Quarterback Keeper: 27
Thanksgiving
"Damn they are at it again," Tyler said as he walked into the kitchen of the Tulsa apartment.
Joe grabbed Tyler and gave him a kiss. Tyler was irresistible when he walked around in the morning shirtless and freeballing in thin, nylon gym shorts. "Hey babe, if you only saw me every two weeks, do you think you would have any more restraint?"
"Oh fuck no! I wouldn't let you out of the room all weekend." Joe handed him a plate of pancakes and bacon. Tyler took a bite, then said, "Except maybe to let you make me a plate of these. They are so good."
"Thanks, I've got to keep my boy's strength up," Joe said as he ran his hand down Tyler's torso and hooked a finger in the waist of his shorts.
Tyler moaned, "Do we have to go? I could really use some Joe and Tyler alone time to process this last week."
On Monday, Tyler had been evaluated by Principal Mayfield, and on Tuesday by an instructor from the NOSU Education Department. Both evaluations were good, and having them done for the semester was a big relief. While Mayfield was very positive in his evaluation, he did ask a tough question that Tyler needed to talk with Joe about. At the end of the evaluation conference Mayfield asked, "So, how much of what I saw was you, and how much was you pretending to be Joe Bartlett?"
However, what really had Tyler in knots was Jerry called a meeting with the assistant coaches and Bill after school on Tuesday. Jerry announced that he and his wife had a great retirement business opportunity come up and he was resigning at the end of the year. Jerry said, "I and the missus can't afford to pass up this business. My uncle owns a marina and bait shop on Tenkiller Lake. He's 75, and wants to travel before it's too late. He offered the business to me and I'm going to take it. This has been a great season and I am so glad to be leaving on a high note, but I know there is someone who can build the Salt Fork program into a perennial power, and it's time for me to step aside." Jerry was looking right at Tyler when he finished his statement.
Joe had picked up on the signals that Tyler needed him to shift from lover mode to mentor mode, and said, "Is it something we can talk about on the way to the airport?"
"Jerry doesn't want the students to know yet, so if Ian..."
"Ian won't be going with us. Mindy wants this to be a Thanksgiving Day surprise, so Michael is entertaining him this morning."
Tyler looked in the direction of the bedrooms and said, "And he's doing a bang up job of it."
Joe laughed and said, "Finish your breakfast and get dressed, so we can go to the airport."
Once on the road, Tyler told Joe everything on his mind and Joe just listened until Tyler finished. Finally Joe said, "So why do you think Mayfield asked you that question?"
"Maybe he thinks I can't create my own lessons, that I am not creative, and I depend on you to give me ideas about how to teach."
Joe laughed, "If that was his concern, he wouldn't have a faculty. Most teachers aren't creating their lessons out of thin air, remember the Teachers Motto: Beg, Borrow, Steal."
Tyler just sat and thought, then finally said, "Maybe he thinks I am doing this just to impress you."
"Are you?"
"No...well, maybe a little...I mean I want you to think I'm a good teacher...but, mostly I want to be a good teacher for the kids. I want them to appreciate history because it matters, and they can use the past to understand our present. Am I missing something?"
"First, there is nothing wrong with wanting to be respected by our peers. --Especially those who are warm for your form."
"Gee Joe, you are old," Tyler said with a smile.
"Look hotcakes, if you are trying to impress me as a colleague or mentor, that is fine. If you are doing it so I will love you more, you are wasting your time, because I can't love you anymore than I do."
"However," Joe continued, "it's the second part of your answer that Mayfield wants. He wants to know that you are in this for your students. He wants you to think about whether in your heart you are a teacher and the kids are why you are in the classroom. I think Jerry was doing a very similar thing; he was asking whether in your soul you are a coach. Do you want to build a team, but more important build athletes and men. Mayfield and Wilson were asking whether you have the heart and soul to be a great teacher and coach."
Tyler sat quietly thinking about what Joe just said. When Joe parked the truck in the airport parking lot, Tyler was still struggling with how to answer the question. Joe reached over, turned Tyler head, and gave him a reassuring kiss, then said, "You might not know it yet, but you have both heart and soul...and they come wrapped in a body that is hot as fuck. I know you may question yourself, but I don't doubt you will be--no, that you are--a great teacher and coach."
