Not Just Another Rainy Night

Not Just Another Rainy Night

by ds elliot

This is the story of two men discovering each other.

All rights reserved. This story may not be posted, distributed, sold, or linked to any other sites including pay sites without the express permission of the author.

Copyright 2004.

This story contains descriptions of sexual contact between two young men. This is a story of intimate sexual contact and discovery. If you are not of legal age in your area to read stories of this nature or if you are offended by stories of this nature, please navigate to another site and stop reading now.

I would appreciate your comments, suggestions, and constructive criticisms. You can contact the author at: dselliot28@yahoo.com

And now for the story...

It was raining yesterday. It rained the day before that. As I was day dreaming about it while I stared out the window at even more rain, I couldn't remember the last day it hadn't rained. Today was just another in a long line of wet and really miserable days. Weather in the great Pacific Northwest! Beautiful green trees, lush green grass, lakes, waterfalls, streams, rivers, salmon... and this year more damn rain that I thought could ever fall from the sky. As I continued with my little day dream, I wondered if this is what those people in Noah's time must have felt like prior to the forty days and forty nights of rain. The view from my twelfth floor office window was of a world washed in shades of gray. The rain and clouds seemed to remove the color from everything. As I looked down at the street, I watched people battling the rain with black or dull colored umbrellas as they attempted to stay dry as they scurried along. Fools to be out in this weather. What would motivate anyone to actually be outside on a day like today? I couldn't think of any good reason to brave the bone chilling rain. I chuckled to myself as I considered that the mediocre deli on the main floor of our building probably lived for and survived on days like today. No one left the building for lunch today. Those who didn't eat at their desks went to that awful deli for a less than quality meal. This rain seemed to bring out the worst in people too. It seemed to me that everyone was a tad more surly than usual -- quicker to snap, shorter fuses, fewer smiles. This weather could be depressing if you let it get to you. The rain seemed to wash the joy our of life as it fell. Lots of people in the area, and even some I worked with, did have real problems as a result of the rains... flooded basements and yards being the worst of it all. My apartment was on the second floor so I was at least relatively safe from the rains. I felt sorry for those who weren't as lucky.

The ringing phone brought me out of my little dream. When I answered it, I was back to being me... Blake Harrison, man at work. It was my boss. I work at a bank. My job is to arrange financing for major clients. The amount of those loans still stagers me even after doing this for the last three years. We're talking millions of dollars on a daily basis. The work was interesting to me at least. I liked putting deals together. My job was usually the typical 8 to 5 routine, but my boss just requested some information that would take a bit longer to prepare. Working a little late wasn't a problem. I didn't have anyone to race to for. Staying a bit later than usual would allow me to avoid what would likely be a horrible drive home on clogged freeways. I was almost glad for the excuse to stay late as I started gathering the requested information.

When I did finally leave work it was 6:30. Traffic should be a bit better by now. I rode the elevator to the parking garage and climbed in my beater car. It wasn't a bad car -- just not anywhere close to shiny and new. I bought it used while still in college. That was about five years ago. If it lasted me until summer, I figured I'd actually made money on this baby. The body was clean, but the interior was badly worn. It did get me where I wanted to go. What more can one ask from a car?

As I pulled out of the parking garage onto the street, I could tell that traffic hadn't improved at all. I turned on the radio to the news channel just in time to hear that traffic all over the area was a mess -- go figure. There were no short cuts for me. I had to take the freeway to get home. Both of the choices sounded bad so I opted for the freeway closest to work. My thought being that the sooner I got on the freeway the sooner I could start the creep and crawl to the other side of the lake.

As I got on the freeway, my thoughts turned to the house I was trying to buy. My 26th birthday would be in two weeks. My hope was that the offer I'd made on the house would be accepted by then. The house I wanted to buy wasn't more than I could afford but way more than I needed. Something about it just seemed to make it the place I'd always wanted. I'd get so excited when I'd think about the place. It was built by the contractor/developer for himself and his family back in the 70's. The whole area was one of the last family farms left near the city. This house sat on nearly two acres of land with lots of trees around the property. The back of the property looked out on a city park. The neighborhood was very quiet -- peaceful. I'd driven by the house at all hours of the day and night prior to making the offer. The house itself... wow! Was all I could say about it. I couldn't believe the quality of the construction. He spared no expense when he built his home. I'd looked at other houses in the development and none were of the same quality. The moldings and trim were decorative and hand done. The cabinets in the kitchen and bathrooms were all solid wood -- no particle board or plywood or prefab units. The hardwood floors were actual wood -- solid and firm. The windows were huge -- allowing in lots of sun and affording great views. The house had high ceilings. There were amazing light fixtures in the hallways and the dining room. The place had four bedrooms and three bathrooms, a large family room with a great river rock fireplace that burned real wood. There was a sunken formal living room with another fireplace faced with white marble and a huge bay window. The formal dining room was large and had an elegant feel to it. I doubted I'd ever use the room for anything, but I was excited to have it. All of the bedrooms were larger than any of the other homes in the area with large closets and outlets for phones and cable. The master bedroom was huge and faced the back of the house. It had it's own private patio and garden which was accessed through French doors and plenty of room to have a couple of chairs or small sofa and chair. The family room had two sets of French doors on either side of the fireplace that opened onto a terraced patio. The yard was professionally landscaped and maintained except for the last few years it seemed. There were some areas that needed work, but it wouldn't require a complete overhaul to get it looking great. I could hardly wait until spring to begin gardening.

I was getting ahead of myself. I hadn't even gotten the house yet. I suppose it is typical for a potential new owner to start making those plans that really make the house into a home. I hoped it was typical. The house was about all I could talk about since I first looked at it. I'd already been to the giant hardware store to pick out paint colors for all of the rooms. I even went so far as to buy the supplies necessary to paint -- brushes, tape, rollers, paint trays, drop cloths, step ladders, etc. I couldn't contain my excitement that night.

I was saying yet another prayer that this deal went through. I started saving every penny when I got my first job after college that I didn't absolutely need to spend for something else in order to save enough for the down payment and new appliances and furniture. Everything worked in the house, but it was all dated and looked out of place. I also wanted to have new counter tops installed in the kitchen. I didn't care for the color of the tile counter top. I really wanted granite counter tops, but that would remain to be seen. First things first. I figured if I actually did get the house I wouldn't be going out or spending much money on anything but the house for several years. If I was going to spend that much time there at least I should have it like I wanted it.

As I was thinking that last thought my exit appeared. I brought all of my attention to the road because this was another of those awful exits/entrances to the freeway -- too many cars trying to get on and too many others trying to get off all at the same spot. I navigated to the exit and was nearly on my way when the light changed. As I waited for the light to change to green -- a long and boring process -- I noticed a guy walking across the street. He didn't have an umbrella or hat and only wore a lightweight jacket. He must be crazy to be out in weather like this. I watched him stare off at the cars for a few seconds then head down the street. I just couldn't get over how nuts some people were. No one should be out in weather like this for any reason.

