account. I said "you can show this to Wally if he does ask you for help."
Alex and I continued talking and I told him about the signs I ordered for Aaron, Bailey, Carl and Trev. Alex loved the idea for both of them. A few minutes after 2:00 Alex received a call from Aaron. He answered and said "what's up Aaron?" Alex listened and said "sure, CJ and I will be down in a few minutes." Alex cracked up and said "Aaron had more delivered that he was expecting today and needs our help if you don't mind?" I smiled and said "let's go help our friend chief!"
We poured ourself another beer, and I filled up a glass for Aaron. When we entered his condo, I handed him his beer and he said "oh man, you read my mind! Thanks CJ" and took a drink. Both bedroom sets were delivered, along with the dining room table, chairs, barstools, bar and the living room furniture. I looked at Aaron and said "okay big guy, where do you want to start?" He smiled at me and said "let's do the master bedroom first, then work our way back out here to the living area."
By 3:30, we had all of the rooms arranged and placed the extra items in the second bedroom until their respective areas were ready for a final placement. I said "good job you two! Aaron, your place is looking absolutely wonderful. How about we go back up to the party patio and have another beer? I told my man I'd be there around 3:30 so I can shower with him this afternoon." Alex giggled and Aaron said "that sounds good CJ. I'm buying dinner for all of us tonight when Bailey gets here." Aaron left Bailey a note saying we were at the party patio and we headed back to our place. Wally had arrived just before us and said "hey guys, glad to see you! I thought that everyone may be down at the pool." I smiled, gave Wally a kiss and said "Alex and I went down to help Aaron with his deliveries. You should see what Aaron and Alex got done today, and their condo is filling up nicely with their beautiful purchases."
Wally smiled and said "I need a shower first, before I kill anyone with my body odor! Care to join me and wash my back off?" I grinned and replied "that's the best offer I've had today."
Wally removed his clothes, while I began the shower water. We entered together, and started kissing each other. He put his arms around me and I felt as though I was melting away into sheer pleasure with his sensual touching. I'm not sure how long we stood there kissing each other, but I was in heaven and did not want it to end. Wally surprised me by breaking the kisses and dropped to his knees. He began washing my cock and balls with his tongue. I leaned back against the shower wall, and left him have full access to me. Within minutes, he had me feeling so good. I started to moan and run my fingers through his hair. I said "oh sweetheart, you don't know how good that feels for me today." He spoke up and said "good my love, just keep leaning back for me and enjoy yourself. I love you CJ."
Wally continued on with his sensual touching, caressing and pleasant blowjob. He got me very worked up and soon I was shouting "baby, I'm shooting. Take my load Wally." He grabbed on to both of my legs and took my whole cock in his mouth. I felt a number of streams shoot down his throat, and he was moaning as he ate each stream. He raised up to me and shared some of my man juice with me through a passionate kiss. I felt wonderful, and wanted to show him the same pleasure. I repeated the whole process on him, and soon we were both well satisfied for the afternoon.
We washed each other off, exited the shower, dried off and got dressed for the remainder of the day. Bailey had joined Aaron and Alex on the patio. We found them each having a beer and engaged in a game of 301.
I said "hey boss, two days in a row and you're home before 5:00!" Bailey smiled at me and said "yes, I'm starting a new trend my friend. I've been missing too much life while I isolate myself at the television station. I will still be there to attend to the business that needs completed, but I'm finding my outside world so enjoyable now. It's the new Bailey 2.0!" We all had a good laugh out of his comments and Aaron said "okay, I want to show everyone what Alex and I accomplished today and see what the plumbers ended up accomplishing. After we do that, I'm treating everyone to dinner at Mel's." Bailey smiled and said "sounds wonderful sweetheart. I want to look at everything again as I'm sure I missed something since my first pass thru was so overwhelming for me."
