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.
Next morning they drove to Lorne, a surf town about half way home, and explored a big waterfall on the river there. In the afternoon they went to the surf beach. Peter was hoping Andrew and Michael would enjoy the waves. Michael enjoyed everything but Andrew seemed to get the most out of it. He acted as if it was a battle between his powerful body and the strength of the waves. Pete went straight out to the bigger break with his new skill at bodysurfing. When Peter saw how Andrew and Michael were enjoying themselves he went out and hired them a boogie board for a couple of hours. He insisted they not get into the deeper water and left them to it. He went out to keep Pete company and whenever he caught a good ride in he made it his game to try and bump into Michael or Andrew and knock them over. When they got back to the surf club Pete was keen to have a turn on the back of Andrew's motorbike, so that happened. They met in Geelong for a pizza tea then headed for home.
There were a couple of outcomes from the weekend, apart from building their friendships. First they started coming to the beach regularly at weekends, mostly staying at the surf club, but occasionally camping somewhere and exploring round.
Second Michael had a talk to Peter at the end of their next coaching session.
Peter! I'm not very fit and want to build back up and do you think you could teach me to swim properly? I thought I was holding everyone back a bit on the weekend and I didn't like that and those adventures were so good I want to do more of them.
Whoa! Michael! No problems! I'd love to. And you didn't hold us back. We just did slightly different things. That's all. We'll work out a fitness program for you and you can build it at your own pace. As for the swimming we've got one superfish coming up. Here's my idea. You wait after College for an hour on Wednesdays, you could even do some maths hey! Then when I finish with the swimming team I'll be your personal swimming coach for the rest of the afternoon. I'd even like you to come back with me after that for tea and then do your maths. What do you think of that?
Michael's eyes were shining and Peter was treated to another of those electric hugs.
Peter! Why do you do all these things for me? You make me feel special.
Well! There you are. You've said it yourself. Special people deserve special treatment and especially when they're friends.
On Tuesday the College administration told Peter that a Dr Wells wanted to talk to him and could he call back? Peter was mystified and made the call from his office. Peter was put through and introduced himself to the doctor.
Mr Bonner, this is an imposition on you, but I'm hoping we can meet for a private talk. I'm Michael Weyland's doctor and I feel it's important for both of you. Do you think you could oblige?
Of course! There's no question at all. I can meet you tonight after 4.00 p.m. or the same on Thursday, but not till next week after that. Is Michael all right?
That's a simple question with a complicated answer which I can't discuss over the phone. Would you be happy to come to my clinic at 5.15 today? I would prefer to visit you since it's my request but I have other patients as well.
Peter was waiting at 5.00 p.m. This was all very mysterious and worrying. He was ushered into the doctor by the receptionist.
Thanks for coming at such short notice. Do I call you Mr Bonner or Peter?
Please! Call me Peter. What's this all about?
Well! I'm Michael's doctor and it's my job to try and help him. Can I ask you first what your impressions of Michael are?
Peter wondered what he was looking for but decided to describe Michael as he had come to know him.
He's a talented young man with an excellent mind. He has an engaging personality and a quick understanding of social situations. He has a will to better himself and puts in the effort to make it happen. It's my opinion that he's a rather special person, but I guess I should tell you that I may be biased there, because I've come to look on him as a friend. I've seen Michael in challenge situations and he's fought his way through.
The doctor was smiling.
Peter! I think you're very perceptive and I agree with everything you've said so far. You have no idea just how true some of those statements are. Have you noticed anything unusual about Michael?
I'm not sure exactly what you mean but at times he goes very quiet and occasionally I've wondered if there was some kind of battle going on in his mind. I'm only a few years older myself but I've put those down as teenage moods.
Well! I can assure you that in Michael's case they aren't. At the moment Michael seems to be winning a battle that I feared was not possible. Did you know that he was traumatized last year?
I knew something happened to make him miss all his schoolwork. I asked him once but was so scared by his response that I've never dared to ask again.
I can't tell you what happened to Michael! Purely because I made a promise to him not to tell anyone. When he's ready to talk about it I think he'll be almost well. How would you react if I told you that three months ago Michael was literally brought back to life from a suicide attempt?
Michael? I wouldn't believe it.
What if I told you that two months ago Michael's mind wasn't in this world?
Peter looked at him.
Are you serious?
One hundred percent serious! And that's why I've asked you here. I talked with Michael yesterday. Do you know how much you've impressed him?
Well! I know he likes me a lot.
Peter! If I'd believed Michael you would have floated in here with your escort of a thousand angels. Is it true that you teach him a year's maths in one night, swim faster than an Olympian, help every person you meet, save people's lives and know the most exciting places in the world?
Peter flushed!
They're either exaggerations or I just happened to be in the situation at the time.
Tomorrow Michael is going to ask if he can rent a room at your house and I would like you to think seriously about your answer.
There's nothing to think about. I'd love to have him there.
Clinically there are positives and negatives. Positives are the fact that you've helped him so much and things aren't quite as good as they could be with his relatives. Does he know your other boarders?
Yes! Andrew and Pete could only be described as great friends and the other two really like him.
So that's another positive. Friends are extremely important for him at the moment. How independent would he be?
Completely! He'd be doing his own cooking and washing and everything else. That's the way we're set up.
That's another positive. He needs to feel success at organizing his own life.
Everything seems to be positive doctor.
The negative is that if anything goes wrong you might have to live with it for the rest of your life. And I must stress that Michael is walking on a knife edge trying to recover from the trauma to his mind and something easily could go wrong.
Peter thought about this for a while before making a response.
That really sounds like a cop out to me doctor! How do I treat Michael from now on?
Don't talk to him about his past at all unless he specifically wants you to, otherwise no differently than you have been. The only other thing I would ask is that if anything serious happens with Michael you contact me before you take any other action. I must say that I am totally relieved that you have decided this way and I will add that I believe your association and friendliness to Michael has been one of the strongest factors in helping him through these last few months.
The doctor and Peter talked for another fifteen minutes about different aspects regarding Michael, and Peter went home that night with a lot on his mind.
The next day, Wednesday, was a big day. College classes were full on and he had swimming group after.
This was his first night with the second group and he wanted to have a good look at them. All were good swimmers but four had something special.
First there was Pete who was an excellent all rounder. He needed lots of work fixing his stroke techniques but Peter knew that this would happen over the course of time. Pete had a powerful body with well defined muscles and a great deal of energy.
Perry had a squat powerful build and his best stroke was going to be the butterfly.
John was also a good all rounder but with not quite the natural talent of Pete. He was a blonde, surfie type, looking person with a great tan.
