Reluctant Mentor

THE RELUCTANT MENTOR

CHAPTER ELEVEN

Todd had never admitted being gay to other students. His reputation from his former school followed him, however, and nearly everyone knew he was gay. He hadn't denied it; that would be futile and dishonest. As a result, he was the frequent target of derision and insults, which he had learned to ignore. The other students' opinion of Stu was different. They simply regarded him as an oddball because of his outspoken opinions, especially about irrational ideas and behavior that had been molded by peer pressure or status-seeking. He was not the victim of insults; he was simply ignored and was viewed as an eccentric but harmless nonconformist. The two teens, for different reasons, were loners so no one thought it strange that they palled around together during the school year. As the school year drew to a close, however, other students noticed that Todd and Stu were together much more than usual. They arrived together in Todd's car. They ate lunch together. The left school together in Todd's car. Most tellingly, however, were the subtle signs of bonding -- their smiles, their lingering eye contact, and their hushed conversations at lunch and in the hallway between classes. Rumors and innuendos took root and spread faster than kudzu.*

(* An invasive vine that grows very rapidly in the southeastern United States.)

A flash-point occurred at the end of a school day when Todd and Stu walked out the front door of the school joking and laughing. They paid little attention to the two groups of boys assembled on either side of the doorway until the groups merged and surrounded them. Surprise was quickly replaced by anxiety as Todd and Stu saw the menacing expressions on the faces of the eight or nine boys, all of whom they recognized -- preppies, jocks, and wannabes. Memories of his beating at his former school paralyzed Todd but Stu kept his wits about him. Standing resolutely in place, he said in a firm tone but with remarkable calm, "If you goons will step aside, we'll be on our way."

"Not until we deliver a message, weirdo," snarled Jacob, the school's football quarterback. He was only a Junior but was the team captain. Directing his next comment to Todd, he continued, "Listen, fag-boy! We don't want you messing around with anybody. Don't think for a minute that you can drag anybody down to your level, even if he's a weirdo like this shit-hole you're with. You're nothing but a sicko queer and we won't let you infect others. Do I make myself clear, you perverted fag?"

Stu was incensed. Standing to his full height of five feet, six inches and looking up at the six foot something football jock, he shot back, "If anybody is infecting others, ass-hole, it's you. Look around you. If you had a fuckin' brain, you'd know that you and idiots like you have infected these guys with your cancerous bigotry. That's far worse than being a gay who's never bothered any of you. Todd minds his own business and you should, too. If anybody is a sicko, it's you and your henchmen. It's your perverted attitude that makes you thoroughly contemptible. Now, if you'll step aside, we'll be on our way."

The jock's face reddened in anger. His intimidation had backfired and, worst of all, it had happened in front of all his hangers-on. He felt (quite irrationally, of course) that his manhood had been challenged and that he had to defend it in the only way he knew how. He grabbed the front of Stu's shirt, lifted him almost off the ground, and spat out a warning. "Stay away from the fag-boy! Let him rot in Hell alone. If you don't, I will personally beat the living shit out of you. I'd do that to your fairy friend, too, except I might get AIDS from his sissy blood."

Stu's adrenaline was pumping, which explains his next, very uncharacteristic action. He raised his knee quickly and forcefully into the jock's groin. The pain must have been excruciating because the blow to his balls caused him to scream and drop to the ground. Doubled up and clutching his groin, he moaned pitifully. His cohorts knelt down around him. Todd grabbed Stu's arm, pulled him toward the parking lot, and said, "Let's get out of here!"

They ran about 20 yards but heard the moans interrupted by a command from the suffering jock, "Get the little bastards!" Obediently, the gang of boys ran after Todd and Stu like a pack of attack dogs responding to their master's command. They made it to Todd's car just as he was pulling out of his parking place. It was too late for them to do anything but curse and return to their suffering ring-leader.

Another student who had witnessed the incident rushed back inside the building to summon help. She found a teacher leaving his classroom and exclaimed, "There's been a fight outside. Somebody's hurt."

The history teacher rushed outside to find dozens of students gathered around the school's star quarterback, Jacob Klein, who was writhing on the ground and moaning. He forced his way to the injured student, knelt down, and asked, "What happened? Are you all right?"

"Some fucker kicked me in the nuts," the boy said.

Ignoring the profanity, the teacher barked over his shoulder, "Somebody go to the office. Tell them we need an ambulance."

"NO!" the football player screamed. "I don't need no fucking ambulance!"

"You have no choice," the teacher said. "You were injured on school property and it's standard procedure to see that you get medical attention. Who did this to you?"

Jacob was ashamed to admit that it was a smaller boy who delivered the crippling blow and very afraid of revealing why it happened. "I don't know," he said. "And I'm not saying any more. Gimme me a minute and I'll be all right." He then struggled to his feet and started to hobble away, followed by his pack of loyalists.

"Wait!" the teacher called to him. "You have to be checked out by the medical squad."

"Wrong!" the boy called over his shoulder. "I'm leaving."

The teacher directed a question to the crowd. "Did anyone see what happened?"

A pert girl was the only one who answered. "I didn't see how he got hurt but Todd Peterson and Stuart Brown ran away. Those guys ..." pointing to Jacob's friends in the distance "...chased after them until they drove off -- I think in Todd's car."

"Come on," the teacher said to the crowd of students. "Somebody must have seen what happened? Who did it?"

To a one, they claimed not to have seen what happened.

The teacher, frustrated by the obvious lies but realizing that further interrogation would be futile, turned to one of his students and said, "Jerry, go to the gym. Find coach Latimar. Tell him his quarterback has been injured. Have him meet me in the principal's office right away."

Todd and Stu arrived home and went immediately to their room where they discussed the confrontation and the possible outcomes.

"You were terribly courageous standing up to that bully," Todd said. "The swift kick in the nuts was just what he deserved but I'm afraid he'll be out to get you now."

"I know," Stu replied, unable to conceal his concern. "He's got a score to settle now and he has to do something if only to maintain his alpha-dog role with his gang of goons."

"You know," Todd began thoughtfully, "I can ignore insults. They're just rantings of fools. But now I'm worried about you. Jacob is not only a fool; he's a vicious, vindictive fool."

"Don't worry," Stu replied as he put on his game face. "We'll just mind our own business, keep our eyes open, and avoid situations where the ass hole would have a chance to get back at me."

Todd was not convinced that Stu was actually so stoical about the danger and said, "Do you think we ought to tell my parents ... or the school? They might have some ideas on how to protect you."

"NO!" Stu exclaimed. "That would upset your parents and what could the school do, anyway?"

"Okay," Todd grudgingly agreed. "But I'm going to watch your back. Before and after school, I'll be right there with you."

"Sure," Stu said sarcastically. "Then he'd beat you up, too."

"Listen. I want to say something important. Believe it `cause it's true. You're the best thing that's happened to me. I want nothing more than to be with you ... forever. That means through thick and thin. We both know it's tough to be gay. But it's important that we face problems together. We've got a problem now. It's not your problem; it's our problem. I know you're fiercely independent but let me be there with you. Let's face this together."

