Hello everyone. Can you believe we're coming to another month end of 2024? I guess the saying "the older you get, the quicker time flies by" is appropriate for me. I'm sending special hello's and greetings to: Darrell, David, Geoff, JerBear, Joe, Kevin, Rick, Stan and Wayne. Thank you gents for the continued ideas and support -- appreciate you all!
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.
Alex finishes up his story of how he got to St Pete Beach. Don't worry, UD and Jack are exhausting CJ and Wally out with all of their antics! They'll be back next chapter and will make their way back to St Pete Beach with CJ and the entire gang of friends.
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I slept better after meeting with Joe and decided to take control of my life back. I cleaned up the house, took better care of myself and read the four suggestions each day before leaving for work. I was so excited for the trip to St Petersburg, and could not wait until next Wednesday evening came around for Joe and I to head off for the gulf coast.
Joe arrived at my home precisely at 5:00 pm. I had my bag packed, and scurried out to his Nissan Armada SUV. I opened the passenger door and said "wow Mr. Star, what a nice SUV. Is this a perk of the principal's job?" Joe chuckled and said "when I found this vehicle, I had to have it, Alex. It fits my height so well, and I'm comfortable in it. I love the crimson color and grey interior, so I treated myself to it last year." I looked around the vehicle and said "it's very nice Joe. I may have to consider an SUV when my old Chevy Colorado finally gives out on me. Until that time, my ole beater pickup job does the job for me."
Joe headed west out of town for the gulf. Once we were out of town he said "I'm taking you to St Pete Beach where the condo is at. On one or more of the days we're there we'll visit downtown St Petersburg to give you the full flavor of the area." I smiled at him and said "that sounds great. Can I ask you why a handsome man like yourself is not living closer to the beach?" Joe smiled and said "I have my reasons, Alex. Over the next few days, I'll open up to you and share them. For now, please know that all of my intentions with you Alex are legitimate. I hope that I can call you my friend, and I want to help out my friend. In return, you'll be helping me out as well." I went along with Joe's mysterious side and said "I hope we're friends Joe with all of the information I have shared with you. Whenever you're comfortable in sharing with me, I'm here for you."
Our conversation did not stop the rest of the trip. Joe got us to the interstate, and we went back into downtown Tampa. I had spent some time in Tampa, but I never went further west. I saw some planes landing at the airport ahead of us. Soon we crossed the Howard Frankland bridge continuing our west track over Tampa Bay. We both had to put our shades down as the blazing sun was beginning its descent into the gulf. The area was all new to me, and I was enjoying the sights of Tampa Bay. I probably sounded like a chatterbox to Joe with all of my questions. He did not seem to mind though, as he answered all of my questions that I asked of him.
Joe took an exit off I-275 which had a sign saying south gulf beaches. As we exited the interstate, Joe continued to drive west, taking us through a number of different neighborhoods. About ten minutes after we had exited the interstate, Joe said "you ready to start getting some gulf views?" I smiled like a child and said "oh yeah, Joe! Bring them on." He cracked up and said "the bridge ahead is the intercoastal waterway. After we cross it, we'll be in St. Pete Beach." I looked ahead when we hit the apex of the bridge, and caught a small view of the gulf. I looked at Joe and said "I see the gulf, Joe. I can't believe all of these condos along the waterway. They look very nice and pricey. I'm not sure if I can afford anything like these." He chuckled and said "don't worry my friend. I've got a deal for you which I know you'll be interested in. How does some dinner sound at a beachside bar to you? We can have a few drinks, a good dinner and watch the sunset?" I smiled to Joe and said "only if you'll let me buy your dinner tonight for driving us over here?" Joe smiled back at me and said "you've got a deal, Alex. I hope that Mel's is still in business. It is a nice beach restaurant which always draws a crowd. They have a karaoke contest if you're interested in going to it? I can't remember which night it is though." I replied "I have never gone to a karaoke event Joe, but I'm willing to give it a shot with you."