Sam was the fourth guy with natural talent, particularly for backstroke, and Peter felt that no-one would be able to come near him in this stroke after some work. He had a lean but strong body and Peter discovered later that he was partly Vietnamese. He was wet-dream material in looks and Peter couldn't decide in his private thoughts between Sam and Pete for the sexiest body on the swim team.
Peter set all the group swimming laps on a particular stroke and made notes and worked out strategies in his mind for ways to help each one of them. When the swimming team work finished Peter was eager for Michael to turn up. When Michael came in he saw that Peter was waiting for him so he rushed to get changed. He came out shyly wearing brand new speedos that made him look so sexy Peter could hardly believe it.
My God! Why am I doing this? I'm going to get a hard-on as soon as he touches me.
Michael explained that he'd seen the training groups and everyone had speedos on so he thought he must need them. Peter laughed.
You duffer! You can learn to swim in anything. The team wears them because they have less drag than other kinds. I'm glad you bought them though because they look fantastic. Did you get them specially designed to suit you or something?
Sort of! Do you really like them?
Peter couldn't say how much he really liked them but he did his best.
I don't think I've ever seen anybody look so good in speedos. You're a stud. Michael! And I really like them.
Well! I'm going to wear them every time we swim together then.
Michael! Thanks!
Pete walked past and recognized Michael.
Michael! You shouldn't be allowed in public with those speedos. Will you tell me where to get some and what's happening?
Peter's going to show me how to swim better.
Special treatment hey! You lucky thing! I'm still waiting for my turn.
Peter laughed!
Don't you worry! I've got plans for you starting on Monday.
All right! Let's see what you can do Michael. I want you to swim as long as you feel comfortable. All different strokes but don't push it. That'll happen when you're ready for it. Peter watched Michael carefully as he swam across the pool and back. Most of his energy was wasted by his terrible style but he could see that Michael had the makings to be a classy swimmer.
Michael! I think you could be a competition swimmer if you wanted to but today we'll just muck round and I'll take you through as much survival stuff as we can.
Once again Peter marveled at Michael. He seemed to understand everything so quickly and focused on whatever they were doing till he had it right. They went for nearly an hour and Peter was confident that Michael could float, skull and duckdive. Time to muck around!
O.K! Michael! Stand with your legs apart and your eyes closed.
Michael dutifully did this and Peter dived between his legs and lifted him on his shoulders then threw him in the air to land with a great splash on his back. As soon as he surfaced Peter splashed him in the face then dived down and pulled his legs from underneath him. When Peter came up this time he could see Michael's big grin as he jumped forward and started to wrestle with Peter and tried to push him under. They messed round for another ten minutes then it was time to go.
Michael was looking tired.
Peter headed for the showers. As with salt water he also liked to wash chlorinated water off so he felt fresh. He was a bit nervous. This would be the first time he saw Michael completely nude. Peter was quite happy with the fact that he was gay and had no worries about checking out other guys. He thought this fascination with nude guys was natural for him. With Michael though, the anticipation was turning him on and by the time he was in the shower he was half hard. He faced away from Michael and glanced over his shoulder. When he saw Michael soaping his hair he gave him a close checkout. He was beautiful. His cock and balls were a good size as had been evident from his speedos. His balls were well defined and stood out because they appeared to be practically hairless and his cock looked perfect to Peter. The time he took for this look was enough to send Peter's cock skyrocketing. He rushed out and toweled off then dressed as quickly as he could. Michael must think he was a prude or something. Holding his sports bag in front of him he turned to Michael who just happened to be soaping his groin.
I need to get something from my office. I'll meet you at the van.
By the time he got reached the van, Peter's cock was almost under control again. They stopped at the small local shopping center and Peter bought a couple of T-Bone steaks and some vegetables for tea.
O.K! Michael! How about you get on the sofa and close your eyes for half an hour. I'm going to read a book and relax too. We'll need to be awake for your maths.
Peter woke Michael up after forty-five minutes and said he was going to start tea.
You'll have to earn your keep here. Those spuds need peeling and cooking.
Michael eagerly helped. He asked lots of questions and obviously hadn't had much to do with cooking. It was a bit after 7.00 p.m. when they finished cleaning up. Peter said they could listen to some music but Michael wanted to get going. Michael collected his books and they went upstairs to Peter's living area.
Peter? Before we start I've got a question to ask.
What? Michael asking questions! How come that doesn't surprise me?
No! It's a big question. Are you still going to rent out those other rooms?
I'm hoping to, but I haven't got around to it. Why? Do you know someone who's interested?
Well! Yes!
It's not a girl is it? We've got used to wandering round in our jocks and stuff.
No! It's..
Peter interrupted again.
You'd have to bring them round so I could check them out. Do you think they'd fit in here all right?
Peter! It's me.
Peter hammed it up.
What do you mean? You?
I mean I hope I can rent one of your rooms.
Peter looked at Michael for a moment.
WOW! Really?
Then he grinned.
Do you think you could put up with us wandering round in our jocks? What about fitting in? We'll scrub that one. I don't care what anyone else thinks. Will you cope with the house rules?
What rules?
Well! You have to look after yourself. I'm not your mummy you know, so you'll have to do all your own cooking and washing and stuff.
Is that very hard?
I don't think so. Everyone else here has no trouble and I'm sure they'd all show you anything you wanted to know. Do you think you can afford the rent?
Yes! That doesn't matter at all. How much is it?
The two rooms left are thirty dollars a week each.
Peter loved this. They all thought he was mad. There was silence for a moment.
Is that a special rate just for me?
No! That's what Pete is paying.
Peter suddenly got another of Michael's special hugs. They went downstairs to check the two bedrooms. Pete was in the living room and watched as they went from one room to the other. His curiosity got the better of him and he wanted to know what was going on. Peter put his hand on Michael's shoulder and said,
Guess who's coming to live here?
Pete looked for a moment then yelled,
YES! YOU BEAUTY!
He lifted Michael up and whirled him round then sat him on the sofa and told him to wait there, before running out and calling to Andrew. Andrew came in, all smiles, gave Michael a hug, and said how pleased he was.
The great explorers all in the one house Hey!
Brian and Anthony came out of the TV room to see what all the noise was about and though they were quieter they showed how pleased they were. Pete was still excited.
We'll have a welcoming party. It's time we had a party. When are you moving in?
This weekend I hope.
Peter! Can we have a party on Saturday night? We'll christen him and hmm! This will be fun.
Everything seemed to just happen once again. Peter couldn't help because he had surf club. Pete said he'd help Michael move his things. Brian offered their car and his time. Andrew said he had a better idea.
Michael! We'll hire a rental truck and move it all in one go. I've got a licence to drive anything. If we get it in the morning you'll be all set up by teatime.
Peter could see that Michael was getting a bit overwhelmed by all this so he broke it up.