The affirmation of his mentor, lover, and hero was exactly what Tyler needed, and at that moment he decided he would apply to be the head football coach.
Joe gave Tyler another kiss then said, "Let go get Ian's father."
Ian was cuddled up with Michael, and said, "I'm worried about next year."
"What's the matter," Michael said with concern.
"I'm just afraid I will flunk out of college because we will spend all of our time fucking, and never do our homework."
Michael burst into laughter, and said, "I think we will be fine, we won't have a month's worth of fucking saved up."
"Month? It's only been two weeks."
" When you're our age you have to fuck more, so two weeks for us is like a month for older people."
"Well," Ian said, "If you think older people fuck less, you clearly haven't spent enough time with your Uncle Joe."
Ian and Michael both laughed.
Ian casually teased Michaels nipples and played with the scattering of red hairs on his chest. Ian thought about how much he and Michael looked alike--people were always assuming them to be brothers--but how different Michael's body felt than his own, how different it was when Michael touched him than when he touched himself.
"Where did Joe and Tyler go this morning?" Ian asked.
"There was a note on the bathroom door that said they were running an errand."
"Why didn't they take us?"
"One, your cock was buried in my ass when they left. Two, the note said, `P.S. none of your business'. The note also said they would be back at noon and we should be ready to go to lunch."
"When are we going to your house?" Ian asked.
"Not until tomorrow. Mom and Tyler's mother are going shopping this morning, and Dad is going into the office for half a day. Then this afternoon mom and Mindy are cooking for tomorrow's dinner."
"I'm glad your mom invited Mary to stay at your house."
"I bet not as glad as Tyler," Michael said with with a wicked smile, "Could you imagine spending the entire holiday wondering if your mother can hear your boyfriend fucking you?"
"Oh Tyler wouldn't have to wonder if his mother could hear them, she would. Mary has perfect hearing and the guest room is closer to the master than ours," Ian said, and both boys were in stitches laughing about possible scenarios at the breakfast table.
Finally regaining control, Ian said, "Don't go teasing Tyler about this."
"Why not?"
"First, Tyler can give as good as he gets. You know what they say about guys who live in glass houses. Second, if we gang up on Tyler there is a chance that Joe will come to his aid, and that would not be good for either of us."
"I see your point," Michael said. "It would be a mistake to get on the wrong side of the alpha male."
Ian and Michael just finished showering and dressing twenty minutes before Joe and Tyler arrived back at the apartment.
Joe decided it was time to introduce Tyler and Ian to his favorite Tulsa BBQ, Albert Gs. The average late November temperature in Tulsa is in the upper 40s and it was only a 12 minute walk to Albert G's downtown location from the apartment.
When it came time to order Joe went for a sensible brisket sandwich and coleslaw, but the boys decided to go for broke. Tyler, Ian, and Michael all ordered the Fat Albert. The Fat Albert was a sandwich stacked with smoked bologna, chopped brisket, smoked turkey, pulled pork and a butterflied hotlink topped with coleslaw and sweet sauce. Joe laughed at the bug eyed expression he saw when the Fat Alberts were put on the table.
While Tyler was able to put away his Fat Albert, Ian and Michael came up short. On the walk back to the apartment, Tyler was teasing the boys about being light weights, when Michael said, "Hey, we just don't have your practice stuffing our mouths with big meat."
Ian said, "Yeah, you swallow a Fat Joe every night."
"Hey, hey, hey," Joe said, then he added, "Oh, my bad, none of you are old enough to have watched Fat Albert. When I was a kid, Fat Albert was a Saturday morning cartoon, not a porn star name."
"I always thought Fat Albert was the name of some English king," Michael said with a grin.
"No," Ian said, "Prince Albert was the royal consort of Queen Victoria; and before you ask, he did not have a pierced penis."
"Oh," Michael said, continuing to push Ian's buttons, "Victoria, she's the one who had a thing for horses."
