Second Chance, Chapter 90
During finals week, Troy's brother, Rick, came over to visit. He seemed bummed out. In their conversation with Troy and him, Eric and Josh learned that his parents were not only planning no party to honor his graduation, but had said he had to leave their house right after his last final.
"The old man says I'm a belligerent brat and he doesn't have to pay a dime for my keep because I'm 18. I already have most of my stuff packed in the car, but I don't know where I'll stash it so it doesn't get stolen."
"I'm sure we can find a corner in the basement for your stuff." Josh assured him.
"He could share my room `til he gets a place to stay," Troy offered.
"I can't do that without an invitation and besides, what if you want your little boyfriend over for a roll in the hay?" Rick teased.
"I can go to his house," Troy blushed.
"I think there might be a long-term solution if you don't mind living around poor people," Eric said.
"I'm certainly one of the poor!" Rick exclaimed. "I'm no better than anyone else."
"Let me call our friend Reese and see what he can do."
Eric left the rest in the attic apartment while he went downstairs to have a private phone conversation. After fifteen minutes or so, he came back up smiling.
"Okay, here's the deal. There is a room that'll be available for you at Lundy House downtown. It has a private bath and you can eat meals with the other guests in the dining room. The catch is that it's on 7th floor and the other roomers there are gay and lesbian. It's all they have open at the moment."
"I don't mind who my neighbors are as long as they don't keep me awake all night. It would be really convenient because I've got a job downtown and I have to commute quite a ways now. How much will it cost me to crash there?"
"You'll be charged on a sliding scale. Since you're young and barely able to make ends meet, you would pay little or nothing. The facility is meant to get people off the streets and into decent accommodations while they're becoming self-sufficient. Reese says Mr. Worthington, the head of the place, wants to extend the outreach to prevent young people like you from ever having to be on the streets in the first place. He has sympathy for anyone who's been kicked out whether they're gay or straight."
"Wow! When can I move in?"
"Your room should be available tomorrow or the next day."
"Great! I can sleep in the car a couple of nights."
"You mean you've already been kicked out?" Josh said.
"Yeah, my last final was this morning..."
"We'll put you up until you can move in there. You're not sleeping in the car!" Eric exclaimed. "We have the futon in our apartment free now that Troy has his own room."
"You can still sleep with me," Troy offered. "My `little boyfriend', as you call him, and I both have one more final tomorrow."
"I'd better go tell our dads about the arrangement," Eric said.
"You think they'll go for it?" Rick asked with a look of incredulity.
"Sure," Eric and Josh answered in chorus.
"Josh tells me you aren't going to have a graduation party," Ben said to Rick over dinner.
"No sir. That's the least of my worries at the moment, though your sons are getting me fixed up with housing. You don't know how much I appreciate not having to sleep in my car tonight. Thanks!"
"You're very welcome. We don't like to see anyone on the streets.
We're having a backyard open-house for all of the high school graduates in our extended family. We'll expand it into a party for you too. Please feel free to invite your best buddies over. There'll be plenty. Rob's mother is providing some of the goodies, so I can assure you we could feed the biblical multitude without any loaves or fishes," he chuckled.
"That's a given," Rob laughed. "Mom has been baking since last Tuesday."
"That's really kind of you," Rick exclaimed, trying not to give in to his emotions. "I've never run into a family as cool as this one. A lot of the so called "Christians" I know wouldn't care about helping me. They're too busy minding other people's business."
The anticipation of graduating was exciting for the seniors in the household even though it didn't mark the end of their educational endeavors. High school had been fun, but it had begun to get old recently. Knowing that they were moving on to a new phase in their lives was great.
Rob felt like he'd already moved on since he had a husband and a son. Few guys were in his position until after college graduation. Though he'd grown up too fast and had missed a few things by becoming a father so young, he'd gained far more because of the love he'd found. He wouldn't trade Blake or Robbie for all the high school activities in the world.
Eric and Josh didn't have children, of course, but still felt like they'd outgrown the high school culture too. That's the reason they hadn't bothered going to prom. It would have cost them a pile of money to dress up for a dance which couldn't compare with the thrill of their wedding and honeymoon.