Stu was deeply moved by the extreme sincerity in his lover's tone and facial expression. He seized Todd in a firm embrace and said, "What have I done to deserve you? You rescued me from my Dad. You took me into your life ... into your home. And your parents have treated me wonderfully. Now you say that you want to be with me forever. When am I going to wake up and find it's all just a dream?"

"It's no dream, Stu. You and I -- two misfits -- are together. And we'll stay together no matter what."

Meanwhile, the altercation at school was the topic of a discussion in the principal's office. The principal, Mr. Davidson, convened a meeting with Coach Latimar, the teacher who tried to get medical help, and Mr. Perry, the guidance counselor. They reviewed the incident, including what was known about Stu, Todd, and Jacob but could reach no conclusions about how the fracas started or who did what to whom. The principal summoned the school secretary into the closed-door meeting and said, "One of the security cameras cover outside the front entrance. Would you please get the tape and bring it in here?"

She left to retrieve the video tape. Moments later, she returned with the tape, which the principal inserted into a VCR and pressed the rewind and play buttons. The quality of the picture was poor but adequate to reveal that Jacob had initiated the physical contact and that Stu had delivered the knee to the groin. There was no audio on the tape but it seemed clear that eight boys responded to Jacob's command when they ran after the fleeing teens.

The principal was visibly upset by what they had seen. There were several moments of silence before the principal said, "I'd like to handle this without outside intervention or publicity ... unless it becomes absolutely necessary. We know what happened but we don't know why." Turning to counselor Perry, he said, "I'm going to call all three boys into my office during home room tomorrow morning; I'd like you to be there."

"Would it be better to talk to them individually?" asked the counselor.

"Perhaps," the principal allowed. "But this is not -- yet -- a criminal interrogation. I'd like to gauge the reaction of the others when each one gives his account of the incident. You can help me do that."

That evening at supper, Todd and Stu were unusually quiet. Todd's mother noticed the somber mood and said, "You're awfully quiet. Is something bothering you?"

The boys gave each other a quick glance and Todd said, "Yes ... but nothing serious."

"Want to talk about it?" she probed.

"Not now. Don't worry. Stu and I are okay."

"Well," she said. "You know we're here if we can help."

Later, as the teens got ready for bed, Stu said, "I'm glad you didn't tell your parents about the fight. It would only upset them if they knew."

"Yeah," Todd said. "But they'll be even more upset if something happens to you ... or to us ... and I didn't tell them what happened today. I've always been able to talk to them and I don't feel good about keeping things from them."

As they crawled into bed, Stu said, "Let's forget about today. And not worry about tomorrow. Let's enjoy the here and now." Todd felt Stu's hand fondle his cock, which dispelled any doubt as to what Stu wanted -- more than that: what he needed -- and Todd was especially tender and loving as he brought his boyfriend to climax.

Todd and Stu were cautious and watchful as they arrived at school the next morning but Jacob nor any of his cohorts were to be seen. Their anxiety rose when their respective home-room teachers told them they were to report to the principal's office immediately. Their anxiety levels increased significantly when they saw Jacob already there.

"Come in," the principal said warmly. "Have a seat, please. Thank you for coming. I suppose you know what it's about. We know what happened after school yesterday. But we don't know why. I'm hoping you can tell us." No one spoke for several awkward moments but all three students were visibly nervous. "Come on, boys. Each of you was there. What happened and why?" Still, no one spoke. "Okay then, I suppose I'll have to call on you one at a time. Jacob, it seems you started it all. Why did you grab Stuart?"

The macho jock squirmed, shocked that the principal knew that he was the first aggressor. He made his first foolish mistake when he denied it. "I didn't! Whoever told you that is a damn liar!"

Very calmly, the principal said, "Apparently you don't know ... or forgot ... that we have a video surveillance system here. Would you like to see the video tape?"

Jacob knew he had been cornered and tried a back up strategy, a second mistake. "Okay. But that little weirdo there..." pointing to Stu "...kicked me in the balls! He's the one you should be going after!"

"In due time," the principal said struggling to maintain his calm. "Right now, I'd like you to tell me why you grabbed him. And please do it without profanity or insults."

"Insults? Talk about insults!" The defiant anger in Jacob's voice and demeanor was palpable. "That's why I did it. The little squirt called me an idiot and an ass hole. I grabbed him to get his attention. Nobody insults me like that! I was just trying to make my point clear."

The principal turned to Stu and asked, "Did you say those things, Stuart?"

"Yes, sir. And you probably want to know why. He had just said far worse to Todd ... about his being gay. I'd prefer not to repeat the filthy things he said but it made me furious. I told him that he was the one who was sick because of his bigotry and spreading that bigotry to his friends. That's when he grabbed me and threatened me. He said he would beat the ... ah ... beat the crap out of me if I remained friends with Todd. To get loose from his grip on me, I kicked him. Hard. That was wrong and I apologize. Todd and I ran away. As we ran, I heard him tell his friends to ... pardon me but I have to quote now ... he called out, `get the little bastards'. They all chased us but we got away."

The principal turned to Todd and asked, "Have you anything to add?"

"Yes, sir. I'm sorry Jacob got hurt but I'm not at all sorry that Stu stood up to him. Mr. Perry here told me once that I should have the courage to change things I can. My courage failed me when I was surrounded by hateful guys but Stu stood up to them. I'm grateful to him for that."

"Okay," the principle said. "Do any of you have more to add before I make a decision on possible punishment?" No one did. So the principal said, "Return to your classes. We're well into the first period so the secretary will write each of you an admission slip. I want Jacob and Stuart to report to my office immediately after the final bell today. And my thanks to each of you for your information."

The three boys left the office. While waiting for their admission slips, Jacob glared at Stu and whispered, "You'll get yours, weirdo."

After school, Stu and Jacob were sitting in the principal's outer office, while Todd waited in the hallway outside. Jacob hid his nervousness behind a façade of bravado. Stu was also nervous as he speculated on the punishment that the principal would undoubtedly administer. His nervousness only increased to anxiety, however, when Jacob glared at him and whispered, "I'm going to get even with you, weirdo."

The principal came out of his office and said he wanted to see Jacob first. The jock rose and followed the principal, who closed the door. "Jacob," the principal began. "I've considered what happened and what you did. I acknowledge that you were injured but you initiated the altercation by your verbal abuse, by grabbing Stuart, and by threatening him. The verbal abuse is enough to warrant a suspension. The intimidation and the threat magnifies the seriousness of your behavior. None of this you deny. I am suspending you from school for five days beginning tomorrow. I will be contacting your parents to explain why you are suspended. I must emphasize, Jacob, that the sort of overt bigotry that motivated your actions is intolerable here at school. I can't change your attitude but I'm obligated to warn you that any repeat of discrimination and persecution of others, whether it's because of race, ethnic heritage, or sexual orientation will result in severe consequences."

"Five days!" Jacob exclaimed. "I'll miss final exams."

"I realize that," the principal said unsympathetically. "I will notify your teachers of your suspension. It will be up to them to decide whether or not to allow you to take the exams following your suspension. If they don't, you may not be able to graduate with your class."

