Tales from the Ranch

Disclaimer: The following story is a work of fiction. If you are offended by descriptions of homosexual acts or man/man relations, please exit this page.

TALES FROM THE RANCH Copyrightc 2002 by Tulsa Driller 7. All rights reserved.

This is a story of men who have two common interests. You will see that they love the land where they live and work, but it is also the story of young men who love other men and their coming of age in a culture of prejudice and misunderstanding. It is a story, which deals with difficult and often disturbing issues but, nonetheless, issues which must be confronted in today's world.

This is a work of fiction and in no way draws on the lives of any specific person or persons. Any similarity to actual persons or events is entirely coincidental. This work is copyrightedc by the author and may not be reproduced in any form without the specific written permission of the author. It is assigned to the Nifty Archives under the terms of their submission agreement but it may not be copied or archived on any other site without the written permission of the author.

PLEASE: In a perfect world AIDS doesn't exist. My characters have unprotected sex. I hope you use proper precautions because I'd like you to be around the read the last chapter of this story.

Tales from the Ranch Chapter 19: Wednesday

Eddie woke up first, with Tom spooned in front of him. The two men slept in a queen-size bed but probably would have been happy with one that w0as twin size. They always slept tightly together, usually on their left sides with Eddie behind Tom. It was seldom that they woke up being separated.

He needed to get up and go for his morning run, but he enjoyed just laying there and looking at his lover. They were both happy in Williamsport and loved their positions in the school system. There seemed to be a minimum of prejudice and controversy about gay people here than even in the large city of Houston. Neither of them knew too many gay people here, but the ones they did know seemed to be regular people who fit in with the community and did their best to contribute back to the town where they lived.

Tom had come to Williamsport a year before him so he was established in the school system and well thought of before Eddie arrived at the end of that school year. By starting early, he was able to coach two little league baseball teams in the summer program of the school system. He quickly became acquainted within the community and was respected by those he worked with.

It was an accident that they both ended up at Stephen F. Austin School and initially Eddie was concerned that it might call attention to the fact they were a couple, but it hadn't. There were two other teachers in the system that identified themselves as a lesbian couple. One was the high school tennis coach and the other taught history, like Tom, but was in the high school system.

Then there were two "single" men that Tom and Eddie thought might be gay, but they seemed to be closeted and unavailable when outside activities were going on. One of the men was a band director and the other taught college prep math (Advanced Placement) courses in the high school. They didn't live together and neither was friendly.

Yes, Williamsport was a great place to live and they felt fortunate to be here. They had found a nice home almost by accident. The realtor they had dealt with had shown them a lot of properties over seven months time, but nothing really "clicked" for them. Then, Fr. Tikker told them of a widow who wanted to sell her house. Her husband had passed away and she was going to have to move to the assisted living area of a retirement home. Fr. George made the arrangements for them to meet and the house was wonderful. It was a lot larger than they needed, but was in good structural shape and priced right for them. The house needed to be redecorated on the inside and the trim needed attention on the outside. The yard was a total mess. Shrubbery had been planted too close to the house and allowed to grow too large, plus a couple of trees needed to be removed in the back. Other than having the swimming pool built, they were able to do all the necessary work themselves.

The woman, a Mrs. Neese, liked Tom and Eddie. She had been a schoolteacher and they seemed to have a common bond between them. When she moved to her new place, she opted to give most of her furniture to the men rather than sell it for practically no money that would have been generated at an estate sale.

So, the men moved into their new house with a minimum outlay of cash to furnish it. Her husband had been a building contractor and had done a first-class job with the construction and cabinetry.

Eddie decided that if he was going to run, he needed to get with the program. He enjoyed lying next to his lover, but needed to get up. Going into the bathroom to pee, he pulled a clean jockstrap, socks, a tank top and running shorts out of a drawer. Putting them on he took his shoes and went to the kitchen. Eddie carried a small pack that he fastened around his waist. It had two bottles of water, a cell phone, five one-dollar bills and $2 in change. He started the coffeepot and slipped out the back door to do his stretching exercises.

He ran 5 miles in about 50 minutes. He was committed to endurance rather than speed. His route took him around the park, then on to a lightly traveled road toward the electric plant and back home.

By the time he got home Tom was up, showered, dressed and sitting at the kitchen table reading the morning paper. The "Today" show was turned on, the small TV sitting on the kitchen counter.

As Eddie came in, Tom got up to get him a glass of orange juice and pour a cup of coffee. The scent of Eddie hit Tom as he leaned in for his morning kiss. He loved the smell of perspiration mixed with the smell of his lover.

"Hi," Tom said as he leaned his head down slightly to receive his morning kiss. "Have a good run?"

"Yeah, I ran the regular course and it took me 50 minutes. Not a bad speed, I seemed to keep an average of 9.5 to 10 minutes a mile. It just feels natural."

"I'm glad you enjoyed it. I just don't like to run like that."

"I know. It doesn't bother me. I like running by myself. I can plan the day, think about problems and how to solve them and just commune with nature. Somehow, it charges my battery for the day to come."

"You charge my battery. What don't you go clean up? I mixed up a batch of muffins and will put them in the oven right now."

They exchanged another kiss and Eddie went off, carrying his coffee mug, to clean up and dress. They ate, talking a little about the previous evening and getting acquainted with Dale and Craig over dinner. Eddie liked to look at the paper while eating his breakfast and Tom didn't disturb him. When Eddie was through Tom rinsed their dishes and put them in the dishwasher. It was time to leave so they each grabbed their backpacks and set off, walking the three blocks to their school.

Dale almost always woke up first and realized that he and Craig were in the same position as when they had gone to sleep. They were both hard and Dale started rubbing his body against Craig, who started his wakeup process.

"Uhmm, you feel good," Craig murmured, shoving his cock against Dale's groin.

"So do you," Dale whispered, stroking Craig's dick.

They tentatively kissed, discovering that their breath was okay, then got into the program, arousing each other until they were fully awake. Craig was enjoying just laying there and looking at his lover. Dale was having the same experience, thinking how much his life had changed in the last week.

Although they were aroused, they did not press for sex. It just felt good that they had stimulated the other and were enjoying the experience. Finally after about 20 minutes of enjoying lying together, Dale said, "I guess we'd better get the day started. There's lots to do today and I've got a luncheon date with a hunk who has it in his head that I ought to be a fashion model."

It took Craig a minute to remember that they were going shopping for new clothes for Dale. "Yeah, I forgot. You look good without clothes, too," he smirked.