The light finally changed and I drove through the intersection. The street I was traveling was not one of the more popular in the area so I didn't have to worry about being rear ended as I drove slowly and watched this guy walking down the hill. I'm not sure what prompted me to pull to the side of the road, but I did. I rolled down the window and told the guy to get into the car. He just stared at me -- like he heard someone talking but didn't comprehend. I told him to get in the car again. He came over to the car door as I pulled the handle of the passenger door to open it. He got in. Damn he was wet -- drowned rat wet. He had to be soaked to the bone. He was a mess. All of a sudden it hit me... what the hell was I doing picking up strangers -- soaking wet strangers at that.

He sat there shivering and staring out the front window. He didn't even acknowledge me. I figured I really had picked up a nut case. Now what the hell was I gonna do with him? Shit! I cranked up the car heater and asked,

"Where are you headed on a rainy night like this?"

"I don't know... umm... it doesn't matter." He mumbled just barely loud enough to hear over the roar of the heater.

"Are you ok? You don't look so good. You're shivering pretty bad. You must be very cold. You're lips are a little blue."

"Yeah... I guess..." He mumbled again.

"Where do you live? I can give you a ride there."

"I... I don't... I don't know..." He said as he finally looked at me. I could swear there were tears mixed with the rain running down his face.

"Should I take you to the hospital? Have you been in an accident? Are you hurt?"

"No... I'm fine." He seemed to want to smile as he said that but it just didn't happen.

I signaled that I was entering traffic and pulled back onto the street. I drove to my place. What else was I gonna do. The guy was soaked. My car seat was probably just as soaked. He didn't actually look crazy... I mean his eyes. He was crazy to be out in the rain dressed as he was, but he didn't look dangerous to me. I was bigger than he was -- a couple of inches taller and probably 20 to 25 pounds heavier once he was out of those soaking wet clothes. He didn't look like the type to stab me. My car didn't actually indicate that I had much if any money. I convinced myself that everything would be ok once we got to my place. I parked the car under my carport slot and pulled out the umbrella I kept in the I kept in the backseat for these rainy occasions. I walked to the passenger side of the car. He hadn't moved. I opened the door and offered my hand to help him out of the car. As he took my hand I could feel him shaking -- not just shivers but his whole body was trembling. I used both hands to pull him from the car and help him to stand. I had him pulled close to me with my arm around his waist to steady him. My other hand held the umbrella over us to keep us dry as we walked the 50 or so feet to the steps.

As we approached the steps he started to laugh. We were climbing the steps when the laughter became a hysterical laugh -- one that causes you to stop and bend over in an attempt to catch your breath. I was worried that I'd lose control of him and he'd fall down the steps as I tried to steady him and get him to the door. We finally made it, but he hadn't stopped laughing. His laughing caused me to laugh with him even though I had no idea what was funny. He was sputtering like he was trying to tell me what was funny, but couldn't get any words to come out -- at least none that I could comprehend.

Once inside I took him to the bathroom. It was just a few steps inside the front door. I noticed that my whole side was soaked where I'd been holding him. As he sat on the closed toilet he began to calm down a bit. He told me the idea that I was trying to shield him from the rain in his condition just struck him as funny. He couldn't get any wetter I'm sure... and it was actually rather funny as I thought about it.

As I was trying to get his wet jacket off him, I asked...

"What's your name?

"Jake."

"Well, Jake, it's nice to meet you. I'm Blake Harrison."

"Yeah... Where are we?" He asked as he looked around the bathroom with confusion in his eyes.

"I brought you to my apartment. When I asked you where you were headed and where you lived, you didn't tell me. I didn't know what else to do with you. I couldn't just leave you out in the rain. If you didn't drown, you'd die of pneumonia."

"Thanks. I should go."

"Where are you gonna go?"

"I don't know. I... I..." He stammered as he started to cry.

"Look, you're soaked. You are shaking. You really need to get out of those wet clothes and get warm before you get sick or worse. I want you to take off those wet clothes and get in the shower. I want you to stay in that shower until you get warm. While you do that I'm going to make us some hot chocolate and then start dinner. Have you eaten yet?"

"I don't know. I don't think so..." He looked at me with a bewildered look -- like he couldn't really remember.

"Can you get undressed by yourself or do you need help?"

He was fumbling with the buttons on his shirt and not making any progress. I took over and unbuttoned the shirt and pulled it out of his pants. He didn't moved at all. I pulled the oxford shirt off and dropped it on top of the jacket that I'd dropped on the bathroom rug. I pulled his t-shirt up. He raised his arms as I pulled it over his head. I knelt down in front of him to untie his shoes. I took one off and then the other as the pile of soaked clothing increased. I tugged on his socks and finally got them off his feet. The socks had bled color and stained his feet. He still hadn't said anything or even moved much so I reached for his belt and unbuckled it. I pulled him to a standing position and turned him to face the counter. I placed his hands on the counter top and told him to brace himself and I worked the button and zipper from behind him. He really was soaked to the skin. As I started to pull down his pants I could tell that his underwear was totally wet too. I decided to take them both off at once and pulled them down to his ankles. I maneuvered him back to sit on the toilet and knelt again to pull the pants and underwear off his feet.

His body was still trembling so I said,

"I don't think you should try to take a shower alone. I'm afraid you are shaking so much that you might fall and hurt yourself. I'm going to run a bath for you instead."

He didn't respond. I started to fill the tub with warm water and added some bath oils that would foam up to nice suds. As the bottom of the tub began to fill with water, I pulled him up and helped him to the tub. He raised his foot to step into the tub. He didn't seem to register any shock at the warmer water. As he put his other foot in I guided him to a sitting position. I ended up kneeling on the floor again as I got him seated. He still hadn't said anything.

I left the bathroom to turn up the heat in the apartment. I then went to get a plastic trash bag for his wet clothes. I would have to take them to the laundry room to wash and dry them there, but I didn't want to leave him alone in the tub. I brought in a dry rug for the bathroom along with two of the best towels I had -- the nice soft fluffy ones. He was just sitting in the tub. Since it was over half full of water at this point I turned the water off and left him to soak. I started boiling hot water for hot chocolate. It didn't take long for the water to boil. When the drinks were ready I topped them off with some whipped cream and took both to the bathroom. He still hadn't move at all. He was just staring straight ahead at the wall. He didn't seem to be shaking nearly as badly as he was before. His lips were also turning pink again. His hands were in the water by his side. As I took hold of his right arm to bring his hand out of the water to hold his mug of hot chocolate, I noticed that it wasn't as red as it was prior to the bath. I said,

"Here is some hot chocolate. I want you to drink this. It will help warm you from the inside. You need to get warm."

He looked at me like I might be speaking a foreign language, but took the mug in both hands and brought it to his mouth to taste. His first sip caused the whipped cream on top to stick to his upper lip and nose. I couldn't help but think how cute he looked sitting in the bath like that -- like a little kid after a long day playing in the snow. The only thing wrong with the picture was the vacant look in his eyes.