Well! I'm the slave driver round here and Michael's meant to be doing maths, so we'll talk later.
Maths went really well and afterwards everything was organized for the weekend.
When Peter arrived back from surf club Michael was organizing his gear and Andrew was connecting his computer into the house network so he could use the internet. Peter went out to get some things and then went up to his room to finish his present for Michael. At 6.30 Pete turned up and started organizing everybody.
Put your order in for a pizza. It's not a party without a pizza for tea. I'll ring through and we'll have them at 7.30. Peter! Can we clear the tables out to make more space? Good! Michael! Your official christening starts at 7.00 and you'll need to wear an old shirt and some shorts for that. O.K?
All that was done and at 7.00 everyone was gathered. Pete went to the fridge and brought a bottle of champagne out of the freezing compartment. He rather expertly popped the cork, aiming it in Michael's direction.
Michael! Welcome to your new home. As you'll see tonight, it's a quiet neighborhood and not much happens here. Take the bottle to each person and give them a drink then have one yourself. We won't need glasses. Very nice! But a bit cold!
Now Michael! It's time for you to be christened. We all were! Cough! Cough! Please lie down here.
Pete spread a large towel on the floor and everyone watched Michael lie down.
In the name of Peter, Andrew, Brian, Anthony and me, you are now officially christened.
He took the bottle of freezing champagne and poured its contents over every part of Michael's body, concentrating mostly on his stomach, groin and face. Michael jerked with the surprise of it but grinned and took it. Typical shock tactics from Pete!
Well done Michael! You are now one of the inmates, er! boarders. If you'd like to shower and change we won't wreck any more of your clothes. If you don't you'll probably find us licking you all night. Pizzas should be here by then.
Peter had grabbed a couple of photos and his camera was ready for any more surprises. After the pizzas were gone Pete started again.
Before the night's entertainment, MC'd by yours truly, we have a little gift ceremony. Michael! Would you like to sit here?
He'd set up a chair in the middle of the room.
Brian and Anthony first.
Anthony gave Michael a little package and Anthony said,
You're officially an adult now and you can come and go as you please.
When Michael opened the package it was the house key.
Andrew reached to one side and grabbed a bike helmet.
Michael! This is for you if you ever need a ride and I'm available.
This got a laugh because Michael had raved about how much he liked Andrew's bike.
Pete was next and he showed everyone a certificate stating, WORLD'S SEXIEST SPEEDO WEARER GRANTED TO MICHAEL WEYLAND
Anthony and Brian didn't know about Michael's speedos but they soon found out. Pete must have timed things carefully because at that moment the front doorbell rang.
Hang on! I'll go and see who that is.
He came back grinning like he would burst.
Michael! You seem to have a visitor.
And in walked a gorilla. Well! Not a real one but he looked very impressive. He was carrying a bag and a small portable tape recorder, which he set down. He made a few grunts and clapped Michael on the shoulders then made a big bow and started his music. He reached into his bag and pulled out a pair of speedos, which he put on over his costume. Peter's eyes nearly fell out. They were Michael's new ones. Pete must have nicked them. The gorilla did a few turns showing them off to everybody then he went to his bag again. When he turned back it looked like he had stuffed two tennis balls and a banana into the speedos. It was grotesque but very funny. Big Spender was his music and he did a little routine, dancing and pulling the speedos down a bit on one side and then the other. He sat on Michael's lap and smooched up to him. As the music finished, he stripped the speedos off, spilling the tennis balls and banana on the floor, then hung them round Michael's neck. With a big wave to Michael and everyone he grabbed his things and was gone. The look on Michael's face was great. He looked at Pete and shook his head. Peter had a feeling that Pete was going to get a return on this one at some stage. Pete continued.
Peter! Do you have something for Michael?
Peter was pleased with his gift. It had taken him quite a bit of time on his computer.
Yes! I have a CD for Michael but we have to show it to everyone. Andrew? Can we use your monitor? It's the biggest and the best.
In the bungalow, Andrew started up, and Peter put the CD in.
As you know! On painting day, we had a visit from that famous artist, Michael-Angelo. I've searched the web and found a collection of his famous paintings. I hope Michael will enjoy it.
Peter had downloaded lots of famous pictures and images by various artists and used Photoshop to change them. He had many photos of Michael by now and had cropped the heads from them and pasted them to the pictures. They all had Michael's face.
Mona Lisa with Michael's face.
The statue of David, with Michael's face, and a pair of speedos.
Venus In A Shell and a number of others.
He finished with Ian Thorpe in his sexy speedos getting the Olympic gold medal, except it was Michael's head.
Peter was pleased because everyone was most impressed. Back in the living room Pete went on.
A few other gifts have turned up. Andrew! Here's a battery charger in case your heart stops again. We wanted a pacemaker but they wouldn't give us one.
Anthony interrupted and gave Pete a big cardboard box.
Is this for me? What's inside? It says assorted jumbo condoms. What are they? Oh! Look! Toy balloons! Brian and Anthony! I hope you guys tried them all out to check they were all right. Michael! Will you try one out for me now please?
He had Michael in fits of laughter.
Pete got out a rainbow sticker.
Brian and Anthony! We thought you might like this.
As prearranged, Peter called out,
Where's a good place to stick it?
Pete pretended to think then dashed off with the sticker. Everyone wondered what he was going to do now. In about sixty seconds he was back dressed in a long bathrobe. With his cheeky grin he said,
O.K! You two! Feast your eyes on this while you've got the chance.
He flung the robe off and stood there wearing a tight blue g-string jock with the sticker framing the pouch. He wiggled round for a moment then dashed of with the robe. When Pete got back Brian wanted to know where their sticker was. Pete ground his hips and said,
You'll just have to use your imagination won't you!
Pete herded everyone out to the bungalow.
It's karaoke time with Andrew, our great piano maestro!
Pete started off with some pop tune and Brian and Anthony sang a really old song called 'Tea For Two'.
Peter sang 'I Still Call Australia Home' but couldn't reach half the notes.
O.K! Michael! We know this is a bit hard because we all got a practice and you didn't, but you have to have a go.
Michael looked through the songs Andrew had words for and chose one. He grabbed the microphone and gave Andrew the nod to start. It was some old ballad that Peter had never heard but he was stunned by Peter's voice. It was totally in tune and sounded so good that Peter had one of his goose bump moments. Everyone was quiet when he finished and Michael looked worried.
Was that all right? I used to sing well till my voice broke and got wrecked.
Pete jumped in. He was doing a great job of running the night. I don't believe the bit about your voice breaking kiddo but if that's a wrecked voice I'd like to hear it when it's fixed.
Brian and Anthony rushed ahead as everyone returned to the house. Pete started his spiel again.