Dale reached down to grab Craig's hand and they headed out, Dale to the bathroom and Craig to the kitchen to get their orange juice and start the coffeepot.

Craig came back just as Dale was finishing lathering his face. "How's the mustache coming along?" he asked, starting to rub his finger over it. "Hon, this isn't going to take you very long to grow this at all. How many days has it been so far?"

"A week ago yesterday was the first day I didn't shave it." He looked in the mirror a little more carefully and was pleased with what he saw. It seemed to be about a quarter of an inch long and was going to be thick, like Marty's. By the time they went to Ft. Worth, it should be looking like he'd had it for quite a while.

Craig brushed his teeth and quickly shaved his lighter beard. They were ready to get in the shower at the same time. They were both pleased, although they hadn't discussed it, that Craig had spent the money for this wonderful luxury. They both liked long hot showers and this certainly fit their requirements.

As usual, they each had a washcloth and bar of soap. After washing their own hair and rinsing it, then washing again, they spent more time washing the other's body than they did their own. It just felt good to do that and, of course, it made them both semi-hard.

As they were drying themselves Dale asked Craig what he had to do today.

Craig quickly went through the things he could think of. I need to call my parents about getting together with them while we are in Ft. Worth and Dallas. Next, I will call the women about your sale, then I need to go out to the Bar-W before noon to check on the footings and make sure everything is the way it should be before they start pouring concrete. Then it will be time for a bite of lunch and get you outfitted in your new duds. I'll also call about the cooking course and I'm going to take the utility bills to work with me so I can write checks to pay them from our new joint account." He wiggled his eyebrows. "Now that I have a husband to help me afford to pay them."

Dale's grin had to be the equivalent of 2,000 watts. Craig didn't know if it was because he called Dale "his husband" or if it was the reference to their "joint account". He didn't care. He loved to make Dale smile.

Dale got out boxers, socks, Levis and a polo shirt to wear. Then he pulled out a pair of Dockers and a long-sleeve shirt to take with him, remembering dress socks and good shoes. He put the pants and shirt on the same hanger and carried everything to the front door so he wouldn't forget them.

"Do you want to get a bite to eat in town today?" Craig asked.

"Yeah, I need to remember to tell Mrs. Wood that I won't eat in the kitchen today. The guys working on the hay will take a pickup with them, so I don't have to worry about them eating lunch anymore. I need to go look at the dirt they dumped yesterday afternoon and see how much work it's going to be to smooth it out.

"While I'm in town, I need to get three more cell phones, but I probably need to call Morris Johnsmore before I do. It's my decision, but he should be aware of what I'm doing."

"You have a lot to do, just checking on things, don't you?"

"Yeah, I think my days of working with the crop crew are over. I'll probably just get fat, now."

Craig grinned. "If sex burns off a lot of calories, I'll be glad to help you with the fat problem."

They teased each other with a funny looking leer.

"Or we can skip the pastries in the kitchen."

"I'm hungry," Dale pretended to pout.

They each poured another cup of coffee and Craig warmed up the sweet rolls.

Enjoying the presence of the other sitting nearby, they quickly ate and then it was time for Dale to leave.

Dale arrived at the Bar-W as Jason and Kevin were coming down the driveway. Dale thought the bus was about two miles behind him so they had a little more time to visit than usual.

Jason noticed Dale's new mustache for the first time. "Hey, neat! You're growing a mustache just like Dad."

Kevin reached in to feel it. "It feels scratchy. Dad's doesn't feel that way."

Dale responded. "It's only been growing a week. It will probably take a month before it's like your Dad's. Mine has to get longer and thicker."

Kevin thanked Dale for milking Star and helping with his chores the night before. He wanted to tell Dale that he had seen him and Craig kissing, but knew he had to keep quiet about that.

"Dale, do you know where the scouts are going to camp?" Jason asked.

"Yeah, down on the river. Do you remember when we were out riding last Saturday and when we came back, we were on the old dirt road that goes to the fishing hole?"

Both remembered.

"It's about a half mile back up west on the river. It's kind of on a little knoll. You can see the fire pits because they use them every time they camp there."

"I know, there's trees all around, but none on the hill."

"You got it," Dale said.

About that time they could hear the bus coming down the highway and had to run the last 50 feet to the roadway.

"Bye, Dale. Thanks!!" they yelled.

Dale gave them a wave, but knew they couldn't see him.

Dale left his other clothes in his Blazer. He'd get them later and change before going to town.

About that time, Michael, Pat and John drove in, this time in Michael's car. They parked and walked to the cooler room to fix their thermos bottles and get ice for the chest to keep their lunches cool.

Dale was waiting for them when they came into the office. "Hi guys, you can take the pickup again. I'm going to pick up a cell phone for you today so you will have that in the field with you tomorrow."

They thanked him.

"Is the equipment running okay?" Dale asked, handing them their time sheets.

"Yeah. No problems," Michael responded.

"Well, get six 5-gallon cans of diesel fuel, you'll probably need it about lunch time. I have to go into town at lunchtime, but I'll be out to the field afterward to see if you need anything. You won't be through mowing by that time, but there is a chance that you might be ready to start with one of the balers later this afternoon."

The three went to the shop area to pick up the fuel cans.

As they came back out, Dale told them he'd see them later. They filled the cans, then headed for their pickup and off to the hayfield.

About that time Ray came driving up the driveway in his pickup, followed by three men in another one, just like it. They drove on back to the construction site.

Dale remembered that the man from the gravel company was to be there sometime during the morning to get an estimate as how much rock would be needed for the driveway extension. He looked at his watch. Morris Johnsmore should be in his office and Dale wanted to be sure about picking up more cell phones.

He punched in the number and the receptionist answered the phone. Dale identified himself and asked to speak to Morris. When he came on the line, Dale told him about needing more cell phones and that he might be getting some additional ones the following week.

"Go ahead and get them. I think it's time the Bar-W took advantage of some new technology and safety precautions," he said.

"Do you want me to handle it the same way as when I got mine?"

"Yes, just have them mail the bill to me. And Dale, remind them that it's local calls only as we check the billing. It's different with you. I assume you will need to make long distance calls on ranch business."

"Hadn't even given it a thought, but thanks for reminding me," he answered.

They said their good-byes and hung up.

Dale fished Jerome Robinson's card out of his billfold and called him at the GM dealership. They briefly talked about Dale's Mustang and Jerome gave Dale his friend's telephone number, telling him that he was out of town for the day, but that he could probably call him that evening.