"That stinks!" Jacob moaned. "It's not fair! I was only defending moral values. And I was the one who was injured when the little fucker kicked me in the balls.

"I sympathize with you because of the pain you suffered. But you must accept the fact that you're free to practice your `moral principles' as you see fit. That does NOT include imposing them on others and most certainly does not give you license to intimidate or threaten others who do not share your values. That will be all. Ask Stuart to come in as you leave."

Jacob stalked out. As he passed Stu in the outer office, he quietly snarled at him, "You're dead meat, ass hole!"

Stu entered the principal's office, having prepared himself for the worst. Nervous to the point of trembling he sat down as the principal requested.

"Stuart, your action -- injuring another student on school property -- is automatic grounds for expulsion." Stu's heart sank. "However, I've considered the context of your behavior. First, you admitted it and, moreover, apologized. Secondly, you were responding to verbal abuse of Todd. Significantly, you were being intimidated and threatened. It's fairly clear that you acted in self defense ... over- reacted perhaps but given the disparity in size of you and Jacob, it's understandable if not excusable. Because of the mitigating circumstances, I'm going to override the automatic expulsion. Instead, you will serve one day's detention on Saturday. Report to the school library from eight until noon Saturday morning. While there, you're free to do homework if you have any but I also want you to spend some time researching anger management on the Internet. Take notes. I don't expect a written report but I want to see you next week sometime to tell me what you learned from the experience and from your research on anger management. Just one more thing. I will be contacting your parents to explain why you're serving detention."

"That'll be a problem," Stu said hesitantly.

"And the problem is?"

Ashamed of the full story, Stu replied simply, "I don't live at home anymore. I'm living with Todd's parents."

"And why is that?"

"My Dad and I had an argument. I left home and he doesn't want me to come back. Ever."

"Never? What on earth made him say that?"

"I'd rather not say, sir. I'll just say that Todd's parents have been very gracious in allowing me to stay with them. If you must contact anyone, call Todd's parents since they've become, in effect, my new parents."

"Most unusual," the principal said. "There's obviously more to the story than you're willing to share but I won't probe. I will, however, contact Todd's parents if only to ensure that you have a secure home."

"May I ask a favor, sir?"

"Of course."

"Don't call until tomorrow. You see, Todd and I haven't told them yet about what happened yesterday because they'd be upset and worried. We'd like a chance to explain everything tonight. They'd be even more upset if they heard it from you first."

"Agreed," the principal said. "That will be all for now. Thanks for coming in."

The punishment had been mild and Stu left the office feeling much better. He gave Todd a broad grin in the hallway. Walking to Todd's car, he related what the principal had said.

"What about Jacob?" Todd asked.

"I don't know, Todd. The principal couldn't talk about it, of course, and Jacob just snarled at me when he left."

"So what did he say to you?"

"Not much ... just that I'm dead meat. But don't worry. I'll be careful. Besides, school is almost out for the summer and then we won't have to worry."

"I wish I could be sure of that," Todd said ruefully.

CHAPTER TWELVE

Todd and Stu agreed that they would wait until after supper that evening to tell Todd's parents about the fight after school and the meetings with the principal. The also agreed to be cheerful throughout the meal, unlike their somber mood the night before. They didn't want to spoil the `family time' together. When the meal had been cleared away, Todd said, "Mom, Dad, can Stu and I talk to you for a few minutes?"

"Sure, son," his father said. "What's up?"

They settled in the living room with the boys on the sofa and the adults in facing arm chairs. By previous agreement, Todd let Stu tell of the confrontation the previous day and the discussions with the principal. Todd's parents were shocked by Jacob's threat, surprised at Stu's aggressive reaction, and extremely concerned about Stu's safety. Stu told them they could expect a call from the principal and that he would be spending Saturday morning in detention. He concluded by saying, "I'm sorry I've caused you trouble. You've been more than kind to me and look at the mess I'm making for you and Todd."

"Nonsense!" Mrs. Peterson said. "We're happy that you've joined the family. Sure, we're worried about your safety now but you can count on everyone here to help."

"I appreciate your support," Stu said. "I'm sure I'll be all right. There's only a couple of weeks of school left."

"I wish I could be as confident," Mr. Peterson said. "From what you've told us, I think Jacob is a real danger. I think we'll have to figure out a way to protect you from him."

Todd and his parents explored various ways to avert a potentially tragic situation. Throughout that discussion Stu, although he was more worried than anyone, continued to insist that he would be all right. Eventually, Todd proposed a plan. "Jacob realizes now that he'll have to avoid the video surveillance in and around the school building. The most dangerous times will be travelling to and from school and perhaps in the parking lot. I'll be with you then but maybe another set of eyes can alert us to a possible ambush. You're wondering whose eyes, right? Here's my suggestion. Mom and Dad will be at work but we could ask Rick to drive us to and from school. That would also eliminate the possibility of Jacob and his goons vandalizing my car in the parking lot while we're in class. I'm sure Rick would be willing. How about it?"

"No," Stu said. "That would just be a problem for him. It's bad enough already that I've screwed up your lives. I can take care of myself."

Mr. Peterson said, "First of all, Stu, you haven't screwed up our lives. On the contrary, you've made Todd very happy. And we're happy to have you in the family. Secondly, I doubt that you could defend yourself against a gang of hoodlums who are out for blood. Quite frankly, I don't think you would be as lucky as you were yesterday. Finally, I know for certain that Rick would be glad to help; he's that kind of guy."

Todd and his mother echoed the encouragement until Stu finally consented to the plan and the two boys left for Rick's condo to explain the situation in person and to ask his help. As Todd and his father predicted, Rick agreed to drive the teens to and from school and to watch for any signs of looming trouble along the way. It wasn't what he had in mind when he first decided to mentor a lonely teen but he welcomed the chance to protect Todd and his boyfriend. Being an honorary `uncle' to two young men with promising futures was extremely satisfying.

When the teens returned home and reported Rick's agreement, everyone was relieved although still somewhat fearful of what might happen. Todd and Stu then went to their room to -- as they claimed -- study for their final exams. Todd's parents suspected, however, that their son would "comfort and reassure" his boyfriend in a tender and intimate way. They were proud of Todd for his compassion. More than that, they were genuinely pleased to have a `son-in-law' join the family.

Finally alone behind their closed bedroom door, they embraced, kissed passionately, and put aside all thoughts of studying for final exams. It wasn't long before they were naked and in bed, lavishing affection on each other until their steel-hard cocks seemed to plead for satisfaction. The fear of Jacob's revenge vanished as their erotic love-making grew more intense. It was only after accepting, savoring, and swallowing each other's creamy nectar and after cuddling together contentedly for a long time that Stu thought once again of Jacob's threats.

"I'm sorry, Todd," he said. "For causing problems for you and your family."