Like most graduation ceremonies, there were speeches and rituals which seemed to take forever, and would soon be forgotten. Since the graduating class was a large one, the process of reading the entire list of names and handing out the diploma covers was an interminable one. Afterwards, they'd have to queue up in back of the stage to receive the actual certificate to put inside the covers.
The ushers had passed out programs which contained not only the names of the graduates, but also a list of their scholarships, accomplishments and clubs. Josh and Eric had their share of awards and notices. At various times, different groups of students were asked to stand for recognition. The guys got their morning's exercise from all the ups and downs.
At long last, it came to an end and the graduates marched out accompanied by the school band. The school faculty lined up to shake hands and/or hug each of the new alumni.
When Eric got to the back of the auditorium, he saw his old neighbor, Alma, waiting for him. She had been invited, but hadn't been sure she would be able to come, so he was surprised and delighted.
They embraced, wearing big smiles. They began to catch up with each other as they walked toward the foyer. Josh excused himself, saying he needed to hit the restroom before they went to stand in line for their diplomas.
"I shouldn't have had so much coffee this morning," Josh grinned.
"You'll have to pardon my husband. He's not an adult for another week and he can't hold his coffee like a man!" Eric giggled.
"You'll pay for that remark," Josh bantered back.
After Josh left, Alma turned to a more serious subject.
"Eric, your mother is dying."
"Yeah, right. She's already pulled that one!"
"It's true this time."
Eric just shook his head. "I remember reading about the little boy who cried `wolf'."
"I understand how you feel, but I think you should see her before she dies. She wants you to forgive her."
"Why does it always have to be about her?"
"This isn't about her; it's about you. If you don't do this, you'll carry the guilt with you like baggage for years. I know from experience."
"I don't know. She's never been a real mother to me. Grandma mostly raised me until she died. My mother didn't want me so much as she didn't want Dad to have me."
"She's admitted that she's been selfish and thoughtless, and she wants to beg your forgiveness. She's got a lot of baggage of her own."
"No sh – kidding," Eric exclaimed.
"Yeah, no shit." Alma stated plainly. "I don't want to see you in the same fix. You've always been a loving and forgiving boy. I remember how you forgave Craig Strasburg after he broke your favorite toy truck that you'd kept from when you were little."
"I'd forgotten about that." Eric smiled for the first time since their conversation had become serious.
"Anyway, I've been looking in on her for several weeks now. I'll give you more details."
Alma continued to bring Eric up to date on Tina's condition.
Josh started back, but seeing that Eric and Alma appeared to be in a deep discussion, stayed out of earshot waiting for them to finish.
"I suppose I'll have to go see her. I'm 18 and she can't do anything to mess me up now."
"Uh, that's not necessary. She flew up with me to see you graduate. She's back by the east doors waiting for me to tell her whether or not you'll see her. She's not planning to intrude further on your day."
"Okay, let me think about it. I need to go get in line for my diploma insert. If I decide to see her, I'll meet you by those doors."
Eric joined Josh and the two graduates made their way to the area behind the stage to queue up in the "I" through "L" line. Eric was pondering the best way to tell Josh about this latest development when one of Jake Hall's former buddies came by.
"Hey Eric, I hear your going to be a professional fudge packer now that you've graduated," he taunted.
"Nah, those jobs are gone. Candy factories are all automated these days. What are you planning to do, go to Yale?" Eric answered without rising to the bait.
"No, I'm going to apprentice – uh, wait a minute, I don't want to talk to a queer like you!"
"Sorry, but you started the conversation. I assumed you'd grown up a little; evidently I was wrong."
"Yeah, well I'm gonna take you out, dumb-ass!" Ted exclaimed, balling up his fist.
"Don't even think it," Damian Washington said in a deep, quiet tone of voice as he moved between them.
"What's it to you black boy?"
"Eric and Josh are friends of mine. You got a problem with one of them; you got a problem with me. It's as simple as that. Now go along quietly before I get angry."