He remembered that he needed to let Mrs. Wood know that he wasn't going to eat at the house today, so made that call, too.

Craig had several things on his list to keep him busy. The first telephone call was to his mother.

"Hi Mom, good morning," he greeted her.

"Craig. What a pleasant surprise. I was going to call you this evening to see what you wanted for your birthday. Your Dad and I are thinking about coming to Williamsport to help you celebrate."

"That would be great, Mom, but I'm coming up that weekend for the Ft. Worth Builder's Show. We're coming up on Thursday night and coming back to Williamsport on Monday afternoon."

"Can you stay with us?" then realized that Craig had said 'we'.

"No Mom, I've made reservations to stay at the Hilton since the show is at the Tarrant County Convention Center."

"Wait a minute, you said 'we' didn't you?"

"That's right, Mom," Craig said with a big smile on his face that she couldn't see but could almost hear.

"Is Don coming up with you?"

"No. Mom, I've met a fellow here in Williamsport and he's just wonderful. I know that you and Dad will like him and I want all of us to get together while we're in town."

"Oh Craig, I'm happy for you. Have you known him long? What kind of work does he do? How old is he? When."

Craig cut her off; he knew that string of questions wouldn't have an end to it.

"Mom, his name is Dale and he's a little over 2 years younger than I am. He's the General Manager of the Bar-W Ranch here in Williamsport. It's a ranch that covers about 18,000 acres and they raise Appaloosa Horses and prime-grade beef cattle, among other things. They have oil on the property, raise hardwood trees and a lot of crops."

"My, I'm impressed," Doris said. "Your Dad and I will be anxious to meet him."

"That was the main reason I called. We won't get to Ft. Worth until late on Thursday night and the show is on Friday and Saturday, but I think we can see everything we need to see on Friday. So that leaves the weekend and part of the day on Monday for me to show Dale around Ft. Worth and Dallas. He's never been there before."

"Why don't you come here on Saturday evening for your birthday dinner? I'll fix your favorites. Maybe Susan and Becky and their boyfriends can join us, too."

"That would be great, Mom. You'll like him and I know he'll like all of you," he said proudly.

"Let's plan on that, Doris said. I'll check with your father, but I'm sure it will be okay since he had talked about driving to Williamsport to be with you anyway."

"Okay, Mom. If that won't work out, let me know because we can do it on Sunday if we need to."

"We love you, Craig, and congratulations. I hope this works out for you."

That made Craig feel good. "Bye, Mom. I'll be talking to you soon."

He hung up the phone, having a really good feeling about seeing his parents.

Craig quickly ran through the rest of his list of things to do, talking to one of the women who handled estate sales, making an appointment with them for 6 o'clock Thursday evening.

He called Wyler's and found out they had a new cooking class starting that evening at 6:30, meeting for 7 Wednesday's in a row. The cost was $75 each, limited to 8 men. Since they only had two spaces available, Craig made reservations for them to join the group.

The next item on his list was to write checks for the telephone bill, electric and water bills and the monthly maintenance fee at the condo, which included trash, mowing and homeowner's dues.

Don came in just as he was finishing and they greeted each other.

"I'm going to meet with Warren Collins and three of the possible tenants for his shopping center this afternoon. Is there any chance you can join us?" Don asked.

"I should be able to, what time?"

"Warren can't get here before 2:30."

"That works out really well for me. I need to run out to the Bar-W to make sure everything is okay for pouring the footings. Then Dale and I are going to lunch and I'm taking him to the Gentry Shop to buy some new clothes."

Don laughed. "Already doing a 'make over' on your cowboy?" he teased.

"He's not a." He started to say 'cowboy' then realized that Don was just poking fun at him.

"Ha, got you there, didn't I?" Don said, laughing.

"Yeah, you did. I guess it is kind of a make over. He doesn't have many clothes except things for work and casual wear."

"Any you're going to take him to the big city and let him see all the fancy lights." Don laughed again.

"I hadn't thought of it that way, but you are right. He's never been to Ft. Worth or Dallas before and he's going to meet my family, too. I want to take him to some nice places to eat."

"My, my. out to impress him."

Don was only teasing and Craig knew it, but he realized that he shouldn't push Dale too far and too fast. He didn't want him to be uncomfortable, but also knew that Dale wanted to experience nice things with him, too.

"I guess you could say that, but he'll get along fine. This is a whole new world for him, but he's anxious to try new things, and I'm glad."

"I think you were pretty lucky to find him and lure him into your trap, in this case a bed." Don was in an exceptionally good mood today and was enjoying giving Craig a bad time. He was glad that Craig could be open with him about his lifestyle. It made it as if they were brothers instead of business partners. He felt fortunate that they worked so well together, too.

Craig felt his face turning red. He didn't embarrass easily, but sometimes he couldn't help it. He liked Don and also considered himself fortunate they were in business together. They seemed to compliment each other, although both were equally skilled in their field.

He decided to give as good as he got. "Maybe you're just jealous that I found Dale and you didn't." That should give Don something to think about.

"Hey, fella. I like girls and even if I thought I wanted to play on your team, too, I'm lucky enough to have all I can take care of at home."

"Guess we're even then, stud," Craig teased.

They shared a good laugh and Craig picked up his keys so he could drive to the Bar-W. "See you at 2:30," he said as he went out the door.

Dale's morning was pretty routine. About 11 o'clock he walked down to the construction site. He'd heard skill saws running all morning. He greeted Ray and they visited about the work, Ray explaining what they were doing.

About that time Craig drove in to make his inspection.

They greeted each other, Dale wishing that he and Craig could give each other a hug, but thought it best to forgo that type of greeting even though Ray's crew were below grade level.

All three crawled down the ladder and Craig and Ray gave Dale a lesson in house construction, explaining the purpose of footings and the preparation for the drain tile and sewer line. Ray's crew was about through, so Craig gave his okay to the work so the concrete could be poured. Dale and Craig crawled back up the ladder and got his clothes out of his vehicle, both going to the office so he could change clothes.

It was just 11:30 so they decided to drop Craig's car off at his office and then drive the few remaining blocks to Tony D's for lunch and then go shopping. The lunch crowd really hadn't started yet and they were greeted by Greg, who seated them in a corner. He left menus for them and disappeared. About that time, one of the busboys brought water and bread sticks. Greg returned and set a class of Chianti in front of each. Craig looked at him with a questioning look.

"Complement's of the house," Greg said, winking at the two of them. "I was glad to find out that we have something in common," he smiled. "I'll be right back to take your order."