"We've gone over this before, Stu. One: it's not my family, it's our family now. Two: I admire you for standing up to that bigoted bully; you did what I didn't have the guts to do. Three: I know you are fiercely independent but if we're going to be partners, we'll have to share our problems as well as our affection for each other. So please ... don't be sorry. And don't feel guilty. As long as we have each other, as long as we consider ourselves not two lovers but one loving couple, we can overcome whatever problems we face."

"That's sweet, Todd. I don't deserve you."

"Bull crap!" Todd exclaimed. "You deserve all the admiration and love I can possibly give you. You're bright. You're honest. You're courageous. And sexy as hell!"

"And what did you mean," Stu asked, "when you said something about us being partners? Does that mean what I think it means?"

"Geez, Stu! Do I have to spell it out? Partners' ... as in couple' ... living together and loving each other. That is, if you'll have me around for the next fifty or so years."

Stu began to tear up as he hugged his lover. "I think you just proposed to me, Todd."

"I did!" Todd said. "Will you let me love, honor, and cherish you forever?"

"YES!"

Rick drove Todd and Stu to school the next day without incident. That, together with learning that Jacob had been suspended, seemed to reduce the teens' vigilance in watching for trouble when Rick picked them up after school. Rick, however, was more concerned than he showed and his eyes nervously scanned everything around them as they drove away. On the second day when Rick picked up the boys, they got in the car laughing and joking. Several blocks away from the school, Rick turned onto the main road leading to the downtown area.

"Where are we going?" Todd asked. "This is not the shortest route home."

Rick suspected that a car full of boys was following them but he didn't want to unnecessarily worry his charges so he said, "I need to pick up something at the grocery store on the way home if you don't mind." Two blocks later, he turned onto a side street. "Oops," he said. "I turned too soon." He had not made a mistake; the suspicious car turned to follow them. He made two left turns to get back onto the main road; the car behind continued to follow. When he pulled into the strip mall parking lot, the following car was not far behind. Rick pulled up to the curb in front of the grocery store, stopped, and watched his rear-view mirror.

"What's going on?" Todd asked. "Is something wrong?"

"I'm not sure," Rick replied. "Don't look behind us but a car full of boys followed us from school. It may be Jacob and his friends. Stu, I want you to get out of the car and go into the store. Act natural! Don't come out until Todd comes in to get you."

"You're not going to confront the bastards are you?" Stu asked.

"No. They would just drive away and try it again later. I want you to go into the store now. It will appear to them like you're just making a quick purchase while we wait here."

"But what are you going to..." Stu objected.

"No time to explain, Stu. Go! Now!"

Stu went into the store while Rick dialed a number on his cell phone.

Moments later, a police car pulled up behind Rick's car. The Officer, as requested by Rick on the phone, came up to the driver's side window and said, "Okay, sir. What's the problem?"

"A car full of boys followed me from the school, through several turns. I have reason to believe their intention is to carry out a threat they made to my nephew over a grievance that happened a few days ago. The threat is credible and the physical injury to my nephew would be severe."

"Is this your nephew?" the Officer asked, pointing to Todd.

"Yes, but I sent the nephew in jeopardy into the store to be safe. Would you do me the favor of walking back to their car and have a few words with them? They're in that blue Camaro."

"All right," the Officer agreed. "But there's not much I can do unless they've committed some offense."

"I recognize that, Officer. But perhaps if they know you're aware of their intentions, it can prevent them from attempting something serious. Oh. One more favor if you can manage it. They're likely to drive off if they see you approaching. Is it possible to call for back up in case they do?"

The Officer returned to his squad car to radio the dispatcher, getting a surreptitious visual fix on the blue Camaro's location and occupants. Moments later, he pulled away from the curb.

"He's leaving, Rick," Todd said urgently. "Isn't he going to help?"

"Probably thought I was a paranoid crackpot," Rick sighed.

Meanwhile, in the Camaro, the boys argued. Two wanted to leave as soon as they saw the Police car arrive but the others successfully convinced them that it was just a routine stop on a car parked in the fire lane in front of the store. When the Police car pulled away, they were all relieved. They could wait and resume their mission to find out where Stu lived. However, their hopes were shattered when the Police car stopped in front of them, blocking their escape. The Officer got out of the cruiser and asked the Camaro's driver for his driver's license.

"What's the problem?" the driver asked.

"Your license, please," the Officer said curtly.

Grudgingly, the husky teen complied.

Seeing in the mirror that the car full of boys could not escape to continue following them, Rick said emphatically to Todd, "Go get Stu! We're leaving!"

The Officer took some time examining the driver's license and then said, "Jacob Klien. I'll remember that name. Please wait in the car for a few minutes, please."

"What'd he mean by that?" one of the passengers asked. "Why's he gotta remember your name?"

"Dunno," Jacob grunted. "Just a fuckin' pig who thinks a badge makes him important."

The Officer returned to the Camaro and said, "Can you tell me why you're parked here?"

Jacob quickly thought of an excuse (He was skilled at that.). "We're waiting to meet somebody. Is that a fuckin' crime?

"No, Mr. Jacob Klein. But why did you take such a devious route to get here?"

"I didn't!" Jacob exclaimed, habitually lying to get out of a jam.

"A witness said you did," the officer coolly replied. "It's also been reported that you followed another car here and that you may have intended to harm one of more of its occupants."

"Goddamn lies!" Jacob shouted.

"Still, Mr. Jacob Klien..." (emphasizing the name again) "...I must file a report. To be complete, I'll need the name of each of your passengers. In case something serious happens in the future, we'll know who to contact in our investigation."

After writing down everyone's name, he said to Jacob, "Please step out of the car, sir."

Pissed, arrogant, and belligerent, Jacob stepped out.

"There's an outstanding warrant for failure to appear in court on a speeding violation. Would you please get in the back of the cruiser?"

Jacob was stunned. "You're taking me in just because of a chicken shit speeding ticket?"

"Yes, sir. Please get in the back of the cruiser."

"What about my car? And my friends? What are they supposed to do, walk home?"

"Not my problem," the Officer said as he grabbed Jacob's arm and pulled him toward the cruiser. "You can make arrangements with your friends or your family to retrieve your car."

Rick delivered Todd and Stu safely home and walked with them to the Peterson's condo. Once inside, he insisted on staying until Todd's parents came home. Both boys protested but Rick would have none of their objections. He concluded the disagreement by saying, "If you two want to go to your room and pout ... or ..." (with a wink) "anything else that arises, that's fine but I'm staying! End of discussion!"

When Tom and Ann Peterson arrived home, they were surprised to find Rick in the living room watching the evening news on TV. Rick quickly hit the off button on the remote, rose from his chair, and said, "Sorry to have made myself at home but I brought the boys home from school and thought it best to stay here until you got home."

Tom immediately sensed there was something Rick was not saying and asked, "Has there been more trouble?"

"Almost," Rick answered. "But maybe the boys ought to tell you about it. They're in their room. And ... ah ... it might be good to call to them rather than interrupt their ... ah ... homework."

"We know the drill," Tom laughed. He stepped to the end of the hallway and called, "Todd, Stu, can you join us in the living room?"

The boys came promptly, having completed their love-making almost an hour before.