"Wrong again," Ian said, "That was a rumor about Catherine the Great of Russia. Seriously Michael, are you sure you want to major in history?" While Ian's family might lean towards Scottish independence, Ian didn't tolerate Michael mocking the royals.
"I wonder what it's like to get fucked by a horse?," Michael asked. To which Ian responded, "I don't know, let's ask Tyler."
"That's it you smart mouth imp," Tyler yelled, put Ian in a headlock, and gave him the nuggy of all time.
"Stop, stop, please stop," Ian cried between giggles.
"What do you have to say?"
"I'm sorry."
"Not good enough," Tyler said and gave Ian another nuggy. Micheal and Joe were laughing so hard they could barely stand.
"Oh please Great Coach Tyler, have mercy on this simple Scottish boy."
Tyler pulled Ian up and said, "So laddy have you learned your lesson?" Ian smiled and nodded. Then Tyler whispered in Ian's ear, "FYI, it feels great." Ian's smile grew even wider.
Back at the apartment Tyler and Ian turned on TV, and Michael helped Joe make some desserts for the Thanksgiving feast. Joe was contributing pecan pies and pumpkin cheesecake bars.
"Okay Michael, what do you want to talk about?" Joe asked.
"How do you know I want to talk about something?"
"Because you are in the kitchen with me, rather than cuddled up with Ian in the other room."
"You got me. I want to ask you about next summer. Ian and I are planning to spend the summer in Scotland, and I was wondering if you and Tyler will be coming over for a visit."
"Are you sure you won't be tired of us?"
Michael threw his arms around Joe and said, "Never, Ian is already worried he will miss you and Tyler too much."
"What have you guys got planned for the summer?"
"Well, I hope you don't think we are idiots, but we are buying a river barge."
Joe paused a bit to think about how he wanted to ask the next question, "What do you mean, we?"
"I am using some of the money Granddad left me, but this is our boat, not my boat," Michael said very determinedly in a way that reminded him of his relationship with Tyler.
"I get it," said Joe. "Have you told your parents?"
"No. I need your help to figure out what to tell them. It's my money, but I am sure it won't be long before dad finds out I wired a large transfer to an Edinburgh bank."
"So why didn't you talk to your parents before making this decision."
"I guess it is because they are "business people." They can make me feel defensive or stupid about money, especially dad."
"But this isn't about money, is it?" Joe said. "It's about Ian."
Michael dropped his eyes to the floor and nodded.
"Let me see if I have this. The boat is about your commitment to Ian and your future together; a future that will be in both the United States and Scotland. What you are really concerned about is your parents, especially your father, disapproving of your future plans with Ian."
Michael was still looking at the floor. Joe put a finger under Michael's chin and lifted his head until they were looking each other in the eyes. "Is that why Ian isn't part of this conversation?"
Michael again nodded.
Joe pulled Michael in for a hug, then said, "Don't sell you father short. He loves you and wants you to be happy."
"Thanks Uncle Joe."
After they worked for a while, Joe asked, "I am curious, why a river boat."
"Well, if Ian and I are both teaching, we will be able to spend our summers in the United Kingdom, so we thought a river boat would allow us to explore the U.K. We bought a boat that is capable of traveling on the canals, but with the ability to explore the coastline. During the winter, it will be moored in Edinburgh, and Ian's brother Evan will live aboard. Evan is overseeing the updating of the boat and it should be ready by the end of April."
"I see. It sounds like you guys have figured it out."
"Well, the boat we bought has two cabins, because...well....we can't imagine spending that long away from our two uncles. We hope you and Tyler will come for visits during the summer."
"What about your parents?"
"We hope they visit as well. I will always be grateful that they took me to Scotland, that changed my life. However, they won't want to stay on the boat. It's not very sound proof, and dad can only sing the OSU fight song so many times."
Joe laughed, "I understand. So, why did you need to talk to me?"
"Because, I needed you to tell me that Ian and I are not being stupidly romantic and impractical."
"Well I can't tell you that...because you are stupidly romantic and impractical, but that is what being in love makes people do."