Michael! To finish our entertainment we have hired, at great cost of course, a personal showing with the famous Dr Brianus, master of hypnotism, and his ravishing assistant Anthea.
Anthony came in first with a long blonde wig, stuffed bra and a miniskirt. Brian had a towel wrapped round his head and a pair of glasses.
Gentlemen! Tonight you will see things you won't believe. First we must test the audience to find suggestive subjects. Anthea! Our object of focus please!
Anthea bounced in with an old alarm clock dangling on a piece of rope.
Watch the pendulum swing closely till we find a suitable subject. Ah! Good! We have two subjects.
Pete was nodding his head back and forward and Peter nodded his sideways.
We'll take the young man with the beautiful blue underwear. Yes! This mind knows all and sees all. Well! Nearly all! Come and look deeply into my eyes. When I count to three you will fall deeply asleep. One, two, three! Are you asleep?
Yes! I'm deeply asleep.
Good! You are now completely under my control. At the sound of my hands clapping you will wake up thinking you are a beautiful lady. Brian clapped his hands and Pete looked round at everyone, batting his eyelids.
What is your name?
Murgatroyd!
Murgatroyd! You will now point to the sexiest man in the room.
Pete stood up and with jerky movements like a robot, looked at everyone in the room. He pointed to Michael then to Peter, then to Michael, then to Peter, back and forth continuously.
Gentlemen! Murgatroyd can't make up her mind.
Murgatroyd! Point to the sexiest brunette in the room.
Pete refocused then pointed to Peter. Peter was startled. This wasn't the script they'd worked out. It was meant to be Michael.
Murgatroyd! You can now show us what you'd like to do with him.
Pete's eyes lit up and he started to take his clothes off.
No! Murgatroyd! Without taking your clothes off.
Pete walked over and attempted to take Peter's clothes off.
No! Murgatroyd! Without taking his clothes off.
Pete made a big show of being disappointed but then sat on Peter's lap and started to play up to him. Peter went along with this, making some comments about the sexy lady and her cute lips. Pete put his arms round Peter's neck, and really acting up, said,
C'mon! Give us a kiss honey!
Expecting a quick smooch, Peter said,
Just one then!
Peter felt his head held tight and then Pete locked onto his lips. His tongue went into Peter's mouth and probed round. With a shock Peter realized this was the real thing. Pete didn't stop and Peter felt a hot feeling rush through his body. In moments his face flushed and his cock hardened.
My God! Peter thought. I don't want to stop. Is this what a kiss can do?
Desire rushed through Peter as well as panic. He could tell Pete must know the effect he was having because he was sitting right on Peter's boner. When Peter started to struggle Pete stopped the kiss and gave Peter a wink and a great big grin. He went back to his act again and pressing his hand against Peter's groin he said,
You're a big boy then aren't you honey?
He stood up and took a bow to great cheers and applause from everyone.
Murgatroyd! Thank you! When you return to your seat you will be your old self and forget what happened.
Pete sat down, then carried on about not remembering anything and missing out on all the fun.
That was it for Michael's welcome. Everyone left with smiles on their faces and Peter knew that Michael felt more a part of the household than he did at the start of the evening. Peter had a word with Pete as well.
Pete! Thanks for all your energy tonight. I know Michael really enjoyed it as well as the rest of us.
And what was that kiss all about tonight? You gave me a shock you know.
Pete gave his big grin.
I was just checking something out but I really got you didn't I. It worked better than I expected.
Peter decided he wanted to leave at that stage. As he went upstairs he planned to burn a CD for everyone with all the photos he'd taken that night.
Peter worked with the second swimming group again on Monday and Wednesday. He'd worked out individual programs for all of them and was pleased at how keen they were to work on them. He noticed that Pete and Sam seemed to have struck up a friendship. Michael's swimming went really well and he'd also managed to fit in a run each day. Peter talked with Michael about his improvement and told him to eat lots of good food and get plenty of sleep. Michael decided to walk or run to College each day as it only took ten minutes and would be good for him. Andrew decided to come to the beach on the next weekend and Michael asked to come with him. He had an overload of study and wanted to catch up on it.
Peter went down by himself.
Pete said he was having a social weekend as he described it. Pete's social life was a source of wonder for everyone else. He rarely went more than four or five days without having a guest for the night in his room and after a couple of embarrassing encounters he came up with his red towel signal. He hung this on the laundry door so everyone would know he had company.
When Andrew and Michael arrived on Saturday they decided to hire a couple of boogie boards for the afternoon and spend their time at the beach. They both improved at using the boards. Towards the end of the afternoon the sky started to cloud over and at 5.00 p.m. the surf patrol closed because most people had left. The waves were quite strong and gave a great ride. The boogie boards weren't due back till 6.00 so Michael and Andrew decided to have another go to get their money's worth. Peter swam with them and when he noticed a side current building he warned them to keep in line with the club buildings. Peter went out to the towels on the beach to grab a drink and as he turned back he heard Michael yelling. He couldn't see Andrew. As he ran back Michael was pointing to Andrew who was about fifty metres down the beach. He'd lost his board and Peter could see that he was in trouble. He was hit by a wave and took too long to surface.
Peter sprinted down the beach then out in the water till he had to swim. He powered through the waves to the position he'd last seen Andrew. He couldn't see him. In the swell of the waves he caught a glimpse of a shape and swam and dived for it. He pulled Andrew to the surface and looked at him. He was conscious but in a state of shock or panic. Peter gave his face a bit of a slap and yelled at him.
Don't grab me or I'll have to knock you unconscious.
Peter saw reason return.
Peter! Help me! I couldn't do anything.
Andrew! You're all right now. Just do exactly what I say. Take a deep breath and try to keep your lungs mostly full. I'll do the work but we have to get out past the wave break.
Peter's mind had assessed the situation and he realized they were caught in a rip and would be carried further out. He put his arm across Andrew's chest and towed him till they were past the breaking waves and the rip dissipated. Towing a person, especially someone as big as Andrew, takes a great deal of effort and Peter's heart was pounding.
Andrew! We'll either get picked up or make our way in ourselves. We can do it but I'll need your help. We need to get away from the rip. Put your hands on my shoulders but you mustn't push down. Keep your head down as low in the water as you can and that will make you lighter. I'm going to start swimming with lifesaving backstroke and I want you to let me just pull you along.
This meant Peter had his arms and legs free for swimming. They got in motion and Peter kept explaining till Andrew was doing exactly what was needed.
That's good! Now if you can kick your legs that will help us along.
Andrew started to kick furiously.
No! That's too hard. You'll be exhausted and useless in a few minutes like that. Just steadily and try to keep your feet under the surface if you can. There's no hurry! We just need to keep moving.
Andrew understood.