When he finished the hot chocolate he sighed... a contented sigh it seemed to me. I took the empty mug from his hands. He still hadn't moved. I decided that if I started to wash him up perhaps he'd get the message and finish it himself. I took the hand held shower attachment and wet his hair with warm water and applied shampoo. I've never given anyone aside from myself a bath before. I was a little nervous about the process, but it needed to be done. I massaged the shampoo into his hair. It was nicer than I expected it to be... sensual and a little stimulating for me. I could feel a slight stirring in my pants. After I rinsed the shampoo, I applied soap to a washcloth and washed his back, arms, under arms, hands, chest, and stomach. By the time I got to that point I was fully erect. (Ok... so it had been a while since I'd had been with a guy -- a long while. It isn't like I was planning to get excited by this. It was just a normal reaction. I was fully dressed... hell I still had my damn tie on.) I then washed his feet and legs. He still hadn't reacted to anything, but he also hadn't resisted anything either so I applied a bit more soap to the washcloth and proceeded to wash his privates. The cold had caused everything to look pretty shrunken when I undressed him. I was by this time horny enough and curious enough that I decided to just go for it. I was gently and tenderly washing between his legs when he seemed to come to. He didn't say anything or resist what I was doing, but he did stare down at the water where my hand was busy at work. I did notice that his dick seemed to be thickening from the attention of a stranger. That pleased me a bit, but I'm not really sure why. I really didn't have any plan or desire really for sex with him. He was just too messed up to participate. What fun would that be? When I finally finished washing his 'privates', I helped him to stand. I rinsed his whole body with the sprayer to remove the remaining soap as I pulled the stopper so the tub could drain. Before I helped him out of the tub, I placed one towel on the toilet seat and placed him on it. I wrapped it around him and took a second or two to notice that his dick had indeed stretched a bit. It looked to be around 6" when hard and a healthy pink color now that it was warm. He had decent size balls that hung just lower than his dick. A decent set if I do say so myself, but them I'm not much of an expert. I proceeded to dry his hair and back then chest, arms, sides, and stomach. Jake had a nice body -- a swimmer's build I suppose -- nice chest, flat stomach, almost a six-pack, decent arms. I knelt down to dry his legs -- great legs with soft golden hair - and feet. He looked perfect to me. He just continued to stare at me. He was probably wondering what the hell was happening to him. When I stood him up I dried his ass... a damn nice ass it was too -- a bit of a bubble butt... not too soft, but not rock hard either... squeezable, kissable, definitely fuckable! I helped him into my bathrobe and proceeded to dry his hair with the dryer. I had no idea how it was styled when dry, but thought it best that it be dry as soon as possible. I decided to dry it and let him worry about his style when he was more attune to the rest of the world. Something was obviously bothering him.

I brought him into the living room and sat him in my chair -- you know the chair... the favorite one you always sit in and really hate it when someone else is in it. I got a blanket from the closet and wrapped it around his legs and feet which were resting on the footstool. I went to the kitchen to make something to eat. I was starving! I had crap for lunch at the deli and my stomach was making those rumbling noises to let me know it was time for more. It was already after 8:00... damn. I cut two large portions from a lasagna I made the previous day and started them warming in the microwave. I cut four slices of French bread then buttered them and wrapped them in foil to warm in the oven. I had a bag of salad greens in the fridge so cut up a tomato and a cucumber to add to the mix. I quickly went to the bedroom to change into more comfortable clothes. As I was pulling on a fresh t-shirt, I heard the microwave signal the cycle was finished. I started another cycle for the microwave so the lasagna would be hot in the middle too and proceeded to dish up the salad and set the table. I sprinkled some shredded mozzarella over the salad then took the bread from the oven and turned on the broiler. As the microwave rang the second time I removed the portions and topped them with cheese and placed them under the broiler for it to melt. Within minutes I had our evening meal... nothing fancy, but at least my stomach would stop protesting. I put the food at the table then went to the living room to get Jake.

We sat at the table. He didn't say anything. I said,

"You've got to eat something. Would you like some wine?

He looked at me with that 'who the hell are you' expression we all get from time to time and said, "Sure..."

He played with the food for a bit before taking a few bites. Once he started to eat I think he realized that he was hungry because he actually did eat. There wasn't more than a bit left on his plate when he said,

"That was really good. I didn't realize I was even hungry until I sat down."

"Thanks! I rarely cook for anyone else but me so that's nice to hear. I'll pretty much eat anything so I'm not a good judge of my cooking."

That made him smile. I helped him up from the table, but he was more sure of himself and seemed to be willing to walk on his own. Back in the living room he started walking toward the sofa. I said,

"Why don't you sit in the chair? It's more comfortable that that old sofa."

"I don't want to take your chair."

"It's really no big deal. I really don't mind. You've had a rough night so far. I just want you to be comfortable."

"I'm fine... really."

We both sat -- he was on the sofa (really not much more than a mini sofa, I think it's called a love seat), and I was in my chair. I asked,

"Would you like this blanket to wrap back up in? I don't want you to be cold."

"I feel much better now. Thanks! I really appreciate what you did for me. I'd likely be dead right now if you hadn't helped me. Thank you!"

"That's what friends are for."

"You don't even know me. I'm too messed up to be much of a friend to anyone right now."

"Do you want to talk about it? I'm a pretty good listener. I know for me sometimes talking about what's bothering me helps a lot."

"Ah... I don't want to burden you with my problems. You've really done a lot already. I should probably get dressed and get out of your hair. I'm sure this isn't what you had planned for your evening -- taking care of some crazy person."

"The hardest part is over now. I'm just glad you are warm and talking. I was pretty worried about you for a long while there. I was afraid that if you didn't snap out of it I'd have to take you to the hospital or something."

He smiled at me. Damn, he really was cute especially when he smiled. His eyes didn't have that far away look to them anymore. He was back in the present now and damn did his eyes sparkle when he smiled! His sandy blond hair was so much lighter now that it was dry. His warm brown eyes seemed to have that twinkle of mischief in them. His smile lit up his face and those dimples... they seemed to draw attention to his perfect teeth and rosy cheeks. I was distracted and disarmed by his smile. I could get lost in that smile. I couldn't imagine a smile like that not getting anyone to do anything he wanted. I shook my head to revive my senses and said,

"Tell me what caused you to be out in the rain on a night like this?"

"It's stupid really. I should have seen it coming. I should have know."

"What should you have known?"

"My loser boyfriend... I got home from work tonight planning to surprise him. It would have been our one year anniversary. I had flowers and reservations for dinner at a nice restaurant. Instead I got surprised. He had his new lover in my bed... MY FUCKING BED! I was in total shock. Who does that kind of thing? I just stood there with my mouth hanging open. I couldn't believe this was happening -- especially not tonight of all nights. I just should have known something was up. He'd been acting different for the past couple of weeks."

"I'm sorry to hear that. He must be a total loser to let someone like you get away. You're better off without him in your life."

"You're right, but it still isn't easy to take. The worst part was all the shit he said to me. He was so vile and hateful. I don't see how he could live with me and pretend to love me if he felt that way about me. It hurt so damn bad to hear him say those mean things and say them in front of a total stranger... well a total stranger to me anyway. From what they were doing they obviously know each other very well. After he finished insulting and humiliating me he told me that his boyfriend was moving in to our apartment -- MY APARTMENT. That loser doesn't work enough in a month to afford the rent. He doesn't even contribute towards the rent most months. I pay the all the bills. He expects me to sleep on the couch while they sleep in the bed. I can't believe the nerve he's got."

"He was lucky to have you. He certainly doesn't deserve you."

"That's nice of you to say. I mean I know I'm not perfect. I have my faults too -- like everybody. I just don't get why he'd cheat on me. He told me they'd been going out for the last two months. How didn't I see that? How stupid am I? I didn't even have a clue. Here I thought we were making a life together. I thought we were in love. How could I not see that he wasn't happy with me? Why didn't I see that he didn't love me?"