As we walked into their place, Scott was just finishing up for the day. He said "hey there everyone, I'm glad I caught you before I left. Bailey and Aaron, I made a judgement call on some bar plumbing fixtures based on your other selections. I forgot to have you select them at the store, but I had the fixtures in stock from a previous job. They match your bathroom fixtures, but if you don't like them, we can find another selection for you." Scott led the way to the patio bar followed by Aaron, Bailey and the rest of us tagging along. He stood out of the way so that Aaron and Bailey got a good look. The back cabinet was installed, the sink and fixtures were in and the refrigerator spot was just waiting for a new purchase to be installed! Aaron turned to Scott and said "is the water on, and can I try the fixtures?" Scott said "please do, again if you do not like these fixtures, we can find something else." Aaron turned the water on, moved the gooseneck faucet from one side to the other and announced "Scott, this looks wonderful! I love the pewter fixtures, and it does match what we selected for the bathrooms." Bailey chimed in and said "it looks wonderful Scott and no changes are needed for us." Scott smiled and said "thanks guys! It was my bad not to have called this out on the order sheet, so no extra cost to you. I'm so glad you like the fixtures, and that I had some extras in stock for you. We're going to start work tomorrow on your guest bathroom. We'll be here around 8:00 am if that is, okay?" Aaron was smiling like a little child who got his first bicycle. He looked at Bailey and Scott and said "8:00 am is fine Scott, I'll be here. Bailey, this looks wonderful. I love the cabinet and sink, and we're going to have more storage than I thought along the wall." Bailey smiled at him, gave Aaron a kiss and said "everything looks beautiful my love, just like you. We need to get a refrigerator now, and then we can go ahead and bring the bar and stools out as well." Aaron then turned to Alex and said "more work for us tomorrow my friend! I also want to put up the bar shelves you mentioned with the extra wood from the closets." Alex replied "whatever you want to tackle Aaron, I am up for it my friend!"
Alex then turned to Wally and said "do you remember some refrigerators being on clearance at Home Depot when we found the wine chillers?" Wally said "yeah Alex, I do recall that. I think I remember seeing three different sizes and styles." Alex said "hey Aaron, let's plan on checking out Home Depot for a refrigerator tomorrow if you feel like it?" Aaron smiled and said "great suggestion. I remember the refrigerators in the clearance aisle as well. Maybe we can get a good one at a significantly reduced price."
Aaron led us through the condo pointing out all of the new furniture. When he got everyone into the second bedroom Bailey said "holy crap! I did not even notice the oak wainscotting in here baby." Aaron said "I made a last-minute call and Alex helped me install it today. Do you like it in here also, or is it too much wainscotting in the condo?" Bailey smiled and said "I love it. It looks wonderful with the sage color paint and the new bedroom set. Another wonderful touch sweetheart, thank you for going ahead with it!"
After we finished the second bedroom, Aaron took everyone to the office. Bailey said "you picked my school colors didn't you baby?" Aaron smiled and said "that is the end result. I love the garnet color, and the other type of wainscotting will be painted grey and run along the bottom half of all the walls." Bailey stood in the middle of the room and looked in awe at everything. He said "this is going to be a very nice setting for an office. I think instead of a murphy bed we should go with two leather chairs and another table between them. Aaron, what do you think of that baby?" Aaron said "I like it Daddy, let's plan for it!" Aaron made his way to Bailey and gave him a kiss. I began to choke up seeing the two of them so happy together. Wally grabbed me and put his arm around my shoulder. He looked at me and said "are you okay sweetheart?" I smiled back at him and said "I'm wonderful stud muffin. I'm just so happy to be here enjoying this with everyone."
Aaron announced "okay everyone. I'm starved! Let's go eat." Bailey smiled and said "you heard my boy, I'll drive everyone!"
I'm really enjoying watching Aaron and Bailey grow into their relationship. They are both so happy together and I realize now that I'm the one who started them off on the right foot. It was never my intention for them to end up as a couple, but it makes me so happy to see the end product! I'm so glad that Carl intervened also because between Wally and Bailey, I ended up with the man I am supposed to be with for the rest of my life.
We loaded up Bailey's SUV, and arrived at Mel's ten minutes later. Lucas was at the host station and said "welcome guys! It's great to see everyone tonight." He grabbed menus, silverware, the draft list and said "follow me everyone. I'll be serving you tonight if you don't mind?" I grinned and said "we were hoping you were here tonight, Lucas. It's always an enjoyment for us when you're our waiter." Lucas sat us at a gulf front table and said "I'll be back everyone with water and then I'll take your drink orders."
I was sitting in between Wally and Bailey at the table. As I was reviewing the menu I leaned over to Bailey and said "do you know if Darrell Fullinger is gay and is he in a relationship?" Bailey cracked up and said "He is gay CJ, and the last time he and I went out he's not involved with anyone. That was over one year ago though. What are you thinking my friend?" I smiled and said "I think Lucas and Darrell are made for each other. I'll ask Lucas before we leave what his status is." Bailey cracked up at me and said "you go you big Muskie! Keep expanding that circle of influence for us."
