Usual Disclaimer: If you are not 18 years old yet do not read. If you are offended by male to male sexual content do not read. If the laws in your state or county forbid this type of material, do not read. Otherwise enjoy the story and all comments good or bad are welcome and I'll look forward to hearing them.
The author retains copyright (2003) to this story. Reproducing this story for distribution without the author's permission is a violation of that copyright.
What happened in Part Thirteen.
Sam and Michael worked hard on their joint project and the whole household had a holiday at the secluded bay, with lots of adventures. Peter and Andrew had a special talk.
And in Part Fourteen.
The household holiday finished with more adventures, and Pete ran a nude Olympics for everyone where Peter was particularly embarrassed.
Part Fifteen
When they reached home at 5 o'clock, Peter asked Sam and Michael if he could have a look at their exhibition work. After a light meal they went to Michael's room and he loaded up his computer and Sam collected his portfolio.
Peter! I told you we had too many pictures that we can't use, so maybe you can help us sort them out. I'll show you through the 60 we've set aside so you get an idea, then tell us what you think. We've got five printed by the photo lab and they look even better than on the computer. I've set the viewing program on five seconds so it doesn't take too long.
As the pictures started to flash through, Peter was staggered. How could he have spent so much time away when this was happening? His mind stopped trying to evaluate the pictures and he sat there, with growing amazement, till they were finished. Peter didn't move or say anything while he tried to gather his thoughts. Sam and Michael looked worried.
What is it Peter? Is something wrong?
Sam! What do you think of these pictures?
Well! We're proud of them. We've put a lot of energy into them, but don't you think they're good enough?
Michael! Run that program again on three seconds each, and if I say yes, it means I think you must include that picture.
Peter proceeded to say yes 60 times.
Michael! Sam! I don't know what to say! This is mindblowing! Tomorrow afternoon we're taking these to show Philip, even if they're still not printed. I want to see his face when the show them, then hear his ideas about presenting them. What did you mean about having problems with some of them? I wish I had these kinds of problems.
It wasn't these so much, but we have five others that we have been arguing about. They are our best ones and we can't agree on how to finish them.
Michael called up another directory and the pictures came on the screen.
This is our best picture of all and I think we need a backlighting effect as well, but Sam thinks it should be side lighting.
Peter laughed at them.
You call that a problem! You do it both ways, as well as any other you can think of, and you've got a whole set of beautiful pictures. Michael! That picture is worth an exhibition just by itself.
Three of the others were the same type of problem.
We both think this last one is so good we don't want to leave it out, but Sam's got an erection in it, so it might not be suitable for the public or something.
Wow! That's spectacular! I agree with you but Philip will tell you straight off.
After the morning at College Peter picked up Sam and Michael and they went to see Philip at the gallery. Philip was as amazed and excited at the pictures as Peter expected. He persuaded them to show the pictures in three groups a month apart, with half for sale each time, and an auction at the end for all the best ones.
If we do it that way it gives people a big chance of realizing the true value.
The next day was the first day of College and Peter was very busy and didn't get home till late. On Wednesday after College, Peter helped Kevin with the swimming team. The College winning last year, had increased the popularity of the team, and the number joining grew to 24. This included twelve new people and Peter could see three or four with real potential.
On Friday afternoon the two Peter's went down to the surf club. Peter had persuaded Pete to join up. After lunch on Saturday they headed off for some location photo work. Peter had the image of Pete with the phosphorescence at night in his mind and had worked out a way to get a similar effect. When they arrived home after tea Peter took Pete up to show him how some of the photos were turning out.
Wow! Peter! Is that me? They look different to what I expected.
They're different to what I first thought of, but that's because you've been such a good model. The other thing that's happened is that I've got a whole collection of great pictures where you're in the nude. How do you feel about putting some of these on exhibition.
Peter gave a big grin and said he thought it was a great idea. Just then there was a great crash from downstairs. When they ran down they saw Michael in the hallway.
It came from Brian and Anthony's room.
Brian and Anthony weren't in so Peter went to check things. The front bay window had been smashed and there was a brick on the floor. Michael went to pick it up, but when Peter saw writing on it he stopped him.
There might be fingerprints on it. I think this is serious Michael. Look! It says, 'POOFTER'.
While they were cleaning up the glass Andrew arrived. He took charge.
I'll look after this. Put the brick in a plastic bag and I'll get it checked out. Does anyone know what this is about?
They had to wait for Brian and Anthony to find out. Anthony went very quiet when he saw the windows and the brick and Brian explained that there were some new apprentices at Anthony's work.