"Maybe he's just really good at pretending... at lying. Maybe you're lucky to find out now rather than after you've committed even more years to the relationship."

"Maybe... I just don't know. I've been asking myself over and over what I did wrong; what I could have done differently; what I could have done to make him happy with me. I feel like such an idiot. I just keep asking myself why I wasn't enough for him."

"It's not your fault. You shouldn't be blaming yourself for any of this. He is the one who cheated. He's the one who did this to you. If he'd been a decent man, he'd have told you that he wasn't happy in the relationship months ago. He lied to you. He cheated. You didn't force him to do any of those things. You need to put the blame on him where it belongs."

"Still, I just can't seem to get beyond all of the hateful things he said. No one has ever been that cruel to me. I feel like my whole self-image has been shattered. He told me I was nearly useless in bed. Who says that to their lover? He never complained about anything before. I thought I was satisfying him. I even did things I would never have done just to make him happy. He told me I was boring and not any fun -- that all I wanted to do was sit at home. I admit that I'm not really into going out all the time. The clubs are just too smoky. Once in a while it's ok, but he seems to want to go out every night. I can't do that. I have to work in the morning. Sure we had different interests, but isn't that suppose to be something couples share with each other -- like exploring each other's world?" He said as the tears started to fall again.

I went to the bathroom for a box of tissues and placed them next to him on the sofa. I went back to the kitchen to refill our wine glasses then sat back down again. As he dried his eyes and sipped some wine, I said...

"I can't imagine any of those things he said are really true. I think he was just lashing out at you in some perverted way to justify what he was doing. You can't believe any of those things he said this evening. He was trying to place the blame for his choices on you. That isn't where the blame belongs. You can't let what he said get to you. Just ignore those things he said. They don't matter."

"You haven't lived with me. You haven't been around me. I admit that I do like to stay home. Sure I'd like to do more things, but I'm trying to save some money too. You haven't slept with me either. Maybe I really am as bad as he says. I didn't have that much experience before I met him and he moved in with me."

"You're right, I don't know you well at all. We just met a few hours ago. We've only been talking for the last hour, but you don't seem like the type of person he described. To me you seem more focused -- like with your goal to save money. That is a good thing to do. I do it too. You aren't the only one. I don't go to the clubs very often either. I don't really care for the smoke, but the reason I don't go is because I feel so out of place. I'm sure sex with you would be the things fantasies are made of. You are kind and gentle and tender. What more could anyone want from a lover than that?"

"You're gay? I never would have guessed."

"Yeah... I'm gay."

"Wow! What are the odds of that happening? Strange... You just seem like a straight guy to me. Well... I guess I don't really have any idea who is gay or not unless I meet them at a club or something. I never really look at other guys and wonder if they are gay or not -- at least not since I've been with Brian. I met him at a club. That probably should have been my first clue. All we ever did those first two months we were together is hang out at his favorite bar. He knew everyone and was very popular. I guess I was drawn to that. He is good looking too. I was just so excited that someone like him would be attracted to someone like me. I'm really pretty shy. I know what you mean about feeling out of place in the clubs. I felt that way too until I went with Brian. Since he knew everyone and probably had sex with most of them he was very popular. Because I was with him I was part of that clique -- on the fringe of that clique anyway."

We continued to talk until nearly 2:00 in the morning. We talked about my love life or severe lack of a love life. I told him all about the house I was trying to buy. He got all the details of the house as I mentally walked him from room to room describing all of the things I loved about the place and the things I wanted to change including the color of the walls in each room. We laughed together and giggled over my excitement whenever we talked about the house. As our conversation was winding down, he said...

"I need to meet someone like you... someone with goals and drive and desire. I need to find someone like that, someone more like me. I want those things too. I've saved almost $5,000.00 so far. I was hoping to buy a condo. I don't think I could ever save enough to buy a house or make the monthly payment on a house in this area. I've got a good job with good prospects. One day I'll make good money, but I've just been out of college for two years now. I really thought Brian and I would be looking together to find 'our' condo. Plans change..."

"You're right. Plans do change, but that isn't always a bad thing. I know this is a huge black cloud over you now, but I do think there is a silver lining. You just can't see it yet. It's too soon for that revelation. It will come I'm sure. Just give it time. And speaking of time, I need to get some sleep. You must be tired too."

He yawned as he nodded his head. I said,

"That sofa is too short for you to sleep on. My bed is big enough for the two of us. Let me show you the way."

I put the glasses in the kitchen as I turned off the lights. The mess from dinner could wait. Jake sat on the bed as he watched me undress. I was really self conscious in front of him. I was hoping he'd like was he saw, but for some reason was a bit insecure about my body. As I was about to remove my boxers, I realized I'd be sleeping with someone else and said,

"I don't usually wear anything to bed. I don't mind wearing something though. What do you usually sleep in? I'm sure I can find you whatever you'd like."

"I don't wear anything either. I guess I don't mind if you don't."

"Cool!"

I removed my boxers and placed them in the hamper in the closet. I so wanted to look at his face to judge his reaction to my body, but I was worried about what I'd see there. I wanted him to like what he saw. Foolish of me really. He had just come to the end of a relationship only a few hours before. He certainly wasn't mentally in a place to start a new one with me. I doubt he was even interested in another relationship at this point, and he might not be for months. As for me... I wasn't very good at casual sex. I'd done it before, but it didn't do anything for me aside from get me off. Masturbating had the same effect and didn't leave me saying things that weren't true just so I could get the hell out of there. I never brought guys to my place mostly because I was always worried I wouldn't be able to get rid of them. I didn't want to wake up to some stranger and feel even more awkward in the morning.

Once we were both in bed I said,

"Are you comfortable? I hope you're warm enough."

"I feel very comfortable. I've never felt so comfortable especially in a bed that wasn't mine."

We both moved closer towards the center of the bed. I pulled his back to me and spooned my body to his. It felt great! It wasn't a sexual feeling as much as it was just a comfortable, relaxed, and dreamy feeling. He said,

"This feels so nice. Thanks for taking care of me. Good night!"

"Good night, Jake. Sweet dreams."

Morning came before I was ready. I so wanted to go back to bed, but it was a work day. I didn't have a choice. I moved away from Jake and got out of bed to hit the bathroom and shower. My apartment was small. I knew he'd hear me as I got ready for work, but I hoped he'd sleep through my preparations. I knew he had a job so started to think I should perhaps wake him up so that he could decide to go it or call in sick. I was so busy thinking about whether I should wake Jake or not that I didn't think about how great it was having him in my arms while we slept. I picked clothes from the dresser and closet and as nearly ready for work when Jake stretched out and opened his eyes. I said,

"Morning, Jake. I hope you slept well. I didn't know if I should wake you or not. I suppose you might want to call work so you can take the day off. I don't think you should go in considering what happened yesterday. You should take a day or two to get your perspectives straight and clear your mind."

"You're right I do need to call work. I don't work this morning until 9:00. Can I use your phone?"

"Sure. There is one on the nightstand and another in the living room if you want privacy. I'm almost done in here anyway."

"Here is fine. I don't have anything to hide from you. You've heard all the sordid details of my life already."