Joe was pleased when he saw Mel's ahead on the right side of the road. He pulled into the parking lot which had a few parking spots open. I said "wow Joe, it looks busy. Do you think we'll be able to get in tonight?" Joe smiled and said "we're only two minutes away from the condo Alex. If we can't get a table right away, we'll enjoy a drink at the bar first."
Joe and I headed into Mel's. When we entered the lobby, Joe saw a sign for Thursday night karaoke. He pointed to it and said "we're early by one day Alex. I hope you like this place. If you want, we can walk here tomorrow night and enjoy another nice dinner with some karaoke fun."
Mel was at the host stand, and Joe made his way over to him. Luckily, there was a table for two still available and it had a beach view. We followed Mel over to the table, and he informed us that our server will be here soon to take our orders. Joe and I sat down, and my eyes quickly focused on the setting sun over the gulf. The sky was full of so many brilliant colors and reflections were being cast on the gulf waters. I took out my phone, and snapped a few quick pictures of the scene. Joe smiled at me and said "I have enjoyed Mel's every time I come here. I think you may be enjoying it as well?" I put my phone down and said "this is absolutely a beautiful scene Joe. Thanks for bringing me here, as I know I could just sit here all night and enjoy the breathtaking scenery."
Joe and I both decided that seafood sounded good, and Mel's menu had plenty of fresh-catch selections. I decided to go with a tilapia platter, and Joe went for a stuffed grouper platter. Joe added a shrimp cocktail for two onto the order as an appetizer for us. I suggested a bottle of pinot grigio wine to finish everything off.
We ended up having a beautiful evening together. The wine was flavorful, and the food was absolutely incredible. We finished off dinner with some coffee and each of us indulging in a piece of cheesecake for dessert.
I could not believe that three hours had passed by since Joe and I entered into Mel's. Our conversation never ceased during the evening. After two cups of coffee, Joe asked me "what do you say to a quick walk on the beach and then we'll head to the condo, Alex?" I smiled and said "let me settle up with the server, and we'll head for the beach Joe."
After I paid the bill, Joe and I went out to the beach. I was surprised with how many people were enjoying a night time walk on the beach. I was able to see everything thanks to the lights of the hotels, restaurants and the moon. I felt myself getting mesmerized by hearing the waves crashing onto the beach. Mom, dad and I never went to the beach, nor did I ever go with Tommy. It was a pleasurable experience for me, and I hoped we visited it each day we are here.
We walked along for about ten minutes. Joe looked at me and said "will you sit down with me so I can start unloading to you, Alex?" I smiled at him and sat myself down. I patted the sand next to me and said "come on down Joe, the sand feels great." He laughed at me and joined me in a sitting position.
I'm not sure if Joe was ready to unload anything to me, as I saw him taking several deep breaths. He finally stated with "I stayed here with my uncle during the summers Alex. Mom and dad always thought it was good for me to get away from the inland area, and assumed I enjoyed the beach. The first two years I came here to stay with Uncle Stan were fine. The third year changed everything for me, Alex. Uncle Stan was even taller than I am now. He did intimidate me as a child, and I never wanted him to get upset with me. Even though I was developing a good build, Uncle Stan was much stronger than me." At this point, I saw tears streaming down Joe's face. He continued on and said "my uncle sexually abused me that third summer, Alex. I remember him telling me that if I ever told anyone about it, he will deny it and that they won't believe me since I lied all during my childhood."
Joe regressed to his childhood where he told me that he lied often to his parents. He got into quite a bit of trouble because of it. Joe continued on and said "I left the abuse go on, because I thought uncle was right and no one will believe me. I was relieved when school came back around as I was entering high school. My growth spurt really occurred during my freshman year. I ended up playing basketball, and became quite good at it. The coach talked to my parents about how much basketball camps will help develop my skills further. Mom and dad enrolled me into a number of basketball camps, which let me stay at home versus being shipped off to Uncle Stan for anymore summer stays with him."