They've been really bad since they found out Anthony is gay and we don't know what to do about it.
The next night another brick came through the window, which Andrew had organized to be replaced. Brian and Anthony were devastated.
When Peter reached their room his heart wrenched at the sight of his friends holding each other with sad looks on their faces and when they spoke to him it only got worse.
Peter! They know where we live now so we're going to look for somewhere else to stay. It's not fair on you and everyone else, and we don't want you to get dragged into any trouble because of us. We'll pay for any of the damage that happens.
When Peter heard this he was sad and furious at the same time.
Anthony! I hope you don't think a few broken windows are more important than my friends. This is your home and they're not going to chase you out of it.
But Peter! They won't stop! It will just go on and on and no one can do anything about it.
Well! There's no way you're going to leave just to protect me.
Andrew and the others had arrived by this stage.
Pete went over and held Anthony and Sam did the same to Brian
Andrew spoke with such strength and authority in his voice that everyone's eyes jerked toward him.
Anthony! You're not leaving, and that's that! Don't even think about it! Hang on for a few days because there won't be any more trouble by then.
They moved to the kitchen and Peter watched Brian and Anthony come out of their sadness and worry as the bonds of friendship in the house tightened round them.
On Wednesday evening Peter was working upstairs with Michael when they heard a car drive in. A moment later there was a sound of glass breaking and voices yelling and laughing. Peter ran downstairs and could see three guys at Anthony's car. He went out the door with Brian and Anthony just behind him. Peter ran over to the biggest one who was hitting the windscreen with a rock. He grabbed his arm and pulled him away from the car.
Before Peter could react he was punched in the face and knocked down. As he staggered to his feet he saw Brian grabbed by the other two and dragged to the big one. Peter pulled himself together.
Let him go and get off this property! You can't do this and I'm going to stop you.
That's a joke! You and what army? We're going to have some fun with our poofter mates.
When Peter started to move forward the big guy grabbed Brian around the neck and pulled a hunting knife out of his belt. Peter stopped in his tracks and the big guy said,
Smart move! Come over here Anthony Boy! We want to see how you suck cock. Pull his jeans down.
Anthony looked white as a ghost but he said,
Leave him alone and I'll do what ever you want.
This got a big laugh.
All right then! Charlie! Get some beer while he takes his clothes off.
Anthony hesitated, then looked at Brian with the knife at his throat, and stripped.
O. K.! First of all let's see you wank yourself.
Anthony started to do what he was told and Peter heard a sound that made him feel like jumping for joy. The deep throated sound of a large motor-bike engine pulling into the drive caused everyone's head to turn and watch. Andrew parked then took off his helmet. He stood for a few moments, taking in what was happening, then with a dismissive glance at the guy holding the knife, he walked to their car and said,
Did you guys ask if you could park here?
Peter shook his head with a no. As everyone watched in total amazement, Andrew reached down, and in one smooth motion tipped the car completely over till it was resting on its roof.
Andrew came closer and stared at the guy holding the knife. With total contempt and compelling force in his voice he said,
You gutless cowards! Three of you and a knife to hold one harmless person. Why don't you come after me? What? Are you only game to fight in a kindergarten?
Infuriated by the taunts, the guy with the knife lunged at Andrew who easily dodged aside. Andrew smiled.
Now put the knife down, or I'll break your arm.
After hesitating, the guy rushed at Andrew again. There was a quick flurry of movement, and as the knife flew through the air, Peter heard a sickening crack. Andrew stepped back and said,
I'm sorry but I did give you the choice. I hope it's not the arm you use most. Michael! What's been happening here?
They were smashing Anthony's car, and they knocked Peter down when he tried to stop them. Then they were going to make Anthony suck Brian's cock and when Anthony tried to leave Brian out of it, he had to beat himself off. Peter was going to try and stop them again, but the big one pulled out a knife.
Anthony! You can get dressed now. Very good Michael! Go and look for something so we can make a splint for this broken arm. What's your name?
The big guy was white and had gone quiet.
Jack!
Well Jack! Why did you do all that?
We were just having a few drinks and wanted some fun.
Jack! Is that what you call fun? Okay! You two! What are your names?
Charlie and Nick!
Well Charlie and Nick! Take your clothes off, because Jack wants some fun.
The Charlie guy started to protest but Andrew grabbed his arm and said, you thought it was going to be fun, Charlie, when you came along didn't you? So get your clothes off or tell me where you want it broken.
Good! That's better! We don't want to spoil the fun do we? Jack! Which comes first? You sucking their cocks, or me knocking your friends down. Did you know that the guy you knocked down is my friend Peter who saved my life twice?