"Isn't that nice?" Craig questioned. Dale agreed. They picked up their glasses, clinking them together before taking a sip.

They had just decided on their selections when Greg returned to the table.

"Thanks, Greg," Dale said, with Craig echoing.

"Hey, fellows, I was glad to find out that we all play on the same team." He lowered his voice a little. "I don't know too many like us, but we all need to get acquainted and become good friends."

"I agree," said Craig. "Maybe we can get together soon. Do you work here all the time?"

"No, this is a family operation so if I plan ahead I can get off almost any evening or weekend. We just have to plan ahead of time so this place has enough help."

"Okay, maybe next Sunday or early in the week. We're going to a Builder's Show in Ft. Worth next Thursday night and won't be back in Williamsport until Monday evening."

"Great, why don't I give you a call and see if you are available. Are you listed in the phone book?"

"Both of us are, but Dale's phone has been disconnected and you'll get a recording that the number has been changed."

"Okay, I'll call you then, Craig. Have you gentlemen decided yet?"

Dale spoke up. "I'll have the chicken in the Hunter Sauce and an Italian salad."

"Good choice. Craig?"

"The Veal Scaloppini for me with the Italian salad."

"Thanks, I'll bring the salad right away," Greg said as he disappeared.

The restaurant was starting to get busy, so they were glad they had come here first.

Greg was right back at their table with two salad plates and a bowl of tossed greens with green pepper strips, tomato chunks, pickled eggplant and small red and green pickled peppers. He left a cheese grater and a small wedge of Parmesan Cheese on a small plate, too.

They were both hungry and dug into their salads, having just helped themselves to seconds, cleaning the bowl when their meal arrived. The busboy refilled their water glasses and took their empty wineglasses away. Immediately Greg replaced them with two more.

Craig started to say thank you, but Greg waved him off. "Enjoy it."

Dale leaned across the table. "He really seems glad to see us, doesn't he?"

"Sure does. Maybe the Dignity Chapter will help us get acquainted with a lot of people who will be good friends."

"I've gotten acquainted with more new people in the last week than in the last five years, I think," Dale said, smiling at Craig. "Of course the most important one is sitting across the table from me." At that, he raised his glass, then rubbed Craig's ankle with the toe of his shoe.

"Thank you." Then he mouthed, "I love you," back at Dale.

"Me too. you," Dale said quietly.

They were almost finished with their meal when Greg came to check on them. "Could I get you anything else. dessert?" Greg asked.

"No, I don't think so," Craig said. "Everything was very good."

Dale smiled at Greg also, "I think we both really enjoyed it and thank you for the wine. We appreciated it."

"Yes," Craig agreed.

"You guys come back soon. I'll give you a call in the next couple of days. I've been known to cook at my place, even," Greg told them. He laid the check on the table and Craig reached for it.

Dale gave him a funny look at started to reach for his billfold. Craig's eyes were twinkling as he said, "I'll just take it out of your allowance."

They both laughed. They ended up with Dale leaving the tip and Craig paying for the meal at the cash register as they left the restaurant.

"Where is the clothing store?" Dale asked as they got in his Blazer.

"Just north of Commerce and Main, right downtown," Craig answered.

While they were waiting to get out of the parking lot, Dale said, "Greg seems like a nice person. I'm glad we went there for lunch."

"That seems to be the second gay restaurant in town," Craig agreed.

Dale had to think a minute then remembered Tricia at LeGourmet. "Yeah, I guess you are right. I hadn't thought about that. There are more people like you and me around than I ever thought about."

"There are and probably twice as many others that we will never know about," Craig said.

By this time Dale was on the street and two minutes later they were parking in front of the Gentry Shop.

They walked in the store and were approached by a salesclerk that had waited on Craig before. Craig couldn't remember his name, but then saw his nametag. "Brad."

He remembered Craig and greeted the two of them. Craig introduced Dale.

"My friend, Dale, needs some clothes and asked me to help him make his selections."

Brad was looking Dale over, mentally thinking about sizes for shirts, coats and pants. He also liked the display of hair in the open V of Dale's shirt. Woof!!

"Dale, what are you looking for today?"

"Actually several things. I need a suit and probably a couple pair of slacks, a sport coat and some dress shirts and ties."

Brad led them to the suit department. What are you, Dale, about a 44 Long?"

"I think that's what my other coat is. I wear a 16 - 35 in a dress shirt if that helps you."

"Sounds about right. Do you have a color in mind?" He selected a very good looking dark blue suit with a gray chalk stripe and laid it out on the table. Then he pulled out a gray plaid suit and laid it beside the other. "These are both year- 'round wools and will really hold their shape. He took the blue chalk stripe coat and held it for Dale to slip on.

It was almost a perfect fit.

"That really looks good on you," Craig said. "Go look in the mirror."

Dale walked to the 3-sided mirror and was impressed with the man looking back at him.

Brad was fussing with the jacket, giving it a little push and pull here and there to check the fit. "You are almost a perfect 44 Long in this brand, he said. The pants may be a little tougher to fit because you have a very slender waist for the size of your upper body."

Craig walked back to look at the other suits in Dale's size. He selected two that he liked. One was a charcoal green with an almost invisible black plaid and the other was a light gray with a darker gray pinstripe.

"Try these two on so I can see what they look like."

Brad helped Dale slip off the coat and put on the charcoal green one. It didn't feel as good to Dale as the first one. "This one feels a little snug in the shoulders," he said.

Brad spoke up. This label is cut a little more slender. Let me see if we have a 46 Long in it. He was right back and helped Dale switch coats. It was much better and also looked good on Dale.

Brad had the third suit coat ready for Dale to try. It was the same cut as the first one and fit about the same. Dale wasn't sure which he liked the best.

"Which one do you think?" he asked Craig.

"The dark blue stripe really looks great on you, but I like the light gray one, too. It's not quite as dressy looking, though, if you ask me."

Dale glanced at the tag. This was going to be an expensive lunch hour.

He turned to Brad. "I'll take the dark blue one."

Brad grabbed the pants for that coat off the hanger and turned up the legs so Dale could try them on. He pointed out the dressing room and Dale slipped in to put the pants on.

"We're probably going to have to take the waist in about 2 or three inches," Brad said as they were waiting.

Dale stepped out of the dressing room. Sure enough he had to hold the pants up to keep them from sliding down. Brad approached Dale and held the waist at the back while he checked the fullness through the thighs and seat.

"We can alter these with no problem," he said. He marked the waist, then put a clip on the back seam so he could mark the other alterations in the seat and side seams between the waist and Dale's knees. He moved on downward to check the length. Craig spoke up.