I put my arm around Joe's shoulder and whispered "Joe, you don't need to say anymore to me. Just let loose with your anger, sadness or whatever emotions you are feeling." Joe let loose into a full cry and replied "no Alex, I need to get this out to you and why I brought you here. Uncle Stan died last year, and for some reason left me his condo in his will. When I first heard the news, I decided for some reason that Stan was going to continue to torment me in his afterlife. I've tried to stay at the condo by myself, but those terrible memories come back to me. I've left the condo go for almost a year, just paying the monthly fees. I need to dispose it out of my life Alex, and offer it to someone who can use it."
We both took a few minutes, and I continued to rub Joe's back and shoulders. Joe composed himself, and wiped away the tears from his face. He looked and me and said "Alex, I'm not trying to put pressure on you to take the condo. I understand if you don't, but I'm also very aware that you need to make a change and rid yourself of the memories of Tommy."
Joe was right. Every day that I stay in Bartow, I continue to dwell on Tommy and him breaking all his promises to me. I did not have my security blanket with dad anymore, and Joe made sense to me when he says I need a change. Joe broke the silence when he said "please know my friend that if this condo is not for you, I will do all I can to help you get set up in a different environment than what you have now. When you told me everything last week about your losses, I decided to take the opportunity to see if you and I can help each other out."
I gave Joe a hug, along with a kiss on his cheek. I put my hand under his chin, turned his face to me and said "I hope I was not too forward with you with that kiss, Joe. I'm here for you, and appreciate what all you have said and are attempting to do for me." Joe smiled, returned a kiss to me on the lips and said "you did not surprise me with the kiss Alex. Actually, I was hoping you did kiss me. Alex, I need to tell you that I'm gay."
I did not know what to think. Honestly, I was shocked as I never really thought of anyone else outside of Tommy and myself being gay. I figured there were other gay couples in the area, but never expected it to be one of my teachers. I smiled at him and said "Joe, you surprised me with that. Once again, I isolated myself with Tommy, and never thought about other gay men in Bartow, or the world. Thank you for sharing that with me. I'm here for you Joe, in whatever way you need me to be."
Joe stood up and held out his hand for me. I put my hand into his and he lifted me up from the sand. I felt like I was straining my neck looking up to him. I smiled and said "I have to ask you one question before we go on Joe. How tall are you? I feel like I'm Jack and you're the bean stalk!" Joe busted out laughing and said "I'm 6'9" and before you ask next, yes, I did play basketball in high school and at college." I replied "no wonder I feel like I need to get a step ladder to reach your handsome face!" Joe leaned over and embraced me in a bear hug. He gave me another kiss on my lips and said "Alex, I can't tell you how much I need your friendship in my life now. We've both had bad relationships and we each need time to heal and find what we're looking for. Until we reach that time, I want our friendship to grow and maybe we can become friends with benefits while we're each searching for our Mr. Right?" I smiled at Joe and said "I'm okay with that Joe, but remember I'm the clueless one here. What exactly are friends with benefits?" Joe chuckled and said "oh my young friend. I have so much to teach you this weekend and in the future. Let's head for the condo."
Joe was spot on when he said we were only two minutes from the condo. Joe parked the SUV, and we both retrieved our weekend bags. Joe's place was on the third floor, and we made our way to the elevator. As we came to his door, I could tell he was nervous to go in. His hands were shaking, and he had trouble holding his keychain. I grabbed his keychain from him and said "remember, I'm here to help you in any way you need me, Joe." He pointed to the key and I used it to open the door. I entered and turned on some interior lights. Joe was still standing at the door. I went back to him, took his hand and said "come on in my friend. I'm not going to let anything happen to you."