Peter was relieved. It made a huge difference. It was much harder work than he was letting on especially because of Andrew's bulk. He tried turning on his front with Andrew holding his shoulders from behind. This was good for a change but not as effective for moving through the water so he changed back. Peter was starting to tire and knew he'd have to turn in now if he was to have enough energy to help Andrew through the waves. As he angled to the shore he heard voices calling and over his shoulder he saw two surfboards heading for them.
We're O.K. Andrew! It's all over.
Peter was startled to hear Andrew sobbing quietly. It wasn't his image of Andrew at all but suddenly he understood how frightening it must have been for him. There was no trouble getting Andrew to the shore on the surfboard and Peter swam and caught a wave in by himself. When they reached the shallows Andrew stood up and walked in. Peter saw Michael standing in the water and went over to him. He was trembling and white as a ghost.
Peter! I couldn't find anybody!
It looks to me like you did a pretty good job.
Michael had run up to the club building and couldn't find anybody. Then he'd gone to the beach car park, and luckily there was a car with surfboards, which was just about to leave. Peter thanked the guys with the surfboards then took Andrew and Michael to the club house and got a warm drink for them all. Andrew explained that he'd gone a bit far to the side and tried to catch a wave in. The wave had been too strong and he'd lost his board. The water had been too deep for him and he'd been swept away.
I tried to float like you showed me Peter but the waves kept pushing me under every time I came up. It was terrible. There was nothing I could do and I couldn't see anybody, then a big wave came and I couldn't even tell where up or down was. Somehow my brain seemed to shut down. It just wouldn't work.
Peter explained that he'd panicked. His body knew that it was facing death and his mind went into overload.
Do you know Peter? That was the first time in my life that I ever remember being truly afraid.
O.K! Andrew! First of all, I'm going to teach you how to swim. Can you be at College on Wednesdays at 4.30 p.m? That's when Michael is learning and it would be great for you to learn together.
Andrew said his work was very flexible and he could arrange that easily.
Good! Now both of you come with me. We're going for a swim in the ocean right now.
Are you crazy?
No! And that's the response that tells me I'm right. You loved the activity in the ocean half an hour ago and now you don't. The sooner you face this the easier it will be to get over. We'll go to Pt Roadnight. It's only fifteen minutes away and it's a very safe beach.
Andrew was looking very closely at Peter and then he nodded.
They drove to the beach and played and mucked round in the safe waters for twenty minutes and Peter could see Andrew relaxing and rebuilding his confidence. Andrew suddenly stopped. Peter stared as Andrew approached him. Was he all right? He had a strange look on his face. Andrew grabbed Michael who was also looking worried and then he grabbed Peter. He held the two of them in a mighty bear hug and bounced up and down then dropped them in the water. When they stood up Peter and Michael felt Andrew's hand grab them behind the neck and drag them till their faces were held close. Andrew's face was lit up with a radiant smile.
What am I going to do with you two? You keep saving my life.
Andrew then picked up Peter and slung him over his shoulder like a bag of potatoes. Come on Michael! I'll race you down the beach. Andrew raced away through the knee deep water for about fifty metres before he swung Peter down. Peter was astonished by Andrew's strength as he felt himself bounced and jolted by the broad shoulder pressing into his stomach. He could see Michael laughing as he tried to keep up. He grabbed Michael now and it was Peter's turn to laugh at the sight of Michael gasping and bouncing round on Andrew's shoulder. When he stopped running he went out till the water was waist deep and threw Michael in.
Come on you two! See if you can push me under.
They battled for a while but it was totally one sided as Andrew delighted in picking them up and throwing them as far as he could. Andrew stopped and said it was time to get back.
I have to front up to the boogie board man and explain how those things need emergency handles in case of big waves.
Andrew left sometime after 6.30 and Peter and Michael grabbed a hamburger for tea. There was still over an hour of daylight left and Peter and Michael went for a walk along the beach. Michael was in one of his quiet moods but they ambled along enjoying each other's company.
Michael! I reckon your fitness campaign is working well. Did you notice how long you swam for this afternoon? You're starting to look stronger as well and you're not pale anymore either. How is the running going?
Michael looked very pleased at all this.
I think it's going really well! It's been just over two weeks and I'm up to twenty-five minutes instead of the ten I started at. Can we have a run now? You can tell me if I should be going faster or not.
Michael set the pace and they jogged for fifteen minutes. Peter stopped. Michael! That's great! I hardly go any faster myself. I want you to try something else though. We'll get our wind back then have a few races.
Michael was good at sprinting. For the first couple of times Peter found he couldn't just run away from Michael.
When you do your running from now on, do some sprints in the last five or ten minutes. Michael! You're a different person in just two weeks.
When they got back to the surf club Michael headed for the shower and Peter nicked out and bought a piece of fish each and a giant package of chips wrapped up the old way in butcher's paper. They finished as much as they could then Peter said he was having his shower and going to bed. He wanted to be up early to go down the coast.
When they set their mattresses up Michael wanted his to be next to Peter's.
Yes! This is the best spot in the room because you can see the waves if it's moonlight.
Michael noticed the sign on the wall and wanted to know if the P.B. meant Peter.
Sure! That's my initials and lots of the club guys call me P.B.
They stripped to their jocks and climbed under their sleeping bags. Peter was lying there thinking over the days events when he heard a little sound. It was Michael crying.
Michael?
Peter got no response so he thought he'd be a little more forceful.
Michael! Come over here.
Michael did crawl over. Peter pulled his sleeping bag over them both and sat up with his arm around him.
Hey! What's wrong mister?
I'm no good.
You were pretty good today! I don't know what I would have done without you and I know Andrew thinks you're a hero.
But that's the trouble. You and Andrew say these good things about me when I know they're not true.
Peter! I'm not brave at all! When I couldn't find anybody to help I nearly ran away and hid in the trees. You can't be any good if you get scared like that.
Hey! Give me a hug! You little mudcrab! You did this last time too. Do you think a hero is someone who isn't scared of anything?
Of course it is.
We might have to fight over that one because I think he's just an idiot.
How can someone brave be an idiot?
I'm not saying he's not brave. I'm saying he's an idiot not to be scared. You think being scared is bad or weak don't you Michael?
Yes! Of course!
All right! Why were you scared today?
I was scared for Andrew.
That tells me that Andrew is very important to you and I reckon that is a good thing. Do you reckon you're weak because Andrew is important to you?
No! I think I'm lucky that he's important to me.
Now! Tell me who Andrew's true friend is? The person who's scared for him when he's in trouble or the person who isn't?
I guess it has to be the first one.
So! Michael Weyland! I'm proud you were scared for Andrew today. It shows you are his true friend. Michael! The biggest thing that really scared you was that you couldn't help him. And that just shows the same thing. Now Michael! Who's the bravest? The guy who does something he's not scared of, or the guy who does it even when it scares him to death.