"Are you all right?" Ann Peterson said with maternal concern obvious.

"Yes," Todd said. "We're just fine."

Tom said, "Rick says you might have something to tell us. All he would say is there was almost more trouble today. What does that mean?"

Todd related the events of the ride home from school, including ample praise for Rick for being alert enough to notice Jacob following them.

At the Police Station, Jacob was allowed to call his parents. "Dad," he said on the phone. "I need you to come to the Police Station and post bail for me. Seems like I missed a court date on a speeding ticket. When can you be here?"

A thoroughly exasperated father replied, "Tomorrow. After work. I warned you to drive carefully and about the consequences of not going to court. Perhaps a night in jail will give you time to think about being responsible."

"But, Dad...."

"But nothing! You've screwed up one time too many. I'll bail you out ... this time ... but don't count on me if you ever screw up again."

Jacob was going to plead -- something contrary to his nature -- but the line went dead; his father had hung up.

He was taken to the juvenile detention facility and escorted to a jail cell where he was introduced to his cell-mate, a short, thin, 15-year-old boy named Tim. Tim was a fiesty lad with an `in-your-face' attitude. The clash of personalities was inevitable.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

Jacob felt a chill down his spine as the cell door slammed shut, making a loud, metallic sound that signaled the interruption of his `top of the heap' role as macho football star. Being locked up with a scrawny little kid only intensified his frustration and misery.

"Dinner at six, lights out at ten," the burly guard said curtly as he walked away.

Tim ignored his new cellmate and yelled, "You call that slop dinner? It looks and tastes like somebody's already eaten it." He then rolled over in his bunk, turning his back to Jacob. It was not the sort of deference Jacob was used to getting from his cadre of subordinate friends. Every mean-spirited fiber of his being demanded that he establish dominance over the smaller boy whose only manly characteristic was his loud mouth.

"Tiny Tim! Get your ass up into the top bunk! I'm taking the bottom." It really didn't matter to Jacob which bunk he took; it would only be one night, anyway. But he had to make it clear at the outset that he was in charge. Tim didn't move; he didn't speak, which infuriated Jacob. "Hey, asshole! I'm talking to you. Get your skinny ass outta my bunk. NOW!"

"Wrong, Jake-off," Tim said without turning around. "I was here first and I'm staying where I'm at. You got a problem with that, file a complaint with the warden."

The insolence was too much for Jacob. He grabbed an arm and a leg and yanked him out of the bunk. Tim landed with a thud on the hard floor but sprang up with fists and feet flying faster than Jacob could mount a defense. Before he could do anything, he was doubled up on the floor. A firm kick to his abdomen had knocked the wind out of him. An expertly aimed punch to the nose caused it to bleed. There was a sharp pain in his jaw where another of the rapid-fire punches landed.

When Jacob was finally able to struggle to his feet, he saw Tim standing there gloating. "You little pile of shit!" Jacob snarled. "Nobody does that to me and gets away with it!" He lashed out with a fist at the offending grin on Tim's face. But the face was not there when the fist should have made contact. Tim had dodged the blow, grabbed Jacob's arm, and used his opponent's momentum to send him sprawling of the floor.

Jacob looked up at the figure that now seemed to tower above him. Confused, embarrassed, and in pain, he tried to think of a way to get revenge. Before he could plan his attack, however, the guard was at the cell door demanding, "What the hell is going on?"

"Nothing," Tim said innocently. "We were just practicing some judo moves."

"That right, Jacob?" the jailer asked.

The jock had to choose. He could agree with Tim's explanation or admit that a scrawny kid had taken him down ... twice. "That's right," he grumbled.

"Well cut it out!" the guard barked. "And clean up the blood on the floor before dinner time. I'll check on you then. If you need medical attention for that bloody nose, let me know."

When the guard returned to his post, Tim said, "Thanks for not snitching on me. It could have meant more time in this hell hole."

Jacob ignored the appreciation and said, "So tell me. Where'd you learn how to fight like that?"

"On the street. Had to. Little guys don't have a chance unless they can defend themselves. Now, you wanna negotiate for the bottom bunk?"

"Negotiate?" Jacob asked, quite puzzled.

"Yeah. You do me a favor and I'll let you have the bottom bunk."

"What kind of favor?"

Tim flashed a brief grin, the first time since their meeting each other. "Here's the deal. Take it or leave it. I'm only doing this `cause you're a hunk, understand? When the lights go out and everything settles down, we both crawl into the bottom bunk. Okay so far?"

"I don't get it," Jacob replied.

"Don't suppose you would. Yet. Here's the rest. We're naked, see? And I get to run my hands all over your muscles. Then I see what kind of equipment you got between your legs and play with it a bit. Now, you get the picture?"

"Yeah. And I don't like it," Jacob growled. "You're a goddam fag."

"You're right about that. And a damn good one. That's why I'm here. Soliciting in the park downtown. Ever had a blow job?"

"Lots," Jacob said proudly. "But from chicks, not from a queer like you."

"I guar-en-damn-tee you. You've never had a blow job like I give. It takes a guy to really satisfy another guy. We know what feels good. Ain't no cunt that knows that. Believe me, you'll be in orbit by the time I finish with you."

"Sorry, queer boy," Jacob said. "I'd rather sleep in the top bunk. ALONE!"

"You don't know what you're missing. I charge a hundred bucks outside. Guys gladly pay it and come back for more ... even toss in an extra twenty or fifty just `cause I'm so good. Single guys, married guys, gays, straights, they all know I'm the best."

"I said no way," Jacob said indignantly. "Not with a fag and I certainly wouldn't pay for it."

"I'm not asking you to pay. I'm offering just cause you're a hunk. My other customers are old and some are fat. You're different. You got a body to admire. I'm guessing that you've got a cock to admire, too. I'm offering just cause I want to but you'd get a helluva lot of pleasure, too. Think about it. Nobody will ever know. You'll get satisfaction you've never had before."

Jacob frowned and climbed up into the top bunk. He lay down alternately astonished at Tim's fighting skills and his brazen offer. Tim lay down in the bottom bunk scheming over ways to win his cell mate's agreement. They didn't speak to each other until supper was delivered to their cell. It was so bad neither boy did more than taste it. Only then did they say anything.

"Gawd, that's awful," Jacob moaned.

"Yup," Tim grunted. "Desert will be better, though."

"Desert?" Jacob asked.

"Tonight when the lights go out."

It took Jacob a while to figure out the meaning and then said, "I told you! No way are you gonna suck me off!"

"Let me know if you change your mind," Tim said blandly.

They returned to their bunks and were soon lost in their own thoughts. Tim was convinced that Jacob was a gay-hater and there was little to no chance of bedding him. Jacob was depressed over being stuck overnight in a smelly jail ... with a fag! He was haunted by the most unpleasant thought of letting a fag have his way with him. His mind turned to his outside world where he was king of the hill. All the guys respected his athletic ability (`all' in his mind, anyway). All the girls (in his mind) dreamed of being seen with him, of being special to him, of giving themselves -- even their virginity -- to him. He'd fucked most of the good looking girls that fawned over him. A few were granted the privilege of a second encounter. One, Maria, was the embodiment of the sexy Latino stereotype and had always taken a subordinate yet active role in their sex play.