"Make these plain bottom with the back coming just to the top of his heel and a very slight break on the front side."

"Yes sir." Brad was wondering what their relationship was. He slipped the coat back on Dale and started marking with his tailors chalk. There were few alterations needed on the coat.

He slipped the coat off. "Now did you say that you needed slacks and a coat?"

"Yes."

Craig spoke up. "Dale, let's see what they have a in blazer style jacket."

Brad led the way to that area of the store. He selected four coats and laid them out on the table. They were alike except for the colors. A medium gray, a burgundy, a dark gray and a tan one.

"Lets look at the medium gray and the burgundy first," Craig said.

Brad held the gray coat for Dale and slipped it on him. Again, it was almost a perfect fit. Dale liked what he saw.

"Now try the burgundy color."

Brad helped Dale slip the coat off and put the other one on.

Dale really liked that one. Craig was thinking that Dale's other coat was a medium charcoal blue, but not a blazer style. Either of these would be fine, depending on what Dale picked. He liked the medium gray, but wasn't going to say anything unless he was asked.

He didn't have to wait long.

"Well, which do you think?" Dale asked.

They are both sharp looking, but I think with your other coat that you might do well with the medium gray. It's a little more casual looking."

"Okay," Dale told Brad. "The boss likes this one." He gave Craig a big smile.

Brad's next question was about the slacks to go with the coat.

"Craig again spoke up. Let's look at something lighter and something darker that will go with the coat."

Brad led them to some racks behind where they were standing. He quickly pulled a light gray wool, a dark gray wool and a black wool to select from.

Craig indicated the two gray pair, holding them up to the coat. Brad turned up the legs and sent Dale back to the dressing room. He came out wearing the dark gray pair and handed Brad the suit pants. Brad helped him slip the coat on. Craig was pleased.

Dale was, again, impressed with Craig's selection. "Okay, this pair will do. Are you ready to mark them?"

"Yes, let me slip the coat off so I can mark the pants easier," helping Dale shed the coat.

These pants fit well, requiring only some tightening in the seat and the marking the length.

"Do you want these finished the same way?" he asked to no one in particular while squatting down.

"Yes," Dale said before Craig could speak.

"Ok, now let's put the jacket back on and I'll check to see what needs to be done to it."

He helped Dale and there was only a minor alteration needed to tighten the coat slightly at the waist.

"I'll take the jacket while you put the other pair of pants on."

Dale went back to the dressing room and was right back out, wearing the other pair. Brad helped him with the jacket. The pants looked good with the coat.

"Okay," said Dale. "You can mark these."

Brad marked them the same as he had the other slacks. He stood up. "Okay, sir, while you are putting your clothes back on we'll head to the shirt department. It's right around the corner over here," he pointed.

Brad gathered up the suit, coat and pants to take with them and Craig followed him.

"He did say a 16 - 35, didn't he?"

"That's right," Craig said.

"Anything particular in mind?" Brad asked Craig, still wondering about the two of them.

"For the suit, let's look at a spread collar in white and a medium blue, and for the other coat, I think a button-down oxford cloth. One white and the other blue."

Brad pulled the shirts out and laid them next to the respective coats. Dale came back from the dressing room about that time carrying the other pair of slacks to be altered.

"Do you like these?" Craig asked.

"Those are fine," Dale said looking at the shirts. "Do I need four?"

"They will do for now. We can get you more the next time you get a new suit, maybe at Christmas."

Brad was all ears.

Dale's only comment was, "What about ties?"

The tie counter was right behind where they were standing. Craig quickly picked out 4 ties, a red and blue rep stripe and a blue and gray geometric pattern to go with the suit; then a red and gray with emblems on it and a red and black stripe to go with the blazer.

Brad said, "Anything else for you gentlemen, underwear, socks, shoes?"

"Dale said, "No, I think I'd better quit while I'm still ahead.

Brad led the way to the middle of the store where the counter and cash register were. He started writing the ticket. When he totaled it, he said $950.80. Dale had mentally added it up in his head, so was close. He pulled out his checkbook and started writing the check. Craig had never noticed Dale's handwriting before except his signature. He wrote with a very legible and firm stroke. Every letter was perfect in relationship to the next. He was impressed.

He handed the check to Brad and started to pull out his billfold for his driver's license.

"I don't need that." He looked at the address. "Is this address correct?" he asked Dale.

"No, I'm sorry I didn't change it. It's 3718 Larcher Drive, Apt. 5-A."

"Is this the correct phone number?"

"No," the new one is 555-8327. I'm sorry, I just moved the other day."

Brad was thinking that he knew where both addresses were and the two areas of town were a sharp contrast to the other. He was still wondering about these two men and what their relationship was with each other.

Brad thanked Dale as he rang up the sale. "This is Wednesday. You can pick the clothes up anytime after noon on Saturday. You might want to try them on here before you take them home, especially the suit pants," he told Dale. "I'm sure I marked them okay, but there are multiple alterations on that pair."

"Thanks," Dale told him. "I'll try to get them on Saturday."

They left the store and Brad watched Dale unlock Craig's door and open it for him, then go around and get in the drivers side of the Bar-W vehicle. He was almost sure they were a couple. They were both good-looking men, but he was especially attracted to Dale. He was still wondering who they were. It seemed to him that Dale was probably buying better clothes than he was used to wearing.

Dale dropped Craig off at his office. There was no one around and the parking lot was empty. They exchanged a passionate kiss.

"You're an expensive lunch date, but thanks for helping me with the clothes today. I wouldn't have known what to buy and I really like what I got."

"You are welcome. And. you're going to be a handsome stud when you wear them. I'll have to beat both the men and the woman off when I go out with you," he teased. "I'm glad you belong to me."

"I'm glad I belong to you, too," he said, getting another kiss.

As Craig started to get out of the vehicle he remembered to tell Dale about the cooking class that night and the meeting with the estate sale women the next evening.

Dale had one stop to make before going back to the ranch. He had to go to Southwestern Bell Mobile to get three more cell phones. They were just around the corner from Craig's office, going toward the ranch.

The same salesman that had waited on him on Monday was there today and greeted him as he went through the door.

"Hello, I hope you aren't having problems with your cell phone," he said.

Dale smiled. "No I've decided that some of our crew members should carry them in case they have an emergency or need something delivered to where they are working."

"We can take care of that. How many were you thinking you need?"

"Three today. One of the foreman hasn't decided what his needs are so I guess we'll have to wait until next week for those."