"I don't think dad was ever romantic and impractical."
"If your father gives you any grief, just say: 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa."
"What's that?"
"I think that is something for your mother and father to explain to you."
Mindy and Charles were hosting the Sinclair family Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving morning, Charles and David were sent to pick up the turkeys and other meats from a former employee who had started a business custom smoking meats. The guy lived off the beaten path and made a good living off of word of mouth business. Charles and David referred to their errand as the "Thanksgiving Hunting Trip" and would often regale the family with comical tales of their "hunting" exploits.
The family gathered at 10 o'clock for a pre-Thanksgiving thanksgiving. The tradition was that everyone was assigned a seat at tables of six or seven. The idea was to share a glass of wine or other drink, a simple appetizer, and something he or she was thankful for. The host would start by offering a toast and end with a prayer.
It was also a tradition that spouses, partners, and siblings not be seated together, so Ian and Michael were not at the same table. Ian was seated with Carrie, Cooper, and two of Michael's cousins. There was also a place with a blank name card next to Ian.
Charles stood up and said, "Mindy and I are happy to host this year's Thanksgiving meal. This year we celebrate the growth of the family with the birth of children, the addition of people we love, and healing of old rifts. This has been a truly blessed year. Charles raised his glass and everyone stood to join him. Charles then said, "To the ties that bind us, to the love we share, to kin both far and near, and to the family we fondly remember. Honor and blessing." Everyone replied "Honor and blessing," and drank the toast.
While he watched Charles make the toast, Ian didn't notice someone step up to the empty seat next to him. When Ian finally looked to his side he saw Andrew, and yelled, "dad," and threw his arms around his father's neck. Michael stood and began to clap and soon the rest of the family joined in.
"How...when...I can't believe it," Ian struggled for words.
Andrew said, "Joe thought I should be here for your recital. I am so proud of you."
Michael came over and said, "Let's continue this reunion in the foyer, and let the dinner get started."
Once in the foyer, Andrew grabbed Michael in a hug and said, "I can't believe how happy my boy is. You have done that." Andrew then drew Ian into the hug and the three held each other until they recovered their composure.
In between catching up and meeting various members of the Sinclair family that dropped by the table, Ian and Andrew even ate some Thanksgiving dinner; actually, Ian ate a lot of Thanksgiving dinner.
After dinner it was football in the media room, or cards in the den. Ian and Michael started watching football, but once the game became a blowout, they wandered over to the den. While they were waiting to join a game, Ian noticed that his father and Mary Simmons were quite friendly. At first, he just thought it was because they weren't too different in age and neither being a Sinclair, they shared a commonness as outsiders. However, as he continued to watch them, he noticed there was something else going on.
Tyler was laying on Joe's pec and playing with his chest hair. "What's bothering you babe," Joe asked.
"Why do you think something is bothering me?"
"Well, after we make love, you are usually relaxed and ready to go to sleep; but, when you play with my chest hair like that, I know you are thinking about something."
"It is scary how you can read me...Did you notice my mother and Andrew today?"
"They seemed to be getting along well," Joe said noncommittally.
"That is all you saw?"
"I saw two adults enjoying each other's company."
"Is that all?"
"A better question: is that any of our business?"
"She's my mother,... and he's Ian's father."
Joe kissed Tyler on the forehead, and asked, "After you lost your father, did you mother ever date anyone."
"No."
"I have seen pictures of your mother when you were young. She was--no, she still is--an attractive woman. I bet there were plenty of guys who were interested. Why didn't she accept any of the offers?"
"I know there were guys who asked," Tyler said. "I just always thought they weren't good enough for her, but the truth is she probably didn't date because of how I would have reacted."
"Would you have reacted badly?"
Tyler laughed, "A sexually confused, teenage jock, having to share his mommy's attention with a stepdad, what do you think?"
"So, maybe you have to let her find her happiness...just like she let you find yours."
"Intellectually I know that, but she's my mom. Also, I am worried about her MS."
"Well we don't know there is anything besides friendship and a bit of flirting, but if they decide to go further, it won't hurt your mother. In fact, it's a good sign she hasn't given up and still finds joy in living."