The bully melted into the crowd, leaving the boys in peace.
"Thanks Damian," Eric said as he hugged his friend.
"No problem. Like I told you guys last summer, I've got your backs."
"You were remarkably cool Eric," Josh complimented him as they parted company with Damian. "How did you keep from lashing out?"
"I've got more serious things on my mind than worrying about that insignificant dip-shit. My mother's here and she really IS dying of cancer."
"No way!"
"Yup, Alma knows for sure because she's taken her to some of her appointments. She doesn't have much time left and Alma thinks I should see her and forgive her."
"Babe, that's tough. I don't know what I'd do in your situation, but I'll support your decision whatever it is."
"Thanks; I love you!" Eric said as he kissed Josh's cheek. "She's here waiting in the foyer. I guess I'd better go get it over with."
After the guys got their official diplomas, they headed toward the east entrance. On the way, Ben, Scott, Rob, Blake, Rick, and Troy caught up with them. Eric told them all about the turn of events. Scott's brow was knitted with concern, but he didn't say anything.
"Dad, what should I do?" Eric asked quietly.
"You're a man now; I can't make this decision for you. My advice is to follow your heart and never second guess your judgment."
"Okay, please wait here while Josh and I go talk to her."
The two guys made their way through the crowd toward the exit. There stood Alma and a painfully thin woman that Eric would not have recognized if he hadn't known. It was obvious that Alma hadn't been exaggerating. Eric felt a lump in his throat. He couldn't let her die without the peace of forgiveness.
"Hello Mother," he said, taking her hand.
"Thanks for agreeing to meet with me, Son" she replied. "I know you didn't have to, and I appreciate it.
This is Josh, isn't it?"
"Forgive my lack of manners. This is my soul-mate, Joshua Larson-Brady. We'll celebrate our first wedding anniversary later this summer."
"I'm pleased to finally meet you, Joshua. I have a copy of the book you did together. You're both making a name in the world of children's literature, I hear."
"Thank you. I'm pleased to meet you as well."
"I won't spoil your day further," Tina said. "I just want to plead with my son and you to forgive me. I've been a monster. My drinking had something to do with how I acted, but it's no excuse. I've been self-centered and evil. I don't want to meet my Maker with this on my conscience..."
"I forgive you, Mother," Eric said, no longer able to hold back the tears.
He hugged her gently, fearing that her fragile body would break in his embrace. She cried quietly too. Alma and Josh couldn't contain their emotions completely either.
"Mother, we're having a graduation open house tomorrow afternoon. You will come, won't you?"
"I'm afraid our plane leaves at 4:00 and besides I don't want to intrude since I didn't get an invitation."
"It must have gotten lost," Eric smiled wistfully. "You know how the postal service is these days. Why don't you and Alma plan to come around noon and stay until you have to check in?"
"Do you think we could do that?" Tina asked, looking to Alma.
"Sure," Alma agreed. "We'd better go back to the hotel to let you rest now."
Josh, Eric, Rob, and Blake went home in Rob's BMW with Blake at the wheel. Eric was relieved that he didn't have to drive. His emotions were in turmoil. Josh held him as they rode in the back seat.
The mood was still somber after they got home. Josh felt bad for Tina, but was angry with her at the same time for spreading a pall over his lover's graduation day. Couldn't she have waited a couple more days? It seemed to him that she always needed to be the center of attention, even when her life was ebbing. The he thought back to his own mother and the uncertainty of life and berated himself for HIS selfishness.
The rest of the guys came home in Ben's Pacifica a few minutes later. Ben announced that he'd reserved the alcove at the country club for dinner to begin the festivities. That lightened the atmosphere quite a bit.
"Dad," Eric said to Scott. "I've invited Mother to the party tomorrow. I should have asked you first."
"It's your party and you may invite anyone you like. You did fine! I'm as proud of you as I've ever been. Anyone can struggle along carrying a grudge, no matter how heavy it is. It takes a sensitive, mature man to return love for years of emotional neglect."
"Thanks," Eric smiled wanly as he hugged his father for several seconds.