"Do you want the same set up as we made for you?"

"No, these are mainly for emergency use so I think just the minimum contract will work for them. They are not supposed to make personal calls on them and we should be able to monitor that closely."

"Okay, let me pull your contract from Monday and I'll enter the information into our computer. It will probably take me an hour to get everything completed and have the phones turned on."

Dale looked at his watch. It was already 1:45. "What time do you close this evening?"

"We close at 5:30."

"Okay, I'll have to come back into town, so I'll plan to get here just before 5:30. If you have any problems, you have my cell phone number, don't you?"

"Yes, it's right here on the contract."

"Good, I'll see you before you lock up."

Dale went directly to the construction site when he got back to the ranch. They had poured concrete in about half the forms for the footings. It was good to see they were making such great progress.

Ray saw him drive up and walk to where he was standing. They exchanged greetings and Dale asked him how it was going.

"Making good progress. They should be through in about an hour. Oh, before I forget, here's an estimate for the gravel for the driveway. He just left here about 20 minutes ago and said for you to call him at this number." Ray pointed to a penciled- in number on the bid sheet.

"What's the schedule on the house look like?" Dale asked.

"The crew will be out about noon tomorrow to take the forms off the footings and will start setting up the forms for the basement walls. We should be ready to pour those on Friday afternoon. They can cure over the weekend and those forms can come off on Monday. We'll prepare to pour the concrete floor on Tuesday and that will need to cure for a day, but they can start putting the top plates on the stem walls on Tuesday, too. Wednesday, we'll put up floor joists and put the decking on. If the weather holds and everything goes as planned, she should starting framing walls on Thursday. I'd say by the middle of the next week - two weeks from now - we should have it completely closed in and be ready to run plumbing and wiring.

"Do you have enough help?" Dale asked. "I have one person I might be able to spare from the crops crew."

"Let me see. I think right now we are set, but two of these guys are new and I don't know yet how dependable they are about showing up for work everyday."

"Okay. I'll be gone a week from Friday and the following Monday, but Mort will be around and Marty should be, too. The next weekend is a horse show in Waco, but I think we'll just be gone on Friday night through Sunday night. That shouldn't cause you any problems anyway, Ray, you're the contractor."

"Hey, if I don't hassle you guys, I can't charge as much," he laughed.

Dale laughed with him, shook hands and went back to his vehicle to move it back to the barn.

He noticed that Mort had decorated his desk with more paperwork to approve. His first task was to call the man from the gravel company. He gave Dale the estimate and told him they could lay the gravel the next day and would like to start with the first load about 9:30. Dale okayed the plan.

He decided to drive to where the crew was working in the hayfield. He was very surprised when he got there. It was just 2:35 and they were almost through mowing. Probably another hour or so to finish completely with two of them mowing. He decided to have Michael take his tractor back to the ranch and have Pat continue mowing and John raking. That should allow Pat time to finish mowing before quitting time and Michael would be able to bale hay for a little more than 2 hours. He waved Michael down as he completed his pass through the field. He quickly explained what he wanted to do, telling him that he would follow him to the ranch.

Michael started off and Dale hailed Pat to tell him what he wanted him to do, then caught up with Michael before he got to the road.

It took them about 10 minutes to get back to the equipment storage, park the tractor and get the baler started. Dale explained that if Pat was finished mowing by 5:30 he was to bring his tractor back and Michael and John were to follow him in the pickup.

"If he's not through mowing, just bring the pickup back. You fellows can move the baler to the field in the morning regardless of him being through because you'll need it. You can bring the tractor back up here tomorrow evening if that's the way it works out."

"Sounds okay to me," Michael said.

"I have to be back in town before 5:30 so I'll leave your time sheets on my desk. I'll follow you back to the field now and plan to see you in the morning."

Michael started out with the baler and Dale followed in his Blazer after he loaded 4 spools of baling wire into his vehicle.

When Dale got ready to go back into town he realized that he hadn't changed clothes after arriving back at the ranch. 'Well, too late for that now,' he though. However, he hadn't done anything to get dirty.

He picked up the cell phones. The salesman had put stickers with the phone numbers of each on them. Dale would need to write all of them down and see to it they were made available to everyone.

He arrived home at 5:45 and Craig pulled into the parking lot as he was walking toward the building. He waited for Craig to catch up and they entered the elevator together. They exchanged a kiss as the door closed. It lasted until the doors opened on the 5th floor. As expected, they both started to get hard.

As they shut the door to their condo, Dale laid his work clothes on a table, dropping the sacks with the shirts and ties on the floor, and gathered Craig into his arms. "Hi, babe. I missed being around you all day."

"Hi, yourself, stud. How's my favorite model this evening?"

Dale grinned. "I did look pretty good, didn't I?"

"For a cowboy, you clean up pretty good," Craig teased. They exchanged another kiss. "Those clothes really looked good on you."

"Thanks for helping make the selection. I wouldn't have known where to start."

"Glad to do it and I'm glad you found things you liked," Craig said.

They pulled away from each other.

"Don't forget we have our first cooking lesson this evening. We have time for a drink, but they said that we will eat the food we prepare in each class."

"I wonder what tonight's menu will be?" Dale questioned.

"They didn't say, but this is supposed to be a basic course, so it may not be elaborate."

"Why don't you fix drinks then and I'll put this stuff in the bedroom?" Dale said.

"Okay, what do you want?"

"Surprise me. I've liked everything you've given me so far."

"Will do. Do you have any interest in inviting Eddie and Tom to join us for a horseback ride and picnic on Saturday?"

"Sure, do you think they will be home now?" Dale asked.

"Probably. Do you want to call them?"

"Sure. I'll go in the kitchen and put them on the speakerphone. Is that okay?"

"That's fine. I'll bring the drinks."

Dale went to the bedroom, putting his packages on the bed, along with his work clothes. He could wear the Levis again as he hadn't gotten them dirty.

He looked up the telephone number he needed and punched in the digits. Tom answered on the first ring.

"Tom, this is Dale Richards. How are you guys this evening?"

"Dale, it's great to hear from you. Let me tell Eddie to get on the extension."

"Fine, Craig's fixing us a drink and I'm on the speakerphone in the kitchen."

Eddie picked up an extension somewhere in their house and Craig came to the kitchen to put ice in their glasses. He handed Dale a Gin and Tonic. Dale took a sip and liked it, giving Craig a hug.

Craig greeted the other two men and they talked briefly about their day, then Craig told them he and Dale were starting the cooking class at Wyler's that evening.