Ten o'clock. A buzzer sounded. Lights went out. Except for a bit of stray light from the dim bulb in the hallway, the cell block was quite dark. Less than ten minutes later, the cell block was quiet. Jacob returned to thinking of Maria. His thoughts lingered on the many times they had had sex. Soon, his arousal increased. His cock began to inflate. Unconsciously, he fondled himself until he was steel hard. Then, only half aware that Tim was in the bunk below him, he started slowly stroking his cock with the image of a naked, beautiful, and horny Maria lodged in his mind, which made him extremely horny. He had just begun to stroke more vigorously when a quiet whisper startled him. "Can I help you with that?" He looked over to see Tim peering at him.

"What the hell," Jacob thought. "He's a goddamn fag but I need to get my rocks off bad and nobody will ever know."

"Get up here, whore boy," Jacob commanded (as it was not in his nature to request).

Tim eagerly climbed into the top bunk, salivating at the thought of enjoying Jacob's muscular body. Tim was naked and hard. He had heard the unmistakable sounds of rhythmic noises above him and delayed his intervention until he was reasonably certain Jacob was at his point of least resistance. He complimented himself on his timing as he straddled Jacob's hips. He gently pushed Jacob's hand away from the throbbing cock and said, "Relax, big boy. I'm going to give you the time of your life."

Tim pulled Jacob's tee shirt up to his arm pits and his boxers down to his knees. The fervently homophobic jock almost protested but he had built himself up to a level of sexual tension and he urgently needed to cum.

Tim gasped when he saw the rigid cock beneath him and wanted it in his mouth right away but, with the discipline of an experienced cocksucker, he resisted the urge. There were other pleasures to enjoy first. He turned his attention to the admirably muscled torso and began to massage the jock's slightly hairy, bulging pecs. He knew he had to bring Jacob along at just the right pace to allow maximum time to relish his body without unnecessarily prolonging his prey's urge to ejaculate. He toyed with the firm nipples until they were erect and then licked and sucked them with the skills he had honed during years of servicing men and boys. Jacob was surprised at how erotic that was; previously, he had thought that everything erotic and sexual was centered in his cock.

As Tim worked his magic on Jacob's chest and nipples, he would periodically grind his hard-on against Jacob's to maintain and heighten both of their arousals. Jacob began to moan with pleasure. Tim demanded (for he was now in complete control) but in a hushed tone, "Quiet! The guard will hear you and come to make us stop. That'll leave you high and dry. You don't want that, big boy."

Moments later, Tim slowly moved his roaming hands down toward the ultimate objective. Eventually, he shifted his body down over Jacob's knees, just the right position to bend over and put his mouth to the leaking cock below him. But not yet. He had to tease some more. While he rubbed the inside of those firm thighs, he feasted his eyes of the massive rod of meat that rose from a thick pubic bush. He had to restrain himself from immediately deep throating it but he had promised a fantastic blow job and that would take a little more time.

"What the fuck are you waiting for?" Jacob hissed in a husky whisper.

"Patience!" Tim scolded. "Give me time to do it right."

But Tim recognized that patience was not one of Jacob's virtues. He began to toy with those beautiful gonads that dangled in a wrinkled, hairy sack. Periodically, he would flick his tongue across the swollen helmet to lap up the precum that was now oozing profusely. Each contact would cause Jacob to jerk and would boost his arousal to another plateau. Eventually, Tim turned his attention to Jacob's balls. First he licked. Then he took one at a time into his mouth to fondle it with his lips and tongue. Jacob was writhing and trying to stifle his moans.

"Shut up!" Tim commanded, now fully confident that his control over Jacob was irreversible.

Tim felt he could have spent hours relishing the access to a muscular teen's body and cock. But he knew he couldn't. Jacob's urge to cum would mount to unbearable strength. Just as significantly, his own lust was heightened by the sight, the feel, the taste, and the aroma of Jacob's crotch. He therefore launched into the final phase. He licked his way slowly from the base of the cock to the tip and wrapped his lips around the engorged head.

Jacob wanted to scream in delight but he obediently conformed to Tim's demand of silence.

Gradually, more and more of Jacob's cock disappeared into Tim's warm, moist mouth. Then he began what Jacob had so impatiently awaited; first slowly and with increasing pace, Tim slid his proficient lips up and down the spit-slickened shaft. Jacob began to buck his hips to fuck Tim's mouth. But Tim would have none of that. He raised his head and snarled, "Stop it! We're doing it my way or no way!"

Nobody had told Jacob what to do or not to do for years, which explains the rift with his father. Except, of course, the football coach but he obeyed the coach only because it secured his position on the team. Now, however, he was a puppet handled by a boy who was younger, much smaller, and a fag. None of that mattered at the moment; the only thing that consumed his mind was the intense pleasure he was experiencing and his impending ejaculation.

Tim knew Jacob couldn't last very long and he had to achieve his own climax quickly so he vigorously jerked himself as he continued to suck on Jacob's cock. He skillfully delayed Jacob's orgasm by strategic pauses in sucking until he felt himself on the brink. He noticed that Jacob's boxers were still around his knees and a malicious thought entered his mind. He deposited several blasts of his own cum on Jacob's boxers as he continued to piston the gay-hater's cock in and out of his mouth.

Jacob couldn't control himself. He moaned again. Tim immediately stopped, moved up to put his face within inches of Jacob's and growled menacingly, "For the last time. Shut up! One more sound out of you and I quit. Understand?"

Jacob grabbed his pillow and bit down on a corner to muffle any further moans. Tim grinned with satisfaction and returned to complete the job he had started.

Not long after, both boys got their reward. Jacob had the most intense orgasm of his life as several volleys of hot cum erupted from his cock. Tim happily got a mouthful of creamy nectar that he thoroughly savored before swallowing.

When Jacob recovered from his orgiastic high, Tim was gone. He lay there reflecting on what had just happened. Being sucked off by a fag was not so bad, after all. In fact, it was, he hated to admit, the best orgasm he had ever had. Tim was right. A guy knows what to do. He lay awake for a long time pondering a dilemma. He still hated fags but he gradually came to realize that they could give more pleasure that any girl he had fucked or that had gone down on him.

"FUCK!" echoed throughout the cell block. Jacob had pulled up his boxers and found the front was cold, wet, and sticky. Tim knew the reason for the outburst and chuckled silently to himself.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Todd and Stu, who knew nothing of Jacob's night in jail and still assumed that the Police Officer had simply driven off, were especially wary as Rick drove them to school the next day. During school, each of them would occasionally see one of Jacob's gang in class or in the hall but there were no words passed between them. The goons would only glare at them, which maintained their sense of anxiety.

On Saturday, Rick drove Stu to school to serve his detention. Todd rode along, fulfilling his commitment to stay by Stu's side in case of trouble. Todd insisted on picking up Stu at noon, arguing, "Jacob and his gang would not expect us to be at school on a Saturday. Besides, we have to go to the mall this afternoon. We'll be safe."