Everyone enjoyed dinner tremendously. I decided to go with the nightly special which was seafood pasta in an alfredo sauce. The sauce contained shrimp, scallops and crab. I was stuffed, and knew that I'd be hitting the sack early after such a rich and delicious meal. Alex ordered Ronny a to-go order of the seafood pasta. We continued on with our conversation and Bailey said "hey son, what else do you have on store for your agenda tomorrow?" Aaron smiled and said "well, the hot tub is being delivered and I think the office desk will also be coming. I plan to continue painting in the office, continue work on the bar area and stay out of the plumber's way!" I cracked up and said "you've got a busy rest of the week Aaron." He smiled at me and said "I sure do, but I'm going to enjoy every moment of it, CJ."
Everyone made their way to Bailey's SUV while I delivered Lucas the bill and his tip. I said "Lucas, if you are off on Friday afternoon please join us in our weekly happy hour. Do you know where GulfView Condomiuniums are at?" Lucas replied "yeah CJ, I know exactly where those are at." I smiled and said "great. We usually get rolling at 3:30 or whenever you can make it. We'll either be at the pool or condo 401." Lucas said "that sounds like fun CJ, and I am not working on Friday. I'll plan on stopping by." I replied "great Lucas. Let me warn you that it's mostly a gay crowd, and I hope that does not bother you?" He cracked up and said "don't worry CJ, I am on the same team as you and the gang." I shook Lucas's hand and said "see you on Friday afternoon stud." I got to the SUV and said "Bailey, remind me to invite Darrell to happy hour Friday afternoon. Lucas is going to join us as well." Bailey cracked up and said "gotcha you big Muskie! I'll remind you tomorrow."
We made it back to the complex and Bailey said "thanks for a wonderful dinner, Aaron. I'm glad we all got to enjoy it. Alex, thanks for all of the help you gave to Aaron today. Everything looks wonderful and I'll make the Bailey specials for you this weekend!" Alex smiled, did his nervous giggle and said "that sounds wonderful Bailey. I'm looking forward to see what Aaron and I can get finished this week. I forgot to tell everyone that I also began work on the pantry design. I need to show my hairy ass boss what I created, as I need some suggestions from him before continuing." Wally cracked up and said "let's take a look at it tonight or first thing tomorrow morning chief!"
Bailey and Aaron decided to go to their place and enjoy all of the new furnishings. The three of us went to our place, and Ronny was sitting at the breakfast bar checking email. Alex went to him, gave him a hug and kiss and said "I brought you some seafood pasta for dinner babe." Ronny smiled and said "oh man, pasta sounds excellent. I'm starved baby, thank you so much." I said "gents, I'm going to call it an evening. You three carry on and I'll see you all tomorrow." I gave Wally a hug and kiss and said "join me when you feel like it, baby." He smiled at me and said "I'll be in later babe. I want to see the chief's pantry creation and I'm going to have at least one more beer with them before turning in."
Ronny heated is pasta up, grabbed a beer glass and said "will you two join me in a beer at the high-top?" Alex and Wally both grabbed a beer glass and followed Ronny out to the patio. Wally filled everyone's glass up and said "guys, I'm glad we have some time together as I need your help." Alex quickly grabbed his beer and took a drink so that he will not show any funny facial expressions to Wally. Wally sat down on a chair and said "CJ and I are going to take a vacation together for a long Labor Day weekend. I know this may be sudden to both of you and I want this to be a secret kept from CJ. I have found the love of my life in CJ guys. I'm going to ask him to marry me on our vacation. What do you think of the idea, and do you think I'm rushing the topic too quickly?"
Ronny got up, gave Wally a hug and said "my future brother-in-law! CJ loves you, big guy, and I know how much you love him. I have never seen two people more compatible for each other and I give you my blessing to marry my brother!" Wally cracked up and said "thanks Ronny. I take it by your comments that you don't think I'm rushing the topic too quickly?" Ronny smiled and said "trust me, Wally. In all of our late-night discussions that CJ and I have had, you and CJ are meant to be together in a life full of love. You are everything that CJ has ever wanted in a partner, and I'll be disappointed if you don't address the subject with him. You two can take your time and plan whatever type of wedding you both want. I already have a good idea of what CJ will tell you that he wants for a ceremony, but let's save that for later. What do you need our help with my friend?"
Wally turned to Alex and said "did I surprise you chief?" Alex began to tear up and said "no Wally, I'm just so happy for both of you! I have to admit, I was pissed as hell at you for getting to him before I did when he moved here. Through all of our talks though, I know how deeply he is in love with you, and I see how much you have changed and fallen in love with him. I give you my blessing my dear friend and will be there for both of you on your wedding day. I echo the question that Ronny asked you, what can we do to help you out you hairy ass bear?" Wally cracked up and said "thanks guys, I feel so much better now just receiving both of your positive reactions."