Peter was interested to know what this Jack's choice would be, but he didn't find out because Anthony stopped everything.
Andrew! You can't make them do this. It's not right. Please! It will just make us the same as them and I don't want people hurt because of me.
Andrew looked at Jack.
Jack! I find this amazing! Anthony doesn't want you to get hurt even after all this. Since he's my friend I'll do what he says. But you've still got the knocking down stuff because that was Peter who got hurt. Peter! Do you want me to have fun knocking them down? I'm very, very good at it!
Andrew! I feel like saying yes but I would be ashamed in front of Anthony.
I'm worried that Jack and these other two might try to get back at Anthony when you're not around though.
No Peter! We don't have to worry. If Anthony, or I, or you take this to the police then Jack is in trouble for wilful damage, aggravated assault, and threatening two people with his knife. He's looking at 15 years in jail. And if we leave the police out of it they would still lose their jobs. The discrimination act means their employer could be fined over $100,000. I'm leaving all that up to Anthony.
Andrew was very carefully and gently making a temporary splint while this was being said.
Jack and Charlie and Mick our coming around here for the next five weekends to help tidy the yard and get the garden going aren't you guys?
Peter noticed that they didn't even look at each other in their rush to agree with Andrew's suggestion.
I think we all understand each other then. Mick and Charlie you should get your car up the right way and we'll need to get Jack to a hospital with this arm.
After they got dressed, Mick and Charlie couldn't get the car upright so Peter and Brian helped them. Peter took Jack to the hospital because his car wouldn't start. He was pleased when Jack wanted to know why Peter was helping him. When Peter got home, Pete and Sam had come in and everyone was talking about the night's events. Anthony and Michael rushed over to see if Peter's face was all right from when he was knocked down. Andrew was apologizing because he hadn't sorted things out sooner.
Tomorrow was my scheduled day off and I was going to do it then. Anthony! I'm wondering how they managed to give you such a hard time at work? Didn't someone know what was going on?
My supervisor did, but he laughed when I complained and said it served me right.
Was he all right last year?
I was in a different section then but he's new anyhow.
Right! Well tomorrow I'll be turning up in a suit and I want you to act as if you don't know me. Does anyone else there know you're gay?
They all do now, because they wrote so many signs and made jokes about it to everyone. Before this though I just kept quiet.
And do you like working there?
It was great till all this happened. My other section was helpful and I learnt everything there.
Would you like me to find you another job somewhere else?
No! I think everything will be O.K Andrew, if those three leave me alone.
When Brian and Anthony went to their room Peter followed and knocked on the door. Brian answered and said Anthony wanted some quiet time but Peter took no notice and walked in. Anthony was sitting in a chair with tears running down his cheeks. Peter spent an hour talking to them. He left with the feeling that each time he got closer to these two the more he admired them.
Apart from saying that everything worked out fine, Andrew had nothing to say the next night, and disappeared to his bungalow where he played his piano. Anthony had lots to tell though, when he drove in from work. Everyone was waiting for him and hoping that his day had turned out well. Pete grabbed him and sat him on the sofa.
You're not going anywhere till we know what happened. Andrew just said it was OK then disappeared.
Anthony looked around at everybody and Brian sat down next to him.
I got called to the manager's office at about 11o'clock, and except that he's so tall, I hardly recognized Andrew. He was dressed up in a suit and looked really important. All my bosses were calling him Sir and looked scared of him. Andrew read out a whole lot of things that had happened to me at work and asked me if they were true. I don't know how he found them out because I didn't talk about some of them to anybody. He asked me if my supervisor knew what was happening. I didn't want to say much, but Andrew makes you feel that you have to talk, and I said that I'd asked him for help. Andrew wouldn't go on till my supervisor was there. He made a fool of himself because he started off saying nothing happened, then he said it was a few harmless jokes, then he said he was going to do something if it got bad. Andrew was just looking at him and writing things down on a notebook. When he finished talking Andrew didn't even look at him but spoke to the manager instead.
I'm sorry to tell you that this fool has put your company in a very had position. Because it's workplace related, our only recourse, in this blatant case of discrimination, is a fine against the company of approximately $150,000. This is regrettable as your company policy is very good in this area and I know how well you handled a similar case two years ago. Clearly this supervisor has acted directly against your company policy. This means that not only could you sack him on the spot, you could also sue him for damages to recover the cost of your fine. We would prefer that you solved all this in-house, but I'll have to say that the final outcome rests with the victim.