We both laughed as I left to start coffee. The rain had stopped at least for now, and the sun was out. It was such a change from the day before. Jake came into the kitchen. As we waited for the coffee to finish he asked,

"Would you mind if I borrowed something to wear?"

"Oh damn... I was going to take your wet clothes to the laundry room downstairs to wash and dry them. I totally forgot. I'm so sorry. You are welcome to wear whatever you find. Socks, underwear, t-shirts, and sweaters are in the dresser. I've got pants, shirts, and jackets in the closet. I know I'm a little bigger than you are, but they should work for a while anyway. Just help yourself."

"Blake, you really are a wonderful guy. I can't believe how nice you've been to me. You're the best friend anyone could ever have."

Great... a friend. Well that is better than nothing, but I guess I secretly hoped it would be more. As I was finishing a bowl of cereal and my first cup of coffee, Jake came back into the kitchen dressed in my sweats with a pair of my tennis shoes. Everything was a little big on him, but he was covered. He looked so adorable standing there -- sweet and innocent. I poured coffee for him which he doctored with sugar and milk. I took my spare set of keys from a drawer in the kitchen and handed them to Jake as I said,

"Here is a key for my apartment. I know you won't want to be cooped up here all day by yourself. I work in Seattle. Here is the phone number in case you need to reach me for any reason. I don't have a lot of cash on me, but I did leave a twenty on the coffee table just in case you need it for anything. I don't know if you had anything in your pants pockets or not. The apartment key will also get you into the laundry room if you want to wash and dry your clothes. I've got quarters in a dish on the dresser and laundry soap and dryer sheets are in the linen closet. Just help yourself to whatever you want to eat. I'm sorry the selection isn't better, but I usually don't shop until Saturday and by Friday the pickings are on the slim side. I don't have a car for you to use unless you want to drive me to work. If you do then you can use mine today as long as you come pick me up after work. Is there anything I've forgotten?"

"You mean you trust me to be here while you're gone? You don't even know me. I can't believe you'd let a perfect stranger stay here while you're away."

"I trust you. Don't you think I should? And you aren't a perfect stranger. You told me the recent aspects of your life story last night so I think I know at least a part of you. To me you seem like a decent guy. I'd like to be friends."

"Me too! And you can trust me. I'd like to be friends too. Oh, I don't need to borrow your car. I've got one at my apartment. Brian's license is suspended so he won't drive it. He's supposed to work today. If he is working then I'm gonna get some clothes and things. After that I've got to find a place to stay until I can find another apartment."

"You're welcome to stay here. I wouldn't mind having you around."

"I couldn't impose like that."

"It would be an imposition at all. I think I'd like having you around."

"We'll see. One of the guys I work with was looking for a roommate a couple of weeks back. If he's still got the room open I might just rent it from him for a while until I decide what to do next."

"Well... whatever you decide is fine. The offer to stay here stands so don't worry about it at all if you need a place to stay. Call me if you need anything. I'm usually home by 6:00. If you're here, I guess I'll see you then."

"Thanks again, Blake. You've been great! I really do appreciate everything you've done for me."

"I'm just glad you're back to being yourself. You had me worried for a while there last night. I'll see you tonight."

As I was getting ready to walk out the door, Jake hugged me and kissed my cheek. I don't even remember the drive to work. I was floating on a cloud somewhere over the freeway and stayed floating on that cloud for most of the day. I can't remember having a better day at work. I just felt happier. Everyone seemed great too. Those few people I worked with who normally got under my skin didn't even bother me in the slightest today.

Jake called me just after I got back from lunch. It was really a wonderful surprise to hear his voice. I could have talked with him the rest of the day just to listen to his voice. He told me that he called a few of his friends and rented a moving truck to get his things out of the apartment while Brian was at work. He hoped to be done by the time I got off work, but if he wasn't he wanted me to wait on dinner because he wanted to take me out as his way of thanking me for what I did for him. I was damn excited about the prospect of a date with Jake. The afternoon seemed to drag on after his phone call. I couldn't wait to go out with Jake.

I tried to immerse myself in work, but nothing held my attention for long. I was so focused on Jake and our dinner date. By 4:00 I was packed up and ready to leave the office. I just had to wait until 5:00. By 4:15 I couldn't take it any longer so I decided to leave anyway. I told my boss I was leaving early. He didn't have a problem with that since I stay late whenever needed. I stopped at a florist to get a bouquet of flowers. I was having trouble deciding what kind of flowers to get. Red roses seemed to be something you give to a lover. We weren't even close to that point yet. I looked at the options and finally decided on the florist's recommendation -- creamy yellow roses. I didn't have a vase at home and wasn't sure if Jake would either since his things would be packed up and in the process of being moved to wherever he was going so got a nice cut glass vase from the florist for the roses. They weren't cheap, but it was worth the price if they brought a smile to Jake's face.

I arrived home at 5:45. I heard the shower running so figured it would be Jake. I sat the flowers on the coffee table and took off my suit coat. I don't think I've ever fidgeted so much as I waited for the shower to stop running and Jake to come out of the bathroom. There were a few moments when I didn't think I'd be able to keep myself from just barging in on him. I did restrain myself though and tried to look normal as I waited for the door to open. When it did this cloud of steam gushed froth from the open door and as if my magic as the steam cleared there was Jake. He had a huge smile as he saw me sitting in the chair. He was a bit damp still, but looked so fresh and sparkling. My body was tingling and my dick was stirring.

"Blake... welcome home. How was your day?"

"I'm so glad you're here Jake. It was a great day... well the first half anyway. The afternoon seemed to drag on."

"Oh wow! Flowers. They are beautiful. I don't think I've ever seen that color rose before."

"They are for you."

"For me? Why would you buy me flowers? They're perfect. Oh, and they smell so good too. How did you know roses are my favorite flower? You must be a mind reader or something."

I got that 10,000 megawatt smile. That was all the thanks I needed. I couldn't believe the reaction my body was having to that smile. I was totally hard just from that amazing smile. His eyes danced. His dimples were like exclamation marks that seemed to intensify the smile. His cheeks were so rosy. I think he might have been blushing slightly too because his chest took on a flushed color as he admired the roses. If he didn't dress soon, I feared I would rip that towel from his waist and smother him with kisses.

He walked up to the chair where I was sitting. Didn't he realize how dangerous doing that was to him. He was standing by the side of the chair. I could feel the towel brush against the back of my hand. I was staring at my hand -- willing it to stay were it was and not to pull the towel from his body. His palm caressed my cheek as his thumb rubbed gently over the skin. My face felt hot from his touch. Our eyes met. He leaned down and kissed me tenderly on the lips. My right hand moved to behind his head. My left hand was rubbing his side. The first kiss only lasted seconds. I was so hot. I pulled his lips back to mine and kissed him. Gentle, tender kisses at first, but I craved a real kiss. My tongue brushed over his lips. They parted. I pulled him closer still as my tongue entered his mouth. Our tongues did their duet as my fingers played in his silky soft hair. I was lost in that kiss. Time stopped. Everything beyond that kiss no longer existed or had meaning. As our lips parted we both looked at each other in a state of wonder. We both exhaled and took deep breaths.. I brought my hand down from his hair and couldn't get my mind to catch up. I wanted to say something, but I had no idea what. Jake was the first to speak.

"I should get dressed. Our reservations are for 7:00."

"Yeah..."