Rick objected strenuously. "Can't be too safe," he said. "I have nothing to do this afternoon and I'd feel better if I were with you. I'm not much of a body guard but it's something I really want to do."

"Thanks," Todd said. "But we'll be all right."

Stu effectively ended the argument by saying, "You told me to keep saying what's on my mind. Right? Well, we like you and you're a great guy. But we don't want an old man ... sorry, an adult ... chaperoning us. We'll be in a crowd and totally safe."

`Okay," Rick said reluctantly. "I get it. But keep your eyes open. Don't take any chances." A few moments later, he said, "So. Are you getting anything at the mall or just hanging out?" The boys looked at each other and giggled. "What's so funny? I was just curious, that's all."

Todd said, "Well ... since you've been so good to both of us, I guess you deserve to be the first to know. We're buying commitment rings for each other. We've decided to be a couple and not just boyfriends."

"Marvelous!" Rick exclaimed. "I wish you enough."

The boys looked at each other and exchanged puzzled looks. Stu said, "Enough? What the hell does that mean?"

Rick laughed and said, "It's from something I read a long time ago. I don't remember all of it but the essence is: I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright even on gray days but enough rain to appreciate the sun ... enough pain to make even small pleasures joyful ... enough gain to satisfy your wanting and enough loss to make you appreciate what you have ... and most of all enough happiness to keep your love alive and everlasting."

"That's sweet," Todd said and Stu enthusiastically agreed, adding, "And we wish the same for you and Stan."

The teens went first to the jewelry store in the mall where a middle-aged man asked if he could help them. "We'd like to see your selection of commitment rings," Todd replied.

"Commitment rings?" the officious salesman asked. "I don't know what you mean."

"Plain gold bands," Todd replied, regretting that he had not asked for that in the first place.

"Oh," the salesman said. "You mean wedding bands. For your girlfriends? Are you getting married?"

Stu, outspoken as usual, said, "No! For each other! One for him and one for me."

"I don't understand," the flustered salesman stammered.

Stu ignored the poke in his ribs from Todd and said assertively, "It's simple enough. We're committing to each other. We're gay. We're going to be life partners. Do you have a problem with that?"

The salesman sputtered, "Oh ... Well ... Ahh ... That is ... I'm sorry, but all we have is fine jewelry for normal couples."

"Are you calling us abnormal?" Stu said loudly enough that the store manager and two other customers heard him and turned their heads to stare.

The manager quickly walked over and asked, "Is there a problem, gentlemen?"

"There definitely is," Stu replied in a calmer voice. "This bigot here refused to help us because we're gay. I would think that you would have instructed your help to keep their prudish beliefs to themselves. Come on, Todd, we'll take our business elsewhere."

As they turned to walk out, the manager said, "Wait! I'll be pleased to help you."

"Too little, too late," Stu called back over his shoulder as the boys walked out of the store. Once outside, he turned to Todd and asked, "Are you ashamed of me? Embarrassed? Angry?"

"No," Todd grinned. "You said what I was thinking. I just hope the ass hole is fired or punished so that the next gay couple will be treated decently. I'm just glad you didn't kick him in the nuts like you did to Jacob." They both laughed and continued on their way.

In the next jewelry store, the experience was much more pleasant. The saleslady even understood what a commitment ring was and offered her congratulations. After making their selection the saleslady asked if they would like an engraving inside the ring. The boys had not thought about that. After a short discussion, they agreed on something simple but meaningful: SB TP enough.

"Enough?" the puzzled saleslady asked.

"It's a long story." Todd replied with amusement at her confusion.

"Very well," she smiled. "They should be ready for you by Wednesday. Thank you, gentlemen. May happiness be your companion."

"Thank you!" both teens said and giggled because they had said it in unison.

"For your help, of course," Stu said. "But mostly for your understanding and kind wishes."

They browsed around several stores at the mall until their stomachs reminded them that they had had no lunch. In the food court, they were enjoying their pizza and soda when Todd said, "Don't turn around and look but Jacob and two of his buddies are heading this way."

"Have they seen us?" Stu asked.

"They just did. They're just standing talking to each other now."

Stu said, "We could go out the door behind you and then run like hell for your car."

"No," Todd replied. "We're safer in here around all these people. We'll have to think of something else."

They had no time to think because Jacob and his friends were walking directly toward their table. "Shit!" Todd whispered. "There coming straight this way."

"Ignore `em," Stu suggested.

"Hi, guys," Jacob said brightly as he stopped right next to their table. "Care if we join you?"

Both Todd and Stu were astonished at the friendly greeting but very suspicious.

"It's a free country," Todd said perhaps too sarcastically.

"But you'll have to watch your mouth," Stu added forcefully.

The three jocks went to get their burgers, fries, and drinks while Todd and Stu discussed possible ways of getting the hell out of there. Nothing occurred to them.

When the newcomers sat down with their food, the two young lovers dreaded what they knew would befall them as soon as they left the Mall. There was a stony silence for several minutes while the jocks dug into their meal. Stu recognized that his might be their best chance to escape while the three bullies were eating. "I'm suddenly not hungry," Stu said to Todd. "Shall we go?"

Jacob immediately said, "Wait a minute. I'd like to tell you something."

"Another threat?" Stu asked icily.

"Not at all," Jacob said. "Look, I was pissed when you kicked me the other day. It hurt like hell. But I've had time to think about it. I decided that if I were in your position, I'd probably do the same thing. Course I'd have done it harder `cause I'm bigger. Fact is, I don't blame you. No hard feelings?"

Stu stared at Jacob, trying to comprehend the very surprising change of attitude. Jacob broke the silence. "Come on, let's forget about it. Let's be friends."

This was too much for either Stu or Todd to believe. They wanted to but couldn't. Stu said, "Look. We're gay and you're a bigot. We could never be friends. Whether we're enemies is entirely your choice. Let's go, Todd. I need some fresh air."

Stu got up to leave; Todd followed suit. They disappeared into the crowd outside the food court and ducked into a department store. They cautiously made their way to Todd's car. As they got in, Todd said, "Can you believe it? Jacob was actually friendly."

"I don't believe it for a minute, Todd. He's just playing mind games with us. He's out for blood. He fed us a line of shit back there just to win our confidence and get us to drop our guard. Then he could trap us and get his revenge."

Back in the food court, one of Jacob's goons said to him, "I don't get it. You said be nice and we were. Why?"

Jacob glared back and said, "I have my reasons, shit head, and I don't have to explain them to you."

The questioning teen was accustomed to Jacob's chiding and knew that he'd better not raise the subject again if he wanted to remain in the clique. What he didn't know and Jacob was unwilling to explain was what happened in the jail cell and the transforming effect it had on the macho jock's attitude.