I suppose it is braver to do it when you're scared isn't it?
So little mudcrab! I've got you by the nose now. Did you keep trying this afternoon even when you were scared?
Ah! Yes! I did!
There you are! You're a hero.
Well! I don't think so. Do you call yourself a hero Peter?
No! I'm a lifesaver and I've been doing it for years. It's sort of my job.
Were you scared for Andrew today? And did you keep trying? Hmm! You're pretty clever aren't you? Let's say I'm exactly the same as you and don't feel like one. Give me another hug Michael. I love your hugs. Mm! Now the next thing you said that I want you to think about was the running away bit. You sounded like you think running away is weak.
Well! It is isn't it?
O.K! That means you think Andrew is weak.
Andrew? No way! Ever!
He ran away today Michael. His mind was so scared that it just stopped working. When I reached him his body wasn't even trying to save itself. I had to slap his face and shake him and tell him I was going to knock him out so I could get his mind to come back enough for him to think again. Michael! Do you think Andrew was weak to panic and give up like that?
No! Of course not! It was just too much for him.
All right! What do you think would have happened if it was you out there?
I would have been awfully scared but I think I could have kept going because of all that stuff we did at the pool.
That's what I think too! Now, what if it had been me?
You were out there!
I mean why wasn't I scared?
You never get scared.
Idiot! Of course I do. I mean why wasn't I even one bit scared out there?
Because you knew exactly what to do.
So do you see that exactly the same thing was different depending on the person. I'm trying to say that there's nothing wrong with running away if something's too much, even if it looks like nothing to other people. Do you know what the bravest thing today was? Well! I'll tell you anyway. It was Andrew. I think it was nearly twenty minutes he was out there frightened for his life. As soon as his mind came back it started to battle all that fear. He did every single thing I asked him, and even helped with the swimming and didn't show a sign of how frightened he was till right at the end, when he was crying a bit.
Andrew was crying! Wow!
I know! That's what made me understand how he felt. Remember how he reacted when I said we were going back in the ocean for a swim?
Yes! He said you were crazy!
His mind was still scared then but he kept fighting. I think he won his big battle when he did that python act and nearly crushed the life out of us.
Isn't he strong? I felt like a baby on his shoulder.
I know! I've never seen anyone like him. I'm really pleased he's coming with you on Wednesdays Michael. You don't mind do you? I really should have asked you first.
Of course I don't mind. It'll be great. I'm going to try and keep ahead of him.
I'm puzzled why he never learnt to swim. He seems to have done so many other things.
I know the answer to that Peter. He told me on the abseiling day. It's because he's got such a long dong.
Michael! Don't pull my leg! I don't believe you.
It sounds funny doesn't it? But it's true. When he was a little kid he said he was teased all the time for being so tall and skinny and a computer nerd. When he had swimming at school the older kids used to laugh at him because his dick was so long. He said they used to make him kneel down and lean forward till it touched the floor and they nicknamed him tripod. He hated it so much he never went swimming again.
I can't imagine anyone teasing Andrew.
I said that too. He told me that when he reached thirteen his body kept growing taller but his muscles grew as well and they all stopped then. I found all that out when I asked why he always wears those long shorts instead of speedos. I was telling what you said about less drag in the water.
Has he said anything about your new speedos? If they don't convert him then nothing will.
Peter did his trick of grabbing the hair on the back of Michael's neck.
Hey! Michael! Why were you crying?
'Cause I'm no good!
Peter gave a tug.
That's not the answer I want. Try again!
'Cause I'm not much good!
Another tug.
Try again.
'Cause I'm good?
Tug.
'Cause I'm really good?
Tug.
'Cause I'm ah! special?
Tug.
Oops! Sorry! I did that one because it's fun. Now tell me why you're special.
That's not fair. I just said that because you made me.
All right then! I'll tell you! Well! Just a few reasons! You get really scared for your friends if they're in trouble. You keep trying even when you're scared. You're really clever. Much cleverer than I am.
Now you're being silly!
No! Michael! I'm serious. I had to work hard to learn my maths and you learn it so quickly I can't believe it. You have the most beautiful voice. I had goose bumps when you sang at the party. You wear those speedos just for me. You have a great sense of humor. You're my best friend ever. And you're a mudcrab.
I'm not a mudcrab. Whatever that means.
AhHa! But I've got you by the nose again. That's the only one you can argue with isn't it?
Am I really your best friend ever?
Well! You've got some pretty tough competition with Andrew and Pete but you're my best friend ever. Now! Mr Special! Give me a hug then get back to bed so we can have some sleep.
Peter! I want to sleep with you tonight.
Ah! I might snore too much for you.
I'll have to cry then so you drag me back over.
That's blackmail! O.K! Mudcrab! You win. Grab your sleeping bag.
Peter hoped he was doing the right thing as Michael snuggled up against him. When Peter woke in the morning he was lying on his side facing Michael. Michael was curled with his legs bent up and one knee right in Peter's groin. Peter's problem was his morning hard-on, which was pressed back against his stomach. Thank goodness he'd woken before Michael. He slowly moved back and rolled onto his other side. Peter felt Michael stir then get up soon after. When Michael came back Peter was sitting up looking at the ocean.
It looks like the coast trip is off Michael.
The weather change from yesterday had really set in and the ocean looked dark under the low clouds and rain.
When they arrived home Pete was excited. Andrew had told him about yesterday's adventure and he dragged Michael off to his room to get all the details. Peter headed upstairs and spent most of the day on College work. Andrew came up for a talk for a while and in the afternoon Pete organized a deathmatch game on the computers. Pete loved these. This one was a shoot-em-up type. Pete was good and Michael seemed to be a natural. Andrew was invincible and Peter got blown to bits every time he tried to move. In the evening Peter met Arthur and they had a meal at a restaurant then took in a movie. At swimming coaching, Kevin and Peter did time trials with the groups. Their first competition was coming up in three weeks and Kevin was keen to sort out who was suited best for the events. Peter already knew.
In the evening when Peter checked his emails he found a message from the camera shop saying his new camera would arrive on Thursday or Friday. This was very exciting and he spent some time thinking and planning. He wanted to build more storage into his computer so when he heard Andrew ride in he went down to get his advice. Andrew was very interested and asked lots of questions about what he wanted his computer to do.
Let me organize this for you Peter. I know the best equipment and I'll guarantee the best price. I'll set it up on Thursday.