Damn... I could do better than that. What the hell was wrong with me? I shook my head to clear it. I slowly began to focus on the rest of the world. I walked towards the bedroom to ask,

"What should I wear? I mean... do you want me to wear a suit or is it more casual?

"It's a casual place. How about wearing these black slacks and this blue sweater?

"Sure. Whatever you want."

I took off what I was wearing and returned it to the closet. I dressed in the clothes Jake had laid out for me on the bed. He was nearly finished as I was pulling on my pants. I slipped on my shoes then went into the bathroom to finish. I arranged my hair, brushed my teeth, and sprayed a bit of my favorite cologne. Jake was sitting on the sofa touching the roses when I walked into the room.

"Thank you for the flowers. They really are beautiful. I think this is the first time I've ever gotten flowers."

"You're welcome. I'm glad you like them."

"A guy could get used to being treated so nicely."

"I hope a guy does."

"Well shall we go? I've got my car downstairs so we'll take that,"

"Ok. I think the passenger seat in mine is still wet anyway. I wouldn't want you to get your slacks wet."

"Oh geez Blake... I'm sorry about that. I should get that cleaned up for you. Maybe I can do that tomorrow. I didn't mean to ruin your car."

"It's ok really. The car isn't anywhere close to new. The water won't hurt it. It just needs some time to dry out is all. No big deal."

"You're so easy to get along with. Nothing seems to bother you. Do you ever get mad?"

"Sure I get mad sometimes. I don't like to be lied to. That makes me mad. I also don't like people who don't do their work. At work I mean. They drive me crazy. I occasionally get mad at a couple of them."

Dinner was great. We had a couple of awkward moments at first, but before long we were chatting away like we'd known each other for years. We talked about our jobs, our dreams, our goals, our plans. We discussed his friends and my friends. We talked about our families, where we grew up, our childhoods, our education. We even talked a bit about religion and politics and world affairs. We took our time with dinner. I think we were at the restaurant for well over two hours. As we finished up with dinner, Jake asked...

"Blake, would you mind if we make a stop along the way back home... I mean your place?"

"I don't mind at all. Where are we headed?"

"The two friends I had help me move my things out of the apartment today hang out at this bar not too far away. I promised them I'd buy them a couple of drinks for helping me pack and load all the stuff. If you don't want to go I could always drop you off first."

"No... I'd like to go. I wouldn't mind meeting your friends."

"Really? Cool!"

We arrived at the bar to find his friends at a pool table in the middle of a game. Jake bought a pitcher of beer and two more glasses as we made our way back to the table. They greeted us and proceeded with their game. Both seemed like nice guys... straight guys by the way the ogled the girls who wandered within eyesight. We joined them in the next game of pool. Jake and I didn't stand a chance. These guys played pool often from the way they made what to me were impossible shots. After the game we sat down to drink the beer and get acquainted. I got another pitcher for the table as we talked and laughed. When Jake went to the bathroom one of the guys said,

"Jake has been talking about you all day. I'm glad we finally got to meet you."

"I hope he had good things to say."

"The way he talked we thought we'd be meeting St. Blake. From what he says you walk on water."

"I'm sure you're exaggerating. Jake is a nice guy."

"Not really." said the other. "I've never heard him talk so much in the first place. He's usually pretty shy and quiet -- especially when he first meets someone. It was good of you to help him out too. Brian was a complete ass. Jake just couldn't see that. It wouldn't surprise me if Brian hasn't been cheating on him from the beginning. I just never liked that guy."

"Brian doesn't sound like a very nice guy. I've never met him, but anyone who could do that to someone they profess to love just isn't worth the time of day."

"You got that right. We've both met him. Shit! He hit on Joe the first time we all met. I couldn't believe that."

"Are you guys gay?"

"No, but still... It was just rude of him to hit on a friend of Jake's. I'd never hit on a friends girl. That is just fucked."

"Yeah... I agree."

"Well... Jake is coming back, but I just want to tell you not to hurt him. He is a really nice guy -- the type of guy who'd give you the shirt off his back to help out a friend. Be good to him cause he really likes you."

"I suppose you guys have been talking about me."

"You're damn right we were." His friend said. "But it was all good. Well most of it was anyway. I did tell him you snore though."

"He already knows I don't snore."

"Well, you do a little, but I think it's cute."

"I don't snore.. do I?"

"It's cute really. I like it."

"Geez guys... get a room for god sake." his other friend piped in. We all laughed.

When the second pitcher was finished, Jake bought another for his friends and thanked them again for helping him pack and move. We said our good-byes and nice to meet yous then headed to the car. Once we were inside and buckled up I asked,

"So did the guy from your work still have the room for rent?"

"No. He found someone that same day he told me about it."

"So have you decided where you'd like to stay?"

"I was hoping to stay at least one more night with you if you wouldn't mind. Like I said, I really don't want to impose on you."

"Like I said, you aren't imposing. I want you to stay with me."

"You do really? You've only got a one bedroom apartment. I guess I could spend some of my money on a hide-away bed."

"What? You don't like sleeping with me?"

"No. I liked sleeping with you fine. It was very nice, but do you want to sleep with me?"

"Yes, I do. I felt better sleeping with you for only a few hours last night than I have in a long time. We can just sleep together. I mean it doesn't have to go any further if you don't want. I understand that you just broke up with your boyfriend yesterday. I'm sure you aren't ready to jump into another relationship at this point. I'm not trying to pressure you into doing something you don't want to do, but I also know I'm not the type of guy to try to force you into something you aren't ready for. I might not even be the one. You don't know me that well either. For now we can just share the same bed. If you want to get a sleeper sofa, I understand that."

"I think I know you well enough. I wish I'd met you before Brian. You're the kind of man I wanted Brian to be. If my friends talked about him I'm sure they didn't have anything good to say about him. I suppose they are right too. When I was trying to think about Brian and me today, I honestly couldn't remember all that many great moments, special times, or moments when I was so happy I thought my heart would burst. I've already had two of those moments with you. Last night when you pulled me into your arms and just held me as we slept. The other was that amazing kiss earlier this evening. I've already experienced great moments with you -- like this morning when you gave me a key to your apartment when you hardly knew me. And the roses... you don't know how great that was for me. I just felt all tingly inside -- like I was floating on a cloud. And talk about special times... Brian wouldn't even listen to my dreams of buying a condo. You listened to me cry over a boyfriend who cheated on me and dumped me. You listened through dinner to every word I said. I could see that in your eyes. You were interested in what I had to say. Brian never listened. He never cared. I can see all of that now. I wish I could have seen it at the time."

"Thank you for the nice things you said about me... just now and also to your friends. I really appreciate that."

"They told you what I said about you? I can't believe they'd do that. They are so dead!"

"They are good guys. I think they were just looking out for you. I think it was there way of telling me that you're a nice guy who likes me and that I shouldn't hurt you. It's good you have friends like that."

"They didn't scare you away?"

"Not even close. Jake, I'm not suggesting that we jump into a relationship or sex or anything else. Lets just try living together for a while. You decide how long. Lets see if we work."

"I think I can do that, though you are very handsome. It might be hard for me to keep my hands off you."

"I know what that's like. I really think you're cute. I had all I could do earlier to keep myself from ripping that towel off your body."

"We'd never have made our dinner reservations if you had."