Joe followed me into the living area. He started looking around and said to me "it's the same as I left it last year Alex. I did not think I'd be able to enter this place again, but I feel safe here with you." I smiled at him and replied "you are safe with me Joe. Remember, we're here to take care of each other this weekend." He smiled at me and said "okay, follow me and I'll give you a tour of the place before we do anything else."
I was very surprised at the size of the condo. When we pulled up into the complex, I was not expecting to find what I did. The complex is older than some of the huge complexes I saw coming into St Pete Beach, but you can tell it has been very well maintained. The master suite side of the condo was very plentiful in size. It's bathroom and walk-in closet were spacious, and there was a sliding glass door leading out to the patio. The bedroom presently had a king size bed, but still had plenty of space for two dressers and two nightstands. Joe and I then went to see the other two bedrooms and guest bathroom. I was shocked at the overall size of the condo and felt as though it had as much space as my ranch back in Bartow. The patio was another surprise, with three entrances to it. Joe and I ended up on the patio, with him pointing out Gulf Boulevard to me, along with Mel's and other attractions in the immediate area. We ended up sitting at his patio table and he said "well, that's the five-cent tour for tonight. Tomorrow, I'll show you the entire complex along with the amenities provided for the complex residents. Do you have any initial questions or thoughts, Alex?" I replied to Joe with "I'm still trying to soak everything in. When we pulled into the complex, I never expected the units to be this large. It's very spacious, and I have to admit the patio is the icing on the cake for me. I already have ideas running through my mind of how this could be decorated to suit my tastes." Joe smiled at me and said "good, so you're telling me it's not a first initial reaction of hell no, Joe?" I cracked up and said "you are correct Mr. Star. I'm anxious to see everything again tomorrow during daylight, as well as the complex amenities. Joe, I'm so glad you invited me here this weekend. You're pointing out opportunities for me to take hold of my life and make some changes to reach a happiness that I deserve."
Joe was delighted with my answer and said "that's great Alex. Let's just continue to enjoy the weekend, enjoy each other and deepen our friendship. I have one more request for you before we turn in for the night. Will you sleep with me in the guest bedroom? I'm not ready to be by myself in here yet, and I don't want to even think about sleeping in the master suite as it brings back too many bad memories." I looked at Joe, smiled at him and said "I'm here for you in whatever way you need me. The sleeping arrangement sounds great. That's one thing Tommy and I never really did together. Our time together was always quick and dirty. I'm anxious to sleep with a handsome man all night long. Let's go in and get the room ready for us, Joe."
I woke up the next morning, and Joe had both arms wrapped around me. I hated to wake him, but it was well past time of my normal morning wake up routine. I carefully slipped out of the bed, and went to relieve myself in the bathroom. While I was in there, the inspection guru in me came out, and I tried all water supplies to make sure the pressure was good. Everything appeared fine in the guest bathroom so I made my way to the kitchen. The appliances were dated, but all still appeared in good working condition. I found some coffee in the one cupboard and decided to make Joe and I a pot of coffee for the morning. I was filling the coffee maker with water, when I felt Joe come behind me and wrap my tiny torso into his strong arms. He leaned down and gave me a kiss on the cheek.
After turning the coffee maker on, I turned around in his arms and said "morning big guy! Sorry, I was trying not to wake you up. I hope you don't mind that I'm making us some coffee?" He smiled at me, gave me a kiss on the lips and said "I slept so well last night Alex, and I owe it to you. Coffee sounds wonderful, and please you do anything you want to while we're here this weekend. Maybe we can get some munchies, beer and wine today while we're out. We can enjoy the patio after we return from dinner tonight." I replied "that sounds great, Joe. I'd like to go back to Mel's if you don't mind? I saw so much on the menu that I want to try, and I want to give karaoke a shot as well." Joe just smiled at me and said "whatever you want to do this weekend is fine with me Alex. Please know you helped me over a big hurdle last night, and I will never be able to repay you for it." I kissed Joe at that point, and slipped him some tongue. We broke the kiss and I said "no repayments are needed Joe. Remember, I plan to become your best friend, with benefits!"