"Do you think Ian knows?"
Joe chuckled, "You mean your new stepbrother?"
"Oh fuck."
"That's a good suggestion," Joe said and pulled Tyler into a deep sexy kiss.
Friday morning, Joe, Tyler, and Ian were invited to brunch with Charles and Mindy before heading back to Salt Fork.
Mindy was in the kitchen and Joe was helping. "I have been talking to contractors," Mindy said. "Your and Tyler's house is on track to be finished a week before Christmas. Cooper's family should be able to move in around the first of February."
"That will be a great way for Tyler and me to start our new life."
"Is it too personal to ask if you guys are planning a honeymoon?"
"I want to take Tyler to Europe next summer, but we haven't planned anything before then. I am sure our principal would let us take off a few days, but all I would want is to get away for some time alone with Tyler. We might just end up at the apartment for a few days."
"Charles and I would like to give you and Tyler a present." Mindy handed Joe a letter and said, "Open it."
Joe opened and read the letter. The letter read, "To the manager of the 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa. Joe Bartlett and Tyler Simmons are the VIP guests of Charles and Mindy Sinclair. Please provide them with accommodations in the Governor's Suite and all the amenities the resort has to offer. -- Charles and Mindy Sinclair, owners."
Joe said, "Thank you. This is very thoughtful."
"I hope you and Tyler enjoy staying at the Crescent as much as Charles and I. You are welcome to use this anytime; however, I have reserved the Governor's Suite in your names for the week after New Years."
"Thank you, is perfect. If you don't mind, I will keep this a secret from Tyler."
"That is a perfect idea. I know that January is not the tourist season in Eureka Spring, but I doubt you two will care much about that.......Why Joe Bartlett, did I just see a tiny blush."
When Joe and Mindy joined the rest of the group, Ian and Michael were quiet. Each time they had to say goodbye became harder and harder. Normally Ian and Michal would have had more time together, but Joe and Tyler had to deal with some business. Also, with Andrew visiting, there wasn't space for Michael back in Salt Fork. Mary walked up to the boys and put her arms around them. "I know that you guys would like to spend more time together. It's so heartbreaking to see you so sad."
Ian and Michael each gave their `adopted grandmother' a hug. Then Mary said, "Oh I have an idea. If Andrew stays at my place, then there would be room for Michael to come to Salt Fork, and Ian won't have to sleep on the couch. I think I heard someone say Michael doesn't have school on Monday."
"That's right, the teachers are having an inservice and there are no classes," Michael said excitedly, "Mom you could come pick me up. You said you had some things to take care of in Enid."
"I guess," Mindy said, "If everyone else is okay with this."
Tyler looked at Mary, and gave her a knowing smile and a small nod.
"Well, hearing, no objections," Joe said, "Michael do you need to pack anything."
"Don't worry, I've got everything he needs," Ian said, and then blushed. "I mean we wear the same size clothes and stuff." The group broke into laughter, even Ian.
Joe's truck was a six passenger, but it was still a bit tight. Andrew and Mary sat up front with Joe. Tyler, Ian, and Michael were in the backseat. A few miles down the road, Mary leaned into Andrew and he slid his arm around her.
Tyler's phone played an alert for an incoming message.
Ian: U see this
Tyler: Yes
Ian: R U OK w/
Tyler: Y not
Ian: UR mom, my dad?
Tyler: Mom supported Joe & me UR dad supported U and Mike
Ian: O
Tyler: R U OK with that
After a few minutes Tyler got another message: Ian: LIL--
Tyler: LIL--?
Ian: Love is Love even for straight people
Thank you for reading "Quarterback Keeper." I very much appreciate the comments and words of encouragement I have received from readers.
I also have three other stories,
"Tough Love in Kansas City" https://www.nifty.org/nifty/gay/beginnings/tough-love-in-kansas-city/
"Saving Jordan" https://www.nifty.org/nifty/gay/beginnings/saving-jordan
"Aging Out" https://www.nifty.org/nifty/gay/beginnings/aging-out/
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