Dale continued. "Craig and I are thinking about taking horses from the ranch and going on a picnic this Saturday. We'd like for you to join us if you can."

"That sounds like fun," Eddie said. "Do you know what time?"

"I thought we could meet about 11 o'clock. It will take a little bit to get to the ranch and then another 15 minutes to saddle the horses. Do you both know how to ride?" Dale asked them.

"I'm comfortable on a horse," Tom said.

"I've ridden a little, but not much," Eddie told them.

"Not a problem. All of the saddle horses are good mounts and easy to handle. Be sure to wear Levis or something like that and if you have boots, wear them, too. We won't be going anywhere that it's rough, but its just good protection. There's a small spring-fed lake on the river and it's a nice place to eat."

Craig spoke up. "I'll get a picnic basket from LeGourmet."

"This sounds like fun. Eleven o'clock Saturday at your place?" Tom asked.

"That's fine. We're on the top floor, unit 'A' on the left when you get off the elevator."

"Thanks for thinking of us. We're both looking forward to this. It should be fun," Eddie said.

They finished their conversation and hung up.

As they returned to the living room and their favorite love seat, Dale said, "This is a really good drink. What is it?"

"Gin and Tonic. I like the bitter taste of it once in a while," Craig said.

"I'm amazed. All I ever knew about was beer and bourbon before I met you."

"There's lots of drinks that can be fixed, but there are a lot neither of us would like, too," Craig replied.

They arrived at Wyler's about 6:25. The store had been in Williamsport for about 3 years and was a branch of their store in Austin. It was a "Function Junction" type of store, carrying all kinds of appliances, gadgets, spices, prepared sauces, cook books, glassware and table accessories. They greeted the other men, introducing themselves to everyone. The last person, who appeared to be college age came in the door just at 6:30.

The eight men were standing around making polite conversation when a tall slender man, probably about 30, entered the area, introducing himself as Andrew Glenn. He showed them a stack of aprons, and then had each of them write their name on a tag and place it on the bib. His next request was to have the group introduce themselves and tell of their kitchen experience.

When it came to Craig, he said, "I can make toast, coffee and put a frozen dinner in the oven." Everyone laughed, probably thinking of themselves.

Dale had a similar answer. "I can feed myself, but its pretty limited fare." More laughter. However, it didn't sound like they had anyone in the group who was really experienced in the kitchen. Craig guessed that their ages ran from the fellow who might be in college to two men who were probably a little older, maybe mid-30's. They looked like they might be a couple and their names were Louis and Jerry. Craig couldn't get a reading on the others, except the younger man, Kris, but his gaydar wasn't too advanced, either.

The "kitchen" at Wyler's was set up set for groups like this. There were four cook tops and four large counter areas. It appeared there were KitchenAid stand mixers, food processors, blenders and knife racks at each workstation.

"Gentlemen. As you probably know, we will be here about 2-1/2 hours each of the seven evenings. Tonight we are going to cover the basic food handling techniques. You will learn how to use various types of knives for chopping, deboning and preparing vegetables and chicken. We will be dining on your efforts each week. Tonight we are having chicken breasts, which we will saute in butter, olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This will be accompanied by a mixed green salad, a corn casserole, fresh green beans with onions and mushrooms and fresh zucchini patties.

The preparation of some of these dishes will be done by each team and others we will work together on because of the quantity the recipe produces. For instance, each of you will learn how to debone a chicken breast and prepare it for cooking. The corn casserole will be divided so that each two teams will prepare one. It will be the same with the green beans and each of you will prepare your own zucchini patties. We're going to cheat on dessert tonight, as I'll prepare it, but each of you will get to do a small part of it.

Andrew (they learned quickly not to call him Andy) started them on the techniques of using a chef's knife to prepare vegetables for the salad, using the "rocking motion" to cut green onions and then a different technique for the tomatoes and cucumbers. They peeled and shredded carrots also.

Andrew went around checking on everyone, correcting the way they held the knives and showing them different techniques. Both Dale and Craig thought his method was a little too "hands on" as he seemed to want to reach around them, patting shoulders, squeezing arms. They weren't uncomfortable, but thought it was unnecessary. They did pick up that he was also doing the same to the college-age fellow and the two older men they thought might be a couple.

Andrew was good, fast and thorough. He soon had them working on green beans and the mushrooms. They he got everyone's attention and had the teams of Dale and Craig and Lewis and Jerry mix up one of the corn casseroles. Each was supposed to serve four.

Boning the chicken breasts turned out to be easier than Dale and Craig thought it might. They used a special knife and the meat slipped right off the bones. Andrew told them he was teaching that technique because of the difference in price when one bought whole breasts compared to those that were already boned. Neither had realized the big difference in cost.

Next he showed them how to use the food processor to shred the zucchini and prepare it to be fried. Andrew stressed knives they were using; which ones to buy first and showed them how to keep their knives sharp. "A dull knife is dangerous and an accident waiting to happen," he told them.

He showed everyone how to flour and season the breasts and then start the cooking process, in this case sauteeing them. Everything made sense and no one had any difficulty. No one had ever explained it to any of them before. At the end of 2 hours all of the preparations started coming together and they soon were ready to sit down to eat.

By chance Dale and Craig ended up at the same table for four where Jerry and Louis were sitting. Their conversation was carefully worded and the two found out that both men had been in marriages that didn't work. Jerry's wife had left him and Louis had left his wife. They worked at the same place and had started going to the gym and out to eat together. One thing had led to another and they were now living together.

Dale and Craig guessed at the part of the story they weren't telling, but did tell the men that they had recently started living together, also. There were knowing looks exchanged among them.

The food was very good and the baked cherry dessert was a hit with everyone, being served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

As they left for the evening, Andrew gave each of the men two sheets containing the recipes they had prepared that evening.

The four men walked out to their cars together and Dale and Craig were just getting into Craig's car when Jerry asked them if they would like to get a cup of coffee. Dale quietly suggested to Craig they should invite them to their place and Craig agreed.

"Why don't you come to our place and we'll have coffee there?" Craig asked them.

"Sure, that sounds great, Louis replied. They followed in their car with Louis driving.

They rode up to the condo in the elevator, making polite conversation. Dale unlocked the door and Craig went in first to turn on lights.

"Dale, why don't you give them a tour while I get coffee started?" Craig asked.