Joe and I went out to the patio. The beach was quiet this morning, but I did see several people out for a morning walk. After we both finished several cups of coffee, Joe and I both decided we were hungry for a big breakfast. Joe said "there's another great diner near here which used to have the best breakfast on the beach. The name is Kurt's Diner, and it's a little farther than Mel's from here. How about we get a shower, go eat breakfast and plan our day at Kurt's." I smiled at Joe and said "that all sounds great. You want to shower first, or do you want me to go?" Joe snickered and said "did you and Tommy ever shower together?" I blushed and said "we only showered together in the locker room after our tennis matches. There were always other guys with us, so the opportunity was never there." Joe just smiled and said "okay then, lesson number two for you this weekend. We shower together when we're alone. How does it sound to you?" I cracked up and said "sounds great Mr. Star. Take me to that shower."
Joe was so gentle with me and made my first shower experience an incredible memory for me. He began kissing me which turned me on so much. I remember rubbing my hands all over his hairy body as well as cupping his balls and stroking his cock. It was the first time that anyone had touched me all over my body. It was so sensual and I was feeling as though I was going into an out of body experience with all of the pleasure Joe was providing to me. I began moaning and Joe whispered in my ear "that's it, Alex. Relax stud, I've got you and want to give you so much that you've been missing in life."
I'm not sure how long we ended up in the shower, but I did not want the feelings to end. I dropped to my knees and began working Joe's cock into an aroused state. It was his turn to moan, and judging by his hearty growls I was sending him into a pleasure zone as well.
Joe and I both shot our cum over each other. Once we were both spent, we sat down on the built in seat along the backside of the shower. Our kissing and fondling continued on as we were both enjoying our first shower together.
Joe placed his hand under my chin, looked into my eyes and said "how was that for your first shower experience with a man?" I gave him a kiss on the lips and said "my most memorable experience to date, Joe. I'm going to enjoy learning all I can from you."
We finished up our shower, and the rest of our morning grooming activities. We headed out to the living area and Joe said "thanks for a beautiful morning, Alex. I can tell that you and I are going to have an incredible weekend together, and remember please tell me anything you want to do in order to get yourself more familiar with the area."
On the way to the restaurant, I found myself daydreaming while I was staring at all of the sights along the way. I felt happy and several feelings I never felt while I was with Tommy. I felt cared for, pleasured and worthy of the love of a good man. Joe asked me "you okay, Alex? You have gotten awfully quiet on me." I turned my head to him, gave him a big smile and replied "I'm doing wonderful, Joe. I got lost in my thoughts, and I'll try to explain them to you over breakfast."
We got to the diner, went inside and were greeted by our waitress, Tami. I have never been treated so well by a server in my life, as I was with Tami. Her bubbly personality could bring out the good feelings in you, even on a bad day.
After looking at the menu, we both placed our order with Tami. I started describing the feelings that I was having with Joe. I told him I never felt these feelings with Tommy, nor do I ever remember Tommy asking me how I was feeling. I summed everything up to Joe by saying "I don't know if I was really in love with Tommy now. What I called our relationship was very one-sided, and after a short time with you Joe, I'm seeing that there is more to life and I need to explore it all before I settle down with someone again. I can tell you Joe, it will be so easy to enter a relationship with you. I understand though and agree with you that we both need to expand our horizons and find what truly makes us happy." Joe just smiled at me and said "my star pupil just graduated! I'm glad you just said that, Alex. I'll always be around for you, and I hope to enjoy more experiences with you as we both find what we're looking for in life."