How could Jacob admit that he had willingly accepted a blow job from a fag and that he thoroughly enjoyed it? They wouldn't understand even if he explained how the experience had affected him. He had agonized over the experience throughout a virtually sleepless night in the jail cell. Getting a blow job from a fag was distressing but it pained him to admit that he enjoyed it more than any sexual conquest with a girl. That troubled him deeply because it was contrary to everything he had been taught about homosexuality. His stress level rose as he tried to answer two questions. If gay sex was enjoyable, how could it be disgusting? Since he enjoyed it, did that make him filthy?

After extensive reflection on the reality of his gay experience, he came to two conclusions. First, gay sex was, as he had been taught, unnatural and immoral. The second conclusion, astonishingly, was that he no longer thought it was disgusting.. That was extremely difficult for Jacob, a fervent homophobe, to accept. (Although he didn't consciously recognize it, re-evaluating gay sex was a way to alleviate his tormented conscience -- if it was that good, he could excuse himself for enjoying it.)

After prolonged struggling, he resolved the dilemma. He would conform to the dictates of his religion and would continue to disapprove of gay relationships. His conscience would be clear by living straight. However, he would not persecute gays. Instead, he would let them suffer their damnation in Hell. None of that could he tell his friends. They would ridicule him for his religious faith and his tolerance of perverts. Most likely, they would reconsider their loyalty to him and possibly abandon him. The thought of losing his friends caused Jacob to think even more deeply. Was his cadre of loyalists really friends? Or were they just hangers-on, feeding his insatiable ego and contributing to his conceit? Had he become addicted to their adulation? Yes, he decided, his "friends" were no more than status-seekers, relishing the `prestige' of associating with a star athlete. But he would not give up his role as leader of the pack; it felt good -- as good as leading the football team on the field. There would be time, after finishing his senior year of high school, to find real friends.

The school year ended without Jacob having a chance to assure Stu and Todd that he would neither seek revenge nor persecute them for being gay. In fact, they never saw each other again since Todd and Stu graduated before the end of Jacob's suspension from school. That's just as well; they wouldn't have believed Jacob anyway.

Each graduating student was allowed two tickets to the commencement ceremony. Todd's choice was easy; his Mom and Dad would attend. Stu's choice was both easy and painful. One ticket would be given to Rick, who had been so helpful to them and was a favorite "uncle." He agonized over what to do with the second ticket, however. He wanted his Dad to attend but was afraid that offering it to him would only precipitate a barrage of condemnation for aberrant sexuality. With graduation only days away, he decided to make one last effort to reconcile with his Dad, hoping that the graduation ceremony might please him and soften his bitter feelings.

With Todd at his side, he phoned his Dad. "Hi, Dad. This is Stu."

"Stu who?" his father growled.

"Your son! I called to invite you to ..."

"Son?" his father barked, interrupting Stu. "I ain't got no son! `Specially no fag son!"

Undaunted, Stu continued, "Would you please come to graduation? I'd like ..."

The man interrupted again and said, "I told you, you goddamn pervert, you ain't no son of mine and I ain't comin' to no graduation. You can go to hell. Which is just where you belong."

[Click] The line went dead when Stu's Dad hung up.

Stu stared at the phone. The conversation was just what he expected ... and feared. He broke down and sobbed on his lover's shoulder for several minutes while Todd held him tightly. No words could console the distraught young man but the hug might at least let him know he was not alone and was loved.

An hour later, Stu had regained his composure and had decided what to do with the remaining ticket. He put it in an envelope with a note: "Please, Dad. I love you and would like you to attend graduation. I know you don't approve of my being gay but maybe you can at least be proud of my graduating." He signed it, "Love forever, Stu," put it in the envelope with the ticket, and said to Todd, "Would you come with me to deliver this? Dad's gone to work but I can slip it under the front door. I know he won't come but I've got to try one more time."

Todd's parents (or, more accurately, the parents of both Todd and Stu since they regarded both teens as their sons and Stu accepted the role) attended the high school graduation along with Rick, all of whom were extraordinarily proud of the two "misfits" whose maturity, character, and wisdom surpassed virtually all of their classmates.

During the graduation ceremony, Stu didn't hear a word of the various speeches. Instead, he was scanning the audience with the hope of seeing his Dad. His hopes were futile.

After the ceremony, the Petersons hosted a private celebration at home where they and Rick toasted the graduates with Champaign, congratulated them on their achievement and, significantly, wished them well as a couple.

The adults astonished the two young men with a graduation present -- a Hawaiian cruise complete with two airline tickets to Hawaii.

The flabbergasted teens objected strenuously, claiming that it was far too expensive.

"Not at all," Tom Peterson replied. "The three of us have an ulterior motive. It's an all gay cruise and we want you to feel like you're not the outcasts and deviants that some of the students in school think you are. What's more, we hope you meet some gays who can give you good advice on living together as a couple. In that sense, it's a continuation of your education ... and insurance that you'll be happy together."

Mrs. Peterson added with a chuckle, "Think of it as a honeymoon," which brought another round of best wishes for the happy couple.

The boys' hugs and gratitude dominated the next several minutes before Stu (outspoken as always) said, "Aren't you afraid it'll be just one long orgy with all the gays there?"

Todd was stunned by the bold question; he hadn't thought of the possibility. But the adults laughed. Mr. Peterson replied, "Not at all, Stu. We discussed it before making the reservations but the unanimous conclusion was that you and Todd are responsible enough to decline any offers from other passengers who try to hit on you."

Rick added, "We agreed that the possibility was remote but -- just in case - - we've got a sort of "going away" present." He retrieved a wrapped package from the bookcase and handed it to Stu who, uncharacteristically, was at a loss for words.

"Aren't you going to open it?" Rick asked.

Tentatively and puzzled at what might be inside, Stu began to unwrap the package. Before he could finish, he exclaimed, "Oh, My God!" and clumsily tried to re-wrap the package.

"What is it?" Todd asked.

With a crimson face and trembling hands, Stu handed the package to Todd who peeked inside and immediately blushed. It was a half-dozen boxes of condoms.

Todd's Dad quickly said, "We don't think you'll need them. And we're certainly not encouraging you to use them but we don't want you coming home with ... shall we say ... a health problem."

Both Stu and Todd were overcome with emotion at the acceptance of their relationship, by the trust in their judgment, by the unqualified love, and by the sincere wishes for a long and loving partnership.

EPILOG (a.k.a., the "happy-ever-after" end of the story)

Stu would periodically bemoan the severed relationship with his father but became more comfortable living with his new family. After the cruise, he and Todd worked through the remaining summer months for a landscaping company by day and were rarely apart evenings and weekends. They expressed their love for each other every night in bed. More often than not, their expression of love included sexual intimacy. Their parents were delighted that the boys had formed a loving bond.

Although Stu initially objected, he ultimately agreed to the Peterson's urging to attend UCLA with Todd and yielded to their insistence on paying college expenses for both of their "sons." Throughout their college years and beyond, they were successful and very devoted to each other.

Before the summer was over, Rick moved in with Stan and put his own condominium up for sale. Rick was initially a reluctant mentor but he and Stan evolved into devoted "uncles" and would frequently take their "nephews" on camping trips and other outings ... except of course, when Rick and Stan took one of their increasingly frequent globe-trotting excursions.

The end