"The last thing I was thinking about was food at that point."

We laughed together as we climbed out of the car to go into the apartment. As we were climbing up the stairs I asked,

"What did you do with the stuff you moved?"

"It still all in the truck. I talked with the woman in the office this evening. She told me I could park the truck in the lot by the cabana. In the morning I'm going to rent storage space and leave it there until I know what I'm doing next. What are you doing tomorrow?"

"I don't have any plans. Can I help you move your things from the truck to storage?"

"You really are unreal. No one ever asks if they can help someone move... no one. I was going to ask for your help, but since you offered I will accept your offer."

With that decided we got ready for bed. All the insecurity I was feeling the night before was gone. It all felt like a comfortable routine we'd been doing for years. Even in the bathroom we both managed to share the space as we washed our hands and faces then brushed our teeth. It was like we fit together. We work!

We started the night sleeping in the same position we had the previous night with Jake spooned into my body. We woke to the alarm at 8:00 with Jake's head resting on my chest and one leg resting between mine and with his thigh over my morning erection. I could feel Jake's erection against my leg. It felt good. Jake moved to turn off the alarm and snuggle back to me for just a few more minutes of rest. I was glad that he was back. I couldn't remember being so comfortable and relaxed. When we finally did get up we took turns in the bathroom as we shaved and showered and prepared for the day.

In the kitchen I made coffee while Jake got cereal ready for each of us. We'd need to make a trip to the store today at some point. I mentioned this to Jake. He was totally flexible saying that we could shop first if I preferred. I told him that I thought we should get his things taken care of first since that would be our biggest task of the day.

We worked hard for several hours as we carted furniture and boxes from the truck into the storage locker. We were both tired and hungry when we finally finished. After padlocking the unit and returning the truck we decided that we should head out for lunch. Jake insisted on buying again because I helped him accomplish this chore. I didn't think it made sense to argue. It's what he wanted to do. After lunch we shopped for groceries. We bought way more than I usually got, but it was fun to do together. I learned what he liked to eat and that he could cook. My skills in the kitchen were enough to keep me from starvation, but Jake's skills seemed to go much further. He told me that he had a job as a cook in a nice restaurant while he was in college. He said he liked to cook, and that was fine with me. Most days he got home about 45 minutes before me anyway so he'd likely be starting most of the meals.

We stayed at home Saturday evening. It all felt so comfortable... like an old married couple including the part about not having sex. Oddly enough I didn't mind that aspect. Sure I wanted to, but I knew I needed to wait for Jake to be ready too. There were times when it was hard to wait, but I told him I would. I planned to honor that promise. We found that we both like to read and neither of us watch much television. Our evening was spent reading and quietly talking. Jake even commented about how comfortable he felt just being with me. I echoed his feelings.

We stayed in bed a bit longer Sunday morning. We were both awake, but neither of us was motivated to move. We were just cuddled together as we enjoyed the warmth and security of the big cozy bed. We made it nearly an hour before our bladders demanded relief. Jake was first to make the trip. I followed close behind. He started the shower then looked at me and asked if I wanted to join him. I didn't need to be asked twice. We were both rock hard within minutes. We washed each other completely, but neither of us wanted to be the first to spend too much time washing each others dick and balls. I was so close, and it seemed that Jake was too. Finally I couldn't take it any more and said,

"I've got to finish this. I'm too wound up to try to ignore it. Would it embarrass you if I masturbate?"

"No. I don't think I can take it either. I'm so close already."

"Yeah... me too."

Together we both brought ourselves off. I came so hard and so fast. Cum blasted from my dick. Jake shot his load as the first volley blasted from my dick. I really wanted to watch him cum, but I was so consumed with my own orgasm that I couldn't focus on anything else. I was leaning against the wall trying to catch my breath. Jake collapsed to his knees. We were both whipped. I kept wondering what sex would be like if masturbating is this powerful. I hoped I learn soon, and chuckled to myself as I thought it would be best if it happened on a Friday night so I've have the rest of the weekend to recuperate. Jake asked,

"What are you giggling about?"

"Oh... I was just thinking that if jacking off was this good, sex with you must be amazing. The funny part is that I was thinking we'll have to do it on a Friday the first time so I've got the rest of the weekend to recover."

"Don't start thinking like that. I don't want you to be disappointed. I'm really not that experienced... really."

"I'm not either, but I can't wait."

"You really seem so sure about this. How do you know I'm what you're looking for?"

"I don't know how to put it into works. It's something I feel inside. It's just this connection we seem to have. Everything seems to easy with you. I don't have to work at this. I always expected that starting a relationship would be a lot of compromise and a bit of a struggle, but this hasn't been like that at all. It's just like everything seems to fall into place... like it was meant to be. I don't know how else to say it."

And so we continued to live together. I got word that my offer on the house was accepted. The owner was ready to settle as quickly as possible. I got the keys from them four weeks later when we closed the sale. That night Jake and I went crazy at the hardware store. I think the clerks thought we were crazy buying so much paint. Jake seemed to agree with most of my choices, but I did listen to his input and take his suggestions about a couple of the colors. He picked out a much more attractive styles of knobs for the kitchen and bathroom cabinets. I had a list of how many and what types we needed. We took all of the items to the house and stored them in the garage along with the step ladders and all the supplies I'd purchased much earlier.

The carpets were clean though I did eventually want to replace them all. I had enough money to get new carpet in the living room, dining room, master bedroom, and the main hallway. The rest would have to wait. I also had enough money for living room furniture, a dining room table and chairs, a kitchen table and chairs, and a bedroom set for the master bedroom. I really wanted to buy leather furniture for the family room, but that would. have to wait a bit longer. That weekend we went shopping for furniture. I knew what I liked and fortunately Jake had similar taste though a bit different choice in colors. We bought all of the things I felt we could afford. I know we were both excited and anxious for the items to be delivered. Back home we packed up everything we were taking. Jake rented a truck for the move. It also occurred to me that we could move his things out of storage if he wanted and put them in the house or store them in the garage or the basement if he preferred. He said he hadn't thought about that, but I think he was pleased that he'd have his things to use and enjoy.

Moving is a bitch! We did finally get all of our things into the house, though we worked late into the night to accomplish that task. We put Jake's bedroom furniture into one of the bedrooms and mine into another. Jake had a leather sofa and chair with very nice end tables and matching coffee table that we put in the family room. Between the two of us we had plenty of every day dishes and silverware as well as all of the necessary cooking utensils. We filled drawers and cabinets and cupboards and closets, but the beauty of this house was that we never seemed to run out of room or be crowded. There was always enough space. Jake also had a nice computer desk and office chair so we made one of the bedrooms into a home office.

The first rooms we painted were the rooms where the new furniture would go. Once they were finished we tackled the bathrooms and the main hallway. After that we decided that we should paint the kitchen. One weekend after Thanksgiving we shopped for appliances. Jake knew of a place that sold scratch and dent merchandise for a fraction of the price of showroom new. I was unsure about buying items with scratches and dents, but decided to look anyway. A few of the items were badly dented or scratched, but most you really had to look to find the problem. We were lucky to find a stove with a double oven and double door fridge that matched. Jake really liked the color of the appliances -- stainless steel with black trim. We also found a dishwasher that almost matched the other two items. We made arrangements to buy these three items. I was very amazed at the total. We got all three for what I expected to spend on a fridge. We decided that we might as well continue our shopping spree and get the matching over the stove microwave. We also found a matched set washer and dryer. These were the new models -- energy saving and very cool front loading units. We snatched them up as well. We got both for the price of one. I was feeling like I'd saved money on this shopping trip so I decided to take Jake out for dinner.