Our breakfast was wonderful, and we ended up making our tentative plans for the rest of our weekend. I say tentative because we both agreed that if we see anything we want to do, we're going to do it. Today, we're going to stay around the beach area. We're planning on walking the beach, exploring the stores and shops in the beach area, and have some relaxation time at the pool this afternoon. I asked Joe if he had any tools at the condo, as I saw several cupboard doors which need their hinges tightened or replaced. He replied "I don't have any tools, but we'll stop by the property managers office when we go to the pool. I'll introduce you to Hans if he is still here. I always liked to talk to Hans when I was younger as he provided an escape for me to get away from my uncle."
I enjoyed our day and found the St Pete Beach area to be very friendly and a totally different change of pace from Bartow. I decided that if I did move here, I need to add to my wardrobe. I have several pairs of cutoff shorts and plain tee shirts. I couldn't believe all of the colors I saw people wearing and said to myself "I really need to add some color to my dull clothes in order to fit in here."
After we finished our walking tours of downtown and the beach, we went into the local Publix to get some munchies and supplies we both could use. Each minute that I spent with Joe increased my feelings of wanting so much more out of my life. Even though I'd like a relationship with Joe, I know that down deep I want to find someone closer in age to me. Also, I have to admit that our height difference was not appealing to me. However, in just a short time with Joe I realized that he and I will be best friends and help each other through our upcoming trials and tribulations in life.
Once we got back to the condo, Joe and I decided to spend a couple of hours at the pool. We filled a cooler with some beer, changed into our swim suits, and headed for the pool. The pool area was very large with hot tubs anchoring each of the pool corners. There were plenty of lounge chairs and tables and chairs for the residents to enjoy. A few people were lounging around the pool, but we literally had the pool to ourselves. Joe said "let me show you around some more, Alex. We'll start with the recreation center where we can ice the beer down to get it cold in the cooler." The rec center was nice with a kitchen area, a number of tables for the residents to play card games, two pool tables and a couple of other attractions. Joe said "this area is available to all residents, and you can rent it out for a special occasion if you want to. The property manager manages all of the reservations for the complex"
We filled the cooler with ice, and returned it to a table where we are going to lounge at by the pool. Joe then took me into the exercise room. I was surprised with the number of workout equipment appliances that were in the room. Joe showed me the changing area for men, and also pointed out that there was a similar room for ladies. We then exited the room, and Joe took me to the tennis courts. The complex has two tennis courts which appeared well maintained. I smiled at Joe and said "wow, this will be great for me to keep my tennis skills up to speed, and I've been thinking about joining a gym to build up more muscle tone. This complex has a number of nice features for people. How much are the monthly fees, Joe?" Joe said "I'm paying $500 per month Alex. Besides having access to the pool, weight room and tennis courts, the fee also includes cable, internet, trash and water. The complex is one of the best kept secrets in St Pete Beach. A number of the newer complexes charge a much higher monthly fee and don't have near the amenities that you have here."
On our way back to the pool, we stopped in the property managers office. Joe said "hello, is anyone here?" An older man appeared from the back section of the office, took one look at Joe and said "Oh my goodness, Joe how are you and what are you doing here?" Joe got a big smile on his face and said "Hi Hans, I was not sure if you'd remember me. This is my good friend Alex Turner and I'm showing him the condo and St Pete Beach area this weekend." Hans turned to me and said "welcome Alex. Are you thinking about buying Joe's condo? I know he's been thinking about selling it." I replied to Hans and said "it's nice to meet you, Hans. I've decided to make a change in my location, and Joe suggested we come over to St Pete Beach to take a look at his place."
Our conversation with Hans continued and I said "Hans, Joe has some cupboard doors that need tightened up. Can I borrow a hammer, some screwdrivers and if you have some hinges around, I'll take a couple of those in case I need them?" Hans chuckled and said "I take it you're a handy man Alex? You're doing a job that I should be doing." I smiled at Hans and said "yes, I enjoy fixing things around the house, Hans. I'm certified in HVAC, general construction, electrical and plumbing." Hans said "you two go relax by the pool and I'll go tighten up those cupboard doors. I'll drop by the pool when I'm finished." Joe said "sounds good Hans. We've got a couple of extra beers if you have some time to join us?" Hans said "yeah, it will be close enough to quitting time by then, and I'll have a beer with you two before going home to see the Mrs."