The rest of the day went quickly, with the younger set scattering in all directions. Josh, Eric, and Rob changed into casual clothes to briefly drop in on several parties their friends were having that afternoon while Blake stayed home with Robbie who had been in the care of his "uncle" Jay all morning.
It took self-discipline for the party-goers not to overindulge on goodies at the places they went. They started at Dylan's knowing his mother would be serving food that tasted good without being overly laden with calories.
They went to Garret's for their dessert course, and worked off a few carbs playing volleyball at Damian's. Actually they probably took in more than they wore off as the nibbled between games.
Rick was picked up by his best friend and the two of them went to other celebrations. He didn't have a lot of friends in common with the Larson-Brady males, but their paths did cross once during the afternoon.
Justin's mother came over to take Troy home for an overnight, so he wasn't left on his own. He would be cuddling with Justin, and his brother would have the bed to himself. It would work out well for everyone.
"Did you bring the stuff?" Justin asked excitedly when the two were safely in his room.
"Yeah, I was really embarrassed to ask for it, but Eric didn't tease me or anything. I could have asked Rick, but he wouldn't have let me live it down and I don't want him to know everything."
"When can we try it?"
"We should probably wait until everyone's gone to sleep. We'd better stay visible or at least have the door open most of the time or your parents will be suspicious."
"I suppose you're right, but how will I hide my hardon the rest of the day – especially if we're in the pool?"
"That is quite a bit to hide." Troy giggled. "Should we go for a quickie right now?"
"Nah, I want to save it for later. Let's get on our trunks. The pool isn't real warm and we'll shrink pretty quickly. All we have to do is keep our towels wrapped around our waists until we jump in."
Once the boys were playing in the water, Justin's prediction came true and neither had to worry about throwing wood. However, their thin nylon suits left little to the imagination when wet.
Dinner at the club ended up to be for a smaller crowd than Ben had expected. Jay and Isaac bowed out because they wanted to cook for themselves. Their jobs had prevented them from having as much quality time together as they would have liked.
Ben and Scott understood.
Troy was at Justin's and his brother, Rick, was attending more parties and would graze all day instead of eating dinner.
Still, with the rest of the Larson-Brady household as well as Sophia and her children, there were plenty of people to make it a festive occasion.
During dinner, Josh did his best to distract Eric from thinking about his mother. Having lost his own mother to cancer, Josh could read the signs of decline in Tina's frail body better than Eric could. Josh would be surprised if the woman lasted a week.
He was glad Eric had made peace with his mother. He knew that there was always an invisible bond between mother and child no matter how nasty the relationship was. This morning after the ceremony, Tina had seemed entirely different from what she had been in the past. She had praised Eric's accomplishments and made him feel like she cared. If only it hadn't taken the ravages of this terrible disease to trigger the change.
When they all got home, Eric and Josh headed for their apartment fairly soon. Eric looked tired, but appeared to be in pretty good spirits. Josh hope his mood would continue.
"Wanna get naked and see what happens?" he suggested.
Eric smiled broadly for the first time since seeing his mother.
"I'd love to. Care to join me in the shower?"
"Of course," Josh grinned, taking Eric into his arms and rubbing their groins together.
They kissed tenderly for several minutes before undressing each other. Finally, they got into the shower to wash away the sweat and stress of the day.
"How about I give you a massage?" Josh asked.
"That would be awesome! I know why you're doing this."
"It's because I love you, of course."
"I know that, but I mean the extra attention. It's because you're trying to distract me from the trauma of seeing my mother, and I love you for it!"
"I never need an ulterior motive to perform my conjugal duties as your husband." Josh said after applying soap to Eric's nipples.
"Ooh! `Conjugal' is a pretty big word for a boy who's not 18 yet!"
"Be nice to me or I'll come down with a headache!" Josh giggled.
After drying each other off and exchanging a few more kisses, the guys headed to the bedroom. Josh pulled down the blanket and top sheet on their bed and placed a beach towel down for Eric to lie on. Eric lay spread-eagle, face down, awaiting Josh's loving touch.