We had a pleasant meal together... just talking about the house and making plans for the new appliances. Jake knew someone who might be able to take care of the granite counter tops. One of the women he worked with had a brother who sold and installed kitchen cabinets and counters. He said it wouldn't hurt to ask him about the cost. Jake got the estimate while I was at work. The man noticed that we had new appliances sitting in the garage when he came. He included installing the new appliances and removing the old in the price of his bid. I didn't know anything about hooking up appliances. I thought all of them were just items that needed to be plugged in, but I was worried about installing the microwave and hooking up the water to the fridge. Thank God for Jake. He decided on his own that the project was a go. He didn't even tell me about it. I remember about a week later thinking that I needed to remember to ask Jake about the bid for the counter tops. When I got home that night all the appliances were in and working and the granite counter tops were installed. They were beautiful and made the kitchen look great. Jake got us one hell of a deal.

When we had all of the painting finished, new carpet was installed. It was cheaper to select one style and color for the three rooms and the hallway so that was the plan. We settled on a very rich cream color -- almost white. It was the only carpet that went perfectly with all of the colors we'd selected for the walls and the furniture. The furniture was delivered the day after the carpets were down. The house was really starting to look like our home. We spent that night arranging furniture and putting together the new master bedroom. We had such a good time as we worked together to create the look we wanted. We were both so exhausted that we couldn't wait to get into our new warm bed.

Jake took the second week of December off. I could have taken it off too, but he didn't tell me of his plan until the weekend before. I thought maybe Jake had some personal things he wanted to do with the time so didn't press the issue. He told me he wanted to have a combination Christmas party and housewarming party that Friday evening. I thought it was a great idea and quickly agreed. We each invited our friends and his family who didn't live too far away. Jake spent the week getting the house ready for the celebration. Each night I'd arrive home to find Jake had spent the day decorating the house. One evening there was a beautiful wreath on the front door and some icicle lights all along the front of the house. The next night there was a fully decorated Christmas tree in the living room and another in the family room. The next night there was a beautiful lace tablecloth over the dining room table with a Christmas arrangement in the middle. I told Jake he was spending too much of his money on these things, but he assured me that he had only spent a bit of money on the outside lights and the two trees. All of the other things he already had or got from his mom or made. The next night when I came home the house smelled of cookies. Jake had been baking all day. I think he made every kind of Christmas cookie possible -- certainly more than I'd ever seen before. On Thursday night Jake was just sitting by the fire with the Christmas tree lit. He looked so happy -- content.

He was sipping a hot brandy drink and made one for me while I went to the bedroom to change into more comfortable clothes. He had a light meal prepared so we ate after we finished our drink. Once finished we sat in the family room and cuddled by the fire. It was the perfect picture for any Christmas card. After a short time Jake said...

"Blake, I need you to do something for me if you're still interested."

"Anything you want Jake... what do you need me to do?"

"I really need you inside of me Blake. I don't want to wait any more. I thought I could wait until Christmas Eve, but I can't."

"What did you say? Did I hear that right?" Are you really ready?"

"Oh God, Blake, I've been ready..."

I nearly flew out of that sofa and grabbed Jake's hand as I lead him to the bedroom. I thought I'd be in this huge rush to get to it, but for some reason I just wanted to hold him and kiss him -- make love slowly. As we held and kissed each other, our clothes gradually began to disappear. I don't so much remember taking clothes off him or myself, but I do remember not being able to keep from touching and kissing each newly exposed area. We climbed on the bed, Jake demanded,

"Blake, I need you in me now. Please fuck me!"

"What about some foreplay? I really want you to enjoy this first time."

"Blake... I've known you for 54 days. That's 54 days of foreplay. I don't need anymore foreplay. I just need you inside me now."

"Good point!" I chuckled as he grabbed for the lube on the nightstand. He had me slicked up and ready for entry. I was way too close. I knew I would be lucky to last for more than a few seconds. Fortunately Jake was in the same state. Jake pulled me into him in one stroke. He was so hot and silky inside. I loved the feeling of just being with Jake this way. On the forth slow stroke into Jake, he was moaning and thrashing about on the bed. He shot! It was a wild orgasm. Watching his body thrash out of control on the bed as his muscles squeezed my dick and his dick sprayed cum everywhere was too much. I slammed in as far as I could go and began to cum inside him. I've never felt anything as powerful as that orgasm. My body spasmed as I tried to go deeper and further into the man I'd been in love with for 54 days. I never wanted that moment to end, but it did as they all do. I collapsed on top of Jake and just held him as I floated through the blissful after shocks of the intensity of

the whole experience.

Our second effort that evening wasn't nearly as fast, but certainly no less intense. The third was exactly right. We knew each other's body by this point -- all the hot spots, sensitive and secret places. The pleasures came to each of us as we showed the other what we had learned. I can't explain the perfection of knowing another's body so completely and intimately. From 54 days of holding each other and cuddling together each night, we learned subtle pleasure points and favorite places. Tonight was a lesson in secret places and pleasures that only a lover can be trusted to know -- those places that when touched, kissed, caressed put you over the edge and out of control. We both slept late. When we did get moving our main focus was to prepare for the party. We stayed close to each other all day... never more than an arms reach from each other. It's like we couldn't bear the separation.

The party was a huge success. We got lots of great gifts for the house. Many things we needed and some that were just nice to have. The man who did our kitchen counters made us a wine rack for a part of the kitchen counter that would likely never see any other use. It fit perfectly and matched the cabinets. His finish work was amazing. A few of our guests brought bottles of wine as gifts so we had a start filling it. The party lasted later than we both expected. Two of Jake's friends ended up spending the night because they had celebrated a wee bit too much. We were fine with that and glad that everyone had a good time.

Though tired from the days activities, neither of us was too tired to make love. I can't think of a better way to end a perfect day. Christmas day we had dinner for six of our friends who didn't have places to go Christmas day. It was a quiet day, but one of joy and warmth. There was lots of Christmas cheer and even some singing at one point. Jake did an amazing job with the dinner. I could already see that I'd be gaining weight if I didn't watch myself. Everything he made tasted great.

The two of us spent New Year's Eve making love in front of the fireplace. I couldn't imagine a better way to end one year and start another. I couldn't help but see great things for both of us as we started the New Year together. And to think that it all started in the rain... I don't think I'll ever be complaining about the rain again. That storm brought me the most amazing man... and the most complete love.

And that brings me to the end of this story.

I hope you enjoyed this offering. If you've made it to the end, please share your thoughts with me. I sincerely appreciate your comments, thoughts, and criticisms. You can contact me at: dselliot28@yahoo.com.

If this is the first story of mine that you've read, I encourage you to give some of the others a read. I'm listed in the Author's section at Nifty. Please scroll down to the 'e' category to find my name -- ds elliot. When you click on my name you will get a complete list of the stories I've posted at Nifty. Thanks for reading my work!

Thanks for reading my submissions!

Peace and Love.

ds elliot