Joe and I went to the pool, jumped in, took a few laps and then rested on some floats. Joe said "so what's your initial impression of the complex and the amenities, Alex?" I replied "it's a very favorable impression, Joe. I like the size of the complex, and the amenities are wonderful. I like the idea of having a workout area and tennis courts close by so that I can use them. So far Joe, you've got a spectacular idea here for me to consider heavily."
Joe and I continued to chat and float around the pool. We ended up being the only two in the pool and I said "is the pool area always this quiet?" Joe smiled and said "no, I think we're just lucking out today. There are usually people here enjoying the sun."
About twenty minutes later, Hans came out to the pool area and said "is that offer for a beer still good, Joe?" Joe and I jumped out of the pool, and sat at a table with Hans. Hans raised the umbrella for us and said "I'm so good I got to see you, Joe. I'm going to retire at the end of the year." Joe said "wow Hans, this place won't be the same without you. How many years have you worked here?" Hans took a drink of his beer and said "I came to work here shortly after the complex opened in 1984. I thought it was going to be temporary job for me, but here I am 34 years later. I've enjoyed the work here and the condo owner and association board are fantastic to work for. I will miss it, but my wife and I have plenty of plans to travel once I finish up work."
Hans, Joe and I continued to talk about many things. I finally asked Hans "do you know if the owner is going to replace you, or are they going to hire a firm to maintain the complex?" Hans replied saying "I gave them a six-month notice and the announcement was just posted last week. The owner should be interviewing people very shortly." Hans retrieved his wallet, and pulled out a business card. He handed the card to me and said "here is my bosses contact information, Alex. You've got the perfect skillset for this complex. The pay is good, my boss is wonderful to work for and the residents here are extremely nice. The work has always kept me busy here, and I would not have stayed for 34 years had I not enjoyed the work. Do yourself a favor son, and give the boss a call if you're looking for work in the area." I took the card, looked the information over and said "thanks Hans. I will contact him very soon to get the specifics of the job."
I made contact with the condo owner on Friday morning. He appreciated me reaching out, but could not meet with me until next weekend as he was heading out of town. He asked me if I could come back to town next weekend for a face-to-face interview? I told him that I could make it back for an interview and we agreed to meet the following Saturday in the condo recreation center.
Joe was so happy for me and said "we'll beef up your resume this week, and do you have a nice pair of slacks and shirt for an interview?" I replied "no, not really. Most of my clothes are work clothes." Joe said "no problem, we'll add shopping to our list this weekend, and even get you set up with a nice sports jacket for the interview."
The rest of the weekend was absolutely wonderful. By the end of the weekend, I felt a revival in myself. Even if this interview did not pan out well, Joe was putting me on the right track in my life. We left St Pete Beach early Sunday afternoon, and before I knew it Joe had planned out our whole week back in Bartow to get me set up for the interview.
Joe was so generous to me with his time, and by the end of the week I had forgotten about the time I spent with Tommy. I'm sure I will think about Tommy in the future, as you never forget your first love. Joe has quickly become a central figure in my life that I want to keep around as long as I can.
Joe and I returned to St Pete Beach on Friday night. We had a nice dinner, enjoyed the patio and got a good night sleep before my interview. I was nervous for it, but Joe convinced me that I'll do fine.
I was up at the crack of dawn and still had four hours until the interview. Joe calmed me down with coffee, some breakfast pastries and a long shower together before the interview. Once I got finished dressing for my interview he said "you look sharp, and I have a good feeling on this for you Alex. You do your best and let your killer personality shine during the next few hours. I'll be here waiting for you, but I'm sending you all of my positive energy with you. I love you Alex, in more ways than you'll ever know. Go get this job stud so you can find true happiness in your life!"