Wednesday was an interesting day. He organized his swimming group into training pairs. He put Pete with Sam Ngyen, as he'd noticed how well they were getting on. Pete was slightly better all round but Sam was way ahead with his backstroke and both had lots of potential. The session with Michael and Andrew was great. Michael was keen to help Andrew and practise with him, but Peter made sure he was challenged with new skills as well. He developed Michael's survival backstroke into competition style and set him practicing that. After the session they had tea together and Michael persuaded Andrew to eat with them each Wednesday and take turns for the cooking.
That evening after a very successful maths session Michael said that he had decided to enter the scholarship. Peter was excited about this and made plans to get the previous years' exams. After his swim on Thursday Peter hurried home to see if Andrew had finished with his computer. When he looked, his jaw dropped. He rushed down to Andrew's bungalow.
Andrew! What have you done? It will cost me a fortune.
Andrew grabbed him by the shoulders.
Peter! It hasn't cost you one cent. Come on! I want to show you how I've set it up. The most obvious thing is the monitor. This is a really good twenty-three inch one, because with what you're doing you need quality. I've kept your old monitor connected and you can use them both at the same time. I'll show you how to do that. Your processor was getting out of date, so this one is about twice as fast and I upgraded the motherboard as well. There's a new graphics card, which will make a big difference, and the new hard drive is three times as big as the old one. This CD burner is twice as fast as your old one and much more reliable. This gadget connected here is a portable hard drive which you can plug into almost any computer. It's great if you have big files to transfer and you'll find that your photo lab loves to use these. The mouse is a good optical one which won't clog up like your old one. It's all set up and running for you. It's my investment in your new photography project.
Peter was dumbfounded.
Andrew! It's too much.
Peter! Put yourself in my shoes! It's nothing. Now sit down and I'll show you how this all works.
Peter watched and learned how to use the double screen and the portable hard drive and Andrew showed him some new graphics software he'd installed as well.
Andrew! This is wonderful! It will save me hours of work.
Andrew went downstairs looking very pleased with himself.
Peter experimented with the new setup for half an hour then went on the net to read the latest reviews about his new camera.
Michael came upstairs to see Peter.
Peter! Andrew's gone crazy. He's taking me to the bike shop next week to buy me a full set of leathers and he's going to teach me how to ride his bike as soon as I'm old enough. I tried to say no to the leathers but you just can't argue with him.
I know! Look at this!
After Andrew, Michael was the one who knew most about computers in the house. He was most impressed.
Peter! You couldn't really get a better setup than this for your graphics.
Peter went downstairs for a drink and Michael went with him. They saw Pete's red towel hanging on the laundry door and grinned at each other. When Michael sat down Peter went and sat near him.
Ah! Michael? Are you very busy this weekend?
Michael gave Peter a querying look.
As busy as I want to be. Why?
Well! Here're two things for you to think about if you've got the time. First I'm getting my new camera tomorrow and I wondered if you'd like to work with me to learn how to use it properly? I'd be starting tomorrow, then using all Saturday and probably Sunday, so it's a lot of time.
You already know the answer don't you Peter? You know how interested I am in that kind of stuff.
Well! I would have been surprised if you said no.
O.K! What's the other thing?
Well! It's really asking you for a pretty big favor.
Good! I'll do it.
Idiot! Listen first. It would mean we'd need to travel and camp the next three weekends as well as use up to an hour most evenings.
It doesn't sound like a favor. It sounds like an adventure.
I've got an important exhibition coming up in a month and I was hoping we could have a joint project with you modeling for me.
Me? A model?
It would be quite hard work really and I would pay you for your time. It would be mostly portraits but I have some ideas for backgrounds. It's my first digital work so it's very important to me.
Do you think I'll be good enough?
Michael! That's a joke! I'll probably never find a better model in my life.
If you pay me I won't do it.
I'll feed you and pay expenses then.
O.K! That's fair. Do you take me without any clothes on?
Is that what you think being a model means? Well the answer's no.
Will you take me in my speedos?
If you want me to I will, but I'd have to think out how to do it.
When do we start?
You agree? It's a joint project and you'll really do it? Wow! Michael, thank you! This will be really great. It will be my best exhibition ever. I should be home by 4.30 tomorrow.
Peter left College early. Because of Andrew he had some extra cash. He'd decided to get two extra memory cards and two extra batteries which would mean he could have up to eight hours of continuous use. He collected the camera plus accessories and headed home. Michael was waiting and they headed to the upstairs living area. They checked each step as they went and Peter's first photo was one of Michael grinning at him. When they had taken about thirty shots Michael installed the software for downloading the pictures to the computer, and within minutes they could see the results. Peter was totally delighted. Everything was better than he'd expected. By the end of the evening Peter had taken several hundred shots and downloaded them to his big new hard drive. He did all sorts of tests and enjoyed the camera more and more. Michael didn't know too much about photography but he figured out how the camera worked very quickly. The next day they worked from 8.00 a.m. till 6.00 p.m. Michael was a willing worker and took over the task of storing the photos on the computer. Peter was amazed at how much ground he could cover because of the instant feedback on the photos he'd taken. They went out for a bistro meal and Peter said that was enough for the day. Michael was happy with that but when he found that Peter was going to spend a couple of hours on the computer sorting and discarding images he wanted to learn how to do that as well.
Peter's next month was flat out with the photo work and the swimming at school because of the competition coming up. James, Pete, Sam and William were the best swimmers. James overall, Pete overall but not as strong as James, Sam in the backstroke and William for shorter distances. Perry was not far behind and the best at the butterfly. These five worked as a group and Peter found out that they sometimes had a pizza together after training.
Pete started going for runs to Sam's place on the other side of the College. One session, after some endurance work, Peter mentioned to the group that massage could be very good if they'd overworked their muscles. Peter noticed Pete give Sam a bit of a nudge and a grin.
Peter! You should try one of Sam's massages. They're a real specialty.
Peter and Michael had three trips away in the coming weekends, two to the beach and one to the mountains. The camera worked overtime and Peter came back with hundreds of shots both studied and candid. Michael had become completely natural in his response to the camera. Peter loved the way Michael was interested in everything. He'd pick up rocks and look at plants and any wildlife with fascination. Michael loved camping in wild spots and made it his job to set up the tent.
One thing awkward for Peter was the way Michael was a cuddler. When Peter woke up he'd nearly always find Michael's arm flung over him or his leg resting on Peter's or his head resting on Peter's arm or chest. The knee pressing against the groin trick happened regularly and Peter invariably had a boner from the pressure.
Peter had literally taken several thousand photos of Michael by the end of the project. Half were thrown out for some fault of for just not working well enough but the rest were sorted and archived. The special haunting kind of look that Peter had noticed the first time he ever saw Michael was one he was hunting. It was very elusive but several times when Michael was in one of his quiet moods Peter was able to catch it with his camera.