Wally continued on and said "I want to go ahead and buy CJ and myself a wedding band. I know the traditional process calls for an engagement ring first, but I'm not sure what type of engagement ring will be right for CJ and myself. If I know my man at all he will want an engagement ring and pick them out for us, and will love a wedding band from me." Alex sat quietly and said to himself "well you got that one right Wally!" Wally took a drink of his beer and said "do either of you know what styles of wedding bands CJ may like? I know he hates our birthstone which is a peridot. He loves diamonds, rubies and sapphires though. As you both know, he and I are not flashy individuals. I'm picturing a very handsome wedding band with maybe two types of metals and several nicely placed stones which will accent the overall look of the rings. I'm hoping you two can help me out with suggestions."
Ronny started in and said "believe it or not, this was a topic for CJ and myself over some beer one night at the college dormitory. One of our friends, who is in New York now, proposed to his partner. He showed CJ and I the ring he selected before proposing. It was two metals with black ceramic and sterling silver as an insert in the ring. There were three diamonds as stones embedded in the sterling inset. After we saw it, CJ looked at me and said that's the type of wedding band I want when I find my man. I love the black ceramic and the sterling looked fine. I'd like to see a white gold insert instead, but the three diamonds were stunning."
Alex smiled and said "wow Ronny that's amazing. When CJ and I were at Kohls looking for stuff prior to his family's visit he and I looked at rings in the jewelry case. He pointed out one to me and said I want a wedding band like that. It sounds very similar to what you just described." Alex took a drink of his beer and said "don't ask me why you hairy ass bear, but I was so impressed with him saying he wanted it, I went to a jewelry creation website and did a visual of it just in case this topic ever came up in discussion between you and I. I saved the visual to my laptop, and I can go print off a copy for you if it will help?"
Wally smiled and said "chief, of course I want to see it. Can you print me a copy now, so the three of us can review it together?" Alex did his nervous giggle and said "give me a couple of minutes and I'll be back with the picture I created."
Alex covered his tracks well, and downloaded the image to his hard drive and erased the email from CJ. He printed the picture from his hard drive, and returned to the patio with it. He showed Ronny and Wally the image and said "I hope I got most of it right. I do remember it was black ceramic and white gold. It also had three diamonds in the gold insert. Ronny, does this look anything like what you and CJ saw in college?" Ronny took a drink and said "Alex, it's a perfect match to what we saw. Again, Warren's insert was sterling and I do recall CJ saying white gold was a better choice. What's the insert in this picture?" Alex said "I used white gold as the ring at Kohls had a white gold insert."
Wally began to cry and said "guys, this is beautiful. It screams CJ, and I love the look of it as well. How can I ever thank you both for helping me with this?" Alex cracked up and said "add ring designer to my new title, and give me a five thousand dollar increase on my salary!" Wally busted out laughing, gave Alex a hug and kiss, and said "my dear friend I needed that tension breaker so much. I love both of you so much, and you just gave me the idea I needed for CJ and my wedding bands." Ronny smiled and said "will you be upset if I ever use that same design when I propose to Alex?"
Wally took another drink of his beer and said "no Ronny, I will not be upset at all. The four of us have bonded together and I cannot think of a more special way to show our deep friendship, as well as our commitment to each other, with all of us having the same wedding band in our life."
Alex said "when I did make this visual, I just did a google search on men's wedding bands. There are a number of sites where you can design and buy a wedding band. I actually think they may be cheaper to deal with Wally as you are cutting out the extra markup from a jewelry shop. Do you know what CJ's ring size is?" Wally said "yes, he is a size 10 and I'm a size 11."
Wally continued on and said "Alex, I wanted to review your initial stab at the pantry tonight. Do you mind if we switch gears, I'll get my laptop and the three of us will design CJ's wedding band?" Alex smiled, did his giggle and said "I'd be disappointed if you don't have the set ordered tonight. We can review the pantry tomorrow before you leave for work." Wally said "perfect gents! I'll go get my laptop and credit card. Why don't we each have another beer if one of you will pour them." Ronny spoke up and said "it will be my honor to pour us each another beer in this beautiful occasion."
Alex sat in his chair calmly and said to himself "well done chief! You played that off very well and you're helping both of your friends. You deserve an academy award for your performance and I'm so glad you did not piss yourself with all the excitement you just went through. CJ is going to be so surprised. When do you want to pop the question to your hairless stud muffin, Alex?"