Anthony! The government will back you 100 percent if you wish to take this further, but since you are the wronged person I want you to have an input to the decision.
I didn't want any trouble for anyone, so that's what I said.
Anthony! I must tell you that legally you could sue the company and the individuals involved. With a good lawyer you would be awarded over $100,000.
I said I didn't want to sue anybody. I just wanted to be left alone to do my work.
Then Andrew spoke to the manager again.
My report on this apprentice tells me that he is a conscientious worker and is highly competent at what he does. I see that he was runner up for apprentice of the year, and his course teachers spoke highly of him without exception. My impression is that he is an honest young man and a quiet achiever. Frankly! I'm astonished that he appears to bear no grudge or want revenge for what has happened. I feel bound to respect his wishes. I will visit in two weeks time and then monitor the situation regularly.
Andrew asked me to leave then, but later in the day the manager called me in and apologized really well and offered to put me in any section I wanted. I told him that I needed to stay where I was to finish my apprenticeship properly, and then he said if anything happened again to go straight to him. When my supervisor came to the workshop I thought he might be angry with me, but he was really good too. He said the government man had talked to him for half an hour about what might have happened, and frightened hell out of him. I've hardly seen the other three guys, because they've been talking to the bosses all the time.
While everybody quizzed him for more details, Peter went upstairs very pleased with what Anthony had said, and puzzled over Andrew's part in it.
He had his own puzzles to work on. First was the nude photos. He still needed 15 shots to make up the 20, and he could only think of the changing rooms at the College pool and the showers at the surf club. The second puzzle was more straightforward and meant working out routines and programs for the twelve new members on the swimming team. Michael had to postpone his special weekend with Peter till after his exhibition, so on Friday the two Peter's went off for the weekend, first to the surf club and then for photo work. Pete was excited with the surf club and his skill at swimming meant he was a valuable member. His personality meant that he was liked from the start and there were a lot more laughs after he appeared on the scene. Pete said he wanted the swim team guys to meet the surf club people and was organizing something for the next weekend. He was disappointed because Michael and Sam couldn't come because of their frantic work for their exhibition, and he begged Peter to come along. When they got home Peter went to Andrew's bungalow to find out what happened with the three guys from Anthony's work.
Andrew was really pleased as he explained the day's events.
They worked really hard Peter! Well! They didn't have any choice there, but I was pleased with their efforts. The best thing that happened was that Anthony worked with us on Saturday, and when he acted friendly to them I could see it had a big effect. He brought out homemade hamburgers for everyone's lunch and they were quite embarrassed. I've decided to take them on an adventure weekend somewhere after Jack's arm is better, and if we could all go that would be an eye opener for them.
The next day at swimming training Kevin put his idea for the coaching to Peter. He wanted to have three groups of eight each, and the top group to work with Peter each Monday, and they would swap the other two groups on Wednesdays. They quickly agreed on the top group and Peter thought this was going to be a very hard team to beat.
Pete was now the backbone of the team and best overall swimmer.
Sam was close behind him but still had the edge in backstroke.
Michael was now in the swimming team. He didn't have much choice with Pete, Sam and Peter insisting on it, and Peter knew he had the potential to be the best of them all.
William was still the star short distance sprinter.
John was still there from last year and even stronger.
There were three new people.
Colin was the best swimmer of these and Peter knew he would be very good. He was 19 years old with very striking looks. Fine fair hair and a light complexion. He had broad strong shoulders and a beautifully proportioned body.
Greg was next. He was good-looking as well and his face always seemed to light up with a big smile. His best stroke was the breaststroke.
The last guy was another new student named Jeremy. He wasn't quite as fast as some of the others but Peter could see he had a special way of moving through the water and thought he had great potential. He was 18 years old in second-year and Peter thought he was as sexy looking as Pete and Sam. He was very quiet though and Peter wondered if he was sad or worried about something.
On Tuesday evening Peter spent an hour with Brian and Anthony at the college pool. Anthony didn't finish work till five o'clock or later so Peter used his key and they had a regular session planned for the first semester. Pete came along and helped out as well, using half the time for a long hard swim. Both Brian and Anthony were past the survival stage and Peter was building their techniques and stamina. Brian would be a good swimmer but Anthony was the one with the most talent.
Wednesday was Michael's day and after swimming together for half an hour they went out for a restaurant meal, and then Peter spent a couple of hours with Michael and Sam as they worked on their pictures.
The end of Part Fifteen.
Note: Wow! Thanks to all those people who sent the encouraging and interesting comments. Peter's Mistake will most definitely be continuing. Iarwain.