He gave them a fast tour of the unit, ending up in the kitchen as Craig was getting coffee cups out of the dining alcove. Both men were impressed with the kitchen and fascinated by the commercial stove and refrigerator. They got into a long, involved discussion about the cooking class. Finally when the coffee was ready, Craig set everything up on the coffee table in the living room and they moved in there to continue their visit.

They shared their stories and discovered the four of them had a lot in common; both Louis and Jerry had grown up on farms. Louis worked as an accountant for a company that built motel furniture in the next town. Jerry was the personnel and insurance coordinator. Dale and Craig talked a little bit about their jobs.

When Louis asked them about having gay friends, Craig told them about the Dignity Chapter, which was forming and invited them to come and meet some of the people who were members. Both men accepted immediately.

"This is all new to both of us. I had no idea that I was really gay," Louis said. "I got married after college because everyone seemed to think I should."

"It was somewhat the same with me," Jerry told them. I always knew I liked being with men and had a couple of experiences when I was in college, but I always thought the feelings would go away when I got married. They didn't."

Dale and Craig both were thinking that they were lucky to have been spared that problem.

"We really enjoyed the class and then having a chance to get acquainted with both of you," Jerry said as they left the condo.

Dale and Craig were standing in the doorway with their arms around the other's waist and waved to the men as they got on the elevator. "Good night, guys," Craig said as the door shut.

They shut their door and gathered the other in their arms,

exchanging a long, passionate kiss.

"I'm so glad we found each other and didn't have to go through what they've been through," Craig said.

"Me, too," Dale murmured as they kissed again.

They walked back in the living room and Dale helped Craig gather up the dishes, following him to the kitchen.

"I can't believe it. Every time we turn around more gay people seem to pop up," Dale said

"I know. I think that Brad at the Gentry Shop had his eye on you when he was fitting your clothes."

"What about Kris, the college boy?" Dale asked.

"Maybe," Craig answered. "He didn't have much to say, but we were working next to Louis and Jerry and didn't have a chance to talk to him."

They discussed having seen Greg at lunch. "Maybe if he invites us over for dinner, we'll learn something about cooking from him, too," Dale told him.

"That's a thought."

They agreed that the evening had been a success and were looking forward to the class next week.

John invited Michael and Pat to go out to get something to eat, but Pat declined before Michael could say anything. Both John and Michael were a little frustrated. Michael knew that he and Pat would probably end up pleasuring each other, but John knew that any action he got that night was going to be by his own hand. He decided not to press the issue, leaving the two to themselves and going to a movie by himself after he got a hamburger.

Since he had sweat so much that day, he wanted a nice shower to cool him off and relax him before going to eat. The hot water felt soothing and the soap washed away the smell of honest sweat.

He finished his shower and dried himself, draping the towel over the shower rod so it would be dry for his morning shower.

He decided on a clean pair of Levi 501's, a short sleeve button shirt, boxers and athletic shoes. Pulling his clothes on, he was dressed and ready for an evening by himself.

There was a bar close to the Western Junior College campus that had good sandwiches and John decided to go there. He immediately ran into an old friend from school that he hadn't seen since the previous spring.

"John, how are you?" Nolan Nichols seemed glad to see John. They had roomed across the hall from each other, but had gotten acquainted in an Algebra class they were in. From time to time they studied together.

"Great, Nolan, are you still in school?" John asked.

"Yeah, it's gotten off to a pretty good start. I have one tough class, a biology lab. The class is okay, but the teacher acts like he doesn't know the subject matter."

"Maybe he doesn't. Remember Mrs. Faust that we had for English last year? She needed the class worse than we did," John said. They both laughed at the memory. The woman couldn't say ten words without saying "ain't" or "them thar", certainly not English instructor material.

"Can I buy you a beer?" Nolan asked.

"Sure, I came in to get a sandwich then I'm going to a movie."

"What are you going to see?" Nolan questioned, getting the bartenders attention for a beer for John.

"Don't even know what's playing. Just thought I'd go to the theatre and take my chances."

The bartender served John's beer. He hadn't checked either of their ID's, but both looked older than 19.

"Hey, ya wanna play a game of pool?" Nolan asked.

"Sure."

They took their mugs to the table and Nolan set it up while John selected a cue stick. They flipped a coin to see who would break, then proceeded to play. John was having a good time and they ended up playing four games and having two beers each before ordering a sandwich. They sat in one of the booths along the wall, where they could see the entire room. About that time their sandwiches and a third beer arrived.

The first time John felt Nolan's knee against his, he thought it was an accident, but neither moved their knees away. In fact John could detect a pushing motion, kind of like Nolan was rubbing his knee with his own. He looked at Nolan, to see a grin on his face.

He grinned back. 'Bingo', he thought to himself.

Then he felt Nolan's hand on his knee, rubbing up the inside of his leg. John's response was a smile, then putting his feet on the seat on either side of Nolan and scooting down slightly.

This was what Nolan was hoping for. Still grinning, he slipped his right loafer off and used his toes to feel John's Levi-clad crotch. John took a deep breath. "That feels good," he whispered.

"I always thought you would like this," Nolan said quietly.

"You got that right." John used his left hand to rub Nolan's foot, running it up to the top of his sock and feeling the hair above the top of his sock. Nolan sure had a lot of hair on his leg.

John was starting to get a major hardon. Nolan was, too, but John didn't know that - yet!

Nolan leaned across the table. "Do you have any place we can go? I live in the dorm."

"Yeah," John said, his excitement showing. "I live over at the Starlight and have a room all to myself."

They were through eating.

"Let's go," Nolan said, slipping his shoe back on. He stood and each left a tip, then paid their tab at the bar.

Once outside, Nolan said, "I don't have a car."

"Mine's right here in the parking lot," said John.

He unlocked the door for Nolan. It took them less than 5 minutes to get to the Starlight and into John's room, Nolan rubbing his hands up and down John's Levi-clad leg while he drove.

John's thoughts were, 'To hell with Michael and Pat.'

• • • • *.

(to be continued)

• • • • • Author's Note: This is my first attempt at gay fiction, and the only way I can learn whether or not I should continue is from my readers' feedback. I would appreciate your comments, criticism, suggestions, and anything else that you would care to say. All Email will be answered. If you wish to receive e-mail notification of subsequent posting, please let me know by sending your request to the e-mail address below. Contact me at: tulsadriller7@aol.com

Thanks for the overwhelming response to previous chapters. I received positive replies from all over the world. My special thanks to RW, whom I've known for many years and value his suggestions. Also for the proofreading help of Paul Daventon, author of "Turning the Page" found in the "Adult-Friends" section of Nifty. Please read it.