Towards the end Michael persuaded Peter to take a set of him in his speedos. Peter had also been encouraging Michael to take his own photos of whatever he was interested in. He hardly needed encouraging and ended up taking hundreds. Michael insisted that Peter model for him as well. Peter was so used to taking the photos that he found being the subject rather strange, till he became relaxed and natural after getting used to it. Michael's photo skills increased rapidly. As Peter drew his work together he became more and more excited. With his previous exhibitions he had usually shown ten to fifteen pictures and found it hard to fill this quota with work he thought was good enough. Now the number of photos he didn't want to leave out kept growing. The week before the exhibition the swimming team was elated with their walkover victory over another College. There was one guy who was unbeatable but everyone won something and most produced their best times ever. Peter wished there'd been more competition because the next meeting in a month's time was against the top seeded team.
Peter ended up getting fifty photos printed by the photolab and set out to choose half of them. He also persuaded Michael to be his associate artist. Michael was reluctant but he chose five photos from their last trip to the mountains. It was a big job getting the photos mounted then hung at the gallery. Peter had chosen five pictures with Michael's special haunting look as his feature. Each had a background with a matching quality. There were five traditional portraits as a set, and the rest were like the main five, but with different expressions captured. Peter had to cancel all his afternoon activities on the Wednesday before the exhibition opened. He took Michael with him to discuss details with Philip, the gallery director. Peter set his own prices and the gallery director suggested to Michael that he peg his at two hundred dollars each.
They're worth much more than that in my opinion but it's often hard for new artists to get sales.
Michael looked worried when the director asked if he could be named as the model.
Peter! I don't want everyone to know who I am. That scares me.
The director stepped in and sorted it quickly.
There's no problem at all Michael. We just list you as a private model. Your privacy is your own right. Realistically though, you must expect some serious enquiries.
Thursday and Friday were viewing days and Friday night was the official opening. Peter was nervous. He always was. There was a good turn-up of people and Peter's night was spent talking and answering questions. Andrew, Pete, Brian and Anthony were there and Michael stuck with them. Peter went home feeling very pleased with himself In the morning he bought all the newspapers, wondering what the reviews would say. They were great. He was so impatient that he went in and woke Michael up.
Michael! Look! We've done really well with the critics.
Michael rushed down to the toilet then pulled on some sweatpants and a jumper.
I'll read you some. Peter Bonner has produced his finest work to date with a striking portrait theme.
Be sure to see the new exhibition by Peter Bonner. This two week limited showing should not be missed.
Peter Bonner has excelled himself as well as introducing a talented associate artist.
Listen to this one. The haunting beauty of the young model matched with the striking Bonner backgrounds has produced his most evocative work yet.
Michael! I'm going round to the gallery to talk to Philip. Do you want to come with me?
I do! But how long will you be?
Probably all morning.
Michael said that they'd been so busy lately that he needed to catch up on his study. Peter went out and returned at 2.00 p.m. He dragged Michael out to the living room.
O.K! Michael! Here's the news. Forget your study! Tonight we're going out to the best restaurant in town. Philip says it's one of the most successful exhibitions he's had. Every single picture has been sold.
What? Even my five?
Don't say 'even'! Philip said he could have sold your pictures three times over and he's asked if he can do your next exhibition.
What's he talking about? I haven't got an exhibition.
I know! But he wants you to do one. A full exhibition of your own. He wants to talk to you about it.
Peter could see the thoughts wheeling round in Michael's eyes.
Wow! And does this mean I've made a thousand dollars?
No! You dingaling! You're forgetting the rest. Everything sold. Your share will be nearly $20,000, a bit less when Philip takes his commission.
Michael was staring at him.
Peter! You said you weren't going to pay me.
This isn't pay. This is what we said right at the start. Don't you remember? We agreed it was a joint effort.
Well! Yes! I do remember that but I didn't think Id be getting any money out of it. Holy hell! $20,000! I can't believe it.
Is everyone copying my sayings nowadays? At any rate Michael I couldn't afford to pay you modeling fees. That's the other news. Philip has had enquiries from agencies who want to hire you as a model.
Tell him to say no. I only wanted to do it for you.
You'd better tell him yourself Michael. Guess how much one of them has offered to pay you?
I don't know, $100 a day?
No! I could afford that. Try $1000.
They must be mad. But I don't care about the money anyway, so the answer's still no.
Peter's life became less hectic with the photo exhibition finished. He liked to fit in two exhibitions for a year, his other photowork was for his own pleasure or the work with the College activities.
Andrew and Michael progressed enormously in their swimming and Andrew soon figured out that Michael was working to stay ahead of him, and Peter understood that Andrew was going elsewhere to get extra practice. Michael was also getting extra swimming by using some of his lunch times for practice.
The swimming team was working harder than ever. They knew their next competition would be a very hard one. On Tuesday after school when he was having his swim he watched Pete and Sam for a while as they did their laps. Peter went over and was talking to them about their progress and giving some pointers to help them along. He'd decided that besides his fantastic looks, Sam was also a great guy. He was always smiling and listened closely to Peter's instructions and worked hard to follow them through. Peter always got the feeling from Sam that he really appreciated Peter's help. One time when they were talking Sam mentioned that he hoped to have a career as an artist and Peter was very interested to hear his ideas. Pete started to talk about the backstroke and Sam laughed.
Pete's trying to tell me he can beat me at backstroke, but it's my best stroke, and I don't reckon he can.
Well! I think you're wrong Sam. You only just won at the competition and I've been giving it extra work. I've made a bet that I can beat him Peter. I'll buy him a pizza and wash his dirty clothes for a month if he wins.
I don't think that's a good bet Pete. I think we'll be calling you the washerwoman for a month.
What? Are you against me too Peter? I've been trying to get him to show you his famous massage but he's shy or something. Would you let him show you if I win?
Seems a funny bet to me but O.K. as long as Sam's happy.
You'd be happy all right wouldn't you Sam?
Yes! But I think I'll be sharing a pizza with Peter tonight.
Pete piped up,
Will you be the judge Peter? As long as you don't favor Sam of course.
Peter found a stopwatch. He wanted to check this carefully because Pete was surprisingly confident. Sam got off to a bad start but soon caught up and passed Pete, but not for long. Pete put on a surprising burst of speed and Sam couldn't quite hold him off. Pete won by an arm's length. Peter was very surprised. He checked the stopwatch and saw that this was Pete's best time ever and it almost matched Sam's best.
My apologies Pete! You've won your bet and that's the best time I've seen for you. Sam! We'll need to work on your starts for a while.
Pete was his usual excited self, stirring them and telling Sam what a wimp he was.
Righto! When are you going to pay up Sam?
Sam looked at Peter, and laughing as Pete kept stirring, they organized it for the next Saturday evening.