Three hours later, I had a job offer in hand. I was so proud of myself, but all of the credit goes to Joe and how he prepared me for this. I can't tell you how much he boosted my self confidence in order to move on positively with my life. Even though he is telling me how he can never repay me for everything I've done for him, I am the one who is indebted to Joe. He's my best friend and like he said to me, I love him in more ways than he will ever know. I told Hank, the condo owner, that I wanted to think the offer over but I'd contact him with a decision tomorrow before leaving.
I walked Hank out to his car, shook his hand and thanked him for his time today. He looked at me and said "please call me with any questions you have, Alex. I look forward to your call tomorrow. I've got good feelings about you Alex. I feel as though I'm meeting another young Hans in you. I believe that you will be successful here at Gulfview, just as Hans has for over 34 years."
I went back up to the condo and Joe was on the patio waiting for me. I walked out to the patio, smiled at him and took my sports jacket off draping it over one of the patio chairs. I sat on Joe's lap and gave him the biggest kiss I have ever given anyone in my life. After the kiss, I looked into his eyes and said "okay Mr. Star, let's get down to brass tacks. You're talking to the new property manager at Gulfview Condominium Complex. How much do you want for this condo, and do I get a break if I make love to you all night long?" He returned the kiss, even longer than the one I gave him. He put both of his hands on my face and said "I'm so proud of you, Alex. Even though we both agree that our future partners are out there someplace for us, you will always hold a special place in my heart. I love you Alex, and I'll always be a phone call away if you need me.
Joe and I did make love that night after we celebrated my good news. It's been five years since I started working at the condo complex and moved to St Pete Beach. Joe made me an incredible offer on the condo, which helped him out and definitely changed my life. He and I spent the rest of the summer getting me moved, and selling my family home. Joe also helped me destroy the fort that Tommy and I had spent so much time in.
Throughout the next five years, I have either travelled to Bartow, or Joe has returned to St Pete Beach every other weekend to visit. I have made so many changes to the condo, and he is now more comfortable knowing the condo is mine. His terrible memories of his uncle are disappearing thanks to all of my encouragement to him. We have grown so much in our friendship and both know we'll always have each other as best friends with benefits in our lives.
We both have had several relationships, but nothing panned out for either one of us until 2023. I remember Joe telling me about a special man he met in Bartow who is a teacher. Roger and Joe have been dating since February, and as Joe continues to tell me "I'm very happy my friend, and I owe all of my happiness to you." I got the opportunity to meet Roger in April, and I must say they are a very handsome couple together. Roger is tall also, but Joe still has him beat by two inches. They spent a weekend with me in April, and I know we'll have future get togethers as they both want to meet my new man.
I called Joe the first week that I met Ronny and told him "Joe, I believe I have met the man I am supposed to spend the rest of my life with." Joe was so excited for me, and had Roger join us on the call. I informed them of who Ronny was, and told them when he was going to appear on the news. I remember them both calling me after Ronny's debut on the news. They both said how handsome Ronny is, and they want to meet him when I'm sure we're an official item.
I've left Ronny know about Joe, and Ronny wants to meet him and Roger soon. Joe and I have set up a weekend in October for the four of us to meet. If that goes well, I plan to have Joe and Roger come over to the beach and introduce them to all of my gang here. I know that Joe will be so happy for me, and I hope that he and Roger feel comfortable in joining the group for future happy hours.
So, friends that's the story of Alex Turner. I hope you've enjoyed it, and I bet some of you are now saying "damn, when I first started this chapter, I thought Alex and Joe would have ended up together." Well, everyone Joe and I will always be together in special bonds. I can now say I understand Ronny fully when he says "CJ and him are better friends than lovers." I feel the same about Joe Starsyntorski. He has had such a positive influence on my life and I will always carry him in my heart wherever I go.