Josh began by using firm pressure on Eric's shoulders, working toward his waist. Then he went back up to Eric's neck to massage away the tension he felt there. Eric was turning into Jell-o in his lover's hands.
Before he finished with Eric's back, Josh noticed a change in his breathing. Eric was sound asleep. Josh kissed his husband's neck gently as he pulled a sheet over the two of them and joined Eric in slumber.
After all was quiet in Justin's house, he and Troy stripped off their clothes and made out on the bed. Their anticipation made the hornier than usual.
"You'd better protect the sheets in case this gets messy," Troy advised.
Justin went to the bathroom and returned with a dark colored towel and two damp washcloths. He spread the towel out and placed the cloths on a plastic bag that he scrounged out of his closet.
Troy lay on his back holding his legs against his chest to expose his rosebud completely. Justin squeezed a glob of lube on his middle finger and began to work it into Troy's chute. Troy's body stiffened up, but he willed it to relax. He was determined to see this through.
Following Troy's instructions, Justin applied more gel and added a second finger. He watched Troy's face for signs of discomfort before continuing. He was becoming increasingly concerned that Troy wasn't ready for this, but Troy urged him on.
After several minutes, and surviving the intrusion of a third finger, Troy rolled a condom over Justin's throbbing cock. He greased it up thoroughly and asked Justin to enter him.
As soon as Justin had broken through the muscle ring, he saw a look of panic on Troy's face. Troy had suddenly broken into a cold sweat. Justin quickly withdrew.
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you," Justin apologized.
"It doesn't hurt. It's me!" Troy sobbed. "I want you and I want to do it with you. I'm so sorry,"
"Sh, it's okay. It's just too soon. We'll work it out."
"You're gonna hate being with a piece of used garbage who can't even fuck!" Troy wailed.
"Troy, you're my boyfriend. I love you. You're not garbage; you're the best thing that's happened to me since I realized I'm gay. Let me clean off the lube and we'll cuddle."
Troy's sobbing subsided as Justin lovingly wiped him off. Then as promised, Justin held him in his arms and kissed him.
Before long, their tenderness ignited the flames of passion again. Justin wanted to do whatever it took to make Troy feel better. He initially thought about offering his virgin ass, but figured the subject of anal sex was better left out of the equation for the time being. So instead, he turned his body to face the foot of the bed and begin to lick Troy's balls, leaving his crotch within easy reach of Troy.
Troy turned toward Justin to return the favor. For several minutes, they gently nursed each other's cock. Troy's earlier discomfort was replaced with love and lust. He lightly traced his middle finger over Justin's rosebud. Justin responded with a moan of pleasure. Justin did the same to Troy with a similar reaction. He resisted the temptation to plunge his finger into the well-lubed hole.
Troy's body stiffened again, but not from a feeling of panic. It relaxed instantly as he nearly drowned his lover with love juice. It was awesome! He felt like passing out from the intensity, but kept stimulating Justin until he came too. Then both lapsed into post-coital semi-consciousness.
Author's notes: Hey all you readers! As you can see, I'm going beyond chapter 90. I was well on my way, but Tina showed up and messed up the plans. Since she was dying, I thought I'd better let it play out.
I had several complaints about the choppiness of chapter 88. Sorry about that. I may revise it in the future. Anyway, I plan to end with 92 if possible and the prospects look good at the moment.
Sorry that some of you aren't getting the group notices. I'm having problems. I've set up a second group, thinking the first might be too big for the system to handle. Now the second one doesn't want to function correctly. I'm still trying!
Thanks to all who wrote this week. I hope I haven't omitted anyone this time! The list includes: Paul R, Danny A, Tim K, Bill K, Steve, Steve P, RC, Rutabaga, Roger L (forgot last time!), Jim C, Bill H, Tony H, Jim W, Mark H (David), Tom A, Carroll, Walt S, Tony C, Edward D, Tony H, and Paul F.
BTW, Edward is posting a revised version of his story called, "More Than Brothers" under the high school heading. I think you'll like it.
David